Spice up your Vietnam itinerary with these experiences
With its abundance of natural wonders, such as rugged mountains and pristine white-sand beaches, paired with its rich history and culture, you’ll be spoilt for choice on things to do in Vietnam during your visit. Whether you’re feasting on the delicious local specialties, exploring crowded alleys for a memorable souvenir, or just relaxing by the beach, you can easily lose track of time as you set off on your adventures!
Photo Credit: Vutuankhanh on Adobe Stock
You’ve probably heard of Vietnam tourist spots, such as Halong Bay and its picturesque limestone islands, the expansive Cu Chi Tunnels that played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, and the always-vibrant Ho Chi Minh City — and you’ve also likely visited these places if you’ve already been to Vietnam before. But aside from the old favorites, some new Vietnam tourist destinations have also popped up all over the country in recent years, which are well worth a spot in your Vietnam itinerary. Ranging from thrilling amusement parks to cable cars with stellar views, you’ll be able to experience a new side of Vietnam by trying them out!
To help you plan your Vietnam itinerary, check out our list of things to do in Vietnam, divided by main cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Hoi An.
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Hanoi
1. Soothe Your Muscles with a Relaxing Massage
We’re sure that you’re having a blast with all the exploration you’ve been doing in Vietnam, but don’t forget to take some time to rest and recharge! At Herbal Spa, you’ll experience various natural treatments with healing properties from one of Korea's top bio cosmetics brands, The Face Shop. Choose from massage treatments such as full-body therapy or a simple foot massage, all of which are guaranteed to rejuvenate your body and spirit. This ought to be a Vietnam tourist spot!
2. Discover the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a testament to Hanoi's rich historical heritage. At this Vietnam tourist destination, you get to explore ancient relics, palaces, and artifacts dating back to the 11th century that will provide you with a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal past.
3. Explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
Source: Filipe Freitas on Unsplash
Stroll through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a Vietnam tourist spot where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, taste delicious street food, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can visit Ngoc Son Temple and watch locals practice tai chi at dawn.
Ho Chi Minh City
1. Learn the Secrets Behind Vietnam’s Delicious Cuisine
Ever wanted to sharpen your cooking skills? Well, now’s your chance! If you’re in Vietnam and are curious about the local cuisine, then this cooking class is for you. As you explore Vietnam tourist spots, You can expect to make some famous dishes such as Bún Chả (BBQ Pork with noodles and fish sauce,) Nem (fried spring rolls,) and Vietnamese egg coffee. It’s guaranteed to be a fun and educational experience no matter what you cook, and is definitely one of our favorite things to do in Vietnam!
You’ll also try various drinks and snacks during the session, and you’ll even get to share the food you cooked with the rest of the class. Feel free to ask the instructor any questions you might have about cooking and maybe even haggling at the market — they’ll be more than happy to answer.
2. Wander Around Ben Thanh Market
Source: Percy Pham on Unsplash
Experience the vibrant local life at Ben Thanh Market, one of Ho Chi Minh City's oldest and most iconic markets. Here, you can shop for everything from fresh produce to handicrafts, souvenirs, and even traditional Vietnamese clothing. Don’t forget to try some street food while you’re there! Definitely a well-loved Vietnam tourist spot!
3. Admire the Saigon Central Post Office
Source: Steffen Schmitz on Wikimedia Commons
Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the architect behind the Eiffel Tower, the Saigon Central Post Office is an architectural marvel. Its stunning interior, complete with arched windows and ornate details, makes it one of the must-visit Vietnam tourist spots in Ho Chi Minh City.
4. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels
Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Here, you can crawl through the tunnels and learn about guerilla warfare tactics. This is a Vietnam tourist destination you shouldn’t miss!
5. Witness the exquisite temples atop Sun World Ba Den Mountain
Littered with multiple temples, pagodas, and even caves used by monks for worship, the Nui Ba Complex is the ideal destination for travelers who wish to learn more about Vietnam’s religious practices. Though it is actually composed of three separate mountains, Sun World Ba Den Mountain is the most popular one due to its association with the famous myth about Ly Thi Thien Huong, who became known for her loyalty to her husband Le Sy Triet even after he fell in battle.
And while it was once extremely difficult to reach, anyone can now go up with ease using the Sun World Ba Den Mountain Cable Car. Here you will find the ornate temples as you explore the area — try to spot the statue of the Black Virgin lady, Ly Thi Thien Huong, while you’re there. It’s one of the most popular sections in the temple complex, so it’s hard to miss (but feel free to ask around in case you need help!) This Vietnam tourist spot is located in Tay Ninh province, which is near Ho Chi Minh City, perfect for day tours.
Danang
1. Cross the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills
Famous for its heritage sites and beaches with powdery sand, Da Nang has been a popular Vietnam tourist destination for many years. But if you think you’ve already seen all that Da Nang has to offer, then think again — Sun World Ba Na Hills is sure to catch your eye!
The most popular attraction in Sun World Ba Na Hills is the Golden Bridge, which looks as if it’s being held up by the two giant stone hands beneath it. You’ll likely have to queue for the best photo spots at the Golden Bridge, but it’s definitely worth the wait — your friends and family will be impressed by the photos.
Fun Fact: Thewooden bridge supported by two hands, seen in the opening scenes of Netflix’s adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s "The Sandman,” was actually inspired by the Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills!
Other attractions in Sun World Ba Na Hills include the gorgeous French village, where the restaurants can be found, Fantasy Park, the indoor amusement park with rides and arcade games, and an entire area with temples, pagodas, and even a giant Buddha statue! During the holidays, you’ll also find a Christmas tree here, which makes for a great holiday background.
2. Experience the Cultures of 10 Different Asian Countries at Sun World Asia Park
With 10 different zones, each named and designed after an Asian country, Sun World Asia Park is a must for theme park aficionados. This Vietnam tourist destination features cuisine and architectural elements from Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea, India, Nepal, Thailand, Cambodia, China, and Vietnam, so it will be a truly immersive experience. Each zone has a different set of attractions that range from adventurous to laid-back — luckily for you, tickets to Sun World Asia Park include unlimited entry to all attractions in the park, so you’ll have your pick of rides to choose from!
3. Ride the cable car to Sun World Fansipan Legend
Located on the highest mountain peak in Vietnam, Sun World Fansipan Legend is easily-accessible with the cable car service that opened in 2016. Instead of needing to hike for 2 days (like they did before to reach the peak), you can now reach Sun World Fansipan Legend in just 15 minutes! How cool is that?
During the cable car ride, you’ll see the rice terraces, forests, and the mountain’s jagged cliffs through the huge windows, which make for a perfect background for souvenir photos. Once you alight, walk around the garden complex to explore several gardens and pagodas before you make your way to the largest Buddha statue in the entire country.
To reach the summit of this Vietnam tourist spot, you can either take the stairs or ride the monorail, where you’ll be rewarded with uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks, typically covered by clouds that change shape every few seconds.
Klook Tip: The one way Fansipan Peak Rail Ticket on Klook is only valid for the journey from Fansipan Station up to Fansipan Peak — you will not be able to use the ticket on the way down, so remember to keep this in mind if you’ve purchased this ticket.
Hoi An
1. Step inside a one-of-a-kind circular basket boat at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Considered the green lung of Hoi An thanks to its large collection of coconut trees, the fresh breeze here at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest is a welcome reprieve from the usual heat and crowds in Vietnam’s busy streets. To visit this Vietnam tourist spot, you’ll ride circular basket boats instead of the usual boats, which makes for a totally unique experience. You’ll also get to watch a boat show care of the locals residing in the area, so it will be an experience to remember!
There are also some other notable experiences in the area you should check out if you have the time, such as a visit to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where you can learn about and even experience their unique pottery-making process that requires two people at once: one who kneads the clay while kicking the turning wheel to spin it, and the other shaping the kneaded clay into various shapes.
2. Discover the pristine beaches of Sun World Phu Quoc
Home to the longest cable car system in the world, the Hon Thom Cable Car Station is a sight to behold: with its water fountains, gladiator statues, and Mediterranean-style architecture, the station looks like it came straight out of the Roman Empire. Once you enter the station itself, feel free to explore the station’s facilities (spend a few minutes at the viewing deck if you can spare the time), before you step inside the cable car. During the 20-minute ride, you’ll get fantastic views of the neighboring islands, the blue-green waters, and the colorful fishing boats.
And while the view from the cable car and the picturesque views from it are impressive by themselves, there’s even more to discover when you reach Sun World Phu Quoc!
Once you alight, you can either spend the day exploring this Vietnam tourist spot or enter Aquatopia Waterpark, which has over 20 different attractions that range from tall slides for thrillseekers to lazy rivers if you just want to relax. Lockers and towels are also available to rent at an extra cost.
Klook Tip: Make sure you leave your things with a friend or inside a locker before you take on the slides! You won’t be allowed to go down the slides otherwise.
3. Wander through Hoi An Ancient Town
A Vietnam tourist spot, Hoi An Ancient Town is a beautifully preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Walk through narrow lanes lined with historic buildings, charming cafes, and tailor shops, where you can have custom-made clothing crafted in just a day.
4. Marvel at the Japanese Covered Bridge
Source: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra on Flickr
A symbol of Hoi An, the Japanese Covered Bridge is an iconic landmark that dates back to the 16th century. This beautiful structure, with its intricate carvings and serene surroundings, is perfect for a leisurely stroll and photo opportunities. Definitely a must-have in your list of Vietnam tourist spots to visit.
Now that you’ve gotten ideas for your Vietnam itinerary, it’s time to start planning and booking. For more ideas on Vietnam tourist destinations, check out the Klook Vietnam page or any of the suggested articles and products below. Happy travels!
