A country of staggering natural beauty and richly vibrant culture, Vietnam is endlessly fascinating and bursting with charm. From the bustling cities hiding countless architectural gems to the off-the-beaten-track treasures tucked along the Mekong River, it’s a land with so much to offer travellers looking for an unforgettable experience. With a varied offering of escorted tours and river cruises in Vietnam, Riviera Travel knows the country inside out. Here’s our pick of the top things to see and do in Vietnam, visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Danang, Hue, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Tan Chau and the Mekong Delta.
Best things to do in Vietnam and The Mekong
The Mekong
Time appears to stand still along the Mekong. Lined with lush coconut groves, the distinctive patchwork of paddy fields and ornate pagodas, every picture-perfect aspect of Vietnam is on display as you gently glide along the serene waters on a river cruise.
For the locals, life revolves around this vast stretch of water, with vivid floating markets, gently chugging longboats, and fisherman all familiar sights along the Mekong. The beauty of the river is in the diversity of life and landscape you’ll discover around each bend, from gleaming temples (Cao Dai is not to be missed) to colonial-era mansions tucked away in the villages and towns along the water’s edge.
Must-see floating markets on the Mekong River
Dating back to the 17th century, Cái Bè floating market has served as a hub and vibrant trading centre on the Vietnamese Mekong for hundreds of years. Arrive early – 6am is best – and experience the lively atmosphere, noisy bartering, and kaleidoscope of colourful produce for sale – often dangled from long poles between boats.
Cai Rang floating market, about 6km from Can Tho, is a riveting display of colour and activity. Here a maze of large boats trade their wares, while smaller boats dart in-between selling noodles and coffee.
Tan Chau
This rural town, found along the banks of the Mekong River close to the Cambodia border, is famous for its silk production. Here you can experience first-hand the care and skill that goes into producing the finest silks, from handweaving to the dying process.
When to visit the Mekong River
Watch the mist gently rise from the water at sunrise, then enjoy a sundowner taking in the idyllic views from your boat’s deck – the Mekong Delta is a glorious spectacle whatever time of day. The best time of year to visit the Mekong is during Vietnam’s dry season – November to April. Visiting between November and January is ideal as the temperature won’t be too high and the rainy season is over.
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Reunification Palace
In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City you’ll find the Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace. This city landmark – a retro vision of 1960s architecture flanked by palm trees – originally served as the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. However, it’s most famously associated with the fall of the city in 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the gates. In iconic scenes documented across the world, a soldier ran into the building unfurling a VC flag from the balcony, while troops stormed the palace. Aside from its fascinating history and kitsch Wes Anderson-esque architectural detail, the palace also features impeccably landscaped gardens which are well worth a visit.
War Remnants Museum
Offering an insightful and deeply moving look at the impact the US invasion had on the people of Vietnam, this thoughtfully curated museum is an important visit for travellers to the country. Compelling, absorbing and often very upsetting, the museum doesn’t shy away from the horrors of this defining chapter in Vietnam’s history, but it does help give a vital understanding of the country’s complex past.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
With its vibrant pink exterior and elaborately tiled roof, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, also known as the Phuoc Hai Temple, is renowned landmark in Ho Chi Minh. Built in the early 20th century, the temple is dedicated to the supreme deity in Taoism and is a popular multi-faith temple which often gets busy with worshippers and tourists. It’s best to arrive early to avoid peak crowds and have the space to soak up the atmosphere in all its incense-fragrance glory. As this is a place of worship, it’s important to dress respectfully with shoulders and knees covered.
Giac Lam Pagoda
Believed to be the city’s oldest temple, dating back to 1744, Giac Lam is a striking Buddhist complex 20 minutes outside of the centre of Ho Chi Minh. Set in peaceful, leafy grounds, the striking yellow, red, and orange multi-storey pagoda is wonderfully atmospheric, with ornate detailing and rows of gilded figures on display inside. The pagoda also features a bronze bell which is rung to answer the prayers of those who have made a pilgrimage to the site.
The Cu Chi Tunnels
A short drive from Ho Chi Minh City are the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. This immense underground network, stretching for 200km, was used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War and features everything from a hospital to meeting rooms and sleeping quarters, as well as the many traps set up for protection. Sections of the tunnels are open to guided tours, and stepping underground offers a poignant reminder of the past.
Other things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Try some of the city’s famous Vietnamese street food
- People’s Committee Building, government building, Ho Chi Minh City
- Notre Dame Cathedral, catholic cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City
- Botanical Gardens, public gardens, Ho Chi Minh City
Best things to do in Hanoi
Old Town
The best way to soak up the authentic, multi-sensory experience of Hanoi’s Old Quarter is on one of the city’s famous modes of transport – the Cyclo. Take a seat on one of the 3-wheeled bicycle rickshaws and relax as you’re taken on a leisurely ride along beautiful tree-lined avenues, past gilded temples, and rows of colourful houses. As Cyclo drivers are often locals, they are able to show you some of the city’s lesser-known gems alongside the main tourist attractions. Just be sure to agree a price before the ride, to avoid any confusion.
Opera House
The era of French colonial rule undoubtedly had a huge impact on the architecture of the time, and this colonial style can be seen in many instances across the city of Hanoi. A fantastic example of this is the Hanoi Opera House, where towering columns and arched windows capture the imposing neoclassical style perfectly. This prestigious centre hosts a varied calendar of cultural performances – if you have the time, try and catch a show and marvel at the sumptuous interior.
Temple of Literature
Dedicated to Chinese philosopher Confucius, the Temple of Literature is also the site of Vietnam’s first university. Dating back to 1070, the impressive complex is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and there’s plenty to explore inside the serene grounds, including tranquil courtyards and gardens. To this day many students come to pray for good luck in upcoming exams.
Thang Long Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is a Vietnamese tradition and here in Hanoi you can watch the famous Thang Long Puppet Theatre perform puppet shows with a twist. Here, the puppeteers stand waist deep in water, manipulating the puppets suspended on long bamboo poles. Telling ancient folklore tales and stories from the past, it’s a must-see when in Hanoi.
Other things to do in Hanoi
- Nin Binh, riverside city south of Hanoi
- Tan Coc, riverside cave complex, Nin Binh
- Long Bien Bridge, historic cantilever bridge, Hanoi
Best things to do in Halong Bay
Halong Bay River Cruise
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s greatest natural wonders and the best way to take in the majestic beauty of the landscape is by water. Sail through the dazzling emerald waters, past rice paddies dotted with farmers hard at work in their instantly recognisable conical hats and sink into a more relaxed pace of life. With thousands of towering limestone islands, rock formations and rainforest-covered islets jutting out into the water, it’s a breathtakingly scenic route to discover the unspoilt beauty of Northern Vietnam. Weather-wise, the best time to visit Halong Bay is during Vietnam’s spring or autumn, so in March and April or September and October. Here you can enjoy delightful sunny days with clear blue skies, no rain, and mild temperatures.
Other things to do in Halong Bay
- Sung Sot Cave, large limestone cave, Halong Bay
- Castaway Island, beautiful island with a reputation for big parties, Halong Bay
Best things to do in Danang and Hue
The Hai Van Pass
Expect epic scenery at every turn along Hai Van Pass, a 21 km-long mountain pass renowned as Vietnam’s most iconic road. Connecting the cities of Da Nang and Hue, it’s a curling coastal road packed with thrilling sights and natural wonders. From lush rainforests to azure sea views, you’ll be treated to picture-perfect postcard landscapes along the route. This is Vietnam really showing off its natural beauty.
Thien Mu Pagoda
This serene Buddhist temple was originally built in 1601, although it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Naturally, thanks to its elegant architecture and scenic location on Ha Khe hill, next to the banks of the Perfume River, it’s a popular landmark to visit in Hue. Today, the striking 21m-high octagonal tower – known as Thap Phuoc Duyen – has become the unofficial symbol of the city and one of huge historic and spiritual importance. To avoid the crowds, aim to visit first thing in the morning, or late afternoon to watch the sunset on the river.
Perfume River
Running through the heart of Hue city, the gentle Perfume River (Huong River) is a fantastic way to take in the sights, passing some of the city’s iconic landmarks including the ancient Citadel, as well as the striking Troung Tien Bridge. The river’s charming name comes from the flowers that grow around the banks, which are renowned for releasing a strong floral aroma when they fall into the water. Hop aboard a river cruise for a meandering journey past small riverside villages, temples, and verdant countryside, where you’ll be treated to a glimpse of authentic rural life in central Vietnam.
Citadel and Hue Imperial City
Jaw-dropping in scale and grandeur, Hue’s Citadel complex is a testament to ancient Vietnam’s power and artistry. Set against the magnificent landscape of the Perfume River, there’s so much to discover inside the Citadel’s imposing walls. The Hue Imperial City’s square-shaped grounds stretch over 520 hectares, and house the emperor’s residence, temples, palaces, and sublime gardens offering a welcome oasis of calm. While only 20 of the original 148 buildings survive – with many destroyed during the French and American Wars – restoration work is ongoing and this UNESCO World Heritage Site still has plenty of architectural treasure to explore, in particular the striking red and gold Palace of Supreme Harmony.
Holidays to Vietnam
