The Best Things To Do In Vietnam Recommended By REAL Travelers

Find out the best things to do in Vietnam for backpackers and travelers! Listed from north to south we will be featuring the top attractions and activities which need to be added to your Vietnam bucketlist. All these recommendations are from real travelers who have first-hand experience doing them.  


Vietnam is a country full of adventure, nature and plenty of activities to keep you entertained for months. It is an affordable country, and this mixed with the wide variety of bucketlist experiences, make it a backpackers paradise. Whether you are into nature, food, adrenalin activities or ticking off the 7 natural wonders of the world, you will find something here for everyone in Vietnam.

That is why I have linked up with some other awesome travelers to bring you the ultimate list of the best things to do in Vietnam. There would be way too much for me to cover alone, to teaming up with like-minded adventurers allows me to showcase the highlights of the country. This way you know where and what to do here during your travels!

Starting from the North of Vietnam and heading South we will list some amazing gems which will leave you in awe. Covering everything from hiking and eating to getting a local experience and discovering a new culture. There is no doubt you will find your next adventure on this list of the best things to do in Vietnam.


The Ultimate List Of Things To Do In Vietnam: From North To South


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

standing in front of temple ruins at my son sanctuary outside of hoian best things to do in vietnam


Motorbiking to Ban Gioc Waterfall

One of the best things to do in Vietnam is motorbiking from Hanoi to Ban Gioc Waterfall. If you’ve been to Hanoi then you have no doubt seen the huge photos of Ban Gioc Waterfall. They’re on the wall of just about every tour agency across Hanoi’s Old Quarter. With seemingly so many options, which is the best to take? Here’s a shock, none of them. In fact, the best way to visit this majestic waterfall is by motorbike.

The motorbike ride from Hanoi to Ban Gioc Waterfall should take you two days each way. According to the map, the journey is 350km one way. You will likely spend your first night at Cao Bang which is the largest city in this northern province of Vietnam. From Cao Bang onward there are two routes; the DT206 and the DT207. I recommend making a loop and riding them both. Keep in mind that the DT207 will bd slow ride due to potholes.

Once you’re out in the countryside there is no rush. You will be pleasantly surprised by the small rural communities, intricately built farms, and friendly locals. Then at the end of this 350km route, there is an amazing view of Vietnam’s largest Waterfall. The entry is $1.95 / 45,000 VND per person, and $0.40 USD / 10,000 VND per motorbike. The waterfall forms the border of Vietnam and China.

Josh- The Lost Passport

ban gioc waterfall best things to do in vietnam


Three Day Motorbike Loop In Ha Giang

Ha Giang is the northernmost province in Vietnam. It’s not easy to get to it, so that means that it is still off the beaten path. However, it is slowly becoming more and more popular among travelers. To get there from Hanoi, you can get a 7-hour bus to Ha Giang city. The bus leaves from My Dinh bus station, and you can normally book your ticket through your hotel/hostel.

When I got to Ha Giang I went straight to Bong Hostel, where I hired a motorbike. The hostel staff are extremely helpful and will give you recommendations about the route, stops, where to stay. But remember that before you set off you will need a permit from the Ha Giang Immigration Office.

Home to the UNESCO Geopark Site, the Dong Van Karst Mountains have some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in, for beautiful Vietnam photos. And the best way to enjoy them is by bike. As you ride through the incredibly-winding roads, you will see landscapes ever changing at every turn. From beautiful bamboo-lined river valleys to mountains carved with rice paddies, to plateaus with conical outcrops and karstic landscapes.

The highlights in this 3-day motorbike loop for me was stopping for a cup of tea at both sides of Heaven’s Gate. This is a mountain pass with incredible views such as climbing the Lung Cu flag tower, also known as the North Pole of Vietnam. From here is an excellent view across China. This is the ultimate motorbike adventure and needs to be added to your Vietnam Bucketlist.

Teresa- Brogan Abroad

rice terrace landscape while doing the motorbike loop in Ha Giang


Hiking in Dong Van, Ha Giang

Ha Giang Provence is a great place to explore by motorbike. Though, with scenery this good you’ll definitely want to get off the roads and out into the countryside. Dong Van is the best town to stay in when exploring Ha Giang and there is some excellent hiking nearby.

The paths, trails, and roads lead through emerald hills and lush rice fields – and the best part about it is that you’re likely to have it almost all to yourself. You will come across some locals though and many of them wear their traditional hill tribe clothing.

There’s no set route for hiking in Dong Van but once you reach the town you’ll see the areas you’ll want to head to. I walked up to the hill above town to a viewpoint overlooking a huge area of rice terraces and back.  It took around four hours but I could have gone much further though as there’s so much to explore in the area.

There’s no need to hire a guide unless you’re interested in a more cultural experience. Dong Van is a cool little town too and is well set up for tourists. I much preferred it to the more commercial Sapa.

Jon- Jon Is Travelling


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

hiking in dong van


Trekking In Sapa

Trekking in Sapa is one of the best things to do in Vietnam without a doubt. Sapa is nestled in the far north of the country, close to the Chinese border and among the highest mountain ranges in Vietnam.  It takes about 6 hours to reach from Hanoi by bus and 8 hours by train.

There are lots of tour companies that offer hiking trips around the Sapa rice fields. Choose carefully as some are much better than others! My favorite company, ETHOS, uses native Black Hmong Guides. They are a fantastic company with a great focus on sustainability. Alternatively, you could take to the rice terraces independently. It is a bit more challenging, as there are no marked trails and it covers a huge area, but it is doable and you’ll get to enjoy the breathtaking sights in blissful solitude.

Many travelers to Sapa spend a night or two in traditional homestays. Often these are in the Black Hmong communities, where they can chat to the locals, sample some home-brewed rice wine and dine with a family. It’s a really unique experience.

Trekking in Sapa is fairly easy with many of the trails leading through the rice terraces and local communities. The scenery is like no other I’ve seen. So, even if you’ve experienced rice terraces elsewhere I would highly recommend adding hiking in Sapa to your Vietnam bucket list.

Claire- Claires Footsteps

trekking in sapa over the rice terraces


Can Cau Market In Sapa

A must during any stay in Sapa, northern Vietnam, is a visit to one of the weekly markets held by the minority people of the region.  There is a very touristy Sunday market at Bac Ha. Though, we were advised to go instead to the much more authentic Saturday market at Can Cau.

It is very much off the beaten track and close to the Chinese border.  The last part of the three-hour drive from Sapa is on unmade roads and dirt tracks.  The mild discomfort is made up for by the stunning scenery en route.  Even though it will cost about $90, it is worth hiring a private car and driver.  We heard many stories of people going on organized trips and arriving too late to see anything at the market.

The Saturday market is a must for local tribespeople and Chinese traders. It offers them a chance to dress up in their finest clothes and meet up with friends and family, as well as stock up on essentials. At Can Cau Market they can buy everything from food to livestock, including water buffalo.  The Flower Hmong women flock here to buy colorful fabrics and trimmings to enhance their already elaborate outfits.

For tourists, Can Cau market offers a rare opportunity to be immersed in a riot of local color, noise, and commerce.  The photo opportunities are incredible, too making it one of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Andrea- Happy Days Travel Blog

local vietnamese ladies at the can cau market in sapa


Discover Halong Bay

One of the most places to go to in Vietnam is Halong Bay. It has mesmerized people for a long while with good reason. The karst topography of the bay dusts the ocean with numerous islands both big and small.

This unique ecosystem is a perfect place to cruise through. it is also a great place for some really cool adventure sports like kayaking, snorkeling, rock climbing, and diving. If adventure activities aren’t your thing then lazing back on the boat and getting a tan is also a great option.

We visited the bay in December and alternated between covering up in jackets and jumping into kayaks in bikinis. We were some of the lucky few who got a mix of the sun and wind and hence the odd experience. People who visit Halong Bay in summer have nothing to worry about.

A number of people choose to take a cruise through Halong bay. The cruise can last a couple of days. Alternatively, one can choose to stay on an island called Cat Ba island which has plenty of activities on its own. Don’t worry about missing out on the bay because you can take day trips from the island which makes it perfect.

Penny- Globe Trove

Is Cruising a Good Idea to Visit Vietnam?

It is always a good idea to explore Vietnam on the Best Mekong luxury Cruise. There are so many places you can tread and these include Halong Bay for its limestone karsts, Mekong Delta for its beautiful waterways, Nha Trang for the coastal beauty and its nearby islands, Da Nang for the rich historical and cultural experiences, and Hoi An to experience the tropical paradise.

However, make sure that you are choosing a reputable cruise ship for all your itineraries in Vietnam.

halong bay rock formations in vietnam


Drinking Egg Coffee In Hanoi

I am obsessed with Vietnamese food. So when I was actually in Vietnam, I thought nothing could surprise me. Then, I learned about egg coffee! Trying egg coffee is one of the best things to do in Vietnam and one of the best foods in Hanoi.

Egg coffee, or cà phê trúng, is made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and coffee. No, it doesn’t taste like eggs- really, it’s similar to what people normally think of when they hear Vietnamese coffee (or cà phê đá): sugary, strong coffee. The difference is egg coffee is much creamier since the yolks are whipped, so it tastes even better! You can also get it hot or iced (I think the iced tastes better, but really, they’re both amazing and must tries).

Where do you get it? The original egg coffee place is Giảng Cafe in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Cafe Giang’s owner’s dad invented egg coffee when there was a milk shortage by replacing the milk with egg yolk in his coffee. Another place to try egg coffee in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is Cafe Phố Cổ, which is less busy than Cafe Giang, but still amazing. The price of egg coffee can be between $0.90 – $1.10 USD / 20,000 – 25,000 VND depending where you go.

Angelica- This To Do And Eat


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

egg coffee in hanoi


Vietnamese Water Puppets

Vietnamese water puppetry offers visitors to Vietnam a unique glimpse into the local culture. The traditional art form originated in the Red Delta region in the 11th century and was originally performed in flooded rice fields as a means for hard-working villagers to relax and escape the harshness of daily life.

The skilled puppeteers stand in waist deep water and control the puppets using hidden apparatus to create the illusion the figures are dancing on the water’s surface. Performances are accompanied by traditional Vietnamese folk music from a live band playing drums, cymbals, wooden bells, horns, and bamboo flutes.

We visited the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi. There are multiple performances throughout the day and tickets are only VND100,00 each. The hour-long show is a series of short skits depicting traditional rural life including the dragon’s dance, catching frogs, fishing and the eight fairies dance. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre puts a modern spin on traditional art by incorporating dramatic lighting and fire effects. If you find yourself in Hanoi, spending an hour at the Thang King Water Puppet Theatre is a must and one of the best things to do in Vietnam.

Allison- Flights to Fancy

vietnamese water puppets best things to do in vietnam


Party In The Tay Ho District Of Hanoi

For most of the expats living in Hanoi, Tay Ho is the prime location for a good night out. A 15-minute drive out of Hanoi’s famous old quarter will bring you here. Tay Ho is the predominately go-to hotspot since many of the clubs and bars there stay open late (until 3am). The clubs and pubs are spaced out, so getting around by foot isn’t recommended. Rather it is worth taking a motorbike or taxi.

When it comes to partying in Tay Ho, everyone congregates at a Bia Hoi bar for pre-drinks at around 5pm. Bia Hoi means “fresh beer” in Vietnamese. The beer is probably the cheapest beer in the world (for around 3000-5000 dong). Most expats then flock to either Rastaman or Hanoi Rock City at around 6-7pm for a gig or event. This is a great opportunity to make friends.

As the evening draws to a close, the next place to hit is Savage, a hip and trendy nightclub in the heart of Tay Ho. You won’t get in if you wear flip-flops however so do intend to dress the part. Savage is a bit on the pricey side but the cocktails are some of the best in the city.

One last bar to mention is the Birdcage, this bar is a little hard to find since it’s out of the main hub of Tay Ho but it’s one of the best underground bars in Hanoi. You can sit in a rural area, swim in their pool (if you dare) and listen to anything from 80s music to Psy-trance.

Derek- 43km

partying in tay ho in hanoi


Boat Ride Through The Trang An Grottoes

About an hour and forty minutes South of Hanoi is the Trang An Grottoes. They are a series of cross water caves and limestone karsts located in a picturesque valley.

The best way to fully appreciate these grottoes is by boat. For a small fee, up to four people can board a rowboat and float through the caves for two hours. The scenery was quintessential Vietnam, alternating between rice fields, water buffalo, and flocks of ducks.

At first, I was afraid we’d all become bored stiff doing nothing but watching the countryside for two hours.  Pretty soon, however, we settled into a rhythm of watching, chatting and simply enjoying the peace and quiet. Towards the end of our boat tour, we were amused by all the Vietnamese brides and grooms having their photos taken on boats while floating through the grottoes.

Wendy Lee- Empty Nesters Hit The Road

trang an grottoes best things to do in vietnam


Abandoned Waterpark In Hue (Ho Thuy Tien)

Hue, Vietnam’s old imperial capital, is best known for its royal citadel and ornate kings’ tombs. If you’re looking for something slightly more off-beat to do, Ho Thuy Tien, an abandoned waterpark on Hue’s outskirts, is a must-see.

The waterpark, which consists of an aquarium, exhibition areas, waterslides, and playgrounds, was constructed in 2004. For a while, it served as a popular destination for families to escape the summer heat. What fate beheld Ho Thuy Tien is still of mystery and rumor. It’s thought that the owners were forced to shut after a few short years due to financial difficulties.

Today, Ho Thuy Tien has once again risen to prominence as a tourist attraction, this time among urban explorers and Vietnamese teenagers. The main feature of the park is the three-story dragon aquarium. Inside, gutted rooms and deteriorating exhibits, all covered with graffiti, are both creepy and utterly fascinating.

Ho Thuy Tien abandoned waterpark is located 8km south of downtown Hue. I recommend wearing closed-in shoes to protect your feet from debris. You should also bring some small money for the ‘entry fee’ (we had to pay $0.40 USD / 10,000 VND per person).

Emily Lush- Wander-Lush

abandoned water park in hue covered in graffiti


Dragon Bridge In Da Nang

Many travelers to Vietnam skip Da Nang because there is so to see in this stunning country. For me, Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s unknown gems. Not only is the city so bright and colorful at night, but it’s also home to a fire-breathing dragon. Literally.

In the heart of Da Nang sits the Dragon Bridge. With six lanes of traffic spanning 666 meters, it would be just another metal structure covering the Han River running through Da Nang, if it wasn’t for the giant steel dragon on top.

Every weekend, all 6 lanes of traffic are closed at 9 pm and the show begins. Tourists and locals alike crowd around the dragons head, and out of nowhere giant fireballs shoot from the dragons ferocious jaws. Even though the fire is very high off the ground, the heat you feel is intense.

If you get too hot, the dragon has you covered. Steam begins to bellow from the dragon just before water rushes out and turns into a soaking mist drenching everyone around. Walking back through the dripping crowd all you can see is smiling faces!

If you’d like to experience this unique attraction, you must be at the Dragon’s head a bit before 9 pm sharp, on either Saturday or Sunday. The show is amazing but brief, and it starts right on time.

Ben- Horizon Unknown 

dragon bridge in da nang shooting fire


Explore Cam Kim From Hoi An

In a country that can at times feel overwhelmingly crowded as Vietnam, finding a place where to escape the crowds of both locals and tourists is absolutely priceless. Cam Kim is just this kind of place.

Located near Hoi An Cam Kim is a small island that can be easily reached. You can either explore by bike and independently.

It’s the kind of place that, though at a stone’s drop from the main city, feels like a world apart. Life there goes by slowly: people seat at their doorsteps and wave at passersby, much as the local children do; lone buffaloes graze around in the wet fields; a solitary farmer pushes his bike while someone else is fishing in the river.

One of the nicest things to do in Vietnam is to visit the rice fields and Cam Kim is just the perfect place to do that. The best times of day to do so are the early morning or, even better, the late afternoon, in time for sunset, when the light gives the rice fields a special glow.

Claudia- My Adventures Across The World

fisherman standing in waterway at cam kim vietnam


Canyoning In Dalat

If you’re after some adrenaline filled adventure in Vietnam, then be sure not to skip Dalat! This is your outdoor adventure playground of Vietnam and on top of Dalat’s adventure bucket list has to be canyoning!

Abseil down cascading waterfalls and take the 8m plunge into the depths below. Strap your harness tight, because you’re in for a for some epic outdoor adventures in Dalat.

After an hour of four-wheel driving, you will arrive at the five breathtaking waterfalls that you will soon conquer. Ease into the day with a quick 5m waterfall, abseil down jump the last meter into the waters below and enjoy the fresh water in the morning. You slowly build up your confidence, with each waterfall gradually getting bigger and more exciting.

After conquering the first 4 waterfalls and some lunch with the most stunning view, you will arrive at the final waterfall of the day. The giant, 65m waterfall! It definitely is intimidating but what an adrenaline rush it is canyoning down a semi flowing fall completely horizontal. If you are visiting Dalat, canyoning is definitely one of the most thrilling things to do in Vietnam.

Monique- Honeymoon Backpackers

canyoning in dalat down a waterfall best things to do in vietnam


Ride The Wooden Train In Dalat

The mountain town of Dalat is home to a bright yellow Art Deco railway station. Built by the French in the 1930s it has become one of the best things to do in Vietnam. For a long time, it fell out of use, but now the train station is a tourist attraction in its own right. You can’t actually arrive in Dalat by train (you need to fly or take a bus ride through winding mountain paths). But you can take a half-day train trip on one of the retro wooden trains to a nearby town.

The journey ends in the town of Trai Mat, home to an incredibly quirky temple called the Linh Phuok Pagoda. The pagoda is brightly colored and encrusted with unusual sculptures, statues, mosaic dragons and towering statues made of flowers.

It’s free to enter the temple, but the train ride (for the cheapest “soft seat” ticket) cost $5.50 USD / 126,000 VND plus an extra $0.20 USD / 5,000 dong to visit the train station.

Maire- Temples and Treehouses


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

taking a ride on the dalat vintage train


Wine Tour In Dalat

Although wine may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of the best things to do in Vietnam, the budding wind industry is certainly worth exploring, at least for wine tasting!

If you only have time to make one stop you can visit wineries in Dalat. This is where the majority of wine production in Vietnam takes place or the coastal vineyards in Ninh Thuan.

I found both a red and white that was quite delightful–I even bought a few bottles to enjoy later. You can either do a DIY Vietnam wine tour or book the experience with Vietnam Wine Tours like I did. If you do it yourself make sure you have a driver, no drinking and driving!

Lola- Miss Filatelista

wine tour in dalat


Fairy Stream In Mui Ne

Fairy Stream near Mui Ne is a geologic wonder. This enjoyable and easy hike starts in ankle-deep water and continues through a shallow grassy valley. Remove your shoes at the beginning and step onto the soft sand while you admire the sandstone cliffs and formations. The stream wanders through a moonscape canyon and sand dunes.

This free activity is a great way to experience southern Vietnam’s diverse environment and red sand dunes. It is completely safe for both family or solo travelers.

To get to the entrance of the Fairy Stream, make your way to 67 Huỳnh Thúc Kháng Rd where the water crosses along and under the road. Leave your shoes here or tuck them into your pack to start your 1 – 2-hour walk.

Cerise Roth-Vinson- Enchanted Vagabond

fairy stream in mui ne suối tiên mũi né


Explore Cu Chi Tunnels Outside Of Ho Chi Minh

The Cu Chi Tunnels provides a view of how the war was fought between the Vietnamese and the American army. This is a large thick forested area where most of the tunnel network has been preserved.

It is a ticketed entry and there are guides at the entrance. The documentary movie shown in the beginning gives you a good overview of the war. There are detailed models that show you the different levels at which tunnels had been dug out during the war. It is quite overwhelming to imagine that the soldiers cooked, slept, lived and fought from those tunnels.

There is a souvenir shop and a restaurant on the site, but it is a good idea to carry some water and lights snacks with you. Cu Chi Tunnels are a 2-hour road trip from Ho Chi Minh city. We had a friend’s car to take us towards the end of our two-week trip to Vietnam but there are enough options for a bus day tour for this trip.

Shweta- Zest In A Tote

exploring the cu chi tunnels outside of ho chi minh city best things to do in vietnam


Ho Chi Minh Food Tour

Vietnam food is incredible! Not only that, but it’s insanely cheap. If you’re not familiar with the types of food Vietnam has to offer I highly recommend signing up for a food tour. One of the best cities in Vietnam to take a food tour is Ho Chi Minh City.

Prices for motorbike food tours in HCMC range from $40.00 – $150.00 USD. This depends on how long your tour is and if you prefer private or group tours. You’ll be riding on the back of the motorbike with an experienced local doing the driving. The food chosen by the tour guides is always outstanding. You’ll try things like papaya salad and avocado shakes. Also some of the usuals such pho or banh mi.

Plan ahead and don’t eat for several hours before the tour. There are plenty of tour companies to choose from in Ho Chi Minh City, so do your research to find one that suits your budget and your food preferences.

Julia- The Frecked Tourist

local vietnamese meal on ho chi minh food tour


Experience Cao Dai Religion In Ho Chi Minh City

What would you say to a religion that worships Jesus Christ, Buddha, Confucius and Muhammed together? Not just these holy figures, the Cao Dai religion even worship Roman emperor Julius Caesar and Joan of Arc.

Cao Dai is a new and specific religion that is less than a century old. Born in the aftermath of the Second World War it was after the Cao Dai army. Cao Dai temples today are fantastic spaces that seek to promote tolerance across the world.

You will find tours to the Cao Dai temple in Tay Ninh province north of Saigon. Though, a much better introduction is possible just a few kilometers from downtown Saigon in Cholon. The Cholon Cao Dai temple looks compact from outside but is impressive enough to make the detour with resident monks who will happily show you around.

You don’t need to take a guided tour. Just tell your moto-taxi driver to drive you there, then on arrival find a monk to show you around. The statues and small write-ups in English will tell you more than enough to get a taste of this unique religion.

Priyanko- Constant Traveller 

cao dai temple in ho chi minh city


Bia Hoi in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis where the traditional meets the new. There is no better way to soak up this city’s electric atmosphere than pulling up a plastic chair at the famous Bia Hoi.

Bia Hoi is a street in Ho Chi Minh City where plastic seats and tables spill out onto the busy street. The endless supply of fresh beer is brewed in the tiny local bars. It is a place where travelers rub shoulders with one another sharing stories of their adventures.

Beer comes cheap with prices starting from as little as 20 cents per glass! Soon a couple of beers turns into an evening of sharing jokes and travel tales which lasts long into the night.

Undoubtedly though, our favorite thing about Bia Hoi other than the cheap beer and food is the way it brings people together. The atmosphere is incredibly friendly and you are sure to make new friends. Bia Hoi is one of the best things to do in Vietnam,

Megan & David- Half This World Away

bia hoi in ho chi minh city


Long Beach in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam and is known as the southern paradise. Tourism has been boosted heavily in recent years, and just 20 years ago this was just a small fishing and farming community.

Nowadays, more and more hotels are opening and there’s also an international airport at Phu Quoc. My best suggestion on things to do in Phu Quoc would be to rent a scooter or hire a driver for the day.

A visit to the famous beach Bai Sao, also known as Sao Beach is a must if you want to spend some time in a real tropical paradise. When you’re driving across the island, make sure to stop at some of the local restaurants serving authentic Vietnamese food.

But of course, you should spend some time at Long Beach as well. After all, it’s the longest beach on the island, and vacationers from Europe, Australia, Asia, and even the US come here to enjoy the sea and sandy stretches.

Alex- Swedish Nomad


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

vietnamese lady holding basket of fruit at beach in phu quoc


Cross Vietnam By Motorcycle

To cross Vietnam by motorcycle is one of my most exciting adventures in 6 years of traveling around the world. This is a very popular road trip along the Ho Chi Minh Way. Being a long and thin country it is not too difficult visiting most sites when driving from North to South.

There are a lot more motorbikes on the road in Vietnam. This is due to the high import tax on cars, about 39 million of them! So many motorbikes create a huge second-hand market. As a result, buying a bike and selling it after your trip is very cheap and easy.

The most common motorbike driven on this journey by backpackers is the Honda Win 110cc, second hand, Chinese copy and you can buy them for about $200.

Get ready for fantastic Vietnamese coffee, beautiful scenery, interesting people and passing motorbikes transporting everything from a family of five to cages with chickens or even pigs will leave you with excellent stories. It is no doubt this is the ultimate adventure and one of the best things to do in Vietnam!

Campbell- Stingy Nomads

motorbike journey in best things to do in vietnam


Ready To Explore The Best Things To Do In Vietnam?

Now you know what the best things to do in Vietnam are it is time to get there and do them. Vietnam is a great country which you could easily spend months exploring. There is amazing nature, delicious food, paradise beaches, and interesting cultures. In my opinion, it is quite different from the rest of the countries in Southeast Asia and is a great place to begin your backpacking adventure.


How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia


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Find out the best things to do in Vietnam for backpackers and travelers! Listed from north to south we will be featuring the top attractions and activities which need to be added to your Vietnam bucketlist. All these recommendations are from real travelers who have first-hand experience doing them.

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18 thoughts on “The Best Things To Do In Vietnam Recommended By REAL Travelers

  1. Luke says:

    Check out Phong Na Ke Bang National Park on your next trip… definitely one of the best places to visit in Vietnam that still doesn’t find itself on travel lists.

  2. Kayla says:

    Great post! I’m heading to Vietnam soon and many of these things I haven’t heard of.. but they have now been added to the list!

  3. Valerie says:

    Nice post! So thorough. Vietnam has never been on my bucket list, but you provide such a nice glimpse into the possibilities of traveling there, that I think I’ve changed my mind.

  4. Mei Mei Chu says:

    I’ve only done Ha Long Bay and Egg Coffee! My parents did Sapa Valley without me though! Gotta plan a return trip to beautiful Vietnam now…

  5. Becky @ Treasured Travels says:

    Great post! Vietnam is my favourite country but I need to go back as there’s still so much more of it for me to see, like Sapa!

  6. Corinne S says:

    The scenery looks so amazing. I really don’t know why I haven’t considered Vietnam before. I might just have to look into it!

  7. Andrea Mayfield says:

    I have heard so many good things about Vietnam lately! But I did hear it gets super super crowded, did you think it was? And did the crowds make it less enjoyable?

  8. Kaylene Isherwood says:

    I’d love to visit Vietnam soon! Seems like there are so many things to do there. Ban Gioc Waterfall looks so beautiful, and I’d love to ride on the wooden train!

  9. Michelle says:

    How is it possible that I haven’t seen the Gioc Waterfall pics yet – it’s breathtaking :O Would also love to experience the Trang An Grottoes with my partner – how fascinating that Vietnamese brides and grooms have their photos taken there. Must be really picturesque then – can’t wait to see. Thanks for these great tips – Vietnam is on our bucket list but I’ve never heard of many of the amazing travel gems you’ve shared in your post so saving it for sure!

  10. Dina says:

    I’ve been so curious about going to Vietnam, as it seems overly touristic yet still stunning, but your pictures show there is still authentic cultural experiences left, despite so many travelers coming through! I’ve heard everyone rave about egg coffee, wish they served it here in Spain! Also, doing a trek in Sapa is definitely on my list, as well as going on that wooden train!! So cool!

  11. Jen Ambrose says:

    We did a few of these when we were in Vietnam this year, but there’s so many more. I think Dalat will be at the top of our list next time we’re there!

  12. Sarah - Borders & Bucket Lists says:

    Wow I feel like I’ve been reading so many posts on Vietnam lately! I want to visit so badly!

  13. Mo says:

    What a comprehensive post, thank you! I visited South Vietnam last year over 10 days – it was barely enough to cover just the south. I am dying to visit the rest of the country, particularly the north. I am SO going to use this guide when I start my planning :)

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