4 of the best Vietnam day trips you’ll never forget!
Sailing through the jungle on a basket boat, crawling through historic war tunnels, and cruising through the bucket list–worthy Ha Long Bay...
Vietnam truly has it all!
Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and want to experience the very best this beautiful country has to offer?
In this post, I’m sharing the 4 best day trips in Vietnam, with each offering amazing value, cultural depth, and variety.
Whether you’re backpacking or short on time, these tours will give you a real taste of Vietnam’s highlights.
The local established tour companies offer very reasonable prices for day tours, meaning that your budget can easily stretch to enjoy all four of them.
These are definitely the best tours in Vietnam for first timers, I can say this with confidence!
As someone who has explored Vietnam from north to south while building my travel blog, I’ve personally experienced each of these tours, and they truly deliver on both authenticity and adventure.
Let’s start with one of the must-do Vietnam tours in the Cu Chi jungle in the South of the country!
A fun tour in Hanoi.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Unmissable Tours from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh & Da Nang!
(All personally tested).
In this guide, I’ve curated the best day trips I personally experienced while travelling through Vietnam—perfect for first-timers looking to get the most out of this incredible country.
You can conveniently book through the links below ;).
If you are on a shorter time frame in Vietnam, then at least you can pick one of the most suitable day trips below, and enjoy everything Vietnam has to offer!
Best For Tour History + Depth - Cu Chi Tunnels.
Best for Scenery + Activities - Ha Long Bay.
Best for Culture + Charm - Hoi An Basket + Town Tour.
Best for Instagram + Wow Factor - Ba Na Hills.
My pick?
If you only have time for one, Ha Long Bay gives the most variety in a single day, and ticks off a bucket list spot. But honestly, you can't go wrong with any of these awesome Vietnam one day tours.
Hoi An fun.
Cu Chi Tunnels - VIP Private Tour.
This is your chance to experience Vietnam’s infamous wartime past in a very practical way!
The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most iconic historical sites in Vietnam, so it is no surprise that they are one of first additions to a Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.
This guided tour takes you deep into the jungle just outside Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll explore a network of underground tunnels which were used for shelter, communication, and survival during the Vietnam war.
This is your opportunity to hear Vietnam’s side of the story, and trust me, you’ll walk away with a new perspective.
My experience visiting the Cu Chi tunnels on our one day Vietnam tour included some in-depth education, experiences of trying Viet Cong wartime food, and the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels that were actually used in the war.
It's a powerful, hands-on way to connect with Vietnam’s past, and a must-do for first-time visitors.
(Best for education in history).
Duration - Approx 7 hours.
Cost - around £40 per person.
✓ Explore the authentic Ben Duoc tunnels.
✓ Small group experience.
✓ Round-trip hotel transfers included.
✓ Try Viet Cong wartime food.
✓ Optional shooting range.
✓ Your spot secured. (don’t worry there is free cancellation, just in case).
A real life practical history lesson!
There’s no better way to understand the impact of the Vietnam War than by stepping directly into its remnants, and this Cu Chi Tunnels tour makes that possible in the most hands-on way.
Rather than reading about it in online, you’ll get to:
Go underground and explore the actual tunnel system used by the Viet Cong.
Taste wartime foods like boiled cassava and pandan tea, a humble but vital meal for soldiers
Learn about homemade traps, hidden bunkers, and guerrilla tactics used in the jungle.
Hear personal stories and local perspectives from knowledgeable guides who share what you can’t find online.
As its popularity indicates, this is one of the best tours in Vietnam for first timers, as it still feels raw, real, and it is certainly an eye-opener!
This review on Viator from July 2024 is an example of just how practical the tours are, with an actual war veteran guiding visitors around the jungle.
Amit_M, Jul 2024
‘The best thing was our guide who was himself 70 plus and was in the war himself and the tunnels he showed and explained were awesome . Don’t think twice book always Viator anywhere In the world’’.
A fun part of the tour.
A local traditional snack in the jungle.
We tried the Viet Cong war snacks which were given to the Vietnamese soldiers during the war, and it is fair to say they taste very bland!
Cassava and pandan tea were the go-to staples for soldiers, as they are simple, full of energy, and could be transported easily, which was necessary for the locals spending much of their time underground.
This small detail makes the tour feel personal and immersive, not just historical.
Tasting some very bland food.
A very educational day.
A Vietnam one day tour for the books, for sure!
I learned more about the Vietnam War in one afternoon than I had learned my whole life.
Seeing the tunnels firsthand gave me a completely new perspective (they are so small!).
It wasn’t just informative, it was unforgettable, and one of my favourite travel experiences ever.
Want the same insider experience I had in Cu Chi?
Book this small-group tunnel tour — no crowds, skip the lines.
We learned all about the Guerrilla War techniques.
A long, but comfortable journey.
To be honest, this Cu Chi Tunnels tour from Ho Chi Minh City isn’t all plain sailing.
The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic, which isn’t ideal!
But don’t let that put you off. The air-conditioned buses or vans used by reputable tour operators are modern, spacious, and make the ride surprisingly comfortable.
We actually managed to get some good sleep on our way back to the city, so we were fresh and raring to go on our return to Bui Vien Street!
It is along journey to the jungle due to heavy traffic.
There are many relics of ‘Uncle Ho’.
But here’s the thing about the Cu Chi Tunnels tour… spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season, and you don’t want to miss your chance to crawl through the real tunnels and hear Vietnam’s untold stories up close.
Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Trip - Luxury Cruise & Buffet Lunch.
Let’s be serious, Ha Long Bay isn’t optional.
If you’re in Hanoi and you don’t carve out a day for this, that’s on you.
This isn’t some basic boat ride. We're talking about a full day escape. A luxury cruise, buffet lunch that actually slaps, cave exploring, and views that make your phone camera look pro.
No planning, no stress, you just need to show up, get picked up, and let Vietnam flex a little.
Here’s what this tour brings to the table (and why it’s one of the best ways to do Ha Long Bay in a single day).
(best for nature lovers).
Duration - Approx 12 hours.
Cost - around £55 per person.
✓ Explore Iconic Natural Wonders.
✓ Enjoy a Buffet Lunch Onboard.
X Overnight stay.
✓ Convenient Roundtrip Transportation.
✓ Relax on Titop Island.
Some bucket list views.
We’ve all seen the photos online, but trust me, they don’t even come close.
Without a doubt, the highlight of my experience of Ha Long Bay on this day tour was the picturesque setting off the coast of Vietnam.
I found Ha Long Bay to be one of those places that actually lives up to the hype, similar to Maya Bay in Thailand, just less crowded and way more chill.
The photos definitely don’t it full justice!
It doesn’t feel like one of the awesome cultural day tours in Vietnam, however, the beautiful nature more than makes up for it!
I enjoyed the different perspectives of nature throughout the day trip, as the famous bay can be enjoyed from many different spots. On deck cruising, from inside one of the caves, or in a secluded corner of the bay from a sea kayak.
As Vietnam nature tours go, this ticks every box, It’s Epic!
My favourite view of bay from the viewpoint.
Here’s what some recent visitors said, which match my experience.
David – Australia - May 14, 2025 – Verified booking
‘‘We never felt rushed, it was such a relaxing day. Tihn was an excellent guide and very knowledgeable about Ha long bay. service on the boat was second to none, staff were attentive to all our needs and activities were well planned out.....would definitely use them again next time we're in Veitnam’’.
Samuel – United Kingdom - May 12, 2025 – Verified booking
‘‘A great tour throughout Ha Long Bay. Tinh was amazing tour guide, he has such a warming personality and is so knowledgeable about the stops along the way. Would 100% recommend’’.
Another awesome spot.
A luxury feeling with lunch and a welcome drink.
From the minute we were welcomed onto the Arcady Cruise Ship, and greeted personally as we climbed aboard, we were treated like royalty.
I didn’t expect such nice food, and great service for a budget cost, but that’s Vietnam for you!
We were greeted with a free welcome wine as we set sail towards the giant limestone cliffs.
Then our guide guided us through the day’s itinerary before we all enjoyed the buffet lunch!
After an early start from Hanoi, it is just what you need before a day exploring.
Olena – Ukraine - May 1, 2025 – Verified booking
‘‘Excellent tour. Out guide Tinh was friendly, knowledgeable and had good English. Great choice of locations to visit. I didn't expect much from buffet lunch, but it turned to be mini food tour for me. Seafood soup and fried seafood spring rolls were amazing. Overall great experience and definitely recommend!’’.
Enjoying luxury on our day trip.
Some adrenaline on a speedboat!
As an optional extra, you can enjoy a speedboat tour of the bay.
I thoroughly recommend this!
It was only 20 minutes, however, every second of the 20 minutes was fun.
The local skippers do their best to give you some excitement and a rush of adrenaline, and they are more than accommodating in capturing some awesome photos of guests.
This was only around 350,000 VND (£10).
Some fun backdrops.
Our crazy, but fun skipper.
All the logistics taken care of.
Compared to my Hanoi Train Street experience, this tour was professionally run, throughout the day.
This was down to our awesome guide, and the reputable tour company which GetYourGuide uses:
Hotel pickup & drop-off included.
No hunting down a meeting point or stressing about transport. They’ll come to you, early and on time.
Modern, comfortable transport.
You’re not crammed into a sketchy minivan. Expect an air-conditioned bus or limousine van with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and a smooth ride to the bay. I easily managed a few hours of sleep.
Everything’s scheduled, nothing feels rushed.
From cruising, to cave exploring, to lunch, the whole day runs like clockwork.
English-speaking guide who actually knows their stuff.
Friendly, clear, and keeps things moving without being overbearing. You get context without a history lecture. This makes it a top Vietnam experience for tourists.
Our tour guide looked after us all day!
There are many ways to enjoy Ha Long Bay, but this day trip suits all budgets, and all itineraries, as you see so much in one day!
Hoi An Basket Boat and Old Town Private Tour.
Imagine drifting through palm-lined waterways in a round bamboo basket boat, totally in your own little world.
It’s peaceful, and weirdly fun. However, there’s a surprise or two along the way.
Add Hoi An’s ancient lantern-lit streets, a UNESCO-listed Old Town packed with charm, history, and really good Vietnamese coffee... and you’ve got one hell of a day.
This guided Vietnam day trip screams authenticity, and has a little bit of everything… Culture, nature, history, and some delightful Vietnamese coffees!
If it’s your first time in Vietnam, this is the kind of day that makes you fall in love with the place. I know I did!
(Best for culture vultures).
Duration - Approx 4 hours.
Cost - around £25 per person.
✓ Authentic Cultural Immersion.
✓ Short boat trip on Hoi An river.
✓ Bottled water included.
✓ Free cancellation.
✓ Experienced tour guide included.
X This is an all weather tour, so be prepared.
A peaceful jungle cruise (or is it?).
After a busy few days in Da Nang, I was looking forward to this Hoi An basket boat tour offering a little bit of peace, and it certainly delivers… For the first part of the activity anyway.
Peacefully gliding through the coconut forest while wearing my straw hat was awesome!
Then it changed all of a sudden.
A loud beat was echoing around the beautiful nature, and at the end of the passageway of mangroves I could see one of the basket boats spinning very fast!
This is what I had read about prior to my arrival in Hoi An.
The locals go full performance mode, spinning tourists in circles, dancing on boats, and turning a quiet cruise into a full-blown party on water.
It’s chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly fun… Whether you're in the spinning boat or just watching from the sidelines.
The real question is: will you let the locals spin you?
A peaceful meander through the jungle.
Feeling like a local.
It was time to wear yet another straw hat… why not?
They threw on the tunes, handed out the hats, and suddenly we’re spinning in circles like total lunatics, fully leaning into the chaos. It was ridiculous… but low-key, one of my favourite travel experiences!
The Vietnamese definitely know how to throw some fun into a day tour.
My turn.
Exploring the heritage of Hoi An.
This Vietnam one day tour felt like the most authentic day on my 10 day Vietnam itinerary!
The ancient old town is home to over 1100 relics, all telling stories from different influences, including French Colonial, Japanese, and Chinese.
Temples, French colonial buildings, Japanese merchant houses, and an iconic covered bridge. Having a wander through the town is full of hidden surprises.
Interesting museums, good coffee and some awesome cuisine completes the unique town.
But nothing tops seeing it all lit up at night, with hundreds of lanterns glowing across the river, as we have all seen in the beautiful photos of Vietnam.
Learning about the heritage of Hoi An.
My tour felt like a life saver in a chaotic town.
Hoi An can switch from peaceful to full-blown madness very quickly, as you’ll see below.
As with all of the popular Vietnam cities
Like most popular spots in Vietnam, the crowds are real. But the beauty of exploring with a local guide?
They steer you away from the chaos and straight into the hidden corners that actually feel calm and authentic.
You still hit the must-see spots, but without getting stuck in the chaos. Having a local guide means less dodging tour groups, and more time soaking up the good stuff without the noise.
A chaotic town.
Making the most of some free time, enjoying a Vietnamese coffee.
The Café culture is awesome in Vietnam. I loved it during my time in Hanoi, and Hoi An is just as fun!
Sitting back with an egg coffee watching the street activity was the perfect way to finish the tour, as I had some free time.
There’s just something about the pace of life here, it slows you down in the best way.
The way of life in Vietnam is very intriguing… I could have sat there all day!
Enjoying some chill time on our tour.
This Vietnam day trip was the most well rounded tour during my two visits to the country.
The best time to visit Central Vietnam is between February to May, as it is cooler, with sunshine. I enjoyed my time in Hoi An during March.
Ba Na Hills with Golden Bridge Private Tour.
As Vietnam one day tours go, this one can’t be matched.
Imagine gliding above the clouds in a cable car, walking across a giant golden bridge held up by massive stone hands, and exploring a mountaintop French village… All in one day!
Booking tour will give you all of this, and much more.
It’s one of the longest day trips in central Vietnam, but honestly? It’s easily the best value-for-money day trip that I have experienced in my various trips to the country.
This private Ba Na Hills tour gives you the full works, epic views, surreal architecture, peaceful gardens, and a lot less chaos than trying to visit on your own, or in a big group.
👉 This is the exact one I booked—you can check it out here.
(Best value for money).
Duration - Approx all day.
Cost - around £50 per person.
✓ Entrance ticket included.
✓ Cable car included.
✓ Alcoholic beverage provided.
✓ English speaking guide.
✓ Free cancellation.
X Wax Statue Museum ticket not included.
Everything taken care of.
This isn’t one of those tours where you have to figure everything out yourself. It’s all sorted for you, just show up and enjoy the ride.
✅ Private hotel pickup and drop-off – no early morning stress or taxi drama.
✅ Round-trip cable car tickets – including the legendary ride up through the clouds.
✅ Golden Bridge access – get that iconic shot, minus the big crowds.
✅ Entrance to Ba Na Hills park – explore the French Village, gardens, temples, and more.
✅ Professional English-speaking guide – local knowledge, zero guesswork.
✅ Bottled water + air-conditioned transport – small detail, big comfort.
✅ Flexible pacing – no group tour rush, you go at your own speed.
✅ All entrance fees covered – no hidden surprises or upsells.
This is a full-day, zero-stress experience, with all the best bits of Ba Na Hills, wrapped into one Vietnam guided day trip.
The iconic Golden Bridge.
The tour group preparing to enter the park.
The unpredictable weather didn’t ruin my fun!
The weather at Ba Na Hills is famously unpredictable, one minute it’s sunny, the next you’re walking through clouds. But honestly? It only added to my experience.
I got wet, well I got soaked actually. It didn’t ruin my day though. There are plenty of fun activities indoors also.
It felt surreal walking across the famous bridge as the weather turned, a memorable travel moment!
I would bring a poncho with you though! regardless of the forecast in Da Nang.
The weather can change very quickly at the high altitude.
Lunch and a beer voucher included as an optional extra.
Hungry after all that exploring?
You’ve got the option to level up your day with a buffet lunch and a cold beer, and trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
The park is way bigger than you expect, and by the time you’ve covered it, you’ll have earned that plate (and pint).
The beer is brewed fresh at the on-site beer house, and it actually slaps.
A local dish and a cold one in the clouds? An absolute win.
Escaping the rain with a beautiful beer.
Why is this a truly unique day trip?
Most day trips start to blur together. Same temples, same buses, same tourist-packed stops. You’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all… This was the case for me on my 3 month South East Asia trip anyway.
Not this one.
The Ba Na Hills tour throws all expectations out the window. One minute you’re gliding up a mountain in one of the world’s longest cable cars, the next you’re walking across a golden bridge held up by giant stone hands... Literally above the clouds!
Then it’s straight into a mountaintop French village that feels like Disneyland, but with a very unique European vibe.
It was weird, surreal, and unforgettable.
And with a private guide handling everything from transport to entry tickets, you just show up and enjoy the ride.
There is a surprise on every corner in Ba Na Hills.
It makes sense to book this tour in advance once you don’t have to worry about the logistics of the day!
It makes it easier for the tour companies to plan ahead also!
The scenery in Sapa is incredible.
Frequently asked questions about Vietnam day trips!
What’s the best day tour from Hanoi?
The Ha Long Bay day cruise is by far the most popular and scenic tour from Hanoi. It includes hotel pickup, a full-day cruise, kayaking or bamboo boat rides, and lunch, all with amazing views of limestone islands.
👉 Check availability for the top-rated Ha Long Bay tour
What are the must-do day trips from Ho Chi Minh City?
For first-time visitors, the Cu Chi Tunnels half-day tour is the most unique and educational. You’ll explore underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War and learn the fascinating (and intense) history behind them.
👉 See Cu Chi Tunnel tour options
Can I do a cultural day trip from Da Nang or Hoi An?
Yes! A great option is the Hoi An basket boat and Old Town private tour. You’ll cruise through the coconut forest in a traditional round boat and explore the lantern-lit streets of Ancient Hoi An.
👉 Book your Hoi An experience here
Is Ba Na Hills worth a visit as a day trip?
If you're based in Da Nang, the Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge tour is an easy and very photogenic day out. The cable car ride is stunning and the mountaintop resort is a fun mix of views, gardens, and attractions.
👉 Check out this private Ba Na Hills day trip
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.