Vietnam is a treasure trove of experiences, each more unique than the last. From cruising through the towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay to immersing yourself in the vibrant traditions of Hoi An’s Lantern Festival, this guide unveils a collection of must do activities that showcase the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s landscape, culture, and heritage.
Visit Halong Bay and its equally spectacular neighbour
With 1,600 limestone towers rising from the emerald waters, Halong Bay is considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful spots. As a result, it is a top thing to do in Vietnam and sees hundreds of boats offering cruises daily. Despite its vastness, it often feels crowded.
Just a few miles away, Bai Tu Long Bay offers equally stunning scenery but with far fewer visitors. Here, you can explore secluded caves, small beaches, and enjoy exceptionally fresh seafood.
Boat trips to Bai Tu Long Bay depart from the bustling port city of Halong, similar to those headed to Halong Bay but in a less frequented direction. The islands here are lower and more spread out, offering a glimpse of what Halong Bay used to be like. If it’s your first time planning a visit to Vietnam, Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see. It’s most famous for its ancient limestone pillars and picturesque islets, best viewed from a traditional junk boat. While exploring Halong Bay, don’t miss the impressive stalactites and stalagmites of “Thien Cung” Cave.
Light a lantern in Hoi An
Hoi An Ancient Town in Central Vietnam is one of the country’s most beautiful locations and should not be missed on your list of must do in Vietnam!
Yes, Hoi An is a bustling tourist town, but for good reason. It’s a photographer’s dream, blending eras and styles from the Japanese Covered Bridge to the colorful French colonial buildings, Chinese timber shops to Vietnamese tube houses.
Simply put, Hoi An is stunning! It’s a top attraction in Vietnam.
Rise early and explore the streets of Hoi An Ancient Town while locals are up and tourists are still asleep. During Tet (Lunar New Year), Hoi An transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors and lights for the Lantern Festival, which lasts seven days. The road from Hoi An Bridge to Hoai River Square dazzles with thousands of colorful lanterns.
Over 50 workshops participate in this event, each striving to create the most beautiful lanterns. The bright colors and traditional designs are a feast for the eyes.
The festival’s epicenter is in the old town, between the Japanese Covered Bridge and An Hoi Bridge. It’s crowded, chaotic, and festive, with spontaneous singing and food stalls at every turn. It’s a celebration for both locals and tourists.
The most spectacular sight is thousands of lanterns floating on the river; rent a sampan for a closer look. For a small fee, you can buy a lantern and set it afloat.
Don’t worry if you can’t visit Hoi An during the New Year: smaller lantern festivals are held at every full moon, inviting you to discover the charm of Hoi An anytime.
Indulge its popular rice noodle soup
Visiting Vietnam isn’t just about seeing the most famous tourist spots. To fully immerse yourself in a Vietnamese vacation, you must try the local delicacies, especially pho or bun. This steaming bowl features chewy noodles in a savory broth with slices of beef and garnished vegetables. Although this staple dish can be found almost everywhere in Vietnam, you’ll never go wrong deciding to try it at Pho Vu Phuong. Trying local food is truly a must do in Vietnam.
Take a Boat Ride Down Trang An in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a sizable ancient town located about an hour south of Hanoi, surrounded by rice fields and hundreds of limestone cliffs.
The area is known as the ‘Halong Bay on land,’ and you’ll understand why when you visit. Giant karst mountains rise from the earth, with beautiful rivers and lakes surrounding them.
One of the most famous tourist spots in Ninh Binh is the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The caves include numerous high limestone cliffs from a network of rivers and large lakes. It’s truly beautiful.
We chose to take a tour through Tam Coc because we heard that Tam Coc has become quite crowded and commercialized over the years.
Ninh Binh is truly a wonderful place to visit in Vietnam and is a must-do in Vietnam.
Read more: All You Need To Know About Vietnam Visa
Climb the Highest Mountain in Indochina in Sapa
Why not challenge yourself and climb Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina? Located just outside of Sapa, this hiking adventure will test your endurance but reward you with stunning vistas.
We completed the hike in one day, but if you’re not a frequent hiker, we recommend spreading it over two days. This way, you can camp at the summit and enjoy the sunset and sunrise in solitude. Tours can be booked through most guesthouses in Sapa. For those who prefer not to hike, there’s now a gondola that goes to the summit. Even if you’re not into hiking, you can still reach the top of Mount Fansipan and take in the spectacular views.
The gondola ride takes about 15 minutes each way, and the cost is 600,000 Vietnamese dong per adult. Experiencing Mount Fansipan is a must-do in Vietnam, offering unparalleled views of the region’s natural beauty
Go Scuba Diving in Nha Trang
Vietnam may not be known as a diving paradise, especially with popular spots like Indonesia and the Philippines nearby. However, if you’re into scuba diving, there are still some decent spots to do so.
Nha Trang in the South is quite popular among Russian tourists. But if we’re completely honest with you, it’s not exactly the best. If you haven’t tried cave exploring and want to see what it’s like, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam is the place for you. Beyond the majestic mountain scenery outside the caves, the equally fascinating rock formations inside can take your breath away. Besides sightseeing, there’s also the opportunity to swim and cliff jump at Ma Da Crystal Lake. Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Vietnam.
Discover the history of Ho Chi Minh
Explore the bustling Ho Chi Minh City. A full-day tour of Saigon will give you a deep insight into its rich history, captivating culture, and the vibrant daily life of the local people in Vietnam. Among the most beautiful places to visit in the area are the Chinatown district, Thien Hau Temple, the War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House. Discovering Ho Chi Minh City is a must do in Vietnam, offering a profound experience of the country’s dynamic spirit and heritage.
Bask in the glory of the Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall is considered one of the most beautiful and largest waterfalls in the world. Located in Cao Bang Province in Northern Vietnam, this site bears a resemblance to Niagara Falls as it also straddles the border between two countries: Vietnam and China. The waterfall is visually stunning, creating a dramatic display of water cascading over multiple levels. Its sheer size and the surrounding lush landscapes make it one of the most awe-inspiring attractions not only in Vietnam but also in Southeast Asia. Visiting Ban Gioc Waterfall is a must-do in Vietnam, offering a breathtaking experience and the opportunity to witness the natural beauty that defines the region’s border landscape.
Explore Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge in Da Nang
It could be argued that Vietnam’s Golden Bridge has caused a stir in recent years due to its unique architectural design. The bridge features two enormous stone hands that appear to hold the bridge aloft amidst a majestic green landscape. It spans 150 meters in length and is 12.8 meters wide. Thanks to its striking design, the Golden Bridge has become a famous destination, drawing many tourists to the Da Nang area. Visiting the Golden Bridge is a must-do in Vietnam, offering a unique and photogenic experience that highlights the creativity and beauty of Vietnamese architecture.
Choosing Vietnam Tour 247 for your next adventure in Vietnam offers a seamless and enriching travel experience tailored to highlight the best of this vibrant country. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient charm of Hoi An, the majestic landscapes of Halong Bay, or the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tour 247 provides a comprehensive range of tours meticulously designed to ensure you get the most out of every destination.
Their expert local guides enrich your journey with deep cultural insights and historical context, transforming a simple visit into an immersive exploration. With Vietnam Tour 247, you’re not just booking a tour; you’re investing in a lifetime of memories, crafted through exceptional service, responsible travel practices, and a deep commitment to showcasing the true spirit of Vietnam. Choose Vietnam Tour 247, and take the first step towards a journey that’s as spectacular as the destinations you’ll visit.
As our journey through Vietnam’s must-see attractions concludes, it’s clear that this nation offers a diverse array of experiences bound to enchant every type of traveler. From scaling the heights of Mount Fansipan to diving in the waters of Nha Trang, each activity provides a unique perspective on Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City, relishing the tranquil ambiance of Ban Gioc Waterfall, or marveling at the architectural wonder of the Golden Bridge, Vietnam promises unforgettable adventures that resonate long after the trip ends. Remember, these highlights are just the beginning Vietnam’s true essence is discovered through its people, its flavors, and its timeless landscapes.
