Top 10 Essential Experiences in Vietnam

If you aspire to be an adventurer, Nam represents the ideal location for your pursuits! Continue reading for our comprehensive list of ten remarkable experiences in Vietnam.

1. Shop tailor-made clothes in Hoi An

It would be a disservice to fashion not to visit Hoi An and invest some of your Vietnamese dong in custom-made apparel from the skilled tailors lining the streets. From bespoke leather boots to elegantly fitted evening gowns, Hoi An tailors cater to your every need. However, prepare yourself — you may enter seeking one outfit and exit with several! Moreover, while waiting for your new garments to be created, consider indulging at Morning Glory, one of the city’s most esteemed dining establishments. Ms. Vy, the proprietor and one of Vietnam’s leading chefs, has garnered widespread acclaim for her authentic flavors that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

For further information, click here.

2. Embark on a Halong Bay cruise (and then stay on an island overnight)

You may be aware that Halong Bay is a must-visit on your Vietnam itinerary, yet imagine further exploring that renowned emerald water through kayaking! Not all boat tours include this unique experience; therefore, we recommend Indochina Junk. They provide a safe and reasonably priced service with a variety of engaging activities available, including comprehensive cruises should you wish to experience more.

3. Egg coffee Hanoi – a must-try!

Are you in the mood for a delightful brew? Do not overlook the renowned egg coffee in Hanoi. Expertly brewed and served either hot or cold, this creamy concoction is sure to have you returning for more. Be warned: you may find it challenging to locate decent egg coffee elsewhere in Vietnam, so ensure you do not miss out before departing Hanoi! Moreover, Giang Cafe stands as a hidden treasure amidst the city’s chaos. Its rustic, inviting ambiance is complemented by stunning views, making it the perfect spot to savor authentic Vietnamese egg coffee, so be sure to add this to your What to do in Hanoi itinerary!

4. Have a mud bath in the Phong Nha caves

If you desire a unique form of relaxation, consider visiting the Phong Nha caves, where you can experience one of the most unusual baths of your life. Upon exploring some of the most exquisite caves in Vietnam, you will be guided through a narrow and dimly lit passage that becomes progressively muddier. The culmination of this adventure is a cavern filled with mud so dense that you can comfortably sit in a lotus pose without touching the ground. This experience not only serves as a beneficial treatment for your skin but also as a perfect method to purify your pores; it is an activity that should not be overlooked during your visit to Vietnam!

For further details regarding cave tours and other activities, click here.

5. Release lanterns in Hoi An

It has often been suggested that Hoi An is one of the most tranquil places on Earth. While that may be a slight exaggeration, it is challenging to identify a location more serene than this charming Vietnamese town. After immersing yourself in the offerings of Hoi An, conclude your visit with a gentle ride down the Thu Bon river in a traditional rowing boat. For a modest fee, a local woman will provide you with a lantern to release into the water. This simple act is sure to evoke emotional resonance as you observe your delicate lantern drift along the Thu Bon and into the horizon.

6. Go hiking in Sapa

Sapa presents picturesque landscapes ideal for capturing stunning photographs. We challenge you to gaze across the expansive rice paddies and not be enchanted by the breathtaking views. While several tours are available to showcase the beauty of Sapa, we recommend hiking through the fields, trekking across miles of captivating scenery while connecting with local tribes. Prepare your #nofilter hashtag and ensure this Instagram-worthy location is on your activity list in Vietnam!

7. Canyoning in Da Lat

Da Lat is renowned for its stunning French architecture and exhilarating canyoning experiences. Canyoning offers you the chance to navigate your way through canyons, utilizing your hiking, swimming, and abseiling abilities. This is the perfect opportunity for your inner adventurer to emerge. Additionally, for those with a taste for the unusual, 100 Roofs Bar in Dalat offers a whimsical experience, resembling a labyrinth where you must navigate your way for that exquisite cocktail! This quirky venue is sure to evoke memories reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.

8. Visit the red sand dunes of Mũi Né

Famed for its captivating red dunes, Mũi Né serves as a picturesque escape for those weary of the bright lights and sounds of Saigon. You will discover fresh seafood restaurants, breathtaking ocean views, and opportunities for adventure, such as kiteboarding, dirt biking, or surfing the azure waves. Moreover, if you plan to extend your stay in Mũi Né, consider settling into Full Moon Village, one of the area’s most luxurious accommodations. This destination is sure to be a highlight on your social media feed.

9. Homestay in Mai Chau

To genuinely experience the authentic Vietnamese culture, consider arranging a homestay in Mai Chau. You will be welcomed into a local family home, eager to share their traditional culture and daily routines. However, if you prefer a more comfortable experience, the Mai Chau Ecolodge offers a serene retreat, boasting magnificent views of the idyllic rural landscape of Mai Chau during your visit to Vietnam.

10. Cycling in Vietnam – explore the countryside on a bike

Are you prepared to test your endurance? Equip yourself with a helmet and devise a cycling itinerary that will satisfy your appetite for exploration and discovery throughout Vietnam. Numerous renowned routes traverse the country, with the full North to South trail from Hanoi to Saigon being highly recommended. After all, who wouldn’t want to traverse the entirety of Vietnam on a bicycle?!

For additional details on cycling routes throughout Vietnam and other Southeast Asian destinations, visit indotrek.com.

Do you have any suggestions for activities in Vietnam that did not make our list? We are eager to hear your thoughts!

Engage with GoTravelDaily – “Luxe Travellers” group on Facebook to share your insights and seek advice from fellow travelers.

This article has been authored by @laurenkatehannah for @theasia.collective.