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Travel to Vietnam offers a tapestry of unique experiences, especially for those seeking to go beyond surface tourism. After guiding travelers through Vietnam for over two decades, we’ve curated the top 5 things to do in Vietnam that truly immerse you in the country’s authentic heart, local culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
No journey to Vietnam is complete without taking a cruise—arguably the best way to appreciate the dramatic natural and cultural contrasts the country offers. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with its surreal seascape of limestone karsts and emerald waters. For a truly special experience, choose a multi-day cruise on a traditional wooden junk or a modern luxury vessel. Sailing deeper into less-traveled areas like Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay lets you escape the crowds and discover secluded beaches, hidden caves, and peaceful fishing villages. Onboard, enjoy sunrise Tai Chi sessions on deck, kayaking through arches, and even local cooking classes—a glimpse into the rhythm of life on the bay.
In the Mekong Delta, the experience is wholly different. Board a wooden sampan or local motorized boat to float through a patchwork of winding river channels, lush islands, and vibrant floating markets. Cruises here are best in the dry season (November-April), when village visits are easiest and the waterways are at their most navigable. Seek out smaller, traditional boats for greater flexibility—your captain can moor at riverbanks for spontaneous cultural encounters in riverside villages or at less-visited markets. Opt for cruises that include experiential activities like cooking demonstrations or sunset drinks to add depth to your journey. For travelers conscious about responsible tourism, eco-friendly operators are increasingly available, particularly in Halong Bay, supporting the protection of these fragile environments and local communities.
Vietnam’s cities pulse with a unique energy, and the best way to tap into their lifeblood is by wandering through their bustling alleys and historic neighborhoods. In Hanoi, the famous 36 Streets District (Old Quarter) rewards those willing to explore beyond the main roads. Each lane is named after an ancient trade, and detours down the smallest alleys reveal hidden artisan workshops, atmospheric cafes pouring signature Vietnamese egg coffee, and bustling street markets where you can try local treats like pho cuon or bun cha. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a weekend, the Night Market unfolds, filled with music, crafts, and the smell of freshly grilled dishes—a true feast for all the senses.
In Hoi An, the real magic happens in the early morning or late evening, when the Ancient Town’s lantern-lit alleys come alive with craftspeople, local tailors, and family-owned eateries. Get to know the town by joining a lantern-making or cooking class, or simply by chatting with vendors and artisans who are eager to share stories about their trade. Don’t miss strolling the quieter riverside paths and side streets—these less-frequented routes often spark the most memorable conversations and unplanned cultural moments.
Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City offers immersive experiences far from the busy boulevards. Seek out the narrow residential alleys (known as "hem") in District 1 or District 3, where neighbors gather for dinner, and cafes are tucked away behind unmarked doors. Around landmarks like Ben Thanh Market or the Jade Emperor Pagoda, wander off main thoroughfares to find local tea houses, vibrant street art, and small markets full of daily urban life. Approach each city with curiosity, and you’ll unlock rich, authentic slices of Vietnam.
Vietnam’s north is tailor-made for adventure travelers, offering cycling and trekking routes through landscapes where ethnic traditions still flourish. Standout cycling options include rugged Cat Ba Island with its forest trails and coastal paths, or the adventurous 800-kilometer journey winding through Lao Cai, Bac Ha, Sa Pa, Mai Chau, and Ha Giang—punctuated by breathtaking rice terraces and vibrant market towns.
Trekking brings you directly into the world of Vietnam’s many hill tribes. The Sapa region is renowned for multi-day hikes connecting the villages of the H’mong, Red Dao, Tay, and other communities, often paired with authentic homestays. Further-flung areas like Mu Cang Chai, Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang and Dong Van present less-traveled paths perfect for deep cultural immersion. To be a respectful guest, always ask permission before taking photos, dress modestly, remove your shoes upon entering homes, and learn at least a few basic greetings. These small gestures go a long way in building trust and creating meaningful, respectful connections.
A night in a traditional stilt-house homestay is a privilege that brings you inside the heart of Vietnamese family life, particularly among the country’s fascinating ethnic minorities. In the serene mountain valley of Mai Chau, you’ll be welcomed by the White Thai community, known for their legendary hospitality, rich oral traditions, and culinary prowess (fresh ingredients straight from the valley are transformed into delicious, communal meals).
Your stay might include hands-on experiences making handicrafts like pottery or incense, foraging or farming activities, and unforgettable evenings around a fire, sharing stories and witnessing folk dances accompanied by traditional instruments. In regions further north like Sapa or Ha Giang, the experience deepens as you engage with unique customs, belief systems, and artistic expressions particular to the local tribe. Whether in Mai Chau’s peaceful valleys or Hue’s craft villages specializing in imperial cuisine and heritage crafts, each region showcases its identity through daily rituals and collective meals.
For the best experience, approach your hosts with humility, participate enthusiastically but respectfully, and always ask before taking photos. Vietnamese families are usually delighted to share their lives, especially when guests show genuine interest in learning and appreciation.
Vietnamese street food is rightfully legendary, and the country’s most rewarding culinary experiences often happen not in formal restaurants but on the sidewalk, shoulder-to-shoulder with locals. Of course, you’ve heard of pho—best enjoyed steaming hot on a busy street corner—but the street food scene is a true treasure trove for adventurous eaters.
Iconic staples include the crispy, fresh banh mi sandwich, smoky bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), banh xeo (savoury sizzling pancakes), and, regionally, specialties like Hoi An’s white rose dumplings or Hue’s spicy bun bo Hue. Don’t miss the chance to sip egg coffee in a back-alley Hanoi café or try the unique bo la lot (grilled beef in wild betel leaves) wherever you find it. For the most immersive experience:
Whether you’re weaving through Hanoi’s food alleys, snacking riverside in Hoi An, or joining locals in Saigon’s late-night food markets, every meal on the street is a discovery. By following local etiquette and embracing curiosity, you’ll find that Vietnam’s street food culture is as much about connection as it is about taste.
With Shanti Travel at your side, you will discover the true essence of Vietnam—one filled with hidden corners, taste sensations, and deep human connections. Every traveler’s journey is unique, but these top 5 experiences are where authentic Vietnam lives and breathes.
