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TOP 24 Things To Do in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

07:55 - 19/12/2024

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Vietnam is a treasure store of many different experiences. From its busy cities to calm rural settings, this nation presents a combination of unmatched friendliness, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Vietnam has something for everyone regardless of your interests—foodies, history buffs, adventurers, or otherwise. Let MOTOGO Tours discover the best things to do in Vietnam

Things To Do in Vietnam — Let MOTOGO Tours discover the best things to do in Vietnam ( Source: Collected)

Cultural Experiences

Rich tapestry spun from Vietnam’s old customs, religious influences, and people’s resiliency defines its culture. This lovely nation presents chances to explore its rich legacy and soul right everywhere. Let’s look at some of the finest cultural encounters you just cannot miss.

Exploring Ancient Temples and Pagodas

Silence witnesses to Vietnam’s spiritual and architectural legacy are its temples and pagodas. Every building is a masterwork expressing a different fusion of Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist ideas.

Temple of Literature (Hanoi): Built in 1070, this Confucian temple in Hanoi not only marks a historical site but also Vietnam’s first national institution. Wander around its serene courtyards and marvel at the complex stone steles bearing the names of intellectuals from ages past.
Thien Mu Pagoda (Hue): Perched on a hill gazing down the Perfume River, this seven-story pagoda is a famous emblem of Hue. The site radiates peace, and for spiritual searchers it is a must-see since of its relationship to Buddhist history.
My Son Sanctuary (Quang Nam Province): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary (Quang Nam Province) consists of Hindu temples from the Cham civilization. Nestled among verdant mountains, this is a breathtaking location where old buildings blends with the surroundings.

Experiencing Local Festivals

Festivals in Vietnam are colorful, lively, and steeped in tradition. They provide a window through which one may view the ideas, values, and communal spirit of its people.

Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): This is the most significant holiday observed in Vietnam. Families get back together, celebrate their ancestors, and set feasts to greet the next year. Peach blooms and kumquat trees abound on the streets, lending a joyful vibe unlike anything else.
Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu): Celebrated for children and families, the Mid-Autumn Festival consists in lantern parades, lion dances, and mooncake distribution. It’s the ideal time for guests to participate in the joyful bustle town squares and villages bring forth.
Hue Festival: Every two years, the Hue Festival presents royal customs, music, and dance events in the old city of Hue. It’s an opportunity to vividly revisit Vietnam’s imperial past.

Immersing Yourself in Village Life

See Vietnam’s rural towns for a more real cultural encounter. Daily life slows down and customs are kept alive in these tranquil nooks.

Bat Trang Pottery Village (Hanoi): Located just outside the capital, this village is famous for its pottery. Visitors can carry home distinctive, handcrafted mementos and try their hand at creating pottery.
Lung Tam Village (Ha Giang Province): Renowned for its traditional brocade weaving, Lung Tam Village (Ha Giang Province) provides a close-up view of the art handed down over years. Here, women create exquisite fabrics that communicate stories by using natural dues and complex designs.
Tra Que Vegetable Village (Hoi An): In this charming farming village, you can learn organic farming techniques, harvest fresh produce, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with locals.

Traditional Music and Performing Arts

The music and performing arts of Vietnam are closely entwined with its past and character. One fascinating approach to engage the artistic soul of the nation is to go to a live performance.

Water Puppetry (Hanoi): Originating in Vietnam’s rice fields in the 11th century, water puppetry (Hanoi) evolved. Performances with traditional music show folk stories, legends, and daily life events.
Ca Tru Music (Northern Vietnam): Recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, Ca Tru Music (Northern Vietnam) is an old form combining singing, music, and poetry. It’s usually carried out in private environments, which generates a wonderful atmosphere.
Don Ca Tai Tu (Southern Vietnam): Don Ca Tai Tu, a traditional Southern music form, combines emotional singing with instrumental tunes. Usually carried out at family get-togethers, it is a lyrical portrayal of Vietnamese life.

Historical Landmarks and Museums

See historical sites and museums honoring Vietnam’s history to really grasp its cultural change.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Hanoi): Here honors the father of contemporary Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. His embalmed body rests in the tomb, which also represents pride in national unity.
War Remnants Museum (Ho Chi Minh City): While somber, the War Remnants Museum (Ho Chi Minh City) provides vital new perspectives on Vietnam’s history, especially its challenges during the Vietnam War.
Imperial City of Hue: Visit the Forbidden Purple City, originally the residence of Vietnam’s emperors, in Imperial City of Hue. Comprising protecting walls and moats, the site is an architectural wonder.

Natural Wonders

Blessed with great natural beauty, Vietnam boasts scenes ranging from calm beaches to towering mountains and enigmatic caverns. Here’s a closer look at the natural beauties that make Vietnam an unmatched location for those in love of the outdoors.

Visiting Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a crown jewel of Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that truly lives up to its reputation. Rising sharply from emerald-green waves, this famous bay in Quang Ninh Province boasts over 1,600 limestone karsts. Flying across the water is like entering another world in which every rock formation has a mythology or narrative.

Plan an overnight cruise to see the magic of the bay at sunrise and sunset for a once-in-a-lifetime memory. You will be in wonder kayaking across secret lagoons and investigating remote beaches. Among the must-see sites are Ti Top Island, which provides panoramic views of the bay following a modest climb, and Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, a large cavern covered with stalactites and stalagmites.

Exploring Phong Nha Caves

Often known as the “Kingdom of Caves,” Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park boasts some of the most amazing cavernues found anywhere. This UNESCO-listed park includes a sophisticated network of underground rivers, grottoes, and large chambers. Among its beauties is Son Doong Cave, the biggest cave on Earth with a vegetation and own meteorological system.

See Phong Nha Cave by boat or marvel at the amazing structures of Paradise Cave for a more easily accessible trip. Both are family-friendly choices providing a window into the otherworldly underground splendor of the park. Trekking and caving trips to Tu Lan Cave System offer thrill-seekers an adventure combined with breathtaking surroundings.

Trekking in Sapa

Trekkers and environment lovers will find Sapa, tucked in the northwest mountains, a paradise. Renowned for their terraced rice fields that tumble down the mountainside, Sapa’s scenery vary with the seasons to provide brilliant greens in summer and golden tones during harvest.

Set off a guided walk to find charming towns such Cat Cat, Ta Van, and Lao Chai. These excursions provide a chance to interact with the ethnic minority groups who have maintained their traditional ways of life, such the Hmong and Red Dao, not only for aesthetic purposes. Apart from the breathtaking scenery, you will find friendly smiles, colorful handcrafted goods, and mouthwatering home-cooked cuisine.

>>> Explore TOP 15 Vietnam Natural Wonders: Top Destinations and Hidden Gems

The Mekong Delta

Often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” the Mekong Delta is a verdant labyrinth of islands, rivers, and swams. Those wishing to experience rural life in Vietnam as well as those who enjoy the natural surroundings find paradise here. Along its rivers, cruise to see stilted homes, floating markets, and lush orchards.

Diversity of ecosystems also calls for the delta. The Tra Su Cajuput Forest is open to bird enthusiasts; boat trips across calm waters encircled by vivid green mangroves Two further features are the old Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Cai Be Floating Market.

Ban Gioc Waterfall

One of the most breathtaking natural beauties in Southeast Asia, Ban Gioc Waterfall straddles the Vietnam-China border. The captivating mist produced as the water falls many tiers accentuates the surrounding vegetation. To get close-up or explore the neighboring Nguom Ngao Cave, renowned for its amazing stalactites and stalagmites, visitors can ride a bamboo raft.

Con Dao Islands

The Con Dao Islands are a secret treasure for pristine beauty. Perfect beaches, rich woods, and abundant marine life define this archipelago. See turtles laying on the coast of the island between May and September. Popular here are snorkelling and diving with colourful coral reefs and shipwrecks to investigate. Trekking across Con Dao National Park exposes a great diversity and calm seaside vistas for those who enjoy the natural world.

Ba Be Lake

Ba Be Lake, which is in Bac Kan Province, is a peaceful refuge encircled by tall limestone mountains and rich trees. Being the biggest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, it provides a perfect setting for trekking, kayaking, and boating. See Puong Cave, the cascading Dau Dang Waterfall, and traditional stilt homes in Pac Ngoi Village by slow boat trip across the lake.

Adventure Activities in Vietnam: Thrills Await Around Every Corner

Vietnam is a playground of adventure whether you enjoy adrenaline sports or travel off the usual path. Its varied terrain presents a range of pursuits fit for every degree of thrill-seeker. Here is a closer look at the finest Vietnam adventure opportunities.

Motorbike Tours Across Vietnam

Motorbike is the only better way to see Vietnam’s breathtaking scenery. Riding throughout the meandering lanes of the nation lets you totally lose yourself in the surrounds.

The Ha Giang Loop: Adventurers must definitely visit the Ha Giang Loop, a mythical road in northern Vietnam. The Ha Giang Loop is an exciting trip, well-known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, tough roads, and real ethnic settlements. Stop at the Ma Pi Leng Pass, sometimes known as the “King of Passes,” for a remarkable scene.
The Hai Van Pass: Dubbed “a ribbon of perfection” by car fans, the Hai Van Pass—which runs between Da Nang and Hue—is renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and sharp turns. Rent a bike and follow this path at your own speed; it’s gorgeous and exciting.

Hiking and Trekking in National Parks

Hikers and trekkers find paradise in Vietnam thanks to its steep topography and rich vegetation. You will find paths appropriate for your degree of experience whether you trek casually or are a seasoned mountaineer.

Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s first national park, Cuc Phuong National Park, near Ninh Binh presents a mix of simple and difficult paths. Trek throughout deep forests to find old trees, caverns, and threatened species including the critically endangered Delacour’s langur.
Bach Ma National Park: Perfect for individuals who like waterfall walks, Bach Ma National Park is tucked between Hue and Da Nang. The park features paths like the Five Lakes Trek, which winds through a sequence of immaculate lakes and finishes at the breathtaking Do Quyen Waterfall.

>>> Trekking in Vietnam: Explore Stunning Trails and Cultures

Caving Adventures in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Underneath Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park exists a world. The cavernues here offer an amazing journey regardless of your level of competence as a caver or curious novice.

Son Doong Cave: A bucket-list site for adventurers, Son Doong is the biggest cave on Earth. Inside the cavern you will find tall stalagmites, rich jungles, and even clouds growing within. Its complexity limits access and calls for well in advance booking with licenced operators.
Hang En Cave: Not less remarkable is Hang En Cave, the entry to Son Doong. It has a large chamber where one may stay overnight and wake up to amazing views of the river of the cave and sunlight streaming through its mouth.
Paradise Cave: More easily accessible for day visitors, Paradise Cave is renowned for its magnificent formations. Its natural beauty is enhanced by the wooden paths and lights, therefore providing a wonderful introduction to Vietnam’s subterranean treasures.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc

Underwater scenes of Vietnam are as varied and captivating as their land. Snorkelling and scuba diving are must-try sports for those who enjoy the sea.

Nha Trang: Nha Trang is a scuba diving destination with brilliant coral reefs and glistening clean seaside city. Particularly well-known for its varied marine life—including clownfish, parrotfish, and moray eels—is Hon Mun Marine Protected Area For more experienced divers, several diving schools provide certifications for novices and guided dives.
Phu Quoc Island: Renowned for its peace, Phu Quoc Island also features first-rate diving and snorkelling sites. One of the best choices is the An Thoi Archipelago, which features even some shipwrecks to explore and vibrant coral gardens.

Unique Experiences

Discovering Vietnam is a land full of surprises where visitors may engage in real-life, unique events that make every trip unforgettable. These special encounters let you really relate to the customs, history, and culture of the nation.

Floating Markets in the Mekong Delta

Imagine a busy bazaar on water instead! The Mekong Delta’s floating markets—like Cai Rang and Phong Dien—are a sensory extravaganza of colors, noises, and smells. Direct from their boats, sellers here provide fresh produce, handcrafted products, and regional cuisines. Early morning trips are the most fulfilling since the markets are bustling with active negotiating and steamy bowls of hu tieu (Vietnamese noodle soup) being presented.

While savoring the breathtaking river views, don’t miss the chance to try recently selected tropical fruits such mangoes, ramboans, and durians. The floating marketplaces mirror the distinctive way of life of the Mekong Delta, not only a sight for visitors. Not only improves the experience but also helps the local economy by combining a boat trip with a local guide, therefore transforming your stay.

>>> TOP 8 Floating Markets in Vietnam: A Cultural Exploration of Waterborne Traditions

Learning Traditional Handicrafts

Learning these talents personally is a unique approach to interact with the local culture since Vietnamese artists have perfected their crafts over decades. In towns known for their ceramics, such as Bat Trang, you can try your hand forming clay into exquisite bowls or vases. Join a lantern-making workshop in Hoi An to design your own keepsake from vibrantly colored silk and bamboo frames.

See Thanh Ha Pottery Village or Kim Bong Carpentry Village close to Hoi An for a more thorough cultural immersion. See the artists create their magic and learn about the methods underlying these ages-old crafts. These seminars celebrate Vietnam’s legacy and the painstaking work required in every creation, not only about producing objects.

Homestays with Ethnic Communities

Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups, each with distinct customs, languages, and traditions. Especially in the northern highlands, staying with ethnic families is a fascinating experience. Spending a night in a traditional stilt home, dining with the host family, and learning about their way of life may all be done in areas including Mai Chau, Sapa, or Ha Giang. These homestays support local communities and cultural legacy, not only about travel.

Sandboarding in Mui Ne

The coastal hamlet of Mui Ne provides thrill-seekers with the exciting sandboarding experience. Perfect for this adrenaline-pushing exercise are the tall red and white sand dues. Rent a board from residents, ascend the dunes, then slide quickly down to take expansive panoramic views of the surrounding desert-like scene. Mui Ne is particularly well-known for its “fairy stream,” a shallow canal creating a dreamlike scene that winds across red and white sand formations.

Overnight Junk Boat Cruises in Ha Long Bay

Although Ha Long Bay is already a popular destination, staying overnight on a classic wooden junk boat enhances the trip to still another level. The limestone karsts radiate in shades of orange and pink as the sun sets over the sea, lending a mystical atmosphere. On board, savor fine cuisine; kayak over secret lagoons; and see isolated fishing communities appearing fixed in time.

Coffee Tours in the Central Highlands

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and the Central Highlands, particularly Buon Ma Thuot, is the heart of its coffee culture. Set off a coffee tour to discover the whole operation, from bean to cup. See how beans are handled, see verdant coffee farms, and sample some of the freshest coffee you will have ever had. Try weasel coffee (civet coffee), distinguished in taste profile, for something very unusual.

The Vietnam’s natural beauty is amazing from the green seas of Ha Long Bay to the verdant rice terraces of Sapa. Every visit is unique because of its rich culture, which shows up in historic temples, busy markets, and time-honored customs. Vietnam offers adventure, leisure, and a thorough historical dig depending on your interest

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