15 Best Things to Do in Vietnam (2025): Regional Picks

Vietnam experiences a dramatic climate range from cool mountain highlands to tropical islands, so not every destination shines year-round.

Below, we've broken Vietnam down by region, highlighting its signature experiences and the best time to go. It's your shortcut through the sea of "Top Things to Do" lists—to find the few that are actually right for you.

5 Top Things to Do in Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa)

Northern Vietnam is packed with some of the country's best experiences—think cruising through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay or hiking the terraced hills around Sapa. You've also got the capital, Hanoi, where centuries-old temples meet buzzing street food scenes.

For comfortable weather and scenic landscapes, spring (March to April) and autumn (late September to November) are the best times to visit.

Cruising Halong Bay – Vietnam's #1 Bucket-List Spot

• 1–3 days

A must-do for any traveler near Hanoi, Halong Bay's surreal limestone pillars rise dramatically from emerald waters.

Some travelers may choose the crowded day trips. But we don't recommend them as they often get complaints about murky water and packed stops.

Instead, skip the giant party boats and go for a 1–2 night boutique cruise with operators like Heritage Line or Indochine Cruise. These offer extras like kayaking, cave exploring, squid fishing, and cooking classes onboard. So you could enjoy a more personal and immersive experience, whether it's a romantic trip or quality family time. >>> Get to know the weather of Halong Bay. 

Trekking in the Mountains – Terraced Rice Fields and Ethnic Culture

• 2–5 days

The mountains around Sapa, Mai Chau, and the Ha Giang Loop showcase breathtaking rice terraces and rich ethnic diversity.

Sapa is the most developed trekking base, with comfortable stays and guided options. Mai Chau is easier to reach and quieter. The Ha Giang Loop is paradise for adventurers due to the raw and rugged nature (but with limited facilities).

The golden rice terraces around late September to early October add the magic to your treks.

Wandering Hanoi's Old Quarter – Culture, Chaos, and Incredible Food

• half day

The Old Quarter is the heartbeat of Hanoi—a buzzing maze of colonial buildings, market stalls, scooters, and endless street food.

Start your walk in the late morning or early afternoon when it's calmer. After 6 PM, the chaos really kicks in. Not a fan of dodging scooters on foot? Hop on a cyclo—it's a chill (and fun) way to take it all in.

Don't miss a street food tour. Grab a tiny stool, dive into a bowl of bun cha or pho, and wrap it up with a creamy egg coffee. It's one of the best ways to literally taste local life.

Hanoi is also the base of exploring northern Vietnam. Check out the popular day trips from Hanoi.

Talk with a Vietnam War Veteran – Hear History Firsthand

• 1–2 hours

If you're curious about Vietnam's past beyond the museums, this is one of the most moving experiences available. You'll meet a veteran—someone who served as a field medic or helped rebuild after the war—and hear their personal story, face to face.

These encounters usually happen in a quiet café or sometimes even in the veteran's home, with your guide there to translate and help things flow naturally.

Want more ideas about discovering Vietnam? Check out our guide: How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam.

Private Water Puppet Show at an Artist's Home

• 1–2 hours

More than just a kids' show, the water puppet show is a unique, centuries-old Vietnamese art form that comes alive on a water stage. 

Forget the big theater versions, and we'll arrange a private show for you in a puppeteer's courtyard. You'll watch the show up close, chat with the artist, and even try handling the puppets (kids love this!).

6 Best Things to Do in Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An)

Central Vietnam blends culture and beach time perfectly. With dry weather from January to August, it's a favorite summer destination for both local and international families.

Chill Out in Hoi An – A Must for First Trips to Vietnam

• 1–3 days

Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most romantic towns. Lanterns, yellow walls, riverside walks, and old Chinese halls all come together, and the atmosphere at sunset is hard to beat.

By day, dive into hands-on activities. Families could join a lantern-making workshop while couples have clothes tailor-made—quick, affordable, and actually stylish.

Another great local experience is the farm-to-table cooking class in Tra Que Village. Or spend a half-day fishing with a basket boat ride, casting nets, and sharing a fresh meal on the water.

When night falls, a sunset drink by the river, a lantern boat ride, or a Vespa night food tour is a fun way to explore this magical town after dark.

Beach Time in Da Nang & Nha Trang – Sun-Soaked, Rain-Free

• 2–3 days

For summer trips with kids, Central Vietnam's coast is your best bet to dodge rain elsewhere. Da Nang and Nha Trang are always the top choices there.

Da Nang is busy, affordable, and close to cultural stops like Hoi An and Hue. Fun fact: it used to be an R&R base for U.S. troops during the war. Nha Trang is less hectic than Da Nang. It's great for island-hopping, diving, and even mud baths.

Hue Imperial City – Step into Vietnam's Royal Past

• 1–2 days

Hue's Imperial City is Vietnam's best-preserved royal complex, complete with palaces, temples, and gardens modeled after Beijing's Forbidden Palace.

Pair your visit with a dragon boat ride along the Perfume River and a stop at the Minh Mang Tomb to get the full "life of an emperor" experience.

Pro tip: It's mostly open-air, so aim to visit in the morning or late afternoon to dodge the midday heat.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – Caves, Jungle, and Adventure

• 2–5 days

This park is home to Son Doong, the world's largest cave—you can actually camp inside, but it's hardest to access: permits are limited to 1,000 people per year and must be booked about a year ahead.

For an easier alternative, choose Paradise Cave. This 31-km-long cave is full of massive stalactites and paved with a wooden walkway that's doable for most visitors. For adrenaline junkies, Dark Cave brings ziplining, kayaking, mud baths, and a swim in pitch-black waters.

Heads up: Most tours are based out of Dong Hoi, which has direct flights from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Plan for at least two nights. During the rainy season (Sep–Nov), some caves may be closed due to flooding.

Interested in it? See how to combine it with other highlights of central Vietnam.

Ba Na Hills – Iconic Views, Cool Air, and a Touch of Europe

• 1 day

Ba Na Hills, one of Da Nang's most iconic spots, is famous for a giant hand holding up a golden bridge—you've seen it on Instagram.

Getting there is part of the fun: the cable car ride takes you high above the jungle and waterfalls.

But beyond the photo op, it's also a unique mountain resort as the temperature at the top drops 5–10°C cooler than the city.

Pro tips: Skip the rainy season (Sep–Dec) as fog can ruin the views.

Want fewer crowds on the bridge? Avoid weekends, Vietnamese holidays, and the 10 AM–2 PM rush when this popular local family attraction is crowded.

DMZ Tour – Vietnam's War History, Up Close

• Half–1 day

This is the best place to truly grasp the Vietnam War's legacy in Central Vietnam.

You could enter the 3-level underground village inside Vinh Moc Tunnels, see plane wrecks and trench remains at Khe Sanh Combat Base, and witness the original boundary line between North and South Vietnam at Ben Hai River & Hien Luong Bridge.

4 Things Not to Miss in Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Phu Quoc, Mekong Delta)

Southern Vietnam bursts with energy, tropical beaches, and unique waterways. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and perfect for exploring both urban and natural highlights.

Explore the Essence of Ho Chi Minh City: A Must for First Vietnam Visits

• 1 day

Ho Chi Minh City captures Vietnam's energy like nowhere else: a place where colonial churches and war relics stand beside glass towers and trendy cafés.

A short walk takes you from the grandeur of the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral to the historic Reunification Palace and the powerful War Remnants Museum. If you're seeking a thrilling experience, explore them by a Vespa ride.

Then discover the Cafe Apartment for hidden coffee gems, and Bitexco Tower's Skydeck for panoramic views of the city skyline.

Overwhelmed by planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City? See our handpicked itinerary and travel tips.  

War Sites around Saigon: Cu Chi Tunnels & Long Tan Battlefield

• Half–1 day

If you're into military history, don't skip these relics near Ho Chi Minh City (also named Saigon).

Cu Chi Tunnels are iconic. Crawl through tight underground passages, see trap demos, bomb craters, and hidden entrances. For those with claustrophobia or limited mobility, stick to the above-ground exhibits.

Long Tan Battlefield hits differently, especially for Aussies. Visit the Long Tan Cross, SAS Hill, and the old Aussie base site. It's remote and raw—go with a licensed tour for a worry-free tour.

Experience the Mekong Delta: Vietnam's Waterworld

• 1–2 days

The unique charm of the Mekong Delta lies in a lifestyle shaped entirely by water—villages built on rivers, markets floating on boats, and daily life intertwined with the flow of the river.

Most day tours include a sampan ride through coconut palm-lined canals, visits to fruit orchards, coconut candy workshops, and cycling through rural paths. While Ben Tre is a common stop, though it's more touristy, Vinh Long is less visited and feels more local.

To see a real floating market, we suggest spending a night in Can Tho. Cai Rang is the only one still going, and it's most active around sunrise, between 6 and 7 AM. If you're looking for an in-depth exploration of the Mekong Delta, take a Mekong River cruise to Cambodia. 

Phu Quoc: Vietnam's Chillest Beach Escape

• 2–3 days

Phu Quoc is perfect for a tranquil beach holiday in Vietnam. It's laid-back but far from boring—cocktails at sunset, night markets, and a cable car to a remote island all keep things interesting.

Among its rich beaches, Long Beach stands out for sunset views, easy access, and nightlife. But go to the southeast side, like Khem Beach, if you're craving space, quiet, and something a little more luxe.

Renting a motorbike sounds fun, but this island is bigger than it looks (about 2 hours north to south). Getting lost on bumpy back roads with poor GPS isn't enjoyable. Go with a local guide or hire a driver—you'll enjoy it more.

Want a beach escape that's relaxing from start to finish? We can arrange airport transfers, resort stays, and insider-only experiences.

Need help planning your Vietnam adventure?

Not sure how to choose between regions, or want to do it all? At Asia Highlights, we specialize in private, flexible Vietnam trips designed around your travel style. Whether you're a foodie couple, a family with teens, or just looking for the most scenic route through the country, we'll help you build the right itinerary.

Start planning your Vietnam trip with a travel expert now.

Or get inspired by our planning guides:

• Best & Worst Time to Visit Vietnam
• How Long to Spend in Vietnam
• How to Plan an Incredible Family Trip to Vietnam

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