10 Bucket List activities in Vietnam with VMF Holidays

10 Oct 2025
10 Bucket List activities in Vietnam with VMF Holidays
Posted by: VMF HOLIDAYS

Introduction

Vietnam is a tapestry of dramatic landscapes, ancient towns, and mouth-watering cuisine. With VMF Holidays, you can check off these must-do experiences in one seamless, immersive journey. From heart-pounding caves to tranquil river rides, this itinerary blends adventure with cultural immersion for a truly memorable escape.

Caving in Phong Nha

  • Why go: Home to some of Asia’s most spectacular caves, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO-listed wonderland of karst formations.

  • Highlights: Hang Son Doong (requires special permits), Hang En overnight trek, Paradise Cave, dark adventure caves for seasoned cavers.


Lantern Boat Ride in Hoi An

  • Why go: A magical, photographer’s dream as the lantern-lit river glides by ancient houses and low-slung bridges.

  • Highlights: Riverside strolls, Traditional boat rides, crisp riverside cuisine, the glow of hundreds of lanterns after dusk.


Chi Chi Tunnels

  • Why go: A sobering glimpse into wartime ingenuity and resilience that shaped a nation.

  • Highlights: Underground networks, traps and weapons displays, multimedia exhibits.


Trang An River Boat (Ninh Binh)

  • Why go: Limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald rivers in a peaceful, float-first landscape.

  • Highlights: Scenic boat routes through caves, temples perched on cliffs, idyllic rural villages.


Bana Hills

  • Why go: A cool, alpine-like escape with French-inspired architecture and a dramatic Golden Bridge.

  • Highlights: Cable car ride, the Golden Bridge, the French Village, Linh Ung Pagoda, and panoramic mountain views.


Sapa’s Rice Terraces

  • Why go: Trek through emerald rice terraces and hill-tribe cultures set against misty mountain scenery.

  • Highlights: Muong Hoa Valley treks, Fansipan cable car, ethnic markets, and village homestays.


Phu Quoc Island

  • Why go: A tropical paradise of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs.

  • Highlights: Snorkeling, sunset cruising, pepper farms, and relaxed island vibes.


Tam Coc

  • Why go: Often called “Halong Bay on land,” with emerald waterways and dramatic limestone scenery.

  • Highlights: Boat rides through narrow caves, bicycles along paddy fields, climbing viewpoints.


Basket Boat Ride

  • Why go: A playful, iconic Vietnamese experience paddled in round bamboo baskets along rivers and canals.

  • Highlights: Sunset paddle sessions, village visits, and hands-on basket-boat demonstrations.


Hanoi Train Street

  • Why go: A remarkable slice of urban life where trains rumble through a narrow, bustling neighborhood.

  • Highlights: Early-morning or late-afternoon walks, cafe culture, street photography.


Why VMF Holidays

  • Seamless planning: A single itinerary that stitches these experiences into logical routes, minimizing backtracking.

  • Local expertise: Guides who bring history, culture, and practical tips to life.

  • Flexible pacing: Options for adventure-focused days or relaxed days with plenty of downtime.