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Vietnam has become a popular destination in Southeast Asia for many reasons. It has beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities and deep cultural heritage. Furthermore, itis a very affordable destination.
From the misty mountains of Sapa to the golden beaches of Phú Quốc, this Southeast Asian gem offers a wide variety of travel experiences.
Whether you’re sailing the emerald waters of Halong Bay, sampling tantalizing street food in Hanoi, or exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam has something for every kind of traveler.
Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, between Thailand and Cambodia. It’s home to over 98 million people, with Vietnamese as the official language. Its capital is Hanoi, but many travelers fly into Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon.
There are so many must-see sights and hidden treasures to experience, but let’s get started on our Vietnam guide on the top 15 things to do in Vietnam.
Cruise Ha Long Bay and Enjoy the View

Ha Long Bay is definitely one of those reasons you will visit Vietnam. It is a natural wonder, with over 1,600 limestone islands rising magnificently from emerald waters.
During your boat trip of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll enjoy impressive rock formations, karst caves, floating fishing villages, beautiful beaches and Vietnamese food.
It is one of the world’s most picturesque settings.
Keep in mind that competition in Halong Bay is fierce. So always compare pricing and see if there are any extras, such as kayaking or transfers from Hanoi (where most tours begin).
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Also, it is difficult to say how much it will cost because you can choose affordability or luxury. It also depends on whether you prefer short-term excursions, day trips, or overnight tours. Options range from approximately $30 to several hundred dollars.
It’s up to you, but I recommend booking a boat ride that includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave. It is famous for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, lighted with colorful lights.
Also, most Ha Long Bay cruises include meals, but the drinks are not included. So, if you’re strictly on a budget, pack water because prices can be higher.
If you were planning on bringing alcohol, you are not allowed to; you can only buy it there. But, don’t worry. It’s fantastic without it too,
Light a Lantern in Hoi An

Almost ten years ago, my sister got me a souvenir: a notebook from Vietnam with iconic Vietnamese lanterns painted on the cover. Since then, the lanterns have been one of the first things that come to mind when I hear the word Vietnam.
One of the locations where you can find those famous lantern-lit streets is Hoi An in Central Vietnam.
If you’re lucky (or have planned in advance), you’ll be able to attend the famous Lantern Festival.
This is the most famous festival, taking place on the 14th day of each lunar month.
Locals and tourists release paper lanterns into the river, creating a beautiful setting. Traditional music and dance performances fill the streets, and food stalls sell local specialties such as sticky rice and mooncakes.
For the Vietnamese, it is more than just a visual delight. It is a time for families to gather, remember their ancestors, and express wishes for prosperity. So, feel free to join them in those wonderful wishes.
Explore Hoi An’s Old Town and Buy Unique Souvenir

If you can’t make it to Hoi An during the festival, don’t worry; it still has a lot to offer.
Its Old Town includes traditional wooden houses and historical sites (such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation).
While strolling through Hoi An, you can stop by cafes, eat street food and visit tailor shops. Tailor shops are places where trained craftspeople can create personalized clothes in one day.
You can show them a photo of a design you like, select fabrics, and define details. If you want, you can negotiate. Just communicate precisely, and you’ll leave Hoi An with a unique souvenir.
Don’t overlook the vibrant Hoi An Night Market as well. While the most stunning displays take place during the Lantern Festival, Hoi An is lit up with colorful lanterns every night.
Local businesses often place lanterns outside their shops and homes, and tourists and locals release paper lanterns into the Thu Bon River.
And when you combine eating banh mi with a night view of colorful lanterns, well, magic happens.
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and Learn About the Vietnam War

Would you dare to go through the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are 80 cm narrow in some places? I highly recommend this tour through Vietnam’s wartime history. It’s near Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon).
The Viet Cong used it during the Vietnam War. You can learn how they were intelligently camouflaged.
If you want to, enter the tunnels to experience the tightness and darkness that the soldiers faced. In places, tunnels are as tight as 80 cm. Adequate for Viet Cong fighters but not for American soldiers.
I recommend guided tours that will tell you fascinating stories of how families lived in these tunnels, complete with kitchens and hospitals.
Many tours include a visit to both the tunnels and the War Remnants Museum.
To enter the Cu Chi Tunnels, you will pay between $19 and $30 USD per person.
And while you’re there, try tapioca. During the Vietnam War, it was a staple of the Viet Cong. Particularly when rice was limited.
Typically, the meal is made with boiled or steamed tapioca, which has a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
In the Cu Chi tunnels, it is frequently served with peanuts and, sometimes, a sesame or coconut dip. Here, it is more than just a meal; it is a piece of history.
Trek in Sapa and Enjoy Fansipan

Ah, endless rice fields. One of the most popular shots of exotic countries. That’s why I recommend trekking in Sapa.
It is located in Lao Cai province (northern Vietnam) and is famous for its terraced rice paddies, waterfalls, mountains and diverse cultures.
Trekking through lush valleys and villages (like Cat Cat and Ta Van) allows you to explore the Hmong and Dzao people’s rich cultures.
The paths range in difficulty, catering to all levels of hikers and leading to breathtaking views like Fansipan. It is the highest point in Indochina.
The view from there is the moment when you will realize how amazing this world is.
Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Can you believe Hanoi has over 6.5 million motorbikes?
They play an important role in the everyday routine. You’ll notice a continual flow of motorbikes. They carry everything, from families to street food carts.
So, crossing the street in Hanoi is like an Olympic sport. It requires practice and focus.
While walking through Hanoi Old Quarter, you can savor street food like pho and banh mi (a sandwich made with a French baguette and local ingredients like pickled veggies, grilled meats, and fresh herbs).
There are also various Buddhist temples to visit. For example, Quan Su Pagoda, the seat of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, and Bach Ma Temple, which honors the city’s guardian spirit.
After that, visit historical sights such as the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. I recommend going around sunset, when the river reflects the bright lights of the nearby cafes.
You will need serenity after the adrenaline rush of crossing the streets of Hanoi.
Try Local Vietnamese Food

Vietnamese food can be extremely affordable. Especially local street food.
Street food dishes like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) often cost between $1 and $3.
A full supper at a casual eatery could cost between $4 and $10. If you prefer a more premium eating experience, a decent lunch can cost from $12.
When you think about it, it appears that going to Vietnam would actually save you money, right?
Relax in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Visit the World’s Largest Cave

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a vacation for the eyes and soul. It is full of natural wonders. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park includes Southeast Asia’s oldest cave system. The caves are so impressive that they are frequently referred to as the “Kingdom of Caves.”
I recommend not missing Son Doong. It’s the world’s largest cave. Its ancient stalagmites and a thriving ecosystem create a surreal atmosphere.
Alternatively, zip through the Paradise Cave. You may also kayak, rest by the river, and hike through beautiful scenery.
If you are lucky, you could meet some rare wildlife, such as langurs. Maybe they are interested in a selfie?
Experience the Mekong Delta in Can Tho

It’s time to hop on a traditional wooden boat and explore the lively floating markets on the Mekong River.
The Mekong Delta is an area where residents sell fresh vegetables and homemade handicrafts directly from their wooden boats. Cool, right?
Colors and scents are a sensory feast. As you navigate the winding waterways, you’ll be surrounded by lush green landscapes and picturesque villages.
Make sure to try the exotic local fruits. For example, the sweet and spiky durian or the juicy dragon fruit. Yes, it is much tastier than what we buy in stores.
Tour the Imperial City in Hue

If you are interested in history, you will most likely hear about the Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam. It was the final feudal dynasty here and the Hue Imperial City served as their administrative center.
Its citadel was destroyed during the Vietnam War, but it regained much of its former glory. Today, the Hue Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Don’t miss a chance to explore the Forbidden Purple City. Also, enjoy the city’s royal mausoleums, including Emperor Minh Mang’s Tomb. It features gardens, serene lakes, and elegant pavilions that harmonize with nature.
Adult tickets cost roughly $8.50; if you want a guide, you’ll have to pay an additional $6.50.
Walk Above The Clouds in Da Nang

Okay, it’s time for a walk that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
The mist around The Golden Hands in Da Nang creates an ambiance that makes you feel like you’re walking among the clouds, especially in the early morning or after rain.
This bridge in Da Nang is made up of two massive stone hands that appear to be hoisting the bridge. It provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The bridge links to the Linh Ung Pagoda and the Ba Na Hills amusement park. So, if crossing it isn’t enough thrill for you, walk into this fantasy-themed entertainment.
Keep in mind that The Golden Bridge is located on top of Ba Na Hills, so the cable car is the only way to get there. Ticket prices are around $35. But the good news is that it grants you access to the other attractions in the area too.
Visit My Son Sanctuary

If you are interested in history, My Son is a must-see. If not, this is not something you see every day, so I still recommend it.
An audio recording will teach you about the historical site’s significance and the cultural influences that shaped the Cham people.
The surroundings are nice: lush greenery envelops this historical site, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Also, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can provide a more peaceful experience. So, I believe it will allow you to get the most out of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy the Beaches of Nha Trang

Long Beach, in the coastal city of Nha Trang, is one of those places where you can relax on soft sands with a coconut drink in hand. If it’s too boring for you, try paragliding or jet skiing at Vinpearl Beach.
If you want to go on an adventure, take a boat ride to Mun Island. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling.
In the evening, walk along the Nha Trang promenade and eat street food. I propose grilled squid and delicious seafood while taking in the vibrant scene. It’s great to be on vacation, isn’t it?
Explore Ninh Binh

Remember Ha Long Bay from the beginning of this article, with its towering limestone islands rising dramatically from the water? Well, Ninh Binh is often called “Halong Bay on land.”
It is a beautiful province in northern Vietnam, with lush rice paddies, dramatic limestone karst landscapes, and winding rivers.
One of its highlights is Tam Coc. I recommend taking a traditional boat down the Ngo Dong River. You will see the beautiful karst landscapes and explore caves like Hang Mua for amazing views.
But during your boat ride, be prepared for the locals who will try to sell you all kinds of things, which can disturb the peace that this beautiful nature gives you. So, stand up for yourself.
Immerse in Vietnamese Local Life

When visiting destinations like Vietnam, it’s a good idea to immerse yourself in the local culture and do something different from your usual routine.
So, you can attend a cooking class in a local market in Da Nang and learn how to make traditional dishes like Mi Quang (Vietnamese noodle dish) or Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes stuffed with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mushrooms).
Also, consider staying in a homestay, where you may feel the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality and eat home-cooked meals. You can, for example, pick your own strawberries at local farms in Dalat (Central Highlands), which are famous for their sweetness.
Also, you can explore Ha Giang by motorbike, visit Phu Quoc Island to learn about Vietnamese culture, spend a day at local fishing villages on Cat Ba Island, admire red and white sand dunes in amazing Mui Ne or explore the Temple of Literature in Hanoi. It was home to the first university in Vietnam.
This experience will enrich your understanding of Vietnamese culture but also create lasting memories and friendships.
And that’s why we travel. Not just to visit must-see places but also to collect stories that transform us and connect us to the heartbeat of this wonderful world.
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