8 Must-Do’s In Vietnam If You Are A First Time Visitor

If you're looking for an exciting and diverse destination for your next trip, consider adding Vietnam to your list. This Southeast Asian gem has a great mix of outdoor activities, cultural tours, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene landscapes of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam has something to offer every type of traveler. Plus, it’s just a neighboring country of the Philippines, making it a convenient destination.

From its delectable local cuisine to its breathtaking Vietnam attractions, you will never run out of things to do in Vietnam. We’ve compiled in this article the things you must do if you’re visiting the country for the first time. Use this handy Klook guide for your Vietnam itinerary.

If you are planning to go to Vietnam for the first time, it’s a must that you go and see Ha Long Bay. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the – if not the most -- visited Vietnam attractions by tourists. The place is most famous for its ancient limestone pillars and beautiful, tiny islets, which you can marvel at while you cruise the bay onboard a traditional junk boat. When you’re at Ha Long Bay, you should also get a closer look at the impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations of “Heaven Palace” when you explore Thien Cung Cave. This is a must-see in any Vietnam itinerary.

Address: 37a Hang Thung str, Hoan Kiem dist, Hanoi, Vietnam

If you haven’t tried cave-hopping and you’re keen to know what it is, then Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the right place for those looking for a little action in their Vietnam itinerary. Aside from the majestic mountain views outside the caves, there are also equally amazing rock formations inside the caves that could take your breath away. In addition to the sightseeing, there’s also an opportunity to swim and go cliff jumping at the Ma Da Crystal Lake.

Address: Phong Nha, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam

Visiting Vietnam is not all about visiting its most popular tourist destinations. To fully immerse yourself in a Vietnamese vacation, it’s a must that you try their local delicacies, particularly the phở, or rice noodle soup, as part of your Vietnam itinerary. This hot bowl consists of chewy rice noodles in a savory broth with slices of beef and vegetable garnishes. While this staple food may be found almost everywhere in Vietnam, you will never go wrong when you decide to have it at Phu Vuong Pho.

Address: 120 Nguyễn Thái Bình, District 1, Ho Chi Minh

Contact: +84 931 959 696

Explore Ho Chi Minh for the busy city that it is. A full-day tour of Saigon would give you an insight into Vietnam’s abounding history, fascinating culture, and the appealing daily life of the locals. Among the nicest places to see in the area include Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple, the War Remnants Museum, the General Post Office, the Opera House, and more. These historical sites are essential Vietnam attractions to include in your Vietnam itinerary for a deeper understanding of the country's past and present.

Address: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Ban Gioc Waterfall is arguably one of the most beautiful and largest waterfalls in the world. Located in the Cao Bang province in northern Vietnam, this body of water is very much like Niagara Falls because it sits on the border of two countries as well: Vietnam and China. The waterfall is so visually impressive that it is one of the most awe-inspiring sights not just in Vietnam but in Southeast Asia. A visit to the Ban Gioc Waterfall is a must for any Vietnam itinerary, especially for nature enthusiasts.

Address: TL 211, Đàm Thuỷ, Trùng Khánh, Cao Bằng, Vietnam

It can be argued that the Golden Bridge in Vietnam has generated quite a fuss in recent years due to its unique architectural design. It features two, huge stone hands which appear to be holding the bridge atop the majestic greenery sights. It measures 150 meters in length and 12.8 meters in width. Thanks to its remarkable design, the Golden Bridge has become one of the most popular Vietnam attractions and has drawn a lot of tourists to the Da Nang region.

Address: An Son Hamlet, Hoa Ninh Ward, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang 84-511 Vietnam 

Contact: +84 905 766 777

Spend a day in awe of the wonderful waterways of the Mekong Delta. Located in the southern part of Vietnam, it is a stunning maze of rivers, islets, and small villages with rice paddies and fruit plantations. When you add this to your Vietnam itinerary, you can go on a relaxing Mekong Delta boat cruise to see iconic fishing villages with stilt houses and rice paddies.

Address: Between Ho Chi Minh City and Cambodia in southwest Vietnam

The Cu Chi Tunnels played an important role for the communist guerilla troops known as Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Built by local fighters during the armed conflict, the underground tunnels were used by soldiers as a hiding place and a means to transport goods or supplies. Located northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, the hidden underground world of the complicated network of tunnels has evolved to become one of the major tourist attractions in Vietnam.  Include this historical site in your Vietnam itinerary to have an unforgettable experience as you explore the Cu Chi Tunnels and get to know what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers.

Address: 60 kilometers Northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam