20 Best Things to Do in Vietnam: A Complete Travel Guide

A timeless country where ageless traditions, stunning natural beauty, modern cities, and culinary delights await you, Vietnam is a land of firsts. The turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay, the picture-perfect lantern streets of Hoi An, the luscious rice terraces of Sapa, and the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc are just some of the fascinating natural and cultural gems in Vietnam. Be it a fun-filled holiday, a romantic escape, a family trip, or a cultural adventure, Vietnam is full of surprises waiting to be discovered.

From visiting historical sites, cruising the picturesque waterways, trying out authentic street food, trekking the mountain villages, to sunbathing on pristine beaches, there is something for everyone in Vietnam. If you wish for a hassle-free Vietnam holiday with well-planned itineraries and memorable experiences, trust Dream Travel Yaari to create the travel experiences of a lifetime. For more information, please contact number +91 9689 9689 60  and e-mail us on info@dreamtravelyaari.com.

20 Best Things to Do in Vietnam

Here are 20 experiences worth adding to your itinerary, along with practical tips on timing, tickets, and planning:

1. Cruise across Ha Long Bay

Sail through one of Vietnam's most picturesque maritime landscapes, renowned for emerald waters and towers of limestone. Options include a few hours of day cruising or a two-day overnighter with an overnight on board. Keep these things in mind:

• Day cruise costs are around 250,000-450,000 VND per person, with overnight prices from approximately 105-$250, depending on boat class.

• Guide to the best time is October to April for clearer weather.

• Book overnight cruises well in advance, as some ship operators require 1-week.

• Ensure you understand what inclusions, such as entrance fees, meals and kayaking, are included in the price.

2. Wander the Hanoi Old Quarter

Walk in the footsteps of the old shopkeepers, traders and artisans who established the original Canton Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam. Explore well-preserved winding streets, authentic local shops, diverse markets, cafes and traditional-style architecture. Keep these things in mind:

• Sights within the Old Quarter are generally free to explore, ideal for saving on your budget.

• Bring your comfortable walking shoes for walking around the old streets.

3. Roam the Hoi An Ancient Town

Immerse yourself in the old town of Hoi An, known for colourful lanterns, heritage architecture, riverside atmosphere, and ancient trading history. Keep these things in mind:

• The heritage ticket costs about 120,000 VND for access to a selection of features and sites (higher option). 

• Much of the historic streetscape is best explored on foot; cycles are available from approximately 30,000 VND per day.

• Plan to visit early morning, or linger until dark, to avoid the daytime crowds.

4. Encounter the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills

Showcasing Vietnam's best-known attraction, the Golden Bridge (Golden Hand) with giant stone hands supporting a handrail. Travel to the mountaintop via an exceptional cable car experience. Keep these things in mind:

• Non-resident adult 2026 ticket prices are about 1,000,000 VND

• Entrance is also included to areas like the French Village or Shopping Mall, with full-day exploration possible.

• Pre-book during high-demand periods; plan early to beat the crowds, taking a light jacket due to rapidly changing weather at the summit.

• Weather can be unpredictable on mountain summits, so carry a light warm layer.

5. Explore Cu Chi Tunnels

Step back into Vietnam's wartime past and investigate the complex tunnel network of Cu Chi Tunnels. Tourists learn how people navigated this network, and hear stories of what daily life, survival, and combat were like. Keep these things in mind:

• Visit fee and tour-guide charges total about 135,000 VND, based on the site and tour preferences.

• Book a guided tour for transport and expert narration; wear everyday clothing and supportive shoes for crawling into the tunnels.

6. Cycle along the Mekong Delta

Join a boat tour, or another Mekong Delta adventure, to explore mighty waterways, floating markets, lush villages and diverse countryside. Sample experiences include long-distance boat rides, walking through colorful fruit orchards and local villages. Keep these things in mind:

• Most tours from Ho Chi Minh City are about $25 each, depending on the experience and inclusions.

• For the most immersive experience, select a small-group or private tour.

• Book at least 1-3 days before a trip, especially during busy holiday seasons.

7. Trek the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Visit Vietnam's stunning mountain region, famed for panoramic rice terraces, rugged mountain peaks, ethnic mountain communities, and trekking trails. Travel to and walk through mountain villages, including Ta Van and Lao Chai. Keep these things in mind:

• September and October are popular for the best views of the harvest season.

• Plan your multi-day treks well in advance for the best guides

• Bring sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing

8. Delve into the Imperial City of Hue

Follow in the footsteps of royal courtiers as you explore Hue's important imperial complex, which includes the Imperial City and royal tombs. The site includes gates, palaces, royal units, temples, and various historic structures connected with the Nguyen dynasty. Keep these things in mind:

• The entry fee is near 200,000 VND for adults, with various royal tombs costing less.

• Visit early in the day to enjoy the weather and avoid some of the crowds.

9. Take a Trang An River Tour

Venture to Trang An, with its striking scenery of waterways, mountains and limestone formations, to hire a traditional boat. Skim along the peaceful waterway, through caves, past bamboo groves and open rural landscapes while being rowed by local experts. Keep these things in mind:

• 2026 prices for a boat trip are around 300,000 VND per person, based on published rates.

• Allow 2-3 hours for your trip, making it suitable to include as a stop on the way to other Ninh Binh attractions.

• Book early in the morning to escape the stronger midday heat and avoid the crowds.

• Take your sunscreen, water, and hat along.

10. View from the Mua Cave Viewpoint

Climb a stone staircase path to view Vietnam's mountain and rice-field panoramas from the summit of Mua Cave. Vast viewpoints reveal the spectacular views from the hills of Ninh Binh Province. Keep these things in mind:

• An entrance fee of about 150,000 VND is payable per person at the time of publication.

• Visit early or late in the day to avoid the heat and crowd

• Wear supportive and comfortable footwear

11. Experience Vietnamese Street Food

Eating Vietnamese street food is one of the must-do activities on a Vietnam holiday – you can do it in nearly any city. Sample local food and drink, including pho, banh mi, bun cha, fresh spring rolls and Vietnamese coffee.Keep these things in mind:

• For a first-time visit, guided food tours can be beneficial 

• Book a popular food tour 1-3 days ahead, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

• Go for popular stalls with a lot of locals and fresh food for a safer, more authentic experience.

12. Take a Boat Trip Through the Coconut Garden in Hoi An

Experience a fun ride on round basket boats in the Bay Mau Coconut Forest area near Hoi An. Enjoy a scenic boat ride among coconut palms and find out about the people's traditional fishing culture. Keep these things in mind:

• The coconut forest entry fee is about 30,000 VND, while the price of the basket-boat trip might be 90,000-150,000 VND, depending on the option.

• It takes around 30-40 minutes and thus can be conveniently mixed with your Hoi An sightseeing tour.

• Best time: morning or late afternoon for more pleasant weather.

13. Take it easy on the Beaches of Da Nang

There is a great beach for swimming and relaxing - My Khe Beach(a favourite of locals and visitors).Guests may choose to swim, walk the beach, or just sit and relax to the views of the South China Sea. Keep these things in mind:

• An early walk in the morning is perfect for a peaceful walk, and the late afternoon is a wonderful time to soak in the sunset.

• Take the opportunity to combine a trip to the beach with Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, or Ba Na Hills.

14. Tour the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City

Learn about the history of Vietnam during the war at the War Remnants Museum, where there are some interesting photos and displays with exhibitions from the war years. Situated in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, it is not hard to add it into your city sightseeing list. Keep these things in mind:

• Take 1-2 hours to take time to wander around the exhibits at your leisure.

• Attending in the early part of the day might also help be able to scope in the museum with some other top attractions.

15. Visit My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is an old Cham temple complex in the countryside outside Hoi An. Brick temples and structures dating back to the Champa civilisation. Keep these things in mind:

• The fee currently is about 150,000 VND for each visitor over 15 years old.

• Arrive early, especially during the warmer months, as a lot of the site is outdoors.

16. Go Island-Hopping in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is famous for its beaches, water, snorkelling and boat trips. Keep these things in mind:

• Shared island-hopping tours can begin from $25, while private experiences will cost significantly more.

• Book popular tours 1-3 days in advance, whereas private boats are best booked in advance.

• Sea conditions tend to be better in the dry season, which is why many prefer to practice outside.

• Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit, a waterproof pouch for your phone 

17. Ride the Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is a scenic coastal mountain pass connecting the Da Nang and Hue regions. The pass can be travelled by motorbike, private vehicle, jeep or on a tour. There is great scenery along the pass with views of the coast and mountains. Keep these things in mind:

• No big door entrance ticket is needed for the route. 

• Renting a good bike is another vital element for bikers.

• Do not ride in the rain or any fog because the mountain roads can be tough.

18. Explore the Marble Mountains

At Marble Mountains near Da Nang, there are caves, Buddhist temples, viewpoints and the magnificent limestone formations. Visitors may ascend mountain staircases and find shrines concealed within the natural caves. Keep these things in mind:

• There is a modest admission fee to all the big Vietnamese attractions

• Go early to beat the warmth and hordes of people going up the stairs.

• Wear appropriate footwear as the ground may be uneven

19. Visit Fansipan, the Roof of Indochina

This mountain is the best place for mountain lovers and adventure lovers. For visitors, travellers can make their way to the summit via the world-famous cable car and not travel all the way up on foot.

• The prices for cable cars vary according to the season

• Generally, mountain views and photography will look better in the mornings.

• Temperatures at the summit can be much cooler than in Sapa town.

20. Experience a Vietnamese Lantern Evening

One of the most unforgettable cultural experiences in Vietnam: a lantern-filled evening in Hoi An. In the evening, the Ancient Town and the Thu Bon River are beautifully lit with colourful lanterns, perfect for a walk and photography.

• Floating lanterns are sold for roughly 10,000 VND, and you can rent a small boat at around 100,000 VND per trip.

• Book river boats earlier in the evening if you prefer an earlier time slot during busier periods of the year.

Conclusion

Vietnam is a destination where every journey can be filled with memorable experiences, from peaceful cruises across Ha Long Bay and cultural walks through Hoi An to exciting adventures in caves, mountains, and bustling cities. Whether you love history, food, nature, beaches, or adventure, Vietnam offers something for every type of traveller. Dream Travelyaari can help you plan a comfortable Vietnam holiday with suitable packages, itineraries, and travel arrangements tailored to your preferences.