plan a trip to vietnam

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.

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

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

READ MORE...

A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

The 11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

10 BEST Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

Scuba Diving In Nha Trang – Is It Worth It?

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!

Table of Contents

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.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Plan your trip

What are the Vietnamese like?

A guide to e-Visas in Vietnam

How to travel responsibly in Vietnam

Beginner's guide to Vietnam now

5 reasons to try a homestay in Vietnam

Your holiday in vietnam may be an adventure, but planning it should be a breeze..

Below you'll find all the practical information you need to prepare for your trip, including visas for Vietnam, transportation within the country, and basic Vietnamese phrases. If you need help with something specific, try our  Frequently Asked Questions ; and for inspiration for your itinerary, check out our Recommended Trips  for first-time visitors.

travel tips

Read up before you go

Itineraries

practicalities

Get ready for your visit

Vietnam's unit of currency is the Vietnamese đồng (VND) , represented by the '₫' symbol. You can find notes in denominations of 200₫, 500₫, 1,000₫, 2,000₫, 5,000,₫ 10,000₫, 20,000₫, 50,000₫, 100,000₫, 200,000₫, and 500,000₫. For newcomers it can be helpful to ignore the final three zeros until you get the hang of the conversion.

Cash is generally used for small purchases, however, most establishments will accept payments from major credit card providers such as Visa. In addition, hotels, tour operators, boutiques, restaurants, and grocery stores generally accept international debit and credit cards.

If you need to change money, currency exchange counters are available at airports, banks, and official exchange centers. However do note it can be very difficult to purchase dollars once you’re in Vietnam. For most travellers we recommend using ATMs instead of currency exchange points. ATMs are widely available across the country. Maximum withdrawals for foreign cards are usually two or three million per transaction. Below are some banks with higher withdrawal limits:  

Bank maximum withdrawals:

• ANZ: 5 million VND
• Citibank: 10 million VND
• HSBC: 5 million VND
• Commonwealth: 10 million VND

Taxi services

Vietnam has modern, efficient taxi services to help you get around. To avoid scams and haggling, we recommend sticking with the reputable Vinasun and Mai Linh taxis only. There are plenty of these taxis in Vietnam’s tourism destinations. Other taxi companies you can take are Hanoi Taxi Group and SaigonTourist. 

Whichever taxi company you take, always ask to use the metre. In most cities, you can also use call the operator numbers for Vinasun or Mai Linh taxis for a pickup from your location. 

Ride-sharing applications such as Grab are also available for cars and motorbikes in Vietnam's main cities. You will need a local SIM card to use these apps. Click here for more information about transport in Vietnam.

Public holidays

Vietnamese Lunar New Year Festival (Tet) is the biggest holiday of the year, and takes place in late January or early February. Travellers should be aware that most businesses and restaurants shut down during this holiday, as Vietnamese travel home to be with their families. Public transport hubs are full to overflowing in the days leading up to Tet. Any transportation booked over the Tet period should be confirmed well in advance.

You can find a full list of public holidays in Vietnam here , and a round-up of Vietnam’s best festivals here .

Government agencies work eight hours a day from 8am to 5pm, with a one-hour lunch break. Working days are from Monday to Friday. 

Most banks in Vietnam open from 7:30am or 8am to 4:30pm, with a break for lunch. Some banks are open on Saturday mornings from 8am to 11:30pm.

Power plugs

The voltage supply in Vietnam is 220 volts. Most sockets accommodate plugs with two round prongs. If you need adaptors you can find them at any electrical shop, or ask your hotel for assistance. Power cuts and surges are not common but can happen from time to time depending on the location.

SIM cards & helpful numbers

Getting a local SIM card in Vietnam is fast and inexpensive. There are three major GSM network operators in Vietnam, and all have good coverage

You can buy prepaid SIM cards on arrival at major airports, as well as from countless shops across the country. You will need to show your passport to register your SIM card. Prices for SIM cards, SMS messages and phone calls are extremely affordable within Vietnam. You can load your phone credit in increments from 20,000 VND to 100,000 VND on most networks. Data-only SIM cards may cost 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND depending on the amount of data purchased. 

Here are few numbers you may need while in Vietnam: International Dialing Code: +84 Domestic Calls (within Vietnam): 0 + Area code + Telephone No. International Calls (outside Vietnam): 00 + Country code + Area code + Telephone No.

The following is a list of useful telephone numbers to have on hand when visiting Vietnam: +84: International Dialing Code 101: Domestic Long Distance Telephone Service 1080: Social and Cultural Information 110: International Telephone Service 113: Police 114: Fire Brigade 115: Ambulance

Internet and postal services

Vietnam is well-wired and in most destinations you can easily find a connection in cafes, spas, shops, hotels and restaurants. Free public Internet access is available in several tourist hubs and major airports. Local 3G and 4G packages are an affordable option if you plan to visit remote areas or need to be online frequently. The Vietnamese postal service is generally reliable, although packages can take longer to arrive than expected and are often held at the post office for pick-up. Mailboxes are uncommon. If you are sending postcards home, give them to your hotel to mail or send them directly from a post office.

Vietnam’s major cities have excellent clinics and hospitals ready to serve travellers, with English-speaking doctors and staff. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best places to go if you need medical help. We highly recommend buying travel insurance before coming to Vietnam.

COLUMBIA ASIA

No. 8, Alexandre de Rhodes, Bến Nghé, District 1, Bến Nghé, Vietnam +84 8 3823 8888 www.columbiaasia.com/vietnam  

FAMILY MEDICAL HCMC

Add: Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan, District 3, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam +84 8 3822 7848 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com  

FV HOSPITAL

No. 6 Nguyễn Lương Bằng, Tân Phú, District7, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam +84 8 54 11 33 33 www.fvhospital.com/en  

INTERNATIONAL SOS

No.167A Nam Ky Khoi Nghia street, district 3, HCMC, Vietnam +84 8 3824 0777 www.internationalsos.com

YERSIN INTERNATIONAL

No. 10 Truong Dinh - Ward 6 - District 3 - HCMC +84 8 3933 66 88 www.yersinclinic.com  

VICTORIA HEALTHCARE VIETNAM

152 Nguyen Luon Bang, Tan Phu, District 7, HCMC, Vietnam +84 8 3910 4545 www.victoriavn.com  

FAMILY MEDICAL DANANG

 96-98 Nguyen Van Linh Street, Hai Chau District, Danang, Vietnam +84 236 3582 699 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com

HOAN MY DANANG HOSPITAL

161 Nguyễn Văn Linh, Thạc Gián, Q. Thanh Khê, Da Nang, Vietnam +84 236 3650 676 www.hoanmy.com

FAMILY MEDICAL PRACTICE HANOI

Van Phuc Compound, 298 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam +84 4 3843 0748 www.vietnammedicalpractice.com

HONG NGOC HOSPITAL

55 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam +04 8 39 275 568 www.hongngochospital.vn

L’HOPITAL FRANCAIS DE HANOI

No.1 Phuong Mai, Dong Da District, Hanoi, Vietnam +84 4 3577 1100 www.hfh.com.vn  

INTERNATIONAL SOS HANOI

51 Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam + 84 4 3934 0666 www.internationalsos.com

VIET DUC HOSPITAL

40 Trang Thi Street, Hanoi, Vietnam +84 4 3825 3531 www.vietduchospital.edu.vn

VINMEC INTERNATIONAL HOSPITAL

458 Minh Khai Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam +84 4 3974 3556 www.vinmec.com

Embassies and consulates

Embassies and consulates of foreign countries in Vietnam can be found in the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. For easy reference, below is a full list of embassies in Vietnam and Vietnamese embassies abroad.

Ha Noi Add:  13 Phan Chu Trinh St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel:   (84-4) 3825 3865 Fax:   (84-4) 3826 0830 Email:   [email protected]

Ha Noi Add:   A19 - 21, D5 Vuon Dao St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel:   (84-4) 6258 3559 Fax:   (84-4) 6258 3504

Ha Noi Add: 63 To Ngoc Van Road, Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3829 4999 Fax: (84-4) 3829 4997 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi Add: 298B Kim Ma St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3845 3379 Fax: (84-4) 3845 4977 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi Add: 9 Chu Van An St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3734 5586 Fax: (84-4) 3734 5589 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi Add: 305 – 308, A2 Bulding, Van Phuc Diplomatic Compound, 298 Kim Ma St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 6268 4888 Fax: (84-4) 6269 4999

Ha Noi Add: Villa No 44/1 Van Bao St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3726 3610 Fax: (84-4) 3726 3615

SOUTH AFRICA

Add: 3rd floor Central Buiding, 31 Hai Ba Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3936 2000 Fax: (84-4) 3936 1991 Email: [email protected]

Ho Chi Minh City  (Consulate)

Add: 80 Vo Van Tan St., Dist.3 Tel: (84-8) 3823 8556 Fax: (84-8) 3823 8557 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi  (Consulate) Add: 9B Da Tuong St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3942 9266 Fax: (84-4) 3942 9249

Add: 61 Ly Thuong Kiet St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3718 5911 Fax: (84-4) 3718 5910 Email: [email protected]: 194 No Trang Long St., Binh Thanh Dist. Tel: (84-8) 3516 5062 Fax: (84-8) 3516 5072

Add: 194 No Trang Long St., Binh Thanh Dist. Tel: (84-8) 3516 5062 Fax: (84-8) 3516 5072

Ha Noi Add: Room 401, 4th floor, Sentinel Place,  41A Ly Thai To St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3831 5262 Fax: (84-4) 3831 5288 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi Add: D6-D7, 14 Thuy Khue St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3843 2544 Fax: (84-4) 3843 2542 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi  (Consulate)

Add: 31 Hung Vuong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel:  (84-4) 3734 5000 Fax: (84-4) 3734 5049 Email: [email protected]

Ho Chi Minh City  (Consulate)

Add: Suite 1002,  235 Dong Khoi St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3827 9899 Fax: (84-8) 3827 9935 Email: [email protected]

Ha Noi  

Add: 121A, 38th St., Dist. 2 Tel: (84-8) 3743 2717 Fax: (84-8) 3743 2716 Email: [email protected]

Add: 14th floor, Corner Stone Building,  16 Phan Chu Trinh St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3936 5318 Fax: (84-4) 3936 5319 Email: [email protected]

Add: 65A Ly Thuong Kiet St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3942 4775 Fax: (84-4) 3942 2426 Email: [email protected]

Add: 45 Phung Khac Khoan St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3829 7350 Fax: (84-8) 3829 5293 Email: [email protected]

Add: 44/4 Van Bao St.,Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 7107 8888 Fax: (84-4) 3726 5408 Email: [email protected]

Add: 9th floor, Hanoi Central Office Building, 44B Ly Thuong Kiet St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3936 5213 Fax: (84-4) 3936 5214 Email: [email protected]

Add: 7A Le Thanh Ton St., Dist.1 Tel: (84-4) 3825 0334 Fax: (84-4) 3823 6447 Email: [email protected]

Add: Suite 1402, 14th floor, Corner Stone Building, 16 Phan Chu Trinh St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3936 3082 Fax: (84-4) 3936 3081 Email: [email protected]

Add: 30 Le Ngoc Han St., Hai Ba Trung Dist. Tel: (84-8) 3972 9867 Fax: (84-8) 3972 9992 Email: [email protected]

Add: T11 Building, 14 Thuy Khue St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3847 0948 Fax: (84-4) 3847 0949 Email: [email protected]

Add: 11 Tra Khuc St., Tan Binh Dist.

Add: 407 Au Co St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3718 5747 Fax: (84-4) 3718 8049 Email: [email protected]

Add: 7 Lang Ha St., Dong Da Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3850 5000 Fax: (84-4) 3850 5010

Add: 4 Le Duan St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3520 4200 Fax: (84-8) 3520 4244

Add: 111 Trich Sai St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3759 2788 Fax: (84-4) 3759 2728 Email: [email protected]

Add:  73 D5C Vuon Dao St., Tay Ho Dist. Email: (84-4) 3758 5228 Fax: (84-4) 3758 5229 Email: [email protected]

Add:  8th floor, Prime Center, 53 Quang Trung, Hoan Kiem Dist. Add:  (84-4) 3943 3050 Fax: (84-4) 3943 3055 Email: hanoi-obbmeia.gv.at

Add:  12/140 Nguyen Van Thuong St., Dist. 2, Tell: (84-8) 3519 3128 Fax: (84-8) 3519 3122 Email: [email protected]

Add:  66 To Ngoc Van St., Tay Ho Dist. Email: (84-4) 3719 2974 Fax: (84-4) 3719 7125 Email: [email protected]

Add:  9th floor, Hanoi Tower, 49 Hai Ba Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3934 6179 Fax: (84-4) 3934 6183 Email: [email protected]

Add:  105 Duong Van An St., Dist. 2 Email: (84-8) 6281 8001 Fax: (84-8) 6281 8010 Email: [email protected]

Add:  5 Nui Truc St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3845 2908 Fax: (84-4) 3846 0856 Email: [email protected]

CZECH REPUBLIC

Add:  13 Chu Van An St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3845 4131/2 Fax: (84-4) 3823 3996

Add:  28 Mac Dinh Chi St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3829 0585 Fax: (84-8) 3822 6043 Email: [email protected]

Hai Phong  

Add:  2 Pham Minh Duc, Ngo Quyen Dist. Tell: (84-31) 3836 539 Fax:(84-31) 3737 618  Email:[email protected]

Add:  7th floor, BIDV Tower, 194 Tran Quang Khai St., Hoan Kiem Dist Email: (84-4) 3823 1888 Fax: (84-4) 3823 1999 Email: [email protected]

Add:  Suite 505, 5th floor, Centec Tower, 72 - 74 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St., Dist. 3 Email: (84-8) 3821 9373 Fax: (84-8) 3821 9371

Add:  34 Nguyen Thi Nghia St., Dist. 1, Tel/ Fax: (84-8) 3925 7276 Email: [email protected]

Add:  24th floor, Lotter Center Hanoi, 54 Lieu Giai St.,  Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3826 6788 Fax: (84-4) 3826 6766 Email: [email protected]

Add:  Suite 501, 5th floor, Sailing Tower,  111A Pasteur Rd., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3827 2029 Fax: (84-8) 3823 4436 Email: [email protected]

Add:  57 Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3944 5700 Fax: (84-4) 3944 5717 Email: [email protected]

Add:  27 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3520 6800 Fax: (84-8) 3520 6819 Email: [email protected]

Add:  29 Tran Phu St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3845 3836 Fax: (84-4) 3845 3838 Email: [email protected]

Add:  126 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St., Dist. 3 Email: (84-8) 3829 1967 Fax: (84-8) 3823 1919 Email: [email protected]

Add:  27 - 29 Au Co St., Tay Ho Dist. Email: (84-4) 3715 2254 Fax: (84-4) 3715 2253 Email: [email protected]

Add:  44 Hoang Dieu St., Dist.4 Email: (84-8) 3940 0726 Fax: (84-4) 3825 4278

Add:  9th floor Hanoi Lake View, 28 Thanh Nien St., Tay Ho Dist. Email: (84-4) 3771 5714/5 Fax: (84-4) 3715 0694 Email: [email protected]

Add:  21th floor, Lim Tower, 9 -11 Ton Duc Thang St., Dist.1 Email: (84-8) 0909 991731 Email: [email protected]

 Add:  9th floor, The Vista, 628C Hanoi Highway, Dist.2 Email: (84-8) 3827 4462 Fax: (84-8) 3827 4461

Add:  2th floor, Sentinel Place, 41A Ly Thai To St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3974 3291 Fax: (84-4) 3974 3295 Email: [email protected]

Add:  9 Le Phung Hieu St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3825 6256 Fax: (84-4) 3826 7602 Email: [email protected]

Add:  10th floor, President Place Building, 93 Nguyen Du St., Dist.1 Tel: (84-8) 3827 5445/46/47 Fax: (84-8) 3827 5444

Add:  6th floor, Thu Do Building, 72 Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 6654 2197 Fax: (84-4) 3928 8901

 Add:  12th floor, Petro Viet Nam Tower, 1-5 Le Duan St., Dist.1 Tel: (84-8) (84-8) 5404 6868 Fax: (84-8) (84-8) 5404 6969

Add:  Room 1603B, Prime Centre Building, 53 Quang Trung St., Hai Ba Trung Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3562 6500 Fax: (84-4) 3562 6501 Email: [email protected]

NETHERLANDS

Add:  7th floor, BIDV Tower, 194 Tran Quang Khai St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3831 5650 Fax: (84-4) 3831 5655 Email: [email protected]

Add:  Suite 901, Saigon Tower, 29 Le Duan St.,Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3823 5932 Fax: (84-8) 3823 5934 Email: [email protected]

Add:  8th floor, Hanoi Tower, 49 Hai Ba Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3974 8900 Fax: (84-4) 3974 3301 Email: [email protected]

Add:  21- 23 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3822 1696 Fax: (84-8) 3827 2696 Email: [email protected]

Add:  3 Chua Mot Cot St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3845 2027 Fax: (84-4) 3823 6914 Email:  [email protected]

Add:  31 Pho Duc Chinh St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 9075 6860 Fax: (84-4) 3926 3926 Email: [email protected]

Add:  66/11 Pham Ngoc Thach St., Dist. 3 Email: (84-8) 3820 0623 Fax: (84-8) 3820 0623 Email: [email protected]

Add:  5 Le Hong Phong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3845 2014 Fax: (84-4) 3843 0922 Email: [email protected]

Add:  Villa 33/5A Dang Van Ngu St., Phu Nhuan Dist. Email: (84-8) 3991 0896 Fax: (84-8) 6292 8226

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Add:  191 La Thanh Rd., Dong Da Dist. Email: (84-4) 3833 6991 Fax: (84-4) 3833 6995 Email: [email protected]

Add:  40 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan St., Dist. 3 Email: (84-8) 3930 3936 Fax: (84-8) 3930 3937 Email: [email protected]

Da Nang City  (Consulate)

Add:  22 Tran Phu St. Email: (84-511) 3822 380 Fax: (84-511) 3818 527 Email: [email protected]

Add:  666 Ground Floor, The Manor Towers, Me Tri Rd., Tu Liem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3794 9999 Fax: (84-4) 3794 6666

Add:  12 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3734 7601 Fax: (84-4) 3734 7603 Email: [email protected]

Add:  64 - 68 Hai Ba Trung St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3829 8888 Fax: (84-8) 3827 7999 Email: [email protected]

Add:  4 Le Hong Phong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3771 5207 Fax: (84-4) 3771 5206 Email: [email protected]

Add:  2 Nui Truc St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3726 0400 Fax: (84-4) 3823 2195 Email: [email protected]

Add:  186 Nguyen Van Huong St., Dist. 2 Email: (84-8) 3519 2335 Fax: (84-8) 3519 2337

SWITZERLAND

Add:  15th floor, Central Office Building, 44B Ly Thuong Kiet St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Email: (84-4) 3934 6589 Fax: (84-4) 3934 6591 Email: [email protected]

Add:  37th floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai Trieu St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 6299 1200 Fax: (84-8) 6299 1222

UK AND NORTHERN IRELAND

Add:  4th floor, Central Building, 31 Hai Ba Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist.  Email: (84-4) 3936 0500 Fax: (84-4) 3936 0561 Email: [email protected]

Add:  25 Le Duan St., Dist.1 Email: (84-8) 3825 1380/1 Fax: (84-8) 3822 1971

Add:  6 Le Hong Phong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Email: (84-4) 3734 4492 Fax: (84-4) 3734 4497 Email: [email protected]

Add:  22 - 24 Nguyen Van Thu St., Dist. 1 Email: (84-8) 3910 4054 Fax: (84-8) 3910 4053 Email: [email protected]

Add: 8 Dao Tan St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3774 0100 Fax: (84-4) 3774 0111

Add: 20th floor, Vincom Center, 47 Ly Tu Trong St., Dist.1 Tel: (84-8) 3521 8100 Fax: (84-8) 3521 8101 Email: hcmc.vietnam.embassy.gov.au

NEW ZEALAND

Add: Room 504, 5th floor , 63 Ly Thai To St., Hoan Kiem Dist.

Tel: (84-4) 3824 1481

Fax: (84-4) 3824 1480

Email: [email protected]

Add: Suite 804, 8th floor, Metropolitan Building, 235 Dong Khoi St., Dist. 1

Tel: (84-8) 3822 6907

Fax: (84-8) 3822 6905

Add: 6A Le Hong Phong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3737 9011 Fax: (84-4) 3737 9013 Email:  [email protected]  

Add: 675 Lac Long Quan Rd., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3771 6625 Fax: (84-4) 3771 6628 Email: [email protected]  

Add: 312 Lac Long Quan St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3726 2003 Fax: (84-4) 3726 2010 Email: [email protected]

Add: 71 Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3942 4788 Fax: (84-4) 3942 3225 Email: [email protected]

Add: 41 Phung Khac Khoan St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3829 2751 Fax: (84-8) 3822 2773 Email: [email protected]

Add: 46 Hoang Dieu St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3823 5569 Fax: (84-4) 3734 1181

Add: 175 Hai Ba Trung St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3822 1327 Fax: (84-8) 3829 5009

DPR. OF KOREA

Add: 25 Cao Ba Quat St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3845 3008 Fax: (84-4) 3823 1221 Email: [email protected]

Add: 58-60 Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3824 4989 Fax: (84-4) 3824 4998 Email:  [email protected]

Add: 55 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3823 7050 Fax: (84-8) 3823 7047 Email: [email protected]

Add: 50 Ngo Quyen St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3825 3353 Fax: (84-4) 3825 9274 Email: [email protected]

Add: 18 Phung Khac Khoan St., Dist.1 Tel: (84-8) 3825 1888 Fax: (84-8) 3829 9493 Email: [email protected]

Add: 54 Tran Phu St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3823 2068 Fax: (84-4) 3823 2120 Email: [email protected]

Add: 66 Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3942 4141 Fax: (84-4) 3942 4055 Email: [email protected]

Add: 10th floor, Hanoi Tower Building, 49 Hai Ba Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3843 3140 Fax: (84-4) 3843 5760 Email: [email protected]  

Add: 27 Lieu Giai St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3846 3000 Fax: (84-4) 3846 3043 Email: [email protected]

Add: 261 Dien Bien Phu St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3933 3510 Fax: (84-8) 3933 3520 Email: [email protected]

Add: Villa No 51, Ho Tay Villa Compound, 10 Dang Thai Mai St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3718 0777 Fax: (84-4) 3718 6777

Add: 28th floor, Lotte Center Hanoi Building, 54 Lieu Giai St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3831 5110 Fax: (84-4) 3831 5117 Email: [email protected]

Add: 107 Nguyen Du St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3822 5757 Fax: (84-8) 3822 5750 Email: [email protected]

Add: 10 Le Hong Phong St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3848 9955 Fax: (84-4) 3848 9988 Email: [email protected]

Add: 24 Phung Khac Khoan St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3827 0555 Fax: (84-8) 3827 0111 Email: [email protected]

Add: 40 Quang Trung St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3942 4576 Fax: (84-4) 3822 8414 Email: [email protected]

Add: 93 Pasteur St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3829 7667 Fax: (84-8) 3829 9272 Email:  [email protected]

Add: 43 - 45 Dien Bien Phu St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3734 3849 Fax: (84-4) 3734 3832 Email: [email protected]

Add: 2nd floor, Me Linh Point Tower, 2 Ngo Duc Ke St., Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3829 9023 Fax: (84-8) 3829 9027 Email: [email protected]

Add: Villa No 6 Van Phuc St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3845 3009 Fax: (84-4) 3845 4954 Email: [email protected]

Add: 298A Kim Ma St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3845 3369 Fax: (84-4) 3845 2404

Add: 74 Trich Sai St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3759 2700 Fax: (84-4) 3753 6666

Add: 44/2 Van Bao St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3726 2251 Fax: (84-4) 3726 2253 Email: [email protected] or

Add: Room 201 - 301, Building E4b, Trung Tu Diplomatic Compound, 6 Dang Van Ngu St., Dong Da Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3852 4013 Fax: (84-4) 3834 9696 Email: [email protected]

PHILIPPINES

Add: 27B Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3943 7948 Fax: (84-4) 3943 5760 Email: [email protected]

Add: 12 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3821 0033 Fax: (84-8) 3821 0026 Email: [email protected]

Add: Villa 43, Tran Hung Dao St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3943 0222 Fax: (84-4) 3944 0148 Email: [email protected]

AUDI ARABIA

Add: 48A Tran Phu St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3726 4373 Fax: (84-4) 3726 4374 Email: [email protected]

Add: 41 - 43 Tran Phu St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3848 9168 Fax: (84-4) 3848 9178 Email: [email protected]

Add: 65 Le Loi Boulevard, Dist. 1 Tel: (84-8) 3822 5174 Fax: (84-8) 3914 2938 Email: [email protected]

Add: 55B Tran Phu St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3734 1894 Fax: (84-4) 3734 1897 Email: [email protected]

Add: 26 Phan Boi Chau St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3823 5092 Fax: (84-4) 3823 5088

Add: 77 Tran Quoc Thao St., Dist. 3 Tel: (84-8) 3932 7637/ 8 Fax: (84-8) 3932 6002 Email: [email protected]

TIMOR - LESTE

Add: 51 Nguyen Du St., Hai Ba Trung Dist. Tel: (84-4) 6278 2972 Fax: (84-4) 6278 2973

Add: 14th floor, Central Office Building, 44B Ly Thuong Kiet St., Hoan Kiem Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3822 2460 Fax: (84-4) 3822 2458 Email: [email protected]

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Add: 20 Quang An St., Tay Ho Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3726 4545 Fax: (84-4) 3726 2020 Email: [email protected]

Add: 22/9 Dao Tan St., Ba Dinh Dist. Tel: (84-4) 3766 5203

2. Consulates Overseas:

IN AUSTRALIA

Add: 6 Timbarra Cres., O'Malley, Canberra, ACT 2606 Tel: (61-2) 6286 6059 Fax: (61-2) 6286 4534 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : Suite 205, Level 2 Edgecliff Centre, 203 - 233 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff - NSW 2027 Tel: (61-2) 9327 2539 Fax: (61-2) 9328 1653 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : Level 8, 16 St., Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 P O Box 3122, East Perth, WA 6892 Tel: (61-8) 9221 1158 Fax: (61-8) 9225 6881 Email: [email protected]

IN NEW ZEALAND

Add: Level 21 Grand Plimmer Tower, 2-6 Gilmer Terrace Po Box 8042 Wellington Tel: (644) 4735 912 Fax: (644) 4735 913 Email: [email protected]

Add: Villa 101& 102, St 27, Sector 24, Al Mushrif. Abu Dhabi – The U.S.E, P.O Box: 113038 Tel: (971-2) 4496 710 Fax: (971-2) 4496 730 Email: [email protected]

IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Add: No 9, Spg 148-3 jalan Telanai  BA 2312, BSB Tel: (67-3) 2651 580 Fax: (67-3) 2651 574 Email: [email protected]

IN CAMBODIA

Add: 436 Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh Tel: (855-23) 726 274 Fax: (855-23) 726 495

Consulate : Rd. No.3, Battambang Tel: (855-53) 6888 866 Fax: (855-53) 6888 866 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 310 Ekreach, Khan Mittapheap, Sihanouk City Tel: (855-34) 933 466 Fax: (855-34) 933 669 Email: [email protected]

Add: Guang Hua Lu, No 32, Beijing.100600 Tel: (86-10) 6532 1155 Fax: (86-10) 6532 5720 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : No. 155 Beijing Rd., Kunming  Tel: (86-871) 351 5889 Fax: (86-871) 351 6667 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 15/F, Great Smart Tower, 230 Wan Chai Rd., Wan Chai, Hong Kong Tel: (85-2) 2591 4510 Fax: (85-2) 2591 4539 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 1st  floor, Touzi Dasha 109 Minzu Avenue  - Nanning Tel: (86-771) 551 0562 Fax: (86-771) 553 4738 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 2nd floor, B Building north, Landmark Hotel, Qiaoguang Rd. (Haizhu square), Guangzhou

Tel: (86-20) 8330 5916 Fax: (86-20) 8330 5915 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 3F No. 65 Sung Chiang Road, Taipei, Taiwan Tel: (886-2) 25166 626 Fax: (886-2) 25041 761 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 3F, Huachen Financial Mansion, No 900, Pudong Ave, Shanghai Tel: (86-21) 6855 5871 Fax: (86-21) 6855 5873 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : B-306 Oberoi chamber, New Link road, Andheri (w) Mumbai 400 053 Tel: (91-22) 2673 6688 Fax: (91-22) 2673 6633 Email: [email protected]

IN INDONESIA

Add: No.9 JL. Pekalongan, Menteng, Jakarta-Pusat 10310 Tel: (62-21) 3190 7255 Fax: (62-21) 3190 6642 Email: [email protected]

Add: No. 6 East Ordibehesht, Mardani Sharestan 8th. St. Pey Syan. St. M.Ardabili Valiyear Ave. Tehran Tel: (98-21) 2241 478 Fax: (98-21) 2241 6045 Email: [email protected]

Add: 4th floor.Beit Asia, 4 Weizman Str. Tel Aviv, Israel Tel: (972-3) 6093 704 Fax: (972-3) 6966 243 Email: [email protected]

Add: 50-11, Motoyoyogi-cho Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Tel: (81) 3466 3313 Fax: (81) 3466 3391 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 4-2-15 Ichino-cho Higashi, Sakai-ku, Sakai-shi, Osaka 590-0952 Tel: (81-72) 2216 666 Fax: (81-72) 2216 667 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 4th Floor, Aquahakata, 5-3-8 Nakasu, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka, Japan 810-0801 Tel: (81-92) 2637 668 Fax: (81-92) 2637 676 Email:[email protected]

IN KAZAKHSTAN

Add: No 6 Xary-Arka - A-xta-na Tel: (7-7172) 990 375 Fax: (7-7172) 990 379 Email: [email protected]

IN KOREA (DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC)

Add: 7 Munsu Street, Pyongyang Tel: (850-2) 3817 358 Fax: (850-2) 3817 632 Email:[email protected]

IN KOREA (REPUBLIC)

Add: 28-58, Samchong - Dong, Chongno-Ku, 110-230, Seoul Tel: (82-2) 7382 318 Fax: (82-2) 7392 064 Email: [email protected]

Add: Block 10, St.19, Villa 96 - Ku Wait Tel: (965) 2531 1450 Fax: (965) 2535 1592 Email: [email protected]

Add: Thatluang Rd, Vientiane Tel: (856-21) 413 409 Fax: (856-21) 413 379 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 31 Ban Pha Bat, Pakse, Champassak Tel: (856-31) 212 827 Fax: (856-31) 212 058 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 118 Sisavangvong Rd., Khanthabuly Dist., Savanakhet Tel: (85-6) 212 418 Fax: (85-6) 212 182 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : No 427- 428 Ban That Bosot, Luang Prabang Town, Luang Prang Province Tel: (856-71) 254 748 Fax: (856-71) 254 746 Email: [email protected]

IN MALAYSIA

Add: No.4, Persiaran Stonor 50450, Kuala Lumpur Tel: (60-3) 2148 4534 Fax: (60-3) 2148 3270 Email: [email protected]

IN MONGOLIA

Add: Enlchtaivany Urgunchulur 47-Ulaan Baatar Tel: (97-611) 454 632 Fax: (97-611) 458 923 Email: [email protected]

Add: Building No.70-72, Thanlwin Rd., Bahan Tsp, Yangon Tel: (95-1) 501 992 Fax: (95-1) 514 897 Email: [email protected]

IN PAKISTAN

Add: 1117, St.11 Sector E7, Islamabad Pakistan Tel: (92-51) 2655 785, ext: 103 Fax: (92-51) 2655 783 Email: [email protected]

IN PHILIPPINES

Add: 670 Ocampo Pablo Malate, Manila Tel: (63-2) 5216 843 Fax: (63-2) 5260 472 Email: [email protected]

Add: Villa No.8 (Near Saha 109 Street), West bay Lagoon. P.O.Box: 23595 Doha Tel: (974) 4412 8480 Fax: (974) 4412 8370 Email: [email protected]

IN SAUDI ARABIA

Add: 23  Al-Dhiyafah St,  Al-Nuzha District, Riyadh Tel: (9661) 4547 887 Fax: (9661) 4548 844 Email: [email protected]

IN SINGAPORE

Add: 10 Leedon Park, Singapore 267887 Tel: (65-6) 4625 938 Fax: (65-6) 4689 863 Email: [email protected]

IN THAILAND

Add: 83/1 Wireless Rd., Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel: (66-2) 2515 836 Fax: (66-2) 2517 201 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 65/6 Chatapadung, Khonkaen 40000 Tel: (66-43) 242 190 Fax: (66-43) 241 154 Email: [email protected]

IN BANGLADESH

Add: Vintage Building, Plot 07, Road 104, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212 Tel: (880-2) 8854 051 Fax: (880-2) 8854 052 Email: [email protected]

IN SRI LANKA

Add: 30/5 Ward Place, Colombo-7 Tel: (94-11) 2696 050 Fax: (94-11) 2692 040 Email: [email protected]

Add: No.30, Rue Chénoua, Hydra - Alger Tel: (213-21) 608 843 Fax: (213-21) 693 778 Email: [email protected]

Add: Via AL4, Lotes 4-5, Bairro Talatona-Luanda Sul, LUANDA CP 1774 Tel: (244-222) 010 697 Fax: (244-222) 010 696 Email: [email protected]

Add: 110, Sudan str.Mohandesseen, Cairo Tel: (202) 3762 3841 Fax: (202) 3336 8612 Email: [email protected]

Add: Al Hadba Al Khadra – Tripoli Libya P.O. Box: 587 Tel: (218-21) 4903 664 Fax: (218-21) 4901 499 Email: [email protected]

IN MOZAMBIQUE

Add: Av.Francisco Orlando Mabunbwe 1048/1026 Caixa Postal: 4051 - Maputo Tel: (258) 2149 7912 Fax: (258) 2149 1992 Email: [email protected]

Add: No.9 River Niger Street, Maitama, Abuja Tel: (234-9) 8703 678 Email: vnemb.ng@m

IN SOUTH AFRICA

Add: 87 Brooks Street, Brooklyn, P.O. Box : 13692 Hatfield 0028 Pretoria Tel: (27-12) 3628 119 Fax: (27-12) 3628 115 Email: [email protected]

IN TANZANIA

Add: Plot 11, Bongoyo Road, Oysterbay, PO Box: 9724 Dar Es Salaam Tel: (255-222) 664 535 Fax: (255-222) 664 537 Email: [email protected]

Add: Felix-Mottl - Strabe A - 1190 Vienna Tel: (43-1) 3680 755 Fax: (43-1) 3680 754 Email: [email protected]

Add: 220040 Minsk, Mozajskovo St, house No 3 Tel/Fax: (37-51) 7237 4879 Email:[email protected]

Add: Boulevard General Jacques 11050 Bruxelles Tel: (32-2) 3792 731 Fax: (32-2) 3749 376 Email: [email protected]

IN BULGARIA

Add: Sofia 1113 Ul. Jetvarka No 1 Tel: (359-2) 9632 743, ext: 201 Fax: (359-2) 9633 658 Email: [email protected]

Add: Plzenská 214 - 150 00 - Praha 5 Tel: (42-02) 5721 1540 Fax: (42-02) 5721 1792 Email: [email protected]

Add: Gammel Vartov Ve 20-2900 Hellekup Copenhagen Tel: (45) 3918 3932 Fax: (45) 3918 4171 Email: [email protected]

Add: Kulosaarentie 12, 00570 Helsinki Tel: (358-9) 6229 900 Fax: (358-9) 6229 902 Email: [email protected]

Add: 61 rue de Miromesnil, 75008 Paris Tel: (33-1) 4414 6400 Fax: (33-1) 4524 3948 Email: [email protected]

Add: Elsenstrasse 3, 12435 Berlin - Treptow Tel: (49-30) 5363 0108 Fax: (49-30) 5363 0200 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : Villa Ha Noi, Kennedy-Alle 49, Frankfurt/M Tel: (49-69) 79533 650 Fax: (49-69) 79533 6511 Email:[email protected]

Add: Iereos Dousi St. 54, Marousi 15126 Tel: (30-210) 6128 733 Fax: (30-210) 6128 734 Email: [email protected]

Add: 1146 Budapest – Thokoly Ut 41 Tel: (36-1) 3425 583 Fax: (36-1) 3528 798 Email: [email protected]

Add: Via Clitunno 34 00198 Roma Tel: (39-06) 6616 0726 Fax: (39-06) 6615 7520 Email: [email protected]

IN NETHERLANDS

Add: Nassauplein 12, 2585 EB, The Hague Tel: (31-70) 3648 917 Fax: (31-70) 3648 656 Email: [email protected]

Add: St. Olavs Gate 21C, 0165 Oslo Tel: (47) 2220 3300 Fax: (47) 2220 3301 Email: [email protected]

Add: UL Resorowa 36 02-956 Warszawa Tel: (48-22) 6516 098, ext: 50 Fax: (48-22) 6516 095 Email: [email protected]

Add: St.C.A. Roseth Nr.35 Sector 2, Bucaest Tel: (4021) 3110 334, ext: 50 Fax: (4021) 3121 626 Email:[email protected]

IN RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Add: Bolshaya Pirogovskaya,13 Moscow Tel: (7-499) 2451 092 Fax: (7-499) 2463 121 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : 107/1, Pushkinskaya St., Vladivostok Tel: (7-4232) 226 927 Fax: (7-4232) 261 496 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 411 - DIVS-22, Karla Libknhesta - 620075, Ekaterinburg Tel: (7-343) 2530 280 Fax: (7-343) 2530 282 Email:[email protected]

IN SLOVAKIA

Add: 15 Dunajska, Bratislava,  Slovakia - PO 81108 Tel: (421) 25245 1263 Fax: (421) 25245 1273 Email: [email protected]

Add: Avenida Alfonso XIII, No.5 – 28016 Madrid Tel: (34) 91510 2867 Fax: (34) 91415 7067 Email: [email protected]

Add: Orby Slottsvag 26125 ALVSJO - Stockholm Tel: (46-8) 5562 1071 Fax: (46-8) 5562 1080 Email: [email protected]

IN SWITZERLAND

Add: Schlosslistrasse 26-3008 Bern Tel: (41-31) 388 7878 Fax: (41-31) 388 7879 Email: [email protected]

Add: Koza, No 109, G.O.P, Ankara Tel: (90-312) 4468 049 Fax: (90-312) 4465 623 Email: [email protected]

Add: 12-14 Victoria Rd., London W8 - 5rd Tel: (44-20) 7937 1912 Fax: (44-20) 7565 3853 Email: [email protected]

Add: 51 Tovarna –St 01103/ Kiev Tel/Fax: (380-44) 2845 5442 Email: [email protected]

IN UZBEKISTAN

Add: Rashidov-St-100, Tashkent-700084 Tel: (998-71) 1356 493 Fax: (998-71) 1206 265 Email: [email protected]

IN ARGENTINA

Add: Calle 11 de Setiembre 1442, C.P (1426) - Capital Federal Tel: (54-114) 7831 802 Fax: (54-114) 7820 078 Email: [email protected]

Add: SHIS, QI 09, Conj10, Casa 1, Lago Sul, CEP: 71.615-070 – Brasil Brasilia/DF Tel: (55-61) 3364 5876 Fax: (55-61) 3364 5836 Email: [email protected]

Add: No.55 MacKay Street Ottawa, K1M 2B2 Tel: (1-613) 2361 398 Fax: (1-613) 2362 704 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : #800-605, Robson Street, Vancouver B.C V6B5J3 Tel: (1-604) 6290 189 Fax: (1-604) 6812 906 Email:[email protected]

Add: No. 5ta.Avenide #1802, esquina a 18, Miramar,Playa, La Habana Tel: (53-7) 2041 502 Fax: (53-7) 2041 041 Email: [email protected]

Add: Avenida Eliodoro Yasasnsnez 2897 – Providencia, Santiago de Chile Tel: (56-2) 2244 3633 Fax: (56-2) 2244 3799 Email: [email protected]

Add: No. 255 Sierra Ventana 255 lomasde Chapultepec Delegation -Miguel Hidalgo CP.11000 Tel: (52-55) 55401 632 Fax: (52-55) 5401 612 Email: [email protected]

Add: Edificio St. Georges Bank (Antiguo Banco Atlantico), Piso 2, Local 1, Entre Calle 50 y 53, Obarrio, Ciudad de Panama Tel: (507) 2642 551 Fax: (507) 2656 056 Email: [email protected]

Add: 1233, 20th Str., N.W, Suite 400 - Washington DC 20036 Tel: (1-202) 8610 737 Fax: (1-202) 8610 917 Email: [email protected]

Consulate : Suite 430, California Street, San Francisco, CA. 94109 Tel: (1-415) 9221 707 Fax: (1-415) 9221 848 Email:[email protected]

Consulate : 5333 Westheimer Rd., Suite 800 Houston, TX 77056 Tel: (1-832) 2667 068 Fax: (1-713) 8100 159 Email: [email protected]

IN VENEZUELA

Add: 9ta Transversal, entre 6ta y 7ma Avenidas, Quinta Las Mercedes, Altamira, Chacao 1060-025 D.F, Caracas Tel: (58-212) 6357 402 Fax: (58-212) 2647 324 Email: [email protected]

EXPLORE FROM HOME

infographics

Learn more about Vietnam

EXPERIENCES

See outstanding travel products from our partners

VinOasis Phu Quoc

InterContinental Phu Quoc

VinWonders Nha Trang

Sailing Club Phu Quoc

itineraries

• You are here:

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Sign in with your social accounts

Sign in with your email

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam: The Top 9 Must-Knows Before You Go

Ready to explore Vietnam? Our guide covers everything you need for your adventure: best times to visit, top destinations, transport tips, cozy accommodations, local culinary delights, etc.

Plus, we share savvy tips for enjoying a 4-day, 3-night getaway that’s both affordable and safe. Dive into the enchanting landscapes of Ninh Binh and get the scoop on the importance of travel insurance.

Start your journey through Vietnam’s rich culture and breathtaking scenery with us!

• 1.1 Seasonal Highlights and Cost-Saving Tips:
• 1.2 Navigating Flight Costs:
• 1.3 Weather Considerations:
• 1.4 Strategic Booking Examples: Regional Insights
• 2.1 What’s an E-Visa? Who’s Eligible?
• 2.2 E-Visa Details
• 2.3 Visa on Arrival (VoA)
• 2.4 Stay Duration with VoA
• 3 3. Starting Your Trip in the North – Noi Bai Airport, Hanoi
• 4.1 Value and Comfort on a Budget
• 4.2 Immersive Cultural Experiences
• 4.3 Indulging in Luxury
• 4.4 Booking Your Stay
• 5.1 Grab – Your Go-To Ride-Hailing App
• 5.2 Airport to Adventure
• 5.3 City Travels – Motorbikes and Cars
• 5.4 Bus Journeys
• 5.5 Explore Like a Local
• 5.6 Extra Travel Tips
• 6.1 In the North
• 6.2 In the Central Region
• 6.3 In the South
• 7.1 Local Eats and Street Treats
• 7.2 Seafood
• 7.3 Dining with Peace of Mind
• 7.4 Finding the Best Spots
• 8.1 Budget-friendly
• 8.2 Comfort-focused Itinerary
• 9.1 Safety First
• 9.2 Health Matters
• 9.3 Travel Insurance: A Must-Have
• 9.4 Before You Go
• 9.5 Emergency Contacts
• 10 Wrap it up

1. Visit Timing and Flight Costs

Vietnam, with its thousand-mile stretch from North to South, offers a diverse climate landscape, making it a year-round destination.

Yet, the best time to visit and flight costs are closely interconnected, influencing both your experience and budget.

Seasonal Highlights and Cost-Saving Tips:

• Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sa Pa, etc.) is best from October to April, marked by cooler, dry weather ideal for outdoor adventures. Avoid May to October for safer, cooler travels, dodging rain and intense heat.
• Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang, etc.) shines between February and May, with mild weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for exploring cultural sites and beaches.
• Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, etc.) welcomes visitors with clear skies from December to April, the optimal period for city tours and river excursions.

Navigating Flight Costs:

Flight prices vary significantly throughout the year, affected by Vietnam’s holidays and weather patterns. To avoid high airfares:

• Peak Times to Avoid: Prices surge during the Tet holiday, Reunification Day (April 30), International Labor Day (May 1), and Summertime (June to July). A flight typically costing around $750 can jump to over $1200.
• Best Booking Periods: March, April, and May see lower demand and cost, with potential savings of up to 50% compared to peak months like June. Utilize tools like Google Flights to track price trends and secure deals when fares drop.

(Check out our comprehensive guide to grabbing awesome flight deals with Google Flights : Best Times to Book the Cheapest Flights to Vietnam. )

Weather Considerations:

• Rainy Seasons: Varies by region, with the North experiencing heavy showers from May to October, Central Vietnam from September to December, and the South from June to November.
• Heat and Typhoons: Prepare for summer’s tropical heat across Vietnam and potential typhoons in coastal areas from August to November.

Strategic Booking Examples: Regional Insights

Let’s discover how to smartly reduce travel costs across Vietnam’s diverse regions. These examples provide key insights into the best times to book flights, ensuring you enjoy prime weather and experiences at lower prices.

Starting your flight search 2-3 months in advance gives you a broader view of the price trends.

• North Vietnam

The best Time to Book: Late summer or early autumn (August to September). This period precedes the optimal travel window (October to April), allowing you to capture lower airfare before prices rise for the cooler, dry season.

Strategy: Monitor flight prices starting in the autumn and set alerts on Google Flights.

Example: If planning to visit in October, aim to book your flight by late August or early September.

• Central Vietnam

The best Time to Book: Late winter (January to February). Since the best weather in Central Vietnam spans from February to May, booking just after the New Year and before the Tet holiday can offer competitive prices.

Strategy: Use price comparison tools and watch for post-holiday fare drops. Airlines often offer deals to fill flights after the holiday rush, especially before the Tet holiday’s demand spike.

Example: For a trip in March, start checking fares after the New Year, with the goal of booking by February.

• South Vietnam

The best Time to Book: Early autumn (September to October). This timing lets you avoid the high prices seen during the December to April dry season while capitalizing on lower demand.

Example: To explore the South in December, the best booking window is around September, before flight prices begin their upward trend for the winter holidays.

2. Vietnam’s E-Visa Requirements for Travelers

Before you pack your bags for Vietnam, understanding the visa process, especially the electronic visa (e-visa), is essential to ensure a smooth journey.

(For a detailed guide on the e-visa process, including how long you can stay and all the necessary steps to apply, visit our other article: This Is How Long You Can Stay In Vietnam With An e-Visa .)

What’s an E-Visa? Who’s Eligible?

The e-visa is a digital visa, valid for up to 90 days for either a single visit or multiple entries, simplifying your entry into Vietnam.

It’s an efficient option, obtainable online with just a few clicks. After filling out a form and paying a fee, your e-visa arrives via email within days.

Most travelers with a valid passport and not yet in Vietnam can apply. The process is straightforward: complete an online application and pay the fee.

E-Visa Details

• Duration: Up to 90 days.
• Types: Single-entry ($25) and multiple-entry ($50) visas available.
• Entry Points: Valid at 42 designated international border gates, including all airports.
• Extension: Possible to extend your e-visa once in Vietnam.

For a detailed guide and to apply for your e-visa, visit the official site: Vietnam E-Visa Application.

Visa on Arrival (VoA)

Another option is the Visa on Arrival (VoA), suitable for those who might not have secured an e-visa beforehand. This requires a pre-approved visa letter, and upon arrival at designated airports, you can have your visa stamped directly into your passport.

VoA Airports: Includes Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and others.

Stay Duration with VoA

• Tourist Visa: Up to 30 days, single-entry.
• Business Visa: Up to 3 months, single or multiple entries, extendable with a sponsor.
• For the latest visa information and to ensure your travel to Vietnam is enjoyable and anticipated, refer to the official Vietnamese immigration website.

3. Starting Your Trip in the North – Noi Bai Airport, Hanoi

Starting at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi immediately opens up the best of Northern and Central Vietnam. These regions are renowned for their unmatched tourist spots, often surpassing those in the South in terms of allure.

Here, you can directly explore renowned places like Sa Pa, Ninh Bình, and Hạ Long Bay from Hanoi, without the hassle of extra transit stops.

A major advantage of beginning your trip at Noi Bai is the wide array of direct transportation options available right from the airport, including service cars and buses.

Such ease in travel logistics not only saves time but also significantly improves your travel experience. It allows you to dive deep into the beauty and culture of Northern and Central Vietnam without the usual concerns of multiple transfers or navigating through uncertain transit points.

4. Finding Your Perfect Stay in Vietnam: Comfort, Culture, and Value

Vietnam is a treasure trove of accommodation options that combine comfort, accessibility, and a touch of local flavor, all while being kind to your wallet.

As someone who calls this beautiful country home, I’m excited to share insider tips on securing affordable yet comfortable lodging.

Value and Comfort on a Budget

For those looking to maximize their budget without sacrificing comfort, Vietnam offers excellent accommodations in the range of 450,000 VND to 700,000 VND ($20 to $30) per night.

Staying at a 3-star hotel within this price bracket often means enjoying clean, modern rooms equipped with all the essentials necessary for a comfortable and restful visit.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Choosing a homestay for about 450,000 VND ($20) not only promises a cozy place to rest but also a unique opportunity to engage with local life.

This option is perfect for those eager to understand Vietnam beyond its scenic landscapes, offering a firsthand look at the traditions, hospitality, and daily rhythms of Vietnamese families.

Indulging in Luxury

For travelers inclined towards indulgence, Vietnam’s luxury resorts and bungalows provide an exquisite escape with nightly rates ranging from $80 to $150.

These upscale accommodations are ideal for those desiring a serene retreat with high-end amenities, exceptional service, and often breathtaking views.

While more expensive, they offer a memorable experience that blends relaxation with the distinctive charm of Vietnam’s natural beauty.

Booking Your Stay

Utilizing platforms like Agoda to book your accommodations can help ensure a pleasant stay, with a focus on properties rated 8.5 to 9+ stars for quality assurance.

Whether you opt for a hotel, homestay, or luxury resort, these tools make finding the perfect match for your preferences and budget easier.

5. Choosing Efficient and Safe Transportation in Vietnam

Navigating Vietnam is a breeze with a range of transportation options suited for different preferences and needs.

Grab – Your Go-To Ride-Hailing App

Just landed and need a ride? Download the Grab app, Vietnam’s answer to Uber. It offers transparent pricing, with car rides from the airport averaging 13,000 VND to 16,000 VND per kilometer ($0.53 to $0.65), a smart choice when traveling with luggage.

Airport to Adventure

Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi is your gateway to the North. For direct routes to places like Ninh Binh, consider a high-quality limousine service at approximately 340,000 VND ($14), avoiding the hefty taxi fare of around 1,600,000 VND ($65).

Image credit Tràng An Limousine

City Travels – Motorbikes and Cars

For a local feel in less crowded spots, motorbike rides through Grab are convenient and affordable, costing about 5,000 VND to 7,000 VND per kilometer ($0.2 to $0.3).

In bustling cities, though, the safety and comfort of a car are recommended (13,000 VND to 16,000 VND – $0.53- $0.65 per kilometer), with Grab offering reasonable rates similar to airport travels.

Bus Journeys

Buses are a staple in big cities but may present challenges for tourists in smaller towns due to language barriers. They’re incredibly cheap (around $0.3), yet require careful route planning.

Explore Like a Local

In quieter tourist areas like Hue or Hoi An, renting motorbikes (around 150,000 VND per day – $6.13) or bicycles (around 50,000 VND per day – $2.1) is a delightful and cost-effective way to discover the local charm. Some accommodations even offer free bicycle use.

Extra Travel Tips

For seniors and those preferring a slower pace, motorbikes in busy cities may not be advisable. Always verify your ride’s cost before departure, and use established services to ensure safety and prevent overcharging.

6. Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an array of unforgettable experiences from North to South. Being a local, I’m excited to guide you through Vietnam’s incredible places.

From Sa Pa’s cool mountains to Phú Quốc’s sunny beaches, we have it all. You can explore Hội An’s ancient streets, marvel at Hạ Long Bay’s emerald waters, and dive into the vibrant life of Hồ Chí Minh City.

I’ll share the ins and outs of these amazing spots, making sure you get to see the true treasures of Vietnam.

In the North

• Hà Nội: Dive into the heart of Vietnam’s capital, where history and modernity dance on the streets. Wander through the Old Quarter to sip on local coffee or paddle around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi is a city that tells the stories of Vietnam’s past with a vibrant present.

• Sa Pa: Escape to the clouds in Sa Pa, where green terraced rice fields paint the mountains. It’s a place to trek, meet diverse ethnic communities, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Sa Pa’s beauty is as much in its landscapes as in its culture.

• Ninh Bình: Step into a postcard in Ninh Bình, the ‘Halong Bay on Land.’ Float among rice paddies under towering limestone cliffs in Tam Coc and explore ancient temples that whisper legends of old Vietnam.

• Hạ Long Bay: Sail through emerald waters dotted with rainforest-topped limestone islands. Hạ Long Bay is a natural wonder that feels like a dream, offering peaceful sunsets and starlit nights on the deck of a traditional junk boat.

• Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng: Adventure awaits in the caves of Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng, where you can explore underground rivers and massive caverns. It’s a world-class destination for those who love to uncover the mysteries of nature.

• Hà Giang: For the road-trippers and nature lovers, Hà Giang’s breathtaking mountain passes and valleys are unmatched. Ride through the clouds, visit local markets, and see Vietnam’s stunning landscapes unfold before you.

In the Central Region

• Hội An: Walk through lantern-lit streets in the enchanting town of Hội An. This ancient port city is a mosaic of culture, food, and architecture, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s merchant past with a side of unforgettable cuisine.

• Đà Nẵng: Where the river meets the sea, Đà Nẵng shines with its sandy beaches, the mystical Marble Mountains, and the iconic Dragon Bridge. Don’t miss the chance to visit Ba Na Hills and walk among the clouds.

• Phú Yên: Discover the hidden gem of Phú Yên, where tranquil beaches and unique rock formations await. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking peace and natural beauty with breathtaking landscapes away from the crowds.

• Quy Nhơn: Soak up the authentic Vietnamese coastal life in Quy Nhơn. With its beautiful beaches, delicious food, ancient Cham ruins, and vibrant fishing culture, it’s a place where Vietnam’s heart beats strong.

• Phan Thiết: Famous for its wind-swept sand dunes and kite-surfing waves, Phan Thiết is a haven for adventure seekers and foodies alike. The local food here is as memorable as the sunsets.

In the South

• Hồ Chí Minh City: Buzzing with energy, Hồ Chí Minh City is a metropolis of contrasts. Explore French colonial architecture, war history museums, and dynamic markets. The city’s spirit is as infectious as its cuisine is diverse.

• Cần Thơ: Float on the Mekong Delta’s lifeline in Cần Thơ, known for its floating markets and riverside life. It’s a place to slow down and taste the sweetness of Vietnam’s rice bowl.

• Vũng Tàu: A quick escape from the city leads to Vũng Tàu, where beaches, colonial architecture, and the giant Christ the King statue offer a different vibe. It’s a spot to recharge and enjoy seaside tranquility.

• Phú Quốc: Island paradise awaits in Phú Quốc, with its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxury stays. It’s an island where adventure and relaxation meet, from snorkeling over coral reefs to sunset beach barbecues.

7. Vietnam’s Food: Street Eats to Seafood

Vietnam is a haven for food lovers with an impressive variety of dishes that tantalize your taste buds without emptying your wallet.

Local Eats and Street Treats

Begin your culinary adventure with local favorites. A steaming bowl of Pho, the fragrant Bun Bo, or the savory Hu Tieu will cost you just 35,000 VND to 50,000 VND ($1.5 to $2.1). If your appetite calls for more, a heftier portion might reach 80,000 VND ($3.3).

On the streets, a crunchy Banh Mi or a refreshing fruit juice can be enjoyed for about 15,000 VND to 40,000 VND ($0.7 to $1.6).

Vietnam’s coastal regions offer an abundance of seafood, fresh from the ocean.

Indulge in dishes like grilled squid, shrimp, and local fish specialties at prices ranging from 100,000 VND ($4) to 250,000 VND ($10) depending on the dish and the establishment, offering a delicious dive into the country’s marine cuisine.

Dining with Peace of Mind

Whether you’re sitting down at a bustling local eatery or a more tourist-centric Vietnamese restaurant, you’ll find that most places proudly display their prices.

This transparency ensures that you’re partaking in an honest dining experience, getting hearty meals for your dong.

Finding the Best Spots

To unearth the finest dining spots, a quick search on Google Reviews can point you in the right direction, or you can follow the local crowd—where they eat, you’re guaranteed delectable fare at fair prices.

And with the local hospitality as warm as a bowl of Pho, you’re in for a welcoming feast wherever you go.

For more insights into the wonders of Vietnamese cuisine, explore these resources:

• For a taste of the best Banh Mi in town, check out Hole-in-the-Wall Banh Mi Restaurants .
• Discover where to find the most delicious bowls of Pho across the country at Best Pho Vietnam Restaurants .
• Dive into the vibrant street food scene with Best Street Foods in Saigon .
• Explore the unique and unusual flavors of Vietnam with 20 Strangest, Most Special Vietnamese Dishes.

8. Ninh Binh Trip Itinerary Sample: A Cost Guide for Couples ($250 to $400 for 4 days)

Drawing from real travel experiences, we’ve crafted a detailed budget for a 4-day couple’s getaway.

This guide is designed to provide you with a clear picture of the costs, from serene boat rides on Tam Coc’s river to explorative motorbike tours through the rice fields.

You’ll find two illustrative tables below: the first presents a budget-friendly plan, ideal for travelers looking to stretch their dongs further, while the second outlines a more indulgent average-cost itinerary, for those who desire added comfort and a taste of the best local dishes.

Budget-friendly

(For more insights on planning a cost-effective journey, dive deeper with additional details here: Exploring Vietnam for the Over-60s on a Budget )

Note: The USD conversion is based on the exchange rate provided and may vary with current rates. Flight costs are not included in this budget.

Comfort-focused Itinerary

With a budget of about $250 to $400, you can thoroughly enjoy a splendid 4-day, 3-night experience for two across any of Vietnam’s tourist destinations.

This budget range is a testament to how Vietnam offers accessible, enriching travel experiences, from the tranquil beauty of Ninh Binh to the vibrant culture of cities and beyond.

Let this guide inspire you to explore the diverse attractions Vietnam has to offer, ensuring a memorable journey filled with discovery and connection at every turn.

9. Staying Safe and Insured in Vietnam

Your adventure in Vietnam should be memorable for all the right reasons. Taking precautions with your safety and investing in travel insurance is a smart way to ensure peace of mind.

Safety First

Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers. Common sense safety practices, such as guarding your belongings in crowded places and following local traffic laws, go a long way.

In cities, be mindful of the bustling motorbike traffic and use designated pedestrian areas when available.

Health Matters

The varying climate and exotic cuisine can sometimes lead to health issues for travelers. Stick to reputable food vendors and stay hydrated with bottled water.

Also, be aware of the local health advisories, particularly in rural areas where medical facilities may not be as accessible.

For a smooth and worry-free journey, it’s wise to pack a basic health kit. Include medications for common issues like stomach upsets and fever reducers.

This simple step can ensure you’re prepared for minor health hiccups, letting you focus on enjoying Vietnam’s stunning vistas and rich culture.

Travel Insurance: A Must-Have

Travel insurance is not just a recommendation; it’s essential. It covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen incidents.

When choosing a policy, look for one that provides comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency evacuation, especially if you plan to explore Vietnam’s more remote areas.

Before You Go

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date based on your travel destinations within Vietnam. Check with a travel health clinic for any additional health precautions you should take.

Emergency Contacts

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services and the nearest embassy or consulate, easily accessible throughout your trip.

By prioritizing safety and securing robust travel insurance, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Vietnam.

Exploring Vietnam offers an array of unforgettable experiences, from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture and culinary delights.

As we’ve navigated through planning, budgeting, and making the most of your journey, it’s clear that with a budget of $250 to $400, a 4-day, 3-night adventure for two is not just possible, but can be richly rewarding.

Whether you’re meandering through the historical lanes of Ninh Binh, savoring the flavors of street food, or ensuring your travels are safe and insured, Vietnam welcomes all with open arms.

This guide serves as your compass to discovering the beauty, adventure, and serenity of Vietnam, making every moment count.

Planning a Trip to Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

PLANNING A TRIP TO VIETNAM?

You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  

Ever dreamt of exploring a land where lush green rice terraces cascade down mountains? Or where bustling markets offer a sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds? 

Yep, I’m talking about Vietnam. This Southeast Asian gem is a tapestry of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and mouth-watering cuisine.

But here’s the thing: diving into such a diverse country can be a tad overwhelming. That’s why planning is key! 🗺️ A well-thought-out trip ensures you soak in all the wonders without any hiccups. 

Trust me, you’ll want to get this right.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Picking the perfect time to visit Vietnam can be a game-changer. This slender country stretches over a thousand miles from north to south, which means the climate can be, well, a bit complicated. But don’t sweat it! I’ve got you covered.

Climate Overview

Vietnam’s geography gives it a unique climate twist. Let’s break it down:

North (e.g., Hanoi, Sapa):

• Winter (Nov – Apr): Cool and misty. Think temperatures between 10°C to 22°C. Perfect for cozying up with a cup of egg coffee in Hanoi!
• Summer (May – Oct) : Hot and humid with some heavy rainfall. Temperatures can soar up to 35°C. Sapa, though, remains cooler and is a summer haven.

Hanoi Average Day and Night Temperature

Central (e.g., Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An):

• Dry Season (Jan – Aug): Warm temperatures averaging around 25°C to 30°C. Beach time, anyone?
• Rainy Season (Sep – Dec): Expect some heavy downpours, especially in October and November.

Da Nang Average Day and Night Temperature

South (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc):

• Dry Season (Nov – Apr): Pleasantly warm with temperatures hovering around 25°C to 32°C.
• Rainy Season (May – Oct) : Short bursts of rain, but hey, the scenery gets lush and green!

Ho Chi Minh Average Day and Night Temperature

Monsoon Scoop:

• North : May to October. Watch out for heavy rains and potential flooding.
• South : May to November. The rain’s usually short-lived, so just pack an umbrella and you’re good!

Peak Tourist Seasons

Timing your visit can make a world of difference. Here’s the lowdown:

Peak Season (Dec – Feb):

• Perfect weather, especially in the north and central regions.
• Festive vibes thanks to Tết (Vietnamese New Year).
• Crowded tourist spots. Think longer queues and selfie-stick dodging!
• Slightly pricier accommodation. Booking in advance? Smart move!

Off-Peak Season (May – Sep):

• Fewer tourists mean a more authentic experience.
• Discounts galore! Accommodations can be 20-40% cheaper.
• Well, it’s monsoon time. But rain showers are usually brief.

Essential Travel Documents

Before you set foot in the mesmerizing landscapes of Vietnam, there’s some paperwork to sort out. But don’t fret! I’m here to guide you through the maze of visas and insurance. Let’s get you prepped and ready!

Visa Requirements

Vietnam welcomes travelers with open arms, but there are a few visa hoops to jump through:

Countries Eligible for Visa Exemptions:

Lucky you if you’re from ASEAN countries! Most get a 14 to 45-day pass without a visa. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Russia also get some visa-free days. Always double-check the latest list, though!

Visa-On-Arrival (VOA):

Available for travelers flying into international airports like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

• Apply online for an approval letter. Costs vary, but think 18-50 USD.
• Print the letter and pack two passport-size photos.
• On arrival, head to the “VOA” counter. Pay the stamping fee (around 25 USD for a single entry) and voilà, you’re in!

E-Visa Application:

A smooth online process for travelers from 80+ countries.

• Skip the VOA queue. Just access Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security portal .
• Use it at major airports, land borders, and seaports.
• Costs around 25 USD for single-entry (50 USD for multiple-entry) and takes about 3 business days.
• No middlemen or approval letters needed!

Travel Insurance

Let’s talk safety nets, shall we?

Why You Need It:

Imagine this: you’re cruising in Halong Bay, and oops, you twist an ankle. Or worse, your luggage decides to take a separate vacation. That’s where travel insurance, like SafetyWing , steps in. It’s your shield against unexpected hiccups.

Coverage Areas to Consider:

1. Medical Emergencies:

Hospital stays, treatments, and even medical evacuations. SafetyWing, for instance, offers up to $250,000 coverage for medical incidents.

2. Trip Cancellations:

Get reimbursed if you have to cancel your trip due to unforeseen reasons.

3. Lost Belongings:

Lost your camera in the bustling streets of Hanoi? Insurance can help cover the costs.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary

Vietnam is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s map out those must-visit spots and dive deep into the heart of Vietnamese culture.

Must-Visit Destinations

Vietnam is a mosaic of experiences. Here’s where you absolutely, positively, gotta go:

Dive into a city where the past meets the present. Wander through ancient temples, then haggle your heart out in bustling street markets. And oh, the street food? To die for!

2. Halong Bay

Picture this: Cruising amidst towering limestone islands, the water reflecting the azure sky. Whether you’re kayaking or just soaking in the views, it’s pure magic.

Step back in time in this ancient imperial city. Explore grand palaces, ornate tombs, and get lost in tales of emperors and dynasties.

Ah, the charm of lantern-lit evenings by the river! This UNESCO World Heritage site is a blend of cultures, with its Japanese bridges and French colonial houses.

5. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

The buzzing heart of modern Vietnam. Skyscrapers, war museums, and vibrant nightlife – it’s a whirlwind of experiences.

6. Phu Quoc Island

Sun, sand, and serenity. Dive into crystal-clear waters, lounge at luxury resorts, or explore the island on a motorbike. Paradise found!

Read also : Major Cities in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Cultural Experiences

Ready to dive deeper? Here’s how you can truly immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture:

1. Traditional Vietnamese Cooking Classes:

Whip up a storm and learn to make classics like Pho and Spring Rolls. Bonus? You get to eat your creations!

2. Water Puppet Shows:

A unique Vietnamese art form! Watch wooden puppets dance on water, telling tales of legends and folklore.

3. Local Village Homestays:

Ditch the hotels. Live with locals in traditional villages, learn their way of life, and make memories that last a lifetime.

4. Temple Visits and Meditation Sessions:

Find your zen. Explore ancient temples, soak in the tranquility, and maybe even join a meditation session with the monks.

Local Transportation Tips

Vietnam’s bustling streets and scenic countryside routes are an experience in themselves. But navigating them? That can be a tad tricky. Fear not! I’ve got the lowdown on getting around like a pro.

Navigating Major Cities

City streets in Vietnam are alive with a symphony of honks, motorbikes, and the distant calls of street vendors. 

Here’s how to ride the rhythm:

1. Using Grab and Traditional Taxis:

• Grab’s your best buddy here! It’s like Uber, but Southeast Asian style. Just pop in your destination, and you’re off. Traditional taxis? They’re everywhere. Just make sure they turn on the meter!

2. Benefits of Cyclos and Rickshaws:

• Want to feel the breeze and take in the sights? Hop onto a cyclo or rickshaw. Perfect for short distances and a more leisurely pace. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!

3. Safety Tips for Motorbike Rentals :

The ultimate freedom! But remember:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Check the bike’s condition before renting.
• Keep an eye out for the city’s traffic flow. It’s… unique.

Long-Distance Travel

Vietnam stretches over a thousand miles, and trust me, there’s beauty in every inch. Here’s how to cover those miles:

1. Train Journeys : The Reunification Express:

Chug along from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on this iconic train. It’s a 30-hour journey of breathtaking landscapes and local life. 

Pro tip? Book a soft sleeper for a comfy ride.

2. Domestic Flights: Key Airlines and Booking Tips:

Short on time? Fly between cities! Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways got you covered. Always compare prices and book in advance for sweet deals.

3. Bus Travel: Sleeper Buses, Vans, and Limousines:

A. sleeper buses:.

Lie flat and watch the world go by! Sleeper buses are budget-friendly and great for overnight journeys. Just:

• Keep your valuables close.
• Choose reputable companies.
• And maybe pack some earplugs. Just in case.

A quicker and often more comfortable option than buses. They’re especially handy for routes that aren’t covered by larger buses or trains. Look for luxury or VIP vans for added comfort.

c. Limousines:

Travel in style! Limousine services offer the utmost comfort, especially for routes like Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne or Hanoi to Sapa. They come with plush seats, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even a personal entertainment system.

Book a Ride for your Vietnam Trip

Vietnamese cuisine: a gastronomic journey.

Vietnam is a paradise for your taste buds. From bustling street corners serving piping hot bowls of Pho to elegant eateries offering gourmet experiences, Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful dance of flavors, textures, and aromas. Ready to dig in?

Street Food Delights

Ah, the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine! Here’s what you absolutely can’t miss:

Dive into a bowl of this quintessential Vietnamese noodle soup. Silky noodles, tender meat, and a broth that’s been simmering for hours. Whether it’s beef (Pho Bo) or chicken (Pho Ga), it’s comfort in a bowl.

A crispy baguette packed with a medley of fillings – think grilled pork, pâté, fresh herbs, and pickled veggies. It’s a delightful fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors. Grab one on the go!

Hailing from Hanoi, this dish is all about grilled pork (often shredded) over vermicelli noodles, and of course, a generous ladle of tangy broth. Pair it with some crispy spring rolls, and you’re in for a treat.

4. Egg Coffee

Coffee who? In Hanoi, it’s all about this unique concoction. Think strong coffee topped with a creamy, frothy layer of whipped egg yolks. Sweet, rich, and oh-so-delicious!

Dining Etiquette and Tips

Dining in Vietnam is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s how to do it right:

Using Chopsticks:

Do’s:

• Rest them on the chopstick stand when not in use.
• Use both sticks evenly.

Don’ts:

• Don’t stick them upright in a bowl (it resembles incense at a funeral).
• Avoid pointing them at others.

Tipping Practices in Restaurants:

• Tipping isn’t a deep-rooted custom in Vietnam, but it’s appreciated. In local eateries, rounding up the bill is fine. In upscale restaurants, a 5-10% tip is a kind gesture.

Common Vietnamese Phrases for Dining:

• “Cảm ơn” (Cam un) – Thank you.
• “Một bàn cho hai người” (Mot ban cho hai nguoi) – A table for two.
• “Tôi muốn một ly cà phê” (Toy muan mot ly ca phe) – I’d like a coffee.

Vietnamese cuisine is a journey of discovery. Every bite tells a story, every sip shares a tradition. So, whether you’re slurping noodles by the street or toasting with locals in a tavern, savor every moment. Bon appétit or as the Vietnamese say, “Chúc ngon miệng!” 🥢🍲🥖🍵

Conclusion: Planning a Trip to Vietnam

Whew! What a journey we’ve been on, right? 🎒 Planning might seem like a chore, but remember, it’s the blueprint to your unforgettable Vietnam adventure. With the right prep, you’re not just visiting; you’re immersing.

So, ready to dive deep into Vietnam’s rich tapestry? Go on, let the country’s beauty and culture sweep you off your feet. And hey, don’t forget to send me a postcard! 💌

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vietnam safe for solo travelers.

Absolutely! Vietnam is generally safe for solo travelers . Just keep your wits about you, especially in crowded areas.

Do I need to know Vietnamese to travel around?

Not really! While knowing a few basic phrases can be handy (and appreciated!), many locals in tourist areas speak English.

Can I use my credit card everywhere in Vietnam?

Not everywhere. While major cities and tourist spots accept cards, it’s wise to carry some cash, especially in remote areas.

What’s the best way to travel between cities in Vietnam?

Trains, buses, and flights – oh my! Each has its perks. Trains offer scenic views, buses are budget-friendly, and flights are quick. Choose what suits your vibe!

Is street food safe to eat?

Yum, street food! Most of it is safe and delicious. Just stick to busy stalls (a crowd is a good sign!) and watch how it’s prepared.

Similar Posts

What Not To Do In Vietnam: 20 Tips for Travelers

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy WONDERING WHAT TO DO AND WHAT NOT TO DO IN VIETNAM? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  Hello, fellow adventurer! Are you gearing up to explore the captivating landscapes of Vietnam? From vibrant…

What to Wear in Vietnam for a Comfortable and Respectful Visit

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy WONDERING WHAT TO WEAR IN VIETNAM? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015! Vietnam, a vibrant country with a rich cultural tapestry, has a unique dress culture. Over the years, Western fashion has made…

Navigating Transportation in Vietnam: Travel Guide 2024

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy WANT TO LEARN ABOUT TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM? Look no further! Our journey through Vietnam since 2015 ensures you’re in good hands. First up, let’s talk about getting around. we’ve personally hopped on everything from buzzing motorbikes to tranquil boat rides, and each…

Solo Travel Vietnam: Ultimate Travel Guide 2024

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy PLANNING A SOLO TRAVEL VIETNAM ADVENTURE? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015! Hey there, fellow traveler! 🌍 Ever thought about setting foot in the mesmerizing landscapes of Vietnam all by yourself? Well, you’re…

Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam: Useful Travel Guide 2024

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy HERE ARE THE THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO VIETNAM! You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  Hello, fellow adventurers! Ready to explore the vibrant and captivating country of Vietnam? With its rich history,…

Mastering Etiquette in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy WANT TO LEARN BASIC ETIQUETTE IN VIETNAM? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  Vietnam, a country rich in history and culture, places great emphasis on values such as humility, restraint, and modesty. Picture…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Travel, Hiking, Food

10 Days in Vietnam: The Best 10 Day Vietnam Itinerary For First Timers

Have 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is full of amazing places to see but if you want to see the best places in Vietnam, then follow my 10 day Vietnam Itinerary! This Vietnam itinerary is based on my repeated trips to Vietnam so I can guarantee you will love these places!

Vietnam is probably one of the most underrated countries in Southeast Asia . While most of the tourists flock to Thailand or Singapore, I loved Vietnam so much that I went back multiple times just to explore different regions of Vietnam.

Vietnam is a country with rich history and culture, incredible food, beautiful beaches, mountains and scenery that will leave you surprised and amazed. It is one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia and it is probably the No.1 country I would recommend visiting in SE Asia.

There are many ways to spend 10 days in Vietnam. This Vietnam itinerary will focus on how to see the highlights of Vietnam from North to South.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Thank you for supporting my blog.

Planning your first trip to Vietnam?

I have written a TON on Vietnam to help you plan your amazing Vietnam trip.

Whether you are planning to spend 10 days or 2 weeks in Vietnam, you will definitely find these articles helpful.

From sleeper trains to Halong Bay cruise to Ba Na Hills to Hue , these articles will for sure make your trip memorable and fun!

Where To Visit in Vietnam

Vietnam has a diverse landscape, spanning from the North to South, including mountains, rivers (and bay), rice terraces, the largest cave in the world, and beaches. Vietnam offers both modern cities and ancient towns, providing you with different experiences and a glance into its history.

Some of the best places to visit in Vietnam include (by Region):

Northern Vietnam

Central Vietnam

• Son Dong Cave
• My Son Sanctuary

Southern Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City

This 10 day Vietnam itinerary will cover some of the places above, assuming you are a first time visitor! Since there are multiple ways to plan a Vietnam trip and my itinerary is only an example you can follow, you can always swap out certain things as you plan your own Vietnam trip. Regardless of what you plan to do and see in Vietnam, I am still super jealous of all the great experience and food you will have on your trip.

Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam For The First Time

• Vietnam Tourist Visa may be required if you are from certain countries (like from the US or Canada). Make sure to check the visa requirement before you go. Some countries do enjoy visa-free entry into Vietnam, including many EU and Asian Countries (excluding China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, etc). You can apply for the Vietnam E-Visa online yourself on the official government website. It takes no more than 10 minutes and only costs USD 25. Follow my step by step instruction on how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa .
• Currency in Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong and 1 USD is about 23,500 Vietnamese Dong.
• You need to have cash with you in Vietnam; most places do not accept credit card. You should have some USD (or Euros) with you so you can convert in Vietnam (like at hotels and banks) as ATMs are not readily available everywhere.
• Use ATMs if you intend on taking out cash. You get better rates at local ATMs than if you were to exchange money
• Do not drink the tap water in Vietnam and try not to get ice cubes with your drinks; buy water but make sure the bottles are properly sealed
• Download Whatsapp ! Businesses are done over Whatsapp (like bus/ train booking, hotel communication etc). It is so much easier to communicate over Whatsapp than email.
• Your hotel can help you book almost everything , such as transportation, tours, attractions, etc.
• A travel adapter/ converter is needed if you are traveling from North America and Europe.
• Use an eSim or get a physical sim for Vietnam if you need internet.
• Vaccine requirements for Vietnam : I didn’t take any special vaccines but if you are curious, visit the official CDC website here .

Where to Stay in Vietnam

It is super easy to find cheap (but good) accommodations in Vietnam. In fact we’ve stayed at a wide range of hotels and guest houses in Vietnam, from $30 a day to $200 a day (for two people).

The detailed itinerary below shows you where to stay in Vietnam in each of the cities on this itinerary but here I will give you a short highlight. These are the places I’ve stayed at in Vietnam since I’ve been a couple of times.

• Hanoi : Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter
• Halong Bay : Stellar of the Sea Cruise
• Ninh Binh : Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow
• Hoi An: Q Villa
• Ho Chi Minh City : The Reverie Saigon
• Phu Quoc : L’Azure Resort and Spa

10 Day Vietnam Itinerary

Here is an overview of how to spend 10 days in Vietnam, then you will see the detailed day to day itinerary. This itinerary starts from the North in the capital city of Vietnam and moves down south.

Day 1 : Hanoi Day 2 : Ninh Binh Day 3-4 : Halong Bay Cruise Day 5-6 : Hoi An in Central Vietnam Day 7 & 8 : Ho Chi Minh City Day 9 & 10 : Phu Quoc Island

Day 1: Hanoi

Start your 10 day Vietnam journey in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam and the largest city in Northern Vietnam. It is a super nice city to visit and a great place to start your 10 days in Vietnam.

If you are flying into Hanoi, here is a guide on Hanoi Airport to Old Quarters to give you some ideas on the best way to go to Old Quarters. For first time visitors, you will most likely be staying in the Old Quarter and do sightseeing around there.

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and it is a cultural mix of Western and Eastern influences. As you wander around Hanoi, you will see there are many well preserved colonial buildings as well as ancient pagodas in Hanoi.

What to see in Hanoi

A few famous places in Hanoi you can check out include

• Hanoi Old Quarter
• Temple of Literature
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Night markets (beware of pickpockets)
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Visit pagodas and Cathedrals
• Thong Nhat Park
• Train Street
• Beer Corner

I absolutely loved just walking around the Old Quarter to see what local life is like there. You will find tons of street food vendors, shops and coffee shops. If you see something that looks appealing, be sure to stop and try it!

In particular I enjoyed walking around the Old Quarter at night. On specific nights there will be night markets where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, food, and other small trinkets. You should also stop by the super famous Beer Street if you want to see how lively Old Quarter gets at night! I was walking alone and felt totally safe around 7-9pm!

You can also watch a show at the Opera House, see a water puppet show in Hanoi and shop at the famous Dong Xuan Market.

One very famous Instagram worthy thing to do in Hanoi is to visit the Hanoi Train Street , where you can watch an actual train speed by along a cramped street full of cafes and shops (although some cafes may have closed due to government order and the pandemic).

Due to accidents in recent years, train streets do randomly get “closed down” but you can still visit. The most popular stretch of the train street have a lot of cafes and sometimes you will need a cafe owner to bring you in from the “backdoor”.

Other parts of train street without cafes are always open.

Usually the trains come at 3:20pm (weekends only) and 7:30pm (weekday) but the timing is not always accurate. It’s best to go before the scheduled time and just wait around.

Tours You Should Consider in Hanoi

Hanoi has a ton of things to eat and I think you really should take one of the street food tours to explore the best local flavors. I highly recommend this Hanoi street food tour if you are curious about authentic Vietnamese cuisine!

If you are scared of street food don’t worry, you can always do a cooking class . I personally love the cooking class because you really get to learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dish at home.

Where to stay in Hanoi

I stayed at the Meritel Hanoi in the center of Old Quarter. The hotel is super modern with a rooftop pool and they helped us book our day trips to Tam Coc and Ha Long Bay overnight cruise the first time we visited Vietnam.

Another 2 hotels we stayed at in Hanoi during our two visits were Babylon Premium Hotel and La Storia Ruby Hotel . Both were good and La Storia Ruby Hotel was quite cheap and sufficient.

If you want to stay somewhere very luxurious in Hanoi, then I would recommend either the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or the Movenpick Hotel Hanoi . But personally I think the hotels I mentioned above are already really nice and clean.

Read Next : How to Spend 2 days in Sapa

Day 2: Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) Day Trip From Hanoi

Take a day trip from Hanoi the next day to Tam Coc , an area in Ninh Binh .

Tam Coc is known as “ Halong Bay on land “. It’s an area with rice paddies and Ngo Dong River running through limestone caves and mountains. It’s located 90 km from Hanoi but it’s way less crowded than Hanoi or Halong Bay.

You can take a full day tour to Tam Coc and different tours do offer different options.

• Tour Option 1 : Goes to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital , Mua Cave (beautiful view of the area), Tam Coc boat ride on Ngo Dong River and Bich Dong Pagoda .
• Tour Option 2 : Includes Bai Dinh Pagoda , Mua Cave and a 3 hour Trang An Boat ride (which is different than the 2 hour Tam Coc Boat ride above).

With the first tour , you can do the boat ride on the Ngo Dong River , where the rowers are local ladies who use their feet to row the boat. They are so good at it that it feels like they’ve been doing it forever. I suppose it’s just a lot easier to row with your legs/feet instead of arms.

This 3 hour Trang An Boat Ride with the second tour has 3 different routes and you get to pick the route and get off the boat at each stop along the boat ride. I really liked the Trang An boat ride (more than the Tam Coc one actually).

The whole area of Tam Coc looked like it’s straight out of a painting. I actually think the scenery in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) is the most beautiful during our 10 days in Vietnam trip.

If you do not want to join a tour, you can definitely visit Ninh Binh by yourself from Hanoi. You can rent a scooter (or hire a private taxi) once you are in Tam Coc to explore all the spots.

You can take buses or trains (or even private transfer) from Hanoi by booking them on this website . This would give you more flexibility especially if you plan to stay overnight or spend more time at a particular spot.

Day 3 & 4: Halong Bay Overnight Boat Cruise

Halong Day is famous for its thousands of limestone islands in the emerald water. It is located in Northern Vietnam about 3-4 hours from Hanoi . Most people take an overnight boat tour on Ha Long Bay because it’s simply too far from Hanoi to do a day trip.

I have been to Halong Bay twice and had a good time both times.

Different cruise companies offer different types of activities and amenities. Some of the cruise companies go to Lan Ha Bay and the itinerary includes exploring caves at Cat Ba Island, swimming and morning kayaking.

Some other cruise companies go to Halong Bay and they would go to floating villages and hiking up Titop Island for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

While onboard, Halong Bay cruises generally have Tai-chi class, cooking class, lounge chairs, deck, Happy Hour (you need to pay for the drinks), common area with TV and DVDs, evening squid fishing, etc.

Having done the Halong Bay cruise twice, I really do feel the cruise was the most relaxing part of our entire 10 day Vietnam itinerary (and yes I did two 10 day trips in Vietnam and both were intense!)

Everything was arranged and you just relax on one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. You also get to try some Vietnamese wine and beer on the boat with this view, so what more could you need?

In recent years many newer cruises offer a route to Lan Ha Bay (a part of Halong Bay that is not as touristy). If you want a more laidback and relaxing trip to Halong Bay you can consider cruises offering routes to Lan Ha Bay.

Some of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises now include Emperor Cruise , Orchid Cruise , Stellar of the Seas Cruise , Heritage Cruise , etc. These are the instagram worthy cruises that you often see on social media with the pool on deck and floor to ceiling glass bathrooms.

To learn more about Halong Bay, see my complete Halong Bay Cruise guide .

Day 5 & 6: Hoi An Ancient Town

After spending a few lovely days in Northern Vietnam it was time to start traveling south to the middle of Vietnam. Hoi An is an ancient town located in the middle of Vietnam (near the water on the eastern side of the country).

Hoi An is one of the most well known towns in Vietnam due to its well preserved historical center and the colorful lanterns and buildings. It used to be a major trading port from the 15th to 19th century. Since it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will get to experience how life looked like back in the days.

How to Hoi An From Hanoi

To travel from Hanoi to Hoi An, the fastest way is to fly. There are trains and buses to Hoi An but they take much longer although if you are planning to do an overnight bus or train these are good choices.

Hoi An does not have an airport of its own, so travelers need to fly from Hanoi to Danang (which is also a cool place to visit, it has a beach!). There are over 20 flights from Hanoi to Da Nang everyday and it’s a short flight about 1.5 hours.

Once you land in Da Nang, look for the bus station to Hoi An. Alternatively you can take a taxi or have your hotel pick you up. Our hotel offered to pick us up at 315.000 vnd/car, which is about 15 USD.

Things to See in Hoi An

• Japanese Covered Bridge : The most famous site in Hoi An is the Japanese Covered Bridge , it’s a historical piece of Japanese architecture. If you want to walk through the bridge then you have to pay an entrance fee , so most visitors actually opt to just take a photo in front of the Japanese Covered Bridge.
• Assembly Halls : There are a number of assembly halls in Hoi An and they were built by the Chinese community that lived there during the trading period. Some of the most famous Assembly Halls in Hoi An include Cantonese Asembly Hall and Fujian Assembly Hall.
• Visit the Old Houses : Within the touristy zone there are 18th century Old Houses. You can visit these Old Houses and do a guided tour to learn more about the architecture as well as the historical background of them. We visited Tan Ky Old House and it was really interesting to know what the family experienced back then.
• Visit a local market : If you are interested to see how locals shop or just want to look for some cheap fruits and everyday items, then be sure to stop by the Hoi An Central Market. I was able to get a large T-shirt (as PJ), nail clipper and other random things from the central market.
• Get clothes tailored : Hoi An is tailor capital of Vietnam so you can find a large number of tailor shops in the old town. We went to Ba Ri to get a couple of dresses made and the turn around time was within 2 days.
• Enjoy the lanterns at night : Hoi An is literally the cutest with all the lanterns lit up on its streets at night.
• Check out Hoi An Night Market : Night market is a popular thing to do in Hoi An south of the river. You can find cooked food as well as clothes, gadgets and souvenirs at the night market.
• Take a boat ride & release lanterns : A super romantic thing to do in Hoi An is to take a 20 minute boat ride on Thu Bon River at night. You can  pre-book the boat here .

Read Next : How to spend one day in Hoi An – what to do and eat in Hoi An

(Optional Day Trip From Hoi An) Golden Bridge (Hand Bridge) in Ba Na Hills

In June 2018, Vietnam opened an incredibly cool looking bridge called the Golden Bridge near the city of Da Nang in Ba Na Hills Resort. Photos on social media immediately attracted tons of tourist and many visitors are going to Vietnam just for the Golden Bridge or the Hand Bridge.

Golden Bridge is located in a theme park called Sun World Ba Na Hills and can only be visited by riding a cable car up in the Ba Na Hills Resort. The bridge is 1500m above sea level and it’s about 500ft long.

Fortunately for those of you visiting Hoi An, you can take a taxi from Hoi An to Ba Na hills in about 1-1.5 hours to visit the Golden Bridge.

After you visit the Golden Bridge, you should also explore other attractions at Ba Na Hills such as the French Village , Le Jardin D’Amour , Linh Ung Pagoda , etc.

You can check out my Golden Hand Bridge guide to get more details.

If you have some extra time in Vietnam, be sure to check out this 3 day Danang itinerary which also includes how to visit the Golden Bridge.

Where to Stay in Hoi An

For beach lovers, you would love the luxury Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa    or the Dai An Phu Villa . You can walk to the beach in under 5 minutes and there is a free shuttle service to Hoi An Ancient Town. There are spas and massages at the hotel for a truly luxurious experience.

For those who want to stay in a medium ranged hotel closer to the Hoi An ancient town, I would recommend either the Silk Luxury Hotel & Spa or Vinh Hung Heritage hotel .

If you are a budget traveler, there are nice hotels/ hostels that cost less than 30 USD a night that’s close to the center of Hoi An historical town such as Hoi An Ivy Hotel or Q Villa . We stayed at Q Villa and loved it.

Day 7 & 8: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam by population. It’s located in the Southern part of Vietnam and has a tropical (wet and dry season) climate.

Ho Chi Minh City played an important role during the Vietnam War (anti-communist). Before that it was ruled by the Japanese and French, so that’s why most of the architectures you see in Ho Chi Mihn City are of French influence.

You can fly to Ho Chi Minh directly on Jetstar from Da Nang.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City : some of the things you can do in Saigon include the

• Cu Chi Tunnels (underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War)
• Binh Tay Market and Ben Thanh Market
• Independence Palace
• War Remnants Museum
• Cao Dai Temple
• Jade emperor Pagoda
• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
• bar hopping at Pham Ngu Lau Street
• Visit a rooftop bar

If you have time, you can also do some excursions outside of the city, such as a visit to the Mekong Delta , the Cai Be Floating Market , etc.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh : if you are looking to stay at a hostel, check out this post on hostels in Ho Chi Minh .

If you prefer a more luxurious experience, then I would highly recommend either The Reverie Saigon , Silverland Yen Hotel , or the Alagon D’antique Hotel & Spa .

Day 9 & 10: Beach At Phú Quốc

After the hustling and bustling of Saigon, it’s time to relax on the beach! Most people don’t realize that Vietnam has nice beaches (at least I didn’t know) but I was pleasantly surprised by the island of Phu Quoc .

Phu Quoc Island is located off the coast of Cambodia and is known for its white sand beaches and resorts. It’s a hidden gem because most tourists go to islands in Thailand so Phu Quoc is not nearly as crowded as Thailand.

Even though it was February but since the island is so south that it was actually a nice beach weather. There is a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc so it was perfect for our itinerary.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc : there are a lot of wonderful hotels in Phu Quoc by the beach, such as the Seashells Phu Quoc Hotel & Spa , L’Azure Resort and Spa , Movenpick Villas & Residences , Dusit Princess Moonrise Beach Resort , etc. These 5 star hotels are no more than $150 a night which is crazy to me since they would cost over $1000 a night in Hawaii or something!

What to do in Phu Quoc : BEACH!! There are many nice beaches in Phu Quoc such as Truong Beach , Vung Bau Beach , and Sao Beach . The most famous one would be the Sao beach.

If you are a fan of kayaking then this kayaking and starfish tour would be perfect for you.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities on Phu Quoc since the water is warm and calm.

Besides beach, you can also take the famous Phu Quoc cable car from Phu Quoc to Hon Thom Island. It takes about 15 minutes each way and it is a breathtaking experience. You get amazing views of the sea and islands on a clear day and it is the longest non-stop 3 way cable car in the world.

Other Vietnam Trip Planning Tips and Things to Know

Best (and worst) months to visit vietnam.

In general, December to April are the best months to visit Vietnam, avoiding the rainy season that takes place from June to October .

But since Vietnam is a very “long” country, there are different climates in different regions of Vietnam:

• Northern Vietnam : generally a lot cooler than the rest of the country. However, if you are in mountainous regions, the whether during November to March can be quite foggy and cold but relatively dry.
• Central Vietnam : enjoys tropical climate and has pretty warm weather almost year round. Central Vietnam gets the most amount of rainfall between September and November and there is a high chance of flooding.
• Southern Vietnam : generally enjoys a relatively consistent warm weather all year round, with the highest level of rainfall from May to October. The islands in Vietnam will be warm enough even in the “winter” months, but with the most clear skies in February.

How to get around Vietnam

It is pretty easy to get around Vietnam, and some of the most popular methods to get around Vietnam include:

• Rent a moped or motorbike : This is a flexible way to get around Vietnam cheaply. Motorbikes up to 50 cc can be ridden in Vietnam without a license, but this may not be the best option for long distance. If you are thinking about simply riding around a city, then this is the perfect option.
• Take a local bus : Local buses are the easiest way to travel long distance in Vietnam. You can take a sleeper bus to save time during your travel. This is the best website to book a Vietnam bus.
• Take a sleeper train : Sleeper trains are another convenient way to get around Vietnam. I took a luxury sleeper train to get from Hanoi to Sapa. This is the best website to book a sleeper train.
• Ride a shared van : You can easily book a shared luxury van to get around Vietnam. These vans come with AC and USB port and we took these vans to get to Halong Bay and Ninh Binh and loved them.
• Call car services : There is no Uber in Vietnam but you can use Grab App to call a car. It works just like Uber but I had to use cash to pay as for some reason my credit card didn’t go through.
• Take a flight : You can easily fly around Vietnam for cheap. I always took Vietnamese Airlines as it was more reliable and our flight from Hue to Hanoi was only 50 USD. My friends have taken Bamboo Airways or VietJet but said VietJet changed their flight to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is a pretty safe country for tourists, even for female solo travelers.

However, like any Southeast Asia country, there is petty crime such as pick pocketing. Be sure to watch your bags/wallets closely, especially in crowded areas (and if you do not look Asian).

I have heard stories from friends that their purses were slashed from behind when they were shopping at street markets in Hanoi.

If you have jewelry you may want to leave them at home. It is not prudent to flaunt your wealth with big bling blings in Vietnam. You may not get robbed but it’s frowned upon.

For those who are not familiar with the traffic conditions in Vietnam, you will need to watch out for cars and motorbikes . Motorbikes are the main transportation in Vietnam and in cities like Hanoi, it can get quite overwhelming.

Even though the drivers will try to avoid you (they are very good at that!), but still use caution when crossing the streets. Try to follow locals when crossing the street in Vietnam.

If you are thinking about taking overnight trains or buses, then the good news is that these types of public transportation is safe for solo travelers.

I took both overnight trains and buses, and they felt perfectly safe.

What to Eat in Vietnam

Different regions in Vietnam also have different speciality food. You will need to do some research to figure out what are the best local specialities are in each region. But in general, here are what some of the typical dishes are in Vietnam.

• Pho : The famous Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of fresh herbs and condiments. It is one of the best things you can eat in Northern Vietnam (at least I find the ones in Northern Vietnam tastier)
• Bánh Mì : World renowned Vietnamese sandwiches, which are typically filled with a combination of grilled meats, vegetables, pâté, and fresh herbs, served in a baguette. I had the best Banh Mi in Hoi An!
• Gỏi Cuốn : Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, pork, rice vermicelli, and other ingredients, often served with a peanut dipping sauce.
• Bún Chả : Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served over vermicelli noodles, often accompanied by fresh herbs, peanuts, and a dipping sauce. There are some really good places for this in Hanoi Old Quarter.
• Cơm Tấm : Broken rice served with grilled pork, fried egg, and fish sauce, often garnished with pickled vegetables.
• Bánh Xèo : Vietnamese sizzling pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, typically served with a dipping sauce. You can find some of these really good ones in Hue
• Bún Bò Huế : A spicy beef noodle soup originating from the city of Hue, featuring tender slices of beef and pork, lemongrass, and chili
• Cá Kho Tộ : A popular Vietnamese braised fish dish, often cooked in a caramelized sauce with black pepper and served with rice
• Bánh Cuốn : Steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and other ingredients, often served with fried shallots and fish sauce
• Chả Giò : Fried spring rolls, often filled with ground meat, shrimp, and vegetables, wrapped in rice paper
• Hủ tiếu : A noodle soup dish with a clear and flavorful broth, typically containing seafood, pork, and rice noodles
• Bánh Canh : A thick Vietnamese noodle soup made with wide, udon-like noodles and a variety of toppings, including seafood, meat, or vegetables.
• Hấp Hủ tiếu Nam Vang : A dish featuring clear rice noodles topped with a mixture of shrimp, squid, pork, and a special savory sauce.
• Bánh Khoai : A Vietnamese crepe or pancake often filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

There are also a ton of popular Vietnamese desserts that you should try, and here are some of the famous ones:

• Vietnamese coffee : You absolutely cannot leave Vietnam without trying their coffee, especially the famed Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee!
• Chè : Chè is a broad category of Vietnamese sweet soups or puddings made with a variety of ingredients. These can include mung beans, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, lotus seeds, tapioca pearls, and fruits.
• Bánh Bò : Bánh bò, also known as Vietnamese honeycomb cake, is a spongy, steamed cake made from rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, and coconut milk. It has a unique honeycomb-like texture.
• Bánh Chuối Hấp : This is a steamed banana cake, typically made with ripe bananas, rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. It’s a moist and fragrant dessert.
• Bánh Flan : Bánh flan is the Vietnamese version of crème caramel or flan. It consists of a layer of caramelized sugar topped with a creamy, egg-based custard.
• Bánh Tiêu : Bánh tiêu are Vietnamese hollow doughnuts that are deep-fried until they puff up and turn golden brown. They are often filled with sweet mung bean paste or custard.
• Chuối Nếp Nướng : Grilled sticky rice and bananas are a delightful dessert often found in Vietnam. The combination of grilled sticky rice and caramelized bananas creates a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
• Kem Xôi : This dessert combines two popular Vietnamese items, kem (ice cream) and xôi (sticky rice). The sticky rice is often dyed with natural colors and served with a scoop of ice cream.

To find good restaurants to eat in Vietnam, I would recommend that you use Google Maps and TripAdvisor ! We used both and found the reviews spot on!

How to get a SIM card and internet in Vietnam

I highly recommend that you get a SIM card when traveling in Vietnam. You can also purchase a Vietnam SIM card at the airport when you first arrive.

The most popular tourist SIM cards are offered by Viettel, Mobiphone, Vietnamobile and VinaPhone . I’ve seen a lot of people using Viettel so you can definitely consider that. You can ask for a 1 month tourist sim which costs about 10 – 20 USD (price and package may change since things change fast there).

If you want the convenience of just having your internet work right after you land, you can consider getting a Vietnam eSIM with Vietnamesim.com before you fly.

They provide a wide range of data plans and the most popular plan is 120GB for 30 days (max 4 GB per day) including free first 20 minutes of every call to Vinaphone numbers. I activated the eSim to one of my phones before I flew and internet worked immediately when I landed in Vietnam, so it was super convenient.

If you have T Mobile Magenta Plans (or Magenta Max Plans), you can enjoy free internet roaming . Magenta Max plans give you 5GB of high speed internet (then after that it’s 256kps speed) and Magenta plans give you 256kps speed internet.

Booking Resources for Vietnam

If you found this article useful, please consider using the links below to book your hotels and tours. We earn a fee from referring you at no cost to you. With your support we can continue to provide useful information for travelers like you to plan that perfect trip to Vietnam.

• Hotel booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Tours booking sites for Vietnam :  this  or  this
• Travel insurance
• Train and bus booking site

Read My Other Vietnam Travel Blogs

Be sure to check out my other Vietnam travel resources to help plan your trip!

• How to get a Vietnam E-Visa
• 1 Day Hoi An itinerary and Travel Guide
• 2 Day Hue Itinerary to see the best Hue Tourist Attractions
• Best things to do in Sapa in 2 days
• Complete Halong Bay Cruise Guide
• What to do and see in Cat Cat Village in Sapa
• Visiting Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills
• Vietnam Sleeper Train Guide
• 3 Week Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary
• 2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary (4 Alternative Itineraries)

Like this post? Pin this 10 day Vietnam itinerary to Pinterest!

Read my privacy policy .

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

Vietnam tips: a first-timer's guide

Aug 12, 2019 • 6 min read

Halong Bay is a World Heritage Sight and a highlight for many visitors to Vietnam © ©César Asensio / 500px

There's a lot to love about travelling in Vietnam , which stretches from the soaring mountains and fascinating ethnic groups of the north to the endless rice paddies and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south, with more than 3000km of glorious coastline in between.

Throw in a good transport infrastructure of buses, trains and flights and an abundance of cheap but excellent street food and it's no surprise Vietnam graces countless bucket lists. But, like any country, it has its challenges, and some visitors come home with tales of scams, hectic roads and pushy vendors. Following these top tips will help you avoid the major pitfalls, and ensure you come away from your first visit to Vietnam with happy memories, as well as your souvenir conical hat.

Vietnam 's long exposure to foreigners means that many local residents aren’t as overtly curious about visitors as some of their counterparts in Cambodia , Myanmar and Laos . Also, because most Vietnamese are not confident with spoken English despite learning it in school, people tend to ignore lost-looking foreigners unless you actually ask for help. But be assured that the Vietnamese really are friendly people. If you ask someone a question with a smile and in slow, clear English, you’ll almost certainly have it answered and the smile returned. Simple phrases such as  xin chào ('hello', pronounced 'seen chow') and cám ơn ('thank you', pronounced 'kaam uhn') go a long way.

Get connected

While most hotels , cafes and restaurants have wi-fi, you can easily buy a SIM card and get connected to the internet for as little as US$3. Vietnamese street names are notoriously long (most are named after people), so digital maps trump paper ones for many travellers. You’ll also find having a local phone number handy for meeting up with tour guides and making last-minute bookings on the road. SIM cards are widely sold in corner shops and are easy to top up. Once you have a card, the process to register for internet can be tricky, so ask the shopkeeper or your hotel to do it for you. Lonely Planet's Guides app covers Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .

Know your dong from your dollar

The Vietnamese dong is the currency of Vietnam and comes in denominations ranging from 200 to 500,000 (about US$22 at the time of writing). While it’s thrilling to become a Vietnamese millionaire, dealing with that many zeros can become frustrating, especially since some of the currency is very similar in colour. For example, the 10,000d note and the 200,000d note are both tan while the 20,000d and 500,000d notes are both blue. It’s very easy to hand over the wrong bill to a taxi driver while in a rush. Spend a minute in your room before going out to sort your bills to avoid overpaying. Even if you do end up overpaying a small amount for certain things, take it in stride. In the grand scheme of things, it’ll likely not be worth the aggravation.

While international credit and debit cards are accepted at most larger hotels, restaurants and travel agencies (sometimes with an added fee), cash is still king in Vietnam for day-to-day transactions. ATMs are widely available, and currency can be exchanged at banks (and some gold shops, although this practice is frowned upon by the government).

Note that the official system of separate prices for Vietnamese and foreigners – which applied to everything from train tickets to entrance fees – is a thing of the past.

Be wary of taxi scams

For many, motorcycle taxis are the best way see the thronging streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, scams can happen, and your best protection is a decent knowledge of where you are going and points along the way. Always agree on a price beforehand and be prepared to be quoted a higher price than the locals. For regular taxis, stick to the two major companies of Mai Linh and Vinasun (both have apps). Smaller, independent taxis are known for fast meters and aggressive drivers. If you’re in one of the larger cities, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Grab are good, offering both car and motorcycle taxis. Sometimes the driver will call to confirm, so having a Vietnamese-speaking friend nearby will come in handy.

Know your transport options

Overnight buses are a good way to cover long distances and save on accommodation costs. However, the layback seats don’t offer much legroom, so tallish passengers (anyone over 1.6m) will find it impossible to stretch out fully. While the top bunk offers slightly more privacy, they can be right at the height of street lights. Sleep masks, ear plugs and noise-cancelling headphones (especially if the bus is playing music or movies) are recommended.

That said, sometimes you can pay a few more dollars and fly – the more convenient but less sustainable option . Vietnam has several budget airlines, which offer cheap fares but are notorious for being late and strictly enforcing carry-on limits. The national carrier, Vietnam Airlines, has better service and comparable pricing if booked in advance.

More comfortable than buses and cheaper than flights, train travel is another option for getting around Vietnam. A railway line spans the length of the country, following the coastline from HCMC all the way to Hanoi and beyond. It's a must for rail enthusiasts, with the ride considered amongst the most amazing train journeys in the world .

Be aware of your surroundings

Violent crime is extremely rare in Vietnam, and firearms are heavily regulated. But snatch-and-grabs and, to a lesser extent, pickpocketing, do happen. It pays to be vigilant. Use your phone and other electronics sparingly when outside (even while sitting at a sidewalk cafe or on the back of a motorbike). Leave your passport at the hotel; there’s rarely a reason to have the original on you.

Also, while Vietnam has some of the cheapest beer in the world, be careful about overdoing it. Inebriated tourists wandering back to their hotel in the morning hours when there is little traffic around can be seen as easy targets. If you come home late at night, go with a friend and splurge the extra dollar or two on an automobile taxi instead of a motorcycle taxi.

Be safe on the roads

Traffic in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can seem terrifying at first glance. Just walking across the street during rush hour can feel like an impossible task! But there is method to the madness and, like a school of fish, the traffic will inevitably glide around you as long as you keep moving at a slow and steady pace. If unsure, do as the locals do and raise one hand high to be seen above the sea of helmets.

If you’re looking to drive a motorbike yourself, it’s best to save it for one of the quieter destinations like Hoi An , Dalat or Phu Quoc . Always wear a helmet, and be aware of the exhaust pipe, which has caused many a leg burn. As motorbikes tend to drive closely to each other, keep your feet pointed inwards and think of wearing closed shoes which offer extra protection for your feet.

For more tips on planning a trip to Vietnam, including what to wear and what to book in advance, see our planning tips .

This article was originally published in July 2012 and most recently updated in August 2019.

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/vietnam-travel-guide-14

Explore related stories

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

June 25 is a holiday we can all get behind: Bourdain Day, saluting life and legacy of the one-of-a-kind chef-adventurer. Here are 22 places he loved.

May 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

• Ho Chi Minh City

PLANNING A TRIP

Experience all the essence of country’s beauty and service

The hardest part of traveling is to make a proper plan that is best suited for your requirements. Though Vietnam is not a big country, it's jam-packed with destinations and things to explore. Before visiting Vietnam, you need to read a comprehensive guideline about the country, figure out the best time to visit, where to stay, places of interest, etc. Also, research an itinerary that is suitable to your budget and amount of traveling time. Moreover, grasping some essential tips is vital if you want to complete your trip smoothly.

Unique Vietnam Tour

Experience unique Vietnam in 13 days. Expect the sun-drenched, palm-fringed beaches in beautiful Nha Trang, ancient town Hoi An, undisturbed Sapa, traditional Hanoi - and more are waiting ahead.

From Hanoi to Hoi An

Smell the ocean air in modern Da Nang. Take a deep breath of morning fresh air on a boat deck while cruising through scenic Ha Long Bay. Wander around sophisticated night street in Hanoi. Essential Vietnam are all here in this 14-day trip.

Sapa Photography Tour

A ultimately designed tour for those who have terminal passion for photography. A one-in-a-lifetime chance to take priceless pictures of primordial Sapa. You will be brought to less-touristy places with untouched, spectacular waterfall, boundless green rice paddy field.

Bai Tu Long Bay Tour

See the best of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay with our ultimate cruise tour. You will enjoy both the activities on board and the many places you are about to visit.

Halong Bay - Cat Ba Island

Spend 3 day 2 night on Halong Bay with 1 night on board and 1 night on Cat Ba Island. Experience the beauty of the world's wonder and spend a day on the largest island of the Bay.

Vietnam Budget Tour

All of considered best places in Vietnam are included in one 13-day trip. Travel to the most famous cities in Vietnam. Visit antique Hue and ancient Hoi An. Experience cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City or meet friendly Hanoi people. Going from North to South of Vietnam, you will surely be caught in many more great surprises.

Vietnam Honeymoon Tour

A perfectly designed tour for newly married couples. A selective collection of heaven-alike and romantic places in Vietnam - sparkling night in Hoi An, amorous Perfume River in Hue or Nha Trang's affectionate beach resorts.

Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong - Phu Quoc Island

Visit crowded busy streets in Ho Chi Minh City. Head down to idyllic fishing villages along Mekong Delta. Admire sun-drenched beaches of Phu Quoc Island. There are still a lot more in this 8-day trip which are enough to captivate you entirely.

Hanoi - Sapa Luxury Package

This tour package is perfectly suitable for those who cannot spare much time for holidays. Travel for a significant grasp of the two most beautiful cities in northern Vietnam. Hanoi and Sapa are at its best when the time comes to the end of year.

Luxury Hanoi - Halong Bay Trip

Take a short break and refresh the mind in 5-day-long tour. See Hanoi at its purest and meet its friendly local. Sunbath on boat deck while cruising through scenic and magnificent Halong Bay.

Vietnam Family Tour - 11 days

Ignite the love's fire by visiting the must-visit places in Vietnam. This tour trip is perfectly designed for families with children or couples. Visit attractive capital city Hanoi, appreciate splendid Ha Long Bay, or experience ancient capital city Hue.

Vietnam - Cambodia in 14 days

Experience the essential of Vietnam and Cambodia at once in 14-day-long trip. Have utter surprise in every single day of traveling time. Visit to the most uncanny and mysterious places in Cambodia. And enjoy the peaceful, intriguing Vietnam.

From South of Vietnam to Cambodia

Let your travel satisfaction be pushed to its maximum. Find out what Vietnam and Cambodia are all about in just more than a week. Experience the most typical features of the two countries: peaceful, attractive and charming Vietnam; solemn, mysterious yet romantic Cambodia.

Best of Northern Vietnam

Hanoi, Ha Long, and Sapa are among the must-see destinations in Northern Vietnam. Experience their best in 7-day trip to catch the rough, yet significant glimpse of the three places.

Essential Highlights of Vietnam

Experience the very best parts of Vietnam in only 2 weeks. Enjoy the plain, albeit hard to be recognized, beauty of many Vietnamese places, from ancient Hoi An, attractive Hanoi to charming Hue and peaceful Can Tho.

Meet our experts

Suggested Holiday Packages

Suggested Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 2 Weeks, or 1 Month

Vietnam has become one of our favorite travel destinations. This post will help you create the best Vietnam itinerary for your own trip, whether it’s for 10 days, 2 weeks, or 1 month.

We had the good fortune of having friends who were living in Vietnam for several years. They showed us around Hanoi and introduced us to the culture. We loved visiting Vietnam so much, we’ve returned many times, staying longer each time.

In this article, we’ll focus on destinations in Vietnam that we personally know best, although we’ll also briefly cover other popular places to see.

Updated: January 2024. Originally published: 2019.

* Access our free Vietnam Destinations guide here * When to Visit Vietnam

We were a little shocked to learn that summer is a high season for visitors to Vietnam since it gets incredibly hot and humid. We personally prefer traveling to Vietnam in winter (October through March) for better temperatures.

Each region of Vietnam varies with the weather.

Hanoi in the North and DaLat in the mountains can actually get quite cold in mid-winter. Fall is probably the best time to visit Hanoi when the temperatures are moderate and rain is minimal. Mid-summer is their rainy season.

Hoi An and the Central Coast has a heavy rain season in October and November which may cause floods. And field burning can seriously affect air quality after harvests in April. January and February are ideal times to visit.

Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the South should be best from November through February. The hot, rainy season in the South tends to be April through September.

Finally, if you’re visiting in late January or February, be sure to look up the dates for Vietnam’s Tet Holiday . This is the country’s biggest celebration season, and many businesses stop operating for 3 to 10 days. The holiday makes it much more challenging to travel and find amenities that are open during this time.

Top Destinations in Vietnam

Our suggested itinerary does not include all of the best places to go in Vietnam–there are too many for that. But we wanted to give you an overview. Here is a quick summary, from North to South.

Sapa – Lush green mountain village with French colonial remnants

Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital. Absolutely fascinating, buzzing with motorcycle traffic, and charming Old Town. International airport is a common start or end point.

Ha Long Bay – Where thousands of steep limestone karsts dot the bay, one of Vietnam’s most visited places

Mai Chau – Minority ethnic village in a lush valley of rice fields

Ninh Binh – “Ha Long Bay on land” where impressive karsts rise from the land and rivers

Phong Nha – An up-and-coming National Park destination with enormous caves

Hue – Former national capital with citadel, and bordering the De-Militarized Zone during Vietnam-American War

Da Nang – Coastal city with growing international airport and beaches

Hoi An – Charming Ancient Town was once a major trading port, beach nearby

Nha Trang – Long white sand beaches

Da Lat – A fertile City of Eternal Spring in the mountains

Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. International airport is a common start or end point.

Phu Quoc – Island vacation destination

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

Planning A Trip to Vietnam? We can help…

Schedule a vietnam trip consultation, vietnam itinerary map.

Generally, we suggest staying in each destination for a minimum of two nights, ideally longer . 

If you can be content with “seeing less” and narrowing down the number of stops, we believe you’ll have a much more enjoyable trip.

To be honest, our first recommendation would be spending your whole ten days or two weeks in our favorite Vietnam destination: Hoi An .

With a nice Hoi An homestay as your base, you could do a number of great day trips . This is what we do when hosting our one-week Hoi An Un Tour .

But we also understand that most people do want to see more of Vietnam, especially if it may be your only chance to visit.

Which Vietnam airport should you fly to?

For this guide, we’ve written a North to South Vietnam Itinerary, however, it can be easily reversed to go South to North.

If you’re not able to book an “open jaw” ticket, flying into one city and out of another, you can always book an inter-country flight to get you back to your starting point. Just allow another half day for this additional travel.

To follow our itineraries below, it would be most ideal to fly into Hanoi and fly out of either Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.

What will a Vietnam trip cost?

When it comes to Vietnam, your biggest expense is usually the flight to get there. Budget travelers can spend under $25/day USD per person, with meals to be had for as low as $2 and lodging under $20.

Of course, traveling around Vietnam means adding more transportation costs . Taking the train from North to South, for example, would be about $40 USD in a seat and around $65 in an air-conditioned sleeper. One-way flights covering the same distance range from $27 USD to $160.

Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway here >

You can splurge for a one-hour massage starting at $12 USD. Book luxury hotel rooms for $60. And enjoy three-course meals for $10 to $30 per person.

That’s not to say you won’t find great value spending closer to the local standard, which we encourage.

All in all, 10 days in Vietnam could easily cost under $500 for food and lodging. Add a few hundred more for guided day tours and other special experiences.

The last time we stayed longer-term in Hoi An, our monthly total was under $750 for all our living expenses.

Learn about our Vietnam trip consultations and other services here

Here is a quick overview of our suggested itineraries for Vietnam. Read on for more details about each place.

Vietnam Itinerary: 10 Days, 3+ Cities

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4-5: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 5: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang Day 5 – 10: Hoi An Day 10: Fly out of Da Nang

Vietnam Itinerary: 2 Weeks, 5 Destinations

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight trip. Choose from:   * Mai Chau   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 7 – 8: Hue Day 9: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 9 – 13: Hoi An Day 13: Fly Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh (or back to Hanoi)   * Overnight in HCMC

Vietnam Itinerary: 1 Month North to South Trip

Arrive to Hanoi – Day 0 Day 1 – 4: Hanoi Day 4 – 6: Overnight Trip #1. Choose from:   * Ninh Binh   * Ha Long Bay Day 7 – 9: Overnight Trip #2   * Mai Chau Day 9: Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Train to Hue Day 9 – 11: Hue Day 11: Hue to Hoi An Motorbike Tour Day 11 – 17: Hoi An Day 17: Fly to Da Lat Day 17 – 21: Da Lat Day 21: Fly or bus to Ho Chi Minh Day 21 – 28: Ho Chi Minh City Day 28: Fly out of HCMC or back to Hanoi

  Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services we believe in, and the opinions expressed in this post are our own.

Vietnam Itinerary Highlights & Where to Stay

Whether you’re spending ten days in Vietnam, two weeks, or more than a month, here’s a bit more about what to see, foods to try, and best places to stay in each destination.

Hanoi: Vietnam’s Capitol in the North

What to do: Hanoi is one of the most fascinating cities we’ve ever been to. With the number of motorcycles and the things they carry, one of the city’s biggest marvels is the traffic.

You will need to relearn how to cross the street . 

Hanoi has much to offer visitors. From delicious street food to historic landmarks, most people concentrate their visit around the Old Town French Quarter area, North of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. From here, you can make a base to see the city as well as day trips to surrounding areas.

Learn more about the city’s points of interest in our article: Hanoi on a Budget + Map

We recommend:

– Walking around one of the many lakes first thing in the morning – Trying coconut coffee at Cong Caphe – Trying egg coffee – Eating Bún chả (Vermicelli noodles, grilled pork, herbs, fish sauce) – Taking a food tour with a local

Click to see Hanoi tours here >

Where to stay in Hanoi:

Proximity to Hanoi’s Old Quarter is recommended. The following are highly rated accommodations in this area:

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – $ – Elegant dorm style with continental breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Hanoi Garden House – $$ – Rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Eco Boutique Hotel  – $$$ – New rooms with private bath and breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau: Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  Nestled in a scenic valley in Vietnam’s Northern mountains, you’ll find traditional stilt house villages of Vietnam’s ethnic minority peoples: White Thai and Black Thai.

Tourism found Mai Châu years ago, but it’s still a great place to slow down and encounter another culture.

Due to its distance from Hanoi (3 – 4 hours if you hire a driver), we have excluded Mai Châu from the 10 day itinerary but provide it as an option if you’re staying for 2 weeks or more. Mai Châu may be considered an alternative to Sapa, another mountain destination in the North which tends to get more attention.

Learn more about things to do in our article: Mai Châu on a Budget

– Staying overnight in a traditional homestay – Exploring the villages by bicycle

Not ready to visit Mai Chau on your own? This guided overnight trip includes transportation, lodging, and meals.

Where to stay in Mai Chau:

Avoid the main town and stay in a village instead. For the best impact on your own experience and the community, book private rooms in a family homestay.

Truong Huy Homestay – $ – Friendly hosts, rustic rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Countryside Homestay – $/$$ – Friendly hosts, variety of rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mai Chau Valley Retreat – $$$ – Oasis in the rice fields, modern rooms, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Ninh Binh: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do: Just two hours South of Hanoi by train or car, Ninh Binh province can technically be visited as a day trip though an overnight would be preferred.

Sometimes called the “Ha Long Bay On Land,” it is a less crowded alternative to Vietnam’s coastal karsts. Similar magnificent cliffs just up from the flat countryside, with epic paddleboat rides available on the rivers that wind through the karsts with their secret temples and caves.

For the top sights in Ninh Binh, see our article: Ninh Binh on a Budget + Bicycle Routes Map

– Trang An boat tour (over the one at Tam Coc) – Cycling around Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Mua Cave – Don’t bother much with Ninh Binh the town, except to eat at Trung Tuyết

Not ready to visit Ninh Binh on your own?  This guided day trip includes transportation, meals, boat ride, and bicycle ride.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh:

Tam Coc Moonlight Bungalow – $ – Quaint private rooms or dorm style, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Mountain Lake Homestay – $/$$ – Private rooms with lake view, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow – $$/$$$ – Private bamboo rooms, views, pool, breakfast. Check rates & availability >

Ha Long Bay: Day Trip or Overnight Trip from Hanoi

What to do:  The famous Ha Long Bay is another place that can technically be done as a  day trip from Hanoi , though most people recommend spending two or three nights to make the best of it.

This is one of Vietnam’s most visited spots, so it gets very crowded and full of cruise boats. Most people tend to book a cruise package, which includes transportation from Hanoi, sleeping cabin, meals, guide, and options for hiking, kayaking, or bamboo boats.

A less crowded alternative is visiting from the nearby Cat Ba Island port through Lan Ha Bay . Or, as we mentioned above, visit Ninh Binh (a.k.a. Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay On Land) instead.

Check out Ha Long Bay cruise options here >

Hue: Central Vietnam

What to do: The city of Huế has had a very important role in the region’s history. It was once the capital during the Nguyen Dynasty, when a large citadel and moat was built to protect the Imperial City.

Later, being right at the line between North and South, it saw one of the biggest battles in the Vietnam-American War. 

One or two days is generally enough to see the main sights of Huế, though we skip it in the 10 day itinerary to leave more time for Hoi An.

For top things to do in Huế, see our article: Hue on a Budget

– Do a city walking tour with Thu – Cycle to Thien Mu Pagoda and around the Citadel if weather permits and you feel comfortable in some traffic – Transit from Hue to Da Nang/Hoi An via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Hue:

Hue Sweethouse Homestay – $ – Riverside guesthouse with private bathroom, parking, wifi, and breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hue Riverside Villas – $$/$$$ – Riverside property with contemporary villas, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Da Nang: Central Vietnam

Da Nang is a big city with an international airport on Central Vietnam’s  Coast. If you’re looking for a beach resort with modern amenities like malls and movie theaters nearby, you may want to stay here longer.

Not being big city people, we typically just use Da Nang to get to Hoi An and Hue.

As mentioned above, we highly recommend a motorbike tour with our friend, Phu . Based in Hoi An, he specializes in the back roads that lead to traditional villages, scenic viewpoints, and waterfalls around Da Nang, Hoi An, and over the Hai Van Pass.

For off-the-beaten-path things to do in Da Nang, see our article: Unique Da Nang Guide

– Ride to the Son Tra Peninsula (“Monkey Mountain”) and see the Lady Buddha temple grounds – Visit Hai Van Pass via motorbike tour with Phu – Check out these unique tours and activities led by locals

Where to stay in Da Nang:

Mid-Range Luxury Beach-side: Voco Ma Belle Hotel (IHG) Central Apartment with Balcony:  Han Apartment Central Budget Homestay:  Bao Tran Homestay

Hoi An: Our Favorite Place in Vietnam

What to do: Hội An, just 45 minutes South of Da Nang along the coast, is one of our favorite places in the world.

Once one of the most important trading ports in the world, the well-preserved Old Town is full of color and charm. Granted, large tourist groups make Old Town quite crowded at peak times, but Hội An has so much more to offer in terms of food, scenic surroundings, and day trips.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: Hoi An Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the markets in the morning – Visit Old Town and the river in the evening – Go on a bike ride through the rice paddies – Have a meal at Nu Eatery – Try these other Best Places to Eat in Hoi An – Visit the Marble Mountains and these other Day trips from Hoi An – Try one of these unique experiences led by locals

For more important things to know read: What NOT to do in Hoi An

Where to stay in Hoi An:

We have a full Guide on Where to Stay in Hoi An , complete with recommendations based on your trip goals and budget. Our all-time favorite homestay has retired, but we’ve now stayed for almost a month here:

Yen Homestay Villa – $ – Friendly and family-run, modern hotel-style rooms, pool, bicycles and breakfast included.

Check rates and availability for Yen Homestay on booking.com >>

Also, here’s a quick video recap from our un-tour in Hoi An, so you can get a feel for the city:

DaLat: South Vietnam Mountains

What to do:  Da Lat, known as a City of Eternal Spring, is a nice mountain retreat when the rest of Vietnam is all heat and humidity. For this reason, it’s quite popular with domestic tourists.

Da Lat is known for both natural and man-made landmarks. Popular destinations include its walking street (Hoa Binh area), some unconventional architectural marvels (like the “Crazy House”), flower gardens, and nearby waterfalls.

For the best things to see, do and eat, check out our article: DaLat Itinerary + Walking Map  

– Visit the market and lake area – Try local foods like banh can and hot soy milk – Take day trips to explore nearby natural beauty

Where to stay in Da Lat:

Pretty Backpackers Hostel – $ – Friendly, family-run hostel with bunk bed dorm rooms. Check price & availability >

HomeSweetHome – $$ – Spacious, modern homestay with exceptional breakfast. Check price & availability >

Ho Chi Minh City a.k.a. Saigon

What to do: Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city with 13 million in the metropolitan area. HCMC is the country’s financial center, home to numerous industries and modern amenities. Like Hanoi, the city is buzzing with motion and tourism centers around the French colonial district (District 1).

Ho Chi Minh City also has a major international airport, so even if you choose not to stay long, it is often a convenient city to fly in and out of. 

Check out these unique experiences in Ho Chi Minh City led by locals>

– Explore the expansive markets for produce and goods – Find historic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office – Enjoy all kinds of cafes and restaurants – Check out the unique experience listings for HCMC on LikeLocal

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City:

Coucou Homestead – $/$$ – Private room or small shared dorm, breakfast included. Check rates & availability >

Hammock Hotel Fine Arts Museum – $$/$$$ – Stylish rooms with rooftop deck. Check rates & availability >

Adora Art Hotel – $$$ – Elegant rooms and suites, breakfast buffet included. Check rates & availability >

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Vietnam? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Vietnam here: What you need to know about Vietnam travel right now

More Resources to Help You Plan Your Trip to Vietnam amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "cgbook-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Vietnam Travel Guides"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "611a8fdeff05739fce0da941c788afe2"; amzn_assoc_asins = "1426213638,1786570645,1786570300,1640971033"; 

1. LikeLocal – Unique experiences led by locals. Learn a craft, share a meal in someone’s home, or even attend a Vietnamese wedding!

Browse Vietnam experience listings on LikeLocal here >

2. GetYourGuide – GetYourGuide also has fantastic experiences across Vietnam, including tours, classes, and even photo shoots.

Browse Experiences in Vietnam here >

3. BookAway – Compare and book Vietnam transit tickets on BookAway. It’s not easy to find train tickets, bus tickers, or private car hires online for Southeast Asia. This is one of the few platforms where you can book in advance with your credit card, in your home currency, and even read user reviews of the different options.

3. ✈️ Protect your Vietnam trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

Still need help planning your Vietnam trip?

Like this post? Pin it for later or share with friends!

Similar Posts

Best Places to Visit in the Philippines on a Budget

It should not come as a surprise to travelers that there is no shortage of destinations within the Philippines to visit. The country is comprised of about 7,000 islands throughout the Western Pacific, and deciding on which islands to visit is no easy feat for anyone headed there. Each island offers something unique, so whether…

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….

What to Do in Huế, Vietnam on a Budget

Huế can be a great stop for travelers on a central Vietnam itinerary. In this post, we’ll cover the best things to do in Hue, where to stay, and what to eat on a budget. Visiting Hue, Vietnam Once the national capitol and home to the royal Nguyen family, much of the Imperial City was…

Travel Tips for Yangon, Myanmar

Yangon, the former capital of Myanmar, formerly Burma, formerly Taungoo (and this history could go on and on) is a fascinating blend of buildings that have gone unchanged for nearly a century, plus modern bars and cafes. Once the most cosmopolitan city in the region, Yangon’s present situation is equally as fascinating as its history….

Simple Methods for Language Learning

This is a guest post by Karen Bortvedt. Karen is a long-term volunteer with Maryknoll Lay Missioners in Cambodia. You can learn more about her daily life and work on her blog. KISS Learning a new language, especially one with a completely different alphabet, involves a whole lot of closely watching someone’s mouth … and then…

Unique Things to See and Do in Bali

In recent years the Indonesian island of Bali has become an extremely popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural landscape, cultural heritage, exotic wildlife, and affordable costs. Due to its thriving tourist scene, there are a multitude of incredible experiences which can be enjoyed across the island that many visitors do not have the…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Thailand Lantern Festival
• Indonesia(Bali)
• South Korea
• China (HK, Taiwan)
• Itinerary Ideas
• Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
• Thailand Travel Reviews
• Vietnam Travel Reviews
• Cambodia Travel Reviews
• Japan Travel Reviews
• Myanmar Travel Reviews
• China Travel Reviews

• 10 Days in Vietnam: 5 Best Itineraries in 2024/2025

Wondering how to spend 10 days in Vietnam? Vietnam is a dream destination that includes everything from karst scenery and ancient towns to big cities and pristine beaches. Spending 10 days in Vietnam would give you the chance to sample all that the country has to offer…

In this article, we've described five magical 10-day Vietnam itineraries, to help you get some ideas for your dream trip.

• Itinerary #1: A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary
• Itinerary #2: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa
• Itinerary #3: 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family
• Itinerary #4: 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam
• Itinerary #5: 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary
• How Much Does a 10-Day Trip in Vietnam Cost?

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary #1. A Classic 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

From the charming capital city of Hanoi to the ancient town of Hoi An , the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City , and the peaceful Mekong Delta , this itinerary covers the most popular destinations in Vietnam.

• Days 1–2: Explore the charming capital city of Hanoi
• Day 3: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
• Days 4–5: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved Old Town.
• Days 6–7: Ho Chi Minh City
• Days 8–9: The Mekong Delta
• Day 10: Departure

You'll explore the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi, take a cruise in the stunning Halong Bay, visit the well-preserved Old Town of Hoi An, and learn about the country's history in Ho Chi Minh City. You'll also experience local life and culture in the Mekong Delta at a floating market.

For a special experience, we can arrange many unique and authentic activities , such as paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, indulging in a foodie tour, or taking a cooking class.

This itinerary is perfect for families or retired couples who want to experience the diversity of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in a short amount of time. With comfortable accommodations, private transportation, and knowledgeable guides, you'll have a hassle-free and unforgettable Vietnam trip.

You can contact us to tailor-make a tour for you if the above itinerary does not meet your requirements.

Itinerary #2. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary with Sapa

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary with Sapa can be a great option for couples and families who are looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation . The itinerary covers some of the most popular destinations in Vietnam, from the charismatic capital city of Hanoi to the stunning natural wonders of Halong Bay , history-filled Hoi An , and the picturesque town of Sapa .

• Days 1–3: Hanoi
• Days 4–5: Sapa, a town in the mountains of north Vietnam
• Days 6–7: Halong Bay, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders
• Days 8–9: Hoi An, a charming town with a well-preserved old district
• Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City

In this itinerary, you'll start in Hanoi , exploring its charming Old Quarter and enjoying its street food. Then, you'll take an overnight train north to the mountain town Sapa, where you can go hiking to discover north Vietnam's ethnic culture and stunning scenery.

The trekking in Sapa can be a great adventure for couples and families who enjoy hiking and exploring the outdoors. The overnight train to Sapa can also be a fun experience for families with children.

Next, you'd cruise around Halong Bay 's karst island wonders. After that, you'd fly to Da Nang on your way to Hoi An in central Vietnam, where insight-filled visits would unlock this town's essence: visit its Japanese Covered Bridge, Fukian Assembly Hall, and Old House of Tan Ky.

Finally, you'll fly to Ho Chi Minh City and visit its interesting highlights: the War Remnants Museum, the General Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Reunification Palace.

The itinerary also includes some cultural experiences , such as visiting local markets in Sapa. A cooking class in Hoi An could be a fun activity for couples and families who enjoy learning about local cuisine.

Contact us to customize an itinerary for you.

Itinerary #3. 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary for Family with Teenagers

This 10-day itinerary covering Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta is a great option for families with teenagers who want to explore Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty .

• Days 1–2: Arrival, Hanoi city tour
• Day 3: Ninh Binh day tour
• Day 4-5: Halong Bay cruise
• Day 6: Hoi An
• Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 9-10: The Mekong Delta

The itinerary includes a mix of city tours, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities, making it a great way to keep teenagers engaged and interested throughout the trip. From exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to cruising through the stunning limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, there's something for everyone on this itinerary.

In addition, the itinerary includes a day trip to Ninh Binh, where you'll take a leisurely rowing-boat ride through an amazing tunnel cave and along a picturesque karst river. This is a great opportunity for families to get out of the city and experience Vietnam's natural beauty.

The itinerary also includes two days in Hoi An, where you can experience interesting activities , such as cycling the picturesque country roads, paddling a Vietnamese basket boat to a fishing village and trying your hand at casting local fishing nets, and enjoying an evening foodie walk.

To finish off, you would have a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where you'd take a boat trip to visit local villages and markets . This is a great way for families to learn about Vietnam's rural culture and way of life.

Itinerary #4. 10-Day Northern & Central Vietnam: History, Culture, and Nature

This 10-day itinerary will take you to see the highlights of northern and central Vietnam . It will give you a deeper discovery of Vietnam's culture, history, and natural beauty in just 10 days.

• Day 1-2: Hanoi
• Day 3-4: Halong Bay
• Day 5: Dong Hoi
• Day 6-7: Hue
• Day 8-9: Hoi An

One of the highlights of this itinerary is the Halong Bay Cruise , where you will spend a night on a boat and explore the stunning limestone cliffs and caves of Halong Bay. Travel with us to take a more-private-and-authentic craft (half the size of the usual group-tour boat) and explore the unspoiled areas of Halong Bay by junk.

Another highlight of this itinerary is visiting the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features stunning caves and underground rivers. This is a great opportunity for travelers who love adventure and exploring the outdoors.

Finally, visiting the Old Town of Hoi An is a great way to experience Vietnam's traditional architecture and culture . More interesting activities, such as an enjoying an evening foodie tour or taking a sunset cruise, would enrich your stay in Hoi An.

These highlights, combined with the other cultural experiences and outdoor activities included in the itinerary, make it a great option for families and couples who want to experience the best of northern and central Vietnam.

You can adjust the itinerary to your preferences and add or remove destinations as needed.

Itinerary #5. 10-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary: Mekong Delta Tour & Beach Holiday

If you want a relaxed pace of travel , this 10-day itinerary is perfect for you. It focuses on southern Vietnam and takes you to explore the region's rich culture, authentic local life, and stunning beaches.

• Day 1-2: Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 3-4: The Mekong Delta
• Day 5-9: Phu Quoc free days
• Day 10: Back to Ho Chi Minh; departure

Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh , this itinerary takes you on a journey to explore the local markets and way of life in the Mekong Delta region . After immersing yourself in the culture and scenery of the delta, you'd finish your trip with some dreamy relaxation on the tropical shores of Phu Quoc , sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun.

How Much Is a 10-Day Vietnam Tour?

Vietnam is a highly-affordable country that caters to a wide range of budgets. Whether you're looking for accommodation, restaurants, attractions, or tours, you'll find options that fit your budget.

For a 10-day private tour in Vietnam, the cost per person can range from approximately 1,000 to 3,500 USD, depending on whether you prefer budget or luxury options.

• For a medium budget, touring Vietnam typically costs around US$ 200-250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).
• For a higher budget of US$250-350 per day per person , more comfort can be enjoyed (including airfares within Vietnam, 5-star or higher hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers).

Travel with us to enjoy a comfortable and flexible private tour. 

You're in Good Hands with Asia Highlights

At Asia Highlights we have lots of experience with creating the perfect trip for any traveler. We understand what makes traveling special and are dedicated to providing a unique and special experience.

Get a wonderful Vietnam vacation started by sending us a message . Or check out more of our Vietnam sample itineraries or Southeast Asia itineraries  for inspiration:

Why Asia Highlights (10,000+ reviews & 98.8% 5-star rating)

• Save Your Time:
• Less research, more enjoyment!
• Real-time 1V1 expert planning
• Maximize Your Flexibility:
• Personal local guide and ride
• Explore at your own pace
• Celebrate Your Journeys:
• Specially-crafted family adventures
• Celebrate milestones with style!
• 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 14-Day Classic Vietnam and Thailand Tour
• 7 Days in Vietnam: 6 Best Itinerary Ideas for First Timers, Families and Couples
• How to Plan a Thailand and Vietnam Trip (2024/2025): 10 Days, 2, 3 Weeks Itineraries
• How to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam 2024: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas
• Vietnam Weather in January 2024: Cool & Dry, Best Places to Go
• Vietnam Weather in February 2024: Insider Tips for Peak Season
• Vietnam Weather in March 2024
• Vietnam Weather in April 2024: Insider Tips
• Vietnam Weather in May 2024: Best Places to Go
• Vietnam Weather in June 2024: Hot & Rainy? Best Places to Go
• Vietnam Weather in July 2024: Best Places to Go and Travel Tips
• Vietnam Weather in August 2024: Best Places to Go
• Vietnam Weather in September 2024: Best Places to Go
• Vietnam Weather in October 2024: Travel Tips for First-timers
• Vietnam Weather in November 2024, Travel Tips for First-Timers
• Vietnam Weather in December 2024, Travel Tips for First-Timers

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Asia Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Middle East
• African Safari
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

• Testimonials
• Member Login

WhatsApp Available

Send us an e-mail

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.

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter

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

Other Travel Planning

• Things to Do in Hanoi: The Ultimate Guide for 2024
• What is the capital of Vietnam and why you should visit it
• Travel to Vietnam from Spain
• Vietnam Tour Packages from Singapore
• The Pros and Cons of travelling to Indochina
• Most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam
• Things not to do when traveling
• Can i get a visa upon arrival in Vietnam?
• Vietnam visa requirement for us citizens
• Vietnam: the value of traveling

Ask a question

We answer all questions, however, some questions we will answer privately via email so they will not appear on this website.

Name (required)

E-mail (required, but will not display)

Notify me of follow-up questions or answers

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

Travel to vietnam.

• Vietnam Entry Requirements
• Vietnam Travel Maps
• Vietnamese Culture
• Honeymoon Destinations
• Best time to Visit
• Things to Do & See
• Family Vacation in Vietnam
• Guides for first time traveller

Popular Articles

• The Ultimate Guide to Vu Lan Festival in Vietnam Huy Hoa
• Best hospitals and medical centers in Vietnam Huy Hoa
• Nam Du Island - Travel Information Huy Hoa
• Reasons To Visit Vietnam In The Green Season Huy Hoa
• 17 Vietnam Villages you should not miss to unravel Vietnamese traditional lifestyle Huy Hoa
• The Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Huy Hoa
• Son Doong - World’s Largest Cave Huy Hoa
• Overview of Vietnamese Culture Huy Hoa
• Grab in Vietnam: Uber Alternative of Vietnam Huy Hoa
• “Li Xi” Or Lucky Money In Vietnamese Culture Huy Hoa

Latest News

• Top Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (Must See!) Huy Hoa
• Golden Bridge Danang: A Must-Visit for Your Dream Vietnam Honeymoon Huy Hoa
• Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia: A Complete Guide for 2024 Huy Hoa
• Things to Do in Hanoi: The Ultimate Guide for 2024 Huy Hoa
• Weather in Vietnam Huy Hoa
• What is the capital of Vietnam and why you should visit it Huy Hoa
• Hanoi Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go Huy Hoa
• Travel to Vietnam: The Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide 2024 Huy Hoa
• Where is Ha Long Bay in Vietnam? Huy Hoa
• Vietnam Tour Packages from Singapore Huy Hoa

Travel Tips

• Travel Maps
• Travel Planning
• Traffic & Transportation
• Solo Travel
• Vietnam Weather
• Travel News
• Travel Blog
• Administrator Units
• About Vietnam
• Vietnam Attractions
• City Guides
• Accommodations
• Foods & Drinks
• Fitness & Spas
• Festivals & Events
• Arts & Shows
• Honeymoon Holidays
• Adventure Tips

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City
• Mekong Delta
• Privacy Policy
• Term & Conditions
• Vietnam Visa
• Country Guides

How I planned our trip to Vietnam

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• how-to-plan-a-trip-to-vietnam

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 12.06.2024

Last spring my wife and I finally made it to Vietnam , and we were honestly so blown away. Being a travel editor here at Rough Guides, it’s always been a place I’ve wanted to visit. At the same time, I hadn’t been before and didn’t really know what to expect! Here I’ve collected some tips and advice on how I planned my trip to Vietnam. 

When to go to Vietnam

Choosing how many days, deciding what region of vietnam to visit, how do you get around vietnam, how we connected to the internet, how we budgeted, don’t miss the street food, pack for the weather, tours are worth every penny, mistakes were made, travel ideas for vietnam, created by local experts.

Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Vietnamese cuisine can be divided into three categories, each pertaining to a specific region, namely the North, Centre and South. You will visit all of these on this culinary tour of Vietnam. Awaken all of your senses to the wonderful sights, sounds and aromas of this fascinating country.

Very Vietnam

Vietnam is full of surprises, seamlessly mixing both ancient and modern. See rice paddies, traditional villages, markets, temples and pagodas. Discover romantic cities, cruise around mystical Halong Bay, laze on pristine beaches and get out and about in exuberant Ho Chi Minh City.

Cultural Saigon

Southern Vietnam is home to modern Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant southern capital full of historic attraction and old Saigonese charm. Soak up some café culture, enjoy authentic street food, and get a taste of the city’s thriving markets.

Southern Vietnam Explored

Discover the charms of Southern Vietnam. From the excitement of Ho Chi Minh City to the sleepy scenic canals of the Mekong Delta with its traditional villages and floating markets, Vietnam’s deep south is one of the most appealing parts of the country.

Vietnam Culinary Experience

Embark on a Vietnamese culinary adventure, taking cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Get cultural in the imperial city of Hue with a visit to some royal tombs, cruise around stunning Halong Bay a final stay in nostalgic Hanoi before your return home.

Ancient Meets Modern

A trip to Vietnam offers a unique adventure. From ancient Hanoi to imperial, romantic Hue, coastal Hoi An with its atmospheric ruins to burgeoning Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City as it is known today, Vietnam is both an exciting and a rewarding destination.

We decided that we wanted to visit Vietnam in the spring because the weather is usually the most mild then.

The temperatures during our trip seem to range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and I heard that the humidity was a lot lower compared to the summer months.

A close second choice would have been to visit during the autumn, and next time I’ll probably come back then to see the harvest season in full swing.

We wanted to avoid the rainy season, from May to October. If you go during this time, you do get the benefit of it being less crowded. However, you have to be ready for heavy and frequent rain. To us, it was worth dealing with more people and slightly higher prices to be in comfortable weather. 

My tip: see the Rough Guide to when to go to Vietnam for a more detailed breakdown.

Hanoi Train street, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Our trip ended up being around two weeks, and for us that was a perfect amount of time. We were able to explore multiple regions, including Hanoi , Ha Long Bay , Hue , Hoi An , and Ho Chi Minh City , without feeling rushed. 

I think if we had cut it any bit shorter, it would have been a bit stressful, as there is so much to see and do in Vietnam. 

Of course, more time would have always been nice! If you are planning a trip to more than one country in Southeast Asia, I would say a bare minimum would be 10 days in Vietnam . This allows you to experience the highlights and adjust from jet lag comfortably. 

Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat, Vietnam © Shutterstock

This is by far the hardest part of planning a trip! Our trip was 14 days , and we spent 8 days in the North and 6 days in the South. Most start in the South and travel North, but we did the opposite to avoid crowds. It was also cheaper for us to fly home from Ho Chi Minh City.

Picking the best things to do during your trip can be hard to narrow down. Here’s some of our favourite things we did:

In the north , we started in Hanoi and visited the Old Quarter . From there we took a cruise in Ha Long Bay which was absolutely stunning.  We also visited Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land," with gorgeous landscapes and ancient temples.

In the central region , we explored Hue, because of its rich history and beautiful pagodas, and the charming town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved ancient town and lantern-lit streets.

In the south , we of course made our way to Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon), visited the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam's wartime history, and took a boat trip through the Mekong Delta to see the lush, tropical landscapes and floating markets.

My tip: if you’re looking for ideas of how to spend you time, take a look at our Rough Guides Trip Gallery . There are plenty of amazing trips here that are created by local travel experts. 

Railway Hai Van Pass, Vietnam © Shutterstock

There is public transportation in larger cities in Vietnam (most of which is cash-only, by the way).  Most people fly into Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi and transport from there. We opted to have a taxi pick us up from Hanoi Airport to our accommodation.

Once in the country, Grab was super handy. If you’re familiar with Uber, it’s the same idea. You can use Grab for cars and motorbikes . It was a super convenient option for getting around cities. 

We also took trains at points, which was a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities. The buses were certainly an experience but quite a bit less comfortable . Renting motorbikes for a few days allowed us to explore more remote areas at our own pace and was a lot of fun. 

Most hotels, restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions in Vietnam offer free Wi-Fi access. Still, it’s important to have some kind of service in case of emergency or in case of getting lost.

We ended up going for a prepaid SIM card when we got to Hanoi. These are widely available across the city, and they usually come with a generous data allowance and options for calls and texts. We picked up one at the airport. The process was straightforward, and the connection was reliable.

That said, double check that you have a phone that allows you to insert a SIM card, as some smartphones don’t have this feature. 

Thung Hang Ca in Trang An in Ninh Binh, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Luckily, Vietnam is known for being pretty affordable. The conversion rate was a little confusing from Vietnamese Dong to US Dollar (1$ = 25,500 VND). 

On average, we ended up spending about $60-100 each per day. This budget allowed us to stay in comfortable accommodations, enjoy a variety of meals, and use mostly public transit. We could have easily spent more if we had stayed in a resort or booked more private tours. Seasoned backpackers and budget travelers could definitely get by on less. 

In general, we tried to plan our itinerary to be prepared for extra costs. It’s not often that we are able to come to Vietnam or south east Asia in general, so we wanted to make the most of the trip.

Since we both love to research before a trip, we ended up spending a lot of time finding the “best” places to eat . In reality, our favortie meals came from when we simply walked around and found a street food stall. Instead of finding reviews online, we simply went to places that seemed crowded. 

Each region in Vietnam has its own specialties . Don't miss the chance to try unique dishes like banh xeo (sizzling pancakes) in the south or bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) in the north.

Vietnamese vendor in Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

You’ll want to bring a versatile set of clothes, especially if you plan on hitting both North and South Vietnam in one trip. 

In the North , it can get a tad chilly, especially during the cooler months. Layers are key, so pack lightweight sweaters or jackets that you can easily add or remove as needed. 

In the South , you’ll find that the weather is a lot more tropical. You’ll want to bring lightweight and breathable shorts, t-shirts, and lightweight dresses or skirts.

If you’re planning on visiting historical sites or temples , it’s important to dress modestly out of respect. Consider bringing long, lightweight pants or skirts and tops that cover your shoulders. This will help you stay comfortable in the heat while also adhering to local customs. 

No matter where you go, don’t forget the essentials: comfy walking shoes, a hat or cap for sun protection, sunscreen, and bug spray. Personally I’d rather pack light rather than having to carry large suitcases in the heat. 

Fansipan mountain at Sapa north of Vietnam © Shutterstock

We debated whether to opt for guided tours or take our own DIY approach. Every tour we ended up paying for turned out to be worth it. 

Especially the day we spent on the Mekong Delta , the tour wasn’t particularly expensive, and we were able to see so much more than we would have on our own.  Not only did we visit remote villages and floating markets, but our guide also shared fascinating anecdotes and historical context.

Our tour also included the cost of transportation and came with meals — definitely worth it!

Halong Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Making mistakes while traveling is all part of the process, but to save you some grief, here’s a few things I wish I had considered before we left. 

Overnight trains

We both agreed that next time we go to Vietnam, we will plan our train rides at night to save money. This tip is especially useful for heavy sleepers.

We did this twice, and both times we were excited to have more time to spend at our destination. Traveling from one place to another takes longer than you might think, so overnight trains can be convenient and cost-effective, if you don’t mind sleeping on a train .

Itinerary overload

Being our first time in Vietnam and being avid travel enthusiasts, we ended up with a long list of things we wanted to do . In retrospect, we didn’t get to everything we had planned. 

The heat and jet lag definitely slowed us down (the journey from California took us 33 hours!). We could have easily added an extra week to our itinerary to allow for a more relaxed pace.

Make sure to add Ninh Binh to your Vietnam itinerary  © Shutterstock

Low crime: but look out for scams

While violent crime is extremely rare in Vietnam, petty theft does happen from time to time. You’ll want to keep an eye on your valuables, and keep any bag your carrying with you on your front.

One taxi we took let us know once we had arrived to our destination that the meter was broken, and we ended up paying a lot more than usual. After that, we stuck to using mostly Grab for taxis. That said, we both felt pretty safe the entire time we were in the country. 

Get to the airport early

If you’re choosing to fly domestically in Vietnam, you’ll want to arrive ideally three hours before your flight. Check in and security took us a while to get through, and we really could have benefited from showing up a tad earlier.

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

• Authentic Experiences
• Classic Highlights
• Inspiration
• Travel Advice
• Travel Tips

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Vietnam

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Vietnam

• Crime and personal safety tips Vietnam
• Eating and drinking in Vietnam
• Getting around Vietnam: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Vietnam
• Travel Health Vietnam
• Shopping tips for Vietnam
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Vietnam
• Tips and travel advice for Vietnam
• Best time to visit Vietnam
• Vietnam Weather in September
• Vietnam Weather in November
• Vietnam Weather in June
• Vietnam Weather in July
• Vietnam Weather in December
• Vietnam Weather in August
• Vietnam Weather in January
• Vietnam Weather in February
• Vietnam weather in March
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• How To Get From Hanoi To Da Nang
• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa
• Vietnam Weather in April
• How to get a Vietnam visa

Find even more inspiration for 5 here

Ready to travel and discover Vietnam?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Itineraries
• Travel advice

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

How To Plan A Trip To Vietnam? – 7 Easy Steps To Follow

Dreaming of a trip to Vietnam? You’re in for a treat! From breathtaking landscapes to rich history and delicious food, Vietnam is a destination that offers something for everyone. But every great trip starts with a great plan. In this guide, we’ll help you answer everything about “How to plan a trip to Vietnam?” from where to go and how to get there to budget tips and the best times to visit.

Let’s jump in and start planning your unforgettable Vietnam adventure!

Why You Can’t Miss Out On A Trip To Vietnam?

Vietnam stands as a testament to the vibrant and resilient spirit that defines Southeast Asia. It is a country with stunning natural landscapes and deep-rooted history, promising travelers a rich, multi-faceted experience.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse environments Vietnam has to offer, from the remarkable limestone islands of Ha Long Bay to the tranquil terraced fields of Sapa. These places not only offer breathtaking views but also a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

History buffs will find a wealth of knowledge and culture in places like the ancient town of Hoi An and the impressive Hue Imperial City, where stories of past dynasties come to life through well-preserved architecture and historic sites.

Of course, a trip to Vietnam would be incomplete without indulging in its culinary scene. Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its balanced flavors, fresh ingredients, and diverse dishes. From the internationally loved Pho to vibrant street food scenes offering an array of tasty bites, the country promises an exciting and satisfying gastronomic adventure.

As you embark on your adventure in Vietnam, you will discover a country full of charm and warmth. The locals are incredibly welcoming and their unforgettable smiles will only add to the exceptional experience you’ll have exploring this beautiful land. Each place you visit will leave an indelible mark on your memory, making your journey through Vietnam truly unforgettable.

>> Read More: Is Vietnam Worth Visiting? – 8 Amazing Reasons To Say YES!

7 Steps On How To Plan A Trip To Vietnam

Step 1: choose where to go.

Choosing your destinations wisely is the cornerstone of a successful trip. Vietnam offers a plethora of choices, each catering to different preferences.

Northern Vietnam is your go-to for rich history and stunning landscapes. Hanoi, the capital city, seamlessly blends the old with the new. Nearby, Ha Long Bay beckons with its emerald waters and captivating limestone islands. Further north, Sapa offers breathtaking terraced fields and a glimpse into the lives of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.

In Central Vietnam, cities like Hue and Hoi An charm with historical sites and ancient architecture. On the other hand, Da Nang is a vibrant city boasting beautiful beaches and modern amenities.

Down south, Ho Chi Minh City buzzes with energy, offering a bustling urban environment filled with history and cultural sites. For a peaceful retreat, head to the Mekong Delta to experience life on the river, floating markets, and lush landscapes.

Step 2: Decide How Many Days to Stay

Once you’ve identified your must-visit spots, it’s time to decide the duration of your stay. A well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your time in Vietnam.

• 10-day trip

Ideal for first-timers, a 10-day trip allows you to visit the key cities from north to south, such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. You may refer to detailed itineraries like our “10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta” to plan a fulfilling journey.

• 15-day trip

With 15 days at hand, you can explore more destinations, including Mai Chau and Ninh Binh in the north, or enjoy leisurely moments on the beach. Sample itineraries like “In-Depth Vietnam Discovery from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City” might be of assistance.

• 2-3 weeks or longer

For an extended stay, consider incorporating visits to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia. Our “19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam” offers a rich multicultural experience.

Remember to factor in travel time between different destinations to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable trip.

>> See Tour: The Very Best of Vietnam

3. Estimate Your Vietnam Trip Budget

Understanding your budget is pivotal in planning a successful trip. Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs involved:

• International flights

Though they constitute a significant part of your budget, you can find affordable options with some research. Consulting your travel advisor for better rates is recommended.

• Domestic flights

Domestic flights in Vietnam are pocket-friendly, especially in the low season, with fares starting from about US$80 for a one-way economy-class ticket.

• Accommodation

Depending on your preference and budget, you can opt for accommodations in various categories:

– Comfortable/Boutique: Hotels in this category charge between US$50 and US$100 per room. – Luxury: For a more plush stay, you can find rooms in this category for US$150 to US$200 per room. – Guesthouses: A more economical option, with prices starting from US$10 per room.

Vietnam offers a gastronomic delight at every price point. Street food starts from US$1–2 per meal, while upmarket dining experiences can be had for US$20–50 per meal.

Based on the group size and the level of luxury, a private tour during the peak season can cost:

– Medium budget: Around US$200–250 per person per day. – Higher budget: Approximately US$250–350 per person per day. – Family trip (2 adults and 2-3 children): Typically, it costs US$8,000–15,000 for a 2-week tour, excluding international flights.

4. Plan When to Travel

When planning your travel to Vietnam, understanding the country’s weather seasonality is key. Vietnam experiences varying weather conditions that largely depend on the season. Here’s how you can strategize your trip according to the prevalent weather patterns:

• November to March: The mild, dry festival season

During this period, Vietnam generally experiences the most comfortable weather, characterized by mild temperatures and low humidity. This season also hosts several vibrant festivals and holidays, including:

– Christmas and New Year: Join the locals in vibrant celebrations that span across the country, with streets adorned with beautiful decorations. – Tet (Vietnamese New Year, typically in January or February): Experience the rich Vietnamese culture as the locals indulge in traditional festivities.

However, this peak season also sees a surge in tourism, leading to higher accommodation and tour prices. It’s advisable to book your travel arrangements at least three months in advance to secure the best deals and avoid the rush.

• April to October: The hot, rainy low season

This is the off-peak season, characterized by higher temperatures and significant rainfall, mainly occurring in the afternoons and evenings. Despite the heat and rain, this season has its own charm, offering:

– Lower prices: With fewer tourists around, you can take advantage of reduced prices for accommodations and tours. – Less crowded tourist spots: Experience Vietnam’s famed tourist destinations with fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

Since the rains are usually confined to the afternoon or evening, you can still enjoy outdoor activities by planning them for the morning. Ensure to carry rain gear to help you cope with sudden downpours. Adjusting your schedule to avoid the afternoon heat and staying hydrated is highly recommended.

>> See Tour: Vietnam Family Adventure

Step 5: Delve into Transportation and Tour Options

To enrich your travel experience, it’s vital to explore the array of transportation options Vietnam offers. From convenient domestic flights to scenic train routes, choose what aligns with your interests and travel plans.

• Domestic Flights

A fast and convenient choice for traversing long distances. This option allows you to save time, making room for more adventures in your itinerary.

Perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenic landscapes Vietnam is renowned for. It offers comfort, allowing you a picturesque journey through various regions of the country.

An affordable choice with an extensive network that facilitates ease of access to different destinations across Vietnam. Ideal for budget travelers keen on exploring the nooks and corners of the cities.

• Private Transports

Private transport, such as car rentals and personal drivers, are available for travelers seeking comfort and the freedom to dictate their schedule. It’s a stress-free way to travel, with a focus on privacy and convenience.

• Private Guided Tours

Consider opting for a private guided tour to enjoy a personalized and educational journey. Customize your itinerary to suit your pace, with insights from a local guide enhancing your understanding of Vietnam’s rich culture and history. It’s not just a tour; it’s an immersive experience that offers a deeper connection to the destinations you visit, facilitating a stress-free exploration enriched with hidden gems only locals would know.

Step 6: Check Out Vietnam’s Visa Policy

Before embarking on your Vietnam adventure, it’s crucial to understand Vietnam’s visa policy to ensure a hassle-free entry. Here’s an overview of key visa-related details:

• Visa Exemptions

Vietnam extends visa exemptions to certain countries, allowing their citizens to enter the country without a visa. Check if your country is on this list to make the most of this privilege.

• Visa On Arrival

For those who don’t have visa exemptions, Vietnam offers a convenient Visa On Arrival (VOA) option. This process involves obtaining your visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. To facilitate a smooth VOA experience, familiarize yourself with the procedure and required documents.

Vietnam now provides a streamlined E-Visa application process, making it easier for travelers from many countries to obtain their visas online. Learn how to apply, understand the associated fees, and note the processing time.

• Embassies and Consulates

If you prefer obtaining your visa through Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad, locate the nearest embassy or consulate for guidance on the application process.

Latest Visa Policy Update: Starting from August 15, Vietnam has expanded its E-Visa offerings to individuals from all countries and territories, offering 90-day e-visas. This is a significant extension from the previous 30-day single-entry e-visa policy that applied to citizens of 80 countries.

In an effort to enhance international relations, Vietnam has also increased the duration of stays from 15 to 45 days for citizens of specific countries who are unilaterally exempted from visas. These countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the U.K., Northern Ireland, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus. Travelers from these nations can now enjoy a 45-day stay, regardless of passport type or purpose of visit.

Remember, a smooth entry into Vietnam begins with understanding its visa policies and choosing the most suitable option for your journey.

>> Read More: New Vietnam E-visa Policies (Update August 2023)

Step 7: Navigate Vietnam – Getting to and Around

Now that you’ve secured your visa, it’s time to focus on the logistics of getting to and moving around Vietnam. Here’s everything you need to know:

Vietnam’s main gateways are Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai in Hanoi. Familiarize yourself with these airports to ensure a smooth entry.

• Customs Regulations and Tips

Be aware of Vietnam’s customs regulations to avoid any unexpected hassles. Understanding what you can and cannot bring into the country is essential.

• Local Transportation

– Xich lo and Taxis: Get acquainted with local transportation options, such as xich lo and taxis. 

– Apps: Make the most of technology with ride-hailing and food delivery apps like Grab. Discover how these apps can simplify your travel experience.

– Travel Insurance: Prioritize your safety with travel insurance. We’ll highlight the importance of having adequate coverage for unexpected situations.

– Emergency Contact Numbers and Safety Tips: Stay informed about essential emergency contact numbers and valuable safety tips to ensure a secure and worry-free journey.

This comprehensive guide gives you all the information you need to arrive in Vietnam smoothly, move around comfortably, and stay safe throughout your adventure.

Now that you’ve covered enough information to answer “How to plan a trip to Vietnam?”, use this guide as your reliable companion to explore the diverse experiences this beautiful country has to offer.

If you have inquiries or desire a personal vacation package in Vietnam, don’t hesitate to reach out to Asia Pioneer Travel. Our knowledgeable travel consultants are eager to help create the perfect itinerary to make your dream holiday a reality.

You may also be interested in

• Dec 29, 2023

7 Best Vietnam Trip Ideas For Unforgettable Experiences

Tours you might like.

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand Tour

Vietnam Family Vacation

Vietnam In Depth

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• Work with us

How to plan a trip to Vietnam: everything to know!

Last updated on March 15th, 2024

Planning a trip to Vietnam? We’re sharing all of the logistics to be aware of before you go, plus what to expect once there! In 2023 we spent almost 6 weeks traveling all over Vietnam, including the large cities, smaller towns, epic nature spots, and so much more. It is hard to put into words how much this trip meant to us. Everytime we think about it, we get emotional because it was so incredibly special and as cheesy as it sounds, life changing.

Our trip to Vietnam was our first trip to Asia. And compared to other places we have visited, planning a trip to Vietnam was by far the most complex. There was so much to know! Where do we even go? How do we get around? What do we need to legally visit? And beyond those questions, we also had some anxiety around the language barrier and navigating a completely different culture. But in the end, the trip went so smoothly. We may have had a few minor hiccups here and there, but overall, it went even better than we could’ve imagined. And more importantly, we LOVED Vietnam. It is truly an incredible country! And in this guide we are sharing all of the things to know and consider when planning a trip to Vietnam. We hope that it can help you go into your own Vietnam trip with a bit less stress and anxiety and give you as smooth and memorable of an experience as we had!

About Vietnam

Logistics for planning a trip to vietnam , what to pack for vietnam, things to know once you’re in vietnam, final thoughts on planning a trip to vietnam, ready to begin planning a trip to vietnam.

Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is a long and narrow country that spans 128,066 square miles, with Cambodia and Laos bordering it on the west, China in the north, and the ocean along the east. It is the 15th most populated country in the world, with over 97 million residents. The population is made up of 54 different ethnic minorities, with Kinh being the largest.

Check out 12 of the best cities to visit in Vietnam .

Quick Vietnam history

There have been a handful of monumental events that have occurred in Vietnam over the years that are important to be aware of before visiting. The first being French colonialism. Back in the 1850s, the French invaded Vietnam, plus Laos, Cambodia, and part of China, creating a group of colonies called French Indochina. They didn’t leave until the 1950s and during this time period they heavily influenced Vietnam. The French heavily taxed the Vietnamese, overworked Vietnamese workers, and imprisoned and tortured those who resisted their rule. Today, you can still see evidence of the French in both the architecture and food.

Another important event was the Vietnam War, known as the American War by the Vietnamese. This war took place between 1955 and 1975 and was officially fought between North and South Vietnam, with the United States intervening heavily in the 1960s.  We highly recommend watching the Ken Burns PBS documentary about the war before you go, as it shares perspectives from all three sides involved. The war had many negative effects on the country, including massive bombings, Agent Orange, and so much more. So you may be wondering “do the Vietnamese hate Americans and French?” While we cannot speak for the French experience visiting Vietnam today, as Americans, we had no issues. We asked many locals how they felt about Americans and all responded similarly with “the past is the past.” Everyone was very welcoming to us! 

Why visit Vietnam?

There are so many reasons to visit Vietnam! Here are some of the reasons why we chose to visit Vietnam over other Southeast Asian countries:

• The scenery is diverse! You can experience large cities, the ocean, mountains, caves, rice fields and farmland, and rivers all in one trip.
• People are kind and friendly.
• The food is delicious! We’ll share some of our favorites later on in this guide.
• There are a wide variety of unique experiences.
• It is affordable to visit.
• You’ll find handfuls of cute, quaint coffee shops in every town and city.
• You can have many cultural experiences.
• There is a lot of interesting history to learn.
• It feels underrated. We know of many people who have been to Thailand, but far less that have been to Vietnam. We encountered many Europeans and Australians in the country, but very few Americans.

Different regions of Vietnam

As we mentioned above, Vietnam is a long country, spanning 1,025 miles from south to north. The country is typically split into three regions: north, central, and south. Each area has so much to offer and in our opinion, all are worth visiting! Which one you prioritize will depend on what interests you the most.

Northern Vietnam

In the north, you have the capital city of Hanoi , plus stunning mountainous terrain. This is the most scenic part of Vietnam in our opinion! Here you can go on epic motorbike trips , see tons of karst mountains , visit Vietnam’s largest waterfall , cruise Ha Long Bay, and interact with different ethnic minorities.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is home to many historical sites, including the ancient cities of Hoi An and Hue. It’s also home to great surfing in Da Nang, tons of caves near Phong Nha, plus forests and mountains.

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam is less mountainous than the rest of the country, but still has tons to offer! It is home to Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon. This bustling city is a ton of fun to explore! Southern Vietnam is also where you can find the Mekong River Delta, visit islands like Phu Quoc, and crawl through tunnels from the Vietnam War.

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). All prices you’ll see in Vietnam will be listed in VND, minus some tour providers and at the airport. We recommend downloading the My Currency Converter & Rate app before you go, but if visiting from the United States, 25,000 VND = ~$1 USD (at the time of writing).

Vietnamese is the main language spoken in Vietnam, although different ethnic minorities have their own languages as well. English is spoken some, mostly in the major cities and by tour providers, but don’t expect to see tons of English. We found that most signage, outside of mega tourist attractions, were in Vietnamese. There are sometimes translations, but they aren’t always super accurate.  Despite this, we didn’t have any issues communicating in Vietnam. Most Vietnamese, even if they don’t speak much English, will understand key words, like “toilet,” and you can also gesture with your hands to get your point across.  Google Translate also has a feature where you can speak into the phone and it’ll translate. This helped us multiple times, so make sure to download Vietnamese for offline use on the Google Translate app! We went into our trip wanting to learn some Vietnamese, but wow, it’s a HARD language to learn. It is very tonal, which means that how you say it is important. There can be one word that means three different things depending on your tone and inflection. To make things even more confusing, some words are said differently in the north and south. Although we didn’t learn Vietnamese as much as we hoped beforehand, there are some key words to learn before you go:

• Xin chào (Sin chow): Hello
• Chào (Chow): A less formal way to say hello. Our guides told us this is more of the local way to say it.
• Cảm ơn (Gam un): Thank you 
• Dạ/Không (Dza/Kong): Yes/No
• Xin lỗi (Sin loy):  I’m sorry
• Tạm biệt (Tam biet): Goodbye
• Một, Hai, Ba, YO!: 1, 2, 3, Cheers! (This is done A LOT on tours!)
• Một (Moat): One
• Hai (Hai): Two
• Ba (Ba): Three
• Bốn (Bone): Four
• Năm (Num): Five
• Sáu (Sow): Six
• Bảy (Bay): Seven
• Tám (Tam): Eight
• Chín (Chin): Nine 
• Mười (Mu-oi): Ten
• Bánh mì (bun me): Bread
• Bún (boon): Rice noodles
• Bò (Bo): Beef
• Gà (Gah): Chicken
• Cá (Cah): Fish
• Thịt lợn (Tit lohn): Pork
• Trứng (Choong): Egg

Is Vietnam safe?

When planning a trip to Vietnam you may wonder if it’s safe to visit. And from our experience, Vietnam is totally safe! The only time we felt slightly unsafe was in the car. Seatbelts are sometimes missing from cars and drivers go so fast, zip around, and pass people. There appears to be few road rules in Vietnam and driving like this is normal. It took a bit of getting used to for us though.  But besides that, when walking around cities, even with our cameras out or at night, we never once felt unsafe or encountered anything sketchy. Our female friends who live in Ho Chi Minh City also said they have always felt safe in the country. Of course things can happen anywhere, so be alert! The major crime you would encounter would be pickpocketing or theft. But for us, we had zero issues with safety.

In this next section we’re going to cover all of the logistics for planning a trip to Vietnam, including airports, transportation options, how to get a visa, and more!

How to get to Vietnam

There are three major airports in Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) (Airport code: SGN), Hanoi (HAN), and Da Nang (DAD).  The HCMC airport is the largest of them all and tends to have the cheapest options, especially if traveling from further away. If traveling from within Vietnam or nearby countries in Asia, make sure to check the other two as well.  For our trip, we flew both in and out of HCMC. This was mostly due to how our credit card travel portal required us to book our flights. Ideally, we would’ve flown into HCMC and out of Hanoi, since we started in the south and ended in the north.  Flights within Vietnam tend to be really affordable though, so we were able to book a cheap flight from Hanoi to HCMC to make our flight back to the US.

Flying from the US?

If you’re flying from the US, we suggest looking for flights to Asia out of the West Coast. We needed to fly from Austin to Vietnam, which is not a very straightforward or cheap route. But after doing some digging into flights, it was easier to fly from Seattle to Vietnam. So we flew Austin to Seattle (using Alaska Airlines points) and then Seattle to Singapore to Vietnam. We saved about $1,500 (or 150,000 points) this way vs. booking a flight from Austin to Vietnam. New York also has a nonstop flight to Singapore and may offer a more affordable route for those on the East Coast! While we really wanted a layover in Singapore , there are other airports in Asia that are common to fly directly to from the US, including Seoul and Tokyo. You can also look for flights from the US to these cities and then book a second flight to Vietnam from them, which may be cheaper.

We spent $0 on our flights to and from Vietnam, as well as within the country by using travel credit cards. This saved us over $2,500! Learn more about our favorite travel credit cards .

Where to go in Vietnam

The hardest decision you’ll have to make when planning a trip to Vietnam is where to go. There are so many amazing places to visit in Vietnam and you could easily spend a year in the country and not see it all. From our research and experience, these tend to be the top spots tourists go to:

• Ha Long Bay
• Ha Giang Province
• Cao Bang Province
• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
• Mekong River Delta

Planning your route

Our biggest piece of advice when planning your route in Vietnam: don’t try to do too much! Vietnam is a larger country than it may appear. Due to how long it is, traveling between areas can take time and be exhausting. While you can fly between some areas, others will require trains, buses, or limos (a small van). You will want to ensure that you give yourself plenty of time on travel days and allot time for delays. A few things to consider when planning your route:

• If you only have a week, it’s best to stick to one region and explore that area more in depth.
• For two weeks , you could visit multiple regions more easily. With even more time you can spend more time in each destination or visit more destinations.
• We suggest going from south to north, as the scenery only gets better and better this way.

Our Vietnam itinerary at a glance

Where you choose to go really depends on what interests you. For us, we wanted a diverse trip that mixed beautiful scenery with historical sites, delicious food locations, unique activities, and both small and large cities. Here’s a quick rundown of how we spent 5.5 weeks in Vietnam!

• 4 days: Ho Chi Minh City (We have friends there, so we spent more time than most would. 2-3 days would be sufficient for most.)
• 1 day: Overnight train to Da Nang + taxi to Hoi An
• 4 days: Hoi An 
• 1 day: Travel day from Hoi An to Phong Nha
• 4 days: Cave tour near Phong Nha
• 1 day: Travel day from Phong Nha to Hanoi
• 3 days: Ninh Binh
• 3 days: Visa run from Hanoi to Chiang Mai, Thailand
• 8 days: Hanoi (We spent this time mostly working, but also exploring. 2-3 days is typically enough for Hanoi.)
• 1 day: Travel day from Hanoi to Ha Giang
• 1 day: Work day in Ha Giang
• 6 days: Motorbike trip through Ha Giang and Cao Bang, ending at Ba Be Lake
• 1 day: Travel day from Ba Be Lake to Hanoi
• 1 day: Travel day from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City 

While we could’ve visited multiple countries in this timeframe, we really wanted to dive deeper into one country. And we are super happy with that approach! By spending almost 6 weeks in Vietnam we were able to see so much of the country, plus have time to work and enjoy some places at a slower pace.

Need help planning your Vietnam visit? We have created 2 week and 3 week itineraries that are ready to go!

When to visit Vietnam

Another tough choice when planning a trip to Vietnam is when to visit. The country’s climate can heavily vary by region during specific times of the year. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect by region. However, weather isn’t 100% predictable, so be prepared to experience varying weather, regardless of when you go.

North Vietnam

In North Vietnam, the dry season in the north tends to run from October to April. However, the wintertime can be very cold in the north, so keep that in mind if visiting higher elevations. For milder weather and dry conditions, March, April, October, and November tend to be great months to visit. The rainy season in North Vietnam is from May until September. While this doesn’t tend to stop most motorbike tours in the north or heavily impact time in Hanoi, it can cause Ha Long Bay cruises to be canceled.  One huge draw during this time of year is the chance to see golden rice fields, which typically occur in September. If seeing them is a priority, September is a great time to go! It tends to be the end of the rainy season and much less rainy than the previous months.

In Central Vietnam, the warmer, dry season begins in January and runs through August. From August to December, you can expect a lot more rain. Since a lot of popular destinations are along the coast here, typhoons can also occur and cause flooding. We’d suggest sticking to the drier months here!

South Vietnam

In South Vietnam, you can expect warmer weather than the rest of the country year round. The dry season is between December and May and hottest temperatures tend to occur between March and May, reaching 100ºF. Between June and November, the weather is a bit cooler, but also rainier. Since there are many indoor activities in HCMC, rain isn’t a huge issue here. 

Tet Holiday

Besides weather, one important thing to know when choosing when to visit Vietnam is when Tet is. Tet marks the first day of the Lunar New Year and is a huge week-long celebration across the country. While visiting during Tet can provide a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture, it can also be more challenging.  Many Vietnamese return to their hometowns during this time. Transportation and lodging tend to be in high demand, so you would need to plan further in advance. Also, many businesses shut down for days to celebrate, so you may struggle to find dining options and activities open.

When did we visit Vietnam?

We visited Vietnam from early March to mid April. This worked out really well as we were able to avoid the rainier months across the country. We did experience some heat in Ho Chi Minh City (90ºF), but the temperatures were moderate everywhere else and we only had a couple days of rain.  The only downside of when we visited is that the skies were pretty hazy everywhere. We aren’t sure if this was due to the time of year, burning farms, or pollution. It’s also not the best time to see the fields in the north, so some farming areas were brown vs. green or golden yellow. To us, having less chances of rain was worth missing out on that!

Vietnam Visa

Depending on where you are visiting from and for how long, you may need a Vietnam visa. Some nationalities do not require a visa for visits between 15-30 days, while some require it for any length of time. As Americans, we were required to have a visa to visit Vietnam for any length of time. At the time of our visit, we could only get a visa for 30 days. They have since brought back their 3 month visa, but the 30 day option was the only option we had.  You may be thinking “wait, you said you were there almost 6 weeks?!” We will explain that in a bit! Besides the visa, we were also required to have 6 months remaining on our passport, so make sure yours is within that window!

How to get a Vietnam visa

If you need a visa to visit Vietnam, we highly recommend applying for an e-visa in advance. While air travelers can get one on arrival, it’ll save you time to have it already. To get your Vietnam visa, you will want to go to this website . Yes, it looks a tad outdated and sketchy, but this is the website run by the Vietnamese government. There are other websites that you can get your visa from, but they may charge more. And speaking of costs, the e-visa cost $25 USD per person, which can be paid by credit card. We did run into a couple issues paying online, but were able to get it to go through eventually. If in doubt that it went through, check your credit card transactions. Ours showed up almost immediately!  On the website, you will need to fill out your information and provide a passport photo. Since we did not have copies of our passport photo, we used this app to take some at home.  After filling out the information, you will likely hear your results within 3 business days. We suggest planning for longer, just in case. If you apply for your visa around Tet, make sure to give yourself even more time. Make sure to print your visa before getting to Vietnam! While we did see someone show theirs on their phone, it does say to print it. 

Staying longer than your visa? Go on a visa run!

As we mentioned above, we were in Vietnam for almost 6 weeks, yet our visa was limited to 30 days. So what did we do? We went on a visa run! A visa run is when you leave the country before your visa expires and return on a new visa. This is a common thing to do in Southeast Asia, especially in Vietnam during their 30 day only visa policy. If you’re in HCMC around the time your visa expires, many people cross the land border in Cambodia and then return to Vietnam the same day. Make sure to check if Cambodia also requires a visa. They do require one for US citizens! Since we were further north, we flew from Hanoi to Chiang Mai, Thailand for a couple days instead. Thailand doesn’t require a visa for US citizens for 30 days, so this was an easy option!

Where to stay in Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam you have a handful of options for lodging, ranging in price, amenities, and experience. Below is a breakdown of your main choices and during our time in Vietnam, we stayed in all four of these!

Vietnam has a variety of hotel options, from larger chains (mostly in the major cities) to smaller, boutique hotels. The amenities will vary based on the hotel. Some of the larger hotels offer a pool, gym, and restaurants, while smaller hotels may just have rooms.  One of our favorite places we stayed in Vietnam was the Paddy Boutique House in Hoi An. This is a boutique hotel with a cafe on the first floor that serves amazing coffee and food. The rooms are super beautiful and modern and ours overlooked the rice fields! They also have free bike rentals to go explore. It was $41 per night, which felt like a steal! We also LOVED this bungalow in Ninh Binh ! The scenery felt like a magical garden, we had access to bikes, and there was a restaurant on site. This was our most expensive lodging and it was only $61 USD per night!

We stayed at many Airbnbs while in Vietnam, which were usually ~$30/night. For us, the main reason for choosing an Airbnb was to have a bit more space and to have access to a kitchen and laundry. While we ended up not cooking in Vietnam (eating out was just so cheap!), we did enjoy having access to laundry.

Homestays were some of our favorite experiences in Vietnam! What is a homestay you may ask? It’s when a local family has lodging on their property. This could be within their house or a separate area near their living quarters.  They are typically found in more rural areas and often have meals, some of which you may eat with the family. They also sometimes offer activities to help you see more of the area. Overall, homestays are a great way to get more immersed in the culture and also directly support locals. We loved the Yen Nhi homestay near the Ban Gioc waterfall, which has a dining area within a cave and the CUTEST pups! 

The cheapest lodging option in Vietnam is usually a hostel. While you may think of hostels as a bunch of bunk beds in a room, most offer private rooms as well. We stayed in a few hostels in Vietnam, always in private rooms, and it was a great option for areas where you tend to be out and about a lot. They were more bare bones than a hotel or Airbnb usually, but also extremely cheap and clean.  Before doing the Ha Giang Loop , we stayed at Be’s Home in a private room and for two nights with a light breakfast included, it was under $40 total!

A few things to know about lodging in Vietnam:

• Booking.com is a great resource to find lodging. You’ll be able to find both hotels and more Airbnb-like options here.
• Some lodging options will not charge you upfront, so you’ll pay when checking out.
• We also encountered a few homestays that were cash only or charged an extra fee for credit cards.
• Beds in Vietnam can be a bit firm. Our friends in HCMC told us this is pretty standard everywhere. We had a mix of bed firmness and softness, but if this is especially important to you, make sure to read reviews.

Transportation around Vietnam

There are many different ways to get around Vietnam and we tried just about every option during our trip. And we definitely preferred some over others! Below is a rundown of the different transportation options available and why we liked (or didn’t like) each.

When getting around the cities in Vietnam, Grab is the way to go! Grab is a rideshare app, just like Uber, and is an affordable and safe choice when in more populated areas. Similar to Uber, with Grab you get to choose the size of the car. You also get to confirm the rate you’ll be charged before pickup, which reduces any scams. The prices are so cheap for Grab that we used it a lot! We paid between $2-$5 for each ride around HCMC and Hanoi, including a tip (not required). We even used Grab to get food delivery, which is something we never do in the US because of how expensive it is.

If Grab isn’t available, you can also get a taxi. While a similar concept, we prefer Grab because you confirm the rate ahead of time. However, there were some scenarios in which a taxi was our best option. This was usually in more rural areas where Grab may be limited or not present. In these scenarios, we tried to have our hotel or homestay book the taxi for us and give us the rate ahead of time, to ensure we didn’t have any surprises.

One of the best ways to experience Vietnam is on a motorbike! You can either motorbike around the different cities on a GrabBike , rent a bike to explore the country, or hire a driver (called an Easy Rider). If choosing to drive your own motorbike, make sure to check motorbike laws for your country’s driver’s license. You will very likely need an IDP, which is an International Driver’s Permit.  However, not all country’s IDPs are valid in Vietnam. Only IDPs from countries under the 1968 Vienna Convention are legal. And unfortunately for US, Canadian, and Australian citizens, your drivers licenses do not apply. The only way for these travelers to legally drive a motorbike without a license is to drive one 50ccs or less. This may work in cities, but it will not be powerful enough in mountainous areas. While many people do drive motorbikes illegally, in places like Ha Giang , they are cracking down on illegal driving. You risk getting pulled over and having to pay a fine or bribe to the police or getting your bike taken away. Your health insurance will also not be valid.  Also, whether you drive or are a passenger, helmets are required by law in Vietnam for anyone on a motorbike. So make sure to wear one! 

Want to book a motorbike tour in Ha Giang? We highly recommend Ha Giang Road Trip ! If you book a tour with them through Tripadvisor, you can save 10% off with our code APLUSK10 .

Since we couldn’t legally drive a motorbike in Vietnam, we rode bicycles in some easy to bike areas! Both Ninh Binh and Hoi An are great spots to ride a bike and it was a super fun way to get around. One thing to be aware of is that you’ll likely have to bike around cars. Also, helmets for bicycles seem to be rare in Vietnam, which we didn’t love.

Busses/Limos

To get between cities and destinations in Vietnam, one popular option is to take a bus or a limo. A limo in Vietnam is just a multi-passenger van, not a cool stretch limousine like you’d take to prom. For some areas of Vietnam, where there are no airports or train stations, these will be your only option. When going to and from Ha Giang, the only options are a limo or an overnight sleeper bus (we hear mixed things on this one). We also had to take a limo from Ba Be Lake back to Hanoi.  Out of all of the options for transportation in Vietnam, this was our least favorite. And a big reason why was because of just how crazy the driving is. However, sometimes it was our only choice, so we had to suck it up and embrace the adventure!

Vietnam has a pretty expansive railway system , going all the way from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi (which takes about 36 hours!), with many stops along the way. There are also some other routes that can take you to side destinations. We took a total of four trains in Vietnam, with one being a 17 hour overnight train . And it was probably our favorite way to travel! It felt safer than a bus/limo, we had space to spread out, we could walk around, we could use the bathroom whenever, and we got to see a lot of scenery. There were some downsides, like the bathroom cleanliness, which started out clean and then went downhill fast. We also had some small roaches in our overnight cabin, which made sleeping difficult. But for the most part, it was smooth sailing! In some situations, the train is only a little bit slower than taking a limo or bus, but in others, it is a lot longer to take the train. We suggest looking at all of your transportation options and seeing what works best for your schedule. If you do take the train, we highly suggest getting a first class cabin. Most of these have two bunk beds, so you will have strangers with you, but you still have a good amount of space. Some trains do offer a special cabin with just two beds, which we did for our overnight train. These are pricier, but you have total privacy if traveling with two people! 

Read all about taking an  overnight train in Vietnam , including the cabin types, how to book, and our experience!

The quickest way to get around Vietnam is flying. While not always an option depending on where you’re going, if flying is an option, it will be the easiest and fastest choice. Flying within Vietnam is relatively cheap and there are multiple airlines to choose from. We flew Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways without an issue. We heard VietJet isn’t super timely, but that can be said for all airlines at some point. The downside of flying is that you have to get to the airport early and may deal with potential delays. Plus, airplanes are not very spacious.

Tools to book transportation in Vietnam

So you may be wondering how we figured out which transportation method to use for our different traveling needs in Vietnam. One of our go-to tools in Vietnam was 12Go . On this site you can put in your origin and destination and it tells you if there are buses/limos, flights, or trains. It’s a great resource to compare options! You can also book transportation directly on their website. We also used Google flights to check flight prices, but we booked all of our flights through our credit card travel portals. 

Travel insurance for Vietnam

We highly recommend buying travel insurance for your trip to Vietnam. We have been using the Nomad Insurance plan with SafetyWing on multiple international trips this year. It not only gives us travel medical insurance, but also provides coverage for lost baggage and travel delays. Thankfully we didn’t have to use any of it! We also have personal article policies for our electronics with State Farm that works worldwide. Unfortunately we did have to use this one when our camera lens broke during a motorbike accident.

Booking tours in Vietnam

The tours we went on in Vietnam were the highlights of our entire trip! While planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure to look into different tours and book them ahead of time.  It seems many of the backpacker type travelers book last minute, but we liked booking early to ensure we had the best tour options. Some tools that were helpful in finding tours and activities were:

• Tripadvisor : you can not only read reviews for tour activities, but you can also book them directly on Tripadvisor! The company that we hired for the Ha Giang Loop is bookable on Tripadvisor. PS: For ANY experience you book on Tripadvisor you can use our code APLUSK10 to get 10% off!
• Airbnb Experiences : we found some great local guides here, including our Hanoi food tour .
• Klook : while we didn’t personally use Klook, we know it is popular to book activities in Asia.

Also, WhatsApp is what many tour companies use to communicate. So make sure to download it in advance!

It’s almost time to head to Vietnam! Before you go, here are some items we would highly suggest packing for Vietnam. To see even more, plus get a FREE downloadable packing list, check out our ultimate Vietnam packing list . Remember to check bag weight limits ahead of time! If your bag is too heavy, you’ll have to check it and it’s usually cheaper to pay in advance.

Layers: If you plan to travel across the country, make sure to bring a variety of clothes for different conditions. We brought pullovers and our winter jackets and ended up needing both! Rain jacket: Even if visiting in the dry season, you may experience rain (we did!). Kathryn wears the Patagonia Torrentshell jacket and Adam wears a Columbia rain jacket .  Temple attire : If you plan to visit any temples, make sure you have pants or a skirt that covers your knees and something to cover your shoulders. We suggest bringing something light and airy to avoid getting too hot! I had a thick cardigan and it was brutal at times. Shoes : Due to us just carrying backpacks, we only brought one pair of shoes with us to Vietnam. We wore ALTRA Lone Peak 6 Trail Running Shoes , which worked well for walking around cities and also hiking. We also bought some flip flops, which came in handy for our cave tour.

Feminine hygiene products : They may not have the exact kind you like in Vietnam, so make sure to bring enough! Toilet paper : This is something you can buy there, but we highly recommend carrying some with you. Some restrooms do not offer any or charge you a small amount to get some. Beauty products: We tried to bring enough of any hair products, makeup, etc to make sure we could use the products we liked the entire trip. Dual voltage items: In the US, the outlets are 120V, but in Vietnam they are 220V. Make sure to bring a hair dryer, straighter, or curling iron that will work with their outlets. I brought a small, dual voltage hair dryer with me to Vietnam.

We highly suggest bringing Advil, a small first aid kit, and stomach medicine, like imodium or pepto, just in case. 

Outlet adapters : While some outlets in Vietnam were just like the US, others were two prong and we had to use an outlet adapter to be able to use our electronics. Portable charger : We liked carrying a portable charger with us in case our phone or camera batteries got low during the day.

Miscellaneous

Don’t forget your passport and visa!

How we packed for our Vietnam trip

During our trip to Vietnam we carried everything we needed for 6 weeks in our REI Trail 40 packs , plus an additional foldable backpack . It was tough, but thankfully we managed to make it work by using Tripped compressible packing cubes . So why did we only bring backpacks? Our motorbike trip was starting and ending in different areas, so we had to carry everything with us. We didn’t think our normal Away carry on suitcases would fit on the back of a bike easily, especially with backpacks too, so we had to go minimal for this trip. This forced us to prioritize what to bring. Certain things, like our big zoom lens and bulky noise canceling headphones, had to be left behind. We also had to be okay with wearing the same things constantly. Each of us had about 4-5 shirts and 3-4 pairs of pants with us, plus the layers we mentioned above. Thankfully we wear clothes that can be reworn without washing constantly! While this scenario may not apply to everyone, we wanted to mention it anyway to show that it is possible to travel light. Although, we do have lots of practice because of van life , so it is a lot easier for us than most to live with less.

Check out our ultimate Vietnam packing list with free downloadable list!

Alright, you’ve made it to Vietnam! Now what? Here are some important things to know for once you arrive in Vietnam to hopefully make your trip go as smoothly as possible!

What to expect at immigration

Once landing in Vietnam you will go straight to immigration. WARNING: the lines can be VERY long, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi is quite a bit quicker, at least from our experience. When it’s finally your turn, you will need to show them your passport and visa. During our multiple experiences going through immigration, the agents never asked any questions or said a word to us. They just took our documentation, did some computer magic, stamped our passports, and we were on our way.

Cell service & SIM cards

While you can get international data through your US cell phone provider, this can get a bit costly. Instead, get an eSIM from Airalo ! This is a SIM that you can download to your phone. It saves the hassle of having to get a physical SIM in every country you visit! You can get an eSIM for a specific country or for an entire region, making it extra easy to use if you plan to hop between countries. During our time in Vietnam, we got physical SIM cards and it was a hassle when we ran out of data. Now we use Airalo for our international trips and it is a much easier experience! As for cell service availability in Vietnam, we rarely did not have cell service during our entire time in the country. Even in remote areas of Ha Giang and Cao Bang , we still had service. It was pretty incredible!  However, just to be safe, we do suggest downloading offline Google Translate and Google Maps beforehand. That way you can communicate and find your way with or without service.

Cash and ATMs

Cash seems to be king in Vietnam! While some places do take credit cards, street food stalls, restaurants, and even some homestays only take cash. Even if you want to use the restroom in public, you will need cash to pay (usually 5,000 VND). We tried to figure out in advance where we would need cash and about how much so we always had enough on us. But if you need cash, you can find an ATM almost anywhere! To avoid crazy ATM fees, we highly recommend opening a Charles Schwab checking account before you go. They refund ATM fees from ANY ATM worldwide! This gave us lots of freedom to use whichever ATM was most convenient.

Crossing the street

It is pretty well known that crossing the street in Vietnam is chaotic. There are tons of motorbikes and cars and rarely crosswalks. And even if there are, red lights and crosswalks don’t always mean anything.  The advice we got from locals was that you just have to start walking. If you walk at a consistent pace (no stopping or running), the motorbikes will go around you. Of course, accidents can happen, so please look and be aware of your surroundings. For example, I walked into a moving bike in Hanoi. We had the walk sign and Adam said “let’s go,” so I started walking without looking to my right and a motorbike was running the red light and I ran into them. We were all okay, but it definitely took me by surprise! Also, alleyways can also surprise you with bikes, so look before you cross those too! 

Scams in Vietnam

It’s good to be aware of possible scams you may encounter in Vietnam. Like we said before, we felt totally safe in the country. But there are people who may try to trick you into getting some of your money. We are not experts on all scams that can occur, but here are a few that we heard of or encountered.

Parking Scams

This is super common in Ninh Binh. Essentially, people will try to force you to pay to park well before you need to. On the road to Mua Caves, locals will walk out right in front of your bike and try to demand that you park there. They often charge much more than the actual parking costs. If this happens to you, just keep biking and ignore them. 

Another money grab is people trying to get you to hold things for a photo. They will let you hold it and get the photo, but then try to demand money afterwards. As cool as some of these photo opportunities may be, don’t fall for it unless you want to pay.

Duplicate businesses

We learned of this one in Hanoi while on a food tour with a local. The bun cha place he took us to is very popular and delicious. And nearby businesses have tried to copy their name, colors, and look to trick people into going to them instead.

We almost fell for it the second time we went. The business right next door looked JUST like it and they tried to hurry us inside. Since we knew this was possible, we were a bit cautious and the real business directed us to their tables instead.

While this may not be a huge scam, it could mean a less delicious meal if you fall for the imposters. This also can happen with tour companies too!

Tourist prices

We hear sometimes that restaurants will charge tourists more than locals, but I don’t think we personally experienced this. If you go to a restaurant and do not see prices, this could be a sign that they’ll try to overcharge you.

Download a VPN

If working remotely, you may want to download a VPN to be able to access specific websites while in Vietnam. We downloaded NordVPN while there once we realized that some websites blocked Vietnam traffic. We were able to connect to a server in the US and get access to what we needed. VPNs can also allow you to access Netflix shows that are only available in specific countries and it is just a safer way to use public networks.

Services you may need in Vietnam

If you travel in Vietnam for an extended period of time like we did, you’ll likely have to take care of some everyday chores and tasks. 

Grocery store

The thing we missed the most from the US while in Vietnam (besides our pup Kona) were the grocery stores. There are some larger stores in Vietnam, but they are mostly in the major cities. And still, it’s a totally different country and the products do vary. In Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi you can find a grocery store called Annam Gourmet , which has a lot of western products. The prices are higher, but if you want more of a taste from home, this is a good option. Some Vietnamese grocery chains to look for are Lotte Mart, VinMart, Big C, and Co.opmart. In the smaller towns, you’ll likely have to go to small convenience type stores for your needs.

It is pretty easy to get medicine in Vietnam without a prescription. If you start to feel sick while in Vietnam, you can find many pharmacies on the streets of HCMC and Hanoi. The names of the medicine may be different, so we suggest looking up what you need beforehand.  During our trip we did need some medicine for a cold and Adam was able to buy it without any issues.

The #1 chore we had to do while in Vietnam was laundry. A big reason why we booked Airbnbs for much of our stay was to have access to laundry. However, if you do not have access to a machine, don’t worry! There are many affordable laundry services in town, where someone does your laundry for you. This was kind of a weird concept for us at first, but you usually get it back the same day and it’s easier than carrying around detergent. Speaking of detergent, if doing your own laundry, make sure you get detergent! None of our Airbnbs provided this unfortunately. But we were able to find some small travel size detergents at a convenience store. Also, some of our machines were a washer and dryer combo, which didn’t always dry our clothes the best.

Eating and drinking in Vietnam

One of the most common questions we got while in Vietnam was if we got sick from the food or water. And the answer is no! At least, we don’t think so. We both did get sick our first week in Vietnam with a stomach bug, but we got sick days apart, so we think it may have been a virus vs. food related. Besides that, our stomachs held up well! I ate way too much of things I shouldn’t (eggs and gluten) and felt that a bit, but we didn’t experience sickness. As for water, both locals and tourists cannot drink out of the tap and you will find purified water everywhere. It is very easy to get!

Is street food safe?

While some are leery of street food, it was our favorite way to eat in Vietnam. We loved sitting in the tiny chairs at the tiny tables and eating right on the sidewalk. The food is typically fresh, delicious, and super affordable. Just make sure to read reviews in advance and go to reputable street food stands (or go with a guide) to ensure it’s high quality and safe.

Our favorite food and drinks in Vietnam

If you’re curious which food and drinks we’d suggest the most while in Vietnam, here is a quick list of our must try items! 

We also have a guide to the top 10+ foods to try in Vietnam (& where to get them!)

• Bún chả 
• Pho (both northern and southern style)
• Bún thịt nướng
• Bun bo nam bo
• Nem Nuong Nha Trang
• Cao lầu 
• Lemongrass chicken
• Cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk)
• Salt foam coffee
• Coconut coffee
• Lemon tea from a street food stand
• Tea from Mót in Hoi An

Tipping in Vietnam

It is not customary to tip in Vietnam. This is a weird concept coming from the US, where you tip for most services. But in Vietnam it’s not expected. However, we did tip as much as we could. We would often give a slightly larger bill for our meal and leave the change. People seemed to really appreciate this! We also always tipped our Grab drivers, food delivery drivers, and especially our tour guides. For tour guides, we always tipped a minimum of 20%.

We hope this guide has helped you with planning a trip to Vietnam. If we have any final advice, it’s to just embrace the adventure. Vietnam may push you a little out of your comfort zone at times and things may go wrong, but it’s all part of the adventure. If you have any questions about planning a trip to Vietnam, let us know! Cảm ơn bạn đã đọc!

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Check out these other Vietnam guides:

• eBook: The ULTIMATE guide to visiting Vietnam
• 3 week Vietnam Itinerary
• 2 week Vietnam Itinerary
• 12 best cities to visit in Vietnam
• The ULTIMATE Vietnam packing list
• The top 10+ foods to try in Vietnam (& where to get them!)
• The ULTIMATE guide to the Ha Giang Loop
• 3 days in Hanoi, Vietnam Itinerary
• 9+ AMAZING things to do in Ninh Binh
• What to expect on the Trang An boat tour
• Visiting the Hang Mua Caves Viewpoint
• 3 day Hoi An Itinerary
• 13+ things to do in Hoi An
• What to expect on a first class Vietnam Sleeper Train
• 3 day Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• 20+ Vietnam tips: things to know before you go!
• Watch all of our Vietnam videos

Pin this guide with all of our Vietnam planning tips!

get the behind the scenes scoop!

2 thoughts on “ how to plan a trip to vietnam: everything to know ”.

Thank you very much for guide and all your videos! They are very interesting and also very very helpful for planning our Vietnam trip! If you ever consider traveling to Bulgaria (what I hope), please do not hesitate to contact me for any support, ideas, recommendations etc. Best!

Thank you so much for reading and watching!

Bulgaria looks amazing, we hope to visit one day!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© 2023 Adventures of A+K. All Rights Reserved. Website built with love by  Dreamworthy Design . – Stock Photos provided by our partner  Depositphotos

Privacy Policy

Vietnam Travel Tips: How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Vietnam

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Wondering how to plan a perfect trip to Vietnam?

You have come to the right place! This Vietnam Travel Tips guide is a one-stop guide to help you to plan a perfect and safe trip to Vietnam.

Here you will find all you need to know, from how to travel around Vietnam, safety around the country, prices to plan your budget, what is the best time to visit, and much more tips to travel to Vietnam. Especially if this is your first time, this guide is extremely helpful !

Vietnam is certainly a country that has a lot to offer with many types of adventures to suit any taste. It’s a great place to visit with your family, and friends, as a couple or solo. Vietnam is very diverse and offers a mix of big cities, lush countryside, a rich history, and a coastline with beautiful beaches. The amazing food is a fusion of Asian with French influence, the people are amiable and they will make you feel welcome.

I have planned my 2 weeks itinerary to Vietnam for months, and I can tell that planning a trip to Vietnam can be a little trickier than you expect. Between the challenging geographical shape of the country, to travel scams you should avoid, I get you covered in this very helpful Vietnam Travel Tips guide

Vietnam Travel Tips Essentials

LANGUAGE:  Vietnamese is the official language; English is increasingly favored as a second language. French, Chinese, Khmer, and various highlander languages are also spoken. Between 85-90 % of Vietnam’s residents are ethnically Vietnamese.

CURRENCY:  The currency in Vietnam is Dong (VND) – Check here  for the latest conversion rate.

CREDIT CARD:  credit cards are accepted in many restaurants, hotels, and shops in Vietnam’s big cities. Visa, Master Card, JBC, and American Express are the most common credit cards honored in Vietnam.

ATM IN VIETNAM: You’re certain to find an ATM to withdraw from in any of Vietnam’s major cities, but smaller towns have also begun to bring their A-game.

TIPPING IN VIETNAM:   Major hotels and restaurants in Vietnam add a 5% service charge to bills, so you can choose not to tip at these places. Elsewhere, small tips are always a good thing.

PLUGS: If your device has “100-240, 50-60Hz”, it means that it is compatible with all the different voltages used in the world, including Vietnam. I recommend buying this universal adapter  and using a  converter  for hair dryers. 

WI-FI IN VIETNAM: Internet and wifi are available everywhere in Vietnam. Something of 98% of all hotels and hostels has Wi-Fi, only in very remote places, it is not standard.

SIM CARD IN VIETNAM: You can buy a SIM card in Vietnam at the airport, upon your arrival in the country. You’ll find dozens of kiosks selling SIM cards as soon as you exit the baggage claim area in any of Vietnam’s international airports.

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

I recommend buying this WiFi router. Doesn’t matter where you are in the world, you can insert any SIM card, and it shares data across all your devices, up to 10, via WiFi and the battery lasts up to 12 hours.

Vietnam Travel Tips: Orientation & Map

It is important starting this very helpful list of Vietnam travel tips by saying that you should not underestimate the size of Vietnam. Getting from one location to another in Vietnam may take longer than you expect . Just to give you a rough estimate, travel by train between Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi takes approximately 35 hours!

Overall, Vietnam can be divided into 3 major regions: North, Central, and South Vietnam. Now if you are wondering how long you need to plan a trip to Vietnam, my recommendation is to plan around one week per region.

What is the Visa Requirement to travel to Vietnam?

A visa is required and is easy and cheap to obtain, but since the regulations are constantly changing, double-check before preparing for your trip. You can request your visa prior to your trip online (e-visa), or upon your arrival in Vietnam. I found the iVisa the easiest way to get through immigration.

Pay very close attention if you plan to leave and re-enter the country again. If that is the case, you will need another type of visa, other than one entry into the country. I learned it in a bad way. I paid for one entry, left Vietnam to travel to Cambodia, and when I tried to re-enter Vietnam, I learned that my visa would only allow me to enter once only! Guess what? I had to spend 2-days “living” at the airport in Vietnam, and the officials hold onto my passport. Not a good experience folks!

How Much Does a trip to Vietnam cost?

Vietnam is a very inexpensive place to visit! Depending on your travel style, you can spend as little as US$20 a day per person if you choose to stay at a Hostel and eat (delicious) street food.

I would say I’m more on the average traveler side, (meaning, I don’t stay in a hostel but also, do not stay in a classy hotel). I like to explore the culinary offerings by eating at restaurants and also sampling street food. The average I spent per day including accommodation transportation and food is between US$30 to US$50 per person (3 meals, Uber rides, and a basic hotel). Below you can see the breakdown of my expenses during my 2 weeks in Vietnam .

If you are planning to visit different areas in Vietnam, keep in mind that you will have additional costs with domestic flights, night trains or buses, activities, tours, and of course, shopping for some local souvenirs.

One of my most important Vietnam travel tips for you is that buying souvenirs in Vietnam is very cheap. I suggest you practice your bargaining skills, as haggling is normal and expected. Be respectful and have fun with it. It is not uncommon for sellers to start out at 2 to 3 times the price they are really willing to accept.

Flights to Vietnam

It depends on where you plan to start your itinerary in Vietnam, the main international airports are Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang, a popular tourist destination in central Vietnam.

There are many airlines that offer flights to Vietnam from different parts of the world. When searching for flights to Vietnam, it’s important to compare prices and flight times from different airlines to find the best deal. It’s also important to check the visa requirements for your nationality, as Vietnam requires visas for citizens of many countries. Some of the major airlines that fly to Vietnam include:

✈️ Vietnam Airlines : This is the airline I used to travel from the US to Vietnam, and also, domestic flights within Vietnam. They are the national flag carrier airline of Vietnam with direct flights to major cities in Vietnam.

✈️ Cathay Pacific: a Hong Kong-based airline that offers flights to Vietnam from various destinations around the world

✈️ Emirates: a Dubai-based airline that offers flights to Vietnam with a stopover in Dubai.

Getting Around and Transportation in Vietnam

When you are looking for very important Vietnam travel tips, you will find that it is very easy to get around Vietnam. I traveled from South to North and I found it very convenient. If you are short on time, I would recommend flying from one region to another since flights are very cheap. If you have more time, you also can rent a motorbike, take a bus or even an option for a night train such as to Sapa.

For day trips, or side trips you have the option to hire a local guide to drive you for a meager price, just check with your hotel front desk or at local travel agencies. Since I was in Vietnam during the peak season, I booked my cruise on Halong Bay in advance, but you also have the chance to book while you are there. You can find Uber for a very low price. While in Hoi An I rented a motorbike for US$5 per day and I found it safe and easy to drive.

🚗 BY CAR: If you have seen some of my other blogs, you already know I am a big fan of road trips. But not in Vietnam. Remember about the traffic being challenging? Also, an international driving license is not accepted in Vietnam and it is not customary to rent a car.

✈️ BY PLANE: It is one of the most popular ways to explore Vietnam. They are normally around a 2-hour journey and will cost around US$50 per person if you book in advance.

🚌 BY BUS: This is an option if you have plenty of time and don’t mind about comfort. Also, keep in mind that the traffic in Vietnam is crazy, and traveling via Vietnam’s rickety roads might not be for you.  Check here

🚆 BY TRAIN: Trains normally are more expensive than buses in Vietnam. If prefer, you can take the Reunification Express that runs from Hanoi to HCMC, but keep in mind that it takes about 30 hours. There are many segments that you can use as a train. I took the night train from Hanoi to Sapa and it was very comfortable and safe.

Plan Well Your Itinerary in Vietnam

During my planning for the Vietnam 2-week itinerary , I researched the internet and also, bought some books and maps to help me with my itinerary in advance. An excellent guidebook that I used during my itinerary preparation is the Lonely Planet Vietnam Guidebook, as it has tons of great information.

One of my top Vietnam travel tips for you as that you include to visit at least one big city to get the vibe of the unstoppable lifestyle in Vietnam. I booked almost everything in advance – flights, accommodations, trains, and tours to Sapa and Halong Bay .

Remember that pre-planning, researching, and understanding what you are looking for will help make your travels far more successful and safe. I have spent a good amount of time researching, and traveling around Vietnam, and these articles will be extremely helpful with tons of Vietnam Travel Tips for you:

• The Ultimate 2-week Vietnam Itinerary
• 7-Day Vietnam Itinerary
• Hoi An itinerary
• Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• Hanoi Itinerary
• Da Nang itinerary
• Mui Ne Itinerary
• 10 Most Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• Halong Bay Overnight Cruises: Best things to do + Best Tours
• 15 Essential tips before you go on a cruise in Halong Bay
• Complete Guide to visit Marble Mountain
• Complete Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• 3-day in Sapa Itinerary + Authentic Homestay
• All you need to know before you go to Sapa Homestay with a Black Hmong family
• Sapa Ethical Travel: Why you should book with an independent guide

Accommodations in Vietnam

I used a mix of hotels and homestays during my trip to Vietnam. The accommodation is in general cheap and you have many options to choose from, it will depend on what is your preference.

In the major cities, I was well-located and walked to the sites in the city. I have found that walking is a great way to explore a city and get to really see it. When needed, I took an Uber and it worked great at a very low rate, I super recommend it.

Renting a scooter is an option, but unless you grew up in a major city in Vietnam, I would not recommend it. Traffic rules are very different and the roads are super congested.

I used a hotel in the center city for Ho Chi Ming City as it offered more options to explore. I used a local house during my stay in Hoi An, in a common neighborhood as it offered a more authentic experience. During my trip to Sapa, my choice was a homestay with a local family. If you check my Vietnam itinerary , I make the best accommodation recommendations for each region.

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Vietnam is a great destination all year round. Deciding the best time to visit Vietnam greatly depends upon how far north or south you plan to go, as well as other factors such as festivals and holidays. The best time to visit Vietnam is from December through February when temperatures are milder and rain is minimal.

Despite being a small country, Vietnam is 1,650 kilometers long which makes the country very diverse with weather that varies from North to South. Here is a simple plan based on the variability of the temperature, as during the summer it is incredibly hot.

The Northwest of the country’s dry season is from October to March, and it makes the best time to visit. While in the North of the country can get cold, and even snows in Sapa between Dec to Jan.

The weather in Vietnam can be split by region:

• In Hanoi & the north , May to October is hot and humid with high rainfall; November to April is cooler and dry.
• In the far north , December & January can be particularly cold.
• Central Vietnam experiences hot, dry weather between January & August when temperatures can hit the mid-30 °C; whilst high levels of rainfall can occur in September, October & November.
• Southern Vietnam is generally dry and hot from November to April, and warm and wet between May & October, with the highest rainfall in June, July & August.

Best Tours in Vietnam

One of the most important Vietnam travel tips to keep in mind is that you don’t need to book a tour to travel around Vietnam. You can use helpful resources, such as this blog 😉 to plan a trip to and around Vietnam.

But for some activities, keep in mind that you will need to book a tour with an operator or a private local guide. My suggestion is to avoid booking tours with your hotel as the prices are typically higher, and most likely you will be joining a tour with a lot of people who they will be rushing you, and you won’t have a good experience.

Lastly, make sure you book in advance to guarantee you get the tour you choose to go on. And use a reliable source such as  GetYourGuide  or  Viator . They offer a cancellation policy and excellent customer service. These are the services I use and recommend, and below are some tours in Vietnam that you should consider:

Cu Chi Tunnel and Ho Chi Minh City Full-Day Tour

This excellent  Cu Chi Tunnels tour  is the excellent tour that I choose and recommend it runs in both the morning and the afternoon and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking tour guide, your entrance ticket, and transportation. It’s an easier option than catching the public bus to the tunnels!

Luxury 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise in Halong Bay

This  Stellar of the Seas luxury cruise  is one of the longest cruise options in this guide, yet they also offer 4 & 5-day options. For those who are opting for the 3-day tour, you don’t have to worry as the itinerary is action-packed. Above I’ve outlined some of the destinations you’ll visit and there are plenty of them!

Evening Walking Food Tour in Hoi An

This  walking food tour is limited to twelve people and you’ll get to visit some of Hoi An’s best foodie hotspots. Not only will you get to try authentic cuisine but you’ll be given other recommendations during your stay!

Safety in Vietnam

I found Vietnam a very safe country to visit. One of the main concerns for travelers to Vietnam is traffic accidents. The traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, with many motorbikes and cars on the roads, and traffic laws are not always followed just like any other place we travel, we should follow the same rules:

👉 Take precautions such as keeping valuables secure, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of their surroundings.

👉 do not wear jewelry (I never travel with my wedding ring) and dress modestly

👉 Pay close attention to your bag, especially in big cities as pick-pocketing may occur

👉 When carrying your camera, wear a shoulder strap across your body, and the same for your backpack

Backpack Travel Anti Theft with USB Charging Port

To keep your belongings safe during your travels, I recommend this anti-theft backpack. The hidden theft-proof pocket designed on the back sits up against the wearer’s body. Anti-Pickpocket back pocket is difficult to steal personal items. It fits my 15.6” laptop with a bit to spare.

What to Pack from Vietnam

Like any other country in Southeast Asia, do not over-pack, even if you are like me and think that you may need more, you can buy whatever you need there. I like to wear comfortable clothes and shoes since I walk a lot. Because of the high possibility of rain, humidity, and hot weather I prefer to use dry-fit clothes.

• Cities : comfortable and conservative clothes, consider covering your knees and arms if you are planning to visit temples
• Mountains of Sapa: Light and comfortable clothes for the summer, a rain jacket, and hiking boots. During the winter pack a warmer jacket, a layer of merino, and a fleece sweater because it gets cold.
• Halong Bay and beaches: Light clothes like dresses, shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and swimsuits. Also, a pair of pants and a jacket if you are visiting during the wintertime.

Pack Light & Smart when you Travel to Vietnam

Here is one of the most important Vietnam travel tips to keep in mind. I recommend packing in a backpack if you are planning to travel around Vietnam. Consider that you will be traveling from point A to point B on public transportation. Or even if you fly, it is easier to just have a carry-on item with you. Pack light and smart is always my rule of thumb!

I love traveling with my Osprey Backpack , and if you are taking a backpack, I recommend rolling your clothes and using small packing cubes separated by categories (pants, tops, socks…), so you don’t need to empty the backpack every time when you are trying to reach to the items you need. Here are the best backpacks for travel that I recommend.

What is the Food in Vietnam?

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, be prepared to delight in fresh and delicious food. Vietnamese cuisine is known for its flavorful and fresh ingredients, which are heavily influenced by the country’s geography, climate, and history. Vietnamese food is typically characterized by a balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors.

Street food is also a big part of Vietnamese cuisine, with vendors selling everything from grilled meats to sweet desserts. Overall, Vietnamese cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with a wide variety of dishes to try and enjoy. Here are some of the most popular dishes to try in Vietnam:

Street food : is cheap and generally safe. While in Vietnam try as many dishes as you can and appreciate the experience of eating locally

The breakfast:  was my favorite part, with fresh eggs and fruits and a cup of Vietnamese black or egg coffee, oh simply the best coffee in the world! The typical local breakfast is Pho and you find it on any corner and a bowl will cost less than US$1.

Pho : is one of the most popular dishes in Vietnam. It is delicious noodles with meat, broth, and delicate spices and you can pretty much eat it any time of the day, you need to try it!

Bahn Mi : Have you ever tried a Bahn Mi before? If not, please do! I like to describe it as an explosion of flavors. Bahn Mi is THE sandwich and you can also find it everywhere in Vietnam. There are a variety of options including, chicken, beef, and pork.

What else : Vietnamese are big on steamed rice, noodles, and vegetables. For protein, you can find options for chicken, pork, seafood, red meat, and tofu.

They also have some peculiar cuisine, which I was not even curious to try, but if you are more adventurous than me, you have plenty of options such as stomach, heart, intestines, and even brain.

Final Vietnam Travel Tips

• Book in Advance – Especially if you are traveling during the high season. You will have more options to choose from accommodations, and you will have a better plan for activities and transportation options. You can use this easy travel planning guide to get the best services and discount prices.
• Plan Smart: I recommend to spend 1-week in each area to make sure you see the best in Vietnam and plan your Vietnam itinerary in advance!
• Halong Bay – I recommend doing the 3-day cruise , as you can see more of the majestic beauty of this place and also, relax during your busy travel schedule.
• Visit Hoi An – Even if you are short in time, prioritize Hoi An as it has so much to offer and the side trips are amazing.
• Homestay in Sapa is amazing – If you have the time, include Sapa in your itinerary. Read here more about my experience with homestay with a local tribe.
• Go on a Halong Bay Cruise: I really recommend taking an overnight cruise to the 7 New Wonders of the World! You won’t regret it!
• Mind the weather – Don’t underestimate the weather, as it can be extremely hot in the summer and very wet.
• Crossing the streets – In the big cities, the traffic is INSANE. Traffic lights don’t mean they will stop for you. Please, be careful!
• Cover up – When you visit temples and pagodas.
• Bargain – Negotiating price is not rude, it is expected!

Follow + Share

If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels & Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep you with my workout videos.

I would love it if you could follow me on Pinterest and share this guide on my social media.

Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with  this easy guide  and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

Why Halong Bay Luxury Cruises Are Worth Every Penny!

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days: The Best one week in Vietnam

Ultimate Hanoi Itinerary + Well-Crafted Travel Guide

Leave a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

How To Plan An Awesome Trip To Vietnam

Are you traveling to Vietnam soon? Does travel planning take so much of your time and effort?

Our Vietnam Travel Planner will guide you step-by-step on how to plan a trip to Vietnam. This article will be useful whether it’s your first time visiting Vietnam or the 10th time.

1. How Long Do You Plan to Visit Vietnam?

First, decide how many days you have for your trip to Vietnam.

If you only have a few days, you might want to focus on one area, like Hanoi or Ho Ho Chi Minh .

With two weeks in Vietnam or more, you could travel from the north to the south of Vietnam, seeing different places.

Note : Check out the most beautiful places in Vietnam for your Vietnam itinerary.

2. Think About Your Budget

Vietnam is great for any budget. Keeping your budget in mind helps you choose where to stay, what to eat, and what to do without overspending.

If you’re looking to save, street food and hostels are your friends. For a bit more comfort, there are mid-range hotels and restaurants.

And if you’re splurging, luxury resorts and fine dining can be found, especially in bigger cities and tourist spots.

Don’t forget to budget for activities, like tours and entrance fees to attractions.

3. Who Are You Going With?

Do you travel with your partner, friends, or family? Or are you traveling solo to Vietnam? The people you travel with can affect your plans, like where you stay and what activities you pick.

Solo travelers might enjoy the freedom of a motorbike journey or join group tours to meet others.

Couples can look for romantic getaways in places like Ha Long Bay.

Families might prefer destinations with a mix of culture and relaxation, like Da Nang and its nearby beaches.

4. What Do You Want to Do?

What are you looking forward to in Vietnam? Whether it’s exploring cities, relaxing on beaches, or hiking in nature, knowing what you like helps you pick your spots.

• Are you into history? Don’t miss the ancient town of Hoi An and the imperial city of Hue.
• Love nature? The mountains of Ha Giang and the caves in Phong Nha are must-sees.
• Beach lover? Nha Trang and Phu Quoc have beautiful sandy shores.

My rule of thumb is to select a few key places to visit in Vietnam. It’s tempting to see everything, but traveling takes time.

For a first trip, major spots like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An can give you a taste of what Vietnam has to offer.

5. Look Up the Weather

Vietnam’s weather varies from north to south.

The north has four seasons, while the south is warmer year-round. The central coast has a rainy season from September to December.

Check the weather for the places you want to visit to decide the best time to visit Vietnam .

Generally, spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) are good times to visit most of Vietnam.

6. Check Your Passport and Visa

Make sure your passport doesn’t expire within six months of your planned return date.

For visas, you may get an e-visa online or a visa exemption, but it depends on your nationality.

Check out my Vietnam visa guide for more information. The rules can change, so it’s good to check the latest info.

7. Book Your Flights

Start looking for flights early to snag the best deals. Websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights can help you compare prices.

Consider flying into one city and out of another if you’re planning to cover a lot of ground, like flying into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh City, to save time and backtracking.

For domestic flights, Vietnam Airlines , Jetstar, and Vietjet offer frequent and affordable flights between major cities and tourist destinations.

Vietjet Air and Jetstar usually have a promotion, and the price is lower than Vietnam Airlines. However, it’s common that your flights may get delayed around 30 minutes or more with them.

8. Book Your Accommodations

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

Booking.com and Agoda are great for finding deals and reading reviews. Consider location, price, and amenities like free breakfast or a pool, especially in hot climates.

For popular destinations or during peak travel seasons, it’s wise to book your accommodations in advance. This makes sure you get the best selection and prices.

For off-the-beaten-path adventures, you might have more flexibility with booking on the go.

Tips : How to book the best accommodation .

9. Plan How You’ll Get Around Vietnam

Vietnam is well-connected by a network of buses, trains, and domestic flights.

The train journey along the coast from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is scenic and offers sleeper options.

Buses are economical and reach most destinations. Consider renting a motorbike for local explorations if you’re comfortable riding.

And if you’re short on time but want to see both ends of the country, consider booking a domestic flight.

Renting motorbikes is popular among travelers for the freedom it offers, especially in rural areas. Make sure you’re aware of the local traffic laws and have the necessary driving permits.

I recommend using 12go or Baolau to book trains, buses, and ferries while traveling in Vietnam.

10. Book travel tours

As Vietnam is relatively cheap, you can find budget-friendly tours starting at $15. Luxurious tours such as Ha Long Bay Deluxe Cruise can cost $50 or more.

If you’re interested in visiting islands in Vietnam, booking a tour may be the best idea because it’s difficult and expensive to rent a boat on your own.

Also, taking a tour will be a great option if you travel alone and want a companion.

Here are some recommended tours:

• Ha Long Bay Deluxe Cruise from Ha Noi
• Cu Chi Tunnels Half-day tour from Saigon
• Ba Na Hills day trip from Da Nang
• Hoa Lu – Tam Coc day trip from Ha Noi
• Can Gio tour

11. Buy a SIM card

Although you can find free Wi-Fi in public places such as coffee shops and shopping malls in big cities, buying a SIM card or eSIM is more convenient when traveling to Vietnam.

This gives you access to mobile data at affordable rates, making it easier to navigate, translate, and stay in touch.

Some stands at the airport offer SIM cards, but ordering one online is much more convenient.

12. Pack your luggage

What to pack for Vietnam? Vietnam’s diverse climate means packing can be tricky.

Lightweight and breathable clothes are best for the south, while the north may require layers, especially if you’re visiting in winter.

Don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes, as you’ll likely do a lot of walking. Rain gear can be essential, depending on the season.

You can easily buy sun cream, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste in Vietnam at convenience stores, so you don’t need to pack them.

If you need any specific medicine, bring them along. For women, it can be challenging to buy tampons or menstrual cups in Vietnam.

• Vaccinations: Check with your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip about recommended vaccinations for Vietnam, such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
• Travel Insurance: Always get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Vietnam is generally safe, but it’s better to be prepared for any situation, including theft or accidents, especially if you plan on riding motorbikes.

14. Prepare money

In Vietnam, Cash is a King. The Vietnamese currency is Vietnam Dong (VND).

Depending on your budget and travel style, the amount of money needed for your Vietnam trip may vary.

There are several ATMs and banks in big cities, so withdrawing some cash will not be a big issue. You can also exchange your currency for VND Dong at the banks or jewelry shops.

15. Cultural Insights and Interactions

• Learning the Language: Picking up a few Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals. Simple greetings, thank yous, and numbers can improve your market experiences and daily interactions.
• Respect the Culture: Don’t forget to show respect at religious or historical sites by dressing modestly and following any posted guidelines.
• Connect with Locals: Consider homestays, local-guided tours, or cooking classes to gain deeper insights into Vietnamese life and culture.

16. Food and Drink

Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Don’t miss trying Pho , Banh mi , and fresh spring rolls.

Each region has its specialties, like bun cha in Hanoi or Cao Lau in Hoi An . Street food tours can be a great way to taste a variety of dishes.

So, where to eat? You should look for busy places with lots of locals — a sign of good food.

Apps like TripAdvisor and Google Maps can help you find highly-rated eateries. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path for authentic culinary experiences.

17. Check your travel documents

Before departure, you should recheck all your travel documents: passport, visa, insuranc e, and other required travel documents such as booking confirmation.

We recommend storing those documents as PDF files on your USB, laptop or Drive so you can access them remotely.

Also, it would be best to recheck your flight schedule to ensure it departs on time.

18. Prepare for your flight

Airsickness is a real problem for some people. It can make you feel nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and dizziness.

If you have airsickness, you should eat a light meal before boarding, use anti-nausea drugs or natural remedies, and choose the right seat.

When on the plane, you should avoid reading or staring at the electronic screen for a long because it may worsen the symptoms.

Also, buying a soft travel pillow for neck support is a good idea if it’s a long flight from your departure destination to Vietnam.

Now you’re ready for your trip to Vietnam! If you have any questions, feel free to comment below, and we will answer.

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

Similar Posts

Tu Van Shell Pagoda: Unique Architecture With Shell & Coral

 Tu Van Shell Pagoda is probably one of the most unique pagodas I’ve ever visited. This place stands out from…

Ho Chi Minh to Da Lat Vietnam: Transport & Ticket Guide

Da Lat is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. How to get from…

Phu Quoc Cable Car To Pineapple Island Review

Are you traveling to Phu Quoc island soon? Don’t miss the opportunity to cross the sea in the cable car…

Museum of Sa Huynh Culture Hoi An: Tips & Info

The Museum of Sa Huynh Culture is one of the most interesting sites to visit in Hoi An, Vietnam. It…

How To Ride A Sleeper Bus In Vietnam Safely

Sleeper bus has become the choice of many travelers in Vietnam thanks to its convenience and cost savings. But, how…

Explore An Hoa Sheep Field In Ninh Thuan Vietnam

With breathtaking mountain scenery, poetic lake, and green meadows, An Hoa sheep field is a fascinating destination to visit in…

14 Comments

I have been planning a trip to Vietnam and this is exactly what I was looking for. I think 3 week is too less for Vietnam. I would need at least 2 weeks here. I am a budget traveler, so I will most likely stay in a hostel. I agree with your idea of flexible schedule, it gives freedom to stay more at place you love.

I have been planning a 1 week trip to Vietnam and this is exactly what I was looking for. I am a budget traveler, so I will most likely stay in a hostel. I agree with your idea of flexible schedule. i thing i am stay 4 days at Hanoi and 3 days at Ho chi min city…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

View All wishlist

View all wishlist

• Top 10 Vietnam Tours
• Country Discovery
• Family Holidays
• Vietnam Eco Tours
• Vietnam Golf Tours
• Luxury & More
• Vietnam Honeymoon Holidays
• Beaches & Leisure
• Health, Spa & Wellness Tours
• Adventure Motorcycle Tours
• Northern Vietnam
• Central Vietnam
• Southern Vietnam
• Angkor Tours
• Classic Tours
• Luxury Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Family Vacations
• Beach Holidays
• Cycling Tours
• Luxury Holidays
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Tours
• Great Wall of China Tours
• Hiking Tours
• Vietnam & Cambodia
• Vietnam & Laos
• Vietnam & Thailand
• Thailand & Cambodia
• Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia
• Halong Bay Cruises
• Mekong Cruises
• Hanoi City Tours
• Ho Chi Minh City Tours
• Halong – Cat Ba Tours
• Hoa Lu – Tam Coc
• Da Nang – Hoi An Tours
• Nha Trang Tours
• Phu Quoc Tours
• Mekong Delta Tours
• Ha Giang Tours
• Mai Chau Tours
• Shore Excursions
• First Trip to Vietnam
• 7 Days (1 Week)
• 14 Days (2 Weeks)
• Mui Ne Phan Thiet
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Tet Holiday in Vietnam
• Vietnamese Zodiac Elements
• Traditional Folk Games
• Kanchanaburi
• First Trip to Thailand
• 4 Days in Laos
• 5 days in Laos
• 7 Day in Laos
• Luang Prabang
• Savannakhet
• Useful travel apps in Laos
• 3 Days in Cambodia
• Cambodia in 5 Days
• Cambodia in 7 Days
• Angkor Thom
• Sihanoukville
• Kampong Cham
• Ngapali Beach
• Kalaw & Pindaya
• Best of Vietnam
• Beautiful Vietnam
• Vietnam weather
• Vietnam Food
• Vietnam Itineraries
• Vietnam Travel News
• Vietnam Travel Tips
• Vietnam Culture
• Ethnics of Vietnam
• Beautiful Thailand
• Thailand itineraries
• Thailand Travel Tips
• Beautiful Cambodia
• Cambodia Travel Tips
• Cambodia itineraries
• Beautiful Laos
• Laos Itineraries
• Laos Travel Tips
• Beautiful Myanmar
• Best of Myanmar
• City Highlights
• Myanamar Travel Tips
• Myanmar Itineraries
• Beautiful China
• Company News
• 14 Days in Vietnam and Laos
• 15 Days in Vietnam and Laos
• Vietnam and Laos in 17 – 20 Days
• 11 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• 12 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• 13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• 14 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• 15 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• 16 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
• Vietnam Visa
• Flights to Vietnam
• Vietnam domestic flights
• Vietnam MICE, Incentive travel
• Vietnam trains
• Thailand car rental
• Cambodia car rental
• Myanmar car rental
• Laos car rental
• Why Choose Us
• Logo, Slogan and Website
• Meet The Team
• Terms and Conditions
• Payment Methods
• Responsible Travel
• Land Tour Operator
• Create my Trip

How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam?

• Updated: November 2, 2022 Alice Pham in Vietnam Travel Tips , Vietnam Travel News 0 comment.

1. Why should you travel to Vietnam?

The answer is that it is a “safe and good value option”. Without spending too much money, you will be repaid with guaranteed good experiences, such as tasting good Vietnamese food, relaxing on the beaches, meeting friendly locals and getting a taste of Vietnamese culture. All of these will make every penny and day spent worth it.

Vietnam is absolutely safe for all types of travelers. The country has never been the victim of a terrorist attack. In fact, Vietnam is rated safer than 140 countries when it comes to terrorism. The political situation is stable and crime is relatively low. In addition, in 2021, Vietnam is ranked, according to a report by Expat Explorer, in the top 5 countries to expatriate to live happily in Asia-Pacific. If you are foreign tourist, the Vietnamese always welcome you warmly.

Son Doong, the largest natural cave in the world in Quang Binh

2. How to get a Vietnam visa?

The visa exemption is applied from March 15, 2022, until March 14, 2025, for 13 countries: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus, and for stays of 15 days.

If you are from America, Canada, Australia or about 80 other countries which are not on the list of visa-exempt countries, you need to apply for a visa to enter Vietnam. It usually costs around 25 USD for a single entry visa (30 days). The double-entry or multiple-entry visa costs more. 3 options for travelers to get a Vietnam visa:

• Apply for a visa at the Vietnamese Embassy in your home country
• Apply visa on arrival. We will send you an approval letter, which you will present at Vietnam International Airport.
• Apply for the electronic visa (e-visa). You must complete the visa application form and make the payment online. >>> Please see Visa Vietnam to see more information.

3. When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

For mild, dry weather: December to March

For less crowds and cheap: March to October

As a long and narrow country, stretching from north to south, with a long coastline, the climate is pleasantly milder all year round, with fewer temperature extremes than in inland countries.

Mild, dry season and festival season: December-March

Making Banh Chung Experience

This season enjoys the most pleasant climate in Vietnam. You can also have the chance to immerse yourself in the atmospheric festivals and celebrations, such as Christmas, New Year and Tet (Vietnamese New Year, in January or February).

In this high season, hotels are easily full and the price of tours increases accordingly. Due to high demand, it is advisable to plan your trip at least three months in advance.

Hot, dry and flowering season: March-April This period is the best time to visit for those who wish to find a compromise between price and time.

Blooming flowers weave a stunning picture: red kapok, yellow rapeseed blossoms, white plum blossoms and pink peach blossoms. You can meet them in the countryside of northern Vietnam or in the flower villages of Hoi An.

Hot, rainy and low season: May-November By visiting Vietnam during the rainy season, you can enjoy lower prices (200-400 USD less per person for a 10-day tour) and fewer crowds.

Thanks to its long, S-shaped coastal geography, rainy days are not often persistent. Precipitation mainly occurs in the afternoon or evening, allowing you to enjoy most of the day. It is recommended to practice outdoor activities in the morning and bring rain gear.

Typhoons are likely to occur in July and August in northern Vietnam, but in October in the center of the country. Thus, a flexible itinerary and the purchase of travel insurance are useful for making possible adjustments.

> See Best time to go to Vietnam for more information on weather in Vietnam

4. Vietnam travel budget

To plan a trip to Vietnam, budget is a concerning issue for all travelers to get ready earlier. As you know, no matter if it’s a budget trip to Vietnam from India or from England, or the USA, it’s always on the list of the lowest budget compared to other Asian countries.

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (abbreviated as VND). The US dollar to VND exchange rate is currently hovering around 1:23000 (updated 2022). This rate may vary from time to time. You can check the exchange rate via this link .

US dollars and credit cards (like Visa and MasterCard) can be used in major cities, including shopping malls, fancy restaurants and 4-5 star hotels.

However, it is much wiser to have VND with you for small expenses/purchases from street vendors, taxi drivers and local traders.

You can withdraw money from ATMs, but you may have to pay two commissions (one by the local bank and the other by your issuing bank). It is therefore better to bring a few US dollars in cash and then change them at the airport, in banks or hotels.

International flights may represent the largest portion of your trip costs. The price of plane tickets varies a lot according to the routes. So do a comparison before you book.

Vietnam domestic flights are very affordable. For example, a single plane ticket costs only around 80 USD in economy class during low season. Air fares between Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries are similar.

When arriving in Vietnam, you can enjoy a private day tour for 100-150 USD per person. The larger your group is, the lower the price is. Your professional guide and conscientious driving will brighten up your trip.

Hotel room rates vary from guesthouses to luxury hotels. Since the Vietnamese system is different from the international hotel star rating system, it is best to classify Vietnamese hotels into the following categories: “Comfortable”/”Boutique” (50-100 USD per room), “Luxury” (150- 200 USD per room) or “Guesthouse (from 10 USD per room)”.

If you want to find something to eat, you can choose to sample street food for just $1-2 per meal or deluxe cuisine for $20-50 per meal, or anything in between.

5. Where to visit in Vietnam?

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are considered gateways for connections to your international flights. The following cities are the main destinations, should be noted when you plan a trip to Vietnam:

• Hanoi is rich in history and street food.

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a must-see during a trip to Vietnam.

Get up early, jog around Hoan Kiem Lake and wave to the locals to experience Hanoi’s most peaceful and authentic life. After enjoying a bowl of pho, cycle through the Old Quarter, browse the local market, and sip a cup of coffee at a sidewalk café.

Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword) – Hanoi

• Halong Bay is always on the list of favorite destinations for travelers for its island scenery.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful natural sites in Vietnam. Its unique and breathtaking seascape attracts honeymooners for their honeymoons.

Board a luxury cruise, visit special floating villages and go kayaking. In the late afternoon, stretch out on a lounge chair with your favorite drink by your side, enjoy the cool sea breeze and watch the sun slowly set…

>> See Honeymoon Vacations in Vietnam

• Hoi An , a thousand-year-old city, attracts thousands of visitors, known for its exquisite Ao dai/costume making and historical relics.

Hoi An in central Vietnam is a wonderful place to relax on the beach, take cooking classes, visit historical buildings, as well as explore the countryside.

As the City of Lanterns, the ancient city is charming at night, illuminated by beautiful lanterns. You can learn Vietnamese lanterns and how to make them. If you are traveling on a full moon day, you can participate in local traditions and float paper lanterns.

City of Lanterns-Hoi An

• Ho Chi Minh City represents modern Vietnam.

The largest city in southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a wonderful place for urban travelers and foodies.

You can learn about the Vietnam War in world-class museums and the Cu Chi tunnels, have a cup of coffee on top of high-rise buildings or sample street food.

Discovery of the Cu Chi Tunnels

After dark, stroll through the vibrant nightlife. Sit on a stool, order local beers and taste the delicious barbecue.

• The Mekong Delt a, 2-3 hours drive from Ho Chi Minh City, presents a harmony between life and nature.

Plan a trip to Vietnam or Asia should not miss out this extraordinary experience. It’s The Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s rice bowl: bustling floating markets, verdant rice paddies and fruit gardens. Whether you take a boat trip or a bike tour through the villages, you’ll get a glimpse of authentic local life.

Mekong Delta sampan cruise

Just a 2-3 hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, you have the option of taking a day trip to the Mekong Delta or spending the night there to attend the floating markets (traditional and authentic) at early morning.

>> Read also Top 10 of the best packages in Vietnam

6. What to bring to Vietnam?

Necessary papers to bring

• Passport (must still be valid at least 6 months after your return date)
• Visa (if trip over 15 days)
• Driving license from your country and international driving license (if you have it)
• Credit card and/or small denominations (only banknotes are exchangeable, not coins)
• Plan of your trip
• Travel insurance

Baggage requirements for travel in Vietnam

In the North, you will find mountainous regions, suitable for hiking. So don’t forget to add to your Vietnam travel checklist good walking shoes, a windbreaker with a hood (it’s even better if it’s foldable, you’ll save more space), and, depending on the season, a cardigan that’s not too thick.

If you are planning a beach vacation or a cruise in Halong Bay, swimwear and sarongs are must-haves on your packing list for a trip to Vietnam, not to mention a nice pair of sandals as well. walking around and a pair of flip flops for the beach. Also remember to protect yourself from the sun’s rays by taking a cap or sun hat with you.

If you plan to visit religious places and sites, remember to bring a top covering your shoulders and a bottom covering your legs, otherwise you will be refused entry because your outfit will be considered too light.

Finally, Vietnam is a country with a high level of humidity, for unaccustomed travelers, there is no point in taking clothes with too tight cuts, such as skinny jeans, which will prove to be unpleasant to wear. Choose clothes with flowing fabrics and loose cuts in your list of clothes for a trip to Vietnam, in order to let your skin breathe and suffer less from this destabilizing humid heat.

7. Transportations

• Arrive Vietnam

To go to Vietnam, the plane remains the best means of transport, the safest and the most practical. Currently, many airlines operate flights to most western countries. You can easily fly directly from your home country to Vietnam, while for some countries your flight to Vietnam requires at least 1 stopover.

International trains are available from neighboring countries: China, Laos and Cambodia. We suggest you apply for your visa before leaving your home country, as visa on arrival is not applied when arriving in Vietnam by land.

For those who like relaxing trips, cruises are a great idea. International cruises pass through the most beautiful places in Vietnam, such as Halong Bay, Mekong Delta, etc.

• Between tourist destinations

Domestic flights The main domestic airlines are Vietnam Airlines, the best airline in Vietnam, and VietJet Air – a private low-cost airline. Almost all major cities in Vietnam are accessible by air, such as Hai Phong, Hue, Da Nang (the nearest airport to Hoi An), Nha Trang, Da Lat, Can Tho and Phu Quoc.

Car The car is the means of transport most used by tourists. There are two types of cars: taxis and private cars. Taxi is easy to find in Vietnam, especially in the cities.

Also, if you are traveling to an uncrowded or remote location, it is difficult to find a taxi, so in this case, you will be advised to hire a private car with a driver. You can contact a local travel agency and provide them with the necessary information. She will give you advice before confirmation, the price and the itinerary are also fixed before departure. IDC Travel also offers you  car rental packages in Vietnam with a driver. Our drivers are professional and can adapt to any unforeseen situation.

Train The rail network is improving year by year, but traditional trains have certain limitations, including service comfort. It is best to book a tourist cabin. These are air-conditioned cabins with 2 or 4 beds sold by companies to redecorate and redecorate the interior.

Train in Vietnam

Motorbike Vietnam recognizes the international license since January 1, 2015, the rental of scooters and motorcycles over 50cc is currently legal and possible. If you don’t have a driver’s license, the moto-taxi (xe om) is a better option. In major cities, you can order a motorcycle taxi via a smartphone application, such as Grab, Gojek or Be.

Bike In cities and flat regions, especially deltas, cycling is an excellent way to visit in complete freedom.

In large cities and many tourist sites such as Tam Coc or Mai Chau in the North, many hotels make them available to their customers free of charge.

Pedicap The most ecological means of transport: no engine, no smoke, no noise. You will be advised to take a pedicab tour in the district of Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, etc. Any traveler needs to note this in their must-do things when they plan a trip to Vietnam because you can’t find it in anywhere else now in the world. It’s rare. Please try it out.!

Boat/Cruise For some destinations like Ha Long Bay, the Mekong Delta, and Tam Coc (Ninh Binh)… you can only get there by cruise or small boat. Or for Phu Quoc Island, if you don’t choose the flight, you can take a speed boat. The type and quality of boats also vary greatly depending on terrain, budget, and tour route. IDC travel offers you some tours like Halong Bay Cruises , Mekong River Cruises which make you do nothing except bring your luggage and get on the boat. We’ll do all for you.

8. Housing in Vietnam

Finding accommodation in Vietnam is no longer a difficulty, as they are more and more numerous and varied. Indeed, you will easily find accommodation of all categories of hotels and homestays, … in major cities and popular destinations. Moving away from the cities, in recent years, a new form of low-cost accommodation has been developing strongly: guest house. They are generally charming houses on stilts, located in minority villages, ethnic Thais, Tay, Dao, Giay… It is an excellent experience if you want to immerse yourself in local life and culture.

9. How to organize your itinerary in Vietnam?

Vietnam has so many stunning destinations that no traveler can miss, otherwise, that would be a big pity. Spending several days in Vietnam surely is not enough to discover this land. However, IDC travel offers you a lot of variations to help you choose the most suitable for your schedule. You can decide to start your trip in our capital – Hanoi or the modern city Ho chi Minh with the suggested tours below:

• For 8 to 10 days : Even with a short time, but you still can visit the most beautiful must visited destination like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh city, Mekong Delta … Depend on your time, you can choose but it is guaranteed that you will see the best things in Vietnam in this trip with 10-day tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh  or 8-day tour from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi .
• From 10 days to 15 days: This period of time is the best for an excursion in Vietnam with many tours for you to choose. Including the destinations in the above tours, here we offer more beautiful places like Nha Trang with beautiful beaches, Dalat with full of colorful flowers or come to Hue – imperial city of Vietnam with 15-day tour from Ho chi Minh to Hanoi. If you’re fan of mountainous vibes, be sure that you will not miss out this places in the North of Vietnam like Sapa and sipping some coffee or tasting ” Phở Việt Nam” on the boat in Cai Rang Float Market . This experience is so valuable that you may not see in any country else via 14-day tour from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh . If visitors wants to relax more in the most attractive beaches in the world located in Vietnam, you can refer 14 day tour discovering beautiful beaches in Vietnam .
• From 15-20 days: This period of time is even more than “good” for an amazing trip in Vietnam. If you can’t spend several months in Vietnam, a tour 17 days across vietnam is also the best choice for you to see all what you need to see in this beautiful country, from a luxury cruise trip in Halong Bay, or experience the night trail trip through the green high mountain in Sapa,  enjoying the culture in Mekong Delta -typical in Asia, or learn about Vietnam history in one of the most famous historic place. The last but not the least, which is our highlight, highly recommended if you have much time in Vietnam around 20 days, the tour of 21 days with all things, all beautiful places we mentioned above, will not let you down.

10. Vietnam Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Vietnam must be included some tips which help you reduce any risks or more easier to wander in this land without any unexpected problem. Check out some of the tips below so you can have the best experience in Vietnam:

• Get travel insurance

Although Vietnam is a relatively safe country, it is important to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. And it’s not just petty theft. Food poisoning, injury during an adventure activity, loss of valuables or even missing a flight are just some of the things that can really ruin your trip to Vietnam.

• Have a local SIM card

Getting a local sim card or pocket Wifi is highly encouraged (especially if you are a first time visitor to Vietnam).

Viettel, Vinaphone and Mobifone – 3 most popular SIM cards in Vietnam

• Learn a few phrases in Vietnamese

English is widely spoken in most touristic places, but you can learn some key phrases in Vietnamese that will make your trip much more enjoyable and maybe even impress a few locals: Xin chao (Hello), Tam Biet (Goodbye ), Cam on (Thank you), Vang, da (Yes), Khong (No),…

• Wear appropriate clothing in religious establishments

Visitors are advised to dress modestly at all religious sites, not topless, or wear shorts, shorts or other inappropriate clothing.

Above is the most necessary information for your trip to Vietnam. Do not hesitate to contact us to plan your first trip to this beautiful country.

After reading all of this above, we believe that you can become a professional Vietnam trip planner who can also recommend for their friends if they need to plan a trip to Vietnam for the first time.

Don’t hesitate to contact us and let us help you plan a trip to Vietnam!

We are here to help you...

Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our specialists

Hello, I'm Alice Pham - a travel blogger at IDC Travel. I have traveled to almost places in Vietnam and gained numerous useful experiences. I'm here willing to help you plan the most wonderful trip to our stunning S-shaped country.

Leave a Reply Cancel

Your email address will not be published

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You might also like

IDC Travel & GolfLux Year End Party 2023 – A Look Back on a Year of Great Success

IDC Travel & GolfLux Year End Party welcomed all company members & their families as well as close partners and guests. This…

14 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia: Ultimate Journey to Southeast Asia

Let’s go for a journey through Southeast Asia, a region where ancient traditions seamlessly intertwine with modern cityscapes. In the heart of…

13 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia: Exploring the Gems of Indochina

Cambodia and Vietnam are unique in terms of culture, religion, history, modern development, and landscapes. In a circuit of 13 days in…

6 Vietnamese culinary specialities you need to try on your next trip

D iscovering a country and culture usually means trying its culinary specialities. Vietnamese cuisine is rich and flavoursome, a delight for the tastebuds. Let’s look at 6 specialities you need to discover Vietnamese gastronomy.

Fragrant, tasty and delicate... Vietnamese cuisine is a famous culinary tradition that you must try at least once in your life.

Want to travel to Vietnam? Here are some articles to help you plan out your trip :

• Vietnam: Must-see destinations in the South-East Asian country
• 5 perfect destinations for diving in Vietnam
• The 5 finest beaches for basking in Vietnam

Vietnam's 6 must-try culinary specialities

Pronounced “fuh,” this iconic Vietnamese dish is a classic speciality. Pho is a light and succulent soup of rice noodles and beef. The broth is usually made with beef stock, shallots, ginger, star anise and cinnamon. After cooking for a few hours, the dish is ready to eat, often at the start of the day. It is best served with fresh herbs, lime and chilli pepper.

The famous Bánh xèo is essentially a pancake with a Vietnamese twist, whose name even means “sizzling pancake.” Thicker than crepes, but thinner than pancakes, this dish is made from rice flour flavoured with turmeric. Bánh xèo is usually garnished with pork and bean sprouts. Each region tends to have its own specific recipe.

Knowing a country’s culinary specialities is great, but knowing those specific to that country’s different regions is even better. Let us travel to the heart of the former imperial capital, Hue. Chao Tom is one of those dishes, so delicious and simple that it has become a classic. It consists of minced prawns, rolled and placed on a sugar cane stalk. The resulting skewer is then grilled on the barbecue. The result is a whole new taste experience!

Chuoi nep nuong

While Vietnam is mostly known for its savoury dishes, the country’s cuisine also has a sweet side to it. Chuoi nep nuong , a dish from the south-west of Vietnam, is proof of this. It consists of a banana marinated in sugar and salt, then peeled and covered in sticky rice, often used in Asia. The prepared banana is then wrapped in a toasted banana leaf. This sweet treat is usually eaten with creamy coconut milk.

A star of Vietnamese street food , especially in Hanoi, Banh cuôn is a dish generally eaten on the full moon and/or for breakfast. These are small, relatively light, flavoured pancakes made from rice flour and topped with minced pork, mushrooms and shallots. They are then steamed and served with nuoc mam sauce and fresh herbs.

A typical Hanoi dish, Cha ca is a symphony of flavours that you really need to try if you are passing through the city. It consists of fried fish, usually Lang or hemibagrus (catfish), then fried in turmeric and placed on a bed of dill and chives. The fish is usually served with grilled rice cakes, rice noodles or fermented prawn paste. What a treat!

Russia's Putin to visit Vietnam, sparking US rebuke of Hanoi

• Medium Text

• Putin to meet Vietnam leaders on June 19-20, officials say
• Talks to focus on arms, energy, payments, official says
• Public deals expected on trade, education, investment

ENERGY, ARMS, TECH

Sign up here.

Reporting by Francesco Guarascio, Khanh Vu and Phuong Nguyen; Editing by Stephen Coates, William Mallard and Michael Perry

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Thomson Reuters

Francesco leads a team of reporters in Vietnam that covers top financial and political news in the fast-growing southeast Asian country with a focus on supply chains and manufacturing investments in several sectors, including electronics, semiconductors, automotive and renewables. Before Hanoi, Francesco worked in Brussels on EU affairs. He was also part of Reuters core global team that covered the COVID-19 pandemic and participated in investigations into money laundering and corruption in Europe. He is an eager traveler, always keen to put on a backpack to explore new places.

World Chevron

Gunmen fire on targets in Russia's Dagestan region, six police killed

News agencies reported that street fights were gripping Makhachkala, the chief administrative town in Dagestan, a mainly Muslim region on the Caspian Sea.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

3 Takeaways From Putin’s Trip to Vietnam

The state visit by President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia to Vietnam had a very different backdrop than his trip to North Korea, as Hanoi has deepened ties with Washington.

By Sui-Lee Wee and Paul Sonne

President Vladimir V. Putin’s state visit to North Korea appeared to have a singular focus on military matters: The two sides dramatically revived a Cold War-era mutual defense agreement. A day later, in Vietnam, the Russian leader was far less provocative, at least early in his visit.

Vietnam values its relations with the United States, which would be jeopardized if Mr. Putin were to make fiery statements about Washington standing beside Vietnamese officials. So even though Vietnam and Russia have deep military relations and a shared communist history, leaders in Hanoi instead focused talks with Mr. Putin on boosting ties in areas like trade, education, energy, and science and technology. The Russian leader kept his formal remarks muted, though he let loose later when he took questions from his press pool before taking off. Most of the questions were about North Korea.

There were no major breakthroughs, but the show of unity with Vietnam was designed to give Mr. Putin a veneer of international legitimacy at a time of increasing isolation in the West.

Here are three key takeaways from his visit.

It was a diplomatic show of sorts for Mr. Putin.

Unlike North Korea, which is a pariah in the West, Vietnam has been courted by the United States in its effort to contain China’s growing global influence. Within the past year alone, Hanoi has also hosted President Biden and China’s top leader, Xi Jinping.

Mr. Putin’s visit to Vietnam is part of an effort by the Russian leader to show that despite Western attempts at isolating him over his invasion of Ukraine, he is still accepted by world leaders. His trip late last year to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, two key American partners in the Middle East, underscored the point.

He was given a 21-gun salute at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, an important historical site in the center of the capital. In typical scripted fashion, Vietnamese schoolchildren — waving both Russian and Vietnamese flags — lined streets in Hanoi as Mr. Putin’s motorcade drove by. It was Mr. Putin’s fifth trip to the country since 2001 but his first since his full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Vietnam and Russia share a long history bound by ideology. In 1950, the Soviet Union was among the first countries to give diplomatic recognition to what was then the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, or North Vietnam.

Nguyen Phu Trong, the powerful head of the Vietnamese Communist Party, told Mr. Putin that as someone who had lived and studied in Russia, he still recalls fondly “this great and beautiful country of Russia with warm feelings,” according to Vietnam’s Tuoi Tre newspaper.

For decades, Moscow became Vietnam’s biggest donor, providing military aid when Hanoi was fighting its wars against France and the United States — a fact that Mr. Putin took pains to remind the Vietnamese on Thursday.

“The Soviet Union, as you noted, provided effective assistance in the heroic struggle of the Vietnamese people against the French and then American invaders, and subsequently contributed to the peaceful construction of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam,” Mr. Putin said, as Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stood at his side.

Vietnam has stopped short of voicing support for Russia’s war on Ukraine but has also been careful not to alienate Moscow.

Last weekend, Hanoi skipped the Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland. It has also abstained on four United Nations resolutions condemning Russia’s attack on Ukraine and voted against the motion to remove Russia from the U.N. Human Rights Council.

Mr. Putin’s rhetoric was muted in Hanoi.

Unlike in his meeting a day earlier with the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, Mr. Putin, in public, held back on the fiery rhetoric against the United States through most of the day, when appearing at formal events with Vietnamese counterparts.

On Wednesday, sitting across from Mr. Kim, he railed against Washington as a hegemonic and imperial power trying to force its will on the world through its satellite countries. He signed a defense pact vowing to aid North Korea in the event of a war and threatened deeper cooperation with Mr. Kim’s military.

In Vietnam, the Russian leader stuck to uncontroversial statements about trade and historical relations. The messaging appeared to be calibrated with his Vietnamese counterparts in mind.

Vietnam, which upgraded ties with the United States last year, has been careful with the optics of Mr. Putin’s visit. Ahead of his trip, officials in Washington made it clear that they were not happy, saying that no country “should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities.”

Vietnamese media has focused the visit on the bilateral relationship and their long historical past as friends during the Cold War era.

“Whatever Russia can offer, I don’t think Vietnam would jump at it and give any impression or appearance that we are aligned with Russia in an anti-Western front,” said Hoang Thi Ha, a senior fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore.

Although Russia has long supplied weapons to Vietnam, there was little public talk of arms procurement or defense. Mr. Putin’s new defense minister, Andrei R. Belousov, accompanied the Russian leader in North Korea but then seemed to drop off the trip, with Russia’s defense ministry publishing images of him touring a military health complex back in Russia on Thursday.

For Vietnam, it was a display of its ‘bamboo diplomacy.’

Hanoi says its highest level of bilateral ties are with seven countries: Russia, China, the United States, India, South Korea, Japan and Australia. Maintaining ties with one allows it to counterbalance the others.

Both Russia and Vietnam have profited greatly from exploiting Vietnam’s oil and gas deposits in the South China Sea. Mr. Putin pledged to supply oil and gas products to Vietnam for the long term.

Huong Le Thu, deputy director for Asia at the International Crisis Group, said Mr. Putin’s visit was a showcase of Vietnam’s ability to “sustain a relationship with all actors, despite the mutual great power rivalry and competition.”

Mr. Trong, the party chief, calls this approach “bamboo diplomacy,” in which, displaying the flexibility of bamboo branches, the country is able to balance multiple relationships with major powers.

“It is centered around Hanoi’s interests, rather than anyone else’s,” Ms. Huong said.

Sui-Lee Wee is the Southeast Asia bureau chief for The Times, overseeing coverage of 11 countries in the region. More about Sui-Lee Wee

Paul Sonne is an international correspondent, focusing on Russia and the varied impacts of President Vladimir V. Putin’s domestic and foreign policies, with a focus on the war against Ukraine. More about Paul Sonne