30 Ultimate Things to Do in Southeast Asia

Are you planning a trip to Southeast Asia and wondering what experiences should top your itinerary? Look no further! From the magical Yi Peng lantern festival in Chiang Mai to the mystical temples of Angkor Wat at sunrise, this vibrant region offers endless opportunities for unforgettable moments.

Whether you're a food lover craving Bangkok's night markets, a beach lover looking for a warm winter holiday, or a culture enthusiast discovering Old Quarter of Hanoi, Southeast Asia delivers something extraordinary for every traveler. We've explored every corner to bring you the absolute must-do activities that define this incredible region. Get ready to be inspired and start planning your dream Southeast Asian adventure today!

1. Experience the Magical Sky Lantern Release in Chiang Mai

For an unforgettable Southeast Asian cultural experience, you absolutely can't miss the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, which is usually held in November (5-6th, 2025). Witness thousands of glowing lanterns drifting into the night sky, offering a magical experience during your Southeast Asia trip.

To have an ultimate experience, join our exclusive Yi Peng festival tour to the largest lantern release-Chiang Mai CAD event. You could enjoy privileged access to premium viewing areas, create your hand-made sky lantern, while enjoy traditional Lanna dances, fire shows, and a full moon dinner with authentic Thai dishes. Want Instagram-worthy memories? Our professional Thai costume rental and makeup services will ensure you look stunning against this magical backdrop.

Can't make it in November? You can still experience the same magical lantern release during Christmas and New Year celebrations in Chiang Mai.

2. Marvel at Bangkok's Grand Palace, Thailand

If there is one must-see attraction when visiting Bangkok, it is the magnificent Grand Palace, which was once the home to the king of Thailand.

During your visit, don't miss the Emerald Buddha and Reclining Buddha in neighboring Wat Pho. If your time permits, take the river ferry at sunset to see Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).

One thing to be noted is the dress code when visiting the Grand Palace.

>>>Read about how to plan a trip to Thailand, Singapore and Bali

3. Enjoy an Ethical Elephant Experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand

The elephant is a symbol of Thailand. If you are an animal lover, you can enjoy close contact with elephants in Thailand. Instead of riding elephants on a safari, we recommend you spend a half-day or an entire day in an ethical elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, such as Elephant Nature Park, to feed or wash them.

4. Float in a Floating Market, Thailand

If you are looking for a different shopping and dining experience, plan a trip to one of the country's interesting floating markets, which will give you real insight into local life.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, within easy reach from Bangkok, is the most famous floating market in Thailand. You can take a boat ride to explore the narrow canals and buy a variety of food, including pad Thai, stir-fry, fresh fruits, and ice cream. Read more about top floating markets in Bangkok.

5. Witness the Magnificent Angkor Wat, Cambodia

No trip to Cambodia, or even Southeast Asia, is complete without a visit to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Angkor Wat is home to the world's largest religious monument with hundreds of ancient temples and religious structures.

A visit to the site is a fascinating journey into Cambodia's intriguing past. Make sure to enjoy the sunrise or sunset at Angkor Wat, jump on a bicycle to explore some less-visited temples, enjoy breathtaking views from the sky in a hot air balloon, or take a helicopter ride through the archaeological park.

6. Relax on a Beach of Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui or Bali

Spending some days on a beach can be a perfect ending to your trip. Southeast Asia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui in Thailand, Bali in Indonesia, Langkawi Island in Malaysia, and Boracay in the Philippines.

You can find a beach to relax and experience water activities, such as snorkeling, surfing and diving.

7. Experience an Incredible Halong Bay Cruise, Vietnam

Halong Bay, a beautiful natural wonder in northern Vietnam, is famous for its stunning limestone mountains looming over emerald water. The best way to enjoy the unique beauty of Halong Bay is to travel by cruise.

You can spend one or two days in Halong Bay to soak in the natural beauty and do some activities, such as kayaking, biking around in an isolated village, and visiting a floating village.

8. Soak Up the Charm of Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, situated on the coast of central Vietnam, is an atmospheric and delightful town. A trip to visit Hoi An is like stepping back into the past. You can stroll along the river and walk on the cobbled streets, which are decorated with lanterns, or take a day trip to a nearby beach.

9. Cruise the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

The Mekong River is the main artery of Southeast Asia and it is also one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. One of the most popular things to do in Southeast Asia is to take a cruise on the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

During a typical boat tour, you can enjoy a sampan ride through narrow canals, stop to sample fruit and handmade treats, stroll through a tranquil village for a look at local life, and more. It is a great way to get a glimpse of the distinct agricultural life of this vibrant region.

10. Go Trekking in Sapa, Vietnam

If you love hiking and the outdoors, trekking in Sapa is one of the must-do activities in Southeast Asia. Sapa is famous for its spectacular rice terraces, towering peaks, and picturesque villages.

You can take a one-day trek or a three-day trek to enjoy the natural beauty and experience the traditional way of life of ethnic minorities.

11. Take a Cooking Class in Thailand or Vietnam

Southeast Asia is a food haven and a gastronomical paradise. Are you sad that you cannot take the colorful dishes and snacks back home?

Why not take a cooking class to learn how to recreate the amazing dishes? It is also a good way to enhance your travelling experience.

Cooking schools are available in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and the rest of Southeast Asia. One of the most famous is the cooking course in Chiang Mai. You can take a half-day or a full-day course and many include a trip to the local markets.

12. Explore Maeklong Railway Market in Bangkok, Thailand

The Maeklong Railway Market is one of the most unusual markets in the world. A must-see when visiting Thailand as you'll never see anything like it elsewhere!

The sellers place their stands on the railway. Every time a train passes, the sellers move their stuff off the railway. After the train passes, the sellers move back onto the railway.

The market itself is typical, but to witness the transformation when the train comes through is amazing.

13. Indulge in Local Street Food

If you are a foodie, it is a must-do to explore the cuisine from local food streets and stalls, where you can find the best and cheapest local dishes and snacks.

Southeast Asia is absolutely a paradise of food with an endless list of dishes to try, from flavorful pho in Vietnam to the diversity of curries in Thailand.

Click to see the top 30 dishes in Southeast Asia.

14. Ride on a Tuk-Tuk, Thailand

The tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) is one of the unofficial national symbols of Thailand. It is a very popular form of local transportation in Bangkok. It is not as comfortable as a taxi, but it offers you a novel way to experience the real Thailand. Please remember to always agree on the price before you set out on your journey.

15. Walk Through Chiang Mai's Night Market, Thailand

Nighttime in Southeast Asia is very lively and busy. Night markets are fairly common in the major towns and cities of Southeast Asia. You should spend at least one night exploring a night market while travelling in this region.

The Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai is probably the best night market in all of Thailand and even the whole of Southeast Asia. It is the perfect place to taste local food, buy souvenirs, and experience the night life of local people.

16. Dive to Discover the Underwater World in Similan Islands or Bali

One of the biggest draws of Southeast Asia is its huge number of beaches and islands. With its year-round warm weather and crystal-clear water, Southeast Asia is a perfect destination for those who love to dive.

From the Gulf Coast of Thailand(Phi Phi Islands, Similan Island) to Bali in Indonesia, Southeast Asia offers some of the most spectacular diving destinations in the world, perfect for divers of all skill levels.

Get your mask, your fins, and your diving suit ready to discover the beautiful underwater world of Southeast Asia.  

17. Islands Hop in Thailand

Southeast Asia is a popular tourist destination with endless islands. Thailand's Andaman coast is one of the best of them. Take a private long-tail boat for cruising past the iconic limestone cliffs of Phi Phi Islands, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters around Racha Islands, and relaxing on the sugar-white sands of Coral Island – all just a short ride away.

For further spots, the stunning Similan Islands offer world-class dive sites, while James Bond Island delivers that perfect Instagram moment.

18. Wander the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi Old Quarter is also known as "36 old streets." It is one of the oldest and most popular historical attractions in Vietnam. It is a busy place with crowded sidewalks and streets, exotic food, and beautiful architecture.

A short walk in the Old Quarter can provide you with glimpses of what local life was like hundreds of years ago.

19. Visit Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnam

If you are interested in history and want to find a unique way to learn on vacation, you should not miss a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam. It is a maze-like underground tunnel system that was used during the American-Vietnam war.

You can spend half a day there visiting the underground tunnels and sample cassava, a staple food during the war.

20. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. It is home to over 3,500 ancient Buddhist pagodas, temples, and other religious structures.

One of the best ways to admire the beauty of this city is to take a hot-air balloon ride, which allows you to enjoy a bird's eye view of this beautiful place.

21. Enjoy a Boat Ride on Inle Lake, Myanmar

Inle Lake is Myanmar's water world, which is unique for its floating gardens, stilt villages, and Buddhist monasteries that tower above the water. Something interesting about the lake are the Intha fishermen who row their boats with one leg while using both hands to fish.

The best way to explore the vast and tranquil lake is by a boat. It is a special experience to stay in one of Inle Lake's over-the-water hotels.

22. Witness an Alms Giving Ceremony in Luang Prabang, Laos

Watching the barefoot monks receive alms from local residents each morning just after dawn is quite a humbling experience. It's very peaceful and a must if in Luang Prabang. You have to be up early to join other groups walking serenely along the road.

23. Explore Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Gardens by the Bay, an integral part of Singapore's "City in a Garden" vision, spans a total of 101 hectares of prime land at the heart of Singapore's new downtown — Marina Bay.

Comprised of three waterfront gardens — Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central — Gardens by the Bay is a showcase of horticulture and garden artistry that brings the world of plants to Singapore and presents Singapore to the world.

24. Climb the Volcano of Mount Rinjani, Indonesia

If you love trekking, don't miss Mount Rinjani in Indonesia, which is considered one of the best treks in Southeast Asia.

Towering above the northern half of Lombok, Mount Rinjani (3,726 m, 12,220 ft) is Indonesia's second-tallest volcano and is the 'seat of the gods' to the Balinese.

A climb to the top will reward you with a breathtaking view of the crescent-shaped lake below, which is one of the best views in Asia.

25. Get a Thai Massage, Thailand

When traveling in Thailand, you should enjoy a Thai massage, which is renown around the world. Massage parlors are easily found in each city and small town. You can experience an authentic massage given by a skillful masseur/masseuse at an affordable price.

26. Have a Water Fight During Songkran, Thailand

You are lucky if your visit happens to coincide with a local festival in Southeast Asia. There are many cultural festivals in Southeast Asia, including Songkran and Krathong Law, which are welcoming to travelers. Festivals offer you a unique insight into local customs and traditions.

• Songkran: the Thai New Year is celebrated with giant water battles taking place in the cities. It is celebrated in April.
• Krathong Law: the world-famous lantern festival, featuring thousands of lanterns illuminating the sky and rivers. It is celebrated in November.

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27. Take a Instagram-worthy Pic at White Temple, Chiang Rai, Thailand

If you're looking to discover truly unique temples in Southeast Asia, Chiang Rai's White Temple is an absolute must-see. Step into a modern fairytale at Thailand's most unconventional temple - a dazzling white structure covered in intricate mirrored mosaics that sparkle under the northern sun.

Unlike traditional temples, this contemporary art installation blends Buddhist symbolism with pop culture references (spot superheroes and spaceships in the murals!). The bridge over "hell" with reaching hands creates a dramatic entrance before you reach the radiant main chapel.

28. Explore Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Imagine waking up in a floating bungalow surrounded by 160-million-year-old limestone cliffs rising dramatically from emerald waters - this is Khao Sok's breathtaking Cheow Lan Lake.

As one of Thailand's best known national parks, it provides opportunity to spot wild elephants, gibbons, and the world's largest flower (Rafflesia). Hike to hidden waterfalls, paddle through jungle caves by canoe, or swim in the lake's refreshing waters under towering karst formations.

29. Capture Sunset Views at Wat Arun, Bangkok

For photography lovers, the sunset view of Wat Arun is a sight not to be missed.. There's no better way to experience Wat Arun than from the water as the sun sets. Take a longtail boat glide past the temple's iconic porcelain-covered spires, glowing fiery orange in the late afternoon light.

When it gets dark, the temple lights turn on, making it even more magical. For a special treat, have a drink at a riverside cafe and enjoy the view. Read more about top things to do in Bangkok for couples.

30. Learn About the History of Vietnam War at War Remnants Museum

If you are interested in Vietnam War history, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit. Step into this thought-provoking museum to understand Vietnam's wartime history through photographs, military equipment, and personal stories.

The outdoor display of US tanks and fighter planes grabs your attention first, while inside, exhibits show the war's impact through Vietnamese eyes. The "Requiem" photo collection by war journalists is especially moving, revealing the human cost of conflict.

Tour Southeast Asia with Local Experts

Want to discover more hidden gems and enjoy more authentic experiences in Southeast Asia? Travelling with a local expert opens up many more possibilities than trying to figure it out on your own. Tell us your interests, and one of our specialists will help you to maximize your travel experience by suggesting the optimal trip for the time you have, your budget, and the things you love to do.