Top 5 Must-Try Cultural Experiences in Vietnam

Lyn Luong • April 25, 2024

Vietnam is a country full of vibrant culture, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. If you're seeking authentic local encounters, these five must-try activities will make your trip truly remarkable. Let Up Travel guide you through the best cultural experiences in Vietnam.

1. Cooking Traditional Vietnamese Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is a world-renowned culinary experience, full of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and flavorful broths. At Up Travel, we offer a hands-on cooking class that allows you to immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnamese food culture. Learn to prepare signature dishes like "phở", "bánh xèo", and "nem rán", guided by local chefs who will share the secrets of their kitchens. Not only will you create delicious dishes, but you’ll also gain insight into the food’s cultural significance, connecting you deeper to Vietnam’s heritage.

Preparing spring rolls with fresh ingredients in a Vietnamese cooking class.

“Imagine preparing your own phở from scratch, savoring the aromatic broth that warms both your soul and body, while learning about its origins from a passionate chef.”

2. Making Vietnamese Coffee with Local Experts

Coffee is at the heart of Vietnamese daily life, and no visit to Vietnam is complete without experiencing the world-famous Vietnamese coffee culture. At Up Travel’s Local Beans Roastery, dive deep into the journey of the coffee bean. From roasting to brewing, you'll try your hand at making a traditional cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk) or a slow-brewed cà phê phin. You'll be taught by experts who will show you how each region’s coffee style varies, giving you a deeper appreciation of this iconic drink.

Two participants brewing Vietnamese coffee using traditional filters at Local Beans Roastery.

“Sipping on a cup of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee while the sun rises over lush hills is the perfect way to start your day in Vietnam.”

3. Exploring Traditional Village Crafts

Vietnam is home to some of the most skilled artisans in Southeast Asia. Experience the art of Vietnamese craftsmanship firsthand by visiting rural villages where traditional techniques have been passed down for generations. From pottery-making in Bat Trang to embroidered textiles in the northern highlands, these immersive experiences allow you to engage with local artisans and even try your hand at these crafts yourself.

An artisan shaping clay on a pottery wheel in the Bat Trang ceramic village.

“There’s something special about crafting your own pottery, shaped by the hands that have been perfecting this art for centuries.”

4. Joining a Rural Homestay

If you truly want to understand Vietnam’s culture, a homestay is a must. Up Travel’s carefully curated rural homestay packages offer an authentic Vietnamese experience, allowing you to live with a local family, share meals, and learn about their everyday lives. Step away from the tourist crowds and into the heart of rural Vietnam. Experience true hospitality, from helping with farming to learning local folklore and traditions.


A cozy rural homestay surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful farmland in Vietnam.

“Staying in a homestay offers you more than just a bed for the night – it’s an opportunity to forge real connections with locals and experience the warmth of Vietnamese culture.”

5. Meditating in Ancient Temples

Vietnam has a deeply rooted spiritual tradition, and its temples are not only architectural wonders but also places of tranquility and reflection. Whether you visit the Perfume Pagoda, My Son Sanctuary, Cay Thi Pagoda or one of the many ancient temples in the north, Up Travel will guide you to places where you can meditate, reflect, and connect spiritually. These sacred sites are rich in history and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Cay Thi Pagoda with its traditional architecture, surrounded by tranquil greenery in Vietnam.

“Imagine meditating in the calm of an ancient temple, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature and centuries-old traditions.”

Discover Vietnam’s culture with Up Travel – Tailored Just For You.

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