Vietnam is a place filled with captivating history, ancient traditions, and striking landscapes and is one of the most captivating countries in Asia.
For those wondering what to expect from the land and its people, there are a ton of things that Vietnam is famous for.
In this post, we break down the top 20 Vietnam facts that give you some insight into the country and why it’s such an amazing place to visit.
And, BTW, don’t forget to pack the iRoamly Vietnam Travel eSIM Card for easier travel in Vietnam!
Famous Attractions in Vietnam
1. Halong Bay
Home to awe-inspiring green waters and countless limestone islands covered with jungle vegetation, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Here, you can take boats throughout the bay, kayak through secret coves, and marvel at the incredible karst landscapes that make this place so iconic.
2. Sung Sot Cave
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), on Bo Hon Island, is one of Halong Bay’s largest and most impressive grottoes. With two huge chambers filled with dozens of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, it’s an ethereal place.
The immense scale of the cave and the size of the structures will impress you a lot. It’s one of the best things to see in Halong Bay.
3. Golden Bridge (Jinqiao)
Located on the Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge (held up by two giant stone hands) looks over the countryside and offers you a panoramic view of Da Nang.
Because of its unique design and location on a mountain, it has become insanely popular with photographers and tourists as well.
4. Cu Chi Tunnels
A testament to Vietnamese resilience and ingenuity, the Cu Chi Tunnels reveal much about the country’s war history.
The subterranean system was used during the Vietnam War to move weapons, protect and supply soldiers, and send messages.
You can crawl into some of the tunnels to get a feel for what the soldiers endured.
5. Hoi An Ancient Town
This historic is a beautifully preserved former trading port that is a melting pot of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture.
Lantern-lit streets, centuries-old ochre-colored buildings, and a slow pace of life make it one of the most atmospheric places to visit in the entire country.
Here you can browse tailor’s shops, bustling markets, and picturesque narrow streets filled with reminders of a bygone era.
6. Ho Chi Minh City
A vibrant metropolis of towering skyscrapers and colonial buildings, Ho Chi Minh City (still called Saigon by many) is the heart of Vietnam’s economic and cultural life.
With the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and bustling Ben Thanh Market, this is a city that has history, culture, and lots of street-side action.
The Famous Foods of Vietnam
7. Pho
If there’s one dish you should try in Vietnam, it’s pho. This delicious noodle soup is made of a fragrant broth, tender noodles, and paper-thin slices of meat (commonly beef or chicken).
Found on almost every corner vendors and enjoyed all hours of the day, it’s the essence of Vietnam on a plate.
8. Banh Mi
A blend of France and Vietnam in a sandwich, banh mi is a light, crispy baguette full of delicious meats, fresh vegetables, and spicy sauces.
It’s become popular worldwide, and when paired with some of the local tropical fruits, it’s an easy meal for travelers around Vietnam.
9. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Fresh and light, goi cuon are rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, vermicelli, and vegetables.
Usually accompanied by a peanut dipping sauce, these are a tasty and healthy example of classic Vietnamese cuisine.
10. Bun Cha
A Hanoi specialty, bun cha is made with pork patties and sliced pork belly, which are then grilled and served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce.
Its smoky scent and intense flavors are loved by all.
The Unique Culture of Vietnam
11. Ao Dai
The Ao Dai, a traditional Vietnamese costume, is quite lovely and elegant though it’s usually only seen during holidays and festivals.
This form fitting, colorful dress showcases the incredible beauty of Vietnamese crafts and heritage.
12. Water Puppetry
A traditional art which originated in the early 11th century, water puppetry is a process in which hand-carved puppets are controlled by puppeteers who are hidden underwater as they perform in a waist-deep pool.
Stories are based on both folklore and historical tales and provide insight into Vietnamese culture.
13. Tet (Lunar New Year)
Tet is Vietnam’s New Year and the celebration of the arrival of spring and a fresh start.
This is a time to relax, clean the home, cook up special foods, and honor the traditions of the past.
14. Martial Arts (Vovinam)
Vovinam is Vietnam’s martial art, a mix of self-defense and graceful movements.
With its intense kicks and grappling, it underscores the power and discipline that are hallmarks of Vietnamese culture.
15. Vietnamese Coffee Culture
The coffee culture in Vietnam is a combination of French tradition and local innovation.
From thick, strong coffee to egg coffee, coffee has formed an integral part of daily life and a fun experience for travelers.
Other Famous Facts about Vietnam
16. Vietnam produces the most black pepper in the world
Vietnam actually produces the most black pepper in the world.
Quite a lot of the world’s pepper comes from this large country where the climate is just right and the farmers know what they’re doing.
The spice is a popular ingredient in Vietnamese cooking.
17. Vietnam has 54 ethnic groups
With 54 ethnic groups, Vietnam is a culturally rich country, with its own unique traditions, customs, and language.
The festivals, clothing, and cuisine of the country’s different ethnic groups mean that no two regions of Vietnam are alike.
18. Vietnam is famous for its rice terraces
The rice paddies are not only aesthetically beautiful but are vital to Vietnam’s economy, as rice is one of the country’s staple crops and carries symbolic value for its rural culture.
19. Vietnam’s long coastline
At over 3,000 kilometers long, Vietnam’s coastline is dotted with some of the loveliest beaches in all of Southeast Asia.
Whether you’re in prime white-sand beach territory like Da Nang or on the idyllic islands of Phu Quoc, Vietnam is a dream destination for beach bums and water sports enthusiasts alike.
20. Vietnam’s unique motorbike culture
In Vietnam, the motorbike is more than a vehicle. It’s a way of life. With millions of motorbikes, they are the best way to get around cities and the countryside.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to go to Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam is usually from November to April as the weather is cooler and drier. Temperatures vary by region, with northern Vietnam getting significantly colder during the winter months.
2. Where to experience the best beaches in Vietnam?
The country is home to tons of gorgeous beaches, such as Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang, known for their white sand, clear waters, and laid-back vibe.
3. What are some traditional Vietnamese festivals?
In addition to Tet (Lunar New Year), the other two main Vietnamese holidays are the Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu) and the Hung Kings Festival, which honors the “fathers” of Vietnam. Celebration consists of traditional food, performances, and rituals.
4. What’s Vietnamese lacquerware and why is it so significant?
Lacquerware in Vietnam is a traditional art in which artists paint layers of lacquer on wood or bamboo pieces and decorate with designs. Highly valued for its beauty, skill, and cultural importance in Vietnam.
Conclusion
It’s hard to argue that Vietnam isn’t one of the most incredible and interesting countries in the world.
From its rich culture to stunning landscapes to mouth-watering cuisine, it’s easy to see why the country is so well-known.
Armed with knowledge of the 20 things that set Vietnam apart, you’re ready to go out there and experience them for yourself!