It’s been 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, and while history echoes through the streets, Vietnam has risen as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations. You’ve got rich culture, buzzing cities, jaw-dropping landscapes, and yeah—some of the best food you’ll ever eat. But what’s the real deal about Vietnam 50 years later? Let’s dive into five unmissable experiences that will have you ditching your regular guidebook in favor of local travel tips that actually matter.
This isn’t your standard list of tourist spots. These are insider recommendations from seasoned travel writers and podcasters who’ve seen it all, from hanging off the back of motorbikes in Hanoi to venturing deep into the Mekong Delta. So, buckle up and let’s explore Vietnam the right way—through the eyes of those who live there.
Why Local Travel Tips in Vietnam Matter More Than Ever
Vietnam is a place where knowing the right people (read: locals) makes all the difference. Sure, you can wander into a pho shop or book a day tour from your hotel, but unless you’re getting your intel from real local experts, you’re probably missing out on the good stuff. In a place as layered as Vietnam—culturally, historically, and geographically—taking advice from destination experts who actually live and breathe the country will unlock experiences you won’t find in your average travel brochure.
By leaning into local travel tips, not only do you get to sidestep the crowds, but you also get access to authentic, hidden gems, supporting local communities, and being a more conscious traveler. Now that’s the kind of Vietnam travel we’re here for!
1. Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter on Two Wheels
Hanoi, with its motorbike madness, may seem like sensory overload at first, but it’s the very chaos that makes it one of the most photogenic and alive places you’ll ever see. Skip the taxi and hop on the back of a motorbike with a local guide. We’re talking insider access to the narrow alleyways of the Old Quarter, where the past meets the present, and street food vendors serve up the most epic flavors you’ve never heard of.
Insider Tip:
Book a tour with a local expert who knows which corners of the Old Quarter aren’t jammed with tourists. They’ll take you to food stalls that haven’t changed in decades—think egg coffee, sticky rice cakes, and savory pho made from recipes passed down through generations.
Book at Real Hanoi Bike Tours.
2. The Mekong Delta: Life on the Water
The Mekong Delta is like the lifeblood of southern Vietnam. Known for its floating markets, maze-like canals, and lush greenery, it’s one of those places you have to experience by boat. But, not all tours are created equal. Locals know that the best way to explore the Delta is through eco-friendly, smaller boat trips that respect the fragile ecosystems of the region.
Insider Tip:
Go for a morning tour with a local expert who can navigate the quiet canals that other tourists never find. Avoiding the midday heat and crowds means you’ll experience life on the river in its truest form. Plus, the Mekong Delta’s floating markets are best at sunrise.
3. Hoi An’s Lantern-Filled Nights
Sure, Hoi An’s ancient town is on everyone’s itinerary, but there’s a reason for that—it’s magic. And while tourists flock to its UNESCO-listed streets during the day, it’s at night that the true beauty comes alive. Picture this: thousands of colorful lanterns lighting up the riverside, casting an otherworldly glow that looks incredible on Instagram but even better in real life.
Insider Tip:
Here’s what the locals know: skip the weekend rush and go mid-week to avoid the throngs of tourists. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during the monthly Full Moon Festival, you’ll see the lanterns released on the river, a beautiful tradition that honors ancestors and wishes for good fortune.
4. Cu Chi Tunnels: A Glimpse into the War, with a Local Twist
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see for history buffs, offering a sobering look at Vietnam’s past. But let’s be real: unless you have a local guide, you’re just scratching the surface of this historical experience. The tunnels stretch for miles, and while the regular tour covers the basics, it’s the locals who share the untold stories that make your visit truly memorable.
Insider Tip:
Opt for a private tour with a local expert. Not only will they guide you through the more off-the-beaten-path sections of the tunnels, but they’ll also give you an honest, in-depth perspective on how life in Vietnam has changed since the war. A truly moving experience you can’t miss.
5. Trekking in Sapa: Mountains, Rice Terraces, and Local Villages
Sapa is where you go when you want to get lost in the beauty of nature. Nestled in the northern highlands, the region’s dramatic rice terraces and towering mountains offer some of the most stunning views in Vietnam. But the true highlight? Connecting with the ethnic minority groups who call this area home.
Insider Tip:
The best way to experience Sapa is with a local trekking guide from one of the villages. They’ll not only guide you through the less-traveled trails, but they’ll also introduce you to their communities, offering an authentic experience that goes beyond the typical tour. And, of course, it’s all about traveling sustainably here—respecting local cultures and treading lightly on the land.
Vietnam 50 Years After the War: Why It’s a Must-Visit Destination Now
Vietnam today is a blend of history, culture, and nature that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And yes, while the scars of the war are still visible in places like the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remnants Museum, the country has grown and thrived in ways that will blow your mind. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Sapa, Vietnam is a country that never stops surprising you. And the best part? The locals are incredibly proud to share their culture with you—whether it’s through food, storytelling, or an unforgettable adventure.
