Best Things to Do in Vietnam - Top 10 for an Adventure Trip

Overview of Vietnam

Whether for its natural beauty, history, architecture, cuisine, or culture, Vietnam has always enticed tourists and travelers worldwide. From exploring beautiful beaches to marveling at the temples, soaking in the waterfalls to enjoying unparalleled hospitality and coffee, there are some really interesting things to do in Vietnam. With activities like kayaking, scuba diving, motorbiking, and cultural tours, Vietnam is a treasure trove for adventure enthusiasts. 

Its bustling cities, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are filled with street food, markets, and French colonial charm. Places such as Hue and Hoi An testify to its cultural heritage. You can relax on the beaches of Da Nang or Phu Quoc and even experience local life in the Mekong Delta. AdventureTripr is ready to take you on an unforgettable trip to this land of mesmerising landscapes. 

Top 10 Things to do in Vietnam

1. Kayak In Saigon River

2. Hiking And Scuba Diving At Cat Ba Island

3. Snorkelling In Cham Island

4. Tubing In Rivers

5. Cycling Around Hue

6. Sail Through The Tam Coc Rice Fields

7. River Rafting

8. Wildlife Encounters At Bach Ma National Park

9. Cruising In Mekong Delta

10. Witness Nightlife Of Ho Chi Minh City

Kayak In Saigon River

If you have an appetite for water sports, kayaking in the Saigon River should be your number one thing to do in Vietnam. It is a thrilling journey through southern Vietnam's most scenic river routes and surprisingly urban waterways. As you paddle through the turquoise waters, you witness a mix of the old and the modern: the historic pagodas and Bitexco Financial Tower. A guided tour of Saigon may also include historical insights and local gastronomical delights in riverside villages. If you’re lucky, you can also come across wildlife. The tour takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on speed and stops, and requires an entry fee starting at USD 35. 

Hiking And Scuba Diving At Cat Ba Island

Tranquil turquoise waters, rich marine life, and thrilling landscapes: that’s what awaits you at Cát Bà Island (located in Hai Phong City, Northern Vietnam). The Cát Bà National Park has some of the best trails for hiking, set amidst lush greenery and lined by serene waters. As you trek, you’ll be able to see limestone peaks and rare wildlife that dwells in this ecosystem. Scuba diving in the deep waters of Lan Ha Bay will pump you with adrenaline and treat you with up-close views of coral reefs and a vibrant marine life. This 3 to 5-hour adventure can be your daytime choice on the list of best things to do in Vietnam. 

Snorkelling In Cham Island

Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) are a group of 8 islands and a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The waters in and around the Hoi An and Da Nang cities are perfect for snorkeling. You’ll be in crystal clear waters, among vibrant coral gardens, witnessing various marine life ranging from clownfish to sea turtles, reefs, and tropical fish. Tours typically start from Hoi An, take anywhere from 2 hours to even a full day, and cater to enthusiasts of all skill levels. These tours often include a boat ride from Hoi An or Cua Dai, with multiple snorkeling spots in the calm seas on the way. Apart from snorkeling, you will enjoy clean sandy beaches and mangrove-lined inlets. You will appreciate this island for its rich biodiversity and minimal crowds. 

Tubing In Rivers

Tubing is one of Vietnam’s top things to do if you like a thrilling experience in serene settings. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can float down the calm rivers on inflatable tubes, surrounded by lush jungle scenes, karst cliffs, and riverside villages. Popular destinations for tubing are Da Lat, Phong Nha, and Vang Vieng (Laos, right across the Vietnam border). Depending on your route, you could also be tubing under waterfalls and caves. You can also take a dip while on a tubing tour. A typical tour lasts 2 to 3 hours and makes for an ideal activity on a warm, sunny day. Many tours also include stops for snacks, drinks, or riverside picnics.

Cycling Around Hue

Exploring the historical city of Hue is one of the top things to do in Vietnam if the country’s past interests you. Hue was the capital city of the Nguyen Dynasty in the early 19th century. It still has royal courts, parks, temples, and even residences of the ministers and mandarins of the Nguyen Dynasty. The city faces the Perfume River and is walled by fortification systems such as forts with cannons. As you cycle through the clean paved paths of this walled city, you get a close glimpse into the city's history and its citizens who live there today. You can freely interact with the dwellers and learn about their culture and traditions. You can also venture into nearby villages like Thủy Biều or Thanh Toan to cycle past rice paddies, bamboo groves, garden houses, and rural life. More adventurous riders can tackle longer trails, such as to Bach Ma National Park or even a scenic descent via Hai Van Pas. You can rent a bike easily from local bike rentals. 

Sailing Through the Tam Coc Rice Fields

Vietnam’s rice fields are world-famous for their unique visual appeal. The best way to explore them is by sailing through them in a traditional sampan (foot rower). The route takes you through three caves and surreal rural scenery. You find yourself gliding on tranquil waters surrounded by towering limestone karsts and seasonal paddy fields emerald green during spring and gold during the harvest season. Best enjoyed early or late to avoid crowds, it’s a serene, iconic Vietnamese experience.

River Rafting

River rafting should be among your top 10 things to do in Vietnam. Popular rafting destinations in Vietnam attract millions of tourists each year. Its moderate to challenging rapids offer quite the adrenaline rush. All tours are guided and can be done by novices and experts. Surrounding mountains, thick greenery, and wildlife add charm to this thrilling experience. Popular rafting trips include the Cai River near Nha Trang with class II–III rapids, lush valleys, waterfalls, and tropical birdlife. In Da Lat, the Da Don River features class II–IV rapids, forested hills, waterfalls, optional cliff‑jumps, and cultural sightseeing. Northern rivers like the Sơn La and Đà offer rugged white‑water through stunning mountain landscapes, with rapids ranging from class III–IV from May to October.

Wildlife Encounters at Bach Ma National Park

This is one of the best things to do in vietnam for wildlife enthusiasts. Bach Ma National Park is home to more than 350 species, with certain rare ones like the crested argus and Edwards’s pheasant. The best chance to spot wildlife in this park is while you trek its mountainous trails. This biodiverse haven spans forests, waterfalls, and lakes. You can spot endangered mammals such as red‑shanked douc langurs, stump‑tailed macaques, and elusive Truong Son muntjacs. The park also conserves some critical species like the saola. It also has a bear rescue centre. Guided wildlife tours and dawn bird‑calling treks led by expert rangers enrich the experience.

Cruising In Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is one of the greatest river regions of the world. This delta is formed on the twelfth longest river in the world and seventh longest river in Asia. Also known as the ‘rice bowl of Vietnam,’ this delta has picturesque paddy fields, colorful fruit orchards, unique floating markets, and old villages. You glide through a maze of rivers, canals, and floating markets in a  traditional boat. Along the way, you can enjoy fresh tropical fruits and visit coconut candy shops. Cruises range from half-day local tours to multi-day journeys that offer a more immersive cultural experience. It is a rather peaceful activity that still provides a deeper understanding of the region’s traditions, cuisine, and way of life.

Witness Nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City

If you appreciate nightlife, one of the things to do in Vietnam is to experience the nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City. Right as dusk arrives, the city lights up. You’ll find yourself among rooftop bars, live music bars, and night markets. Bui Vien Street, the heart of the party scene, is filled with neon lights, street performers, and diverse crowds. If you’re a food lover, there’s much to explore in upscale restaurants and street kiosks. You’ll also be spoiled for choice with trendy clubs and lounges offering everything from house to EDM and jazz music. It is like an eating, drinking, and dancing festival in Ho Chi Minh every night. 

Why choose AdventureTripr for your Vietnam trip?

AdventureTripr is known for crafting immersive Vietnam experiences. We tailor experiences for adventure seekers and cultural explorers alike. We rely on partners with trusted local guides to ensure authentic, safe, and sustainable travel. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, our flexible group adventures suit every pace and interest. We make your trip hassle-free with seamless planning, expert support, and handpicked accommodations. Choose AdventureTripr to explore Vietnam beyond the tourist trails—responsibly, meaningfully, and with a spirit of discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question 1: Is Vietnam safe for solo women travelers?

Answer 1: Vietnam is generally safe for all travelers, including women. However, certain unsaid rules can make your experience as a solo woman traveler even safer:

• Wear modest clothes covering knees and shoulders in villages and cultural sites. 

• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated places. 

• Watch your drinks at bars and pubs. 

• Keep your valuables secured, especially in heavily crowded places. 

Question 2: Will I need a guide to explore Vietnam?

Answer 2: Most urban places in Vietnam can be easily explored without a guide. However, hiring a guide is the best way to get an immersive experience in rural and cultural sites. 

Question 3: What’s the best time of the year to visit Vietnam?

Answer 3: The best time to visit is from October to April, when the heat is not too much and you can take advantage of the best things to do in Vietnam. 

Question 4: Do I need to learn Vietnamese to travel in Vietnam?

Answer 4: English speakers are present in most tourist areas of Vietnam. However, to gain a fuller experience in rural areas, it is advisable to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases. 

Question 5: Is USD accepted in Vietnam?

Answer 5: While the official currency of Vietnam is Vietnamese đồng (VND), USD is widely accepted by large establishments in urban tourist areas. However, smaller local vendors, rural service providers, and markets will only accept VND.