Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia, is a lush paradise for adventurers worldwide. It has gained significant attraction among tourists for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, paradisiacal beaches, eco-tourism opportunities, and breathtaking travel experience! Whether you long for an adventurous escapade or a serene retreat, Vietnam has it all! Those who have already visited this majestic destination know that ONE TIME is simply not enough to capture its magic or try all the various things to do in Vietnam.
From exploring the ancient civilizations in Hoi An to participating in thrilling activities like climbing and kayaking in Cat Ba, every moment here will be nothing short of wonder and discovery. If you are planning a visit to this destination, you must consider our meticulously curated list of activities and things to do in Vietnam for a wholesome vacation experience. Reason— each adventure listed below promises an extraordinary experience, allowing you to unfold your senses and capture the authentic magic of Vietnam.
10 Best Things to Do in Vietnam
For all first-timers seeking an exceptional travel experience, get ready to explore the best of Vietnam, where each experience will captivate you in ways you never imagined. So, let’s get started!
Cruising in Halong Bay
Halong Bay is located 165 kilometers from Hanoi, the national capital of Vietnam. It features several enchanting pearl-white beaches and a dramatic skyline. This beautiful site has countless forest-covered islands adorned with stunning wave-eroded grottoes, making it a perfect beach escape. Nearly 10 million visitors arrive each year. Cruising at this top tourist destination is considered one of the best things to do in Vietnam, and it will give you unimaginable chills. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was declared in 1994 and is known for offering heavenly sightseeing experiences to travelers.
The emerald waters of the Bay and thousands of limestone karsts create a perfect setting for blending adventure with relaxation. The six most famous cruises, namely Azalea Cruise, President Cruise, Mon Cherie Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise, Orchid Cruise, and Pelican Cruise, let you experience the best of North Vietnam with breathtaking views and luxurious comfort as you sail through its enchanting landscapes. So, get ready to cruise along the magical Halong Bay to savor delicious food and enjoy incredible views.
- Best time to visit: Around the year
- Location: Northeastern Vietnam
- Fees: INR 14,000* to 18,000* per person
*The prices can vary due to personal preferences and cruising duration.
Shopping in Hoi An
When in Vietnam, get ready to shop until your heart’s content! Shopping in Hoi An is among the best things to do in Vietnam, as it is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods such as beautiful silk, spices, gems, leather goods, artisanal ceramics, and Vietnamese clothing. Buying handcrafted souvenirs for your homes and trying street-style delicacies will be some of the top experiences you will have.
The Hoi An Silk Village, the Night Market, Trang Tailors, Hoi An Central Market, and Hoi An Fine Art Gallery offer a peek into traditional craftsmanship. Each place will take you through the authentic Vietnamese essence. The personal touch, the intricate designs, and the quality of the items ensure that you bring home a piece of Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage. Please note that the price of the items starts at INR 200-300* for caps and lanterns and may go as high as INR 5000* for silk, shoes, and other items.
- Best time to visit: Any time of the year
- Location: Quang Nam, Vietnam
- Fees: No entry fees
Read More: Discover the Best Places to Visit in Vietnam for an Unforgettable Trip
Trying Delectable Cuisine in Hue
It is said that the best way to experience Hue is by indulging in its local delicacies! Eat like a local and satisfy your taste buds with the incredible flavors of imperial cuisine and spicy street food! Top recommendations include Pho (Rice Noddle Soup), Banh Xeo (Crispy Vietnamese Pancakes), Cao Lau (Vietnamese Noodle Bowl), Banh Bot Chien (Vietnamese Fried Rice Cake), and Ca Phe Da (Vietnamese Coffee). Must-try street food includes the crunchy Bánh Khoái, Bánh Nam, Bánh Bèo, and Bánh Ram Ít. Every bite will be an infinite burst of flavors, letting you acknowledge the pride of the Vietnamese people.
- Best time to visit: Any time of the year
- Location: Thua Thein Hue
- Fees: No entry fees
Exploring Ancient Civilization in Hoi An
Hoi An is globally renowned for its historic architecture and cultural importance. The majestic beauty of this region lies in its well-preserved iconic landmarks and cobbled streets–worth exploring! All history lovers will get an exciting chance to hear stories about Hoi An becoming the busiest trading port, where goods were exchanged, and ideas & opinions were shared.
You will also witness the vibrant lanterns across the streets, a timeless symbol of Hoi An that dates back to when Chinese and Japanese traders first introduced them. Adventure lovers can try taking a traditional boat tour, especially the sunrise tour, going to the fish markets, and exploring the museums of the Old Quarter. Stroll around the old town with the famous Vietnamese iced coffee in one hand and camera in the other, spotting the buildings exuding excellent Asian architectural styles. End your tour by visiting the 15th-century built Japanese-covered bridge featuring a 20,000 VND banknote.
- Best time to visit: During the Lantern Festival, 14the Day of Every Lunar Month
- Location: Quang Nam Province
- Fees: INR 400*-500* for entering the old town of Hoi An
Adventure Sports in Cat Ba
Cat Ba is an adventure enthusiast’s paradise in Vietnam, says our Wravelers! Kayaking and climbing are famous adventure sports that allow you to explore the dramatic marine wildlife and corals beneath the crystal clear waters, along with the islets and limestone karsts of Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba. Participate in exciting climbing opportunities on the rock stacks by dusting your hands with chalk powder for a firm grip, then gear up for a thrilling climb, conquering new heights off the coast of Cat Ba.
Add a sense of accomplishment by completing the climb (the route) or just falling/jumping from the top of the rock face for an exhilarating rush and a memorable experience. Give this adventure a relaxing end by returning to your boats and letting the captain take you on an explorative journey through the majestic topography of Cat Ba Island for sightseeing.
- Best time to visit: Autumn Season (September to November) or Spring Season (March to May)
- Location: 25 Kilometres from Ha Long Bay
- Fees: Kayaking: INR 830 per hour
*Stand-up Paddle Boards: INR 830 per person
Discover My Son in Vietnam
My Son, also dubbed or majorly compared with Angkor Wat in Cambodia, was beautifully built by the kings of Champa in the 4th and 14th centuries. These are typically the series of the very few remains of the beautiful temples dedicated to Hindu deities, including Lord Shiva, also locally known as Bhadreshwara. After the fall of this kingdom, the temples were taken over by nature until French archeologists rediscovered them in the late 19th century.
This place is considered an important archaeological site in Vietnam, with very few ruins spread across over 200 meters. My Son is also marked as an important burial site for the Champapura kingdom and its national heroes. History buffs will get an exciting chance to hear interesting tales about ancient temples. It’s crucial to honor this significant archeological site’s cultural and spiritual significance!
- Best time to visit: From November to January
- Location: Duy Xuyen District of Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam
- Fees: INR 500* per person (one day pass)
Tip: Please wear comfortable clothing (according to the dress code, which requires covering your knees and shoulders), trekking shoes, water, power bank, and sunscreen. Read More: Best Time to Visit Vietnam For Indian Travelers
The Beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall
When in Vietnam, do not miss the chance to witness the majestic beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfalls. These waterfalls, which combine two waterfalls on the Quo Son River, are located just 272 kilometers north of Hanoi. They have been recognized as the best things to see in Vietnam and are the largest waterfalls in Asia, covering 300 meters across and 30 meters high! You will witness the surreal cascading waters amidst the rice fields and Bamboo groves, peppered with limestone formations here and there. Ranked among off-the-beaten-path places in Vietnam, Ban Gioc Waterfalls lies between Vietnam’s Cao Bang and China’s Guangxi.
To double the adventure, try visiting Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda to explore Vietnamese stunning ancient architecture, including the Grand triple-arched gate, an ancestral shrine, a statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and a majestic hall dedicated to divine figures such as Hung Kings, Lady Trieu, Tran Hung Dao, etc.
- Best time to visit: Any time of the year
- Location: Northeastern Province of Cao Bang
- Fees: INR 153* per person
Historical Stories in Hanoi
Hanoi, regarded as the cultural heart of Vietnam, is famous for its heritage sites and authentic Vietnamese charm. Discovering fascinating artifacts, over 1793 cultural heritages, 6000 relic sites, museums, temples, and more are considered the best things to do in Hanoi. The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is popular among travelers for its intricate structure and interesting ancient tales. Similarly, exploring the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam, towards the south of Thang Long, profoundly honors the history of education in Hanoi. You can also discover a few altars and museums within the courtyard.
Tourists who want an extraordinary exploration should consider visiting President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is among the famous Hanoi attractions, to witness the changing guard ceremony and view the preserved body of the revolutionary leader— Ho Chi Minh. Dressing formally and maintaining the decorum inside the tomb is strictly advised.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Location: Situated on the West Bank of Red River
- Fees: Visiting Hanoi is free of cost. However, entry fees may apply for touring different tourist attractions.
Explore: Exploring Vietnam’s Nightlife: Best Bars, Clubs, and Entertainment
Road Trip to Ha Giang Loop
Apart from exploring the ancient ruins of My Son or enjoying the beauty of the paradisiacal beaches, getting on a road trip to Ha Giang Loop will be an exhilarating experience. This popular route features dramatic mountain passes and wild swimming opportunities, often ranked among the best things to do in Vietnam for travelers. On this route, you will discover over ten diverse ethnic minorities, beautiful rice and corn terraces, forested peaks, and more.
While biking or driving on the route, you can take refreshing stops by participating in activities like trekking, caving, and boating. The top highlights of the road trip to Ha Giang Loop include passing through Ma Pi Leng Pass for panoramic views and enjoying the thrill of taking dips or directly jumping into the waterfalls (with precautions) for sheer rejuvenation.
- Best time to visit. Late September to November
- Location. The northernmost province of Vietnam
- Fees. Motorcycle rentals- INR 500-1800* per day
Camping and Caving in Phong Nha
Want to maximize your experience in Vietnam? Try camping and caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park for an incredible adventure. This place was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 and features breathtaking cave systems amidst the Karst mountains in Asia. The famous treasures of Phong Nha include Son Doong, Tu Lan, Pygmy Cave, Hang Va and Nuoc Nut, Phong Nha Cave, and Paradise Cave for uncovering the surreal nature’s wonders. Journeying through these caves is a fantastic experience as it boasts jade-colored underground rivers, razor-sharp rock formations, and otherworldly stalagmites.
- Best time to visit. March to August
- Location. Quang Binh Province
- Fees. Phong Nha Cave costs- INR 500* for adults.
Note: Each cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has different entry fees, depending on its location and accessibility. Vietnam is a destination full of thrilling surprises and cultural magic. Join our travel mavens for this enchanting journey! Take a break from monotonous urban life and try the best things to do and experiences in Vietnam for a fun-filled adventure. Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or historical and cultural exploration, Vietnam is the perfect destination for you. Start planning your Vietnam adventure today!
DISCLAIMER: The prices mentioned above are subject to change. They are provided to give you a general of the costs associated with each place.Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the no.1 tourist spot in Vietnam?
Halong Bay is the top tourist attraction in Vietnam, boasting incredible vistas and experiences.
What is the most famous thing to do in Hanoi, Vietnam?
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi is the most famous attraction to visit in Vietnam.
Is Vietnam cheap for shopping?
Goods manufactured in Vietnam are generally cheaper than imports. Malls and department stores cost more than local markets.
Is Vietnam friendly to foreigners?
Vietnam is ranked 9th out of 10 countries that are the friendliest to travelers.
Which month is best to visit Vietnam?
Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best months to go to Vietnam.
Travel Beyond: Vietnam Tour Packages
