Things to do in Vietnam

Best Things to do in Vietnam

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Vietnam? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2025.

With over 7850 activities in Vietnam, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 65, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Vietnam in October and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Unforgettable Things to Do in Vietnam: A Country That Doesn't Whisper—It Sings

About Vietnam

Vietnam isn’t a place you visit—it’s a place that grabs you by the heart and says, “Look.” It’s the tangled aroma of pho on a street corner, the echo of Buddhist chants drifting over limestone cliffs, the organized chaos of motorbikes that somehow never collide. It’s a country that’s deeply rooted, wildly expressive, and quietly beautiful in all the ways you don’t expect.

If you’re trying to narrow down the things to do in Vietnam, good luck. There’s too much. From ancient imperial cities to floating markets, jungle caves to neon nightlife, Vietnam doesn’t cater to just one type of traveler—it’s got something for every version of you.

Unique Experiences

Halong Bay Cruise – The Postcard Comes Alive

You’ve seen the photos—emerald waters scattered with towering limestone islands. But nothing prepares you for the real thing. Take a day cruise or splurge on an overnight junk boat and wake up surrounded by silence and mist. Kayak through hidden caves, visit floating fishing villages, or just sit on deck with a drink in hand. It’s one of the most iconic and humbling things to do in Vietnam.

Where: Quảng Ninh Province

Pricing: INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 (depending on cruise type)

Timing: Day or overnight options

When to Visit: October to April

Crawl Through the Cu Chi Tunnels

A journey underground that gives you literal perspective—this complex network of tunnels was used by the Viet Cong during the war. You can crawl through narrow spaces, see booby traps and kitchens, and realize how much people can endure when fighting for their country. It’s one of the most raw and unforgettable activities in Vietnam.

Where: Outside Ho Chi Minh City

Pricing: INR 1,200–INR 1,800

Timing: Half-day tours available

When to Visit: Year-round

Water Puppets and Wooden Legends

Sure, it sounds strange—puppets on water—but it’s actually a beautiful window into rural Vietnamese life. The shows are filled with folklore, tradition, and music played live on traditional instruments. Definitely one of the more cultural and unique things to do in Vietnam.

Where: Hanoi

Pricing: INR 300+

Timing: Evening shows

When to Visit: Year-round

Top Attractions

The Imperial City of Hue – Vietnam’s Royal Past

Walk through ancient gates and into a world of emperors, concubines, and military strategy. The Citadel in Hue holds shrines, palaces, and crumbling walls that whisper stories if you listen closely. It’s grand, haunting, and completely different from Vietnam’s modern side. A visit to this place not only takes you back in time but lets you explore the unique Vietnamese architecture with remnants from colonial times.

Where: Hue, Central Vietnam

Pricing: INR 500+

Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM

When to Visit: February to April

Hoi An Ancient Town – Where Time Doesn’t Rush

Hoi An is the kind of place that convinces you to cancel your next plan. With glowing lanterns, slow rivers, and tailor shops that can stitch you a custom suit overnight, it’s easily one of the top things to do in Vietnam. Don’t miss the Full Moon Festival—when the town goes candlelit and spiritual.

Where: Quang Nam Province

Pricing: INR 100–INR 200 for entry into heritage houses

Timing: Day and evening

When to Visit: February–April, August–October

The Mekong Delta – Life on Water

Hop onto a wooden boat, cruise through narrow canals, and witness an entirely different pace of life. In the Mekong Delta, locals live on the water, markets float, and mangoes fall from trees into passing boats. It’s one of the most immersive tourist attractions in Vietnam, especially if you’re craving authenticity.

Where: South Vietnam

Pricing: INR 2,000–INR 3,000 for a guided day tour

Timing: Early morning to late afternoon

When to Visit: November to March

Sightseeing Tours

Hanoi in a Day

If Hanoi feels overwhelming at first, that’s because it is. So start with a guided city tour that covers major highlights—Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Old Quarter. It’s one of the best things to do in Vietnam if you want to understand the country’s heart.

Where: Hanoi

Pricing: INR 2,000+

Timing: Full day

When to Visit: October to April

Saigon’s Layers, One Stop at a Time

From French colonial buildings to American war museums and Buddhist temples, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a cocktail of eras. A city tour helps you make sense of it all—starting at the Notre Dame Cathedral and ending at Ben Thanh Market.

Where: Ho Chi Minh City

Pricing: INR 1,500+

Timing: Full day

When to Visit: December to April

Day Trips

Ninh Binh – Halong’s Earthy Cousin

Think of it as Halong Bay on land—except with fewer tourists and just as much magic. Board a traditional sampan boat and float through golden rice paddies, under low-hanging caves, and between towering limestone cliffs. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and among the fun things to do in Vietnam for photographers and nature lovers.

Where: 2 hours from Hanoi

Pricing: INR 3,000+

Timing: Full day

When to Visit: November to April

Ba Na Hills & That Golden Bridge

If you’ve seen that Instagram-famous bridge held up by two giant hands, you’re thinking of Ba Na Hills. Take the world’s longest cable car, explore a French village replica, and enjoy cool mountain air. It’s kitschy, but still one of the most famous things to do in Vietnam—especially if you’re into photos.

Where: Outside Da Nang

Pricing: INR 2,500–INR 3,000

Timing: Full day

When to Visit: March to September

Boat Tours

Tam Coc – Still Waters and Sacred Silence

This one’s slow, quiet, and deeply soothing. A local woman rows your boat—sometimes with her feet—past caves, temples, and endless fields of green. No music, no motors. Just birds, breeze, and the occasional splash. One of the most serene activities in Vietnam.

Where: Ninh Binh Province

Pricing: INR 1,000+

Timing: Morning recommended

When to Visit: November to April

Perfume River Cruise in Hue

Float gently down the Perfume River as incense wafts from nearby temples. Stop at royal tombs or pagodas along the way. The name is romantic. The ride even more so. Perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Vietnam with family that aren’t too intense.

Where: Hue

Pricing: INR 1,200+

Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM

When to Visit: February to April

Getting Around

• Flights: Domestic routes are cheap and fast. However, it is recommended to check baggage allowance, since budget airlines may have limitations.
• Trains: The Reunification Express is scenic and slow—but charming. It’s one of the most beautiful train rides in the country.
• Buses: Good budget option for intercity travel. However, Vietnamese buses can be crowded.
• Bikes & Scooters: Rent in Hoi An, but maybe skip it in Hanoi. Traffic in Hanoi is confusing and the city is difficult to ride in by yourself.
• Grab: The Uber of Vietnam—cheap and reliable. The best option for booking rides.

Traveller Tips

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); INR 1 = 300 VND
• Language: Vietnamese, but English is common in tourist areas
• Weather: Varies wildly—North has winters, South doesn’t
• Etiquette: Remove shoes at temples; smile a lot—it works
• Safety: Mostly very safe—watch for pickpockets in crowded places