Vietnam’s April 30–May 1 Holiday: Where to Go & What to Buy

If you’ll be in Vietnam during the long weekend of April 30th and May 1st this 2025, you’re in for a treat. These two days mark a major national celebration: Reunification Day (April 30) and International Workers’ Day (May 1). With an official 5-day break in 2025 (April 30–May 4), locals take the opportunity to travel, unwind, and reconnect with heritage.

Whether you’re an expat, backpacker, or cultural explorer, this guide will help you discover the best places to visit during the April 30–May 1 holiday—along with meaningful, region-specific souvenirs to bring home.

Top Places to Visit During the April 30–May 1 Holiday

From north to south, Vietnam offers a tapestry of natural beauty, cultural depth, and historical sites. If you’re not sure where to go this festive season of April 30th and May 1st, here are some inspiring options for a short getaway, rich with local color and tradition.

1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi

If you're looking for a meaningful destination in the North during the April 30–May 1 break, visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is highly symbolic. Don’t miss the flag-raising ceremony at 6:00 AM to witness the solemn and proud atmosphere of the holiday.

Paying tribute at the Mausoleum on a national holiday

2. Hanoi Museum

If you plan to visit Northern Vietnam, stop by the Hanoi Museum – one of the city’s most notable museums. Founded in 1982, it houses an immense collection of artifacts from the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties, as well as Chinese and Japanese relics and thousands of documents detailing the history of Thang Long – ancient Hanoi.

The spacious and modern architecture of Hanoi Museum

• Address: Pham Hung Street, Me Tri Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi

• Admission: Free

• Opening Hours: 8:00–11:30 AM; 1:00–4:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday

3. Ho Chi Minh Museum, Hanoi

Located within the same complex as the Mausoleum, this museum documents the life, ideology, and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh through preserved artifacts, images, and writings. It is a deeply educational and patriotic visit, especially significant during this national holiday.

• Address: 19 Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
• Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 8:00–11:30 AM
• Admission: 40,000 VND/person. Free for Vietnamese nationals, people with disabilities, and ICOM members.

4. Vietnam National Museum of History, Hanoi

This site merges the collections of the Vietnam History Museum and the Museum of the Revolution. It presents over ten thousand objects and exhibits that track the country’s evolution through various political, cultural, and military periods.

• Address: 1 Trang Tien & 216 Tran Quang Khai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

• Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–12:00 PM; 1:30–5:00 PM

• Admission: 40,000 VND/person; 20,000 VND for students; 10,000 VND for ch

5. Sapa, Lao Cai – Dreamy Scenery and Cool Air

Sapa’s terraced rice fields, misty climate, and bustling ethnic minority markets make it one of the most colorful and immersive getaways for April 30–May 1. Perfect for those seeking cooler temperatures and cultural exploration.

6. Ba Be Lake, Bac Kan Province – A Poetic Lake

As Vietnamese poetry famously says:

“To Ba Be you must go,
Where fairies play in Puong Cave.
The Nang River flows so slow,
White falls, green banks all aglow.”

This quote barely captures the full natural beauty of Ba Be Lake—a place where limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and river caves offer unforgettable scenery.

Ba Be Lake is a green gem in Bac Kan Province

7. Hue – Ancient and Romantic

A trip to Hue combines cultural depth with serene scenery. Visit the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, Dong Ba Market, and Phu Cam Conical Hat Village to fully experience the city’s refined charm and royal history.

8. Eo Gio, Binh Dinh – A Striking Coastal Bend

Known for its untouched nature, strong waves, and clear waters, Eo Gio is perfect for those wanting to escape tourist-heavy zones and enjoy the raw beauty of Central Vietnam’s coast.

9. Van Phong Bay, Khanh Hoa – Escape the Crowds

Instead of busy Nha Trang beaches, explore Van Phong Bay’s peaceful landscape and hidden gems like the Diep Son walking path—700 meters of sandy trail through the sea.

The breathtaking natural views of Van Phong Bay

10. Independence Palace, Ho Chi Minh City

Step into the pages of history where the gates fell on April 30, 1975. This palace is both a historic landmark and a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s reunification. A guided tour helps visitors understand its architectural significance and pivotal role in the war.

• Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

• Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

• Admission: 40,000 VND (1 building), 65,000 VND (2 buildings)

11. War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City

A member of the global Museums for Peace network, this site shows firsthand the effects of war through photography, decommissioned military vehicles, and curated testimonials. While emotionally heavy, it’s a meaningful stop.

• Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3, HCMC

• Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily (ticket counter closes at 5:00 PM)

• Admission: 40,000 VND/person. Free for children under 6, people with disabilities, and low-income households.

• 50% discount for students, seniors, and recognized contributors to the revolution.

Inside the War Remnants Museum with historical exhibits

12. History Museum, Ho Chi Minh City

Located inside the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden, the Ho Chi Minh City History Museum preserves and displays tens of thousands of valuable artifacts collected from both Vietnam and abroad. You can combine a museum visit with a stroll through the park to fully enjoy your April 30–May 1 holiday.

• Address: No. 2, Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00–11:30 AM; 1:00–5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Admission: 30,000 VND/person

13. Vietnam People's Air Force Museum, Ho Chi Minh City

If you're interested in military history, this is a highly recommended spot to visit during the April 30–May 1 holiday.

The museum exhibits unique collections of weapons and artifacts from all four branches of Vietnam’s Air Defense–Air Force. These were the “right-hand arms” that helped Vietnam’s military achieve great victories during the resistance wars against the French and Americans.

• Address: Duong Thang Long Street, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
• Hours: 8:30–11:00 AM; 1:00–4:00 PM (Monday to Thursday; only the outdoor area is open on Saturday and Sunday)
• Admission: 15,000 VND/ticket

14. Con Dao, Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province

Combining crystal-clear waters and deep historical significance, Con Dao is a top choice for a holiday that’s both relaxing and meaningful. A trip to the infamous Con Dao prison and the area’s untouched islands will not disappoint.

Visiting Con Dao during the April 30–May 1 holiday, you’ll not only learn about its historical past but also enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of places like Bay Canh Island, Cau Island, and Tai Lon Island.

15. Can Tho – A Fascinating Mekong Delta Experience

With its river culture, floating markets, and distinctive cuisine, Can Tho is always an ideal destination for a trip during the April 30–May 1 holiday.

Known for its poetic beauty and welcoming locals, Can Tho offers iconic spots such as Cai Rang Floating Market, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Son Islet, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and lush fruit orchards. It’s also a culinary paradise, featuring specialties like fermented fish hotpot, duck rice porridge, sizzling pancakes (banh xeo), and mung bean fritters (banh cong).

Souvenir Suggestions by Region

After every April 30–May 1 holiday trip, one of the greatest joys is choosing souvenirs to bring home to loved ones. Below are unique regional gift ideas you can consider while traveling.

1. Brocade Decor Items – A Gift Rich in Cultural Heritage

When visiting the Northwest or Central Highlands during the April 30–May 1 holiday, look for brocade wall hangings, cushion covers, or brocade table runners. These handwoven items reflect ethnic culture and honor Vietnam’s traditional craftsmanship.

2. Cham Cheo Seasoning Salt – A Northern Specialty

After your trip to Vietnam’s northern highlands, don’t forget to buy Cham Cheo salt—an intricate blend of over 10 rare herbs, including mac khen pepper, cardamom, garlic, and ginger.

This version of dipping salt is made from ingredients grown 1,600 meters above sea level, often found in the Hoang Lien Forest. It’s a truly unique gift from the northern mountains to share with family and friends.

3. Yen Tu Apricot Wine – Warm and Good for Health

If your April 30–May 1 trip brings you to Quang Ninh, try and purchase some Yen Tu apricot wine—a mellow, sweet liquor infused with the essence of sacred Yen Tu Mountain.

4. West Lake Lotus Tea – A Drink for Inner Calm

While exploring Hanoi during the holiday, especially around West Lake, don’t miss the opportunity to buy lotus-scented tea. It’s a luxurious, elegant souvenir and a symbol of Hanoi’s charm.

5. Vietnamese Silk

With nearly 300 traditional silk-making villages, Hanoi is an ideal place to buy premium silk gifts. Handcrafted scarves, garments, and home décor items showcase exquisite craftsmanship.

Souvenirs to bring home from your visit to Hanoi

6. Hue Hand Fans

A trip to Hue during the April 30–May 1 holiday wouldn’t be complete without bringing home a few Hue-style hand fans—lightweight, graceful, and full of poetic charm.

7. One-Sun Dried Beef with Ant Salt – Phu Yen Specialty

If you’re traveling to Central Vietnam during the April 30–May 1 break, visit Phu Yen and try its iconic one-sun dried beef paired with ant salt—a rare and uniquely flavorful treat.

Phu Yen has many specialties, but this dish stands out as truly one-of-a-kind. The golden, tender beef is grilled and dipped in tangy, savory ant salt, making it not only a perfect snack with drinks but also a heartfelt gift from the sunny, windy land of Phu Yen.

8. Phuc Long Tea – The Taste of Saigon

Saigon is a cultural melting pot, so you can find specialties from all over the country. Still, if you’re looking for something uniquely local, Phuc Long Tea is a great pick. It’s well-loved by students, workers, and families alike for its strong flavor and distinctive branding.

9. Pia Cake from Soc Trang – A Sticky Sweet Delicacy

The Mekong Delta is always a popular April 30–May 1 holiday destination, and Pia Cake from Soc Trang is a must-buy souvenir. With its rich blend of durian aroma, mung bean filling, and salted egg yolk, it’s a chewy, fragrant dessert that’s hard to resist.

Gifts that capture the spirit of every region

Conclusion

Vietnam’s April 30–May 1 holiday is a rich time to explore, connect, and celebrate. Whether you’re wandering ancient ruins or sailing through floating markets, this season is full of unforgettable moments.

Don’t forget to pick up local gifts that tell a story. To find handcrafted Vietnamese souvenirs curated from across the country, visit Chus.vn—a destination for meaningful Vietnamese craftsmanship.