travel vietnam alone

Solo Travel in Vietnam – The Only EPIC Guide You Need to Check Out

Solo travel in Vietnam is one of the best experiences you can have in SE Asia. A solo female travel traveler since last 5 years and having explored Vietnam for over a month, I can say that traveling alone in Vietnam is fascinating, adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.

If you are planning of travelling Vietnam alone or wondering whether a solo trip to Vietnam is right for you, you can come to the right place. Because in this Vietnam travel blog, I’m sharing all about solo travel in Vietnam – safety tips, what to expect, how to plan a trip, costs and other commonly asked questions.

Sit back, grab your coffee and find out how traveling Vietnam solo is one of the excellent experiences.

I’m sure you have a lot of questions and doubts about solo travel in Vietnam. So I am going to dispel and answer each of them in this exhaustive Vietnam solo travel guide.

Is it safe to solo travel in Vietnam?

YES. Vietnam is one of the safest countries to travel alone. Solo travel in Vietnam will be a total package – where you will feel a whole roller-coaster of emotions – thrilling, inspiring, eye-opening, challenging, tiring and ultimately feeling excellent about your entire trip.

So yes, Vietnam is one of the countries safe for traveling alone, especially if you are beginning your solo travel adventures outside your country.

Continue reading to know some safety tips for women traveling alone, and in general for all solo travelers.

Vietnam Solo Travel – What are some tips before you visit Vietnam?

If you are wondering, ‘what should I know as a first time visitor about traveling in Vietnam?’, let me clarify a few things. Vietnam is relatively a popular destination, especially among solo travelers because it is friendly towards solo travelers, safe and comfortable. And this also means that solo travel in Vietnam needs some preparation. 

Here ar e some things to know before traveling solo in Vietnam

• Weather in Vietnam is fickle  – One thing that is not reliable about Vietnam is its weather, which keeps changing often. On a single day, you can experience rain, chilly winds, sunshine and clouds. Yup, so prepare for all sorts of weather, irrespective of the city!
• Humidity  – Weather can be unpredictable, but the constants are humidity and hotness. If you are not used to humid weather, the chances are that you will feel exhausted and drained, pretty quickly. One of the ways to beat this is to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Lot – as many times as you can.
• You cannot possess drugs  – Drugs are illegal in Vietnam. All of them. So don’t try to sneak in any form of drugs, hoping for any concession for foreigners, because there is none. You will be offered, but you should refuse. Carrying drugs is a punishable crime, so steer clear of them.
• Vietnam Visa  – Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality, so make sure to get it sorted. That should be your top priority.
• Beware of land mines  – In Vietnam and Laos, there are hundreds of active land mines or UXO that were dropped decades ago during wars, scattered especially in the countryside. So if you notice any sign to not trespass, it is best to obey the sign.
• Vietnam is a conservative country  – Despite the locals opening up to foreign travelers in recent years, the people are conservative and traditional. Sure, you might not see that in bigger cities and touristy places, but it will be evident once you step into rural parts of Vietnam. So keep this in mind and respect the norm.
• Follow the rules  – There are some monuments and attractions where photography is prohibited, especially those that belong to the government. It is essential to follow the rules, as not following is an offence and you can be fined.
• Wear a helmet while driving a motorbike  – Vietnam is known for fatal motorbike accidents, mostly of international tourists, so don’t be one of them. Wear a helmet, whether you are riding or a pillion.
• Don’t be deceived by Vietnam’s map  – The map of Vietnam looks thin, but let me tell you, the country is enormous! Solo travel in Vietnam is daunting enough and an achievement in itself, so don’t assume that you can travel everywhere in the country, especially if you are here for 2 to 3 weeks. You must enjoy traveling solo in Vietnam, and it’s not a race to see a vast list of places.

I have written a detailed post where I share over 30 things to know before traveling to Vietnam. Go ahead and check that too.

What safety precautions should I take when travelling solo in Vietnam as a female? 

Traveling solo in Vietnam is fantastic, but solo travel needs its set of precautions. Taking general precautions and safety measures that apply to traveling to any destination will help you have a super trip. Here are some general solo travel tips for Vietnam for both men and women, and more specific Vietnam solo female travel tips in the next section.

General Vietnam solo travel tips

Safeguard your belongings

This one is obvious, but we all let our guard down sometimes, and that’s when a theft happens! Mobile and your bags are the primary targets, especially in bigger cities like Hanoi and Saigon. 

Keep your handbags and camera bags safe during all the times. The bigger cities are notorious for bag and mobile theft. People passing by snatch bags and mobiles, and also the motorbike riders, who grab bags when you are out walking or driving or traveling in buses or tuk-tuks. 

To avoid this, keep only the essentials with you. Carry handbags that you can wear on your body, making snatching impossible. Don’t carry more than a bag when you are out as more bags mean most of your attention goes in safeguarding them, along with more risks.

Don’t carry expensive stuff or a lot of cash

Don’t flash your fancy camera and phones out in public . It draws unwanted attention and entices theft, which is common in Saigon or Hanoi. 

Don’t carry a lot of cash, and wear a money belt or hide some money in your hidden pockets .  Don’t open your wallet in front of too many eye s; be discreet while making transactions.

Talk to locals

One of the rules of thumb while traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere is to take the help of locals by talking with them. You don’t have to strike up a conversation with every local.  Your hotel/hostel staff, tour operators, tour guides, tuk-tuk shop owners and locals like these who are in touch with tourists are the best bets . 

These locals usually speak fluent English and have excellent knowledge about costs, attractions, local places to eat, shop, where to drink and so on . You will be surprised by the immensely valuable insider tips that you will get from these people, apart from forming friendships!

Keep your travel documents secure 

Next to safeguarding your money and your electronic equipment comes securing your travel documents, especially your passport. Most hotels or guesthouses in Vietnam usually do not take your passport and keep it that way for best. 

What I do is make copies of relevant travel documents like passport, which I handover when they ask to deposit my passport. It usually works, and you can avoid giving your original documents.  Keep your passport and other tickets safe in a locker or your luggage at the hotel. Do not carry them with you when you go out for sightseeing .

Get the hang of Vietnamese currency

The Vietnamese Dong gets a handful when you withdraw from ATMs or get them at currency centres.  There are too many denominations and notes, so take time to figure out and sort. This way, you will avoid confusion when you transact as sometimes you might receive less than the actual change and lose money .

Meet people and make friends

Traveling solo in Vietnam doesn’t mean you have to be all alone all the time, right? There are times you might feel lonely too, or bored. Well, how do you beat these?  Go and meet people, and make some new friends, because that’s one of the fun things about traveling alone.

Whether at hostels, group tours, or locals that you randomly meet, being friendly and open will lead to memorable experiences. You will be surprised at how many fellow solo travelers you will come across, that will make for a great company. 

Don’t be shy or hesitant to make the first move. If you are an introvert like me, this might be challenging to you at first, but try it out, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the outcomes ! Meeting new people, listening to great stories, traveling and exploring new places with new friends are cool things to do as a solo traveler. Go ahead and try it!

There are many advantages to signing up for tours. It is one of the remarkable ways to meet new people and fellow solo travelers. And the good news about travel in Vietnam solo is that  there are plenty of open tours, mainly organized by hostels and guesthouses , where you are free to drop in any batch. 

Even if it is a walking tour or food tour run by your hostel, go ahead and sign up, especially if you are traveling solo alone for the first time.  You will meet new people, get to know about the place or food, and feel more confident.

Watch what you drink and eat

Whether Vietnam or anywhere else, watch out on what you eat and drink. Yes, you should try local delicacies and alcohol, but before doing so, you need to take certain precautions, especially in Vietnam. 

If you are drunk and you get attacked or robbed, it is less likely to make a case in your favour as drunk tourists and fussy foreigners are frowned upon not only in Vietnam but anywhere. You need to enjoy it, but you also have to be vigilant and sober. Read below further to know about tips for food safety in Vietnam.

Read and research thoroughly before booking

One of the exciting things about travel is planning.  Before you travel solo in Vietnam, do your preparation . Look up and read about cities, a bit about what to expect, weather, culture, people, safety, itinerary, etc. Sure, leave some elements of surprise, but get your basics done.

Before booking your accommodation, read the reviews on different sites carefully, check the location and neighbourhood around the hostels and hotels. Read the fine print, and check about the safety of the areas.  It is best to look out for  hostels and hotels that have a lot of great reviews everywhere . It means that the  place is trustworthy, and is safe to stay and enjoy .

Similarly,  read the reviews before booking any paid guided tours . Some tours are very cheap, but cheap sometimes mean bad experiences. The same goes for booking buses and transport too. Simply put, do a bit of your homework before your solo travel in Vietnam.

Get a Sim Card

One of the things that will help you while traveling alone in Vietnam is getting a local SIM card. Sure, you can manage through the WiFi, which you can get at hotels, hostels, cafes and some restaurants. 

But having  a constant source of the internet will help you with navigation , when you are out exploring, driving and walking on the unknown streets. The cellular packages are cheap, and it makes sense if you are spending about 2 or 3 weeks in Vietnam.  You can also stay connected and seek help if things go wrong . 

An alternative for navigation if you don’t want to buy a sim card is to download Maps.me app, which is an excellent app for offline maps, which you can use to navigate anywhere if you download maps.

Track your expenses

One of the things to take care of is to manage and track your expenses, which you can initially find challenging while traveling solo. I do somethings as a ritual to manage money, like, I  split  my  cash  and cards( both debit and credit) and  keep them in different bags . I often lose wallets, so this helps me to have a backup.

Vietnam is cheap, but it is still essential to know where your money goes . I take a brief note of my expenditures every few days, which helps me stick to my travel budget. 

Sometimes when you are in a new destination, you can easily get carried away to spend – be it on some new attraction you discovered, shopping, a new activity or spontaneous spend on food and drinks or parties. 

Having a budget in mind will help you use your money mindfully , especially if you are a backpacker traveling on a shoestring budget.

If you thought the phrase Be a Roman, when in… is a cliche or oversold, well, it is not. It has another name and is called blending in. Blending and being flexible has its many advantages when you are, you are doing solo travel in Vietnam or anywhere in the world. 

Standing out is cool, but not so when you are alone. Observe locals and dress like them, try to mingle and communicate like them, watch and respect their culture, rules and tradition – in temples, pagodas and government monuments.  Blending will earn respect and admiration from the locals, and you will be safe and also enjoy the process  of blending in!

Let your family know about your whereabouts

It is easy to get lost in your head or the challenges and tasks when you are traveling alone. At times that you might also feel lonely, frustrated and bored, even after meeting people or making friends. That’s where your support system helps. Whether it is your partner or friends or family or any of your loved ones,  keeping in touch will help you feel positive. 

Your loved ones will worry less knowing that you are safe and available to reach. You don’t have to talk for hours, because you came out to be alone, by yourself. Simply go ahead and give them a ring or drop texts often. 

Now, let me share some Vietnam solo female travel tips for you.

In addition to keeping in mind the above safety tips, women traveling alone in Vietnam need to take care of a few new things.  Well, these apply not only if you are doing solo female travel in Vietnam ,  but anywhere else too.

Do not share personal information with anyone

Whether in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world, you will most likely meet people who seem very intrusive. They might be just curious or weird, or maybe harmful too. Whatever it is, watch out and don’t share personal information. You surely don’t have to tell about your relationship status, your full name, the place you are staying or where you plan to go next or any other intimate details.

It not only applies to locals, but to other travelers that you meet as well. It is a good thing to make friends, but you should not reveal much while you are just making friends or with people you just met. 

One of the examples that I can share is a lot of times, men – mostly locals and some times tourists approach female solo travelers frequently. They are the ones that usually ask all awkward, weird questions to flirt or engage further. 

To avoid this, many women wear a fake wedding ring or tell tales of their boyfriends or friends. If you are a solo woman traveler and find yourself in situations like these, you can try this too. It works because I have tried 🙂

Trust your instinct

The bottom line of my above point is, trust your gut while interacting with others. Also, trust your instinct during other times as well. If you feel something is wrong or you get a warning, listen to it and act accordingly. Also, be assertive. If you want to say no, then say so. It feels lovely to be in charge and aware!

Book female dorm rooms

If you are doing solo travel in Vietnam for the first time, or if you are a new solo female traveler, one of the ways to tackle anxiety is to share a dorm with fellow female travelers. You will feel safe; you can avoid unwanted, unpleasant encounters, and make awesome new female friends!

Vietnam’s culture is conservative 

As I mentioned earlier, Vietnam is still a conservative country, especially towards women, which is unfortunate in some instances. What does it mean as you do solo female travel in Vietnam? 

One thing is to dress as the locals do. Skimpy tops, tight clothes and shorts will draw stares, catcalls and propositions, and sometimes, locals might get offended too(although they might not say that out loud). 

So it is best to respect local culture and follow the rules, especially in religious places where you need to be covered from head to toe(including shoulders). As mentioned earlier, it is better to blend in than standing out while traveling alone in Vietnam or anywhere.

Make friends

One of the reasons why women hesitate to travel alone is that they feel lonely. Sure, it is partly true that you sometimes might feel lonely when you are traveling alone, but that should NOT stop you from taking solo trips. 

Because there are many remedies to beat this, if you are traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere and feel this way, go ahead and talk to people. You might find a new company to travel with, form excellent friendships and feel great about traveling alone as a female.

Avoid venturing out alone at night

Avoid going out on the streets alone at night, wherever the place is. Especially, don’t step out on empty streets or side lanes that are central houses for crime and danger. Main roads are better, but if you do want to go out, have someone to accompany you, but otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend you hitting the streets at night.

Even in bigger cities, most crimes and violence happen on the streets at night, so don’t venture out alone at night.

Draw attention if you are targeted

Stares and a few invasive questions and propositions are possible/standard towards solo female travelers in Vietnam, but things usually end there. 

But if you get harassed, or someone tries you to rob or harm you, don’t hesitate to shout and draw attention. Most likely, people will come to help you or intervene. You can then take the help of these locals to report the crime and instigate further action from the police.

Take the help of local women  – The women of Vietnam are some of the kindest and sweetest I have met on the road. They may not speak English, but they will have your back if need be and will make you feel welcomed and safe with their warmth and smiles.

You can rely on Vietnamese women if you ever encounter harassment by local men or fellow travelers in any way. You can walk to the nearest group of women or a woman and ask her for help; you will not be turned away for sure.

Solo travel in Vietnam – Other Frequently Asked Questions

Is public transport safe for solo travel in vietnam how to get around alone.

Vietnam is one of the countries in SE Asia with an excellent transport system. Almost all forms of transport are very easy to use and convenient. You will get to experience the authentic local life in Vietnam when you use them. 

The public transport might seem a bit of a hassle in some cities, but to compensate for it, there are plenty of other great options. It may not meet the luxury and flamboyance of the west, but it is not below par either.

Ease of transport is one of the reasons why you should do solo travel in Vietnam. You can book your transport easily at all hostels and hotels.

Different transport options in Vietnam and how to use them

One of the best experiences during your solo travel in Vietnam will be using trains. Trains are the gateway to experiencing local life at the closest level. The trains are old, and look like heritage monuments(they are because some of them are from colonial times) and run slowly, passing through stunning countryside throughout the country.

It is totally safe to travel on the train during your Vietnam solo trip. Some trains are the popular routes get crowded, but you can avoid this by booking a ticket in the first-class coach, which gives you better space and comfort for a slightly higher price. You can easily reserve your tickets online by selecting the berth and coach of your choice. The trains are not very hygienic(especially best to avoid toilets), but if it is unbearable, you can choose buses.

Overnight trains  – There are overnight sleeper trains(coaches with bed) between some cities, which I’d highly recommend as it saves your day and also your accommodation price. You can book this online, and it is safe to take trains if you are traveling alone in Vietnam. 

If you are a female solo traveler, and you are not comfortable to share a coach with someone, then request the ticket collector to move your seat.

Buses are the most convenient way to get around Vietnam between cities. Almost all the cities are well-connected, and there are different kinds of buses and minivans. It is best to book them at your hostels and hotels, which might charge minimal booking fees in addition, but these buses offer free pickup and drop from your hotel. And this is helpful if you are solo traveling in Vietnam as you will not have to run around carrying your luggage.

Overnight buses are quite popular among travelers, especially backpackers as they can be quickly booked, you get comfortable room and space(unless you are very tall), comes with air-con and free WiFi.

But note that some drivers are known for rash driving, and sometimes accidents occur. If these things scare you, it is better to opt for trains or fly if you get quickly.

Getting around within cities 

The best way to explore attractions in a city is to take a Grab bike, Grab taxi and tuk-tuks. Grab transport can be booked on their app, which is easy and accessible. Grab taxis are cheaper than local taxis and also scam-free. 

If you love driving, then I’d suggest you rent a motorbike and explore the city/town by yourself. Driving in Vietnam is one of the incredible experiences. In smaller cities like Ninh Binh, Hoi An or Hue, rent a bicycle in getting around is a fantastic experience as you pass slowly through the countryside meeting smiling and waving villagers.

In some destinations, you can visit all the places on foot too. But crossing the streets in Vietnam is intimidating, especially if you are new to SE Asia. There are no pedestrian paths; people don’t stop by for those on foot and no traffic signals, which means you can find walking a challenge. The best way to overcome this is to walk and cross the streets with the locals when they do.

Can I afford solo travel in Vietnam? Is it expensive?

Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in SE Asia, but it is still one of the cheapest countries to travel. The food is exceptionally affordable, and if you book in advance, even accommodation, flight and transport could be more reasonable too.

If you are a budget traveler, you can get by USD 12 to 15 per day. If you spend USD 25 to 40 per day, you can almost enjoy luxury travel in Vietnam in some places. 

When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

You can visit Vietnam almost throughout the year, as the country is diverse with different weather in different regions. In general, the best time to go to Vietnam in winter, from October to January. 

People also travel to Vietnam during spring, in March and April, but during these months, it tends to get hot in southern Vietnam. In winter, note that the north of Vietnam is cold, so pack some warm clothes.

How can I avoid scams as a solo traveler in Vietnam?

Like any other country, Vietnam has its share of scams targeted at tourists. The frauds were notorious and high a long time ago, but in recent years, scams are getting rarer, although not absent. 

Read more about the types of scams here. The only way to avoid getting scammed is to be vigilant and use your common sense. If you think things are too good to be true, then probably it is.

What are the best places in Vietnam for a solo female traveler?

To do solo travel in Vietnam, no specific itinerary is required as you can follow a general itinerary. All the places are ideal and safe for solo female travelers so that you can pick any.

I would suggest adding Hanoi, Ninh Binh Tam Coc, Phong Nha, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh if you have about 2 to 3 weeks.

Looking for detailed itineraries? Check out this post where I shared a comprehensive guide on spending 3 weeks in Vietnam , which I did solo. You can find routes for 1, 2 or 4 weeks too, so get them now!

If you are wondering while planning a solo trip to Vietnam for a week Should I visit North or South Vietnam, then it depends on your preferences,

Is tap water in Vietnam safe?

No,  do not drink tap water anywhere in Vietnam  as it is not safe. Always only drink bottled water. Do not please use plastic bottles and contribute to plastic consumption. Carry a container that can be refilled.

Is Vietnam food, safe – especially street food?

Food is one of the reasons why many people even travel to Vietnam! Not trying Vietnamese cuisine on your trip means missing out on a major thing. So don’t do it. Don’t go to Vietnam and not try the food there, because  food in Vietnam is safe.  Plus, the food is very cheap, even in restaurants, and street food is the most affordable. You can fill your belly with just 1 to 2 USD at once. 

Okay, so now that I convinced you to try local food, let me tell you a few things that you need to take care to keep your stomach safe.

If you have never tried SE Asian food before, especially street food, start slow. The key is to introduce food without slow and gentle into your system, and not all at once and going overboard. 

Begin trying Vietnamese food at restaurants that look neat, has a lot of excellent reviews and at places where you find many locals and tourists. These are indications that a restaurant is safe to try.

Avoid fried, spicy or adventurous menus in the beginning. Begin with Pho – rice noodles soup that comes in various variants(just vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Beef, Seafood, Egg). Slowly, begin trying more each day, still following the above rules of dining. 

Egg coffee, BBQ, steak, smoothies, fried fish balls, cold coffee with condensed milk and seafood BBQ are some of the things that you will commonly food among the street food menu, and they are worth giving a try.

Do not eat raw meat in any form – no matter how tempting or curious you are, including seafood.

If you want to eat fruits, buy them whole and cut them yourself. Don’t eat cut fruits. If you order smoothies, politely ask them to show the fruits and verify the condition of fruits by yourself before you get a smoothie.

It is common in SE Asia to find Buffet systems in markets, and even in restaurants. You will find a wide variety of cuisines all displayed(mostly many kinds of noodles, appetizers and soups). So when you see these, check if the food is hot, doesn’t look too colourful(artificial food colours) and the meat looks good. It is always best to eat food that is hot because it means that the food is fresh and you are safe.

When and if trying meat, stay away from the meat that you are not sure. If you can’t identify or trust what animal it came from, it is best to drop the idea of consuming it.

If you have allergies to specific items, it is best to research them before you try anything, and also communicate it with the restaurants to verify. 

Eat where the locals eat  – As mentioned earlier, check out places that are crowded, busy all the time, has plenty of good reviews and has a lot of locals because these places are usually safe to try local food.

Practice the basic hygiene  – Follow the routine hygiene that you do at home. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap or a hand sanitizer before you eat, check if the food is fresh, mind your portions, and experiment in moderation(in the beginning) and everything will be good!

Carry necessary medicines  – You must carry essential medicines while travelling solo in Vietnam, but along with them, also take some medications if you get a bad stomach.

Keep a tab on alcohol  – Not to sound like a party spoiler or a grandma, but watch the drink that you consume. Vietnam is home to some of the most potent liquor, especially home-made rice wines or whiskey, which has high alcohol percentages. So while trying these, keep your quantity in check, especially if you are doing solo travel in Vietnam.

Sometimes, the places with a lot of crowds, too many tables, food out in the open may make you hesitate and give doubts, but these don’t mean anything. It is a part of Vietnamese culture to gather around out on the streets and eat together. Follow your hygiene and interact with locals and watch the way they have fun!

Solo travel in Vietnam – Final thoughts

If you are still wondering why should you do solo travel in Vietnam, let me summarize things for you:

• Vietnam is safe for solo travel.
• There is a well-marked tourist trail.
• People are friendly and warm
• Solo travel in Vietnam is cheap
• And finally, Vietnamese food is out of the world.

Here are some other resources to help you plan your Vietnam trip

The Ultimate 3 Weeks Vietnam Itinerary(+ Other tips & details)

Your Packing List For Vietnam(For Both Men & Women)

95 Fantastic Things to do in Vietnam

30 Things No One Tells You About Vietnam

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Why to consider solo travel in Vietnam (and what to expect)

If I’m being honest with you, I was intimidated about planning my very first trip to Southeast Asia.

I knew I wanted to go see beaches in Thailand and temples in Cambodia, and to don some baggy elephant-print pants (I mean, it’s pretty much required, right?). But even though Southeast Asia has been firmly on the backpacker trail for decades, it was worlds away from the places I was comfortable traveling in – and that made it a little bit daunting.

Making it even more daunting was the fact that Vietnam was the country in Southeast Asia that I wanted to visit the most. As a woman, I’m often questioned about my decision to travel alone. But as an American woman, I felt I’d be questioned even more than usual by friends and family once I told them that I wanted to travel to Vietnam .

So I did what I often do when a destination seems intimidating: rather than go 100% solo, I booked a tour to Vietnam instead. The 10-day  Vietnam Express Southbound tour I chose would cover all the sights and cities I wanted to see in Vietnam, but with a local guide to handle all of the logistics and some built-in travel buddies to hang out with. Afterwards, I would do another tour in Cambodia, and then be confident enough to travel through Thailand on my own.

Hoi An, Vietnam

After the trip, though, I realized that I had nothing to fear about traveling in Vietnam either as a solo traveler OR as an American. My experience there was nothing but positive, and it’s a country that I continually dream of returning to.

Here’s why I think you should visit Vietnam (whether completely solo or solo on a small group tour ), and what it’s really like to travel there:

There is an established “tourist trail”

Even though Vietnam at first seemed way outside my comfort zone, the truth is that there’s already an established tourist trail that hits all the main sites in Vietnam. If you decide to travel solo, there’s no need to stress about where to go.

The main sites on Vietnam’s tourist trail include places like Hanoi , Ha Long Bay, Hoi An , Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. Other stops worth making include Hue, beach towns like Nha Trang and Mui Ne , and the highlands of the Sapa region. If you want to get slightly off the beaten path, check out places like Bai Tu Long (an alternative to the popular Ha Long Bay), Phu Quoc Island, or Ha Giang.

There are plenty of touristy activities and experiences in Vietnam, too. Some of my favorite things to do along the tourist trail in Vietnam included kayaking in Ha Long Bay, visiting the Imperial Citadel in Hue, getting custom clothing made in Hoi An, taking a boat ride through the Mekong Delta, and going on a couple of bike tours into the more rural parts of the country.

And, because there’s an established tourist trail, it means that you’ll have the chance to meet other travelers in Vietnam – and because Vietnam is still an emerging destination for travelers, the types of people you meet there will always be intrepid and interesting. In my tour group, we had people of all ages and nationalities, with the commonality being that we were all pretty much up for anything, whether it was dressing up in traditional costumes for a “Royal Banquet Dinner” in Hue, or settling onto plastic stools for steaming bowls of roadside pho in Hanoi.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP TOURS IN VIETNAM

The tourism infrastructure is good

Vietnam is not quite as developed (or, in some cases over-developed) as nearby Thailand, but it still has all the basic infrastructure you need as a tourist. If you’re traveling solo, you can travel between most cities by train or bus (though note that neither of these will be particularly luxurious), and you can get around cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by ride share (or, more correctly, motorbike-share).

Ho Chi Minh City by night

Restaurants in major cities will usually offer English translations of their menus, and staples like free wifi and comfortable hotels abound right alongside street food stands.

It was nice to have a local guide to help get from Point A to Point B in Vietnam (especially since I was visiting during Tet, when many local businesses were closed for the New Year celebrations), but an experienced traveler could also manage on their own since the main sights on Vietnam’s developing tourist trail are fairly well-connected.

READ MORE: ADVENTURE LOVER? HERE’S WHY YOUR NEXT TRIP SHOULD BE IN VIETNAM

It’s also worth noting that tourism is a fast-growing industry in Vietnam. In 2017, the government pledged the equivalent of $1.3 billion to put towards tourism development between now and 2020, so I predict the ease of travel in Vietnam to only improve in the next couple of years.

An Intrepid group loving life in Vietnam!

READ MORE: 5 UNDERRATED, BEAUTIFUL SPOTS TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

The people are welcoming

One of my biggest fears about visiting Vietnam related to me being an American. All through high school, I learned about the Vietnam War and the United States’ fight against communism in Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, though, that same war is referred to as the “American War,” or even the “War of American Aggression.” Even though I wasn’t alive for this war, I worried that Vietnamese locals who remembered it might not take kindly to me.

These fears were completely unfounded, though. I found Vietnamese people to be warm and welcoming, even when they found out which country I called home.

One of Intrepid’s many local leaders in Vietnam

Some of my favorite memories from Vietnam revolve around the people: having lunch in a local home, where all the neighborhood kids stopped by to give us high-fives; making jokes with the local chef who gave us a cooking lesson in Hoi An; randomly stopping to play a game of soccer with kids during a rural bike ride; and of course getting to know my tour guide, Hai, who was not only a wealth of knowledge about Vietnam, but also had an infectious love for his home country. He was always so excited about every place we were visiting that it was impossible not to catch his enthusiasm.

Is it safe to visit Vietnam?

Like most of Southeast Asia, Vietnam is safe. It’s of course always a gross over-generalization to say that an entire country is either safe or unsafe, but Vietnam is overall a relatively safe place to travel, even when you’re traveling solo. The biggest things to look out for are common scams that try to rip off tourists and petty theft like pickpocketing, but violent crime is quite rare.

My solo adventures in Vietnam included wandering around local markets in Hue , going out at night to meet friends who weren’t on my tour in Hoi An, and organizing my own “tour” to the Reunification Palace and some other sites in Ho Chi Minh City.

Exploring Hue solo

My tour through Vietnam had us visiting the most popular parts of the country, and while having a guide to warn us about places where we might want to keep a closer eye on our belongings was helpful, I certainly wouldn’t classify anywhere in Vietnam as “dangerous” for tourists.

READ MORE: 6 COMMON SCAMS IN VIETNAM (& HOW TO AVOID THEM)

There’s interesting history AND great food

Lastly, Vietnam’s history goes far beyond the Vietnam War. Yes, you can partake in war tourism in various places across the country, but you can also learn a lot about Vietnam’s earlier history, too.

For example, you can learn about Vietnam’s dynastic history in Hue, where the Imperial Citadel at one point was like the Forbidden City in China, and where you can still see royal tombs. In Hoi An, you can visit what was at one time the most important trading ports in all of Southeast Asia, dealing in exotic spices and intricate ceramics. And in Ho Chi Minh City you can visit places like City Hall and the Central Post Office to see remnants of Vietnam’s French colonial past.

Ho Chi Minh City

And of course Vietnam’s history has influenced its food, as well – Vietnamese food is one of my absolute favorites! Enjoy roadside pho, fresh spring rolls, banh mi, and of course Vietnamese coffee , which is served and enjoyed in abundance all across the country (coffee lovers, rejoice!).

What is solo travel in Vietnam like?

Vietnam is welcoming to solo travellers, and it’s a great place to explore alone. With its great tourism infrastructure, welcoming people and amazing food, its a great destination to travel solo.

While I enjoyed exploring Vietnam on a small group tour (and definitely feel like it was the right choice for me at the time), I definitely believe that Vietnam is a solo-friendly destination and look forward to returning there again soon!

Ready to explore incredible Vietnam? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours here . (Want to travel with other solo travelers? We have a Vietnam trip just for solo adventurers!)

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Amanda Williams, Intrepid Travel x4, Amanda Williams x2.)

Amanda Williams

Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business , a travel blog that aims to inspire people to fit more travel and adventure into the lifestyle they already have. Since starting her blog in 2010, Amanda has traveled to more than 50 countries on six continents from her home base in Ohio, and in 2018 won the Silver Award for Best Travel Blog in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition, hosted by SATW.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Are you looking for a destination with equal parts adventure, culture, and delicious food? Look no further than a solo trip to Vietnam !

The Vietnamese are known for being super friendly, so it’s no wonder this is a favorite destination for solo travelers. Don’t be surprised if you start a conversation with a local and spend the day chatting over Vietnamese coffee!

There are so many benefits to solo travel. Firstly, you don’t need to pander to anyone else’s itinerary. You get to do whatever you want, without anyone judging your choices.

Secondly, traveling solo is a character-building adventure like no other. You’ll be surprised by how empowered and independent you will feel after navigating a foreign country alone (with only Google Translate as your trusty sidekick).

Vietnam is a melting pot of history, cuisine, and gorgeous natural scenery – from beaches to lush landscapes, rolling rice terraces, and exquisite nature reserves. Oh, and did I mention that the exchange rate will almost certainly be in your favor?

Let’s dive into your ultimate guide to traveling Vietnam on your own!

5 Things to Do in Vietnam When Traveling Solo

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Vietnam has an adventurous spirit, often shared by the travelers who visit here. Whatever your interests – you’ll find a treasure trove of fantastic activities based on culture, history, or natural beauty. It wasn’t easy narrowing it down, but here is my top 5 best Vietnam solo travel suggestions:

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1. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are underground passages built during the Vietnam War. The tunnels shine a light on Vietnam’s wartime past, as well as the resilience of its people. The tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War as a base of operations and hiding spot for Viet Cong soldiers. 

Taking a Cu Chi Tunnels tour makes for a fascinating day trip if you’re staying in Ho Chi Minh and is a great opportunity to meet friends, but is not recommended for those with claustrophobia! The tunnels stretch for miles and include spaces that were used for living, storage, cooking, and even as hospitals. Get ready to crawl! 

2. Spend a Night in an Authentic Junk at Ha Long Bay

Don’t miss the chance to spend a night on an authentic junk (sailing boat) in Ha Long Bay. It’s a solo traveler’s dream, offering a serene escape from the country’s busy cityscapes. 

Take a moment to relax and unwind from your travels while you watch a breathtaking sunset over the misty karsts.

3. Watch a Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Puppet shows don’t only have to be for children! The magic of Vietnamese culture comes to life through the unique water puppetry at the Thang Long Theater. 

This is a must-do for solo travelers in Vietnam looking for a taste of culture. The intricate puppets bring age-old tales to life against a backdrop of traditional music and sparkling waters. It’s an unmissable cultural experience! 

4. Sip on a Bowl of Pho at the Hoi An Night Market

I have really highlighted the street food scene in Vietnam, and for good reason! If you’re staying in Hoi An , a trip to the Hoi An Night Market is a feast for your senses. Join the communal dining scene, engage with locals, and sample some authentic pho. 

This iconic dish is a steaming bowl of Vietnamese soup featuring delicate rice noodles and an aromatic broth infused with local spices. The best part about pho in Vietnam is that you can customize your dish! Choose to add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of Sriracha. As you sip the broth, you will quickly understand why pho is the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Experience the Power of Nature at the Ban Gioc Waterfalls

The Ban Gioc Waterfalls are any nature-lover’s paradise. Nestled in a lush landscape near the border of China and Vietnam, these majestic falls are truly breathtaking! 

The roar of crashing water rushing over the cascading terraces is a sound you won’t soon forget. The journey to the waterfalls is an adventure in itself. Join a multi-day organized tour to best experience the falls or are looking for a more convenient way to explore.

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Whether exploring bustling cities or the gorgeous countryside, traveling in Vietnam is always an adventure. Read on for my recommendations of places not to be missed:

Everyone backpacking in Vietnam should visit Hoi An . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site – so it’s no wonder it feels like stepping into a storybook. This city on Vietnam’s central coast has well-preserved architecture and a unique atmosphere – including the iconic lantern-lit streets. From mouth-watering street food around every corner to tailors who can whip up custom-made outfits in no time – you’re in for a budget-friendly treat.

As mentioned, Hoi An’s street food scene is legendary. Visit the Hoi An Night Market, and be sure to try a crispy banh mi roll or a spring roll fresh out of the fryer. Once you’re full to the brim with delicious street food, why not join a traditional lantern-making class?

You can’t say you’ve visited Hoi An without joining a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River. The twinkling lights of boats against the backdrop of fiery oranges and pinks as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic.

Ideal for a solo trip to Vietnam, SnapStay Hoi An is within walking distance of the ancient town. This hostel has a beautiful rooftop bar looking over the city lights – it’s the perfect place to connect with other travelers. 

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is another UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is known for its iconic towering limestone rock formations that jut out from the emerald waters.

Join an affordable boat cruise for the day, or stay overnight on a traditional Vietnamese junk (a type of traditional sailboat, and by no means junk!). Alternatively, if your arms are up for it, explore the bay yourself by hiring a kayak. For the early birds, a sunrise over the magically misty bay is an unmissable experience.

The culinary scene in Ha Long is a seafood extravaganza! Sample the fresh catch of the day, from prawns to fish and even squid – all without breaking the bank. Dine outside and enjoy the fresh sea air for a truly Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Fancy Hostel has friendly English-speaking staff and an in-house travel agent who will happily help you organize your activities. It’s located on the mainland at the gateway to the majestic bay and is a top place to stay for those traveling solo in Vietnam.

Hanoi is LEGENDARY. Vietnam’s capital city is one of my personal favorite cities in the world. It’s only a two to three-hour drive inland from Ha Long Bay. Once again, there is an abundance of affordable great hostels , and budget-friendly street food reigns supreme here. It can be somewhat chaotic as a large city, but you will find respite from the hustle and bustle in Hanoi’s numerous temples and green spaces.

Hanoi is a place of contrasts – where ancient temples stand alongside the vibrant pulse of modern life. The perfect blend of tradition and buzz! 

Be sure to visit the Old Quarter – with its maze-like alleys, craft stores, and quirky cafes. When you’re ready for a moment of zen, find your way to the Hoan Kiem Lake – an oasis between the continuous honking of motorbikes.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is a superb spot to stay, featuring free walking tours, local cooking classes, and a daily happy hour with free beer! What’s not to love?

Sa Pa is a trekking paradise and a must-visit for any nature-loving and adventurous travelers. Located in the country’s north, it is home to breathtaking rice terraces, and fascinating local villages dotted between misty mountains. There are plenty of treks and hiking options available which, luckily, cater to all skill and fitness levels (phew!). 

The locals here are passionate about sharing their customs and culture. You may enjoy learning some local weaving techniques or tasting a traditional home-cooked meal. Markets like Sa Pa Market or the Bac Ha Sunday Market are host to a plethora of handmade crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs to take home.

Sa Pa has many beautiful natural wonders for adventurous solo travelers in Vietnam to explore – including the Silver Waterfall and the iconic Love Waterfall. For unbeatable views, join a challenging trek (or opt for the cable car instead) to the top of Fansipan Mountain – known as the ‘Roof of Indochina.’ Treat yourself to a massage or herbal bath at a local spa to unwind after this active adventure.

Saigonese Trekking Hostel is a great hostel option in central Sa Pa. The friendly staff will be ready and waiting to assist you with your trekking bookings.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s most populous city, situated in the country’s Southern region. This vibrant metropolis, formerly known as Saigon (and still lovingly called this by locals), boasts an eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. This combined with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to delve into the city’s unique past provides a wonderfully diverse HCMC travel itinerary .

This isn’t the first or last time I will mention affordable and delicious street food in this article, but it really is a Vietnamese staple! Chat with curious street vendors, and be sure to sample a Vietnamese iced coffee. As with other major Vietnamese cities, you’ll find many bustling market streets where the unrelenting sound of motorbike honks becomes unnoticeable.

Saigon Authentic Hostel is a perfect place to stay to connect with fellow travelers. Ask at the hostel tour desk for recommendations for a day trip to the Mekong River Delta – where you’ll find lush landscapes and picturesque floating markets. Another fascinating day trip from Ho Chi Minh is to the Cu Chi tunnels.

• Hostelworld : Your go-to for booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb: Ideal for finding hotel and bed and breakfast options
• Couchsurfer: An exciting option for budget travelers to meet locals, but not recommended for solo female travelers in Vietnam
• GetYourGuide: Useful for lining up tours and day trips
• Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder: Great for meeting singles and other solo travelers in your vicinity
• Grab: Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber, especially useful in busy cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• XE Currency: To keep track of currency conversions into the Vietnamese Dong
• Vietnammm: A top app for ordering takeout food from local restaurants
• Foody: To help you discover local restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls
• ToursByLocals: To connect with local guides for personalized tours and experiences
• Smart Bus HCMC: Info on public bus routes, schedules, and stops in Ho Chi Minh City
• Vietnam e-Visa: The official app to apply for and manage your Vietnam visa application online
• Vietnam Traffic Live: To get real-time traffic updates, handy for navigating the bustling streets of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

You should also consider joining Facebook groups specific to Vietnam’s travel and ex-pat scene- such as Backpacking Vietnam, Vietnam Travel Planning, or Hanoi Massive. 

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Traveling Vietnam alone will no doubt be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but safety precautions are key. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and use a money belt to keep valuables close to you. 

While Vietnam is generally safe , solo female travelers in Vietnam are advised to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. Female travelers should also dress modestly to respect local customs. 

As always, opt for reputable accommodations and transportation options. Let someone know your whereabouts and plans by sharing your ‘live location.’ 

Remember the basics: avoid leaving drinks unattended, use official taxis, and trust your instincts – if a situation doesn’t feel right, there is usually a good reason.

• Book yourself into some exciting hostels for at least 50% of your nights in the country. Vietnam is full of eccentric and affordable hostels – such as The One Hostel & Rooftop Pool Hanoi , which features a rooftop pool – perfect for cooling off and meeting fellow solo travelers. Alternatively, take the slide instead of the stairs at Meander Saigon in Ho Chi Minh. They also offer a free walking tour of the city every Sunday!
• Pre-book a few activities and adventures to plan your trip around. As a solo traveler in Vietnam, this is also a great way to make new friends. It is also a fantastic way to safely explore the natural beauty that Vietnam has to offer. For the thrill-seekers out there; take a trip to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to explore the underground world of caves, including the largest cave in the world. If you prefer expansive views, consider an organized hike like this trekking through rice terrace fields tour.
• Have flexibility in your itinerary. You want to allow yourself to go with the flow based on who you meet and what you discover along the way. I have no doubt that you will find the best hidden gems while exploring well beyond the popular tourist spots.
• Plan your own trip. While extensive research is always useful – crafting an unforgettable trip comes down to your own interests and what you’d like to gain from your travels. Maybe you’d prefer a yoga retreat over an adventurous backpacking trek. The choice is yours! 
• Be sure to join walking tours in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An. Try and book a free walking tour through your hostel – it’s a great way to explore the bustling streets and learn about the history of where you are while gaining some valuable insider info and meeting new friends.
• Get clued up on the diverse religious beliefs of locals in Vietnam. When visiting temples or sacred sites, dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions. Solo female travelers in Vietnam should be especially aware of this.
• Don’t be afraid to use friendship settings on dating apps like Hinge or Bumble to connect with like-minded travelers. You never know; your new backpacking bestie might be on the other side of the app!
• Prepare for the weather . Vietnam is a long, skinny country that experiences a range of climates. Winters can be chilly, while summers are hot and humid. Central Vietnam has a rainy season, which brings some storms. A safe bet is to visit during the dry season.
• Get good travel insurance! Good travel insurance is essential for solo backpackers, wherever you are going. If you’re on your own, make sure you’ve got your own back!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Be open and up for the task. The key to meeting people while traveling solo is to be friendly and approachable. Step outside your comfort zone and strike up a conversation. My usual ‘in’ is to ask another traveler to take my picture! 
• Stay in a hostel. When deciding where to stay in Vietnam , I always opt for hostels. Not only are they dirt cheap, but this is a sure way to meet other solo travelers . Most hostels have communal spaces like bars and restaurants and also organize tours for guests to join.
• Join group tours. This could be a free walking tour of a city or a more adventurous tour like a trek or river rafting excursion. Tours are a great way to meet other tourists with similar interests! 
• Explore shared spaces. Coffee shops or communal workspaces are the perfect setting to meet other travelers. You’ll never meet anyone if you stay in your hotel room! 
• Join a pub crawl or food tour. Delicious food and cold beers bring people together, right? Even if you aren’t a drinker, these food-based activities are a fun and relaxed way to connect with fellow explorers. 
• Sign up for a few workshops. One of the best Vietnam solo travel tips is that the country offers fantastic skill-building classes like cooking and traditional crafts. Look out for ones that include communal dining at the end – where you enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants.
• Use social media and apps . Facebook is a great place to find events in your area, while dating apps can be switched to ‘friend mode’ to connect with others traveling solo.
• Volunteer … Volunteering in Vietnam is elite! Not only will you walk away with the warm feeling of giving back, but you might gain a new like-minded friend, too.

Vietnam truly is a solo traveler’s paradise. There is something for everyone – foodies, adrenaline junkies, hikers, culture and history enthusiasts, and yoga and wellness advocates. It doesn’t hurt that travel, accommodation, and food in Vietnam are so affordable.

Vietnam is a cultural melting pot of influences that has been woven together over centuries. From ancient times, Chinese settlers brought tea and other cultural influences. The colonization of Vietnam by the French left behind a legacy of European architecture, baguettes, and even coffee culture!

If you’re worried about getting lost in translation, fear not! Google Translate and some good old-fashioned charades will become your new besties. The language barrier might seem like a challenge, but it also opens up opportunities for unexpected friendships.

The Vietnamese are also well known for their hospitality, for good reason. Locals are passionate about sharing their culture, history, and traditions – which makes for an immersive experience where you truly feel connected to the country and its people. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Vietnam solo travel today!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

2 June 2023 · In: Asia , Travel , Vietnam

A perfect solo travel guide with everything you need to know for backpacking Vietnam on your own! 

Backpacking a new country alone can be scary and intimidating – and I get it! I have been afraid to solo travel for a long time, but once you have done it, it provides an incredible feeling, and you will want to do it again.

Whether it is your first time in Vietnam or you have been several times, this country is incredible to explore as a solo (and female) backpacker. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are welcoming, the lifestyle is affordable and getting around is safe and easy – all the attributes you want for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I share all the inspiration and tips you need to create an unforgettable solo experience in Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

Accommodation for solo travel

Best tours & activities, vietnam overview.

Capital : Hanoi

Currency : Vietnamese Dong (VND) / 1 GBP = 29,061 VND 

Power plug : type A, C and F

Visa : visa-free for up to 15 days for a few countries. If not or staying up to 30 days, online visa with a fee of $25.

Language : Vietnamese (with a few people speaking English)

Transportation : mainly motorbikes, buses and trains – or planes if far distance.

Internet : hotels offer free wifi. Otherwise, good signal everywhere.

SIM card : 3 main providers which include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.

Travel duration : I would suggest at least 2 weeks.

Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit  and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

I visited the country with my friend Kwelan for 3 weeks, travelling through the north and some remote areas. Kwelan arrived before me and was alone for a few days, and she left before me, so I was alone on my last day. 

Together or alone, we always felt safe , even in small villages hidden in the mountains with no tourists nearby – and even at night.

Yes, many locals were staring at us, but  they were all so friendly and welcoming , waving at us as we walked past their houses. When we were lost, they also helped us. For example, the bus always asked us for the address of our hotel to drop us off in front of it, which was so kind. Plus, most locals did not speak English, but they did not care – we communicated through Google Translate. 

However, like in any other country,  be aware of your surroundings . Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport. Keep your belongings safe as there may be some pickpockets around. For example, on the sleeping bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Otherwise, we never had any problems – quite the contrary. We once forgot the key to our scooter and left it on the engine, and a local kept it until we got back. I also never felt afraid to leave my big backpack at the reception of the guesthouses. I was a bit conscious at first, but after doing it for a few days, I did not mind (and I had my computer in it!).

Also,  do not be scared if Vietnamese people are a bit too forward or pushy . There are times when you may be greeted by a crowd of taxi drivers or locals who want you to join them for a tour, especially when you get off the bus in Sapa. Politely decline and continue your journey. 

One place we felt a bit overwhelmed was on Cat Ba Island . We decided to go to the beach once there, and it was a weird experience. The place was full of locals, mostly men. There were a few women, but they stayed on the beach or, if in the water, they were fully dressed. So, when two female tourists arrived with their bikinis on, everyone was staring – even though we were in our corner reading our books. I could not stand it at one point as people were coming and standing next to us, so I just went for a walk. 

I want to mention that this was the only place this happened. We returned to the beach multiple times, including Hoi An, and we never were in this situation again.

Overall, Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers . The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure. We connected with many people from around the world on our trip, and it was great! As a result, you can shape your experience however you want and make friends along the way. 

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Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable solo trip in Vietnam.

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination

1- it is a safe place to visit.

As mentioned earlier,  Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers . Therefore, you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

My friend Kwelan and I always felt safe, whether we were exploring a small mountain village at night or on a local bus with no tourists nearby. 

2- The locals are friendly & welcoming

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming, always ready to help . Even though most of them do not speak English, they will go above and beyond for others. 

For example, the local bus always dropped us off in front of our hotel to make sure we were safe, which I thought was so kind. Locals were also waving at us, and some asked if they could take photos with us – you can, of course, say no. 

We also had the chance to do the Ha Giang loop with two locals, and it was a great experience. We learned a lot from them and stopped at different local homes for lunch or overnight, which allowed us to connect with their culture and customs on a deeper level. 

Vietnamese people have such a positive energy. Their generosity warmed my heart so much! 💚

3- It is incredibly affordable 

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries I have ever visited . Life is incredibly affordable, which means you can sleep in a nice hotel if you do not feel comfortable in a hostel with dorms. 

It also means you can easily shape your adventure around you and your budget whilst being able to join tours and meet other people without breaking your wallet.

4- You will meet other backpackers

Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route  encompassing the top sites in the country, especially along the coast. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your adventure, whether on the bus, at guesthouses or one of those sites. 

Whilst backpacking north Vietnam, we had the chance to meet many travellers, who were in a group or alone. It was so fun connecting with like-minded people in different places and exchanging our experiences.

And that is one thing I love about this country! You can solo travel and stay alone, or you can meet others on your trip and continue together – the choice is yours. 

5- It has excellent tourist infrastructure

Vietnam has all the infrastructure you need as a tourist . It has a good transportation network allowing you to travel between cities by bus or train, offers many restaurants and bars with an English menu and free wifi and has a thriving hostel scene where you can connect with other backpackers. 

You will also find plenty of possible tours and activities on your trip, which is another excellent way to meet people. 

Tips for a safe solo trip in Vietnam

Here are a few extra tips for a safe and comfortable trip in Vietnam as a solo traveller: 

1- Buy a SIM card & stay connected

Even though Vietnam is a great place to get away from it all and unwind, it is still a good idea to purchase a SIM card upon arrival and stay connected with your friends or family. Let them know your plans and where or what you are going. It will give you an extra sense of security. 

2- Do not carry too much cash

You can easily use your credit card in Vietnam, but having cash on you is also necessary, especially in remote places. However, I would suggest not carrying all your money on yourself at once and making several withdrawals during your trip. If it does not work for you, keep your cash safe in your bag or at your hotel.

3- Be mindful when carrying your bag

Shoulder bags can be an easy target for pickpockets. If you have valuable items, I would recommend carrying a backpack with secure pockets or carrying it across your chest. The other option would be to carry a cross-body bag or belt bag – many travellers had these, and they seemed super practical.  

4- Do your research

Being prepared is essential for a safe and smooth trip! Research the local culture, customs and places to visit, learn more travel tips (like this one) and avoid booking your accommodation at the last minute. Read reviews to find the best dorm hostels for backpackers and solo female travellers.

5- Watch our belongings

Like in any other country, Vietnam can have a few pickpockets and petty crime, especially in busy tourist places and on night buses. Always pay attention to your personal belongings and valuables, and keep them close to you in these situations. In crowded areas, keep your hands on your bag in a secure position. 

6- Drink alcohol in moderation

Vietnam is an incredible place to go out after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. It is also a great way to have fun and meet other people. However, when travelling alone, I suggest being mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially as a solo female backpacker. 

7- Get travel insurance

Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with travel insurance that will cover you in case of emergency. Here is one of my favourite providers:  Nomad Insurance . 

8- Do not drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

How much does a solo trip to Vietnam cost?

It will highly depend on your travel lifestyle and expectations. The good thing about Vietnam is that  the country is incredibly affordable to explore , from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. 

For example, the most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ per night in Hoi An. It included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet. 

Here are a few tips for staying on your budget: 

• Get a travel-friendly bank card (to reduce your fees)
• Stay in hostels & travel by bus (to keep your cost down)
• Volunteer (check out Workaway )
• House-sit (check out Trusted Housesitters )

How to make friends on a solo trip to Vietnam?

Making friends whilst travelling solo in Vietnam is easy ! The country is full of open and like-minded backpackers ready to connect with others. There are many ways to meet them, here are a few: 

• On the bus : you will meet other travellers getting around by bus, especially the night bus. If some want more privacy, you will find people happy to chat with you. 
• At hostels and guesthouses : it is how we met most of our friends from our trip across Vietnam. Hostels and guesthouses in the country are warm and welcoming and the perfect place to exchange with other travellers. 
• On tours and activities : another great way to make new friends is to join a tour or activity where you would be able to meet other adventurers like you. 
• At bars and restaurants : if you like going out and partying, those could also be great places to meet other backpackers who enjoy exploring and dancing the night out. 

Planning your solo backpacking trip to Vietnam

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to visit Vietnam is in  spring (March-April)  and  Autumn (September-November)  when the weather is dry but not too hot, perfect for backpacking and outdoor activities. Plus, these seasons are ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to capture scenic landscapes with vibrant colours.

However, as Vietnam is a long and narrow country, its weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August)  is the hottest season, with harsh sunshine. These months are generally the best for relaxing at the beach but not hiking, as the weather will be hot and humid, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.
• Winter (December – February)  is the coldest season, with chilling winds or heavy rain, especially in the north and mountainous regions. You will also find some snow in a few places, like Sapa. 
• Spring (February – May)  is the best time to see the flower season in Vietnam. The temperatures will rise slowly, and the sunshine will be pleasant with clear blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with lush fields and blooming spring flowers, making the country particularly beautiful.
• Autumn (September – November)  is one of the best seasons to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather where the colours gradually change and temperatures lower, but still a lovely time for exploration and outdoor activities.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements will depend on where you live. Here is an overview:

When visiting Vietnam, your passport must be valid  for 6 months from the date of your arrival . Plus, make sure it is in good condition. 

Vietnam has made it easy for tourists to arrive with its  visa-free policy , which means you can enter the country for  up to 15 days  for tourism and business without needing to apply for a visa. The list includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway,  the United Kingdom , France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.

If you are not on the list or want to stay in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you can apply for an  e-visa through the  online portal . Those electronic visas are only valid for stays of  up to 30 days  with a single entry, as you must select your entry and exit points when applying.

E-visas are super simple and fast. The fee is  25 USD , and the processing time is  3 working days . You will then receive your code by email to print your visa, which you need to enter and leave the country.

If you are staying longer or have questions, check out your government website or contact them. 

How to get to Vietnam

The best way to get to Vietnam is by plane , with frequent flights landing in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. 

As you can imagine, prices can be high depending on where you live, so book your ticket in advance using  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows you to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

I departed from Paris, and my flight was 500€ (which I only booked two months before going). I had a transfer in Thailand, which was easy and quick. The first flight lasted 11h, and the second was 1h30.

How to travel around Vietnam

The bus is the best way to get around Vietnam . It is a cheap, easy and safe way to travel around the country, especially if you do not know how to ride a motorbike on your own.

The bus network runs across the whole country and makes it possible to reach remote villages hidden in the mountains. Local buses are also the main way for Vietnamese people to access distant places and transport goods, which means you can go along with them and hop on one of these buses (be careful in the mountains, everyone was sick!).

And because Vietnam is a lengthy country, you can use sleeper buses. They are super practical to make the most of your trip and not waste time on transport. Inside these buses, you will find small beds where you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during your journey. They are incredibly convenient and cheap, perfect for long night trips. 

Booking local or sleeper buses is easy – ask the reception of your hotel or guesthouse. They will reserve the bus for you, wherever you are. It is one of the safest and most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam. 

And if you want more premium buses, check out  Baolau  and  12go.asia . They provide express minibuses and vans, which are more comfortable and private.

2- By motorbike 

The other best way to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike . However, it might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and will depend on your biking level. 

The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts can be challenging with foggy, cold and wet weather. Keep in mind that accidents are common, so drive slowly! We came across a traveller who had a serious fall and had to go to the hospital. 

On the other hand, travelling across Vietnam on a motorbike is an excellent way to move freely and stop where and when you want! 

I recommend you read beforehand about exploring on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent or buy one, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

3- By train

Another safe way to get around Vietnam is by train . Trains run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. On the other hand, they are a good alternative if no bus is available or to get to a city faster. 

Check the timetables in advance and book your ticket online or ask the reception of your hotel. 

I believe you will also find trains with sleeping cabins for longer journeys. I have never experienced it in Vietnam, so if you have, please let me know in the comments below with any tips or suggestions you have.

How to travel around cities & regions

Travelling within cities and regions is easy and safe. Here are a few options: 

The easiest way to get around each city is on foot . It will allow you to slow travel and soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings. And if you love taking photos, it is the best way to wander and capture candids. Plus, some areas offer beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities.

2- By motorbike

Another way to travel around is by   motorbike . You can easily rent one at the reception of your hotel or guesthouse and start exploring the area. However, be mindful when driving as some roads can be in poor condition, such as Sapa, where the weather is often cloudy and foggy.

If you are not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself and the place you want to reach is a bit far,  use a Grab  (the equivalent of an Uber)  or taxi . You can download the app or just book it in person, you will have many taxis waiting around.

4- With a local guide

Finally, if you are unsure about exploring on your own, feel free to  hire a local guide  who will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to trek through rice terraces on a day trip or multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach remote places.  

What to pack for a solo Vietnam trip

The best way to backpack Vietnam in any season and enjoy this beautiful country is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you pack is essential. Therefore, here are some clothing items and gear you might need to be comfortable on your solo backpacking trip: 

• Good backpack : the most essential item when going backpacking! I would advise having a  good spacious bag  suitable for you and comfortable. I would also suggest having a smaller bag with you when you explore around, as you can leave your heavy backpack at the guesthouse or hotel.
• Comfortable walking shoes : another important item, especially if you like hiking. In any case, I believe having comfortable shoes is a must when exploring a city or joining an excursion. And if you can, try to find an eco-friendly and vegan alternative.
• Mosquito repellent : you will quickly find out that mosquitos are everywhere in Vietnam and quite aggressive! Bring a good mosquito repellent with you to protect your skin from bites.
• Filtered water bottle : tap water is NOT safe to drink in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated wherever you are.
• Sunscreen : protecting your skin from the sun is non-negotiable! So bring a  zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreen  with you, which reduces plastic waste and keeps you healthy by removing harmful components.
• Travel towel : a great item for any adventure, from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains. A  quick-drying towel  made from eco-friendly fibres or recycled materials is a must-have and a perfect all-in-one option. 
• Portable charger : having gear charged on your backpacking trip is essential to capturing your beautiful adventure and coming home with unforgettable memories. That is when solar chargers come in handy! Check out  Goal Zero  and  Anker . 

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Shop the editable travel packing list

Be prepared for your perfect solo Vietnam trip 🎒

When travelling alone, I understand that finding suitable accommodation where you feel safe and comfortable is a must! Here are some options:

• Hostel : you will find many affordable and high-quality hostels all over Vietnam, even in remote places. Hostels were our favourite places to stay as we loved their welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to meet other travellers.  
• Guesthouse & Hotel : from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels, you will have plenty of choices depending on your lifestyle and budget. We stayed in a few of them on our journey, and they were cosy and private. 

The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com .  We used this platform whilst backpacking across the north, and it was perfect! 

We decided to choose where we wanted to stay each night on the same day, booking at the last minute. I was always amazed by how low the prices were and could not believe it! The most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ a night in Hoi An, and it included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet – not too bad!! We loved it so much that we stayed an extra night.

Best things to do in Vietnam for solo travel

Top places to visit.

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam , a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

Personal experience – I did not spend a lot of time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was extremely hot and humid, and it was hard to breathe. Plus, the noise and smell were intense and challenging to deal with. However, I still enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

Things to do & see in Hanoi:

• Walk through the Old Quarter
• Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Traverse the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Stroll Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Sample Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho & a beer!)
• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Hạ Long Bay

It is impossible not to mention  Hạ Long Bay  as one of the  top things to do in Vietnam . Located on the northwest coast, the bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall islands filled with rainforests. 

From there, you can explore the islands on a boat tour or kayak expedition, scuba dive, rock climb or hike – so many things to do! 

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay:

• Join a boat cruise
• Discover Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Explore Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

If you have time, discover  Cát Bà and its national park , a hidden gem well worth a visit. It is also another great place to start your cruise as the island is more budget-friendly and less touristy. Plus, there are  many things to see and activities to do , such as: 

• Explore Cát Bà National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Hạ Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cát Bà nightlife

Sapa is a remote town  located in the mountains of northwestern Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of  trekking possibilities  that will take you through dramatic landscapes and ethnic villages.

Things to do & see in Sapa:

• Explore Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Rent a motorbike & wander
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Ninh Bình is a city, district and UNESCO World Heritage Protected Site  located southeast of Hanoi. It is the ideal base for adventurers and nature lovers, as the area offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. 

From there, you can discover Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, take a boat tour on its rivers or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for stunning views.

Things to do & see in Ninh Bình:

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Huế is a charming city in central Vietnam full of art and history , which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. 

One main attraction in the area is its impressive 19th-century Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by canals and stone walls. It contains the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines, the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the home of the Emperor, and a replica of the Royal Theater.

Things to do & see in Huế:

• Discover the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Forbidden Purple City
• Stroll through the Imperial City
• See a performance at the Royal Theatre 
• Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda 
• Relax at the Co Ha Gardens 
• Walk along the Perfume River
• Explore the To Mieu Temple Complex

Hội An is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam , famous for its colourful lanterns, well-preserved Ancient Town and mixed architectural styles.

Personal experience – Hội An was an incredible discovery and is as beautiful as the photos you may have seen online! I loved wandering its streets, walking along its canals, admiring its lanterns and strolling through its markets. The city had a fantastic atmosphere, day and night! 

Things to do & see in Hội An:

• Wander through the Old Town
• Relax at An Bang Beach
• Explore the countryside by bike
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary
• Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Marvel at Quan Cong Temple

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam , situated in the southeastern region of the country and surrounding the Saigon River.

From historic museums and stunning architecture to a thriving food and craft beer scene, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this bustling city.

Things to do & see in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Explore the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Visit the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Join a Bonsai River cruise
• Discover the Central Office
• Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Marvel at the Cao Dai Temple

Are you looking for the perfect  guided tour in Vietnam ? Check those out:

How to reduce your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their preservation.

Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling solo in Vietnam: 

GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully carefully your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a  filtered water bottle  to stay hydrated on the go.
• Join tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more focused on money than traditional culture! Select an operator with a responsible tourism approach (research their website and ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
• If you decide to snorkel or drive, be sure to choose a responsible operator . Plus, never touch or step on coral and wear  reef-safe sunscreen .
• Do not leave a trace : do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Hire a local guide if possible.  You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
• Shop local . Buy handicrafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
• Eat at local restaurants, and tip your guides or hotel and restaurant staff . It may be small for you but can significantly impact their earnings.
• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites . Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words 🙂

More inspiration for your adventure:

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Vietnam solo travel – FAQ

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit, especially for female backpackers. However, also be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport.

Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers. The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure.

Vietnam is incredibly affordable to explore with a backpack, from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. Although it will depend on your budget and expectations, the lifestyle is extremely cheap.

I recommend spending at least 14 days in Vietnam to have enough time to travel and see the main attractions and highlights at each stop without rushing.

Have you ever experienced a solo trip in Vietnam or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Solo travel , Vietnam

Solo travel in vietnam: everything to know.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Vietnam was the third country I ever travelled solo having made my way alone through Myanmar and Laos in the weeks previously. That was a while ago now, in 2015. Since then, I’ve travelled solo in Mexico , India , Cuba , South Africa and many more. Since that first solo trip in Vietnam, I returned several times. In 2018, I lived in Vietnam for months, house and cat-sitting while building up my travel blog. I’m not sure why it took me so long to put together this post, but perhaps it’s because Vietnam feels like such a safe and easy place to travel that I didn’t feel the need. But we’re all at different stages of our solo travel journies. If travelling solo in Vietnam still seems scary and overwhelming, don’t worry. I’ve been there. I got you. Let’s figure it out together.

Read next: everything you need to know about solo female travel

VIETNAM ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Book buses and trains in Vietnam: 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator SIM card: Vietnam e-SIM / Asialink card (18 countries) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: the ultimate Vietnam travel itinerary for 2 weeks – 1 month

Is Vietnam safe for solo female travel?

Yes, Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travel . Violent crime is almost non-existent. The main thing to worry about is pickpocketing in tourist cities but I’ll delve into that later. More solo travel blogs:

• Solo travel in Bali
• Solo female travel in Thailand
• Guide to travelling alone in Malaysia
• Where to travel solo in India

Read next: 30 best places in the world for solo female travel

Good things about solo travel in Vietnam

• English is widely spoken
• There’s a clear tourist route down the coast (part of a longer Southeast Asia travel route ) meaning other travellers will be travelling the same way as you. It’s easy to bump into people time again and buddy up
• It’s easy to get a SIM card and data to stay connected
• Vietnam has a great hostel scene plus lots of day tours and activities so it’s easy to meet people
• It’s VERY affordable. You don’t have to do dorms if you don’t want to
• The locals are friendly and will want to chat and practise their English with you.

I can’t think of any specific bad things about travelling alone in Vietnam, however if you’re interested in the general advantages and disadvantages of travelling solo as a woman , read the guide linked.

How to get around Vietnam

This depends on your tolerance for a long bus ride! I remember getting an overnight bus from Hoi An to Hanoi once and everyone thinking I was mad and saying ‘why don’t you just fly?’ but I was like, hey, I’m young and I’ll be fine. Plus, I want the planet to be here when I’m old! Saying that, flights are cheap and will save you a lot of time. If you’re on a tight schedule, I totally get it. So… Travel by air: most major hubs have a nearby airport like Hanoi, Saigon and Hoi An (Da Nang). At the time of writing, you can fly from Hanoi to Saigon for around $70 and to Da Nang for around $40. I use Skyscanner to compare, browse and book flights. Travel by bus: these travel up and down the coast, complete with sleeper bunk beds where you can lie down. One option is to buy a book of tickets at any Saigon or Hanoi travel agency to cover your whole trip. Another option is to buy your tickets individually using the 12Go website. A ticket from Hanoi to Hoi An (16 hours) will cost around $20.

Tip – when travelling by sleeper bus, keep your valuables close in a secure bag around your body, preferably under your clothes.

Travel by train: these are generally a little more expensive than buses with the option of seating or a bunk in a cabin. One perk of taking the train is that there are sections with wonderful views, like the journey between Da Nang and Hoi An. They can also be booked on the 12Go website. Travel by motorbike: the more adventurous way to travel Vietnam! This method of travel is called Easyrider. You can travel the length of the country by bike, either alone or with a driver. A particularly beautiful and famous section is the Hai Van Pass .

How to get around within cities/towns

Here are some safe ways for solo female travellers to get around in Vietnam… Local bus: in bigger cities like Hanoi, you can ride the local bus. Tickets cost from 7,000 to 15,000 VND and should be paid to the driver in cash. Make sure to have small notes as they may not have change. Local taxi: when getting in taxis, agree a price beforehand or insist the metre is on. Occasionally, rigged metres are a thing so if it starts jumping up wildly, get out. Taxi app: my preferred way to travel was by Grab taxi, Asia’s answer to Uber. Taxi app scooters: if you’re feeling confident, select a scooter on Grab rather than a car. A driver will arrive and should have a helmet for you (please insist that they do!). Although you’ll often see whole families on one scooter, Grab drivers will only accept one passenger per scooter.

Vietnam visas

Many nationalities qualify for 15-day entry with no visa. For 30-day and 3-month Vietnam e-visas , you’ll need to apply online. Visas vary for different nationalities so make sure to do your research ahead of your trip!

A solo female travel tip I’d offer anywhere is to stay connected. I usually get a local SIM when I arrive somewhere new because it makes me feel safer, plus it’s convenient to call taxis etc. There are plenty of local stores selling SIM cards. A handy new option, however, is to buy an e-SIM before you arrive with Airalo. Just download it before you travel and connect as soon as you land. If you’re visiting other Asian countries, look into the Asialink card (18 countries).

Best places for solo travel in Vietnam

Next for the fun bit, where to go and what to do when travelling alone in Vietnam!

Picturesque Hoi An is a solo travel dream: big enough to have a wide array of great hostels and activities, small enough to bump into the same people when you’re out and about. It’s an unbelievably pretty and idyllic city. Some will say it’s too busy and touristy these days, but to them I say: wait, are you not a tourist, too? You can’t blame anyone for wanting to be here. Things to add to your Hoi An itinerary include:

• Exploring the Old Town temples and ancient houses
• Crossing the Japanese Bridge
• Relaxing on An Bang Beach
• Seeing where food is harvested in peaceful Tra Que vegetable garden (and try it at Baby Mustard restaurant )
• Eating unique Hoi An street food including dishes not found elsewhere like cao lầu noodles and white rose dumplings
• Taking a day trip to the Marble Mountains near Da Nang
• Checking out all the cute cafes in Hoi An .

A lovely stop between Hoi An and Hanoi is the city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. The citadel may have been destroyed during the War with America and China (you may know it as the Vietnam War) but it’s been restored, boasting some of the most beautiful temples in Asia!

If you’re not all templed-out after the Citadel, don’t miss the Temple of Literature and Linh Mu Pagoda on the Perfume Riverbank, the Royal Temple of Tu Duc, Tu Hieu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb and the Khai Dinh Tomb. Hue is a history lover’s dream! Two days in Hue is a good amount of time to spend because you can spend one day at the Citadel and other temples, then another day visiting the quirky Abandoned Waterpark (the first photo in this blog with the roaring dragon statue) with time for another historic stop in the afternoon.

After several months living in Hanoi, it’s one of my all-time favourite places in Asia, if not the world! Yes, it’s chaotic and a little crazy but it’s also very safe for solo female travel in Vietnam. It’s undeniably charming with towering mansions, countless street food stands and cute cafes where locals and tourists while away days over caphe nau or sau (drip coffee with or without milk). Add to your Hanoi itinerary the top tourist attractions like the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street , the Women’s Museum, the Water Puppet Show, the French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison. As a safe place for solo travel in Vietnam, there’s no risk to getting off-grid and finding lesser-visited areas of the city like charming Ngoc Ha neighbourhood and Truc Bach island on the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, I wrote this guide to the hidden gems in Hanoi !

Foodies shouldn’t miss trying egg coffee (better than it sounds!) at the many Hanoi cafes , finding cool bars like Polite & Co, eating amazing street food and spending an evening on Beer Corner (Ta Hien) drinking ridiculously cheap bia hoi (fresh beer). Stay in a social hostel in the Old Quarter and I’m sure you’ll meet people to go out with!

I spent 3 days in Sapa and it was one the highlights of my Northern Vietnam itinerary . This mountainous region is known for amazing views, hikes and hill tribes with well-preserved cultural heritage. It’s easy to visit independently by booking a bus or train from Hanoi and staying in Sapa town where you can book hiking trips and excursions. However, a super easy option (and a social one) is taking an organised trip from Hanoi including accommodation, guided hikes and transport. There are a few options depending on your time frame and comfort levels, for example:

• Homestay:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in homestay accommodation
• Hotel:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in 3-star hotel room
• Homestay AND hotel:  3 day, 2 night Sapa trip inc 1 night in a hotel and the other in a homestay  (the trip I did!)

Hiking boots are great if you’ve got them but I got by with old battered runners. Depending on the season, the ground may be slippy. I fell over a lot but at least the mud was soft! The hikes should be suitable for most ability levels.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)

I’m definitely a Hanoi girl but I’ve still loved visiting Saigon (also called Ho Chi Minh) over the years. It feels slightly more Westernised than Hanoi and lacks the charm of the Old Quarter, but many things are comparable such as the roads of weaving scooters and the grand French architecture. Things to add to your Saigon itinerary include:

• Learning about the history at the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace
• Taking a day trip down the Mekong Delta
• Visiting the Cu Chi tunnels used during the war
• Catching a show at the Opera House and visit other places in the French area like City Hall and the Post Office
• Exploring the Saigon food scene by eating at Ben Thanh Market and sampling regional dishes like bún bò Huế (beef noodle soup), bun riêu (crab noodles) and bún mắm (seafood broth noodles).

Harder places to travel solo in Vietnam (and how to do it anyway)

These are places that are great for solo female travel in Vietnam but require a little research…

Ha Long Bay

The best way to travel Ha Long Bay is by overnight cruise. But these usually work out more expensive without a travel buddy due to solo surcharges on cabins. However, Ha Long Bay is a real Southeast Asia bucket lister so I would advise still going! There are plenty of tours that can be organised from Hanoi including overnight stays on the boat, kayaking and other activities. My word of advice would be to do your research and pick a tour that suits your travel style and interests. For example, the Castaway cruises are for 19-25 years olds who like heavy drinking and partying. Even at that age, it would not have been the tour for me. Then, there are luxury tours where you’ll mainly be surrounded by honeymooners and families. I feel you could set a comedy show about someone being stuck on the wrong cruise for days! So don’t get caught out.

Browse & compare multi-day Ha Long cruises

Ninh Binh is a spectacular part of Vietnam with sky-high cliffs encompassing cave complexes that can be cruised through by paddle boat, or hiked up for breathtaking views. I’m only listing it as a harder place for solo travel in Vietnam because the attractions are spread across the countryside so you need a scooter. If like me, you’re not a confident driver, this could be challenging. But, like anything, there are ways around it. One option is doing a Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi as part of an organised tour . Another option is staying overnight in Ninh Binh town (take a bus in just over an hour) and asking your accommodation to help you organise a scooter tour for the day with a local driver. Of course, if you’re comfortable driving, you can just hire your own scooter.

Tours and activities in Vietnam

Some of the downsides of solo travel include doing all the research and getting lonely. Vietnam is a country where it’s super easy and affordable to book tours and excursions during which you’re likely to meet new people and take a break from doing all the navigating and admin yourself.

Some of the top tours in Vietnam are:

• A 2-3 day Sapa tour from Hanoi
• A 2-3 day Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi
• Cu Chi tunnels tours and Mekong Delta cruises from Saigon
• Any type of cooking class, market tour or food tour by foot or scooter. Local guides will help find you the best eats you might not know about otherwise. Use GetYourGuide to find these.

Of course, you rarely NEED tours in Vietnam. There are pros and cons of travelling solo or taking a tour but there are plenty of options if you want them. Longer tours: if you’re not feeling ready for solo travel in Vietnam, G Adventures offer well-organised, culturally immersive tours. I’ve travelled with them myself before and can happily vouch for them! Browse G Adventures tours .

Read next: 101 travel tips for backpacking Southeast Asia

What to wear in Vietnam

Vietnam gets hot but it’s also a conservative country (although you don’t need to worry as much as during solo travel in India ) so it’s important to wear clothes that keep you cool, protect you from sunburn and don’t cause cultural offence. This applies to men as well as solo female travellers in Vietnam. Although you can wear shorts and short dresses in other places, at temples you should ensure your legs and shoulders are covered. Travelling with a light sarong is a great idea so you can throw it on at temples. Elsewhere, lightweight summer clothes will do the job. Personally, I like to cover up a bit with cool, breathable fabrics to avoid sunburn. However, Sapa gets cold so you’ll need extra layers if you plan to visit.

Vietnam packing list

Your Vietnam packing list doesn’t need to be extensive. Laundry facilities are cheap and everywhere in Vietnam!

• 4-5 tops/t-shirts
• 2-3 skirts or lightweight pants
• 1 athletic outfit for Sapa hiking
• 7 x underwear
• Sarong/temple cover-up
• Footwear: 1 x sandals, 1 x flip flops, 1 x lightweight runners
• Towel – I use a small microfibre one
• Large backpack and small day backpack for hiking etc
• Secure bag to wear under your clothes on night buses
• Mosquito repellent
• Reusable water bottle (and reusable straw) or purifying water bottle
• Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.

Accommodation for solo travellers in Vietnam

Hostels: like other Southeast Asian countries, it’s a paradise for affordable yet high-quality hostels. You’ll pay as little as $5 a night for a hostel bed often including breakfast, coffee and/or free beer nights. This is the most social option for a solo trip in Vietnam because you’ll meet loads of other people. Use Hostelworld to find hostels.

Tip – assess the photos and reviews to check it’s the right type of hostel for you. There are lots of party hostels so avoid these if you don’t like lots of drinking/like getting a good night’s sleep!

Hotels: from modest guesthouses to 5* luxury, there are SO many options in Vietnam. It’s a great place to splash out and treat yourself because you get incredible value for money. You can stay in 5* hotels for as little as $80. I use Booking.com because I’ve stacked up so many Genius rewards now that I always get 10% off, free breakfast or a room upgrade! Airbnbs: this is not my favourite type of accommodation these days since you pay high service fees, follow a list of rules, get reviewed publically and don’t have access to decent support if anything goes wrong. For the convenience of an apartment, you can find plenty on Booking.com and the first price you see is what you pay. No sneaky fees!

Best time of year to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is huge so has numerous sub-climates. Generally, March to May is considered the ultimate time to visit Vietnam because the north is cold before then. The summer months get boiling hot and very humid but it’s doable if you explore early and stay protected from the sun. The one time I’d suggest avoiding Hoi An is the flooding season of September-December. Also, check the dates of local holidays like Tet because everything will be closed.

Petty crime in Vietnam

As I mentioned, Vietnam is safe for solo female travellers with virtually no violent crime. But what you do need to be careful of is having your bag, phone or money stolen. You’d think it would be worst in Hanoi and Saigon and yes, there’s some of this there. But, actually, I have experienced crime in Hoi An 3 different times over the years. This happens after nights out when guys with motorbikes act as taxi drivers to tourists leaving the clubs. They have lots of clever tricks to fleece your money when you pay, and also when you’re buying food from stands by the bars. On another occasion, they stole my whole bag. Make sure to wear a secure cross-body bag for your phone and purse, and only bring out what you need. Don’t take a scooter taxi home off the street.

My pet peeve is blogs telling female solo travellers not to drink alcohol. You worked hard for this trip, of course you want to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. You know your limits so, as a capable adult, I’m sure you can go out while assessing your surroundings and staying aware. If you have no one to travel home safely with, call a verified taxi using Uber or Grab.

Safety tips for Vietnam

Don’t carry too much cash: Vietnam is largely a cash-based society. But be smart, for example, don’t do what I did in 2015 and get £100 from the ATM en route to a night out (spoiler: I did not come home with it). Try to withdraw on your way to your accommodation, leave it there (in a hostel locker) and take out roughly what you’ll need for the day or evening. Wear a secure bag: Shoulder bags that can easily be pulled off by a passing moped aren’t a great idea in Vietnam. It’s fine to carry non-valuable items like this but I would recommend also wearing a cross-body bag with your money and phone. Do your research: this is a tip for solo female travel in Vietnam but also everywhere. Doing your research about a place before arriving saves you unpleasant surprises or hiccups when you get there. Just by reading this blog, I can tell you’re already doing this!

Well-being tips for solo female travel in Vietnam

Eat where it’s busy: street food in Vietnam is safe to eat and delicious! It annoys me when people knock street food because food poisoning can happen anywhere… My aunt and uncle got it from a fancy hotel in Vietnam! Just follow the basic safety rule of eating where it’s busy and there’s a fast turnover of food. If there’s lots of locals there, it’s a good sign. Don’t drink tap water: always a bad idea! Since buying plastic bottles is unsustainable, I would recommend bringing a refillable water bottle (most hostels and hotels should offer free fill-ups from large filtered units) or a filtering water bottle. Get travel insurance : well, duh! I love budget travel as much as the next person (probably more) but the one thing I never scrimp on is travel insurance. It could cost you your life! I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Get your vaccs: it’s best to check with your healthcare professional but the NHS recommends Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis may also be recommended.

Safety tips for scooter hire

Riding a scooter is a way of life in Vietnam. Sure, accidents happen and perhaps it’s safer to not ride one at all… but that’s not really practical advice! There are more scooters in Vietnam than people. From locals (who start riding as kids) to tourists, they’re everywhere . Just make sure you:

• Wear a helmet
• Don’t listen to music while driving
• Never drink and drive!
• Assess your vehicle before leaving the rental place and take photos of any dents or scratches. This is less of a safety tip and more to ensure you don’t get ripped off!

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, don’t. It’s usually very affordable to call Grab scooters or, in rural areas, hire a driver for the day. Plus, it’s great business for the locals! I wouldn’t ever advise driving in Hanoi or Saigon unless you have years of scooter experience under your belt.

What to budget for solo travel in Vietnam

Of course, this is highly dependent on your travel style but I’d say for budget travel (by which I mean staying in hostels, eating street food and taking public transport), $1,000 a month is plenty. Add a couple of hundred to stay in hotels rather than hostels. If you’re travelling to Vietnam by yourself, don’t worry too much. You won’t blow the budget by staying at hotels or taking taxis as just one person. Some average costs:

• Street food meal – $1-3
• Bed in a hostel dorm – $5-10
• Private room – from $15
• Bus ticket between cities – $5-20 depending on distance.

Get a travel-friendly bank account

Revolut and Wise bank accounts are open to many nationalities and allow you to spend without transaction fees or ATM fees. They’re a godsend! UK travellers can also use Starling and Monzo banks.

Volunteer to keep the costs down

While ensuring you’re not taking a job from a local or doing anything that could be classed as voluntourism or White Savourism, check out volunteer positions using Worldpackers or Workaway . Both have hundreds if not thousands of opportunities in countries including Vietnam. Usually, you receive free food and accommodation in exchange for working a few hours a day. If you want to sign up, I have discount codes for both Workaway and Worldpackers .

Try house-sitting

As someone who personally housesat for 2 months in Vietnam and didn’t pay a penny/cent for it, I would recommend house sitting and/or pet sitting! The idea is that owners go away and advertise for sitters to look after their houses or pets. I housesat in Vietnam but you’ll find gigs everywhere using Trusted Housesitters . Read my review of the website answering the question is Trusted Housesitters worth it?

How to make friends travelling solo in Vietnam

Making friends while travelling solo in Vietnam is mostly the same as anywhere else Hostels: the easy one! Stay in any hostel and you’re bound to meet people. For a bonus, choose hostels with social areas, bars and evening activities. Group tours & activities: browse GetYourGuide and Viator to find cooking classes, food tours, excursions to popular attractions, pub crawls and lots more. Chat to locals around Hoan Kiem Lake: take a walk around Hanoi lake and you’re bound to meet friendly locals who want to practise their English. If they invite you to hang out with them, do it! (but like anywhere, always hang out with strangers in a public setting at least initially).

Read next: how to make friends when travelling solo

FAQs for Vietnam travel

Is tipping expected? There’s not a big tipping culture like in the US but it’s certainly appreciated. Local wages are low so, if you want to be a good traveller, a little goes a long way! Is Vietnam good for veggies and vegans? It’s not the best country in the world but it can be done. Bigger cities will certainly have options and I can personally advise when it comes to vegan food in Hoi An ! What’s the weather like? Well, it can switch from baking heat to rain in a moment. Be prepared! Is English widely spoken? Among young people and in touristic places, yes. Of course, you should brush up on the basics in Vietnamese so you can be polite and say hello and thank you etc. What’s the currency? It’s Vietnamese Dong (VND) and, at the time of writing, the exchange rate is 23,600 VND to $1 USD. Yes, it’s a lot to get your head around! How long to spend in Vietnam? I would suggest a month. If you have 2 weeks, be selective and don’t try to squeeze in too much. I have Vietnam solo travel itineraries for 2 weeks and one month you can follow.

How to cross the road in Vietnam

Okay, I may be a Vietnam travel pro but there are some things I’ll never get my head around! All I can tell you is to relax into it; people will drive around you. Better yet, attach yourself to a local – they got this! Oh, and don’t sue me if those tips don’t work 😉

Read more solo travel blogs

• How to take photos of yourself when travelling solo
• The pros and cons of solo travel
• Solo female travel in South Africa
• The best places in the world for solo female travel
• Solo female safety guide
• 101 solo travel tips

Guides to solo female travel in Asia :

• Solo female travel in Bali
• Taiwan solo travel guide
• Solo travel in South Korea
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to travel alone in Europe for women
• How to make the most of a solo trip to Lisbon
• Where to travel solo in Portugal
• Solo female travel in Italy
• Is solo travel in Croatia safe?
• A women’s guide to solo Romania travel
• Solo female travel in Albania

Guides to solo travel in the Americas:

• A solo female travellers guide to NY
• Is Guatemala safe for solo travel?
• Belize solo travel
• Cuba solo travel guide
• Mexico solo travel guide
• Is Mexico City safe for solo travel?

Thanks for reading!

Read all my Vietnam posts

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

See you next time for more travel adventures,

VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. To stay connected, get a Vietnam e-SIM or as Asialink card (18 countries) with Airalo. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Vietnam: Everything To Know! ”

Hello Rose, I really appreciate your recommandations. I have few questions, i hope you will get to answer. Before you did your trip, did you plan all the places and cities that you want to go or you just go with the flow ? As a digital nomad, i will need to work in the morning and the evening (3 hours each), do you think i will be capable to still enjoy and visit ? Do you suggest to stay more than a month because of this ?

Hey Roni! I had a loose idea of where I wanted to go before the trip but I mainly went with the flow, there is no need to book things far in advance. Yes I should think you’ll be fine spending a few hours each day working. Maybe exclude one place from your itinerary to give yourself a slightly slower pace, I find that working and exploring can get tiring. Enjoy!

Hi Rose, I really liked your blog on Vietnam. I am planning my 1st solo trip there and your blog has been quite informative. Really appreciate. I wish we meet someday at some place. Ciao soon.

Hi Priyanka, really glad the blog helped!

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• Vietnam for solo travellers

All photography by Christian Berg

Vietnam promises solo travellers the trip of a lifetime. Steaming bowls of  hủ tiếu  on a boat in the Mekong Delta, glorious sunrises on the beach in Nha Trang, misty hikes in the mountains of Sapa -- here you can have a wealth of beautiful moments all to yourself. If you ever want to share your journey, Vietnamese make wonderful company and will eagerly show you the best of this country. Read on to see why Vietnam is a great destination for your next solo adventure. 

Beautiful stays and warm hospitality .

Picking a place to stay is always fun in Vietnam. Choose from traditional homestays , ethnic stilt houses, tented camps, budget-friendly hostels, boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and more. Your solo foray will be even more special if you choose to immerse yourself with a local family or pick a spot that’s surrounded by nature. In Vietnam, these places are not only affordable, they’ll also give you a deeper understanding of our way of life. 

All across Vietnam, family-run homestays deliver incredible value for money, as well as sumptuous meals and insider tours of the area. In Northern Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to sleep in an ethnic stilt house . Shared rooms are set up with comfortable beds separated by curtains. Wake up to views of mountains and rice terraces, and kick up your feet in a hammock after a day of exploring. In the Centre and South, homestays take on a more tropical feel, often planted amid fruit farms, on the banks of rivers, or in flowering gardens. 

Fantastic street food and coffee 

Vietnam is a paradise for foodies. Vietnamese love eating together, but it’s also normal to roll up for a quick bánh mì or bite of lunch alone. If you’re by yourself, you can easily slip into a busy noodle shop, find a stool next to a sidewalk vendor, or simply order what the next table is having. At busy stalls you may find yourself sharing a table with strangers -- a great opportunity to gather foodie recommendations, perhaps with the help of Google Translate. Almost everywhere, you’ll find Vietnamese are happy to show you how to use your condiments, or help you order if you’re feeling lost on the menu. 

Vietnam’s cities and countryside alike are littered with lovely, quiet cafes where you can spend a few hours jotting down your thoughts over a cup of potent robusta. It won’t take you long to find a new favourite cafe in any place you go. Pull up a stool or lawn chair alongside the locals and soak up the atmosphere. Of course, chances are you’ll get invited to a Vietnamese family meal sooner or later. That's just what we do, especially if we see you’re travelling alone. Dining with a Vietnamese family is a great opportunity to learn about the local way of life and try a variety of authentic Vietnamese food -- don’t pass it up!

Read more:  A beginner's guide to Vietnamese street food

Amazing experiences and destinations 

One of the best things about travelling by yourself is having complete freedom over your itinerary. Destinations such as Hội An, Huế, Pù Luông, Côn Đảo and Phú Quốc are all supremely manageable destinations for solo travellers. Even Vietnam’s chaotic cities can easily be navigated on your own -- that is, as soon as you figure out how to cross the street (the secret is confidence and clear body language.) Once you’ve got your mental map sorted, you’ll find that many small quarters and alleys are perfect for exploring alone on foot.

In Vietnam, most cycling, trekking, island-hopping, boat, or even food tours welcome single bookings. Go with a sustainable tourism provider for an even better experience. Footprint Travel offers fantastic responsible trekking tours in Đà Lạt, Huế, and Ninh Bình. Sens Asia hosts insider street food adventures around Hanoi. In the dry season, cave expeditions with Jungle Boss in Phong Nha take you to magnificent sites filled with millenia-old stalagmites and stalactites. Vietnam's larger-than-life landscapes lend well to uninterrupted thoughts and checking in with yourself. 

Safe destinations and health facilities 

Safety is a concern for every traveller, but especially those visiting a new country alone. Thankfully, Vietnam has consistently been voted among the world's safest countries to travel, even for solo explorers. Despite having a long coastline, Vietnam rarely sees earthquakes, tornadoes, or tsunamis. During the monsoon season, annual flooding occurs in some Central and Northern provinces. Plan your travels to avoid these areas and explore our other beautiful destinations during these months.

Police officers are stationed every few blocks in major cities, and crime against women is scarce. Even in the remote countryside, you’re likely to feel incredibly safe and welcome. If ever you need medical help, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Đà Nẵng, and other urban hubs all have international clinics and hospitals with well-trained, English-speaking staff. A little common sense and preparedness goes a long way to ensure your holiday is safe and stress-free.

Read more:   Health and safety in Vietnam

Easy transportation 

Getting from Point A to Point B in Vietnam is always an adventure. Solo travellers in Vietnam have a lot of options between cities. The smoothest way to go is usually via domestic flights . If you have time to spare, you can reach Vietnam's top destinations by train, sleeper bus, or limousine vans. Limousine vans are a newer way to travel short distances, and are usually affordable, fast and comfortable. In the Mekong Delta, boats and ferries are a leisurely option for slow travellers. Got even more time? The cross-country Reunification Express has train cars with four or six berths, where you can meet fellow travellers and exchange stories throughout the ride. 

Of course, Vietnam’s motorbikes are the ultimate transport experience, and perfect for solo travellers. Hop on a back-of-the-bike tour with EasyRiders to see waterfalls, coastal roads, and beaches in Central Vietnam. Or, take a Vespa tour in Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s streets at night. Whatever itinerary you choose, leave room to adjust your plan. Stop and stay longer whenever you feel like it, or take a diversion if something piques your interest. After all, yours is the only opinion that matters on this trip. Now that’s a real holiday! 

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• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller's Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam is the travel gift that keeps on giving. How do you choose between the misty mountains, scenic beaches and bays, energetic cities and cultural sights when travelling solo in Vietnam? Then there’s the gentleness of the Vietnamese people and their show-stopping cuisine. All of this is Vietnam, but there’s much more, as you’ll see in our trusty guide.

An overview of a solo trip to vietnam.

In a week or slightly more, you can graze the length of Vietnam, from north to south, starting in Hanoi, the boulevard-lined capital home to a French quarter and historic hotels. Moving on to coastal Da Nang, a mountain-backed city used as a portal to Hoi An, pretty as a picture with atmospheric lantern-lit lanes. Cooled by the winds of the South China Sea, palm-lined Mũi Né fishing resort is home to desert-like dunes. Last but not least, Ho Chi Minh City – still called Saigon by locals – is a dizzying mix of thriving modern commerce and ancient temples.

Vietnam’s tropical monsoon climate has regional variations and hits different parts of the country at different times. In the south, the driest months are between December and April, while in the north, it’s spring and autumn.

Vietnam is an inexpensive country to travel solo – so you can switch up staying in historic hotels and ritzy resorts for a sail around Halong Bay in the northeast of Vietnam, without worrying about your budget too much. One opportunity that absolutely shouldn’t be passed up is an overnight stay on a wooden boat styled on a Chinese sailing ship, giving you a close-up view of the limestone islands soaring from the deep green waters – either on deck or from the comfort of your cabin.

Check out our favourite Vietnam hostels . If you’re planning on spending a few days by the beach, here’s our pick of top beach hotels in Vietnam , while you can keep your carbon footprint to a minimum at one of these eco-friendly hotels up and down the country . Or take your pick from our best of the best roundup for a real treat without breaking the bank.

What to do in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Vietnam is a deceptively slender country stacked with sights from head to toe. With so much choice, we’ve cherry-picked three very different things to do.

1. Take a walking tour of Hanoi

Architectural Landmark

You can’t visit Hanoi and not be charmed, despite the crazy traffic thick with darting mopeds. Be guided through the city on foot by our Local Insider – as part of our 12-day Vietnam small-group adventure – from Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945, to the maze-like, industrious Old Quarter, passing Hanoians balancing produce on bamboo poles, and stopping for street food classics like bánh xeo (savoury pancakes).

2. Go off-roading on Mũi Né’s sand dunes

Natural Feature

Half an hour from Mũi Né, a fishing village turned popular resort in the south, Sahara-like dunes sculpted by the sea breeze rise behind a lotus-topped lake. Hire a quad bike or dune buggy to zig-zag across them as the sun sets.

3. Explore the bustling market streets of Hoi An

A thriving trading post until the 19th century, today Hoi An draws tourists with its picturesque charm. Wooden pagodas and narrow lanes sell silky pyjamas while restaurants peddle seafood-rich dishes you’ll want to return for.

Eating and drinking in Vietnam

The French occupation left its mark in many ways. In terms of cuisine, the baguettes available on most streets are the bedrock of the popular banh mi – pickle-loaded meat sandwiches. Street food really is the way to authentic Vietnamese food culture. Avoid trendy restaurants where they may only serve you what looks tasty. Instead, opt for such down-to-earth places where you can pull out a plastic stool on the pavement.

What’s also ubiquitous here is the sight of Vietnamese squatting low as they breakfast on pho, an aromatic rice noodle soup with a bunch of fresh, green herbs and thin slithers of beef, served in homes, street stalls and restaurants.

You may also want to perk yourself up with a morning coffee – often served cold and sweetened with condensed milk – and later savour an ice-cold beer – the Saigon and Hanoi brands are very popular.

Read our guide on how to spot the best street food stalls in Vietnam , or cut to the chase with our top pick of dishes to eat in Vietnam and the best vegetarian street food Vietnamese dong can buy .

Stay safe, be happy

Vietnam is generally very safe, whether you’re alone or with others. There’s an established tourist trail, which means a huge variety of hotels and plenty of transport options. The main thing to be aware of in larger cities is pickpockets grabbing bags and mobile phones as they whizz by on scooters – but you’d have to be very unlucky to fall victim to this.

For female solo travellers out at night, a metered taxi is the safest form of transport. Booking a small-group trip to Vietnam is one of the best ways to experience the country with the security of a local expert to guide you, yet the freedom to pick your excursions, from street food tours to biking in the hills.

What to do to fit in – and not offend

Vietnamese people are naturally friendly and welcoming to solo travellers. However, if you travel to remote areas, be respectful of their conservative values. Behave as the locals do when visiting pagodas and temples; if they cover up a body part, then so should you. Perhaps unfairly, but particularly if you’re a female solo traveller, dress as the locals do. We don’t mean donning a nòn la conical hat but avoid revealing outfits and don’t topless sunbathe anywhere.

Getting around

Vietnam is a delightful country, but some of the roads are dangerous and best left to native drivers. Air-conditioned coaches chug up and down heavily congested Highway 1, the main route that runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Less stressful are the sleeper cabins on the trains that run alongside. Buy tickets online or at the station (hotels and agencies will do it for a fee), and pre-book in peak holiday periods such as Tet (Vietnamese new year). Buy the highest class you can afford; lower means less comfort and higher gets softer seats, sleeping berths and faster service.

Alternatively, join our immersive 12-day Vietnam adventure to have all your transportation, accommodation and activities arranged for you – you’ll only travel with a small group of like-minded travellers, and beat the crowds everywhere you visit.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Dung Phan .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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The Best Places to Visit in Early 2023

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Top tips for travelling in vietnam.

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An Expert’s Guide to Vietnam Solo Travel

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: March 14, 2024

Categories Asia , Solo Female Travel

As someone who has traveled solo for well over ten years (God, my age really is starting to show! LOL), I was definitely excited, but also a bit apprehensive about doing some Vietnam solo travel.

If I’m honest, prior to this trip, I really hadn’t been in Asia for a solid ten years and just didn’t know what to expect from Vietnam and found myself starting to wonder, “ what is Vietnam famous for anyway?”

As a result:

My anxiety started to kick in full force and I kept thinking totally random, insane, panic-inducing thoughts like, “O-M-G, what if I don’t get my visa? What if I don’t like the food? What if I don’t make any friends? What if the food makes me sick and I have to spend a solid 3 days in the bathroom? What if I’m unable to cross the street because of all the scooters?”

Talk about dark times inside my head.

After traveling through Vietnam for a solid 3 months, I am DELIGHTED to inform you that about 99.99% of my fears were totally unfounded.

Because in truth:

Vietnam solo travel is a dream.

And that’s not like a roses and perfect sunsets couple’s dream. Although there’s plenty of that too.

I’m talking about being a solo traveler’s dream – making a 3 week Vietnam itinerary ideal for any and all travelers.

Because with easy transportation up and down this long, lanky country and copious amounts of hostels around every corner, you’ll quickly find yourself swimming in a sea of like-minded backpackers and hopping on a stranger’s motorbike as you swerve to dodge a rogue water buffalo while whizzing through dirt roads that are almost as curvy as Beyonce herself.

Since we all know that nothing can be quite as perfect as Beyonce, Vietnam definitely doesn’t come without it’s safety concerns.

That’s why:

In this post, I gonna tell you basically EVERYTHING you need to know about Vietnam solo travel.

Not only will get expert tips on how to stay safe in Vietnam, but you’ll also learn about some of the top places to visit in Vietnam, find out where to stay in Vietnam, get an user-helpful, Vietnam itinerary, discover the best time to visit Vietnam, and even begin to understand how to get around this amazingly beautiful, BUT BIG, country.

A whole lot of info jam-packed into this not-so-tiny-little post about Vietnam solo travel.

If you’re ready, get those jazz hands out because we’re about to kick it…Vietnam style,

Since I am incapable of making it rain money, there’s a high chance that this post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

An aerial view of the Golden Bridge being lifted by two giant hands in the Ba Na Hills near Da Nang,

Vietnam Solo Travel Safety Tips

***REALLY want to travel through Vietnam like a PRO? Then check out 29 of my ABSOLUTE BEST, INSIDER VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS!***

Like every country on the planet:

Vietnam does not come without its fair share of safety concerns. One of which rears its ugly head as soon as you, or that stranger you just befriended, get behind the handlebars of a motorbike.

In truth though:

Most road-related safety concerns lie outside the city limits and in the vast, incredibly beautiful, rice patty laden fields of Vietnam’s vast countryside.

I mean don’t get me wrong:

City driving still comes with its own risks, but it tends to be a bit slower, especially since you’ll constantly find yourself crawling through ridiculous amounts of heavy traffic.

In contrast:

Out on those quiet, backcountry roads, you’ll find nothing but open space…as well as poor road quality, a snake every now and again, and enormous trucks that barrel through the mountains with absolutely no regard for anyone around them.

So, that’s wh, safety rule number one is…

1. Be Careful When You Ride a Motorbike (If you decide to ride one) and Always Wear a Helmet

Before we even talk about motorbike safety, let’s discuss if you even SHOULD drive one.

Because while I know it may seem like a good idea, and a great way to save money, motorbikes can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you’ve never driven one before.

In my humble opinion, I would suggest NOT driving your own motorbike while in Vietnam. Unless of course you know what you’re doing and have tons of experience with it.

Because for me, the risk is just NOT worth it.

I mean, not only are the roads here incredibly narrow and curvy, but drivers here tend to basically do whatever they want on the road, making it even more difficult for you to drive safely.

If you’re planning your very own Vietnam itinerary and only have 2 weeks in the country, why drive a motorbike and risk spending your entire vacation in the hospital?

And lest you think I’m exaggerating about the number of motorbike accident here, I promise you, I’m not

Because during my short time here:

I’ve met no less than three different people who have gotten into serious accidents on a motorbike (all resulting in hospital stays).

One person even died in Ho Chi Minh city while I was there because of a serious, motorbike accident.

Please, please consider carefully if you really want to take the risk and drive a motorbike yourself. And if hopping on a motorbike doesn’t feel like something you’re comfortable doing, then don’t let any of your new solo traveling besties peer pressure you into doing it.

I totally sound like your mom right now but personal safety when driving a motorbike in Vietnam is a HUGE concern, especially since no one is 100% immune from personal disaster while having fun on vacation.

If you do decide to ride a motorbike (as either a passenger or driver), ALWAYS wear a helmet, go slowly, and never, ever, FOR THE LOVE OF GOD AND ALL THAT IS HOLY, drink and drive.

Giant-sized lecture over because we’re about to move on to some other, Vietnam solo travel safety concerns.

2. Protect Yourself Against Petty Theft

Another major concern in Vietnam is petty theft.

Thankfully, you probably won’t encounter any Law and Order type homicides while you’re here since violent crime is extremely rare.

You definitely might find people who will either try to pick your pocket or steal your cell phone while they drive past on a motorbike.

Therefore, to protect yourself, ladies:

Leave those purses and clutches at home (unless you have an extra awesome, anti-theft bag).

Put on an extra secure bra, stuff it full of dong, (the name of the local currency, just in case you thought we were getting super risque here at Girl with the Passport) and always be mindful of passing motorbikes.

And Gents: 

Try to carry all your valuables in a secure, anti-theft man purse (AKA satchel) or in your front pockets.

And if that woman of your dreams does try to comes up to you and whisper sweet nothings in your ear, gird your loins because she’s probably trying to pick your pocket,

However, in spite of all my warnings:

Vietnam is still an incredibly safe place for solo travelers , with most cities being totally lovely and devoid of even the most minor of crimes.

Just be sure to keep an extra close eye on your belongings in SUPER big cities like Ho Chi Minh, where petty theft of phones and wallets is all too common (So, don’t walk around with your phone in your hand. Also, be extra vigilant when withdrawing money from ATMs since I caught a guy trying to pick my pocket after I withdrew money in ho Chi Minh).

***Still feeling a little nervous? Well, then you can also travel with some of my favorite safety devices for solo female travelers! These include the Pacsafe Messenger Bag (It has a wire running through the shoulder strap so that no one can slash your bag), a locking electronics bag , a personal safety alarm , and a lock . And for more info on ANY of these products, just check out my post on 24 Travel Essentials for Women . Also, always carry only what you need for the day with you, and leave everything else (credit cards, cash, passport, etc.) securely inside the safe back at your hotel.***

3. Don’t Leave Your Checked Luggage Unlocked During Your Flight to Vietnam

Some of the beautiful rice patties that you’ll find in Vietnam’s vast (and gorgeous) countryside!

Truth be told, I never check luggage and always travel carry on only.

I PERSONALLY haven’t had this issue.

I have heard many people complain about airport baggage handlers tampering with their luggage and stealing their belongings.

If you are planning to travel to Vietnam with checked luggage (or you’re going to fly within the country itself), then always make sure that your bag is locked prior to your flight.

You could always just keep all of your valuables with you, stored safely inside your carry on bag.

And if the worst should happen and you do suspect something has been stolen:

Always report the incident to the airline and the airport authorities immediately.

4. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Not surprisingly, much of the water in Vietnam is contaminated with all manner of amoebas and aquatic creatures since it’s usually being transported through out-of-date pipes.

Avoid consuming tap water (that includes using it to brush your teeth) and drink either bottled water or pre-boiled water instead.

This really isn’t a huge deal since most hotels provide you with complimentary bottles of water daily.

If you are in need of some clean drinking water, then just head to your local convenience store and buy a HUGE AF jug of bottled water (You could also just carry a filtering water bottle instead and help save the environment!).

And when you are drinking bottled water:

Always be sure to check the seal first, just to make sure that your water hasn’t been tampered with (This isn’t an issue in Vietnam but just a good, general safety practice)!

***While we’re on the subject of water and plumbing, most of the bathrooms that you will frequent in Vietnam will want you to throw your used toilet paper in the garbage and NOT down the toilet. I know, I thought this was weird at first too since toilet paper always goes in the toilet back in the good old US of A. But, this practice has to do with the fact that most of the plumbing in Vietnam is not exactly top-notch and can’t really handle a whole lot of toilet paper going down the toilet.***

5. Don’t Get in an Unmarked Taxi or Motorbike

This one is just common sense and good practice no matter where you are in the world.

In Vietnam specifically, I always use Grab (the Vietnamese equivalent of Uber) since it’s cheaper than a local taxi and generally pretty safe.

I’ve used Grab literally hundreds of times and have never had an issue (To use it, just download the app on your phone and pay in cash, the amount that the app dictates after your ride is complete since the app won’t accept foreign credit cards without a local telephone number).

But, if you don’t feel comfortable doing that:

Be sure to only use metered taxis and preferably from the larger registered taxi companies like Mai Linh Taxi and Vinasun.

When you can, be sure to give your driver exact change.

I’ve had drivers in the past refuse to give me my change back or give me incorrect change in an effort to try and scam me out of my money.

It is a very un-fun experience, to say the least.

If you do feel like you’re owed money or like something is amiss, learn some basic Vietnamese phrases and say something (in a kind way).

Because in reality:

Many street vendors and taxi drivers will commonly overcharge westerners since they are usually living well below the poverty line and consider most foreigners to be rich and capable of spending more money on everyday goods and services (I don’t blame them but the unofficial tourist tax can get a bit annoying after a while).

If a situation ever gets out of hand and a vendor or cab driver becomes overly aggressive and money-driven, you can always just ignore them and walk away.

***If you ever have a real emergency and need to call the police, just dial 113. However, most operators won’t be able to speak English so that may not be super helpful. Alternatively, you could also call your local embassy or ask other locals for help since most people are incredibly friendly and only too happy to help you if you’re in need.***

7. Be Extremely Careful When Crossing the Street

I know the motorbike laden streets of Vietnam can seem really chaotic, and almost impossible to cross, but once you get used to it, you’ll be able to cross the street with no problem.

I’m originally from NYC and I still consider the traffic in Vietnam to be next-level crazy.

Not only are there a ton of motorbikes cruising along sometimes not-so-well-maintained roads, but the majority of the drivers don’t really follow any rules of the road and basically do whatever they want; a reality that can transform something simple, like crossing the street, into a somewhat, monumental task that can feel an awful lot like mission impossible.

The trick to crossing the road safely is to obviously, look both ways before you cross the street.

Once you find a small gap in traffic and are ready to walk across the road:

Hold your hand out, in the direction of oncoming traffic, and make a stop-like gesture, just so that people know to go around you.

After that:

It’s just a matter of walking with the flow of traffic and letting motorbikes go around you since drivers will deliberately try to avoid you.

Once you’re used to it, it’s really not as difficult as it first seems.

***Also, depending on where you are and how late at night it is, do be extra careful when going out in the evenings alone. In bigger cities, like Hanoi, it’s usually pretty safe to walk around alone at any time of day. But, I would definitely not walk around late at night, alone, in more rural areas where crime rates tend to be higher.***

Vietnam Solo Travel: Everything You Need to Know About Public Transportation!

Since Google maps generally doesn’t have amazing, up to date information on local bus services in most major, Vietnamese cities (Yup, I’m looking at you Ho Chi Minh), you may want to consider other forms of transportation to help get you around, like Vietnam by train .

Most cities definitely won’t have anything that even remotely resembles either a metro or subway.

And as you probably already guessed:

Vietnam definitely isn’t home to some of the most walkable cities on the planet.

What’s a girl, or guy, to do when embarking on a bit of solo Vietnam travel?

If you feel comfortable doing so, you could always rent a motorbike.

You’ll find shops renting them out literally everywhere, most of which offer pretty affordable rental rates.

Any shop you rent from should ALWAYS provide you with a helmet.

If they don’t, walk away.

Any shop you rent from should also provide you with a phone number that you can call, just in case of an emergency, like a flat tire.

if not, again, walk away.

But, what if you don’t feel comfortable driving a motorbike by yourself?

Not to worry because there are still plenty of affordable public transportation options available to you.

The first of which is Grab, your new best friend!

Just think of it as Lyft or Uber, but for Southeast Asia.

In general:

This company offers super, duper affordable rates for both motorbike and regular taxis (FYI: Motorbikes will always be cheaper).

To use this nifty little app though:

You’ll need to purchase a local sim card, unlock your phone (You can easily do both these things at the airport, upon arrival), and download the app to your phone, once you have access to data,

Your next Grab ride is just a quick click away. All you need to do is enter your start and end destination, and grab will take care of the rest.

Not only will Grab provide you with a map, to let you know exactly how much your ride will cost, but this app will also show you where your driver is on that map, just so that you know when to expect them.

Before you ride off into the sunset with your driver, always make sure to check the vehicle’s license plate first, just to make sure that it matches the one in your order.

If it doesn’t, don’t hesitate to cancel the ride and order another.

But if Grab doesn’t feel like your thing, then you can always try Xe Om, or an unofficial motorbike taxi instead.

They can be found all along the streets of Vietnam and are very often offered by some regular guy who has a little free time and is looking for a bit of extra drinking money.

That being said:

This definitely isn’t the SAFEST form pf public transportation in Vietnam and is best avoided late night when your driver could very well be looking for a lot more than drinking money.

You could always skip Xe Om and Grab altogether and just use a metered taxi instead.

Most of them are pretty good and super reliable.

Taxis are, without a doubt, the most expensive form of public transportation that I’ve listed here, but they’re also still pretty darn cheap since, well, most everything in Vietnam is pretty reasonably priced.

Not all Vietnamese taxi companies are created equally.

The only two companies that I’d recommend using are VIna Sun (the taxis will be white) and Mailin (the taxis will be green).

The drivers for both of these companies are reputable and know to put their meters on when you enter the taxi (If they don’t, be sure to make this happen since, although unlikely, a driver could try to drive off route in an attempt to run up your meter. FYI, I also like to track my driver with Google maps just in case they end up accidentally going the wrong way).

But Wait! When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam and do some Vietnam Solo Travel?

Regardless of when you decide to do some Vietnam solo travel, I know you’ll have an amazing time!

Ahh, I’m so glad you asked!

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Northern Vietnam is either between March and May (This season is especially lovely since most of the flowers in the countryside are in full bloom) or between September and November since you’ll be able to avoid the intense heat of the summer and the regular, afternoon downpours of the winter.

As for Southern Vietnam:

The best time to visit is generally between December and April, when the weather is relatively dry and slightly cooler than during the “hot season” (FYI: South Vietnam is pretty damn hot all year long, so the difference in temperature between the hot and cool-season really isn’t THAT significant).

Now, having said all that, I’m gonna let you in on a little secret.

Because in truth, the best time to visit Vietnam is whenever you want really.

There’s talk of ‘best times to visit’, but I think that’s a load of b.s.

Vietnam has a rainy season, which usually falls between April and September, and a dry season, which usually falls between October and March.

Rainy season doesn’t actually mean that you’ll experience torrential downpours all day, every day. It just means that you’ll experience about an hour, sometimes two, of rain, every day, usually in the afternoon.

Nothing too terrible. Plus, hotel prices during this time of year actually tend to be a lot cheaper since most people hear “rainy season” and stay far, far, far away (You might also sometimes encounter a monsoon so packing rain gear would be a good idea).

Rainy season can actually be a really good time to visit Vietnam, at least if you’re looking to save money (And I mean really unless you’re a trust fund baby, who isn’t?).

So, the real moral of this rather long-winded story?

If you’ve got a holiday coming up and you feel the urge, in your bones, to visit Vietnam, then like Nike says, just do it!

***FYI: The weather in northern and southern Vietnam can vary greatly, so prepare accordingly. There are also several mountainous regions in the north that experience incredibly cold winters (and temperatures) that may require you to wear a winter coat. Because yes, contrary to popular belief, parts of Vietnam really can get straight up, COLD!***

10 Amazing Places to Visit in Vietnam (FYI: This list is in no way exhaustive)

Starting in the north and working your way south is a pretty common Vietnam solo travel route.

Hanoi is an obvious first stop for anyone planning their very own, Vietnam itinerary.

Not only is this city located in the northern most reaches of the country, within close proximity of both Sapa and Halong Bay (more on both of those amazing places later), but it’s also the capital of Vietnam.

I pinkie promise that you will NOT run out of uber-fun things to see and do while you’re here.

Super snazzy, mildly cultural attractions like Thăng Long imperial citadel, the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, West Lake, the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Uncle Ho for the win!), Hanoi train stree t, and more!

If I were a betting woman (Thankfully I’m not because, with my luck, I’d probably be even more fiscally responsible than I am now), I’d predict that your visit to Hanoi would center around the city’s enchanting, always aesthetically pleasing, old town.

The traffic through this part of the city can get a bit intense with streets that are toothpick-level narrow and packed with hordes of locals who are forever zooming past on their motorbikes.

But, it’s all good since the chaos here just adds to the slightly raucous charm of this amazing place.

Especially since this part of the city is also loaded with a multitude of crowded bars that continually have intoxicated patrons spilling out onto the streets, at all hours of the night (Or morning as the case may be. Talk about a real Hanoi-style hoot and nanny).

All kidding aside though:

There’s really nothing quite like swan diving into the chaos since this part of the city is an incredibly fun and vibrant place to be, particularly at 4:00 am (Sorry, but this Golden Girl in training will NEVER be out that late since I can barely stay up past 10:00 pm).

Aside from the hella awesome nightlife, what really sets this city apart is its unique architecture.

The city itself is located near the border with China, meaning that there is a clear, Chinese influence on the style of buildings that have been erected here.

An influence that has also crept its way into Hanoi’s diverse, local food scene, creating a series of divine, totally innovative, uniquely Northern dishes that DUH, you MUST try!

It’s actually your duty to your stomach to try local favorites like pho (A rice noodle soup with a flavorful broth and a generous helping of meat. For the best Northern-style pho in Hanoi, head to Head to Phở Gia Truyen, at 49 Bat Dan Street),  bún chả (A heavy sweet and sour broth with fish sauce, vermicelli noodles, and charcoal-grilled pork. For the real deal, go to the restaurant at 24 Le Van Huu since this is where Barrack Obama and Anthony Bordain dined together), bun rieu (crab noodle soup), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), xoi (sticky rice), bun thang (fermented fish paste with noodles), and bun dau mam tom (fermented shrimp and noodles).

You better get those elastic waist pants ready now since you’ve got a whole lot of eating to do and not a lot of time! If you want, you could even do a day trip and check out some of the amazing things to do in Ninh Binh since it’s pretty close to Hanoi.

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel  (Budget) – If you’re looking for anything budget, Vietnam will absolutely deliver. And Little Charm Hanoi Hostel is no exception since this place actually comes with a pool that has its very own, uber-fancy, waterfall features (feel free to “oh” and “ah” at will). And while the beds here are only bunkbeds (because yes, this is indeed, still a hostel), they’ll cost you just $18 per night and come fully equipped with comfy mattresses, privacy curtains, and individual reading lights.

The Oriental Jade Hotel  (Mid-range) – With a rooftop pool and stately rooms that start at just $112 per night, this extra-plush accommodation in Hanoi really is all that and a bag of chips (talk about a 90’s throwback) since it features an all-inclusive breakfast, super friendly staff, and a very central locale that is sure to make all of my solo travelers out there extra happy!

***What, want to know even more about Hanoi? Then check out my detailed, 2 days in Hanoi itinerary .***

2. Halong Bay

The ethereal, natural beauty of Halong Bay in Northern Vietnam.

While you’re in the north:

There are a few stops that you absolutely MUST make along the way, and Halong Bay is one of them!

Home to one of the best beaches in Vietnam :

Halong Bay sits along the beautiful, South China Sea (FYI, don’t mention the South China Sea in front of any locals since the name and ownership of the bay is a hotly debated topic) and is full of thousands of ox exquisite, karst Limestone islands.

Varying in size:

The majority of these islands are completely uninhabited, meaning that you have ample opportunity to spend a day, or two, out at sea, exploring the area’s dynamic landscape via kayak, cruise ship , or by simply swimming through the Bay’s wonderfully blue water.

Since it will take you between three and three and a half hours to get here by bus, from Hanoi, I HIGHLY recommend spending AT LEAST one night here (Two if you can since your experience will be way more relaxing this way).

Don’t worry about finding a tour though!

Because there are plenty of tour operators, departing from Hanoi, who will be only too happy to escort you to the bay.

And once there:

You’ll get to enjoy a scenic, overnight cruise through the area’s incredible landscape.

If you can, be sure to book a tour that includes a trip to Cát Bà island, as well as a visit to the nearby, floating markets.

***If you have time, and $135 to spare, I definitely recommend this 2 day, 1 night, Halong Bay Tour aboard a 4-star, cruise ship. Not only are the staff amazing, but the boat is in great conditon, the food is DELICIOUS, and the trips was incredibly well organized, making for a fantastically fun, Halong Bay experience.***

Located just five hours away from Hanoi by bus (FYI: Trains to Sa Pa take longer but are over night so you can save some time and money by booking a sleeper car) is the tiny town of Sa Pa, quietly tucked away among the vast mountain ranges of Vietnam.

Established as a hill station by the French in 1922:

Sa Pa is fast becoming an ncreasingly popular destination among tourists and is now at the very center of the tourism industry in Northwest Vietnam.

A lot of the experiences that you’ll enjoy here have are definitely a bit, how shall I say this, OVER-embellished for your sake.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a ton of fun and the people are incredibly kind. But, I seriously doubt the authenticity of it all.

For example:

The H’mong women who guide you through the mountains here will hand you a small animal made of grass,

A lovely gesture…that they share with every foreigner they meat.

While this fact definitely doesn’t detract from the wonderfulness of this act, just know that the entire experience is basically being created primarily for your benefit.

Go all the same since the mountain views here are magnificent (even if the intense fog can literally, rain on your panoramic views parade) and this region really is unlike any other place in Vietnam.

Just don’t expect to have the town all to yourself since an explosion in local tourism has led to the haphazard development of buildings in a very upward direction.

It’s all good since you’re not really here to enjoy the town but to trek through a stunning, natural landscape that is filled with cascading rice terraces and tiny, hill-tribe villages that the modern world seems to have forgotten.

Lenh’s Family House (Budget) – This is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to get away from it all. Because while you won’t have easy access to the center of town, you will be able to walk out your front door and into a stunning natural landscape is filled with beautiful hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. The staff here are also lovely and will gladly assist you with tour bookings, as well as any future plans for onward travel. Plus, if you’re keen, there’s even a delicious, family-style dinner on offer that makes for a great way to meet fellow, like-minded travelers. Besides, beds here start at just $8 a night so really, how can you go wrong?

Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa (Mid-range) –  Another pool? Yep! One that also overlooks the vast valleys and expansive mountain ranges that first made Sapa famous. So, just think of this place as the very definition of affordable luxury since rooms here start at just $70 per night! And if you’re up for a bit of culture, there’s even an on-site, karaoke joint where you can sing your heart out, as well as a spa where you can relax and embrace all that the luxe life has to offer,

4. Phong Nha

The exquisite, relatively undiscovered natural beauty of Phong Nha in Vietnam.

Start chatting with any nearby backpackers about their upcoming, Vietnam itinerary and you’ll immediately notice a common trend.

Sorry, but Halong Bay is kind of done.

Yeah, it’s just way too overcrowded for its own good (This is 100% true, but since it’s still insanely pretty, you NEED to go.).

Now, everyone who is in the know (which includes you) is going to Ninh Binh.

Get out ahead of all those same same but different backpackers and visit Phong Nha before it loses some of its natural charm (Quick, before all the tourists, begin to descend upon this place like a plague of locusts).

FYI though:

It’s a tiny town that really doesn’t have too much going on.

Well, just think of it as Halong Bay but on land since you’ll find nothing but lush, green rice fields, with Vietnam’s iconic water buffalo sprinkled in for good measure, and exquisite, limestone formations that soar endlessly skywards.

The real story here extends well beyond the fabulous scenery.

Because beneath the limestone mountains and enchanting rice fields you’ll find the world’s largest cave.

To access this cave for yourself, you’ll need to hire a guide and drop a few grand on a four-day trek through the cave.

If your budget isn’t quite that expansive, then there are other, smaller caves that you can visit, for a WHOLE lot less money.

If you want to do what all the cool kid tourists are doing, then be sure to stop by Paradise Cave with its highly- accessible walking paths, ample lighting, and super cool scenery.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous then you can always don a helmet, complete with a super snazzy head torch, and book a day, overnight, or a multi-day trek through Son Doong with Oxalis Tours, a fantastic, local tour company that employs a multitude of fantastic, local people.

Phong Nha Tarzan’s Homestay (Budget) – This place is run by a Super, SUPER (I cannot throw enough “supers” in there) accommodating family that helps make this a truly wonderful place to stay. Late arrival? No worries. Early arrival? No worries! Need help planning your trip? No worries. Just wanna hang? No worries. This place is also run like a true homestay, so if you want to get to know a truly lovely Vietnamese family, and don’t expect uber-luxe amenities, then this is a great spot for you, and all for just $9 per night!

Phong Nha Farmstay (Mid-range) –  Firepits may sound totally useless when you’re out during the day and dripping with sweat, but come nightfall, you’ll definitely want a cozy place where you can curl up with a glass of wine and a nice warm blanket. The rooms here are also comfy and the grounds stunning, and fully equipped with a spa, a giant chessboard (I mean really, who doesn’t need that?), a fantastic restaurant, and a fab, on-site pool. Seriously, what more do you need, especially when all of this will cost you just $40 per night!

5. Hue (Pronounced “Hway”)

Continue Southwards and the former, ancient capital of the Nguyen emperors is your obvious, next destination.

And while many of the city’s finest buildings were destroyed during the American War:

This city still has an Imperial charm about it, thanks in large part to its scenic location along the Perfume River and its seamless blending of sleek, modern hotels tower with crumbling, 19th-century, citadel walls.

While you’re here, be sure to pay a visit to the royal palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, the provincial museum, and more, especially if you’re total history nerd like me!

Don’t forget to top off all of this historic awesomeness with a few drinks at Brown Eyes Bar, a popular watering hole amongst locals, tourists, and ex-pats alike.

Codo Dorm Garden (Budget) – While the facilities here are basic (read: no pool), they’re still very clean and more than enough for anyone who wants a bed that costs just $12 per night. The family running this homestay-esque place is also super helpful, incredibly friendly, and even includes a delicious breakfast (that features sushi) with the cost of your stay!

Vedana Lagoon Resort & Spa (Mid-range) –  Often described as paradise found, Vedana Lagoon offers all of its guests insane perks like a morning yoga class, a pool, free bike, and kayak rentals, beautiful lagoon-side views, and even a luxurious, daily, buffet breakfast. And while all of the rooms here, which start at $75 per night, are located outside of Hue, the hotel’s serene location and stunning, natural views more than make up for its not-so-central location.

The quaint, old-world charm of Hoi An’s historic, city center. A perfect spot to do some Vietnam solo travel.

If you’ve been holding your breath, desperately searching for a place where you can stop, relax, and take dreamy, Instagram pics along colorful, lantern-lit streets, then this is the city of your dreams (PS: There’s also some BEYOND amazing vegan and vegetarian food in Hoi An if you’re into that sort of thing).

Because Hoi An IS 100% that place.

Filled with cobblestone streets, historic, yellow buildings, and vibrant lanterns that magically light up the night, Hoi An really is a city unlike any other in Vietnam.

Hoi An definitely isn’t a huge party spot.

If all of Ke$sha’s songs have basically become your personal life anthem, then you may wanna take the party elsewhere and make your visit here a brief one. Just one of my personal Hoi An travel tips .

Relax and take some wicked awesome Hoi An tours .  Because honestly? You may just wanna stay here forever since you could easily spend your days here biking through the rice paddy filled countryside, sipping on Egg Coffee at Hoi Ann Roastery, meandering through the quaint, historic buildings of the Old Town (be sure to stop at the iconic, Japanese Bridge along the way), sunbathing at nearby An Bang Beach, or enjoying a fantastic day trip to the My Son ruins,

No matter what though:

Definitely take some time to unwind and enjoy Hoi An’s wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.

Hoi An Farm Village (Budget) – Okay, so while this place may not have a pool, it does sit along a super grammable pond that is filled with its fair share of ethereal AF waterlilies. You’ll also enjoy friendly staff members, comfortable/clean beds with linens, free WIFI, a warm shower with fantastic water pressure, and a delicious buffet or a la carte breakfast during your stay here. So, while this hostel does sit a bit outside of the city center, the fact that rooms here start at just $10 per night and are very near the area’s beautiful, Ha My Beach more than make up for the not-so-convenient location.

Silk Village Resort & Spa by Embrace (Mid-range) –  First things first, there’s a pool. And thank goodness for that! But, oh snap, wait, because there are actually two of them, both of which sit nestled within a historic, silk-weaving village that has been transformed into an ultra-polished hotel that sits just 2 km away from Hoi An’s magical, Old Town. E legant rooms here also start at $50 per night and include a balcony (or terrace), a plush sitting area, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and complimentary tea/coffee making facilities. Heck,  there’s even an awesome, onsite. floating restaurant that you can visit if you want to make all of your most fervent Instagram dreams come true.

What, looking for an alcoholic beverage that is a bit more refined than beer?

If you are then Dalat is the place for you since this region is home to some of the country’s few wineries.

If wine culture really isn’t your thing, then not to worry because Dalat is a beautiful city that sits high in the mountains, making it a popular, weekend getaway for locals looking to escape the chaos of Ho Chi Minh city.

And since you’re in the mountains anyway:

Why not do like the locals do and go chasing waterfalls?

Because there are loads of day tours here that leave from the city and take you to some of the area’s many, icy cold, mountain streams, and ethereal waterfalls. You also might stop at a coffee plantation along the way and get to try a local favorite, weasel poop coffee (Trust me, it is 100% safe since all of the coffee here is thoroughly cleaned after it is pre-digested by a local, in residence, weasel.).

You could also stick to the city center and explore Dalat’s enormous central market, take a ride on the alpine roller coaster, enjoy the panoramic views from the Robin Hill cable car, or visit the former royal palace.

Whatever you do though:

Do NOT leave Dalat without visiting the Crazy House, a famous, local, surrealist, architectural gem that is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

And yes, that’s a promise.

Dalat Happy Hostel (Budget) – Located within walking distance of all of Dalat’s major attractions is this, family-run hostel, with a totally down-to-earth vibe that any backpacker’s out there are sure to love. But, you know what else is amazing? The price, since beds here, start at just $6 per night and include a delicious, home-cooked, Full English breakfast. Plus, the owners here are incredibly friendly and always up for a chat as you become their impromptu English teacher (Not to worry though since it’s all in good fun).

Villa Vista (Mid-range) –  Beautifully styled, French Colonial-style rooms start at just $50 per night and are perfectly complemented by the hotel’s friendly atmosphere, and fantastic, panoramic views. Well-appointed rooms here also include a TV, a minifridge, a fan, and tea/coffee makers. Breakfast is also available, at an additional cost (But it’s SO worth it), and can be served either in-room or in the hotel’s relaxed, communal dining area.

The beautifully chill, beach-side town of Mui Ne in Vietnam.

By far one of the best beachside towns in Vietnam:

Mui Ne itself is a quiet place that is oddly enough, packed with Russians (and menus in Russian too).

And while there are also plenty of restaurants, resorts, and shops to keep you occupied for the better part of a day or two, the real purpose of any trip here is to lie along the area’s perfect, white sand beaches (You could even try windsurfing since there is a ton of wind here) and frolic through the perfectly warm, ultra-blue waters.

When you’ve done about as much tanning as your skin can possibly handle, head for the local sand dunes and rent a four-wheeler (quad bike? is there a difference?) so that you can experience this magical place at your leisure.

You’ll get brownie points if you decide to stop by at either sunrise or sunset since the views here will be extra spectacular.

If you want, you can also visit the local Fairy Pool (You’ll walk through a local stream to see a charming little waterfall) and fishing village since the trip to the sand dunes will take a fair bit of time.

Mui Ne Hills Backpackers (Budget) – A hostel with two pools? Yup, that’s the world you live in, so welcome to this amazingly magical place. But wait, because it gets better since a stay here (Which starts at an insanely reasonable $3.50 per night) also includes a rooftop jacuzzi, a ping pong table, a big-screen TV, and daily happy hours. There are also private rooms if you want ‘em, dorms if you need ‘em, and a/c in all, as well as all of your basic services, like a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities (Just in case you spilled beer down your top during yesterday’s flip cup competition).

Muine Bay Resort (Mid-range) –  If you’re looking to spill out of bed in the morning and walk straight onto a beach studded with palm trees, then this is the place for you. Think massages, delicious food, free breakfast, enchanting views of Mui Ne Bay and Hon Lao Island, outstanding hospitality, a karaoke bar, tennis courts, and a pool…and all for just $54 per night. Plus, this place is located just 3 km from Mui Ne’s famous, Red Sand Dunes, making it super easy to visit one of the area’s most notable attractions.

9. Ho Chi Minh City

This is the big one, and a must-see if you’re planning your very own, Vietnam solo travel itinerary.

It’s overwhelming and exhausting and absolutely epic, all in one.

Because whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

If you meant to take that Vietnamese cooking class or are dying to go wild at a Vietnamese club, then do all that (and more) here (FYI: Lush has some pretty amazing, Ladies’ night deals for anyone in the market for some).

You could also stop by Nam Silk and get that custom made, purple suit that you’ve always been DYING to own (Talk about being a BALLER) or sample some of the city’s best craft beer at either Pasteur or Heart of Darkness.

Don’t forget to grill your own meat at 5KU and have an absurdly expensive cocktail at Sky bar, which sits atop the iconic, Bitexco tower and offers you amazing panoramic views of the slightly smog-ridden city.

And some things not to do?

Why spend basically any time at all in Bui Vien since it’s basically a backpacker’s sinkhole and total rubbish.

I promise, this city truly is so much more than that. So:

Slowly back away from the massive, rubbish, faceless clubs and visit some of the city’s more notable attractions, including The War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Independence Palace, Giac Lam Pagoda, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, the Central Post Office, Book Street, and so much more!

***Since I couldn’t mention all of the amazing things to do in Ho Chi Minh here, feel free to check out my 3 days in Ho Chi Minh Itinerary !***

RedDoorz Plus (Budget) – If you’re looking to recharge after those many nights spent in not-so-great hostels, then RedDoorz is a great way to do so but without breaking the bank. Sure, rooms here are basic, but they’re clean and comfortable and start at just $16 per night.

Sherwood Residence (Mid-range) – Located on beautiful Pasteur Street, Sherwood offers guests clean, comfortable, western-style rooms that start at $130 per night. There’s also a pool and a fitness center on-premises, as well as shuttle services (to specific parts of the city), babysitting services, and front desk travel assistance. Plus, if you’re looking to save money by doing a bit of cooking for yourself. then you can also enjoy the small kitchenette that comes with some of the rooms here.

10. Phu Quoc

The exquisite island of Phu Quoc, in Southern Vietnam, really is a beach lover’s paradise and the perfect place to conclude your solo travels in Vietnam.

Surrounded by pristine, white-sand beaches and large tracts of dense jungle:

Phu Quoc is an island off the coast of Southern Vietnam that is rapidly transitioning from a sleepy, tropical oasis into a must-see, beachside destination for Western ex-pats and sun-worshippers alike.

Beyond the mega-resorts that line both Long Beach and Sao Beach, there’s still some room for adventurous souls to get off the beaten path and escape the sometimes not-so-clean waters that lap against the shore.

During your time on this Vietnamese, island paradise, feel free to dive the local reefs, kayak through the stunning bays, explore the island via motorbike, or just chillax on the beach while listening to the waves roll in.

All of which would be closely followed by a relaxing, seaside massage and a fresh, seafood dinner.

Because let’s be real:

Sunbathing the day away really is A LOT of hard work!

Hai Anh Guesthouse (Budget) –  Located on the island’s much quieter, east coast, Hal Anh Guesthouse sits just 4 km away from Ham Ninh fishing village and 6 km from Phu Quoc International Airport, making it a bit far from some of the island’s most popular attractions. However, once here, Guests can enjoy clean, simply furnished rooms, starting at $8 per night, that include free bike rentals, free WIFI access, cable TV, a fan, an attached bathroom with free toiletries, an outdoor terrace, laundry facilities, and a communal kitchen area.

Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay (Mid-range) – Tucked away amidst a grove of palm trees that sit along one of the island’s many, white-sand beaches is Premier Residences Pho Quoc Emerald Bay, an upscale resort with well appointed rooms that include  Wi-Fi, marble baths, rainfall showers, and exquisite, beachside views. Breakfast is also included with your stay, as is access to no less than FIVE different restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center. And all for just $95 per night, which is about all the luxury that I can afford at the moment. LOL.

And NOW, DRUMROLL PLEASE, Your Very Own, 2 Week, Vietnam Solo Travel Itinerary

Hanoi (day 1-3).

While it certainly depends on the time of year that you’ll be visiting the country, it almost always makes sense to start in the north and work your way south.

Hanoi is where you’ll be flying into.

Do try and give yourself a few days to adjust to the time difference, and the heat, as you explore iconic attractions like the Thăng Long imperial citadel, the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, West Lake, the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Uncle Ho for the win!),

Just don’t rush it since Hanoi is busy and full of hidden alleyways that are just waiting to be explored.

Halong Bay (Day 4 and 5)

From Hanoi:

You’ll want to book a tour that includes transportation both to and from Halong Bay.

If you can:

Do try and book a two-night tour, although one night out on the waters of Halong bay should be more than enough time to admire the stars, the beautiful blue waters, and the amazing, limestone islands that this place is known for.

Sa Pa (Day 6 and 7)

In a perfect world:

You’ll want your Halong Bay tour to drop you off in the evening, at the Hanoi train station, so that you can hop right on an overnight train to Sa Pa.

However, once you do arrive in this enchanting, mountainside oasis:

Spend your day trekking through the endless mist, rice fields, and vistas that Sa Pa is known for.

After all that hiking though:

Chill out for the evening and gear up for your second day of hiking, which will conclude with ANOTHER overnight journey back to Hanoi.

Phong Nha (Day 8 and 9)

Because you don’t want to waste a single minute of your all too limited time:

You’ll want to get off your overnight train to Hanoi and head straight for the airport, where you can catch a flight down to Dong Hoi (You could also take a bus or train here, but that would take a lot longer).

Once in Dong Hoi:

Have your hotel send a driver to pick you up and take you into Phong Nha, a drive that should last about an hour.

Now, given your limited time in the area:

You could either do a single day trip into a local cave, and overnight in Phong Nha, or head straight to the jungle and the caves, to sleep amongst the bats.

If you do decide to spend the night in the caves:

Oxalis Tours will pick you up from the airport, or any other transportation hub in Dong Hoi, and take you directly to the caves, for a small fee.

Ho Chi Minh City (Day 10 and 11)

After getting transportation back to Dong Hoi Airport:

Hop on another flight and head all the way south to Ho Chi Minh.

This is a stop that you will NOT want to miss since a) this city is awesome and b) this is the most logical place from which to leave the country, once your trip is complete.

While in Ho Chi Minh City:

Be sure to eat as much food as you can, get any last-minute shopping done, and enjoy the city’s many fantastic sites, including The War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, Independence Palace, Giac Lam Pagoda, the Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, the Central Post Office, Book Street, etc.

Phu Quoc (Day 12-14)

And finally, this is where you get to relax.

Sure, two nights is never really enough time on an island paradise, but it’ll have to do since your time is so limited.

Luckily for you though:

The trip back and forth to Ho Chi Minh is pretty quick and relatively painless.

You won’t waste too much time traveling back and forth.

Let this also be the time where you reflect on all you have done and recoup from what has undoubtedly been an exhausting, solo trip to Vietnam!

SO THERE YOU HAVE IT LADIES, AND POSSIBLY A FEW GENTS, MY RIDICULOUSLY LONG GUIDE ON HOW TO DO VIETNAM SOLO TRAVEL, LIKE A PRO.

Because between my vietnam solo travel itinerary, my tips on how to stay safe while traveling to vietnam alone, and my detailed list of the best places to visit vietnam, i’m sure you’ve found at least one thing to enjoy about this post on all things solo travel vietnam., so, if you found this post even mildly helpful (and i pray to the gods and the stars in the heavens above that you do), then pin this now and read it again later, come on, all the cool, solo travel kids are doing it….

Tuesday 10th of December 2019

I also have been travelling alone for over 10 years. I visited Vietnam in 2013 and loved it. I found it quite an easy country to travel in. I mainly traveled by train. Your guide is excellent, well done.

girlwiththepassport

Oh thank you so much and I couldn't agree more!

Karen Warren

Saturday 7th of December 2019

I'm headed to Vietnam in the spring so your post is perfect for planning. Thanks.

Sunday 8th of December 2019

Oh awesome! I really hope you find it helpful!

This is such a great post! I always love reading your posts-you have such a unique writing style that I totally dig. I appreciate that you provided all of the safety, food, and travel tips for Vietnam. It sounds like you are having a great experience.

Such helpful tips! I never lock my checked baggage but I now I'm rethinking the idea. I hope to make it to Vietnam someday super soon!

I hope you can too and so glad I could give you something to consider that you didn't think of!

Such a great post! I spent 2.5 weeks traveling through Vietnam on my own and I loved it! The people are wonderful and there's always something exciting to do (even just crossing the street). I agree with NOT driving a motorbike in Vietnam (or even driving a car) as I encountered some people there who were pulled over by the police and wouldn't let them go unless they paid the police (they were demanding $200!). I can't wait to go back solo again to this amazing country!

Oh, that is a really good point about not driving! I've heard that as well but thankfully, haven't experienced it since I haven't driven here.

Privacy Overview

The A-Z Vietnam Solo Travel Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Are you a first-time solo tourist and about to travel alone in Vietnam? Are you still hesitant to know what to do? Don’t worry, GadtTravel is here to provide comprehensive guides for a Vietnam solo travel beginner. Keep reading to know what to prepare for your exciting trip!

1. Planning for your Vietnam solo travel

The first step you should do is to research and have an overview plan for your solo trip to Vietnam. Specifically, you need to cover several aspects: budget, trip length, and destination you want to go to. 

1.1 Expect your trip duration 

While identifying the duration of your Vietnam trip, you should answer two questions: “ How long can you go?” and “ What is the required time to explore a destination”. This helps you to estimate the trip duration and arrange a reasonable Vietnam solo travel itinerary.

Note: Please also consider the moving time from one city to the other. The moving time depends on your chosen transportation. There are 3 common vehicles that you can choose from: planes, trains and buses – each option will have its pros and cons. 

1.2 Where should solo tourists visit in Vietnam? 

After finishing the first step, let’s decide where to go in Vietnam at your expected time. Researching the destination you want to go to thoroughly is important before enjoying your Vietnam trip. Searching for its basic common features, which tourist attractions in the city you want to go to or highlight activities you want to take part in,… 

If your trip duration lengthens 4-5 days, you can visit 1 of 3 parts of Vietnam (North – Central – South). 5-7 days are appropriate for solo tourists who want to explore 2 parts. And to experience all of Vietnam, you may spend at least 10 days on your solo trip to Vietnam.

Here are some suggested Vietnam highlight destinations and suggested time you should spend visiting:

For first-time solo tourists who are fortunate enough to embark on the journey and are rewarded with an unforgettable experience, Son Doong Cave is a wonderful choice. Located in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh Province, it is renowned as the largest known cave in the world by volume. However, to witness the majesty of one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, you have to consider its high cost (up to $3000), time-consuming (spend about 5-7 days), having good physical health and making a reservation 6 months (or longer) in advance. 

1.3 Drawing up the trip’s budget  

What you need to do next is to draw up the trip’s budget for your solo vacation to Vietnam. Each person’s budget is different due to the economic condition and basic needs. By having a well-thought-out budget, you can make the most of your experience without worrying excessively about money, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey and creating lasting memories. 

This budget may include: Travel Insurance, Visa Fees, Flights ticket, Accommodation, Food & Drink, Transportation, Sightseeing & Activities and Additional Expenses 

To have a clearer look, you can check out our previous post and provisionally estimate How much Vietnam trip cost from India

1.4 Preparing essential documents & equipment 

Preparing essential documents is a must when you’re about to have a trip, especially going abroad. You should prepare at least 1-2 months before your Vietnam solo travel . Always research the specific entry requirements of the country you’re visiting and make sure you have the necessary documents well in advance. Stay informed and prepared to have a safe and enjoyable vacation abroad.

Visa, passport, identity papers, ID Card,… are the required documents. You can refer to the below list: 

• Passport: A valid passport is a must for international travel. Ensure that it is not expired and has enough blank pages for visas and entry/exit stamps.
• Visa: Check the visa requirements to enter the destination country and obtain the appropriate visa before you travel.
• Travel itinerary: Keep a printed or digital copy of your travel itinerary, including flight details, hotel reservations, and any tour bookings.
• Travel insurance (optional): While not mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events.
• International driving permit (optional): If you plan to drive abroad, check if you need an international driving permit (IDP) in addition to your driver’s license.
• Prescription medications: If you take prescription drugs, carry them in their original labelled containers and bring a copy of your prescription.
• Credit/ debit cards and cash: Carry some local currency of your destination and internationally accepted credit/ debit cards for transactions.

For the essential needs, don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen for protection against the sun, medicines, bug bite relief products, swimming gear,… Vietnam has a tropical climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. You also need respectful clothing when visiting temples, pagodas, or other religious sites, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. 

2. Design your detailed Vietnam solo travel itinerary

After planning, you will need to come up with a detailed plan that includes airfare, hotel rooms, programs, and tours,… 

2.1 7-day solo trip to Vietnam sample

For your better understanding, we give you a brief sample Vietnam solo travel schedule for 7 days, exploring all 3 parts. You can completely customize yours easily later with our suggestions below.

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival 

After finishing the check-in process, you can spend the remaining first day in our capital city. Here are some suggestions to consider: 

• Enjoying street food with drinking beside Train Street
• Trying delicious cuisine: Pho, Bun Cha…  
• Take a cyclo (cycle rickshaw) tour around the city to experience Hanoi from a unique perspective.
• Learn about Vietnam’s history by visiting many historical destinations, such as Hoa Lo Prison, The Temple of Literature, Hoang Thanh Thang Long,… 

Day 2: Trang An Boat – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Mua Cave

Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda with 500 La Han statues and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, Trang An eco-tourism site for boat trips, Halong Bay, and climb Mua Cave to Lying Dragon Mountain for stunning Tam Coc photos.

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/one-day-excursion-to-trang-an-bai-dinh.html

Day 3: Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Titop Island

Experience Halong’s Bay’s ancient limestone pillars and islets on a traditional boat, sample Vietnam’s delicious seafood lunch, explore “Surprising Cave,” and engage in activities like swimming, kayaking, sunbathing, and relaxation.

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/halong-bay-one-day-tour.html

Day 4: Flight to Da Nang – Linh Ung pagoda – Marble Mountain – Hoi An

Take in some of the area’s scenic and historic highlights: from the giant statue of the Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda, and the fascinating beauty of Marble Mountains to the traditional merchant houses and assembly halls of Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town. 

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/linh-ung-pagoda-marble-mountain-hoi-an-from-da-nang.html

Day 5: Ba Na Hills – Golden Bridge – French Villages – Flight to HCMC

Explore Da Nang City by cable car to Ba Na Hills, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. Enjoy panoramic views at Vong Nguyet Hill, old French villas, Debay Cellar, Le Jardin D’Amour, …, visit Fantasy Park and Golden Bridge.

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/ba-na-hills-tour-from-da-nang-the-road-to-heavenly-scenery.html

Day 6: Mekong Delta

Explore the Mekong Delta by rowing boat, visit coconut gardens, and workshops, and enjoy local lunch with unique Mekong cuisine.

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/full-day-excursion-to-mekong-delta-from-hcm-city.html

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City tour – Departure 

Explore Vietnam War history, visit Saigon attractions, and admire French architecture at Ben Thanh Market.

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/ho-chi-minh-half-day-city-tour.html

2.2 Estimating your solo travel expenses 

This estimation is based on the above brief 7-day sample Vietnam solo travel schedule. We also provide you with some useful tips for first-time solo tourists to save your budget. 

Travel fees: 

• E Visa fee: $25/ person.
• Fees for travelling between destinations

From India to Vietnam and vice versa

International airfare: About  ₹20,000 – ₹25,000 for roundtrip. Airfare will depend on flight time. You should book early to obtain discounts from airlines. 

Within Vietnam

• Airport pick-up service fee: You can order a taxi, bus, motorbike or book Gadt Travel’s private car service . 

Note: You should book it before travel as finding a taxi at the airport is difficult, besides, the taxi fees can be costly if you directly catch a taxi at the airport. 

• Domestic airfare: Vietnam is a country with a long territory, so to move between regions you will need to travel by plane. For example: To move from Hanoi (Northern Vietnam) to Da Nang (Central) you will need to take a flight.
• Train ticket: Instead of travelling by plane, you can travel by train, this is an interesting experience you can try. However, it will take you a lot of time to move. We recommend that you only book train tickets to experience one route.
• Bus tickets: Another option is to take a bus. However, we do not recommend booking a bus with long routes even though it can save you money. You will waste a lot of time and fatigue.
• Fees for moving within the city: Depends on each person 
• Hotel & accommodation: Based on each person’s preferences, you can stay in a hostel, homestay, or dorm for cost savings or at an above 3-star hotel. 

Note: We recommend you look for accommodation which is located in the centre area due to the convenience. 

• Self-sufficient meals: Depends on each person 

Fees for travel day tours: 

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival: from $24

Day 2: Trang An Boat – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Mua Cave: from $49

For more details: https://gadttravel.com/tour/one-day-excursion-to-trang-an-bai-dinh.html  

Day 3: Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Titop Island: from $50

Day 4: Flight to Da Nang – Linh Ung pagoda – Marble Mountain – Hoi An: from $33

Day 5: Ba Na Hills – Golden Bridge – French Villages – Flight to HCMC: from $71

Day 6: Mekong Delta: from $30

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City tour – Departure: from $22

Note: This is based on the above brief sample Vietnam solo travel itinerary. Please note that this is just for your reference, this solo tour package fee depends on where you go, which kind of solo tour packages you book… 

3. Booking website for your Vietnam solo travel 

Based on your preferences and online deals, you can book the flight ticket, accommodation,… reasonably to save your money. Here are some recommended websites that single travellers should know!

3.1 Airfares

Currently, Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are offering direct flights from India to Vietnam, making it convenient to travel between the two countries. You can alternatively book a transit flight via Indigo. 

• Makemytrip.com: MakeMyTrip – #1 Travel Website 50% OFF on Hotels, Flights & Holiday

Cleartrip.com: Cleartrip: #1 Travel Booking Site, Book Hotels, Flights Online with Great Offers.

Indigo: Book Domestic & International Flights at Lowest Airfare – IndiGo (goindigo.in)

Note: GadtTravel suggests your arrival should be in Hanoi and the departure in Ho Chi Minh City or vice versa. If these two destinations are not in your schedule, you can rearrange them based on your Vietnam trip plan.

3.2 E-visa 

An electronic visa (E-visa) is one of the visa types issued to foreigners by the Vietnamese Immigration Department via an electronic system. Vietnam E-visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days, single entry.

To get the E-visa, please access this website and submit the required information: E-visa

Additionally, you can apply for your E-visa via GadtTravel for $10 extra.  

3.3 Hotels & Accommodation

Here are some suggested websites for booking hotels: 

• Booking.com: Booking.com | Trang chính thức | Khách sạn, chuyến bay, xe thuê & chỗ nghỉ tốt nhất
• Agoda: Trang Web Chính Thức Của Agoda | Miễn Phí Hủy & Ưu Đãi Đặt Phòng | Hơn 2 Triệu Khách Sạn  

Note: There is a noticeable difference between Booking.com and Agoda websites. While the fee shown on the Booking.com website includes VAT and service payment…, that of Agoda in contrast, excludes the other fees. 

3.4 Booking appropriate day tours

Booking package tours when travelling can offer several benefits and advantages that enhance your overall travel experience, especially when coming to a new country that you don’t know much about. 

Expedia, Viator, GadtTravel and Klook are several legit booking Vietnam solo travel websites that single travellers can refer to. 

Why choose GadtTravel? GadtTravel is proudly recognized as being a fully licensed international inbound tour operator (No. 01-979/2017/TCDL-GPLHQT) by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. 

Unlike other OTAs, GadtTravel will directly operate the tour via any intermediary. This is one of the considerable reasons why single travellers should choose us since we always have a dedicated travel consultant team to enthusiastically support your Vietnam trip, quickly handle problems and answer all the questions you have… With many years of working experience and knowledge of tourist destinations, the GadtTravel team will help you design a suitable Vietnam solo travel schedule based on your demand.

Additionally, on each destination, GadtTravel has made 2-5 quality tours, including almost service payment, so customers will not pay any additional fee and be hesitant while choosing an appropriate one. 

We believe that “Quality over Price” is always the sustainable choice, consequently, our operation team always monitors your Vietnam solo travel itinerary to ensure that solo tourists have a valuable experience while travelling alone in Vietnam. 

Currently, GadtTravel offers two package tours that are appropriate for solo travellers:

Vietnam Tour Package By Group

Joining this Vietnam tour package is a big chance for solo travel beginners to save money and make new friends. However, since these are tour groups for single travellers, you have to follow our set schedule. 

Note: The meeting point of Gadt’s group tour will be in the city centre. Therefore, to save travel costs, we suggest solo tourists book hotels surrounding this area for more convenience. 

Tour Packages for Solo Tourists

This solo trip package is a good choice if you may want to customize a Vietnam day tour that allows you to explore the country at your own pace. Our tour includes visits to Vietnam’s most famous cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Hoi An, as well as excursions to some of the country’s most beautiful natural landscapes.

4. A step-by-step guide for first-time solo travellers to book tours on the GadtTravel website 

Gadt Travel is a reliable and user-friendly travel platform to explore new destinations. Follow these simple steps to book your perfect and appropriate tour on our website  

Step 1: Search for your desired tour based on destination and travel dates.

Step 2: Review the tour details

Please carefully notice the tour description, including itinerary, highlight activities, includes – excludes and pricing. 

Note: The solo tour packages’ price shown on our website is for an adult. For the children’s policy, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions to estimate the total. Or basically, you can click on our “BOOK NOW” page, choose the number of travellers and there will be the total price for you. 

Step 3: Click “Book Tour” and follow the instructions to complete the booking process.

All services on our website are pre-paid. You can pay by credit card such as Visa, Master Card, or JSC through the Onepay payment gateway.

Step 4: Make the payment, and once confirmed, you’ll receive your details via email. 

For more details, please watch this video: Reels  

Conclusion 

In this article, we present a detailed step-by-step guide for first-time solo tourists, providing invaluable insights and tips to ensure an exceptional and well-prepared experience for your Vietnam solo travel . Travelling alone in Vietnam can be an immensely rewarding and empowering endeavour, brimming with opportunities to discover yourself and the world around you. Embrace the exhilarating sense of adventure that comes with exploring new horizons, courageously step beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone, and wholeheartedly savour every precious moment of your transformative journey!

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Is it safe to travel Vietnam alone? Ultimate travel guides

by Travel Authentic Asia on August 1, 2023

Be aware of your surroundings

Tips for solo travelers in vietnam, learn some basic vietnamese, make friends with locals.

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is also a popular tourist destination, with millions of people visiting each year. Many people are wondering if it is safe to travel to Vietnam alone.

The answer is yes, it is generally safe to travel to Vietnam alone. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

As with any country, it is important to be aware of your surroundings when traveling to Vietnam alone. This means being aware of your surroundings, and taking steps to protect yourself from potential threats.

For example, you should avoid walking alone at night, and you should be careful when using public transportation. You should also be aware of your belongings, and keep them close to you at all times.

Like anywhere else, exercising basic caution and adhering to common-sense safety measures are essential. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

Mobile Phone and Internet: Obtain a local SIM card in Vietnam for easy communication and internet access throughout your journey.

Language: While English is relatively common in major tourist areas, knowing some basic Vietnamese phrases will enhance your ability to connect with locals.

Cuisine: Delight in Vietnam's cuisine, but choose reputable establishments with good food hygiene practices to avoid any unwanted food-related issues.

Read more:  Best time to visit Vietnam | Bun dau mam tom Vietnam | A Hanoian's breakefast

Learning some basic Vietnamese will be helpful when traveling to Vietnam alone. This will allow you to communicate with locals and get around more easily.

There are many resources available to help you learn Vietnamese, such as online courses, apps, and books.

One of the best ways to make your trip to Vietnam more enjoyable is to make friends with locals. This will allow you to learn more about the culture and get a more authentic experience.

There are many ways to meet locals, such as joining a tour group, volunteering, or taking a cooking class.

Vietnam is a beautiful and exciting country. There is so much to see and do, so don't be afraid to explore and have fun.

Just be sure to take precautions to stay safe, and you will have a wonderful time.

Here are some additional tips for traveling to Vietnam alone:

 -  Pack light: This will make it easier to move around and avoid being a target for thieves.

 -  Bring a copy of your passport and other important documents with you at all times.

 -  Be sure to have a plan for your trip . This includes knowing where you are going, how you are going to get there, and where you are going to stay.

 -  Stay in touch with someone back home . Let them know where you are going and when you expect to be back.

 -  Be prepared for anything . This includes having a backup plan in case of bad weather, lost luggage, or other unexpected events.

With its fascinating destinations and diverse culture, Vietnam beckons solo travelers with open arms. By adhering to basic safety rules and taking necessary precautions, you'll embark on a journey filled with unforgettable memories and enriching experiences in this beautiful country. Embrace the adventure, and Vietnam will reward you with warmth, smiles, and hospitality that will stay in your heart forever. Happy travels, fellow explorers!

Our tours you may like: Vietnam Laos Cambodia Thailand tour |  Thailand Vietnam Cambodia tour

*** Travel Authentic Asia Company is your best choice for discovering the beauty of Southeast Asia. Our experienced and knowledgeable travel advisors are committed to helping you create a tailor-made tour and extraordinary experiences in this majestic region.

If you're looking for an authentic cultural experience, do not hesitate to contact Travel Authentic Asia to choose a Vietnam tour , Southeast Asia tour package or to customize your own style tour to South East Asia.

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Is Solo Travel in Vietnam Right for You? Find Out Now!

If you’re wondering about solo travel in Vietnam , I have great news for you. Travelling alone in Vietnam is safe, fun, and hugely rewarding. In fact, Vietnam is my favourite country for solo travel! Read on to find out why.

What’s in our guide to solo travel in Vietnam?

Usually, Stephen and I travel as a couple. But since he is often busy with yoga teaching for months at a time, I get to travel solo too! Best of both worlds.

One of my first big solo travel adventures was through northern and central Vietnam.

Since then, I’ve travelled solo all over Vietnam, from the northern mountains of Sapa, right down to the southern Mekong delta and south coast.

I loved (almost) every minute of it! In fact, of all the countries I’ve travelled solo, Vietnam is my favourite.

So read on to find out…

Is solo travel in Vietnam right for you?

Is solo travel in vietnam safe.

I have been to Vietnam at least 6 times (I’ve seriously lost count!) – and spent more than a year total travelling the country . Never once, in all those visits, have I felt unsafe, threatened, or uncomfortable in any situation.

I’m not sure I can honestly say that about any other country in the world!

So yes, travelling in Vietnam is about as safe as you can get.

While I’m not suggesting that you should be completely careless and reckless in Vietnam, I am saying you can relax. Since they rely heavily on tourism for their income, most Vietnamese people just want you to have a great time in their country — and then recommend it to your friends!

(Don’t miss: Our quick and easy guide to getting a tourist visa to Vietnam ) →

Just like anywhere though, there are a few bad apples.

The biggest threat is bag- and phone-snatching. If you’re walking on a busy street in the city, don’t make it easy for someone to ride by on a motorbike and grab your bag or your phone. If you need to look something up or check your map, move away from the traffic and into a shop doorway.

For solo female travellers, sexual harassment is almost non-existent. If you do experience any, it is more likely to come from your fellow travellers than from the locals.

If you are being bothered or feeling threatened, go inside a shop or tell a Vietnamese women. She will most likely give the offending man a smack-down he won’t soon forget!

Of course, you’ll want to take the same precautions in Vietnamese cities as you would in London, New York, or Melbourne. Don’t walk alone late at night in deserted areas and don’t get so drunk you can’t take care of yourself.

Is it fun to travel alone in Vietnam?

Some of my best solo travel moments and memories have happened in Vietnam. I loved eating my way around Hanoi , trekking the caves of Phong Nha, riding a motorbike from Hue to Hoi An, and soaking up the nature in Tam Coc.

There are some countries where I don’t enjoy travelling alone.

When it’s hard to get good information ( Indonesia ), or hard to keep from being harassed ( India ), or the people aren’t that friendly to strangers (Eastern Europe) then I don’t like travelling solo as much. In countries like this, it’s nice to have a travel partner to laugh with about the things that go wrong.

In Vietnam, I find it so easy to get around, get information, and meet people, that there is little stress and lots of fun.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to travelling in Vietnam in winter ) →

Is solo travel in Vietnam affordable?

Despite its growth as a tourist destination during the last decade or so, Vietnam is still incredibly cheap.

You can get a:

• Great meal in a restaurant for about $5 USD
• Clean and comfortable hotel room for around $12 USD
• Fantastic hostel bed for $4
• 6-hour bus trip for about $6

If you’re on a budget, Vietnam is easy on about $25–40 per person per day. If you have a little more money, you’ll still find it challenging to spend much more than $60 per day!

What are the best destinations for solo travellers in Vietnam?

I always advise first-timers to Vietnam to concentrate on the north of Vietnam and leave the south for a different trip. I prefer to Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and Sapa to the Mekong Delta .

If you have time, from Hanoi you can head south to Tam Coc, Phong Nha, and Hoi An — all places I highly recommend.

For solo travellers, these are some of my recommended experiences:

Trekking in Sapa

Though Sapa is pretty touristy (especially the city of Sapa, which you should avoid), the 2-day trek and homestay tour I did was really fun. I arranged my tour with Lily’s Travel Agency in Hanoi, and they took me door-to-door from my hotel in Hanoi to the trek starting point in Sapa.

The first day of the trek was a little bit boisterous, since our group included a bunch of lads from England. But on the second day, the lads left, and the five remaining travellers had a fantastic hike along the mountain tracks in Sapa.

(Related: Check out my post about how to go trekking in Sapa on NOMADasaurus ) →

The cave system in Phong Nha is one of the biggest in the world. Only a few caves are open to visitors and if you want to do the 6-night trek, you’ll have to book far ahead. It will cost you, too. However, a one-day trek is worth the splurge (around $90) and it’s a great way to see the caves and meet fellow travellers.

You can also take a boat trip into the beautiful Paradise Cave or visit the Dark Cave, where you zipline across the river to gain access and then wade in a pool of mud!

Hue to Hoi An by Motorbike

While many people take the train between Hue and Hoi An, I opted to book into an “easy-rider” motorbike tour, where I hopped on the back of a motorbike and an experienced driver did all the hard work.

Before we left, I was a little nervous because I’d never been on a motorbike for more than a few minutes and I was the only guest on the tour. It turned out to be a fabulous experience .

The driver spoke perfect English and he was full of interesting information about the sights. I got a chance to ride the famous Hai Van Pass and visit the amazing Marble Mountain in Da Nang. When they dropped me off at my hostel in Hoi An, my suitcase was ready and waiting for me at check in.

Le Family Riders provided an excellent tour, so make sure you check them out when you’re booking. Tell them I said “hi”.

How to avoid scams in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Even the scams in Vietnam are tame compared to many other parts of the world!

Though there are a few dishonest people wherever you go, most Vietnamese who work in the tourist industry pride themselves on their honesty and on delivering great service.

Note: You might read horror stories on other sites about the scams and dishonesty people face in Vietnam, but many of these are from years gone by, before the tourist industry there had really matured. More recent ones often feature tourists being absent-minded or just plain stupid.

If you use your common sense, you will rarely even see signs of a scam in Vietnam, let alone fall victim to one.

What if things go wrong in Vietnam?

It doesn’t matter where you are, sometimes you’ll face some trouble on the road.

Like that time I was on a long-distance bus in Vietnam and we stopped at a rest stop for a break. I went to the toilet and came back five minutes later to discover that my bus was gone — with all my luggage on it!

I had a mild freak-out for a minute and then, after taking a deep breath, went to find a conductor.

He couldn’t speak any English and I can’t speak any Vietnamese but he still managed to communicate to me that my bus was going to fuel up and would be back in five minutes. While I was speaking to him, some Vietnamese women that had been on the bus with me saw me and gestured me over. Again, with no shared language, they gave me the message that I should wait with them until the bus came back.

This is typical in Vietnam. People are unfailingly open, helpful, and friendly. Especially if you are a female solo traveller, you’ll find that plenty of Vietnamese women will look out for you.

Tips for meeting people in Vietnam

Stay in hostels.

These days, staying in hostels doesn’t automatically mean you will meet people. You might just find yourself sitting around in a room where everyone is staring at their phone. To meet people, you’ve gotta break the silence. Put down your phone, say hi and ask the three traveller ice-breakers: “Where are you from?”, “Where are you going?”, “What are you doing tomorrow?”

Go on group tours

The great thing about travel in Vietnam for solo travellers is that most tours are open group tours, where anyone can join. (Lots of other countries offer mostly private tours, which end up being way to expensive for one person). For example, I took a super-fun scooter tour in Hoi An and had a great day with a group of fellow travellers.

Be brave & ask questions

As an introvert, I understand just how hard it is to meet people anywhere — whether you’re travelling or not. The great thing about Vietnam is that it’s easy to spot your fellow travellers out and about, and there are lots of solo travellers to meet. You just need to be a little bit brave, walk up to a stranger, and start a conversation.

The best icebreaker is to ask a question about a local tourist attraction or nearby restaurant. This gives you a good reason to start talking and hopefully you’ll gain some useful information along the way!

Getting around Vietnam as a solo traveller

Transportation in Vietnam couldn’t be easier. You can arrange almost anything you need right at your hostel or hotel.

You might pay an extra $1 or so for the service but it’s a lot easier than trekking out to a travel agent to do it yourself. If you arrange with your hotel, you’ll almost always be picked up right from your door too, so you’ll avoid dragging your luggage through the dusty and crowded streets.

These are the most common modes of transport in Vietnam:

Sleeper Bus

Almost all long-distance busses in Vietnam are sleeper busses, where you’ll have a reclining seat to stretch out on. I love these busses because they give you a private space where you’re not rubbing shoulders with the person next to you. It’s also a pretty comfy way to ride (unless you’re over 6 feet tall).

I’ve already mentioned the joys of the “easy rider” motorbike, which lets even us motorbike neophytes feel the wind in our hair. (Actually, you should always wear a helmet on a motorbike, especially in Vietnam, where it is the law).

If you’re an experienced motorbike driver, then you can achieve even more freedom by buying or renting a motorbike in Vietnam. Though the driving can be freaky in the cities, with their chaotic knee-to-knee traffic, once you’re out in the countryside, you’ll have a fabulous experience.

When you’re staying in the city, I command you to get the Grab App ! Grab is a motorbike and car hailing service (like Uber) that will send a bike and driver to your location. Especially in traffic-choked Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Grab is the perfect way to get from place to place.

The service is organized, reliable, and generally safe — though your first few rides can be nerve-wracking as your driver weaves through hundreds of cars and other motorbikes. Also, it costs less than a dollar to go several kilometres, so it’s much better than walking!

Watch the video to join Stephen in a Grab Bike ride across Ho Chi Minh City:

Speaking of walking… this is my biggest complaint about Vietnam. It is really hard to walk anywhere.

There are few sidewalks in small towns, and in the cities, the sidewalks are often filled with street vendors (though, sadly, the government is cracking down on this wonderful part of Vietnamese culture). You usually have to walk in the gutter next to the road.

Crossing the street can be a challenge too, as there is often non-stop traffic, with no visible break. If you’re new to crossing the street in Vietnam, stand next to a local and walk when they walk. Keep calm, walk slowly but steadily, and you’ll miraculously make it to the other side without a scratch.

In both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, they have recently pedestrianized the touristy districts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This is a great time to walk around without having to dodge a motorbike every six seconds!

My favourite way to get around in the Vietnamese countryside is by bicycle. On a bicycle it’s much more likely that you’ll get to exchange smiles with local woman and high-fives with local kids. It’s also just a bloody fun way to get away from the rest of the tourists and see something different.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to what it’s really like to cycle tour in Vietnam ) →

When is the best time to go to Vietnam?

The best time to go to Vietnam is… right now! Seriously, there is no bad time of year to travel in Vietnam. The country has such diverse landscape that you’ll find different weather patterns in different areas year round.

In general, spring (April and May) and fall (October and November) are good times to go, as the weather is not too hot and tourist traffic is a little lighter. Especially in the far north around Sapa, you’ll want to avoid the freezing cold temperatures in winter.

December is a popular time to go to Vietnam, so you might find things more crowded than normal if you choose that month to visit.

Packing tips for solo travel in Vietnam

So now that you’re ready to say “Yes!” to travelling alone in Vietnam, you’re going to need to know what to pack. Here’s what you’ll need to make the best of your Vietnam solo trip.

Pack as light as you can

This is my number one packing tip for any destination but it especially holds true for solo travel in Vietnam. Bring less (way less) than you think you’re going to need!

There is hardly anywhere in Vietnam where you can comfortably wheel a suitcase, so you’ll want to invest in a good backpack . Get one that is small and light enough so you can comfortably walk a couple of kilometres on rough terrain while wearing it.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to the best carry-on backpacks for your adventure) →

Do you need a hostel sheet?

Accommodation in Vietnam is some of the cleanest in Southeast Asia. Even hostels and cheap hotels tend to be very well maintained, since there is a lot of competition for your tourist dollars.

I’d say don’t bother bringing a hostel sheet to Vietnam unless you plan to pay $3 per night or less for your accommodation! If you discover you need one when you’re already in the country, you can buy a silk hostel sheet on the street in Hanoi for about $5.

(Don’t miss: Our guide to the 15 things you need to know before backpacking in Vietnam ) →

Do you need a money belt?

I’ll let you in on a little secret… I never carry a money belt . I find them awkward and sweaty, especially in the damp heat of southeast Asia. Vietnam is a relatively safe place to travel, too, so you’re far less likely to get pickpocketed there than in any major European city.

Instead of a money belt, I make sure to tuck emergency cash away in a few different places around my luggage . I keep only a little money in the wallet I use for making day-to-day purchases and stash the rest securely inside my anti-theft backpack .

Of course, none of this protects you from bag snatchers.

Instead of a shoulder bag or purse, bring an anti-theft daypack for solo travel in Vietnam. And make sure not to stand at the side of any busy roads with your bag hanging temptingly into traffic!

Do you need a smog mask?

In Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, the air can get extremely thick. I’ve found that a smog mask really comes in handy when I’m riding Grab bikes around the cities – it makes me feel a little better about exposing my lungs to the terrible air!

If you’re not planning on spending much time in the city and you don’t have asthma or related problems, you can probably get away without a smog mask. Good quality ones are easy to buy once you’re in Vietnam, so don’t worry about bringing one from home.

Get a SIM card

SIM cards and data in Vietnam are very cheap, so you might just want to grab a SIM on your first day in the country. To do this, we recommend going to Thegioididong (you can recognize it by the bright yellow sign), where they usually have at least one English-speaking staff member and very good customer service.

Having cellular data and some phone calls can be really helpful if you want to change plans at the last minute or you unexpectedly need help. And of course, it’s convenient for hailing a Grab bike!

Lightweight rain gear

You never know when the skies will open in Vietnam!

Even if you’re heading to Vietnam in dry season, you will need something to protect you from unexpected downpour. Ideally, your rain jacket should be super lightweight and packable , so you carry it around with you.

If you’re planning on renting or buying a motorbike in Vietnam, wait until you get to the country where you can buy a big waterproof motorbike poncho almost anywhere.

Podcasts and music

Travelling solo in Vietnam can be exciting but it can also get really boring. If you’re on a long bus ride by yourself, you’ll definitely want something to pass the time.

I make sure my phone is loaded up with podcasts and music that I love before getting on any long-distance bus. It’s entertaining and it drowns out the noise from fellow passengers and the bus music system!

Reliable map app

From walking around Hanoi to wandering through rice fields in Tam Coc, you’re going to need a great map to keep you on track. I use two maps that both work offline and don’t sap your cell data! Make sure you get Maps.me or PocketEarth and download the Vietnam maps before your solo trip.

Earplugs are your best friend

If there’s one thing you need to know about Vietnam, it is noisy! Streets are filled with honking traffic from about 4am until midnight and you’ll hear people talking at full volume all times of night and day.

Plus, if you take advantage of the great hostels in Vietnam, you’ll need to drown out your fellow travellers, too. A great pair of earplugs is essential for solo travel in Vietnam.

I hope you liked this guide to solo travel in Vietnam. It’s such a great place to travel alone, that I hope I convinced you to do it! Let me know in the comments below and shout if you have any questions or hesitations about your solo trip in Vietnam!

♥    Happy mindful adventures, Jane & Stephen

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10 best places for solo travel in vietnam.

Traveling alone is one of the pleasures as well as the interests of many people. Additionally, we also gain plentiful of experiences that can’t be obtained when group travel. Here are 10 best places for traveling alone in Vietnam.

• Fantastic trip to Hoi An Silk Village — One of the traditional craft villages in Hoi An
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Binh Ba is one of the islands of Cam Ranh city, Khanh Hoa province, where still retains the wild beauty of the sunshine, blue sea, and white sand. Choosing this admirable place, visitors can be pleasure in the blue beach stretching out to the skyline with the splendid white sand beaches. Appealing beaches, tall coconut trees soaring and shading or activities of local fishermen will contribute to making such great and unforgettable experiences and lots of fun.

Leisure activities on the beach such as snorkeling to watch the coral reef; enjoying the marvelous view of sunset and sunrise at sea;or fishing squids, lobsters would be great.

Hue is the ideal stop if you are looking for a peaceful place tinged with vague melancholy.When coming to the ancient capital, your heart beats with the rhythm of Huong River. What’s more? Lang Co beach mingled with blue sky landscape, and mountains and rivers will immediately make you breathless.

Wandering alone and viewing the old buildings and ancient architectures of Hue, enjoying the court music – an ancient cultural beauty of this alluring country will give you the sense of fun that nowhere else in the world can do.

The city of colorful love with the dreamlike scenery is never a bad choice for those who love traveling alone.

You will be delighted in the lyrical scene here with plentiful of flowers blooming, the streets with high tree lines, or sparkling, fanciful morning dew. Furthermore, walking on the deserted roads in the early morning will make you feel lighter and peaceful.

The ancient town, the cultural heritage of UNESCO, is a small but ancient, mild city which is always loved by domestic excursionists and foreign tourists. Not only do the houses close together but the whole cities also hang the lanterns at night. In the evening you should go sightseeing by boat to see the entire beauty of this city.

When you’re in Hoi An, wander alone on the small roads, sit on the porch of a cafe to look life drifting smoothly, stop over in a high-floor shop, buy some nice small souvenirs to memorize the slow-living days.

Cu Lao Cham – Quang Nam

Islands with various big and small islands with blue water and diverse, colorful coral systems will captivate many hearts that love the move. Walking on the white sandbank; catching adorable, glamorous views of the sunrise or sunset is full-of-memory moments. Particularly, you have the opportunity to tune with the lives of the fishermen with bustling, crowded markets, which pulls you back to a peaceful childhood with early markets on the hometown river.

The splendid seaside city is a pleasant destination to conquer and explore, even if you walk alone. Here, you should find accommodations near Tran Phu Street to jog leisurely to the beach in the morning, to sunbathe, and to enjoy the marvelous view of sunrise and hurry stream of people traveling to work.

You can also register for the four-island tour to have a day to get acquainted with new friends. Or you can schedule, hike motorbike, explore the oceanography institute, Yersin Institute, visit Hon Chong and enjoy a cup of latte alone. At night, do not forget to enjoy yourself in the stream of people in the night market, scrutinize the oceanic souvenirs made from seashells, oysters …

Ninh Thuan, the region of sun and wind, is abundant in yields like grapes, apples, wine … with many famous scenic spots such as the Cham tower, 16/4 plaza together with lots of charming, romantic beaches such as Binh Tien, Ninh Chu and Ca Na beach. Why don’t you experience the majestic scenery on the sea route, skate sand in Nam Cuong or be immersed in the peace of the An Hoa sheep idyllic?

Here, you can enjoy the sense of walking alone, discovering the tasty food stalls on the streets, admiring and witnessing the craft of making pottery in Bau Truc pottery village, carrying out sets of images with milk goats and flocks of sheep …

Coming to the land of “yellow flowers on the green grass”, visitors will contemplate bountiful oceanic scenery with several wonders, the endless beaches, white sandbank paralleling the blue water such as the Dai Lanh Beach, Sea Gate Beach, Xep Beach.

Especially, Da Dia waterfall with rocks arranged alternately as a giant beehive causes tourist ’s heart to beat arrhythmically.Additionally, marvelous bays with boats drifting sluggishly will benefit you a remarkable impression etched on your mind.

This pristine, mysterious islands mark a painful, harrowing and heroic era of Vietnam while resistance against American.

Besides Con Dao prison, we can explore many magnificent beaches, fascinating rocks like Hon Tai, Hon Tre, Hon Cau, Dam Trau, … or the virgin forests system Ong Dung, rich and diverse faunas.

Western capital with charming river scenery is suitable for a short-day wander. You can roam around Ninh Kieu wharf, or travel to the orchard, or hire a boat to float on the river in Cai Rang floating market.

Meanwhile in Can Tho, you can also visit Phuoc Hau, Nam Nha Pagoda, Truc Lam Phuong Nam monastery,…, and many other historical well-preserved sites which still retain the beauty and ancient architecture: Binh Thuy old houses, Tay Do market, …

The feeling of sightseeing the nightlife, hearing the traditional music above the ship drifting slowly near Ninh Kieu wharf will bring you the peace, mellow, sweetness and dispel all the fears of life to swallow in peace, relaxation .

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My Tips for Travelling Vietnam Solo

I’ve travelled Vietnam solo, with an ex boyfriend, and in a tour group – I’ve done it all. From travelling the world solo for three years I can definitely say that Vietnam is one of the easiest places to travel alone, with the main cities and destinations within the country all well set up for solo travellers.

If you’re a bit anxious about travelling Vietnam alone, I thought I’d put together a few of my top tips to help you feel more confident.

If you want to make friends in Vietnam…

The easiest way to make friends when you’re travelling solo is to stay at hostels known for their social atmosphere. It’s easy to search by that on HostelWorld. Just look for one that has a bar, or shows off about how open and friendly it is. The prices in Vietnam mean you could push the boat out a little, and stay in a private room in a hostel to get the best of both worlds.

If you just want someone to eat with…

Always eat at busy restaurants in Vietnam. Not only does that confirm the quality of the food, it also shows that that particular restaurant’s food will have a high turnover and so won’t have been sitting around too long, fermenting.

Also, at busy restaurants, you might get seated by the other tourists, meaning you can make a friend. And it’s easy to get away if you don’t particularly like them at the end of the meal.

If you just want some peace and quiet…

Some of us travel alone for a reason – that delicious peace and quiet and freedom to explore where and how we want. If you’re travelling Vietnam alone to be alone, always carry a book or a notebook with you. You need to look as disinterested as possible in meeting other people.

Places like Sapa and Hue are a little less populated than the big cities so you can get away from the craziness a bit there. Also, the beaches of Hoi An are really nice. Oh, and make sure to check out Phu Quoc. I had a fantastic week there where I barely spoke to anyone. Dreamy.

You could check out these unique Vietnam hotels so you know you’ve got a lush hotel room to retreat back to after a day of sightseeing.

More advice for travelling in Vietnam

Click here to read all my advice on travelling to Vietnam. I’ve got over 30 posts, so you’ll be well prepared! 

• Interesting Facts About Vietnam to Know Before You Go
• 11 Great Festivals in Vietnam to Time Your Trip By
• Vietnam Advice to Know Before You Go
• Your Vietnam Packing List 
• Perfect Week Itinerary for Vietnam
• Backpacking in Vietnam
• Top Landmarks in Vietnam

If you want to travel around Vietnam with confidence…

I felt very safe travelling solo in Vietnam. The only time I worried about my stuff, as a solo traveller, was falling asleep on overnight public transport. If you want the security of someone else to help look after things, buddy up with someone in your hostel for a while. Plan your next few days of travel based on what they’re doing too.

There’s a very strong and apparent route through Vietnam. This means that most of the backpackers there are doing the same Vietnam itinerary as you are. Open your heart and make a friend!

READ MORE: How to Use the Vietnam Sleeper Buses

If you want to buy something…

When you’re travelling solo in Vietnam you might be at a slight disadvantage when it comes to buying things and paying for stuff. When haggling I like to have a bit of back up going on. So we can help each other out to get a better price.

Prices in Vietnam might not be like what they are at home, depending on where your home is. Everything is negotiable and if they don’t want to sell it to you, they won’t. I usually think about what I’d be happy to pay and go in a little under that. They’ll bring it up a bit and then we’ll both win.

READ MORE: The Cost of 3 Days in Ho Chi Minh City

Paying for taxis is a little different. In Vietnam you just need to make sure they have it on the meter when you get in. The final price will show and there might be a little charge on top but it’ll be cheap – there’s no haggling. Always use Mai Linh or Vinasun taxis. I’ve never had a problem with the taxis in Vietnam in all the six weeks I’ve spent there. You’ll be fine!

If you want to cross the road…

Crossing the road in Vietnam may seem like quite the challenge. If you’re in Vietnam alone for the first time, and need to get to the other side, the trick is to hide behind a local who’s crossing and go when they do and match their stride. Don’t falter, or hesitate, just go and the traffic will weave around you in sweet harmony.

Pin for later

Travelling Vietnam solo

I felt confident and happy in travelling Vietnam solo and I’d recommend it to anyone. It’s an easy country to travel around and with so many beautiful sites to see and amazing things to eat, you’ll have a great time!

More on Vietnam

Probably the Best Two-Week Itinerary for Vietnam on the Internet

Your Guide to Where to Go in Vietnam 

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Really useful insights on solo travel in Vietnam, thanks!

Hi, I am 58 and planning a solo trip in sept 2020. Am in the process of helping my last son get on his way. prior to selling everything. I would like to ask, when you travelled solo and came across sites, was you backpack items safe on your bike, how did you hide your passport and other items.

Appreciate the help

Blair Ontario, Canada

Do you mean on the cycling trip I did?

Every night we were in a hotel so our stuff was safe in there. And during the day we had a support vehicle which drove along side us. This had all our possessions on it safely.

I think if you’re doing it yourself, without support, you can keep it in a bumbag on your front, or just in the bag you’re carrying. At no point did I feel threatened in Vietnam. I genuinely think it was one of the safest countries I’ve been to.

I agree – Vietnam was probably the easiest destination to travel solo. It was so sociable and I probably have some of the fondest travel memories I’ve ever had here. Nice post, thank you for sharing.

Tammy http://www.travellingtam.com

Yeah, it’s so easy to travel Vietnam solo isn’t it? I can see why it’s a popular starter country for a reason. I’ve loved both my visits there. Kinda wish I’d popped into Cambodia my second time though as that’s currently top of my places I want to go list.

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Traveling Vietnam Alone - Is It Ideal for Solo Travellers?

1. it’s very safe.

Literally yes. The country is safer than many major cities across the globe and is one of the top reasons why it attracts hundreds of women solo backpackers from around the planet. In fact, it doesn’t matter whether you are going solo or on a group tour, with a friend or just with family – Vietnam happens to be one of a safe destination for all sorts of visitors.

2. Street food is a way of life

Street food is at the heart of Vietnam’s tradition and culture. With vendors selling local cuisine on almost every nook of the cities such as Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi and others, you really will miss out on something indigenous if you haven’t pull up a stool and sat and tasted the hot soups with the locals. Vietnam could just be your ideal destination if you know how to mix with the folks and enjoy a bite or two.

3. Follow the tourist trail

Whilst there is still plenty of off-the-beaten-track, it is wise to follow the well-established tourist trail when it is your first time of travelling Vietnam alone. Take the path along the Halong Bay, Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An, and you can end the trip with Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

4. It is always interesting to meet the other travellers

5. choice from the plethora of activities.

One thing we can promise if you are travelling alone in Vietnam, that you won’t be bored. Stretching for 1,650 kilometres from north to south, the nation not only serves diverse landscapes, but each of these places have some fantastic array of activities.

6. It will be a budget trip

Travelling alone anywhere comes with concerns and it is always advisable to exercise caution. As far as Vietnam is concerned, you would be able to find help even in the rarest of the occasion. Of all things, what makes this places such amazingly loved and travelled is the warmth of its people.

9 Vietnam Travel Tips for First-time Comers

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Top 4 Short Trips in Vietnam

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Vietnam Solo Travel 2024/2025

Embark on our adventurous solo trips to Vietnam that ensure complete freedom and flexibility. Explore the imperial city of Hue on your own, walk the ancient streets of Hanoi, or cruise the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat. Vietnam is well-equipped with its impressive tourist infrastructure for safe travel to any place you choose to explore. You decide your trip's start and end point, whether from the distinct Southern, Central, or Northern regions of this Southeast Asian haven for solo expeditions. For those seeking a balance between independence and companionship, join a Vietnam group tour only for specific tours like trekking in Sapa or exploring the Mekong Delta, reducing costs while connecting with like-minded travelers. Whether you are traveling to Vietnam alone as a novice or are an experienced solo traveler, our tours ensure a memorable adventure tailored to your preferences and interests. Below are some of our curated solo travel packages to Vietnam for you to choose from.

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678 solo trips in Vietnam

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Vietnam Express Southbound

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• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Cycling Vietnam

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Charming Vietnam Tour I Small Group (10 - 14 Pax)

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Vietnam Heritage Lines I 15-Day Private Tour

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Scenic Vietnam

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Best of Vietnam

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• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
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• Age Range 5-79 yrs

• Ends Bangkok, Thailand

Discover Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand I Top 2024/2025

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Vietnam Family Holiday

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• Jun 27 Only 5 seats left
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Vietnam Adventure

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Vietnam Explorer

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Summer Idyll 21 Days 20 Nights

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Vietnam Express Northbound

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Premium Vietnam in Depth

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Trails of Vietnam

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Traveling to Vietnam alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Vietnam who can help build the perfect solo trip in Vietnam.

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Is It Really Safe for Solo Female Travelers in Vietnam?

Just like other traveling ways, traveling solo in Vietnam can bring rewarding yet equally challenging experiences because you pretty only have yourself to rely on. Safety issues understandably are often a concern for solo travelers, especially female solo travelers in Vietnam.

But don’t worry too much. This handy guide is here to help you release all concerns! Whether it’s your first or fifth time in this awe-inspiring country, a great solo trip in Vietnam is guaranteed.

I. Safety in Vietnam

Vietnam is a safe country. Its popularity as a backpackers-haven in South East Asia itself is a testament of the fact. Small petty crimes do occasionally happen but visitors in general will not face any serious danger. As long as you use common sense when you are any place in Vietnam, getting around the country safely is not a hard task.

1. Theft and Other Crimes

Violent crimes rarely occur and the main safety concern for solo female travelers in Vietnam is petty crimes such as pickpocket, theft and bag snatching. These crimes usually appear in crowded areas and on public transport when travelers are distracted. However, good news is that the rate of petty crimes is still relatively low.

2. Getting around the Cities

Navigating around the chaotic traffic in Vietnam can be intimidating. Travelers often prefer to get around by taxis in Vietnam to lessen the stress. It’s advised that you stick to reliable brands like Mai Linh, VinaSun and Taxi Group as taxi scams whereby drivers take passengers on unnecessarily long routes or sneakily give back the wrong change do notoriously happen.

You may also be better off booking car rides (and even motorbikes if you dare) on ride-hailing apps such as Grab, Be or Go Viet, which are the equivalent of Uber in Vietnam.

3. Female Safety in Vietnam

Women will generally feel comfortable when traveling alone in Vietnam. Harassment and assault are rare incidents but to avoid drawing unwanted attention, solo female travelers in Vietnam are advised to leave tight and revealing clothes such as shorts and tank tops at home.

Remove yourself from uncomfortable situations with confidence and head to public spaces to make people around aware that you’re feeling unsafe.

II. 7 Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Vietnam

If you’re still anxious about traveling solo in Vietnam as a woman, here’re a few more tips to take note for a safe and comfortable trip around Vietnam.

1.   Stay Connected with Your Relatives and Friends

Even if you want to enjoy the complete freedom of solitude, it’s important to keep in touch with friends and family. Make sure to inform someone of your location and where you’re heading to. It helps you have a support system in case of emergency.

It’s smart to purchase a sim card or esim from a prestige provider (namely Gigago ) in order to access to mobile data when you arrive at the Vietnam airport to be connected wherever you are in Vietnam. Be sure to get them from kiosks of reliable providers like Viettel, Mobiphone and Vinaphone, many of which offer affordable tourist packages.

2. Be Aware of the Local Culture

Traditional values still play a big part in Vietnamese culture. To avoid the judging eyes, it’s best to avoid flashing excessive wealth. Same goes with your clothing in Vietnam , even if the heat and humidity may prompt you to dress otherwise. Keep in mind many pagodas and temples will require arms and legs to be covered up. Dressing modestly therefore is always a good idea to avoid disrespecting the local culture.

Some cultural differences might also surprise solo female travelers in Vietnam such as how Vietnamese frequently ask personal questions about their age, income level or marital status. These questions are not intended to offend. It’s because Vietnamese believe they help to become closer with someone. If you feel uncomfortable answering, don’t worry, they won’t press on!

3. Prepare Means of Protection

Research is always a good protection method. Learn about the neighborhoods around your accommodation in Vietnam . Do some research about where you’re heading next as such preparation will prove to be helpful in case of a taxi scam.

It’ll also help to note down emergency contacts if you ever need assistance such as the police (113), ambulance (115) and your embassy’s phone number.

It’s your prerogative if you wish to equip yourself with a Swiss army knife or some non-irritant spray. Note that pepper spray and possession of guns are illegal in Vietnam however.

4. Copy Your Identification and Vital Official Documents

Losing travel documents can be extremely troublesome if not an unpleasant experience altogether. Do yourself a favor by keeping copies of identification and important documents with you in both print and digital forms.

It may be better to keep the originals in a safe box at the hotel if there’s one. If not, always check for them when you leave the room.

5. Watch Your Belongings

To avoid falling victim to petty crimes, keep valuables such as jewelries or smart phones and cameras away from eyesight. Don’t make yourself stand out as a target!

Carry little cash. Lock your bags using padlocks even if they’re in your hotel room. Take extra precaution when going up and down public transport, taxis and cyclos as bag snatching thieves often take advantage of these moments to grab your belongings and run away. Keep your hands on your bag at all times, in a secure position, especially in crowded areas.

6. Research Your Accommodations

It may be tempting to go on a whim when traveling solo in Vietnam but it’s best to research your accommodation options carefully beforehand. Avoid last minute booking. It can be risky to ignore guests’ reviews as you become more vulnerable when you don’t know what to expect.

If you’re up for it, check out popular dormitory hostels among backpackers and solo female travelers in Vietnam. It’s a great chance to bond with like-minded people. It also doesn’t hurt anyone to share some stories and solo travel tips with your fellow travelers.

7. Drink Responsibly

The buzzing nightlife of big cities like Bia Hoi Corner Hanoi (Ta Hien street) and Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City will let you loosen up and have some fun. However, as a solo female traveler in Vietnam, only you are responsible for yourself.

Drink in moderation and be sure to know illegal possession of drugs (including marijuana) can bring serious consequences in Vietnam. Alcohol poisoning do happen occasionally because of the presence fake alcohols so it’s best to be wary of some branded liquor with a too-good-to-be-true price tag.

III. Tours & Activities for Solo Female Travelers in Vietnam

1. Soak up the Sun on the Beach

Your trip wouldn’t be completed without a day at the beach in Vietnam.

Visit My Khe beach in Danang for a quick dip into the water. Enjoy the adrenaline rush of water sports like parasailing and jet-skiing, all while being just minutes away from the convenient city life. For luxury-lovers, the Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, multiple-times winner of Asia’s Leading Luxury Resort, is also a 30-minute ride away.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island is another great choice for beachgoers. This island gateway is home to exquisite beaches like Star Beach , Long Beach and Khem Beach. Revel in the picturesque sceneries of powdery white sand and swaying palm trees as you snorkel in the warm pristine waters of this Vietnamese crown jewel.

2. Immerse in Vietnam’s History and Heritage

A good way to immerse in the vibrant Vietnamese culture and history is checking out the 8 UNESCO Heritage Sites in Vietnam. Add unique experiences to your bucket list from kayaking through fishing villages in the beloved Halong Bay to visiting a tailor shop in Hoi An for a one-of-a-kind traditional Ao Dai .

Food-lovers can satisfy their big appetite with the diverse selection of street food at night markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Take yourself out on an excursion the next day by touring the nearby Mekong Delta. Make sure to stop by the colorful floating markets in Mekong Delta , including Cai Rang floating market , Phong Dien floating market, etc.

3. Join in Female-only Retreats in Vietnam

Traveling solo in Vietnam can be stressful. Why not take some time to off in total relaxation to improve your mindfulness and achieve a balance between the mind and body?

Hoi An and Phu Quoc are the most popular destinations for mini yoga retreat tours which last 4-7 days in average.

Visitors can also treat themselves with luxurious spa packages to free the mind and calm the soul. Services offered varies anywhere from guided meditations and yoga, to healing massage sessions and acupressure treatments.

Check out notable names such as Amanoi boutique resort in Nha Trang, Six Senses in Con Dao Island or Emeralda in Ninh Binh. If you choose to have a weekend getaway in Nha Trang, also consider visiting some mud baths and mineral hot springs.

4. Volunteer with Social Enterprises and Non-profits

Volunteering can enrich the travel experience in unimaginable ways. Make your trip extra meaningful by creating real impacts wherever you go!

There’re various volunteering opportunities available for solo female traveler in Vietnam and most can be easily found online. The range of activities is limitless. You’re more than welcome to teach English to children in Hanoi, rescuing animals in Hoi An, tea leavf picking in Ha Giang as well as joining in a medical volunteer program in Ho Chi Minh City.

5. Join Small-scale Tours for Solo Female Travelers

Signing up for a small scale tour is a nice way to have the security of an organized group without the extended commitment of multi-day tours. As solo female travelers in Vietnam continue to increase in numbers, it’s not difficult to find short female-only tours.

Consider joining some female-guided tours on motorbike in Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An. Aside from the usual sightseeing tour, these tours also let you opt in on a food or photography tour.

Additionally, unique experiences such as female-led hiking tours in Sapa and a cooking class in Hoi An are a great chance to make your trip more memorable.

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Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

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