Vietnam, a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, offers travellers many different experiences. From the bustling streets of Hanoi in the North to the serene landscapes of Hoi An in Central Vietnam and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City in the South, Vietnam has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top things to do in each region, complete with practical tips and personal insights to make your journey unforgettable.
In this article, we will cover the 10 top things and locations (include a food to try in every place) that you don’t want to miss in your next trip to Vietnam.
Best places to visit and activities to do in North Vietnam
1. Hanoi’s Old Quarter: An Ancient Maze of Things to Do
Start your Vietnamese journey in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a mesmerising maze of things to do.
When you first step into those streets, they might seem a bit crazy. But don’t worry, that’s all part of the Old Quarter’s charm.
Lost yourself through its labyrinthine alleys, where every corner holds exciting discoveries and fantastic street food. Find a cozy corner at a café, kick back, and soak in the lively scene from a comfy spot. You’ll spot folks on bicycles selling fresh flowers and juicy fruits, old pals getting together for checkers matches, and cooks working their magic with steaming bowls of pho and sizzling bun cha.
The longer you explore, the more you’ll stumble upon hidden alleys, quiet pagodas, and cozy little coffee shops. It’s all part of the adventure.
Must food to try: Coffee in Vietnam is the best that you will try ever! Don’t leave Hanoi without savouring the iconic egg coffee, a must-try experience in Hanoi.
Destination Tip: If you want to explore the top things to do and see in Hanoi. Check out our complete guide here.
You will be eating Pho all around Vietnam, but Hanoi, is the best place to try it. You’ll find many street food stalls selling different kinds of pho in Vietnam. You will not go wrong if you go where you see many locals around.
2. Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of Halong Bay
The exceptional beauty of this bay, characterized by its towering limestone karsts, has earned it a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage designation.
With over 1,600 islets, these limestone formations have weathered 500 million years of tropical rains and are adorned with lush jungle growth. Some conceal hollow interiors among these islets, enticing visitors to embark on guided tours to discover magnificent caves.
In the centre of the bay, there are 775 formations spread across an area of just 127 square miles (330 square kilometres). Visitors can discover the bay’s islands, caves, and floating villages on a traditional Vietnamese junk boat within this fascinating expanse.
Must food to try: Cha Muc, a squid cake, is a must-try as the highest quality cakes are made with squid from Halong Bay.
3. Sapa: Trekking and Mountains Awaits
Sapa is where you’ll find Vietnam’s tallest peak, Fan Si Pan, reaching a whopping 3,143 meters above sea level. It’s like the ultimate lookout point, keeping an eye on the awesome terraced rice fields that cover the steep valley walls of Sapa.
The town of Sapa is about 300 kilometres from Hanoi. You can either take a bus (which we recommend) or take a sleeper train.
For adventure seekers, Sapa offers an enthralling trekking experience amidst picturesque landscapes.
Lost yourself in the terraced rice fields and engage with local ethnic minority communities. Don’t forget to pack sturdy hiking boots, as the highland terrain can be rugged!
A must food to try: Thang Co is a traditional dish of the Hmong ethnic people on Sapa, and it’s believed to have first appeared more than 200 years ago. The main ingredients include pork and buffalo meat, along with their bones and internal organs, all mixed with over 20 natural herbs.
4. Temples and Culture in North Vietnam
When it comes to experiencing the local culture in North Vietnam, there is no shortage of options to choose from. If you’re interested in history and architecture, a visit to Hanoi’s ancient temples is a must. The Temple of Literature, for example, is a stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and is dedicated to Confucius. Ngoc Son Temple, on the other hand, is located on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake and is a beautiful place to visit for its peaceful atmosphere and intricate carvings.
For a more unique cultural experience, consider attending a water puppet show. This traditional art form dates back to the 11th century and involves intricate puppets being controlled by puppeteers standing waist-deep in water. The shows often depict scenes from Vietnamese folklore and history, making them both entertaining and educational. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply looking for something new and interesting to do, North Vietnam has something for everyone.
What to visit and do in Central and south Vietnam
5.Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An, with its charming old-world architecture, winding cobbled streets, and iconic yellow shop fronts adorned with vibrant lanterns, stands out as one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations. This picturesque town, designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1999, earned the prestigious title of Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination at the 2021 World Travel Awards. However, beyond the accolades and its postcard-perfect allure, Hoi An has a captivating history of attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.
Many visitors opt for a serene sunset cruise along the river on one of the sampans, which are plentiful along the riverside. If you’re an early riser, consider a sunrise tour of the fish market aboard a traditional wooden boat. Here, you can assist the returning fishermen as they unload their catch for sale. For a more unconventional experience, you can also try out one of the distinctive circular bamboo boats unique to Vietnam.
A must food to try: The banh mi sandwiches at Hoi An shops are the best. They fill their crispy baguettes with a range of ingredients, including both meats and vegetables.
For more information about Hoin An, don’t miss out on our ultimate 2 days Hoi An itinerary guide!
6. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Modern Meets Tradition with Plenty to Do
Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon and is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region.
Take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street to see the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Saigon Opera House. Don’t miss Ben Thanh Market and the Jade Emperor Pagoda for local experiences.
And before you leave, remember to visit the Chinese Quarter! Check out Binh Tay Market for wholesale goods and Thien Hau Pagoda, a beautiful temple by the sea goddess.
A must food to try: Com tam. Having this for breakfast is perfect for a delicious start to your day, or any meal with its honey-glazed barbecued pork chops, sunny-side-up eggs, spring onions, and pickled papaya served over rice.
7. Mekong Delta: A Watery Paradise Beckoning with Things to Do
If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City, we recommend a half-day or full-day visit to the Mekong Delta.
Consider staying one day if you want to be part of the daily life of river-dwelling communities.
A must food to try: Canh Chua Ca is a typical soup in the Mekong Delta. Enjoy a refreshing bowl of tamarind soup with bean sprouts, taro, and freshwater fish.
8. Phu Quoc Island: Beach and Water Activities to Do
Phu Quoc is a beautiful island with crystal clear waters, incredible sunsets and perfect sandy beaches.
The best time to visit is November to March when the weather is exceptionally pleasant with an average temperature of 30 degrees and clear sky.
A must food to try: Don’t miss out Phu Quoc Night Market, officially Dinh Cau Night market, when you are in town. When in there you should try Ken noodle, a unique dish that you definitely cannot find anywhere outside Phu Quoc. This local’s favourite is served with thin noodles, fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, sliced cucumber, bean sprouts, raw papaya and a little bit of sweet and sour fish sauce.
9. Discover the Imperial Legacy: Hue’s Rich History and Culture
If you’re looking for a place rich in history and culture, Hue is worth a visit. It’s considered one of the top destinations to explore.
The city of Hue was home to the last Vietnamese Imperial Dynasty, from 1802-1945, when Emperor Bao Dai abdicated the throne.
The main tourist attraction in Hue is the Imperial City, which makes Hue worth visiting. We recommend spending at least half a day there to enjoy the experience fully.
A must-food to try: With a spicy broth with sliced beef, vermicelli noodles, and crab balls, Bun Bo Hue is the most famous dish in Hue.
10. Visit the Cu Chi tunnels
After the war ended, the Cu Chi tunnels became a national historic site that attracted numerous tourists. The renowned American television channel CNN also recognised the Cu Chi Tunnels as one of the 12 most intriguing underground structures worldwide. These tunnels served as a shelter for the Southern army during the resistance war against invading forces.
When you visit, you can explore a 120-meter-long tunnel system with two floors, allowing you to understand the daily life of Saigon residents during the war. During your Cu Chi tour, you can savour wartime delicacies like sweet potatoes and boiled cassava, often enjoyed with sesame salt.
Conclusion: What should you visit and do in Vietnam?
Vietnam’s vast and incredible landscapes make it a must-visit destination for any traveller.
In conclusion, North Vietnam offers a diverse and captivating range of experiences for travellers. From the enchanting chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the natural wonder of Halong Bay, and from the rugged beauty of Sapa’s mountains to the rich history of Hanoi’s temples, there’s something for everyone in this region.
Moving further south, Hoi An’s timeless charm and Ho Chi Minh City’s blend of modernity and tradition provide unique cultural encounters. A visit to the Mekong Delta and the serene beauty of Phu Quoc Island offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s natural wonders.
For those with an interest in history and culture, Hue’s Imperial City and the Cu Chi tunnels in Saigon are must-visit destinations. And remember to savour the diverse and delicious Vietnamese cuisine along the way.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural enrichment, or culinary delights, North and South Vietnam have a wealth of experiences waiting for you to discover.
