Vietnam Cooking, Culture Tours & Trip Packages

Vietnam Cooking, Culture Tours & Trips

624 Vietnam trips. Tours from 158 tour companies. 2,061 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

84 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Cooking
Culture
Authentic Cambodia and Vietnam In 14 Days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Hue, Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Phnom Penh , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Get onto the ancient world of Angkor era
  • Explore the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels System which was used during the Vietnam War
  • Discover the local's life alongside the mighty Mekong River
  • Go fishing and ride a basket boat in the charming Hoi An
  • Cruise through the emerald water and thousands of limestone karsts
Show more

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Discover Vietnam - Cambodia - Thailand in 22 Days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Andaman Sea, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Phnom Penh , Phuket, Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Explore the authentic lifestyle of the Vietnamese countryside
  • Take an unforgettable excursion to Halong Bay
  • Feel the charming atmosphere of Hue and Hoi An
  • Learn how to cook delicious Vietnamese cuisine
  • Visit the famous floating markets of the Mekong Delta
Show more

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Education / Learning, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Best of Vietnam Tour 11 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
2 reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They have a deep understanding of the regions' diversity in culture & history enabling them to curated the best personalized itineraries.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An , Saigon

Highlights

  • Visit the actual site of the Cu Chi Tunnels system, an enormous network of linking underground tunnels that played a crucial role in the eventual victory of the Vietnamese forces in the Vietnam War.
  • Explore the watery world of the Mekong Delta, where life flows to the beat of the mighty Mekong and houses, boats, and marketplaces float on the network of rivers, canals, and streams that lace the terrain like veins.
  • Take a leisurely stroll down Hoi An’s quaint, winding street An old settlement that spans the centuries between the 15th and the 19th, and is a remarkably well-preserved example of a South and Southeast Asian commercial hub.
  • Bike to Tra Que Village and learn about farming firsthand from local farmers, then receive a hands-on gardening and culinary lesson with locally grown produce.
  • Visit Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine on a deliciously educational food tour.
Show more

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"Great thank you to Miss Rossie from Asia Authentic Travel for planned itinerary and services provided and support provide during the Vietnam Trip. Did not find any hassle while being in Vietnam in terms of service and transportation and tour guide and driver was too good and well behaved"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

More
Vietnam: Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An & Saigon
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Hue, Mekong Delta, Saigon

Highlights

  • Explore Hanoi on two guided tours and a cyclo (rickshaw) ride.
  • Attend a performance that’s unique to Vietnamese culture: a water puppet show.
  • Delve into Vietnam’s ancient history on a guided tour of the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City of Hue.
  • Admire shifting landscapes of fish and duck farms, rice paddies, palm forests, mountains, and coastline on scenic cycling routes.
  • Savor the local cuisine—including a hands-on class at a cooking school.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"This trip is unbelievably fantastic. Two of the best rides of my life, were on this tour. The guides were very good and this was just the start, when we met them, at the hotel in Cortina. Cortina was the site of the 1956 Olympics, and is a small pretty village. Nothing was open the two nights we were there, so probably bad timing. Hotel was a typical ski village hotel, good Italian/German food, and very comfortable. Second day of biking was up an old railroad spur that is now a ski trail about 15-20 K up to a mountain pass called Cimabanche Pass, which is beautiful. We rode up in a snow storm, then rain, then finally clear skies. This was the number two best ride of my life. Starting out from the hotel in Cortina, up the old spur, through single track bike trails, past babbling brooks, up to this fabulous mountain pass. This is now where the fun starts. Mostly downhill on paved roads very little traffic, at good speeds, through the most spectacular valleys you would ever see on a bike ride. Breathtaking. It had to end back at the hotel for a big dinner. The best ride of my life was the last biking day out of Merano. We were bused up 1500 K, about 85-90 miles to Lake Resia, high up in the Dolomites, then rode around the lake, down, back to Merano. High mountain peaks, many valleys,small towns, many grape growing farms, scenery, the best, and cool brisk weather. This was truly a great bike tour, one I will never forget. The trip is rated easy, but maybe easy/moderate is closer. The Hotel in Merano is excellent, middle of old town, modern, has a thermal bath, rooms were very good. The town of Merano is a must see if in the area, small, beneath the high mountains of the Dolomites, good restaurants, lots of tourists."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Discover Southeast Asia
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Chiang Mai, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Killing Fields, Luang Prabang, Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh , Saigon, Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Enjoy a traditional khantoke dinner in a rural village
  • Enjoy a visit and talk with a monk at an historic chiang mai temple
  • Have lunch at a training restaurant for disadvantaged youth
  • Witness an outstanding performance at phare (the cambodian circus)
  • Take thrilling cyclo rides for a different perspective in bustling cities

Themes

Cultural, Religious

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
14-Day Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Itinerary: Premium Private Tour
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By China Highlights
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Hanoi, Hoi An , Luang Prabang, Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Learn to cook Vietnamese cuisine in an interesting cooking class.
  • Learn about the turbulent history of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Explore the Mekong Delta by a boat, and learn about its farming and fishing traditions.
  • Explore the Mekong Delta by a boat, and learn about its farming and fishing traditions.
  • Step into the less-visited Banteay Samre and watch sunset at Pre Rup in Siem Reap.
Show more

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Nature & Wildlife, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I've just returned from my trip to China, a week ago. I've seen many-many interesting places of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces. But most of all i liked my 2-days trip to Longshen villages with my guide Frank from chinahighlights. The day before our trip has started, in Guilin, Frank met me in hotel and told about our journey. Next 2 days we visited traditional ancient chinese villages (the biggest from them are Ping'an and Dazhai), walking around them, saw the rice-terraces landscape (it was really unbelievable). Also we had a hiking between villages, and stayed at night at ZhongLiu village. I haven't seen any tourists in this village, even chinese tourists. It was fantastic cause we've seen real chinese life of local people, including, for example, planting vegetables, collecting tea). Very quiet, fresh air, natural food. Yes, in this village almost no shops, no souvenirs, but you dont need them. All around you a hundred times better. I advice all, who wants to see real chinese life, visit this place, especially this village, stay at night there. Thanks very much to my guide Frank and chinahighlights for this trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Generous cancellation

More

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together

  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
  • ... and much more
Join community
14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour—Quality Time Journey
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By China Highlights
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Explore three authentic UNESCO sites—Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Angkor Wat—in one trip.
  • A two-night Halong Bay cruise is a unique experience exploring and appreciating the most secluded, untouched water area hidden in the bay.
  • Make a traditional lantern by hand and bring it home as a gift.
  • Soak up the sun on the beautiful Danang beach.
  • Venture into the unbelievable Cu Chi Tunnels and realize there are always more ways than difficulties.
Show more

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Family Friendly, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"I've just returned from my trip to China, a week ago. I've seen many-many interesting places of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces. But most of all i liked my 2-days trip to Longshen villages with my guide Frank from chinahighlights. The day before our trip has started, in Guilin, Frank met me in hotel and told about our journey. Next 2 days we visited traditional ancient chinese villages (the biggest from them are Ping'an and Dazhai), walking around them, saw the rice-terraces landscape (it was really unbelievable). Also we had a hiking between villages, and stayed at night at ZhongLiu village. I haven't seen any tourists in this village, even chinese tourists. It was fantastic cause we've seen real chinese life of local people, including, for example, planting vegetables, collecting tea). Very quiet, fresh air, natural food. Yes, in this village almost no shops, no souvenirs, but you dont need them. All around you a hundred times better. I advice all, who wants to see real chinese life, visit this place, especially this village, stay at night there. Thanks very much to my guide Frank and chinahighlights for this trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Generous cancellation

More
Amazing Taste of Vietnam
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By Exotic Voyages
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
A luxury tour company that designs extraordinary, off-the-beaten-path journeys across Asia.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Da Lat , Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An , Hue, Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Saigon

Highlights

  • Enjoy clay-potrice dinner in Saigon
  • Visit thefruit orchards in the Mekong Delta
  • Visit Dalat coffee plantation
  • Stroll through UNESCO World Heritage Ancient town with a famous food trail
  • Explore the traditional and sophisticated cooking
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"It was such a pleasure to work with Annie from start to finish. Annie worked patiently with my very particular husband for a good month to plan a 19 day trip. (I think they bonded) We visited Hong Kong, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. EVERY luxury hotel was just over the top beautiful. We took airplanes, 2 cruise boats, and a sea airplane to visit each country. There was always a knowledgeable and interesting English speaking guide to pick us up. She planned interesting tours and gave us plenty of leisure time. She also texted us everyday to see how we were doing! At one stop we wanted to change a tour planned for another and she managed to do that as well......Annie actually met us in Hanoi and we enjoyed a dinner together at one of her favorite restaurants, then took me shopping for a silk dress....really! Thank you Annie for the best trip ever. I will highly recommend you and Exotic Voyages."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip
84 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Cooking
Culture
...

1

2

3

4

5

...

Vietnam Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
2,061  Reviews
See all Vietnam tour reviews
Excellent
1,085
Great
233
Average
14
Disappointing
4
Terrible
5
A

Anonymous

Mar 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Vietnam Adventure

A busy trip that covered a lot of distance , seeing both north and south Vietnam . Travelling prior / during and after Tet gave a different perspective to the coun...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Highlights of Vietnam

This trip provided an insight into Vietnamese life in the past and present. The experiences were varied such as visits to sites of natural beauty as well as histor...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Great trip leaving you wanting more..

It’s a hectic schedule with so much to cover but the trip was well organised and it offers a great taste into what Vietnam has to offer. It’s hard to pin it down to...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Awesome

A very busy trip that gave us a taste of so many parts of Vietnam and an opportunity to understand about the culture and food in the north and south. A good mixtur...

A

Anonymous

Jan 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Excellent Adventure

Wonderful trip, It was well planned and well executed, We were with a great group and we all got on so well immediately, The Group leader was so knowledgeable. Th...

Write a Review

Vietnam Tour Selection Trips

  • Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Vietnam with these essential travel tips tailored to enhance your experience and ensure a smooth journey:

    Pack light and breathable clothing suitable for Vietnam's tropical climate, with layers for cooler evenings and air-conditioned interiors.

  • Stay hydrated by drinking bottled water and avoid tap water to prevent stomach discomfort.

  • Carry small denominations of Vietnamese Dong for convenience, as many local vendors may not accept larger bills.

  • Negotiate prices when shopping at markets to avoid overpaying, but do so respectfully and with a smile.

  • Embrace local customs and traditions by learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as "xin chào" (hello) and "cảm ơn" (thank you).

  • Be cautious when crossing the busy streets of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where traffic can be chaotic. Follow the locals' lead when crossing roads.

  • Respect cultural etiquette by removing your shoes before entering someone's home or a place of worship.

  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk.

  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas to prevent theft or pickpocketing incidents.

  •  


Additional details

Is Vietnam safe?

Generally, it is very safe to travel in Vietnam. Of course, as with any tourist destination, pick-pocketing and bag snatches do occur, so be sure to leave your valuables (like your passport!) at the hotel. Use your phone sparingly when in public areas, and carry smaller notes with you. Going through these precautions and being vigilant can prevent you from becoming a target.

In the cities, look out for taxi scams and hassles, as they are more prevalent. To protect yourself from these scams, be sure to know your destination, and landmarks along the way. Agree on a price beforehand, and stick with the major taxi companies, like Mai Linh and Vinasun. In larger cities, you also have the option of using ride-sharing apps, like Uber or Grab.

The most common accidents that occur in Vietnam are motorcycle related. The roads in Vietnam are anarchic, so if you’re traveling on two wheels, make sure you are covered with the proper insurance.

Travelers should note that Vietnam has confirmed 16 cases of coronavirus as of March 2nd, 2020.

What is the weather like in Vietnam?

Since Vietnam is an elongated country, weather can vary depending on your location. In general, the country is hot and humid.

In the north, you can expect humid and hot summers with high rainfall between May to October. However, the north also experiences cool, dry winters between November to April.

The mountainous regions in the far north has frosty winters from December to January. The best time for adventure-seekers to trek would be during the drier seasons: September to November, and from March to May.

The central region experiences hot and dry weather from January to August. Pack your rain boots if you’re visiting between September and December — there is a high chance of heavy rainfall during this time.

Southern Vietnam has wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit would be during the dry season, when you don’t have to worry about the monsoons and floods that plague the months between May and August. The ideal months to visit would be from November to April.

As weather between regions vary, it is helpful to think of the country as three separate destinations when planning your travels.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The most popular time to visit Vietnam runs from July through August. To avoid congested cities and attractions, April through June is the best time to visit Vietnam — especially if you want to take the time to explore all the regions.

Dos and Don’ts for travelers in Vietnam

Do’s

  • When visiting a temple, do keep your shoulders and knees covered as a sign of respect
  • Keep your bag on you and be wary, as snatches are quite common.
  • Keep your accommodation details with you at all times — should you get lost, it’s much easier to find your way back
  • Before getting into a taxi, negotiate and agree on a fixed price to avoid scams
  • Keep hydrated! It’s humid in Vietnam, and the last thing you want is a heat stroke ruining your vacation
  • Store some extra toilet paper with you — some public toilets may not have toilet paper available
  • Do be aware of the privacy of local life. Filming is considered intrusive, especially in the villages. As a rule of thumb, always ask for permission first.

Don’ts

  • Don’t stick your chopsticks into your rice bowl — this is considered unlucky and symbolizes death.
  • Don’t bring up the “American War” with locals — for many people, the psychological and physical wounds are still fresh. Several Vietnamese have mixed emotions about the war.
  • Don’t carry more cash than you need.
  • Don’t use your own utensils to pick food up from the communal dish in the center of the table; use the serving spoon

How to get around in Vietnam

The great transportation infrastructure in Vietnam makes it easy to travel from coast to coast. Whether its by train, plane, or bus, you can find several options that will help you explore all the gems Vietnam has to offer. From budget airlines to overnight buses — take your pick!

For the more adventurous souls, motorbikes are also an option. They’re a great way to travel between destinations. However, it can be quite tricky to navigate the sea of traffic in the bigger cities, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

For this reason, it’s better to save your motorbike riding for quieter areas, like Hoi An or Dalat. In order to avoid injuries, wear closed-toed shoes, keep your feet turned inward, and be aware of the burning exhaust pipe!

Currency and travel costs in Vietnam

While credit and debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, cash is king in Vietnam. The currency used is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Using the dong can be confusing at times, as the high conversion rate can throw many people off.

As of summer 2019, USD1 is VND23,289. When you arrive in Vietnam, take some time to familiarize yourself with the notes, as they can look very similar at first glance. You don’t want to accidentally hand a VND200,000 note instead of a VND10,000 note when you’re in a rush!

The costs for traveling Vietnam can vary. If you are a budget traveler, $30 will be enough for a day. However, if you indulge in luxurious hotels and gourmet meals, your budget will be closer to $100 a day.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 624 trips to Vietnam and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!