5 offbeat things to do in Vietnam for first-time travellers
Vietnam is a land of surprises and why not! As wonderful as the well-known places are, some of the highlights occur when you choose the path less traveled. Past the crowded cities and well-trodden tourist destinations is a different Vietnam that's quiet, untamed, and brimming with local character.
If you're eager to see something different, these 5 offbeat experiences in Vietnam await.
Ride the
Ha Giang Loop
If you love road trips and stunning views, the Ha Giang Loop in northern Vietnam is a must-visit. It's a motorcycle route that takes you through dramatic mountains, deep valleys, and small villages. The roads twist and turn a lot, so it's not the easiest ride, but the views are worth it. You'll pass rivers, rice terraces, and kids waving at you along the way.
It's the best way to see Vietnam's offbeat side.
Visit
Mai Chau
or Pù Luông
Need a break from busy cities? Just a few hours from Hanoi, Mai Chau and nearby Pù Luông are quiet countryside escapes. Here, you'll find green rice fields, wooden stilt houses, and friendly locals. It's perfect for slow travel, so go for a walk, relax by a stream, or enjoy home-cooked meals in a local homestay. Compared to tourist-heavy places like Sapa, this area is less crowded and feels more peaceful.
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Explore Hidden Caves in
Phong Nha National Park
Phong Nha is known for Sơn Đoòng, the world's biggest cave, but that's just the beginning. This area is packed with amazing caves and underground rivers waiting to be explored. Some caves, like Paradise Cave or Hang Tối (Dark Cave), are easy to visit and incredibly beautiful. Others are deep in the jungle and need a guide to reach them. Whether you're floating in a cave river or hiking through the forest, Phong Nha feels like a real adventure movie.
Join a Cooking Class
Love Vietnamese food? Why not learn how to make it yourself! Cooking classes are a fun way to understand the culture. Most classes start with a visit to the local market to buy fresh ingredients. Then you'll learn how to make dishes like phở (noodle soup), spring rolls, or bánh xèo (crispy pancakes). It's hands-on, tasty, and a great way to meet other travelers. Plus, you get to eat everything you make!
Experience the
Mekong Delta
Down in southern Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a maze of rivers, canals, and floating villages.
Life here moves slowly and peacefully. You can take a boat ride, visit floating markets, try tropical fruits straight from the tree, and sleep in a riverside homestay. Waking up to the sound of boats passing by and birds singing is a simple joy that you won't forget. It's a different world, quiet, colorful, and full of local charm.
Offbeat travel in Vietnam isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it's about finding deeper connections and unforgettable stories. These lesser-known places may not be on every tourist map, but they're full of soul, adventure, and natural beauty. So next time you're in Vietnam, take the scenic route.
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