Nine cultural attractions in Vietnam you don’t want to miss

Vietnam has rapidly evolved into one of the most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. The country is home to bustling and exciting cities and some of the most spellbinding countryside in the world. It’s also a country that boasts its own unique culture and cultural attractions.

If you want to indulge in a personalised tour of the region, then check out these cultural attractions in Vietnam so you don’t miss a thing.

1. Discover the 4000-year-old history of Vietnam in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam and is also one of the country’s oldest cities, with a history that spans some 4000 years. Approximately 1000 years ago the city was under Chinese rule. Hanoi has also been ruled by the French and the Japanese in more recent times, so there is a mixed culture for visitors to enjoy. Take a tour of Hanoi and discover more about the city and nation’s culture under the guidance of a cultural scholar, where you’ll visit historic attractions like Ba Dinh Square and the Temple of Literature, built during the time of emperor Lý Thánh Tông.

2. Explore ancient and modern landmarks in Ho Chi Minh city

Formerly Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is another of Vietnam’s major metropolises and is a bustling city steeped in the country’s history. A guided tour of the city will see you visiting landmarks like the colourful Saigon Central Post Office, constructed in the 19th century during the French Indochina era. You will also venture down Dong Khoi Street, now one of the major shopping precincts and brimming with trendy cafes and restaurants. The famous street also takes you to the Notre Dame Cathedral, with its red brick walls and striking architecture.

3. Cruise along the Mekong Delta

Take a river cruise along the Mekong Delta. The journey provides you with the perfect opportunity to get a glimpse of what life is like for everyday Vietnamese people. You’ll have stop-offs along the way to discover how locals press the milk from coconuts by hand, experience what goes on inside a small brick workshop, and also discover the rural methods of Vietnamese farming and fishing.

4. Learn traditional Vietnamese cooking techniques

Hanoi is famous the world over for its delicious local cuisine, food which is rated as some of the healthiest on the planet. You can become the next master chef when you are tutored by the local culinary master, Chef Ai. You’ll learn to make a traditional North Vietnamese Chicken Salad, Banh Cuon Steamed Rice Rolls, Mongolian Lamb, and more.

5.Visit Ben Nom fishing village

Ben Nom is a 200-year-old fishing village northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. In Ben Nom, you’ll discover a very unique way of Vietnamese fishing. The village is located on the banks of a vast lake teeming with fish. Fishing nets spread out in the shape of a V are attached to the front of the fishing boats and give the vessels a fish-like shape. The nets are lowered into the water to scoop up the fish.

6. How do Vietnamese people make delicious fish sauce?

That’s something you can discover on your journey into the heart of Vietnam, embracing its culture and meeting its people. Visit a fish sauce factory and learn how it’s done from the local experts. Duy Hai is a fishing village famous locally for its fish sauce and it’s the place to be to discover more about Vietnamese culture and flavours.

7. Travel the Saigon River

The Saigon River is 225km long and passes through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. You can take a thrilling speed boat tour along the river, enjoying the sights of the urban neighbourhoods and stunning countryside, as well as travelling through the underground Cu Chi Tunnels. These tunnels saw several military operations during the Vietnam War and were also the base of operations for the Viet Cong’s Tet Offensive in 1968.

8. Experience rural Vietnamese life

To truly enjoy the Vietnamese way of life, visit a smaller village and spend time with the people there. Nom Village is located not too far from Hanoi, but offers a glimpse into a more rural existence. On an organised visit to Nom Village, your host will be the head of the village. You and your travelling party will enjoy a cup of local tea while learning all about Vietnamese village life.

9. The ancient town of Hoi An

Located on Vietnam’s central coast is the ancient town of Hoi An. The town is a melting pot of local history and a guided walking tour through this old town will have you visiting historic landmarks like wooden Chinese shophouses, Chinese temples, colourful buildings from the French colonial era and the Japanese Covered Bridge.

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If you want to discover everything that Vietnam has to offer or a host of other exotic destinations around the Globe, SevenTravel will help make your holiday dreams come true. We specialise in personalised holiday packages where you get to travel in style and do it your way. Whether it’s a holiday with family or friends, a special occasion or you and your partner are planning your honeymoon, SevenTravel can make it happen. Get in touch today to plan your dream holiday for tomorrow.