vietnam travel 2024

TRAVEL to VIETNAM – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Vietnam in our comprehensive 2024 Vietnam travel guide.

We get it. You’re wondering what the absolute best destination to travel in Southeast Asia is.

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

And trust us, as a couple that have travelled the world for over a decade, we think you’ve made the right decision.

There’s a reason Vietnam is our all-time favourite country…

From the tropical coral reefs of Nha Trang to the northern mountains of Sa Pa, travel to Vietnam is one of the most adventurous yet culturally empowering experiences you can have.

One moment you will find yourself haggling for  banh mi  deep within Saigon and later that day you could be watching a breathtaking sunset from the Mekong Delta.

Vietnam is more than a country. It’s an experience.

You’ll find yourself immersed among street food vendors cooking up exotic cuisines such as  pho  along streets with stores selling suits and ties.

Or you’ll be cruising the waters of Halong Bay while monkeys jump from island to island.

Or you might find yourself trekking to the highest peak in Vietnam, Fansipan soaring to over 3,100 metres!

Not into adventure activities? Homestays are the perfect way to spend your day as the monsoon rains fall across the endless snaking rivers of the Mekong.

Vietnamese hospitality is unrivalled and is something that you should experience once in your life, so what are you waiting for? Say good morning Vietnam! And go get lost!

So we’ve convinced you to travel to Vietnam? Awesome!

Now check out the basic information about the country in our Vietnam travel guide.

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Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang, Hue

Vietnamese Dong (see  current exchange rate ). 1USD approximately = 23,000 dong. 1 beer = 30,000 dong ($1.30USD)

ENTRY / VISA:

Travellers from most countries in the world are required to have visas. In most cases these can be obtained upon arrival for either 3 or 6 months. For information about your specific visa requirements click  here.

Vietnam is fairly safe for travellers. Petty theft tends to be the biggest concern and always be on the lookout for taxi scams. Also of concern are minor auto/motorbike accidents. This is one place it’s great to have travel insurance when visiting.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. Power plugs – Type A: 2 vertical pins, Type C: 2 round pins, Type F (also known as Schuko plug): 2 round pins (Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave)

TRANSPORTATION:

Intercity travel is possible by plane, train and bus. Within cities, towns and villages you can expect to get around on bicycle rickshaws, motorbike taxes, taxis and bus.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

With so much to see and do in Vietnam, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Vietnam you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

Said to be one of the most eye-opening train rides in the world, as you pass through lush forests, rice paddy fields on your way to the Vietnamese – Chinese border.

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

Explore the area with the local hill tribes. Stay with them during your trek. And enjoy the beautiful terraced countryside for which Sapa is known.

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

Probably one of the ‘must do’s of Vietnam.’ The Mekong Delta is full of hidden gems including floating markets, friendly locals and late afternoon storms.

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

Caves there can fit a 747 plane in it. They are massive and spectacular. This is an adventure you will never forget.

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

Yes, that’s right! Hiring a motorcycle or scooter is a must. But maybe do it out on the country roads. Opt for the famous ride to the mountain village of Dalat, or pretty much anywhere throughout the country.

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

Learn to cook Vietnamese food . Eating delicious Vietnamese food is one thing. Eating it after you’ve  learned to prepare it  is another!

Scuba dive  in Nha Trang. You may not think of Vietnam as a big scuba location, but there is  some great diving  to be had in Nha Trang.

Go canyoning  in Dalat. Rappel, slide, jump and  climb your way through canyons  in this gorgeous place!

Explore the Marble Mountains  in Da Nang.  These beautiful mountains  have been mined for marble for years and have incredible views and temples to visit along the way.

Sandboard down the sand dunes  in Mui Ne. It’s like snowboarding, but down massive sand dunes! Enjoy this rush!

Visit the Giants Causeway  in Ghan Da Dia. Half the world away from the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, be amazed at  this unique geologic structure .

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels  outside of Ho Chi Minh City. No trip to HCMC is complete without  touring these historic tunnels  that were used during the war.

Conquer the Hoi An Pass on a motorbike . This is known as one of the most beautiful sections of highway in the world. Enjoy!

Explore the world’s biggest cave . We have a special connection with  Hang Son Doong  as it is where we were engaged. Make your own special moment too!

Climb the highest mountain in Indochina  in Sapa. Fansipan is over 3,000m above sea level and  offers incredible views  along the way to the top!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE  OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN   VIETNAM

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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Vietnam. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

When slurping a bowl of pho in a local market or exploring an ancient temple, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine in Ho Chi Minh City.

A collection of over 3,000 limestone islands providing endless kayaking opportunities. Take the time to relax aboard a boat or venture to Cat Ba National Park for mystical waterfalls!

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

The capital of Vietnam is also one of the most ancient capitals in the world. The history of Hanoi is rich, devastating and full of legends. This mystical city is also known for its cuisine, silk, buzzing nightlife as well as cultural diversity.

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

Ancient temples dating back 1,000 years give a culture understanding into Vietnam’s past all while showing the scars of the war.

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Vietnam, reference our following city travel guides: 

Ho Chi Minh City:

*  Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary *  Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THESE OTHER AWESOME PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM. 

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

We’ve put together a few Vietnam itineraries that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Vietnam that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Even though the country is one united nation, you can think of it geographically as being divided into a northern and southern region.

So depending on how much time you have, you may want to explore the northern region, southern region or the entire country.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Vietnam these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

Most people spend at least a month went hey travel to Vietnam. But if you had just one week, or were willing to split a few weeks between the northern and southern regions, this is how we’d spend our time! 

Northern Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi
• 2 nights – Hanoi
• 2 nights –  Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay
• 2 nights  – Sapa
• Alternative to Sapa  –  2 night in Hue
• Fly out of Hanoi

Central Vietnam

• Fly into Hanoi or HCMC. Get a local flight down to Dong Hoi
• 3 nights  – Phong Nha
• 2 nights  – Hue
• 2-3  nights  – Hoi An
• Fly out of Da Nang to either Hanoi or HCMC to leave

South Vietnam

• Fly into Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights  – Ho Chi Minh City
• 2 nights –  Mekong Delta
• 2 nights –  Dalat
• 1 night –  Mui Ne
• Fly out of Ho Chi Minh City

READ MORE: Check out this post for more details on our  Vietnam travel itinerary . 

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to travel to Vietnam really depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather, scenery and budget.

Peak season occurs from mid-December through to February. But expect prices to double during this time. The low season is perfect for those on a budget.

• Low Season –  April to June, September to November
• Shoulder Season –  December to March
• High Season –  July & August

Northern Vietnam  –  The best months to travel Northern Vietnam are April to May or September to October. There are mostly sunny days and the rain has stopped.

The weather gets really cold from December to March and is not suited for hiking or sailing a junk boat in Halong Bay that time of year.

Central Vietnam –  The best months for travel to Central Vietnam are January to June. There are heavy rains in October and November and the really hot months are from May to August.

Southern Vietnam  –  The best months to explore Southern Vietnam are January to April where conditions are beautiful.

You really can travel the south at any time of the year. Just note that from May to November there are afternoon downpours.

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Vietnam is a cheap country to travel if you want it to be, this all depends on what your budget is like. Our advice is always over-budget when making plans, and if you come home with money, it can go towards your next trip. All prices below are in USD per day.

Budgeting Tips

To make your money go further here are a few tips: 

• Eat street food as often as possible. You can usually fill up for $1-2USD.
• Travel in groups when possible. Staying in hostels will lead to making friends. And with friends, you can split transportation costs and barter on other expenses.
• Negotiate taxi fares before taking the ride. Vietnamese taxi drivers are notorious for flexible fares that tend to fall int heir favor. Don’t be afraid of a little negotiation.
• Drink  bia hoi . Sure it’s not the more delightful beer. But it is shipped in fresh each day, it’s cheap and it’s what the local drink.
• Take in the sights for free. Do a little research and walk the streets on your own. You’ll also find there are a number of free tours and other opportunities if you ask around.
• Sleep on overnight busses for longer trips. Combine the transportation and accommodation line items of your budget and save a few dollars.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, drinking a few nights of the week, I would budget for about $35 a day.

A single hostel bed can be $5-$8 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$20. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $1.50 and a  bia hoi  is $0.20 per cup. This is not the nicest beer. But it is passable and you get to make new friends when drinking it.

Walking or taking public transport will keep your budget down. There are many free things to do, you just need to think outside the box.

Mid-Range Traveller ($100 Single / $120 Couple)

If you have a little more cash in your budget your travels in Vietnam will become a lot more comfortable.

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

There are restaurants where you will pay more than the street food price. But the food is definitely of nicer quality (most of the time). The local beer can get a little too much sometimes so you will be able to enjoy an international beer or wine.

For the attractions you are most interested in, get a guide and learn more about the history of the country. You’ll be able to commit much more of your budget to do things rather than cutting corners just to stay alive.

Luxury Traveller ($90+ Single / $120+ Couple)

You don’t have to have that much more to enjoy a luxury trip to Vietnam. With a few more dollars in your budget, a nicer hotel is definitely affordable. Eat and drink anything you would like at virtually any restaurant.

You can hire transportation without having to haggle. And you can pretty much do any tour you would like to do when visiting any part of Vietnam.

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

Most travellers are required to have visas when travelling to Vietnam, which can typically be arranged upon arrival. You are typically allowed to stay for 3 – 6 months, depending on nationality.

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

Additionally, Vietnam has introduced an electronic visa (e-visa), which costs $25 USD and is granted for single entry visits for up to 30 days.

You no longer will have to apply through an agent to get an invitation letter or queue at the airport immigration for hours waiting to receive your visa upon arrival.

Apply in advance  here .

Once you are approved, all you need to do is print the visa out and present it on entry to Vietnam. Don’t lose this e- visa print out as you will need this during your travels in Vietnam.

Hotels will ask for it on check-in at the accommodation and travel agents may ask for it if you are booking flights.

Also, print out your  travel insurance  as well. Immigration will ask for this also as they want to know you are covered if you fall ill or get injured during your stay.

Getting to Vietnam

There are a number of different ways to travel to Vietnam, depending on where you are coming from and how you like to get around with transport.

There are a lot of different airlines that fly to Vietnam from all over the world. There are two major international airports in Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City in the south and Noi Bai Airpot (HAN) in Hanoi in the north.

Direct flights to Vietnam from Australia, Europe and North America are still limited, but it is improving. You will most likely have to book a flight with a stopover in either Hong Kong, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul or Singapore.

There are many domestic airports scattered among the country. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. We have flown with them several times and they are amazing.

You can cross into Vietnam by train from China, all the way from Beijing to Ping Xian. This is the Dong Dang Crossing which is 160km from Hanoi.

After you have crossed the border hop on a train to Hanoi. Don’t buy the direct ticket from Beijing to Hanoi. It works out cheaper to buy your ticket from Beijing to Ping Xian then cross the border and purchase another ticket from Dong Dang to Hanoi.

If you do the train trip from Beijing through to Hanoi, it will take 36 hours so it is best to book a sleeper. Make sure you have your visa organised before getting to the border.

You can bring your own food and drinks for the train or purchase them from the cafeteria on board. There are squat toilets on board and areas to store your luggage.

You can get to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City through either the Cambodia, Laos or China borders. There is a route from Vientiane (Laos) to Hanoi, and one from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.

Most travel agents in Vientiane, Siem Reap or Phnom Penh will sell the tickets or at your accommodation. You can also get a minivan from Guangzhou through to Hanoi.

Make sure you have your visa ready. The border crossings by land may not be set up as well as others.

If you want to book any of your bus trips online rather than trying to deal with travel agencies in the country, you can do so on the popular website  Bookaway .

Getting Around Vietnam

Getting around Vietnam is surprisingly easy. Public transport goes everywhere, and there are plenty of moto-taxis that are happy to take you to the places that public transport won’t reach.

Travelling by Air

The fastest way to get around the country, of course, is by air. There are many domestic airports all over the country and you can fly in from major cities.

You can get cheap flights within the country through VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. For the best deals head directly on the airline’s website.

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

When you are in the cities and town catching a taxi, tuk-tuk or moto-taxi can be the best way to get around. For taxi companies, look for the biggest and most reputable companies as you can be ripped off.

For the tuk-tuks, ask your accommodation the average price to your destination so you can agree on a price with the driver.

We recommend Uber and Grab (car or motorbike) which you can use an app and get the price.

Travelling by Bus

It is possible and advisable to travel by bus throughout Vietnam. Busses inside of cities can be complicated and should be a last resort.

However, when travelling long distances in Vietnam busses are a great option. This is especially true if you take night busses and sleep during the ride.

Travelling by Motorbike

We think travelling by motorbike is the best way to see Vietnam if you have the time. Buy your own motorbike and ride the length of the country. Or you can choose one area and explore Northern Vietnam or South Vietnam.

Here’s our post to help guide you on  how to buy a motorbike in Vietnam .

Travelling by Train

Taking the train is a great way to get around the country. They are great for overnight journeys as the trains have bed cabins.

In Vietnam, there are many places with roadwork that can last for years. So trains can be the best way to go.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

We know you’ll absolutely love travelling in Vietnam. But technology has made it easier, more affordable and safer to travel than ever.

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

Grab  – Use this app to catch a ride from any metro area in Vietnam.

XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 

Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in [Country]. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 

iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Vietnamese words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Vietnam. 

WiFi Finder  – With this app, you no longer have to guess whether the next place on your itinerary has WiFi or scramble across town looking for hot spots.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

When you travel to a foreign country one of the new and most exciting things you will experience is the food. There are so many amazing food choices in Vietnam, and Vietnamese food is delicious.

Here are a few of our favourites.

Goi Cuon:  This is a rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced or shredded pork, shrimp or crab. It will be served with a sweet and sour sauce or a delicious homemade peanut sauce.

Sometimes to make the experience even better, you get to hand roll them yourself. This was our favourite dish.

Banh Mi:  With this one, it will be different in every corner of Vietnam. This is a baguette sandwich that is filled with meat, greens, pata, pickled vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro and sometimes an omelet.

The meat filling will be roasted pork belly, grilled pork loin, barbecue pork, boiled chicken, or a fried egg.

Pho (pronounced ‘fur’):  This flat rice noodle soup is either light beef or chicken broth flavoured with coriander and ginger with spring onions and bits of meat (chicken, pork or beef).

It is a dish you can have any time of the day and is delicious, but it can be hit and miss in some places. If you have an average one, please do try it again. We ate pho a lot for breakfast and never got sick of it.

Bun Cha:  This is a Hanoi specialty and it is deliciously addictive. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodles. It will be served with a sauce.

It will all be served separately and you combined everything together. You can ask for some little fried spring rolls on top too. It is so delicious!

Coa Lau:  Hoi An is the best (and only authentic) place to try this one. as the noodles are made using water from a special well in town.

It is chewy rice flour noodles with Chinese barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons and fresh herbs in a delicious pork-based gravy.

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

There are accommodation options for all budgets in Vietnam. You can stay in a shared dorm for $5 USD per night, or a luxury hotel for over $300 USD.

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

For example, we got a really nice hotel in the middle of nowhere when we were on our bike for $12 a night. But we would not find a place like this in Hanoi, Hoi An, HCMC or Hue for less than $25.

NOTE –  In Vietnam, the accommodation will keep your passport for the duration of your stay. This is to do with the government. Officials will randomly come around and check hotels and hostels.

If they do not have the ID or passport of every person staying there, the accommodation will be fined. The accommodation will keep your passport in a safe. If you are unsure just ask, “do you lock my passport up?”

Types of Accommodations

Vietnam is wildly popular among backpackers. Because the costs are generally incredibly low, budget travellers flock to the country.

This means that there are lots of great hostel options when looking for accommodations in Vietnam.

Whether you are busy spending all your time exploring and are just looking for a cheap place to crash for the night or want to make friends along the way, you will find most of what you are looking for in a variety of hostels throughout Vietnam.

Because costs are generally lower in Vietnam than in most parts of the world your quality of life can go up quite a bit when you travel to Vietnam.

One way you can upgrade your travel experience is by booking rooms in hotels instead of beds in hostels. For a few dollars more you’ll get vastly more space and privacy.

In some towns and villages, hotels are your only option.

But generally, these are very reasonably priced. You can expect to spend USD$20-30 for a decent hotel room in most cities, towns and villages across Vietnam.

Another good option in recent years is AirBnB, and there are more and more amazing places popping up to stay in Vietnam for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

We travelled from the south to the north and stayed in many different places. Here are a few accommodation options we highly recommend.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

The Vietnamese people are friendly, welcoming and hospitable towards travellers. It is a great destination to travel to in Southeast Asia.

The people are very respectful and would like the same back from you. Here are a few things that you should know before going to Vietnam.

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

While we have  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Vietnam, there are also plenty of Vietnam-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Vietnam: 

Please show respect to their religious beliefs and their cultures . You are travelling to someone else’s country. They have different religious beliefs and cultures in your home. Please respect them.

Watch your belongings.  Vietnam is a safe country but unfortunately, there still is petty theft. Whether you are at a restaurant or on a bus always watch your belongings.

Beware of the counterfeit tour agencies . Unfortunately, there are plenty of these around, especially in the main tourist areas. Book through the main owner or operator or any of  these tours that we recommend .

Do not drink the tap water.  The locals don’t even drink the water. There is bottled water available everywhere. Popular tourist restaurants will usually have on their menu that they wash their salad and veggies in sterilised water and make tea, coffee and soup from that too.

Carry toilet paper everywhere . There are toilets available in restaurants or in public but there may not be toilet paper. Most of the time you have to pay for the public toilet and they may give you some toilet paper, but don’t count on it. Always have your stash.

Toilet paper goes in the bin . DO NOT put the toilet paper in the toilet. Please put it into the bin provided. Vietnam’s sewerage systems are not built for much more than human waste so toilet paper and other items will just clog up your toilet.

Embrace the “bum gun “. Next to every toilet in Vietnam, there is a water hose. This is not to wash down the floor. This is to clean yourself up after you do your business. Don’t be disgusted by this. Embrace it.

Vietnam is bigger than you think . This country is huge and many people underestimate it. Vietnam is about 1,650 kilometres long from north to south. The distance on buses and trains is long so be prepared.

Take note of the Vietnamese money . It will be a new currency for you so do take a look at it before you go out spending. There are more zeros in it than you might be used to (1USD = 23,000 Dong)

Always take photos when you rent a scooter . Renting a scooter in Vietnam is something everyone does. It is a great way to get around and see all the attractions. But where you rent it from can get you into trouble. Whenever you rent a scooter take photos of the bike or else might end up with a crazy expensive bill.

Always wear a helmet. Always . Please wear a helmet. The roads are crazier here than they are in your country. The rules are different and road conditions are not the best. A quality helmet could save your life in an accident.

Make sure you have travel insurance . We tell people who are going travelling, “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.” You do not know what is going to happen while you are away and knowing you are covered will put your mind at ease.

Be confident when crossing the road . The roads in Vietnam are crazy. Crossing the road can be daunting but you need to be confident. Do not walk backward or hesitate. Walk slowly and watch the traffic coming towards you. They will all move around you.

Take your shoes off before entering a temple or a person’s home . It is a custom that stems back to ancient times and a big part comes back to cleanliness. The ground is used for chatting, dining and even sleeping.

Cover your shoulders and knees when entering a temple . This is common in most religious sites. There are always signs suggesting visitors dress ‘appropriately.’ Shoulders and knees should be covered. If it is a hot day and a t-shirt is too sticky, carry a scarf for when you visit to cover your shoulders.

Keep a low profile . Do not be loud, raise your voice in aggression or show off. Do not show dramatic affection publicly like kissing. Save it for the hotel room

Ask for permission before taking a photo of someone . This is polite and ensures you are not intruding on them. The people are not there for your entertainment. If they say no, smile and thank them anyway.

Do not take photos of anything to do with the government or military.  This is a big NO in any country and can end up with you in jail.

Do not touch someone on the head . The head is the most important part of the body. Touching someone’s head who you don’t know is like saying you are more important than they are.

Place your chopsticks across the top of the bowl when finished . Don’t have your chopsticks hanging out of the bowl, and don’t point them at anyone when they are resting on the plate.

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Vietnam, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note!  Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is  World Nomads .

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

Which countries or regions are you traveling to, what’s your country of residence, enter traveler’s age, staying safe in vietnam.

Vietnam is extremely safe, apart from the one major danger which is the roads. They are crazy, even more so if you try to ride 10’000km around the country on motorbikes as we did!

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

Here are a few reminders of what common sense when travelling in Vietnam means:

As you saw above, Vietnam is extremely safe. We did not feel unsafe once in the 7 months we were there (excluding the roads).

This doesn’t mean you can completely let your guard down though, and petty theft does happen in this country, although it’s not common.

Some tips for protecting your things:

In other words, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

Staying connected with friends and family (and work) when travelling in Vietnam is important. But if you don’t know how to connect you can find yourself greatly inconvenienced or spending too much money.

We feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Picking up a SIM card has become the quickest and typically most affordable way to stay connected in Vietnam or any country for that matter.

If you have an unlocked phone you can use a 4G SIM card to connect to the cellular networks in Vietnam. From there you can cast a hot spot if you need to crank out some work on your computer or want to connect a tablet.

This 3G/4G SIM card  is a great and affordable option for a SIM card if you are flying into Vietnam.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Alternatively to a SIM card, particularly if you don’t have an unlocked phone, you can rent a portable WiFi device during your travel to Vietnam.

This device  will be delivered to you when you arrive in Vietnam and will provide 4G service for less than USD$5 per day.

You’ll be able to connect anywhere you can find service across the country, which will be most of the places you are likely to travel in Vietnam.

Access Free WiFI

Free is always best, if it is convenient. And there are plenty of places throughout Vietnam that will provide free WiFi in public spaces or at restaurants, cafes and hostels and hotels.

We recommend using the  WiFi Finder  app, which will help you locate WiFi anywhere you travel in Vietnam.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

We absolutely love Vietnam. And we love the idea that it will remain a beautiful and friendly place for travellers for years to come.

Here are a few tips specific to travel to Vietnam that will promote sustainable tourism in the country:

Use your own energy to get around.  Walk or cycle through town as much as possible. Taking a cyclo-taxi is a close alternative if you don’t have the energy to propel yourself through the city. But this reduces the impact of taxis, busses and other forms of automotive transportation.

Mind your plastic . Plastic is everywhere in Vietnam. But using your own reusable bag for groceries and other shopping, carrying a reusable water bottle and having your own straw are just 3 of the many simple ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use.

Shop local . Visiting the markets will be one of your top experiences when travelling to Vietnam. Support local vendors as often as possible, including in taking tours when available.

Be mindful of wildlife . Wildlife in the wild is great. But be mindful not to provoke, feed or otherwise molest wildlife. And never purchase any item made of or involving rare or endangered species.

Attempt to communicate in Vietnamese . You’re probably not going to be fluent as soon as you arrive in the country. But knowing a few phrases and doing your best to communicate with locals will show respect and earn trust and make your experience richer.

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

You don’t have to be fluent in Vietnamese to have a great time when you travel to Vietnam. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Vietnamese people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

Maybe you already know everything about Vietnam. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Vietnam. 

The Quiet American  (Graham Greene) – Originally published in 1956 and adapted for film twice, this story by Greene became an instant classic. Greene fictionalizes life in 1950s Vietnam as told by a British correspondent trying to understand the roots of the rising conflict set to occur.

At Home In The World  (Thich Nhat Hanh) – World renown Vietnamese monk, Hanh reflects on lessons and stories in life from the Buddhist perspective.

Vietnam: Rising Dragon  (Bill Hayton) – A piece of nonfiction that looks back on the Vietnam of old and attempts to projects its place in the future of Southeast Asia.

The Sympathizer  (Viet Thanh Nguyen) – The Pulitzer Prize-winning book, allegedly influenced by  The Quiet American , is told through the eyes of a double-agent during the Vietnam War who struggles to understand the minds and hearts of men engaged in war.

DISCLAIMER:  Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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Read our vietnam posts, 20 amazing things to do in hoi an, vietnam (2024 guide), 14 incredible things to do in dalat, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary [2024 guide], 25 amazing things to do in hanoi, vietnam (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in ho chi minh city itinerary [2024], the 8 best day trips from ho chi minh city (2024 guide), caves, zip lines and deep mud in phong nha, ganh da dia – vietnam’s own ‘giant’s causeway’, ba be national park – the lake, trekking and happy water, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, riding sea to sky: hue to hoi an by motorbike, getting a chinese visa in hanoi, vietnam.

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Travel to Vietnam: The Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide 2024

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

Things to Know about Vietnam

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

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

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

Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

Top tourist destinations in Vietnam

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

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

Things to do in Vietnam

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

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

Where to Stay in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around Vietnam

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

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

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

Cultural tips for Vietnam

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

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

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

Safety tips for Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are many reputable local tour operators in Vietnam. TravelVietnam.com is one of them. TravelVietnam.com offers a variety of private and escort tours, including tours of Sapa, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Mekong Delta, and Ho Chi Minh City. Here are a few of the benefits of traveling with Travel Vietnam : Safety:  We specialize exclusively in offering private and luxury tours in Vietnam , serving as a reliable Vietnam DMC (Destination Management Company). Our dedicated tour guides and drivers escort you throughout the journey, prioritizing the absolute safety of you and your group. With our expertise in organizing Vietnam school tours and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tours, we are well-equipped to provide comprehensive services that ensure your trip is not only secure but also unforgettable. By teaming up with us, you can rest assured, as we help you avoid scams and potential safety concerns while exploring the wonders of Vietnam. Convenience:  We are a local tour operator that can handle all of the details of your trip, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. Knowledge:  With over 19 years of experience in the travel industry, we boast a seasoned team of travel experts. With offices in multiple countries such as Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, Yangon, Hanoi, and HCM City, we are well-equipped to ensure a memorable journey for you. This local presence allows us to offer insights into local culture and history, making your travel experience truly remarkable.

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Last updated on 2024-04-25 06:56:52.  

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1. Ho Chi Minh City

Big cities are often said to hold no interest for keen travelers due to a lack of uniqueness and depth, but Ho Chi Minh City – or Saigon as we often call it – will possibly do justice to the metropolitan cities out there.

Strategically located in the South of Vietnam, the city plays a key role in the economic and cultural development of the country. In terms of tourism, Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect example of the amicable combination of the dynamic of a modern city and the timeless cultural values of an old town. On one side of the city, you will be easily overwhelmed by the chaotic order flow of traffic, the lively trading activities on every corner, and the dynamic nightlife. On the other side, you can find yourself lost in the scenes of mossy temples, old open markets, and museums where history is stored and retold to the world. Ho Chi Minh City is also a good base for traveling around Southern cities thanks to a developed transportation link. Finally, make sure to go to Ho Chi Minh City with a hungry stomach since this is where you will sample some of the best and most unique street foods.

Hoi An may no longer be an unfamiliar name among world travelers. Voted twice as one of Asia’s leading cultural destinations in 2019 and 2021, this lovable city has gradually affirmed its charm.

Hoi An is not only a poetic heritage town but also a prime location where the cultural essence from centuries of history of the East and the West comes together. The ancient heritage town is highlighted by its distinctive archetype – red tile roofs contrasted against the background of the iconic yellow walls and antique wooden doors – denoting a sense of tranquility and quaintness. We fall in love with Hoi An for the colorful lanterns lit up every night, the little cafes overlooking the poetic Hoai River, and the peaceful bicycle rides along the paddy fields.

Hoi An is able to please adventure seekers with a wide range of outdoor activities, such as exotic basketboat rides and surfing classes, and culture vultures with many art galleries, countless ancient assembly halls, temples, and centuries-old private houses. This is also where you could have the best custom dress tailored by extraordinarily skilled tailors in town within one day or two, guaranteeing to blow your mind.

Despite its huge popularity, Hoi An has shown great efforts to preserve its heritage status and vintage vibes, and you will surely feel it as soon as you arrive in this little but magical town.

How could you claim you have been to a country without visiting its capital city? Hanoi – the solemn and tranquil charm of the country, houses more than 6,000 historical and cultural heritage sites, many of which were recognized by UNESCO.

Characterized by four seasons, every visit to Hanoi, regardless of the time of the year, is a unique and worthwhile experience. In spring, the capital city is dotted with pink cherry blossoms and colorful festivals. Summer brings curtains of rain, and Hanoi is coated with an air of melancholy, a nostalgic vibe that many people long for. Autumn comes with the most romantic and beautiful surroundings: mild breezes of wind, a clear blue sky, and yellow leaves scattered along the peaceful streets. And at the end of the year, when the winter winds blow and the temperature drops, Hanoi is pictured with the puffs of smoke steamed from the food vendors, from the pots of hot tea, and from little traditional stoves on the sidewalks to warm people up.

Hanoi is where you walk the soulful 36 streets of the Old Quarter, where you get to try the original taste of pho and the richness of egg coffee at its best. Hanoi Capital is surely a cultural hub that you cannot miss on your travel.

Besides the city of Hoi An, Da Nang is another destination in Central Vietnam that was voted on the list. Da Nang, for many years, has been known as not only the cleanest city but also the safest one. Having the fastest rate of development across the country, Da Nang has successfully built and operated an effective system of transportation, including an international airport, various bus and train stations situated in the city center, and reliable taxis throughout the city.

You would easily find that Da Nang is a well-organized city with a neat urban landscape and spectacular surroundings of mythical mountains, natural caves, and one of the best beaches in the world – My Khe Beach. Apart from natural gifts, Da Nang also offers a wide range of architectural places of interest, namely the world-renowned Golden Bridge of Ba Na Hills, the Dragon Bridge, Linh Ung Pagoda, and so on. In short, Da Nang is the “whatever your expectations are for a destination, it will possibly fulfill them” kind of place.

Ha Long is a dependent city situated in the center of Quang Ninh Province, which is 165 km eastwards from Hanoi. Ha Long City is oftentimes synonymous with Ha Long Bay – one of the most majestic natural wonders with its gorgeous limestone pillars and isles rising from the turquoise waters. This natural heritage is a truly breathtaking sight to behold, worth its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ha Long Bay, apart from its stunning scenery, offers a multitude of activities for visitors to enjoy, from taking a boat tour through the bay to exploring the marvelous caves and grottos that dot the landscapes to going kayaking and swimming in the bay’s calm waters. Ha Long houses some stunning rock climbing sites and hiking trails catering to adventure seekers. For those interested in local experiences, there are also opportunities to visit fishing villages and try out squid fishing in the evening or to take up a cooking class to learn how to make some delicious authentic Vietnamese dishes. In addition to these, joining a cruise that offers overnight stays on the bay to fully immerse yourselves in the peacefulness of Ha Long is a unique experience you cannot miss. Ha Long Bay, or Ha Long City itself, is a must-visit for every type of traveler traveling to Vietnam for what it has to offer.

6. Ninh Binh

Less than 100km South of Hanoi is the first capital city of the feudal government of Vietnam – Ninh Binh . Ninh Binh houses another UNESCO World Heritage – Trang An Landscape Complex – a natural gem with majestic limestone mountain ranges guarding the placid emerald-colored lakes that used to be the walls and the access of an emperor’s kingdom.

Being endowed with stunning landscapes and heartfelt sceneries all year round, Ninh Binh is blanketed with a unique natural color each season, depicting a wonderful landscape transition following climatic changes. In spring, the whole area is rejuvenated by the beautifully lush green of plants and flowers. Summer comes with the breathtaking golden color of the ripe rice fields, reflecting on the calm water surface. Autumn is the purple lily water season, when they bloom gorgeously, contrasting with the color of the earthy forest and the mountains on the far side. Even in winter, the wintry vibe in the place is emphasized by the cottony reed grass. Taking a boat ride along the peaceful yet spectacular water valley, worshiping at the magical spiritual icon of Bai Dinh Pagoda, and immersing yourselves in the grand creation of nature are some of the reasons to put Ninh Binh on the list.

On the grand mountains in Northwestern Vietnam is the little magical town of Sapa . Sapa has been increasingly recognized for its magnificent scenery with vast terraced rice fields that turn golden in the harvest season, with breathtaking mountain peaks in which Fansipan is the highest and crowned the Roof of Indochina, with vibrant traditional costumes of the Vietnamese minority tribes to name a few.

This mountainous town’s temperature is around 15-18°C almost year-round; however, in winter, it can drop to below 0°C, and you are likely to witness a light fall of snow. The many different ethnic groups living in Sapa not only tell beautiful cultural stories but also bring you some one-of-a-kind authentic experiences, such as taking tribal herbal baths and trying the traditional weaving machines of the Vietnamese minority people.

You will also have a chance to sample a totally different kind of cuisine like no other place across Vietnam that highlights its simplicity and originality – the two qualities that could also be found among the Sapa people.

Sapa is an excellent example of what Northern mountainous people could look and feel like – a truly hidden gem that will fill you with its own story and unique colors.

Nestled amidst Lam Vien Highlands, Dalat is often referred to with beautiful names, such as the “City of Thousands of Flowers,” the “City of Fog,” or the “City of Love.” Dalat reminds one of the wondrous city of Paris not only for its nickname but also for its charming colonial architecture and its lifestyle. Strolling down the streets of this beautiful city, you would catch sight of local people slowly enjoying their morning coffee and sharing a good laugh.

Dalat’s cool climate, lush green landscapes, and magnificent waterfalls create a picturesque and romantic scenery like no other. Just a short drive from the city center, you can be entirely immersed in nature with pine trees, tea plantations, gorgeous seasonal flowers, and greenery as far as the eye can see. It also offers many trekking trails under the shade of pine forest, leading to villages and hidden waterfalls with breathtaking views. Apart from that, Dalat cuisine is vibrant and full of flavors from the fresh produce of the highlands. Dining in the picturesque setting of French and Vietnamese blends would surely be another highlight of your trip.

Dalat with its natural beauty and charm, would bring you unforgettable experiences and leave you with cherished memories of a magical highland city of Vietnam.

Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam throughout the Nguyen Dynasty – the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam. To be chosen as the capital, one can imagine the city itself needs to be situated in a strategic location, and Hue surely does have it in terms of geography, economy, and natural landscapes. Historical records described Hue, in terms of geography, as the middle point of the country, making it easy to rule and contact both Northern and Southern authorities. Hue also has big ports which facilitate trading activities. In the feudal belief, feng shui, especially its geographical dimension, plays an essential role in the prosperity of a nation, which is also the major reason to make this place worth visiting. The city of Hue stretches on a vast plain facing Ngu Binh Mountain, guarded on two sides by the isle of Hen (Con Hen) and the isle of Da (Con Da), and with Perfume River running through, depicting a protective outward bowing shape.

There is also a great collection of tombs and temples marking a glorious period in Vietnamese history. Everything falls perfectly into a picturesque landscape painting, which will win your heart at first sight. Hue is also famous for its royal standard cuisine, with every dish being taken care of to the slightest detail, and some secluded beaches that have not been exploited. This city is super easy to travel to and truly is a natural gem that would be absolutely worth your visit.

10. Nha Trang

Nha Trang , located along the coast of Khanh Hoa Province in Central Vietnam, serves as the region’s economic, cultural, and tourist hub. Blessed by nature, its crescent-shaped beach cradles Nha Trang Bay and is surrounded by 19 small and large islands, establishing it as one of Vietnam’s most captivating coastal cities.

Nha Trang’s climate is influenced by both tropical monsoon and oceanic climates, resulting in a relatively mild climate with an average yearly temperature of 26°C. There are distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from January to August. The rainy season extends from September to December. Overall, Nha Trang has a relatively pleasant climate and is less affected by storms, making it a year-round destination.

Whether you’re a beach lover or searching for a holiday in a sunny tropical paradise, Nha Trang is the perfect destination in Vietnam. While it has flourished as a tourist hub with well-developed amenities, it still retains its charm as an appealing city with a relatively reasonable cost of living for the experiences it provides.

What is your favorite place in Vietnam in 2024?

Note: The results presented here are a combination of data collected from the poll on this page and two additional surveys ( survey 1 , survey 2 ) conducted within the Welcome to Vietnam Facebook group in 2023.

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Vietnam travel guide video series.

Vietnam travel guide

This Vietnam Travel Guide is a comprehensive resource that offers essential information for travelers exploring this diverse country. It includes details on popular destinations, practicalities such as visas, currency, and language, as well as transportation options like taxis, buses, trains, and domestic flights. The guide also provides insights into the weather patterns month by month, allowing you to plan your trips accordingly. Furthermore, it offers cultural background and inspiration.

Destinations

Essential guide, getting around, vietnam weather by month.

• Inspiration

Vietnam is a country with a countless of destinations to explore, and this Vietnam travel guide highlights some of the most popular ones.

North Vietnam

Hanoi , the capital city of Vietnam, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling street life. Visitors come to explore its charming Old Quarter, taste delicious street food, and visit iconic attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature.

Sapa , located in the northwest of Vietnam, is renowned for its stunning terraced rice fields and ethnic minority hill tribes. Travelers flock to Sapa to trek through breathtaking landscapes, experience the unique culture of local communities, and witness the beauty of the Fansipan Mountain, known as the “Roof of Indochina.”

3. Halong Bay

Halong Bay , a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty. Travelers visit this iconic destination to cruise along the emerald waters, marvel at the limestone karsts and islets, and explore hidden caves and floating fishing villages.

4. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh , often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land,” captivates visitors with its stunning karst landscapes, ancient temples, and picturesque countryside. Travelers come to Ninh Binh to take boat rides through the Trang An Complex, explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, and enjoy the tranquility of the rural scenery.

5. Ha Giang

Ha Giang , located in the far north of Vietnam, offers adventurous travelers an off-the-beaten-path experience. Known for its dramatic mountains, winding roads, and ethnic minority communities, Ha Giang attracts visitors seeking epic motorbike journeys, trekking adventures, and cultural immersion in remote and pristine landscapes.

6. Mai Chau

Mai Chau , nestled in the peaceful valley of Hoa Binh Province, offers a serene escape from bustling cities. This rural destination is famous for its picturesque landscapes, traditional stilt houses, and warm hospitality of the Thai ethnic minority. Visitors can cycle through scenic villages, participate in local homestays, and enjoy traditional dance performances.

Central Vietnam

7. phong nha.

Phong Nha , is a paradise for nature and adventure enthusiasts. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its magnificent cave systems, including the world’s largest cave, Son Doong. You can explore the stunning underground wonders, go trekking in the lush jungle of the national park and kayak over the Son River.

Hue , the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its historical significance and majestic citadel. Visitors come to Hue to explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Imperial City and the royal tombs, and to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage, traditional music, and delicious royal cuisine.

Da Nang , a coastal city in central Vietnam, is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, stunning bridges, and modern skyline. Travelers visit Da Nang to relax on its pristine shores, explore iconic attractions such as the Marble Mountains and the Dragon Bridge, and indulge in delicious seafood.

Hoi An , a charming ancient town, enchants visitors with its well-preserved historic architecture, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant riverside atmosphere. People flock to Hoi An to wander through its atmospheric alleys, shop for tailored clothing, immerse themselves in its lantern festival, and savor local delicacies

11. Nha Trang

Nha Trang, a coastal resort city, is famous for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant underwater world. Travelers visit Nha Trang to relax on its idyllic beaches, enjoy water sports and island-hopping tours, and experience its lively nightlife and seafood dining scene.

Dalat , situated in the Central Highlands, is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate and picturesque landscapes. Visitors come to Dalat to escape the heat, explore its French colonial architecture, visit flower gardens and waterfalls, and engage in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and canyoning amidst its natural beauty.

South Vietnam

13. ho chi minh city.

Ho Chi Minh City , the bustling metropolis of Vietnam, offers a captivating blend of modernity and history. Visitors are drawn to Ho Chi Minh City to explore its iconic landmarks like the Independence Palace and Notre-Dame Cathedral, indulge in vibrant street food, experience the vibrant nightlife, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and culture.

14. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta , a vast maze of rivers, canals, and lush green fields, is a unique region known as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam. Travelers venture to the Mekong Delta to cruise along its waterways, visit floating markets, witness traditional village life, and taste the fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies unique to this region.

15. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc , a tropical paradise island, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. Visitors flock to Phu Quoc to relax on its picturesque beaches, explore its national parks, indulge in water activities such as snorkeling and diving, and savor the island’s fresh seafood.

16. Con Dao

Con Dao , a secluded archipelago, offers unspoiled natural beauty and a rich historical background. Travelers seek out Con Dao for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and diverse marine life, as well as to discover its haunting history at the former prison complex, Con Dao Prison. The island provides a tranquil retreat for relaxation, outdoor activities, and exploring its captivating landscapes.

Mui Ne , a coastal town, is renowned for its stunning sand dunes, vibrant kite-surfing scene, and serene fishing villages. Visitors come to Mui Ne to witness the dramatic landscapes of the Red and White Sand Dunes, engage in water sports, taste fresh seafood, and enjoy the laid-back beach atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

Off the beaten track destinations

Explore the off the beaten track destinations in Vietnam: Cao Bang , home to the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall ; Mu Cang Chai , renowned for its breathtaking terraced rice fields; Quy Nhon , a tranquil beach town; Kon Tum, where you can discover the mountains and ethnic minorities of the central highlands. Experience the unspoiled beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay , the lesser-known siblings of Halong Bay. Visit Cat Ba, the largest island in the bay, and uncover the hidden gem of Ba Be Lake , the largest natural lake nestled in the jungle.

Health & Safety

When traveling to Vietnam, it’s important to be aware of certain health and safety considerations.

Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in certain regions, so it’s advisable to use mosquito repellent and take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever or malaria.

Road safety can be a concern, with chaotic traffic and different driving habits, so it’s recommended to exercise caution and use designated pedestrian crossings.

It’s advisable to avoid drinking tap water and instead opt for bottled or filtered water to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Additionally, practicing good food safety by eating freshly cooked or hot meals, avoiding street food stalls with questionable hygiene practices, and practicing proper hand hygiene can help prevent food-related illnesses.

It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or travel health clinic before your trip for personalized advice on vaccinations and health preparations.

Vietnam is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low rate of crime targeting foreign visitors; however, it’s important to remain vigilant and take precautions against petty theft, such as keeping a close eye on personal belongings and being aware of common scams.

Money & budget

Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and it’s advisable to carry local currency for most transactions as other currencies are not accepted. Banks and authorized currency exchange offices are the best places to exchange foreign currencies, but interestingly, gold jewelry shops often offer competitive exchange rates.

The average cost of a trip to Vietnam varies depending on your travel style. For budget travelers, a weekly average budget can range from $150 to $300, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and some sightseeing. Midrange travelers can expect to spend around $300 to $700 per week, while luxury travelers may have a budget of $700 and above per week.

In Vietnam, there is no tipping culture , and service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it’s appreciated to give small tips for exceptional service. ATMs are widely available throughout the country, but it’s important to note that there may be limits on the amount you can withdraw per transaction. Additionally, many local shops and restaurants may not accept card payments, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash for smaller purchases.

Internet & calling

Vietnam has a widespread availability of Wi-Fi networks, ranging from local restaurants and coffee shops to upscale resorts. As a customer, you can typically access these Wi-Fi networks for free.

However, to ensure a reliable internet connection and avoid dependence on Wi-Fi, it is recommended to buy a Vietnamese SIM card . SIM cards are affordable and convenient, allowing you to have internet access for various purposes such as navigating with Google Maps, using Google Translate, booking taxis through ride-hailing apps, or checking reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. While there are several providers to choose from, Viettel is generally considered the best option for its coverage and reliability.

Electricity & socket adapters

The voltage in Vietnam is typically 220V, and the sockets commonly used have 2 pins , accommodating both flat and round pins. If your devices use a different type of plug, you can either bring a travel adapter with you or easily purchase one in Vietnam at one of the many convenient stores available.

Traveling to Vietnam

Before traveling to Vietnam, it is essential to check the visa requirements for your country. While a few countries, including 11 European countries, are eligible for visa-free entry , allowing a maximum stay of 15 days, those wishing to stay longer or coming from other countries such as the US, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand, must arrange a valid visa before their trip.

For most travelers, the e-visa is the recommended option, which can be easily obtained through the official website of the Vietnamese immigration. The e-visa process typically takes 3 to 4 working days, costs 25 USD, and allows a stay of up to 30 days in Vietnam.

Arrival options

Unlike major hub cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam doesn’t have as many international direct flights from the US, Australia, and Europe, often requiring a transit. It’s important to note that even when boarding your flight to Vietnam, you need to show a valid visa.

In addition to flights, Vietnam can be accessed by land borders from countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and China. Another option is entering Vietnam via a seaport. Fortunately, all of these entry options, including land and seaports, are possible with an e-visa.

Long distance

1. domestic flights.

Domestic flights in Vietnam are a great option for traveling within the country, offering convenience and affordability. With tickets that can be as cheap as $40 USD, it’s an excellent alternative to avoid long journeys by bus. Vietnam has three major airlines, namely Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways, providing extensive coverage to numerous domestic airports across the country, totaling around 21 airports.

2. Bus travel

Bus travel in Vietnam is a popular and extensive mode of transportation, with a network that connects every corner of the country. It is known for being very affordable, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers. There are various options available, including day buses and sleeper buses, with different classes such as smaller limousine buses, VIP sleeper buses, normal sleeper buses, and mini vans. Opting for the luxury options may provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience without a significant increase in cost.

3. Train travel

Train travel in Vietnam offers a unique and nostalgic experience, allowing you to soak in the scenic beauty of the country at a more relaxed pace. While trains may be slower compared to buses, they are generally considered a safer mode of transportation. Depending on your preference and budget, trains offer various options including hard seat, soft seat, and different cabin configurations such as 4 berth and 6 berth cabins. For popular routes like Sapa to Hanoi, there are tourist trains available, providing additional comfort for the journey.

4. Private transfers

Private transfers in Vietnam offer convenience and flexibility for travelers, as foreign tourists are not permitted to drive cars themselves. Renting a car with a driver allows for comfortable and hassle-free transportation, whether for airport transfers or exploring different destinations. Moreover, private transfers can be customized to include stops along the way, giving you the opportunity to create your own personalized tour or embark on a multi-day trip to discover the diverse landscapes of Vietnam.

Short distance

5. public transportation.

While public transportation options like the metro and buses exist in Vietnam, they are often underutilized by tourists. The metro system is still in its early stages of development, and communication barriers can make it difficult to navigate public bus routes. However, the biggest reason not to use public transportation in Vietnam is the way better alternative of using taxis.

Taxis in Vietnam are an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, offering door-to-door service for travelers. Additionally, taxi apps like Grab have gained popularity, providing an effortless way to book a taxi and communicate your destination, effectively overcoming any language barriers you may encounter.

Walking in Vietnam’s cities can be challenging as sidewalks are often in poor condition and occupied by parked motorbikes, forcing pedestrians to walk on the main road. Crossing roads can also be a daunting task, unless you come across a traffic light. Generally, Vietnam is not considered pedestrian-friendly in urban areas.

However, outside the cities, there are excellent opportunities for trekking in Vietnam , allowing you to explore beautiful landscapes, such as rice fields, jungles, and smaller villages.

Other options for getting around

Apart from practical transportation options, there are leisurely alternatives for getting around in Vietnam. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the peaceful cities and picturesque countryside, offering a closer connection to the surroundings.

Cyclo rides provide a unique and authentic local experience, allowing you to leisurely explore the streets and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Boats and cruises are popular for discovering the rivers, canals, and stunning landscapes of the Mekong Delta and the famous Halong Bay.

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam experiences three distinct weather regions due to its elongated shape. Each region has its own best time to visit , making it somewhat challenging to pinpoint a single ideal time. However, if you’re looking for a period that aligns with all three regions, the best time to visit is generally from January to May, with March being particularly favorable.

Northern Vietnam : In the north, the weather is divided into four seasons. From January to March, it is often chilly with occasional fog in Hanoi and Halong Bay. Spring (April and May) brings pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, while autumn (September to December) offers cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

Central Vietnam : Central Vietnam has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. From January to August, the weather is relatively dry, making it a good time to visit cities like Hue and Hoi An. However, be aware of potential typhoons from August to November. The region also experiences high temperatures in the summer months.

Southern Vietnam : Southern Vietnam has a tropical climate with two main seasons – dry and wet. From November to April, the dry season prevails, characterized by lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. May to October is the wet season, with frequent rainfall and higher temperatures. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are popular destinations in this region.

Vietnam by month

With so many incredible destinations to choose from in Vietnam, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. Here are some inspiring recommendations to help you plan your trip:

• For the best rice fields , consider visiting Sapa, which is easily accessible and boasts vast landscapes. Alternatively, Pu Luong offers smaller, less touristy rice fields but requires a bit more effort to reach.
• When it comes to beautiful beaches , Phu Quoc is renowned for its stunning shores. Along the central coast, you’ll also find picturesque beaches in Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Phu Yen, and Nha Trang.
• Seeking adventure? Embark on a thrilling motorbike journey in Ha Giang, explore captivating caves in Phong Nha on caving expeditions, or try canyoning in the scenic town of Dalat.
• Vietnam is home to some of the most beautiful cities , including the charming ancient town of Hoi An, the bustling capital city of Hanoi, the historic city of Hue, and the picturesque hill station of Dalat.
• If trekking is your passion, head to Sapa, Ha Giang, Pu Luong, or other mountainous regions for unforgettable hiking experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• For nature enthusiasts, Ha Giang, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Ban Gioc Waterfall offer spectacular natural wonders to explore and admire.

For more inspiration and detailed information about these and other remarkable destinations in Vietnam, you can check out our Vietnam inspiration list .

Vietnamese culture

To fully immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience:

• Embrace Vietnam’s culinary pride by indulging in local cuisine. Take a street food tour or join a cooking class to discover the diverse flavors and ingredients that make Vietnamese food so renowned.
• Vietnam is home to 54 ethnic groups , each with its own unique traditions. Learn from them by visiting ethnic markets, staying at homestays, and exploring villages to gain insights into their customs, arts, and way of life.
• Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history by learning about the Vietnam War . Visit significant sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remnants Museum , which provide valuable perspectives on the country’s past.
• When visiting temples and pagodas, dress appropriately by covering your shoulders, wearing modest clothing, and removing your shoes as a sign of respect.
• Make an effort to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases . While many Vietnamese may not speak fluent English, they appreciate and welcome your attempts to communicate in their language.
• Celebrate special events with the locals, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival , or National Day . Participate in traditional festivities, enjoy local customs, and savor the festive atmosphere.
• When entering someone’s home or certain establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a gesture of cleanliness and respect.
• Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, as it shows respect for their privacy and personal space.
• Avoid any disrespectful actions towards the national flag or the country’s leaders. Show reverence and sensitivity towards symbols of national importance.
• Explore traditional craft villages to witness artisans practicing age-old crafts, such as pottery, silk weaving, or wood carving. This provides an opportunity to appreciate Vietnam’s rich artistic heritage.
• Join locals for a casual beer-drinking experience on the street. Sidewalk stalls offer a social and lively atmosphere where you can engage with Vietnamese people and soak up the local culture.
• Experience the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality by joining a family dinner. Embrace the tradition of sharing abundant food and engaging in lively conversations, creating lasting memories of authentic Vietnamese hospitality.
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A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is unforgettably compelling.

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Attractions

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War Remnants Museum

Ho Chi Minh City

To understand the US invasion of Vietnam, and contextualize its devastating impact on the country's civilians, this remarkable and deeply moving museum is…

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

North-Central Vietnam

Designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2003, the remarkable Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park contains the oldest karst mountains in Asia, formed…

Hang Son Doong

Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave), located in the heart of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, is known as the world's largest cave, and is one of the…

Tu Lan Cave

The Tu Lan cave system comprises of more than 20 wet and dry caves, which are thought to be between three and five million years old. Huge caverns,…

Cat Ba Island

Lying to the south of Halong Bay off the north-eastern coast of Vietnam, the 300-or-so karst islands and limestone outcrops of Lan Ha are just as…

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc is one of Vietnam’s best-known waterfalls, and its image adorns the lobby of many a cheap guesthouse. The falls, fed by the Quay Son River that…

Paradise Cave

Surrounded by forested karst peaks, this staggering cave system in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park extends for 31km, though most people only visit the…

Phu Quoc Island

With picture-perfect white sand, the delightful curve of beautiful Sao Beach bends out alongside a sea of mineral-water clarity just a few kilometres from…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 15 best things you can do in vietnam in 2024.

Vinh Moc Tunnels

Demilitarised Zone

A highly impressive complex of tunnels, Vinh Moc is the remains of a coastal North Vietnamese village that literally went underground in response to…

Cao Dai Holy See

Home to the Cao Dai Great Temple (Thanh That Cao Dai), the Cao Dai Holy See, founded in 1926, is 4km east of Tay Ninh in the village of Long Hoa. As well…

HCMC Museum

A grand neoclassical structure built in 1885 and once known as Gia Long Palace (and later the Revolutionary Museum), HCMC’s city museum is a singularly…

Tomb of Gia Long

Emperor Gia Long founded the Nguyen dynasty in 1802 and ruled until 1819. Both the emperor and his queen are buried here. Badly damaged during the…

Located 15km northeast of Tay Ninh, Nui Ba Den rises 850m above the rice paddies, corn, cassava (manioc) and rubber plantations of the surrounding…

Thien Mu Pagoda

Built on a small hill overlooking the Song Huong (Perfume River), 4km southwest of the Citadel, this seven-storey pagoda is an icon of Vietnam and as…

Tomb of Khai Dinh

This hillside monument is a synthesis of Vietnamese and European elements. Most of the tomb’s grandiose exterior is covered in darkened, weathered…

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The process for obtaining a visa for Vietnam can be confusing, but for a short trip, you may not need a visa at all. Here’s what you need to know.

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One of the many great things about Vietnam is how much you spend is within your control – just choose wisely. Here's how to visit Vietnam on a budget.

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From family beach days to hiking in the highlands, here are the best activities for kids in Vietnam, along with some top planning tips.

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Best places to visit in vietnam, best things to do in ninh binh & tam coc (vietnam), 14 things to do in hoi an, vietnam, trekking in sapa: balancing on the borders of the ricefields, ha long bay: how to visit & things to do, map of vietnam, weather in vietnam.

The weather in Vietnam varies massively depending on where you are in the country. The north embraces distinct seasons, with hot, humid, and wet summers from April to October and cold, dry winters. Meanwhile, the south has perpetual heat and a distinct rainy season between May and October.

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Why is Vietnam worth visiting?

Vietnam is an unmissable destination, from Ha Long Bay’s stunning natural wonders to Hue’s cultural gems! With diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, rich history, and world-famous, irresistible cuisine, all offering unique and enriching experiences, who wouldn’t want to visit?

Is Vietnam cheap to visit?

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the world to travel in. You can enjoy delicious street food, affordable accommodations, and cultural experiences without breaking the bank, making it a budget traveler’s paradise.

Can I drink tap water in Vietnam?

Avoid drinking tap water during your time in Vietnam. Keep hydrated by filtering water using a reusable water bottle with an in-built filter system, or indulge in a delicious fresh coconut instead.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Vietnam?

While some countries such as France, Spain, Italy, and the UK get 45 days of visa-free entry to Vietnam, most other visitors need a visa for their stay. The good news is that this can now be obtained online, allowing a 90-day stay and multiple entries. Make sure to check your entry requirements well ahead of time

What language do they speak in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, the official language is Vietnamese. While English is widely spoken in all tourist areas, enhance your travel adventure by learning a few basic phrases and immersing yourself in the local culture through meaningful interactions with friendly residents.

Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam?

Travel insurance is an absolute must for all your travels! It covers everything from medical emergencies to unexpected travel hiccups, ensuring you can explore Vietnam worry-free and allowing you to focus on creating incredible memories.

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel through. However, always exercise caution, keep your belongings secure, and stay vigilant against pickpockets and scams. If you’re navigating the chaotic traffic on a motorbike, prioritize safety—wear a helmet and protective gear and ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage.

What power plug type does Vietnam have?

Vietnam mainly uses Type A, C, and F plug types but can also use types B and D. Because you can never be sure which plug type will be available, it’s worth bringing or purchasing a universal plug adapter, which will enable you to keep your devices charged throughout your Vietnam adventure.

Why do people love Vietnam?

People adore Vietnam for its captivating mix of stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, warm and genuine locals, characterful cities, mouthwatering cuisine, and distinctive coffee culture, which can all be experienced without breaking the bank. A vacation in Vietnam is definitely worth it!

Travel to Vietnam 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures. This Southeast Asian gem, adorned with tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and dynamic cityscapes, promises an immersive travel experience. Nestled between the bustling cities are remnants of a rich history, showcasing Vietnam’s resilience and cultural diversity. A key highlight is the delicious street food, making Vietnam a flavorsome paradise for food enthusiasts.

How to plan your trip to Vietnam

Dreaming of the perfect vacation in Vietnam ? Explore our Vietnam travel guides . Whether you’re looking to discover all the best things to do in Vietnam by motorbike , wondering how to visit Ha Long Bay on a budget , or the ‘emerald island’ of Phu Quoc , we have you covered. 

For the ultimate adventure around the country, exploring limestone cliffs, vibrant cities, fascinating history, exhilarating mountain roads, pristine beaches, and diving into delicious street food, we recommend spending 3 or 4 weeks in Vietnam . 

The climate in Vietnam varies from north to south, allowing you the flexibility to choose the best time for your visit, depending on where you’re planning to travel in Vietnam.  

North Vietnam: In the northern regions, including the bustling capital Hanoi , summers are hot and humid, while winters bring a cooler, drier atmosphere. The best window to explore iconic destinations like Ha Long Bay is during the spring months of March to May or the fall season between September and November. During these periods, the weather is mild, and the landscapes are adorned with lush greenery, offering a picturesque backdrop for your explorations.

South Vietnam: Moving south, these regions experience a more consistent tropical climate throughout the year. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Vietnam to explore the southern landscapes, encompassing the Mekong Delta and the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh. The central regions, including Hoi An and Hue , also benefit from this dry period.

Public Holidays: It’s worth avoiding visiting Vietnam during public holidays such as TET and the Vietnamese New Year in late January or early February, as prices will be much higher and transport and transport services will be significantly reduced. 

Coastlines and beaches in Vietnam

Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes extend beyond its bustling cities and historical sites, offering a coastline adorned with pristine beaches and breathtaking natural wonders. Hoi An , a place most known for its lantern-lit streets of the old town, is home to An Bang Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand. Lined with deckchairs and beach bars, it provides the perfect setting to unwind while gazing at the ocean. 

Just 30 minutes from Hoi An is the dynamic city of Da Nang, with delicious eateries, architectural marvels like the Dragon Bridge, and some of Vietnam’s finest beaches. Da Nang has so much to offer, whether it’s the 32-mile-long beach, My Khe, or Non-Nuoc beach, surrounded by the Marble Mountains. 

In the North, Ha Long Bay , a UNESCO -listed marvel, is an iconic destination for those seeking a surreal seascape. Limestone karsts rise from the ocean, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Hop on a kayak and explore the bay’s many white sandy beaches, most of which are uninhabited, giving that desert island feeling.

Further down the coast, Mui Ne attracts water sports enthusiasts with its reputation as a kitesurfing hotspot. The beaches come alive with colorful kites during the day, offering a spectacle for both participants and spectators. As the sun sets, Mui Ne transforms into a tranquil haven, perfect for watching the sunset over the glistening waters.

For an island escape, head to Phu Quoc, close to Cambodia. Its white-powder beaches, turquoise waters, palm tree forests, and vibrant markets make it a paradise for nature lovers. Make sure to stop by Phu Quoc, one of the best beaches in the area.

Food, culture and religion in Vietnam

Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker, a history enthusiast, or simply someone with an appetite for new experiences, the rich culture, flavors, and experiences will capture your heart throughout your Vietnam holiday !

Culture: Vietnam’s culture goes back thousands of years, influenced by indigenous people and those from China, France, and other Southeast Asian countries. Respect for the land, sea, and people is instilled from a young age, where family bonds are treasured, art is shared, and lively rituals take place. 

Cuisine: Food plays a vital role in Vietnamese culture , focusing on fresh, healthy, locally sourced ingredients full of flavors, textures, and aromas. The most well-known is Pho, a savory noodle soup that balances sweet, salty, and sour tastes, and the Banh mi, a French-inspired baguette filled with fresh ingredients. 

Religion: Religion plays a significant role in Vietnamese life, with the population mainly following either Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Catholicism, or Cao Dai, peacefully living happily together.  For a look at some of the most breathtaking religious sites, Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, peacefully nestled on an islet of West Lake, and the vibrant Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh province are both worth visiting.

Why you should travel to Vietnam

Vietnam offers an adventure like no other! It’s easy to see why this Southeast Asian treasure is such a popular backpacking destination. With diverse landscapes that’ll leave you in awe, a history that comes alive, out-of-this-world budget-friendly experiences, and the warmth from locals, you’ll feel like you’ve found a home away from home.

Whether you’re cruising through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay , navigating the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City on a motorbike, traversing the vibrant terraced rice fields of Sapa , relaxing on an untouched island paradise, or exploring the underground remnants of the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnams diversity is what sets it apart. 

Let’s not forget the food – it’s a flavor explosion! From steaming bowls of pho to the crunch of fresh spring rolls washed down with delicious tea or coffee, Vietnam boasts some of the best cuisine on the planet. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Safety and Travel Advice Vietnam

When venturing into Vietnam’s captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure you have the most amazing travel experience.

Natural Disasters: While Vietnam is generally safe from natural disasters, staying informed is wise, especially in regions prone to occasional typhoons and flooding. Registering with your embassy for emergency updates can be invaluable, offering real-time information to navigate any unforeseen challenges during your stay.

Crime and Safety in Vietnam: Vietnam is known for its warm hospitality, yet, like any destination, visitors should exercise caution against petty theft. Keep your belongings secure, avoid isolated areas at night, and opt for well-lit, populated spaces. Vigilance enhances your overall safety and ensures a trouble-free exploration of this captivating country.

Learn more about travel safety .

Traffic in Vietnam: Navigating Vietnam’s hectic roads may involve contending with bustling traffic, steep mountains, and poorly maintained roads. If you plan to ride scooters or motorbikes, wear a helmet, protective clothing, and great travel insurance to cover unexpected accidents.

Travel Insurance: Prioritize your safety by securing comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on your vacation in Vietnam . Beyond covering potential accidents, insurance safeguards against unexpected scenarios like flight cancellations or lost baggage. This ensures you can fully immerse yourself in Vietnam’s beauty, knowing you have a safety net in place.

Find the best travel insurance for your trip . 

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Vietnam Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

Most people either love or hate traveling in Vietnam. When I first went, there was a negative attitude towards foreign travelers (for good reason), lots of scams, and just not a lot of good vibes. But, since that trip many years ago, the country has changed a lot: it’s embraced tourism, people have opened up more, there’s fewer scams, and Ho Chi Minh City has even become a hub for digital nomads.

From exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi to the delicious food and fancy garments of Hoi An , Vietnam has a lot to see and do so take your time. Don’t rush your trip.

This budget travel guide to Vietnam can help you plan your trip and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Vietnam

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Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

The delta is a 60,000-kilometer (37,000-mile) long web of interconnected waterways, which spans three Vietnamese provinces and has been used since the 4th century BCE. What I love about this area is it’s filled with small villages, pagodas, mangroves, and orchards. The best way to experience the area is to go on a boat or bike tour, where you’ll experience rural Vietnamese culture. Some of favorite things include the Cai Rang floating market for the colorful fruits and veggies and vibrant atmosphere; Vinh Trang Pagoda for its impressive golden exterior and lush gardens; and the incredible Sadec Flower Village that is stunning and serene, even if you’re not a flower enthusiast. Spend a few days really getting to know the region outside the hustle and bustle of the cities. Day trips on the river start at around 575,000 VND per person.

2. Wander Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital dates to the 3rd century BCE when it was the capital of the ancient nation of Au Lac. I love to wander around the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. It’s a great place to get a feel for the city as there are tons of vendors, smells of street food, people watching, and bustle. Some of my favorite places to visit include the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Hanoi Water Puppet Theater. Be sure to check out the history museum to learn about French colonialism and Communist rule (from the Vietnamese perspective) as well as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Hanoi is also a good base for doing multi-day tours to Ha Long Bay.

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

This iconic region is home to more than 3,000 islands and is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The towering limestone islands are covered in lush jungles and surrounded by calm emerald waters. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s located 2-3 hours from Hanoi and travelers can take multi-day boat cruises around the islands (most are 2-5 days). During the cruise, you’ll visit floating markets, incredible beaches, massive caves, and either sleep onboard your boat or on one of the many islands. Just keep in mind that this area is super popular and is often overcrowded. Cheap tours start around 1,200,000 VND while a mid-range tour costs around 3,000,000-4,500,000 VND. Just remember that you get what you pay for and the cheaper boats might be a bit run down.

4. Hang out in Hoi An

Hoi An was a thriving port city between the 15th and 19th centuries and the architecture is incredibly well preserved (the entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It was easily my favorite place in Vietnam because I loved walking around, taking a thrilling sidecar trip in the countryside, and of course, Vietnamese cooking classes, which are great because you learn to prepare fresh fish caught right there. This place is famous for its tailors so if you’re looking to buy some custom made clothes at an inexpensive price, this is the spot to do it in. They will even ship it back to your home country.

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

This is northern Vietnam’s premier trekking area and it’s hugely popular with all sorts of travelers. Sapa is famous for its hill tribes, lush vegetation, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking mountains. If you’re looking to experience the scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities Vietnam has to offer, this is the place. This area is rich in culture because it is comprised of 85% ethnic Vietnamese minority groups that have different colorful traditional dress and unique styles of houses. To avoid the tourists, come during the off-season or take longer hikes to parts the crowds don’t go to.

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I visit a new destination is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Both Hanoi and HCMH (the two largest and most popular cities in the country) have a few free tours available that cover the main highlights and are a great primer to the country (Hanoi Free Walking Tours and Saigon Free Day Tours are two companies worth checking out). Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

This extensive network of tunnels spans nearly 310 miles (500 kilometers). It was utilized by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Tours involve a description of the tunnels, after which tourists are allowed to crawl about the maze and fire AK47s at shooting targets. It’s a sobering experience and not one meant for anyone claustrophobic. However, if you want to better understand the terror of the Vietnam War, this is a must-visit. Admission is around 100,000 VND per person.

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

Dalat is nestled in the hills of the Central Highlands and is popular with tourists who want to relax in the mountain air and those who want to participate in a host of adventure sports (such as rock climbing, ziplining, and rappelling). The hills around Dalat are filled with traditional tribal villages, which you can tour as well. Expect to pay around 2,000,000 VND per person for a full day of ziplining and rappelling around waterfalls.

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

South of Hanoi lies Vietnam’s first National Park, Cuc Phuong. Covering 222 square kilometers (85 square miles), this place is home to over 2,000 species of trees and some truly rare wildlife including the Clouded Leopard, Delacour’s Langur and Owston’s Civet. It was my favorite park in all of Vietnam and the only place I didn’t find hordes of tourists. The entrance fee is 50,000 VND.

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city and is definitely worth exploring. Ho Chi Minh is the place to really gain an understanding of French colonialism as well as the US headquarters there during the Vietnam War, which you can learn more about at the War Remnants Museum. Like most cities in Vietnam, you’ll be met with the roar of motorbikes speeding through colonial streets. I loved Ben Thanh Market, which is a must-see for amazing food and there is a great buzz of activity within the place. Don’t miss your chance to get the best Pho soup in Ho Chi Minh, that means some of the best is right on the side of the street.

6. Get active in Mui Ne

Despite being a fishing village, Mui Ne has a significant tourism scene due to its popularity as a wind- and kite-surfing destination. The best highlight for me aside from the beach was riding on the rolling sand dunes similar in size to the Saharan ones and also the Jeep Tour to the Fairy Stream through a canyon, which is not something you get to do very often! Also, don’t miss the 9th-century Po Shanu Cham Towers with beautiful views of the Phan Thiet coastal town. Mui Ne is definitely worth checking out for a day or two when you’re passing by on the bus because it has a nice chill vibe to it, friendly people, and beautiful sunsets.

7. See My Son

My Son is a set of Hindu ruins in Vietnam that date back to the Cham Empire. The Champas ruled over Central Vietnam from the 3rd to the 19th century. The temples here are of incredible historical importance, but they have been largely reclaimed by the surrounding jungle, and have fallen into a great state of disrepair. Don’t come here expecting something as marvelously preserved as Borobudur or Angkor Wat. The entrance fee is 150,000 VND.

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Hang Son Doong is reputed to be the world’s largest cave and is located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It was discovered by a local in 1990, and “rediscovered” by a British caving team in 2009. You can arrange trips to see this stunning cave in all its glory with stalactites and stalagmites, an inner cave forest, and even cave pearls. You’ll be blown away by its beauty. Entrance to the caves is around 150,000 VND per person.

9. Check out the rice terraces

Outside of connections to the Vietnam War, the stereotypical image of Vietnam is of the many rice paddies. You can find these in the Muong Hoa Valley. If you’ve never visited rice terraces, you should make a point to see them in Vietnam. Visit them to learn about rice production and take stunning photographs of the unbelievable Vietnamese countryside. Expect tours to cost around 600,000 VND per person.

10. Relax in Hue

Hue is generally passed by, making it a bit of a quieter stop along the tourist trail. Stroll along the beautiful Perfume River and into the Imperial Citadel. Don’t miss the Tu Hieu Pagoda and the Tombs of the Emperors, which mostly date from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of the main tombs to see are the Tomb of Minh Mang, the Tomb of Tu Duc, and the Tomb of Khai Dinh.

11. Take a cooking class

Vietnamese food is delicious and the best way to learn about these incredible dishes is to take a cooking class. You’ll not only learn how to make some of these tasty meals but you’ll get to interact with a local chef who can teach you about their history and cultural significance. Many cooking classes also include a visit to the local market where you’ll shop for ingredients. Prices vary but expect to pay at least 800,000 VND per person.

12. Tour the former DMZ

The Vietnamese Demilitarized zone was the dividing line between the Communist north and anti-Communist south during the Vietnam War. It was in use from 1954 to 1976. These days, you can take a tour of the DMZ from Hue and learn about the conflict from expert guides who were actually involved in the war (or survived it as civilians). You’ll see secret tunnels, learn about military surveillance, and get insight about the conflict from a perspective not often shown in the media. Full-day tours from Hue start around 2,500,000 VND.

13. Buy a motorbike

If you’re an adventurous traveler, buy a motorbike and drive the length of the country. This is considered the best way to travel Vietnam by veteran backpackers who like to get off the beaten path. You can buy bikes in Hanoi or HCMC at either end of the country and then make your way to the opposite end, stopping along the way over the course of a few weeks. While it’s not for everyone, this mode of travel offers the most freedom as you’ll be able to visit a lot of places that the buses and trains don’t stop at. You can buy a bike for as little as 4,800,000 VND, and then you can sell it once your trip is done to recoup some of the cost. There are always backpackers looking to buy a bike in HCMC and Hanoi.

14. Sample the local coffee

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer (after Brazil) exporting a whopping 1.5 million tons of it per year (after rice, it’s their biggest export). Even if you don’t drink coffee (I don’t), trying fresh coffee here is a must. Whether you just hop arounds cafes, do a tasting experience in Hanoi of HCMC, or head out to one of the many coffee plantations, learning about this vital crop (and also sampling it fresh) is an experience not to be missed. Expect a half-day plantation tour (with lots of samples) to cost around 700,000 VND.

For more information on specific cities in Vietnam, check out the following guides:

• Hanoi Travel Guide
• Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide
• Hoi An Travel Guide
• Nha Trang Travel Guide

Vietnam Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels start at around 100,000 VND per night for a dorm room. These can be a bit rustic and no-frills. For a hostel with more amenities, such as free breakfast or a a free happy hour (as well as improved cleanliness), expect to pay double. Private rooms cost at least 350,890-425,000 VND per night for a double room. Most hostels include free Wi-Fi, and many also include free breakfast or free beer during certain hours of the day. Self-catering facilities are not very common since eating out is so cheap.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is not legal in Vietnam. While it is still possible to do as enforcement is sparse (especially if you’re sleeping in a hammock), I also wouldn’t recommend it. Insects and animals can be an issue, there are lots of landmines still undiscovered out in the brush, and robbery can occur. Stay safe and stick to hostels.

For a budget hotel with a double bed, expect to pay around 225,000 VND per night. This usually includes free Wi-Fi and free breakfast.

On Airbnb, a private room costs at least 325,000 VND per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 600,000 VND. Prices double when not booked in advance so plan accordingly

Food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and uses a lot of herbs and vegetables. Rice and noodle dishes are common as are various soups such as the iconic pho (a beef noodle soup). Wonton soup, meat curry, fresh French bread (known as bahn me , and grilled fish are just some of the popular dishes you’ll encounter. Standard ingredients include fish sauce, lemongrass, chili, lime, Thai basil, and mint.

You can get a bowl of pho or a rice dish for 20,000 VND. Street food is the cheapest and the most delicious food option in the country.

Most sit-down restaurants are also inexpensive at around 45,000-95,000 VND. The fancier (and more touristy) the restaurant, the more expensive.

Western food is also more expensive, usually around 110,000 VND for a fast food meal, so skip it if you’re on a budget.

If you want to splash out on a fancy three-course meal, expect to spend around 250,000 VND.

A liter of water at a convenience store is about 15,000 VND, while beer or soda is about 20,000-35,000 VND.

For those looking to cook their own meals, expect to pay at least 400,000 VND per week for basic groceries. Be sure to shop at the local markets to get the cheapest and freshest food. That being said, food is so cheap in the country that it’s simply easier – and cheaper – to just eat street food, especially as most hostels and hotels don’t have shared kitchens.

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Vietnam for 600,000 VND per day. This budget covers a stay in a large hostel dorm, eating street food for all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking the bus, and doing free activities in each destination. If you plan on drinking, add another 20,000-40,000 VND to your daily budget.

A mid-range budget of about 1,125,000 VND per day covers staying in a cheap hotel, eating street food and at the occasional sit-down restaurant, enjoying a few more drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities such as museum visits and water upper shows.

On an upscale budget of 2,460,000 VND, you can stay in a nice hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, enjoy lots of drinks, and more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want, including a multi-day trip to Ha Long Bay. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vietnam is a very affordable country. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest in Southeast Asia. Even with the explosion of tourism in the last few years, it still remains very affordable. You’ll be hard pressed to spend money if you’re sticking to non-Western food, cocktails, and hotels. However, if you’re looking to travel even cheaper and save some money, here are some tips:

• Eat delicious street food – The street food here is excellent and cheap, and you can watch it being cooked in front of you. Stick to the local food and you’ll save money. The street-side pho, bread, sandwiches, donuts, and bananas are your best deals.
• Late-night travel – If traveling on long journeys, try to take the late-night “sleeper” buses or trains as these will save you the cost of a night’s accommodation. Depending on the company, you may even have a chance to comfortably lie flat as you ride through the dark countryside to your next destination.
• Take the tourist bus – It is actually cheaper to take the tourist bus around the country than taking local transportation because of the “tourist” price you get at the bus station. Tickets from one end of the country to another are very affordable.
• Fly for cheap – Vietnam’s low-cost airlines VietJet and FlyVietnam are extremely inexpensive. This is a great option for people with limited time to explore different regions of Vietnam. Both airlines frequently offer special deals and at the time of writing this, Hanoi to Da Nang is just 820,000 VND!
• Bargain hard – Tourists tend to be charged more than locals for everything from cyclos (a three-wheel bicycle taxi) to clothes to street food. Bargain harder than you would ordinarily, and don’t underestimate the value of walking away.
• Avoid paying tourist prices – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should I pay to have a gown like this made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Hanoi is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

To help you save money on accommodation, here’s a list of my recommended hostels and budget hotels in Vietnam:

• Mad Monkey (Hoi An)
• Hoi An Golden Holiday Hotel (Hoi An)
• Little Hanoi Hostel (Hanoi)
• San Palace Hotel & Spa (Hanoi)
• Hanoi House Hostel & Travel (Hanoi)
• Ccasa Hostel & Coffee Bar (Nha Trang)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• Orchid’s Saigon Hotel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Vietnam

Public transportation – Larger cities in Vietnam (such as Hanoi and HCMC) have reliable and safe public transportation. In Hanoi, there are buses that cover most of the city and generally have stops near all the major tourist sites. Tickets are paid for in cash on the bus and generally cost 7,000-15,000 VND depending on how far you go. HCMC also has a large network of buses, with tickets costing up to 10,000 VND (again, depending on how far you travel).

Cyclos (a bicycle rickshaw) is one of the cheapest ways to get around. A short ride costs as little as 12,000 VND, while a longer night ride costs upwards of 40,000 VND. A more popular option is the ze om , a motorbike taxi that has fares starting from 15,000 VND. You’ll have to hold on tight though (and make sure you wear a helmet as accidents are common).

Train – A lot of people love taking the train in Vietnam because it’s safe, affordable, and comfortable and, although some routes might be slow, you’ll get some amazing views of the Vietnamese countryside. The rail network also covers most of the country, so you can get just about everywhere you want to go (except the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta). You can use the website Baolau to research train schedules and book your tickets. A train journey between Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi (which spans the entire length of the country) starts at 1,000,000 VND for a soft seat (not a berth). The journey takes three days. Hanoi to Hue costs around 600,000 VND and takes around 13 hours while HCMC to Nha Trang costs around 500,000 VND and takes 8 hours.

Bus – It’s easy to find long-distance hop on, hop off bus tours running the length of Vietnam. You can hop on or off at any stop along the way. They cater to tourists, but locals actually use this service too since it’s super affordable. Prices depend on route and operator but generally, Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh is between 815,000-1,600,000 VND.

Flying – Flying domestically in Vietnam is a good idea if you’re looking to fit a lot into a shorter trip. For example, a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes two hours while the train ride would take at least 30 hours. One-way flights around the country start at around 590,000 VND.

Car rental – Vietnam is very easy to navigate by bus, so I don’t really suggest renting a car here — especially because traffic in the cities is very hectic and accidents are common. That said, car rentals are affordable, costing around 500,000 VND per day. An IDP (International Driving Permit) is required. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Vietnam

In the southern part of Vietnam, the dry season lasts from December to late April/May while the rainy season occurs from May to the end of November. The rainy season usually just means brief heavy downpours in the afternoon, although sometimes the Mekong Delta will flood. The dry season is the best time to visit but keep in mind that it’s winter up north and it’s going to be a lot colder in the north than the south. Rainy season isn’t that bad either but, like the name implies, it rains a lot.

May through November is still a good time to visit. Temperatures rarely dip below 20°C (68°F), but they can sometimes get as high as 40°C (104°F) in the hottest months (March to the end of May). The south especially gets very hot and humid during this time but it’s perfect beach weather!

Along the central coast, the rainfall pattern differs quite a bit. In the northern part of the region (like Hué and Da Nang), the rain lasts from September to February. February to May is the best time to visit this area. Temperatures soar from June to August, often in the high 30s°C (80s°F).

In Northern Vietnam, the weather is most pleasant from October to December.

The weather in Vietnam varies so much per region so it’s hard to pick the best time to go. But generally, it’s recommended to visit sometime between September-December and March-April if you’re hoping to get an overall experience in the country.

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

Vietnam is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is really, really rare. Petty theft is the most likely thing to happen to you here. Always keep your valuables secure when out and about just to be safe. Lock your windows and use common safety sense, especially in bars at night and in touristy areas.

Traffic in the major cities (specifically Hanoi) is super hectic and there are virtually no rules of the road. There are also millions of motorbikes and scooters here (literally). For that reason, take extra caution when crossing the street. It’s best to just walk as directly and calmly as possible and let the traffic weave around you. If you’re not comfortable doing that alone, follow locals when they cross.

If renting a bike or riding on the back of one, make sure you always wear a helmet. Accidents are incredibly common here, both in the traffic-heavy cities but also in rural areas where roads can be less than optimal.

There are some common scams in Vietnam, such as the motorbike scam where vendors try to charge you for pre-existing damage to your bike rental. When renting anything, take photos and videos beforehand just in case.

Be sure to always count your change. The money is similar looking here so oftentimes people will “mistakenly” give you the wrong change hoping you won’t notice that the 200,000 VND bill you just got is actually only 20,000. Always count your change here!

Most scams here are really just people trying to try to nickel and dime you and try to get you to spend extra money since they know, as a tourist, you have more than they do. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Use common sense when using dating apps while traveling and meet in public places.

Street food here is very safe, but whenever you’re not sure of where to eat simply find somewhere where there are locals eating. If it’s good (and safe) enough for them, you should be fine. Avoid meat that looks uncooked or that has been out in the sun too long. Always wash your hands before and after eating just to be safe.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Be sure to make copies of your important documents in case of theft.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Vietnam travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Vietnam Cruises & Tours

10 best vietnam cruises & tours for 2024-2025, best of vietnam & laos, vietnam adventure, mekong river - upstream - high water, vietnam discovery, mekong river - downstream - low water, mekong river - downstream - high water, mekong river - upstream, classic mekong, top 10 luxury mekong river cruises from vietnam for 2024-2025, top 6 vietnam cruise ships, aqua mekong, rv indochine ii, rv indochine, scenic spirit, top 8 vietnam hotels for 2024-2025, topas ecolodge, medallion hanoi boutique hotel, h'mong sapa hotel, romance hotel, vinh hung emerald resort, indochine hotel, starlet hotel, lavender boutique hotel, get inspired to travel to vietnam, mekong river cruises, vietnam active adventures, top vietnam beach trips, vietnam travel guide, vietnam overview, best time to visit vietnam, history of vietnam, vietnamese cuisine, the best time to take a cruise on the mekong river, what is there to do on a mekong river cruise, how to choose the best mekong river cruise, sapa trekking - cultural immersion, what to expect on a halong bay cruise, vietnam travel faqs - before you go, vietnam adventure travel videos.

What to See & Do in Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) - You'll be left in awe as you see the eclectic mix of old French and Chinese style architecture that mingle with the modern towers that form the skyline.
• Hanoi -  The city of Hanoi stands as a historic tribute to this nation's rich history, with buildings dating back close to a thousand years.
• Hoi An - This small town hosts charming historic houses and pagodas.
• Ha Long Bay - Here, you will see traditional native villages and even a floating fishing village that will give you insight into Vietnam's rich culture.
• Cu Chi Tunnels - These were successfully used by the North Vietnamese army during the War of Independence to secretly gain access to South Vietnam territory.
• Thanh Chuong Viet Palace - Here, in the former residence & studio of renowned artist Thanh Chuong, you will see art and sculptures from throughout Vietnam's history, including the Dinh, Ly, and Tran dynasties.
• Cai Be Floating Market - Here you will see an exciting market that you can explore by boat, in which artisans make candy and rice paper, among other products.
• Snorkeling -  The idyllic beaches at Cham Island & Nha Trang Bay are home to a colorful array of tropical fish that have made this coral reef their home.

Vietnam Travel Stories

Cambodia and vietnam along the mekong river, southeast asia, fast facts about vietnam.

• The Vietmanese language spelling of Vietnam is two with words: Việt Nam
• The Mekong River is not only home to many of our most popular southeast Asia cruises, but also serves as one of the most important waterways throughout the country, helping keep the plains fertile and connecting much of the population to the sea.
• Vietnamese cuisine is a burst of flavors, from sweet to salty to even bitter and sour. 
• Home to some 16% of the world's species, it is one of the most biodiverse places on earth.
• With about 7.5 million residents, Ho Chi Minh City houses just under 10 percent of Vietnam's 92 million-person population.
• Both soccer and table tennis are popular sports throughout Vietnam.
• Thanks to the natural irrigation and swamplands of provided by the Mekong and Red Rivers, Vietnam is ideal for the harvest of rice.
• Vietnam has a surprisingly high literacy rate of around 94%.
• The five golden stars on the Vietnamese flag symbolize farmers, workers, intellectuals, youth and soldiers. 
• Hoi An has been a functioning trading port for over 500 years.

Vietnam Travel FAQs

Top vietnam travel destinations.

• Ha Long Bay
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Mekong River

Vietnam Trips by Departure Date

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Vietnam travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Vietnam travel in 2024 with official Vietnam travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Vietnam is a destination close to our hearts. We returned to visit Vietnam in 2023 and 2024.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *  

April 2024 – “During our 3-month stay in Central Vietnam, we took a short trip out of the country. We brought our printed e-visa , which was examined by the agent that checked us into our flight from Hong Kong back to Vietnam and again at immigration in Da Nang. Proof of onward travel was not requested this time. The Hanoi airport international check in was as crowded as ever in April. Budget airlines like VietJet use buses instead of jetways for boarding and deplaning, so it’s impossible to avoid close contact with crowds. I’d say less than 1/4 of travelers are still wearing masks. Masks are more commonly worn outside on motorbikes in Vietnam.”

January 2024 – “We flew back to Hanoi, this time with a 3-month evisa we applied for online well in advance. Besides valid passports, we were asked for proof of onward travel from Vietnam while checking into our flight in the US. We were asked to name our travel insurance provider on the visa application and brought documentation of the policy from Safety Wing , however, we weren’t asked to show it at any point. We were not asked any questions at immigration, only provided our passport and black/white print out of the visa.”

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Vietnam so you can get a true sense of what things are like.

Table of Contents

Is Vietnam open for travel? Can I travel to Vietnam right now?

Vietnam is now open to foreign travelers. Vietnam officially reopened its borders to all international visitors on March 2022, after two years of being closed.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa online. See our Vietnam evisa tips here.

Foreign travelers are not required to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test or show proof of vaccination prior to arrival. The health declaration form requirement has been removed. 

Travel insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment with a minimum coverage of $10,000 has been required. There is a declaration that you’ll have insurance on the evisa application. It’s unclear if this is still being enforced anywhere. (We use Safety Wing for travel insurance in Vietnam.)

What Vietnam tourist visas are available right now?

E -visas are available to Americans, Canadians, and all other nationalities.

Effective August 2023, e-visa validity has been extended to 90 days. You can choose between single entry or multiple entries.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa at the e-visa web portal of the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Be sure to review our Vietnam evisa tips here , as there are some quirks and important things to know to avoid having to reapply.

In our experience, processing the evisa can take at least 3 days. We also had to redo one application because one of our credit cards wouldn’t allow the online charge. It’s best to apply for Vietnam e-visas several weeks in advance, just in case.

What about Vietnam Visas On Arrival?

We’re not clear on the availability of Visas On Arrival – technically it’s a Landing Approval Letter, which we used before the pandemic. We saw no desk for VOAs in the immigration hall at Ho Chi Minh City airport when we arrived at the end of 2022. In early 2024, there was a “Visa Application” desk in Hanoi, but it didn’t seem to be active.

In cases where you’re ineligible or have trouble with the e-visa process, you may be able to apply for a Landing Approval Letter through an agent in Vietnam, print out the letter, and proceed to the visa counter at the airport to receive your actual visa sticker, which is another $25 USD.

Can Vietnam e-Visas be extended?

E-visas cannot be extended , meaning visitors have to leave or do a border run and reapply. There is no official limit that we can find as to how many times tourists will be approved for e-visas back to back.

Vietnamese embassies and consulates are telling callers that nothing can be done about visas there, as all applications are currently online.

Quarantine rules in Vietnam: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers entering Vietnam are not required to quarantine upon arrival.

Foreign tourists experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or those concerned they have been exposed to COVID-19 while in Vietnam can call Vietnam’s health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English).

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in Vietnam may need to isolate for treatment. Thankfully, isolation no longer needs to take place in government facilities.

Medical treatment should be covered by the visitor’s travel insurance. Some of our acquaintances tried getting Paxlovid via a local doctor while in Vietnam but were not successful.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Vietnam?

Apart from suspending foreign travel, the impact of Covid in Vietnam was relatively minimal in the first year. The country’s quick reaction became one of the most effective in the world at first. Lock downs were for a few short weeks and then daily life resumed as usual for several months until new cases popped up.

Vietnam had 99 days without any cases of community transmission and no deaths in Spring 2020. However, in late summer 2021, the infection rate in Vietnam skyrocketed as the Delta variant spread and vaccination rates were low. In December 2021, Vietnam detected the first case of the Omicron variant in Hanoi.

Strict lock down zones were implemented throughout 2021. Vietnam’s tourism and manufacturing sectors have been especially hit hard.

In March 2021, vaccinations began but very slowly. Now, over three quarters of the population are fully vaccinated.

In January 2022, Vietnam reopened international flights from select locations. A limited number of tourists were accepted through package tours and a trial vaccine passport program until full reopening in late Spring 2022.

International tourism recovery was slow in 2022, though domestic tourism was strengthened. Vietnam’s tourism in 2023 was still lower than pre-pandemic levels.

For the current situation in Vietnam, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Vietnam; and COVID-19 testing in Vietnam, please see the Vietnam Ministry of Health site .

Can I travel to Vietnam this Spring 2024?

Travel to Vietnam this Spring is open . Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Vietnam HAN Hanoi, DAD Da Nang, or SGN Ho Chi Minh City International Airport right now?

Vietnam airports seemed very busy to us, and crowds are difficult to avoid. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City airports can get exceptionally crowded. Masks are no longer required.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Vietnam? No. See details above.

Does Vietnam check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? No.

Does Vietnam require a proof of negative Covid 19 test result for travelers? No. As of April 2022, a negative test is no longer required for entry into Vietnam. 

Does Vietnam require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. Proof of vaccination is currently not required to enter Vietnam. 

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? At this time, there is no special allowance for vaccinated travelers in Vietnam. However, a Covid test and quarantine is no longer required to enter Vietnam.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Vietnam? At this time, booster shots are not required in Vietnam. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Vietnam who get the virus? Hospitals and clinics are open in Vietnam. Foreigners must pay for any medical treatment out of pocket.  

Government quarantine locations may only have rudimentary facilities.

Persons experiencing symptoms of the COVID-19 virus should call the health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English). Availability of treatments may differ from your home country.

If a foreign visitor is required to be tested for Coronavirus, they can get tested at designated laboratories in Vietnam. The test may be free if they test negative. If the test is positive, the visitor will be required to pay for it.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Vietnam? Businesses and activities have fully reopened. Select cities and provinces have imposed temporary lock downs or closed certain non-essential businesses when outbreaks of the virus are detected in the area. 

Are face masks required in Vietnam? Vietnam has relaxed mask rules in pubic places. You’ll still see many people wearing face masks, especially while driving, as this was common practice even before the pandemic.

Are buses and trains running in Vietnam? Domestic airline and railway transportation are running on normal schedules. More daily flights within Vietnam are now available. Public and passenger transportation has resumed.

Will Vietnam impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Vietnam no longer follows a “zero Covid” policy so shut downs are less likely than they were before vaccines were available. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system become unsustainable.

What should you pack for safely traveling in Vietnam?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are required in some public places and commonly used throughout Vietnam. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

🧴 Hand sanitizer   Shop hand sanitizer >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Vietnamese locals and recent travelers say about visiting Vietnam now?

What is it like to visit Vietnam right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

October 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers: “We are travelling around the north of Vietnam for 1 month from mid-September to mid-October 2023. We are nearing the end of the wet season here in the north of Vietnam which is traditionally low season. There are some tourists travelling around but in general, it is fairly quiet.

There are no travel restrictions in place here in Vietnam and there is no shortage of restaurant, accommodation and medical care facilities available. As the seasons are changing here at the moment, many locals and travellers are sick with head colds. This has been most obvious in restaurants where the cooks and waiters have been coughing and sneezing freely without covering their mouths or wearing face masks. It feels as though covid never really happened, and no lessons have been learnt about general hygiene. This may have been the case pre-covid too, and maybe we just didn’t notice then, but we have certainly had a heightened awareness of it this time.

The new e-Visa application process can be quite a challenge and whilst they say to allow 3 to 5 business days for approval, we would highly recommend applying approximately 1 month before you plan on arriving in Vietnam. If you then have any problems with the application, you will have time to reapply.

The biggest problem people are encountering is once approved, the information on your approval is incorrect i.e. middle name is missing, D.O.B. has the day / month in the wrong format, incorrect entry port etc.”

September 2023 – Ros & Alan Cuthbertson of StepIntoVietnam , Australian Digital Nomads:  “We visited Vietnam frequently prior to Covid and have returned three times since the country reopened post Covid.

Everything is back to normal, masks are not required but you will find many locals still wearing them. Very few tourists can be seen wearing masks. There is no Covid or health testing required for travel within the country.

Tourists are beginning to flock to Vietnam and are rediscovering the wonders of this fascinating country. Popular destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City are busy with tourists and prebooking travel and tours is advised. For example we tried to book a two berth train cabin from Hanoi to Hue but they had been booked out months in advance and we had to get a four berth cabin instead.”

March 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We thoroughly enjoyed returning to visit Vietnam and would have stayed longer if we could. Our Vietnamese friends tell us that Covid is no longer a major concern in Vietnam. Tourists have few restrictions to worry about.

There are still fewer tourists than pre-pandemic times, so I think now is a great time to visit. It still gets crowded in Hoi An Ancient Town at night, and the Hanoi airport departures area seemed exceptionally crowded.”

February 28, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We arrived back in Vietnam, flying from Thailand to DAD, for our second stay on the 30-day tourist visa. The evisa application took 3-4 days this time and we made sure to print it out. Air Asia checked the evisa at check in, as did the agent at immigration when we arrived.

Filling out an immigration form when arriving in Vietnam is no longer required unless you have something to declare (bring in significant money or goods into the country). Wait time for immigration was no longer than the wait for our bags to show up at luggage claim, and customs just asked us to scan our two carry on bags.

As our flight came in, AirAsia announced that there was a mask requirement for arriving in Vietnam. However, we did not see masks enforced and even a few of the airport employees weren’t wearing masks.” 

January 27, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “Unlike our flight into Vietnam, masks were not required on our outgoing flight but a majority of passengers and all the crew were wearing face coverings. Da Nang airport is spacious and only crowded at certain times when many flights are scheduled.”

January 2, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad:  “The Ho Chi Minh City airport was very busy and had quite a few delayed domestic flights early in the year. More than half of passengers were wearing masks though they’re not required.”

December 2022 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from the US via Singapore. We applied for the 30-day evisa about one week before traveling. There was an issue with Chase not allowing the credit card charge online, so we had to redo one of our applications. It was processed in 2-3 days and I printed the one-page documents for our trip. We also printed our Safety Wing travel insurance coverage letter but didn’t end up needing to show it.

Upon check-in with Singapore Airlines in Seattle, we were only asked for our passports and visa paperwork. Arriving in Vietnam, there was a 40+ minute wait for immigration. We had to show our passport, boarding pass, and evisa printout. We were never asked for onward flight booking or Covid documents.

Masks were required on our flight into Vietnam. Many locals wore masks before the pandemic (partly due to air pollution), so mask-wearing out in public is still very common but by no means universal in Vietnam.”

July 1 2022 – M.T. Expat in Ho Chi Minh City: “Covid is very much an afterthought for most people now – official national case numbers have been under 1,000 per day for a while (with basically no testing going on), and mask use is far from universal anymore. I’ve even seen people in airports and on planes without a mask… But health officials are starting to sound some (mild) alarm bells [regarding the Omicron BA.5 variant]. Given how normal daily life has become (and the incredible surge in domestic travel, which is seeing holiday-level airport traffic daily), conditions are ripe for Covid to spread rapidly.”

May 2022 – Karla of Colorful Journeys , expat in Vietnam: “Every day, an increasing number of tourists travel within Vietnam. Many local tour operators have reopened for business and are now easily bookable. Transportation options are widely available and simple to book. 

Despite the fact that there are no longer any travel restrictions in Vietnam, the majority of people still wear masks. This is particularly true in larger cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. There is also a lot of local testing accessible in major cities. Because many hotels and attractions are permanently closed, it’s a good practice to call the business beforehand.”

March 25, 2022 – Phu, Vietnamese tour guide:  “Vietnam now is reopening for tourists but the tourists come to Vietnam very little at the moment. Not so many, still quiet here. In Hoi An all the shops and restaurants are open, and more domestic tourists come to Hoi An. The local people we are really happy welcome the tourists. And me I open my motorbike tours again, but in 1 month I have only one tour booking. I will be offering a discount price to welcome tourists booking this is the year.”

We highly recommend a motorbike day tour or overnight tour with our friend, Phu! Contact him at Hoianmotorbiketouradventures@ gmail.com .

January 2022 – Isabelle of Move to Vietnam , Vietnamese resident: “At the moment, domestic travel is possible as long as you are fully vaccinated. Tourists are only allowed in Vietnam under specific requirements. Unless you want to spend $1500 and up for 7-14 days of holiday, it’s better to wait for a few more months.

June 2022 is the government’s target to reopen. However, these policies change very often.

Vietnam has a pretty good system when it comes to contact tracing. Most places of business require everyone to check-in using a QR code or sign up sheet. If that place detects a positive case, people who were there at the same time will be contacted to be tested and self-isolated for a number of days. There’s very little anti-vaccination sentiment here. 

Tourists attractions are normally open. If you need to be hospitalised, you will have an option to go to a private hospital or a more affordable local hospital (you might have to bring a local or a translator).”

December 2021 – Huong Nguyen (Hanna), Vietnamese nomad CoXplore :  “After the lifting of strict COVID-19 restrictions, the government is still strict with the 5K rule: ‘Khau trang’ (facemask), ‘Khu khuan’ (disinfection), ‘Khoang cach’ (distance), ‘Khong tu tap’ (no gathering), and ‘Khai bao y te’ (health declaration) to help citizens get used to living safely with the COVID-19 pandemic in ‘new normal’ state; and citizens are generally active to follow. 

Recovering from COVID-19, Vietnam is now encouraging domestic travelling within the country, and is prepared to welcome international visitors who have met all the vaccination requirements. Residents must receive at least a dose of COVID-19 vaccine and obtain a QR code through mandated health apps for movement within the city.”

September 2021 – Phu, Central Vietnam Resident: “Vietnam now is lock down. Covid delta so fast in Vietnam now. Kill 14000 people already. My area we are staying home, still safe at the moment.”

January 2021 – Jackie & Justin, Life Of Doing , Expats in Ho Chi Minh City:  “Vietnam does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Tourist cities rely on locals and long term residents visiting.  Currently, there aren’t any restrictions for traveling within the country for locals and long term residents. Everyone traveling must wear masks at public places and may have a temperature check before entering a building or vehicle. Many of the tourist cities have been impacted by fewer tourists and have closed restaurants and tourist attractions. Luckily, Vietnam’s government is proactive when it comes to finding the source of confirmed cases that have tested positive for the virus and trace the contacts of confirmed cases immediately.” 

Adela, Spanish/Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “The only tourists in Vietnam at the moment are either those who were already in the country or Vietnamese nationals doing internal tourism. At the moment, the relationship of the locals with foreigners is back to normal, however during the months of March and April there was a sudden “fear” of foreigners, especially Westerners, and in some places (restaurants, hotels, bars, etc) we were denied entrance. Although at the moment everyone is as friendly and welcoming as it can be, the kids that live in our street still laugh and cover their faces when they see us. Many businesses have chosen to close due to the lack of tourists, but most touristic attractions are open and …less crowded than they will ever be!”

Tasha , American Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “Despite having a third the population of the U.S. and sharing a border with China, thanks to common sense, early action, and preventative measures, Vietnam has vanquished coronavirus. Cases peaked at less than 400, and now the virus is completely contained — there is no community spread. Borders remain closed to keep the virus out. Vietnam has done an excellent job with testing and contact tracing. The virus is completely gone from the general population, so we are living life as normal, going to restaurants and cafes.”

Even if you can’t go to Vietnam right now, you can still get started planning your Vietnam trip for the future.

Check out our other Vietnam travel resources: – Suggested Vietnam Itineraries: 10+ Days in Vietnam – A budget guide to Hoi An Vietnam – A budget guide to Ninh Binh – A budget guide to Hue – A budget guide to Hanoi – A budget guide to Mai Chau Vietnam – Central Vietnam Destinations and Itinerary

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

If you have questions or updates about travel to Vietnam during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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Hello: I’m wondering if someone could let me know where the cheapest COVID insurance is to be found (FOR VIETNAM.) Many thanks. I’m in Cambodia and wanting to travel there soon. It’s Dec. 1, 2022. I’m vaccinated and boosted, healthy, etc. Many thanks.

Hi Randy. We’re not experts in insurance, but we plan to use Safetywing, as mentioned in this post – it’s easy to apply for even when you’re already abroad, but the costs depends on your age and it includes additional benefits that Vietnam doesn’t require. There are online insurance quote comparison tools you could try, but I’m not aware of an insurance package specific to Vietnam travel.

I would like to know about Phase 2 travel in Vietnam in January 2022. Is Phase 1 and Phase 2 doing the same requirement such as taking Covid test within 72 hours as well as quarantine 7 days in the government facility during January 2022?

Hi Andy. Thanks for visiting our blog. There is very little information about the requirements for future phases so far, probably because everything is still in constant flux in Vietnam. We’ll do our best to update this post with details as they become available. It’s always possible the reopening dates could change and additional information may be released at the last minute.

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Vietnam Tours & Holidays

Vietnamese food is where it’s at.

Wherever we travel, it’s the flavours we remember best. A crusty bánh mì or streetside pho, seafood cù lao hotpots and (scarily addictive) coffee with condensed milk. Vietnam tours are tasty, plain and simple. We won’t just drop you in Halong Bay and call it a day. Our local leaders will introduce you to rice farmers in Sapa and fishermen on the Mekong Delta. They’ll guide you through the Cu Chi Tunnels, take you to the best beaches and on a street food crawl through Ho Chi Minh City. Our stomach’s rumbling already... 

Our Vietnam trips

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Vietnam tour reviews

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Halong Bay Junk Cruise

Vietnam Express Southbound

Vietnam Express Northbound

Three kinds of wow: Twitching in Vietnam

Time and place: Hanoi Old Quarter Market, 5 pm

Creative Cities: Hanoi

Travel globally and think locally with Intrepid leader San Tao

Slow drip: Vietnamese coffee culture

Follow the leader: Tu Vu will never stop learning about Vietnam

Saying yes with Intrepid leader, Huyen Nguyen

 Vun Art: Changing lives in Vietnam one scrap at a time

We also travel to

Vietnam at a glance, capital city.

Approximately 98 million

(GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Vietnam

History and government, early history.

Vietnam has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds suggest that structured societies existed as early as the 1st millennium BC. Early society was mostly feudal and agriculture-based, with various dynasties overseeing different parts of Vietnam until the Chinese invasion of 111 BC, which saw the societies of Vietnam and China intertwined. Various Chinese dynasties dominated the area for hundreds of years, although revolts finally led to Vietnam gaining self-autonomy in 905. By 938, this period of Chinese imperial domination came to a close and Vietnam entered into an age of independence.

Recent history

During the 19th century, Vietnam came under the influence of French colonisers, who assumed control of Vietnam after the Sino-French War of 1884 and 1885. French Indochina was formed in 1887, and included parts of Vietnam, Cambodia and, later on, Laos. Although the French managed to suppress internal movements towards independence for many years, their control was finally relinquished in 1954 when Vietnamese forces overcame the French during the first Indochina War. Following this war, Vietnam was divided, with separate forces ruling the north (led by Ho Chi Minh) and the south (led by Ngo Dinh Diem, with support from the United States). 

The second Indochina War created wide-scale devastation and turmoil for the people of Vietnam, leading to mass migration to other parts of the world as asylum seekers tried to escape the conflict. More recently, Vietnam has benefited from the free market economy set up in 1986. Vietnam's economy continues to expand, with agriculture and industry providing the backbone and the tourism sector also contributing. Although many Vietnamese people live below the poverty line, there have been widespread improvements in literacy and health, which hopefully will continue to improve in the future.

Geography and environment

Occupying a long, thin part of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam shares borders with China , Laos and Cambodia . Much of Vietnam's terrain is mountainous, particularly the north and central highland regions. Although people still choose to live in the densely forested highland regions, most of Vietnam's population is concentrated in the cities of the low-lying areas, where infrastructure is more easily built and the land is fertile. One of the 12 great rivers of the world, the Mekong, runs through Vietnam and has been responsible for wide-scale flooding. A system of canals and levees has been quite successful in redistributing the water during monsoons, and has helped to alleviate flooding in the Mekong Delta and surrounding areas.

Vietnam has a nice mix of interesting markets and small shops, with handicrafts, art and clothing among the best picks.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Vietnam

1. Tailored clothing

Hoi An is one of the best places in the world to get tailor-made clothing at a great price. Find a tailor, choose your fabric, get measured and return later to collect your custom-made fashion.

2. Hilltribe handicrafts

Some of Vietnam's hilltribe people make excellent woven bags, clothing and jewellery which make meaningful souvenirs for friends back home.

As one of the world's largest coffee exporters, Vietnamese coffee is among the world's best. If you’re a coffee fan, why not take a little taste of Vietnam home with you.

4. Lacquerware

The time-consuming, intensive process of creating Vietnamese lacquer art results in a beautiful, smooth and polished finish that adorns everything from bowls to paintings and jewellery boxes. While not the cheapest of souvenirs, authentic lacquer art is worth spending a bit more on.

Culture and customs

Vietnam's ancient culture can be traced back centuries and over the years has been influenced in different ways by the Chinese, Khmer, French and American cultures. For most Vietnamese people, connection to family and community is paramount - whether they are from rural villages or living in fast-paced cities.

Most festivals and holidays are spent with the extended family - participating in rituals, feasting on special foods, giving symbolic gifts and paying respects to ancestors. Most Vietnamese people practice a form of religion that is an interesting mix of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, although there are also a large number of practising Catholics living in Vietnam.

Having endured the hardship that the Vietnam War brought in the 1960s and 1970s, most Vietnamese people are keen to get on with life, living with a sense of optimism and humility.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Vietnam but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already been and are looking for somewhere similar?

Cambodia vs Vietnam

Thailand vs Vietnam

Top 10 iconic landscapes of Vietnam

1. hạlong bay.

There's nothing quite like Halong Bay first thing in the morning. As the mists clear, hundreds of huge karst towers appear, looming high above the boat. In the soft morning light, it's like waking up in a watercolour painting of a mythical land.

Float along the waters of Halong Bay on our 2 day Junk Cruise.

Jam-packed with imperial sites, Hue is one for the history buffs. Explore the Citadel with its ruined Forbidden Purple City before embracing your inner emperor and taking a dragon boat cruise down the Perfume River.

Walk the historic streets of Hue on our 11 day Explore Vietnam tour.

3. Ho Chi Minh City

Still known as Saigon to most, HCMC is a city on the go. It's fast-paced, exciting and full of amazing sites. Temples and markets collide with churches and skyscrapers for a heady mix of traditional, colonial and modern.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City's jam-packed streets on our 10 day Vietnam Express Southbound tour.

Motorbikes piled high with people, produce and even animals zip through the streets. It's crazy and haphazard and somehow it works. The best way to take it all in is from a rooftop cafe. Order an extra strong coffee and watch the chaos unfold below.

Get lost in the beautiful Hanoi on our 10 day Vietnam Express Northbound tour.

This shoppers' paradise is home to more boot makers, tailors and handicrafts than you could visit in a lifetime. While you wait for your suit to be made, hire a bicycle and explore the Old Town - the streets are blissfully car-free.

Shop 'til you drop on our 8 day Premium Vietnam tour or on our 8 day Treasures of vietnam tour.

Head to the hills and see the colourful villages of Vietnam's minority groups - the Zay, and the Blue and Black H'mong. The area is remote so the best way to experience it is on an overnight trek, spending the night as a guest of a local family.

Escape to the hills on our 5 day Sapa Adventure or on our 11 day Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak tour.

7. Mekong Delta

This massive area of floating markets, emerald rice paddies and lush islands is home to some of the friendliest people on earth. Take a boat trip to one of the sleepy islands to get a front-row view of life on the Delta, and meet the people who call it home.

Adventure through the Mekong Delta on our 2 day Farmstay .

Further reading

Vietnam travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Most nationalities are required to obtain a tourist visa in advance to travel to Vietnam. When obtaining your visa you should allow 3 weeks for processing with your nearest embassy or consulate. The cost is approximately US$60 to US$100. Please check with your embassy or consulate for further requirements.

Some nationalities are exempt from visas for a stay of a maximum of 15 days, including British, German, French, Spanish and Italian citizens travelling to Vietnam (for all purposes). This exemption is based upon meeting all conditions prescribed by Vietnamese laws. If you are planning on staying in Vietnam for longer than 15 days you will need to obtain a visa extension in advance (please contact your relevant Consulate or Embassy). Please also check the requirements if you plan to re-enter Vietnam.

An e-Visa is available for some nationalities including passport holders from Australia, France, Ireland, Italy, Canada and the United States of America, valid for a single entry of a maximum of 30-day stay in Vietnam.  Learn more about the eVisa on the immigration website .

E-Visas take up to 3 days to be processed. You will need a clear electronic copy of your passport data page and passport photo, and to make a non-refundable payment as outlined on the immigration website. Important information Keep the customs and immigration form you receive on arrival, as you need it to complete exit formalities on departure.

If you're travelling with us and your visa application asks for a point of contact, please write: Intrepid Vietnam 5th floor HiPT Building, 152 Thuy Khue Street, Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi, Ph +84 4 3715 0996.

Most nationalities do not require a letter of invitation for Vietnam but if you do need one, please contact your sales agent for more information.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain the relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.

Last updated: 31 July 2023

Is tipping customary in Vietnam?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Vietnam, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good .

What is the internet access like in Vietnam?

Internet access is widely available in tourist areas and big cities, which have many internet cafes. Internet access is less frequent in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Vietnam?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Vietnam, although remote and mountainous areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Vietnam.

What are the toilets like in Vietnam?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation while holidaying in Vietnam. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a…?

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Quick city bus ride = 5,000 VND-9,000VND
• Local-style coffee at a cafe = 20,000-30,000 VND
• Bowl of pho from street stall = 20,000-70,000 VND
• Dinner at a simple restaurant = 100,000-250,000 VND
• Dinner at an up-market restaurant = 300,000+ VND

Can I drink the tap water in Vietnam?

It is generally not safe to drink the tap water in Vietnam. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Vietnam?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in Vietnam. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Vietnam.

What is ATM access like in Vietnam?

ATMs are found widely throughout Vietnam, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Vietnam?

Public holidays celebrated in Vietnam include:

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 21 Jan: Tết (Vietnamese New Year)
• 21 Apr: Gio to Hung Vuong Day
• 30 Apr: Reunification Day
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 2 Sep: National Day

Please note,  Vietnam public holidays may vary.

What festivals are celebrated in Vietnam?

The major festivals celebrated in Vietnam are Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year, February), Reunification Day (30 April), National Day (2 September) and Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival, late September).

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The most popular times to visit Vietnam are spring (February-April) and autumn (September-December) but because of the huge variations in latitude and altitude, there is no one best time to go to Vietnam. It’s a good destination all year.

What's the weather like in Vietnam?

Vietnam has an incredibly diverse tropical climate, and temperatures vary from 4°C in Sapa in winter to humid 36°C days in Saigon in the middle of the dry season. The monsoons bring heavy rain to the south, and a cooler winter to the north depending on when you plan to tour Vietnam.

What are the best things to eat in Vietnam?

Traditional Vietnamese food is typified by its use of fresh herbs and vegetables and its wide regional variance. Vietnamese food is influenced by its Chinese and Khmer neighbours and echoes French colonisation. Some of the best things to eat in Vietnam are noodle soups (pho, bun mam, bun bo hue), bread rolls (banh mi), savoury pancakes (banh xeo) and fresh tropical fruits. 

What are the best things to drink in Vietnam?

Our list of best things to drink in Vietnam includes ice coffee, fruit smoothies, fresh coconut juice straight from a freshly cracked green coconut, sugar cane juice, local beers and artisan rice wine.

What to wear in Vietnam?

While the tropical climate lends itself to layered, breathable clothing all year round, if you are taking a tour in the North, cold winters mean you might need to bring a fleece or jacket.

What kinds of accommodation will I have in Vietnam?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.  When travelling with us in Vietnam you may find yourself staying in a:

• Overnight boat

Sleeping aboard a boat on Halong Bay is a quintessential Vietnamese experience to be savoured. Slip into relaxation mode as you take in stunning views of the surrounding limestone karst scenery.

Get acquainted with the Vietnamese way of life while on a memorable home stay. Be exposed to new languages, cuisine and customs while making friends with your hosts and neighbours.

What kinds of transport will I be using in Vietnam?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. Depending on which trip you're on while in Vietnam, you may find yourself travelling by:

• Overnight sleeper train

Travelling aboard an overnight sleeper train is a fun way to journey through Vietnam. Interact with other passengers or sit by a window and watch the world go by.

Curious? Click here read more about what to expect on an overnight train.

Take time to wave to locals as you cycle at a leisurely pace past rice paddies and through simple villages in rural Vietnam

These 3 wheeled vehicles are a great way to zip around the sights.

Is Vietnam a LGBTQIA+ friendly destination?

The LGBQTIA+ community is gradually gaining recognition in Vietnam, with gay pride parades becoming a regular occurrence and a lift on same-sex marriage bans in 2015. With that said, Vietnam is still a conservative culture and many still hide their sexuality from their families. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have some gay-friendly bars and events. It's generally recommended that both gay and straight couples resist showing public displays of affection.  

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

Does my trip to Vietnam support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Vietnam directly support our foundation partners, Blue Dragon Children's Foundation, Vun Art and WildAct .

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation Blue Dragon Children's Foundation is helping disadvantaged youth in Vietnam, fighting the causes of human trafficking and (where possible) reuniting homeless or trafficked children with their families. Donations from our trips help their team of social workers, psychologists, teachers, and lawyers to offer individualised support to every child rescued. 

Find out more or make a donation

Vun Art Vun Art empowers people with disabilities in Vietnam through vocational training and employment opportunities. They teach traditional folk painting using recycled materials which provides job opportunities, helps to preserve the ancient artform and cares for the local environment all at once. Donations from our trips support Vun Art's capacity-building programs for people with disabilities, including trainees' allowance, transportation, and equipment.  

WildAct protects migratory birds of Vietnam and reduces illegal hunting by educating local communities about the importance of conservation. Donations from our trips help WildAct run educational programs to stop the illegal hunting of threatened migratory birds through knowledge-sharing in local communities.  

Is Vietnam accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite having a high population of people with disabilities, accessible infrastructure and facilities are still limited in Vietnam. Chaotic traffic and pavements blocked by parked motorbikes and street stalls, uneven footpaths and high curbs add to the challenges of getting around for travellers with mobility or vision disabilities. Most entrances to hotels, shops, restaurants and tourist sites will have steps and many doorways will not be able to accommodate wheelchairs wider than 60cm. Some sights and destinations will not be fully accessible (ie. Ha Long Bay boats, Cu Chi Tunnels) but other places such as Hoi An are flat and much more wheelchair-friendly. There are likely to be situations where travellers with disabilities may need to rely on local people to help. Taxis are readily available and an affordable way to get around for travellers who are not confident in exploring independently on foot.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

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Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Vietnam 2024

Vietnam experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Generally, the best time to visit most of Vietnam is from November through April, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is relatively low.

Vietnam doesn't seem very big, but it's very diverse, and the weather varies a lot from north to south. Planning the best time to go to Vietnam can be tricky. We would like to give you some insider suggestions and tips, and help you to find the right place to explore at any time of year.

• Best Times to Visit Vietnam
• Worst Times to Visit Vietnam
• Travel Guide By Month

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam for Great Weather, Low Prices

As mentioned above, November to April is the best period to visit Vietnam . However, this can depend on which part of the country you plan to visit, what activities you want to do, budget, and weather preferences.

1) Best Time to Visit for Great Weather

Northern Vietnam , including Hanoi and Halong Bay, has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit this region is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. The summer months from May to September can be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons and heavy rain.

Central Vietnam , including Hue, Hoi An, and Danang, has a tropical climate with two seasons: a dry season from January to August and a rainy season from September to December. The best time to visit this region is from February to June when the weather is dry and mild.

If you and your children are planning to visit during the summer holidays ( between June and August), you could enjoy sunny and blue skies but expect high temperatures around 35°C (95°F) and crowds. Our 2-Week Vietnam Family-with-Teenagers Holiday is specially designed for a family summer vacation.

In Southern Vietnam , including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the rainy season runs from May to October and the dry season runs from November to April. The best time to visit this region is from November to April when the weather is dry and pleasant.

2) Best Times to Visit for Low Prices

Vietnam is a very affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers typically find the steepest discounts on accommodations, flights, and tours during the rainy season (May to October in north and south Vietnam, September to December in central Vietnam).

Cultural and historical cities, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, are less affected by the weather. And they have plenty of indoor activities, such as cooking classes and making lanterns. Thus, if you are flexible and prepared, the low season promises smaller crowds, big savings, and still plenty of things that can be enjoyed.

3) An Insider's Guide to the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

In our experience, if your travel time is flexible, the ideal times to travel are the period just before the peak season and the period just after the peak season (the periods of early May and late October) . At this time, the weather is still fine, crowds die down, and hotels are cheaper.

Check out more tips on planning your trip to Vietnam or contact our specialist , who would tailor-make an itinerary for you based on your requirements including available travel times.

The Worst Times to Travel to Vietnam (Monsoon and Typhoon Seasons)

If you don't like rain, you should consider avoiding the rainy season.

The truth is that even in the peak of the rainy season, the rainfall is not persistent , mainly coming in short downpours of one or two hours. You can still enjoy most of a day without much inconvenience.

One thing that needs to be noted is the disruptive typhoon season in north and central Vietnam . Your Halong Bay cruise can be canceled or delayed if you travel between July and August, when the bay is at risk of typhoons and storms. Your trip in coastal places of central Vietnam, such as Hoi An, may have to be interrupted due to typhoon flooding, usually occurring between September to October.

Although the rainy season has its drawbacks, it also means lower crowding and better prices . With a well-planned and flexible schedule, you can still enjoy a great trip.

Our flexible private tours are guaranteed to make your trip smoother and easier. You would get timely support and expert contingency plans, if the weather causes delays/cancellations or itinerary changes. 

Contact us to start your worry-free Vietnam trip.

Vietnam Travel Guide by Month

Vietnam weather in january.

• Northern Vietnam: cool and dry, 15–20°C (59–68°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and damp, 22–27°C (72–81°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and dry, 26–32°C (79–90°F)

January is generally a cool/mild and dry/damp month in the northern and central regions of Vietnam. However, it can be quite cold in the mountainous far north in places such as Sapa, with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F). The southern region tends to be warmer and dry.

January is a great time to visit most parts of Vietnam. However, if you're hoping to visit the beaches, keep in mind that the weather may be a bit cool for swimming or sunbathing.

Vietnam's Lunar New Year, known as Tet, sometimes falls in late January, and it can be an exciting time to visit Vietnam to experience the festive atmosphere and traditions. But get ready for more crowds and higher prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in January and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in February

• Northern Vietnam: mild and dry, 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and dry, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and very dry, 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)

February is a good time to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather and little rainfall. The north can still be cool, while the south really starts to warm up.

February is considered part of the high season for tourism in Vietnam, but it's not as busy as December and January. However, it's important to note that the Lunar New Year (Tet) usually falls in February, and many Vietnamese people travel during this time, so transportation and accommodations may be more crowded and expensive. Book hotels as early as possible.

Learn more about Vietnam in February and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in March

• Northern Vietnam: warm and dry, 15–25°C (59–77°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm and dry, 20–30°C (68–86°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and very dry, 23–34°C (73–93°F)

As winter comes to an end, the weather in Vietnam becomes warm in March. The north and central regions can still be cool in the evenings and mornings, while the south tends to be hot and rainless.

March is a good month for outdoor activities like exploring the countryside around Hanoi and Hoi An. It's also a good time to visit the beaches in central Vietnam, as the sea is usually calm and the weather is warm.

Learn more about Vietnam in March and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in April

• Northern Vietnam: warm, moderately rainy, 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F)
• Central Vietnam: sunny and hot, 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 91°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, low rainfall, 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)

April is generally a good time to visit Vietnam as it's mostly dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from around 20–30°C (68–86°F) in most regions. However, it can be hot and humid in the south, and sudden showers may come and go quickly.

It is a great time to explore Vietnam's natural beauty, such as cruising on Halong Bay, enjoying the beaches in central Vietnam, or visiting the Mekong Delta in the south.

Learn more about Vietnam in April and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in May

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 25–30°C (77–86°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, high rainfall, 30–35°C (86–95°F)

May is the beginning of the hot season in Vietnam, particularly in the central and southern regions. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C in some areas.

A private tour with a flexible travel pace is essential to avoid the burning sunshine and have an enjoyable trip. You can choose to start your days earlier in the morning, have a siesta, and go out later in the afternoon, or plan some indoor activities such as cooking class.

The bright side of this month is that you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in May and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in June

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–33°C (79–91°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 26–35°C (79–95°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and wet, 25–32°C (77–90°F)

June is one of the hottest months of the year in Vietnam. It is also the start of the rainy season in the north and south, with regular thunderstorms and heavy rain.

June can be a challenging time to visit Vietnam due to the hot and humid weather, especially in the south. However, if you're comfortable with the heat and enjoy outdoor activities, it can still be a good time to visit central Vietnam and enjoy the beaches. Just be prepared for heavy rain showers in some regions, and make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Learn more about Vietnam in June and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in July

• Central Vietnam: hot, humid, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 24–32°C (75–90°F)

July is a hot and humid month in most parts of Vietnam, with regular rain showers due to the summer monsoon season.

However, you should see more pleasant weather in central Vietnam (Danang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang), where sunny days and blue skies are perfect for a beach vacation. Expect accommodation prices to rise and crowds to thicken due to Vietnamese students' summer holiday. Book your hotels several months in advance.

If you travel to northern Vietnam and southern Vietnam, you're suggested to take rain gear, choose more indoor activities, and always have a "tour plan B" for each day.

Learn more about Vietnam in July and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in August

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–32°C (79–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, medium rainfall, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

August is a hot and rainy month in north and south Vietnam. August experiences storms or heavy rains, which might affect your trip in Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. The good news is that the rains come and go quickly.

The central region of Vietnam including Hue, Danang, and Hoi An is the best choice, due to its sunnier weather. Be prepared for crowded beaches as domestic travel is at a peak because of summer vacations. Contact us for an early booking!

Learn more about Vietnam in August and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in September

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 25–32°C (77–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 24–32°C (75–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

September is a transitional month in Vietnam, with the weather starting to shift from the rainy season to the dry season or vice versa.

North Vietnam edges towards the end of its summer, although you can still expect plenty of hot weather as well as some rain. Central Vietnam enters its extremely torrential rainy season, with a high chance of storms or typhoons. Southern Vietnam also experiences hot temperature and frequent rain.

The best places to go are in Northern Vietnam including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa.

Learn more about Vietnam in September and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in October

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 22–29°C (66–84°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential storms, 23–29°C (73–84°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 23–31°C (73–88°F)

October is one of the best months to visit North and South Vietnam, with moderate temperatures in between the showers. The north is warm, while the south is still hot sometimes.

However, October is the worst time for a vacation in central Vietnam, which faces a high risk of typhoons and violent storms, leading to flooding in lowland cities.

Learn more about Vietnam in October and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in November

• Northern Vietnam: warm, light rain, 19–26°C (66–79°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential rain, 21–27°C (70–80°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, medium rain, 22–31°C (72–88°F)

November is the start of the dry winter season in the north, with cooler temperatures and less humidity/rainfall, which brings large numbers of travelers flocking to Hanoi and Halong Bay.

Meanwhile, the central region is still in the peak of its soaked and stormy typhoon season. If you are travelling in this region (Hue, Danang, Hoi An) in November, keep your itinerary flexible in case of flight delays or cancellations.

The south begins its dry season, with medium-to-low rainfall and sunny skies more likely than not. This month is a great time to visit HCMC, the Mekong Delta, and offshore islands such as Phú Quốc.

Learn more about Vietnam in November and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in December

• Northern Vietnam: becomes mild and dry, 15–22°C (59–72°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 20–25°C (68–77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm/hot, low rainfall, 21–32°C (70–90°F)

It's all good news in the north and south with some of the best conditions of the year, moderate temperature, and blue skies. Hanoi and the north experience excellent dry and clear days, however it can be cold, especially in the evenings. The southern islands of Phu Quoc can be a top pick for your beach vacation.

In central regions of Vietnam, the rains start to decrease, but stormy weather is still a strong possibility, especially early in December.

The Christmas and New Year holidays bring Vietnam into another high season for travel. Make sure you book a late December tour at least 3 months in advance.

Learn more about Vietnam in December and the best places to visit .

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Vietnam holidays 2024 & 2025

From the French-colonial architecture of Hanoi and the karst scenery of Halong Bay to the mercantile history of Hoi An, our Vietnam specialists will use their personal experience of the country to plan your holiday to Vietnam in detail. That might include arranging for you to view fast-paced Ho Chi Minh City from the back of a Vespa, or spend languid days cruising the Mekong Delta or by the beach in Ninh Van Bay.

Travel in Vietnam is often based around a journey between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, taking in the highlights of the central region between the two. Our Vietnam specialists can also suggest the country’s often overlooked, lesser-known sights and experiences, such as discovering brightly dressed hill-tribe communities in the Tonkinese Alps or the remote markets of Ha Giang — places and people we’ve come to know over 20 years of research and return visits.

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Suggested tours for Vietnam

Drift among the karst scenery on a traditional junk in Lan Ha Bay, explore bustling Ho Chi Minh on the back of a Vespa, and learn to make traditional dishes at a private home in Hue — our range of suggested itineraries is a great starting point as you begin to plan your trip to Vietnam.

Vietnam's Mekong Delta

11 days from £4,070pp

Highlights of Vietnam

16 days from £5,235pp

Cruising the Mekong from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap

15 days from £6,250pp

Classic Vietnam tour

19 days from £5,730pp

Central Vietnam's culture & coast

14 days from £6,090pp

Family Indochina: Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia tour

16 days from £5,875pp

A tribal journey through northern Vietnam & Laos

19 days from £7,340pp

Northern hills of Vietnam & Laos

14 days from £4,730pp

Luxury tour of Vietnam

15 days from £9,305pp

Suggested activities for Vietnam

Enjoy a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a Vespa, sample Hanoi’s best street food with a local guide, or cruise along the Mekong on a wooden boat. Whatever your interests, our specialists will suggest experiences designed to enhance your trip to Vietnam.

Hanoi street food tour

Set off on a street food tour of Hanoi's best culinary spots with a food blogger.

Hands-on Rice Growing Tour

You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the farm. On arrival you will meet the farmers and enjoy tea before donning traditional Vietnamese clothing (a conical hat and overalls) to prepare for getting into the paddy field.

Hoi An Countryside Cycling Tour

Pick up your bikes and begin a leisurely ride through the beautiful countryside with your guide, stopping for photographs and refreshments as you please.

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Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Vietnam, including information about climate, events and festivals.

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Useful information for planning your holiday in Vietnam

Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam, but there is a huge variety of regional dialects that are spoken in casual conversation. You may also hear other languages, including Chinese, Khmer, and Lao as you travel across the country. English is also widely understood and spoken, and older generations still speak French as a result of the French colonial period.

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (₫), and the notes come in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 50,000, and 100,000 dong. However, it can be difficult to change high denomination notes in shops.

You can withdraw local currency at ATMs in all major cities, and credit cards are accepted in most larger shops and hotels, too.

We recommend trying Vietnam’s national dish, pho, which is a hearty noodle soup made with fresh vegetables, as well as trying juicy spring rolls wrapped in wafer-thin rice paper. Traditional Vietnamese food balances five key tastes — sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and spicy — and for an even deeper aroma, each dish comes with nuoc mam, a potent fish sauce, or mam tom, shrimp sauce.

We also recommend sampling ‘royal cuisine’ in Hue , a cuisine that harks back to the elaborate dishes created to impress the former Imperial court. We can arrange for you to visit the home of a local artisan chef there who’ll prepare a Vietnamese feast for you.

To drink, you can indulge in local coffee sweetened with a glug of condensed milk, a guaranteed pick-me-up after a morning of exploring. There are also a handful of local beers to try.

Tipping in Vietnam has become part of the culture, so we advise leaving a 10% tip at restaurants for good service in addition to any service charges. You should also tip guides, porters, drivers, and other service workers in Vietnam, preferably in local currency. The amount varies depending on how many people you travel with and the level of service provided, but we can go into more detail before you travel.

For the latest travel advice for Vietnam, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website .

A trip to Vietnam blends dramatic forest-draped mountain scenery with historical towns and cities whose architecture showcases the country’s tangle of cultures. There are several UNESCO World Heritage Sites here, including the former imperial citadel of Hue and Champa Kingdom ruins at My Son , as well as a handful of jungle-blanketed national parks ideal for hiking and caving.

While Vietnam’s most notable sights might already be familiar to you, our specialists can help you get to know them more intimately. You could learn how to tend to one of Vietnam’s quintessential rice paddies with a local farmer , take a cooking class  in an ornate pagoda on the outskirts of Hue’s royal monuments, or take a peek into a previously covert location  in Ho Chi Minh City used to store the Viet Cong’s weapons during the Vietnam War.

There are a wide range of places to retreat to after a day of exploring in Vietnam, including beach resorts, heritage hotels, traditional junks, and city boutiques. For example, you could spend a night in a wooden merchant’s house in Hoi An , experience remote rural living at a homestay along the Mekong Delta , or rest your head at one of Vietnam’s most exclusive coastal resorts in Quy Nhon . There are also numerous boutique hotels right in the heart of Vietnam’s cities, so you can get up and go without needing to travel far.

Our specialists hand-pick every hotel in Vietnam , so they can help you explore and rest in a setting that suits you.

For a classic snapshot of Vietnam’s striking scenery and interlocking cultures, travel from Hanoi in the north down the coast to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south. Along the way, you can cruise around the limestone karst pillars jutting out of Halong Bay , gaze at the vibrant mosaiced roofs of Hue’s old town, wander in and out of the eclectic buildings of Hoi An, and zip around Hoi Chi Minh City  on a Vespa.

If you want to go further from the traditional path, our specialists can craft a more intrepid route for you. You could trek the village-dotted Tonkinese Alps , share a home-cooked meal with a Tay family  in their thatched-roof stilted house, or camp on the underground sands of a cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park .

It takes around 12–17 hours to fly from the UK to Hanoi in Vietnam. We recommend flying with Vietnam Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and a few other airlines, which we can advise on.

The time zone in Vietnam is GMT+7, and there’s no daylight saving time in the country, so the clocks stay the same all year round.

In Vietnam, we recommend taking private cars for short hops between cities and going by air if you want to get across the country because it’s expansive, stretching from China in the north to the Gulf of Thailand in the south. You can also take a traditional Vietnamese junk to cruise around uninhabited karst islands in the north, a luxury train through Central Vietnam’s forested countryside to the coast, or a private wooden sampan along the Mekong and into Cambodia to see the Khmer temples of Angkor .

British passport holders are permitted to travel in Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. If you’re staying for longer than 45 days, you’ll need to apply for an e-visa. Irish passport holders will need to apply for a 90-day, multi-entry e-visa in advance of travel.

Your doctor can provide you with immunisation and antimalarial advice for Vietnam. You can also check the recommended vaccinations by visiting the Travel Health Pro website .

Just note that there’s a risk of Zika virus transmission in Vietnam, so if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, please consult with your doctor for advice.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of your departure from Vietnam and have at least two blank pages. You should also get your passport stamped on arrival in Vietnam and when you leave to avoid any extra fees.

We recommend wearing light, loose clothing in Vietnam to keep cool and respect the culture because, in general, Vietnamese people dress very conservatively, especially in areas away from the main towns and cities.

When visiting Vietnam’s temples, you should dress conservatively, covering your knees and shoulders out of respect. In some temples, you will also need to remove your shoes before entering, but never point the soles of your feet toward Buddha images or other people. What’s more, you should never sit with your back to an altar, point at anything or anyone, or touch statues. It’s also respectful to refrain from talking while inside, but occasional whispering is fine.

There are many customs in Vietnam that will be different from your home country, but, thankfully, your expert guides will be there to help you navigate and understand them. For example, they might teach you how to greet local people in the traditional way, take part in festivities respectfully, or even how to avoid things that are considered back luck, like leaving your chopsticks sticking straight up in a bowl of rice.

Vietnam in pictures

Our expert guides to travelling in Vietnam

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Vietnam. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Vietnam at its best.

Vietnam: why you should go

Southeast Asia specialist Alex explains why he thinks you should travel to Vietnam and shares footage from his recent trip across the country.

A guide to Vietnam & Cambodia riverboat tours

Southeast Asia specialist Tom explains why travelling along the Mekong River is an ideal way to visit Vietnam and Cambodia in a single trip. Giving you time to take in floating villages and markets, the temples of Angkor, as well as Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh.

What to do in Vietnam: our highlights guide

Visit a floating market on the Mekong Delta, try your hand at woodcut painting in Hanoi, or explore Ho Chi Minh City by vintage sidecar. Our guide will help immerse you in the sights, people and landscapes of Vietnam.

Vietnam's best beach resorts

Bounded by the warm South China Sea, Vietnam’s sandy beaches are equal to any in the region. Add to this a range of sophisticated beach resorts and the scene is set for a quiet break in understated comfort. Vietnam specialist Mark picks his best of the bunch.

Luxury holidays in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to a range of properties that you can include in your luxury holiday. From boutique hotels with their French colonial architecture, to desert island hideaways only accessible by boat.

Our top 9 experiences in Vietnam

A frequent visitor to the region, Southeast Asia specialist Will selects his top nine experiences from his travels across Vietnam. In a whistle-stop look across the country, picks include Ho Chi Minh City by Vespa, Mai Chau’s rice paddies and a secluded beach escape.

A food journey through Vietnam: bun cha to banh mi

Vietnam’s cuisine varies from being more salty in the north to spicier in the south. Country Specialist, Lauren, selects some of her top dishes and where to try them such as Vietnam’s national dish pho, bun cha in Hanoi and cao lau noodles in Hoi An.

Vietnam family holidays

As a year-round destination you won't have to worry about taking the kids out of school to visit Vietnam. It's mostly malaria free and there are lots of activities on offer for all the family. You'll also be greeted with a warm welcome from the Vietnamese themselves.

Way down south — why you should journey deeper into Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

There’s so much to the Mekong Delta, you could spend an entire trip exploring it, trying everything from cycle tours to sampan cruises. Craig from our Vietnam team has curated a tour through the region based on his own experience.

Honeymoons in Vietnam

The mighty Mekong River, fascinating hill tribes of the north, the epic scenery in Halong Bay... these are just a few of the reasons our country specialists recommend a honeymoon in Vietnam. Plan your perfect trip with us.

Discover more about Vietnam on our blog

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Celebrating our guides: the 10th anniversary Audley Guide Awards

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Vietnam Travel Trends For 2024

The burgeoning allure of Vietnam as a travel destination has marked a significant trend in recent years, with its magnetic appeal drawing an increasing number of globetrotters seeking enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences. As we navigate the landscape of Vietnam travel trends in 2024, the nation stands at the forefront of the global tourism stage, its popularity steadily escalating.

The allure lies not only in its cities' timeless charm but also in its countryside's tranquil beauty. Against this backdrop, the prevailing Vietnam travel trends for 2024 promise a dynamic fusion of traditional and modern elements, encapsulating sustainable practices, immersive cultural encounters, and the integration of cutting-edge technology. Join us as we unravel the unfolding tapestry of Vietnam's travel landscape, poised to captivate the hearts of adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike in the coming year.

Diverse Landscape And Cityscapes In the vibrant canvas of Vietnam travel trends for 2024, the allure lies in the seamless blend of diverse cityscapes and tranquil countryside escapes. As travelers embark on journeys through the bustling streets of Hanoi and the dynamic urban landscapes of Ho Chi Minh City, they are met with an intoxicating fusion of traditional charm and contemporary energy.

The cities, pulsating with life, showcase the evolving face of Vietnam as a premier travel destination. Simultaneously, the trend towards seeking tranquil escapes in the countryside gains momentum, offering a harmonious balance to the urban excitement.

From Sapa's picturesque rice terraces to the Mekong Delta's serene waters, these countryside retreats promise an immersive experience into the heart of Vietnam's natural beauty. As the nation unfolds its myriad landscapes in 2024, the interplay between bustling cities and peaceful countryside becomes a defining aspect during your Vietnam travel 2024.

Emerging Travel Trends In 2024 A prominent shift toward sustainable tourism practices is visible when we explore the Vietnam travel trends for 2024. As travelers plan their journeys to Vietnam in 2024, there is a growing consciousness about the environmental impact of tourism. Sustainable initiatives, from eco-friendly accommodations to community-based projects, are gaining traction, reflecting a collective commitment to preserving Vietnam's natural beauty for future generations.

Technology integration takes center stage in defining the travel experience in Vietnam in 2024. Cutting-edge advancements enhance travel through interactive apps, providing real-time insights into cultural events and historical sites. Virtual reality (VR) technologies enrich tours, offering a more immersive exploration of Vietnam's heritage. As travelers embrace technology to navigate and engage with their surroundings, integrating digital elements not only facilitates a seamless travel experience but also adds depth to the exploration of Vietnam's diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry.

Venturing beyond the conventional, 2024 introduces a compelling trend in Vietnam travel: immersive cultural experiences beyond traditional attractions. As tourists plan their visits to Vietnam, the focus shifts from mere sightseeing to actively participating in authentic cultural encounters. Whether joining a local cooking class, participating in traditional rituals, or engaging with indigenous artisans, these unique cultural experiences redefine the travel narrative.

In 2024, the journey through Vietnam extends beyond the ordinary, inviting travelers to forge meaningful connections with this captivating nation's people, traditions, and heritage.

Gastronomic Adventures Vietnam's culinary wonders are an integral part of the travel experience, especially as we look ahead to the anticipated travel trends in 2024. Renowned for its delectable offerings, the country beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant culinary scene.

Whether strolling through the lively streets of Hanoi or exploring the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, the yummy street foods are symbolic of Vietnam's gastronomic allure. As individuals plan their journeys to Vietnam in 2024, the evolving travel trends highlight a growing interest in hands-on culinary experiences.

This immersive approach aligns with the essence of travel to Vietnam in 2024 and offers a unique opportunity to actively participate in creating traditional dishes. Beyond being a feast for the taste buds, Vietnam's culinary landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping the travel narrative, contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences that await visitors in the coming year.

Offbeat Destinations In the ever-evolving landscape of Vietnam travel trends for 2024, the allure of offbeat destinations takes center stage, offering a refreshing departure from the well-trodden tourist path. Uncovering the urban delights of lesser-known cities has become a compelling trend, inviting travelers to explore hidden gems beyond Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. These offbeat urban havens promise unique cultural encounters, providing a nuanced perspective on the local way of life.

To truly touch the soul of local culture, homestay trends gain prominence in 2024, offering a meaningful and immersive connection with the heart of Vietnam. Travelers are invited to embrace the warmth of local hospitality, participating in daily routines and cultural rituals. As part of Vietnam travel trends in 2024, homestays emerge as a transformative way to delve into the soul of local culture, creating lasting memories beyond traditional travel encounters.

For adventurous spirits seeking to go off the beaten path, the trend to explore untouched natural wonders will become a captivating aspect of Vietnam travel in 2024. From hidden waterfalls in Da Nang to pristine caves in Phong Nha, these untouched landscapes promise an immersive encounter with Vietnam's natural beauty.

Thriving Wellness Tourism Wellness tourism remains a focus in Vietnam travel trends for 2024. Rejuvenating escape for travelers looking to unwind amidst the enchanting landscapes will be more eco-friendly. Spa retreats and relaxation hotspots have become vital attractions, reflecting a growing emphasis on holistic well-being. From ancient healing practices in Hoi An to modern luxury resorts along the coastline, Vietnam's wellness scene evolves, providing options for those seeking a restorative journey.

When traveling to Vietnam in 2024, the main attraction at the forefront of tour packages will be the trends of active retreats, seamlessly fusing adventure with wellness. These retreats provide a harmonious balance between adrenaline-pumping activities and rejuvenating experiences. Whether it is partaking in yoga retreats amidst the serene landscapes of Dalat or engaging in wellness-focused hikes in the northern mountains, the integration of wellness into adventure experiences mirrors the evolving preferences of travelers exploring Vietnam's diverse landscapes.

Reflection On 2024 And Beyond As we look ahead to Vietnam travel in 2024 and beyond, trends are dynamically adapting to the preferences of today's diverse travelers. The Visa Global Travel Intentions Study (GTI) 2023 highlights increased travel demands from Gen Z and families with kids, with families and 'Silvers' emerging as prolific leisure travelers. Future trends indicate a shift towards eco-conscious practices in the tourism sector, emphasizing green travel and community support.

Additionally, the digital revolution has streamlined payment methods, with Vietnamese travelers readily adopting credit, debit, and pre-paid cards. Integrating technological tourism, utilizing AI, cloud computing, blockchain, VR, AR, and IoT, modernizes the industry and enhances the overall travel experience. In 2024, travelers in Vietnam stand at the forefront of these advancements, marking a transformative era for the tourism industry.

Conclusion Vietnam travel trends for 2024 will be more advanced and entertainment fused with traditional values and modernity. From bustling cities to countryside escapes, the allure of varied landscapes shapes a narrative of sustainable tourism, technology integration, and enriching cultural experiences. Gastronomic adventures invite travelers to savor yummy street foods and participate in hands-on culinary experiences.

Offbeat destinations beckon with promises of urban delights, cultural homestays, and untouched natural wonders. Thriving wellness tourism, marked by spa retreats and the fusion of adventure with wellness, enriches the experience amidst Vietnam's enchanting landscapes. The anticipation of future trends underscores Vietnam's commitment to evolving as a premier destination, signifying an exciting and transformative future for exploration.

Vietnam Travel 2024

The seductive vietnam: a land of unending delight, cultural tour to vietnam, cambodia, and laos, vietnam, the safest and most attractive travel destination in 2024, best time to visit tam coc, the spectacular beauty of ban gioc waterfall, diep son island (a walk through heaven), dong van plateau, beauty of ha giang, cable car to fansipan.

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The night markets are definite must especially in Hoi An. You can buy all sorts of souvenirs and taste local street food. You can even go for a quick foot massage before carrying on with your shopping.

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Frequently asked questions

10 days is the ideal trip duration to visit Vietnam & immerse yourself in the culture of the northern & southern regions.

Hanoi is the perfect starting point to your Vietnam itinerary as it's the gateway to the city full of history, charm & authentic local delicacies.

March to April is the ideal time to visit Vietnam - rainfall is usually lower but the north & south experience different climates, so check with your Flight Centre Expert before you go.

Start up north with a Halong Bay cruise, venture down to Nha Trang for a sneaky beach retreat & finish up in Ho Chi Minh with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Flight Centre's team of Travel Experts are the perfect people to ask about your Vietnam escape. We've worked hard to curate the best Vietnam holiday packages on the market, and can work to create a package suited to your needs.

Ho Chi Minh (south) is a lively city with bustling streets & cooler weather. Hanoi (north) has a warmer climate, perfect for relaxing on the beach or just relaxing in general.

Don't forget your universal power adaptor, passport & the most comfortable pair of shoes you own to explore. For main character vibes, we recommend headphones & a great playlist!

Vietnam is a mix of natural highlights and cultural diversity, with the north & south offering unique experiences - let your Flight Centre Expert create your dream itinerary.

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• ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024

Vietnam Tourism will attend the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 from 22nd to 27th January in Vientiane, Lao DPR with the theme: "Quality and Responsible Tourism - Sustaining ASEAN Future". The ASEAN Tourism Forum and Travel Expo (TRAVEX) are the largest events in ASEAN tourism cooperation. Attending the event, Vietnam will introduce to the public new visa policy, attractive tourist products and serivces and the Visit Vietnam Year - Dien Bien 2024…

January other events

Carnaval Ha Long 2024

Vietnam International Travel Mart Ha Noi 2024

Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Festival 2024

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Update April 12, 2024

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Vietnam Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 24, 2023, vietnam - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.                    Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

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Vietnam Travel Landscape 2024

Report Overview

In 2023, Vietnam’s tourism showcased a compelling narrative of triumphs and challenges. Exceeding its initial target of 8 million foreign visitors, the country welcomed over 12.59 million tourists, highlighting a commendable recovery despite trailing regional peers. The global economy’s uncertainties impact travel spending to some extent, yet the tourism industry is resilient, witnessing a worldwide resurgence. While regions beyond Asia have fully recovered, Asia, including Vietnam, faces mixed recovery speeds, notably in air connectivity.

Southeast Asian countries like Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam lead the tourism resurgence. China’s slower economic recovery affects outbound travel, urging Southeast Asian nations to explore new markets. Vietnam’s international source markets display a diverse mix, primarily from East Asia. In 2024, cultivating existing markets, especially South Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan, is crucial. India emerges as an opportunity, reflecting a potential shift in the long-term tourism landscape.

Explore more interesting insights into Vietnam’s dynamic landscape of travel and tourism – “VIETNAM TRAVEL LANDSCAPE 2024” , offering a detailed analysis of the current state and future prospects of Vietnam’s tourism industry.

Language:  English What can be found in this report?

• Vietnam Tourism’s Achievements and Challenges in 2023
• Travel Landscape 2024

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Mekong’s Largest Travel Event

What to expect at ITE HCMC 2024

As the largest and most established annual international travel trade event in Vietnam, the 18th ITE HCMC 2024 will be held under the theme “Connectivity, Growth, Sustainability”, endorsed by Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The event is an annual international travel event that enhances exchanges, tourism promotion and business opportunities for domestic and foreign tourism companies. Moreover, ITE HCMC 2024 will be held in a hybrid format, a combination of physical booths and online events such as 2D Online Booths, and Online Appointment Schedules between international buyers and sellers.

ITE HCMC 2024 is expected to attract over 400 exhibiting companies and 250 high-level buyers from over 40 countries and territories, together with more than 25,000 visitors, all gathering in one place, over the three days.

Online Expo

Online Expo is a channel serving domestic and foreign exhibitors. Each exhibitor will be given an account of 2D online booth. Enterprises can proactively update images and videos introducing their companies as well as their products and services. Besides, Live chat and Live streaming features will help enterprises effectively approach numerous potential customers.

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Press release and news, ite hcmc 2024: pioneering sustainable tourism for a creating future.

11 April 2024 - Hanoi, Vietnam - The 18th edition of the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2024), Vietnam and the Mekong Region’s leading and most established travel trade event, is set to take place from September 5th to 7th, 2024, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) in District 7. Under the theme "Responsible Travel, Creating Future", ITE HCMC 2024 is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices and showcasing innovative tourism products and services that meet the rigorous and diverse demands of …

TOURISM AND HOTEL INDUSTRY SEMINAR – VIETNAM ‘S RESORT SECTOR  OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES 

 TOURISM AND HOTEL INDUSTRY SEMINAR - VIETNAM 'S RESORT SECTOR  OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES  On the evening of September 7, 2023, as part of the International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City 2023 (ITE HCMC 2023), the Department of Tourism of Ho Chi …

The ribbon-cutting ceremony of the  17th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City 2023: “Connectivity, Growth, Sustainability”

As one of the outstanding tourism trade promotion activities, bringing solutions to develop Vietnam's tourism industry sustainably, the 17th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City 2023 (ITE HCMC 2023) officially opened on the morning of September …

Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a young city with a history of just over 300 years of formation and development. Widely known as Saigon, this vibrant city is referred to as “the Pearl of the Far East” with its captivating heritage architecture, dynamic and bustling atmosphere and friendly people. These characteristics make Ho Chi Minh City become an attractive destination for domestic and international tourists.

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