Vietnam Culture
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.
The best places to visit in Vietnam Culture
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Vietnam Culture itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Vietnam Culture itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.















