Though a religious country, Vietnam is famous among vacationers for its pristine beaches, mystic caves, iconic museums, and remarkable infrastructure. When you are in Vietnam, kayak around the Ha Long Bay, admire the palaces at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, explore the underground life of war soldiers at Cu Chi Tunnels, get religious at My Son Sanctuary, stay astounded by the 19th-century architecture at Complex of Hue Monuments, hike through the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, immerse yourself in the sunset at The Sand Dunes of Mui Ne and the list goes on and on. Planning your Vietnam tour can be tricky! Check out our list of the top things Vietnam is famous for and never miss the best things the country has to offer.
Tip from Content Creator
Vietnam has undoubtedly become my favorite destination to date, offering a diverse range of attractions such as breathtaking waterfalls, thrilling adventures, picturesque landscapes, and more. Although it may not be as budget-friendly as portrayed on social media, it remains one of the most affordable places for Indians to visit. While here, do also check out these other attractions: Muine Fishing Village, Paradise Cave, Da Nang, and Ban Gioc Waterfalls.
1. Ho Chi Minh City
The bustling city of Ho Chi Minh will welcome you with plenty of iconic buildings and an amazing shopping experience. Thien Hau is a 19th-century temple known for its ancient structure. Check out the artifacts from the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War at War Remnants Museum. Admire the French Colonial architecture at the Opera House. Bargain and enjoy unlimited shopping on the back streets of Cho Lon.
2. Hanoi
Hanoi is all about stunning pagodas, remarkable museums, outstanding colonial buildings, vibrant nightlife, and mouth-watering cuisines. In addition to this, the picturesque landscape of Hanoi is backed by scenic parks and majestic mountains. Get awestruck at the striking, natural beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake and Bat Trang ceramic village. To witness the real Hanoi, stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter, which is lined with old buildings, local street vendors, and eat outs. One Pillar Pagoda and Tran Quoc Pagoda are great sights for architecture lovers. The Museum of Ethnology exhibits 54 local ethnic groups in Vietnam. Watch a unique water puppet show depicting their ancient folklore at Thang Long Puppet Theatre.
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Book Tours : Hanoi In One Day
3. Motorbikes
Motorbiking is one of the best ways to tour the beautiful land of Vietnam. After you dig into the bustling areas of Vietnam, going on a bike ride through scenic locations will present you with a relaxing vibe. Go on a motorbike tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or the other way around to admire their lush rice fields and stunning beaches. Both the cities offer more options to rent a bike. You can also buy a second-hand bike and sell it at the end of the tour. Ha Giang to north Vietnam is also a good biking route with amazing scenery.
Book Tours : Hue: 4.5-Hour Countryside Motorbike Tour
4. Vietnamese coffee
Coffee is the best way to start a refreshing day. As the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnamese coffee is known for its intense flavor and thick consistency. The coffee beans are locally grown at ‘Da Lat’ which is referred to as the 'Europe of Vietnam.’ When in Vietnam, it is a sin if you don’t taste their exceptional coffee. Ca phe sua da is a traditional Vietnamese cold coffee made with sweetened condensed milk. The filter drip used in its making gives it a unique flavor and makes it stand out from the rest of the world.
Book Tours : Discover Vietnam's Coffee Culture.
5. Ao Dai
Ao Dai is a national dress of Vietnam worn by women to show the unique culture of their country. Originated in southern Vietnam, Ao Dai has been its attire symbol for over 300 years. It is basically a long outer gown paired with trousers. Pair it with a traditional hat and a shoe to adorn a perfect look. Tan Dinh Market, Ben Tahn Market, Soai Kinh Lam Market, Cho Hom Market, Ao Dai Thanh Mai, Luong Van Can Street, and FedEx are some of the best places to buy or rent Ao Dai. Do not miss to wear this dress and click a photo for a keepsake to cherish forever.
Book Tours : Ao Dai Half Day Rental in Da Nang, Vietnam
6. Hoi An
Hoi An is an ancient city blessed by a scenic landscape. Known for its traditional architecture, the city is filled with wooden shophouses, exceptional tube houses, beautiful age-old temples, and many more. Cam Thanh Village is a picturesque location dazzling with mesmerizing green fields and Thu Bồn River canals. Ride on a bamboo basket boat to admire the irresistible splendor of the canal. Residing in a 1653 structure, Hoi An Museum is a must-see that houses 2000-year-old artifacts of Hoi An. Other iconic attractions include Chinese Assembly Halls, the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Bach Dang River, Hoi An Night Market, and the list goes on.
Book Tours : Hoi An City and Countryside Tour, Hoi An, Vietnam
7. Mekong Delta
Surrounded by rice fields, the Mekong River Delta is a striking destination that includes the magnificent Khmer pagoda, lively fishing villages, and vibrant floating markets. Cruising on the Mekong River via a long-tail boat is the best way to admire its impeccable beauty. Cai Be, Vinh Long, and Cai Mon fruit orchards are some of the wonderful local farms to savor fresh fruits. Don’t forget to visit Cai Be Floating Market, Phong Dien Floating Market, Cai Rang Floating Market, and Phung Hiep Floating Market to go on a budget shopping spree.
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8. Conical hat
Also known as the Asian rice hat, Non-La is a traditional conical hat used for protection against sun and rain. Sometimes locals use this hat to carry vegetables while shopping or to drink water from the well. Made from bamboo and palm tree leaves, the hat is completely handmade showcasing the excellent craftsmanship of the Vietnamese people. Book a tour to learn making this hat from local instructors and bring back a souvenir to treasure forever.
Book Tours : Vietnamese Coffee Making Class in Hoi An
9. Vietnam War
Commonly referred to as the ‘Second Indochina War’, the Vietnam War is one of the major historical events in Vietnam. Over a period of 19 years, this war occurred between North Vietnam and South Vietnam. War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City houses several war exhibits including American military equipment, a fighter plane, a helicopter with rocket missiles, attack aircraft, a bomb weighing 6,800 kg (14991.43 lbs), and war photographs. Cu Chi Tunnels acted as a refuge for Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You can explore these war attractions to visualize the soldier’s life during the war.
10. Pho
Pho is a traditional soup in Vietnam made from rice noodles, meat, and herbs. The name ‘Pho’ means noodles, which are prepared daily from white rice flour. Pho is a must-try delicacy for its simple taste and irresistible flavors. Traditionally, Vietnamese rice field workers start their day with a bowl of pho to feel refreshed throughout the day. It is a well-balanced, nutritious food that is good for joint health. Whether you are wandering in the streets of Vietnam or on a romantic date at a fancy restaurant, you can savor a delectable pho and get that wow mood instantly.
Book Tours : Hoi An: Traditional Pho Noodle Cooking Class
11. Ha Long Bay
Contributed by Content Creator, Alexandra
If you’re looking to add a destination to your Vietnam bucket list, Ha Long Bay should be it. I had seen this gem in movies, but nothing prepared me for what I saw in person.
This stunning bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is filled with thousands of limestone islands and caves, making it the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you want to explore its many coves by boat or take a kayak out on the calm waters, you will never forget this incredible place! Here are my quick tips and recommendations:
- Make sure to go kayaking! This was so peaceful and serene and probably the number one place I've ever kayaked (number two is the Bay of Islands).
- Try to stay in one of the overwater bungalows. If you're on a budget, you can do a dorm-style cabin, which is just as fun! That is what I did and it was beyond amazing!
- Do your part to clean up. The only thing that broke my heart was that there was so much trash floating about. If you can, pick something up. 30 seconds on your part makes such a difference!
Vietnam's rich heritage
Whether you are looking for a culinary adventure or a traditional tour, Vietnam is a perfect destination with a big list of wonders. The uniqueness of the country makes it remarkably attractive to tourists. Take a look at our list of famous things in Vietnam and experience its authentic splendor.
Tip from Content Creator
If you’re looking for adventure, beaches, history, nightlife and great food, Vietnam is the place to go. Check out some more recommendations for a great trip:
- Spend two nights dancing, making friends and disconnecting from the rest of the world on Halong Bay, specifically Castaways Island
- Try the local food, particularly banh mi, banh xeo and bun cha
- Swap your cappuccino for egg coffee - it tastes better than it sounds
- Spend two nights in a local homestay and trek through Sa Pa
- Relax and meet other travellers in Ninhvana
- Take your Instagram shot on Train Street in Hanoi
- See the impressive Golden Bridge
- Head to Ba Na Hills to feel like you’ve been transported into a mini-Europe
- Visit one of the top 10 most instagrammable cafes in the world - The Note Cafe
- Admire impressive views of Saigon at the Chill Sky Rooftop Bar
History
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