Vietnam is a truly amazing country that stretches from the mountain rice fields in the north to the warm, tropical waters in the south. The whole country is a long coastline, making it beautiful to travel through. For visitors from the UAE, a journey here is a chance to explore stunning scenery and enjoy some of the great things to do in Vietnam that you will not find anywhere else in the world.
The country gives excellent value for money, which is a big plus for travellers. You can enjoy a luxurious holiday, stay in wonderful hotels, and eat world-class food for a very reasonable price compared to many other famous destinations. Direct flights from the UAE make the trip easy, and the local people are famous for their kindness and hospitality, ensuring that your trip is smooth and welcoming from the moment you land in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
AED 1,899
per person
AED 1,799
per person
To ensure your trip is perfect, it is wise to plan ahead. This guide will show you the best things to do in Vietnam, focusing on famous sights and hidden gems, all with easy-to-understand travel details. By booking comprehensive Vietnam Tour Packages, you can connect the key areas, saving you time and giving you a smooth, stress-free holiday across this diverse and beautiful nation.
Vietnam is a land of incredible natural beauty, from its peaceful countryside to its lively major cities. Here is a list of the 12 top things to do in Vietnam that every traveller should consider. We cover everything from ancient history and water adventures to local markets and famous food, giving you all the practical details you need for each spot, including location, price, and highlights.
Hoi An Ancient Town is like a postcard come to life. This preserved area is a UNESCO site, famous for its narrow streets, ancient yellow houses, and thousands of colourful silk lanterns. When the sun goes down, the lanterns light up, and small candle boats float on the river, making the whole place feel magical. It’s the perfect place to stroll without cars, get custom-made clothes quickly, and relax in charming local cafes.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
Taking a cruise through Halong Bay is one of the essential things to do in Vietnam. This natural wonder is famous for its bright emerald water and thousands of huge limestone islands covered in green jungle. The view is dramatic and beautiful, feeling like you have sailed into a hidden world. Cruises usually take one to three days, allowing you to stop for kayaking, exploring deep caves, and watching the sunset from the deck of your comfortable boat.
- Location: Quang Ninh Province
- Timing & Entry Fee: Cruises generally start from 8 AM. Cruise starting prices are 150 AED to 450 AED, depending on duration.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: October to December
The Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam's 'rice bowl,' is a giant area of rivers, swamps, and islands in the south. Cruising here is one of the famous things to do in Vietnam because it shows you a much slower, more traditional way of life. You will see floating markets where people sell goods directly from their small boats, visit fruit farms, and watch people making traditional rice paper and local sweets. It is a relaxing and very green break from the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
- Location: Southern Vietnam, near Ho Chi Minh City
- Timing & Entry Fee: Day tours usually run from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A full-day group tour costs about AED 150 - 250 per person, including all transport, boat rides, and lunch.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
Kayaking in the Saigon River is one of the best things to do in Vietnam for travellers who want to be active and see Ho Chi Minh City from a different angle. While the main river is busy, guided kayak trips take you into the quieter side canals. This allows you to paddle easily and see local life up close, including old stilt houses and small temples, away from the traffic noise. It’s a fun, refreshing activity to add to your city trip.
- Location: Ho Chi Minh City
- Timing & Entry Fee: Tours usually run in the very early morning (7:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM). A 2-3 hour guided kayaking trip costs about AED 180 - 300 per person.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
The Vietnam Military History Museum is an interesting stop for travellers who want to understand the country’s past. The museum showcases aircraft, tanks, and weapons used in different wars. It also highlights the bravery of Vietnamese soldiers and the country’s difficult history. Outdoor displays, including war planes, make the visit even more engaging. The museum is located near the Hanoi Flag Tower, so you can explore both spots easily. It is ideal for families, students, and travellers who love history.
- Location: Xuân Phương, Hanoi
- Timing & Entry Fee: Open 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on Mondays and Fridays. Entry is about AED 6 -7per person.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
The Temple of Literature is one of the most peaceful and historic things to do in Vietnam's capital city. Built over 1,000 years ago, it was the site of the country’s first national university and is dedicated to Confucius. The complex is lovely, featuring five courtyards, quiet gardens, and traditional buildings. Today, it is a symbol of great respect for education and learning. It is a wonderful place to escape the busy city noise and enjoy a calm walk among the past.
- Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
- Timing & Entry Fee: Open daily from 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; entry fee approx 7-10 AED
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
Cat Ba island is the largest island in Halong Bay and contains a beautiful National Park that covers a large part of the island. Hiking through Cat Ba National Park is an exciting activity for anyone who loves nature and green views. The main path leads you through thick jungle to the Ngu Lam Peak viewpoint, where you get an amazing view over the limestone hills, valleys, and the surrounding bay. The island also has quiet beaches and small villages, making it a great spot for a few days of fun outdoor activities.
- Location: Hai Phong Province
- Timing & Entry Fee: Open all day. The entry fee for the National Park is about AED 26-80 per adult.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Cham Island (Cù Lao Chàm) is a group of eight small islands located off the coast near Hoi An. The islands are a protected marine park. Taking a day trip here for snorkelling is one of the best things to do in Vietnam if you love the ocean. You can see healthy coral reefs and lots of colourful fish in the clear water. The tour usually includes a ride on a fast speedboat from Hoi An, time for swimming and snorkelling, and a fresh seafood lunch on a beautiful beach.
- Location: Near Hoi An
- Timing & Entry Fee: Day tours run from about 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. A full-day snorkelling tour costs approximately AED 180 - 350 per person.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: March to September
Cat Tien National Park is a natural treasure where you can see rare animals, old trees, and beautiful forests. The park is huge and great for wildlife lovers. Guided tours help you spot birds, gibbons, and other animals safely. You can also enjoy cycling, river boat rides, and forest walks. The experience is peaceful and refreshing, making it a favourite for nature travellers who want to see Vietnam’s wild side.
- Location: Dong Nai Province
- Timing & Entry Fee: The park is open all day, but activities run on different schedules. Entry is about AED 10-12. Extra tours like the night safari cost around AED 25 - 50 each.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
Going on a local food tour is one of the top things to do in Vietnam because Vietnamese food is famous all over the world. These tours are usually led by a local expert, often travelling on the back of a motorbike. They take you into the small streets and local places you would not find alone. You get to try many different dishes, from the classic Pho soup to delicious local snacks, and learn about the food's history. It is a fun and tasty way to truly experience the culture.
- Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: All year
The Hoi An Night Market becomes lively as the sun sets and is a great place for an evening walk and some shopping. Located right across the bridge from the Ancient Town, the market is full of stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and, most importantly, beautiful silk lanterns. The atmosphere is colourful and friendly, and you can enjoy bargaining for good prices. You can also find many food stalls selling local snacks, ice cream, and street food to enjoy as you walk along the river.
- Location: Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the top things to do in Vietnam for history lovers. This site honours President Ho Chi Minh and reflects the country’s deep respect for him. The area includes a large square, beautiful gardens, and nearby museums. The changing of the guard is an interesting moment to watch. The place is peaceful, organised, and important for understanding Vietnam’s heritage.
- Location: Hanoi
- Timing & Entry Fee: Open daily from 7:30 AM–11:00 AM; there is no free entry.
- Highlight:
- Best Time to Visit: February to April
Also Checkout:- Places to visit in Vietnam
If you love adventure, you will find many exciting things to do in Vietnam. Popular options include trekking in Cat Ba Island, kayaking in the Saigon River, snorkelling in Cham Island, hiking in Sapa, and exploring caves in Phong Nha. These activities offer fun, nature, and beautiful scenery.
