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Local Picks - Things To Do in Vietnam

Our Vietnam Local Expert team has handpicked every activity and spot you see here. That means these recommendations come from people who actually live in Vietnam and explore their own cities day in and day out, not from algorithms or paid promotions.

Expect suggestions that make sense in real life. Like taking a slow morning coffee in Hanoi’s Old Quarter before heading to the lesser-known weekend market in Tay Ho. Or visiting the fishing villages around Hoi An when the light is just right at sunset. These are the kinds of things locals do themselves and recommend to guests because they know them well. We update the picks regularly to keep them fresh because things change quickly, especially in Vietnam.

One quick tip – timing your plans around the seasons is key. If you’re in Da Nang in June, hit the beaches early before the afternoon heat. Or try the street food stalls in Saigon after the evening rush, when locals pack the sidewalks. These details matter and you’ll only find them here with our local picks.
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A local's tip

If you’re in Hanoi, try visiting the Long Bien Bridge area early on a weekend morning. Most tourists miss this but it’s where locals gather to fish, practice Tai Chi, or just watch the Red River wake up. The air is fresher, and the light is softer for photos. Grab a cup of egg coffee from a nearby street stall and stroll along the railway tracks toward the old French quarter. This slice of everyday life gives a strong sense of the city beyond the main sights and feels like a genuine part of Hanoi’s rhythm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about our local picks in Vietnam.

Our Vietnam Local Expert team, people who live and work in Vietnam, hand-select each listing based on firsthand experience. They explore regularly and update the recommendations to keep them relevant.

No. We never include places just because they pay or for promotional reasons. Every suggestion comes from actual local insight, not from algorithms or advertising.

We review and refresh the recommendations several times a year. Vietnam changes fast and new things open up, so updating helps keep the picks useful and current.

You might see some spots mentioned generally, but the specific details and timing we share come from local knowledge that doesn’t always make it into standard guides.

While our picks cover a range of experiences, whether outdoors, cultural, or food-focused, they reflect what locals enjoy and recommend, so it’s best to match them with your interests and energy level.

Yes, our local experts come from or regularly visit various areas across Vietnam , from Hanoi down to the Mekong Delta , so the recommendations reflect a wide geographic spread.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (8666 places) When exploring Vietnam, don't miss out on the diverse City Tours available. Whether you prefer the bustling streets of Hanoi, the historic charm of Hoi An, or the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, there is a city tour for every taste. Discover hidden gems, local markets, and historical landmarks with… Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (7144 places) Vietnam has a surprising number of family-friendly things to do, even beyond the usual temples and markets. Kids usually love spending time at the Suoi Tien Amusement Park in Ho Chi Minh City, which blends cultural stories with rides and outdoor spaces. Hanoi’s Thu Le Zoo offers a chance for little ones to see some… Explore
Attractions & Tickets (6744 places) When it comes to Attractions & Tickets in Vietnam, the options are endless. From exploring ancient temples in Hanoi to cruising along the picturesque Ha Long Bay, there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out the vibrant night markets in Ho Chi Minh City for a taste of local culture and don't miss the… Explore
Cultural Tours (5508 places) Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam with a variety of Cultural Tours. From exploring ancient temples in Hanoi to experiencing traditional water puppet shows in Ho Chi Minh City, there is something for every traveler. Discover the vibrant street art scene in Hoi An or participate in a cooking… Explore
Heritage Sites (5424 places) When exploring Vietnam's Heritage Sites, be sure to visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, where you can pay respects to the founding father of the nation. Another must-see is the Ancient Town of Hoi An, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lantern-lit streets. Dive into the history of the… Explore
Historical Landmarks (5092 places) When visiting Vietnam, be sure to explore the Historical Landmarks that showcase the country's fascinating history and culture. From the ancient temples of Hanoi to the historic sites in Hue, there is so much to discover. Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter in Hanoi to learn about its French colonial architecture… Explore
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