Best Things to Do in Vietnam: Complete Travel Guide

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia's most diverse countries -- long and thin, spanning tropical south to cooler north, with ancient cities, extraordinary limestone karst landscapes, and a food culture that ranks among the world's best. Here are the experiences that define a great Vietnam trip.

Ha Long Bay

Vietnam's most iconic landscape is the 2,000 limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. An overnight cruise is the best way to experience it -- you sail through the islands at dawn and dusk when the light is extraordinary. Book a reputable cruise operator (mid-range tours on Ha Long Bay are much better value than budget day trips) and allow at least two nights.

Hoi An

The old town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage site and possibly the most photogenic place in Vietnam. Yellow-walled buildings, lantern-lined streets, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and a food scene anchored by Cao Lau noodles and White Rose dumplings make it unmissable. Visit the old town at night when the lanterns are lit and the streets glow.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Home to the world's largest cave system, including Son Doong cave (the world's largest single cave) and Paradise Cave and Phong Nha cave (accessible on day tours). The surrounding karst mountains and jungle are strikingly beautiful. This is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated destinations.

Hanoi Old Quarter

• The Old Quarter's 36 streets are a chaotic, wonderful maze of street food, craft workshops, and historic temples
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple are a serene oasis in the middle of the city
• The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex is sober but fascinating
• Bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) is the city's signature dish -- order it for lunch at any local restaurant

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta region south of Ho Chi Minh City is a river-laced landscape of floating markets, river villages, and tropical orchards. A two-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City covers Can Tho's floating market, boat trips through narrow canals, and homestay accommodation with local families.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I spend in Vietnam? A minimum of two weeks allows you to travel from Hanoi in the north down to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, stopping at the highlights along the way. The most common route is the reunification express train with stops in Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An.