A trip to Vietnam is an adventure full of vibrant contrasts, where stunning landscapes meet rich traditions and unique experiences. From the majestic karst formations of Halong Bay to the timeless streets of Hoi An, each stop invites you to explore the best activities for Vietnam travel.
Wander bustling markets, cruise on junks or sampans and enjoy authentic encounters with local communities. This journey is your chance to savor local cuisine, embrace cultural experiences and feel the true rhythm of everyday Vietnamese life.
Meeting with the ethnic minorities of Vietnam
During a trip to Vietnam, meeting ethnic minorities is one of the most rewarding things to do in Vietnam. The country is home to over 50 ethnic groups, mostly in the mountainous northern regions. Some highlights include:
- Sapa – Discover the vibrant Hmong and Dao communities, explore terraced rice fields and participate in local activities in Vietnam like traditional handicrafts and market visits.
- Ha Giang – Explore remote villages of the Nung and Tay ethnic groups, enjoy scenic mountain landscapes and experience authentic cultural interactions.
- Local markets – Visit bustling markets across northern towns to sample traditional foods, buy handmade crafts and immerse yourself in daily life.
Vietnam is the perfect destination to combine cultural discovery with spectacular landscapes. Local travel agencies can help you organize personalized trips, including visits to traditional villages and hands-on experiences. Whether seeking cultural immersion or nature adventures, Vietnam offers endless things to do in Vietnam and memorable local activities in Vietnam across every region.
Hiking through rice paddies and mountains
Hiking through rice paddies and mountains in Northern Vietnam is one of the most memorable activities for Vietnam travel. Some top destinations include:
- Mu Cang Chai – Famous for its breathtaking terraced rice fields, this region offers hikes through lush landscapes and opportunities to interact with local H’mong and Dao communities through local activities in Vietnam.
- Sapa – Trekking in Sapa takes you past traditional villages, scenic mountains and verdant rice terraces, allowing you to experience the daily life of ethnic minority groups.
- Hoang Su Phi – Recognized as a national heritage site, this area features stunning rice paddies, stilt houses and hiking trails through palm and bamboo forests, offering both adventure and cultural immersion.
Experience the unique opportunity to stay with a local family in Vietnam
Spending one or more nights with a local family is one of the most authentic activities for Vietnam travel, especially in the mountainous regions of the North. This immersive experience allows you to connect with ethnic minority communities, taste traditional cuisine and enjoy breathtaking landscapes, making it a standout experience in Vietnam.
Why this experience is unmissable:
- Cultural immersion – Discover local customs, festivals and traditional crafts while living alongside the community.
- Local cuisine – Enjoy meals prepared by families, offering an authentic gastronomic experience using fresh, local ingredients.
- Exceptional scenery – Many homes are nestled in valleys or on rice terraces, providing spectacular sunrise and sunset views.
- Human interactions – Engage with locals, learn basic phrases in their language and gain a deep understanding of their daily life, leaving you with unforgettable experiences in Vietnam.
Top homestay destinations in Northern Vietnam
- Sapa – Ta Van, Lao Chai, Cat Cat, Ban Ho; H’mong & Dao life, rice farming and weaving.
- Mai Chau – Lac Village, Pom Coong; White Thai stilt houses and cultural immersion.
- Ha Giang – Lung Tam, Yen Minh, Dong Van; explore H’mong & Dao villages and the Ha Giang Loop.
- Mu Cang Chai – Terraced rice paddies; stay with H’mong & Thai families, especially magical during harvest.
Top nature and outdoor experiences in Vietnam
Exploring Vietnam’s stunning landscapes is one of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam. From scenic mountains and rice paddies to pristine beaches and traditional villages, these destinations offer a mix of adventure, culture and relaxation, making them must-try activities for Vietnam travel.
Ninh Binh
Discover the karst landscapes and traditional villages of Ninh Binh. Cycle through rice paddies and limestone mountains while visiting historical sites like Tam Coc Cave. The region’s temples and pagodas provide fascinating insights into Vietnamese history and culture, making it a top choice for things to do in Vietnam.
Cat Ba Island
Cat Ba offers lush rainforests, secluded beaches and rich marine life. Travelers can enjoy cycling, kayaking, or snorkeling, combining outdoor adventure with scenic beauty as part of their activities for Vietnam travel.
Mai Chau
Drive through verdant valleys and mountain villages in Mai Chau. The region is known for its traditional communities, beautiful scenery and local crafts such as embroidery and weaving, providing authentic experiences in Vietnam.
Hoi An
Visit picturesque villages like Tra Que and Cam Thanh. Cycle through rice paddies, explore charming streets and participate in cultural experiences such as lantern making or traditional sewing. Hoi An is also ideal for culinary activities, offering hands-on learning for families and travelers alike.
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An inspirational guide to Vietnam tours
Gather ideas, mix experiences, and let us design a journey crafted just for you.
Cruises, ancient cities and cultural highlights in Vietnam
Vietnam offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, history and culture, making it a top destination for unforgettable activities for Vietnam travel. From cruising among karst formations to exploring ancient cities, travelers can enjoy a variety of things to do in Vietnam and immersive local activities in Vietnam.
Halong Bay
Sail among the impressive karst formations and enjoy nighttime activities. With over 1,600 islands and islets rising from the sea, Halong Bay is a must-visit for nature lovers. Cruises allow you to admire the spectacular scenery and participate in local activities in Vietnam such as night fishing, Vietnamese cooking classes, or simply relaxing on deck.
Mekong Delta
Discover the canals and floating villages of this unique region. The Mekong Delta is a fascinating network of waterways where you can take a cruise to experience local life firsthand. Visit floating markets to buy fresh fruit and local produce, making it one of the most authentic experiences in Vietnam.
Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital
Explore the Old Quarter and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Hanoi offers historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, as well as local activities in Vietnam such as street food tours and bustling market visits. Strolling through the narrow streets provides a perfect mix of history, culture and vibrant urban life.
Hue, land of historical values
Visit the imperial monuments and learn about Vietnam’s rich history. The Imperial Citadel, royal tombs and ancient pagodas allow travelers to experience things to do in Vietnam that combine cultural exploration with historical insights.
Hoi An, the city of lanterns
Stroll through charming streets illuminated by colorful lanterns. Hoi An offers activities for Vietnam travel such as visiting traditional houses, learning local crafts and participating in lantern workshops. Its peaceful ambiance and picturesque scenery make it one of the most enchanting experiences in Vietnam.
Discover traditional Vietnamese crafts
Lacquer
Lacquerware is one of Vietnam’s most iconic crafts. Lacquer objects are made by coating wooden surfaces with a special resin, then precisely carving them to create beautiful designs.
Pottery and ceramics
Ceramics and pottery are ancestral crafts in Vietnam, with villages like Bat Trang in Hanoi famous for their crackle-glazed pottery. The village of Bau Truc in central Vietnam is also renowned for its traditional pottery.
Silk
The village of Van Phuc in Hanoi is famous for its delicate silk weaving and exquisite embroidery. It’s an ideal place to discover traditional silk crafts.
Basketry and bamboo
Bamboo basketry is another important craft, with villages like Vac making bamboo fans and birdcages.
Lanterns
Although lanterns are not mentioned as a major traditional craft in the results, Hoi An is famous for its colorful lanterns, which illuminate the streets at night. They are often handmade and are a symbol of the city.
Tasting Vietnamese cuisine during the trip
Vietnam is a true paradise for food lovers. Each region offers its own specialties, from the fragrant soups of the north to the spicy dishes of the central region and the fresh seafood of the south. By tasting Vietnamese cuisine, you’ll discover not only unique flavors but also local culture and traditions. Prepare for an unforgettable culinary journey across the country.
Northern cuisine
Try pho and spring rolls in Hanoi. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is known for its simple yet delicious dishes, such as pho, a Vietnamese national dish. You can also discover local specialties like spring rolls and bun cha .
Central cuisine
Discover Hue’s shrimp fritters. Central Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its spicy dishes and local specialties like shrimp fritters. You can also try bun bo Hue, a spicy noodle dish.
Southern cuisine
Savor banh xeo in Saigon. Southern cuisine is more varied and includes dishes like banh xeo, a crispy crepe filled with shrimp and pork. You can also discover local specialties like goi cuon (fresh spring rolls).
Beach relaxation and water sports for Vietnam travel
Vietnam is a paradise for sea lovers, with white sand beaches and turquoise waters stretching from North to South, offering some of the best activities for Vietnam travel.
In the north, Cat Ba and Quan Lan beaches are perfect for relaxation while enjoying the natural beauty of Halong Bay. Islands like Co To and Cai Chien provide spectacular scenery and a variety of water sports.
In Central Vietnam, Lang Co near Hue and My Khe in Da Nang are known for their fine sand, calm waters and opportunities for water-based activities for Vietnam travel.
In the south, Phu Quoc Island features stunning beaches such as Dai and Star, famous for white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can snorkel, relax, or admire magnificent sunsets. Nha Trang and Phan Thiet are also top destinations for beach enjoyment and engaging water sports, making them unforgettable experiences in Vietnam.
During a trip to Vietnam, you can explore these beaches and enjoy the relaxation they offer, while discovering the natural beauty and marine wildlife of the country.
Vietnam is a land of stunning landscapes, rich culture and unforgettable adventures. From cruising the Mekong and Halong Bay to exploring ancient cities, hiking northern rice terraces and relaxing on pristine beaches, these activities for Vietnam travel offer something for every type of traveler. Embrace local experiences, savor authentic cuisine and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Vietnam to make your journey truly memorable.
