vietnam places to visit price

The Cost of Travel in Vietnam: A 2023 Budget Breakdown

Vietnam is one of the greatest countries in the world.

I should know: I’ve spent a almost full year travelling across this country, making my way from the very top to its southernmost point and exploring a hell of a lot along the way.

I’ve spent months living in Hanoi and Saigon, and celebrated birthdays in Hoi An and Mui Ne. I’ve rented apartments with local families in lesser-known neighbourhoods, diligently worked my way through every street food cart in the area, then partied my way through all of the best backpacker haunts. I’ve travelled solo in the country, with my boyfriend and with friends, and even spent a month showing my boyfriend’s parents around the country. I spent two weeks riding a scooter through the smallest of towns in the Mekong Delta, visiting places that few tourists have ever passed through.

I’ve seen so much of this country and yet there’s something that still continually pulls me back.

(Confession: it’s the food. Vietnamese food is the best .)

But beyond the incredible meals, there’s also the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, the amazing architecture, and the most bustling cities. From the awe-inspiring views up in Sapa and the beaches of Da Nang, to the beauty of Hoi An, the scenery at Halong Bay, and the chaos of Saigon, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

Today, I want to focus on what you’ll pay for all of this magic. Of course, being in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is an affordable country to visit, in comparison to countries in North America and Europe, so your Dong will take you far. Yep, that’s the name of the currency here: the Vietnamese Dong, and you’ll find yourself with plenty of opportunity to make jokes about it.

I usually travel on a mid-range budget in Vietnam, along with occasional splurges, and often average around $50 — I’ve managed to get by on $10 a day when I was a tight backpacker, and splurged on a five-star hotel and been blown away by how much $100 a night can get you.

At the time of writing this, in 2023, $1 equates to around 24,000 VND. You’ll usually get 500,000 VND notes out of the ATMs, so remember that those are worth just over $20 each. Be careful with the 20,000 and 500,000 notes, though — they look very similar and could make for quite the expensive mistake!

A quick housekeeping point before we continue: everything in the post I paid for myself – as always, this is a comp- and press trip-free article.

With all that being said, it’s time to take an in-depth look into just how much it costs to travel in Vietnam. Let’s get started.

Where to Go in Vietnam

I recommend allocating a full month to travel in Vietnam. Here’s how I recommend spending your time over those four weeks:

• Hanoi: 5 nights
• Sapa: 2 nights
• Halong Bay/Bai Tu Long Bay: 1 night
• Ninh Binh: 3 nights
• Phong Nga: 2 nights
• Da Nang: 2 nights
• Hoi An: 5 nights
• Dalat: 3 nights
• Saigon: 3 nights
• Can Tho: 1 night

What’s Included in This Post

The budget breakdown you’re about to read covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs. All prices are in U.S. dollars, as that’s where most of my readers are located.

Flight costs will vary, depending on where you’re travelling in from. I recommending using Skyscanner’s flight comparison search engine to find the very best deals.

I often book activities and transport online, but generally have found that local travel agents offer cheaper prices. You’ll find one on practically every street in tourist-popular destinations, so there’s always many places vying for your custom; amounts can usually be haggled.

But if that’s not your thing, or you prefer the peace of mind of having things booked in advance, online booking works well, too. More on that below.

Vietnam offers up amazing value for money. Yes, I often splashed out on fun excursions that are a bit pricier, but even then, costs didn’t spiral. It’s all about balance. 

My ethos is: if I’m not going to experience at least some of the sights and activities a place is known for, what’s the point? But equally, I’ve also found some lesser-known – and free – things to do along the way that I’ll be mentioning as well.

Time to jump in.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for free accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Vietnam, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Vietnam  are on a par with the rest of Southeast Asia, and you can expect to spend around  $5 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Vietnam, with the price increasing to slightly about  $15 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  $20 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $40 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually come in at around  $20-$60 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices. I share my personal recommendations below:

The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Places to stay in Vietnam are excellent value.

There were a couple of exceptions where we treated ourselves and upped the budget a bit, but that’s not to say we didn’t see quality options within both price brackets.

For the most part, we stayed in hotels and guesthouses and picked places where breakfast was included. That way, our first meal of the day was covered by what was without exception a first-rate buffet, often with eggs made-to-order any which way we preferred. Going forward, whenever I mention breakfast, you can assume it was part of the rate.

Mid-range properties were super-reasonably priced. And even 5* accommodation doesn’t cost an arm and a leg – much less than a hotel room in Western Europe, Australasia or the USA, for example.

Hotel staff couldn’t do enough for us, from the concierge and the tour desk to the staff at breakfast. Honestly, the Vietnamese people were a delight: really friendly and helpful. Often they were keen to practice their English on us and claimed to not be very good, when in actual fact they were fluent. It put us to shame.

Read on for recommendations on places to stay in Vietnam.

Hanoi: Our stay at this contemporary hotel in the Old Quarter cost us $49 a night , and we can’t speak highly enough of this gem.

Just a five-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and tons of restaurants and bars, our superior double was spacious and modern, with wooden floors, splashes of colour throughout, and a feature wall. The breakfast buffet was varied and staff were incredibly helpful, going above and beyond to help us with forthcoming bookings.

For us, the historic centre was definitely the best area to stay in. It was bustling, atmospheric, and within ambling distance of most attractions. Talking of walking: make sure you watch out for the pesky mopeds in Hanoi, and Saigon too. In fact, there were even more zipping about down south.

Sapa: We opted for a homestay in Sapa, because we really wanted to throw ourselves into things. If you go down that route, Mao and her family are the people to choose.

After an overnight train ride northwards from Hanoi, we were met by Mao’s sister-in-law. We paid $68 per person for a one-night stay in Mao’s home. But that price also covered a two-day excursion. More on the details in the activity section.

It was Mao’s mountainous family home that we stayed in. It was basic, but comfortable: mattress-style beds on the floor enclosed by mosquito nets and shared bathroom facilities. The hospitality was warm, and the family were generous with their time.

We loved our night there and would wholeheartedly recommend it.

Bai Tu Long Bay: Boat time! Bai Tu Long Bay is just eastwards of the more famous Halong Bay, but doesn’t attract the crowds of the former. It’s just as beautiful, so if you want to see those limestone karsts without hundreds of boats surrounding you, this is the way to go.

We chose a two days/one night trip here. Our boat – Viola – was striking yet comfortable – a traditional wooden vessel with 16 cabins featuring dark wood and large windows. We were lucky: the boat wasn’t full, so we managed to bag an upgrade to the Honeymoon suite with a balcony to admire the spectacular scenery from.

Our cost came in at $149 per person for the two night trip, but that did include transfers, separate excursions off the boat, and food.

Ninh Binh: Just a couple of hours south of Hanoi we reached Ninh Binh, and this rather lovely homestay . Run by a family of four, the hospitality was first-rate, and our room was large, with pretty views out to the mountains. There was a roof terrace for drinks and excellent local food, and complimentary bicycles.

The property is outside the centre of town on a quiet residential stretch. We were there to get out and about on bikes, so the quiet location worked well for us. We paid $19 a night and were impressed. The family even invited us to join them one night for a home-cooked meal – an unexpected and kind gesture that we took them up on. That was our first taste of jackfruit.

Phong Nha: We pushed the boat out in Central Vietnam – for us anyway – and spent $45 a night . Located off the beaten path a little (about 15 minutes from the centre of town), this peaceful hideaway was set among lush greenery and rice paddies, and came complete with a swimming pool, wonderful views, complimentary bikes, tasty food, and quaffable fishbowl gin and tonics.

Situated just outside the National Park and the caves the area is famous for, we enjoyed sitting al fresco watching the sunset, sipping on a drink with a plate of crispy spring rolls to munch on.

The vibe was French colonial, with plenty of dark wood, wicker furniture and colourful tiles. And the ethos was ethical, sustainable and local, which got a thumbs up from us.

Danang: We continued with a slightly increased budget here, and spent $62 a night at this stylish beachfront property in a bright and airy superior double. .

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the white sands of My Khe beach and about 25 from the famous Dragon Bridge, this spot offered us the best of both worlds.

We made the most of the glorious rooftop pool and terrace and the plentiful breakfast buffet. And friendly staff were on hand to answer our questions – such as where to get the local bus to Hoi An from.

Hoi An: Just 45 minutes southwards on that bus we were advised about, we reached our next stop. We split our time here: three nights a short cycle from lovely Cua Dai beach at this contemporary hotel with a pool overlooking the Co Co river (we paid $40 per night ).

Our room was spacious, clean, and it was fab to have a balcony. Plus, we were just a 20-minute ride to the sea. And at the latter smaller property, we loved the eye-catching colourful tiles throughout and enjoyed a splash in the dinky pool.

Saigon: We stayed in this first-rate hotel in Saigon, with pale wood and bamboo decor, knowledgeable staff, a quality buffet breakfast, and a rooftop pool with city vistas. We paid $90 per night and were very happy.

Can Tho (Mekong Delta): We were here for just one night, and up very early for a Mekong Delta boat ride the following day. So we opted for a lower end of the price bracket option. And we couldn’t find fault with this virtually riverside boutique hostel , where we paid just $20 per night .

You can expect funky monochrome decor and air-con. Breakfast wasn’t included here, but we knew we’d be eating on our floating market trip.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACCOMMODATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $1178. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $42 PER DAY, OR $21 EACH.

Reminder: in Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay, the cost I’ve used in the calculation included a whole excursion – so food, walks etc.

THE COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM

We chose to travel by bus throughout Vietnam for the most part. We generally found these to be clean, efficient and comfortable. Some had reclining seats that were bedlike, for longer journeys.

To reiterate: shop around for prices; we found there were deals to be had. If, however, you break into a sweat when you think about masterfully haggling with the experts, 12Go Asia is my go-to site for booking overland travel in Southeast Asia. They’ve got buses, trains, and private transport listed, and it’s usually only a dollar or two more than you’ll pay in person, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

Keep in mind that sometimes the buses take less time than advised and you may have to swap buses, which you’re not always pre-informed about. For example, from Phong Nha to Danang we switched buses in Hue. And from Hoi An to Dalat, we changed vehicles in Nha Trang (but did get to see a lovely sunrise at the beach there). Really, for the prices we paid, we couldn’t complain.

Here’s a breakdown of our journeys:

Train from Hanoi to Sapa: $32 per person . Note: we shared our cabin with two other (snoring) people, so would recommend opting for a private cabin if funds allow (around $61 per person).

Bus from Sapa to Hanoi: $12 per person . We used Sapa Express : comfy seats, lovely views, and a very friendly member of staff was on board. Water and a snack were provided, too. The company was also very accommodating when we nearly missed the bus.

Bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: $7 per person

Bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha: $12 per person

Bus from Phong Nha to Danang: $12 per person

Local bus from Danang to Hoi An: $1 per person

Bus from Hoi An to Dalat: $16 per person

Bus from Dalat to Saigon: $17 per person

Bus from Saigon to Can Tho: $6 per person

Shuttle bus from Can Tho to Ha Tien: $6 per person. Tip: don’t buy your ticket from the office, go directly to a shuttle and ask a driver for a price – they charged us less than what was quoted inside.

There are other modes of transport if buses aren’t for you. Trains are an alternative ( 12Go is a top website for those, too), and Grab was available in Hanoi, Danang and Saigon.

Similar to Uber, you just need to download the app. Scooters are an option with Grab; cheaper than booking a car. Watch out for taxis you hail off the street – they have a reputation for trying to rip off tourists, so it’s easier to use the app.

OUR TOTAL COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $242. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $8.60 PER DAY, OR $4.30 EACH.

THE COST OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTRANCE FEES IN VIETNAM

We saw and did a lot in Vietnam, ranging from rice paddy walks and scenic boat rides to food tours. There were also some well-known activities that we chose not to do, because of personal preference. For example, Phong Nha is famous for caves, but we opted for a bike ride into the countryside instead.

Here’s a rundown for you, with costs.

Halong Bay two-day/one-night tour from Hanoi: $150 per person. If there’s one thing you have to do when you’re in Vietnam, it’s to visit their most famous attraction. Halong Bay is incredible and well-worth taking the time and spending the money to see it. The rock formations are breathtaking! We opted for a tour that took us to both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, as the latter is free of the tourist crowds. That way, we got the best of both worlds. You can check availability for the tour we booked using the widget below (it is popular, so book well in advance!)

Food tour in Hanoi with Ha Food Tours: $25 per person . An amazing evening; we were fit to burst by the end. Our local tour guide was fun, friendly and very informative. She also gave us recommendations for other restaurants to try (Pho 10 below). We wandered our way around the Old Quarter sampling delights such as Bun Cha, egg coffee (nicer than it sounds!), dried beef salad, crab spring rolls, beef noodles, Bahn Mi, sticky rice, and coconut ice-cream. Told you there was a lot of food! We wouldn’t necessarily have known to go into some of the places, and it was lovely to be led by someone with first-hand knowledge of the city. We thought the price offered excellent value for money, when you coupled all of the food with the guided aspect.

Hoa Lo prison, Hanoi (pay at the entrance): 30,000 VND per person (approximately $1.50) . This was an eye-opening and moving experience. The former jail was used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners, and later by North Vietnam for US Prisoners of War during the Vietnam War.

Sapa walking and homestay with Mao and family : $55 per person (two days, one night). The scenery was amazing in Sapa and the Muong Hoa Valley: rice fields, terraces, tea plants, and lush greenery. If you’re into glorious views and walking (there was a fair amount, and it was medium difficulty at times), this is for you. We met Mao’s sister-in-law in the centre of town, and from there, up we went into the mountains. It was peaceful, picturesque, and a world away from busy Hanoi. Included in the tour were two lunches, plus a plentiful home-cooked dinner and breakfast at Mao’s. Do try the rice wine – ‘happy water’ Mao offers at dinnertime – it was potent, reminding us a bit of sake.

Bai Tu Long Bay boat tour with Premier Travel: $144 per person (two days, one night). Again, the scenery here was pretty spectacular, with limestone rock formations jutting out of the water across the bay. The trip included visiting a pearl farm and an impressive cave, all meals, a summer roll making class, a swim, and a kayak. Just to let you know, it was communal dining, which some people like, and others don’t.

Trang An caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 200,000 VND per person (approximately $8.50) . We were really pleased we chose to cycle out to the river and the Trang An caves. They were a much quieter alternative to Tam Coc (we rode via there another day and it was busy). At Trang An, we jumped aboard a small boat just before 4pm; it was quiet on the water. The scenery was wonderful and the caves we went through made the journey exciting and interesting. Watch your head in some of the caves – they were low. We made a few stops along the way and helped to row for some of the trip. It was a lovely way to spend a few hours. Lunch tip: Quoc Khanh Bamboo Homestay (great views, and very tasty pomelo, pork and shrimp salad).

Mua Caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 100,000 VND per person (approximately $4.50) . We cycled from our homestay through paddy fields which was fab. The caves involved a 500-step climb – so it may not be for everyone. Tough, but totally worth it for the amazing and far-reaching vistas.

Scooter food tour in Hoi An: $35 per person . Another fantastic food tour. We sampled a whopping nine dishes on this tour — some of which were served in a local’s home who specialised in that particular item. So good, so fun, and so informative; this is a must-do!

Countryside tour in Dalat : $40 per person . One word: loved! We stopped at a cricket farm, the Elephant Falls, a silk factory, a coffee plant, and wandered around a local market sampling bits and pieces. We also enjoyed a lunch pitstop with a fun fruit tasting, and then came the secret aspect. I won’t reveal what that was – it was worth it though.

Crazy House , Dalat (pay at the entrance): 40,000 VND per person (approximately $1.75) . This really was crazy. An unconventional building constructed by Vietnamese architect Đặng Việt Nga, designed to entice people back to nature. You can also stay there too, if that floats your boat.

Saigon Pho Trail : $55 per person . A food and walking tour highlighting the ‘real’ Ho Chi Minh City. We wandered around authentic markets, enjoyed a first-rate breakfast beef pho, calamansi juice, and then a huge lunch. So much tasty food! And a super friendly pair of guides.

Saigon foot scrub: $15 per person . We’d done an awful lot of walking throughout our trip and our feet deserved some attention! There were so many places offering spa services, so we shopped around. Our treatment also included a quick neck and back massage, and a pedicure for me.

Mekong Delta boat ride: $18 per person . We loved this tour so much. It was an early start down to the water where we took a boat tour to the Cai Rang Floating Market. Next, we stopped at a noodle factory and then a cacao plant. A wonderful morning. Our advice? Don’t book online, ask your hotel for a tour recommendation.  

There were also tons of free activities we enjoyed. They can sometimes be just as enjoyable, we think. Read on for a handful of our faves.

Phong Nha Bong Lai Valley bike ride: This was one of my favourite days. So scenic, not too difficult, and two great places to stop for a beer and food – always a bonus! Their names? Pub with Cold Beer (it did what it said on the tin), and Eco Boar Farm.

Danang beach walk: Non Nuoc and My Khe – wide stretches with fine sand.

Hoi An beach walk: Cua Dai. Another lovely stretch; keep an eye out for colourful crabs scurrying along.

Where I’ve mentioned bikes, these were complimentary with our hotel stay.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACTIVITIES IN VIETNAM CAME TO $418.50. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $15 PER DAY, OR $7.50 EACH.

Reminder: I’ve excluded the Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay tours from my calculations because I included them in the accommodation costs above.

THE COST OF FOOD VIETNAM

I love, love, love food. Wherever we visit, we put a lot of research time into where to eat and what dishes we should try. We like to taste local specialities, and so we kept our ear out for recommendations. The food in Vietnam was among the best we tasted throughout the year, and super cheap too.

I’m going to list a handful of dishes we regularly ate across the four weeks, with an average price.

Like I said before, for the most part, breakfast was included as part of our room rate, so I won’t include that in this section. And on a handful of days when we were on an excursion, all of our meals were included. So I’ll calculate for the remaining days.

Let’s do it…

Bahn Mi: a super delicious snack that we had virtually every day! A baguette (Viet style – much lighter than the French version) filled with BBQ pork, pate, herbs, chilli, and pickled veg. Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi was our favourite by far and cost just 30,000 a pop (about $1.30). Madam Khanh, Queen of Banh Mi in Hoi An was also very tasty (25,000 VND, approximately $1).

Pho: fragrant noodle soup that struck the balance of being fresh yet filling.

Average cost: 65,000 VND ( approximately $3). Our recommendation? Beef pho at Pho 10 in Hanoi. The broth was delicate and the meat rare (it cooked a bit as it sat in the broth). There were sharing condiments on the table – fresh chilli, a fiery sauce and garlic. One portion and a beer came in at 85,000 VND (around $4).

Bun Cha: a tangy broth, with chargrilled pork patties, rice noodles, fresh vegetables and herbs. The average we paid for this scrummy dish was 90,000 VND ($4) per portion. We loved Bun Cha Ta in Hanoi.

Banh Xeo: super cheap and filling crispy pancakes filled with veggies, pork belly and prawns. Just 23,000 VND ($1) a portion in general.

Com Ga: chicken and rice. Simple yet delicious, and cheap at around 46,000 VND ($2) per portion.

Nem Nuong: pork sausage meat, greens, pickled veg, rice noodles and rice paper – a DIY meal where we wrapped the ingredients in the rice paper. So tasty, and only around 92,000 VND ($4) a portion.

Dumplings and wontons: need little explanation! Miss Ly’s well-known spot in Hoi An was a noteworthy place to try these. We shared, and paid 80,000 VND each (about $3.50).

A couple of evenings we fancied some Western food. For example, we had a yummy pizza each at Fatfish in Danang. That cost us 195,000 VND (about $8.50) per person. A bit more expensive, but still totally manageable.

Burger Bros in Danang cost us 100,000 VND (about $4) each – comparable to local food prices. And it was a really juicy burger.

A few times, we spent a bit more on Vietnamese meals. For instance, we enjoyed an early dinner at the Pub with Cold Beer. The family who owns the place offered a unique ‘kill your own chicken for us to cook’ service (you don’t have to; they can do it for you if you’d prefer). Dave opted to do the honours – brave man. A while later, a BBQed, spatchcocked bird appeared smelling wonderful. It was served with rice, greens and the most amazing sauces – peanut and fresh chilli. We really loved that meal. It cost us 230,000 VND ($10) each, and was so worth it.

Goc Ha Thanh in Dalat came in at 322,000 each (around $14) – that included a starter of spring rolls, coconut prawn curries, a side of veg, water, and local wine. Who knew very drinkable wine was made in Dalat?!

Average daily food cost: $8.57 per day, or $4.29 each

More on drinks next…

We sipped on plenty of bottled water which was dirt cheap, plus beers, and the odd cocktail here and there. A large water cost us about 50 cents.

In Hanoi, ‘fresh beer’ (bia hoi) is famous, and even cheaper than water. It cost us around 8,000 VND (35 cents) a glass. We only found this sold in the capital, out of big freezer chests. It was made fresh each day with few preservatives; foamy and quite light in alcohol. We highly recommend you try it.

Otherwise, we tended to share large bottles of local beer; they came in at about $1 a bottle.

Oh, and for lovers of the chocolate bar Bounty, or fans of coconut in general, you MUST pay Cong Caphe a visit. We stopped at outposts in Hanoi and Saigon. Their coconut smoothie was one of the best things I drank (a bold claim I know) – so good and so simple. It was made of coconut milk whizzed up with crushed ice and coffee. Yum. The chocolate and coconut version was equally delicious too. And the price? 45,000 VND each (about $2). Heavenly, and totally worth it.

In Saigon, we visited Pasteur Street Brewing , where a bottle was 70,000 VND (approximately $3). Dearer than local brands like Bia Saigon, but it was craft beer – and very good.

We indulged in happy hour cocktails at Mango Rooms in Hoi An a few times. They cost about 100,000 each (approximately $4). Keep an eye out for 2 for 1 deals – we found them a great way to be able to sample drinks we may not have done otherwise.

Average daily drink cost: $4.82 per day, or $2.41 each

Like I said, we can’t talk highly enough of the Vietnamese cuisine. Flavourful, packed a spice punch, and totally delicious. Such great value for money, too.

OUR TOTAL COST OF FOOD AND DRINK IN VIETNAM CAME TO $375. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $13.40 PER DAY, OR $6.70 EACH.

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES IN VIETNAM

A local SIM card:  I don’t know about you, but one of my least favourite aspects of arriving in a new country is having to figure out how to get connected. Specifically: buying a local SIM card so that I have data to use while I’m in the country.

There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with, various forms of ID you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

This year, I started using  Airalo , which sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in Vietnam, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It’s worked flawlessly for me and now, I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. You’ll pay  $4.50 for 1 GB of data  for Vietnam and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible before buying — all recent iPhones and many Androids are.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Vietnam. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM?

Okay, so after adding everything up, here are costs per person:

• Accommodation: $21 per day
• Transport: $4.30 per day
• Activities: $7.50 per day
• Food and drink: $6.70 per day
• Miscellaneous: $1.50 per day

Grand total spent in Vietnam: $41 per person per day .

Vietnam was excellent value for money, and a highlight of our year. We saw untold wonderful sights, ate incredibly well, and stayed at a range of quality accommodation.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? DID YOU EXPECT TO BE ABLE TO TRAVEL THROUGH VIETNAM FOR THAT PRICE?

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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13 comments.

An epic post, Laura! Covers everything I need to know about travel in Vietnam and how much it’ll cost me.

HI Laura, This as a great post – IM a new traveller so very helpful! Can you tell me how long did it take to organise a visa and do you have to have any vaccinations? (Im not partial to them …) Thanks!

It took about 48 hours for my visa to be approved — super easy process, so no worries about that.

There are a few vaccines that are recommended (although not required) — hepatitis A&B and typhoid, in particular — I got both of those vaccines back in 2011 when I first started travelling, then got a top-up a few years ago. Japanese encephalitis is a good idea if you’re going to be staying in any rural areas. It’s not worth taking anti-malarials, as dengue is the real problem there, not malaria — I have multiple friends who have contracted dengue in Vietnam and been really sick, one of whom was left with chronic joint pain from the virus. Because of this, definitely take care to cover up when mosquitoes are active (around sunset) and/or use lots of insect repellent. Dengue really is the biggest thing you need to worry about, as there’s a lot of it in Vietnam. COVID vaccines aren’t required to enter the country anymore.

I’ve had tons of vaccines, though — pretty much any travel-related ones you can get! As somebody who contracted cholera[!!] because I skipped getting the vaccine (and still have health issues from the illness, five years later), I resolved to get every vaccine I could. It sucked to get that sick and know I could have prevented it.

But either way, to answer your question, there’s several that are recommended but none that are mandatory.

Great post! Just confirming are your prices here in USD?

Thanks so much! Yes, they’re in USD.

Hi Lauren, my daughter and I are planning a trip to Vietnam in August. Great to find helpful info on your site, but just wondering what currency your pricing is based on? Travelling as a Kiwi I may need to double it!

Hi Jacqui, My hubby and I are also going in August. I was wondering the same thing as we are Aussies. We’ve been before but 12 years ago so I can’t remember alot and obviously things have changed. When we went last time I only booked the first 3 nights and the concierge at the hotel booked the rest of the 2 weeks for us for $600AUD each which included all accommodation, travel and sight seeing for the whole 2 weeks. It worked out at about a third of the price of what I’d have paid in Australia. I’m really tempted to just do the same again. Enjoy your trip and who knows – maybe we’ll see you on the road!

One of my favorite things about Vietnam was how inexpensive it was! I just came back from two weeks in SE Asia and I really can’t wait to go back. Vietnam was my favorite place we went. The people are SO a friendly and it really was an excellent experience. The food is amazing. And I love that you can get grabs for like $2 across Ho Chi Minh City. I came back to America and cringed paying $40 for my Uber back from the airport haha. I miss the food and people so much already! Planning to try my hand at making egg coffee- I saved a website that tells you how so hopefully it turns out well.

Fantastic article – thank you so much!

This post is really helpful, thank you so much.

How did you apply for a visa? I am in Australia and I hear there are lots of scams and I am not quite sure on what is the best process.

I would love to travel to Vietnam, but found it hard to figure out public transportation. is there a website you know of that is helpful? country is very long are there tips you recommend to save time ie special routes and travel time like overnight….

Hi Shiva! I use 12Go in Southeast Asia and book all of my buses, minivans, and trains through there. You’ll pay an extra dollar or so to use the service but it makes it sooo much easier than hunting down a travel agent to book everything in person! I personally am not a huge fan of travelling overnight as I find I always sleep terribly and lose much of the next day to napping and exhaustion — you may be different though. It’s worth experimenting with for sure! Plus you save money on accommodation by travelling overnight :-) Flying can definitely save you time for some longer legs and domestic flights in Vietnam are always pretty affordable.

Excellent post – thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed overview of your experience.

I’m looking for a place to stay in Hanoi – I was wondering the name of the hotel you have pictured near the top of the article, with a pool overlooking the river. If you could please let me know the name of this place I will be eternally grateful!

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Discover the lowdown of Vietnam prices, covering accommodation, food, activities, and a whole heap more. Is it as cheap as they say it is?

Well, yes. If you’re lucky enough to be born into privilege (pretty much everyone in the developed world), then, yes – Vietnam is cheap and your currency can go a loooong way. If you’re smart about it. I mean, reckless people (me, for the most part) can still travel to South East Asia and somehow blow their entire savings account.

Look, I’m a sucker for food and foot massages, okay? Have enough of those in a day and you’ll find your wallet growing thinner by the hour.

That being said, Vietnam is still one of the cheapest places to holiday in South East Asia and you can enjoy more luxuries (and meals) without going broke as a joke, so sit back, chillax, and allow me to run through all the prices in Vietnam to help you budget for your trip.

NOTE:  All dollar values stated are in USD

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Vietnam: The Must Knows

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The North is best between November and April when it’s cooler and dryer. May to October is the cheapest time to visit, but the trade-off is rain and humidity.  Lots of it.

Central Vietnam  is ideal from December to January when the weather is temperate. February to August grows increasingly (and unbearably) hot, while rain season occurs between September and November.

South Vietnam is hot and dry from November to April, with rain season arriving from May to October.

Is Vietnam Safe?

Apart from trying to cross the road in any major city – yes, it’s safe enough. The biggest danger in Vietnam is probably road accidents involving motorbikes, so if you’re thinking about renting a scooter – I would probably think twice.

Using common sense is vital, pickpockets are prevalent in bigger cities, like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. My cousin had his phone stolen from his front jean pocket. I mean, these guys got skillz. Be alert.

Visa Requirements

A visa to enter Vietnam is required for most nationalities, although the application fee isn’t high, you’ll still need to consider in your Vietnam trip cost. Check with your local consulate as some nations within the EU are able to enter visa-free as long as they meet the maximum length of stay requirements.

We applied for ours via a reliable online service and received our invitation letter within 3 days. We forked out $43 for a single entry visa.

How does it work? After the application is submitted, the online visa agency issues an approval letter which you’ll need to bring and present to customs at your destination. After which, you’ll be issued with an official visa.

Travel Insurance

I know living life on the edge is exhilarating and all, but don’t be that person (or family) who goes on holiday without travel insurance. I worked at a travel agency for 2 years and have heard enough horror stories to direct a sequel to the Final Destination movie franchise.

We use and recommend World Nomads,  because, quite frankly – they have one of the most competitive rates in the industry. They’ve covered my derriére on numerous occasions from stolen iPhones to damaged suitcases. You can get a quote here for your next trip – you won’t be disappointed!

Food Safety

Not gonna lie – I thought I had an Asian stomach of steel until my first trip to Vietnam and that belief was laid to rest. Forever. As incredible as Vietnamese cuisine is, you also should be made aware that you might get very well acquainted with the toilet bowl in your hotel after devouring some amazing street food.

Oh, and water. You probably don’t even want to brush your teeth with it. Buy bottled. Always.

It’s always best to hit up  well-rated restaurants  and ensure that meat is always cooked through – especially in  Pho and other noodle dishes.

What to pack for Vietnam

If you’re planning to visit the northern parts or Vietnam or considering a trip to Sapa or Dalat, I would recommend packing warm layers or even a light jacket, as it can get chilly in the mountains and in the evenings.

Take a look at this comprehensive South East Asia Packing List to help you get organised.

Best Destinations in Vietnam for Families

Nha Trang  is a bustling beachside city where you’ll find luxurious resorts, a variety of international cuisines to suit all tastes, and the Disneyland of Vietnam –  Vinpearl Land . This is the best theme park in the country and an absolute hit with little ones.

Phu Quoc  is a fast-developing remote island at the southern tip of the country where you’ll find 5-star resorts, untouched beaches, and one of the most stunning sunsets in the world. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a look at this detailed 2-day Phu Quoc itinerary highlighting all the attractions and activities on this island.

Da Nang  is another up-and-coming beachside city dotted with beautiful resorts and tons of activities for the whole family. Chill by the beach, pop into a theme park, take a day trip to the breathtaking Old Town in Hoi An, or weave through caves inside Marble Mountain – there’s  so much to do in this incredible region.

Vietnam on a Budget for 2 Weeks: Our Expenses

We tried to budget Vietnam as much as we could, splurging very little on shopping and more on experiences the whole family would enjoy. Keep in mind, our Vietnam expenses are based on a family of 4 over a 16-day travel period outside of peak season.

Okay, I lied. We did cash out a bit on a lux resort in Phu Quoc where we literally spent 7 days immersed in the ginormous pool and emerged wrinklier than pickled walnuts. But, that was literally our biggest expense (other than the plane tickets).

Vietnam prices for food are extremely affordable, so naturally, we never stopped eating and this came in as our third biggest expense. Plus, bearing in mind that I’m trapped in a life with 3 perpetually hungry boys (man-child included), so as a family – we ingest a lot. But, you’ll find yourself throwing money left, right and centre at all the food you want to eat because it’s freakin’ amazing. If you don’t, then there is  definitely something wrong with you.

All in all, it’s completely possible to do Vietnam on a budget for 2 weeks and live on the cheap, or you can splurge a little here and there and you’ll still find it significantly cheaper than holidaying in most western countries, which is what makes this country so appealing.

RELATED: How Cheap is Bali? All the Travel Costs Revealed.

Getting to Vietnam: Flight Route & Costs

Vietnam Airlines offer direct flights to Vietnam from various cities in Europe, Asia and Australia. If you’re flying in from North America, sorry folks, there’s no direct route and you’ll most likely face one or multiple stops before reaching your destination.

For us lucky bunch of Aussies – we’ve got a bag of airlines to choose from. Jetstar, Qantas and Vietnam Airlines offer direct flights from all major cities in Australia.

How to get Cheap Flights to Vietnam

We’re subscribed to  Secret Flying and Fly4Free , two great resources for spotting airfare and accommodation mistake and sale fares from all around the world. A total win when you get a notification for a ridiculously cheap flight departing from your home city.

Attending travel expos in your local area are also a great way of snagging cheap early bird airfares.

But, most of all, travelling in  low season makes a  huge difference to ticket prices. If you’re flexible, try searching for flights around February/March, May, and October/November.

Average Cost of Flights (Off-Peak) to Ho Chi Minh City from:

• Sydney to HCM – $427 return per person
• Los Angeles to HCM – $430 return per person
• London to HCM – $367 return per person
• Hong Kong to HCM – $169 return per person

Try Skyscanner’s ‘Monthly’ Deal Search :

Vietnam Accommodation Costs

Our 2-week stint in the country allowed us to experience almost all forms of accommodation – cosy Airbnbs, budget hotels and luxurious resorts. Here’s a breakdown of how much we spent on each place.

If you’re travelling as a couple or small family, the best way to budget Vietnam is to stay in 3-star hotels. Most of them are very clean, serviced, central, and even come with a decent buffet breakfast.

Find cheap accommodation in Vietnam below:

Find the best flight & accommodation deals. Take a look at our Travel Resources .

Vietnam Prices for Food & Groceries

Here’s the thing – you can dramatically reduce your Vietnam cost of travel by eating cheap meals at markets (eg. Benh Tanh in Ho Chi Minh) or local eateries where food is cheap and unbelievably tasty. But, you can also blow your family budget if you consistently opt to eat at western restaurants where the cost of dishes can be considerably more expensive.

How much does it cost to eat out?

Look, when on vacay in first world countries, it’s probably a brilliant idea to cook your own food to save on the doshies, but in South East Asia – it’s  way cheaper to grab a quick meal at the corner restaurant than it is to buy ingredients at a supermarket.

Street Food

This is where the  real deal is at – on the streets sweat drippin’ into your  Com Binh Dan  (street food) seasoning it with extra salt, curled over in tiny toddler-sized chairs and tables devouring your dish and falling into the most incredible foodgasm you’ve ever had the pleasure to experience. All for $1.50 a pop.

Eating at street stalls are the best value for money – you’ll literally find these everywhere in populated areas. Down dark and dingy alleyways, on busy streets or in the frontyard of you cab driver’s mum’s house. Prices for a single dish usually range between $1-3, easily feeding a family of 4 for under $15.

Here’s a Vietnam food bucket list guide to  all the dishes you must try. You can thank me later.

Local Eateries

You don’t need to sacrifice comfort and air con for a cheap meal. Mouthwatering food can still be found at local restaurants (minus the sweat dripping into your dish) without paying significantly more than street food.

Local eateries are also found in most populated areas and they actually have a shopfront, like, inside a building. With air conditioning, or at the very least, a couple fans going. Prices for dishes typically range between $3-5.

Food Chains

If you’re feeling a wee bit homesick and need some familiar tastes, you’ll find McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Starbucks and many more franchises in most major cities. Look at paying around $5 for a McMeal, while a coffee at Starbucks will cost you around $3-5.

Western Restaurants

Without a doubt, you’ll find western food options a-plenty, from Italian to French and other forms of fine dining – they’ve got ’em all. Just be prepared to pay a premium price for creature food comforts from back home.

Expect to pay anywhere between $10-35 per dish at a western restaurant.

Breakfast & Cafés

Dying for some breakfast or brunch? I feel ya. As a typical Melbournian coffee and brunch snob, I couldn’t be parted with avocados, eggs and a hearty Eggs Benedict for longer than a few consecutive days.

Look at forking out between $5-10 for brunch at a hip café.

Average daily food expenses:  $8 per person

Supermarkets & Baby Essentials

Here’s the thing – Vietnamese  don’t generally do their grocery run at supermarkets. The prices of things in Vietnam at supermarkets are generally higher compared to shopping at local markets for fresh produce. But, if you’re after imported products, fruits and vegetables – prices will, naturally, be higher.

We also needed to buy items like diapers and baby food for our 1-year old. Popular brands like Huggies and Pampers can be found at most supermarkets across major cities which will save you from packing a suitcase full to lug over.

Below is a table outlining the average Vietnam cost of groceries and baby essentials.

Best Travel Guides for Vietnam:

Cost of transport.

Yes, the dreaded transportation prices in Vietnam – not that it’s expensive per sé, but you’ll probably get ripped off, at least, once. It’s a Vietnam rite of passage, nahmean? If, somehow, you manage to avoid taxis altogether, then you’re winning at life.

Taxis in Vietnam can be dodgy AF. Not gonna sugarcoat this. I mean, these can drivers get creative as well when it comes to brainstorming different ways to rip their passengers off. Some have levers installed beneath their steering wheels that hike up the digits on the meter, and others, well, aren’t even cab drivers at all. They roll around in fake cabs.

Stick to two of the more reputable companies –  Mai Linh or  Vinasun .

PRO TIP:  When jumping in a cab – insist the driver turn on the metre. If not, be prepared to haggle your pants off.

Cost of Activities & Leisure

Wait. There’s other things to do in Vietnam aside from eating your body weight in food? On the real, my main motivator for visiting the country was my unconditional love for  Pho and  Cafe Sua Da . But, yes. Vietnam is home to a number of adventures and family-friendly activities that are actually reasonably priced when compared to, say, touristy activities in Thailand or Bali.

Some temples are free to enter whereas others, such as Po Nagar Cham Towers , charge a small entry fee for adults. A few other temples will ask for a donation, although not compulsory.

Save a ton on popular attractions by booking online

Cost of Phone & Internet

If you’re planning to use apps like Grab and Google Maps to find your way around, it’s best to get a SIM card. Although WiFi can be found in most hotels, restaurants and cafés – there were also times we found ourselves stranded with no choice but to buy our fourth Vietnamese coffee for the day just so we could use the shop’s WiFi to book a Grab back home.

The best place to purchase a SIM card is at the airport (Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang or Hanoi) in the arrivals hall. An unlimited calls and data plan only costs $10 and is valid for an entire month. Pretty crazy deal, huh?

Book a hassle-free Vietnam SIM & pick up at the airport:

Health & medical expenses.

Vietnam expenses for medical services like doctor consultations and medicines are, generally, much more affordable compared to other countries in Asia. In most cases, it’s not even worth making a claim with your travel insurance if you take your excess cost into consideration.

International Doctors & Hospitals

Average prices in Vietnam for doctor visits can vary considerably – a standard consultation can cost anywhere between $15-70, with prescription medicines and blood tests incurring additional costs. An emergency visit to an international hospital can cost $90 upwards. I’d recommend checking Google reviews before you commit to visiting a particular clinic or hospital to see what other travellers have had to say.

For any sort of dental work, I would highly recommend looking into the clinic and foraging the Internet for reviews before committing to a treatment. As we all know, dental work is significantly cheaper in South East Asia and Vietnam is no exception. For emergency services, such as fillings, look at paying between $20-60 per tooth. Root canals may put you $100-400 out of pocket.

So, here’s the thing – you can find almost  anything over the counter at a pharmacy in Vietnam, in most cases, costing a whole lot less than back at home. Unless you get ripped off. Make sure you read the Google reviews before visiting and check the expiry before paying.

Vietnam Budget Per Day

Coming in slightly less than Bali’s average daily cost, our Vietnam daily budget is primarily determined by our desire to experience a 5-star resort, visiting a ton of touristy attractions, and eating 12 times a day. You can drastically reduce your Vietnam budget per day by booking Airbnbs or mid-range hotels. If you have a smidge more self-control than we did, you can probably save a whole lot more as a family.

Our average daily expenses:  $31 per person (inclusive of accommodation, food, transport, attractions and other tidbits)

Tips for Saving Money in Vietnam

• Plan your trip in low season to snap up airfare bargains and accommodation deals.
• Eat at   local restaurants or buy street food for authentic and cheap Vietnamese food.
• Avoid street food stalls with no signage as they will most likely charge you double the price of locals.
• Shop at fresh food markets for fruits and vegetables as opposed to supermarkets.
• Purchase attraction tickets online on sites like Klook where you can save up to 20% on entry tickets.
• Haggle your pants off  because there’s always room for a bargain. Pitch half the amount of what the vendor is offering.
• Stay in guesthouses or apartments – they are the some of the most cost-effective accommodation options in Vietnam.
• Download the Grab app to get around and avoid having to haggle over cab fares.

WATCH: How Cheap is Vietnam for Families?

I hope this has helped you with your Vietnam budget and provided a little more insight into how much everything costs. It’s definitely possible to spend less than we did, it all depends on what you’re willing to forego and how much self-control you have when it comes to food ?

Travel resources to help save you money for your Vietnam trip

Visit our Travel Resources to find the best deals on flights, accommodation and attractions. We love and use these services ourselves to plan all of our family trips – they save us a ton of time and money.

Sweet deals for you:

• $15 USD OFF your reservation on Booking.com
• $40 USD OFF your first Airbnb booking  

For ideas on what to pack for a family trip, check out  gear and accessories  we take with us on every single trip.

Come say hi to us on YouTube , Instagram and Facebook . I promise we’re funny. At least, I like to think so.

If you found this post useful, please share the love below.

A Complete Bali Price Guide for Families: Breakdown of Travel Costs

Wow yeah that resort was pretty expensive compared to what you could’ve spent on a hotel room or airbnb or something but hey, I can’t really blame you. It looks amazing, and still wasn’t even very expensive if you compare it to a resort like that basically anywhere else in the world.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Written by Jess Lee Updated Aug 30, 2023

Vietnam is an astonishing mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity.

The scenery ranges from jagged peaks seen from winding mountain passes down to verdant paddy fields painted every shade of green in the palette, while Vietnam's long history and multicultural population (with over 50 ethnic minority groups) make a trip here rich in heritage.

Outdoor lovers can get their teeth into the countryside within the numerous national parks, where hiking, biking, and kayaking are popular things to do, but Vietnam's most famous natural tourist attraction, the spectacular karst seascape of Halong Bay, is one natural sight that even the more slothful can experience up close on a cruise.

While the rural areas brim with lush panoramas, the big cities buzz with contemporary life and provide ample opportunities to get stuck into Vietnam's tasty culinary highlights.

This fascinating country is full of surprises and is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated destinations. Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Halong Bay

2. ho chi minh city, 4. phong nha-ke bang national park, 7. sapa countryside, 9. nha trang, 10. cu chi tunnels, 11. ba be national park, 12. mekong delta, 13. cat ba island, 14. ha giang, 15. phu quoc island, 16. con dao islands, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit vietnam.

The karst seascape of Halong Bay is one of the best places to visit in the world for spellbinding sea views and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thousands of limestone islands sit within this bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, eroded into jagged pinnacles by wind and water action over millennia.

With the bay's scenery best seen by boat, this is prime cruising territory. Opt for at least an overnight tour to see Halong Bay's iconic views as a day trip doesn't do it justice.

There are plenty of caves in the bay that can be entered including the Hang Sung Sot, with three mammoth caverns, and the Hang Dao Go, with superbly weird stalagmites and stalactites. For most people though, the highlight is simply cruising amid the karsts and soaking up the changing scenery of pinnacles as you pass by.

There are plenty of different cruise tours to choose from. Check the different itineraries offered before booking as many travelers have left Halong Bay underwhelmed by their cruise.

Author's Tip: If possible, book a tour that takes in neighboring Lan Ha Bay as well as Halong Bay. The karst scenery is just as dramatic here but fewer cruise trips visit. And check if your cruise offers included activities such as guided kayaking (which allows you to experience an up-close view of the scenery).

For big city fans, no visit to Vietnam is really complete without a visit to Ho Chi Minh City, the buzzing commercial hub of the country.

The streets are an insane clog of motorbikes and cars, the restaurant and café scene is incredibly cosmopolitan, and the shopping is the best in the country.

At its center is Dong Khoi, a relatively small and easily navigable central district, which holds most of the city's sights.

Here, you'll find the HCMC Museum, with a brilliant collection of artifacts that weaves together the story of the city, and the grand Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the late 19th century.

Check out the old district of Da Kao nearby for some of the best surviving examples of the city's French colonial architecture and also to visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda with its dazzling array of Buddhist and Taoist religious iconography.

Afterwards, the History Museum is a must-do for history fans with stacks of relics on display from various archaeological sites.

For many visitors, the two big-hitter tourist attractions not to miss are just a little out of the center, along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. The Reunification Palace, then known as Independence Palace, was the residence for South Vietnam's president. It's chiefly famous as the spot where North Vietnam's tanks stopped on 30 April 1975, officially ending the war. It's a completely fascinating place to visit complete with 1960s furnishings still in situ.

Nearby is the War Remnants Museum, which although very obviously biased, paints a disturbing picture of the brutality of war and the many atrocities committed by US Forces during their Vietnam campaign.

One of Vietnam's most historic towns, Hue is packed to the brim with relics from the reign of the 19th-century Nguyen emperors.

Sitting along the banks of the gorgeous Perfume River, the Imperial Enclosure is a huge site set within walls that sprawl for 2.5 kilometers.

While touring the grounds check out the gorgeous Ngo Mon Gate, the Thai Hoa Palace with its finely lacquered interior detailing, the Dien Tho Residence where the Queen Mothers would live, and the Halls of Mandarins with its preserved ceiling murals.

A dazzling number of historic sites lie outside the Imperial Enclosure walls as well.

One of the nicest ways of visiting a collection of outlying sites is by taking a riverboat cruise on the Perfume River. A day cruise can take you to visit several royal tombs along with some pagodas.

If you're short on time, the best tomb to visit is the Tomb of Tu Doc and the most important pagoda in the area is the Thien Mu Pagoda, with its tower that soars for 21 meters high.

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam for caving, World Heritage-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a dramatic karst mountain formation honeycombed with huge caverns, which are home to superb stalactite and stalagmite displays.

It's best known for its caving activities , which range from multi-day hiking and caving tours for the more adventurous, to simpler half-day trips to caves with easy access provided by boat trips and modern boardwalks, but the national park also offers mountain biking and trekking activities.

The most popular destinations within the park are the Paradise Cave , which extends for a staggering 31 kilometers below ground, and the Phong Nha Cave, where the interior is accessed by boat. Half-day tours can be easily arranged once you're in the area.

The national park's most renowned caverns though are Son Doong Cave (the world's largest cave) , and the Tu Lan Cave with its cavern river system. Access to these, and to certain other caves in the park are restricted to organized tours (ranging from one-day to multi-day expeditions) which are all run by Phong Nha's expert adventure tour company Oxalis . It's well worth booking in advance to secure your spot.

To make the most of your time here, time your visit for outside the rainy season, which runs from October to December, when many of the national park's caves are closed to the public.

You can access Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park from Son Trach (also known as Phong Nha village).

Surrounded by lush jungle-covered mountains, My Son is a ruined Cham era temple city that dates from the 4th century.

This old Hindu religious center was still very much in use during the 7th to 10th centuries and only fell into complete decline and abandonment during the 13th century.

There are around 20 temple structures still standing here, all built of brick or sandstone blocks and showing interesting influences from various Asian empires, including Indian and Malay.

Note that the temples of Group B are the oldest, while Group A once contained the site's most important monument but was destroyed deliberately by US forces during the Vietnam War.

A good museum on-site houses plenty of information on the Cham.

Access to My Son is from Hoi An.

Beautiful Hoi An is the most atmospheric city in Vietnam, with bags of surviving historic architecture.

The old town quarter is a joy to explore, packed to the brim with well-preserved merchant houses that hark back to Hoi An's trading center heyday of the 15th century, when the town was a major meeting point for Japanese and Chinese merchants who flocked here for the local silks.

Plenty of the old merchant houses have been opened to the public, so you can get a taste of these times. The best is 17th-century Tan Ky House, with fascinating architectural and decorative elements.

Hoi An's major symbol is the delightful Japanese Bridge at the western end of Tran Phu Street, while nearby, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation is the old town's most highly decorated temple.

There are numerous small pagodas and museums dotted about town, but Hoi An's true charm is found in simply rambling the old town streets admiring the well-preserved facades.

The verdant rice field countryside surrounding Sapa, bordered by the jagged peaks of the Hoang Lien Mountains (often still known by their French colonial era name of the Tonkinese Alps), are home to Vietnam's most beautiful rural vistas.

The deep valleys here are home to a diverse mix of the country's ethnic minorities, including the Hmong, Giay, and Red Dzao people, while the rippling hills are terraced with rice fields and overlooked by the country's tallest peak, Fansipan Mountain.

This is the top trekking destination in Vietnam with oodles of options to trek or day hike between tiny villages and experience the staggering mountain views.

Sapa itself is the main base here - an old hill station and now a bustling and forever growing tourist center that is a stark contrast to the sumptuous tranquil countryside right on its doorstep.

Author's Tip: Keen trekkers looking for more of northern Vietnam's lush mountain vistas may want to skip the busy Sapa scene completely and nudge further 95 kilometers northwest to Bac Ha , where the terraced hill views on hikes between hill villages are just as beautiful. Bac Ha's Sunday market is also a very popular day trip from Sapa.

Vietnam's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation and a place that befuddles travelers as much as it charms them.

The motorbike frenzy, pollution, and constant clamor of street vendors can get too much for some travelers, but if you want to dive into Vietnamese city life, Hanoi is the place to do it.

The old town quarter has plenty of dilapidated charm on offer, while history fans should make a beeline here simply to see the bundle of excellent museums.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Vietnam Fine Art Museum are both brilliant introductions to the diverse artistry of the country, while the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important tribute to the founder of modern Vietnam.

Author's Tip: It's well worth adding extra time into your itinerary to use Hanoi as a base for exploring the many sights within day tripping distance. In particular, the Tay Phuong and Thay Pagodas (30 kilometers west from the central city), Co Loa Citadel (24 kilometers northeast), and the Huong Pagoda (also known as the Perfume Pagoda; 60 kilometers southwest).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

For sandy fun in Vietnam, Nha Trang is king. The well-maintained beach trundles for six kilometers along the shoreline of central Nha Trang city and during summer is jam-packed with local families on vacation, as well as foreign visitors.

There is excellent swimming here with designated swimming areas and manicured lounging areas that make this a great option for relaxing days soaking up the sun and sand.

If you do get bored of sunbathing, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are just to the north across the Xom Bong Bridge and have been used as a place of worship here since at least the 7th century (with some historians saying the site itself has been a place of active worship since much earlier).

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to the work of Alexandre Yersin who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and founded Nha Trang's Pasteur Institute (which still carries out vaccination programs in Vietnam today).

An absolutely fascinating experience for all travelers, not just those interested in Vietnam's modern military history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive tunnel network that during the war, stretched for more than 250 kilometers, allowing VC troops to operate and communicate in the area surrounding Ho Chi Minh City.

Two short sections of the network can be visited with a guide who'll take you down into the narrow unlit confines, which definitely are not for claustrophobia sufferers.

You will literally be crawling on your hands and knees and some points. You can access the tunnels at either Ben Dinh village (the more popular choice) or Ben Duoc village.

Tranquil Ba Be National Park is absolutely stunning with the three interlinked Ba Be Lakes at its heart, rimmed by jagged karst peaks and thickly forested slopes.

Most visitors come here to take peaceful boat trips or kayak on the lake and explore the caves full of stalactites and stalagmites in the vicinity, but for the more active, there's also excellent hiking and trekking in the hills here between ethnic minority villages.

This is one of the most peaceful spots in Vietnam, and travelers who spend the night here sleep in traditional stilt-house homestay accommodation along the lakeshore, allowing an experience of simple rural life.

The far south of Vietnam is where the mighty Mekong River finally finds its way to the sea in a maze of waterways that crisscross the floodplain.

Incredibly lush, with paddy field vistas and mangroves, and full of local life, with chaotic floating markets to explore by boat, the delta is one of the most interesting regions for travelers to discover.

Can Tho is the most popular town to use as a base, as it's close to the floating markets of Phong Dien and Cai Rang, while boat trips from Ca Mau allow you to explore the U Minh Mangrove Forest and Cau Mau Nature Reserve.

This area of Vietnam is one of the best to visit for keen bird watchers and nature lovers , as it is home to both Tra Su Bird Sanctuary Forest and Bac Lieu Bird Sanctuary.

One of Vietnam's major centers for activities and adventure travel attractions, Cat Ba Island sits on the western edge of Halong Bay.

This is the best place to visit if you want to organize cruises and kayaking trips in Lan Ha Bay, which lies off Cat Ba's southern coast. Lan Ha Bay is a less visited seascape of karst islets and outcrops that makes for a quieter alternative to Halong Bay.

Off the water, much of Cat Ba's dense jungle interior is part of Cat Ba National Park, where hikers can spot plentiful birdlife, as well as animals such as macaques.

For many visitors, though, Cat Ba is all about climbing opportunities. Climbing excursions here utilize both the island's limestone cliffs and Lan Ha Bay's outcrops, providing experiences to suit both complete climbing beginners and experienced climbers.

The emerald-green karst mountain landscapes along Ha Giang's mountain passes make this far-north province prime territory for scenic road-tripping by either motorbike or car.

In particular, the twisty Quan Ba Pass between Ha Giang town and Tam Son provides panoramic vistas of the karst plateau and its jagged limestone outcrops, while the zigzagging Mai Pi Leng Pass between Dong Van and Meo Vac offers dizzying views of the lush mountain scenery and narrow valleys below.

Time your visit to coincide with one of the area's market days, when traders from the surrounding mountain villages pile into town. Dong Van's Sunday market is one of the best.

Sitting 45 kilometers off the southern coast of the country, in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is a densely forested island, speckled by sweeps of white-sand beach that attract plenty of sunseekers during the winter dry season.

Dry season (November to May) is also when the island's underwater and on-the-water tourism attractions spring into action, with plenty of dive sites in the waters just offshore, as well as opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips.

Many of the main boat excursions head to the An Thoi Islands, just to the south of Phu Quoc, which is home to the best snorkeling in the area.

Off the water, the Phu Quoc cable-car provides bird's-eye views for eight kilometers, soaring over the seascape and islands, all the way from Phu Quoc to the island of Hon Thom in the An Thoi Islands.

Phu Quac is accessed by plane or regular ferries from the mainland towns of Rach Gia and Ha Tien. As Ha Tien lies very close to the southern border crossing with Cambodia, the island is a popular first (or last) stop-off in Vietnam for overland travelers.

This remote island group lies around 160 kilometers offshore in the South China Sea and is renowned among divers as one of the best places to visit in the country, both for the variety of sea life and for the coral reefs.

Much of the Con Dao Islands, and the surrounding water, is a protected wilderness area, with the island shores home to nesting turtles, and dense forest still covering the island interiors.

The main island, and prime base for visitors with all the accommodation and things to do, is Con Son Island, which has sweeps of sand strung out across its coast that attract beachgoers looking for a relaxed sun-soaked getaway, as well as divers.

Even if you're here mostly for the beach, make sure to explore the historic sites of Con Son Town (the island's only settlement) including Phu Hai Prison, Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, and the prison known as the Tiger Cages, which document the dark history of this isolated island group.

Con Son's remote position led to the island being used to incarcerate political prisoners during the era Vietnam was occupied by French colonial forces, and later by both the South Vietnamese government and the occupying American forces.

Preserved sites including Phu Hai Prison and the prison cages used by the US forces, known as the Tiger Cages, along with Con Son Town's Bao Tang Con Dao Museum, do an excellent job of documenting this history for visitors.

Access to Con Son Island is either by flight from Ho Chi Minh City or by ferry from the coastal city of Vung Tau.

Once a sleepy coastal fishing town, Mui Né has developed into a beautiful beach resort town and a prime destination for windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing.

Compared to other beach destinations in Vietnam , however, Mui Né remains relatively unknown - and this means pristine beaches and a quiet retreat for most of the year.

One of Mui Né's most unique attractions is the natural Red Sand Dunes just outside town, where visitors can practice sand-sledding or rent dune buggies for a more adrenaline-charged experience.

Tucked away between nearby fishing villages and towering orange limestone formations, there's the fairy stream, a slow-moving warm stream that almost feels like a walkway because it's so shallow - follow it to the end to reach a waterfall.

For those wishing to explore beyond the coastline, there are also the ruins of the Po Shanu Cham Towers - remnants of the Cham Empire that dominated the area many centuries ago.

Vietnam experiences strong monsoon seasons, where heavy rains hit the cities and the countryside, often causing floods and mudslides. If you're planning to travel around, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from December to February – but there are some exceptions.

The south of Vietnam – where Ho Chi Minh city is located – experiences a more tropical climate, with high temperatures and high humidity year-round. Visiting these areas in the cooler months means less humidity and temperatures in the high 20s rather than the high 30s and 40s, which makes it more comfortable to walk around.

In the north, however, many areas experience an actual winter. Hanoi sees temperatures in the mid- to high teens in December and January – and in the mountains of Sapa in the north, you'll even get to see some snow during these months.

If you're visiting Danang for some beach time or to travel through the ancient town of Hoi An, it's best to arrive between February and May, when water and air temperature are in the 20s – perfect beach weather for enjoying the sand or a dip in the water. The rainy season, and especially the months of September and October, see very heavy rains and often very strong wind storms on the coast, so it's better to stay away from Danang during this time.

More on Vietnam

15 Things to do in Vietnam + Tourist Spots

Vietnam is most known for its turbulent wartime history, delicious food, and Ha Long Bay. Before arriving in the country and traveling around its countrysides, little did I know that it is also home to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Southeast Asia, and charming heritage sites that are worth a peek.

Vietnam’s tourist spots are broadly spread out in its northern, central, and southern regions. The country isn’t overwhelmingly massive, but unless you’re traveling long-term or plan to stick to just one or two regions, you will have to pick destinations to skip or prioritize.

To make it easy for you to decide on where to go, here’s a list of my favorite places to visit in Vietnam:

Vietnam travel essentials: (click below to view prices online)

Where to stay Tours + discounts Vietnam fares

Vietnam WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Vietnam  |  Ho Chi Minh Itinerary  |  Things to do in Hanoi  |  Indochina Travel Guide .

If you love visiting historic places, this heritage city in Central Vietnam is a must-visit. Hoi An is a riverside town with an old-world charm. It’s filled with vintage buildings influenced by Vietnamese, French, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles. Delicious local food is also a major attraction here. The city’s magical atmosphere comes alive under the romantic sunset light and at night when the houses, temples, and shops are lit up.

Location : Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

How to go :

The most popular gateway to Hoi An is Da Nang in Central Vietnam. nearest major city. There are a lot of convenient transport options between the two cities. Travel time is only around 45 minutes.

Hoi An Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

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My Son & Hoi An Private Day Tour from Da Nang

Hoi An Private City Transfers for Da Nang, Hue & Ba Na Hills

My Son Temples day tour from Hoi An

See more : Hoi An travel tips

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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There seems to be something interesting to discover at every street corner in historic Hanoi, especially in the old quarter of the city. It’s one of the best cities in Southeast Asia to explore on foot. Hanoi also has scenic lakes that are best viewed from rooftop restaurants or bars, while enjoying traditional Vietnamese coffee or a chilled bottle of Saigon beer.

Location : Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi along with Ho Chi Minh is one of the major international gateways in Vietnam, so getting by air is very easy. Hanoi-Noi Bai International Airport found 45 minutes away from the city center serves frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Beijing. As well as major cities in Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the Middle East and more. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, VietJet, Vietnam Airlines. From the Philippines, Manila-Hanoi flights are served by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and Vietnam Airlines. Flight duration is around 2.5 hours.

Hanoi Travel Essentials

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

Hanoi Private Car Charter

Private City Transfers for Hanoi City and Surrounding Areas

See more : Hanoi travel tips

3. Ho Chi Minh

Bustling Ho Chi Minh, on its own, may pale as a travel destination compared to other cities in Southeast Asia, but it is a necessary transport hub if you plan to explore Southern Vietnam. In case you find yourself in Ho Chi Minh, the city center offers interesting cultural sights, urban experiences, Vietnamese food+coffee & cheap shopping, in addition to scenic day trips to the Mekong Delta.

Location : Ho Chi Minh City, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ho Chi Minh’s International Airport is the busiest airport in Vietnam. Found 45 minutes away from the city center, this airport serves frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, Taipei, Beijing, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Melbourne & Sydney. As well as major cities in New Zealand, Europe, Middle East and more. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, VietJet & Vietnam Airlines. From the Philippines, Manila-Hanoi flights are served by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Vietnam Airlines. Flight duration is around 2.5 hours.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Essentials

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City-Mekong Delta River Cruise

Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh

See more : Ho Chi Minh travel tips

Location : Phan Thiet, Bình Thuận Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Mui Ne via Shuttle Bus

Private Da Lat Airport Transfers (DLI) for Da Lat City, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Tuyen Lam Lake

See more : Mui Ne travel tips

Location : Lâm Đồng Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Da Lat Travel Essentials

Da Lat Private Car Charter

Ho Chi Minh Private City Transfers for Surrounding Areas

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh via Limousine

See more : Da Lat travel tips

Da Nang is one of the biggest surprises on my first visit to Central Vietnam. It’s a major tourist hub with its own set of attractions and convenient direct domestic and international flight connections. Da Nang is a great place to visit for travelers who aren’t ready to leave their urban comfort zones. This clean, modern, and laid-back city is bordered by a long white sand beach that is lined with top-notch resorts. The riverside area of the city center feels more like a huge outdoor theme park with well-maintained promenades, iconic bridges lit up at night, and the Sun Wheel (giant Ferris Wheel).

Location : Hải Châu District, Da Nang, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

After Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang’s airport is the next most well-connected international airport in Vietnam. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) serves direct flights from Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul-Incheon, Shanghai-Pudong, Siem Reap, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo-Narita. As well as flights from major domestic destinations including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Buon Ma Thuot, Hai Phong, Pleiku, Vinh, Can Tho, Da Lat & Nha Trang. Major airlines include AirAsia, Jetstar, China Eastern, Silk Air, Vietjet & Vietnam Airlines. Travel time by flight to Da Nang is around 1.5 hours from Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh.

Da Nang Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Cham Islands Day Tour from Da Nang

Da Nang Airport (DAD) Private Transfers for Da Nang, Ba Na Hills & more

See more : Da Nang travel tips

Hue is central Vietnam was the seat of Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802-1945. It is home to a massive royal citadel called the Forbidden Purple City, which admittedly sounds more interesting than the actual war-ravaged site. For travelers who love visiting heritage sites, a more tempting incentive to visit Hue are exquisite imperial tombs scattered around the outskirts of the city.

Location : Thua Thien Hue Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hue, in Central Vietnam, is located two hours north of Danang. The best way to get there is by train, which offers scenic coastal views along the Hai Van Pass. If you want to fly directly, Hue-Phu Bai Airport (HUI) serves flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat & Nha Trang. Airlines include Vietjet, Jetstar & Vietnam Airlines. Travel time to Hue-Phu Bai Airport takes around 1 hour from Hanoi and 1.5 hours from Ho Chi Minh.

Hue Travel Essentials

Hue Private Day Tour from Da Nang

Hue heritage sites join-in tour

Phong Nha Cave Exploration from Hue

See more : Hue travel tips

8. Phong Nha

If this is your first time to know about Phong Nha, join the club! Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park located in Central Vietnam might not be popular as other places featured on this list, but it has something special to offer that is unrivaled not only Vietnam, but all of Southeast Asia, and maybe even the World — it’s massive and insanely beautiful caves.

Location : Quang Binh Province, central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Phong Nga, in Central Vietnam, is 4–5 hours north of Hue by land or 7 hours north of Da Nang. If you are coming from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, consider a flight or train to Dong Hoi. Then, continue the 45-minute land trip to Phong Nha by shuttle. Flights are operated by Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, and VietjetAir. Flight duration to Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) is around 1 hour from Hanoi (HAN), and 2 hours from Ho Chi Minh (SGN).

Phong Nha Travel Essentials

Phong Nha National Park and Paradise Cave Day Tour in Quang Binh

Phong Nha River Cruise Day Tour in Quang Binh

See more : Phong Nha travel tips

9. Ninh Binh

Touted as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is filled with steep karst mountains soaring amidst tranquil rice paddies, meandering rivers, and dotted with temples and ancient settlements. The best way to explore the area is on a scenic boat ride that passes through the mountainscape or by following the riverside path by bicycle. Ninh Binh is two hours away from Hanoi in Northern Vietnam.

Ninh Binh is around 2 hours south of Hanoi by land. You can go on the bus from Giap Bat (Southern) Bus Terminal or a train on the Reunification Express. To get around Ninh Binh, you can either join an organized tour or go on a do-it-yourself (DIY) tour by bicycle/motorcycle.

Location : Ninh Bình Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ninh Binh Travel Essentials

Hanoi-Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Private Day Tour

Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Tour from Hanoi

See more : Ninh Binh travel tips

10. Ha Long Bay

No doubt Ha Long Bay is beautiful. With over 1,600 towering karst islands and islets, it’s a natural wonder worth a peek. However, if you’ve been to Krabi (Thailand) or El Nido (Philippines), do not expect too much with the quality of the water. The area that surrounds the bay is simply not as pristine, even under the bluest of skies. If you’re already traveling in Hanoi & Northern Vietnam, consider a trip to nearby Ha Long bay.

Location : Quảng Ninh Province, nothern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Ha Long City is the main jump-off point to the islands surrounding Ha Long Bay. The land journey from Hanoi takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. There are many shuttle/bus companies operating this route with pick-up directly from your hotel. You can easily book one at your hotel or by shopping around the travel agencies in Hanoi Old Quarter. To get around the bay, you have many options including sightseeing day trips to multi-day overnight cruises.

Ha Long Bay Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

11. Ban Gioc Waterfall & Cao Bang

If you’ve read my other best places to visit lists, you may already know about my fascination for beautiful waterfalls. Cao Bang in Northern Vietnam is home to Ban Gioc Waterfall, the most majestic in Vietnam. Half of this massive cascade sits on the Chinese border and is called Delian Waterfall on the other side.

Location : Cao Bằng Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Total travel time from Hanoi to Ban Gioc is around 8 to 11 hours. If you want convenient transfers, consider booking an organized tour. If you want to go on your own, local buses to Cao Bang depart from My Dinh Bus Terminal in Hanoi. Travel time is 7.5–8 hours. From Cao Bang, minibus and shuttles go all the way to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Travel time is 2.5–3 hours.

Cao Bang Travel Essentials

12. Sa Pa & North Vietnam

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Location : Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Sa Pa Travel Essentials

Shared Limousine Transfer from Hanoi to Sapa

Shared City Transfers (VIP Cabin) between Hanoi and Sapa

13. Nha Trang

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Location : Khanh Hoa Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Nha Trang Travel Essentials

Da Lat to Mui Ne, Nha Trang or HCMC Car Transfer

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Nha Trang via Limousine

14. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Location : Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Phu Quoc Travel Essentials

15. Con Dao Islands

Con Dao Islands, Vietnam. Photo by vanlaphoang1945 via Flickr

Location : Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu Province, southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Con Dao Travel Essentials

Beyond Vietnam

Angkor Wat (temple) view from the reflecting pond

Location : Indochina, Southeast Asia (mainland) . Save on Google Maps .

Cambodia Travel Essentials

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

See more : Cambodia travel tips

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Thailand Travel Essentials

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (ARL) Ticket

Bangkok Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Pattaya-Nong Nooch Tropical Garden Ticket

See more : Thailand travel tips

Tat Fane Waterfall near Paksong, in Bolaven Plateau, Champasak, Laos

Laos Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Pak Ou Cave & Kuang Si Waterfall Day Tour from Luang Prabang

Vientiane – Vang Vieng Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

Vang Vieng – Luang Prabang Shuttle – Shared City Transfers

See more : Laos travel tips

Braemar Hill Peak in Hong Kong

Location : Southeast China, East Asia . Save on Google Maps .

Hong Kong Travel Essentials

Hong Kong Disneyland Admission Ticket

Ocean Park Hong Kong Admission Ticket

Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428

See more : Hong Kong travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Vietnam that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam tourist spots, things to do in Vietnam, where to go in Vietnam & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

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How much does it cost to travel to Vietnam? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Vietnam

Click below & search recommended Vietnam hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Vietnam Essentials & Top Discounts

Vietnam mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

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October 16, 2015 at 10:48 pm

Thanks for sharing your travel to Vietnam. Been to Saigon in 2011 and been wanting to go to Hanoi. Never knew about the other worth visiting places until you shared your wonderful pictures. Is it hard to tour Halong Bay? Would it be just fine skipping Halong Bay when I go to Hanoi?

October 16, 2015 at 11:23 pm

My pleasure Manuel :) There are still more potentially worthy places to visit in Vietnam. I want to go back as well, particularly, for Sa Pa and Da Lat. I booked an overnight boat cruise in Ha Long Bay for $80. I had a very bad experience with both the booking and tour agency. Touring Ha Long Bay is easy since you just have to turn up at the travel agencies in Hanoi or Ha Long City at least a day before (or book online). It’s finding a decent tour agency / boat operator that is the tricky part.

If the weather is too cloudy or rainy, I would skip Ha Long Bay. I enjoyed Ninh Binh and Phong Nha a lot more than Ha Long Bay.

October 13, 2017 at 7:32 pm

Amazing Vietnam!!!!

December 26, 2017 at 9:31 pm

What an amazing and informative blog marcos.One should definitely go through the blog if he/she is travelling to vietnam.This country has a blend of chinese as well as french culture so anyone can feel the presence of both the cultures.

April 24, 2020 at 10:15 am

I’m Vietnamese and living in Hanoi but I haven’t had opportunity to visit of all these places. Now I got more motivation to visit more places in the Southern of Vietnam, especially Mui Ne Beach! About the last place Can Dao Island, actually its name is Con Dao, not Can Dao. Anyway, thank you for sharing the destinations to visit.

October 23, 2022 at 5:53 pm

Thank You Marcos, i have been following you in IG and i love all your post. I am an Ilongga also from Bacolod city but now reside in the US for 35 years. I am planning to visit southeast asia this december 2022 but only have 3 days to spend in Vietnam, so which one is the best to visit? Thank You!

October 26, 2022 at 5:00 pm

Hi Nadia, visit Hanoi to enjoy the food and historical sites then enjoy a day trip to Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay

Touropia Travel Experts

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17 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

A long, narrow country squeezed in between the South China Sea and the Laos and Cambodia borders, Vietnam is a land of striking landscapes that range from the lush rice terraces and forested mountains in the north to the picturesque valleys of the Central Highlands and the fertile delta and beautiful beaches of the south.

Vietnam has seen its fair share of struggles. Ruled for almost a thousand years by various Chinese dynasties until 938 AD, Vietnam became a French protectorate in the 19th century. After independence, there was the Vietnam War.

Today, Vietnam is a proud country and you can see why. Not just for fiercely defending its own independence, but for its incredible landscapes and history.

The first words on everyone’s lips when speaking of Vietnam are undoubtedly Halong Bay, a beautiful set of karst islands and formations off the northern coast. Hanoi is the bustling, motorbike filled capital. Plan your trip to this beautiful Southeast Asia travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

17. Da Nang

Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang is an energetic coastal city with a historic French colonial port.

It is known primarily for its fantastic beaches, including the famous My Khe Beach , which Tripadvisor has named as one of the best beaches in Asia.

However, it is also a popular starting point for exploration of the Bà Nà hills , which lie on the city’s western reaches. From there, the spectacular Hải Vân Pass showcases incredible views of Da Nang Bay. Moreover it conveys the Marble Mountains , five imperious limestone outcrops crowned with ornate pagodas and yield caves containing lavish Buddhist shrines.

Da Nang boasts impressive landmarks like the iconic Dragon Bridge , world-class golf courses, and a modern skyline dotted with luxury resorts and upscale shopping centres.

The city is also home to many cultural experiences, including the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture and Da Nang Fine Arts Museum.

16. Ha Giang Loop

If you pride yourself on being an adventurous traveler, then you should embrace the Ha Giang Loop with open arms.

Located in the remote and breathtaking Ha Giang province , tourists can embark on a thrilling motorbike journey through some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This scenic loop takes you on a winding road that cuts through majestic mountains, lush valleys and terraced rice fields.

The journey provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with the authentic culture of the ethnic minority communities that call this region home.

Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional villages , where locals showcase their rich heritage, colorful attire, and warm hospitality.

The loop offers stunning viewpoints such as Ma Pi Leng Pass , with its jaw-dropping vistas of the Nho Que River snaking through the mountains. You can also visit attractions like Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Geopark, and the fairy-tale-like Lung Cu Flag Tower.

Typically, this journey takes three to four days to complete. Its rugged beauty and remote nature are perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

15. Bai Tu Long Bay

If you can’t get to or don’t fancy visiting Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is an excellent alternative. Situated in the northeastern part of Vietnam, it has all the pristine beauty and untouched landscapes of its more illustrious neighbor, only with greater tranquillity and fewer crowds.

The picturesque bay is characterized by its emerald waters, towering limestone islands , and lush vegetation. Cruising through it provides fabulous opportunities for kayaking , swimming and visiting remote fishing villages.

The bay is also home to a diverse ecosystem accommodating rare wildlife, colourful coral reefs and hidden caves waiting for you to discover them.

A tour of the area allows for a more intimate connection with nature and a chance to experience the serenity of the surroundings. Whilst there, be sure to visit the incredible Thien Canh Son Cave . One of 59 discovered caves in the area, it will wow you with its unique stalactite formations.

14. Tam Coc

Tam Coc, often called ‘ Halong Bay on land ‘, is an enchanting destination in the Ninh Binh province.

Forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage Tràng An scenic landscape site, it is renowned for its dramatic limestone karsts that dramatically rise out of emerald green rice fields. Tam Coc presents visitors with a stunning natural landscape that will forever leave an impression on their heart.

The main attraction in Tam Coc is a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River , where local rowers skilfully navigate through a series of caves and limestone formations. As you glide along the tranquil waterways, you’ll be mesmerized by the picturesque scenery and the harmonious blend of nature and verdant rice paddies.

Tam Coc is also home to ancient temples and pagodas, such as Bich Dong Pagoda , which is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

If you are into cycling, you can also explore the area in more detail on two wheels.

There are several places in Vietnam where you can go for some beach R&R, but few can compare to the sheer beauty of Mũi Né.

A stunning beach resort town along the southeast coastline, it boasts a long stretch of golden palm-tree-lined sand, perfect for walking and sunbathing. During the dry season, with steady wind conditions, the area becomes a fantastic destination for sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The highlight of Mui Né is undoubtedly its captivating sand dunes . The iconic White Sand Dunes and Red Sand Dunes offer a surreal landscape that resembles a desert oasis. On our last visit, we explored the dunes on an ATV ride and sand boarded down the slopes. Both were a lot of fun!

Beyond the beaches and dunes, Mui Né offers opportunities to explore nearby fishing villages , taste delicious seafood, and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Close by, The Fairy Stream, with its gently flowing water and unique rock formations, is a popular spot for a refreshing dip on a stiflingly hot day.

Year-round cool weather and idyllic scenery of misty valleys, lush pine trees and colorful flowers are some of the reasons that Dalat was once used by Vietnamese emperors and French colonials as a summer retreat. Today, this charming town in the South Central Highlands of Vietnam is a popular destination for honeymooners, weekend getaways and for those looking for relief from the heat.

A walkable city, Dalat is a beautiful scene of French colonial architecture and villas set amid picturesque landscapes. The city is well known for its royal palaces that were owned by the last emperor of Vietnam. These lovely palaces are open for tours as is the Hang Nga Guesthouse, the city’s most bizarre attraction. Informally called the “Crazy House,” this structure is a fantastical construction with caves, spider webs and shapes of animals and mushrooms.

Dalat’s lively market is a great place to find fruits, flowers and vegetables grown in the local area as well as handicrafts and silk embroidered items.

Outside the city are scenic lakes, flower gardens, plantations and mountains offering pretty waterfalls and trails for hiking and mountain biking. A must-do is the Valley of Love, an incredibly beautiful valley with pine forests and lakes where tourists can enjoy pedal-boating and canyoning.

Located on the central coast of Vietnam near the Duy Phú village is the important archaeological site known as My Son. One of Southeast Asia’s most notable heritage sites, My Son was once a significant center of religious Hindu ceremonies where the kings of the Champa Kingdom built numerous temples devoted to the worship of the god, Shiva, between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Believed to have once contained more than 70 temples that were constructed with brick and decorative carvings and sculptures bearing scenes of animals, priests, gods, mythical battles and inscriptions of Sanskrit and Champa, My Son today features a complex of ruins in varying states of disarray and repair, all arranged in several groups.

Within the site is a museum where visitors can check out exhibits and artifacts to better understand and appreciate the ruins. Near the entrance of My Son are a few cafes, food vendors and a shop selling souvenirs. At certain times of the day, visitors can watch live Champa dance performances. Additionally, the site is surrounded by jungle, hills and a lake where visitors can enjoy hiking and kayaking.

My Son is often reached by organized tour groups from Hoi An. However, visitors can also arrive at My Son by motorbike rentals.

10. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a scenic island in the Gulf of Thailand. While it officially forms part of Vietnam, it is actually closer geographically to Cambodia . Today, it’s characterized by dense tropical jungle, soft sandy beaches, and undulating hills. But the island has a fascinating history, having served first as a French missionary base and then as a French colonial wartime prison – a gloomy reformatory that you can visit today.

History aside, the island is most tempting for its alluring tropical nature . Days in Phu Quoc are spent sunbathing on sandy beaches, scootering around fishing villages, visiting pearl and pepper farms, and, if you’re up for it, trekking to waterfalls.

An island that’s famous for its seafood, don’t miss an opportunity to try out Phu Quoc’s famous fish sauce (nuoc mam) – you can even visit one of the fish sauce factories while you’re here!

9. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Tucked away in the Quang Binh Province in Vietnam’s Central Coast region, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is one of the most picturesque parts of the country. With a steadfast reputation as a filming location for 2017 Kong: Skull Island, and with a nearby international airport, the national park is more popular than ever before.

Opened to the public in 2010, the appeal of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the escape from the city. Here, you’ll live life in the slow lane as you cycle through Kong jungles at your own pace.

Home to 400 million-year-old karst mountains, there are hundreds of caves and secretive rivers to explore. The Son Doong Cave is a must visit. Home to its very own hidden jungle, microclimate, and Underground River, it’s one of the largest caves on Earth .

Due to its location near the Laos border, access to the park is strictly controlled, and visitors can expect to find a strong military presence here. This is mainly due to its war history – the park has some of the world’s highest numbers of undetonated bombs, which is why visitors can only visit this place with a licensed tour guide.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh, formerly known as Saigon , is the biggest city in all of Vietnam. It’s also the old capital of the Republic of Vietnam. When Saigon fell to the north in 1975, it was renamed to HCMC, yet its former name is still used today, particularly when describing the beating heart of the city.

Hoi Chi Minh has a bit of everything – temples, museums, parks, and tourist shopping. Whatever your interests, you’ll find something to do here. Head to the top of the Saigon Skydeck for an astonishing 360-degree view of the city – especially impressive at night when the lights twinkle on below.

History buffs should not miss the chance to explore the mysterious network of the Cu Chi tunnels , the headquarters for many military operations during the Vietnam War.

The five stories of Reunification Palace – also known as the Independence Palace – is also a fascinating place to go. It’s a famous spot in Vietnam’s history as it captures the time when Saigon fell as a tank broke through the gates of the palace. A replica of this same tank can be seen on the grass outside the palace.

If you’re curious to learn more about the war, you’ll enjoy a visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Museum of Vietnamese History.

7. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta, nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam,’ is a lush network of waterways in Vietnam known for its excellent nutrient-rich soils and diverse ecosystems – the banks are a veritable patchwork of fruit, vegetables, rice plantations and cattle farms that provide sustenance for more than a third of the country.

This impressive stretch of river frontage is the most biodiverse in the world if you don’t count the Amazon. Taking up much of the south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an extraordinary place filled with lily pad waterways, rice paddies, mangroves, and enchanting wildlife.

With plenty of bus connections and motorbikes, tourists can explore the Mekong Delta and its towns like Tra Vinh , which is considered one of the prettiest villages of the delta. A boat trip down the tranquil tributaries and mangroves of the Mekong is an unforgettable experience.

Paddled by a local in a wooden canoe, you’ll be able to witness everyday life on the river, passing farmlands, fruit orchards, monkey bridges, water buffalo, and floating markets . The best time to visit the Mekong is during the dry season between December and May when there’s less chance of flooding.

6. Nha Trang

If it’s beaching you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam, with a laidback atmosphere and exceptional scuba diving. While it’s certainly not on the same scale as many of Asia’s other beautiful beaches , Nha Trang offers warm water and some picturesque offshore islets.

The promenade that encircles the beachfront is always a hive of activity, filled with parks and sculptures that make a stroll here interesting. As with most beach resorts, most of the activity gets going when the sun goes down, and Nha Trang is no different. You’ll find a host of vibey bars and restaurants near the beachfront.

There’s much more to Nha Trang than sunbathing and strolls, though. Go for a soak in the Thap Ba Mud Bath or take a ride on the longest cross-sea cable car in the world. The sacred Po Nagar Cham towers, dating back to the 7th to 12th centuries, offer a taste of the city’s history – they’re an active religious site for Cham, Chinese, and Buddhists even today.

Tracing the border with China, Sapa is a captivating remote town in the Hoang Lien Son mountains of northern Vietnam. Its elevation 1,500 meters above sea level is nothing to scoff at when you’re trekking the terraced hills and slopes around this high-altitude mountain town. While there’s plenty of natural beauty to tempt you to this far-reached corner of the country, much of Sapa’s appeal lies in its raw and authentic culture.

Days are spent trekking through rice paddies , rural villages untouched by tourism, and the clouds of Fansipan – Vietnam’s highest peak.

Scenery aside, the highlight is hands down the opportunity to chat with these fascinating people along the way – local kids will tag along and try to sell you some of their handmade jewelry or simply try to improve their English by speaking to you.

In the town of Sapa itself, there are attractive French colonial sites worth visiting such as the Gothic church, the town square and city hall. Sapa is a major market town where the various ethnic tribes in the area often gather to sell their handicrafts, which make excellent souvenirs. At the Sapa Culture Museum, visitors can learn all about the history and cultures of these ethnic groups.

Hue – formerly known as the Panduranga of Cham Kingdom – was once the imperial capital of Vietnam. Located in the central region, Hue had a huge role to play in the Vietnam War. Captured by the Viet Cong for a total of 24 days, thousands of people were killed here if they were thought to be sympathizers of the south.

Today, the city is split in two by the Perfume River. The old city with its ancient ruined citadel lies to the north and the modern-day city to the south. The Demilitarized Zone, which marks the official former border, is one of the most popular day trips from Hue while the Thien Mu Pagoda is the city’s official symbol.

Of the city’s monuments , the Citadel is the most famous. Once the seat of the Nguyen emperors, the Citadel is a sprawling complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls and gates. Prime attractions within the Citadel are the Forbidden Purple City, Thai Hoa Palace, and the Ngo Mon Gate. Another important landmark on the river is the city’s official symbol, the Thien Mu Pagoda.

A stroll along the promenade is also recommended, through the statue-abundant parks and onwards by scooter or boat cruise to the Tombs of the Emperors on the outskirts of the city. Dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, the Tomb of Tu Doc, with its striking Buddhist architecture is the cherry on top.

Laidback and charismatic with a charm all of its own, Hoi An is the highlight of any Vietnam itinerary. Located south of Da Nang within cycling distance of some excellent warm-water beaches along the central coast, this atmospheric old town is a feast of color, where bright and cheerful lanterns adorn each and every building.

The narrow, winding lanes of the old town are lined with beautiful historic buildings, Chinese temples and wooden-fronted shops with excellent opportunities for retail therapy. The bustling night market and lantern-lit streets are also great places for shopping and people-watching.

At the same time, you can also take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River or join a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine. Wrangle a tempting spa deal, and get a dress or tailored suit handmade for you at one of the town’s many illustrious tailors.

Don’t leave without a visit to the gorgeous Japanese Covered Bridge and the glaze-roofed Chinese merchant houses that date back hundreds of years and house a quarter of the town’s population. There’s plenty to fill your afternoons in Hoi An.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is truly chaotic, but that’s all part of its charm. An interesting mix of French and Sino-Vietnamese influences, it’s one of the most rapidly growing cities in Southeast Asia.

Those visiting this energetic capital should be prepared. It’s a hive of activity at the best of times, utter chaos at the worst – a city where crossing the road could be taking your life into your own hands with cars, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks vying for right of way in a city without road rules.

One of the best places to experience the madness of Hanoi is at Legend’s Corner . The well-located Legend Beer restaurant is the ideal spot to sit with a drink and watch the rush hour insanity just before sunset. You’ll see pedestrians, dogs, cars, tuk-tuks, and scooters all entwined in traffic, yet somehow there are very few accidents.

Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets filled with charming colonial architecture, street vendors, and bustling markets. The best way to explore it is on foot or by cyclo (cycle rickshaw). This will enable you to soak up its atmosphere and discover hidden gems like the ancient Temple of Literature or the vibrant Dong Xuan Market.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

For a change of pace, go for a stroll around the freshwater Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the Old Quarter or soak up more Vietnamese history with a visit to the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the final resting place of the Revolutionary leader and Vietnamese President, is a must-see.

1. Ha Long Bay

Located about 130 km (80 miles) east of Hanoi in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is celebrated for its gorgeous emerald-hue waters, thousands of spectacular limestone karsts, astonishing waterside caves, and beautiful tree-topped islands.

It’s a popular location for adventure – scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing can all be enjoyed in and around Cat Ba National Park . For those who wish to simply relax and enjoy the views, there are numerous Halong Bay cruises to choose from, from basic to top-level luxury.

The thousands of islands scattered about the bay are a real mixture, ranging from isolated landmasses home to free-roaming monkeys and antelope to bigger inhabited islands with some fantastic beaches . Boat cruises are the best way to experience the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay.

With hundreds of boats ranging from traditional Chinese junks to luxury cruisers, boat tours can vary from day trips to multiple-night journeys . These tours often provide meals, nightlife activities and excursion stops where islands, caves and lagoons can be explored. Most boat cruises are arranged either from Hanoi or from ports such as Haiphong, Halong City and Cai Rong.

As with most holidays on the water, Halong Bay is easily affected by the weather. Plan your trip between March and June to get the most out of your visit. June to September is the off-season, so you can usually get some great deals – just be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast as monsoons can really put a dampener on your trip.

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Reader interactions.

September 15, 2019 at 1:19 am

I hereby compose a key-word list of outstanding places in Vietnam. Hope it’s helpful for you guys searching.

1. Islands: Côn Đảo ; Phú Quốc ; Lý Sơn, Cam Ranh, Bình Ba, Bình Hưng, Điệp Sơn ,Đảo Yến Hòn Nội, ,Cù lao Chàm , Đảo Nam Du, Hòn ông đảo cá voi, Cát bà.

2. Best beaches on islands Bãi Nhát ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Suối Nóng ( Côn Đảo ), Hòn Cao ( Côn Đảo ), Bãi Sao ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi Khem ( Phú Quốc ), Bãi ông Lăng ( Phu Quoc ) , Nam Du ( Phu Quoc ), Dao Be ( Ly son ) , Bai Kinh ( Binh Hung), Bai Nom ( Binh Ba ),

3. Coastal Cities : Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau.

4. Best beaches on coastal cities: Doc Let, Dai Lanh, My Khe, Nha Trang, Ky Co, Bãi Binh Tien, Bãi Cà ná, Bãi bắc beach da nang, quy nhon beach.

5. Best Bays Ha Long Bay, Lang Co bay, Nha Trang bay, Ninh Van bay, Van Phong bay, Cam Ranh bay.

6. Highland cities/town offer great mountain views, trekking activities : Sapa, Da Lat, Ha Giang, Cao bang.

7. Ancient cities/towns : Hoi An, Dong Van, Hue

8. Caves: Phong Nha, Thien duong, Son Doong, Hang En, Hang Sung Sot, Hang Va, He thong hang dong Tu Lan, Tam Coc bich dong

9. Rivers Mekong delta, Sông Ngô Đồng, Tràng An, Sông đáy chùa hương, Sông Son, Sông Nho Quế, Sông Chày.

10. Waterfall Thác Bản Giốc, Thác Voi, Thác Pongour

11. Lakes Hồ Ba bể, Hồ Xuân Hương, Hồ Tuyền Lâm, Hồ Tơ Nưng, Hồ Lắk, Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Hồ Thác Bà, Phá Tam Giang.

12. Lagoons Pha Tam Giang, Đầm Vân Long.

13. National Parks Phong Nha ke bang, Nam Cát Tiên, Bạch Mã, Cúc Phương, Ba Vì, Ba Bể, Tràm Chim Tam Nông, núi chúa.

14. Terraces rice field Mù Căng Chải, Hoàng Su Phì, Tú Lệ , Sapa, Y Tý, Bát Xát, Pù Luông.

Enjoy your traveling trip!

May 1, 2019 at 2:46 am

I like Vietnam. I really do. I love their culture and traditions. Just recently I went on a trip to Vietnam and I absolutely loved it. The people there were so nice and lovely. The wildlife, vegetation and sacred places were amazing too. But I have to say, the most beautiful place that I went to in Vietnam is Ha Long Bay. The scene was incredibly stunning! I also stayed in Sapa. It has astonishing views. Especially when you look at it from a distance. It has fog surrounding the buildings, has tall mountains in the background and has brightly coloured buildings. It’s breathtakingly beautiful!

March 3, 2019 at 1:49 am

I am a Vietnamese and according to my experience, there are two places you should visit when you are in Vietnam: Cat Ba Island in the Northeast Vietnam and Phu Quoc Island in the Southeast Vietnam.

March 29, 2018 at 9:26 pm

The market in Can Cau is fabulous.

November 21, 2017 at 10:29 pm

I think these places are amazing to visit but I have a question, how is Vietnam in general? Is it a safe country to visit ??

November 8, 2017 at 8:19 am

I recommend Pu Luong nature reserve, not very far from Hanoi.

September 19, 2017 at 4:52 pm

I really liked Da Nang.

November 23, 2016 at 4:13 am

Great list. I have just spent two months in Vietnam and did most of the places except My Son and Sapa. Will come back for that. Love this country!

July 21, 2015 at 2:04 pm

There are lots of day trip activities from Hoi An– snorkeling or diving at the Cham Islands, early morning cycling trips to the countryside, visiting the My Son archeological ruins. Hoi An also has terrific food, and is a great place to wander around and explore.

June 2, 2015 at 6:46 am

There are at-least 30 incredible places to visit in Vietnam, your list is correct those are about the top places but there are alot more amazing places in Vietnam and no one should stop at just 10

November 7, 2014 at 4:11 am

Great places. You can also put Ninh Binh and Ha Giang.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam in 2022

Coming to the S-shaped country, you can admire the poetic and charming scenery wherever you go. The natural beauty and unique culture have made Vietnam become a tourist destination worldwide. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam nominated in 2022.

1. Ha Long Bay

Off Northeast Vietnam , Ha Long Bay was designated as one of the World Heritage Sites in 1994. For many reasons, Ha Long Bay has to be on your list when you travel to Vietnam.

Having been known for thousands of limestone islands that emerged from the emerald water, the bay is surrounded by a spectacular seascape. You will want to sign up for a boat trip to cruise along the maze of channels and uniquely shaped islets. You can also go kayaking and caving to experience the enchanting beauty of this wonderland.

Although it can get very touristy during the high season, with what it has to offer, Ha Long Bay is totally worth your visit.

The best time to visit Ha Long Bay is in the summer (May – October) when its weather is warm, less rain, convenient for outdoor activities and exploring.

2. Ninh Binh

Used to be one of the hidden gems in the north of Vietnam, Ninh Binh has become more and more popular among both local and foreign visitors after being chosen as the blockbuster Kong’s filming location. But Ninh Binh is not all about that.

This is home of one of the biggest temples in South East Asia (Bai Dinh Pagoda), which is solemnly situated amid the lush paddy fields and breathtaking rock formations. The best way to explore the renowned landscape complex is by rowboat to bit-by-bit take in the majestic and poetic scenery. Ninh Binh will truly give you a sense of the spiritual calmness coming from the splashing water under your boat and distant temple bells echoing.

You can visit Ninh Binh at any time of the year, each season in Ninh Binh has a unique beauty that is nowhere to be found.

Noted as another World Heritage Site of the long-stretching nation, the Ancient Town of Hoi An  carries not only the diversity of settings but also the history of hundreds of years of cultural interference between the three countries of China, Japan, and Vietnam. You will need to be ready to fall in love with the mix of vibrant lifestyle and ancient architecture of this little town.

Hoi An is also famous for a wide range of delightful cafes and restaurants of those overlooking peaceful views. Even for a local, the town’s delicacies are definitely one-of-a-kind, and it will give you a hard time picking among all the good food.

As the most beautiful city in Vietnam, Hoi An is crowded year-round, the tourist season starts from November to the end of February. If you want to enjoy a “real” Hoi An, April to June is the right time for you, when there are the least tourists.

Further north of Hoi An is a beautiful coastal city – Da Nang . Da Nang is a tropical sea paradise in Vietnam; it has some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches such as Non Nuoc Beach, which is almost never too busy. It would make you extend your staying here with its spectacular mountain temples, well-decorated bars and restaurants, and so much more. It is not random that many expats choose to relocate here as you can easily find a hint of the modern lifestyle of a big city blended into the tranquility of the natural surroundings.

If you are an adventurous soul, get on a motorbike and go for a road trip around Son Tra Peninsula, then set out to conquer the Hai Van Pass or simply walk the majestic  Golden Bridge .

The ideal time to visit Da Nang is the dry season from January to July, and the most perfect is between February and May. During this period, the weather is pleasant and less rain.

Hue  is the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the prosperous reign of the Nguyen Dynasty, which explains a rich collection of tombs, palaces, and royal buildings. That is also the highlight of this romantic city.

Strolling along the gorgeous Perfume River, crossing Trang Tien Bridge just to later sit down and take a sip of cold Huda beer.

Hue is definitely not a tourism hub but if you are keen on an atmosphere with a breadth of history, then Hue would be your perfect choice.

Located between the South and the North, Hue weather is characteristic of both regions. Hue has four seasons, but the most obvious are sunny and rainy seasons. The dry season lasts from March to August, it is quite bright and hot. From August to November is the rainy season. Especially from October onwards, there are prolonged rains and storms.

In 6th place, Sapa meets all the elements to become one of the best places to visit in Vietnam: the small villages like the picture painted on the majestic hills, upland markets, and the identity of ethnic minority communities.

Although the main town itself has been said to be too touristic and going through lots of construction, it gives you a reason to go out of town and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful highland cities in the country. Meeting up with the innocent local minority people and being amazed by terraced fields – breathtaking scenery will be your unforgettable memory.

Sapa is a mountainous region with a cool climate all year round. The weather in Sapa has four seasons. The average temperature of Sapa is 15 °C. Summer in Sapa is not too hot; winter is often cloudy and cold, and sometimes it snows.

The best time to visit Sapa is from September to early November, at this time, rice begins to ripen, and the scenery of Sapa turns to the brilliant golden colour of the rice, a picturesque view.

7. Nha Trang

As one of the most beautiful coastal cities in Vietnam , Nha Trang has been recognized as a tropical sea paradise. Not only do long blue beaches and dozens of large and small islands remain untouched, but Nha Trang is also an ideal destination for those who love culture – history as it is also the land of the flourishing Champa Kingdom in the past.

Visit Nha Trang, immerse yourself in the refreshing water, dive down to the coral reefs, discover islands by canoe, and enjoy fresh seafood.

The most significant advantage of this city is the long sunny season during the first eight months, the temperature difference is not considerable. The rainy season of Nha Trang lasts from September to December and reaches its peak in October and November.

Nha Trang is definitely an indispensable name when it comes to the best places to visit in Vietnam.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

When talking about the best places to visit in Vietnam, it’s impossible to ignore the biggest city in the country: Ho Chi Minh City .

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the most developed and somehow chaotic city across the country once known as the Pearl of the Far East. Although Saigon is not rich in natural resources, it has a wide range of street food and nightlife activities to choose from.

And if your heart is up for knowledge, there is a list of museums and galleries scattered around the city so you can check them out and explore the city at the same time.

Chinatown is also the soul of the dynamic city filled with century-aged temples and shops – where you can give yourself a break after play-hard days. It is no exaggeration to say that Saigon has it all.

Ho Chi Minh City weather does not have four seasons like Hanoi but only two: rainy and dry. The rainy season is from May to November. In general, you can visit Ho Chi Minh City at any time of the year, the rainy season is also the most beautiful season of this city.

It is always worth visiting the capital city of any country. In  Hanoi , your mind will be blown away by the subtly busy Old Quarter – 36 Streets. You will live the historic moments walking along Long Bien Bridge.

You will love every single second of riding around Truc Bach Lake and finding yourself a good coffee spot to sit down and enjoy a hot egg coffee. And when the sun goes down, get yourself to the Main Cathedral, sit on those red stools and join the locals for lemon tea and sunflower seeds.

Hanoi is one of the few places in Vietnam that has four seasons. Because of the characteristics of a humid monsoon tropical country, Hanoi’s climate in the winter and summer is quite harsh. The winter in Hanoi is so cold; sometimes the temperature drops deeply below 10 °C, meanwhile, the summer is very hot, sometimes stormy. According to the experiences of many travellers, you should visit this city in the autumn.

Mui Ne is another coastal city to add to your list. Unlike any other beaches, Mui Ne is a paradise for those into extreme water sports. You can do from snorkeling, diving to surfing and parachuting. Riding past miles of white and red stunning sandhills on one side and feeling the ocean breeze blowing from the sea from the other side, you will know why this destination keeps popping up in travel conversations. And of course, live seafood is freshly brought to restaurants from the fishing boats will fulfill your visit.

Mui Ne is not only good for motorbike trips but also the best place across the country for water sports. November to April is the windy season making it perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Other activities such as parasailing, kayaking, and motorboating can also be spotted. Make sure you eat at one of the food stalls set on the beach for an unforgettable dining experience.

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List of countries that enjoy vietnam’s visa exemption (updated).

Vietnam stands out as a sought-after and budget-friendly destination in Southeast Asia , renowned for its affordability. When compared to neighboring countries such as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia, Vietnam consistently ranks among the region’s cheapest travel destinations. The cost of daily expenses in Vietnam, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities, contributes to its appeal for budget-conscious travelers.

Exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi , cruising through Halong Bay’s stunning landscapes, and immersing oneself in the rich culture of Ho Chi Minh City can be remarkably cost-effective. Considered alongside its diverse attractions, Vietnam emerges as an excellent choice for those seeking an enriching travel experience without the strain on their wallets. 

To further understand the Vietnam trip cost , below is a table comparing the daily travel costs in Vietnam with those in five other countries in the region:

*The numbers above are average for daily spending.

Vietnam trip cost breakdown – How much would you be spending on a Vietnam trip? 

Constructing a financial plan can be a daunting task without a clear starting point. For a clearer understanding, let’s look at an example for a 7-day trip in Vietnam. The expenses for a one-week journey to Vietnam are contingent on variables like travel style, accommodation, transportation, and activities. Budget-conscious travelers can anticipate spending $500-$700, encompassing basic necessities. Mid-range travelers may allocate $1,000-$1,500, while those seeking luxury may surpass $2,500. This implies a daily expenditure of at least $70. Notably, airfare isn’t factored into these approximations and can fluctuate based on departure location and time of year. 

For a comprehensive understanding and practical budgeting tips, let our financial guidelines navigate your Vietnam trip costs , ensuring a well-planned and realistic budget for your upcoming vacation.

Accommodation

Lodging constitutes a significant portion of your Vietnam trip cost, and the expenses can vary widely based on the location and type of stay. 

Budget-friendly options like hostels and guesthouses start at approximately $5-10 per night, while mid-range choices, including hotels and homestays, may fall in the $20-50 range. For those seeking luxury, upscale hotels and resorts can surpass $100 per night. Conducting a thorough comparison of prices and reading reviews before making reservations is advisable to secure affordable yet comfortable options. 

Exploring accommodations outside major tourist hubs or scheduling visits during low seasons can yield additional savings. By strategically planning your budget, Vietnam offers a range of lodging choices that cater to diverse financial plans, ensuring you find a place that aligns with both your preferences and budget constraints.

Transportation

In planning your Vietnam trip, transportation costs encompass flights or buses connecting cities, as well as local options like taxis or motorbike rentals. Flights between major cities, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, range from $30 to $100, contingent on the airline and season. Long-distance bus fares can be as economical as $5-10 per journey. Local transport, including taxis and motorbikes, fluctuates based on the city and distance, with short rides typically costing $2-5. 

Opting for a rented motorbike is a popular and budget-friendly means of exploring Vietnam, with prices ranging from $5-20 USD per day, contingent on the bike type and location. Navigating these transportation costs thoughtfully in your budget ensures a seamless and cost-effective journey through the diverse landscapes of Vietnam.

Visa fee and Activities

In budgeting for your Vietnam trip cost , it’s crucial to factor in visa fees and planned activities. Visa costs vary based on nationality, length of stay and number of entry, ranging from $25 USD to $135 USD. It’s essential to research your country’s visa requirements and fees well in advance of your journey.

Activities, including tours and entrance fees, can significantly contribute to your overall expenses. For instance, a half-day city tour in Hanoi may cost approximately $25 USD per person, while a two-day cruise in Halong Bay can exceed $150 USD per person. Opting for tours through a reputable local travel agent can be a cost-effective solution. Beyond cost considerations, working with a travel agent brings numerous advantages. Their in-depth knowledge enables the creation of a personalized itinerary aligned with your preferences. Additionally, they offer valuable insider tips and recommendations, enriching your travel experience beyond what online research may provide. Engaging with a local agent ensures a smoother and more enriching exploration of Vietnam while optimizing your budget.

Food and Drinks

Don’t forget to factor in food and drink expenses when planning your Vietnam trip cost , especially in a country celebrated for its delectable and economical street food. Exploring local restaurants is a delightful way to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s cuisine. 

The cost of food varies, with street vendors offering meals as low as $1-2, mid-range restaurants averaging $5-10 per person, and high-end establishments in tourist hubs reaching $20 or more per meal. Refreshing with bottled water is affordable, while alcoholic beverages, like a beer at $1-2 or cocktails around $5-10, can add up. Note that restaurants often include a service charge, eliminating the need for additional tipping unless service is exceptional. Embrace the culinary richness of Vietnam, savoring street-side delicacies and dining in local gems, while accounting for these expenses in your budget for a comprehensive and satisfying journey.

Final thoughts

A trip to Vietnam is a great way to experience the essence of SouthEast Asia with all that this fascinating country has to offer, but budgeting for a Vietnam trip cost can seem overwhelming. . Fear not, as strategic budgeting ensures a memorable trip without financial strain. 

For optimal value and experiences, consider booking a Vietnam tour with Viland Travel . Their diverse range of tours caters to various budgets and interests, allowing you to maximize both time and money. Utilizing a travel agent often results in cost savings by bundling activities and accommodations. With Viland Travel’s seasoned guides and years of expertise, you gain access to insider insights, enhancing your exploration of local wonders, cuisine, and attractions. 

Seize the opportunity to plan your well-deserved vacation – book now and get ready for an enriching adventure!

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Cost of a Trip to Vietnam & the Cheapest Time to Visit Vietnam

The average price of a 7-day trip to Vietnam is $1,037 for a solo traveler, $1,796 for a couple, and $924 for a family of 4 . Vietnam hotels range from $25 to $153 per night with an average of $46, while most vacation rentals will cost $50 to $410 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Vietnam (from all airports) are between $859 and $1,249 per person for economy flights and $2,697 to $3,922 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $23 to $48 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Vietnam

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Vietnam and stay in a Vietnam hotel:

• January 29th to April 15th (except the week of March 12th)
• August 20th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Vietnam is usually late October .

Average Vietnam Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $811-$1,852 ($116-$265 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $23 to $48 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $452 to $1,108 for economy

Lodging : $33 to $46 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $55 to $68 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,424-$3,295 ($203-$471 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $96 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $904 to $2,215 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $2,849-$6,386 ($407-$912 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $93 to $192 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,808 to $4,430 for economy

Lodging : $65 to $93 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $83 to $102 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Vietnam

How cheap can you make a vacation to Vietnam? The cheapest trip to Vietnam is about $95 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 24% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $21.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $662-$1,665 ($95-$238 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $12 to $23 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $21 to $25 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $36 to $66 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,191-$2,933 ($170-$419 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $23 to $46 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $2,388-$5,681 ($341-$812 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $93 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $43 to $50 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $53 to $100 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very easy to travel to Vietnam cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Vietnam Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Vietnam.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,886-$8,290 ($269-$1,184 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $96 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,120 to $2,692 for first class

Lodging : $74 to $153 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $407 to $821 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $3,334-$11,647 ($476-$1,664 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $93 to $191 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,239 to $5,384 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $6,663-$20,834 ($952-$2,976 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $186 to $383 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,479 to $10,767 for first class

Lodging : $147 to $306 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $609 to $1,231 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Vietnam Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Vietnam is much lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Vietnam due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Vietnam Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Vietnam hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Vietnam.

Flight Costs to Vietnam

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,249 average in late December to a low of $859 in late October. Median flight price is $759. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Vietnam our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Wednesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Vietnam, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $390, so you can easily save about 45% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Vietnam can easily cost $174 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $12 per person. Private tours can cost $347 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

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Travel to Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

Vietnam is a nation of intriguing contrasts, where the blend of timeless traditions and contemporary aspirations creates a lively and varied society. You can delve into its captivating history, journeying from the imperial citadels of Hue and Hanoi to the historical relics of Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi tunnels. Natural marvels also await, from the breathtaking Halong Bay and the lush Mekong Delta to the majestic Fansipan mountain. For food enthusiasts, Vietnam is a paradise boasting the delicate delights of pho, banh mi, spring rolls, along with abundant seafood and tropical fruits. Whether you're drawn to urban energy or rustic allure, Vietnam's allure lies in its enthralling landscapes and rich culture. In this guide, you'll be accompanied by Vicky, a seasoned travel consultant from TravelVietnam.com . Vicky specializes in curating tours across Vietnam and Southeast Asia, including destinations like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Together, we'll navigate your journey through Vietnam in 2024, offering insights on the optimal time to visit, travel arrangements, accommodation options, packing tips, transportation guidance, and a comprehensive list of must-see and must-do experiences. Additionally, we'll feature invaluable advice from fellow travelers who've explored Vietnam and our team to help you make the most of your adventure.

Things to Know about Vietnam

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country with a rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. It is famous for its natural wonders like Ha Long Bay, its historic landmarks like the Cu Chi Tunnels, and its vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam is also known for its flavorful dishes like pho, its unique coffee culture, and its colorful festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan.

In general, here are some things that Vietnam is known for:

• Its beautiful beaches, lush rice paddies, towering mountains, and stunning landscapes like Ha Long Bay
• Its culture, history, and heritage, influenced by Chinese, French, and American colonization
• Its flavorful cuisine, especially street food and Vietnamese coffee.
• Its friendly and hospitable people
• The Vietnam War and its aftermath, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and historical cities

Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons : spring (February-April), summer (May-August), autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January). The best time to travel to Vietnam depends on which region you want to visit, as each one has different weather patterns and attractions. Generally speaking, spring (Feb to April) and autumn (August to October) are considered the best seasons for traveling across Vietnam , as they offer pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, and clear skies. However, you can also enjoy Vietnam in any season if you plan ahead and pack accordingly. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of each season:

• Spring: This is a great time to see the flowers blooming in northern Vietnam, especially in Sa Pa and Ha Giang provinces. You can also celebrate Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in late January or early February with locals and enjoy their festive traditions. However, spring can also be crowded with domestic tourists and prices may be higher than usual.
• Summer: This is a good time to enjoy the beaches and islands of central and southern Vietnam, such as Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao. You can also witness some colorful festivals such as Hue Festival in April or Da Nang International Fireworks Festival in June. However, summer can also be very hot and humid, with frequent rainstorms and typhoons.
• Autumn: This is a perfect time to admire the golden rice terraces in northern Vietnam, especially in Mu Cang Chai and Yen Bai provinces. You can also enjoy the cooler weather and the changing colors of the leaves in the mountains. However, autumn can also be prone to flooding and landslides in some areas, especially in October and November.
• Winter: This is a nice time to experience the snow and frost in northern Vietnam, especially in Sa Pa and Mau Son. You can also celebrate Christmas and New Year with locals and expats in the cities. However, winter can also be very cold and foggy, with limited visibility and activities.

Here is a general overview of the best time to visit Vietnam by month:

• January:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An. However, it can be cold in the north,
• February:  The weather is still good in January, but the crowds start to thin out as the peak season comes to an end. This is a good time to visit if you are looking for a more relaxed vacation.
• March:  The weather starts to get warmer in the south, making it a good time to visit beaches like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang. However, it can be hot and humid in the north. Looking for exciting activities? Discover a plethora of things to do in Phú Quốc and Nha Trang.
• April:  The weather is hot and sunny in most parts of Vietnam. This is the start of the peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
• May:  The weather is at its hottest and most humid in May. It is also the start of the rainy season in the north.
• June:  The rainy season starts in the north and central Vietnam, but the south remains dry. This is a good time to visit the Mekong Delta, as the water levels are high and the scenery is lush.
• July:  The rainy season is in full swing in the north and central Vietnam. However, the south remains dry and sunny. This is a good time to visit beaches in the south, as the crowds have thinned out.
• August:  The rainy season starts to taper off in the north and central Vietnam. However, it can still be wet and humid.
• September:  The weather is starting to get cooler in the north and central Vietnam. This is a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Sapa, as the crowds have thinned out.
• October:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit any region of the country.
• November:  The weather is still good in November, but the crowds start to pick up again as the holiday season approaches.
• December:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An. However, it can be cold in the north, especially in the mountainous regions.

Top tourist destinations in Vietnam

If you are looking for some of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam , you have plenty of options to choose from. Vietnam has something for everyone, whether you prefer bustling cities or serene countryside. Here are some of the places you should not miss:

• Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam , is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleyways lined with shops, restaurants, and temples. They can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
• Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a stunning archipelago of over 1,600 islands and islets. The limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay are a popular destination for boat tours, kayaking, and swimming. You can also explore the caves, grottoes, floating villages, and pearl farms that dot the bay. Ha Long Bay is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a must-see for any traveler.
• Cat Ba Island , an island in Ha Long Bay, is a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the island's lush rainforests, visit its hidden coves and beaches, and view its stunning limestone karsts.
• Sapa: A mountain town in northern Vietnam, Sapa is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can marvel at the breathtaking scenery of rice terraces, valleys, and peaks that change color with the seasons. You can also trek, hike, bike, or homestay with the ethnic minority groups that live in the area. Sapa is a place to experience the local culture, markets, festivals, and customs of these diverse communities. Sapa is also a gateway to other attractions in northern Vietnam, such as Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, and Bac Ha Market.
• Ha Giang , a province in the northeast of Vietnam, is known for its stunning scenery, including the Ha Giang Loop, a popular motorcycle route. Visitors can hike through the mountains, visit ethnic minority villages, and explore the region's natural beauty.
• Mai Chau , a valley in north-central Vietnam, is home to the Black Thai, White Thai, and Muong ethnic minority groups. Visitors can experience the traditional culture of these groups by visiting their villages and participating in their activities.
• Ninh Binh: Nestled in north-central Vietnam, Ninh Binh shines as the home to the extraordinary Tam Coc Karst Landscape and Cuc Phuong National Park. Boat tours through the Ha Long Bay-like landscape and encounters with the diverse flora and fauna bring this region's natural beauty to life.
• Nha Trang:  A beach resort city in central Vietnam, Nha Trang is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a charming town in central Vietnam. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including Chinese shophouses and Japanese merchant houses. Hoi An is also a major center for silk production and tailoring. You can shop for custom-made clothes, lanterns, pottery, and other souvenirs at the colorful markets and shops. Hoi An also has a rich culinary scene, with dishes like cao lau, banh xeo, and mi quang. Don't forget to visit the nearby beaches and countryside for some relaxation and adventure.
• Da Nang: This coastal city's allure lies in its pristine beaches and dramatic landscapes. From the heights of Ba Na Hills to the wonders of Marble Mountains, Da Nang caters to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a showcase of the country's royal heritage. You can visit the citadel, palaces, tombs, pagodas, and temples that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also admire the art, culture, and cuisine of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Hue is famous for its elegant dishes like bun bo hue, banh beo, and com hen. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Perfume River and the surrounding mountains.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the world's largest cave system. Visitors can take a tour of the caves, go kayaking on the Son River, or hike in the park's rainforests.
• Mui Ne , a beach resort town in southern Vietnam, is known for its sand dunes, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Visitors can relax on the beach, go sandboarding or dune bashing, or go windsurfing or kitesurfing.
• Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a blend of modern and historic influences. You can learn about the country's past at the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. You can also enjoy the city's present at the Bitexco Financial Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Opera House. Ho Chi Minh City is also a great place to experience the nightlife, shopping, and street food of Vietnam. You can find everything from luxury malls to local markets, from fine dining to street stalls.
• Mekong Delta: The sprawling Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is characterized by lush rice paddies, floating markets, and traditional villages. Guided boat tours, market explorations, and countryside hikes unveil the delta's vibrant way of life and natural splendor.
• Phu Quoc: Off the southern coast, Phu Quoc beckons with its idyllic beaches and luxury resorts. This island paradise offers sun-soaked relaxation and the chance to explore its national park's unspoiled beauty.

Things to do in Vietnam

From stunning natural landscapes to rich history and culture, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Vietnam . Here are Vicky's top things to do in Vietnam:

• Visit Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam , where you can experience the old and the new, the traditional and the modern. Hanoi is a vibrant and lively city, full of history, culture, and charm. You can explore the Old Quarter, where you can see the ancient architecture, shop at the colorful markets, and taste the delicious street food. You can also visit the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Water Puppet Theater.
• Cruise on Ha Long Bay, one of the most scenic and iconic places in Vietnam. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where thousands of limestone islands and islets rise from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.  you can take a cruise on a traditional junk boat, kayak through the caves and grottoes, or visit the floating villages and pearl farms. You can also stay overnight on the boat and watch the sunrise and sunset over the bay.
• Climb the limestone karsts of Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is a province in north-central Vietnam known for its Tam Coc Karst Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to take a boat tour through the caves and grottos of Tam Coc, or hike to the top of the Mua Caves.
• Explore Sapa Valley and Bac Ha Market, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the rice terraces, valleys, and peaks. Sapa is a mountainous town in northern Vietnam, where you can trek, hike, bike, or homestay with the ethnic minority groups that live in the area. You can also visit Bac Ha Market, one of the largest and most colorful markets in Vietnam, where you can see the local people in their traditional costumes selling their products and handicrafts.
• Explore the ancient trading port of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture.  Take a walk through the Old Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and shop for souvenirs at the night market.
• Visit the ancient temples of My Son. My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex located in the central highlands of Vietnam. It was once the capital of the Champa Kingdom, which flourished from the 7th to the 15th centuries.
• Relax on the beaches of Da Nang or Nha Trang. These two coastal cities are home to beautiful beaches and a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Discover Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) , the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where you can witness the grandeur and glory of the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue is famous for its citadel, palaces, tombs, pagodas, and temples, which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hue is also known for its royal cuisine, art, and culture
• Discover the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon.  Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, and shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market. Visit the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the Vietnam War.
• Explore the Mekong Delta, a vast river delta known for its floating markets, traditional villages, and lush green rice paddies.  Take a boat tour to see the floating markets and visit a traditional village.
• See the Cu Chi Tunnels. These underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can take a tour of the tunnels to learn about the war and the ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.
• Relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc, an island off the coast of southern Vietnam known for its beautiful beaches and resorts.  Go swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island's national park.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets and preferences. You can find everything from luxury hotels and resorts to budget hostels and homestays.

Please kindly note that the information provided on hotel booking websites such as Agoda or Booking should be considered as a reference only. Some details on these platforms might not be accurate due to infrequent updates, especially for accommodations in remote areas or budget hotels. The best approach for a satisfying experience is to opt for a comprehensive package tour that includes hotels, related services, and land tours. Local experts are well-equipped to select the optimal hotels and services to ensure the best possible experience for your trip. For instance, even though both hotels are rated as 3 stars in Hanoi, if you were to book a 3-star hotel in Thanh Xuan district, you might secure a double room for around $30 (with certain facility limitations). However, a similarly rated 3-star hotel with comparable or slightly better amenities in the Old Quarter of Hanoi could cost you around $45.

Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing where to stay in Vietnam:

• Location: You should choose a location that is convenient for your travel plans and interests. For example, if you want to explore the historical and cultural attractions of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you should stay near the old quarter or the city center. If you want to enjoy the beach and nature of Da Nang or Nha Trang, you should stay near the coast or the mountains. If you want to experience the rural life of Sa Pa or Mai Chau, you should stay in a village or a farm.
• Price: You should choose a price that suits your budget and expectations. For example, if you want to splurge on a luxurious stay with all the amenities and services, you should expect to pay around $100-$300 per night for a five-star hotel or resort. If you want to save money on a basic stay with minimal facilities and comfort, you should expect to pay around $40-$70 per night for a 3-star hotel or hostel. You can also find many mid-range options that offer decent quality and value for around $60-$100 per night. You can use the Booking.Com or Agoda to compare prices and reviews of different accommodation options in Vietnam. 

Style: You should choose a style that matches your taste and personality. For example, if you want to experience the local culture and hospitality, you should stay in a homestay or a guesthouse, where you can interact with the host family and enjoy their home-cooked meals. If you want to indulge in the colonial charm and elegance, you should stay in a heritage hotel or a villa, where you can admire the architecture and decor of the French or Chinese influence. If you want to relax in the modern comfort and convenience, you should stay in a chain hotel or a serviced apartment, where you can access the facilities and amenities of the international standards.

Amenities: You should choose amenities that suit your needs and preferences. For example, if you want to stay connected and productive, you should look for a place that offers free Wi-Fi, a work desk, and a power outlet. If you want to stay fit and healthy, you should look for a place that offers a gym, a pool, and a spa. If you want to stay entertained and social, you should look for a place that offers a bar, a restaurant, and a game room.

When choosing a place to stay in Vietnam, it is important to consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you are on a budget, there are many affordable hostels and guesthouses available. If you are looking for luxury accommodations, there are many beautiful hotels and resorts to choose from. If you are interested in history and culture, you may want to stay in a city like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. If you are looking for a more relaxing beach vacation, you may want to stay in a resort on Phu Quoc or Nha Trang.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Vietnam, depending on your interests and budget:

• Hanoi:  The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Hanoi, from visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to exploring the Old Quarter. There are a variety of accommodation options in Hanoi, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels.
• Ho Chi Minh City:  Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a mix of French colonial and Vietnamese architecture. There are many things to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City, from visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels to shopping at Ben Thanh Market.
• Da Nang:  A coastal city in central Vietnam, Da Nang is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. There are many things to see and do in Da Nang, from hiking in Ba Na Hills to exploring the Marble Mountains.
• Ninh Binh:  A province in north-central Vietnam, Ninh Binh is home to the stunning Ha Long Bay. There are many things to see and do in Ninh Binh, from boat tours of Ha Long Bay to visiting
• Hoi An:  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a charming town in central Vietnam. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and its vibrant silk industry. There are many things to see and do in Hoi An, from visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge to shopping for souvenirs at the night market.
• Phu Quoc:  An island off the coast of southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc is known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts. There are many things to see and do in Phu Quoc, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the island's national park. 

How to get around Vietnam

Vietnam is a large and diverse country with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or food, you're sure to find something to love in Vietnam. One of the best things about Vietnam is the ease of getting around. The country has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get to your destination, no matter where you're going.

Here are some of the most common ways to get around Vietnam:

• By plane: This is the fastest and easiest way to get from one city to another in Vietnam, especially if you are short on time or want to cover a long distance. There are many domestic flights that connect the major destinations in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. You can find cheap and reliable airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines. Vietnam Airlines, Vietnam's national carrier, boasts a 4-star rating and exceptional services, often regarded as the country's finest. Bamboo Airways, a newcomer, focuses on the domestic market, aspiring to achieve a high-quality 4-star status. Other airlines primarily offer budget options, requiring careful consideration before booking to match your preferences.
• By train:  Vietnam has a main railroad that goes from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in the south to Hanoi in the north, with over 20 stops along the way. The railroad covers more than 1,000 miles along the coast, linking almost all major coastal cities between Saigon and Hanoi. This railroad is called the 'Reunification Express' today. There are at least 6 trains every day in both directions on the 'Reunification Express' between Saigon and Hanoi. The trip between the two cities takes about 34 hours to 36 hours. Besides, there are some other trains that run on specific sections of the main railroad, stopping at smaller and bigger stations. Besides the main 'Reunification Express' route, there are some other routes that go to different places. These include: Hanoi → Hải Phòng, Hanoi → Lào Cai, Hanoi → Lạng Sơn, Hanoi → Hạ Long, Hanoi → Thái Nguyên, and Saigon → Phan Thiết. However, the schedules on these routes are not regular and may change, especially after the pandemic.You can easily check the schedules, times and ticket prices at the official website of Vietnam railway: [ https://dsvn.vn/#/timve ] This is a scenic and comfortable way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to enjoy the views of the countryside and the coast. There is a single railway network that runs from north to south, linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can also find trains that stop at other popular destinations such as Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Sapa. You can choose from different types of seats and cabins, depending on your budget and comfort level. 
• By bus:  This is a cheap and flexible way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to explore the off-the-beaten-path places or meet other travelers. There are two types of buses in Vietnam: tourist buses and local buses. Tourist buses are catered for tourists and hit all the major attractions. They usually pick up from the city center or your hotel and offer more comfort and safety than local buses. Local buses are used by locals and offer a more authentic and adventurous experience. They usually depart from bus stations or random spots on the road and offer lower prices but less quality and reliability than tourist buses.
• Taxi:  Taxis are a good option for getting around in cities. They are relatively inexpensive, and they can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi app.
• Grab:  Grab is a ride-hailing app that is popular in Vietnam. It is a convenient and affordable way to get around, and it offers a variety of vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and bicycles. Formerly present in Vietnam, Uber has since been acquired by Grab. As a result, Grab is the only ride-hailing app available in Vietnam now, with Uber no longer operating in the country's market.
• By motorbike: This is an adventurous and independent way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to experience the thrill of riding on the roads and discovering every corner of the country. Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transportation in Vietnam, for locals and tourists alike. You can rent or buy a motorbike from many shops or online platforms in Vietnam. You can also join a motorbike tour or hire a driver if you don't want to ride by yourself. You will need a valid driver's license, an international driving permit, a vehicle registration certificate, a vehicle insurance certificate, and a helmet to ride a motorbike in Vietnam. You should also be careful of the traffic rules, road conditions, and weather in Vietnam. 

Cultural tips for Vietnam

Vietnam has a long and complex history of interactions with different countries and civilizations, such as China, France, Japan, and the United States. This has shaped the culture of Vietnam , which is influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and other beliefs and values. Vietnam also has 54 ethnic groups, each with their own customs and traditions. Therefore, it is important to be respectful and aware of the cultural differences and etiquette when visiting Vietnam. Here are some of the cultural tips that you should know before traveling to Vietnam:

• Greetings: When greeting Vietnamese people for the first time, you should avoid physical contact, such as hugs and kisses, unless they initiate it. Shaking hands is common among men, but not between the opposite sex or with seniors. You should greet the elderly first, and bow your head slightly. You should also address people by their title and surname, or by their relationship to you. For example, you can call an older man "ông" (grandfather), an older woman "bà" (grandmother), a younger man "anh" (older brother), or a younger woman "chị" (older sister). You can also use "xin chào" (hello) or "chào bạn" (hello friend) as a general greeting.
• Face : Face is the concept of preserving one's dignity and respect in Vietnamese culture. It can be given, saved, or lost, depending on one's actions and words. Vietnamese people tend to avoid public confrontation or criticism, as they may cause someone to lose face. Therefore, you should try to be polite, calm, and humble when dealing with Vietnamese people. You should also avoid pointing out mistakes or faults in public or in front of others. If you have to do so, you should do it discreetly and tactfully.
• Dining: Dining is an important part of Vietnamese culture, as it is a way of expressing hospitality and friendship. Vietnamese people usually eat together in a family or group setting, sharing dishes from a common plate. You should wait for the host or the eldest person to invite you to start eating before you do so. You should also use both hands to pass or receive food or drinks. You should avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as it is considered rude and unlucky. You should also avoid pointing your chopsticks at someone or waving them around.
• Gifts: Giving gifts is a common way of showing gratitude and respect in Vietnamese culture. You should bring a small gift when visiting someone's home or meeting someone for the first time. Some of the appropriate gifts are fruits, flowers, sweets, tea, coffee, wine, or books. You should avoid giving sharp objects, such as knives or scissors, as they may imply cutting off the relationship. You should also avoid giving handkerchiefs, clocks, or anything black or white, as they are associated with death and mourning.
• Dress: Dressing appropriately is another way of showing respect and sensitivity in Vietnamese culture. You should dress modestly and conservatively when visiting religious sites or rural areas. You should cover your shoulders and knees and remove your shoes before entering a temple or a pagoda. You should also avoid wearing hats or sunglasses inside these places.

Here are a few cultural tips to help you have a more enjoyable and respectful visit: Vietnamese people are generally very friendly and welcoming . It's a good idea to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as "hello," "goodbye," "thank you," and "you're welcome." Vietnam is a collectivist society, so it's important to be respectful of others' space. Don't be surprised if people stand close to you or touch you in public. Vietnam is a Buddhist country, so it's important to be respectful of Buddhist customs. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts in temples or pagodas. Vietnamese people are very proud of their country's history and culture. It's a good idea to do some research before you go so you can appreciate the country's unique culture. Vietnam is a tropical country, so it's important to be prepared for the heat and humidity. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and drink plenty of fluids. Vietnam is a relatively affordable country, so you can travel on a budget. However, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand, as credit cards are not always accepted. Vietnam is a safe country, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Don't leave valuables unattended, and be careful walking at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety tips for Vietnam

Vietnam is a safe country to visit, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take some basic precautions. Here are a few safety tips for Vietnam:

• Be aware of your surroundings.  Don't walk around with your head down or your phone out. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for potential pickpockets or scammers. Vietnam is generally a safe country for tourists, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams can happen. Therefore, you should be vigilant and cautious when walking around crowded or touristy areas, such as markets, bus stations, or attractions. You should also avoid walking alone at night or in dark alleys. You should keep your valuables and documents in a safe place or leave them at your hotel. You should also be wary of strangers who approach you with offers or requests that seem too good to be true.
• Don't carry large amounts of cash or valuables.  Keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a money belt or a hidden pocket.
• Be careful crossing the street.  One of the biggest hazards in Vietnam is the traffic, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The roads are often crowded and chaotic, with motorbikes, cars, buses, bicycles, and pedestrians sharing the same space. The traffic rules are not always followed or enforced, and accidents are common. Therefore, you should be very careful when crossing the street, riding a motorbike, or taking a taxi. You should always look both ways, walk at a steady pace, and avoid sudden movements. You should also wear a helmet, follow the traffic signs and signals, and negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi.
• Drink bottled water.  Tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Drink bottled water instead.
• Health: Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring (February-April), summer (May-August), autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January). The weather can vary depending on the region and the time of the year. Therefore, you should check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. You should also protect yourself from the sun, heat, insects, and waterborne diseases. You should wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. You should drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration. You should use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants. You should also avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Be respectful of Vietnamese culture.  You should be respectful and aware of the cultural differences and etiquette when visiting Vietnam. Dress modestly and avoid making any offensive gestures or comments. You should greet people with a smile and a nod. You should avoid physical contact or public displays of affection. You should dress modestly and conservatively when visiting religious sites or rural areas. You should remove your shoes before entering a temple or a house. You should avoid pointing your finger or your feet at someone or something.

However, there is more to Vietnam than just safety concerns. Vietnam is a beautiful country with many attractions that appeal to different types of travelers, from bustling cities to serene countryside. If you want to make the most of your trip to Vietnam, you should consider booking tour packages from local tour operators who are reputable and experienced in providing private and escorted tours in Vietnam.

Some of the benefits and values of using local tour operators are:

• They can offer you customized itineraries that suit your interests and preferences.
• They can provide you with knowledgeable guides who can speak your language and share their insights and stories about Vietnam.
• They can arrange your transportation, accommodation, meals, tickets, and other services that can save you time and hassle.
• They can ensure your safety and comfort throughout your trip.
• They can support the local economy and community by hiring local staff and using local products.

One of the local tour operators that I recommend is TravelVietnam.Com, which has been providing high-quality tours in Vietnam since 2006, and I am proud to have been a dedicated member of this company since 2009. We have a team of professional travel consultants, including myself, who can help you plan your dream trip to Vietnam !  We have a variety of tour packages that cover all the major destinations in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta. 

We also have special interest tours that cater to different themes, such as culture, nature, adventure, cuisine, or wellness. We also have flexible options that allow you to customize your own tour according to your budget, schedule, and style. If you are interested in booking a tour with TravelVietnam.Com, you can contact us by email or phone/WhatsApp. You can also read our reviews on TripAdvisor or Trustpilot to see what our customers say about our services.

There are many reputable local tour operators in Vietnam. TravelVietnam.com is one of them. TravelVietnam.com offers a variety of private and escort tours, including tours of Sapa, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Mekong Delta, and Ho Chi Minh City. Here are a few of the benefits of traveling with TravelVietnam.Com: Safety:  We specialize exclusively in offering private and luxury tours in Vietnam , serving as a reliable Vietnam DMC (Destination Management Company). Our dedicated tour guides and drivers escort you throughout the journey, prioritizing the absolute safety of you and your group. With our expertise in organizing Vietnam school tours and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tours, we are well-equipped to provide comprehensive services that ensure your trip is not only secure but also unforgettable. By teaming up with us, you can rest assured, as we help you avoid scams and potential safety concerns while exploring the wonders of Vietnam. Convenience:  We are a local tour operator that can handle all of the details of your trip, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. Knowledge:  With over 17 years of experience in the travel industry, we boast a seasoned team of travel experts. With offices in multiple countries such as Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, Yangon, Hanoi, and HCM City, we are well-equipped to ensure a memorable journey for you. This local presence allows us to offer insights into local culture and history, making your travel experience truly remarkable.

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Last updated on 2023-10-25 04:47:16.  

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Asia , Travel Guides , Vietnam · June 25, 2019

21 Most Incredible Places to Visit in Vietnam

This comprehensive Vietnam guide highlights everything you need to know about visiting Vietnam for the first time. Find out where to go in Vietnam and discover the best places to visit in Vietnam. You’ll also get tons of tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect Vietnam itinerary.

There’s no doubt, Vietnam offers visitors a very unique experience.   From bustling cities and gorgeous beaches to lush forests and breathtaking rice paddies – Vietnam has it all! The country which borders China, Laos, and Cambodia, is the perfect SEA destination for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in nature, history, culture, and some of the best culinary feasts across the globe.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Before you go to Vietnam

Before we dive into the best places to visit in Vietnam, make sure to read my guide on 16 essential travel tips for visiting Vietnam . It includes tons of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip. Along with the tips included above, here are a few key things to be aware of before visiting Vietnam. I’ve rounded up all my top tips to help you plan the perfect Vietnam trip.

Quick facts

Currency: Vietnamese Dong ( Check latest rates here )

Langauge: Vietnamese

Time Zone: GMT+7

Climate: Tropical / Monsoon

When to visit Vietnam

The weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable. Therefore before booking flights and accommodation, it’s always a good idea to know when to visit Vietnam and what to pack for a Vietnam trip .

Peak Season (Jul – Aug)

Vietnam’s peak season runs from July to August. Temperatures are hot and humid throughout most parts of the country (except the far north) and expect some showers. Prices also tend to be steeper during these months, so it’s best to book accommodation well in advance.

If you are traveling on a flexible schedule, you might want to consider only booking your arrival hotel. And, then take it from there. On our two-week Vietnam trip, we had an idea of where we wanted to go, but no fixed plans. We only booked our hotel for the first leg of our journey. Once in Vietnam, we simply booked hotels further afield a day in advance. Even though we visited in August, we were still able to find affordable mid-range accommodation. But just a tip – traveling like this can be quite stressful! So, it’s best to plan accordingly.

Shoulder Season (Dec – Mar)

If you plan to visit Vietnam during the shoulder season, you can expect sunny weather in the south with cooler-to-cold weather in the north. If traveling during Tet, Vietnamese Lunar New Year (late Jan – early Feb), booking accommodation and transport well in advance is highly encouraged.

Low Season (Apr – Jun, Sep – Nov)

There are a bunch of festivals during these months, so those on the hunt for unique cultural experiences won’t be disappointed. In general, the weather is lovely too, but note that typhoons aren’t uncommon on Vietnam’s northern and central coastline.

Most visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam, but luckily the process doesn’t take more than a few days.

Some European passport holders, such as citizens from the UK, France, and Germany, can enter Vietnam 15 days visa-free. Citizens from the US and most other nations do however need to apply for a visa. Some nationalities can also apply for a visa online – you can read more about it here . Alternatively, use iVisa to help you sort out everything online in a jiffy.

If you are South African, like me, you will need to apply for a visa (in person) at your nearest Vietnam embassy.

Arriving in Vietnam

Vietnam is served by three main international airports, namely, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang International Airport.

Depending on your Vietnam itinerary and time, you might want to consider arriving and departing at different airports. That way, you’ll save traveling time and unnecessary traveling costs. (Find flights or compare airline prices here in Skyscanner ).

Arriving in Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport is only about 45km from Hanoi’s city center. However, it’s best to leave at least 1 hour of travel time to reach the Old Quarter (and vice versa).

Taxis are plentiful, and you can easily book a transfer through your hotel for roughly USD$30 one-way. Alternatively, grab a private transfer from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City/Halong Bay first to save time and money.

For those traveling on a shoestring, there are many dirt cheap local buses to consider. These can easily transport you from the airport to Hanoi Old Quarter or Hanoi Train station. 

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is about 8km away from Saigon’s city center. And it takes less than 30 minutes to get there from the airport.

Direct transfers through hotels will set you back at least USD$30. Local buses also run every half hour between 6 am-6 pm to the Ben Thanh Market downtown. But if you have a lot of luggage perhaps consider taking a taxi or a private transfer from the airport to HCMC (which is slightly cheaper than getting a taxi directly from the airport).  

Arriving in Da Nang

If you are flying in from Siem Reap, Cambodia, the closest international airport is Da Nang International Airport .

The airport is only a few km away from the city center, and reasonably close to most of the beach resorts too. Grab a taxi at the airport or book a private transfer for Da Nang here for a hassle-free journey.  

How to Get Around Vietnam

Vietnam caters to all kinds of travelers, whether you are on a tight budget or like to travel in comfort.

Long Distance Travel in Vietnam

Open Tour buses and trains are the easiest ways to travel long distances in Vietnam. Both transport methods have overnight options, which allow you to save a few bucks on hotel accommodation. Tickets can also easily be bought at most travel agencies in Hanoi or HCMC.

12 Go Asia  is a good go-to site if you want to check train ticket prices or book tickets online.

But just a side-note, taking either of these options is not for everyone! The overnight trains and sleeper buses were by far some of the worst transport experiences I’ve ever had! Therefore, if you aren’t used to traveling long distances on stuffy trains or buses, instead opt flying. Domestic flights are cheap and frequent.

Short Distance Travel in Vietnam

Generally, taxis are very easy to flag down on the street. Grab Taxi is also a great alternative if you don’t like waiting around.

Although most major cities in Vietnam are very walkable, the traffic here is absolute chaos! Motorcycles often drive on sidewalks, and speeding is not uncommon. You might even find that something as simple as crossing the street to be painstakingly annoying. So, as a rule of thumb, follow the locals when attempting to cross busy streets!

In addition to taxis, bicycle rickshaws or motorbike taxis are excellent modes of transport for more daring travelers. But, remember to fix the price with the driver before going anywhere. You might also need to haggle a bit!

Staying Connected in Vietnam

When traveling to Vietnam, the very first thing we recommend getting is a local SIM card or pocket WIFI. If you aren’t sure which SIM card best suits your needs, these handy tips on choosing the best tourist SIM card in Vietnam will come in handy.

Most hotels do, however, have free WIFI, but if you are out and about, having access to the internet is essential – especially if you are checking train or bus schedules. Picking up a 4G SIM card at the airport is very easy. However, since low-cost carriers often arrive in the early morning hours or late at night, it might be best to grab a 4G SIM card online first. Here are some options:

• Arrival in Hanoi – Grab a 4G SIM card delivered straight to your hotel in Hanoi .
• Arrival in HCMC – Grab a  4G SIM delivered straight to your hotel in HCMC .

Scams are widespread in Vietnam, so it’s best to do a bit of research first. If you are booking day trips or transfers on the go, be sure to compare prices from a few local travel agents first. ( Finding a tour operator on the street in major hubs across Vietnam is also very easy – they’re everywhere! ). Alternatively, book tours and transfers online in advance through reputable sites or tour operators.

Language Barries

You’re not likely to have too much trouble with language barriers in major cities across the country. Most staff members at hotels, better-looking restaurants, and even at the busier markets can speak some English. But knowing a few key phrases can go a long way. Start with a few basics like:

Hello – Xin chào

Goodbye – Tạm biệt

Thank you – Cám ơn

How much is it? – Cái này giá bao nhiêu?

ATM’s are widely accessible across Vietnam, but generally, cash is king here. So be sure to carry enough money with you to avoid hefty international bank charges. Most hotels, tour operators, and fancier restaurants should accept debit or credit cards.

Haggling is standard practice at local markets and even at small stores selling local knick-knacks. So, don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills beforehand! Shopping around a bit first will also give you a good idea of how prices differ. Front entrance stores in main markets usually tend to ask foreigners steeper prices. Estimates are also often given in USD.

Tipping at restaurants is generally not required throughout Vietnam. Expect a 10% fee to be ( already ) worked into your bill at nicer looking cafes and restaurants. Hotel staff, such as porters often expect a small tip, especially from tourists. So remember to keep some small change or a few small dollar bills (USD) handy.

This probably goes without saying, but it’s best not to drink tap water when traveling in Asia . Instead opt to invest in a reusable water bottle that you can easily refill at your hotel’s water fountain.

In a rush? Pin this Vietnam Travel Itinerary for later.

The Best Places to Go in Vietnam for the Perfect Vietnam Itinerary

Great, now that you know the basics of planning a trip to Vietnam, let’s dive into this guide on where to go in Vietnam and what places not to miss on your Vietnam trip! Here is our list on the 20+ best places to visit in Vietnam – as recommended by fellow travel bloggers!

Best Places to visit in Northern Vietnam

Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant chaotic streets showcasing everything from broken down shophouses to colorful exteriors have long made it a pitstop on any northern Vietnam itinerary .

As the capital city, Hanoi offers visitors a glimpse into traditions still evident on the streets today. Here old and new seamlessly blend, making Hanoi a melting pot of culture, history, tradition, and authentic cuisine.

The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi, and probably where you’ll spend most of your time. With its deep-rooted history dating back more than 1000 years, the Old Quarter has something for everyone, no matter your interests!

Shopaholics and shutterbugs shouldn’t miss getting lost in the maze of shops and alleys lining the 36 Pho Phuong (merchant streets). Here you’ll find local merchants grouped by the wares they sell – from flowers and jewelry to silks and toys to name just a few. Here endless photo ops and a chance to experience the city like a real local awaits you around every corner. Those seeking to explore the natural beauty, albeit not any less chaotic side of the Old Quarter, be sure to head to Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi is a huge must when planning where to go in Vietnam, and any visit here will be rewarded with unique foodie experiences , relaxing strolls, unique architecture, bountiful of museums, and even puppet shows.

Whatever you do though – don’t miss popping by Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, stepping foot in the Museum of Literature and getting a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape at the Lotte Tower Observation Deck . Grabbing a bowl of pho and an ice-cold bai hoi , or a Vietnamese egg coffee at one of the sidewalk cafes for some good old fashioned people watching should not be missed either.

Since Hanoi is a popular tourist hot spot, there’s no shortage of excellent accommodation. That said, a stay at the Metropole, a beautiful luxury hotel in Hanoi , will not disappoint. Make sure to spend at least 3-4 days in Hanoi. That way, you can get a real feel of what the city has on offer.

Pù Luông Nature Reserve

Recommended by Emily | Wander-Lush

For an off-the-beaten-track nature experience in Vietnam, Pu Luong Nature Reserve can’t be beaten.

Located southwest of Hanoi on the border between Thanh Hoa and Hoa Binh provinces, Pu Luong – with its pristine forests and rich biodiversity – has been protected since 1999. Thai, Muong and other ethnic minority communities live inside the Reserve. They are responsible for the towering rice terraces and bamboo waterwheels that make the area so iconic.

The Reserve is the perfect spot for trekking. Homestay accommodation can be found in small villages linked by forest paths, with waterfalls, rivers, and mountains to be discovered along the way. For something more relaxing, peaceful Ban Hieu village in the southeast corner of the Reserve is a great spot to unwind.

Pu Luong is more remote than nearby Mai Chau, which makes accessing the Reserve a bit tricky. There is no public transport, so the best way to go about this is by organizing a transfer through your accommodation – either from Ninh Binh (approximately 4.5 hours by car) or from Hanoi. It might cost you a little more time and money, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Ha Long Bay

If there is one natural wonder in Asia that should be on your travel radar, it’s Ha Long Bay. Famed for its limestone caves and caverns with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, this UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises of more than 1600 limestone islets in all shapes and sizes imaginable – all covered in lush green vegetation.

Although Ha Long Bay has become a victim of over tourism over the past few years, its iconic emerald waters and towering limestone karsts are well worth the 3 hour bus ride from Hanoi and even the crowds!

Most people visit Ha Long Bay on a day trip from Hanoi . It’s best to pre-book tickets online as it is a very popular landmark in Vietnam . A day trip typically lasts 12 hours and includes sailing around on a traditional junk boat, visiting Thien Cung Cave (aka the Heavenly Cave) and some kayaking through the floating markets and towering karsts.

For those who have a bit more time, consider joining one of the iconic Ha Long Bay cruises to spend a few nights onboard a junk boat on these peaceful waters.

Recommended by John Paul | The Hangry Backpacker

Cat Ba Island is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. The island is easily reached from Hanoi/Hai Phong by bus. You’ll first need to travel to Cat Hai (a small island). Then take a short ferry and finally hop on another bus that makes various stops on Cat Ba Island.

The main town on the island, also called Cat Ba, is a laid back place in a beautiful setting. From Cat Ba town, visitors can tour the island (best done via motorbike) or join a boat tour of Ha Long Bay.

Cat Ba National Park is a stunning area that covers a large chunk of the island. The geography of the park is like Ha Long Bay without the water. For a great view of the harbor and town below, a short hike up to an old fort (now with a monument at the summit) is the perfect place for a panorama of Cat Ba town.

Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural scenes in Southeast Asia, and Cat Ba Island is the perfect gateway to explore the area. Most visitors come to Cat Ba for a calmer alternative to see Ha Long Bay than from Ha Long city.

Two to three full days on Cat Ba Island is enough time to adequately explore the national park and the bay, although an extra day or so is welcome for most travelers.

Bai Tu Long Bay

Recommended by Claudia Tavani | My Adventures Across The World

Most people who visit the North of Vietnam head to the magnificent Ha Long Bay. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. However, as a result of overtourism, it’s lost part of its charm. Nowadays, there are so many vessels moving around Ha Long Bay that your experience there ends up being crowded and you often hear loud music coming from the party boats – not to mention the high amount of plastic and garbage that floats around the sea.

One of the best things to do in Vietnam as an alternative to visiting Ha Long Bay is doing a tour of Bai Tu Long Bay. This is very similar in terms of sights and things to do, and in fact, you will be cruising across Ha Long Bay in bits. However, as the final destination is different, you will follow a different route and there will be fewer vessels around – so you will be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and you’ll have the views all to yourself

Tours of Bai Tu Long Bay normally last two full days. You will spend a full day on the boat doing things such as kayaking, swimming in the turquoise waters of the bay, exploring the many caves and visiting oyster farms. The second day is usually spent on a local island where you’ll get to sleep in a homestay. There, you’ll have a chance to cook dinner with the family, explore the island by bike and on foot, and get to know a bit of local culture before heading back to Hanoi.

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Located up in the mountains is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam – Sapa. If you are looking to get outside of the cities and into nature, there is no better choice than here.

To get to Sapa the best option is either by bus or train for Hanoi. Both are a long journey taking around 8 hours. Though, from my personal experience, the best option is the overnight train. Buses here can be hit or miss and for us, it was a complete miss. Also, bus crashes along these roads are fairly common.

Whether you prefer to relax with a massage or more thrill-seeking activities there is something to do for everyone. One of the most popular activities is hiking in Sapa . The views are incredible over the green rice terraces and there are different difficulty levels depending on your fitness. For our visit, we split our time between the main Sapa town, where you will find the restaurants and shops, and a local village called Ta Van. There are plenty of homestays in Ta Van where you can gain an understanding of local life by living with a family.

Make sure you spend at least 3 nights exploring Sapa and the surrounding villages. You will be astonished by the beauty which makes it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam.

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Ha Giang Province in the far north is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Vietnam .

Remote and rugged, Ha Giang is a mountainous landscape defined by limestone karsts and deep canyons. High-elevation roads with hairpin bends track between small towns and villages, where members of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities hold weekly produce markets. Hiking between villages via stacked rice terraces and fields of buckwheat is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang.

A popular way to see Ha Giang is by riding the Dong Van Pass and the Dong Van Loop, a famous road that many choose to navigate on a motorbike (either self-drive or easy rider). If you don’t ride, it’s also possible to visit Ha Giang by car .

Unlike in nearby Sapa, tourism in Ha Giang is still developing. A number of social enterprises and responsible tourism projects have sprung up in the area to ensure things develop the right way. It’s a little more challenging to get around – but the extra time and money visiting Ha Giang involves is worth it.

Independent travelers can reach Ha Giang’s largest town, Dong Van, by overnight bus from Hanoi. From there, you can rent motorbikes or travel by local bus to Sa Phin, Thai Phin and other villages on the loop, staying at homestays along the way. You’ll need a minimum of 3 or 4 days to complete the loop. Allow more time if you want to trek, which I highly recommend.

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Best Places to Visit in Central Vietnam

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Ninh Binh is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. Not only can you take in breathtaking views from the 500 stairs of Mua Caves, but you can also take in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Trang An.

Trang An gives you the opportunity to explore towering limestone karsts via a 3-hour boat tour with a local guide. Explore beautiful hidden temples, take in the set from Kong: Skull Island, and squeeze your way under hundreds of meters of river caves for an unforgettable experience. Most importantly, Mua Caves Ecolodge gives you the chance to fall asleep to the sound of frogs, with not a car horn in earshot!

Get there by bus or train from Hanoi, and make this an overnight trip to really enjoy the stunning countryside. If you have the time, head to Chookies in Tam Coc for sundowners and great pizza. Your Vietnamese bucket list cannot miss out on Ninh Binh , a lush and epic paradise just outside of Hanoi!

Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

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The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Vietnam is home to the world’s largest cave and the oldest karst mountains in Asia. This 400 million year old site was only discovered 20 years ago and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003.

Not only has this incredible cave system made the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park the country’s top natural highlight, but the surrounding forest offers jungle trekking and mountain biking opportunities to the more adventurous. These additional activities have caused the area to become popularly known as the ‘Adventure Capital of Asia’.

There are over 500 caves in Phong Na, but only 30 are accessible to visitors. The most popular are the Phong Nha Cave, Tra Ang Cave, Paradise Cave, Dark Cave, Hang E Cave, Elephant Cave, Hang Over Cave and the Son Doong Cave. Some are easily accessible while others require a guide and even a zip line across a river!

The town of Phong Nha has lots of accommodation, restaurants, and an ATM. Buses run daily to various other towns. The closest town is Dong Hoi, which is a quick taxi ride away. You can also catch the train to Dong Hoi and then bus or taxi to the park.

The Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is so much more than just the caves. Therefore, I would recommend spending at least two or three days, to get the full experience.

Quang Tri Province and the Former DMZ

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Sandwiched between the popular tourist city of Hue to the south and the former DMZ to the north, sits Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. An off-the-beaten-path tourist destination, Quang Tri Province is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam for history lovers.

Around Quang Tri Province travelers can visit a number of historical sites relating to the Vietnam war, including the famous former American base at Khe Sanh. Exploring the Vinh Moc tunnels along the former border between North and South Vietnam offers travelers a unique perspective on how the war was fought from the North. Finally, Truong Son Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Adorned with thousands of incense sticks to honor their memories, it is a sight to see. Just driving through the area, though, there are monuments to the war around almost every bend.

The sites around Quang Tri Province are spread out, which requires a local driver and guide who can explain what each site or monument means. Dong Ha, the main city in Quang Tri Province, is a 90-minute drive from Hue. Additionally, it is possible to take a train from Hue to Dong Ha.

Travelers looking to dive into the history of Quang Tri Province during the Vietnam War are encouraged to spend 3 to 5 days in the area. The travel time between war sites can vary from short drives to upwards of 2-3 hours.

Accommodations in the region are basic but slowly improving. The Province enjoys access to the sea with a sandy beach area located 10 miles from the center of Dong Ha. It’s a welcome relief from a long day of sightseeing.

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Hue is full of history and nothing captures it more than the great Imperial City of Hue , the fortified complex of royal buildings. This was the center of power during the Nguyen Dynasty, which united Vietnam in 1802 and was the last of the imperial dynasties to rule the country. Although many of the buildings inside the Imperial City were damaged during the Vietnam War, it will still take you several hours to see all the temples and palaces properly.

Other than the Imperial City (also known as the Citadel), the other most popular sights are the tombs of the emperors, which are stretched out along the Perfume River to the south of Hue. You can get a taxi or ride a bike but a lot of people like to visit them as part of a boat cruise. If you’re heading along the river, also look out for the striking Thien Me Pagoda.

Hue is not a particularly large city – especially from a tourist’s perspective – so you can easily walk around its centre. You only need a couple of days to see the main sights and explore a bit. The main north-south train stops in Hue and it’s also well connected by buses to places like Hoi An.

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If you are making your way up through Vietnam, then easily one of the best places to visit in Vietnam is Da Nang. We visited there as a day trip from the city of Hoi An and absolutely loved it! There is so much to do there, such as driving up and over Tho Quang, which is a large mountain located right by the water. From the top, the views are amazing, and it’s a great place to be for sunset.

This actually ended up being one of my favorite experiences from traveling Vietnam and would recommend it to everyone passing through. As well as this, you should visit the famous Marble Mountain, and explore ancient caves and temples hidden amongst the rocks. Another thing you should also do is visit the Golden Bridge.

It is possible to stay in Da Nang for a night or two, but you are also able to see all of the best sites on a day trip from Hoi An. We got there by moped, but you can also arrange bus transfers if you are passing through and wish to stay there.

Steeped in history, and any culture seekers dream, Hoi An is simply a must on your ‘where to go in Vietnam’ list. And for an excellent reason. This sleepy town packs a bunch of exciting activities for anyone craving small-town vibes, especially after experiencing the bustle of bigger cities in Vietnam.  

At the heart of Hoi An lies The Ancient Town, which also happens to be a world-renowned UNESCO site. The Old Town is home to everything from wooden Chinese shophouses and temples to colorful French colonial buildings, decorative Vietnamese tube houses and the mesmerizing Old Bridge built by the Japanese.

In short, you wouldn’t find a better place to experience rustic Vietnam than here, where a mix of eras and styles seamlessly blend together. Wander or even bike along quaint streets lined with colorful shophouses, hipster cafes, and funky art galleries. Or better yet, get lost in the maze of nooks and crannies which dot off around every corner. Keep in mind though: there is a small mandatory entrance fee of US$5. This goes towards maintaining and preserving the city. 

One of Hoi An’s biggest draws apart from its deep-rooted history is its arts. Whatever you do don’t leave Hoi An without taking a lantern making class and a getting tailor-made outfit. Those seeking to venture beyond the Old Town, don’t miss one of the glorious sandy beaches nearby. Biking to An Bang Beach is a popular activity for sunshine seekers and beachgoers. Foodies also won’t be disappointed as Hoi An is one of the best places to enjoy authentic street food in Vietnam. To get a real feel of the town and attractions, spend at least 2-3 days here.

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Best Places to Visit Vietnam – Southeast Coast

Nha Trang is one of Vietnam’s premier beach destinations and a must for anyone looking for a cheap beach vacation while in Vietnam. Spend your days lounging around Tran Phu Beach or dipping in the calm waters of the South China Sea. For those wanting to enjoy the beach vibes with a cocktail in hand, drop by the Sailing Club for a well-deserved sundowner.

Excitement seekers, on the other hand,  can try their hand at kitesurfing, surfing, snorkeling or cycling along the promenade, nearby. Nha Trang also won’t disappoint shopaholics! Head to the Dam Market which is the perfect spot to pick up local trinkets and cheap knockoffs.  

The Vinpearl Amusement Park on Hon Tre Island is also a great spot to spend a few hours. Be sure to also visit the massive aquarium and get a bird’s-eye view of the bay by cable car! 

Besides these, Nha Trang also offers visitors a glimpse into age-old traditions and boasts some great outdoor activities. Pop by the religious towers of Po Nagar Cham Towers for breathtaking views over the Cai River and a peek into this Hindu holy place of worship. If you have a bit more time, consider visiting the Ba Ho Waterfalls for a quick dip in the fresh mountain waters. Or better yet, head to the Hon Khoi Salt Fields for fantastic photo ops.

Visiting the nearby hot springs and chilling in a mud bath is another popular treat in Nha Trang. So if you fancy getting yourself covered in mud definitely give it a try! 

No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Nha Trang – making it one of the best places to visit in Vietnam! Spend at least 2-3 days here to really take in the sunshine and enjoy the ocean.

Mũi Né is a famous beach town, well-known for its quaint fishing village and excellent adventure sports. Although Mũi Né might seem unassuming to most travelers to Vietnam, this weird town (which is just a 4km strip along the coast of Southeast Vietnam) is packed with golden sand beaches and a haven for adrenaline junkies.

Kitesurfing, sailing, and windsurfing are just a few of the water sports you can enjoy here! Stop by White Sand Dune where hopping on a quad-bike is a favorite amongst locals and adrenaline junkies. Then head over to Red Dune for the best sunset in town. Some vendors sell local snacks and coconuts near the parking lot, so be sure to grab some refreshments before heading up the dune! The Fairy Stream – where red clay formations and lush vegetation make an exciting backdrop along a gentle stream – is another popular spot for nature seekers.

Mũi Né might not be on every traveler’s destination hit-list when planning their Vietnam itinerary, but it’s a good pitstop on your travels to or from Ho Chi Minh City.

Dirt cheap sleeper buses run daily between HCMC and Phan Thiet , while shared shuttle buses between HCMC and Mũi Né are also available for a few bucks more. The journey takes about 5 hours.

Mũi Né has excellent beaches and an endless supply of adventure sports opportunities. However, unless you’ve booked yourself into one of the high-end resorts, don’t spend too much time here. There’s honestly not that much to do, and you can quickly get your adrenaline fix, enjoy some beach time and see the main sights in a day or two.

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Vung Tau is one of the places that you don’t normally see in travel guides about Vietnam, but what you don’t know is that it’s a little hidden gem not far from Ho Chi Minh City. A place where you can surf, hike or simply have a few lazy days between your long and exhausting trip – a place to breathe a little.

Vung Tau is not crowded nor expensive, so you can still enjoy your Vietnam trip. There are hostels for as cheap as $5 or private rooms for as low as $10. You can also rent a motorbike for $5 or less a day. Since it’s a beach town, expect that every restaurant offers fresh seafood dishes without spending too much.

You can either come from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau (about 2-3 hour drive) or from Mui Ne. Either way, you can reach it by bus or motorbike. From Ho Chi Minh City, there is also an option to take a ferry ride.

Also Read: The Best Islands to Visit in Asia

Best Places to visit in Vietnam – Southwest Highlands

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Dalat is a wonderful little surprise. After spending your days sweating like crazy, the cool spring weather that Dalat brings will be a welcomed change. The houses of Dalat will surprise and enchant you. The European feel is charming. There is something for everyone in Dalat from those who want to relax, be adventurous, learn the culture and more. Dalat is a great place for solo travelers, couples and families .

There is plenty to do around Dalat but perhaps the most thrilling thing to do is get on a motorcycle or scooter and ride to, or from Dalat. The green hills and valleys are memorable, creating scenes that are sure to stay with you for a long time to come. If you are not confident enough to ride yourself you can jump on the back with a local tour guide.

Another outstanding experience in Dalat is the Mr. Rot Secret Tour. I can’t tell you too much about this tour as it is a secret. Make sure you get the original and not the copies that Vietnam is susceptible to. You are guaranteed an amazing time, plenty of laughs, and a chance to learn more about Vietnamese culture.

The crazy house and the 100 roof bar are simply unmissable! These are places you will not see anywhere else in Vietnam and are both creative, genius, and wonderful.

Adventure junkies can also do canyoning, which is famous in Dalat. 

Ho Chi Minh City

As the former capital of Vietnam and often referred to as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is diverse in all senses imaginable. From its vibrant streets and lively markets selling all kinds of bits and bobs to its street food and deep-rooted history – any visit here is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Ho Chi Minh City might be many things, but the one thing that is bound to leave a lasting impression on you is the absolute chaotic bustle of the city. Which oddly enough seems to be organized chaos!

The streets are filled with different smells and sights. Not to mention scooters and motorbikes racing past, all eagerly honking their way through the dense traffic. Navigating yourself here might be a tad harder than the rest of Vietnam.  So if there is one tip, I can give you – watch out for the scooters on the sidewalks! If you aren’t comfortable walking, Grab taxis are plentiful.

As for things to do, the options are endless! And any visit here will quickly reveal why HCMC is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam. Get a closer look at the city’s pivotal role in the Vietnam War by stepping foot in the War Remnants Museum. Or pop by the Notre-Dame Cathedral – one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. A short stroll away, you can drop by the Saigon Central Post Office where Ho Chi Minh’s picture is on display. The Independence Palace and the Saigon Skydeck are other activities not to miss on your visit here.

Also, don’t miss the chance to shop till you drop at Ben Thanh Market – one of the best spots to hunt for local souvenirs! But don’t forget to haggle!  

Best Places to visit in the Mekong Delta

No visit to Vietnam would be complete without cruising along the Mekong River Delta. If you are pressed for time, Cái Bè is the perfect solution.

This small fishing village that is home to stilt houses, unique riverscapes, and delicious fresh produce is just a short 2-hour trip away from Ho Chi Minh City and easily explored on a day trip .

Day trips can be booked practically anywhere in HCMC, and travel agencies offer numerous packages to suit every traveler’s pocket. Usually, these will also include stopping by the world-renowned Cu Chi Tunnels where you can get a glimpse into what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers on the front lines.

Cruising along the Mekong River, canoeing through the mysterious river canals, visiting the floating market, cycling along with lush greenery and sampling some of the local tropical fruit are just a few of the unique things you can enjoy on a day trip to Cái Bè.

Cái Bè doesn’t offer much in terms of accommodation, but it’s a great place to visit in Vietnam even if it is just for a day!

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Not so many travelers make it down to Can Tho in Southern Vietnam, but it’s well worth adding it to your best places to visit Vietnam itinerary. Located about four hours south from Ho Chi Minh City, or four and a half hours from Ha Tien, the southern border with Cambodia, Can Tho is the biggest city in the Mekong Delta area.

The Mekong Delta region grows most of Vietnam’s fruit, and is a prosperous area for rice farming, with 3-4 yields per year.

Life here understandably revolves around the river; so as far as attractions in Can Tho go, you’ll want to head out to the water! It’s possible to see the local floating market at sunrise, head to the land market, cycle around the countryside and tour a local cocoa plantation.

There are also some museums and temples in Can Tho city, but a big part of visiting the Mekong Delta area is just relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the country, along with friendly people who love to chat to visitors (because Can Tho is actually quite a large city, many locals can speak great English).

Phu Quoc Island

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Phu Quoc is the biggest Vietnamese island. It is in the extreme south-west, actually closer to the coast of Cambodia than Vietnam’s mainland. Ho Chi Minh City was hot and hectic and I was looking for some beach time. We arrived by air, but there are ferries too. The island is a Special Economic Zone, which means that tourists can stay 30 days without a visa.

Phu Quoc was perfect for our week’s holiday within a holiday.  We enjoyed clean beaches, entertainment parks, a modern aquarium, and zoo safaris.  My girls especially loved the Bee Farm, and there was even a night market for those times when we found we were missing the city after all. The food is delicious, with any number of options to enjoy a yummy prawn barbecue against an ocean sunset backdrop.

To top it all even transport is fun.  Phu Quoc is the only place in Vietnam where I would recommend hiring a scooter. Traffic is minimal, and the island is small enough to explore by yourself.  We went in true Asian style with the whole brood perched on one seat.

The island has a full spectrum of accommodation too. Choose from very simple and inexpensive home-stays to a five-star resort.  We had a great time on our break in Phu Quoc with kids , and we will be going again for sure.

Where to Go in Vietnam in Conclusion

As you can see, Vietnam is home to a whole host of amazing places to visit and things to do! While this post barely scratches the surface of awesome places to travel to in Vietnam, it undeniably covers all the must-see places to add to your Vietnam itinerary! Have you ever traveled to Vietnam? What’s your favorite place to visit in Vietnam?

Well, there you have it – the ABSOLUTE best places to go to in Vietnam! If you have any suggestions to add to this list of must-visit places in Vietnam, let me know in the comments below.

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May 5, 2020 at

I simply love Vietnam and as a pilot would visit there on many an occasion. I even managed to get in a tour of the tunnels, totally awesome! The beauty of Vietnam, the friendly people and the food are simply exquisite.

May 16, 2020 at

Thanks for taking the time to comment, Rick. Vietnam is indeed an incredible destination to visit. Glad you got a chance to see the tunnels – it was one of the highlights of our trip!

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Places To Visit in Vietnam

Here are the top 47 tourist places in vietnam.

1 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 83 Tourist attractions

Perched on the banks of the Red River in Northern Vietnam, Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and one of the world's most ancient cities. Boasting well-preserved colonial buildings, golden pagodas, unique museums, mouthwatering cuisine, entertainment destinations, and traditional bazaars, Hanoi is a melting...

Best Time: October to April

2. Ho Chi Minh City

2 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 84 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam is the largest city and the financial and cultural capital of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is a fast-paced city deeply rooted in its cultural roots whilst quickly having adapted to the demands of urbanisation. Here you will find o...

Best Time: November to April

3. Halong Bay

3 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 51 Tourist attractions

Characterised by towering karst limestone pillars and small islets of various shapes and sizes amidst crystal blue waters, Halong Bay's ethereal beauty is a sight to behold. Located in northern Vietnam, it is the most popular tourist spot this side of the country. Halong Bay, where 'Halong' translat...

Best Time: April to September

4 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 37 Tourist attractions

One of the oldest cities in Asia, Hoi An is a town in central Vietnam which was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. Located south of Danang, Hoi An translates to 'a peaceful meeting place'. It is culturally and historically one of Vietnam's most important towns and also one of the r...

Best Time: February to July

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5 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 48 Tourist attractions

Da Nang sits prettily on the east coast of Vietnam, right between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Popularly known as the tourist capital of South-Central Vietnam, Da Nang is truly stunning - filled with beaches, museums, evolving nightlife and world-class infrastructure. On the South China Sea coast, wi...

Best Time: February to May

6. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

6 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Phong Nha ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its many cave systems, old karst mountains, thick green forests and scintillating underground rivers. There are many spectacular caves in the region, including the most extensive cave network on earth. Spread across 10,000 hec...

Best Time: February to August

7. Nha Trang

7 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 41 Tourist attractions

Home to some of the most beautiful bays in the world, Nha Trang on the coast of Southern Central Vietnam, is a popular beach resort city. While the fine powdery white crescent beach is a highlight of the shoreline, regular makeovers have produced parks, sculpture gardens, bright promenades and beach...

Best Time: February to April

8 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 34 Tourist attractions

Hue, the former royal capital of the Nguyen empire in central Vietnam, is one of the oldest cities in the country. Set on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue is a primarily a historical city which famously houses the Imperial City (declared a World Heritage Site in 1993) within the Citadel, which ac...

Best Time: January to April

9 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 28 Tourist attractions

Situated atop the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, Sapa is a colonial-era town in northwest Vietnam overlooking the terraced rice fields of Muong Hoa Valley. At an elevation of 1,500 metres, this small market town shares its border with China and offers some of Vietnam's best trekking. Arguably offering th...

Best Time: March to May

10. Phu Quoc

10 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 28 Tourist attractions

Phu Quoc is the biggest island in Vietnam, boasting the most beautiful white sand beaches, surrounded by palm and coconut trees. It's the largest island in Vietnam and is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. Located just 45 kilometers from...

Best Time: November to March

11. Mekong Delta

11 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

The Mekong Delta in south-east Vietnam is one of the world’s greatest river regions. The Mekong River is the twelfth longest river in the world and the seventh longest river in Asia. The delta is a hive of activity and serves as an important transport and agricultural hub. Known as the ‘rice bowl of...

Best Time: November to May

12. Ninh Binh

12 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 9 Tourist attractions

Rich in natural landscapes and a myriad of historical destinations, the city of Ninh Binh and its surrounding regions is a nature lover's dream destination. Capital of its namesake province, it is one of the oldest regions of Vietnam and is regarded as the sister destination of Halong Bay....

Best Time: Throughout the year

13 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 29 Tourist attractions

Da Lat is a refreshing hill station located in the southwestern highlands of Vietnam and is about 6 hours away from Ho Chi Minh City. It is the capital of Lam Dong Province, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its distinctive temperate climate. A far cry from the tropical heat of the...

Best Time: December to March

14. Ba Be National Park

14 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 5 Tourist attractions

Located at a distance of 240 kilometres from the city of Hanoi, Ba Be National Park is a stunning national reserve blessed with rolling hills, tall limestone karsts and over 550 plant varieties. It is also populated by 353 types of butterflies, 65 types of mammals and the rare Vietnamese Salamander.

15 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 14 Tourist attractions

The picturesque beach resort town of Mui Ne is located at a four-hour train ride away from the city of Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). Once a sleepy fishing beach village, the town is now dotted with swanky beach resorts, posh cafes and restaurants, attracting a large number of seaside-loving tourists and loc...

16. Bai Tu Long Bay

16 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Bai Tu Long Bay in Northeastern Vietnam is an extension of Ha Long Bay - A UNESCO World Heritage site -  located at a mere 30 km from it. However, this small distance creates a vast difference in the experience that you can have here! The same limestone karsts, teal blue waters and languid crui...

17. Bach Ma National Park

17 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Bach Ma National park is a verdant paradise, located about an hour-and-a-half drive away from the city of Hue. Home to a varied range of flora and fauna with about 358 bird species, it is also proclaimed to be one of the wettest areas in Vietnam. One of the most popular spots on the touris...

Best Time: June-August

18. Con Dao Islands

18 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

A picturesque archipelago of 16 Islands, Con Dao lies off the southern coast of Vietnam. Out of the 16, Con Son is the largest and the only inhabited island. However, even the uninhabited islands are rich with stunning beaches. Emerging out of its past as prison islands for prisoners of war, the de...

Best Time: November to February

19. Vung Tau

19 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 13 Tourist attractions

Vung Tau translates into 'The bay of boats'. Sitting on a hilly strip of land that juts into the Ocean, Vung tau is one of the best beach towns located around 100 Km from Ho Chi Minh City. It primarily serves as a weekend getaway from Saigon and other cities in the nearby region. The two main beache...

20. Dong Hoi

20 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

A pleasant seaside city, with easy access to the Phong Nha Ke Bang caves, Dong Hoi is a rapidly rising tourist destination. Apart from its proximity to the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Dong Hoi has its own tourist attractions, authentic cuisine and unique history that beckon people to explore an...

21. Dien Bien Phu

21 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Thaeng, Dien Bien Phu is the capital of Dien Bien Province in the northwestern region of Vietnam. It is among the most historically eminent cities in Vietnam. It is here that the French were finally defeated in the year 1954 by the Viet Minh Communist Revolutionaries.Initially, jus...

Best Time: April to June, September to November

22 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Son La is a picturesque Vietnamese town hidden amidst towering mountains. The town has a dark past as it played house to one of the most brutal prisons in the world. Today, all that remains is the ruins and a tiny town with ghosts of its past deceptively hidden behind its natural rivers, trees and f...

23. Cat Tien National Park

23 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Cat Tien National Park is located in the Southern region of Vietnam, approximately 155 kilometres away from Ho Chi Minh City. This forest reserve covers around 720 sq.km. of the few surviving tropical low-lying woodlands of Vietnam. The national park is home to exquisite flora and fauna such as the ...

Best Time: December to May

24 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 3 Tourist attractions

Bac Ha is a village located in the Northwest of Vietnam and is a sleepy little town, the economy of which is centred around its Saturday and Sunday markets. The exchange, the colours, the local wares and an ever-bustling affair, these markets are usually visited on a day trip from the neighbouring S...

Best Time: December to April

25. Phan Thiet

25 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 2 Tourist attractions

Playing house to an amalgamation of heated sand dunes, lush mountains filled with greenery, golden beaches with blue water and gurgling streams, Phan Thiet is the perfect escape into the beauty of Mother Nature.

Best Time: September to December

26. Lai Chau

26 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the midst of sloping mountains and plateaus, Lai Chau is a quaint town with monumental government buildings. This town offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in the mystic scenery of the Vietnamese countryside. In addition to that, you can learn about the locals, go trekking, backp...

27. Hoa Binh

27 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 5 Tourist attractions

Hoa Binh is the Capital City of the Hoa Binh province of Vietnam. Located but a short distance from Hanoi, this hidden gem offers spectacular natural beauty, coupled with a rich culture. The natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture have made Hoa Binh a tourist attraction.

Best Time: October to January

28. Lao Cai

28 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 7 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the midst of mountains and valleys, Lao Cai, an obscure yet well developed Vietnamese region offers you something out of the ordinary - rich Vietnamese culture sans the sultry tropical heat. Lao Cai offers you a picturesque scenery, adventure and a peek into the rich culture and history o...

Best Time: September to October

29. Haiphong

29 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 19 Tourist attractions

Haiphong is Vietnam's third largest city and a major port. Haiphong is an industrial city and you can feel it in the air as soon as you enter. However, Haiphong also offers you with hidden relaxation, tucked and hidden away in the industrial town. It has a number of beaches and markets in addition t...

30 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 3 Tourist attractions

Ca Mau is Vietnam's southernmost town and the only city in the Ca Mau province. Braced against the Bac Lieu Canal, Ca Mau is a town that is still trying to decide its identity. While on one hand, it is a trade hub and a bustling metro, on the other, it is a quiet town with a bird sanctuary!The silky...

Best Time: June to October

31. Mong Cai

31 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 6 Tourist attractions

Nestling on the very edge of Vietnam, Mong Cai is a small town located on the Vietnam-China border. It is filled with picturesque untouched beaches and a rich history of the Vietnam - China conflict. The town has booming trade owing to its proximity to the border. Mong Cai is also full of untou...

Best Time: April to July

32. Vinh Long

32 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

Vinh Long has a vibe - a relaxed one. As soon as you step foot in this nondescript town in the Mekong Delta, you will physically feel your worries melt away as though you are stuck in a time lapse. The beautiful scenery coupled with the friendly locals, thatched huts, narrow lanes and fruit-laden or...

Best Time: January to March

33. Tuy Hoa

33 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 7 Tourist attractions

Flanked by the highway, the ocean and the Da Rang River, Tuy Hoa is a sleepy and nondescript city that does not see many tourists. This quiet Vietnamese city is the perfect place to relax, catch some waves or intent with friendly locals who are more than welcoming of tourists. The miles and miles of...

34. Mai Chau

34 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam 4 Tourist attractions

The perfect location to cut yourself off from the world, Mai Chau is a quaint sleepy town that is not very well known and subsequently does not have as many tourists. If you want to drop off from the earth and land in a richly cultural land, in the midst of nature, then Mai Chau is the place for you...

35 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

A hidden gem in the Mekong Delta, the small sleepy town of Sa Dec belongs to the Dong Thap Province. The town has a sense of calmness in the air and does not draw too many tourists. Although a bit of a silent town, it can keep a tourist busy with places such as the old busy market by the river, old ...

Best Time: July to October

36. Quy Nhon

36 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Quy Nhon is characterised by diverse topography ranging from hills, mountains, peninsulas, lakes, beaches and much more. This small corner of Vietnam is an undiscovered gem for most tourists eliminating your worries about crowded and noisy beaches. 

37. Bien Hoa

37 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Bien Hoa is a busy town on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City in South Vietnam. Close to the cultural heart of Vietnam, Bien Hoa is connected to it by Vietnamese Highway 1. At present, it fosters eco-tourism through its national parks and reserves. It is a huge industrial area that is expanding expon...

38. Cao Lanh

38 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

The refreshing town of Cao Lanh is the capital city of Dong Thap Province of Vietnam located on the southeastern coast of the country along the Mekong Delta. The newly flourishing city has a pretty good trade scene, especially in rice. The city does not give off a touristy vibe for the simple reason...

Best Time: October to December

39. Hai Van Pass

39 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Hai Van Pass, between Da Nang and Hue, is said to be one of the most scenic and beautiful roads in the world. The road is flanked by the South China Sea on one side and the Annamite mountain ranges on the other. The pass stretches for 19 km and serves as a link between the north and south of Vietnam...

40 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Also known as the war city, Pleiku is the capital of Gia Lai province in Vietnam. The city has become the hub for tourists in Vietnam. This central highland offers a range of places to see, visit and eat. Famous for its cuisine and military campaign in 1965, Pleiku should especially be visited durin...

41. Tay Ninh

41 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Tay Ninh, the capital city of Tay Ninh province, is the site for the famous Cu Chi Tunnels built during the Vietnam War for military siege. It shares its borders with Cambodia and is only 90 kms from the largest city of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The city’s crucial location gives it an economic advantage...

42. Kon Tum

42 out of 47 Places to visit in Vietnam

Due to the lack of a mainstream touristy vibe, the destination offers a calm off-centre experience to travelers and dwells them into the authentic Vietnamese culture. The city holds significance in the Vietnam War history and has many war sites open for visits by tourists and the locals. The surroun...

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12 best places to visit in Vietnam on your next trip

Enjoy hanoi and halong bay — then step beyond the tourist trail to find more magic in the highlands, islands, history and culture of this captivating nation.

W ith 99 million souls and a coastline that wrinkles 2,000 miles along the country from north to south, there are plenty of people to meet and a lot to see, do and eat in Vietnam. I first visited in 2004 and have returned many times since. It’s easy to follow the tourist trail of historic Hanoi, ethereal Halong Bay, shopping emporium Hoi An and buzzy Ho Chi Minh City, but push a little further and you’ll be rewarded with some dazzling and memorable experiences.

Mine have been when I’ve gone the extra mile, quite literally: a magical three-day cruise to the outer battlements of Halong Bay; a thrilling motorbike trip through the sugarloaf peaks and beyond in remote mountainous Ha Giang; meeting the last wild elephant catcher in Yok Don National Park. Taking in the elaborate mausoleums and sites of Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty deepened my understanding; sighting the endemic, critically endangered Cat Ba langur on Cat Ba island was exciting; and I loved exploring the history, food and pristine beaches of Con Dao island. And of course the irresistible, fragrant food, delicious coffee, craft cocktails and beer will lead you everywhere.

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

If you only have . . .

One week Hanoi, a boat trip to Halong Bay and the rice fields of the Mai Chau Valley

Two weeks After Hanoi, Halong Bay and Mai Chau, hop on trains and domestic flights to visit imperial Hue, the DMZ, the ruins of My Son, gorgeous Hoi An and energetic Ho Chi Minh City

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Three weeks Take in Ha Giang in the far north, Dalat in the Central Highlands or the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a beach break, and a boat trip along the Mekong Delta or a couple of days on remote Con Dao island

A tight budget Balance domestic flights with long-distance train journeys and Vietnam’s excellent network of hop-on hop-off “open tickets” on air-conditioned minibuses

Hanoi is noisy, traffic-choked and beautiful all at once. The thousand-year-old city of lakes, founded on a bend of the Red River, is full of history, charm, museums, shops, markets and wonderful street food. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, the heart of the city, where you’ll find lots of food, hotels and temples cheek-by-jowl with shops. Learn how to dodge the motorbikes while on a street-food tour or exploring the ochre-hued French colonial villas, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the “Hanoi Hilton” prison museum of Hoa Lo and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Make it happen

The Sofitel Legend Metropole is where Graham Greene stayed in 1951 while working for Paris Match . It’s the city’s top address and is elegant throughout

Exodus’ 14-day Vietnam Adventure takes in two full days in Hanoi with a comprehensive city tour

2. Ha Giang

Ha Giang is Vietnam ’s northernmost region, pushing up against the border with China. It’s an otherworldly landscape of sugarloaf peaks, mountain passes and rice paddies carved into impossibly steep mountains. Find villages of Red Dzao, Flower Hmong and other local minorities, markets, eco-stays and a window into a rural world of timeless traditions such as weaving. Don’t miss the palace of the Hmong king who raked in revenue from opium farming. En route, stop at the dazzling rice paddy region of Mu Cang Chai.

Panhou Retreat, up in the mountains, is a peaceful nature resort with bungalows dotted amid the trees, a spa, and hot springs

Inside Asia’s 11-day Vietnam’s Northern Soul is an in-depth exploration of the region taking in trekking, rice paddies, tea terraces, markets and visits to remote villages

insideasiatours.com

3. Pu Luong and Mai Chau

Not too far from Hanoi are these idyllic retreats found amid neon-green rice paddies. At Pu Luong nature reserve, with its homestays and eco-retreats, trek past the paddies and orchards of the Muong people and cruise down a river on a traditional bamboo raft in a landscape woven with traditional water wheels. This area is home to rare Asian black bear, Owston’s palm civet and endangered Delacour’s langur. North is the exceptionally beautiful Mai Chau Valley, a serene landscape carved in rice paddies. Stay at the lovely Avana Retreat, built by local Hmong, White Thai and Black Thai people.

Avana Retreat is built and staffed by local people. Its beautiful thatched rooms blend with the rippling contours of rice paddies

G Adventures’ 11-day Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay and trekking Pu Luong tour is one of few that takes in trekking in Pu Luong, an overnight stay, and a barbecue lunch made by local chefs

4. Bai Tu Long Bay, Halong Bay

Boats — from junks to elegant luxury vessels — cruise through the waters of Unesco-protected Halong Bay, which is studded with thousands of craggy limestone outcrops. It’s an ethereal landscape and with each turn of weather can bring dense fog or crisp blue skies. It won’t matter — it’s all enchanting. To make the most of it, head out on a boat for at least two nights to cruise to the outer “fortress” of towers — Bai Tu Long Bay. It’s more magical and it escapes the crowds of one-day and one-night boats.

Bhaya’s Au Co Cruise sails to the outer reaches of the silent bay with wonderful close-up views, smart bedrooms and delicious, artfully presented cuisine

Audley’s 19-day Classic Vietnam tour includes two nights on the Paradise Sails boat exploring the limestone stacks and coves of the outer limits of the bay

audleytravel.com

5. Hue and the DMZ

Hue was the cultural and political power base of the Nguyen emperors, Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty. They built a citadel, gilded in bronze, enamel and lacquer, with gates for themselves, elephants and their minions, based on the Forbidden City of Beijing. They lived in extravagant regal splendour surrounded by concubines and eunuchs. And they fashioned their last resting places, all gothic-meets-Confucius and geomantic in design, landscaped with streams, statues and elaborate graves that trace the serpentine route of Hue’s Perfume River. This city is often overlooked in favour of Hoi An as a central Vietnam stop, but don’t miss it. The thousand-plus dishes of the imperial household are still eaten, too. From here, explore the Demilitarized Zone marking the border established in 1954 between the communist north and the US-backed south.

Pilgrimage Village Boutique and Spa is an exquisite address just outside the historic centre of Hue. Think garden rooms, leafy plots, a spa and a perfect oblong pool

Original Travel’s 12-day An intro to Vietnam, North to South includes an in-depth tour of Hue’s imperial past as well as other significant buildings

originaltravel.co.u k

6. Danang and China beach

China beach, an 18-mile curve of golden sand along the sea, was made famous by thousands of American GIs who would sunbathe here for R&R during the Vietnam War. Today, it’s more fabulous, with some top hotel retreats, such as the Four Seasons and, hidden amid the forest of monkeys on a small peninsula, the outstanding InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula designed by Asia-based architect Bill Bensley. But there’s more — the incomparable Museum of Cham Sculpture with its beautiful carved sandstone works, the nearby Unesco-protected ruins of My Son, the spiritual capital of the Cham, an Indianised culture, and Danang’s fire-breathing Dragon Bridge.

Architect Bill Bensley has weaved his magic on the glamorous InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula. Come for the cute funicular, the pool villas and the restaurant

Explore’s 14-day Inside Vietnam is one of few tours taking in the Cham museum, the My Son ruins and an optional visit to My Lai, site of a wartime massacre

• Five of the best backpacking routes in southeast Asia

Yes, it’s touristy, but that’s because it’s gorgeous. The ancient port of Hoi An is filled with Chinese temples, large merchant houses, and hundreds of tailors and craft shops. One-storey ochre-coloured homes line the small lantern-lit streets along the Unesco-protected town’s Thu Bon river. Come for the atmosphere, tailor-made clothes, and the delicious street food including some tantalising local dishes. Nearby An Bang beach provides downtime, too.

The Four Seasons Nam Hai is a sublime beachfront property. Large, gorgeous villas dot the peaceful gardens, where pools and coconut palms facing the sea

Wendy Wu’s 12-day Vietnam at a Glance ensures time spent immersed in Hoi An, meeting artisans and visiting a farming village — plus plenty left for tailoring

8. Ninh Van Bay

Ninh Van Bay is a divine little hideaway close to the major seaside resort of Nha Trang. Escape from the city to this peninsula, just north, for some serious beach time. An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is dreamy with a boho vibe, while Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is on a sublime stretch of sand with villas tucked away between and behind huge boulders. It’s just you, the beach, the restaurant and your butler at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay. The waterfalls and forests of the peninsula can be explored too.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a barefoot getaway with villas and their private pools perched on huge biscuit-coloured boulders facing the sea. It’s boho, supremely beautiful and comes with butler service

Scott Dunn’s 11-night luxury Limitless Vietnam indulges with four nights at Ninh Van Bay and organised activities

scottdunn.com

Dalat is a quirky place. A former French hill station up in the pine-scented highlands with a central lake, it’s ringed by attractive early 20th-century homes and villas (some hotels, some museums), markets, flower gardens and waterfalls. There’s even a golf course. Today, the city is filled with bars and cute cafés and is a great base from which to explore a load of kooky spots including the Crazy House homestay, cactus and coffee playground Kombi Land and a dragon statue made from thousands of glass bottles. Don’t miss checking out the French-built railway station, a Wes Anderson shoo-in.

Ana Mandara Villas Dalat Resort & Spa is a cute little hilltop hotel fashioned from an ochre-hued villa

Intrepid Travel’s 15-day Premium Vietnam in Depth offers plenty of time to explore Dalat, its quirky sites and coffee culture

10. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is a heady city of nine million people and eight million motorbikes. It has brilliant street food, is draped in a fantastic array of fairy lights and is fuelled by a growing craft beer, spirit and cocktail scene and a thrilling, infectious energy. What two decades ago was a fairly low-rise city has now been dwarfed by an army of high rises. Don’t miss exploring the city on the back of a motorbike, visiting the top sites, and taking a trip out to the Viet Cong tunnels at Cu Chi and the fantastically decorated Cao Dai cathedral at Tay Ninh. Sampling the food and coffee goes without saying.

The Park Hyatt Saigon isn’t the best-looking from the outside. Step inside, though, and it’s a dazzler. Its restaurants and bars are top city addresses and the lovely pool is a boon on humid days. It’s right in the heart of the city, too, just behind the opera house.

Riviera Travel’s 16-day Vietnam and Cambodia tour three night-stay in Ho Chi Minh City ensures plenty of time to take in the sites and the food and explore the tunnels at Cu Chi

11. Mekong Delta

The liquid fingers of the Mekong River slink through southern Vietnam into the sea. Here you’ll find a mostly rural way of life with floating markets, temples and churches, and market farms harvesting coconut, bananas, mangos and veg. It’s not so much specific sites but a dip into the region’s culture — a mix of Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese, war history (Xeo Quyt’s Viet Cong forest bunkers are fascinating), wetlands and birds, and delicious food.

The prettily illuminated, French-inspired Victoria Can Tho faces the waterfront in lush grounds on the edge of Can Tho city. You can tour the waterways and floating markets of the delta using its own boats.

On Wendy Wu’s ten-day Magnificent Mekong cruise on the eco-friendly Victoria Mekong you’ll visit floating markets and local temples, meet artisans and explore wetlands

12. Con Dao archipelago

Con Dao was once a prison island run by the French and then the Americans. Today, this remote island off the south coast of Vietnam is a nature paradise, internationally recognised (by Ramsar) wetland area and home to the most important location for nesting sea turtles in Vietnam. Hike, snorkel, dive, sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, visit the turtle sites, and watch the squid boats at work. Visit its museum and sites, too: the cemetery of Vietnamese martyrs’ graves features seats built for their ghosts. You’ll want to stay at the fabulous Six Senses Con Dao.

The remote, secluded hideaway of Six Senses Con Dao is a luxury treat. The contemporary, glassy villas with private pools are right on the sugar-soft island sands; excellent food, the spa, and snorkelling are on tap.

Black Tomato’s 14-day Ultimate Vietnam: A luxury holiday from top to tail features fabulous beach time at the end of your trip at the exquisite Six Senses Con Dao

blacktomato.com

• Best things to do in Vietnam • Best hotels in Vietnam

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• How Much Does It Cost for A Vietnam Trip 2024/2025? (With Cost Breakdown)

If you're thinking of visiting Vietnam, you might be wondering how much a trip to Vietnam will cost you. The good news is that Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you like traveling solo or prefer a private tour, Vietnam offers something for every wallet.

Even though it's budget-friendly, you won't miss out on quality experiences and great service. With our carefully selected hotels and activities, Vietnam ensures you get the best bang for your buck.

• Cost for a Classic Vietnam Trip
• Cost of International Flights to Vietnam
• Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam
• Cost of Transportation in Vietnam
• Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam
• Cost of Food in Vietnam
• Tips for Maximizing Your Money

1. How much does it cost for a classic tour in Vietnam?

Based on our data from 2023, 31.8% of travelers prefer to spend 6-8 days in Vietnam . In such cases, they typically focus on one part of Vietnam—either the north, central, or southern regions—or engage in cross-border travel to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia.

Meanwhile, 21.1% opt for an 11-12 day journey across Vietnam , encompassing key destinations such as Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north, Hanoi and Da Nang in the central region, and Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south.

According to our data (for a private tour), the average cost ranges from $180 to $200 per person per day based on double occupancy in 4-star hotels , increasing to $200-$250 in 5-star accommodations, and averaging $150-$180 for 3-star hotels. This price includes hotel stays, domestic airfares, entrance fees to attractions, private guides, and transportation transfers.

For a classic 11-day, 10-night Vietnam trip, the cost typically falls between $1500 and $3000 per person. (The price does not include the international flight from and back to your home.)

If you travel with a family of 4-6 people, due to more individuals sharing the vehicle and guide fees, the price per person can be reduced by around 10%.

As a reference point, here's an approximate breakdown of expenses in Vietnam:

• Hotel: 20-30%, depending on the chosen hotel category.
• Transportation: 15-25%, varying with the number of flights included and the choice of vehicle type, which is determined by factors such as group size and travel preferences.
• Food: 10-15%.
• Attractions and activities: 15-20%, contingent on the selection of sights and whether unique experiential activities are chosen.
• Guide service and miscellaneous expenses: 10-15%.

Here are two itineraries with quotations for your reference:

• 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta : US$ 2,109 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)
• 6-Day Northern Vietnam Discovery Tour : US$ 829 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)

2. The Cost of International Flights to Vietnam

The average cost of a round-trip flight from the United States to Vietnam typically ranges from USD 600 to 1500 , depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel season.

The most budget-friendly time to fly to Vietnam is during the off-travel seasons (approximately April to May and September to October) when tourist influx decreases. It is advisable to book flight tickets 3-6 months in advance for the best deals.

Additionally, budget carriers like AirAsia and VietJet Air sometimes offer competitive rates.

For reference, see the cheapest month to fly from New York to Ho Chi Minh City.

(The data source: https://www.skyscanner.com/routes/nyca/sgn/new-york-to-ho-chi-minh-city.html )

As of February 2024, only direct flights are available from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. Traveling from Los Angeles or New York to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi would require flights with one or more layovers.

For connecting flights, if you are flying from the West Coast, you could opt for layovers in airports like Taipei, Seoul, or Tokyo; while if you are flying from the East Coast, you could consider layovers in Hong Kong or Doha, which may offer conveniences and lower fares.

Upon arrival in Vietnam, most likely, you will land in either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the country's two main cities. Generally, the cheapest flights to Vietnam tend to arrive in Ho Chi Minh City due to its service of multiple airlines.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation costs form a significant portion of travel expenses in Vietnam, varying greatly based on chosen options and travel seasons. Peak seasons, typically from November to March and July to August, tend to witness higher prices, while off-peak periods may offer discounts ranging from 30% to 50%.

In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the price of hotels is typically higher compared to smaller cities or rural areas such as Hoi An and Sapa, while the rooms are usually smaller. If you are looking for relaxation and comfort, we suggest allocating more budget to stay in leisure-friendly locations such as Hoi An, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, or the Mekong Delta .

Here are the hotel prices in the main destinations for your reference.

In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , it is advisable to stay in the bustling urban areas for a vibrant city experience. Hotel pricing: 4-star hotels ($60-80), 4-star hotels ($80-150), 5-star hotels ($120-220).

Some of our hand-selected hotels for reference:

• In Hanoi: La Siesta Premium Hang Be, from $130
• In Ho Chi Minh City: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint, from $90

For a relaxed stay in Hoi An , boutique hotels in the Ancient Town area are recommended, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and ambiance. Prices typically range from $30-60 for economy options, $50-100 for comfort accommodations, and $90-180 for deluxe choices.

• One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, from $80

In Sapa , if you seek tranquility and a close-to-nature experience, we suggest staying in a resort on the mountains or in the valleys rather than the downtown area.

• One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: Topas Ecolodge, a boutique mountaintop resort, $ 230.

(My experience: I spent two nights at Topas Ecolodg, and it was my favorite hotel during my trip to Vietnam. The stunning views, the infinity pool, and the villa were all perfect. I definitely plan on returning again in the future. )

Another unmissable experience in Vietnam is the overnight cruise , such as the Ha Long Bay cruises in the north and the Mekong cruises in the south.

For Ha Long Bay cruises, recommended options include Stellar of the Sea, Orchid, and Emperor Cruises, with prices ranging from $300 to $600. Contact us for special offers , and reach out to us today to secure a cabin with Mekong Sampan Cruises, where availability often requires booking six months in advance.

4. The Cost of Transportation in Vietnam

In Vietnam, public transportation is both convenient and affordable. For long-distance travel, we recommend taking a flight. For short distances or exploring within cities, we suggest using a private car for ease and flexibility.

Transportation Costs Between Cities

For traveling between cities, flying is the preferred option with competitively cheap airfares ranging from $50 to $150. Budget airlines such as Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways offer affordable domestic flight options within Vietnam.

Although train and long-distance bus services are available, they are not recommended due to due to their limited cost savings compared to flights and relatively lower comfort levels. For example, a soft sleeper ticket on an overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang can range from $40 to $80, while a bus ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City typically costs around $30 to $50.

However, there is one notable exception —the train between Hanoi and Lao Cai (Sapa), which offers a deluxe sleeper experience rather than merely transportation. This unique journey ranges from $30 to $80, depending on whether you choose shared or VIP air-conditioned cabins.

(My experience: I tried the Chapa Express (one supplier of the deluxe trains). The train was clean and the bed was comfortable. Water, banana, tea & coffee bags, oreo & toothbrushes were given. One drawback is the noise during the ride, affecting sleep quality, but the luxurious train experience is still worth trying.)

Transportation Costs Within the City

In urban areas, taxis are readily available with fares typically starting at $0.5-1 per kilometer. While motorbikes are prevalent in Vietnam, renting one at around $20 per day is not advisable due to safety concerns.

For touring within the city, we highly recommend hiring a private car with a driver. This option costs between US$50 to 100 for a full day of service, providing the most efficient and comfortable means of transportation.

5. The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a lot of things to see and do. Prices for attractions and activities can vary, but most are budget-friendly.

Most museums and historical sites have an entrance fee of US$2–5 per person. Nature parks typically have fees of US$10–20 per person.

The cost of a water puppet show in Hanoi can range from 4 to 15 USD per person depending on the location and quality of the show. The AO Show in Ho Chi Minh City is about $ 50 per person.

For some unique cultural experiences, such as cooking classes and foodie tours, the prices are about US$30–50 per person.

6. The Cost of Food in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its delectable flavors and affordability .

• Street food options are abundant and can be as inexpensive as 1 to 3 USD per dish.
• Casual dining experiences at local restaurants generally range between 2 to 6 USD per meal.
• Mid-range restaurants typically charge between 8 to 20 USD per meal, while high-end or luxury establishments may cost $40 or more per meal.

Local coffee is notably inexpensive in Vietnam. You can savor a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) for as little as VND 6,000 (approximately $0.25) at modest street stalls.

When it comes to Pho, the beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, prices typically span from 30,000 VND to 60,000 VND (around $1.3 to 2.6).

The average daily expenditure for dining out in Vietnam is approximately $20-30 per person per day .

It's important to note that tipping is not customary in Vietnam, and the prices indicated above generally represent the final amount you're expected to pay.

7. Visa and Travel Insurance Costs

Vietnam E-visas are issued with a validity period of up to 90 days, one entry for 25 USD or multiple entries for 50 USD. Applying for an e-visa is efficient and convenient. You can apply for the e-visa online .

A travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $30 and $200, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.

8. Tips for Maximizing Your Money on a Vietnam Trip

• Plan and research in advance: Research the best time for your travel, budget-friendly accommodation options, local transportation options, and food prices to get an idea of the overall cost of the trip. We are experts in this. Let us know your requirements and budget, and we will happily personalize a trip for you.
• Be flexible: Try to be flexible with your travel dates and times, as prices may vary depending on the season and time of day (especially during the festive season around Christmas and New Year). This can help you save money on airfares, hotels, and other expenses.
• Eat like a local: Local street food is relatively cheap and is an excellent way to experience the culture of the country while saving money. Avoid eating in touristy areas as food prices are generally higher in such places.
• Travel with a local travel agency: Select a reliable and local travel agency, such as Asia Highlights , which offers affordable packages and deals to help you save money.

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Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

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She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

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Hanoi, Vietnam: 18 Places to Visit & Things to Know

• September 19, 2023
• Last updated on December 4, 2023
• Vietnam Travel Blogs

Hanoi is an attractive tourist destination with a combination of culture, history, and national heritage. With over 1,000 years of development history, Hanoi has now become a modern city, but it still retains its traditional values and inherent beauty. In this article, let’s explore in detail about Hanoi, the best time to visit, and the places to visit in Hanoi.

Table of Contents

Overview of Hanoi

Hanoi is located in northern Vietnam and is the capital city with a history spanning over 1,000 years. It is the largest cultural and political center in Vietnam, housing most of the government offices. With its long history, the ancient streets of Hanoi are regularly preserved and maintained, and UNESCO-recognized landmarks and cultural sites have made Hanoi an enticing destination for international tourists.

When visiting Hanoi , you cannot miss exploring the Old Quarter and visiting famous landmarks such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and Hoa Lo Prison. Enjoy various traditional folk arts such as water puppetry and “cheo” singing. And, of course, savor the exquisite cuisine of Hanoi, including renowned dishes like Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha (Kebab rice noodles),….

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

In Hanoi, you can experience distinct seasons throughout the year: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.

Spring in Hanoi : It starts from February to April, with an average temperature ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius.

Summer in Hanoi : It begins from May to July with hot and humid weather, and temperatures during summer commonly range from 30-40 degrees Celsius.

Autumn in Hanoi : It starts from August to October, and during this time, the climate is pleasant with temperatures around 25-30 degrees Celsius.

Winter in Hanoi : It begins from November to January, and during this period, Hanoi gradually becomes colder, with the lowest temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius.

Therefore, the ideal weather in Hanoi is during spring and autumn, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. The best time for you to visit Hanoi would be from September to March of the following year .

Read more: Best Time To Visit Vietnam

Transportation to Hanoi

Hanoi, being the capital of Vietnam, has a well-developed transportation infrastructure. To reach Hanoi, you can travel by air to Noi Bai International Airport, by train to Hanoi Railway Station located on Le Duan Street (near the city center), or by car via highways connecting to other cities.

Domestic and international flights to Hanoi land at Noi Bai International Airport, which is approximately 30 kilometers away from the city center. Some popular airlines in Vietnam include Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, and Bamboo Airways.

Train journeys to and from Hanoi typically depart from and arrive at Hanoi Railway Station, situated on Le Duan Street, just about 2 kilometers from the city center. From this station, you can book tickets to various cities across Vietnam, with Sapa being one of the favorite destinations for travelers using the train from Hanoi.

Read more: How to travel from Hanoi to Sapa by train?

Currently, Vietnam’s highway system is rapidly expanding, making cars a common choice for travelers when moving to nearby attractions within approximately 200 kilometers of Hanoi, such as Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, Trang An in Ninh Binh, and more.

Best Places to Visit in Hanoi

Hoan kiem lake (lake of the restored sword).

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Lake of the Restored Sword, can be considered an iconic symbol of Hanoi. It is situated right in the heart of the city, with a historic turtle tower located on a small peninsula within the lake. Next to Hoan Kiem Lake, you’ll find impressive architectural landmarks and valuable cultural heritage sites of Hanoi, such as the Pen Tower, The Huc Bridge, and Ngoc Son Temple.

The streets surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake become a pedestrian zone on weekends, and it’s a common place for free street performances and artistic shows for everyone to enjoy.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is a renowned spiritual and cultural symbol in the capital city of Hanoi. It is located in the northeastern part on Ngoc Island within Hoan Kiem Lake, combined with the Turtle Tower in the south. This creates a prominent complex of cultural and historical relics amid the serene natural scenery. In 2013, Ngoc Son Temple was recognized as a special national heritage site. It is a captivating attraction for both local and international tourists when visiting Hanoi.

Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam)

The Temple of Literature, also known as Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, is considered Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong officially established the Quoc Tu Giam, which became the Temple of Literature. This is a famous historical site in Hanoi, preserving the cultural and educational essence of various feudal periods and maintaining the traditional values of Vietnam. The site also houses numerous artifacts and precious documents, notably the 82 stelae recognizing doctoral laureates, which have been recognized by UNESCO as “World Documentary Heritage.”

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, a great leader of the Vietnamese people. The mausoleum is open to the public five days a week, in the mornings on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Visitors are required to dress modestly, not bring electronic recording devices, and maintain proper decorum while touring the mausoleum.

One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot)

The One Pillar Pagoda was constructed in 1049 during the reign of King Ly Thai Tong. It is not only regarded as one of the most unique architectural marvels in Vietnam and Asia but also a spiritual destination and a symbol of Hanoi’s thousand-year-old culture.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter is located in the heart of Hanoi and comprises 36 streets, each with its unique charm, featuring houses dating back to the 19th century that have been preserved and conserved to this day. International tourists visiting Hanoi often choose to stay in hotels within this area for convenience. Within the Old Quarter, you can easily find souvenirs, handicrafts, and savor the cuisine of Hanoi. Moreover, this area is home to night markets and pubs, making it very convenient for tourists.

Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison was built by the French colonialists in 1896 to incarcerate thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries. Today, it stands as one of Hanoi’s famous historical relics, preserving evidence of the wartime and the hardships endured by countless Vietnamese patriots during the struggle for independence from French colonial rule.

Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House was constructed by the French in 1901 during their colonial rule of Vietnam. After the French withdrawal, the Vietnamese government continued to preserve and develop the Hanoi Opera House according to its original purpose. The Hanoi Opera House is an attractive cultural exchange venue, hosting large-scale artistic events and concerts featuring renowned artists.

Located not far from Hoan Kiem Lake, approximately 500 meters away, you can easily walk there to capture beautiful photos.

Read more: Ho Guom Opera House in Hanoi, Vietnam

St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi

St. Joseph’s Cathedral was built in 1884 and completed in 1887 by the French colonialists during their occupation of Vietnam. The cathedral is designed in a neo-Gothic architectural style, resembling Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris but with a fusion of Eastern and Christian influences, reflecting a part of Vietnamese culture and Buddhism.

Today, St. Joseph’s Cathedral serves as a place of worship for Catholics and is a favorite destination for young people due to its central location in Hanoi. It attracts many tourists for sightseeing every day.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater was established in 1969 under the name Kim Dong Puppetry Troupe, with the initial mission of performing water puppetry for Hanoi’s children. Over nearly half a century of formation and development, the theater has become Vietnam’s leading water puppetry art brand and holds the record in Asia as the “Only Theater in Asia Performing Water Puppetry 365 Days a Year.” The theater has successfully toured more than 40 countries, leaving a mark on audiences worldwide, from Asia to Europe, America, and Australia.

Situated in the central area of Hanoi, you can easily explore many famous Hanoi landmarks from here, such as Ngoc Son Temple, Ly Thai To Park, and the Hanoi Opera House. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater has warmly welcomed numerous international visitors who come to enjoy the unique art of water puppetry, a form of art unique to Vietnam.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi is a complex of historical relics associated with different periods in Vietnam’s history. It is a massive architectural structure built over many feudal dynasties and is now a fascinating tourist attraction in Hanoi. On July 31, 2010, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site.

Together with the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature), Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and One Pillar Pagoda, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel has become one of the oldest and most enduring landmarks in Hanoi, closely linked to countless dynasties and historical events throughout its history.

Hanoi Night Market

Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market stretches for about 3 kilometers, covering three main streets: Hang Dao Street, Hang Ngang Street, and Hang Duong Street. The night market operates from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Inside the Hanoi Night Market , you’ll find numerous stalls selling various products, including household items, clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, souvenirs, and more, all at very affordable prices. You can also indulge in Hanoi cuisine at the food stalls in the market.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the most famous pagodas in Hanoi. Located on a small island in the eastern part of West Lake, Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, the pagoda offers a picturesque setting. This pagoda has been in existence for nearly 1500 years and has undergone several renovations and maintenance efforts. With its historical and architectural significance, Tran Quoc Pagoda attracts both Buddhist pilgrims and tourists from within and outside Vietnam.

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang Ceramic Village is situated about 15 kilometers from central Hanoi. With over 500 years of history, the village is renowned for its traditional ceramic craftsmanship, making it an integral part of Hanoi’s cultural heritage.

Bat Trang specializes in producing a wide variety of ceramic and porcelain products in terms of types and designs. What’s most interesting about visiting Bat Trang is that you can directly witness artisans creating exquisite ceramic products and even try your hand at crafting your own pieces. The ceramic products from Bat Trang are known for their beauty and high quality, including dishes, bowls, cups, vases, and souvenirs. They are not only widely consumed in the domestic market but also exported to many countries worldwide.

Bat Trang Ceramic Museum is a must-visit when you come to Bat Trang . The museum boasts distinctive architecture, and to enter, you’ll need to purchase a ticket. Inside, you’ll find a vast collection of unique ceramic products, raw materials, and the ceramic-making process. If you wish to own some beautiful ceramic artwork, you can visit the shops on the museum’s first floor.

Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village is approximately 40 kilometers from central Hanoi. This village has preserved traditional cultural elements and unique architectural styles, representing the serene countryside of Vietnam. The village is known for its ancient gate, banyan tree, communal house, and pagoda.

Before entering Duong Lam Ancient Village, you will pass through the Mong Phu village gate. Next to the gate is a banyan tree that is over 300 years old, a popular spot for tourists to take commemorative photos when visiting Duong Lam.

Van Phuc Silk Village

Van Phuc Silk Village in Ha Dong, with a history spanning over 1000 years, is one of the most famous silk-producing villages in Vietnam. Located just over 10 kilometers from central Hanoi, Van Phuc Village is home to nearly 800 households engaged in traditional silk weaving. The primary material for Van Phuc silk is silk thread, prized for its softness and durability. To create perfect silk products, artisans go through various meticulous stages, even closely monitoring machine-assisted processes.

The silk products from Van Phuc are highly regarded for their beauty and quality. They come in various styles and patterns. The patterns are diverse, symmetrically decorated, and beautifully detailed, offering a sense of openness and precision. When you visit this area, be sure to purchase some silk products as souvenirs for your loved ones.

West Lake Hanoi

West Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the northwest of Hanoi’s city center, covering an area of approximately 500 hectares, with a nearly 20-kilometer-long road around the lake, perfect for cycling. West Lake is not only a cultural and natural symbol of Hanoi but also a popular tourist destination offering various activities such as swan boat rides, water sports, a water park, visits to ancient villages, and culinary exploration.

Surrounding West Lake are ancient villages such as Nhat Tan Flower Village, Quang Ba Flower Village, Nghi Tam Kumquat Village, Yen Thai Paper Village, and Ngu Xa Bronze Casting Village. The area also features historical and cultural relics like Van Nien Pagoda, Tao Sach Pagoda, Kim Lien Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple, and Ba Danh Temple. Notably, on the peninsula and island on the eastern side of West Lake, two famous sites, Tay Ho Palace (constructed around the 17th century in honor of the Lady of the Forest) and Tran Quoc Pagoda (built during the Early Ly Dynasty in the 6th century), remain well-preserved and attract a large number of domestic and international visitors.

Read more: 15 Top Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

Museums in Hanoi

A must-visit in any city is its museums and historical landmarks. One of the most beloved places by international travelers is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology . Following that, you can explore the Vietnam Women’s Museum, the Fine Arts Museum, the Hanoi Museum, the National Museum of History, or the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, along with the historical site of the Hanoi Flag Tower, to delve into the culture and history of the city.

Read more: Top 8 Museums in Hanoi You Should Visit

Hanoi Cuisine

Hanoi is one of the fantastic destinations for enjoying Vietnamese cuisine, and most of the famous dishes in Hanoi, such as Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Spring Rolls, are all popular everyday dishes used by the locals.

What makes Hanoi special is the opportunity to savor Pho and Bun Cha. These two dishes carry the distinctive characteristics of Hanoi, and while other cities may have them, they are often not as delicious.

Read more: Top 7 Delicious Beef Pho Restaurants Near Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Enjoying Coffee in Hanoi

One of the most popular beverages in Hanoi is coffee, and enjoying coffee is a daily habit for many Hanoi residents. You can find coffee shops throughout the streets of Hanoi , and one of the favorite ways to enjoy coffee here is sitting right on the sidewalk next to the pedestrian walkway, where you can also people-watch as you sip your coffee.

Read more: 10 Egg Coffee Shops in Hanoi You Should Try

Choosing Good Hotels in Hanoi

It’s not difficult to find a good hotel in Hanoi as the hotel options here are quite diverse, ranging from budget to luxury. However, if you’re staying in the Old Quarter area, it’s best to choose hotels in the 3 to 5-star range with prices ranging from $30 to $200 USD for a better experience. We recommend selecting hotels located in the city center, close to the Old Quarter, where you can easily walk to famous attractions in Hanoi, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Night Market.

Read more: Top 10 Best 3 Star Hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter

Read more: Top 14 Best 4 Star Hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter

Some Tips for Visiting Hanoi

Choosing clothing when traveling to hanoi.

Depending on the time of year you visit Hanoi, if you come here in the summer or autumn, T-shirts, shorts, and sneakers are the top choices. If you visit Hanoi in the winter or spring, having a thin scarf and a jacket is essential.

Be cautious when taking taxis on the road

There have been cases where foreign tourists were overcharged after using taxi services in Hanoi. To avoid being cheated, you should choose reputable taxi companies like Taxi XANH SM, Taxi group, Taxi Thanh Nga, Taxi G7, or use the Grab app if you have an account. If you don’t know how to book a ride, you can ask the hotel reception or local residents for help.

Haggling when shopping

When shopping at places other than supermarkets, you should haggle and aim for about a 30% discount from the initial price the seller gives you, and then adjust it a bit if necessary.

With its rich cultural traditions, glorious history, unique cuisine, and numerous famous attractions that we have just introduced, Hanoi is undoubtedly a fantastic destination you shouldn’t miss when visiting Vietnam. If you’re interested in touring Hanoi , please let us know, and you can receive free advice from our travel experts.

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9 Cheapest Places In Vietnam To Visit

For many years Vietnam has been one of the cheapest countries in the world to visit, and it still is today. But, like everywhere in the world, costs to visit have risen.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and looking to explore on a budget, you’ve come to the right spot. These are the cheapest places in Vietnam to visit!

In this list of the cheapest places in Vietnam, you’ll find a mix of coastal cities, large cities, and a few small rural towns.

Remember, no matter where you choose to visit in Vietnam , you can always find affordable hotels/food, significantly cheaper on average than most countries.

Included under each city in Vietnam listed below are the average daily visiting cost and average monthly living costs. These are average, and each figure can be higher or lower depending on your budget and travel style —figures assisted by  BudgetYourTrip  and  Numbeo .

If you’re looking for the cheapest/ideal time to visit Vietnam, it’s best to visit during the shoulder season !

Hue is a coastal city in central Vietnam best known for its many ancient historical sites, like the Imperial City and the royal tombs . The stunning old architecture, natural landscape, and beautiful beach shorelines make Hue a top city.

Those who appreciate cultural cities will adore Hue; not only does the city have several cultural sites like museums, temples, and more. Hue is also home to the famous Hue festival, which takes place every two years and is an absolute spectacle to experience.

Besides its historical attractions and beaches, Hue is also best known for its food and diverse mix of regional Vietnamese food in Hue. Make sure you give Dong Ba Market a visit; it is a food paradise.

If you’re looking for a calm, quiet beach town full of history, culture, and exceptional food, consider visiting Hue!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $47 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $870 US

Located along Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a melting pot of history; the city’s French, Japanese, and Chinese influence is easily noticeable throughout its buildings and temples.

Walking through Hoi An, you will continuously be met with vibrant-colored buildings, beautiful temples, and lush green landscapes.

There are many things to do in Hoi An, such as visiting the Hoi An Ancient Town , An Bang Beach, the Hoi An Night Market, and the Golden Bridge. But the basket boat tour is the most popular thing to do in Hoi An!

Today, Hoi An has become quite popular with tourists and has become a digital nomad destination, along with its neighboring city, Da Nang.

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $49 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $888 US

Mui Ne is a charming fishing village on the southern coast of Vietnam. It’s only a 4-hour train ride from Ho Chi Minh City.

Besides its many beaches, Mui Ne is most known for being a top destination for many water sports, such as sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, because of the city’s steady win conditions through the dry season.

But what makes Mui Ne stand out the most is its famous Red Sand Dunes ! These dunes lie close to the ocean; it’s safe to say there aren’t many places in the world where a desert-like landscape is so close to the sea!

For those who love nature, watersports, and an overall laidback town vibe, Mui Ne is a perfect place to consider visiting!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $52 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $947 US

The small town of Dalat is located around 5000 feet above sea level among the luscious green mountains of Vietnam in the central region.

National parks, epic mountain viewpoints, waterfalls, and an overall rich natural landscape are what Dalat is most well-known for.

Due to the town’s location, Dalat is known as the “ City of Eternal Spring ” due to its moderate temperature. It doesn’t get nearly as hot as other parts of Vietnam.

Dalat offers an ideal mix of touristy things to do and several more local experiences. And if you’re on a long trip around Vietnam , you’ll appreciate the cool Spring weather for a change along your travels!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $45 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,100 US

Nha Trang is a well-developed coastal beach city, and in the last few decades, the famous resort city has seen many changes. Located along the south-central coastline, Nha Trang has excellent beaches and many city amenities.

Besides its prominent extensive beach shoreline full of high-rise buildings, Nha Trang is famous for its unique landscape.

On one side you’ll notice the main beach and a developed city, on the other you’ll see mountains of green luscious forests.

Popular things to do in Nha Trang are visiting the islands nearby, diving/snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, and seeing the many historical sites here.

Nha Trang is an excellent option for those looking to visit for an extended period and work remotely from; because of the city’s many developments, everything you need is here!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $53 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,150 US

Sapa is a small town located in northern Vietnam, and it sits amongst the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, offering mesmerizing views of the luscious green mountains and rice fields in the region.

Home to several different ethnic minorities, Sapa is full of unique cultural experiences. Surrounding Sapa are the small villages of Tiang Ta Chai, Ta Van, and Lao Chai.

The remote town is most well-known by tourists who enjoy trekking , and many agencies operate trips from Hanoi to Sapa, which is 5 hours away.

Besides trekking, make sure to try the unique cuisine in Sapa, take a boat ride through Sapa Lake, and visit Cat Cat Village !

Cable car rides through the mountainous landscape, hiking to off-beaten waterfalls, hiking through calm landscapes, and cozy evenings at homestays, this is what Sapa is all about!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $54 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,160 US

Famous for being the second largest city in Vietnam, Hanoi is most well known for its delicious street food, old architecture, and its vibrant, bustling city atmosphere.

Home of the famous bowl of soup pho , Hanoi is the best city in Vietnam for street food. As you walk around, you’ll continuously notice small restaurants with small colorful stools outside serving pho and other Vietnamese dishes.

Throughout the city, there are several night markets open all week long. Make sure to give a few of them a visit. Night markets are the soul of large cities in Southeast Asia.

Being the large, well-developed city it is, there are several things to do in Hanoi. Make sure to visit the many century-old temples, the French Quarters, St Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Opera House.

Besides the many things to do in Hanoi and many foods to try, the most popular thing to do in Hanoi is the Ha Long Bay tour . Ha Long Bay is a nature spectacle, with countless large limestone on the water, caves, and unique pass-throughs ideal for kayaking.

When visiting, you may spot the minority community who call Ha Long Bay home and have floating homes on the water. The bay is also a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $57 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,170 US

Ho Chi Minh City

Known as the most well-developed city and populous city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City , formerly known as Saigon, is a mix of modern concrete jungle and old architecture. Surrounding the city is the extensive Saigon River.

Delicious food, lots of shopping, French architecture, nightclubs, historical sites, and many museums, the most popular being the War Remnants Museum from the Vietnam War. Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic city that really does have it all!

The top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City are the following: firstly, make sure you have a few Bahi Mi sandwiches, the famous sandwich that originated here. If you’re limited on time, attend a food tour to best experience the cuisine here!

Have a drink on Pham Ngu Lao Street , a vibrant street in the evening. Visit the Ben Thanh Market , an ideal place to experience authentic Vietnamese culture.

Popular day trips to make from Ho Chi Minh City are visiting the famous Chi Chi Tunnels , a 220 KM underground tunnel network still intact today, and guided tours through the Mekong Delta River .

Today, Ho Chi Minh City isn’t just a popular place for tourists to visit; many expats call the big city home. Because of its developed infrastructure and its location in Southeast Asia, it’s a great base!

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $70 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,190 US

Da Nang is a lively coastal city in central Vietnam, known for its extensive beach shoreline and contrast between big city modern skyscrapers and mountainous surroundings.

Da Nang is the third most populated city and the most populated beach city in Vietnam.

The city offers the best of both worlds, and that’s the biggest draw of Da Nang. You can enjoy big city living, go to the beach and in a short drive be amongst the mountains!

There are many things to do in Da Nang, from exploring its vibrant streets and temples to island hopping, snorkeling, and more!

The most popular attraction in Da Nang is the Ba Na Hills SunWorld , a massive amusement park located in the mountains of Da Nang. The famous Golden Hands Bridge and the Marble Mountains .

In the last few years, Da Nang has gained quite some popularity amongst nomads and expats. That’s because it’s the largest city with nature in Vietnam. Besides that, the city is very easy to navigate overall.

Average Daily Visitor Cost:  $77 US

Average Monthly Living Cost:  $1,240 US

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

It depends on which area of Vietnam you’re choosing to visit, as the weather does vary between the three major regions: North , Central , and Southern Vietnam .

North Vietnam Seasonal Weather

Winter in North Vietnam: November to April / Average Temperatures 17-22 Celcius / Cooler and Dryer

Summer in North Vietnam: May to October / Average Temperatures 28 – 33 Celcius / Hot and Humid

Central Vietnam Seasonal Weather

Dry Season in Central Vietnam: February to August / Average Temperatures 25-35 Celcius / Dry and Low Humidity

Rainy Season in Central Vietnam: September to January / Average Temperatures 22 – 32 Celcius / Rainy with Wind; some months more than others

South Vietnam Seasonal Weather

Dry Season in South Vietnam: November to April / Average Temperatures 24-37 Celcius / Dry and Low Humidity

Rainy Season in South Vietnam: May to October / Average Temperatures 25-35 Celcius / Cooler and Rain; some months more than others

Cheapest Places in Vietnam to Live

Now that we’ve covered the cheapest cities in Vietnam to visit let us take a look at the cheapest places to live in Vietnam, considering a few liveable factors.

No matter the city you choose, overall, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the world to live in.

The main reason this list is different from the one above is that when considering a city as a place to live or stay for an extensive period of time. You’ll want to have modern conveniences in the city, a selection of housing, a variety of cuisine, decent internet, etc!

Da Nang : With excellent infrastructure, residential areas, coffee shops, and a picture-perfect landscape, Da Nang is an excellent place to consider living. The streets are wide, the airport is close to town, there are many things to do, and you’ll have no problem meeting other nomads here!

RELATED: Cheapest Places in Thailand

Ho Chi Minh City : Excellent cuisine absolutely everywhere in the city, high-rise modern condos, full of culture, and a bustling big city atmosphere; Ho Chi Minh City is a great option for those who appreciate big cities.

Hanoi : Despite being such a large city, Hanoi still embodies a laidback atmosphere at the same time. Full of excellent cuisine, affordable accommodation costs, and a great base to make day trips from, Hanoi is a top choice city to live in Vietnam.

Nha Trang : In recent years, Nha Trang has had a growing expat community; that’s because, despite being a smaller town on this list, the city has developed infrastructure and all the amenities one may need in a city. Similar to Da Nang, it’s also a coastal beach city.

RELATED : Looking for another cheap country to live in, but not in Asia? Consider Turkey !

Is Vietnam a good place to live?

Vietnam is an excellent place to live; delicious food is at every corner, and locals are warm and hospitable.

Many of the larger cities have great city infrastructure and good healthcare.

Most importantly, the cost of living in Vietnam is very affordable. It’s one of the cheapest/best countries in the world to both visit or live in.

Despite rising costs everywhere in the world, Vietnam has remained affordable for many years.

Is Vietnam Cheap to Visit or Live? — Final Thoughts

Yes, it is cheap to visit or live in Vietnam. The average daily visiting cost for Vietnam is only $50 US , and the average monthly living cost is $720 US .

When compared to most places in the world, daily/monthly costs for Vietnam are significantly lower.

Needless to say, these figures are only averages, and costs depend on one’s way of traveling or living styles. It could be lower or higher, depending on your spending habits!

Recently, as of August 15, 2023 , Vietnam has announced a new convenient 3-month EVisa for travelers to explore Vietnam.

You can get the 3-month EVisa either on a single-entry or a multiple-entry. This means you can choose between entering once for 90 days or choosing to leave and return to Vietnam as you like for three months. Simply apply, pay the $25 US fee, and wait three days for email acceptance.

Otherwise, most passports can simply come and get a 30-day entry visa upon arrival .

Is Vietnam still cheap to travel to?

Vietnam is a very cheap place to travel to; the average daily spend for visitors in Vietnam is only $50 US , which can be lower depending on your travel style!

Is Vietnam the cheapest country to visit?

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the world to travel to and has been for many years now. In contrast, it isn’t officially the cheapest country in the world but one of the cheapest five countries.

Is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand to visit?

Vietnam is significantly cheaper than Thailand . The average daily visitor cost in Vietnam is around $50 US a day ; in Thailand, it’s around $90 US a day . Quite the difference!

Is it cheaper to go to Laos or Vietnam?

Laos is cheaper to visit than Vietnam. In Laos, the average daily visitor cost is around $23 US daily , and in Vietnam, it’s around $50 US daily . While both countries are cheap, the difference is double!

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Owity founded Travel Hiatus in 2022 to document his travel, food and cultural experiences from all over the globe in order to help fellow travellers along the way. His slow travels allow him to research and explore places in-depth, meaning only the best and most informational guides for fellow readers! From Europe to North America, Asia and more, so far Owity has visited 21 countries.

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23 things to know before visiting Vietnam

Aug 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Read on for all the key things to know before you visit Vietnam © Elizaveta Galitckaia / Shutterstock

Adventures abound in Vietnam . You can climb the heights and scuba dive the lows, immerse yourself in culture or just kick back on the sand, confident in the knowledge that a fantastic meal is waiting for you at the end of the day. But there are things to know before you go, to avoid pitfalls in paradise. These are our top tips. 

1. Pack for the climate

Perhaps the most important consideration when planning a trip to Vietnam is the weather. The south of the country sits firmly in the humid tropics, but the climate becomes increasingly temperate as you head north, and the highlands around Sapa can be downright chilly in winter. If you plan to visit both halves of the country, bring some clothes for the cooler highlands as well as the steamy Mekong Delta . 

2. Be rain ready

Vietnam is soaked by the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Trekking in the northwest and boat trips in Halong Bay , for example, can be a soggy experience in July and August, but this is a great – if popular – time to bask on the central beaches. Even in the rainy season, it doesn’t rain all day, every day, so bring a raincoat or umbrella and make the best of the smaller crowds and lower prices. 

3. Investigate the visa options

There are numerous ways to arrange the paperwork for a visit to Vietnam, some cheaper and quicker than others. You may not need a visa at all for a short trip, and electronic visas and visas on arrival are available for many nationalities – much less hassle than going to the embassy in person. Read up on the visa requirements before you book your flights, to avoid paying more than you need to, or getting held up by red tape. 

4. Get your jabs

As with anywhere in the tropics, there are tropical illnesses to be aware of in Vietnam. See your doctor at least a month before you travel to get up to date with vaccinations, and arrange anti-malarial medication if you plan to visit rural areas. 

Mosquitoes can also carry dengue fever, so bring repellent. On arrival, avoid drinking tap water and use antibacterial hand gel to reduce the risk of stomach bugs; a medical face mask can reduce the risk of respiratory infections and help with pollution in big cities.  

5. Book ahead for Tet and the holiday peak 

Booking transport, accommodation and tours ahead of time is not essential, but it’s a good way to avoid disappointment if you come at a busy time , such as July and August on the central coast. If you plan to be in Vietnam during the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival in late January or early February, having transport and accommodation in place before you arrive is a very sensible precaution. 

There is a caveat, however – book directly with operators where possible. If you go through an agency, you’ll pay more, and some travelers have reported not getting the services and standards they were expecting when booking through third parties. 

6. Factor sleeper buses and trains into your itinerary

Domestic flights in Vietnam are inexpensive but there are less polluting alternatives. When planning long-distance travel , don’t overlook the country’s overnight trains and buses – you’ll save the cost of a night’s accommodation and cover big distances, without eating into your sightseeing time. Reserve a fully horizontal berth for a more comfortable night’s sleep – both buses and trains have them. The booking site 12Go Asia is a good place to start investigating the options. 

7. Give Vietnam the time it deserves

Vietnam measures 1650km (1025 miles) from the Chinese border in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, so you’ll need plenty of time to get from A to B. Road and rail transport can be slow, and there are lots of places where you’ll want to stop as you travel between the major hubs. If you only have a short time, focus your itinerary on a small area – Hanoi and around, say, or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and the Delta. 

8. Respect religious spaces 

When visiting Buddhist, Hindu, Confucian and Taoist temples, churches and other religious buildings, dress respectfully – it’s best to cover your legs and upper arms, and you may need to take off your shoes and hat to enter. Never touch anyone on the head, and avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards another person or any Buddhist statues – both signs of disrespect in Buddhist culture. 

9. Don’t lose face 

As in many other parts of Asia, Vietnamese culture places considerable emphasis on "saving face" – in other words, avoiding situations that might cause individual or collective loss of dignity and respect. Public outbursts and arguments can cause everyone involved to lose face, so keep a sense of perspective, and try not to get angry when confronted by inconveniences as you travel. 

10. Do right with your chopsticks 

There are several taboos associated with using chopsticks. Leaving your sticks sticking upright in a bowl of food is considered unlucky, as it resembles offerings of incense sticks made for the dead. Using chopsticks of uneven length is also frowned on, as is tapping your bowl with your sticks (associated with beggars requesting alms). If you eat in a group, use clean chopsticks (or the reverse ends of your own chopsticks) to pass food to others.

11. Eat like a local

Food is practically a religion in Vietnam, but locals focus their energy on the evening meal, where multiple dishes are shared between diners, with the whole family getting involved. Rather than ordering a single main course, choose a spread of dishes for the table and sample a rich mix of flavors and textures. If you need a boost between meals, street food snacks can be found everywhere, or just grab a nutritious sinh tố  (fruit shake) or a cup of local drip-brewed ca phe (coffee).  

12. Don’t go overboard with displays of affection

Public displays of affection are not a big part of Vietnamese culture, for couples of all orientations. Kissing, hugging and even holding hands in public can raise eyebrows, so tone down the romantic gestures while you’re in the country. On the plus side,  despite lingering legal inequality, LGBTIQ+ couples generally face few problems in Vietnam, and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) both have lively scenes. 

13. Be a respectful photographer

Always ask before taking photographs of people, particularly in minority villages. Many people find it intrusive, and by asking first, you’ll know if people are comfortable being included in your travel photos. In tribal areas, some villagers ask for payment for photos, which is fair enough... how would you feel if strangers kept sticking a long lens into your front porch? 

14. Don’t get dragged into Vietnamese politics

Another time to think twice before pulling out your camera is during public demonstrations and political rallies. Critics of the government can face harsh punishments – demonstrations in 2018 against laws allowing the authorities to monitor online communications led to over 100 arrests. Play it safe – steer clear of political gatherings and avoid conversations about politics with local people. 

15. Be a fair bargainer

Haggling is a fact of life in Vietnam, particularly at markets and souvenir shops, and you may pay over the odds if you accept the first price suggested. However, bargaining should never be a confrontational process – treat it as a game and counter the starting price with a lower counter offer, and see how the seller responds. With a bit of back and forth, you should reach a mutually acceptable price – and if you don’t, you can always decline politely and try another vendor. There’s little point haggling over tiny sums of money – if you pay 5000 dong (US$0.20) over the going rate, consider that you can probably afford it.

16. Know your loos

Western-style sit-down toilets are increasingly common in Vietnam, but you’ll often have to pay to use public loos, and paper is rarely provided. Carry your own, or use the hose or water jug provided. Bring antibacterial hand gel or soap; many bathrooms only provide running water.  

17. Don’t let touts take you for a ride 

Commission-seeking middle men (and middle women) pop up almost anywhere tourists gather, and Vietnam has its share. Be wary of touts who encourage visitors to use certain tour agencies, hotels, shops and transport companies in touristy parts of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An. If you use their services, you’ll pay more to cover their fee.

18. Avoid the sex tourism industry

Sex tourism is an unwelcome legacy of the American War, but it’s usually easy to spot – and avoid – places where the sex trade takes place. Be wary of bars, karaoke lounges and massage parlors with scantily clad staff and lots of pink or red neon. Note that some hotels refuse to allow foreign men to share rooms with Vietnamese women – which can lead to headaches for genuine couples with an Asian partner. 

19. Give drugs a pass

Illegal drugs aren’t hard to find on the traveler circuit in Vietnam, but the penalties, if you’re caught by the police, can be severe – even for possession of small amounts. Many travelers have ended up in Vietnamese jails for drug offenses, and the death penalty can be applied in drug cases. If you are inclined to toke while you travel, it’s only a short hop to Thailand , where the consumption of marijuana in food and drinks has been decriminalized for now.  

20. Shop responsibly 

Vietnam has some wonderful crafts and art forms that make for great souvenirs, but stick to modern pieces; it’s illegal to take antiques out of the country. Also be watchful for souvenirs made from animal parts, such as shell, horn, bone, teeth and feathers. Such items are usually taken from wild animals, and you could fall foul of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) . 

21. Be smart about crime, not anxious

Opportunistic crime can occasionally be a problem, particularly in crowded cities where pickpockets and bag-snatchers on motorcycles take advantage of the unwary, but this isn’t a problem unique to Vietnam. Activate your big city precautions, and watch your belongings on busy public transport or in bars and cafes (using a phone or laptop at an outside table is unwise). Handbags with a single strap are a popular target for ride-by bag snatchers – a daypack or messenger bag is a better option.  

22. Be wary of American War ordnance

Horrifying volumes of munitions were dropped over Vietnam during the American War, and unexploded ordnance continues to kill and maim people every year. Well-traveled areas are usually safe, but be cautious about stepping off roads and paths in rural areas. Don’t climb into bomb craters and never touch old explosive devices – they can remain deadly for decades. 

23. Be typhoon smart

Vietnam is hit by periodic typhoons between May and November, with the biggest risk of storms from August to September. If you travel during the typhoon season, monitor local weather reports, and head inland from the coast if a direct hit by a big storm is predicted. In the event of flooding, contact your embassy or consulate and follow advice from the local authorities. 

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THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Vietnam

Best budget-friendly things to do in vietnam.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Old Quarter

2. War Remnants Museum

Recommended Experiences (21)

3. Cu Chi Tunnels

4. Hoi An Ancient Town

5. Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake)

6. Central Post Office

7. Precious Heritage by Réhahn

8. Serene Spa Hanoi

9. Club V E-gaming

10. Ba Ri Tailor

11. Bao Diep Tailor

12. Herbal Spa

13. Blue Eye Tailor

14. Tra Que Water Wheel

15. Couleurs by Réhahn

16. Apron Up Cooking Class

17. Coral Spa

18. Peace Tailor in Hoi An

19. Thang Long Water Puppet

20. Hanoi Labelle Vie Spa

21. L'essence Spa

22. Rose Kitchen

23. White Rose Spa

24. Lee Easyraiders

25. Luxury Herbal Spa

26. Citrus Health Spa

27. Da Bao Real Leather

28. Aaron Spa Hoi An

29. L'essence De La Vie Spa

30. Mido Spa

What travelers are saying

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• Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Festival 2024

The 20th Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Festival from 4 to 7 April, at 23/9 Park, District 1, with the theme "20 years of Going Green of Vibrant Touch". The Festival will offer lots of promotional packages with preferential prices up to 50%, along with many attractive gifts and services. Some new tourism products will be introduced at the Festival as: Ho Chi Minh City - the emotional journeys; art exhibition space; exhibition of Ho Chi Minh City's colourful paintings, A O shows, folk cuisine...

April other events

Carnaval Ha Long 2024

Vietnam International Travel Mart Ha Noi 2024

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