A land of breathtaking contrasts, Vietnam is where lush rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, and dramatic limestone karsts rise majestically from emerald waters. From the winding rivers of the Mekong Delta to the rugged peaks of the northern highlands, this ancient kingdom’s landscape tells a story of resilience and beauty.
In the bustling cities, life pulses with an unyielding energy; the streets are a vibrant blur of motorbikes, and traditional markets teem with enticing aromas of street food. Yet, not far from the clamour, there are pockets of tranquillity—ancient temples where incense smoke curls in the stillness, and serene beaches invite you to bask in the warmth of the golden sun, while soaking in panoramas of the South China Sea.
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Hanoi feels more traditional and historic, with French colonial architecture, ancient temples and a slower pace of life. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, is an economic hub characterised by skyscrapers, westernised entrepreneurs, a rapidly evolving city, and a boisterous nightlife.
If you’re thinking about travelling to Vietnam, you have no excuse because several affordable flights depart Changi Airport daily for Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Vietnam beckons one and all to experience its tangible tapestry of culture that is woven from a thousand threads, from the legacy of glorious dynasties and lingering French colonial influences to the vibrant traditions of over 50 ethnic groups.
Things to do in Hanoi
The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is where tradition and modernity coexist in a delicate, captivating dance. Imagine narrow streets teeming with life, where every turn reveals a new story—from the rhythmic clatter of motorbikes weaving through traffic to the scent of fresh herbs and sizzling street food drifting from bustling vendors.
The Old Quarter is the heart and soul of the city, a maze of 36 ancient streets, each named after the goods that were once traded there. Amid the cacophony of bicycle bells, chatter of shopkeepers and music from street performances, time seems to slow down just enough for you to savour a steaming bowl of pho at a tiny street-side stall, or to sip a rich Vietnamese coffee while watching the world go by.
Catch sunrise at Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals practise tai chi beside calming waters, and sculptures tell tales of turtle gods and brave warriors. Then take a stroll to the French Quarter, where broad boulevards and elegant buildings whisper of a bygone era. Nearby, the stoic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum speaks to the country's more recent history.
As you soak in Hanoi’s layers upon layers of history, you’ll witness locals putting on water puppet shows, and plying intricate paintings and lacquerware. After a long day of exploring vivacious Hanoi, you can take your pick from a bevy of mouth-watering restaurants, and hidden cafes that transform into speakeasies come nightfall.
Hanoi is highly walkable, especially the area around the Hoan Kiem Lake. Taxis are very affordable, and their rickshaws or cyclos (traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxis) even more so.
1. The Old Quarter
Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where each lane has its own character and charm.
This historic enclave, with its French colonial architecture and ancient temples, offers a sensory feast that beautifully contrasts its rich past with the dynamic energy of modern Vietnam.
An enchanting labyrinth of narrow alleys will lead you to traditional shophouses, markets, cafes and street vendors selling everything from handmade homeware to elegant apparel.
Tuck into authentic Vietnamese fare, then take your pick from high-quality silk products, traditional clothes, and souvenirs on Hang Gai Street and Dong Xuan Market.
How to get there: Taking a taxi from anywhere in the city centre to the Old Quarter will cost you just 50,000 Dong, which is less than USD3.
2. Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
This iconic lake in the heart of Hanoi is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
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Visit the Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, connected by the striking red Huc Bridge. This temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, a revered figure in Vietnamese history, as well as other legendary heroes.
In the middle of the lake is the Turtle Tower, which is dedicated to the turtle deity. If you visit on the weekend, Hoan Kiem has a pop-up market that sells food and souvenirs.
How to get there: Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the Old Quarter and is accessible by bus, taxi and by foot.
3. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, where the embalmed body of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader lies in state.
Nearby, the Presidential Palace is a grand, French colonial-style building that serves as a key historical and cultural landmark in the city.
The interior of the Presidential Palace itself is not open to the public, but you can walk around its surrounding area and admire its historical landmarks.
Just behind the Presidential Palace, for example, you can explore the simple stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked from 1958 until his death in 1969. The house is preserved as it was, showcasing his modest lifestyle, with original furnishings, books, and personal items.
How to get there: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace are situated beside the West Lake and Old Quarter. Likewise, a taxi ride from anywhere in the city centre will cost you just a few dollars.
4. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
For soemthing culturally immersive, catch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This unique art form, originating from the rice paddies of northern Vietnam, uses water as a stage for intricately crafted puppets.
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis within your ticket category, so arriving early will help you get the best seats available. Shows can sell out, especially during weekends and holidays, so it's recommended to book tickets ahead of time.
A ticket to a 45-minute show costs 100,000 to 200,000 Dong, which is between S$5 to S$10.
Shows are in Vietnamese, but the expressive storytelling of these puppet shows transcends language barriers.
How to get there: You can walk or taxi to this theatre, which is located beside Hoan Kiem Lake, at the northern bank beside Ngoc Son Temple.
5. Hoa Lo Prison
For an immersive experience of Vietnamese history, visit the Hoa Lo Prison, which provides a sobering look at the country's darker days.
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Constructed by the French colonial government in 1896, Hoa Lo Prison was originally used to detain Vietnamese political prisoners, revolutionaries, and dissidents fighting for independence from French rule. The prison's name, "Hoa Lo," translates to "fiery furnace" or "hell hole," a reference to the street on which it was built, which was known for its pottery kilns.
To gain a deeper understanding of the prison’s history, consider joining a guided tour. Some tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights beyond the written displays.
How to get there: Hoa Lo Prison is midway between Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Train Station, so it’s easy to walk there or cab there from anywhere in the city centre.
6. Dong Xuan Market
Dive into the chaotic energy of Dong Xuan Market, the largest market in Hanoi. It’s a great place to experience the local lifestyle, buy souvenirs, and sample more street food.
Besides savouring local delicacies like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) and egg coffee, you’ll also love browsing fragrant local produce and intricate traditional garments here.
Take your time to explore this huge market, but be sure to keep your valuables secure, especially on the weekends and during peak hours when Dong Xuan Market gets extra crowded.
How to get there: Dong Xuan Market is located in the Old Quarter.
7. Train Street
A trip to Hanoi isn’t complete without a visit to the famous Train Street, a residential neighbourhood where you can enjoy coffee and take beautiful photos as trains whizz by.
Trains pass twice daily, close to buildings on either side of the tracks. When the train bell rings, shop owners often use loudspeakers or blow whistles to warn tourists to move away from the tracks.
In recent years, there have been some restrictions on access to Train Street due to safety concerns, especially during busy periods. While you can still visit, access might be controlled, and entering is often only allowed if you are visiting one of the cafés.
Train Street can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist hours. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting earlier in the morning or on a weekday, and please stay safe and be on the lookout for trains.
How to get there: Train Street stretches through Hanoi’s city centre and Old Quarter, so it’s easy to walk to Train Street from anywhere in the city. It is a short distance from Hoan Kiem Lake and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
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Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The beating heart of southern Vietnam is a vibrant symphony of sights, sounds and sensations. From the moment you arrive in Ho Chi Minh, the city envelops you in its relentless energy. Gleaming new skyscrapers rise beside crumbling colonial villas, and neon lights flicker above ancient pagodas. Vendors hawk their wares at every corner, selling everything from freshly plucked fruit and flowers to freshly toasted bahn mi.
Saigon, as the city is still affectionately known, is a place where history is never far from the surface. Wander through the French Quarter, where tree-lined boulevards and grand architecture evoke echoes of a colonial past, or visit the Reunification Palace, a symbol of the tumultuous years that shaped the nation.
The War Remnants Museum draws attention to the city's not-so-distant struggles, while vibrant Ben Thanh Market showcases the savoir-faire and intricate handiwork of local artisans and chefs. Many of this energetic city’s main attractions are located in the central district, called “District 1”.
End your day with a sunset dinner cruise down the Mekong River, or in a gregarious rooftop bar that will afford you an unforgettable view of one of Asia’s fastest developing cities.
1. Ben Thanh Market
One of the city's best known landmarks, Ben Thanh Market is a bustling hub where you can shop for local art, textiles, souvenirs, and fresh produce. It’s also a great spot to try local street food like spring rolls and fresh fruit juices, and practise your bargaining skills. Prices at the market are often inflated for tourists, so bargaining is expected. Be friendly and polite while negotiating to get the best deals.
Take a stroll through stalls selling a variety of items, including traditional ao dai (Vietnamese dresses), T-shirts, scarves, silk products, paintings and trinkets. Many vendors also offer custom tailoring services for the garments that they sell.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love the variety of fruit snacks sold here that have been preserved in sugar.
How to get there: A stone’s throw from the river, Ben Thanh Market is walkable from picturesque attractions like Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office and the War Remnants Museum. You can also take a bus, taxi or ride hailing service to this market.
2. War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a poignant look into the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, with exhibits that include photographs, artefacts and military equipment. It’s a sobering experience but essential for understanding the country’s history.
The museum features dioramas and reconstructions of key battle scenes, including the My Lai Massacre and the Tet Offensive. Learn about the long-lasting effects of Agent Orange, then hear personal stories and testimonies from survivors of the war.
The museum provides English-language explanations for many exhibits, but you may also consider renting an audio guide for a more detailed understanding.
How to get there: The War Remnants Museum is walkable from the Reunification Palace.
3. Reunification Palace
Step back in time at the Reunification Palace, the site of the official end of the Vietnam War in 1975 when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates.
The building is preserved almost exactly as it was in the 1970s, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s political history.
Visitors can explore the palace on their own, by following information plaques and signs in both Vietnamese and English providing details about the various areas, such as the main hall, President’s Office, war rooms and private quarters.
For a more in-depth experience, consider joining a guided tour, as guides provide historical context and detailed explanations about the palace’s significance.
How to get there: We recommend walking or booking a taxi or ride hailing service to this palace located in the city centre.
4. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Saigon Central Post Office
Built by the French between 1877 and 1883, this neo-Romanesque red brick structure was inspired by Paris’s Notre Dame, and features rounded arches and twin bell towers made from materials imported from France.
Inside, the cathedral features a spacious main sanctuary with high vaulted ceilings and a series of stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible. The interior is adorned with decorative elements including wooden pews and a marble altar.
The cathedral houses several statues, including a notable statue of the Virgin Mary located in front of the cathedral. The statue, often referred to as the "Virgin Mary Statue," is a popular site for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Nearby, the Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is another stunning example of colonial-era design.
Take a picture in front of its famous arched entrance and ironwork facade, which is adorned with ornate details, large clock faces and decorative columns.
How to get there: These landmarks too are located in District 1, within walking distance from the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum.
5. Book a river cruise or motorbike tour
For a different perspective of the city, embark on a dinner cruise along the Saigon River. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline and enjoy a meal while floating past illuminated buildings.
These cruises take place on the Saigon River, which flows through Ho Chi Minh City and extends out towards the Mekong Delta.
There are various types of river cruises available, ranging from short scenic tours to more elaborate sunset cruises. Some cruises also include entertainment, such as traditional music or dance performances.
To truly experience the city like a local, hop on a motorbike and take a guided tour. It’s one of the best ways to navigate through the busy streets, explore hidden alleys, and see the city’s sights from a unique perspective.
Take your pick from food tours, cultural tours, countryside tours and city highlight tours, conducted by knowledgeable local guides who ensure safe and informative experiences.
How to book: A variety of these cruises and tours can be found online, or through the many tour companies that can be across the city.
6. Cu Chi Tunnels
Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You can crawl through the tunnels and even try your hand at shooting an AK-47.
Located about 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this popular day-trip destination was once a base of operations for the Viet Cong, providing shelter, storage and facilities for living, fighting and conducting guerrilla warfare. They were crucial in supporting the Viet Cong’s tactics of ambushes and hit-and-run attacks.
Only some parts of its 250km network are open to the public. As you explore them, you’ll discover the myriad of booby traps that the slender Viet Cong set, which caught and killed their much larger-sized enemies.
Not everyone can fit in these narrow tunnels, and if you plan to crawl through them, wear long pants to protect your knees.
How to get there: You can take a public bus or rent a motorbike or scooter to get to these tunnels, but we recommend booking a guided tour through Klook, Viator or a local tour company.
7. Rooftop bars and nightlife
Experience the city's nightlife from one of its many rooftop bars. Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar, Chill Skybar, and Broma: Not A Bar offer panoramic views of the city’s glittering skyline, making them perfect spots to unwind with a drink in hand.
Bitexco Financial Tower Sky Deck is a great choice too. Whether you’re into sightseeing or photography, you’ll love the 360-degree views of Ho Chi Minh City from this 190m-tall sky deck. The Sky Deck is located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower.
If you’d like some supper after tipples, you’ll be glad to know that many restaurants along and around the Đ. Trần Hưng Đạo main street stay open till late.
How to get there: Most of these bars are located near the river and in the city centre, so if you book a taxi or ride hailing service, you’ll arrive within a few minutes. Bitexco Financial Tower is located by the river near Công Ty Tnhh Invi Bridge.
So, if you like sleepy lakes, misty winters, and lantern-lit streets steeped in history, Hanoi will be your cup of tea. Ho Chi Minh City, in contrast, pulses with an electric energy and is the best place to witness the rapid advancement of Asian cuisine, culture and entertainment.
Whether you’re drifting through the spellbinding seascape of Ha Long Bay, exploring the ancient town of Hoi An with its lantern-lit nights, or trekking through the terraced hills of Sapa, Vietnam invites you to see, taste, and feel the essence of a place that is as complex as it is captivating.
If you can’t get enough of Vietnam, you’ll be delighted to know that you can also ride a luxury train through Vietnam to see a different side of this eclectic country. One of the best ways of experiencing the diversity of Vietnam is by eating your way through the country: Here’s a comprehensive guide to Vietnamese cuisine. And if you are a nature lover or an avid outdoors person, these are the best cave adventures that you can enjoy in Vietnam.
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