Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It’s no surprise that it’s become a popular travel destination for many people around the world. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Vietnam has something to offer everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the 15 best things to do in Vietnam in 2024, so you can make the most of your trip.
One of the most popular destinations in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. This stunning bay is home to thousands of limestone islands and islets that jut out of the emerald-green water. You can take a boat tour to explore the bay, or even spend a night on a traditional junk boat. Other popular activities in Ha Long Bay include kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking.
Another must-see destination in Vietnam is Hoi An. This charming town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, colorful lanterns, and delicious cuisine. Take a stroll through the old town and explore the many temples, pagodas, and museums. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, or shop for souvenirs at the many markets and boutiques.
Things to Do in Vietnam
Explore the Lush Landscapes of Sapa
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, Sapa is the perfect destination for you. Nestled in the mountains of northern Vietnam, Sapa boasts stunning natural scenery, including terraced rice fields and traditional Hmong villages.
Trekking Through Terraced Rice Fields
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sapa is by trekking through its terraced rice fields. These fields, which have been cultivated by the local Hmong people for generations, offer a stunning sight to behold. As you trek through the fields, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views.
Visiting Traditional Hmong Villages
In addition to its natural beauty, Sapa is also home to a number of traditional Hmong villages. These villages offer a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of the Hmong people, who have inhabited this region for centuries. As you explore these villages, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about traditional Hmong customs, sample local cuisine, and purchase handmade crafts.
Overall, Sapa is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Vietnam. Whether you’re trekking through the terraced rice fields or visiting traditional Hmong villages, you’re sure to be captivated by the stunning scenery and warm hospitality of this unique region.
Cruise the Halong Bay
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Vietnam, cruising Halong Bay should be at the top of your list. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Vietnam.
Overnight Boat Tours
One of the best ways to experience Halong Bay is by taking an overnight boat tour. There are a variety of tours available, ranging from budget to luxury. Most tours include meals, activities, and accommodation on board the boat. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the bay, visit fishing villages, and swim in the clear waters.
Kayaking and Cave Explorations
In addition to the boat tour, you can also explore Halong Bay by kayaking and visiting the caves. Kayaking allows you to get up close and personal with the limestone karsts and explore the hidden corners of the bay. Many tours include a visit to the famous Thien Cung Cave, which is known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
Overall, cruising Halong Bay is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of Vietnam and experience the country’s rich culture. Whether you choose an overnight boat tour or a kayaking adventure, you’re sure to have a memorable time.
Discover the Historic Charm of Hoi An
If you’re looking for a destination in Vietnam that is full of history and charm, look no further than Hoi An. This ancient port town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lined streets, and picturesque canals.
Ancient Town Walking Tours
One of the best ways to experience the historic charm of Hoi An is by taking a walking tour of the Ancient Town. You’ll be able to explore the narrow streets and alleyways, see the old houses and temples, and get a sense of what life was like in this once-thriving port town. Some of the highlights of the tour include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Old House of Tan Ky, and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese.
Lantern Making Workshops
Another great way to experience the charm of Hoi An is by taking a lantern making workshop. Hoi An is famous for its colorful lanterns, which are hung throughout the town during festivals and special occasions. You can learn how to make your own lantern at one of the many workshops in town. You’ll get to choose your own colors and design, and you’ll be able to take your lantern home as a unique souvenir of your trip to Hoi An.
Overall, Hoi An is a must-visit destination if you’re interested in history and culture. With its ancient architecture, colorful lanterns, and picturesque canals, it’s a town that is sure to capture your heart and imagination.
Experience the Bustling Streets of Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re looking for an adventure in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination. This vibrant city is full of energy and excitement, and there’s always something new to discover. Here are a few places you should check out during your visit.
War Remnants Museum
One of the most important tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City is the War Remnants Museum. The museum showcases exhibits and photographs that depict the devastating consequences of war and its impact on the Vietnamese people. The Museum has about 20,000 well-preserved artifacts, including the infamous “Tiger Cages” where prisoners were kept during the Vietnam War. Visiting the War Remnants Museum is a sobering and humbling experience that will give you a deeper understanding of the history of Vietnam.
Ben Thanh Market
If you’re looking for a taste of local life in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Ben Thanh Market. This bustling market is a hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. You’ll find a wide variety of goods here, including clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. Be sure to haggle with the vendors to get the best prices. The market is open from early morning until late at night, so you can visit at any time of day.
Overall, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to experience the hustle and bustle of a big city, you’ll find it all here.
Relax on the Pristine Beaches of Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is a beautiful island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Phu Quoc is the perfect destination. Here are some activities you can enjoy during your stay.
Snorkeling and Diving Excursions
Phu Quoc is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Vietnam, with an abundance of marine life and colorful coral reefs. You can take a snorkeling or diving excursion to explore the underwater world and discover the beauty of the ocean. Some popular spots for snorkeling and diving include An Thoi Archipelago, Hon Dam Island, and Turtle Island.
Beachfront Resort Stays
Phu Quoc has a range of beachfront resorts that offer luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the ocean. You can relax by the pool, enjoy a massage at the spa, or take a stroll along the beach. Some of the best beachfront resorts in Phu Quoc include Salinda Resort, La Veranda Resort, and JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Phu Quoc has something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
Savor Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh, flavorful and healthy ingredients. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine during your visit to Vietnam in 2024.
Street Food Sampling
One of the best ways to experience Vietnamese cuisine is by sampling the street food. Vietnamese street food is famous for its variety, affordability, and deliciousness. You can find street food vendors in every corner of the cities, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Some of the must-try street foods include pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), and com tam (broken rice with grilled pork). Other popular street foods include fresh spring rolls, banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes), and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
Cooking Classes
If you want to learn how to cook Vietnamese cuisine, taking a cooking class is a great way to do it. Many cooking schools and restaurants offer cooking classes for tourists. You can learn how to make some of the most popular Vietnamese dishes, such as pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.
Cooking classes usually start with a visit to a local market to buy ingredients. Then, you will learn how to prepare the ingredients and cook the dishes. After the class, you can enjoy the dishes you have cooked. Some cooking schools also provide a recipe book, so you can recreate the dishes at home.
In conclusion, savoring Vietnamese cuisine is a must-do activity during your visit to Vietnam in 2024. Whether you want to sample street food or learn how to cook Vietnamese dishes, you will find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Adventures in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
If you’re looking for an adventure, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the perfect destination for you. With its stunning landscapes, breathtaking caves, and lush jungles, there’s never a dull moment in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cave Explorations
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world. The park boasts over 300 caves, including the world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong. If you’re up for a challenge, consider exploring this massive cave system with a guided tour. You’ll need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the journey, but the experience is truly one-of-a-kind.
But if you’re looking for a more accessible cave exploration, don’t worry, there are plenty of options. Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, and Phong Nha Cave are just a few of the popular caves in the park that are open for visitors. Each cave offers a unique experience, from the stunning stalactites and stalagmites in Paradise Cave to the underground river in Phong Nha Cave.
Jungle Trekking
If you’re more of a nature lover, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has plenty of jungle trekking opportunities. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the saola and the Truong Son muntjac.
One of the most popular jungle treks is the Elephant Cave and Mada Valley Jungle Trek. This one-day trek takes you through the lush jungle and up to the Elephant Cave, where you can explore the cave and swim in the nearby river. The trek also includes a visit to the Mada Valley, where you can learn about the local wildlife and vegetation.
Another popular trek is the Hang En Cave Trek. This two-day trek takes you through the jungle to Hang En Cave, one of the largest caves in the park. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages and stunning landscapes before arriving at the cave, where you can set up camp and explore the underground river and cave system.
No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has something for everyone. From the stunning caves to the lush jungles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Vietnam.
Cultural Experiences in Hue
Hue is a city in central Vietnam that is known for its rich history and culture. It is home to many historical sites, temples, and museums that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. Here are some cultural experiences you can enjoy in Hue:
Imperial City Visits
The Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is a walled fortress that was built in the early 19th century and is home to many palaces, temples, and gardens. You can explore the Imperial City on foot and marvel at the intricate architecture and design. Some of the must-visit sites within the Imperial City include the Thai Hoa Palace, the Forbidden Purple City, and the Nine Dynastic Urns.
Perfume River Cruises
The Perfume River is a scenic river that flows through Hue and is named after the fragrant flowers that fall into the river from orchards upstream. You can take a boat cruise along the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery and historic landmarks along the way. Some of the sites you can see on a Perfume River cruise include the Thien Mu Pagoda, the Hon Chen Temple, and the Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors.
In conclusion, Hue offers a wealth of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you explore the Imperial City or take a boat cruise along the Perfume River, you are sure to be amazed by the city’s rich history and culture.
Motorbike Tours Along the Hai Van Pass
If you’re looking for an adventure and a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Vietnam, a motorbike tour along the Hai Van Pass is a must-do activity. This ~12-mile stretch of roadway between the cities of Da Nang and Hue is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
There are many tour companies that offer guided motorbike tours of the Hai Van Pass, including Hidden Hoian and Motorvina. These tours typically last for several hours and take you along the winding roads of the pass, offering stunning views of the Da Nang Bay and the surrounding countryside.
One of the best things about taking a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass is that you can go at your own pace and stop whenever you want to take in the scenery or snap a photo. The pass is home to many historical sites and landmarks, including the Hai Van Gate, a fortress built in the 19th century to protect the pass from invaders.
It’s important to note that the Hai Van Pass can be dangerous for inexperienced riders, so it’s recommended that you only attempt the pass if you have some experience riding a motorbike. Additionally, make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and protective clothing.
Overall, a motorbike tour of the Hai Van Pass is an unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views of Vietnam’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for an adventure and a chance to explore the country in a unique way, this is definitely an activity to add to your bucket list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions to visit for first-time travelers in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country with a rich culture and history, and there are many must-see attractions for first-time travelers. Some of the top attractions include Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta. These locations offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present, and they are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
Which locations in Vietnam are considered the most beautiful for tourists?
Vietnam is home to many beautiful locations that are popular among tourists. Some of the most beautiful locations include Sapa, Da Lat, Ninh Binh, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. These locations offer stunning natural scenery and a chance to experience Vietnam’s unique culture.
How can families with children best enjoy their time in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a family-friendly destination, and there are many activities that families with children can enjoy. Some of the best activities include visiting amusement parks, exploring museums, and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Additionally, Vietnam’s beaches are perfect for families with children, and there are many resorts that offer activities for kids.
What unique experiences should travelers seek out while in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a country with a rich culture and history, and there are many unique experiences that travelers should seek out. Some of the top experiences include trying the local cuisine, visiting local markets, taking part in a cooking class, and exploring Vietnam’s natural beauty. Additionally, travelers should take the time to learn about Vietnam’s history and culture by visiting museums and historical sites.
Can you recommend an ideal itinerary for a one-week visit to Vietnam?
A one-week visit to Vietnam should include a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Some of the top attractions to include in your itinerary are Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Mekong Delta. Additionally, you should take the time to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty by visiting locations such as Sapa, Da Lat, and Ninh Binh.
What is the most recommended tourist spot in Vietnam for the year 2024?
Vietnam is a country with many popular tourist spots, and the most recommended spot for 2024 is Ha Long Bay. This location offers stunning natural scenery and a chance to experience Vietnam’s unique culture. Additionally, Ha Long Bay has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Vietnam.
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