Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a destination where bustling cities, dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional villages, historic sites and spectacular coastlines come together. From the lively streets of Hanoi to the winding mountain roads of the Ha Giang Loop, there are countless experiences for travellers looking to explore the country beyond its famous tourist attractions.

For first-time visitors, planning a Vietnam travel itinerary can feel overwhelming because the country offers so many different experiences. You can explore ancient architecture, cruise through limestone landscapes, taste regional food, visit remote villages or take a motorcycle journey through northern Vietnam.

If you are wondering about the best things to do in Vietnam, this guide covers some of the experiences and places to visit in Vietnam that deserve a place on your itinerary.

Explore the Old Streets of Hanoi

Start your Vietnam travel experience in Hanoi, the country's capital and one of its most fascinating cities. Hanoi combines centuries-old architecture, busy markets, traditional food and modern city life.

The Old Quarter is one of the best places to explore on foot. Its narrow streets are filled with cafés, local restaurants, shops and small businesses. Each area has its own character, making a walk through the Old Quarter an easy way to experience everyday city life.

Other popular attractions include Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex.

Food is another major part of Hanoi's appeal. Try local favourites such as pho, banh mi and egg coffee while exploring the city.

For travellers planning an adventure in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is also an important starting point for journeys towards destinations such as Ha Giang and Cao Bang.

Experience the Ha Giang Loop

For travellers who enjoy mountains and road journeys, the Ha Giang Loop is one of the most memorable things to do in Vietnam.

Located in northern Vietnam, Ha Giang is known for towering limestone mountains, deep valleys, winding roads and traditional communities. Vietnam's official tourism website describes the region as a major destination for natural adventure and cultural exploration.

The classic loop passes through areas including Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van and Meo Vac. Along the way, travellers can experience dramatic mountain scenery and some of northern Vietnam's most famous roads.

One of the highlights is Ma Pi Leng Pass, where the road follows the mountains above the Nho Que River. The surrounding scenery is particularly impressive from the viewpoints along the route.

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is another important highlight.

For motorcycle travellers, the Ha Giang Loop offers a combination of challenging roads, mountain scenery and cultural experiences that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

Visit Dong Van and Explore Local Culture

The Ha Giang experience is not only about riding or road trips. Spending time in towns and villages along the route gives travellers an opportunity to understand the cultural diversity of northern Vietnam.

Dong Van is surrounded by dramatic limestone scenery and traditional communities. Local markets are particularly interesting for visitors who want to see regional food, clothing and everyday trading activities.

If your itinerary allows, consider staying in a local homestay rather than rushing through the region. Homestays can provide a more personal introduction to local food, traditions and rural life.

The Vuong Family's Residence near Sa Phin is another notable attraction. The historic residence combines Chinese, French and Hmong architectural influences and provides an insight into the region's history.

Discover Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in northern Vietnam. Located in Cao Bang near the Vietnam-China border, the waterfall is surrounded by limestone mountains and the green landscape of the Quay Son River.

The waterfall has a distinctive multi-tiered structure, with water flowing over limestone formations into the river below.

A visit to Ban Gioc can be combined with other attractions in the area, including Nguom Ngao Cave and Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda. The cave is known for its impressive limestone formations, while the pagoda provides elevated views across the surrounding landscape.

For road-trip and motorcycle travellers, the journey to Ban Gioc is part of the experience. The roads through northern Vietnam pass through mountain scenery, rural communities and winding passes.

Take a Road Trip Through Northern Vietnam

If you want to see a different side of Vietnam, consider travelling by road.

Northern Vietnam offers a combination of mountain passes, valleys, rural villages and viewpoints that are particularly rewarding for travellers who enjoy slow exploration.

A route combining Hanoi, Ha Giang and Cao Bang can create an excellent adventure itinerary. Depending on the time available, travellers can explore the Ha Giang Loop before continuing towards Ban Gioc Waterfall.

The journey can be done by motorcycle, car or with local transportation. Motorcycle travellers should be particularly conscious of road conditions, weather, visibility and their own riding experience.

Vietnam Tourism recommends approaching Ha Giang's mountain roads carefully, travelling during daylight and allowing sufficient time for the route.

Explore the Dong Van Karst Plateau

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is one of the major natural highlights of northern Vietnam.

Its landscape is dominated by limestone peaks, rocky valleys and winding mountain roads. The region is also home to communities with distinctive cultures and traditions.

Travellers can explore the area by road or on foot, depending on their itinerary. Hiking provides opportunities to experience the landscape more slowly and see traditional villages away from the main roads.

For photographers, the changing light across the mountains and valleys makes the region particularly attractive.

Visit Nho Que River and Tu San Canyon

The Nho Que River is another highlight of the Ha Giang region. Its green waters wind through a dramatic canyon beneath the mountains.

The river is particularly striking when viewed from Ma Pi Leng Pass, where the combination of steep limestone mountains and the narrow river valley creates one of the most recognisable landscapes in Ha Giang.

Depending on local conditions and your itinerary, you can also explore the river more closely. The surrounding landscape is an excellent example of why northern Vietnam has become increasingly popular among road-trip and adventure travellers.

Experience Vietnam's Local Markets

Markets offer a different perspective on Vietnam tourism.

Instead of simply visiting major attractions, spend time at a local market to observe how communities buy food, clothing and everyday products.

In Ha Giang, markets can be particularly colourful because of the presence of different ethnic communities. Traditional clothing, agricultural products and regional food create an atmosphere that feels very different from Vietnam's major cities.

The Sunday markets around areas such as Dong Van and Meo Vac are among the experiences highlighted by Vietnam Tourism.

Remember to be respectful when photographing people, particularly in smaller communities.

Try Vietnamese Food

No list of things to do in Vietnam would be complete without experiencing Vietnamese cuisine.

Food varies considerably from region to region. In Hanoi, try pho, bun cha and egg coffee. In northern mountain areas, look for regional dishes and locally produced ingredients.

Ha Giang has its own specialities, including five-colour sticky rice, buckwheat cake, Thang Den and Au Tau porridge.

Trying local food is also an easy way to make your Vietnam travel experience more memorable because many dishes are closely connected to the culture and geography of each region.

Explore Beyond the Famous Tourist Attractions

Vietnam has many internationally recognised destinations, but some of the most memorable experiences can come from simply travelling between them.

Spend time in small villages. Stop at roadside viewpoints. Walk through local markets. Try regional food. Talk to local hosts. Take a less hurried route.

This approach is particularly rewarding in northern Vietnam, where the landscape changes dramatically as you travel between Hanoi, Ha Giang and Cao Bang.

For adventure travellers, the journey itself can become the main attraction.

Best Time for Vietnam Travel

November to March is a great period to explore northern Vietnam, especially for travellers planning a Ha Giang Loop tour. During these months, the region generally experiences cooler and drier conditions, making it more comfortable for long days on the road.

November and December offer crisp mountain air, clear views and pleasant riding conditions, while the landscapes around Ha Giang can take on a quieter winter character. January and February are cooler, particularly in the higher mountain areas, and travellers should be prepared for chilly mornings and changing temperatures. By March, the weather gradually becomes milder, with spring bringing fresh greenery and seasonal flowers to parts of northern Vietnam.

If you are planning a Vietnam Motorcycle Tour during November to March, pack warm layers, check the local weather and road conditions before departure, and allow some flexibility in your itinerary for mountain travel.

Travel Tips for Exploring Vietnam

Before starting your trip, keep these practical points in mind:

• Check the latest visa and entry requirements for your nationality.

• Keep digital and physical copies of important travel documents.

• Carry some cash when travelling into remote mountain areas.

• Check weather conditions before travelling through northern mountain roads.

• Avoid rushing on unfamiliar roads.

• If riding a motorcycle, make sure you meet Vietnam's legal requirements for riding.

• Use appropriate safety equipment and follow local traffic regulations.

• Respect local communities, traditions and photography preferences.

• Leave natural areas clean and avoid unnecessary plastic waste.

• Allow extra time for mountain journeys because road conditions and weather can affect travel times.

Book Your Vietnam Motorcycle Tour with Dream Riders

Vietnam offers far more than a conventional sightseeing holiday. From the historic streets of Hanoi to the winding mountain roads of Ha Giang, the country is filled with experiences that are best discovered at your own pace.

Ride through the spectacular Ha Giang Loop, explore the dramatic landscapes of the Dong Van Karst Plateau, visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, experience local markets and communities, and enjoy the freedom of travelling through northern Vietnam on two wheels.

For riders looking for an adventure beyond the usual tourist routes, a Vietnam Motorcycle Tour with Dream Riders combines scenic mountain roads, cultural experiences and carefully planned riding routes.