Things to do in Vietnam

Vietnam is full of exciting things and attractions. Here are some of the best things to do during your Vietnam vacation:

Cultural Experiences

Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage offers many opportunities for immersive experiences. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a great place to start, with its quaint, narrow streets filled with traditional shops, markets, and street food vendors. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Hoi An is known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrantly lit streets. In Hue, the former imperial capital, you can explore the impressive imperial city, 'including palaces, temples, and tombs. Attending a traditional water puppet show or cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City can significantly enhance your cultural tour, giving you a deeper insight into Vietnamese traditions and cuisine.

Nature-Immersive Experiences

If you are an orophile (more inclined towards nature), Vietnam's natural beauty is unparalleled, offering various experiences that will bring you closer to nature. With its emerald waters and long limestone islands, Ha Long Bay is perfect for scenic sailing or kayak tours through hidden caves. Known as the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a beautiful and green place where you can sail through spectacular waterways, visit floating markets, and experience the countryside lifestyle. Exploring these caves or hiking through the surrounding forests gives you a unique insight into Vietnam’s pristine nature.

Adventurous and Thrilling Experiences

For adventure seekers, Vietnam does not disappoint. Sapa has hiking opportunities in its hills, offering spectacular views of terraced rice paddies and ethnic minority villages. Known as the "Eternal Spring City," Dalat is an ideal destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as mountain biking, canyoning, and rock climbing. Mui and the dunes provide a unique backdrop for sandboarding and quad-biking activities. Meanwhile, Nha Trang is the perfect beach town for water sports enthusiasts, with scuba diving, snorkeling, and jet-skiing activities, and every destination ensures thrill seekers have plenty to offer that can be explored. 

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

To understand when is the best time to visit Vietnam, you must understand its geography, as the country’s climate varies significantly from north to south.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa) 

The best time to visit North Vietnam is from October to April. It’s cool and dry during these months, making it perfect for urban exploring and hiking. Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.  If you travel in the spring, you will be lucky to see Hanoi host the beautiful Pagoda Festival. The city becomes a swirl of colors, traditional music, and delicious street food.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An)

The weather from February to August is warm and sunny, making it perfect for many fun things to do in Vietnam, such as beach holidays and exploring ancient cities. Avoid the monsoon season, which usually runs from September to January, as it can bring heavy rains and the occasional storm.

Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)

South Vietnam has a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The dry season, December to April, offers hot temperatures and little rainfall, ideal for exploring the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, the lush Mekong Delta, and the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc. The rainy season, from May to November, brings heavy rains but not a few crowds and lush greenery. It is still a good time for those interested -in the region, too.

Overall, the best time of year to visit Vietnam depends on the specific destinations and activities. Plan accordingly to ensure you experience the country’s beauties in the best of weather conditions.

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam 

Vietnam has many places to visit that showcase rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in Vietnam.

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a harmonious blend of ancient history and modern charm. The old part of town, with its narrow, winding streets, is a bustling area filled with traditional shops, markets, and street food vendors. Sample local delicacies such as pho and banh mi to check out and buy a unique souvenir. Located in the city's heart, the tranquil Hoan Kim Lake provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets. 

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and long limestone islands. This natural wonder is perfect for scenic sailing and kayaking trips. Gliding along the bay, you’ll enjoy breathtaking karsts and hidden cave views. Popular sites include Sung Sot (miracle) Cave, famous for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and Tea Top Island, which offers a great view of the bay from above.

Hoi An

Hoi An is an ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, brightly lit streets, bustling market buildings, and Tan-Kay Old House, each with architectural styles that exhibit unique cultural influences. Hoi An’s culinary scene is equally appealing. Enroll in a cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes like cao lau and banh xeo, or enjoy one of the city that’s many riverside restaurants. 

Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's largest and most dynamic city. This bustling city boasts a vibrant mix of historic sites, contemporary high-rise buildings, and street life. The War Memorial Museum offers a sad but essential glimpse into the Vietnam War. In contrast, the Unification Palace offers a glimpse into the city’s recent history, as do the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Saigon Central Post Office. The remains of French colonial rule exhibit rich architecture and historical significance.

Sapa

Located in the northern highlands, Sapa is known for its breathtaking scenery and cultural diversity. The region has terraced rice fields, rolling hills, and flood-covered mountains. Walking is a popular activity in Sapa, offering trails that take you through picturesque villages inhabited by ethnic minorities such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay. Mount Phansipan, known as the "North of Indochina," is the highest mountain in Vietnam and a significant attraction in Sapa, which is known for its majestic view from atop and is one of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Travel Tips

Traveling to Vietnam can be a fantastic experience, and here are some essential Vietnam travel tips to make the most of your trip:

• Respect local customs: Vietnam has rich cultural traditions. Dress appropriately, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially monks.
• Learn essential Vietnamese words: English is spoken chiefly in tourist areas, but to communicate with the locals, learn a few basic Vietnamese greetings like "xin chào" (hello) and "cám" (thank you). 
• Stay hydrated and eat well: Hot weather can be brutal, so stay hydrated. Be careful with street food—while it’s delicious, ensure it’s served fresh and hot to avoid stomach upsets.
• Use reputable travel services: To avoid scams, use popular taxi services like Mai Linh or Vinasun or ride-hailing apps like Grab. When renting a motorcycle, make sure it is from a reliable source, and always wear a helmet.
• Currencies and commodities: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. In many places, money is preferred, so keep a small amount on hand. Bargaining is common in markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices politely.
• Stay connected: Consider buying a local SIM card to get cheap internet and use navigation apps. This will keep you connected and make it easier to navigate cities.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as healthcare costs can be high for tourists.

Leisure-Way 

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam? At Leisure, we specialize in personalized Vietnam travel tours. Our tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Whether you dream of exploring Hoi An's ancient streets, the majestic Ha Long Bay, or trekking through the majestic Sapa mountains, our dedicated travel experts are here to make it happen.

Booking a holiday with us is easy and convenient. Our experienced travel advisors will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your Vietnam holiday is seamless and enjoyable. Thanks to our extensive network of trusted partners, we offer the best Vietnam vacation packages to meet all your travel needs. From adventure travel to cultural exploration, we tailor your trip to suit your interests and budget. You can also enroll in the Leisure newsletter to stay updated on Vietnam vacation deals.

Experience one of our best trips to Vietnam, with 24-hour assistance and a memorable trip guaranteed. Vitenam vacations offer a unique travel experience that exceeds your expectations and leaves you with lasting memories of it's beauty and hospitality. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation to Vietnam.

FAQs

What are the best months to visit Vietnam?

Generally, the best months to visit Vietnam are November through April, when the weather is hot and dry, and it’s good to explore.

How much does a vacation to Vietnam cost?

Your Vietnam vacation cost varies depending on your itinerary, duration, and activities. Vietnam is known as an affordable destination, with various budget options for accommodation, food, and tours.

Is Vietnam friendly to visit?

Yes, Vietnam is still a friendly and welcoming place for travelers. The locals are known for their hospitality and warmth, which makes it an exciting place to visit.

Is Vietnam cheap to travel around?

Vietnam is relatively inexpensive, with affordable transportation, food, and accommodation. Public transportation and local restaurants offer excellent value for money.