When visiting a new country, the opportunities for a cultural adventure know no bounds! From exploring the scenic nature to trying the local cuisine, here’s some of our absolute must-do if you’re in Vietnam and don’t know where to start.
Rowing a boat in Ninh Binh
There’s nothing more authentic than a two-hour bamboo sampan ride through Tam Coc or Trang An. Choose from a variety of tours that will take you through towering limestone mountains, sparkling grotto caves, and everything in between. Paired with the opportunity to observe this region’s ingenious “foot-rowing” technique, this exploration through some of Vietnam’s most stunning sites is definitely something to put on your bucket list.
Trekking through the minority villages and rice paddy fields in Northern Vietnam
Sapa is a hubbub of villages and tribes, each with their own unique cultures to see and appreciate. Whether on foot or motorbike, taking a tour through this region is a great way to experience the intersection where Vietnamese culture and nature collide. Covering all the bases, it’s no wonder Northern Vietnam is truly the ultimate tourist’s dream — from hiking through the rice fields to buying traditional craft souvenirs at the local markets, what more could you ask for?
Walking food tour in the Old Quarter of Hanoi
As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is the place to get a taste of the magnificent street food cuisine the country has to offer. From the delicately subtle sweetness of an egg coffee to the comforting savoriness of bun rieu broth, the locals are sure to be cooking up something fresh for your taste buds to fall in love with. One walking food tour through the 36 streets of the Old Quarter will definitely have you thinking of Hanoi as more than just the birthplace of pho.
Visit the Tra Que herb village and do a cooking class in Hoi An
Explore Vietnam’s unique food culture from a local’s perspective, from farming the herbs to preparing the dishes! With ingredients locally sourced and refreshing recipes to cool off while you enjoy Hoi An’s humid climate, you’ll be sure to take a little piece of Vietnam home with you for when you’re avoiding those heat waves at home (or while you’re planning for your next trip back!).
Visit Ba Na Hills in Da Nang
Cross the iconic Golden Bridge of Vietnam and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich cultural history in the hills of Ba Na. A beautiful blend of scenic nature and cultural heritage, Ba Na hills has transformed from a French colonialist station to a must-visit Vietnamese tourist attraction — the locals have made this region a dazzling fusion of the two worlds, and their efforts are well worth it. You’ll definitely find yourself loving Vietnam a little more after a trip here.
Ride around Saigon on a vintage Vespa at night, trying street food and cocktails in speakeasy bars
Can you imagine a better way to experience the capital of Vietnam than on the back of a vintage Vespa, trying all the delicious street food the city has to offer? We certainly can’t! This must-try is sure to check all the boxes on your tourist list: experiencing Vietnam’s iconic nightlife, riding a Vespa through the streets like a local, and sharing a drink with your friends. When you’re in Vietnam, you have to do what the locals do — and you can’t get more local than this!
Cycling through the tranquil villages in the Mekong Delta
After a night on the town in Saigon, exploring the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta is sure to help you refresh and recollect. Visit and shop at the famous floating markets of the region, and sample the fresh exotic fruit while enjoying the peaceful lull of the water beneath your boat. If you’re looking to relax and unwind this vacation, the Mekong Delta is a great place to start!
