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Audley Travel specialist Alex

Written by Alex
Southeast Asia Specialist

Vietnam is popular for many reasons: majestic scenery, a history dating back thousands of years, the charm and friendliness of its people and wonderful cuisine. As well as numerous interesting places to explore there is also plenty to do. Our Vietnam specialists explore some of the more unusual activities that will make your trip to Vietnam a truly memorable one.

In Hoi An you can try your hand in a traditional basket boat which are still used for fishing
In Hoi An you can try your hand in a traditional basket boat which are still used for fishing

Home to stunning vistas, buzzing cities, delicious cuisine and an abundance of fascinating and colourful hilltribes, Vietnam is a country packed full of wonderful experiences.

Our specialists’ extensive, first-hand knowledge and our 18 years of experience helps Audley travellers explore this country in the most authentic and exciting of ways. And as we know all too well some of the best moments often come from seeing a well-known place from a different perspective or venturing a little off the beaten track.

Take an evening Vespa tour of Ho Chi Minh City

Hanoi, VietnamExploring Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a Vespa after dark cannot be beaten. Visiting cafés and sampling delicious food sat among the city’s friendly locals, you can discover a lifestyle impossible to see on the normal tourist trail.

The trip really gives you a taste of life as a Ho Chi Minh City resident, with a snapshot of how food, music and socialising make up the fabric of the city.

Find out more about our 'Vespa tour of Ho Chi Minh City' excursion

Meet the hill tribes in Mu Cang Chai

Mu Cang Chai, northern VietnamMost people take a train into the far north of Vietnam, but the road less travelled gives you the opportunity to take in the dramatic scenery and meet the hilltribes that call it home. Luscious green rice terraces dominate the landscape as you meander along the mountain sides on this scenic drive.

Stopping off en route to meet the H’mong people (one of several hilltribes in Mù Cang Chài) is a really humbling experience — they are just as intrigued to meet you as you are them.

Find out more about our 'Mu Cang Chai' excursion

Fishing with the locals in Hoi An

Fisherman, Hoi AnThe Hoi An fisherman experience supports the local community and combines fun, adventure and history in one. Heading out in a traditional boat to fish the local waters, you learn about the impact of the Vietnam War on this area and navigate channels between coconut water palms.

The fishermen’s enthusiasm is infectious, and it is a great way to see the local community up close.

Find out more about our 'Hoi An fisherman experience'

A street food tour with the experts

Street food, VietnamA great way to explore Hanoi is to enjoy a street food tour with local food bloggers Vang or Mark. Wander through the narrow alleyways of the atmospheric old quarter and bustling markets, sampling many Vietnamese dishes en route.

Exploring on foot you get to absorb the sights and smells of the city and finish by enjoying a steaming bowl of pho soup with the locals — the best way to start the day.

Find out more about our 'Hanoi street food tour'

Browse our itinerary ideas for Vietnam

  • Hmong girl with water buffalo, Coc Ly market, Bac Ha

    Vietnam adventure tour

    17 days from £4,745pp

    Indulge your adventurous side and explore a number of Vietnam's scenic highlights, including Mu Cang Chai and the incredible caves of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, with time in the more well-known towns of Hue and Hoi An.

  • Bai Sao Beach, Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

    Highlights of Vietnam

    16 days from £5,235pp

    A great trip for the first-time visitor to Vietnam, taking in all the major highlights with an island beach break at the end of the trip.

  • West Lake, Hanoi

    Classic Vietnam tour

    19 days from £5,730pp

    This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Vietnam, using short flights and overland travel to take in all the highlights. In the north you visit the capital Hanoi, the Tonkinese Alps and Halong Bay before flying down to the centre and visiting Hue and Hoi An. A short flight takes you to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta at the end of your trip.

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