Vietnam has an impressive diversity of nationalities and is known for its amazingly beautiful places and sights. But to really get to know this beautiful country, there are many different unique opportunities. Here are the top 10 things to get the most out of your adventures in Vietnam!
1. TRY VIETNAMESE CUISINE
Vietnamese cuisine is internationally recognized for its culinary uniqueness, fresh ingredients, flavors and aromas. From the northern regions to the border of the Delta, the variety of dishes here is simply incredible and they are worth a try! Banh Quon — steamed rice cake, Banh Mi Vietnamese «sandwich», Hu Tju — noodles with rice, Bun Bo Hue — beef vermicelli soup…Start your gastronomic adventure.
2. A WALK AMONG THE TOMBS OF HUE
Hue, the former capital of the country during the Nguyen Dynasty, is located in the center of Vietnam. The city is known for its main Citadel, but there are also many other interesting sights here. The mausoleums, spacious landscaped gardens, traditional buildings and huge stone tombs are a must-see, an impressive relic of imperial Vietnam that transports visitors into the country's great past.
3. DISCOVER THE HIDDEN CORNERS OF SAIGON
On foot or by bike, there are many ways to discover hidden corners close to downtown Saigon. Away from the busy tourist area, a wide variety of sights, smells and sounds await you. Head to Cho Lon, also known as Chinatown, one of the largest and oldest neighborhoods of its kind in the world. Walk along the riverside business district, still growing, — it is a rather quiet place with a modern look, which is different from the rest of the metropolis. When traveling around Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to get off the beaten track and discover something unexpected!
4. MEKONG DELTA CRUISE
The south of Vietnam, known as the “rice bowl”, is known for its biodiversity and rich landscape. A cruise is the perfect way to explore life along the river banks. Ride through the labyrinth of canals surrounded by agricultural fields or mangrove forests, and don't forget to watch the floating markets in full swing at dawn. The Mekong Delta cruise is the best choice among Vietnam's top itineraries!
5. NOT ONLY THE BEACHES OF NHA TRANG
Great holidays on the beaches of Nha Trang – the easiest thing to do here! But this coastal city has a lot of amazing places to see. From the marine reserves of the islands, surrounded by crystal clear azure waters, to the ancient ruins of the monuments of the Cham people, who once inhabited the entire south-central region of Vietnam. You can travel back in time, snorkel in the deep sea, experience local fishing traditions and enjoy the freshest seafood!
6. Hiking in the Sapa mountains
Once a small mountain village in colonial times, Sapa is today a must-see tourist attraction when traveling through Vietnam. The mountain town, located in the northwest of the country, is famous for its picturesque scenery with green valleys, ethnic minority villages, bamboo forests and terraced fields. Get a glimpse of local life in Lau Chai village and the bustle of the Sunday market at Bac Ha. From Tram Ton Pass, also known as the “Gate to Heaven” and the highest mountain pass in Vietnam, to conquering Fansipan Mountain, Sapa offers endless opportunities for those who want to take in fantastic views and take amazing photos, and this definitely makes the city one of the best tourist spots in Vietnam!
7. WALKING IN AND AROUND HOYAN
For several hundred years, Hoi An has been the trading center of Vietnam. The Portuguese, Japanese, French and many other traders who arrived here had a great influence on the culture, cuisine and architecture of this city. Hoi An is known for its paved pedestrian streets and hundreds of tailor shops, as well as a variety of pastime opportunities. Rent a bike and ride to nearby villages along the rice paddies and beautiful coastline. Wander among the lost ancient ruins of My Son, located just outside the city, and be sure to try the kao lau noodles at the city's central market!
8. A TRIP THROUGH HAIVAN PASS
Made internationally famous by the British TV show Top Gear, Sky Pass is a must-see for anyone traveling along the Vietnamese coast. The drive over the pass from Hoi An to Hue is undeniably one of the most spectacular Vietnamese experiences, as the high mountain slopes offer breathtaking views of the bay. Not to mention the defensive and fortification structures left over from wartime, on which traces of shells have been preserved – it is worth stopping and inspecting!
9. ADVENTURES IN HALONG BAY
This legendary attraction needs no introduction – “thousands of islands that have descended into the water”, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and are synonymous with Vietnam. However, many do not even imagine how many exciting adventures await them here! An exciting kayak trip through small grottoes and karst islands covered with jungle thickets. You can also climb these volcanic cliffs for stunning views of the bay. And if you want to combine it all, you can take a seaplane ride for an absolutely fantastic view of Halong!
10. HANOI OLD QUARTER RICKSHOW RIDE
Hanoi is a busy and hectic place. Filled with crowds of people, mopeds, food stalls, itinerant vendors, this city is like a labyrinth that is interesting but tiring to explore. But one of the best ways to get to know the historic Old Quarter is to take a cycle rickshaw! A rickshaw pedaling and tacking will take you through this chaos, and you can relax and just admire the old French architecture and watch the Vietnamese street life.