Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia with a long history and culture. It is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, varied food, and welcoming people. Vietnam has something for everyone, from the bustling city of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beaches of Phu Quoc Island. This bucket list features 20 of the top Vietnam bucket list travel destinations. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food, you will discover something appealing.
Read also:
- 20 Things to do in Nha Trang, Vietnam
- 18 Best Hiking & Trekking Destinations in Vietnam
- 20 Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam
- Best Restaurants & Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam for the Best Vietnam Trip
- Northern Vietnam Bucket List
- Exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter
- Take a cruise through Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
- Conquering Fansipan Mountain and Trekking in Sapa
- Driving the Ha Giang loop
- Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Ninh Binh
- Check out Son Doong Cave – the world's largest natural cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh
- Immerse in nature at Cuc Phuong National Park
- Central Vietnam Bucket List
- Southern Vietnam Bucket List
Northern Vietnam Bucket List
Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Hanoi serves as the capital of Vietnam. Hanoi’s Old Quarter, often called the ’36 Streets,’ is a historic and enchanting neighborhood within the city. This area is a maze of narrow pathways and streets adorned with various establishments such as shops, eateries, temples, and ancient residences.
It’s a beautiful place to stroll and enjoy the peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere in the heart of the bustling city. You can visit some ancient houses to learn about Vietnamese traditional architecture. Some of the most famous ancient places in the Old Quarter include the Ma May House and the Duong Lam Ancient House.
Besides, you can shop for Vietnamese handicrafts, such as lacquerware, silk, and embroidery, at Hang Gai Street and Hang Bong Street. And, of course, we cannot miss the food. Make sure to try some unique Vietnamese dishes like Phở, bánh mì, bún chả, and savor a cup of coffee. It’s a must!
Take a cruise through Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh
A cruise in Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist activities. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its magnificent limestone islands, emerald waterways, and floating villages.
There are numerous cruise companies, and trips range from one day to several days. Overnight cruises are the most excellent way to see Ha Long Bay because you will have more time to tour the caverns, floating towns, and other sights.
In addition to these activities, you will have enough time on your Ha Long Bay cruise to relax and enjoy the view. You can swim in the water, sunbathe on the cruise ship’s deck, or sit back and take in the scenery. The view from here is just spectacular.
Conquering Fansipan Mountain and Trekking in Sapa
Fansipan Mountain, located in Sapa, Vietnam, is Indochina’s highest peak, with a height of 3.143 m. It is a famous tourist site for hikers and trekkers, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
There are various trekking paths to the peak of Fansipan, ranging in complexity from easy to demanding. In addition to trekking, you can ride a cable car to the summit of Fansipan and experience the panoramic views from a higher vantage point.
There are numerous additional trekking trails in Sapa besides Fansipan Mountain. Ta Van Village Trek, Cat Cat Village Trek, and Muong Hoa Valley Trek are some of the most popular itineraries. This trip will take you past the rice terraces, waterfalls, and villages of the ethnic minority of the Black Hmong and Red Dao. You can take in the beautiful natural surroundings while also learning about the lifestyles of the area’s ethnic minorities.
Driving the Ha Giang loop
The Ha Giang Loop drive is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The loop, a 350-kilometer beautiful route across Vietnam’s northern mountains, travels past towns, terraced rice fields, and limestone cliffs. Riding a motorcycle around the loop is recommended so you may stop and enjoy the scenery at your speed. Because the terrain is rather tricky, you should sign up for a tour or hire a local guide who can give you a deeper understanding of this area.
The Loop Highlights:
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: This UNESCO-listed geopark is a geological wonderland with towering limestone peaks, deep valleys, and distinctive rock formations. The drive-through Dong Van provides breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities.
Ma Pi Leng Pass: Known as one of Vietnam’s most stunning mountain crossings, it gives spectacular views of the Nho Que River winding its way through the valley below. The journey is difficult, but the landscapes are worth it.
Ethnic Villages: Throughout the circle, you’ll get the opportunity to see ethnic minority villages such as the Hmong, Dao, and Tay communities. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about their unique cultures and traditions.
Lung Cu Flag Tower: The Lung Cu Flag Tower, located at Vietnam’s northernmost point, symbolizes Vietnamese sovereignty. Climbing to the summit gives you a panoramic view of the region below.
Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Ninh Binh
If you love to experience the natural beauty of Vietnam, you should not miss this destination. Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam.
It is a breathtaking landscape of limestone karsts, caverns, and rivers. The Hollywood blockbuster “Kong: Skull Island” was shot extensively in this area.
The best way to explore Trang An is by boat. Boat tours often last a few hours. There will be various routes for you to choose from, each route taking you through different attractions such as Mua Caves, Bich Dong Cave, Light Cave, Dark Cave, Trang An Pagoda, and more. Typically, the stopping points will include temples and shrines, where you’ll have time to explore before continuing your boat trip.
Check out Son Doong Cave – the world’s largest natural cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh
Son Doong Cave is the world’s largest natural cave in Vietnam’s Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park. Its towering chambers, underground rivers, massive stalactites, and stalagmites are awe-inspiring.
To visit Son Doong Cave, you must book a tour with a licensed operator. Tours usually run for four days and three nights, including walking through the forest, camping in caverns, and swimming in underground rivers. You can book a tour on their website.
Furthermore, Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park offers a wide range of activities for you to engage in. You can explore other caves, such as Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. Go trekking, kayaking, or visit The Botanical Garden to learn about the park’s diverse plant life and flowers.
Immerse in nature at Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam’s oldest and largest national park, Cuc Phuong National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hotspot for biodiversity. This is home to over 2,000 plant species, over 300 bird species, and many rare animals.
At Cuc Phuong National Park, you can visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, the Cave of Prehistoric Man, and the Old Tree Trail, home to a 1,000-year-old tree. You can immerse yourself in nature by trekking through and biking through the beautiful forests.
If you decide to camp in the park, pitch your tent in one of the permitted places. This is an excellent way to get up close and personal with the park’s fauna and natural splendor. If you want to relax and escape the rush and bustle of daily life, pick a hammock in the forest and enjoy the peace.
Central Vietnam Bucket List
Have fun at Ba Na Hills and walk on the Golden Bridge in Da Nang
Ba Na Hills is a resort complex in the Truong Son Mountains, west of Da Nang, Vietnam. French colonists created it as a hill station in 1919, and it has since become a renowned tourist destination. Ba Na Hills is well-known for its scenic beauty, French colonial buildings, amusement park rides, and the Golden Bridge.
To get to the summit of the Ba Na Hills, you must take a cable car. The cable car ride lasts about 20 minutes and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. On the summit of the Ba Na Hills, you can join in various activities such as visiting the French Village, Linh Ung pagoda, riding the Alpine Coaster, and exploring the Fantasy Park amusement park, which features rides for people of all ages.
Then you can walk to the Golden Bridge. The bridge is around 15 15-minute walk from the cable car station. The Golden Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that crosses a gorge and is supported by two enormous hands. After crossing the bridge, you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Da Nang below. This spot is Instagram-worthy.
Discover Hoi An Old Quarter
Hoi An Old Quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist sites. It is a picturesque and well-preserved town with a rich history and culture.
The Old Quarter is a labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways packed with antique residences, temples, shops, and restaurants. The Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, and Phuc Kien Pagoda are well-known locations you should check out. Delicious street cuisine is another thing Hoi An is famous for. Banh mi, cao lau, and mi quang are a few of the most well-liked street food meals to try.
The town is also recognized for its yellow-walled buildings, bright lanterns, and traditional architecture. No matter where you stand, you can snap many gorgeous and unusual images, so make sure your camera battery is ultimately charged.
Visit Hue Imperial City
This is an excellent destination for history buffs. Hue Imperial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vietnam’s most well-preserved imperial relic. It is a complex of palaces, temples, and tombs that was initially the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty.
The Imperial City is divided into two sections: the Forbidden Purple City and the Outer City. The Emperor and his family lived in the Forbidden Purple City, while government officials and other royal court members lived in the Outer City.
Here, you can explore iconic structures such as the Ngo Mon Gate, the Palace of Supreme Harmony, the Forbidden Purple City, the Royal Fine Arts Museum, and various fortifications. The unique architecture and the serene, ancient atmosphere will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
Pay a visit to The Red Sand Dunes at Mui Ne, Phan Thiet
Explore a desert right in Vietnam; why not? It is a large region of red and white dunes about 20 kilometers from Mui Ne. The dunes are generated by the powerful winds that blow in from the sea, continually moving and changing shape.
Sandboarding and Jeep drives are popular activities that provide a unique perspective of the dunes and surrounding area. You can also rent quad bikes to explore the dunes and their surroundings while you’re here.
This is also an ideal place for photography. They even offer camel and Indian costume rentals for photoshoots. Although some street vendors are still around, it’s a good idea to bring snacks and drinks just in case.
Enjoy some of the nicest beaches in Nha Trang
Visit Nha Trang if you wish to explore Vietnam’s stunning beaches. This picturesque coastal city in Vietnam is noted for its magnificent beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hillsides.
Nha Trang Beach is the most popular beach in Nha Trang, and with good reason. It’s a long, vast expanse of white sand with a turquoise sea. There are many sunbeds, umbrellas to rent, and a range of water sports activities.
If you want to escape the crowd, go to Doc Let Beach. This beach is a short drive from the downtown of Nha Trang. The beach is long and isolated, with white sand and pure blue sea. The beach is primarily untouched; however, a few restaurants and resorts are nearby.
Tran Phu Beach is the ideal destination if you’re seeking a centrally located beach for relaxation. It’s a pleasant place to unwind and observe people. You’ll find many nearby restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and vendors.
Discover Ly Son Island
Ly Son Island is a lovely Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam island district. It is well-known for its breathtaking setting, volcanic craters, cave pagodas, and garlic growing.
This Island has numerous gorgeous beaches and coves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. You can also dive to discover the island’s coral reefs and underwater environment. Alternatively, you can go fishing alone or hire a local fisherman to take you on a fishing trip.
There are also plenty of activities to explore on the island. You can trek to Thoi Loi Peak, the highest point on Ly Son Island, offering breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Explore the Hang Pagoda, a unique pagoda nestled in a cave on the cliffside. Don’t miss the To Vo Gate, a natural stone arch that stands as one of Ly Son Island’s iconic landmarks. It’s a favorite spot for tourists to capture photos and savor the ocean views.
Canyoning in Da Lat
Da Lat, often called the “City of a Thousand Flowers” in Vietnam, is a beloved tourist destination known for its cool climate and natural beauty. In addition to its romantic ambiance and abundant flowers, Da Lat is famous for canyoning, making it a thrilling adventure spot.
Canyoning in Da Lat is a fascinating and adventurous activity suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. You will be involved in rappelling down waterfalls, swimming in natural pools, and hiking through lush forests.
There are numerous options for canyoning tours that range in difficulty. Most programs include transportation to and from the canyon, all necessary gear, and a guide who will explain safety precautions and aid with canyon navigation. So, if you’re an adventurer, come and experience it!
Southern Vietnam Bucket List
Observe Ho Chi Minh City from Saigon Skydeck
The Saigon Skydeck, located on the 49th story of the Bitexco Financial Tower, is the most excellent site to get a bird’s-eye view of Ho Chi Minh City. The deck provides panoramic city views, including the Saigon River, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market.
On a clear day, you can see for kilometers in every direction. The views are stunning around sunset when the city’s skyline is drenched in golden light.
After enjoying the cityscape, you can stroll inside the Bitexco Financial Tower, which houses numerous restaurants and branded shops for your shopping pleasure.
Take a food tour through Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is a foodie’s heaven, with a broad selection of tasty and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. A food tour is one of the best ways to see the city’s gastronomic scene.
Food tours are typically led by locals familiar with the best dining spots and can provide information about various recipes and ingredients. Throughout the tour, you will be brought to various restaurants, ranging from street food vendors to family-run establishments that offer an authentic local experience.
Visit Ben Thanh market
Ben Thanh Market is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is a vast indoor-outdoor market that sells various things such as souvenirs, clothing, food, and drinks. The market is in the middle of the city, near the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Opera House.
Ben Thanh Market is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, going early or late in the day is preferable to avoid crowds and heat. Initially, the market can be overwhelming, but it is a terrific location to learn about the local culture and get some good deals.
Ben Thanh Market expects to bargain, so don’t be scared to haggle with the vendors. Start by offering half the asking price and see where it takes you. This is also a fantastic area to sample some of Ho Chi Minh City’s best street food. Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), pho (noodle soup), and bun cha (grilled pork and noodles) are all must-tries.
Discover Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels located around 70 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, the Viet Cong built them to serve as a military base, a communication channel, and a storage facility.
You can take a guided tour or explore the Cu Chi Tunnels alone. Guided tours often include visiting the Ben Duoc or Ben Dinh tunnel complexes and demonstrating the Viet Cong’s different traps and weapons.
One of the greatest ways to experience the Cu Chi Tunnels is to crawl through them yourself. The tunnels are narrow and cramped, but crawling through them gives you a sense of what it was like for the Viet Cong to live and fight underground.
Snorkeling at Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island is Vietnam’s largest island in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 40 kilometers from the Cambodian shore. The island has a tropical climate that is warm and humid all year. Phu Quoc is well-known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life.
Snorkeling is one of the greatest ways to explore Phu Quoc Island’s underwater ecosystem. Many snorkeling locations surround Phu Quoc Island, but some of the most popular include Hon Thom Island, An Thoi Island, Ganh Dau Cape, Rach Vem, and more.
You can go snorkeling on Phu Quoc Island by booking a tour with a local tour operator, renting your equipment, and exploring one of the many snorkeling areas. If you’re new to snorkeling, booking a guided tour is a good idea. The guide can show you how to snorkel safely and where to observe the most aquatic life.
Relax at Vung Tau beaches
Vung Tau is a seaside city in southern Vietnam known for its gorgeous beaches and laidback atmosphere. It is a favorite weekend escape for many from Ho Chi Minh City and an excellent place to relax and unwind for a more extended holiday.
Vung Tau has a variety of beaches to select from, each with its distinct personality. Back Beach, Long Hai Beach, and Pineapple Beach are among the most popular beaches. Aside from its shores, Vung Tau boasts several additional attractions, including the Christ the King statue and the Vung Tau Lighthouse.
Explore Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho
Can Tho’s Cai Rang Floating Market is one of the world’s largest and most popular floating markets. Seeing the market in action is a one-of-a-kind and intriguing experience, with hundreds of boats selling a wide range of things, from fresh vegetables to souvenirs.
Early morning is the best time to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market because it is the busiest. A boat cruise from Can Tho city center lasts roughly 2 hours. The boat tour will take you by the market’s various stalls and boats, and you can purchase food and gifts from the vendors.
Aside from shopping, the Cai Rang Floating Market is a terrific site to people-watch and learn about local culture. The market is a vibrant and colorful area that offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
In conclusion, we hope these 20 bucket list travel ideas could offer you a glimpse into the diverse experiences awaiting you in this beautiful and welcoming nation. Jot down your favorite spot and plan your next trip to Vietnam today!
