Trip to Vietnam and Unexpected Experiences you might have

Looking for an authentic trip to Vietnam, away from the usual tourist spots? This fascinating country never ceases to amaze, not only with its spectacular landscapes and delicious cuisine, but also with countless small, funny, and unexpected moments that fill each day. For lovers of surprises and real emotions, here are some typical experiences you won’t forget anytime soon.

Following a classic Vietnam itinerary, this article showcases amusing sights and humorous situations you might encounter while traveling in Vietnam.

The First Days in Hanoi (2 Days)

As the millennial capital and often the first stop on a trip to Vietnam, Hanoi welcomes its visitors with vibrant energy and warm hospitality. After several hours of flight, arriving in this city of contrasts is a sensory shock... but a good one!

Honking and Motorbikes: The Soundtrack of Hanoi

The traffic in Hanoi is an art in itself. Waves of scooters weave in and out, brushing past each other without (almost) ever colliding. This apparent chaos is actually a well-organized navigation system, where the horn becomes a true street language. Horns are used to warn, thank, greet, or simply...show existence!

At first, this may seem deafening. But soon, this Vietnamese urban symphony becomes familiar, accompanying every stroll through the lively alleys of the old town, where you walk on narrow sidewalks, sometimes on the street, dodging the small red stools of street vendors.

Whether you explore with a local English-speaking guide from a specialized travel agency in Vietnam or venture out on your own, Hanoi welcomes you from the outset with its vibrant atmosphere brimming with sounds and smiles.

Sleeping people everywhere, and the effort for coffee

Walking the streets during a short stay in Hanoi, you will be surprised by how the Vietnamese manage to rest amidst the urban hustle. In the middle of the day, it's not unusual to come across a moto-taxi driver deeply asleep on their motorbike, a driver stretched out on a public bench, or a worker peacefully lounging in a hammock stretched under a scaffold.

This “nap culture” in Vietnam is deeply ingrained and speaks to a laid-back life philosophy that contrasts with the fast pace of big cities. It’s an invitation to slow down, observe, and live in the present moment—even amidst Hanoi's bustling energy.

In Hanoi, it’s impossible not to give in to the call of traditional Vietnamese coffee. Strolling through the small alleys of the old town, take a break on a small plastic stool at the corner of a lively sidewalk. This is where time slows down.

Delivered with a phin, a small metal filter that rests on the cup, the coffee drips slowly, evoking a near-religious experience. After a short wait, the rich, dark, aromatic brew is ready to enjoy. This wait adds to its charm: it’s a moment of suspension, embodying a genuine Vietnamese ritual, far removed from everyday stress.

Enjoy the coffee as locals do, taking your time to savor it. Observe the lively street scene around you, filled with street vendors, cheerful children, and distant horns.

Street Art, Temples, and Water Puppets: Hanoi Never Ceases to Surprise!

In addition to the amusing and heartwarming everyday scenes you'll find at every street corner, remember that with the assistance of a good local travel agency, you can plan your itinerary like an expert. One of the must-see places is Phung Hung Mural Street, where the arches of an old railway have been transformed into an open-air urban art gallery. It’s vibrant, creative, and perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos (yes, we've confirmed this).

Next? Explore the emblematic sites of Hanoi, of course. Head to the Temple of Literature, then walk through the Hanoi Old Quarter, where each street is named after its former trade (yes, the Coffin Street does exist). And to wrap it up, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, with a mandatory photo stop at the Ngoc Son Temple, sitting right in the middle like a cherry on a coconut flan.

And what if it starts to rain buckets? Don’t panic: head straight for the water puppet theater.

Experience a completely authentic Vietnamese water puppet show, enhanced by live music, drums, dancing dragons, and giant frogs. It’s an incredible way to explore Vietnamese culture! However, let's be honest: adults might occasionally find it challenging to stay awake until the end. On the other hand, the kids are in paradise! They might even say, “It’s better than a cartoon!” So, it’s definitely worth the 45-minute frog extravaganza.

Tam Coc (3 Days): Ducks, Rice Fields, and Acrobat Rower

After the joyful bustle of Hanoi, head south for an enchanting interlude in Tam Coc, also called the "Halong Bay on land." Here, forget about the traffic jams and horns (you’ll breathe easier), and instead, embrace the buffaloes, lotus flowers, and bucolic rides. While it gives a slower pace, Tam Coc can come with surprises!

Day 1: Rice Fields, Freewheeling, and Duck Farm

You can hire bicycles at your charming little hotel, and then off you go for an adventure! Pedaling with the wind in your hair, you will get lost in the green rice fields with flair. Three wrong turns, an encounter with some grumpy geese (they’ve been eyeing you), and you will magically end up... at Duck Farm Bar. Yes, as the name suggests, it’s a bar amidst the ducks. Not frozen ducks on a logo, no—real living ones, quacking just two meters from your seat. Sip on craft beer while a duckling tries to climb your stool to steal your peanuts. Spoiler: They can really steal your peanuts, no cap.

Day 2: Mystic Pagoda and Extreme Rowing

For Day 2, head for the Bich Dong Pagoda. Nestled into a limestone cliff, this pagoda makes you climb. There are three pagodas in this complex, including Ha Pagoda (Lower Pagoda), Trung Pagoda (Middle Pagoda), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper Pagoda). These pagodas are named based on their positions on the mountain, so yes, this is basically a little workout. Watch out for mosquitoes and  bring your water bottle.

After the visit, hop onto a boat for a ride through Tam Coc. The setting looks like something from an old painting. The water shimmers, cliffs surround you, and everything is calm... until the rower takes off their sandals and starts rowing with their feet. Yes, with their feet! Bet you've never seen that before. If you are confused, totally understandable.

Day 3: The 500 Steps of Glory

To wrap up your stay beautifully, climb the 500 steps of Hang Mua. You didn’t read it wrong. Five hundred! It’s a serious climb; your calves will squeak a little, and the kids (or you yourself) will whine, "There’s no escalator?!" But the view from the top is absolutely spectacular: a 360° panorama of rice fields, karst mountains, and the river below... and probably your sweat. But fear not! You can make stops during the climb whenever you need to, and don’t forget to breathe. Inhale, exhale, get some water, and continue to the top! There are two peaks, though. But you don’t necessarily conquer them both if you don’t want to.

Train or Plane to Get to Central Vietnam? Your Call!

From Ninh Binh, two options await to reach the Central Vietnam region:

Option 1: Take the night train at 9:49 PM, heading for Hue.

Option 2: Head back to Hanoi for a flight.

Budget? Pretty much the same. Experience? Well, that’s a different story...

Vietnam’s Night Train: A Suspenseful Movie (With Sound Effects Included)!

The famous Vietnam night train is quite the experience. Departing at 9:49 PM from Ninh Binh's station, aboard you will find soft sleeper cabins, pillows, blankets, and a collection of various noises: creaking, metallic clanks, slamming doors, snoring from your neighbor, and unintelligible announcements amplified by a speaker from the previous decade.

There are snacks on the train (but don’t expect a five-star buffet). When you wake up, grab a coffee or a spontaneous breakfast (instant noodles, Pho, fertilized duck eggs,...). You should really give it a try.

Price: about $40 per adult.

Travel time: 11h38 (but who really counts the minutes?).

A little warning: Taking the night train in Vietnam is a worthy experience, but only for those who are up for (or can at least tolerate) the gentle rocking of the tracks and a few jolts at 3 AM.

Hue, an Imperial Stopover (One Night)

Even if you have limited time, you can spend a night in Hue to explore its majestic ramparts, golden-roofed palaces, and the serene atmosphere that permeates the city. Once the capital of Vietnam for over a century, Hue offers countless attractions, especially for culture enthusiasts. However, since the pace of life here is quite slow, those who prefer a more energetic environment may find that one day and one night are sufficient to experience the city. 

Hoi An with Its Thousand Lanterns... and Nearly as Many Degrees!

After Hue, head to Hoi An, where you will spend four days wandering through charming alleys, floating lanterns, and enjoying the sun. Here’s your day-by-day itinerary:

Day 1: Old Town, Egg Coffee, and Back to the Pool

Your first impression of Hoi An may be about its temperature. It’s hot. Worry not; grab Grab (the local ride-hailing service, we did not stutter) to avoid melting on the way. And if you're in “organized tourist mode,” don’t worry—the air-conditioned car is included.

Head straight to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its temples, ancient wooden houses, and photo spots that scream “Instagram me!” A must-try: the egg coffee and coconut coffee—two icy delights that taste like they came straight from heaven (heaven as in “fridge”)

Noon arrives, and it’s time for the open-air sauna. No hesitation, straight to the hotel pool to hide away. Plunge—relief!

By 4 PM, when the asphalt stops melting, it’s time to head back to old town: stroll along the canals, visit the night market, marvel at the lanterns, and join the selfie crowd. Feels like stepping into a postcard (but with sweat).

Day 2: Culture, Heritage, and Réhahn on the Program

Head to the kiosks at the entrance of the Old Town to buy tickets for entry to the historic monuments. With tickets in hand, you will have access to:

• Tan Ky House, all made of wood, filled with memories from the past.
• The Fujian Sanctuary, with incense and dragons in the air.
• The Precious Heritage Museum by Réhahn, a French photographer who beautifully captures the ethnic diversity of Vietnam (and has an incredible knack for touching portraits).

In the evening, cherry on top: a 30-minute boat ride on the Thu Bon River, surrounded by floating lanterns. What a perfect way to end the day.

Day 3: Coconut Boat and Swimming (No Turquoise, but Plenty of Joy)

For Day 3, step out of the city center to explore the surroundings.

Morning: Embark on a basket boat ride, that famous round boat that spins in the coconut forests – guaranteed laughter. The boatman even tried a 360-degree spin.

Afternoon: Head to An Bang Beach, just 4 km away. So no, the water isn’t turquoise (we see you, Maldives), but the vibe is totally relaxed.

Dinner by the beach at sunset with the local fishermen... pure happiness.

Day 4: My Son, the Tropical Indiana Jones Version

For the last day, grab your sneakers and explorer hats: it’s time to visit the Cham Sanctuary of My Son. A mysterious archaeological site, enveloped in greenery, it’s a significant departure from city walks. A true favorite!

If you stay a little longer, make sure to take a look at the Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills (and its famous Golden Bridge), or the Cham Islands for a bit of tropical snorkeling.

During your stay in Hoi An, you can also witness "Hoi An Memories", a performance that recounts more than 400 years of the city's history. It’s an impressive show composed of 500 performers. It takes place every evening, except on Tuesdays.

Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta: The South in Beauty (4 Days)

The south of Vietnam, with Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, often marks the last stage of a journey in Vietnam, but not the least exciting!

Ho Chi Minh City: Skyscrapers and Street Food (2 Days)

Set aside at least two days to discover Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s economic capital. Between modern skyscrapers and colonial legacies, the city offers a striking contrast. But it’s mostly on the streets that the real atmosphere is found: step into the markets, sit down on a little plastic stool, and let your taste buds travel!

• Taste a crispy Bánh Mì bought from a street corner.
• Try a Chè Chuối, a typical dessert made with bananas, coconut milk, and tapioca pearls.
• Sample countless street food dishes that are both cheap, delicious, and... terribly addictive.

Ben Tre: Open Gates to the Mekong (1 Day)

From Ho Chi Minh City, head to Ben Tre, the gateway to the Mekong Delta. Here, everything revolves around water, coconut trees, and river life.

On your first day, embark on a traditional sampan boat ride on the branches of the Mekong River. You’ll discover:

• Coconut processing workshops, where coconuts are used for both cooking and crafting.
• Coconut plantations, abundant in the region.
• Coconut candies, to taste right there.
• Small canals lined with water palms, for a full immersion into the landscape.

Can Tho and the Phong Dien Floating Market (1 Day)

After Ben Tre, head to Can Tho, the capital of the Delta.

First stop: the colonial house where the movie "L’Amant" was filmed in 1992, a place full of history and charm. This is a typical Mekong Delta house, built in 1870 by the current owner’s grandfather.

Next, visit the Phong Dien floating market, best explored between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM. The boats line up like a parade, each specializing in a different product: onions, sweet potatoes, watermelons... You call a boat that quietly approaches, and the seller opens a dented old thermos to offer you two steaming cups of strong coffee. An unexpected breakfast, with your feet in the water... and your heart won over.

Travel to Vietnam with Authentik Vietnam

Do you dream of exploring Vietnam with peace of mind? Thanks to the personalized service from Authentik Vietnam, each stage of your journey becomes smooth and stress-free.

Flight to Vietnam: Comfort Guaranteed from the Start

To reach Vietnam, we recommend renowned airlines like Qatar Airways, offering quick layovers in Doha, one of the world’s most pleasant airports. If you’re traveling with a baby, we assist in booking a bassinet and seats at the front of the cabin directly with the airline.

With Authentik Vietnam, our consultants take care of everything: flight choice, early booking, special requests for children. All you have to do is pack your bags.

Getting Around Vietnam: Our Tailor-Made Solutions

Vietnam offers a variety of transport options, tailored to your itinerary, budget, and travel style. With Authentik Vietnam, we arrange all your transfers in advance for a seamless, comfortable trip.
Grab: The Essential Local App

We show you how to use Grab, the ultra-convenient app in Vietnam, ideal for getting around or having a meal delivered. Available throughout the country, we can install it for you as soon as you arrive.

Fast Domestic Flights

Vietnam is long and narrow: to save time, our consultants book the most efficient domestic flights at the best value. Example: approximately €100 per person, with all formalities handled by our team.

Night Train: The Experience to Live

For a local immersion, opt for the night train. Starting from $40 per person, you save on a hotel night while experiencing something typical. We book the best cabins for you and can even arrange a snack on board.

Private Transfers in Comfort

If you’re traveling with family or a small group, our private transfers are the ideal solution.

Examples of trips we often arrange: Hanoi – Tam Coc, Hue – Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre.

Best Addresses in Vietnam – Tested and Approved

Here’s a list of authentic restaurants and cafes, perfect for a local gourmet break, selected and tested by the experts at Authentik Vietnam:

In Hanoi:

• MET Vietnamese Restaurant: Casual ambiance, varied cuisine, great vegetarian options.
• Bancông Café: A hidden gem in the Old Quarter, perfect for brunch or relaxing between visits.

In Tam Coc:

• Chookie’s Beer Garden: Burgers, craft beers, kids’ area, organic farm, and even cooking classes on demand.
• Family Restaurant: Run by a lovely French-speaking manager, serving delicious Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices, facing the pier.

In Hoi An:

• Hoi An Cuisine Restaurant: Dishes prepared on the spot, authentic local atmosphere, service non-stop.
• Secret Garden: A peaceful haven in the heart of the old town, perfect for a romantic dinner in a lush garden.

Plan Your Trip with Zero Worries

At Authentik Vietnam, our mission is simple: to help you experience the Vietnam of your dreams, hassle-free. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, solo, or with family, our consultants will guide you before, during, and after your stay.

Contact us now for a personalized quote.

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