Vietnam Culture

Vietnam

With a history of colonial rule and over 54 distinct ethnic groups, the cultural makeup of Vietnam is fascinating. From food culture to family culture, there is so much to discover by immersing yourself in the way of life of the Vietnamese.

In Vietnam's cities and towns, you'll quickly get a feel for modern-day Vietnam by finding a streetside cafe or restaurant, ordering the most popular thing on the menu, and spending a good few hours people-watching. In more rural areas, there is no better way to understand Vietnam's unique cultural diversity than staying in a homestay. Hiking between the various ethnic minority villages of Sapa, Mai Chau, or Ha Giang might just be the highlight of your trip.

Traveling north to south, spending time in various destinations in Vietnam, is the best way to understand this diverse country.

Vietnam Culture
Destinations

Vietnam Highlights

A curated look at the best Vietnam has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Hoi An

Hoi An

If ever Vietnam had its own storybook town, it would be Hoi An. It’s a rare traveler who fails to be taken in by Hoi An’s rich history and enchanted by its shimmering lanterns.

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Mai Chau

Mai Chau

A few hours southwest of Hanoi, through picturesque farming towns and over epic mountain passes, is the verdant valley of Mai Chau. Home to the ethnic White and Black Thai people, who arrived in Vietnam from southern China as early as the 13th century, the area is rich in culture and one of the best places to experience Vietnamese hospitality. Book yourself into a homestay in a traditional stilt house, enjoy home-cooked feasts of fresh, local produce and be utterly charmed by this beautiful rural area.

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Ha Giang

Ha Giang

Ha Giang province is in the northernmost part of Vietnam and shares a border with China. This is a destination for adventurous travelers who want to see authentic Vietnamese culture, virtually untouched by tourism. It’s a protected area, and guests need to get a special pass to enter its borders. Visitors who make it this far will be rewarded with some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Vietnam.

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Vinh Long

Vinh Long

Located on the southern side of the Mekong River, Vinh Long is a sprawling city with a population of over 150,000 people. Vinh Long is etched with waterways and inhabitants get around mostly by boat, making this the perfect place to start exploring the watery world of the Mekong Delta.

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Dalat

Dalat

Because of its remote location, the “honeymoon capital” of Vietnam is often overlooked by international travelers. Although it has changed greatly from the days when it was a French settlement, Dalat’s countryside charm and romantic atmosphere endure — Dalat is known for its abundant and colorful flowers, and December to February is the best time to see the city in bloom. Nature lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice with excellent hiking, picturesque lakes, and splendid waterfalls all within easy reach.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Vietnam Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Vietnam itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

8 days | $$$

Action & Relaxin’ in Vietnam

Explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, and Vung Tau. Tour the Mekong, learn about Ho Chi Minh City’s French ties; then, relax on a sun soaked beach. #PerfectVacation

 Action & Relaxin’ in Vietnam
14 days | $$$

This Vacation Will Be Legendary!

This is the ‘see it all’ trip that you and your friends have been craving. Travel across Vietnam as you explore sights, cuisine, and awesome adventures. This vacation, go big!

This Vacation Will Be Legendary!
10 days | $$$

Action & Adventure in Vietnam

Adventure and excitement await you and your family when you indulge in an active trip across Vietnam. Perfect for older children and teens, take your family off the beaten path.

Action & Adventure in Vietnam
15 days | $$$

My Journey, My Way in Vietnam

This luxurious solo getaway features stunning accommodations in cities and the countryside. A variety of curated private activities let you experience Vietnam in greater detail.

My Journey, My Way in Vietnam
17 days | $$$

Our Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure

Return home as an expert of Vietnam after taking your family on this incredible journey, exploring all of the nation’s highlights. Don't worry, you'll still have time to relax!

Our Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure
8 days | $$$

C'Mon My Love, We're Headed North!

Northern Vietnam offers incredible landscapes towards the border of China, and a variety of awesome adventures. Sample the cuisine and the culture on this Signature Trip.

C'Mon My Love, We're Headed North!
8 days | $$$

We MUST See...Vietnam Together

From Halong Bay by seaplane to Saigon at night by Vespa, you’re going on a grand tour of Northern Vietnam. Share great meals and great times with your favorite travel companion.

We MUST See...Vietnam Together
8 days | $$$

3 Cities in Vietnam, and My Love

Explore the cuisines and cultures of Vietnam’s most influential cities on this whirlwind tour of North, Central, and South Vietnam. Enjoy exciting activities and stunning scenery.

3 Cities in Vietnam, and My Love
8 days | $$$

Our Family Week in Vietnam

You and your family are in for an eventful week when you go on a grand tour of Vietnam. It's perfect for families on a tight schedule, without making you feel pressed for time.

Our Family Week in Vietnam
7 days | $$$

Our Big Adventure in Vietnam

You and your best mates are going on a grand excursion of Northern Vietnam. Enjoy the nation’s diverse activities and landscapes; highlights include Mai Chau’s ecolodge and Sapa.

Our Big Adventure in Vietnam
Anywhere mission
Anywhere Vietnam

Insider-led Vietnam Design & Concierge

Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.

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Private drivers; English-speaking available.

Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.

Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.

24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.

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Real Voices, Real Benefits

We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.

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