10 reasons to travel to Vietnam

Travel to Vietnam is not just about scenic beauty—it's a multi-layered adventure where culture, cuisine, nature, and authentic encounters intermingle in ways that enchant seasoned travelers. As travel experts with decades of on-the-ground experience, we invite you to discover our in-depth reasons to embark on a journey through this captivating land, with insider insights that go far beyond the postcards.

1. Cruise on a traditional junk in Halong Bay

Ask anyone who’s visited Vietnam, and they’ll say one of the top reasons to travel to Vietnam is to take a cruise in Halong Bay! Aboard a traditional junk or a more modern boat with high-end comfort, the choice is yours according to your travel standards. A magical and unique place, the numerous islands and islets in Halong Bay create a spectacular seascape of limestone pillars, whose majesty earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994. According to local legend, during the time of the Jade Emperor, a dragon wagged its tail violently to protect the people from invaders, thus creating these numerous rocky peaks which arise from the sea. The permanent mist of the bay, which contributes to its charm, would also be proof of the presence of this dragon whose smoke would emanate from his nostrils.

• Located 4 hours from Hanoi by road, allow at least 2 days and 1 night for what will certainly be the highlight of your holiday to Vietnam. For an insider's touch, consider joining a guided kayak outing, visiting remote floating villages, or rising early to watch the mist lift with local fishermen—a rare window into the timeless rhythm of the bay.

2. Meet the ethnic groups during a trek in the mountains and rice fields of the North

North Vietnam is full of wonders. Whether you are a keen athlete or a nature enthusiast eager for authentic encounters, this is definitely the place where you should stop for at least 2 to 3 days when you travel to Vietnam.

In this region you will find many options for treks of different levels, all with the common point of being in the heart of unique panoramas. You will cross valleys with their traditional villages with authentic houses, meeting many ethnic groups on the way. Among the tribes you can meet are the famous Hmong, Dao, Thai, Tay, and many others, all recognizable by their delightful traditional outfits and shimmering colours. If you wish, you can also spend a night with the locals in a homestay, joining family meals, and—should the timing be right—participate in agricultural tasks like rice planting or harvesting.

Insider tip: Seek out festivals such as the Xến Xó Phốn (invoking rain for harvest) or local New Year celebrations for a deeper cultural immersion. Engaging a local guide specialized in cultural tourism can open doors to private ceremonies, folk singing, and artisan workshops seldom accessible to casual visitors.

3. Savor a traditional "pho" from street vendors

You certainly know the "pho", Vietnam's national breakfast, a dish so popular that it can be enjoyed all day. Its ingredients and unique flavours have brought it far beyond borders to be found in almost every Asian restaurant in Europe and elsewhere. But have you tasted this dish on the sidewalk, sitting on plastic stools, surrounded by locals? This experience is a must-try if you want to taste authentic “pho” at its roots and enjoy a moment in the daily life of the Vietnamese while delighting your taste buds.

Expert tips:

• Many of the best pho stalls start cooking before sunrise and may sell out by mid-morning—ask locals for their personal favorites off the tourist paths.
• Embrace the etiquette: gesture if you don't speak the language, and don’t expect a menu—follow the crowd!
• Venture beyond "pho"—try regional specialties such as "mì quảng" in Hoi An, "bun cha" in Hanoi, or "banh xeo" (savory pancakes) in Hue for a larger snapshot of Vietnam's culinary soul.
• Take a street food tour or cooking class—these immersive experiences deepen your appreciation of the role of food in Vietnamese culture.

4. Travel back in time at the Imperial City of Hue

If you are hungry for history, fine dining, architecture and poetic spots, then one of the must-visit destinations when you travel to Vietnam is Hue, located in Central Vietnam. A former Imperial City, it is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the wealth of its vestiges: the Imperial Citadel, the tombs of the emperors scattered along the Perfume river, the ramparts bathing in moats where lotuses and water lilies float gracefully.

Discover hidden courtyards, traditional garden houses, and consider visiting during local festivals such as "Tet Nguyen Dan" (Lunar New Year) or the biennial Hue Festival with its vibrant parades, royal court music, and arts performances. These times offer exclusive access to spiritual and artistic expressions that shaped Vietnam’s royal past.

5. Discover the hidden caves of Ninh Binh

Just two hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh—nicknamed "Halong Bay on land"—beckons with its limestone karst scenery rising over emerald rice fields. In addition to famed boat rides through the caves of Tam Coc, insider experiences include hiking to panoramic viewpoints at Hang Mua, visiting ancient pagodas like Bich Dong, and engaging with local artisans in traditional craft villages.

Tip: Guests often remember the serene moments in hidden temples, chatting with a local while sampling home-grown lotus seeds or rice wine, as deeply as the spectacular landscapes themselves.

6. Stroll through the historic alleys of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Hoi An is undoubtedly one of the cultural jewels of Vietnam and a must-visit when you travel to Vietnam. China, Japan, and France all left a strong cultural and architectural influence here, still visible today.

Beyond its 800 classified historic monuments, Hoi An comes alive during its monthly Lantern Festival—on the full moon, the Old Town glows with handmade lanterns, and the streets are filled with folk singing and traditional games. Don’t miss the chance to join lantern-making workshops, where local artisans share stories that have passed down generations. Sample "cao lau" or take a cycling tour through Cam Kim Island for authentic countryside encounters.

7. Share the daily life of a ‘White Thai’ ethnic family in Mai Chau

Take a detour to the territory of the White Thai ethnic group at Mai Chau, a lush valley famed for its stilt houses, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality. Spend the night in a local homestay, joining the family for meals prepared from ingredients grown in the surrounding fields and gardens.

If you visit during festival periods, you may witness rain-invoking rituals, folk dances, and the brewing of sticky rice alcohol. Handicraft demonstrations related to textiles and wickerwork offer an interactive window into local traditions that remain vibrantly alive.

8. Bask on the most beautiful beaches of Vietnam

A holiday to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without time on its striking coastline. While Mui Ne and Phu Quoc are renowned for their beauty, experienced travelers know to time their beach escapes with local seafood festivals or fish market hours. Chat with fisherman in a morning market or try your hand at a cooking class using seafood bought straight from the surf.

For more secluded options, explore Con Dao Islands or the less-visited beaches near Quy Nhon, where pristine sands and local village life present Vietnam’s coasts in a different, quieter light.

9. Experience the frenzy of a floating market on the Mekong Delta

In Vietnam, the mythical Mekong River splits into nine branches, nurturing a lush delta often called “the rice granary of Vietnam.” Beyond the iconic floating markets of Cai Rang or Cai Be, seasoned travelers may enjoy overnighting with a delta family, birdwatching in Tram Chim National Park, or joining in communal cooking of local specialties.

During major festivals such as "Ok Om Bok" (Whispering to the Moon), spectacular boat races and lantern releases transform the region, offering unparalleled access to cultural rituals seldom seen by outsiders.

10. Attend street performances in Hanoi's old quarter

Formerly called Thang Long or “City of the Rising Dragon,” Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam with an irresistibly vibrant old quarter. Beyond wandering the 36 guild streets, look for pop-up water puppet stages, traditional "ca tru" (ceremonial singing), or spontaneous performances during Tet and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

For deeper immersion, drop into artisan workshops, silk or silver crafts streets, or ask your guide about opportunities to attend a local home concert. Hanoi offers a rich tapestry of ancient and modern performance, unfolding in both grand theaters and humble street settings.

Extra Insider Reasons and Expert Tips

• Join a local festival or holiday: Plan your journey around events like the Hung Kings’ Festival, the Mid-Autumn lantern parade, or even regional harvest celebrations—each offers a unique lens on Vietnamese spirituality, family life, and artistic heritage.
• Visit traditional craft villages: Engage with artisans in places like Bat Trang (pottery), Van Phuc (silk), or small lantern-making villages near Hoi An for tangible connections to centuries-old skills and stories.
• Stay in rural community lodges or true homestays: Immerse yourself in daily rhythms, from joining market visits to taking part in traditional games and rituals. Not only does this support local communities, but it also leaves you with stories and friendships you cannot gain from hotel stays.
• Travel sustainably and respectfully: Many of Vietnam’s most memorable moments come from quiet observation and gentle participation. Accept invitations with humility, follow your hosts’ cues, and take the time to listen to their stories for an authentic travel experience.

At Shanti Travel, our deep local partnerships and knowledge allow us to tailor journeys that go beyond common itineraries to deliver these rich, immersive, and truly authentic Vietnamese experiences—so you can discover the Vietnam that lives in the hearts and homes of its people.