Things to do

featured-image

Photo: Collected

Vietnam is a marvelous travel destination for all. Karst topography, stunning bays, thrilling caves, colorful markets, and sizzling nightlife are the fascinating elements that have made Vietnam a traveler’s paradise. And this paradise offers a plethora of things to do in Vietnam.

Before you get jumbled up completely, we have compiled a list of the most interesting things to do and see in Vietnam. From kayaking to cave crawling, and from hiking to shopping, the list is endless and all-embracing.

Scroll down to learn about all the super-fun things to do in Vietnam that will make the vacation awe-inspiring and invigorating.

1. Cruising and Kayaking in Halong Bay

Halong Bay

Locally known as the ‘descending dragons’, the Halong Bay has plush green islands scattered all over. Apart from enjoying the charming beauty of the place, cruising in an antique Chinese junk and kayaking in the bay area are some of the thrilling things to do in Vietnam with friends.

2. Cruising in Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta

Mekong Delta presents an idyllic picture of rustic and scenic rural landscape of the country and is, certainly, one of most alluring tourist attractions in Vietnam. Cruising through this scenic deltaic creek is one of the popular and best things to do in South Vietnam. It is a perfect delight for travelers to sail in a traditional Vietnamese boat in the Mekong Delta.

3. Feast on Pho

Soup

Pho, a signature dish in Vietnam, is made up of rice noodles, broth, herbs, vegetables, and meat. To relish the most authentic and sumptuous taste, one must try Pho at famous restaurants in Vietnam.

4. Crawling through the Cu Chi Tunnel Network

Tourists entering the Cu Chi Tunnel in Vietnam

Cu Chi is known for the spectacular underground tunnel network, built during the French and American War in 1940. This 250 km long tunnel web was constructed for communication purpose and consisted of hidden routes and trapped doors for a safe escape to the nearby rivers, streams, and canals. Many of the tunnels have now been expanded and opened for tourists. People can actually crawl through them and get a feel of the bygone days – how locals used to hide in such a choking set up.

5. Living with the historical exhibits in Hỏa Lò Prison

historical exhibits

Ironically known as Hỏa Lò Prison, this is a heritage site where political prisoners were kept during American War. Also known as Hanoi Hilton, this is one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Vietnam. People visit Hilton prison to see various items related to Vietnamese struggle during the various wars. The prison-turned-museum is a delight for the photographers and history enthusiasts.

6. Enjoying the musical extravaganza at Saigon Opera House

Saigon Opera House

For music lovers and enthusiasts, include an opera show at Saigon Opera House in the Vietnam tour itinerary. Built in 1897, this building was the former assembly house of South Vietnam. The building displays superb style of French Colonial design.

Visiting the Saigon Opera House and watching one of the mesmerizing shows of Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera are certainly among the best things to do in Vietnam.

7. Enjoying the sizzling nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh Nightlife

Sizzling pubs, loud party music, DJ, bands, and sumptuous food sum up the nightlife scene of Ho Chi Minh City. From swanky pubs to cheap bars, the city offers something for people of all tastes & pocket sizes. Chilling out with wine & amazing music is among the fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

8. Hiking & cycling at Mai Chau: Relax, refresh, rejuvenate, repeat

cycling at Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a scenic countryside, far away from the bustles of Hanoi. The verdant peaks, rolling paddy fields, traditional thatched roof houses, winding paths, and serenity of the surroundings attract people from all over the world. Hiking up to the hills for a marvellous view and cycling through the village are among the most fascinating things to do in Vietnam.

9. Shopping for the best of silk materials in Hoi An

Shopping in Hoi An

Picturesque Hoi An is known globally for skillful tailors and silk weavers. Travelers visiting this coastal town can go for shopping silk products, such as dresses, cloth, and scarves. The narrow lanes and busy streets of Hoi An are lined with numerous local shops. The shopping scene is dominated by super talented tailors who are pro and extremely quick in stitching customized apparels, shirts, suits, and shoes at unbelievably reasonable price.

10. Crazy shopping till you drop

Girl reading a book

People exploring Vietnam can enjoy crazy shopping at various places for silk cloth, cosmetics, souvenirs, pearl, handicrafts, terracotta & ceramic items, and spices. Shopping for these items at the various tourist attractions is among the best things to do in Vietnam for a week vacation.

  • Reaching Out in Hoi An: Local handmade decors and toys
  • Lemongrass House in Nha Trang: Face masks, creams, and scrubs
  • Nguyen Nga Centre: Bookmarks, hand painted card,s and apparels
  • Phu Quoc Pearl: Pearls of every color
  • Saigon Kitsch in Ho Chi Minh City: Coasters, lamps, coffee mugs, and wall hangings

How To Reach Vietnam

By Air
Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) is the most important airport. Flights offered by major international airlines, such as AirAsia, Qantas, Air France, and Lufthansa, land here.

By Rail
Vietnam is well connected with China by rail network.

By Road
Vietnam has good road connectivity with neighbouring nations, namely Cambodia and Laos.

 

Source: TravelTriangle

featured-image

Whatever you expect from Da Nang, you’re in for a surprise. Framed by mountains and embraced by the Han River and the East Sea, Da Nang is a rising star in the region. There’s a lot to take in.

The sandy sweep of My Khe beach — lined with new hotels, seafood halls, and fishing boats — leads the eye to where the statue of Linh Ung stands serenely overlooking the waves. The old city centre with its overflowing markets and hushed pagodas still functions, just a few streets away from hipster cafes and design boutiques. Just when you think it’s all breathless forward motion, a moment of local life peels back the paint to reveal Da Nang’s easy, laidback culture. Here’s how to nail your first visit. 

Hit the beach

da nang beaches

Start by getting some sand in your toes. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to join or observe crowds of cheerful Vietnamese exercising and swimming in the soft sunlight at My Khe beach. At any time of day, you can test your balance with surfing, SUP and other watersports, or simply grab a lounger spread out — it’s up to you.

Pay a visit to Marble Mountains

Just before 7am is the perfect time to make your way up the sheer steps at Marble Mountains. This compelling collection of pagodas set atop a marble will welcome throngs of visitors later in the day, but still feels fresh and sacred at sunrise. Wander around photogenic pagodas, feel cool currents of air in ancient caves, and climb to the lookouts for panoramic views. 

TIP: If you enjoy visiting pagodas, you may like to make the 15-minute drive out to Linh Ung Pagoda, an enormous complex with a towering statue of Lady Buddha which is said to protect Da Nang from storms and bad weather. For a unique local experience, search for Tuong Quang Pagoda in town.

Go cafe-hopping in town

danang best cafes

Every Vietnamese city has its favourite cafes. Some are for long, long catch-ups over cups of drip-filter coffee on the sidewalk, some are for long, long catch-ups over drip-filter coffee in a retro-chic setting, and some are for long, long catch-ups over artisanal coffee in cool industrial spaces. Check out Cafe Long, Nam House, and 43 Factory, for a sampler.

Soak up some culture at Cham Museum

cham musuem danang

Museum lovers, you’re in luck. The Cham Museum of Sculpture, one of the country’s top museums, claims a breezy spot along the western Han riverbank. You don’t have to be into archeology to appreciate the beauty of these stone pieces, sourced from former Champa sites in My Son, Tra Kieu, Dong Duong and Thap Mam. The original building, dating back to 1915 and expanded in the 1930s and 2002, is a work of art in itself. 

Sample Quang Nam specialties

danang best restaurants

We hope you come hungry (or ravenous) because Da Nang’s cuisine is a showcase of Central Vietnam’s top hits. Don’t miss a bowl of life-changing mì Quảng noodles in peanut and pork broth, savoury Hue dumplings such as bánh bèo and bánh nậm, and aromatic fish paddies and slurp-worthy noodles in bún chả cá.

TIP: Set in a beautiful green courtyard, Villa Ngon serves an excellent, all-you-can-eat menu of delicate Vietnamese dishes for lunch and dinner. 

Take a stroll down Bach Dang St.

what to do in danang

Here’s a mini walking tour you can do yourself. Start from the junction of Bach Dang and the Han River Bridge just before sunset. Work your way along the water’s edge, passing some of the city’s most striking modern and colonial architecture, great souvenir shops, pavement cafes and marble sculptures on the way. After, treat yourself glass noodles with fresh crab for dinner at Madame Han.

Hoof it over Hai Van Pass

hai van pass

The name Hai Van translates into ‘ocean cloud’, so — surprise, surprise — you can expect a lot of ocean views and misty peaks on this 21km stretch of asphalt that climbs, twists and snakes its way over the mountains into Hue. At its highest point, Hai Van Pass reaches 496 metres above sea level. Motorbike is the ideal to take in the spectacular coastal scenery: jade seas, jungle-covered hills and rocky outcrops. Feeling adventurous? You can also cycle or ride the train. 

Try avocado ice-cream

danang vietnam tourism

Cho Bac My An is a small-ish market in Da Nang filled with tidy stalls piled high with fruits, vegetables, dry goods and more. Duck inside the market to locate one special avocado ice-cream (kem bơ) stall, loved by Da Nang’s youngsters for its creamy, cold coconut and avocado slush topped with jackfruit crisps. 

See the city's best bridges

top things to do danang

Da Nang is sometimes called the ‘City of Bridges’, and its seven over-the-water structures are an iconic part of the city’s makeup. The striking yellow Dragon Bridge is the best known, however selfie enthusiasts may also like to strike a post on the Love Bridge: a wooden pier weighed with countless padlocks of every colour. Of course, the much-photographed Golden Hands Bridge tops them all, with its breathtaking views of Ba Na Mountains.

Sip sundowers at a rooftop bar

danang rooftop bars

Da Nang has no shortage of breathtaking bars and swimming pools perched high above the beach and city skyline. After full day of exploring, a refreshing dip and well-mixed cocktail are a welcome tonic. After dark, the party continues at Da Nang’s craft beer bars, rooftop clubs, and sidewalk bia hois. If you need some inspiration, head over to 7 Bridges or The Top Bar at A La Carte Hotel.

 

Source: Vietnam Tourism

featured-image

Across the world, Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its subtle flavors and ultra-fresh ingredients. Vietnamese sweets are not only a refreshing treat on a balmy day, but an adventure in texture and flavour. From puddings to pastries, here are 15 sweet snacks you must taste on your travels in Vietnam.

Chè Chuối

che chuoi

Those who are bananas for bananas will like this concoction of tapioca pearls, coconut cream and grilled bananas. This smooth, creamy pudding is easily found at cafes and street stalls.
Try it at: Lutulata Desserts & Drinks, 39 Hàng Cót, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Chè Trôi Nước

Eaten on special occasions, these mochi-esque rice flour balls have mung bean paste at the centre, and are drizzled with ginger syrup and sesame seeds. Served with a dash of coconut cream, each order will set you back about 15,000VND.
Try it at: Chè 'đợi', 48 Lý Chính Thắng, District 8, Ho Chi Minh City

Bò Bía Ngọt

boi bia ngot

An excellent snack, these rolls of thin rice paper contain a layer of nougat, coconut shreds and sesame seeds. Each bite of bò bia is light yet satisfying. You can buy it from bicycle vendors throughout Vietnam for 5,000VND a roll.

Bánh Chuối Chiên

Fried banana fritters are a popular street snack throughout the country. With a crispy exterior and soft gooey interior, these fritters can be found in alleyways and around markets for 5,000VND a piece.
Try it at: Public Market in Hội An

Chè Bắp

che bap

A mix of corn, coconut cream and tapioca pearls, this pudding is a creamy and nourishing dessert in winter months. Be sure to try in Hoi An where it’s made with fresh, locally grown corn.
Try it at: Quán Ăn Bến Tre, Xuyên Trung, Cẩm Nam, Hội An

Sữa Chua Nếp Cẩm

sua chua nep cam

Bold flavours and textures meet in this sticky rice pudding. A generous scoop of yoghurt is the star of this adventurous dessert, available in many cafes for about 35,000VND.
Try it at: Che Bobo Chacha, 92 Cửa Bắc, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội

Kẹo Lạc

Vietnamese peanut brittle is a scrumptious vegan treat. A sprinkling of sesame seeds adds extra crunch to each nibble. You’ll find this snack sold at transportation hubs and roadstalls across Vietnam.
Try it at: Transfer points nationwide (airports, bus stations and train stops)

Chè Sương Sa Hạt Lựu

che

Translated to, ‘rainbow dessert’, this chè is served in a tall glass showcasing each vibrant layer. Red kidney beans, pandan jellies, mung bean paste and more goodies are stacked together and topped with ice and thickened coconut cream.
Try it at: Nhà Hàng Ngon, 26 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Hoa Quả Dầm

hoa qua dam

This healthy snack brings together fresh mixed fruit, coconut cream and shaved ice. Anything fresh is invited to the party, including jackfruit, kiwi, watermelon, apple and even avocado! You can also add on pandan jellies or tapioca balls for more texture.
Try it at: Hoa Quả Dầm Hoa Béo, 17 Tô Tịch, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Kem Thái Dừa

The Vietnamese version of an ice-cream sundae, kem thái dừa is ice cream served in a coconut with any topping you can imagine (peanuts, jellies, caramel sauce, beans, biscuits, fresh fruit.) This trendy snack costs about 40,000VND plus extra for toppings.
Try it at: Kem Cong Truong, 10 Phạm Ngọc Thạch, District 3, Hồ Chí Minh City

Bánh Đa Kê

banh da ke

These sesame-encrusted rice crackers with mung bean, millet paste and sugar sprinkles are one hearty treat. It’s commonly sold on curbsides by bicycle vendors for 5,000 or 10,000VND.
Try it in: Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Chè Khúc Bạch

Mildly sweet and aromatic, with an intriguing balance of textures, this dessert can be considered a Vietnamese panna cotta. The custard comes in bite-sized pieces with lychees and almonds in a bowl of crushed ice.
Try it at: Quán Chè Hiển Khánh, 718 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, District 3, Hồ Chí Minh City

Caramen Hoa Quả

caramen hoa qua

The Vietnamese version of creme caramel is topped with fresh fruit, jellies and a splash of coconut cream. This dessert is true decadence for just 20,000VND.
Try it at: Caramen Duong Hoa, 29 Hàng Than, Ba Đình, Hà Nội

Bánh Su Kem

Who doesn’t love a cream puff? Easy to find at bakeries nationwide, this pastry ball is filled with smooth vanilla custard. A set of six of these fluffy bites will cost you about 10,000VND.
Try it at: Any local bakery in Vietnam

Kem Xôi

kem xoi

Green pandan-flavoured sticky rice meets coconut ice cream in this surprisingly perfect pairing. Both satisfying and refreshing on a hot day, be sure to try it when in Vietnam.
Try it at: Che 95, 95 Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

 

Source: Vietnam Tourism

featured-image

Photo: Collected

Vietnam has many great products, from food, clothes, and artwork. Check out this article to see how to bargain and buy things in Vietnam.

1. Paintings

Purchasing paintings is one of the best ways to preserve your memories of Vietnam.

Wandering around towns or city centers, you can find little painting shops with a collection of works from anonymous artists to famous painters.

Most of the displayed paintings describe the arty parts of Vietnam’s daily life, locals, and natural scenery. Price can vary from $10 to thousands of dollars for a piece. 

art gallery in Hoi An Vietnam

2. Embroidery art

Vietnam is famous for its embroidery art. You can buy many embroidered products, such as embroidery quilts, tablecloths, bags, clothes, scarves, purses, nightgowns, bedsheets, pillow covers, etc.

Vietnamese embroidery products are mostly produced in Northern Region (Source: Collected)

3. Chopsticks 

Chopsticks are essential items in the daily life of Vietnamese people.

Thanks to modern technology combined with traditional techniques, chopsticks have different patterns and designs.

Chopsticks are essential items in the daily life of Vietnamese people (Source: Collected)

You can find specially designed chopsticks at souvenir shops.

4. Conical hat

The conical hat has long been a symbol of Vietnam that originates from Vietnam’s rice culture.

Shaped like a round cone, the conical hat is made of palm leaves and is an ideal souvenir for tourists to Vietnam.

There are diverse styles, along with sizes and quantities, that you can choose from. The hat is best for people who like outdoor activities.

You can find conical hats at most souvenir shops across the country at low prices.

5. Ao dai

Ao dai is the national costume of Vietnam. It is a combination of elegant tight dress and stylish pants, offering both traditional and temporary styles. 

Because Ao Dai is available at many stores throughout the country, you can easily find one suitable for you or as a gift.

Typically, this costume is already available for purchase, but if you’d like to choose the material and style, you can buy fabric first and then order at some tailors.

Tips: To learn more about Ao Dai, you can visit the Ao Dai Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.

6. Ceramic pottery

Pottery is another ideal souvenir of Vietnam that you can take home.

There is a wide range of ceramic products, including vases, bowls, plates, mugs, etc. They are well-designed and beautiful, with different colors and patterns.

All of these pottery items are handcrafted based on traditional methods.

7. Carvings

Purchasing little gifts carved from wood is another idea to add to your shopping list.

Carved products carry rustic beauty and sophistication, resulting from a hard, creative labor process from artisans. 

You can buy carved products in Vietnam at a reasonable price. 

8. Vietnamese cookbooks

If you love Vietnamese food and enjoy cooking, purchasing some Vietnamese cookbooks would be a fantastic idea. 

I recommend joining a Vietnamese cooking class to get some basic techniques to use the cookbook easier.

If you live outside of Vietnam, you can easily find the ingredients from the Asian market. 

9. Lanterns 

If you’ve traveled to Hoi An, then you probably know lanterns are considered an indispensable feature of this old town.

Just walking around the winding roads, you can admire the beauty of thousands of lanterns with eye-catching colors and extremely diverse designs.

The lanterns here are usually made of paper, so you can wrap and store them when transporting.

10. Coconut candy

Coconut candy is a great Vietnamese gift for those who have sweet teeth.

Coming from Ben Tre province, the land of coconut, coconut candy is a sweet specialty of Vietnam.

There are many flavors, such as plain, durian, or chocolate. A unique feature of this candy is the thin edible rice crust surrounding it.

11. Vietnamese Coffee

If you are a coffee lover, it would be a miss if you haven’t tried Vietnamese coffee. Vietnam has long been famous as one of the largest coffee-exporting countries in the world.

You can find coffee anywhere in the country, from local markets, cafes, shopping malls, and coffee companies.

12. Tea

Tea is one of the favorite drinks of Vietnamese people, and it plays an essential role in Vietnamese culture.

There are three main types of tea: green tea, black tea, and aromatic tea. Green and black teas are appreciated because people believe they offer a unique and pure flavor, combining sweetness and bitterness.

Having a conversation about tea with friends on a gloomy day or just serving yourself a pitcher of tea, along with some favorite cookies and music, can make your day more enjoyable.

In Vietnam, you can buy tea at many stores and markets, easily found anywhere.

13. Peppers

In Vietnam, especially Phu Quoc, pepper is a popular choice for travelers.

Phu Quoc pepper is famous for its quality, taste, and smell.

There are three types of pepper, black, white, and red pepper. Also, you can find some products such as red pepper honey tea or caramel pepper sauce. 

14. Leather goods

Vietnam is also famous for its leather products such as leather jackets, leather shoes, and leather accessories, including belts, wallets, and handbags.

Hoi An is my favorite town to buy leather products in Vietnam. Many stores offer different sizes and models, so you can easily pick ones.

A tip for buying handmade leather products is to carefully observe from keychains, seams, inner lining, and font size to leather quality. If it’s genuine leather, these details are very sophisticated and meticulous.

15. Tailor-made clothes

Wandering Hoi An old town, especially on the main roads like Tran Phu, you will see dozens of tailor shops with different trendy models and colors. 

As Hoi An tailors are famous for their skills, don’t miss this chance to have your tailored-made clothes. These shops usually offer 24-hour service, so you can get your products shortly after ordering.

 

Source: Expatolife

Page:
2