35 Epic Things to Do in Vietnam + Top Places for River Rafting in Vietnam

If you’ve ever dreamt of emerald rice paddies, ancient temples, buzzing street markets, and wild jungle adventures—all rolled into one magical destination—Vietnam is calling your name.

Whether you’re a culture lover, thrill-seeker, food explorer, or someone just looking to vibe with nature, Vietnam has something to offer. From the chaotic charm of Hanoi to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, and the peaceful lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the coffee plantations of Da Lat, this country is an adventure waiting to unfold.

And here’s the good part—this isn’t your boring list of touristy places. We’ve curated a mix of iconic sights, hidden gems, and adrenaline-pumping experiences you absolutely need to try on your trip to Vietnam.

Within this guide, you’ll find everything from local food walks and sunrise hikes to underground wartime tunnels and even the best places for river rafting in Vietnam.

Let’s dive in and discover the things to do in Vietnam that will make your trip unforgettable!

🇻🇳 1. Cruise Through Ha Long Bay

Sail between the towering limestone pillars and jade waters of Ha Long Bay. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this place feels straight out of a fantasy novel. Book a luxury junk boat, kayak through hidden lagoons, or even spend a night in a floating hotel.

🏮 2. Explore the Ancient Town of Hoi An

Hoi An is pure magic. Think golden alleyways, colorful lanterns, tailors that’ll stitch you a suit in 24 hours, and riverside cafes serving up the best banh mi sandwiches ever.

🍜 3. Slurp Your Way Through a Street Food Tour in Hanoi

Hanoi is a culinary playground. From sizzling Bún Chả to the rich flavor of Phở, this city’s food stalls and back-alley eateries will change the way you think about food.

⛩ 4. Visit the Imperial City of Hue

This ancient citadel in central Vietnam gives you a glimpse of the country's royal past. Explore palaces, pagodas, and tombs—especially the iconic Tomb of Khai Dinh.

🌊 5. Try River Rafting in Vietnam’s Top Spots

Time to get your heart racing. If you’re an adventure lover, there are plenty of places for river rafting in Vietnam that offer a perfect mix of nature and thrill.

🔥 Here are the top 12 places to try river rafting:

1. Da Lat (Langbiang River) – For scenic mountain views and moderate rapids.

2. Sông Chày River (Phong Nha) – Combine rafting with exploring caves.

3. Nha Trang River – Perfect for beginners.

4. Ban Gioc Waterfall Area – Raft near one of the most iconic waterfalls.

5. Pu Luong Nature Reserve – Wild, lush, and offbeat.

6. Ba Be National Park – A calm yet scenic ride through a protected forest.

7. Song Hinh River (Phu Yen) – Fast-paced action for adrenaline junkies.

8. Cuc Phuong National Park – Ride through a dinosaur-age jungle.

9. Sapa River Trails – For alpine views and tribal village backdrops.

10. Yen Bai Region – Hidden and powerful currents.

11. Dak Lak’s Dray Sap Falls – Waterfall rafting anyone?

12. Thanh Hoa’s Ma River – Mix history, culture, and water sports.

These spots are ideal for solo travelers, couples, or even group expeditions looking for some white-water thrill.

🧗‍♂️ 6. Conquer the Hang Son Doong Cave (World's Largest Cave)

Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, this is the Everest of caves. It’s so massive it has its own ecosystem and weather system. Permits are limited, and the trek is intense—but 100% worth it.

🐉 7. Walk Through the Golden Bridge in Da Nang

Held up by giant stone hands, this bridge looks like something from a video game. Located in Ba Na Hills, it’s a surreal experience, especially at sunrise.

🌴 8. Chill on the Beaches of Phu Quoc Island

If beaches are your thing, Phu Quoc is paradise. Think white sand, blue water, palm trees, and beach bars. Don’t miss the night market or the island’s fish sauce factories (yes, they’re famous).

🏍 9. Take the Hai Van Pass Motorbike Ride

This curvy mountain road from Hue to Da Nang is one of the most scenic drives in Southeast Asia. Rent a motorbike and feel the wind as you ride past cliffs, ocean, and jungles.

🐠 10. Go Snorkeling in the Cham Islands

Crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life make the Cham Islands an underrated snorkeling hotspot.

🕳 11. Crawl Through the Cu Chi Tunnels

Ever wondered how Viet Cong soldiers moved undetected during the Vietnam War? This underground network near Ho Chi Minh City shows you firsthand. It's claustrophobic, historic, and mind-opening.

🌅 12. Witness a Sunrise at Sapa’s Rice Terraces

Sapa is where the clouds meet the mountains. Trek through rice terraces, visit local hill tribes, and soak in sunrises that will melt your heart.

🎭 13. Watch a Water Puppet Show

Unique to Vietnam, this traditional art form tells folklore through puppets that dance on water. Catch a show in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

🌳 14. Hike the Cat Ba National Park Trails

If you’re heading to Ha Long Bay, don’t skip Cat Ba Island. The park here is great for hikes, with lush views and monkeys swinging through the trees.

🍹 15. Sip Egg Coffee in Hanoi

Sounds weird, tastes heavenly. Egg yolk whipped with sweet condensed milk, poured over strong Vietnamese coffee. Trust us, you’ll order seconds.

🌆 16. Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s Nightlife

From rooftop bars to craft beer breweries and underground clubs, HCMC (Saigon) is Vietnam’s nightlife capital. Head to Bui Vien Street for the backpacker party scene.

🐘 17. Visit Yok Don National Park

Want to see elephants living in ethical, natural conditions? This park in Dak Lak offers that experience—no chains, no rides—just elephants in the wild.

🎨 18. Explore the Crazy House in Da Lat

Like a Salvador Dali painting come to life, this architectural marvel is bizarre, beautiful, and totally Instagrammable.

🛶 19. Row Through Tam Coc (Halong Bay on Land)

Also called the “Inland Ha Long Bay,” Tam Coc in Ninh Binh lets you row between towering limestone cliffs on calm rivers surrounded by green rice fields.

🛕 20. Visit the Perfume Pagoda

Located in the mountains outside Hanoi, this temple complex is reached via a boat ride and a cable car or hike. The views? Next-level spiritual.

🛍 21. Shop at Ben Thanh Market in Saigon

From knock-off sneakers to street snacks and souvenirs, this chaotic marketplace is where you sharpen your bargaining skills.

📸 22. Snap Photos in Mu Cang Chai

If you’re a photography buff, this northern town with golden rice terraces during harvest season is a must-visit.

🏝 23. Discover Con Dao Island’s Dark History

A former prison island used by French and American forces, it’s now a quiet paradise with eerie historical sites and beautiful beaches.

☕️ 24. Try Vietnamese Drip Coffee

Coffee in Vietnam is not just a drink—it’s a lifestyle. Try it iced, with coconut milk, or with condensed milk. Street vendors make some of the best cups.

🧘 25. Meditate in Truc Lam Zen Monastery

Overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake in Da Lat, this peaceful monastery is perfect for reflection, calm, and breathtaking views.

✈️ 26–35: More Unique Experiences

Here are 10 more quick-fire ideas to wrap up the list:

26. Ride a bamboo basket boat in Hoi An

27. Attend the Full Moon Festival

28. Take a cooking class with a local family

29. Explore the Sand Dunes in Mui Ne

30. Paraglide in Da Nang

31. Kayak in Lan Ha Bay

32. Visit a fish sauce factory in Phu Quoc

33. Cycle through the Mekong Delta villages

34. See the floating markets in Can Tho

35. Take a sleeper train through the country

Final Thoughts: Vietnam is More Than Just a Destination

It’s a mix of contrasts—ancient yet modern, serene yet chaotic, simple yet profound. From wild rivers to peaceful temples, the things to do in Vietnam are endless.

Whether you’re planning a backpacking escape, a romantic honeymoon, or a thrill-seeking adventure, your trip to Vietnam will be packed with culture, food, landscapes, and adrenaline.

And if you’re into nature and water sports, don’t forget to explore the top places for river rafting in Vietnam—because few things compare to riding the rapids with lush greenery around and local charm in the air.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to fall in love with every inch of Vietnam.