Best Things to Do in Vietnam: A Local Guide from North to South (2025)

When people search for things to do in Vietnam, most lists begin with famous destinations like Hạ Long Bay, Hội An, and the bustling streets of Saigon. These are beautiful places, but they are only part of the journey.

Vietnam is more than its landmarks. It is a country of quiet mornings, humble meals, and unexpected moments. A bowl of phở at sunrise. Birds calling over a rice field. A kind smile from someone offering directions in a quiet village. These are the everyday Vietnam travel experiences that often stay with you the longest.

This Vietnam travel guide flows from the misty mountains of the north to the tropical rivers of the south. It highlights authentic Vietnamese food, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that reveal the country’s quiet depth. Whether you are planning a Vietnam itinerary for the first time or returning to discover more, this guide will help you explore with curiosity and care.

For practical tips, don’t forget to check the best time to visit Vietnam based on seasons and regional highlights.

Best things to do in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is where tradition and landscape come together in quiet harmony. From limestone peaks to ancient temples, this region offers some of the most authentic travel experiences in Vietnam. It is ideal for those planning a Vietnam itinerary that focuses on cultural depth, rural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Whether you want to explore ethnic minority villages, trek through mountain passes, or relax in a countryside homestay, the north invites you to slow down and see the country as locals do.

Hanoi 

Things to do in Hanoi for first-time visitors

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a place where old and new live side by side. Pagodas rest beside French villas. Sidewalk cafés buzz with conversation, and scooters move around fruit vendors like water flowing around stone. The city reveals itself slowly and rewards those who stay curious.

If you are looking for cultural or local things to do in Vietnam, Hanoi is a natural starting point. From early morning walks around lakes to late-night bowls of phở, the city invites you to live like a local and listen closely.

You can also check the best time to visit Hanoi if you’re planning your trip by weather or festivals.

Here are the best things to do in Hanoi if it is your first visit:

• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple in the early morning when the streets are quiet and people move slowly. It is one of the places where the heart of the city still feels local.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a formal and deeply respected place where many Vietnamese come to pay tribute. The gardens surrounding the mausoleum are wide and carefully kept.
• Step into the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. The courtyards are lined with ancient trees and stone turtles, and the architecture reflects a deep love of learning and tradition.
• Watch a water puppet show in the evening at Thang Long Theatre. The puppets glide across a pool of water, moved by hidden rods, while musicians play traditional instruments and tell village stories.
• Spend time in the Hanoi Old Quarter, where narrow streets are named for traditional trades. You can walk from a street of tin workers to one filled with lantern shops, passing cafés and food carts along the way.

Where to stay in Hanoi for first-time visitors? Choose accommodations near Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter to stay close to many of these cultural sites and local experiences.

What to eat in Hanoi

Eating is one of the most essential things to do in Vietnam, and in Hanoi, food tells stories. Recipes are passed down in families and served in places where you sit shoulder to shoulder with locals. From breakfast stalls to night markets, the food is full of flavor and history.

Here are some must-try dishes and trusted places to eat them:

In Hanoi, each bite connects you to something deeper than flavor. Sit low on a plastic stool, wrap herbs in your hand, and taste the quiet pride of a cook who has made the same dish every day for thirty years.

Check out our full guide to Hanoi’s street food.

Northern mountain

The northern mountains of Vietnam are where silence comes first. As you ride higher into the hills, the mist thickens, the roads narrow, and daily life slows to the pace of the seasons. For travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path Vietnam experiences, this region offers some of the most authentic nature adventures in Southeast Asia.

Things to do in Sapa

Sapa is a quiet mountain town in Northern Vietnam known for terraced rice fields, cool misty mornings, and the traditions of local ethnic groups. If you want to experience nature-focused things to do in Vietnam, Sapa is one of the most peaceful places to begin.

• Trek to Lao Chai or Ta Van villages. These trails lead through rice paddies, bamboo groves, and streams. Along the way, you may meet Hmong families, children walking home, or women selling handmade crafts. If you are planning a longer walk, check our Sapa trekking guide.
• Stay in a local homestay. At night, sit with your host family over a fire and enjoy a meal of mountain vegetables, grilled pork, and sticky rice. Sleep in a wooden house surrounded by mountain air and quiet stars.
• Try a Red Dao herbal bath. After hiking, relax in a wooden tub filled with hot water, lemongrass, wild roots, and forest herbs. The scent stays with you long after the bath ends.
• Explore the weekend market. On Saturdays and Sundays, Sapa fills with local groups selling spices, textiles, and wild honey. The atmosphere is colorful and deeply local.

For hikers and cultural travelers alike, Sapa is one of the best places to visit in Northern Vietnam.

Read our guide to the best time to visit Sapa to catch golden rice terraces at their peak.

Things to do in Ha Giang

Ha Giang is one of the most remote and breathtaking regions in Vietnam. Towering limestone peaks, winding roads, and ethnic minority villages shape a landscape that feels timeless. For travelers seeking adventure activities in Vietnam and the most scenic drives in Southeast Asia, Ha Giang offers an unforgettable journey.

• Ride the Ma Pi Leng Pass, a dramatic mountain road carved high above the Nho Que River. This is often called the most beautiful motorbike loop in Vietnam. Every curve reveals a new view, and the feeling of standing above the clouds is hard to forget.
• Stay in a local homestay in Du Gia or Dong Van. These small towns offer quiet nights, warm meals, and insight into real village life. Du Gia especially is great for those wanting to escape the tourist crowds.
• Visit a Sunday market. Ethnic minorities gather at places like Meo Vac and Lung Phin to trade textiles, livestock, and forest goods. See our guide to Ha Giang’s best local markets.
• Try thắng cố. This traditional Hmong horse stew is served hot in smoky stalls and eaten by families who’ve been coming here for generations. It is one of the most unique and rooted cultural food experiences in Vietnam.

For travelers planning a Ha Giang motorbike loop, this region is among the most adventurous places to visit in Vietnam. The road is long, the landscapes are raw, and the connections you make are some of the most meaningful things to do in Vietnam.

Before you set off, check the best time to visit Ha Giang to avoid rain and catch the golden rice fields.

Northern countryside

Not every journey in northern Vietnam leads to high mountains. Some of the most peaceful days happen in the lowlands, where rivers move slowly and the land feels soft beneath your feet. This is where the countryside speaks gently, without asking for attention.

Things to do in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is where rivers move slowly through golden rice fields and limestone cliffs rise from the earth like forgotten towers. Often called the “Halong Bay on land,” this peaceful region is one of the most scenic places to visit in Northern Vietnam for nature lovers and those planning a Vietnam countryside itinerary.

• Take a boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An. A local rower, often using their feet, will guide you along narrow waterways framed by karst peaks. This is one of the best river tours in Vietnam, especially during harvest season.
• Climb to Bich Dong Pagoda. The small mountain temple is reached by mossy stone steps and offers a view over green rice fields and lotus ponds. It is a great choice for peaceful temple visits near Hanoi.
• Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Once home to Vietnamese kings, this quiet site features shrines and gardens. It is one of the top historical places to visit in Northern Vietnam.
• Try cơm cháy with goat meat. This local specialty combines crispy scorched rice with tender goat, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce. It is one of the most famous local dishes in Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh is perfect for slow travel. If you are building a Vietnam countryside itinerary or seeking quiet nature escapes near Hanoi, this region offers some of the most memorable things to do in Northern Vietnam.

Things to do in Cát Bà Island

Cát Bà Island lies at the edge of Lan Ha Bay, offering the same dramatic limestone scenery as Ha Long Bay but with fewer tourists and more forest trails. It’s one of the best islands to visit in Vietnam for travelers seeking quiet coastal escapes and Vietnam kayaking tours.

• Take a boat tour through Lan Ha Bay. You can kayak through sea caves, stop at floating fishing villages, and enjoy uncrowded views. This is one of the best spots for kayaking in Vietnam.
• Hike in Cát Bà National Park. The trail to Ngu Lam Peak leads you through tropical forest to one of the best viewpoints in Northern Vietnam. It is a good option for Vietnam jungle trekking near the coast.
• Watch the sunset from Cannon Fort. The former military site now offers panoramic views and is among the top free things to do in Cát Bà Island.
• Swim at Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 beaches. These sandy coves are connected by a quiet cliffside path and are some of the best beaches in Northern Vietnam for morning swims or evening walks.
• Visit the floating village of Cái Bèo. This is one of the oldest sea-based communities in Southeast Asia. For travelers interested in cultural village visits in Vietnam, it is an authentic and peaceful experience.

Cát Bà is ideal for those who enjoy coastal hikes, quiet beaches, and off-the-beaten-path Vietnam itineraries. It invites you to move slowly, breathe deeply, and follow the rhythm of land and sea.

Best things to do in Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam offers a gentle rhythm between ancient culture and natural beauty. From lantern-lit alleys to forested mountains and empty beaches, this region holds some of the most meaningful things to do in Vietnam for travelers seeking both history and relaxation. If you’re planning a Vietnam cultural itinerary in 2025, this part of the country is where stories feel both timeless and close to the ground.

This region is also ideal for heritage tourism in Vietnam, combining UNESCO World Heritage sites with local crafts, street food, and nature escapes. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, solo, or with family, Central Vietnam invites you to pause, connect, and explore at your own pace.

Hoi An

Things to do in Hoi An for first-time visitors

Hoi An is one of the top tourist destinations in Central Vietnam for good reason. This UNESCO World Heritage site blends centuries-old architecture, slow river life, and local craftsmanship into a peaceful retreat. Looking to begin your Vietnam adventure? Hoi An is the perfect starting point.

• Walk through the Ancient Town. Stroll past lantern-lit streets, wooden houses, and riverside cafés. Every step connects you to centuries of trade, culture, and craft.
• Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge. Built in the 18th century, this landmark symbolizes the connection between local communities and international traders.
• Join a lantern-making workshop. One of the most unique cultural experiences in Vietnam, these workshops teach you how to craft silk lanterns using bamboo and fabric.
• Relax at An Bang Beach. Just a short ride away, this quiet beach near Hoi An is perfect for morning swims and sunset seafood dinners.
• Take a Vietnamese cooking class. Start with a visit to the local market, then learn how to prepare dishes like mì quảng and cao lầu in a riverside kitchen.

You can explore more in our guide to the best things to do in Hoi An.

What to eat in Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the best places to eat in Vietnam for traditional dishes that reflect heritage, balance, and regional pride. Many local specialties here are tied to the land and made with methods passed down for generations. If you are building a Vietnam food itinerary, Hoi An belongs on your list.

Each dish in Hoi An tells a story. Cao lầu is made with lye water and only found here. White rose dumplings are shaped by hand in a single family kitchen. For travelers planning a Vietnam street food itinerary, Hoi An offers flavor, heritage, and a chance to eat where recipes haven’t changed in generations.

Looking for the best time to visit Hoi An? March to May offers warm weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for walking tours, boat rides, and exploring the countryside by bicycle.

Hue

Things to do in Hue for first-time visitors

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where ancient temples, royal tombs, and quiet gardens line the banks of the Perfume River. It is one of the most culturally rich cities in Vietnam, perfect for travelers planning a historical Vietnam itinerary or seeking a deeper connection with the country’s royal past.

Here are the top things to do in central Vietnam if you’re visiting Hue for the first time:

• Explore the Imperial City. Step inside the ancient citadel, where stone gates lead to courtyards, temples, and royal chambers. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Vietnam’s last dynasty.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Perched above the Perfume River, this seven-story tower is one of Hue’s most iconic landmarks. The view is peaceful and the gardens are often filled with sunlight and birdsong.
• See the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh. A hillside mausoleum with mosaic tiles, dragon sculptures, and a blend of Eastern and European design. The detail here is unlike anywhere else.
• Walk through Minh Mang’s Tomb. Surrounded by lotus ponds and pine trees, this quiet complex was designed to reflect harmony between architecture and nature.
• Take a boat ride on the Perfume River. A gentle cruise gives you a wide view of Hue’s calm landscape, from pagodas and gardens to village life along the banks.

Hue invites you to slow down. If you’re searching for historical places to visit in Vietnam or planning a cultural travel experience, this city offers timeless beauty and thoughtful depth.

What to eat in Hue

Hue is known for its royal cuisine, where even the simplest dishes are served with care and tradition. Many of these recipes date back to the Nguyễn Dynasty and reflect the refined balance that defined royal life. For those seeking the best traditional Vietnamese food, Hue offers some of the most authentic local food in central Vietnam.

Below are must-try Hue dishes and trusted local eateries:

From sidewalk stalls to family-run restaurants, authentic Hue dishes are often served in small portions, encouraging variety and conversation. If you’re building a Vietnam food itinerary, Hue is one of the most flavorful stops you can make.

Da Nang

Things to do in Da Nang for first-time visitors

Da Nang is a coastal city where beaches, mountains, and culture come together in balance. It’s one of the most welcoming places in Central Vietnam for new travelers, offering both calm and excitement. If you’re searching for the best things to do in Da Nang Vietnam, this list highlights scenic spots, local landmarks, and relaxing escapes.

• Visit the Marble Mountains. These limestone hills are full of pagodas, caves, and viewpoints. They’re among the most photographed Da Nang tourist attractions and a peaceful introduction to Vietnamese spiritual architecture.
• Relax or surf at My Khe Beach. Known for its long coastline and gentle waves, My Khe is a favorite for both early morning walks and soft adventure in Vietnam like beginner surfing.
• Watch the Dragon Bridge at night. Every weekend at 9 PM, the dragon sculpture lights up and breathes fire and water over the Han River. It is a family-friendly highlight of Da Nang nightlife.
• Take the cable car to Ba Na Hills. This record-breaking ride leads to the Golden Bridge, held by two stone hands. The area also features gardens and French village replicas.
• See the Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda. The tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam overlooks the coast from Son Tra Peninsula. The temple grounds are peaceful, often scented with incense and flowers.
• Try paragliding over the sea: For a unique perspective on the city, paragliding is one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Da Nang. You’ll fly along the coastline with mountain views on one side and open ocean on the other.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beach day or a light adrenaline rush, Da Nang travel offers a gentle but unforgettable start to your Central Vietnam journey.

What to eat in Da Nang

Da Nang’s cuisine is bold, balanced, and deeply local. The city brings together fresh herbs, coastal ingredients, and Central Vietnamese spice in ways that feel both comforting and surprising. If you are wondering what to eat in Da Nang, start with these local favorites.

From morning noodles to sweet street snacks, Da Nang local food is easy to find and full of flavor. Be sure to try mì quảng, a turmeric-infused noodle dish that’s a symbol of the region, and bánh xèo, Da Nang’s extra-crispy version of Vietnamese pancake.

If you’re building a Vietnam street food itinerary, this city is a must-stop. Many of its best meals are found in small stalls or family-run kitchens where recipes haven’t changed in decades.

Best things to do in Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam welcomes travelers with warmth, both in its tropical weather and the friendly way people live. This region blends lively cities, quiet river villages, and long coastlines perfect for slow mornings. If you are searching for tropical things to do in Vietnam or planning a beach holiday in Vietnam, the south offers a wide variety of landscapes and cultural depth.

Ho Chi Minh City

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City for first-time visitors

Ho Chi Minh City, still called Saigon by many locals, is Vietnam’s largest and most fast-moving city. It blends French architecture, vibrant street food stalls, peaceful temples, and glass towers into one energetic rhythm. If you are looking for dynamic and meaningful things to do in Vietnam, this city offers a full range of experiences.

If this is your first visit, you might want to check the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City to make the most of the weather and seasonal experiences. Once you’re here, these top sites can help you understand the city’s layers of history and daily life:

• Visit the War Remnants Museum. This museum offers a deep and emotional look into Vietnam’s modern history through photos, stories, and preserved wartime artifacts.
• Explore the Independence Palace. Once the home of South Vietnam’s president, this site lets you walk through meeting rooms, bomb shelters, and gardens that shaped the nation’s past.
• Admire Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. These two colonial landmarks sit beside each other in District 1 and offer beautiful examples of French-Vietnamese architecture.
• Shop at Ben Thanh Market. This busy indoor market is filled with textiles, souvenirs, and Vietnamese street food. Practice bargaining and try a local snack like grilled bananas or dried jackfruit.
• Take in the view from Bitexco Tower Skydeck. The Skydeck on the 49th floor gives you a panoramic view of Saigon’s skyline and the winding Saigon River.

To explore Saigon like a local, consider joining a cycling tour in Ho Chi Minh City with Jackfruit Adventure. These gentle rides take you through alleyways, morning markets, and hidden food stalls. It’s a quiet and eye-opening way to see how the city breathes beyond the main roads.

Watch our video to feel what it’s like to cycle, stop, eat, and connect with the city in real time. Or, if you prefer exploring on your own, we’ve also created in-depth guides to help you find your way. These include practical tips on Ho Chi Minh City’s districts, less common things to do, and historical landmarks that carry deeper stories through the city’s streets and architecture.

What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best places in Vietnam for food lovers. From street vendors to family-run eateries, the city offers a wide range of Vietnamese dishes that reflect the South’s bold flavors and generous portions.

If you are building a food itinerary for Vietnam, Saigon is the best city to start. Here are must-try dishes and where to find them:

Eating street food in Ho Chi Minh City is not just about the taste. It is about sitting on a low stool, hearing the sizzle of the grill, and watching daily life unfold. For deeper tips, explore our guide to the best street food in Saigon and plan your own local food crawl.

For more ideas after dark, visit our guide to things to do in Ho Chi Minh City at night.

Vung Tau

Things to do in Vung Tau for first-time visitors

Vung Tau is a coastal city just two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, known for its wide beaches, fresh seafood, and breezy hills. It is one of the most convenient beach getaways near Saigon. If you are looking for relaxing things to do in Vietnam that combine ocean air with local flavor, Vung Tau is a favorite weekend escape. This destination is also featured in our guide to the best beaches near Ho Chi Minh City, perfect for travelers planning short trips from the city.

Here are the best things to do in Vung Tau:

• Swim at Back Beach (Bãi Sau). This is the city’s longest and most popular beach, ideal for early swims, afternoon walks, and watching local vendors serve fresh fruit and snacks.
• Climb to the Christ the King Statue. Located on Núi Nhỏ, this white statue of Jesus stands with open arms. The panoramic view from the top stretches over the city and sea.
• Explore the White Palace (Bạch Dinh). This French-era mansion sits above Front Beach. Inside are antiques, cannons, and quiet gardens that offer a view of the bay.
• Ride a motorbike along the coastal road. The route from Front Beach to Bãi Dâu curves along the cliffs with plenty of scenic stops, shrines, and breeze-filled viewpoints.
• Watch the sunset from Nghinh Phong Cape. This rocky outcrop extends into the ocean and offers one of the best open views of the horizon.

If you’re looking for peaceful things to do in southern Vietnam that combine history, nature, and slow travel, Vung Tau is an ideal first stop.

What to eat in Vung Tau

Eating fresh seafood by the sea is one of the most enjoyable local experiences in Vietnam. In Vung Tau, food is served in a relaxed setting, often at sidewalk stalls or open-air restaurants where the breeze carries the smell of the ocean.

Here are must-try dishes and where to find them:

Each dish brings together fresh ingredients and simple, bold flavors. From crispy bánh khọt to creamy avocado ice cream, eating in Vung Tau offers a taste of the sea and a sense of the local rhythm.

Phu Quoc

Things to do in Phu Quoc for first-time visitors

Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and one of the top tropical destinations in Southeast Asia. With turquoise water, soft beaches, and lush forest trails, it is perfect for travelers planning a beach vacation in Vietnam or looking for a peaceful island escape.

Here are the best things to do in Phu Quoc if it is your first visit:

• Swim at Bai Sao Beach. This beach is famous for its white sand and calm water. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing beneath palm trees.
• Ride the Hon Thom Cable Car. As the longest sea-crossing cable car in the world, it gives you panoramic views of the An Thoi Archipelago, coral reefs, and colorful fishing boats below.
• Explore Phu Quoc National Park. Hike through tropical rainforest trails in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You may spot rare birds, butterflies, and monkeys along the way.
• Visit VinWonders Phu Quoc. This amusement park is one of the top family attractions in Vietnam, featuring water slides, thrill rides, and cultural performances.
• Stroll through Dinh Cau Night Market. This lively market in Duong Dong Town is filled with seafood stalls, street snacks, and souvenirs made by local artisans.

Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Phu Quoc invites you to rest, eat well, and enjoy nature at your own pace. It is one of the most versatile and rewarding things to do in southern Vietnam.

What to eat in Phu Quoc

Food in Phu Quoc reflects the island’s fishing heritage and tropical ingredients. Most dishes are built around fresh seafood, Phu Quoc pepper, and simple, bold flavors. If you are a foodie planning a Vietnam island trip, eating in Phu Quoc is one of the most rewarding cultural experiences.

Below are must-try local dishes and trusted places to enjoy them:

For many, the best moments come early in the morning. Visit a seafood market at dawn, watch the boats come in, and enjoy breakfast made from the catch of the day. If you’re craving authentic Vietnamese island food, this is where you’ll find it: served by hand, often with a view of the sea..

Let your journey stay open

This guide has shared just a few of the countless things to do in Vietnam. But the truth is, Vietnam does not end when the list does. Each region holds more than what fits on a page. Every village, market, or conversation has something new to offer if you take the time to notice.

Let your itinerary leave room for detours. Some of your most meaningful memories may come from an unexpected turn or an unplanned conversation. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for more, travel here is shaped by how gently you move through it.

And if you’re seeking a deeper connection to the local rhythm, Jackfruit Adventure offers a cycling tour in Ho Chi Minh City. The route winds through alleyways, morning markets, and street corners where the city still breathes in its own time. It’s a quiet way to feel the city, not just see it.