One of the best ways to explore the Mekong Delta is by bicycle, meandering through lush orchards, rice paddies, and riverside villages. Cycling allows travelers to experience the region’s daily life up close, from farmers tending their fields to locals selling fruit from boats at floating markets. A typical route might include stops at coconut candy workshops, traditional brick kilns, and family-run homestays where visitors can learn to cook Mekong specialties. The delta’s flat terrain makes cycling easy, even for beginners. For a truly immersive experience, combine cycling with a boat trip through the region’s intricate network of waterways.
Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its many traditional craft villages, where artisans have preserved their skills for generations. Bat Trang, near Hanoi, is famous for its exquisite ceramics and pottery, with workshops allowing visitors to try their hand at making their own pieces. In Hoi An, Kim Bong carpentry village is known for its intricate woodwork, while Thanh Ha pottery village produces beautiful terracotta sculptures. The silk-weaving village of Van Phuc showcases the artistry behind Vietnam’s finest silk garments. These villages not only offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s craftsmanship but also provide unique souvenirs that carry a piece of the country’s history and culture.
Water puppetry (múa rối nước) is one of Vietnam’s most fascinating traditional art forms, dating back to the 11th century. Originating in the rice fields of northern Vietnam, this unique performance involves wooden puppets moving over water, controlled by hidden puppeteers behind a bamboo screen. Accompanied by live traditional music, the shows depict scenes from rural life, historical legends, and folk tales. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is one of the best places to experience this captivating art form. Performances showcase mythical dragons, farmers harvesting rice, and humorous interactions between villagers. Water puppetry is an enchanting experience that highlights Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history and cultural heritage. The highlight of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and gates that once housed the Nguyen Dynasty. Walking through its ancient corridors, you can imagine the grandeur of Vietnam’s last emperors. The city is also home to the majestic royal tombs, each uniquely designed to reflect the personality of the ruler it commemorates. The Tomb of Khai Dinh, with its intricate blend of Vietnamese and European architecture, is particularly striking. For a scenic experience, take a boat cruise along the Perfume River, stopping at historic sites such as Thien Mu Pagoda. Hue’s cuisine is another reason to visit, with specialties like bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and banh beo (steamed rice cakes).
Vietnam is home to some of the most spectacular caves in the world, making it a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO-listed site, is the heart of Vietnam’s caving scene, featuring a vast network of underground wonders. The most famous is Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave, which boasts its own jungle, river, and weather system inside. Only a limited number of adventurers are allowed to explore it each year, making it a bucket-list experience. Hang En, another remarkable cave, features a massive entrance and a pristine underground river, while Paradise Cave lives up to its name with stunning stalactites and stalagmites stretching over 31 kilometers. For those looking for a more accessible experience, the Tu Lan Cave System offers a mix of trekking, swimming, and spelunking in breathtaking limestone formations.
