61 things to do, see, taste, and experience in Vietnam.

Vietnam is a wonderful country located in Southeast Asia. The impact of the Western wave on its culture has been somewhat slow, changing many things. This is precisely why we are driven to seek out the original values ​​and identity of this nation.

As the economy developed, the number of Vietnamese people adopting Western ideas began to increase. Thoughts like "We need more" or "I want more" became more common. Vietnam's impressive economic growth in recent years is both a miracle and a sad reality.

The wonderful thing is that it offers great opportunities for a nation that has struggled for so long against adversity and oppression. It is gratifying to see the dream of freedom, which has existed for over half a century, finally become a reality and a tremendous source of strength for an entire nation. But sadly, the values ​​of its cultural identity are at risk of being lost.

However, let's put aside all the "big things" for now. Just relax and enjoy beautiful Vietnam right now! Here are 61 things to do, see, taste, and experience when you visit this S-shaped country.

1. Sing Karaoke

"What the heck! You put Karaoke at the top of the list?" That's right, to be fair, Karaoke isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you want to visit Vietnam. But Karaoke has become a part of Vietnamese culture.

In addition, it's a way to create a genuine connection with the locals. Laughter (and perhaps your best singing voice) is a common language here. Try to beat my 91…but then someone else gets a perfect 100, and I lose.

2. Visit the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Vietnamese people have truly gone through so many hardships that you and I can hardly imagine. Yet, they are still the happiest people Paulo and I have ever met.

Most of us have some knowledge of the Vietnam War, but what you experience at this museum will truly open your eyes and make you realize just how much suffering and tragedy this nation endured. It will also help you realize how meaningless your everyday worries actually are.

3. Wake up to watch the sunrise over Ha Long Bay.

Even if you don't know much about Vietnam, you've certainly heard of Ha Long Bay. It's a must-visit destination when you come to Vietnam. And if you do get there, be sure to wake up and watch the sunrise!

Even on cloudy days, the pristine stillness of the water here is only occasionally disturbed by a fisherman beginning his morning work around the colossal limestone pillars—a sight beyond words.

Booking accommodation in Ha Long Bay can be quite difficult, but we managed to do it with the help of HTG (Happy Travel Group) - a fantastic local travel company that has been operating for over 10 years. They offer a wide range of options for exploring Ha Long Bay.

4. Sleep on a boat in Ha Long Bay

Of course, you need a good night's sleep if you want to watch the sunrise over Ha Long Bay. So why not just sleep on the boat? There are many options for getting to Ha Long Bay; for a little extra money, you can have one or two nights on the bay.

Sleeping under the stars, surrounded by limestone pillars and hearing the distant howling of the atmosphere, will be an unforgettable experience.

5. Cycling through Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island is a place you'll pass by when visiting Ha Long Bay. You should arrange a bike tour to explore the villages and landscapes of Cat Ba Island or the nearby islands. The stunning green spaces here will remind you of the spectacular scenery in the Jurassic Park movies.

6. Stay at a Homestay

Both budget hotels and regular hotels are great places to meet new friends while traveling. But if you want an authentic Vietnam experience, you should stay in a homestay, eat with the host family, and experience their daily life.

You can walk through the rice fields and talk to the villagers. We met an 85-year-old woman who still works from sunrise to sunset. Every day she pulls weeds and tends to the fields; she looks happier and healthier than any Western retiree I've ever met.

7. Explore Ninh Binh - a place that will leave you amazed.

Dubbed the "Ha Long Bay of the mainland," it's easy to see why Ninh Binh is called that when you look at its majestic skyline and limestone landscapes. This area is famous for its canals and stunning scenery. It's a must-visit when traveling in Vietnam.

8. Drone flights in Ninh Binh

If you don't have a drone, try finding fellow travelers who do to get a bird's-eye view of Ninh Binh. You'll be able to admire the refreshing canals lapping against the shore between limestone pillars surrounded by rice fields. Just hearing this, you can probably imagine how spectacular the view from above will be!

If you have enough money to rent a helicopter, we highly recommend you do so immediately, so you can capture all the beautiful scenery of this place with your own eyes.

9. Visit the railway neighborhood in Hanoi.

Eastern laws differ significantly from those in the West. Health and safety are valued to varying degrees in different parts of the world. While the West is very strict about ensuring safety, this is not the case here.

It's very common here for a train to run directly into your neighborhood. Life goes on like that until 3 pm, when another train passes right in front of your house. So, visiting the railway neighborhood is an option you shouldn't miss when visiting Hanoi.

10. Visit the Son My historical site.

This site is the scene of one of the most horrific war crimes committed during the Vietnam War. A massacre perpetrated by the U.S. military ended the lives of 504 villagers, many of them children and the elderly. It serves as a chilling reminder of what human beings can do to one another.

11. Experience Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park

This area boasts the oldest limestone mountain range in Southeast Asia, formed 400 million years ago and creating countless mysterious natural caves. It's easy to understand why this site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Make sure you bring your camera and an adventurous spirit when you visit!

12. Save up a little money to visit Son Doong Cave.

Son Doong Cave is famous for being the longest cave in the world. And you guessed it right, this largest cave is actually located in Vietnam. It was only discovered around 2009-2010 and is now open to tourism, albeit on a very limited scale.

This cave is so large that a Boeing 747 could fly through it. Yes, that's right, "fly through." That's why it's called the largest cave. If you want to add this to your must-see list, you'll need to book a tour in advance, pay a fee of $3,000, and pass a fitness test. Is it worth the try? Absolutely.

13. Visit Tan Ky Ancient House in Hoi An

This small house was built two centuries ago by a seven-generation Vietnamese family. You'll notice Japanese and Chinese architectural influences on the house, a perfect blend in the already stunning setting of Hoi An.

14. Amazed at Ban Gioc Waterfall

This is one of Vietnam's most iconic waterfalls, often photographed and featured in murals at homestays and major hotels. Ban Gioc is located in northern Vietnam, right on the border with China. The waterfall lies on the Quay Son River and creates a stunning natural landscape.

15. Embark on adventures with other random companions.

For those who often travel alone, this is the perfect time to break free and find new and exciting people to adventure with. Step out of your comfort zone and start by saying "Hello."

It's strange how people tend to be more honest with themselves and more proactive in connecting when they travel. A girl I met at a coffee shop told me she used Tinder to find travel companions. That's not so bad, is it?

16. Dating via Tinder

For all single gentlemen and ladies, this will make your trip even more memorable. You might meet the best people, but you might not. However, even if the worst happens, at least you'll get to chat with someone who shares your interests.

17. Stay at Old Quarter Hostel in Hanoi's Old Quarter.

It's quite funny that the guesthouse named Old Quarter is located within Hanoi's Old Quarter. This area is very popular with backpackers and has a very unique atmosphere. Old Quarter is more than just a guesthouse; it's like a "other home" far removed from your "real" home. The staff here are truly on a different level. They genuinely care about you and want you to have the best possible experience. Be sure to check in at this guesthouse when you visit Hanoi!

18. Take a bamboo raft ride in Tam Coc.

You'll get a little wet, but don't worry, with the temperature at 37°C, your wet clothes will dry quickly and be replaced by sweat. Tam Coc is located in Ninh Binh province, which means it's absolutely amazing. The bamboo raft ride is a very relaxing experience and a great opportunity to realize just how breathtakingly beautiful this country is.

19. Visit the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An.

It's very easy to get here; just go straight into the old town area. Hotel or guesthouse staff will show you the exact way. The bridge is beautiful during the day, but at night, when the old town lights up and lanterns are lit, it becomes even more vibrant.

20. Eating fertilized duck eggs.

This is a challenge for those brave enough to have a strong stomach. I've tried balut (fertilized duck egg) before, and I guarantee I wouldn't want to try it again. But because it's truly a quintessential Vietnamese dish, if you want to delve into the cultural aspects, you should give it a try.

21. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi and has undergone many changes throughout its history. Dating back to the 6th century (544 AD), the pagoda is 15 meters tall. Here, you'll find a building filled with incense smoke and a museum.

22. Visiting a Cao Dai temple.

Caodaists believe that, ultimately, all religions share similar beliefs. Therefore, they practice a syncretic religion, encompassing Hinduism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam.

This temple is located north of Ho Chi Minh City and is an hour's drive away. Every six hours, you can watch and photograph the worshippers performing their rituals.

23. Visit the night market.

I could sit here and list 101 night markets you can visit in Vietnam, but that would sound a bit absurd. Most cities you visit have night markets. However, we particularly enjoyed the night market atmosphere in Hoi An and Hanoi's Old Quarter. Just ask the hotel staff wherever you go, and they'll point you to a night market.

24. Visit Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

Again, you can find many markets when you stay in Vietnam, but Ben Thanh Market is truly worth a visit for its wonderful features and fascinating history. Ben Thanh is the largest market in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and, in the past, it served as a gateway to smaller markets along the Saigon River in the early 17th century.

The market is one of the earliest surviving architectural structures and a powerful symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.

The map below will help you find the market more easily if you get lost.

25. Bargain for any item when shopping at the market.

Yes, you can absolutely bargain when you come to Vietnam, especially in the markets. Aim to negotiate the price down to around 50-70% of the original price and close the deal. Don't be too pushy or too cunning; remember, you might have a dollar to spend, but the stall owners might not.

26. Explore Bai Dinh Pagoda

Once again, you'll have another place worth visiting when you come to Ninh Binh. Bai Dinh Pagoda is a large complex with many Buddhist temples and 500 carved Buddha statues. Take the time to capture all the sounds and images of this place before you're ready for another journey in the area.

27. Visit the Trang An scenic complex.

Located right in Ninh Binh, Trang An offers a wide range of activities to choose from, including exploring local caves, visiting the filming location of Kong: Skull Island, and kayaking through stunning, towering rock formations. Halfway through your kayaking trip, you might even spot the face of King Kong emerging from a limestone cliff.

28. Drinking coffee at The Note cafe, Hanoi

The Note café is an iconic spot located in the Old Quarter, on Luong Van Street, just a one-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake. This charming little café brimming with personality and enthusiasm, the staff are always cheerful and spread that feeling to their customers. Be sure to try a traditional egg coffee when you visit!

29. Try authentic Vietnamese coffee.

Get ready, Westerners…the coffee here is much stronger than those overly sweet lattes. Vietnamese coffee is usually cooled down a bit because it's very hot when freshly brewed. You can drink it black or with milk. Interestingly, with the first sip, the taste you get is that of condensed milk.

30. Discover Hanoi's nightlife.

Vietnam is developing very rapidly, and along with that, locals are becoming increasingly free to enjoy their holidays. The nightlife here can be crazy, as you might find yourself returning home in the early hours of the morning with late regrets, but it's still incredibly fun.

31. Partying in the Western Quarter

Pham Ngu Lao Street, also known as the "Western Street," is a bustling area with long rows of bars and nightclubs, an ideal place to have fun at night. If you want to escape the crazy motorbike traffic and drunken tourists, you can head to a rooftop bar to enjoy your evening. We went together to a place called The View Rooftop Bar.

32. Take one or two Grab taxis.

If you're traveling alone, download the Grab app in advance to get around tourist areas faster without worrying about being overcharged. Uber no longer exists in Vietnam; people seem to hate it, so it's now been defeated by Grab. Grab has a similar model, adding motorbike drivers to its management system to give customers more options and save money compared to traditional taxis. Plus, using Grab is a lot of fun.

33. Rent a motorbike and ride around Son Tra Peninsula.

In Da Nang, hotels line the coastline, resembling a miniature version of the Gold Coast in Australia. So, for us, it wasn't ideal. But if you're someone who prefers to be just a few steps from your hotel to the beach, then keep this city on your radar for the next five years.

However, I recommend renting a motorbike from Da Nang Bikes and riding around the Son Tra peninsula. This exciting journey is like defining what it means to be completely free in a third world.

34. Visit Linh Ung Pagoda

Located just 1 km from the starting point of the Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda is a must-visit when you come to Da Nang. Come here to see the 67-meter-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy, not including the 35-meter-high flower pedestal at her feet. She protects the city from storms and is a peaceful place to admire the scenery. Be sure to explore the entire complex!

35. Crossing Hai Van Pass

Two brand-new friends from the Netherlands took this trip and were thrilled to share it. Two other friends (also from the Netherlands) took the same trip and enjoyed it immensely. We will definitely make a note of this trip and try it on our next visit to Vietnam.

The Hai Van Pass motorbike route stretches from Hue to Da Nang and Hoi An. At approximately 165km long, this journey can be completed in just one day. However, we recommend spending about three days here to explore the entire area. Jeremy Clarkson, in the "Special Vietnam" program on Top Gear, highly praised this location.

36. Visit Hoi An Roastery

Honestly, I think this is the best coffee shop I've ever tried in Vietnam. You might have other names in mind, but Paulo and I would highly recommend Hoi An Roastery. The coffee here is fantastic.

The staff are friendly and the location is on the rooftop of the old town with a beautiful view.

37. Have a formal suit made at a tailor.

Vietnam, and Hoi An in particular, is famous for its bespoke formal wear. Most of the formal wear you buy at home is probably made from Vietnamese fabric. So why not pay a little extra and have a custom-made formal suit in Hoi An? There are many tailors to choose from, so you can ask your hotel's reception desk for recommendations.

38. Girls should also get themselves a custom-made ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress).

We haven't forgotten our female readers! If you ever have the chance to visit Hoi An, why not get yourself that summer ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress) you've been longing for for months but haven't been able to afford? This is your chance to buy something beautiful for a small amount of money.

39. Strolling through the Muong Hoa Valley in Sapa

This is the largest rice-growing plain in Sapa and is famous for its breathtaking scenery. Put on some boots and go see how the locals begin their workday.

40. Conquering Fansipan Peak

This is the highest mountain in the Indochina region. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the summit. And you know, infrastructure built on popular tourist spots has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is that more people can climb to the summit to enjoy the view, but the disadvantage is that it can damage the area's structure. You can also choose a two-day hiking trip to get here.

41. Cycling to Ta Phin village

When you're in Sapa, you should cycle to Ta Phin village, located 17 km west of Sapa town center. The Red Dao people in this area have very distinct customs and culture, untouched by Western influence. If you travel by vehicle, it only takes 30 minutes to reach the village.

42. Visit Sapa Market

If you want to experience some of the most authentic Vietnamese clothing, head to Sapa market. You can find comfortable outfits for less than $1. The vibrant colors are also a compelling reason to buy them.

43. Visit Silver Waterfall

Another hidden gem in the Sapa area is Silver Waterfall. Be sure to visit! It takes about 30 minutes by motorbike to get there. At Silver Waterfall, you'll be greeted by the spectacular sight of the waterfall and get to admire the last remaining patches of forest in Hoang Lien National Park.

44. Try eating pho at a local restaurant.

There are dozens of places in Vietnam where you can eat pho, but the best ones are those frequented by locals. Toy-like tables and chairs and somewhat intimidating food preparation areas are typical of local pho restaurants. The language barrier is also a challenge, but if you order correctly, you're guaranteed to get one of the best bowls of pho in the world.

45. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located a 45-minute drive from Ho Chi Minh City. During the Vietnam War, the communists dug and built thousands of tunnels for purposes such as shelters, hospitals, kitchens, and even multi-story structures.

46. ​​Boat trip on the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta stretches from Ho Chi Minh City to the southwest of the country and all the way to the Gulf of Thailand. What's wonderful about the Mekong Delta is the local people you meet along the way. Children riding on the backs of buffaloes, trading boats on the river, and farmers working in the fields. There are many tour packages to choose from, ranging from one day to a week.

47. Climb to the summit of Mount Sam

This is one of the most beautiful places to hike and a great starting point for your Mekong adventure. Visit the mountain markets and grab some snacks along the way. Following the motorbike trail north of the mountain will give you a more peaceful journey to the summit.

48. Take a boat trip in the Tra Su mangrove forest.

Located about 30 km from Chau Doc, this place used to be a forest, but is now a wildlife sanctuary teeming with birds and beautiful lotus flowers. At 60,000 VND per person, it's a truly affordable trip.

49. Make friends with the locals.

Don't be a classic tourist who ignores the locals and just wanders around complaining about being hungry or talking about last night's Tinder date. You're here for unique experiences, so make friends with the locals. Hang out with them, have dinner with them, and stay in touch for future trips.

50. Learn how to give.

"This is a communist country, how terrifying!" But no! Western views of communism throughout the early 60s, 70s, and 80s were distorted by America. One of the best things about communism is its emphasis on sharing. Let the locals know you understand this by sharing what you have. Share food, share pictures, and take them out for a beer, for example.

51. FINDING an infinity pool in Sapa

The Topas eco-resort in Sapa boasts one of the most beautiful infinity pools in the world. From here, you can look down upon the limestone mountains and terraced rice fields below.

52. Cycling around Mai Chau

Mai Chau is definitely on the itinerary for backpackers. Here, you won't see any drunk tourists or traffic jams. You'll truly experience a part of Vietnamese culture as you swim in the streams and watch the buffaloes join you. Everything is very interesting.

53. Party hard at a backpacker guesthouse in Hanoi.

Backpackers' hostels in Hanoi are a hub for Hanoi tourists under 25. But don't let age stop you from joining the parties. Plus, they'll have free beer after 5 pm.

54. Riding a buffalo

That's right! You can ride a buffalo in Vietnam. Tours in Mai Chau, Hoi An, and Sapa often include this service. Some tours even offer the experience of riding a buffalo and rowing a basket boat.

55. Buy a conical hat.

What is that? Have you ever seen the hats that Vietnamese farmers wear? That's right, it's a conical hat. Buy one and start your cheesy journey!

56. Don't throw up at the country market.

Rural markets are quite peculiar places in Vietnam. They leave pieces of meat scattered on tables. Whole chickens are hung on hooks. Insects are sold by the kilogram. That's what you might expect when you visit a rural market.

57. Take a Vietnamese cooking class.

Vietnamese food is incredibly delicious! So why not try learning how to cook it yourself? This way, you can take your knowledge home and impress the people you'll be dating on Tinder.

58. Jumping from a yacht in Ha Long Bay

Go for it! Do a somersault, or if that doesn't work, at least do the "pencil flip" challenge. You have to make a spectacular jump in this breathtaking setting. Don't worry, the water is warm.

59. Kayaking through the caves in Cat Ba

Most tours to Ha Long Bay include a kayaking tour in Cat Ba National Park. This kayaking tour will take you through natural limestone landscapes connected by lakes nestled between rock pillars. Don't leave your GoPro underwater for too long as there are jellyfish.

60. Watch a water puppet show.

This was definitely one of our most unique experiences in Vietnam. Located in the heart of Hanoi, right next to Hoan Kiem Lake, performances take place daily at 4 PM, 7:20 PM, and 8 PM. This is the best way to discover the origins of Vietnamese culture. If you're not in Hanoi, you can find water puppet shows throughout the country; just ask the reception staff at your accommodation.

61. Go off-road motorcycle riding in Mui Ne

Yes, there are many sand dunes in Vietnam! A stark contrast to the lush green forests. You can sign up for off-road motorbike tours with Mui Ne Explorer.

These are just 61 things to do in Vietnam; there are many more to come. Keep checking back on our blog for another six months. We'll be back.

ABOUT MASSIEBROS:

The twins Jacques and Paulo are travel bloggers from New Zealand. From spontaneous trips, they planned to document their journeys in more detail and interest by creating blogs and websites, producing media content, and constantly updating their travels on social media for their fans to follow.

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