Best Things to Do in Vietnam: Must-Try Experiences & Activities for Every Traveler

Vietnam is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re dreaming of kayaking in limestone bays, slurping down spicy noodle soup on a sidewalk, or wandering through ancient temples, Vietnam offers it all. This guide dives deep into the best things to do in Vietnam, offering you cultural immersion, adrenaline-pumping adventure, culinary delights, and soul-soothing relaxation.

From Hanoi’s historical heart to the remote rice terraces of Sapa, this article covers everything you need to plan a trip packed with Vietnam must try experiences.

🔑 Key Takeaways

1. Cultural Explorers: Visit temples, attend traditional performances, and explore ancient towns.
2. Food Lovers: Join cooking classes, indulge in street food, and sample regional dishes.
3. Adventure Seekers: Go trekking, cave diving, or ride the Ha Giang Loop.
4. Relaxation Seekers: Unwind on pristine beaches, explore islands, or chill in local cafés.
5. Pro Tip: Combine multiple experiences across regions to make your Vietnam trip truly unforgettable!

📊 Activities by Interest Table

1. Discover Vietnam’s Rich Culture & History

This section breaks down the top Vietnam travel activities tied to culture and history, organized by region—so you can discover the most meaningful stories behind each stop.

🏩 Explore Ancient Temples & Imperial Cities by Region

Historical exploration in Vietnam isn’t just about monuments—it’s about stepping into the heart of spiritual and political legacies. Each temple, citadel, or pagoda tells a story of Vietnam’s dynasties, philosophies, and daily life through the ages.

As one of the top activities in Vietnam, visiting these sacred sites is an enriching way to connect with Vietnamese identity and local legends.

Northern Vietnam

1. Temple of Literature (Hanoi) – 9.5/10: Vietnam’s first national university and a symbol of Confucian education.
2. One Pillar Pagoda (Hanoi) – 8.8/10: A unique lotus-inspired Buddhist temple.
3. Tran Quoc Pagoda (Hanoi) – 8.6/10: The oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi, set beside West Lake.
4. Bac Ha Temple (Lao Cai) – 8.3/10: Deeply spiritual and rarely crowded.
5. Ho Citadel (Thanh Hoa) – 8.2/10: A UNESCO site surrounded by countryside charm.

Central Vietnam

1. Imperial City of Hue – 9/10: The heart of Vietnam’s Nguyen dynasty—don’t miss the Forbidden Purple City.
2. Hoi An Ancient Town – 9.8/10: Timeless streets, lantern-lit evenings, and yellow-washed buildings by the Thu Bon River.
3. My Son Sanctuary – 8.5/10: Mystical Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle.
4. Linh Ung Pagoda (Da Nang) – 8.4/10: Overlooks the sea with the towering Lady Buddha statue.
5. Tu Hieu Pagoda (Hue) – 8.2/10: Quiet and serene, home to meditating monks.

Southern Vietnam

1. Giac Lam Pagoda (Ho Chi Minh City) – 8.5/10: A peaceful pagoda with lush gardens.
2. Thien Hau Temple (Chinatown, HCMC) – 8.6/10: A spiritual hub of the Chinese-Vietnamese community.
3. Cao Dai Temple (Tay Ninh) – 9/10: Striking in its colors and interfaith worship practices.
4. Ngoc Hoang Pagoda (HCMC) – 8.3/10: Visited by President Obama in 2016.
5. Ba Chua Xu Temple (Chau Doc) – 8.4/10: An important pilgrimage site.

Tips:

1. Always dress modestly when visiting sacred sites.
2. Early morning visits are quieter and cooler.
3. Hiring a local guide enhances the cultural depth.
4. For long-distance travel, consider Vietnam’s sleeper buses, a common and cost-effective way to navigate between regions.

🏧 Dive into Vibrant Local Life by Region

Markets, craft villages, and buzzing neighborhoods are where the rhythms of Vietnamese life beat strongest. Immersing yourself in these places reveals traditions, tastes, and textures that no museum can offer.

These Vietnam travel activities are among the most authentic Vietnam must try experiences because they let you see, hear, smell, and taste the country’s rich daily life up close.

Northern Vietnam

1. Hanoi Old Quarter – 9/10: Endless alleys packed with street food, history, and hustle.
2. Dong Xuan Market – 8.5/10: Hanoi’s largest indoor market—great for textiles and souvenirs. Beyond street markets, Vietnam’s cities are also emerging hubs for luxury shopping, offering high-end boutiques and international brands.
3. Bac Ha Market (Lao Cai) – 8.7/10: Colorful ethnic groups trading everything from herbs to livestock.
4. Quang Ba Flower Market – 8.2/10: Late-night floral frenzy—go after 10 PM!
5. Long Bien Market – 8.3/10: Wholesale market ideal for early risers and photo lovers.

Central Vietnam

1. Dong Ba Market (Hue) – 8.5/10: Local snacks and handmade goods.
2. Hoi An Central Market – 9/10: Aromatic, lively, and visually stunning.
3. Han Market (Da Nang) – 8.3/10: Great for spices and silk. For evening entertainment, check out the dynamic Da Nang nightlife scene, offering a range of bars and entertainment venues.
4. Con Market (Da Nang) – 8.4/10: Food stalls galore!
5. Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Hoi An) – 8.5/10: Hands-on clay shaping and family-run workshops.

Southern Vietnam

1. Ben Thanh Market (HCMC) – 8.5/10: Touristy but iconic. (Beyond the main attractions, explore the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City night markets for delicious street food and unique souvenirs.)
2. Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho) – 9/10: A Mekong must—visit at sunrise!
3. Binh Tay Market (Chinatown, HCMC) – 8.3/10: More authentic alternative to Ben Thanh.
4. Cholon (Chinatown) – 8.6/10: Temples, tea houses, and rich heritage.
5. Vinh Long Riverside Market – 8.2/10: Best explored by boat.

Tips:

1. Visit early for the freshest goods and best photos.
2. Always carry small change.
3. Be respectful when photographing locals.
4. For solo adventurers, navigating Vietnam nightlife solo is generally safe and rewarding, with plenty of welcoming spots to enjoy.

✨ Witness Unique Cultural Performances by Region

Among the best things to do in Vietnam, these performances offer an unforgettable experience that stays long after the curtain falls. They are especially powerful for travelers looking to understand the nuances of regional cultures. Observe the rich Vietnamese color symbolism in temple decorations and traditional attire, adding another layer to your cultural exploration.

Northern Vietnam

1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater (Hanoi) – 9/10: Mesmerizing puppets dance across water.
2. Ca Tru Performances – 8.5/10: Classical chamber music once sung for royalty.
3. Cheo (Folk Opera) – 8.4/10: Often held in community courtyards or open-air venues.
4. Quan Ho Duets (Bac Ninh) – 8.7/10: Intimate songs about love and longing.
5. Xam Music – 8.3/10: Once performed by blind street artists, now revived by young talents.

Central Vietnam

1. Hue Royal Court Music – 8.7/10: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
2. Bai Choi (Hoi An) – 8.6/10: Music, poetry, and playful interaction.
3. Tuong Theater (Da Nang) – 8.5/10: Bold masks and dramatic flair.
4. Cham Dance (My Son Sanctuary) – 8.4/10: Often free with site admission.

Southern Vietnam

1. AO Show (Saigon Opera House) – 9.2/10: A modern circus with Vietnamese flair.
2. Don Ca Tai Tu – 8.8/10: Traditional southern music, best enjoyed in rural settings.
3. Lune Production (HCMC & Hoi An) – 9/10: Visually stunning and culturally rich.
4. Cai Luong (Southern Opera) – 8.6/10: A blend of folk and modern storytelling.
5. Folk Puppetry (Mekong Region) – 8.2/10: Often held during local festivals.

Tips:

1. Book tickets in advance—some shows sell out days ahead.
2. Ask if photo-taking is allowed.
3. Choose central seats for the best views and sound.

2. Embark on a Culinary Adventure

Food is the heart of Vietnamese culture, and diving into local cuisine is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Vietnam. Whether you’re savoring sizzling street snacks or taking part in a market-to-table cooking class, Vietnamese culinary experiences are both sensory and social adventures.

In this section, we explore the top activities in Vietnam for food lovers, broken down by region, along with expert ratings, local tips, and unique specialties.

👨‍🍳 Master Vietnamese Cooking (Cooking Classes)

Cooking classes are a perfect way to understand Vietnam’s regional diversity and deepen your appreciation for the cuisine. Learn the art of balance in flavors, knife techniques, and the importance of fresh herbs—all from seasoned local chefs.

Northern Vietnam:

1. Hanoi Home Cooking Class – 9/10: Includes a market visit and meal in a family home.
2. Apron Up Cooking Class – 8.7/10: Affordable and well-organized.
3. Duong’s Restaurant Cooking Class – 8.8/10: Run by a MasterChef finalist.
4. Local Herb Foraging in Ha Giang – 8.6/10: Unique mountain herbs and cooking in an ethnic village.

Central Vietnam:

1. Red Bridge Cooking School (Hoi An) – 9.5/10: Scenic river setting and boat ride included.
2. Gioan’s Cooking Class – 9/10: Personal, fun, and informative.
3. Thuy Bieu Eco-Village Class (Hue) – 8.9/10: Rustic charm and imperial dishes.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Saigon Cooking Class by Hoa Tuc – 9/10: Market tour plus elegant setting.
2. KOTO Saigon – 8.8/10: Run by a social enterprise helping youth.
3. Floating Cooking Class in Mekong Delta – 9.2/10: Prepare food on a sampan boat.

Tips:

1. Choose classes with a market tour included.
2. Book in advance during high season (Nov–Apr).
3. Inform instructors of any dietary preferences.

🍢 Indulge in Street Food Delights

Eating on the street is not just a way to fill your stomach in Vietnam—it’s a social ritual and cultural gateway. Some of the best things to do in Vietnam happen curbside with a plastic stool under your legs and a bowl of something hot in your hands.

Northern Vietnam:

1. Try Pho in Hanoi – 9.5/10: Pho Thin or Pho Gia Truyen are legendary spots.
2. Bun Cha Obama – 9/10: Named after President Obama’s 2016 visit.
3. Xoi Xeo (Sticky rice with mung bean and fried shallots) – 8.6/10
4. Banh Cuon Thanh Tri – 8.8/10: Silky rice rolls served with fish sauce.

Central Vietnam:

1. Cao Lau in Hoi An – 9.2/10: Thick noodles with crispy pork and greens.
2. Banh Beo in Hue – 9/10: Delicate steamed rice cakes in small dishes.
3. Mi Quang in Da Nang – 8.8/10: Yellow turmeric noodles with pork and shrimp.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Com Tam (Broken rice with grilled pork) – 9.3/10: Try it in HCMC.
2. Hu Tieu – 8.9/10: A lighter alternative to pho.
3. Banh Trang Nuong – 8.7/10: Vietnam’s version of street pizza. (Don’t forget to try the popular Vietnamese nuts and seeds sold by street vendors, perfect for a quick, savory snack.)
4. Sugarcane juice and tropical fruits – 8.5/10: Refreshing in the Mekong Delta.

Tips:

1. Look for busy stalls with high turnover (food is fresher).
2. Eat what locals eat; don’t be afraid of trying something unfamiliar.
3. Bring wet wipes and small change.
4. Learning a few Vietnamese greetings can significantly enhance your interactions with locals.

🍲 Experience Unique Regional Specialties

Vietnam’s culinary geography is vast, with each region offering dishes that reflect local culture, ingredients, and climate. Exploring regional specialties is one of the top activities in Vietnam for any serious food explorer.

Northern Vietnam:

1. Thang Co (Horse meat stew) in Sapa – 8/10: Not for the faint-hearted, but culturally significant.
2. Cha Ca La Vong (Grilled fish with dill and turmeric) – 9/10
3. Banh Da Cua (Crab noodle soup) in Hai Phong – 8.7/10

Central Vietnam:

1. Nem Lui (Grilled pork skewers) – 8.9/10
2. Bun Bo Hue – 9.2/10: A spicy, beefy, deeply flavored soup.
3. Banh Khoai – 8.6/10: Hue’s crispier cousin of Banh Xeo.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Banh Xeo – 9/10: Crispy pancake stuffed with pork and shrimp.
2. Ca Kho To (Caramelized catfish) – 8.8/10
3. Com Hen – 8.5/10: Spicy baby clam rice from the Mekong region.

Tips:

1. Ask about ingredients if you have allergies.
2. Go with a local guide to discover hidden gems.
3. Order small portions so you can sample more.

3. Explore Breathtaking Nature & Thrilling Adventures

Vietnam’s landscapes are as diverse as its cuisine—from misty mountain passes and jungle-covered caves to calm bays and roaring rivers. For nature lovers and thrill seekers alike, the country offers some of the best things to do in Vietnam outdoors.

These unforgettable experiences in Vietnam invite you to breathe in wild beauty, challenge your limits, and feel the pulse of raw nature.

🌊 Cruise the Mystical Waters

Northern Vietnam:

1. Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise – 9.5/10: Limestone karsts, sunsets, and seafood feasts.
2. Lan Ha Bay Kayaking – 9/10: Less crowded alternative to Ha Long.
3. Tam Coc Rowboat Ride (Ninh Binh) – 8.8/10: Scenic limestone mountains and rice paddies. If visiting during summer, explore Ninh Binh during the beautiful lotus season, when the waterways are adorned with vibrant blooms.
4. Trang An Ecotour – 9.1/10: Serene, spiritual, and cinematic (King Kong was filmed here).
5. Ba Be Lake Exploration – 8.7/10: Underground rivers and waterfalls in Bac Kan.

Central Vietnam:

1. Perfume River Cruise (Hue) – 8.4/10: Combine with pagoda visits.
2. Cham Islands Boat Trip (Hoi An) – 8.5/10: Clear waters and coral.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Mekong River Boat Tour – 9.2/10: Life on water with stops at local homes and factories.
2. Can Gio Mangrove Forest – 8.6/10: Wildlife, forests, and floating restaurants.

Tips:

1. Choose eco-certified tours.
2. Bring motion sickness meds if needed.
3. Always check the weather before sailing.

⛰ Conquer Majestic Mountains & Rice Terraces

Northern Vietnam:

1. Sapa Trekking – 9.5/10: Ethnic villages, misty peaks, and colorful markets.
2. Ha Giang Loop – 9.7/10: Motorbike across breathtaking passes.
3. Mu Cang Chai – 9.2/10: Golden terraces from mid-Sept to Oct.
4. Fansipan Summit by Trek or Cable Car – 9/10: “Roof of Indochina.”

Central Vietnam:

1. Bach Ma National Park – 8.4/10: Hidden waterfalls and cool climate.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Lang Biang Peak (Da Lat) – 8.5/10: Good for hiking with scenic views.

Tips:

1. Hire a local guide.
2. Pack rain gear and layers.
3. Autumn (Sept–Nov) is ideal for clear views.

🌳 Discover Hidden Caves & Jungles

Central Vietnam:

1. Phong Nha-Ke Bang Caves – 9.5/10: Includes Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, and Son Doong Cave.
2. Hang En Cave Camping – 9.3/10: Bucket-list for serious trekkers.

Northern Vietnam:

1. Pac Bo Cave – 8.2/10: Historical cave linked to Ho Chi Minh.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Cat Tien National Park – 8.5/10: Diverse jungle trekking and wildlife.

Tips:

1. Book multi-day tours for best caves.
2. Bring waterproof shoes and flashlight.

4. Relax & Recharge on Pristine Beaches

After the noise of cities and the thrill of adventures, Vietnam’s beaches offer a blissful counterbalance. With powdery sands, calm turquoise waters, and quiet island escapes, the coastlines of Vietnam are tailor-made for rest and rejuvenation. Many of these destinations double as Vietnam must try experiences for those looking to unwind in paradise.

☀️ Unwind on Sunny Shores by Region

Northern Vietnam:

1. Cat Ba Island – 8.8/10: Great blend of beach and jungle.
2. Co To Island – 8.6/10: Quiet and less commercial.

Central Vietnam:

1. My Khe Beach (Da Nang) – 9.3/10: Golden sand and surf.
2. An Bang Beach (Hoi An) – 9/10: Laid-back vibes.
3. Lang Co Beach – 8.5/10: Between Hue and Da Nang.

Southern Vietnam:

1. Phu Quoc – 9.5/10: Ideal from Nov to April. For beach lovers, Phu Quoc offers a distinct charm, often sparking comparisons like Phu Quoc vs Phuket for those weighing island paradises.
2. Long Beach, Phu Quoc – 9/10: Great sunset views.
3. Mui Ne – 8.8/10: Sand dunes and kite surfing.
4. Con Dao Islands – 9.1/10: Untouched and serene.

Tips:

1. Avoid public holidays for less crowd.
2. Choose accommodations with private beach access.

🌊 Island Hopping & Snorkeling

Phu Quoc:

1. Snorkeling in the South – 9.2/10
2. Boat tour to Finger Island – 8.9/10

Nha Trang:

1. Hon Mun Marine Park – 9/10
2. Four-Island Tour – 8.8/10

Con Dao:

1. Snorkeling at Dam Trau Beach – 9.1/10

Tips:

1. Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
2. Check sea conditions for safety.

5. Beyond the Mainstream: Unique Experiences

Some of the best things to do in Vietnam aren’t found in guidebooks—they’re discovered through spontaneous conversations, hidden alleys, and quiet villages. These Vietnam must try experiences capture the country’s heart and soul: its warmth, creativity, and enduring traditions.

☕ Visit a Local Coffee Shop – 9/10

Vietnam’s coffee culture is bold, rich, and endlessly creative. Sit down at a hidden café in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for a frothy egg coffee, or sip coconut coffee in a tropical Saigon courtyard. In Hue, try salt coffee, a local specialty blending sweet, savory, and bitter. Many shops also double as galleries or music venues.

Tips:

1. Look for indie cafés in back alleys—they often have the most character.
2. Try cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) like a local.
3. Spend time people-watching or chatting with baristas for insights.

🚲 Take a Cyclo or Xe Lam Ride – 8.5/10

The cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) offers a slow and scenic way to experience city life. In Hanoi and Hue, cyclo rides take you past colonial buildings, lakes, and temples. In southern Vietnam, try a ride in a xe lam—a quirky open-air minivan popular in rural towns.

Tips:

1. Ride at sunset for cooler weather and glowing street scenes.
2. Agree on a price beforehand.
3. Bring small bills for tipping.

🏭 Explore a Traditional Craft Village – 8.7/10

Handmade traditions are still alive in Vietnam’s artisan villages. In Bat Trang, you can mold your own ceramic piece. Kim Bong in Hoi An showcases wood carving handed down through generations. In Hue, Phuoc Tich Village offers a quiet riverside retreat with ancient pottery methods.

Other notable villages:

1. Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village (Da Nang)
2. Van Phuc Silk Village (Hanoi)
3. Thach That Bamboo Village (Hanoi outskirts)

Tips:

1. Ask for a hands-on demo—many villagers love to teach.
2. Bring cash for purchases (prices are usually negotiable).
3. Visit early to avoid tour group crowds.

🎨 Join a Calligraphy or Folk Art Workshop – 8.6/10

Learn how to write your name in Vietnamese calligraphy or try your hand at Dong Ho folk painting, a centuries-old printing technique from Bac Ninh Province. These workshops not only allow for creativity but also deepen your connection with local culture.

Tips:

1. Great as a rainy-day activity.
2. Finished artworks make meaningful souvenirs.
3. Most workshops are walk-in friendly but call ahead if possible.

🕯 Visit a Spiritual Healer or Fortune Teller – 8.4/10

In major cities like Hanoi or Hue, spiritual services such as fortune telling, palm reading, or ancestor prayer ceremonies are still practiced. A visit with a Vietnamese fortune teller offers a unique window into local beliefs about fate, spirituality, and karma. While sensitive, understanding Vietnamese funeral customs can also offer profound insights into the country’s deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and family values.

Tips:

1. Go with a local guide to translate and explain.
2. Respect local customs (e.g., offering a small donation).
3. Even if you’re skeptical, it’s a fascinating cultural insight.

🐃 Try Farm Life in the Countryside – 8.8/10

Spend a day in a rural village like Tra Que (Hoi An) or Mai Chau (Hoa Binh) learning how to plant rice, fish in ponds, or cook with firewood. These immersive programs are among the most unforgettable experiences in Vietnam for those looking to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Tips:

1. Bring insect repellent and wear comfortable clothes.
2. Support homestays—they’re often family-run and deeply authentic.
3. Learn a few Vietnamese phrases to enhance your connection.

🏯 Stay Overnight in a Pagoda – 8.3/10

Some pagodas offer overnight stays for visitors looking to experience a monastic lifestyle. You’ll join in early morning chants, eat vegetarian meals, and sleep in simple rooms. Ideal for those seeking quiet reflection and cultural insight.

Suggested locations:

1. Tu Hieu Pagoda (Hue)
2. Truc Lam Zen Monastery (Da Lat)
3. Yen Tu Mountain (Quang Ninh)

Tips:

1. Follow all rules: silence during certain hours, modest dress, and no smoking/alcohol.
2. Bring your own towel and basic toiletries.
3. Donations are appreciated.

📷 Take a Street Photography Walk – 8.9/10

Wander side streets, train tracks, or hidden markets with your camera in hand. Cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City are full of contrasting elements—French balconies next to street food grills, ancient pagodas beside neon-lit cafés.

Tips:

1. Join local photography groups for hidden spots.
2. Early morning light is magical and streets are quieter.
3. Ask for permission before photographing locals.

🔍 Personalized Recommendations: Choosing Your Perfect Experiences

“No two travelers are alike. At Sun Getaways Vietnam Travel, we tailor trips that match your spirit—whether you’re a food-lover, thrill-seeker, or cultural explorer.”
— Ms. Dan Vy, Lead Experience Designer at Sun Getaways Vietnam Travel

👑 For the History Buff

“Vietnam’s past is layered and complex—these stops let you walk through it, not just read about it.”

🏯 Hue Imperial Citadel – ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

This sprawling UNESCO site offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s royal heritage. Walking through the citadel feels like flipping pages of a living history book, especially when the rain adds atmosphere.

Tip:
Go with a local guide to uncover stories beyond the signage. Rent a bike to explore the entire complex at a relaxed pace. Embrace the convenience of digital payments for seamless transactions across the country. Modern transactions often involve QR code payment, especially in cities. Many locals use popular mobile wallets for everyday purchases, a convenient option for travelers too.

🏛 Temple of Literature (Hanoi) – ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)

A peaceful oasis in the middle of Hanoi’s hustle. It’s Vietnam’s first university and still feels sacred and scholarly. You’ll find calligraphy artists near the Tet holiday—worth the visit!

Tip:
Arrive early in the morning before school groups flood in. Don’t miss the stone steles resting on turtle backs—each one is a national treasure.

🏺 War Remnants Museum (HCMC) – ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Not an easy visit emotionally, but an essential one. The museum is raw, honest, and eye-opening about the Vietnam War’s impact, told from the Vietnamese perspective.

Tip:
Prepare yourself mentally—it’s graphic. Take your time, and visit the outdoor display of tanks and aircraft last, once you’ve processed the exhibits inside.

⚡ For the Thrill Seeker

“If your soul craves adrenaline, Vietnam will challenge and reward you every step—or leap—of the way.”

🌄 Son Doong Expedition – ★★★★★ (5/5)

This is not a hike—it’s a full-on expedition. Crawling through the world’s largest cave, seeing sunlight stream through collapsed ceilings, and sleeping inside a cavern was surreal. A bucket-list dream worth every ounce of effort.

Tip:
Train months in advance. The tour is physically demanding and books out up to a year early. Only a few hundred people do this annually—secure your spot fast!

🏍 Ha Giang Loop – ★★★★★ (4.9/5)

Twisting roads, limestone peaks, and minority villages—this was the most scenic motorbike trip I’ve ever taken. It’s both liberating and humbling. Every turn feels like a postcard.

Tip:
Ride with a guide if you’re not confident. Weather is key—avoid rainy season. Stop often for photos and chats with locals.

🏜 Mui Ne Sandboarding – ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

It’s Vietnam’s slice of desert adventure! The sunrise over the red dunes is worth the early wake-up. Sliding down sandy slopes on a plastic board brought out my inner child.

Tip:
Hire a jeep tour for sunrise. Bring water, sunglasses, and expect to get sand in… everything.

🍜 For the Foodie Traveler

“Vietnam’s soul lives in its food. Each region, each alley, each grandma’s recipe is a delicious story.”

🥢 Street Food Tour in Hanoi – ★★★★★ (5/5)

From slurping pho in a back alley to devouring grilled pork bun cha, Hanoi’s street food blew me away. The flavors are sharp, bold, and addictive. I found my favorite egg coffee at a hidden shop behind a bookstore!

Tip:
Go with a local food guide—they’ll take you places you’d never find alone. Walk a lot, eat more.

👨‍🍳 Cooking Class in Hoi An – ★★★★☆ (4.8/5)

Rolling fresh spring rolls on a riverside terrace and steaming cao lau noodles in banana leaves? Yes, please. The class was hands-on, friendly, and incredibly well-paced.

Tip:
Choose classes that include a wet market tour. You’ll learn more about herbs, sauces, and how locals shop.

🐟 Seafood Feast in Phu Quoc – ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)

Fresh sea urchin, grilled scallops, crab hotpot—Phu Quoc’s night markets are seafood heaven. I had dinner right on the beach with my feet in the sand and waves at my toes.

Tip:
Try the local fish sauce—it’s famous across Vietnam. Visit Ham Ninh fishing village for the freshest catches.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families with Kids

“Vietnam is a playground for all ages—full of fun, color, and wonder.”

🎭 Water Puppet Show (Hanoi or HCMC) – ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

A cultural classic that kids love. The puppets dance on water, and the live orchestra brings ancient stories to life with traditional instruments.

Tip:
Sit in the front rows for better views. Shows are usually under 1 hour—perfect for little attention spans.

🚢 Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise – ★★★★★ (4.9/5)

Our family cruise had kayaking, squid fishing, and cooking demos—no one got bored. The bay is majestic and calm, ideal for kids to move around safely.

Tip:
Choose a mid-range to luxury boat for better service and safety. Some cruises offer family cabins and kid-friendly activities.

🎢 VinWonders Phu Quoc – ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

It’s Vietnam’s version of Disneyland! With a waterpark, aquarium, and roller coasters, kids had the time of their lives. There’s even a Viking-themed village.

Tip:
Go early to beat the crowds. Wear comfy shoes—it’s a massive complex. The safari next door is also worth a visit!

👤 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the must-do activities in Hanoi?

Street food tour, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, water puppet show, Temple of Literature.

Are cooking classes worth it in Vietnam?

Absolutely! They’re fun, interactive, and delicious.

Can I do trekking in Vietnam without a guide?

Yes, but in remote areas like Ha Giang or Sapa, hiring a local guide enhances safety and cultural understanding.

What’s unique about Vietnamese culture?

The blend of ancient traditions, colonial influence, and modern vibrancy—especially visible in cuisine, rituals, and architecture.

📖 Conclusion

Vietnam offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that go far beyond the postcard scenes. From trekking northern mountains to savoring central delicacies and unwinding on southern beaches, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Let your journey be guided not just by maps, but by curiosity, taste, and a love for exploration.

Ready to explore these incredible experiences? Browse our curated Vietnam tour packages, or let our experts customize your dream itinerary!

👤 Author Bio & Why Trust Us?

Written by Emma Nguyen, Vietnam Travel Expert at Sun Getaways Travel

With 15+ years guiding travelers through the wonders of Vietnam, Emma Nguyen is a seasoned expert in Vietnamese travel logistics and immigration. Her deep understanding of local regulations and passion for ensuring smooth journeys make her an invaluable resource.

Why Trust Us?

1. 10+ years of local experience
2. Certified guides and handpicked tours
3. Thousands of happy travelers and 5-star reviews