vietnamese travel tips

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

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

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

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

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

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

ENTRY / VISA:

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

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

ELECTRICITY:

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

TRANSPORTATION:

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

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

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

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

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

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

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

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

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

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

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

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

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

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

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

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE...

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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

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

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

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

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

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

Ho Chi Minh City:

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

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

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

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

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

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

Northern Vietnam

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

Central Vietnam

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

South Vietnam

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

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

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

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

Budgeting Tips

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

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

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

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

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

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

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

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

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

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

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

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

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

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

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

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

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

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

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

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

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

Apply in advance  here .

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

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

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

Getting to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Vietnam

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

Travelling by Air

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

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

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

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

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

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

Travelling by Bus

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

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

Travelling by Motorbike

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

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

Travelling by Train

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

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

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

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

Here are a few of our favourites.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

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

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

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

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

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

Types of Accommodations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

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

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

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

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

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

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

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

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

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

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

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

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

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

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

Some tips for protecting your things:

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

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

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

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

Purchase a SIM Card

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

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

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

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

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

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

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

Access Free WiFI

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

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

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

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

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

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Vietnam Travel Tips: 15 Things to Know Before Going to Vietnam

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If you are planning a visit to Vietnam and have never been to SE Asia before, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. The traffic is horrendous, many people don’t speak English, the food is not what you’re used to, cleanliness standards are quite different, and you may have to use the occasional squatty potty.

But if you mentally prepare yourself for the challenges and excitement that lie ahead, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this beautiful, diverse, and amazing country! After traveling all over Vietnam, we decided to move to Saigon last year, and all of our time here has allowed us to narrow down the most important Vietnam travel tips.

Based on our experience living in Vietnam and traveling the country extensively, we have compiled a list of 15 things you should know before visiting Vietnam so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Travel Tips for Visiting Vietnam

1. arrange your visa before arriving in vietnam.

Unlike neighboring Thailand and Cambodia , most visitors can’t simply arrive in Vietnam and get stamped into the country. All nationalities outside of Southeast Asia require some type of visa or preapproval letter before arriving in Vietnam.

Fortunately, it’s actually easy for citizens of most countries to obtain a visa either through the new eVisa process or by being pre-approved for a visa on arrival.

Unfortunately, the visa process for Vietnam is made more confusing by the proliferation of travel agencies offering the pre-approval service and competing for your business online. There are a lot of official-looking websites that aren’t really official. Many of these sites have the word “government” or “govt” in their URL to be tricky.

There is only one official eVisa site maintained by the Vietnamese government: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . If you want a 30-day, single-entry e-visa you should proceed directly to that URL.

However, if you want to stay longer than 30 days or want a multiple entry visa, you’ll need to select one of the official-looking but not-official tourist agencies to provide you with a pre-approval letter to visit Vietnam.

For the most part, they are all legit, so your chances of getting scammed out of a few dollars are relatively low. But it sure makes things confusing!

We can personally vouch for the authenticity of  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ as we’ve used them several times and never had any issues.

Steps for Obtaining a 30-Day Single-Entry eVisa

• Visit this website;  https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt . This is the only official government website . All others only look official but are run by tourist agencies.
• Upload your passport data page image and a passport photo (straight looking without glasses).
• Pay the fee by credit card.
• You will be emailed a registration code which you can use to check the status of your eVisa .
• Wait 3 working days for processing.
• Once approved, print your e-visa, and remember to pack it in your carry-on luggage!

The Steps to Obtaining a 30-day or 90-day Visa on Arrival

• Find an online service like  http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/ or one of the countless other options.
• Complete the visa application.
• Pay the fee.
• Wait 2 working days (usually less) for the letter of approval.
• Print the approval letter.
• Get passport photos taken if you don’t have them already. If you forget this step, you can get them taken at the airport for an inflated charge of ~$5 per photo (but it’s best not to rely on this option).
• Pack your approval letter, passport photos, and cash. Make sure they are all in your carry-on/hand luggage!
• At the airport, you’ll pay a stamping fee – either $25 or $50 depending on the length of visa you’re applying for (see below). Be sure to bring US Dollars in reasonably good condition – bills with no rips or writing.

2. It’s Best to Fly in Vietnam

Vietnam is a very long, thin country. From the city of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, the distance is over 1,000 miles and would take about 30 hours by car. Even with a whole month in Vietnam , if you want to hit all of the highlights in the south, central, and northern regions, you should definitely plan on flying.

If you take a bus or the train, you may save a few dollars, but you’ll waste a ton of time covering these massive distances. Plus, you can find really inexpensive domestic flights, especially if you book ahead. Vietjet Air is a popular domestic carrier with inexpensive flights (although it is not the most punctual airline).

Check Flight Prices on Skyscanner

3. Be Prepared for the Heat (and the Cold)

Whether you’re visiting south, central, or northern Vietnam, you can expect a lot of heat and humidity. The climate of the entire country is considered to be mild tropical or subtropical. So if your hair is like mine and turns into an unruly mop at the slightest hint of humidity, consider yourself screwed. Plus, any makeup you apply will slide off your face within 30 seconds of stepping outside.

Overall, you can expect some rain in the summer and autumn months, especially if you are visiting Vietnam from July to November. And in the north, the temperatures can get quite cold during the winter months (December – February), with occasional snow in the mountains around Sapa .

Central Vietnam is generally warm year-round and can get so unbearably hot in the summer months. Make sure you take this into account if you want to visit Hue , Hoi An , or Da Nang . The intense summer heat can make it so that leaving your air-conditioned hotel room takes the maximum amount of effort.

Be sure to check the weather in every city that you plan on visiting in Vietnam prior to departing so that you can plan (and pack) accordingly.

4. Learn Some Vietnamese

English is taught in schools in many countries in SE Asia, so locals tend to be multilingual. This is especially true of anyone working in shops, restaurants, hotels, or places that tourists frequent. And many people want to learn English as tourism is seen as a very lucrative profession. So getting around without a phrasebook or any basic conversational dialect is no problem.

But in rural parts of Vietnam, many people do not speak any English at all. Or if they do, it is incredibly basic. Even at restaurants, shops, and some hotels, you may have a challenging time communicating to place an order or ask how much something costs.

Plan on learning a few phrases to get around. “Xin chào” (pronounced “sin jow”) means “hello” and “cảm ơn” (pronounced “kam on”) is “thank you”. And the one you’ll probably use most frequently – “bia” (pronounced “bee-ah”) means “beer”. Use Google Translate and pick up a Vietnamese phrase book to help you get around.

5. Crossing the Street is Terrifying

The traffic in Vietnam is world-renowned for being insane. But not as much because of cars, more because of the thousands of motorbikes that dominate the roadways, weaving in and out of traffic. Walk signals and the white lines that generally indicate “pedestrian crossing” zones don’t hold much weight here. Motorbikes and cars will not stop for pedestrians unless they absolutely have to.

And since motorbike drivers don’t follow classic traffic rules – such as staying off of the sidewalks, going the right way down a one-way street, or stopping for red lights – you’ll have to be on high alert every time you attempt to cross the street.

As a general rule, you should begin walking confidently once you see a break in traffic and have faith that the cars and motorbikes will weave around you. They probably won’t stop, but they won’t actually hit you. Drivers seem to be better about this in Ho Chi Minh City and not as effective in Hanoi . Regardless, use caution and don’t expect your normal pedestrian rights from home to apply in Vietnam.

6. Get a Vietnamese SIM Card

You’ll find that even in remote areas of the country, including Sapa , Halong Bay , and Ninh Binh , the Wi-Fi signal is strong. And if you have a phone that is unlocked, you can pick up a Vietnamese sim card and get 60 gigs of data for less than $10. The 4G service works great pretty much everywhere.

No need to upgrade your cell service from home to an international plan while visiting Vietnam!

Viettel vs. MobiFone vs Vinaphone: Which is better? During multiple trips to Vietnam, we have used Mobifone, Viettel, and Vinaphone. We recommend Viettel – it is hands down the best Vietnam SIM card for tourists .

7. It’s Really, Really Cheap

The caveat to this is that you can certainly spend a lot and find luxury tours and accommodations while visiting Vietnam if you choose. But if you are on a moderate budget like us (we generally spend $80-100/day between the two of us), it’s really easy to do here.

You can find lovely boutique hotels in the $30-40 USD/night range and really comfy Airbnbs for around $20-25 USD/night. If you’re living in Vietnam long-term, you can rent an apartment or house for around $300-600/month. Trains and buses are quite affordable and comfortable. And if you use the Grab app instead of taxis, you’ll rarely pay more than a few dollars to get anywhere in the city.

Food is quite cheap as well. If you don’t mind eating on tiny plastic stools, you can get a filling meal for around $2 USD. Even fancy meals rarely cost more than $20 USD per person. Domestic beer is generally less than $1 USD per can or bottle. And if you plan on shopping for souvenirs, you’ll be expected to haggle a bit on prices. Start by offering 50% of their asking price, and you’ll end up meeting somewhere in the middle.

8. Check the Toilet Seat before Sitting

The toilet situation in SE Asia takes some getting used to. Most bathrooms in Vietnam have adopted Western-style toilets over squatty potties (although you may encounter one every now and again). But often, you’ll need to pay to use them (generally 2,000 VND). And they don’t always have toilet paper. Most Vietnamese people prefer to use sprayers to clean their bums.

And that spray water gets all over the toilet seat. No one seems to have an interest in cleaning up after themselves. If I had $1 for every time I’ve accidentally sat down on a wet toilet seat in SE Asia, I’d be able to travel forever. Carry some tissues in your pocket and give the seat a good wipe before you sit down.

9. Always Wear a Helmet, it’s the Law

In December of 2007, Vietnam enacted a comprehensive mandatory helmet law to help to lessen the country’s traffic fatalities. Vietnam is the second-highest country in SE Asia for traffic fatalities with 24.5 per 100,000. And motorbikes are much more common than cars here, accounting for 95% of registered vehicles in the country.

The law is strictly enforced and today, you’ll see most people wearing them around cities. And it’s helped. A lot. The AIP Foundation estimates that 15,000 fatalities and 500,000 injuries have been prevented in the 10 years since the law was enacted.

As a foreigner, you’ll be expected to wear one as well during your visit to Vietnam. And not just if/when you rent a motorbike, you’ll also need one if you take one of the many Grab bikes that dominate the roadways. But don’t worry, they’ll have an extra one for you to use.

10. Use Grab, not Taxis

Speaking of Grab, you should plan on using this service rather than taxis. Grab is the Uber of SE Asia. Simply download the app and find a driver anytime you need a ride. Keep in mind it often takes longer than hailing a taxi, and the drivers occasionally cancel the ride, but it’s far easier than having to negotiate your taxi fare prior to departing. And it’s so much cheaper!

You can load your credit card info or opt to pay cash for each ride. You’ll rarely pay more than $2 USD to get around the city. You’ll save yourself a ton of time, money, and hassle if you use Grab during your visit to Vietnam – trust us!

11. Don’t Expect to Walk on the Sidewalk

There are plenty of wide sidewalks in the cities of Vietnam, so you might think you can escape the crazy traffic, right? Wrong. You’ll find that most of the time, you have to walk in the street anyway because the sidewalks are filled with dozens of parked motorbikes or plastic restaurant tables.

Why Vietnam has decided that motorbike parking is more important than having a place for pedestrians to walk is beyond me. And frankly, it’s really annoying in the touristy areas of Hanoi and Saigon. But as mentioned above, motorbike drivers are good about weaving around pedestrians in Vietnam.

You’ll appreciate towns like Hoi An that have designated pedestrian areas, so you don’t have to worry about getting sideswiped by a motorbike while wandering down the side of the road.

12. Get a Debit Card that Refunds International ATM Fees

It’s pretty rare to find ATMs in Vietnam that will dispense more than 3,000,000 VND (~$130 USD), and many will only give you 2,000,000 VND (~$85 USD) at a time. Plus, you’ll be charged a transaction fee each time you use one that will range from $1 – $5 USD. And it’s pretty rare to find restaurants, bars, or shops that take a Visa card. If they do, they generally charge an additional 3% as well.

We’ve also found ourselves needing to visit up to five ATMs before finally finding one that will actually work. So don’t wait until the last minute to withdraw cash or give yourself a small window of time. Surprisingly, we had the most difficult time finding ATMs that would take foreign cards in downtown Hanoi.

Be sure to check with your bank prior to departing to ensure that they refund international ATM charges. Also, check to make sure they don’t charge international fees. You’ll also need to call your bank to release your cards for international use.

We love the Charles Schwab debit card that offers zero international fees and refunds all of your ATM fees. And the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is best for earning points while traveling. We use the Chase card for booking hotels and tours and our Charles Schwab card for getting money out of the ATM when visiting Vietnam.

13. It’s Not as Conservative as You Think

Prior to visiting Vietnam, I was under the impression that I’d need to dress very conservatively. And while many people do tend to keep their shoulders and knees covered, regardless of the blazing temperatures, many younger locals show far more skin than I was anticipating.

And the rules are more relaxed when visiting temples in Vietnam compared to some of its neighbors. There are signs requesting that visitors cover up, but they are rarely followed or enforced.

You may feel a bit uncomfortable wandering around town in a half-shirt but don’t be afraid to pack shorts or dresses for your Vietnam vacation.

14. It’s Also Not as Communist as You Think

Vietnam is one of only five communist countries that still remain in the world today. However, you won’t encounter much evidence of communism as you go about your day as a tourist. Most businesses are privately owned, and there is a strong sense of capitalism in the country.

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis full of highrise buildings and it even has its own stock exchange. And a new generation of young Vietnamese entrepreneurs is hard at work on cool new startups in industries ranging from tech to craft beer .

Ho Chi Minh (affectionately known as “Uncle Ho”) is still revered as the liberator of Vietnam by both the French and the Americans, but the tides seem to be rapidly and decidedly turning towards capitalism.

In case you’re wondering… the other four communist countries are China, Cuba, Laos, and North Korea. 

15. Remember – here it’s Called The American War

It’s not called the Vietnam War here. We were invading their country, after all.

But don’t worry – relations were normalized between the US and Vietnam in the mid-1990s thanks to efforts by then-President Bill Clinton and Senator John McCain, who spent five years as a POW in Hoa Lo prison in Hanoi during the war.

These days the American War is a distant memory, and you’ll find the Vietnamese hold no ill will against Americans. In fact, if someone finds out that you’re American, they will probably start telling you all about their extended family that now lives in America. Many Vietnamese in the south worked for the US military during the war, and they were offered asylum in the US when the American troops finally pulled out of Saigon.

That’s it – 15 Vietnam travel tips! Do you have any advice for traveling to Vietnam? Let us know in the comments below.

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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6 thoughts on “vietnam travel tips: 15 things to know before going to vietnam”.

Looks like the http://www.vietnamvisapro.net/  web site is defunct.

You guys are my go-to for helpful info! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us in super easy terms! Just one question – you said you have to upload a “passport photo” for the evisa, but then you say in parenthesis “straight looking without glasses” as if we can take our own picture. So do we HAVE to use an official passport photo (the passport photo will be on the passport info page anyway), or can we take our own picture for that one part?

Hey Kate – we’re so happy to hear that! Yeah, you can take your own photo to upload for the evisa, we’ve done that a ton. Just take it in front of a white background and check the photo size requirements. Good luck!

Hi, Can you tell where in Ho Chi Minh City is the good place for FX to get local currency?

Thank you for this insightful blog post. I found it extremely helpful.

Awesome job you guys have done to help travellers worldwide when visiting Vietnan. However, just a note that China and the other countries mentioned are light-years distant from communists in essence, it is worth comparing their government models with basic concepts proposed by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels on their books. Instead, China represents a governmental dictatorship where gaps between wealthy and poor are massive, typically as in most capitalist countries worldwide.

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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.

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Vietnam travel guide

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

Destinations

Essential guide, getting around, vietnam weather by month.

• Inspiration

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

North Vietnam

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

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

3. Halong Bay

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

4. Ninh Binh

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

5. Ha Giang

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

6. Mai Chau

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

Central Vietnam

7. phong nha.

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

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

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

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

11. Nha Trang

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

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

South Vietnam

13. ho chi minh city.

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

14. Mekong Delta

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

15. Phu Quoc

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

16. Con Dao

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

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

Off the beaten track destinations

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

Health & Safety

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Money & budget

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

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

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

Internet & calling

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

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

Electricity & socket adapters

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

Traveling to Vietnam

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

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

Arrival options

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

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

Long distance

1. domestic flights.

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

2. Bus travel

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

3. Train travel

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

4. Private transfers

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

Short distance

5. public transportation.

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

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

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

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

Other options for getting around

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

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

Best time to visit Vietnam

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

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

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

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

Vietnam by month

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

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

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

Vietnamese culture

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

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

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

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

2. Wander Hanoi

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

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

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

4. Hang out in Hoi An

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

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

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

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

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

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

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

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

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

6. Get active in Mui Ne

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

7. See My Son

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

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

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

9. Check out the rice terraces

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

10. Relax in Hue

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

11. Take a cooking class

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

12. Tour the former DMZ

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

13. Buy a motorbike

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

14. Sample the local coffee

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Vietnam

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

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

How to Get Around Vietnam

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

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

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

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

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

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

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

When to Go to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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31 Vietnam Travel Tips | Essential Things You Need Know

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, there are a few things that you need to know before you go. Here we have compiled a list of 31 essential travel tips to Vietnam. You will find everything, from tips you must know before you leave, to common tourist scams.

Disclosure: Wander Vietnam contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Vietnam travel tips before you leave

1. don’t forget your visa.

The first, and most important, on this list of travel tips to Vietnam is your visa. Vietnam has strict entry requirements. Unlike backpacking in Thailand , where citizens from the UK and the USA get 30-day free visas on arrival, Vietnam requires that citizens from most countries have visa approvals before arriving. If you’re from the UK, you can now get up to 14 days of free entry without the need for a visa. However, if you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a visa. Make sure to check your government’s travel advice page to be sure. You can also click here to check if you need a visa .

2. Be mindful of the weather

The weather can impact your trip to Vietnam. Be mindful of the weather and region you intend to visit before booking. For example, if you’re heading away to chase the sun, you probably want to avoid the north of Vietnam from December through to March, as this is when temperatures drop to as low as 10 °C . If you want to head to the beaches in southern Vietnam, you will want to avoid the rainy season, which usually lasts from May to November.

3. Pack for all weathers

If you’re on a backpacking trip spanning the entire country , make sure to pack clothes that are suitable for all weather. You will need shorts and T-shirts when you’re in the south of Vietnam as the weather is constantly hot. As you move north, temperatures begin to drop. By the time you reach Sapa, you may need a thick coat and scarf to keep you warm.

4. Plan your holiday around Tet

Travelling during the national holiday can be wonderful and you may find it extremely pleasant to witness the colourful celebrations. Depending on your outlook and the purpose of your trip, you may wish to plan or avoid your trip around the Tet holiday. If you’re in it for a cultural experience and don’t mind the crowds in places such as Hoi An , you will be in for a fantastic time. However, keep in mind that most shops and businesses shut down in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

5. Don’t plan your route too far in advance

If you’re on a wider 3-month Southeast Asia trip , it’s best not to plan your route too far in advance. Once you arrive, it is super easy to go with the flow. You can book hotels and transport at short notice. You may find you want to stay in a certain town or city longer than you intended. Likewise, you may find that you want to move on quicker than you expected.

6. Vietnam is cheap

You’ll be in for a shock when you realise how cheap Vietnam really is! Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in the entire world. You can get a good night’s sleep in a bed for as little as $3 per night, and fill your belly with a bowl of Pho for as little as $1. As for sights and attractions, there are plenty of things you can do by yourself that cost little money. Wander around the many free temples, shop for cheap trinkets at the Hanoi night markets , ride bicycles through endless rice paddies in Hoi An, laze around on beaches in Phu Quoc, or explore mountains in Dalat by scooter.

For a more detailed post on the cost of travelling to Vietnam check out this post !

7. Don’t forget travel insurance

Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel to, but that doesn’t mean that accidents won’t happen. In any case, it’s a good idea to take out travel insurance before travelling. A top tip for travel in Vietnam is to make sure your insurance will cover you for riding a motorbike.

Vietnam travel tips for when you arrive

8. the best bank to use.

Withdrawing money from ATMs can often be stressful when you are in a new country. After living in Vietnam for over 5 years, we find that the best ATM to use is CitiBank. This bank allows you to withdraw up to 6,000,000 vnd ($20), in comparison to other banks that have a maximum withdrawal limit on foreign transactions of 3,000,0000 vnd ($130). On the note of using an ATM, always use ATMs in the daylight and preferably use one that is attached to a bank. That way, if there happen to be any issues you can easily just pop inside the bank to resolve them.

9. Use a currency converter on your phone

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong. Once you arrive in this awesome country, you will quickly realise that everyone is a millionaire! $1 is equal to 22,000 vnd. With all the .000s that are added to the currency, working out the conversion rate is not so easy to wrap your head around. Make sure you download an offline currency converter on your phone so you can quickly work out the exchange rate. This will prevent you from overpaying for items and being ripped off.

10. Don’t get your banknotes confused

Speaking of money, some banknotes in Vietnam are of similar colour. Whilst the colour is similar, the value is far from the same. For example, you don’t want to mix up a 20,000 vnd ($1) note with a 500,000 vnd ($21.73) note. The difference is a little over $20!

11. Be mindful of your valuables

No matter where in the world you travel, you should always keep your eye on your valuables. However, in Vietnam, you should pay particular attention to your valuables when walking on the roadside. We can’t tell you how many times we have seen tourists casually standing close to the road with a camera in one hand, whilst looking down at their phone. It is not uncommon for thieves to drive past a scooter and try to rip your valuables from your grasp. Your precious belongings could be gone within a matter of seconds.

12. Play chicken with bikes but not cars

Can you really say you’ve been to Vietnam if you didn’t cross the roads? Crossing the sea of motorbikes can be a little daunting. The trick here is to walk straight ahead, don’t jerk from side to side, and don’t try to dodge the motorbikes. They will go around you! In the UK, we look left, right and then cross over the road when there is no traffic coming. If you were to do this in Vietnam, you could spend the entire day trying to cross the road. It’s fine to walk out cautiously in front of bikes, but don’t try to cross if you can see oncoming cars or buses.

13. Knowing the language goes a long way

Before you start your trip to Vietnam, we recommend you buck up on some basic Vietnamese phrases. Such as, hello, how are you? and how much does it cost? Knowing a few numbers also helps too. Getting to grips with the basics will help you navigate through the country easier and help you when it comes to buying food, drink, tours, and souvenirs .

14. Wifi is available everywhere (almost)

Surprisingly, Vietnam is well connected to the web. Almost every coffee shop and eatery will have wifi that you can connect to for free. So, if you want to avoid splashing out on a sim card and data, there is no need to worry about connecting to the wifi whilst you’re out and about.

Vietnam travel tips for getting around

15. grab taxi is best for getting around cities.

If you need to use transport to get around the cities or towns, make sure to download the Grab app . Grab works a little like Uber. Just tap in your pick-up point and drop-off point. The app will let you know the price beforehand. This way, you are unlikely to get taken for a ride around the block and overcharged.

16. No need to book transport too far in advance

If you’re using buses or trains to travel through Vietnam, don’t stress too much about booking too far in advance. Vietnam is a super relaxed country and you can easily hop on a bus or train on the same day (as long as it is not a major holiday). If you do want to book a few days in advance though, our favourite online booking site is Bookaway . You can search for all the transport providers and book directly on the website and have your ticket sent to your email address. Alternatively, you can usually book transport from your hotel, hostels, or a nearby tourist shop.

17. Motorbikes are great fun but don’t go crazy

Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is on almost everyone’s bucket list. After all, who wouldn’t want to scoot around the mountains in the motorbike capital of the world? Whilst motorbikes are a fantastic way to explore the country, it is important to remember not to get carried away. Always pay attention to the road and always wear a helmet. No one wants to spend the remainder of their trip hopping around in a leg cast.

18. Don’t miss these off-the-beaten-path places

Besides the regular backpacking trail , Vietnam has plenty of hidden gems to explore. For example, Dalat, in the Central Highlands is a mountainous paradise, that has been dubbed the honeymoon capital of Vietnam. It is the perfect destination for a lover’s retreat. In northern Vietnam, make sure you don’t miss out on places such as Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Sapa, which are perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Food & drink travel tips for Vietnam

19. eat where the locals eat.

Our motto is to eat where the locals eat. Restaurants and small roadside food carts that are packed with locals are good signs. We do not doubt that the food is delicious and worth trying.

Street food that you often find by the roadside, served directly from a portable cart, is often the cheapest and most delicious food you will find. Food from these types of places in Vietnam generally costs between 20,000 – 40,000 vnd ($0.87 – $1.75).

21. Avoid drinking tap water at all costs

The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Whilst you can brush your teeth with it, avoid gulping it down in gallons. Instead, head to one of the local convenience stores to buy bottled water.

22. Make sure the menu has prices

When ordering food, it’s good to know how much the meal will cost beforehand. Check the menu for prices. If there are no prices, make sure to confirm the cost with the waiter/waitress beforehand. We have fallen victim to overpriced iced tea a few times in places like Hoi An. Usually, the Vietnamese tea served alongside a meal is free, in local eateries in Ho Chi Minh City and Ha Noi, so it is easy to assume the same for other places in Vietnam.

Shopping travel tips for Vietnam

23. shop around for souvenirs.

Vietnamese souvenirs are sold in the millions. Don’t settle on the first item you see, at the first shop you see it in. Shop around for the best price. You are highly likely to find the same items at half the price down the road.

24. Get your haggle on

When shopping for trinkets in Vietnam, make sure to haggle. Sellers rarely give you a price expecting you to pay it without any negotiations. A good rule of thumb is to knock off a third of the original asking price.

25. Tipping is not a thing

Unlike in the USA, where tips are common practice, Vietnam doesn’t really have a tipping culture. It is fine to leave a small amount of change, but there is no need to add a 10% tip for every meal or journey.

26. Treat yourself to a tailor-made outfit

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places in the world to get tailor-made outfits. Hoi An particularly has tailors dotted all over the old town. Outfits can be made within a matter of a couple of days. If you’re in Hanoi and are looking for tailor-made dresses, you can pop on down to Hom Market to buy fabric. Prices for tailor-made dresses in Hanoi start from around 250 – 300,000 vnd ($11 – $13).

Common scams in Vietnam

27. motorbike ride around.

The motorbike ride-around scam is common in the major cities; Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. A local on a bike will approach you and ask if you want a tour of the city on his bike. He will present his badge and a book of testimonies written by other foreigners. When you ask for a price, he will tell you to pay what you think is fair at the end of the journey.

However, when you want to finish the trip, he will stop you away from your hotel and ask you to pay a ridiculous amount of money. This is why it is important to always agree on a price before starting a service. Make sure your negotiations are clear and don’t leave any room for misunderstanding. Always stand your ground, and if a seller refuses to give you an upfront price, keep walking and politely decline their offer. It is likely to lead to being scammed.

28. Fruit seller photos

Do you know the ladies that wear the traditional colonial hat and carry two large baskets of fruit over their shoulders? The typical image that may pop into your head when you think of Vietnam. Watch out for the photo scam. They will kindly approach you and ask if you would like to hold their baskets for a photo. In the moment this can seem quite exciting and you may jump at the chance. However, once your camera shutter snaps down, a demand for payment will be made. This isn’t to say not to take that photo opportunity, but be aware that you will need to pay a small amount of money for it.

29. Money switch

Some banknotes are similar in colour but have a massive difference in value. For example, take the 20,000 vnd ($0.87) note and the 500,000 vnd ($21.84) note. Scammers use this to their advantage. They will take your higher value note and whip it in their pocket in the blink of an eye and then try to convince you that you paid with the lower value note. Double-check the notes before you hand them over.

30. Petrol jump

If you rent a scooter in Vietnam, there is no doubt you will have to make a call to a petrol station. A known scam here is for the attendant to not reset the pump, resulting in you paying for your petrol and the person’s before you as well. Make sure the attendant starts the pump at 0. They should divert your attention for you to check.

31. Shoeshine

Finally on this list of travel tips for Vietnam is the shoeshine scam. The shoeshine scam is common around Bui Vien, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Bia Street in Hanoi . It is often young men that will approach you asking if you would like your shoes cleaned. Once you have agreed on the price they will take your shoes to be cleaned. Once they return with your shoes, you will find new laces, new soles, and other types of shoe repair jobs that you did not ask for. Of course, this is not free and you will have to pay for the extra service. To avoid this, make sure you are clear beforehand that you do not want any other service and that you will only pay what you agreed upon.

Essential resources for travelling in Vietnam

Travel Insurance – It’s a good idea to have insurance, particularly if you’re going to be riding a motorbike. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. It can be purchased whilst already travelling and there is no cap on travel duration.

Visa – You are highly likely to need a visa for Vietnam. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. You can quickly make a visa application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend almost always to have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . They have routes all over Vietnam and host a range of transport modes and companies. It is easy to book online and have your ticket sent to your phone.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities for Vietnam online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

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Vietnam Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Vietnam travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Thanks to its stunning natural beauty in places Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta, bustling cities with incredible street food, and fascinating culture and history, Vietnam is an unmissable destination in Southeast Asia .

It’s also extremely affordable, and visitors will find that their money stretches far in Vietnam when it comes to food, hotels, and transportation.

Keep reading to dive into resources from Jessie on a Journey as well as its sister site Epicure & Culture that will help you with planning a trip to Vietnam.

Note: This guide to Vietnam travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Vietnam Map

Use this Vietnam travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Best Places To Visit In Vietnam

Learn about the top places to visit in Vietnam .

Stunning Images From The World’s Largest Cave In Vietnam

Solo Travel, Local Culture & Going Beyond The Guidebook In Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Advice

Use these Vietnam travel tips to plan the perfect trip.

My Unwanted Paparazzi Moment On Cat Ba Island In Vietnam (Important Lesson Included!)

Top 10 Vacation Destinations In Asia

Vietnam Food Trip

Explore the country on a virtual Vietnam food tour with these travel resources.

A Guide To Southeast Asian Culture Through Spices

The French Influence On Vietnamese Cuisine

Asia Travel Tips

This Asia travel advice can help you plan the perfect trip.

24 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

Top Vietnam Tours

Check out these fun tours in Vietnam from my affiliate partner, Viator:

• Cooking Class in Local Villa with Market Tour (Seasonal Local Wine Tasting) in Hoàn Kiếm
• Saigon Evening Food Tour By Scooter in Ho Chi Minh City
• Overnight Sapa Tour from Hanoi

These excursions will help you learn about Vietnam from a local!

Vietnam Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Vietnam tour. When visiting Vietnam — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Vietnam itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Vietnam Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in Vietnam!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In Vietnam

Need a rental car for your Vietnam trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Vietnam Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Vietnam .

Q: Is Vietnam safe for tourists?

Vietnam is a safe country for tourists to visit. In fact, it’s one of the best destinations for a solo trip to Asia .

There is very little violent crime; however, tourists should be vigilant when it comes to petty theft and scams, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Q: Is Vietnam cheap to travel?

Vietnam is a very budget-friendly destination! Like many places in Southeast Asia, your money will go far in Vietnam.

A typical backpacker budget is around $30 a day, while a mid-range traveler may want to budget $60-$75 a day.

If you’re on a budget while traveling Asia , definitely add Vietnam to your itinerary.

Q: Can you travel Vietnam by train?

Yes, train travel is one of the best ways to get around Vietnam!

Trains in Vietnam are comfortable, affordable, and scenic. Although they can be slow, they offer great views and a good value for money.

Q: What are some Vietnam travel do’s and don’ts?

Things you should do in Vietnam:

• Do dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or pagodas
• Do keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in tourist areas
• Do learn a few basic phrases in Vietnamese, such as hello, please, and thank you

Things you should not do in Vietnam:

• Don’t take photos without asking for permission first, especially in rural areas or villages
• Don’t expect public restrooms to have toilet paper – always bring your own with you!
• Don’t miss out on trying Vietnamese street food

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Citizens of most North American and European countries will need a visa in order to visit Vietnam. Visas must be applied for in advance.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Vietnam International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Q: What are some must-try street foods in Vietnam?

Vietnam has some of the best street food in the world!

Experience Vietnam through delicious dishes like pho (a hearty noodle soup), xoi (sticky rice laced with various options like pork or fried egg), and banh mi (a tasty baguette sandwich).

Q: What are some great Vietnam tourist places?

When visiting Vietnam, some tourist spots not to miss include Ho Chi Minh City (aka Saigon), Phú Quốc Island, Mekong Delta (aka the Western Region), Vũng Tàu, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh, which is a town just an hour-and-a-half from Hanoi, which another great destination.

It’s also easy to get to other countries in Southeast Asia and the rest of Asia from Vietnam, like Hong Kong, Thailand, and Laos.

Q: What is the local currency in Vietnam?

The local currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese đồng.

What would you add to this Vietnam travel guide?

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Vietnam Travel Tips | Complete Trip Planning Guide For First Timers

Planning your first trip to Vietnam? Excellent choice! Vietnam is a fantastic country with a mix of vibrant cities, beautiful countryside, rich history, and stunning coastlines. Whether you’re into bustling urban scenes or tranquil rice terraces, Vietnam has something for everyone . But, let’s be real, planning a trip to Vietnam can be a bit tricky. From its unique shape on the map to avoiding travel scams, there’s a lot to consider. That’s where this Vietnam Travel Tips guide comes in handy.

Whether you’re a newbie or looking for some fresh insights, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to make your Vietnam adventure smooth sailing . Discover must-visit destinations, get help crafting your itinerary, and find practical advice on when to visit, visa requirements, travel costs, and other essential preparations. Once you step onto Vietnamese soil, our guide continues to assist you with valuable tips on getting a local SIM card, navigating transportation, handling finances, and becoming a bargaining pro. Get ready for an amazing journey with these essential Vietnam travel tips!

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Vietnam Quick Travel Tips & Facts

Planning your vietnam route.

Starting off these Vietnam travel tips, it’s crucial to understand how big Vietnam is. Traveling from one place to another might take longer than you think. Just to give you an idea, the train ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi is around 35 hours!

When planning your trip, keep these long distances in mind. Night buses and overnight trains are popular for covering more ground efficiently , but we’ll talk more about that later.

Vietnam can be split into three main parts: North, Central, and South. If you’re wondering how much time to spend in Vietnam, my suggestion is about one week for each region.

Even though Vietnam is sizable, some people try to see the whole country in one go. To do that properly, we’d recommend at least 3 weeks, but ideally 4 weeks.

To help you visualize, we’ve marked out some common travel destinations on the map below . It’s a handy reference for your Vietnam planning and travel tips.

The Best Places to Travel for Your First Time in Vietnam

Embarking on your first journey through Vietnam is like stepping into a vivid painting, where the landscapes shift from towering northern mountains to sun-soaked southern beaches . One of the most valuable Vietnam travel tips: Immerse yourself in the energy of at least one bustling city to truly feel the pulse of daily life in Vietnam.

Crafting a well-rounded experience means delving into destinations like Hanoi , the capital where history echoes through the charming Old Quarter, and Halong Bay , a breathtaking collection of limestone islands best explored on a sailing journey. 

Move north to Sapa for captivating rice terraces and mountain treks, or venture to Ha Giang Province for its dramatic mountain scenery and encounters with traditional hill tribes, promising an authentic adventure.

In Ninh Binh , be prepared for landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, while Phong Nha invites you to explore the surreal underground world of the world’s largest caves. Further south, Hue welcomes you with pagodas and temples, offering a serene cultural embrace, while Hoi An , a charismatic town, captivates with its undeniable charm through its colonial architecture.

Nestled in the Central Highlands, Dalat offers a cooler climate. If you seek coastal experiences, consider lively resorts like Phu Quoc or Mui Ne , or opt for the quieter retreat of Qui Nhon . Down south, the Mekong Delta beckons with floating markets, providing a unique river experience. Finally, dive into the dynamic urban landscape of Ho Chi Minh City , where modernity and tradition coalesce seamlessly.

Together, these destinations create an immersive introduction to Vietnam’s beauty, culture, and diversity, ensuring your first visit is a memorable exploration of both the past and the vibrant present.

Bucket List Experiences

✔ Explore the Old Quarter in Hanoi: Wander through the historic charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and dive into Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture at one of the adorable cafés.

✔ Join a Food Tour: Let an expert local guide your taste buds on a gastronomic journey, sampling the best dishes in every city.

✔ Light Lanterns in Hoi An: Experience the magical glow of lanterns illuminating the entire town of Hoi An at night.

✔ Get a Tailored Suit in Hoi An: Indulge in the tradition of hand-made suits, a popular choice among tourists in Hoi An.

✔ Explore Imperial History in Hue: Uncover Vietnam’s imperial history in Hue , where glimpses of the country’s past come to life.

✔ Indulge in Street Food: Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich culinary scene , trying local delicacies like Banh Mi and pho for as little as $1.

✔ Drive a Motorbike along the Hai Van Pass: Feel the thrill of the open road as you navigate the scenic Hai Van Pass on a motorbike.

✔ Trek the Rice Terraces and Stay with Hill Tribes: Escape the hustle and bustle by trekking through Sapa’s breathtaking landscapes, home to Vietnam’s highest peak, Fansipan. Experience the local culture by staying with hill tribes.

✔ Cruise through the captivating Halong Bay: Admire the majestic limestone rocks and take a refreshing leap into the tranquil waters.

✔ Eat Your Heart Out in Hue: Discover the delights of Hue’s imperial cuisine, from the renowned Bun Bo Hue beef noodle soup to an array of other mouthwatering dishes.

✔ Cross the Streets in Ho Chi Minh City: Immerse yourself in the vibrant city vibes of Ho Chi Minh City by navigating its bustling streets.

✔ Bike around Ninh Binh’s Countryside: Pedal through the lush countryside of Ninh Binh , exploring its picturesque rice terraces and scenic landscapes.

How Long Do You Need in Vietnam?

With so much to see, you could easily spend a few months in Vietnam and still discover new places. We’re big fans of taking it slow when traveling, especially on your first visit. Give big cities like Hanoi and Saigon at least three full days each to soak in the experience.

Getting to know Vietnam, its unique culture, traditions, and delicious food, takes time, and each region has its distinct vibe. If you try to rush through everything, you might miss out on the full experience.

Don’t be fooled by Vietnam looking small on the map— it still takes a while to travel around , especially if you’re relying on trains and buses. Adding a few domestic flights can be a smart move, saving you time and letting you explore even more.

However, as not everyone has so many vacation days in the year, for a well-balanced exploration, two weeks in Vietnam is an ideal timeframe . It provides a chance to witness the country’s highlights while traversing from North to South or vice versa. If time is further limited to just one week, consider immersing yourself in a single region , avoiding the rush and appreciating the richness without covering extensive distances.

Optimal for a more immersive experience, 3 or 4 weeks offer the luxury to deeply absorb Vietnam’s friendly and vibrant culture. This leisurely pace allows for a profound connection with the country.

For those with a generous six weeks, the opportunity to traverse the main regions and sights of Vietnam arises, with extra time to indulge in a bit of beach relaxation.

Vietnam Itinerary Suggestions

Here are some Vietnam itinerary suggestions based on your available time:

One Week in Vietnam Itinerary:

Focus on one region to minimize travel time.

North : Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Sa Pa or Ninh Binh

Central : Hue – Hai Van Pass – Hoi An – Da Nang

South : Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc

Two Weeks in Vietnam Itinerary:

Option 1: Cover main highlights from north to south (or vice versa):

Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh OR Hue – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City

Option 2: Focus only on the North or South in combination with central destinations

North & Central: Hanoi – Sa Pa – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh – Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An.

Central & South: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An – Nha Trang – Da Lat – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta.

Three Weeks in Vietnam Itinerary:

Dive deeper into popular spots with more time for exploration.

• Days 1 – 3: Hanoi
• Days 4 – 6: Sapa
• Days 7 – 9: Ha Long Bay
• Days 10 – 12: Ninh Binh
• Days 13 – 14: Hue
• Day 15: Hai Van Pass Day Trip
• Days 16 – 18: Hoi An
• Days 19-21: Ho Chi Minh

Check our comprehensive 3-week Vietnam itinerary guide for detailed suggestions and alternatives. If you follow our 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary, all that is left to do is to book your accommodations and transportation for the duration of the trip. We suggest a variety of accommodation options for different budgets , so you can choose whichever one suits you the most. 12Go Asia is the best platform to book your transportation in advance.

READ MORE | The Ultimate 3-week Vietnam Itinerary for First-Timers

Where to start your Vietnam trip: North or South?

If you’re aiming to capture all the highlights of Vietnam, your best entry points are Hanoi in the North and Ho Chi Minh in the South . Given the country’s considerable length, starting in the center might not be ideal unless you intend to focus on one half exclusively.

Contemplating whether to kick off your Vietnam journey by flying into Ho Chi Minh and then heading north, or commencing the adventure in Hanoi and traveling south? There’s no definitive right or wrong here, as both directions are entirely feasible . While our suggested 3-week itinerary flows from north (Hanoi) to south (Ho Chi Minh), you have the flexibility to reverse it. Two considerations can guide your decision-making process.

Firstly, it’s wise to check the weather beforehand (see below), steering clear of chilly winter months in the northern cities or scorching summer temperatures in central and southern Vietnam. Secondly, assess which city offers more favorable flight options for your journey. Both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh boast international airports connecting to the world and domestic flights, making either a suitable starting point for your Vietnam adventure.

Vietnam Planning Travel Tips: Know before you go

First-Time Vietnam Checklist

• Best time to travel
• Check Visa Requirements
• Book your flights
• Vaccinations
• Travel Insurance
• What to pack for Vietnam
• Determine your travel budget
• Pre-book internal flights and trains
• Pre-book popular tours, accommodations & Halong Bay trip
• Credit Card
• Download Useful Apps

Best time to travel to Vietnam

Once you’ve decided on the duration of your Vietnam trip, it’s crucial to determine the best time to visit, taking into account the specific regions you plan to explore. Vietnam, being a year-round destination, presents a climate that varies significantly between the northern and southern parts of the country. This geographical diversity can catch travelers off guard, assuming a uniform weather experience throughout.

For an all-encompassing exploration, March and April stand out as the prime months . During this period, lighter rainfall and pleasant temperatures prevail, making it an ideal time to catch all the country’s highlights. The north isn’t too cold, and the south and coastal areas aren’t excessively hot. However, it’s crucial to note the rainy seasons in both the North and South, spanning from May to October, with the additional need to avoid the typhoon season from September to November.

Weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable, ranging from freezing temperatures and heavy downpours to intense heat and evening storms. To choose the right season, consider your travel destinations and be flexible with your itinerary based on weather conditions. Avoid visiting during public holidays like TET to mitigate higher prices, closed shops, and reduced transport services.

If you opt for a visit to the northern regions in March, pack a light jacket, as it might not be tropically warm. Conversely, if your visit falls in December-January, be prepared for surprisingly cold temperatures.

Best times to visit different parts of Vietnam

Best Time to visit the North: December – April

Cooler weather prevails from November to March, with the least rainfall. However, this period may bring foggy and cold conditions in mountainous regions. With December-January being the coldest period, with temperatures dropping to 10°C. If you want to experience Sapa’s rice paddies, August to November offers warmer temperatures with clearer views. Halong Bay enjoys clearer skies from April to June and September/October. Monsoon season is May-October.

Best Time to visit Central Vietnam: February – May Avoid the wet typhoon season from September to November. Places like Hoi An can be flooded around this time of the year. From January to August it’s hot and dry, with temperatures reaching the mid-30°C.

Best Time to visit the South: November – March Steer clear of the rainy season from May to October, with peak rainfall in June, July, and August. Dry and hot conditions generally prevail from November to April.

Vietnam Travel Tips | Check Visa Requirements

The next travel tip to ensure a smooth start to your Vietnam travel is to check the visa requirements after deciding on your itinerary and timeframe.

Before embarking on any international journey, it’s essential to confirm visa requirements. iVisa , a user-friendly website, streamlines this process. Simply input your origin and destination to quickly determine if a visa is necessary. For those requiring a visa, iVisa allows straightforward online applications.

Option 1: e-Visa

Good news, as of August 2023, Vietnam issues e-visas with a 90-day validity , applicable to travelers of any nationality. To secure an e-visa:

• Apply directly online on the Vietnamese government website (you can switch to English in the top menu).
• Enjoy a stay of up to 90 days.
• Multiple entries are allowed via any airport or overland border.

The government fees are $25 for a single entry and $50 for multiple entries , which is advisable to get if you plan on doing any side trips to neighboring countries. Submit your online application for approval within a few working days. Once approved, present your e-visa upon arrival in Vietnam.

Option 2: Visa Exemption

Citizens from 25 countries enjoy visa exemption, allowing stays of 14 to 45 days, depending on nationality. Confirm if your country is on the exemption list and review the associated conditions . This hassle-free option requires no prior approval; you can arrive at the border. However, be prepared to show proof of onward travel, such as your return flight ticket out of Vietnam.

How to get to Vietnam?

Getting to Vietnam is a breeze, given its popularity and numerous affordable options from around the globe. Several airlines operate flights to Vietnam, making it essential to compare prices and flight schedules to snag the best deal. Skyscanner is a great resource for finding budget-friendly flights tailored to your Vietnam itinerary.

For international arrivals, three major airports serve as gateways:

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest city.
• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, the capital city.
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang, a central Vietnam hotspot.

Many travelers incorporate Vietnam into broader Southeast Asian adventures. For a cost-effective approach, consider flying into nearby hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok and then either continuing by land or opting for low-cost flights with airlines like AirAsia.

Traveling by land is straightforward, with accessible border crossings and the once-tricky Vietnamese visa process now simplified. Long-distance bus and train services connect Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City, while local buses seamlessly transport you from Cambodia across the border into Vietnam.

Travel Tips |  Use the box below to easily search for the most affordable flights to Vietnam. With  Skyscanner , simply enter “from your city” and “to Vietnam” to discover which city offers the lowest airfare. Additionally, you can explore the calendar feature to find the cheapest dates for flying from your city to Vietnam.

Do I need any vaccinations for Vietnam?

Before embarking on your Vietnam journey, consult your preferred healthcare professional regarding necessary vaccinations . According to the CDC , the following vaccinations are recommended for travel to Vietnam:

Highly Recommended:

• All routine vaccinations, including MMR (Measles Mumps Rubella), diphtheria, tetanus, and polio.
• Hepatitis A and Typhoid, as these can be contracted through contaminated food or water in Vietnam.

Check with your doctor for consideration:

• Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, Rabies, and Yellow Fever.

Malaria risk in Vietnam is generally low, and most travelers won’t require antimalarials. However, if you plan extended stays in rural areas, especially outdoors, consult your local vaccination clinic for personalized advice.

For any medical concerns, it’s advisable to seek guidance from specialists. In this case, consult with your local travel vaccination clinic or personal doctor to ensure your specific situation is appropriately addressed.

Is Vietnam Safe?

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel through. Violent crime is practically non-existent, giving you a sense of security throughout your travels. However, like anywhere else, petty crime and pickpocketing can be a concern in cities , so here’s one of our crucial Vietnam travel tips: keep your valuables locked, avoid flaunting large sums of cash, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Now, a few things to keep on your radar : watch out when strolling with your phone on busy streets, day or night. We’ve heard and seen instances where motorbikes attempt to snatch phones right out of people’s hands. Another Vietnam travel tip (or all of Asia for that matter): never leave your belongings unattended on public transport . Sadly, people have had their money and bags disappear while catching some sleep or going to the toilet. We highly recommend using locks for an extra layer of security.

Moving on to the roads, traffic can be a bit wild, especially in bustling cities. Vietnam’s streets are filled with motorbikes and cars, and traffic laws aren’t always strictly followed. If you’re opting for the motorbike experience, buckle up and be cautious in the chaos . Always wear a helmet, ensure you’re covered with insurance, and carry an international driver’s license. When venturing into more remote areas, pay attention to warning signs, as some places might still have leftover landmines from the war.

Vietnam Travel Tips | Get Travel Insurance

While Vietnam is generally a safe destination, accidents can happen anywhere. Ensuring you’re prepared for unforeseen circumstances is a wise travel strategy. It’s highly recommended to secure travel insurance before your journey to cover accidents or losses that may occur during your trip.

A valuable travel tip is to ensure your insurance provides coverage for riding a motorbike, a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam. For comprehensive and reliable coverage, we recommend   Heymondo .

Heymondo offers a user-friendly app for the management of your travel insurance policy and any requests you may have. Communication is made easy through the app and even via WhatsApp. Coverage includes Emergency Medical Assistance , encompassing medical expenses for accidental injury, sudden illness, and hospitalization costs.

In the unfortunate event of stolen or damaged luggage , a quick claim on the app with proof of loss or damage ensures a prompt resolution. Moreover, Heymondo extends coverage to replace missing or stolen Visas or passports.

Travel Disruption coverage takes care of basic expenses for meals and accommodation if your travel plans face delays beyond your control. Additionally, Heymondo provides Trip Cancellation Coverage , safeguarding your trip in case it’s canceled or cut short due to family hospitalization, among other benefits. There is much more and Heymondo also covers a few more things at an additional cost such as electronic equipment and adventure sports coverage.

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Make sure to check out Heymondo for your upcoming Vietnam trip and enjoy 5% OFF through our link .

What To Pack For Vietnam?

If you’re embarking on a backpacking adventure across Vietnam, packing versatile clothing suited for varied weather is key.

In the northern regions during winter, warm gear is a must. Conversely, for the southern areas, opt for breathable lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen to combat the scorching heat and humidity. Locals often cover up in hot weather, so blending in is easy with a light scarf or long-sleeved throw-over for sun protection.

At religious and historical sites, conservative dress is mandatory. For women, a scarf is recommended, while men should opt for long, lightweight pants. Vietnam leans towards conservatism, so dressing modestly is a wise choice .

Essential clothing for your Vietnam expedition includes:

• Hiking Shoes (lightweight and low-cut): Brands like Salomon are recommended for extra support, excellent grip, and stability on diverse terrains. GORE-TEX membrane-equipped shoes provide waterproofing – a valuable feature during sudden rain showers or muddy encounters.
• Lightweight everyday shoes (we enjoy the ones from Adidas)
• Pair of leggings – Perfect for the colder areas when you go hiking, but I also use these as loungewear
• Long sleeve baselayer – as loungewear for overnight train rides and hiking in colder areas.
• Lightweight cotton scarves (in some fun colors) for covering up when visiting temples, often I also use them to protect myself from the sun when I am wearing a sleeveless top. We always carry one in our backpack as it comes in handy on numerous occasions, as well as a sarong or beach blanket!
• Fleece  or  hoodie – to be comfortable on train rides and definitely if you plan on visiting North Vietnam like Sapa
• Bikinis for Ha Long Bay and the beaches further south

Useful Gear for your Vietnam Adventures:

• packing cubes for organized packing, no matter which backpack you choose for your travels, these will make packing and life in general so much easier! 
• Day pack : having a quality daypack for your day-to-day adventures is essential. We recommend light daypack from Deuter .
• Bring a Reusable water bottle or consider bringing a Life Straw or GRAYL for safe drinking water. 
• A Microfiber Towel is convenient for going to the beach
• Action Camera for capturing all your adventures, we have been enjoying the Go Pro Hero 10 on our latest travels.
• Personal belonging safety can be ensured with luggage locks , along with anti-theft gear like those from Pacsafe bag—an anti-theft bag .
• Don’t forget to pack a universal adaptor to ensure you can charge all your electronic devices during your trip. 
• A reliable power bank is highly recommended for on-the-go charging, particularly during long bus rides or full days of exploration when you may not have access to power outlets.
• Mosquito repellant is essential, especially during the wet season
• Sunscreen : maybe stating the obvious here, but you want to protect yourself as the Vietnamese sun is insanely hot. Bring your own sunscreen because a lot of the ones you’ll find there have whitening agents in them and the prices are outrageous. For water activities, be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect our oceans!

For tips on clothing and a more in-depth packing list check out our complete guide on what to pack for Vietnam .

READ MORE | The Ultimate Vietnam Packing List | What To Wear For All Climates

Costs Of Travelling In Vietnam

In general, Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination , offering delicious street food at incredibly low prices and a range of well-priced accommodations across the country. Bus travel is particularly affordable, but if you opt for domestic flights, it might stretch your budget a bit (~$60 one-way flight).

For budget travelers staying in hostels, enjoying street food, and using local transport, a daily budget of $15-$25 per person is reasonable. Those seeking a bit more comfort can expect to spend $30-$60 per day , covering accommodation, three meals, occasional Vietnamese coffee, transport, and sightseeing.

As in many countries, your travel costs can rise significantly if you choose luxury hotels and upscale restaurants, or decrease if you indulge in street food and stay in hostels. Prices remain generally consistent in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, with slightly cheaper options available in the countryside.

Breakdown of typical costs in Vietnam:

Accommodation Hostels start at approximately $5 per night, while budget hotels or guesthouses offer basic private rooms starting from around $15. In major cities, private rooms in well-decorated accommodations can range from $20 to $40.

Motorbike Rental Renting a motorbike averages around 150,000 VND ($6) per day.

Food Vietnamese cuisine is both cheap and delicious. For instance, a large bowl of pho costs around 50,000 VND (approximately $2), and a Banh Mi is available for as little as 30,000 VND (a little over $1). Sit-down restaurants offer affordable meals, typically costing no more than $5. Fancier dining options, catering to both local and Western tastes, may range from $8 to $12.

Activities Vietnam offers a plethora of free activities, but for those requiring payment, here’s a snapshot. Halong Bay day trips start at around $50, with luxury overnight options ranging from $150 to $250. Guided trekking can cost between $40 and $170, depending on the duration. Entrance fees to museums, temples, and sites generally fall within the range of $1 to $10.

Accommodations in Vietnam

When planning your Vietnam trip, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a good night’s rest and convenient access to attractions. Vietnam offers a wide range of affordable options , catering to backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between. You can find private rooms starting at around $20 per night and luxury hotels for $150 or more (mainly in cities). Hostels, priced at $5 per night for dorm rooms, are great for meeting fellow travelers, especially in big cities and touristy areas.

For the best selection, use Booking.com —it’s ideal for finding hotels, guesthouses, or apartments. Budget travelers can explore Hostelworld for incredibly cheap dorms and rooms.

During our Vietnam trip, we enjoyed boutique hotels and homestays, appreciating the value and quality for the price . Every stay was a pleasant surprise, with well-located options in cities and serene settings in smaller towns, like Ninh Binh amid rice paddies and limestone mountains. For regional experiences, consider homestays, offering a glimpse into local life and culture, often priced at $15 or less per night for a private room.

For quick accommodation finds, check our recommendations for each stop on our 3-week Vietnam itinerary. 

Vietnam Travel Tips | Apps you need to download upfront

Here are some essential apps you should download before your trip:

Grab & Gojeck – Easily book taxis or Xe Om (motorbike taxi) and enjoy a fast and safe ride with the nearest driver available.

12GO – Compare various forms of public transport to find the quickest or most affordable travel options.

XE Currency – Stay informed about currency exchange rates and conveniently calculate conversions when needed. 

Express VPN – Protect your sensitive information and ensure online security while traveling in Vietnam and beyond.

Google Translate – Overcome language barriers with this app that helps you communicate, even if you have limited knowledge of Vietnamese.

Google Maps – Navigate easily through Vietnam, especially in remote areas where specific addresses may be unavailable.

Maps.Me – Download offline maps to never get lost, even without an internet connection.

Travel Tips for When You Arrive in Vietnam

Vietnam travel tips: get a sim card upon arrival.

For useful Vietnam travel tips, consider getting a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival , ensuring a reliable connection for navigating cities like Hanoi or Saigon, using transportation apps, and staying connected across the country. We recommend Viettel for its fast and reliable coverage , and you can easily purchase a 1-month tourist SIM card for around $10, with the option to haggle for better prices if you’re with multiple people. 

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS | For immediate internet access upon landing, you can explore eSim options, and we suggest checking out Airalo , a global eSIM marketplace offering convenient connectivity without the need to switch out your physical SIM card.

Money & ATM’s

The official currency in Vietnam is the Dong (VND) , with an approximate exchange rate of around 23,000 VND to $1 as of now. For the latest exchange rates, you can check xe.com and consider downloading their app. It’s essential to carry cash as most places do not accept credit cards. Having smaller notes is advisable for convenient transactions with street food vendors and small shops, as cash remains widely accepted.

While ATMs are abundant, be aware that they often charge high fees for withdrawing money using a foreign card. When using an ATM, opt for those in well-lit areas during daylight, preferably attached to a bank for added security. This way, if any issues arise, you can easily resolve them by stepping into the bank.

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS | Look out for ATMs from TP Bank & VP Bank as they don’t impose any fees. 

Getting from the airport to the city center

Arriving at Hanoi International Airport ? Opt for the most economical route to the city center by hopping on the Hanoi Airport Bus 86 , conveniently located just outside the arrival terminal. Departing every 30 minutes from 6:20 AM to 11 PM (waiting until reasonably filled), the bus takes approximately 1 hour to reach its final stop, Hanoi Railway Station near the Old Quarter. The ticket costs 45,000 VND (less than 2 USD) and can be paid directly on the bus. If you’re running low on cash, visit an ATM inside the airport before boarding.

For those flying into Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), take Airport Bus 109 to District 1 . This direct service only takes 45 minutes to reach the center and costs €0.80 (VND 20,000). The bright yellow bus departs from Column 12 in the international terminal or Column 18 in the Domestic Terminal. Another option is Bus 152, a public bus with a similar route. Public bus tickets are cheaper at €0.40 (VND 10,000) but only operate until 6 pm, taking up to 60 minutes depending on traffic. The final stop is at a roundabout opposite Ben Thanh Market. Tickets can be purchased at the airport’s ticket booths or directly on board the bus, with payments on the bus accepted only in the local currency (VND).

Taking a bus from the airport to the city is the most budget-friendly option. Alternatively, though pricier, taxis are available. For the best rates, download the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber).

Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam, and mastering it can be quite a challenge. English is not widely spoken , with proficiency mostly found among those working in tourist-centric areas like the hotel and tourism industry, as well as the younger generation. To avoid misunderstandings or potential embarrassment, it’s wise not to overly complicate matters . Communication hurdles are quite common—something we experienced ourselves!

A valuable tool in such situations is downloading Google Translate . Additionally, acquiring a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be beneficial and showcase respect for the local culture. Even a small effort in learning some Vietnamese words or expressions goes a long way and is genuinely appreciated. 

Here are a few phrases that proved helpful during our travels in Vietnam:

• Hello – Xin Chao
• How are you? – Ban Khoe Khong
• Thank you – Cam on
• Goodbye – Tạm biệt
• Sorry – Xin Loi
• How much is it? – Bao nhiêu tiền?
• It is too expensive – Mắc quá
• I don’t understand – Tôi không hiểu

Power outlets

Vietnam operates on an electricity supply of 220 Volts at 50Hz . The commonly used plug types are A (two flat vertical pins), C, and F (two round pins) , which are compatible with most electrical outlets in the country. For plugs with 3 pins, a universal adaptor  is necessary, as most outlets lack grounding holes.

If you find yourself in Vietnam without the right adaptor, worry not! You can easily purchase a world plug or travel adapter at various convenience stores, including Circle K and Family Mart.

Travel Tips for During Your Vietnam Trip

Vietnam travel tips: how to get around vietnam .

Navigating Vietnam is typically straightforward, thanks to its excellent bus network and the Reunification Express railway stretching from Hanoi to Saigon , offering efficient coverage over vast distances. However, comfort levels may vary; local buses can be slow, and night buses often feature cramped bunk beds with limited leg space. Investing a bit more in a 1st class train ticket or a ‘VIP’ bus service can enhance your travel experience, especially if budget allows.

Opting to travel overnight is a popular choice for backpackers in Vietnam , particularly given the considerable distances involved. Traveling at night can be advantageous, saving both time and money as you can skip booking accommodation for that night. However, it’s important to note that not all night travel experiences are equally comfortable.

For the best prices, opt to book through online platforms like 12GO which offer a range of transport options, including buses, mini-vans, trains, and ferries. Another reliable platform for Vietnam is Baolau.com , with a similar process and pricing structure. Booking in advance, especially during high season, is advisable to secure your preferred seat on specific legs of your journey.

Flying in Vietnam

Exploring Vietnam through domestic air travel is a convenient choice, particularly for those with limited time . With affordable flight options, most journeys between regions take less than 2 hours, averaging around US$50 per person when booked in advance. Both Vietnam Airlines and VietjetAir provide connections between major cities and some regional destinations. To explore flight options, schedules, and fares, you can refer to  Skyscanner .

Trains in Vietnam

Train travel stands out as the optimal way to explore Vietnam! The primary rail route follows the picturesque coastal path from Hanoi to HCMC, serviced by the Reunification Express. We personally experienced the comfort of the night train from Ninh Binh to Hue, which was an amazing experience to travel the long distance. Compared to buses, train travel in Vietnam is notably more relaxing, laid-back, and considered safer. Though pricier, even the lower-class options remain reasonably priced.

For popular routes like the night train with 1st class sleeper cabins, it’s advisable to book in advance , sometimes up to two weeks ahead. The 1st class (soft sleeper) carriages boast four comfortable and clean beds, while the 2nd class berths have six beds but are quite cramped, offering limited space to sit upright.

To secure your spot, use a booking platform like 12Go Asia . Upon booking, you’ll receive a PDF document featuring a QR code, along with your carriage and seat numbers. Simply display this on your phone to the attendant, and each carriage has its own dedicated staff member to assist you in finding your seat.

Buses in Vietnam

Buses serve as the primary mode of transportation throughout Vietnam, offering an economical and widely accessible travel option . The extensive network of routes spans across the entire road network, connecting cities and towns nationwide. 

However, the quality of bus companies varies significantly . Our journey on VIP buses with 20 sleeper seats from Hanoi to Sapa was a luxurious and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, the Sleeper bus with 34 seats from Sapa to Halong Bay was a challenging ride, and we advise against it, though it’s often the only option for that route.

Many bus companies feature three rows of bunk beds stacked on two levels. The beds, enclosed in plastic casings, can be restrictive, especially for tall passengers. Typically lacking onboard toilets, these buses make regular restroom stops that may disrupt the journey. Unless you’re strictly adhering to a tight budget, consider keeping an eye out for upgraded ‘VIP’ buses for a more comfortable travel experience .

Boats in Vietnam

When considering a visit to the Ha Long Bay area , the most captivating way to explore this part of Vietnam is from the water. Ha Long Bay offers a variety of experiences, with prices ranging from 50 U SD for a day trip to 250 USD for an overnight cruise . The duration and quality of your selected tour significantly influence the overall experience, and in the case of Ha Long Bay, you truly get what you pay for. Opting for a mid-range option with Dora Cruises , we found it worthwhile to invest a bit more for this unique and unforgettable journey, aiming for a tranquil cruise with fewer crowds. One of the key travel tips for embarking on a boat cruise in Vietnam is to book in advance , particularly if you have a specific cruise in mind, as these slots fill up rapidly. 

Minivans in Vietnam

Another viable option to explore is the use of minivans or minibusses, provided your budget allows it. Serving as an excellent alternative to buses, this mode of transportation is a convenient and comfortable method and often comes at a comparable cost to regular travel buses. In our travels, we opted for a minibus when journeying from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh.

Motorbiking in Vietnam

One of the most favored ways to explore Vietnam is arguably by motorbike. This allows you to venture off the typical travel routes , bringing you closer to the authentic essence of the country. Many travelers acquire a second-hand motorbike in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh to embark on a cross-country journey.

However, motorbike travel in Vietnam may not be suitable for everyone. If a full tour seems overwhelming, an alternative is to rent a motorbike or scooter for day-to-day adventures, especially in smaller towns like Ninh Binh or Hoi An, offering flexibility and a personalized pace. Scooters, the predominant mode of transportation in Vietnam, are readily available for rent across the country. You can rent a scooter through hostels or hotels in any accommodation in Vietnam. Prices typically go for around 150,000 VND per day (~$6) . Exercise caution in the chaotic Vietnamese traffic, avoid major cities like Hanoi and Saigon, and drive within your comfort level.

For those seeking scenic routes, self-drive travelers often explore popular options such as the breathtaking Ha Giang loop in the north or the iconic Hai Van Pass in central Vietnam . The Hai Van Pass, situated along the coastal line between Hue and Hoi An, was one of our most unforgettable memories on our Vietnam journey. We opted for a tour with the easy riders , allowing us to enjoy the experience without driving ourselves, as we shared the backseat with an experienced driver.

Taxis/grab for getting around town

When it comes to taxis in Vietnam, there’s a need to be cautious about scams. Local taxis are generally affordable but be wary of the meter. Not all drivers play fair, so avoid taxis claiming their meter is broken. Stick to reputable companies like Vinasun and Mailinh , as they consistently use working meters. Don’t bother negotiating fares – insist on using the meter.

One of our major travel tips for getting around cities or towns in Vietnam is using the Grab app , similar to Uber. Enter your pick-up and drop-off points, and the app will give you a fixed price. This helps avoid potential detours and overcharging. In larger cities, you can also opt for an Xe Om or motor taxi through Grab for a cheap and efficient way to travel around.

Drinking water

It is not advisable to drink tap water in Vietnam as it can lead to food poisoning, even in upscale hotels or resorts. It is recommended to stick to bottled water throughout your trip. Bring a  Reusable water bottle that you can refill at drinking water stations. Alternatively, consider purchasing a large jug of water from a supermarket and use it to refill your reusable water bottle.

Another option is to bring your own water filters, such as a Life Straw or GRAYL Water Purifier Bottle , we brought the latter on our latest trip and really came in handy! Especially when traveling to rural areas where access to bottled water may be limited.

Restaurants typically serve filtered water in jugs, and ice is generally made from purified water, so it is usually safe. However, if you have concerns, you can request drinks without ice. When it comes to food, it all depends on the sensitivity of your stomach, issues may vary. One of the important Vietnam travel tips is to avoid consuming fruits and vegetables that have been washed with tap water, as it can be a common cause of illness during trips.

In Vietnam, tipping isn’t a common practice unless explicitly mentioned. You don’t need to tip for street food, taxis, or services like salons. Instead, expressing your gratitude for restaurants and tours is best done through reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. However, if you’re dining at a high-end restaurant or experiencing exceptional service at a hotel, a small additional gratuity can be considered as a token of appreciation. Be aware that some establishments may include a 10% service fee in your bill. Tipping tour guides and drivers is welcomed, and a range of 10-20% is suggested, depending on your satisfaction with the service.

Culture of haggling

In Vietnam, bargaining is almost like a local sport, and it’s a skill you’ll want to bring along, much like in many other Asian countries. Even though Vietnam is generally affordable, bargaining is a common practice, especially at markets and small shops . It’s perfectly expected to engage in friendly haggling when you’re shopping for items or negotiating prices for cyclo rides and tours.

Keep in mind that prices for tourists are often marked up, and the key to getting a better deal is through negotiation. Feel free to ask around to understand the bargaining range, settle on a price you’re comfortable with, and stick to it. Aim to pay 40% of the original asking price . You might even try the “walk away” trick – sometimes vendors will call you back with a more favorable offer when you step away.

Here’s a fun fact: When dealing with tourists, prices are usually quoted in USD, regardless of your origin – a quirky trend. And one more tip: Avoid shopping near the entrance of markets ; those stalls are notorious for charging higher prices!

Best Tours in Vietnam

One of the crucial Vietnam travel tips to remember is that you don’t necessarily have to book a tour to explore Vietnam. Utilizing helpful resources like this blog 😉 can assist you in planning a trip to and around Vietnam.

However, for certain activities, it’s important to note that you might need to book a tour through an operator or a private local guide. I recommend steering clear of booking tours directly through your hotel, as prices tend to be higher , and you might end up in a large group, feeling rushed, and having a less-than-optimal experience.

Lastly, ensure you make advance bookings to secure your spot on the chosen tour. Utilizing reliable sources like GetYourGuide  or  Viator is advisable. They provide cancellation policies and excellent customer service. These are the services we personally use and recommend.

Below are some Vietnam tours worth considering:

Hanoi Street Food Tour

The ultimate introduction to Vietnamese street food? Embark on a street food tour! Our first evening in Hanoi was made unforgettable by a delightful small-group street food adventure led by Minh, our fantastic guide. Amidst exploring the bustling streets, we sampled Hanoi’s finest dishes. Minh’s expertise led us to hidden gems we’d have missed otherwise. With insights into each dish’s nuances, alongside fascinating tidbits about Hanoi and its culinary scene, this tour emerged as a highlight of our trip. Without a doubt, an experience we wholeheartedly endorse!

Sapa Trek Through Rice Terraced Fields With a Local

We explored Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van villages south of Sapa with Vang from Trekking Tour Sapa . This trek offers breathtaking mountain landscapes and showcases Sapa’s significant rice terraces, rivers and valleys. During these treks, you’ll delve into the local culture, customs, and traditions of Sapa’s two main ethnic minorities. Our knowledgeable tour guide shared insights into Hmong’s unique marriage traditions, rice fields, work, house-building techniques, and much more!

Luxury 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise in Halong Bay

Sailing through the serene emerald waters of Ha Long Bay amidst limestone formations and floating villages is truly an enchanting experience that we strongly recommend adding to your Vietnam itinerary. Discovering the islands, cycling around, exploring local fishing villages, kayaking along limestone peaks, and uncovering hidden caves all contributed to an unforgettable adventure for us. Opting for a boat cruise with an overnight stay provides the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration along your journey through Vietnam. To truly grasp the beauty of this mesmerizing part of Vietnam, we can recommend spending slightly more on this once-in-a-lifetime experience and doing some research because there are unfortunately many subpar tours out there. ALSO! Make sure to book upfront as the good cruises always quickly get booked out.

Easy rider tour of the Hai Van Pass 

Explore the highlights of the Hai Van Pass and the journey from Hoi An to Hue (or vice versa) on a motorcycle with an experienced driver on this incredible full-day private tour . This famous 20 km winding road weaves through hills and coastlines, reaching 500 m above sea level. This journey is sure to be one to remember, with amazing scenery and visits along the way to Tam Giang Lagoon, Suoi Mo Waterfall, Lang Co Beach, and the Marble Mountains.

Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour by Motorbike

we highly recommend going on a motorbike street food tour in Ho Chi Minh ! We had a delightful evening exploring various street food spots across the city while being chauffeured from one place to another on the back of a motorbike. As mentioned, the streets of HCM are teeming with motorbikes, and the tour’s expert drivers are skilled at maneuvering through the traffic. Simply driving around was an experience in itself, and the food was equally fantastic!

Cultural Tips for Vietnam

Respecting the local culture and people is crucial when traveling in Vietnam . Similar to other Southeast Asian countries, there are specific social customs that locals adhere to. Travelers can benefit from observing, or at least being aware of them:

➤ Vietnamese culture values “keeping face,” so it’s crucial to maintain composure, avoid raising your voice, or causing public disruptions. Stay calm, even in challenging situations.

➤ Refrain from public displays of affection towards members of the opposite sex or even touching them.

➤ Avoid touching Vietnamese individuals on the head as it is considered extremely rude and offensive.

➤ Be mindful of not pointing your feet at people or sacred objects . Also, avoid pointing with your finger; it’s better to use your whole hand.

➤ When passing items use two hands , especially when handling money or dishes during a meal.

➤ Dress appropriately, even in a warm climate. Respectful attire is expected, particularly when entering temples or sacred sites.

➤ When entering homes, follow the local custom of removing your shoes . 

Must-Know facts & travel tips for Vietnam

• Street-crossing is an art form: Brace yourself for swarms of motorbikes buzzing in all directions. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, street chaos reigns, making crossing a road the day’s ultimate challenge. Follow the local advice: cross the street FABULOUSly—radiate confidence, don’t hesitate, and show no fear to signal scooters to maneuver around you.
• The saying goes, ‘Saigon counts more motorbikes than people,’ offering a vivid image of the bustling motorbike-filled streets.
• Beware of parking scams: In tourist-frequented spots, fake parking attendants might try to exploit unsuspecting visitors. Stay firm and disregard unofficial claims; this was notably encountered in Ninh Binh at Bich Dong Pagoda & Hua Mua Viewpoint.
• Fun with pronunciation: The Vietnamese word “PHO” can mean soup, street, or prostitute, so mind your pronunciation when placing orders 😛.
• Agree on prices beforehand: As is customary in Southeast Asia, establish and confirm the price before availing a service. Clearly communicate the agreed-upon amount and the expected service to avoid misunderstandings.
• Handle vendor hassling: Touristy areas often invite persistent vendor haggling. Politely decline with a firm ‘NO THANKS’ or ignore when necessary to maintain a hassle-free experience.
• Opt for Grab: For convenient city travel, rely on Grab bikes or cars. Similar to Uber, Grab calculates fares in advance, ensuring affordability and eliminating the need for negotiations.
• Embrace market bartering: While shopping in markets, don’t shy away from bargaining for a better deal. Outside tourist zones, the same item can cost significantly less.
• Mind your Dong notes: Vietnam’s currency notes can be confusing due to similar colors. Pay close attention to denominations, especially with small and large notes resembling each other.
• Book in advance: Secure accommodations, activities, and transportation options by planning ahead, especially during peak seasons, ensuring a smoother travel experience.

Practical Booking Resources

TRANSPORTATION |  For booking ferry, bus, and train rides online, we recommend using the website  12go . This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, some routes in Vietnam can get booked out quickly.

ACCOMMODATION |  Finding affordable places to stay in Vietnam is a breeze with  Booking.com . It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

FLIGHTS |  Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on  Skyscanner . We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.

TRAVEL INSURANCE |  When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Vietnam, consider  Heymondo . It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage.

INTERNET |  Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with   Airalo . Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Vietnam, check out  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION |  Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at  iVisa.com .

We hope these Vietnam Travel Tips help you out when planning for your exciting upcoming trip. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List | What To Bring & Wear

The Best Hanoi Street Food Places | Ultimate Vietnam Food Guide

The Ultimate Vietnam Packing List | What To Wear For All Climates

The Best Cafes in Hanoi | The Ultimate Vietnam Coffee Guide

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10 Quick Vietnam Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Planning to visit Vietnam for the first time? These 10 quick tips will help you prepare for your trip and travel Vietnam like a pro.

Vietnam is one of my favourite places on Earth.

Having lived in Hanoi and explored most of the country, I know a thing or two about travel in Vietnam – especially the common concerns that trip travellers up.

Here are my 10 top travel tips for Vietnam.

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more. This post contains a compensated link.

10 quick Vietnam travel tips for first timers

1. sort out your visa.

You probably have your Vietnam wish list in mind already. A Vietnam visa application should be the next step . With your most important document sorted, you can focus on planning your itinerary and sorting out the logistics that will ensure a smooth trip.

It goes without saying, but your number one priority should be to organise your visa. Every traveller requires one, and it’s a good idea to start the process well in advance.

When I first visited Vietnam, I had to apply for a visa the old-school way by posting my passport to the nearest embassy. With the introduction of the e-Visa, it’s never been easier or faster to get your entry permit in order. I will discuss this process in detail later.

2. Purchase your travel insurance

Travel insurance is absolutely essential for Vietnam regardless of your travel style or plans. If you’re thinking about hiring a motorbike or cycling , trekking in the national parks or doing any water activities, then you definitely need a good policy that will cover you in case of an accident.

I recommend SafetyWing for longer trips – check out my detailed review to learn more about inclusions and exclusions.

3. Pick the right season to visit

Because of its geography, the climate in Vietnam varies drastically between the north and the south. Many travellers don’t realise this and mistakenly think the weather and temperature will be uniform for their entire trip.

Generally speaking, spring (March to April) and autumn (September to early December) are the most pleasant times to visit Vietnam. It’s not too cold yet in the north, and not too hot in the south or on the coast.

Remember the weather is unpredictable and can bring anything from freezing temperatures and frequent downpours to intense heat and evening storms.

In order to pick the right season, you should first have a firm idea of where you want to travel. If you only have a specific window of time when you can travel, then you might need to adjust your itinerary based on the weather.

4. Be selective with your itinerary – don’t try to fit too much in

As an advocate of slow travel I always recommend moving through a country at a steady pace – especially if it’s your first visit. You need at least three full days to do the big cities such as Hanoi and Saigon justice. Take advantage of Vietnam’s best day trips to see more of the country while using the cities as a base.

It takes time to get to know Vietnam, its culture, traditions and food – and every region is different. If you try to fit too much in and rush through, your experience might not be as fulfilling.

Another thing to keep in mind: Vietnam may look small on the map, but don’t let that deceive you. It still takes time to travel around the country, especially if you’re relying on trains and buses. Incorporating a few domestic flights is a great way to save time and see more.

5. Pre-book your airport transfer (my top Vietnam travel tip!)

Using taxis in Vietnam can be overwhelming, which is why I recommend buying a local sim card and downloading a taxi app as soon as you get to your first destination.

My biggest tip if you want to hit the ground running is to pre-book your airport transfer so that you don’t have to worry about getting to your first hotel. I am a frequent traveller to Vietnam but I still pre-organise my airport transfer every time I go – cars are very reasonably priced and it makes life so much easier.

→ Book a Hanoi airport transfer here

→ Book a Ho Chi Minh City airport transfer here

6. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases

Vietnamese is the official language in Vietnam but English is widely spoken – especially in popular tourist areas and among the younger generations. However, if you want to have a more holistic experience and demonstrate your respect for the local culture, it’s nice to know a few basic phrases.

Even if it’s just a few words, people will appreciate that you’ve taken the time to learn some Vietnamese. It might even open doors to you that are normally closed to outsiders.

Here is a great resource for learning traveller’s Vietnamese .

7. Plan your budget carefully

Don’t make the mistake of thinking everything in Vietnam is ‘cheap’. While it’s true that Vietnam is incredibly good value for money (especially when it comes to accommodation and food), there are still some things that are worth splashing out on, for example a quality Halong Bay trip from Hanoi .

Cash is still king in Vietnam, so make sure you carry plenty of dong (the official currency) with you. Street food stalls, markets, taxis and small hotels and homestays (especially in rural areas) might only accept cash.

8. Understand the tipping etiquette

Tipping is not compulsory in Vietnam but it is very much appreciated. Tipping tour guides and drivers is best practice – I recommend 10-20% depending on how satisfied you are with the service.

Note that some restaurants and cafes will add a 10% service fee to your bill.

9. Pack the right clothes

The humidity in parts of Vietnam is intense, so you need breathable clothes that you can wash and dry overnight. Natural materials such as cotton or linen are preferable. Most locals cover up in hot weather so if you want to blend in, carry a light scarf or long-sleeved throw over that you use to protect your arms from the sun.

Warm gear is absolutely essential if you’re travelling to the north in the winter months. It’s always a good idea to have a travel raincoat and umbrella with you no matter the season.

Conservative dress is required for temples and religious sites. I recommend a scarf for women and long, lightweight pants for men.

10. Don’t forget your camera!

Vietnam is nothing if not photogenic. From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the dreamy landscapes around Dalat , it’s one beautiful landscape after the next.

Remember to be respectful when practicing street photography and always ask for permission before taking someone’s portrait. This is especially important in rural areas.

BONUS: Use an eSIM to get online

eSIM technology makes it easier than ever to get online in Vietnam and stay connected during your travels. There are some great plans available for Vietnam and the region, with easy set up and competitive prices.

Learn more about the different Vietnam eSIM options here in my detailed guide .

How to apply for the e-Visa to travel to Vietnam

Within three working days, you can get your e-Visa in three simple steps. Remember the visa is valid for 30 days. Here’s how to apply for an e-Visa for Vietnam.

1. Confirm your eligibility

The Vietnam e-Visa is available to passport holders from 81 countries. Double-check to see if your country is included on the list – otherwise you will need to apply for a different visa.

2. Get your documents ready

You will need a JPG photo, a passport with six months’ validity, an international credit or debit card, and a temporary Vietnam address (the address of your first hotel will do, so make sure you’ve booked at least one night’s accommodation). You need to provide your entry and exit dates.

3. Start your application

Go to Vietnam’s e-Visa official website and upload the required documents. Then supply the required information about your journey. After payment, you will receive a registration code. Keep this number safe as you might need it later. If approved, you will be able to visit the website and download your e-Visa after three working days.

Have you been to Vietnam? What is your top Vietnam tip for first-time travellers?

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

More Vietnam travel resources

• Off the beaten track in Northern Vietnam – hidden gems & local favourites
• Where to go in Southern Vietnam – 5 must-sees
• The best things to do in Dalat
• How to spend 3 days in Hoi An
• How to get from Danang to Hoi An – transport guide
• How to visit the abandoned dragon waterpark in Hue
• Where to buy authentic Vietnamese souvenirs in Hanoi
• The best national parks to visit in Vietnam – for trekking & more
• Waterwheels & rice fields in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
• Cycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Phong Nha
• Homestays in Da Bac village
• Halong Bay alternatives – where to go beyond the bay
• How to travel to Halong Bay from Hanoi – transport guide
• How to travel to Sapa from Hanoi – transport guide
• Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam – best homestays & more
• Visiting Bac Ha Market near Sapa
• Guide to Ha Giang in far-northern Vietnam
• Guide to visiting Ninh Binh
• Exploring colonial architecture in Hai Phong city
• Day trip from Hanoi to Duong Lam Ancient Village

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50+ Essential Vietnam Travel Tips You NEED Before You Go

I decided to sweat it out on a beach on the island of Phu Quoc to pass on my top Vietnam Travel Tips, via video.

My travel tips for Vietnam haven’t come lightly though. I’ve spent over six weeks there, have written 15 posts on this blog, and right now Google deems my two-week Vietnam itinerary so good I’m at number one if you search ‘two-weeks in Vietnam’ or similar. I’m also pretty high for my post on things to do in Vietnam – thanks to the bloggers I’ve featured.

So yeah, I like to think I know Vietnam, as much as you can after cycling through it from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City , and visiting twice.

I’ve had a think about everything you need to know before you travel Vietnam and it’s all here, with links to some of my other Vietnam advice from the last three years too. Honestly? One of my favourite countries.

Let’s do this…

My Vietnam Travel Tips

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xysIPQYnzvEu0026t=569s

(Just hover over the bar and move the player to get to where you want to go)

• Airports (0:32)
• Money (1:37)
• Costs (2:07, bit more at 14:20)
• Hotels (2:45)
• Traffic (3:10)
• Overnight Trains (3:48)
• Mopeds (4:06)
• People (4:49)
• Westerners (6:00)
• Women (6:34)
• Family Life (7:28)
• Karaoke (7:56)
• Language (8:35)
• Tourism (9:44)
• Food (10:23)
• Booze (11:54)
• Shopping (12:47)
• Beauty (13:26)
• Where to Go (14:57)
• Wi-Fi (17:00)

Vietnam travel tips: airports

1. Sort your visa before you arrive for the quickest exit. You can spend 15 days in Vietnam visa free if you’re from the UK, any longer and you need to get a visa.

READ MORE VIETNAM ADVICE

Click here to read all my advice on travelling to Vietnam . I’ve got over 30 posts, so you’ll be well prepared! 

Interesting Facts About Vietnam to Know Before You Go

2. Make sure to use a Mia Linh or Vinasun taxi when you exit the airport. They’re the most recommended and they’re reliable. You can just hail them off the street – anyone who does it for you will charge.

3. If you’re coming into Hanoi, a taxi will be about 300,000 Dong into the Old Quarter and will take 45 minutes. It’ll probably feel like a really long way.

4. Coming into Ho Chi Minh City? It’ll be about 150,000 and 15 minutes to Pham Ngu Lao – the main backpacker area.

5. I found getting in and out of the airports I used – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc – very easy. Arriving two hours before was fine.

Vietnam travel tips: money

6. You need to get to know the colours and value of the notes… money in Vietnam comes in thousands . Right now it’s about 40,000 dong to the pound, meaning you’re a millionaire with just £40. This is VERY confusing when it comes to paying and working out which notes to hand over.

7. Vietnam can be SO cheap, but of course you’re trading off time and comfort for that. How much you’re willing to sacrifice totally depends where you are in your travel life.

8. If the price you’re given, for anything, isn’t written down then it’s negotiable. Get your haggle on!

Accommodation in Vietnam

9. You can get hostel beds in the cities for around $5 – I can’t vouch for how good they are seeing as I’ve stayed in hotels, where a room starts at $13. Time to treat yourself right?

10. There are some incredible hotels in Vietnam – if you’re willing and able to spend £20 each a night, if there are two of you, your can live it up! Check out this post on some of the most unique places to stay in Vietnam to suit your budget. 

11. If it’s important to you, make sure to check your hotel has a lift. Most of the places I stayed in didn’t. Cue me wheezing as I climbed up six flights of stairs with my 20kg bag.    

Travelling Vietnam advice

12. One of the first things you’ll notice in travelling Vietnam is that the traffic is crazy, it’s tough to cross the road. In the cities you just need to go and trust that the motorbikes will go around you. Practice will give you confidence.

13. Overnight trains run up and down the country and they’re a fun way to get around. I’d definitely recommend you give one a try but please make sure you take your own pillow case. I was horrified to see that they don’t change them in between people – after I’d slept there for 12 hours, with a terrible cold.

Sorry next person .

READ MORE VIETNAM ADVICE

‘Sleeping’ on the Overnight Trains in Vietnam

14. Seems like everyone in Vietnam has a motorbike and you can rent one too. Personally I wouldn’t recommend them in the cities, but Hoi An would be fun and if you go to Phu Quoc you definitely should. So much fun.

15. The roads in Vietnam are crazy with cows and all sorts. Don’t be surprised if you have to divert round an ox as you try to get from A to B.

Vietnamese people (travel tips )

16. I’ve seen a few comments on blogs and sites about ‘scammy’ Vietnamese people and I absolutely wholeheartedly disagree . In my experience, everyone I met was so friendly. I’ve just done a two-week cycle ride with Intrepid through the Vietnamese countryside and people would come out with their children to say hi to us, absolutely no strings attached.

17. Generally, Vietnamese people are much smaller than Westerners, in fact they’re the smallest in South East Asia. So don’t be offended if you hear people refer to ‘Western size’.

“Average height of Vietnamese people aged 22-26 is 1.642 meters in men and 1.534 in women” – Prof. Dr Nguyen Cong Khan , head of the Science, Technology and Training Department under the Health Ministry. “The average man in England is 5ft 9in (175.3cm) tall and the average woman is 5ft 3in tall (161.6cm).” – BBC News

16. Women do it all in Vietnam. Apparently it’s starting to change but you’ll see the women carrying, caring, cleaning and working. Life as a woman in Vietnam is very hard and they die much earlier than men. As one male tour leader told us, ‘from exhaustion’. This is all down to a Chinese teacher and philosopher called Confucius . Read up on him if you want to know more, but from what I’ve heard he’s a sexist, psychotic, megalomaniac.

17. Different generations of families all live together as standard. The youngest son is expected to stay with his family, bringing his wife and kids into the home, while the oldest one would traditionally go and serve the country.

18. Vietnamese people love karaoke. Love it . Even in the deepest countryside you’ll find karaoke places. In Ho Chi Minh City in particular I saw older guys with their own karaoke machines going up and down the street singing at the top of their lungs, totally tunelessly without a care as to whether anyone was enjoying it or not.

19. Women wear twinsets pyjamas by day. I’m not entirely sure they are pyjamas but that’s the best way to describe them. Very matchy matchy, they look super comfy.

Vietnamese travel tips: language 

20. You’re going to have to get your best pointing finger out because English is not widely understood here. I mean, you’ll get by, don’t worry, but don’t expect any long D&Ms. Our Intrepid tour leader was awesome and I learnt a lot about Vietnam from him, but I didn’t really meet anyone else to talk to.

So, if you want my Vietnam advice, I’d say you need to learn some Vietnamese.

21. Vietnamese language is all about the intonation – the same written word without all the accents could mean a number of things which can get confusing.

22. The longest word is only 5 letters long, except for Nguyen – half of the Vietnamese population have this as a surname.

23. How to say ‘thank you’ – ‘cam on’ (like cam as in Camembert and on as in on, watch the video above to avoid making a mistake!)

24. How to say ‘hello’ – ‘Xin Chao’ (said like zin chow).

25. Oh and ‘yum yum’ means ‘I’m horny’, so I was told. Be careful.

Tourism in Vietnam 

26. Tourism is the big business in Vietnam, and it’s only getting bigger. So go now . Tourism in January 2017 is up 23.6% on January 2016. That’s crazy! There are big plans by the government to get Vietnam up in the leagues of Thailand. In 2016 there were 10 million tourists to Vietnam, while Thailand had 32.6 million – still a way to go, but with all the development, it’ll happen.

27. Given the positioning and length of Vietnam, there’s a lot of coastline to explore. And other countries are interested in having some presence there too. Vietnam’s coastline is being redeveloped with loans coming in from all over the place – mainly Russia. When it comes to booking try and choose Vietnamese places to keep the money with the locals.

READ MORE: Where to Go in Vietnam

28. Wi-Fi is everywhere in Vietnam. On my Intrepid Cycle Vietnam trip I’d be in the middle of nowhere and there’d be a connection from a local garage or house that’d left it open. The cities have public connection too – strong enough for your Facebook and Instagram updates.  

Food and drink in Vietnam

29. Banh mi and pho are the most popular dishes for tourists visiting Vietnam, but check out my article on the top things to eat in Vietnam to widen your palate. Save the article to your phone so you have it ready for action.

30. Do a street food tour in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to experience more of the Vietnamese foody repertoire. Do it at the start of your trip so you have more time to go back to the places you liked the best. Get your money’s worth!

31. It’s rice for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Vietnam. Speaking of breakfast, if there’s ever a Western option I’d recommend you avoid it. It won’t be the croissant and delicious muesli you dream of, guaranteed. Go East, it’s what you’re there for.

32. Some of my favourites Vietnamese foods for you to try:

• Try Bao Xeo – shrimp and beansprouts wrapped in a pancake.
• Fresh spring rolls – shrimp and veggies wrapped in rice paper
• BBQ – choose your meats and cook them in front of you, or ask the waitress to do it ,
• Egg coffee – coffee, with egg…
• Claypots, we’d call them stews or curries

– it’s all DELICIOUS .

33. You can get a glass of beer for 5,000 VND in Vietnam, that’s about 20p . You need to look out for the signs for ‘bia hoi’. This is their fresh beer that’s brewed that day and needs to be used that day too. It’s good stuff!

If you prefer to drink out of bottles than kegs you’re looking at around 20,000 VND, still less than a £1 for a Hanoi or Saigon beer.

34. Every region has its own fare to try so if in doubt when you’re in a restaurant, ask what the local dish is and go for that.

35. Wine is horrible in Vietnam. Well, the Dalat wine I tried was. Undrinkable. Stick to beer. Or it’s super sugary questionable cocktails for you.

36. Don’t drink out the taps. A 500ml water is 6,000 Dong in the shops, around 21p, and 10,000 if you take it from your mini bar. Try and drink the bigger 1.5 litre bottles to save money and on plastic waste.

37. I didn’t use any public toilets, but I did just walk into hotels I wasn’t staying at and use theirs. No one minded. Sometimes toilets will be long drops but most of them now are Western style.

Shopping and spending in Vietnam 

38. There are cash machines everywhere and if you’re sticking to the main cities you’ll have no problem. They charge around 30,000 Dong to withdraw from (£1) plus your bank fees.

39. You can get a pair of ‘Nikes’ for 200,000 (£7) sports branded bags for 100,000 (£3.50) and tailor made shirts for 300,000 (£10.62). If you want to know the best souvenirs to buy in Vietnam, click here.

40. In Hoi An you can get shoes, suits and other clothes tailor made. Check out my post on my blog on how much I spent in Hoi An (coming) to find out what I paid. If you have a particular pair of trousers, or any item of clothing, you really like, you can take it along and they’ll replicate it.

41. Beauty treatments are so cheap in the cities. I paid 200,000 (£7) for an 80-minute hot stone massage, 180,000 (£6.37) for a shellac, and 50,000 (£1.77) for a pedicure. Go nuts!

42. You can get your laundry done in Ho Chi Minh City for 10,000 a kg (35p).

43. Most historical and cultural attractions are either free or around 40,000 (£1.42) to get in.

Where to go in Vietnam advice

44. Wait till you get to Vietnam to book your tours and excursions, you’ll get them a lot cheaper.

45. There are a few sides to Vietnam I’d love you to include in your itinerary – beach, city and countryside. Make sure you get all three in yeah?

46. There’s so much diversity in the locations in Vietnam. Here’s a super quick run down of what each place has to offer…

Hanoi is an old city, Ho Chi Minh is new. Hue has a huge palace, Hoi An a strong influence from the French and some would say too touristy, I say lovely.  Phu Quoc is where the Vietnamese go on holiday, Mui Ne where the kite surfers go. Nha Trang is another holiday place, popular for its mud baths while Qui Nhon is super modern. Sapa is for hikers, Halong Bay to sail and Mai Chau  for the home stays.

Here are the top Vietnam landmarks to include in your trip.

Check out my two-week Vietnam itinerary on my blog to find out more, or just ask me in the comments below – always happy to help!

Check the prices for your Vietnam buses , trains, flights and ferries here… 

Pin these Vietnam travel tips for later

More blog posts on Vietnam

If these Vietnam travel tips haven’t quite quenched your thirst for knowledge, or answered your questions, then check out some of my other posts on Vietnam here…

• Where to Go in Vietnam
• Two-Week Itinerary for Vietnam
• Halong Bay: The Most Beautiful Place in the World?
• Best Things to Do in Vietnam According to 11 Travel Bloggers
• My Friend is Not a Sex Tourist
• What Vietnam Was Like, For Me
• Ever Drank Weasel Poo Coffee?
• ‘Sleeping’ on the Overnight Trains in Vietnam
• Visiting the Egg Mud Baths in Nha Trang
• 9 of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Vietnam for Sunbathing
• The Craziest Things I Saw in Hanoi

Related Posts:

• My Tips for Travelling Vietnam Solo
• The Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure: Hiring a Motorbike
• Unique Places to Stay in Vietnam
• 9 Most Beautiful & Best Beaches in Vietnam for Sunbathing
• 12 Interesting Facts About Vietnam to Know Before You Go

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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Asia , Tips & Inspo , Vietnam · July 8, 2021

16 Vietnam Travel Tips You Need to Know

Planning is an essential part of any trip, and just like elsewhere, there are certain things you need to know before visiting Vietnam – especially if you’re a first time visitor. While you won’t have too much to worry about in Vietnam, it’s always best to know what you’re getting yourself into before arriving at a new destination. To help you plan the perfect trip, here are my top 16 Vietnam travel tips so that you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying this fascinating country!

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

Table of Contents

Top Vietnam Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

1. consider travel insurance.

Although Vietnam is a relatively safe country to visit, it’s important to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. And that doesn’t just include petty theft. Food poisoning, getting injured during an adventure activity, losing your valuables, or even missing a flight are just some of the things that can really ruin your Vietnam trip.

So my first travel tip for Vietnam is to consider travel insurance for your trip. World Nomads  offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

2. Choose the right season to visit

Vietnam is a massive country spanning more than 1600 km from north to south. While the weather in Vietnam might not be at the top of your worry list, choosing the best time to visit Vietnam is an important part of planning the perfect trip. 

The country has a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity throughout the year and rather unpredictable weather, including everything from typhoons to frequent downpours to relentless heat. Added to that, the temperature can vary drastically depending on where and when you visit. 

With that said, though, if you are planning to see a bit of everything, the best time to visit Vietnam is either in spring (March – April) or autumn (September – December) . During these months, expect pleasant temperatures throughout most of the country.

3. Don’t forget your visa

Most nationalities need a visa to enter Vietnam, except for several European passport holders, such as citizens from the UK, France, and Germany. If you’re from one of these countries, consider yourself lucky, because you can enter Vietnam 15 days visa-free.

For the rest, chances are high you’ll need to apply for a visa beforehand. While some countries’ citizens can apply for a visa online (read more about it here or use iVisa to sort everything for you), South Africans need to apply in person at the nearest Vietnam embassy. It’s definitely a bit of a mission, but the effort will be worth it – especially since you’ll get to experience one of the most beautiful places in Asia!

4. Know how to get in and out 

As already mentioned, Vietnam is a huge country packed with loads of beautiful places to go , ancient landmarks to explore , and amazing things to do. Choosing where to arrive and depart is, therefore, another important Vietnam travel tip to keep in mind.

Three main international airports serve Vietnam: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport. If you’re planning to see a bit of everything, the easiest would be to arrive in the south and depart in the north (or vice versa). Search and compare flights here on Skyscanner .

No matter where you arrive, it’s straightforward to get from any of these airports to the city center. Buses and taxis are readily available and very affordable. Don’t feel like planning a thing? Grab a private transfer here: 

• Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City/Halong Bay
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport to HCMC  
• Da Nang International Airport to Hoi An/ Hue or Da Nang  

5. Know how to get around efficiently

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Asia and getting around is super easy and affordable. As a result, it’s a great destination for budget travelers and backpackers. With everything from trains to buses, Vietnam has a vast and efficient transport network that can literally connect you to all its corners. 

Some of the best long-distance travel options include sleeper buses and overnight trains . These are especially ideal for travelers who want to cover large areas of land at dirt cheap prices. 12Go Asia is a great source to find and book tickets for  buses ,  trains and transfers . While you’ll undoubtedly be saving money, you should know that traveling by train or bus is not for everyone. Journeys are long, and it’s not exactly the most sanitary way of traveling. 

If that’s not for you, flying is your best bet. Vietjet is the country’s top low-cost carrier, and local flights are cheap and plentiful. 

6. Opt to use Grab Taxi 

Most cities in Vietnam are surprisingly walkable, but it’s always good to know you have other options when you are too tired to walk. (By the way, looking for cute and comfy travel sneakers? Check out my guide on travel sneakers for women ). 

Among the many ways to get around in the cities include taxis, local buses, bicycle rickshaws, and even motorbike taxis. Oh and travel tip – the latter might seem like a fun ride, but it’s not for the faint-hearted! 

All of the above options are generally quite cheap. But remember to agree on a fixed price with the driver beforehand. Vietnam’s taxi drivers are notorious for ripping off tourists!

The easiest way to avoid this unpleasantry is to use Grab Taxi instead. Grab is a popular ride share service, similar to Uber, where you book a ride using their app. The best part? You’ll know exactly how much your ride will cost and how long it will take to reach your destination.

7. Get a local Sim card

Whether you’re planning a 5-day Vietnam itinerary or staying a bit longer, getting a local SIM card or pocket wifi is highly encouraged (especially if you are a first-time visitor to Vietnam). 

Even though most hotels and posher eateries are likely to have free (and super fast) wifi, having access to all your favorite travel apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, and Grab Taxi 24/7 can help avoid unnecessary stress.  

The easiest way to stay connected on your trip is to grab a SIM card right upon arrival. You can book one online  here  or head straight to one of the various vendors on site. Alternatively, have one delivered directly to your hotel to save the hassle: 

• 4G SIM card delivered straight to your hotel in Hanoi
• 4G SIM delivered directly to your hotel in HCMC

8. Be aware of scams

One of the most important travel tips for Vietnam to know about is scams. Scams are plentiful in Vietnam and even more so in touristy spots like HCMC and Hanoi. I hate being ripped off, as I’m sure you do too. The easiest way to avoid feeling salty is not to let it happen. While that is probably easier said than done, especially when traveling in unfamiliar territory, the good news is that it’s possible!

The first Vietnam tip you need to know about is to try and book your tours or trips through a reputable website beforehand. I personally love Klook and book most of my tours through them. They have tons of options at reasonable prices. Plus, the reviews really help make choosing the perfect tour so much easier. 

Of course, booking activities through a local tour operator is also possible. In fact, you’ll be hard-pressed to turn a corner in any of Vietnam’s tourist hubs without spotting several of these companies! If you must use one of these services, then you’re definitely going to need my second most important Vietnam travel tip for booking tours. Shop around before committing to anything , because prices vary greatly from one operator to another. 

Most tour operators in Vietnam will gladly spend hours explaining different packages, tours, and trips. Don’t feel intimated or obliged to book a tour right then and there. Instead, thank them for their time and tell them you’ll think about it. Then move on to the next tour operator. After a visit to several different sites, you’ll have a good idea of which company offers the best package at the best price for your needs.  

9. Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases

The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese, but English is widely spoken in more touristy places. While it’s unlikely that you’ll have any trouble with language barriers in the bigger cities, it’s always a good idea to know the basics. Here are a few key phrases that will make your trip a whole lot more enjoyable and perhaps even impress a few locals: 

Hello  – Xin chào

Goodbye  – Tạm biệt

Thank you  – Cám ơn

Sorry  – Xin Loi 

Please – Làm ơn

No  – Không

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

Please help me – Làm ơn giúp tôi

Where is the bathroom? – Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?

10. Carry enough cash with you

In general, cash is king in Vietnam, so make sure you carry enough cash with you, especially if you’re visiting markets or low-key eateries. Most hotels, tour operators, and fancier restaurants do, however, accept debit or credit cards, but remember service fees may apply,

If you run out of cash, you won’t have too much trouble finding an ATM. But not all banks accept foreign cards, so it’s best to try one of the bigger branches like HSBC and Citi Bank that accepts Visa or Mastercard. Also, keep in mind, it’s best to withdraw AND exchange money right at the airport, where you’ll get the cheapest rates. If you must use a local ATM, try to withdraw large sums at once to avoid hefty bank charges. The withdrawal limit typically ranges between 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 VND, with fees ranging from 22,000 to 99,000 VND. 

Just make sure your hotel room has a safe where you can keep your money locked up because you really shouldn’t be walking around with large sums of cash in Vietnam!

11. Learn to haggle (really fast)

If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time, then you’re in for a real treat. Everything is dirt cheap, and haggling is standard practice at markets and hole-in-the-wall stores. 

With that said, though, you should know that prices (for tourists) are generally hugely inflated, and the only way to get a lower price is to haggle! Don’t be afraid to ask around first to get a good idea of the bargaining range. Decide on a price you’d like to pay and stick to it no matter what. 

If you’re not American like me, then another thing you’ll need to get used to very quickly is converting currencies! Most vendors only give prices in USD, so best to figure out the conversion rate before you make a trip to the market.  

It’s also a good idea not to flaunt any flashy belongings like watches, designer bags, and your fav pro camera because those also play a part in the initial price you’ll get. Another tip to know is, don’t shop near the entrance of a market. These stores are famous for asking steeper prices!

12. You don’t need to tip

Like elsewhere in Southeast Asia, tipping is not really a thing in Vietnam. So whether you’re dining at  Hanoi’s best restaurants  or grabbing some sidewalk grub in Ho Chih Min City, leaving a tip is generally not required. However, if you decide to splurge on a fancy dinner or pop into a swanky eatery, expect a 10% service fee already worked in on your bill. 

As for hotel porters and tour guides, be prepared for the death stares if you do not give them a tip! It doesn’t need to be much, but it is the norm here. So, remember to keep some small change (ideally US dollars) handy.

13. Don’t drink the tap water 

Another big mistake to avoid in Vietnam is drinking the tap water. The tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink , and you’re almost guaranteed to get sick!

To avoid ruining your entire trip, rather buy bottled water. A 1.5 liter of bottled water costs less than a dollar and can be bought practically everywhere – from convenience stores to local restaurants to even your hotel. 

If you’re visiting Vietnam on a budget, another option is to invest in a good reusable water bottle that you can refill at your hotel’s water fountain.

14. Pack the right clothes

Knowing what to pack for a Vietnam trip is another important thing you need to know before visiting Vietnam. 

Since the humidity is quite intense in Vietnam, it’s best to pack lightweight, breathable clothes made of linen or cotton that won’t leave you sweaty or weigh you down. 

Unless you’re visiting during winter (mid-December – March), there’s really no need to pack a ton of warm clothing. Instead, opt for shorts, skirts, your favorite t’s, and summery dresses. With that said, it’s still a good idea to bring along one or two lightweight jackets, jeans, and long-sleeved shirts for the odd chilly day or if you intend to go hiking. No matter when you visit, though, don’t forget your raincoat! 

Also, if you’re going to visit Vietnam’s incredible religious sites, remember to to pack accordingly. A simple sarong will do in most cases, but just make sure that you can cover your knees and shoulders.

15. Don’t forget to bring bug spray and sunscreen

Although you won’t have to worry about malaria in the major tourist areas of Vietnam, dengue fever and the Zika virus aren’t uncommon. Make sure to protect yourself from any bites by packing a good mosquito repellant like this . 

Sunscreen is another essential item to pack when traveling in Vietnam. While you won’t have too much trouble finding sunscreen at a local grocery store or even in a convenience store, it’s important to know that most sunscreen brands in Asia contain whitening agents that can change your skin color. Make sure to bring your favorite brand along for a worry-free trip. If you’re a conscientious traveler, this reef-safe Banana Boat sunscreen spray is your best bet.

16. You might need a travel adapter

The standard voltage in Vietnam is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, and the typical plug types are A (2 vertical pins), C (2 round pins), and F (Schuko plug ).

While these plug types are pretty standard in most countries, it’s important to check the voltage compatibility before trying to plug your device into a socket in Vietnam. If your device runs at a different voltage, it’s best to invest in a good travel adapter. This travel plug works in 150 countries and has four USB sockets, so you never have to worry about keeping your devices juiced up. 

There you have it – all my top travel tips for Vietnam! If you think I’ve omitted any must-know Vietnam travel tips, let me know in the comments below to keep this post updated! 

If you found these travel tips for Vietnam handy, please pin this post to your favorite board!

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October 27, 2021 at

hi, I really appreciated this information about Vietnam. My husband and I will plan to trip there. Let me know more information about Vietnam tourist

November 5, 2021 at

Great to hear that! Feel free to check out my other Vietnam posts for more ideas on what not to miss.

May 21, 2023 at

Thank you so much. So practical and well explained. Mush appreciated. Thank you

August 6, 2023 at

we are going to Vietnam and Cambodia in February 2024. Really looking forward to it. we are aged 68 and 72, and reasonably mobile. we are doing an 18 day tour. So any advice anyone can give us will be greatly appreciated

August 9, 2023 at

Thanks, this will be very helpful

Looking forward to our trip,

To be forewarned is to be forearmed.

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TRAVEL DESTINATIONS | , VIETNAM

20 genius vietnam travel tips – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share 20 genius Vietnam travel tips in 2024. If you’re planning to travel to Vietnam read this article CAREFULLY to avoid making mistakes and missing important things. 

We absolutely love Vietnam and we can’t stop going back. Vietnam is an amazing country to travel. However, it does have some challenges and some things that you need to know before you go. As long term travelers and a FULL TIME travel family – we have made all the mistakes and had to develop ways to travel better. We are passionate about sharing our tried and tested top tips and travel secrets with you to help you make the most of your Vietnam trip. 

These Vietnam travel tips should help you have an amazing time in Vietnam. Please read this guide carefully if you’re planning to visit Vietnam as we think it will help you a lot.  

Summary of essential Vietnam travel tips

Brief summary of our Vietnam travel tips – KEEP READING for full details

• Get set up with a local SIM card
• Always check your change
• Watch out for ATM charges
• If you’re going rural take plenty of cash
• Avoid popular activities on public holidays
• Respect local customs and culture
• Look after your valuables
• Take care on the roads
• Make the most of the street food
• Download Google translate
• Use a taxi app to get around
• Plan your itinerary carefully
• Use offline maps to get around
• Get bigger water bottles
• Book trips and tours 
• Splash out on an amazing hotel
• Protect yourself from the sun
• Consider taking a luxury cruise
• Try bartering
• Don’t miss Sapa

DON’T MISS THE GUIDE – Thailand vs Vietnam – which country should you visit?

What are the BEST places to visit in Vietnam?

Before we share out PRO Vietnam travel tips we just wanted to share a few recommendations for Vietnam.

If you are planning to visit Vietnam you may be considering a visit to Ho Chi Minh City and the South. There are lots of awesome things to do around Ho Chi Minh including boat trips to the Mekong Delta, day trips to the historic Cu Chi tunnels and plenty of epic temples. Ho Chi Minh is a great place to experience culture, history and amazing food.

We highly recommend a visit to Hanoi in the North. This city is also packed with culture and history and it is a great hub to explore other awesome destinations in the north of Vietnam. Whether it’s walking around Hanoi city exploring temples , or trying the epic Hanoi street food – this city doesn’t disappoint. 

If you get a chance we highly recommend a visit to Sapa. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Sapa . This is an awesome destination for stunning trekking in the hills around Sapa , cultural villages and authentic Sapa homestays . It is possible to take a night train from Hanoi to Sapa – this is a great experience. If the night train is not for you there are other ways to travel from Hanoi to Sapa . 

We also highly recommend a visit to Ha Long Bay. If you are looking for superlative splashout opportunities consider taking a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay . We loved Peony cruises and highly recommend their package. 

What are the BEST things to do in Vietnam?

There are absolutely loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam. In some ways it is hard to narrow it down. To help you you plan your trip here is a list of some of our TOP PICK things to do in Vietnam:

• Explore traditional Vietnamese temples 
• Take a Mekong delta boat tour (around $15 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
• Visit the war Relics Museum (Ho Chi Minh)
• See a traditional water puppet show 
• Visit a Vietnamese market  (e.g. Ben Thanh market or Dong Xuan market)
• Try a traditional Vietnamese cooking course 
• Visit the Reunification palace (Ho Chi Minh)
• Get a Vietnamese massage (amazing prices – normally under $10)
• Visit the Cu Chi tunnels (Around $20 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum (Hanoi)
• See the iconic Tran Quoc Pagoda (Hanoi)
• Check out Hanoi train street 
• Explore the Temple of literature (Hanoi)
• Visit the Mua Cave and viewpoint (Trang An near Hanoi)
• Visit the summit of Fanispan (trek or take the cable car and mountain railway)
• Go trekking in Sapa and stay in an authentic homestay
• Take a luxury cruise of Ha Long Bay
• Explore Cat Ba island

1 Get set up with a local SIM card

Having a local SIM is very useful whether you’re booking a taxi online, communicating with a hotel or just scrolling through nonsense on a long bus journey. 

When you arrive in Vietnam we recommend that you get a local SIM card. One way to do this is to buy one in the airport when you first arrive (this is convenient but may be a little bit more expensive). Alternatively, wait until you’re in town and then find a SIM card. There are many SIM card companies available in Vietnam and the choice can be a little bit overwhelming. Different companies offer different packages with varying amounts of data, coverage and prices. Be aware that many SIM card deals only include data and not calls or text messages. You may struggle to make outgoing calls or send text messages, therefore we recommend that you connect with locals through WhatsApp. 

You can find some mobile network shops around towns and cities. One of the biggest network providers is Viettel. They generally have stores around towns and cities and offer a range of deals and packages. Viettel offers the best coverage – however their deals are generally quite expensive. Viettel 30 day packages tend to range between 150,000VND – 300,000VND and include a data limit (normally 10GB – 60GB depending on the package). You can find cheaper 30 day sim cards in small local corner shops and small tour offices.  We found Mobiphone offered good deals at competitive prices. The best way to get a good deal is shop around and barter. You can normally find deals for around 90,000VND – 150,000VND. Shoot for 30GB or more.

2 Always check your change

Here is one of our PRO Vietnam travel tips for being savvy. Start getting your head around the currency before you go. You may be able to get hold of some cash in advance or withdraw from an ATM in the airport. Alternatively bring some US dollars (or another local currency) and exchange in the airport to get you going. 

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). The Vietnamese dong is quite a challenge and currency because the notes are very large. In general you’re not likely to pay for anything that is less than 10,000VND (which is roughly £0.35 or $0.40). These large numbers can make it very difficult to convert currencies, work out prices and figure out how much change you need. We always recommend that you take time to check your change carefully and don’t feel rushed or flustered. Some travelers can be short changed because locals know that the currency is difficult to work with. 

3 Watch out for ATM charges

There are plenty of ATM machines available in all of the main towns and cities in Vietnam. Most ATM machines in Vietnam accept foreign cards including Master Cards, Maestro, Visa and Visa debit cards. However, your local bank may charge you for using your card overseas. Furthermore, Vietnamese ATM machines generally have a charge for using international cards. ATM machines in Vietnam will give you an option to do your transaction in English and they should tell you the withdrawal charges before you withdraw money. We found that Agribank had some of the lowest charges and they are quite widespread around Vietnam. We also recommend that you use a good international card such as Starling or Wise (minimal or no international fees). 

4 If you’re going rural take plenty of cash

Here is one of our Vietnam travel tips for going rural. If you are planning to go to a rural location in Vietnam make sure you take plenty of cash. For example, if you’re traveling to Sapa there are a few cash machines around town. However, as soon as you get out of town there are no cash machines for miles. Therefore, if you are visiting this area make sure you get plenty of cash before you disappear into the hills. Many of the islands in Vietnam are recently developed, however if you’re planning to visit any of the smaller and less developed Islands we recommend taking plenty of cash with you. 

5 Avoid popular activities on public holidays

In recent years domestic tourism has become very popular in Vietnam. increasingly Vietnamese people are traveling around Vietnam and enjoying their awesome country. However, this can make it challenging traveling Vietnam especially during public holidays and weekends. Popular activities in Vietnam can get very busy during public holidays and weekends. If you do need to take a long journey during a public holiday we recommend booking your tickets in advance as early as possible. If possible, we recommend planning your trip carefully so that your slower, “down days” fall on any public holidays or weekends in Vietnam. Also, you may notice that some attractions charge a little bit more during the weekends. Lose-lose, it is more busy and you pay more at the weekend! 

6 Respect local customs and culture

Vietnam is a very friendly, relax and respectful culture. Vietnamese people are generally quite reserved but they are also friendly and outgoing. One of the most important ways to respect local culture and customs is to make sure that you dress conservatively and respectfully when you are visiting temples and significant landmarks. In general, we recommend that you have shoulders and knees covered when you are visiting temples in Vietnam. 

7 Look after your valuables

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is looking after yourself and your belongings. Crime rates are generally quite low in Vietnam. However, it is important to look after yourself and your belongings. Take care if you’re out and about at night, especially if you are on your own. Also watch your bags and belongings especially in busy locations like markets. We tend to use a dry sack inside of a valuables bag to keep cameras and valuables safe. This makes it more difficult for a thief to access and also protect your valuable electrical items in heavy rain. 

Vietnam also has night buses which is a cheap and convenient way to travel around. However, your valuables bag may be very vulnerable on a night bus. We recommend using a small padlock to keep your valuables bag secure and make sure it is not in a position that is easy to grab or access. Keep an arm through a stap.   

8 Take care on the roads

Vietnam has a reputation for hilariously busy roads. If you are visiting one of the biggest cities in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi be prepared for an ocean of motorbikes speeding down the streets. If you need to cross a road try to find traffic lights or pedestrian crossings. Many locals just walk slowly into the street keeping an eye out for bikes. Slow and steady movement allows the bikes to pass around them. Whatever you do, always take care around the streets and remain vigilant. 

9 Make the most of the street food

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to make the most of the amazing Vietnamese street food. Street food in Vietnam is delicious, cheap and readily available. The awesome street food culture in Vietnam is an amazing part of the experience of traveling here. Many of the towns and cities in Vietnam had street food markets and plenty of small cafes and restaurants along the streets. If you get a chance, we recommend taking a street food tour.

Local guides will be able to show you the best places to eat and tell you about the food. We highly recommend that you try Bahn Mi in Vietnam (this is a french style baguette packed with meat, egg and pickled veggies). Pho Soup is also very common and popular. This noodle soup has a beautiful stock and it is served with sliced meats or prawns and a range of mouthwatering garnishes. Vietnamese spring rolls are also amazing – try them fresh for a crunchy healthy option. Most street food in Vietnam ranges between 30,000VND – 90,000VND. 

10 Download Google translate

Most people in Vietnam speak a reasonably good level of English, especially in the larger towns and cities. However, language can be challenging from time to time. We have found Google Translate to be an amazing language app. Google translate allows you to translate spoken language using your microphone and written text using your camera. In most cases Google Translate is able to help you make sense of documents, information and menus. It is also very good at picking up on spoken text in both Vietnamese and English. If you download Google translate on to your phone you can actually download offline languages so that you can translate without WI-Fi or mobile data. This is super helpful when you are visiting more rural areas with less English and weak wifi. 

11 Use a taxi app to get around

One of the most convenient ways to get around Vietnamese cities is to use local taxis. Due to the increase in use of taxi apps it is becoming very challenging to flag taxis at the side of the road. And if you do find taxis at the side of the road you will need to barter with taxi drivers for a reasonable price. A massive advantage of using taxi apps is that the price is fixed by the app. you will be given a fair local price for your journey without needing to barter. If you wish to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to have mobile data available on your phone. 

The main taxi apps in Vietnam are Grab and Gojek. In order to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to download the app from your app store. Once you have the app you can register for an account using your local phone number and email address. When you set up your account, allow it to access your phone’s location to book taxis. You can either enter your destination and allow the auto suggest to bring it up or you can use the map function.

Once you have booked your taxi it normally takes 5 or 10 minutes for the taxi to arrive. You are able to cancel your journey shortly after booking if you need to. Once a taxi has agreed to take you you will be given the registration plate and you will be able to message the driver over the app. watch out for your taxi and then just jump in and go. 

You can use both apps simultaneously to find the fastest taxi and cheapest journey. You can also select “pay with cash” when you book your taxi. We found this to be a very simple and convenient option. Most journeys around cities should cost 30,000VND – 150,000VND.

12 Plan your itinerary carefully

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is to plan your itinerary carefully. Vietnam is actually a very large country and it takes over 24-hours to travel from the North to the south of Vietnam over land (the country is over 1,000 miles from north to south). Even if you choose to fly this can take up a significant amount of your precious travel time.

Therefore, we recommend planning your itinerary very carefully. Slow down if you can. Consider what things you wish to do before you visit Vietnam and make sure you have enough time to do all of the things you want to do.

In general if you have less than 10 days in Vietnam we recommend focusing on either the north or the South but don’t try to visit both. If you have 10 days or more in Vietnam it is possible to visit both the north and south of the country. However, if you are really wanting an epic trip that visits all of the must-see destinations in Vietnam, then we recommend taking at least two or three weeks for your trip. 

If you’re planning an itinerary that hits the north and south – it may be more efficient to fly into Ho Chi Minh and fly out of Hanoi. Or Fly into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh. This saves traveling up and down the country unnecessarily. Alternatively, you could travel into Hanoi, then travel down the country to Ho Chi Ming, then travel overland to Cambodia by bus. 

• Don’t miss our ULTIMATE 10 day step-by-step itinerary for Vietnam
• We also have a detailed 3 day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh
• You may also be interested in our 3 day itinerary for Hanoi

13 Use offline maps to get around

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to get hold of some offline maps on your phone. We use an app called Maps.Me to download offline maps in advance. This app syncs up with your phone’s GPS and allows you to pin down your exact location. One of the things that we love about this app is the number of destinations that are listed in the app. You can use the app to search for things like ATM machines, restaurants, petrol stations and much more. Map.Me also allows you to drop pins to remember some of your favourite locations – perfect if you want to revisit places. This really is one of our favourite travel apps. Best of all Maps.Me is a FREE app. 

14 Get big water bottles

Getting drinking water in Vietnam can actually be challenging at times. Pack a refillable water bottle. It is not recommended to drink water directly from the tap in Vietnam. Therefore, you will need to buy bottles of drinking water. Some hotels and guest houses offer water filling facilities which is very useful.

Alternatively you can buy large bottles of water to refill your water bottle. In some cases you will need to buy 5 liter water bottles (these generally cost around 30,000VND and last for a few days). Alternatively, in some locations you can buy big reusable 15 liter bottles of filtered drinking water. This is a great way to fill your bottle if you’re staying somewhere for a longer stint (these 15 liter bottles are quiet heavy). A 15 liter bottle is likely to last around 1 week or more. This is an environmental and economical way of sourcing water in Vietnam. 

15 Book trips and tours 

If you are planning to visit some of the awesome attractions in Vietnam consider booking tours. Tours in Vietnam tend to be very cheap and a fun and convenient way to see local attractions and meet new people. In some cases it may be cheaper to book a tour than to visit independently. Many tours in Vietnam include hotel pickup and drop off, food, guides and other kit that you need. 

There are two ways to book trips and tours in Vietnam: You can either book online in advance or you can find a small tour operator and book directly with them. You generally need to book 1 or 2 days in advance. If you plan to book online in advance, we recommend using Klook to book tours in Vietnam . They have loads of awesome tours in Vietnam and offer very competitive prices. This allows you to read your whole itinerary, work out exactly what’s included, check reviews and find out about pickup and drop off details and timings. 

If you plan to book trips and tours with a local tour operator, you will find plenty of small tour offices located in travel hubs like Ho Chi Minh, the Hanoi old Quarter and Sapa town. Barter with local operators to get the lowest prices. 

The main disadvantage of booking tours is the lack of flexibility. We really enjoy traveling independently because this allows us to see things more cheaply and go at our own pace. However, it is fun to take tours – especially if you just want to relax and go with the flow. 

16 Splash out on an amazing hotel

This may not be one of our most savvy Vietnam travel tips but we really want to mention the amazing luxury hotels in Vietnam. If you have ever dreamed of splashing out on a luxury 5-star hotel, Vietnam may well be the best place to do this. Vietnam offers some of the best value for money accommodation in Southeast Asia (and perhaps some of the best in the world!)

You can find luxury 5 star hotel rooms in Vietnam starting at around £60 per night. Equivalent hotels in Europe would be likely to set you back around £250 per night. For £200 per night you can find some incredibly stylish and decadent properties. Another advantage of splashing out on a luxury hotel in Vietnam is the amazing staff. Not only are Vietnamese people incredibly hospitable and helpful, Vietnamese hotels tend to be very well staffed, much better than other parts of the world. So if you stay in a luxury hotel in Vietnam you can expect an impeccable level of service.

So if there is any part of you that wants to experience 5-star luxury, then Vietnam is probably one of the best places in the world to do this! 

BEST 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh

• The Reverie Saigon – SUPER stylish, amazing facilities & location. Book the Reverie on Agoda or Book the Reverie on booking.com
• Fusion Original Saigon Centre – UNIQUE and artistic beauty & amazing location. You can book Fusion on Agoda or Fusion on booking.com
• Vinapearl Landmark 81 – Luxury hotel at the top of a skyscraper – paradise in the sky. Reserve Viapearl on Agoda or reserve Vinapearl on booking.com

The Best luxury hotels in Hanoi

• The Oriental Jade Hotel Hanoi – Classy, amazing facilities & great location. Book the Oriental Jade on Agoda or Book the Oriental Jade on booking.com
• The Grand Mercure Hanoi – Very stylish, great views and excellent facilities. Book the Grand Mercure on Agoda or Book the Grand Mercure on booking.com
• The Capella Hanoi – Very decadent luxury boutique old quarter hotel. Book the Capella on Agoda or book the Capella on booking.com

TOP PICK luxury hotels in Sapa

• Laxsik Ecolodge – Dreamy luxury mountain lodge. Book Laxsik on Agoda or book Laxsik on booking.com
• Hotel De La Coupole – Beautiful classic style hotel with great facilities. Book Hotel De La Coupole on Agoda or book Hotel De La Coupole on booking.com
• The Silk Path Grand Resort – Breathtaking 5 star hotel. Book the Silk Path on Agoda or Book the Silk Path on booking.com

17 Protect yourself from the sun

Vietnam has a hot tropical climate. One of the most important Vietnam travel tips is to make sure that you protect yourself from the climate.  make sure you drink plenty of water and use sun protection. Sun cream in Vietnam is actually quite expensive. Therefore, we recommend packing some factor 50 suncream. If you are planning to be out during the hottest hours of the day, we recommend using suncream and a small umbrella for shade. A small travel umbrella is very useful because it can protect you from both the sun and the rain. If you are planning to be in the water during the heat of the day we recommend using rash guards that have UV protection. 

18 Use night buses and night trains

One of our top savvy Vietnam travel tips is to use night buses and night trains. This is a fun and very affordable way to travel around Vietnam. The advantage of taking a night bus or night train is that you do not lose any travel time to your journey. Furthermore, you will also save the price of a night’s accommodation elsewhere.

Whether you are planning to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi or from Hanoi to Sapa, you can take night trains with comfortable secure lockable cabins. This allows you to walk around the train, look out the window and enjoy the scenery. Vietnam also has some very cheap and very comfortable night buses available. Some night buses have big reclining seats and other night buses offer beds. Buses often have toilets on board and take stops for walking around and buying food and drinks. 

• Night bus journeys generally cost around $10 – $20
• Night train journeys generally cost around $30 – $80

If you’re taking a night bus or a night train in Vietnam we recommend bringing some food on the journey with you. Some trains and buses may have snacks available, however this is not reliable. Therefore it is important to bring some food along for the journey. Also we highly recommend that you check your arrival time and choose a service that doesn’t arrive too early in the morning! Some night buses and night trains have very early and unsociable arrival times. 

19 Try bartering

One of our budget Vietnam travel tips is to barter. Bartering is a fun and acceptable part of Vietnamese culture. It is not possible to barter for everything in Vietnam, however you can barter for some things. We recommend bartering if you are buying things in markets (especially in tourist areas). You can also barter for taxis (unless you’re using the taxi app). If you decide to book trips or tours through local travel operators you can barter for the cost of the trip. If you are traveling around Vietnam on a tight budget you can also barter for accommodation. Just turn up at a cheap guest house and barter. 

If bartering is done well it can be a very fun and friendly way to connect with locals. keep it in good humor and don’t insult the locals or their products. If you are not happy with the price you don’t need to buy it and if they are not happy with the price they don’t need to sell it. The best bartering is done in good humor and with a good rapport. Don’t miss our full guide on TOP TIPS for bartering in Asia . 

20 Get off the beaten track

If you are looking for Vietnam travel tips that will help you have a unique, memorable and meaningful experience then get off the beaten track. Try new food, connect with locals and disconnect from tech.  We lament the fact that travel has become such a tick box exercise. Vietnam is a stunning and incredible country with so much to offer. The best way to really experience authentic Vietnam is just to explore – no plan or preconceptions. Vietnam is truly an amazing country with incredible locals. If you are feeling brave and have the time, why not find a town on the map where there is not much information online and just go there? Some of our most intrepid, adventurous and memorable travel experiences have happened when we have just gone off script and explored places. Vietnam is packed with incredible scenery, beautiful towns, amazing people and unexplored areas. 

Where are the best places to stay in Vietnam?

We are very impressed by the quality and selection of hotels in Vietnam. In Vietnam your money goes a long way on hotels. Therefore, this is a great opportunity to splash out. If you have ever dreamed of staying in a luxury hotel, why not do it in one of the cheapest countries for 5-star Hotels? Another thing we love about hotels in Vietnam is the style and character. There are plenty of unique boutique hotels in Vietnam, stylishly decorated and packed with charm and character. 

1 Places to stay in Ho Chi Minh

If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh, the best area to stay is District 1, this is the central district with all of the main attractions. There are plenty of amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh offering a wide range of rooms and suites for every budget range. There are also some amazing 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh . Here are our top pick hotels in Ho Chi Minh:

• Top Pick budget hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Lovenote Home Studio (Find Lovenote on Agoda & Lovenote on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Ho Chi Minh: Leiden Homestay and Cafe (Find Leiden on Agoda & Leiden on booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Reverie Saigon (Find the Reverie on Agoda & Reverie on booking.com )

2 Places to stay in Hanoi 

If you are visiting Hanoi the best area to stay is the Old quarter, especially near Hoan Kiem lake. Most of the attractions, bars and street food can be found in the old quarter. There is a great range of Hotels in the Hanoi Old quarter . Whether you are looking for a budget Guest House, a stylish boutique hotel or a luxury 5-star hotel – the Old quarter has plenty to offer. There are so many luxury hotels to choose from in Hanoi we have a dedicated guide to the best 5-star hotels in Hanoi . 

• Top Pick budget hotel in Hanoi: Golden Time 3 Hostel (Find Golden Time on Agoda & Golden Time on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Hanoi: Royal Holiday Hanoi (Find the Royal Holiday on Agoda & the Royal Holiday on Booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Hanoi: The Capella Hanoi (Find the Capella on Agoda & the Capella on booking.com )

3 Places to stay in Sapa

If you are planning to visit Sapa you may well need a place to stay in the town before you start trekking. We have a dedicated article to the best hotels in Sapa town . Sapa is also an amazing place to stay in a luxurious 5-star hotel, we also have a guide on the best 5-star hotels in Sapa . And if you are visiting Sapa we highly recommend that you stay in one of the incredible authentic homestays around Sapa . This is an amazing way to experience Vietnamese mountain culture and food. 

• Top Pick budget hotel in Sapa: Sapa Capsule hostel (Find Sapa Capsule on Agoda & Sapa Capsule on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Sapa: Sapa Mountain Queen House (Find the Sapa Mountain Queen on Agoda & The Sapa Mountain Queen on booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Sapa: The Laxsik Ecolodge (Find the Laxsik Ecolodge on Agoda & Laxsik Ecolodge on booking.com )

What is the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

Although Vietnam is a tropical country that doesn’t have distinct Seasons. The best months to visit Vietnam are March and April. The temperatures in March and April are lower on average and there is less rainfall. If you visit Vietnam between May and September the weather is hot and dry. If you visit Vietnam between November and February the temperature is lower and there is more rainfall. Watch out for monsoons and flooding in the winter months. This can affect travel in Vietnam, and very severe pacific storms can be dangerous. 

Vietnam is more than 1000 miles in length from north to south. The average temperatures and climate varies massively across the country. If you are planning to visit the north of Vietnam, especially mountain areas like Sapa, be aware that it can actually be quite cold in the winter months between September and February. We recommend bringing some additional warm layers, especially if you are planning to stay in a homestay or go trekking. 

What are prices like in Vietnam? 

Vietnam is a relatively cheap country. In fact, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. 

Food in Vietnam is very cheap and readily available. Street food can be found all around towns, cities and villages in Vietnam. Expect to pay around 30,000 – 20,000VND for local food (noodles, banh Mi or BBQ food). This is roughly £1 – £2 or $1.20 – $2.50. 

Hotels and guest houses are also very cheap in Vietnam. You can find dorm beds for around £5 or $7. Private rooms typically start at around £10 or $12. And even at this price the quality is very reasonable. Cheap rooms in Vietnam generally include air conditioning and an ensuite bathroom with hot water. Luxury 5-star hotels normally start at around £50 or $70 per night. It is amazing what you can get for your money at the luxury end of the budget range. 

Transport in Vietnam is also very cheap. all of the big cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have a local bus network. It can be a little bit challenging and intimidating to use the local transport system – but locals are very helpful so this can be a lot of fun. If you are using a local city bus expect to pay around £0.50 or $0.70. There are also plenty of taxis in Vietnam. Use a taxi app (we will share more about getting taxis soon). Expect to pay around 30,000VND – 150,000VND for most short taxi journeys in Vietnam. It is very cheap to travel around Vietnam. you can travel across the length of the country for around $50 – $100. Short inter city journeys by bus in Vietnam generally cost as little as $10 – $15. 

What is Wi-Fi like in Vietnam? 

In Vietnam many places offer free Wi-Fi, especially in cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.  Most hotels, guest houses and homestays offer free Wi-Fi. It is worth being aware that although Wi-Fi is often available the network may be slow or weak. If you are planning to travel into more rural areas such as the mountains of the north or two remote islands you may struggle to find any Wi-Fi connections. Therefore we recommend sorting out all of your online business before you go. If you are using data on a local SIM card you may find that the signal is weak or non-existent in more rural areas. This is the perfect chance to disconnect from tech and reconnect with nature! 

Is Vietnam a good country for family Travel?

Vietnam is a great country for family Travel. The Vietnamese people are very welcoming towards families and children. There are loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam with kids . Most attractions and transport offer reduced price for kids or FREE entry. We also found the food in Vietnam was child-friendly. Typically street food is not too spicy and there are often options which are great for kids. However, if you’re traveling with a baby it is worth being aware that baby changing facilities are rare in Vietnam. The best place to find baby changing facilities is in large malls or supermarkets.

You can often buy supplies like snacks, baby milk and nappies from small convenience stores. However, if you’re traveling into more rural areas we recommend taking plenty of supplies with you. 

What things should you pack to visit Vietnam?

Hopefully our Vietnam travel tips have been helpful. Here is a packing list for Vietnam. 

• A dry sack for valuables
• Clothes, toiletries and some wet wipes or tissues
• Swimming kit and a travel towel
• Suncream (SPF50+)
• Mosquito repellent (DEET)
• Loose light fitting clothing 
• Sandals of Flip flops
• Trainers or trekking shoes
• Phone, valuables, cameras, chargers, travel documents
• Travel adaptor plug  (plug type A,C and F)
• Water bottle
• A small torch (especially useful for trekking & homestays)
• A warm layer or two, very useful if you are visiting the mountains of the North or taking a train or bus 
• A waterproof layer
• Consider a travel first aid kit (especially if you’re going rural)
• Consider a small travel umbrella – protection from sun and rain

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Ultimate VIETNAM Travel Guide

Vietnam is a country located in the Southeast Asia.  Hanoi is the capital, a city that offers an abrupt introduction to a fascinating country. Our Vietnam travel guide is here to take the guesswork out of your planning.

After many years of war and closure to the outside world, Vietnam opened its doors completely to tourism in 1997 and since has worked hard to develop its tourism industry.

The country has recovered into a diverse, beautiful destination with great food, natural wonder and overwhelming culture.

After talking with friends who had visited, we weren’t sure we would like Vietnam. So we headed in with plans to only spend a week. Well,  we stayed for 3 weeks  and can’t wait to get back!

Vietnam turned out to be one of our favorite countries in  Southeast Asia .

Destinations

Vietnam travel: quick tips.

Don’t Visit VIETNAM Without:

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO VIETNAM!

Where to stay in vietnam.

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Vietnam. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN VIETNAM

Anyone looking to travel to Vietnam will likely fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and connect to the other airports across the country. From these major cities, it is possible to use public transportation to see the city or take buses further afield.

Many people choose to engage in group tours or day tours to get around and see things in Vietnam. It is also possible to rent a motorbike and plan a road trip that takes you further afield and out of the city.

TOP VIETNAM TOURS

CLASSIC VIETNAM

10 Days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Visits: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh City

BEST OF VIETNAM

15 Days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Visits: Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An & Ho Chi Minh City

EXPLORE VIETNAM – NAT GEO

13 Days Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City Visits: Hanoi, Mai Chau, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, & Ho Chi Minh City

TRAVELING ON A BUDGET?

Vietnam travel: booking resources, vietnam travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Vietnam and start planning your dream trip.

21 Unmissable Things to Do in Hanoi

30 Epic Things to do in Vietnam

Simple Guide to Vietnamese Food

Vietnamese Traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi

How To Choose a Halong Bay Cruise

Backpacking Vietnam: 3 Week Recap & Travel Tips

Hue to Hoi An Vietnam Motorbike Adventure

Imperial city of hue vietnam: photo essay, colors of the mekong delta: photo essay.

The Vietnam Snake Man

Immersion Into the Vietnam War

Vietnam’s Great Adventure: The Buffalo Run

Adventure on the High Sea: 3D/2N Halong Bay Cruise

Travel Guide Vietnam

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This e-mail is to express how we enjoyed the trip we had with Henry as driver and guide, all over Malaysia. Henry was very committed in his role: he could ...

Despite its tumultuous history, Vietnam has bounced back to become a big-hitter on the Southeast Asian travel circuit. Unsurprisingly, from a country so long and skinny, there’s plenty of variety on offer: emerald paddy fields and white-sand beaches, full-tilt cities and venerable pagodas, limestone islands looming dramatically out of the sea, vast caves, craggy mountains, and friendly minority communities – with their elaborate tribal costumes and age-old customs. Travel to Vietnam and you’ll be met with warmth and curiosity. Add to that, some of the region’s most nuanced cuisine, and you’re onto a winner.

Where to go in Vietnam

Best time to travel to vietnam.

• How to get to Vietnam

Top 7 best places to visit in Vietnam

Vietnam travel itineraries.

While Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City and the other major centres are intriguing enough, it’s Vietnam’s striking landscape that most impresses. Rugged mountains hug the west, bordering Cambodia and Laos ; to the east lies the South China Sea – or the East Sea, as the Vietnamese call it. To the north and south, the land fantails out into the splendid deltas of the Red River and the Mekong , and it’s in these regions that you’ll encounter the paddy fields, dragonflies, buffaloes and conical-hatted farmers that constitute the classic images of Vietnam.

As for wildlife, the discovery in recent years of several previously unknown species of plants, birds and animals showcases the wealth of Vietnam’s biodiversity. This makes the improving access to the country’s national parks all the more gratifying for travellers wanting to visit Vietnam.

• Spoken language : Vietnamese (majority of population).
• Official unit of currency : dong (VND ₫).
• Population : 95 million. Around two-thirds live in the countryside (one of the highest rural population densities in Southeast Asia), yet the country has a literacy rate of around 95 percent.
• Tourist numbers : two million in 2000; fifteen million in 2018.
• Politics : The Socialist Republic of Vietnam (capital Hanoi), is one of the world’s last surviving one-party Communist states. It shares land borders with China, Laos and Cambodia and comprises over 330,000 square kilometres, with more than 3400km of coastline.
• UNESCO World Heritage sites : Vietnam has eight. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to Hang Son Doong, the world’s known largest cave.
• Visas: Some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements. Travellers from the UK need a visa if staying longer than 45 days. Find out more and get your Vietnam visa . 

Want to know even more useful information about Vietnam before your trip? Read our Vietnam travel tips .

Travel to Vietnam and you’ll discover there is no shortage of beautiful and intriguing places to explore. Experience the buzz of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, or captivating Hanoi, with its lively Old Quarter and mouth-watering street food, while the alluring riverside town of historic Hoi An in central Vietnam makes for a more mellow experience.

The Central Highlands affords fantastic trekking opportunities and other outdoor pursuits, with the breezy mountain town of Da Lat providing the ideal base, while a visit to the remote upland regions of central and northern Vietnam is likely to focus on the ethnic minorities who reside there.

Explore the pancake-flat rice lands of the Mekong Delta with its wonderful floating markets, and meander between Ha Long Bay ’s striking limestone forested islands.

Of course, a visit to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without some relaxing beach time . Take your pick from the gorgeous golden beaches in the south, such as Doc Let beach, on the Hon Khoi Peninsula, and enjoy some superb swimming and snorkeling – as well as exquisite seafood.

Sunrise in Golden Valley near Da Lat © TBone Lee/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Vietnam

• North Vietnam Travel Guide
• The Mekong Delta, Vietnam
• The northern coast Travel Guide
• The Southern Coast Travel Guide

Vietnam is long and slender, with different regions subject to different weather conditions at any one time, which makes figuring out the best time to visit Vietnam somewhat tricky.

The country has a tropical monsoon climate. If you’re visiting the south of the country the driest months tend to be between December and April, while the north of the country is typically driest in spring and autumn.

Within this broad weather picture are regional variations, with differences in altitude also key to varying temperatures. Whereas the south tends to have a year-round tropical climate, the north is considerably cooler in winter.

You can still enjoy a visit to Vietnam during the rainy season, but it’s worth bearing in mind that if you’re intending to go trekking, monsoon downpours can mean flooding in certain areas, and transport can be severely disrupted. You’ll also have to put up with a lot more mosquitoes. On the plus side, there are fewer visitors. Find out more about the best time to visit Vietnam here .

The number of international flights heading to Vietnam has been steadily increasing of late – a fair sign of the country’s burgeoning popularity as a tourist destination.

The vast majority of visitors fly into Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, although a fair chunk of visitors still take the cheaper option of an indirect flight routed through Bangkok, Singapore or Hong Kong.

Taking an indirect flight might be your only option if there are no direct flights available from where you intend to travel. While you can fly direct from London, for example, there are no direct flights from Ireland, North America, New Zealand, and very few from Australia. Take a look at Skyscanner for options.

If you’re coming from one of Vietnam’s neighbouring countries, you can fly from several cities, taking advantage of the low cost flights available through budget airlines.

Or, you can enter Vietnam overland from China , Laos, or Cambodia. It’s pretty simple as long as you have the appropriate visa, and this option means you can see more of the region than you would if you simply jetted in.

There are several options for travel within Vietnam. Though still a little rough around the edges, its transport network is continuing to improve. Comfortable buses operate regularly and fares are cheap, or you can travel by coach. If you’re going long distances, booking a berth on an overnight train could be an appealing option. Or, there are cheap domestic flights available, making it possible to visit different ends of the country in a short space of time. Read more about how to get to Vietnam and how to get around Vietnam .

Bout tours around Ha Long Bay © S-F/Shutterstock

1. Sample Hoi An delicacies

Little Hoi An has an almost bewildering selection of mouth-wateringly good restaurants, offering up specialities, such as Cao Lau – rice-flour noodles in soup flavoured with mint and star anise, topped with slices of pork, bean sprouts and pork-rind croutons. The elegant restaurant Morning Glory is one of the best places to try it, along with other superbly prepared dishes, for a reasonable price. You can also try your hand at Vietnamese cooking by taking one of many cookery classes available in town.

Discover 10 Vietnamese foods you need to try .

2. Cruise around Ha Long Bay

An exploration of Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam is a must for any visit to Vietnam. Dramatic limestone rock formations which jut straight up from the water make up the two thousand or so forested islands. Visit the enchanting caves via one of the tours available and, if you can, make time for one of the three-day tours, as you get to spend a night at sea. Swimming and kayaking around the bay’s bright green waters is a glorious experience.

3. Trek around Sa Pa

On a clear day the views around Sa Pa in the far north of Vietnam are breathtaking. Lush terraced rice fields line the steep valley and mountains loom from all sides. It’s the gateway to fantastic trekking country and the reason most visitors come here. Explore the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, home to Fan Si Pan, Vietnam’s highest mountain, and visit the small ethnic communities still living a traditional way of life.

4. Relax on Phu Quoc Island

Picture postcard Phu Quoc island in the Gulf of Thailand is no longer a well-kept secret. Word is out about its powdery white-sand beaches facing glorious sunsets, its dense jungle, and the laid-back atmosphere of the island. But even though visitor numbers are up, there is still plenty of unspoiled creamy soft sand in which to dig your toes. You can also paddle around the bays in a kayak, or dive around the reefs, weaving among colourful tropical fish and perhaps a hawksbill turtle.

Around half of the island is part of a UNESCO-listed national park and remains pretty much untouched. You’ll find hiking trails in its tropical rainforests, and a fantastic array of wildlife.

Zipping on a motorbike is a great way to explore the island’s back roads and quiet fishing villages.

5. Hike and bike around Da Lat

Dubbed the city of Eternal Spring for its year-round cool climate, this former hill station in the Central Highlands, with its winding streets and French colonial-era villas, is the place to head when the heat in cities below becomes stifling. Combine a visit to the splendid Bao Dai’s Summer Palace with the Crazy House, a fairytale riot of twisted cement.

But it’s the area surrounding Da Lat that’s the big draw. Fragrant pine forests and dramatic waterfalls beckon, and alongside hiking there’s the opportunity for mountain biking and rock climbing – or, for those seeking greater thrills, canyoning. You can also rent a motorbike for a bit of adventure, and it’s a great way to explore more of the area.

For a more sedate experience, enjoy the beautiful view via the cable car to the Truc Lam Pagoda.

6. Stay in a Stilthouse on The Pu Luong Nature Reserve

This spectacular nature reserve in the northern coastal area of Vietnam is as yet comparatively unknown to outsiders. Trek amid magnificent rice terraces, and visit the white Thai or Muong minority groups, some of which offer home-stay accommodation. You can help prepare a meal and join in with family life, and then bed down in a thatched stilthouse.

7. Soak up the sights and smells of Hanoi

A visit to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its capital city. Hanoi , with its constant buzz of motorbikes and general hubbub is the place to experience city life at full throttle. Wander the sinuous streets of the Old Quarter, with its narrow red roofed tube-houses, temples and pagodas, and whir of street vendors. Perch on a plastic stool and watch the hectic world go by over a cup of Vietnamese coffee or glass of beer.

Check out the atmospheric French Quarter, with its impressive Opera House, and visit the many cultural and historical sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum of Ethnology.

Everywhere you go you’ll be hit with the scent of delicious street food, such as the traditional breakfast dish of pho, a beef noodle soup.

Busy streets of Hanoi © John Bill/Shutterstock

The carefully created travel itineraries in our Vietnam travel guide will inspire and help you make the most of your trip. Combining the classic tourist sights and busy cities with laidback beaches, quiet temples and remote mountain villages, where you’d be hard-pushed to find another visitor, there’s an itinerary to match your interests and suit your time frame – whether you have a month to travel in Vietnam, or just a week or two. And don’t worry about seeing everything – each of the routes will give you a good taste of the country.

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.

If you have a month to travel around Vietnam the Grand Tour could be the one for you: it’s the classic itinerary, packing in the essential sights, bustling cities, beautiful beaches, rural Vietnam, and much more. If you have a week or two and want to focus on Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups residing in the north, the Ethnic Culture tour is ideal. And if you have just a week and want to get off the beaten track go for the Unseen Mekong Delta itinerary.

Below is a sample itinerary, ideal for the first-time visitor to Vietnam, but you can see all our itineraries here .

Quintessential Vietnam

You’ll get a taste of everything with this itinerary: big cities, historical and cultural sights, idyllic beaches, boat trips, intriguing caves, unspoiled countryside, homestays in rural villages, and more. Allow sixteen days, or longer if you want to take things at a more relaxed pace.

Start off your tour in Vietnam’s capital and enjoy its busy yet laid-back vibes. Visit some of the principal sights in Hanoi : the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the nearby One-Pillar Pagoda, the Military History Museum, or the Ethnology Museum, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s principal Confucian sanctuary and its historical centre of learning. Wander around the Old Quarter and take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. Sample delicious street food and watch a traditional water puppet show in one of the famous theatres.

2. Ha Long Bay

Take a two-day boat tour around some of the two thousand or so dramatic limestone islands and intriguing caves of the World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay , Vietnam’s top draw. Enjoy the magical scenery while swimming in the emerald green waters around Titov island beach. Tours can be arranged from Hanoi.

3. Mai Chau and Ninh Binh

Just a few hours away by road Hanoi, The Mai Chau valley is largely unspoiled.

Hop on a bicycle and explore the surrounding rice paddies nestled against forested mountains, and wander around Mai Chau’s bustling morning market. Then visit the nearby White Thai villages to spend the night in a homestay.

Drive to Ninh Binh, the ideal base from which to visit beautiful Tam Coc, essentially a miniature landlocked version of Ha Long Bay, and an easy cycle ride from Ninh Binh. Take a boat trip through the limestone tunnels and between karst hills to the three long, tunnel caves at Tam Coc itself.

Travel to the engaging city of Hue and take a day-long boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and Hon Chen Temple, the Imperial City, and the Tu Duc mausoleum. At the end of the day have a wander through the lively Dong Ba Market.

The next morning take a bicycle, or tour by cyclo, along the north bank of the river to tranquil Kim Long village, where mandarins and other Imperial officials built their houses surrounded by lush gardens, in the late nineteenth century.

Drive to Da Nang via the Hai Van Pass, or “Pass of the Ocean Clouds”, taking in the superb views of Da Nang Bay. Stop off at the Cham Museum in Da Nang, with its impressive display of terracotta and sandstone figures. Then continue to Hoi An .

Wander the narrow streets, soaking up historic Hoi An’s charming old-world atmosphere, with its old merchants houses and wooden-fronted shops. Visit some of the sights, such as the Phuoc Kien assembly hall, the Museum of History and Culture and the beautifully preserved eighteenth-century Tan Ky House. It’s worth tying in your visit to coincide with its monthly lantern festivals – candle-lit paper lanterns meandering down the river is a magical sight.

The riverside town of Hoi An © Judyta Jastrzebska/Shutterstock

6. Nha Trang

Cosmopolitan Nha Trang combines cultural highlights with stylish restaurants and lively bars, and 6km of glorious sandy coastline offering prime opportunities for swimming, snorkeling and other watersports.

Visit the wonderful Po Nagar Cham towers, built between the seventh and twelfth centuries by the Hindu Cham people, and then take a look around the Long Son Pagoda.

Then head for one of the city’s gorgeous beaches, such as Tran Phu beach, closest to the city action and backed by a great promenade, the quieter Hon Chong beach, or the more secluded and pristine Bai Dai beach.

Move on to Da Lat , 1500km high in the Lang Bian Plateau. Visit the splendid Summer Palace of Emperor Bao Dai, and the gaudy Crazy House. Enjoy the Da Lat flower gardens and then set off for Ho Chi Minh City, stopping en route to visit tea, coffee, or rubber plantations.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Embrace the bustle of the metropolis and see some of city’s main sights: the Notre Dame Cathedral, the History Museum, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum. Take a wander around Cho Lon, the city’s Chinatown, sample street food at Ben Thanh market and, come sundown, stroll along pedestrianized Nguyen Hue.

Take a day-trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi tunnels at Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc, a system of tunnels created by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam war.

An alternative day-trip is to the wonderful countryside around Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. Explore by boat the many creeks along the Ben Tre coastline and stop off at rice-wine and sugar processing workshops.

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
• 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

Before you go to Vietnam, make sure you have up-to-date travel advice. From insurance information to shop opening hours, tipping etiquette to advice on travelling with kids – our Vietnam travel guide offers tips and advice to cover all you need to know.

Costs and money

Vietnam’s unit of currency is the dong, which you’ll see abbreviated as “đ”, “d” or “VND” after an amount. The American dollar is also widely used and it’s a good idea to carry some dollars as a back-up to pay large bills.

Daily expenses, for example, admission charges to historic sites, for food and drink (especially if you do as the locals do), are low, and it’s almost always possible to haggle. Tipping, while not expected, is always appreciated – 10% is the norm in a restaurant.

For budget accommodation expect to pay between $6-10 for a bed in a dormitory, $15-25 for a simple private room; allow between $35-80 for mid-range accommodation, and for high end the sky’s the limit.

Temples and pagodas are usually free.

Culture and etiquette

Vietnamese society is both conservative and fairly tolerant, so it’s best to follow these simple rules to avoid causing offence: shorts and sleeveless tops fine for the beach, not so at religious sites, and nudity on the beach is a no-no. Women in particular should dress modestly.

As in most Asian countries, it’s not normal to get outwardly angry. Passing round cigarettes (to men only) is always appreciated and is widely used in negotiations, bargaining and so forth.

Electricity

The electricity supply in Vietnam is 220 volts. Plugs generally have two round pins, though you may come across sockets accepting two flat pins and even some that take three pins. Power supplies can be erratic in the sticks, so be prepared for cuts and surges.

It is essential to have a good travel insurance policy to cover against theft, loss and illness or injury. It’s also advisable to have medical cover that includes evacuation in the event of serious illness, especially if you’re doing any motorbike touring. Check your policy specifically covers you for motorbiking in Vietnam and ascertain whether benefits will be paid as treatment proceeds or only after you return home, and whether there is a 24-hour medical emergency number). If you’re planning on doing any ‘dangerous’ sports, check your policy for cover.

In the event that you have anything stolen, you must obtain an official statement from the police.

Internet and email

In the major cities and tourist centres, most cafés and hotels provide wi-fi, and smaller towns are catching up. Unfortunately, some top-end hotels still charge a hefty fee for the privilege of getting online.

Opening hours

Basic hours of business are 7.30–11.30am and 1.30–4.30pm. The standard closing day for offices is Sunday, and many now also close on Saturdays, including most government offices. Most banks tend to work Monday to Friday 8–11.30am and 1–4pm, but there are variations, with some open evenings and weekends, so check. Post offices generally stay open from 6.30am until 9pm.

Shops and markets open seven days a week and in theory keep going all day, though in practice most stallholders and many private shopkeepers will take a siesta. Shops mostly stay open late into the evenings, perhaps until 8pm or beyond in the big cities.

Officially, homosexuality is regarded as a “social evil”, alongside drugs and prostitution. However, there is no law explicitly banning homosexual activity and, as long as it is not practised openly, it is largely ignored. For more information, consult the excellent Utopia Asia website .

Mobile phones

If you want to use your own mobile phone in Vietnam, the simplest – and cheapest – thing to do is to buy a SIM card locally (or even a phone, if your own is locked). It’s best to go to stores run by the major operators – you’ll find them at the major international airports (bring your passport, too).

Travellers with special needs

Few provisions are made for the disabled, and so it’s important to contact airlines, hotels and tour companies as far in advance as possible to make sure they can accommodate your requirements. Getting around can be made a little easier by renting a private car or minibus with a driver; taxis are also widely available in all cities.

Travelling with children

The Vietnamese adore kids and make a huge fuss of them. The main concern will probably be hygiene, as Vietnam can be distinctly unsanitary. So avoiding spicy foods will help while their stomachs adjust. Bear in mind that healthcare facilities can remain basic outside Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, so make sure your travel insurance includes full medical evacuation.

There are reduced fares for children on domestic flights, trains and open-tour buses. On trains, for example, it’s free for under-5s (as long as they sit on your lap) and half-price for children aged 5 to 10.

Working and studying in Vietnam

Without a prearranged job and work permit, you shouldn’t bank on finding work in Vietnam. English-language teaching is probably the easiest job to land, especially if you have a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA qualification. You’ll need to apply for a work permit, sponsored by your employer, and then a working visa.

The main English-language teaching operations recruiting in Vietnam include the British Council, ILA Vietnam Language Link Vietnam and RMIT International University. The TEFL website and Dave’s ESL Café also have lists of English-teaching vacancies in addition to lots of other useful information.

There are also opportunities for volunteer work. Check the websites of the VUFO-NGO Resource Centre and Volunteer Abroad .

Sandy coastline of Nha Trang © HelloRF Zcool/Shutterstock

Travel visa requirements for Vietnam

Most foreign nationals need a visa to visit Vietnam – citizens of some Asian and Nordic nations get 15–30 days visa-free, and from 2016 the government allowed the same of passport-holders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, although this is for a limited time so do check with your local consulate.

To apply for tourist visas, you have to submit an application form with passport-sized photographs (procedures vary) and the fee. The visa is valid for entry via Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang international airports and any of Vietnam’s land borders open to foreigners.

Visas are generally valid for thirty days, though longer durations can be arranged; make an application in any Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or through a specialist agent, although it’s quicker (a few days, as opposed to around a week) to get a “visa on arrival” online. There are several reliable websites offering this service, such as the Vietnam Visa Center .

Present your approval letter, photographs (they can take one at the airport, for a fee) and application form (available at airport desks) to immigration on arrival, and the stamping fee. The process is very easy and efficient but note that they can only be picked up at Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang airports, not at land border crossings.

Thirty-day extensions can be arranged at travel agencies in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Hue and Hoi An. In general, they take three days to process and cost from US$25. Overstaying your visa will result in a fine of US$10–25 per day, and border staff at the airport may insist that you head back into the nearest city, in order to pay the fine at an immigration office.

A full list of Vietnamese embassies and consulates is available at Vietnam Visa Center.

Business visas are valid for one month upwards and can be issued for multiple entry, though you’ll need a sponsoring office in Vietnam to underwrite your application.

One-year student visas are relatively easy to get hold of; for example, if you enrol on a Vietnamese language course at one of the universities, though you’ll be required to attend a minimum number of classes per week to qualify. It’s easiest to arrange it in advance, but you can enter Vietnam on a tourist visa and apply for student status later – the only downside is that you may have to leave the country in order to get the visa stamp.

Travel safety in Vietnam

Vietnam is a relatively safe country for visitors and the Vietnamese are generally welcoming to foreign visitors. Petty crime is on the rise on a relatively small-scale and shouldn’t be a problem if you take common-sense precautions: don’t wear expensive jewellery, carry your passport and other important documents concealed in a money belt, and keep a close eye on your bags when travelling on public transport, particularly if they’re on a luggage rack, or on top of a bus.

Also, when walking or riding in a cyclo you are vulnerable to moped-borne snatch thieves, so don’t wear cameras or expensive sunglasses hanging round your neck.

The place you are most likely to encounter street crime is in Ho Chi Minh City , which has a fairly bad reputation for bag-snatchers, pickpockets and con artists. Be wary of innocent-looking kids and grannies who may be acting as decoys for thieves – especially in popular tourist hangouts.

Petty crime is also a problem in Nha Trang , where you should watch your belongings at all times on the beach. Be wary of taking a cyclo after dark and women should avoid walking alone at night.

Unexploded ordnance from past conflicts still poses a threat in some areas. Wherever you are, stick to well-trodden paths and never touch any shells or half-buried chunks of metal.

Drug laws in Vietnam

Possessing or selling prohibited drugs in Vietnam is extremely unwise. Drug laws in Vietnam are strict, with fines and jail sentences are imposed for lesser offences, while the death penalty is regularly imposed for possessing, trading or smuggling larger quantities.

Female travellers in Vietnam

For solo female travellers, Vietnam is generally a safe country. However, it’s best to take the normal precautions if you’re a woman travelling alone; avoid taking a cyclo by yourself, and use taxis from a reputable agency.

(Last updated: October 2019)

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• Vietnam Tips And Tricks: 26 Key Things To Know Before Your Trip

This list of useful Vietnam tips and tricks is mostly for first-time visitors, but it can help anyone achieve a safe and worry-free travel. These are the 26 things to know about Vietnam before your trip!

I had a blast touring Vietnam . I fell in love with the hearty people, the vibrant culture, and the amazing diversity of landscapes. And I want you to have the same rewarding travel experience.

But I’m not gonna lie: it is a tricky country to explore. The neighbour Thailand or the ultra modern Japan are a breeze compared to Vietnam which has less tourism infrastructure and ways of getting around.

Tour scams are common, pollution can be disappointing, and the fact is an extremely poor country makes many look at you with dollar signs on their eyes.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of everything I wish I had known before visiting Vietnam for a safe and scam-free trip to prepare you to one of the most amazing countries on Earth!

Useful Things To Know Before Vietnam – TLDR

• 1. Sort out your VISA.
• 2. Don’t underestimate the size of the country.
• 3. Be smart about your itinerary.
• 4. Weather varies a lot.
• 5. Get ready to haggle.
• 6. Hanoi is quainter than you think.
• 7. People are lovely…
• 8. Beaches are not.
• 9. Everyone’s a millionaire.
• 10. Dress appropriately.
• 11. It’s a paradise for foodies.
• 12. Use tours as plan B.
• 13. Or at least do your homework.
• 14. Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be and be seen.
• 15. The traffic is really hectic.
• 16. WiFi is great!
• 17. Be careful with your card.
• 18. It’s freaking cheap.
• 19. Phu Quoc is overrated…
• 20. While Ninh Binh is underrated.
• 21. Avoid tap water!
• 22. Learn how to get around efficiently.
• 23. Take care of your belongings.
• 24. It’s worth to splurge on a Halong Bay cruise.
• 25. Some basic words of Vietnamese can go a long way.
• 26. Go for the street food!

Let’s go into more details below.

1 Sort out your VISA.

First things first. It’s astonishing the amount of people who land in Vietnam with no idea what they need to do for their VISA. I agree it can be a daunting and confusing process, but don’t overlook this.

Fortunately there are many companies that do this for you online for a small fee. I used Vietnam Visa Pro – overlook the crappy design, it’s legit.

Upon arrival, triple check all of your documentation and make sure you bring the visa-on-arrival pre-approval papers, photos and cash with you. EUR and USD will do (although with ridiculous conversion rates).

1 Fill out visa options and contact information. 2 Pay. 3 Get the approval letter on your email. It takes 1-2 working days (it’s a weird list of random people who were granted entering Vietnam at the same time you did. Personal information shared with strangers yay!). 4 Make sure you pack the pre-approval letter, 2 photos, passport, the entry/exit form and cash. 5 Handle it all over to the officers when you land. Smile.

2 Don’t underestimate the size of the country.

I didn’t realize how massive and spread out Vietnam is until you search for directions on Google Maps. To give you an idea, a train ride between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is 1700+km-long and takes roughly 35 (!) hours.

Getting from A to B always take longer than you expect in Asia and this is specially true in Vietnam. So plan accordingly and make sure you don’t bite more than you can chew.

Which leads me to my next point.

3 Be smart about your itinerary.

A common rookie mistake is forcing everything and the kitchen sink on your Vietnam travel itinerary. If you want to go full North to South, allow at least 3 weeks. Any less and you’ll be rushing and/or forcing you to take flights, taking away a bit of the experience.

I went further and decided to skip the entire Central part during my 3-week stay. The region is prone to flooding when I went (late November) which helped making the decision.

Overall Vietnam can be divided into 3 main regions – North, Central and South – and as a rule of thumb I would say you’ll need a week for each at the very least.

4 Weather varies a lot.

In general, Vietnam is humid and hot.

However, with such an elongated country, it’s only natural the weather changes significantly. And when I say significantly, I mean dramatically . 3 entirely different weather regions. It can be snowing in Sapa and a blazing hot sunny day down in Phu Quoc .

• Northern Vietnam : expect hot wet summers and cool dry winters up North. It can get quite cold here during northern hemisphere winter – from September to November – particularly next to the border with China .
• Central Vietnam : experiences hot, dry weather between January & August when temperatures can hit the mid-thirties.
• Southern Vietnam : boasts a full tropical climate, with only 2 defined seasons – wet and dry. The best time to go is obviously during the latter, from December to April.

Selective Asia has more details on the weather in Vietnam .

5 Get ready to haggle.

Prices of things are very cheap, but expect to pay whatever you can haggle for it. There are no fixed prices. This can be daunting at first, but you’ll eventually get used to it. I know think it’s more fun this way!

The thing is Vietnamese they WILL try to inflate prices. It’s how they have been doing business for centuries. The recent trend of wealthy tourists has just made big markups more evident to the outside world. Best you can do is to be informed and prepared to get a good price.

It’s advisable to hide all items that make you look richer – watches, jewellery, big bank notes – to make your offer more convincing.

Pro tip: come up with a maximum price you’re willing to pay and stick to it. No matter what. Don’t underestimate the value of politely start walking away.

6 Hanoi is quainter than you think.

The artistic, traditional and creative side of Vietnam is more evident in Hanoi , where despite the crazy traffic and busy routines, centuries-old traditions are still alive.

Museums, pagodas and temples pledge a solid set of touristy activities but Hanoi is so much more than that. Despite being a huge city just like Ho Chi Minh City, it has somewhat of a village vibe that is absent in its southern counterpart .

The fascinating maze of streets of the Old Quarter is the ideal place to get lost and shop for local handicrafts in great food or just do a fair bit of people-watching. Make sure you pick a hotel in this area , reminiscent of a time where each street was specialized in one type of item (e.g. silver, chicken, etc). In between explorations, sit down and enjoy a hearty bowl of pho , the national dish.

Best hotels in Hanoi

Location is key in Hanoi. Explore this list of places to stay in the Old Quarter, with top reviews, and of course, free WiFi.

My choice: O’Gallery Premier Hotel

Superbly decorated hotel in the heart of Hanoi . An escape from the chaotic streets, with fabulous breakfast included.

7 People are lovely…

Most people visiting get the impression Vietnamese are greedy and shady people trying to get advantage of you at all times. I see this being legit if you stick to the touristy route exclusively. Sadly these travelers only get to know the business side of locals who are simply trying to make a living.

Once you break that local-tourist paradigm and make an effort to communicate with the person in front you, trust me, you’ll see it differently. During my travels I’ve met nice and friendly people from many different places, particularly in Asia . Vietnam takes it to a whole another level of kindness.

We’ve got everything from free food, inspiring life stories and school children thrilled to wave “hello” to us. These people may not have much, but they are still able to gladly share what they have with you.

8 … Beaches are not.

Putting it nicely, beaches are not Vietnam ‘s forte .

If you’ve been to the dreamy beaches in Philippines or even to the islands in the neighbour Thailand , you’ll most likely get disappointed. Even the supposedly best beach in Vietnam – Sao Beach in Phu Quoc island – had trash accumulated along 90% of its extension.

But hey, each to its own! And Vietnam is definitely all about indulging in local culture and food and meet inspiring people along the way.

9 Everyone’s a millionaire.

Well, not quite.

I’m sure there are many confused souls out there right now trying to work out the ridiculously high conversion of the dong. At the time of writing this article, 1 EUR = 26,200 dong and 1 USD = 22,700 dong. This means 100USD or 100EUR are worth more than 2 million Dong!

The good news is that there are no coins in Vietnam since 2011. The bad news is that bank notes are enough of a headache. It’s easy for a 500,000 Dong note to “pass by” a 50,000 one. Same for the 10,000 and 100,000 Dong ones. The last 0 makes all the difference! Plus the 20,000 and 500,000 have an awfully similar tone of blue. Don’t get fooled!

10 Dress appropriately.

Vietnam is not by any means a conservative country in what it comes to clothing. You don’t need to dress like an Afghan woman and the hot weather does even force some skin to be shown amongst locals. If you want to wear shorts, a shirt and flip-flops, that’s absolutely fine.

The line is drawn when girls wear bikinis and guys walk around with no shirt. When visiting temples and other religious sites, it’s advisable to cover-up as a sign of respect and restrictions may be applied regarding shorts and vest tops.

If you’re unsure what to wear, do as locals do. And if you’re visiting the North during winter time, don’t forget to bring some pieces of warmer clothing!

11 It’s a paradise for foodies.

Lying on a delicate balance of sour, hot snweet and salty perfected over centuries, food in Vietnam is unique. I love the flavors of tamarind, chili peppers and also loads of fresh greens that go in almost every dish.

Not sure because gluttony is now my middle name, but a whopping percentage of my memories of the country are food-related. I personally think it’s an unforgettable cuisine with some flavors I haven’t experienced anywhere else. But nothing like trying it out for yourself!

Note: No, didn’t see dog in the restaurant menu. Can’t be sure I haven’t eaten it though.

Dishes you need to try in Vietnam 🍜

• 🍜 Pho: the national Vietnamese dish. A hearty noodle & meat soup with fresh herbs eaten primarily at breakfast.
• 🍜 Bun cha: grilled pork and noodles.
• 🍜 Gỏi cuốn: my personal favorite. Fresh spring rolls filled with noodles, meat/prawns/crab and greens.
• 🍜 Cha ca: one of Hanoi’s best, it features white fish sautéed in butter with dill and spring onions.
• 🍜 Nem Ran/Cha Gio: preferred in special occasions, this fried spring roll involves different combinations of lean minced pork, sea crabs or unshelled shrimps, edible mushrooms and dried onions.

12 Use tours as a plan B.

You can find all kinds of tours to some of the most popular places in Vietnam such as overnight stay in the Mekong Delta, a convenient Cu Chi Tunnels tour or a romantic cruise in Halong Bay. Heck Vietnam is a giant tour factory!

The catch is: more often than not, they’re terrible experiences and a giant waste of time.

There are endless reports of travelers being treated as cattle, rushing from place to place in cramped vans and stopping by at their friends’ shops and restaurants along the way. If you think about it, once you’ve paid and go for a 1,2 or 3-day long tour, you’re completely dependent on them!

I tend to avoid tours everywhere I go. I much prefer making my own itinerary at my own pace. We actually even learned how to ride a bike in Vietnam to avoid being dependent on day tours – best decision ever!

13 Or at least do your homework.

If you decide to go on a tour, do your homework. Always double check reviews online and mind there are dozens of businesses with the exact same name!

DO NOT book tours through your hotel/hostel as they inflate prices tremendously. Instead ask around other travelers, go to a travel agent or contact directly the company. Ask away all the questions you might have including what I learned to be the most important one: “how many people are going in this tour?”.

Regarding price, tours are subject to haggling just like almost everything in the country. At the same time quality has a price and a few extra bucks in Vietnam can make all the difference. Specially in tours lasting 2 or 3 days it is worth to pay extra for additional comfort or to go with less people.

Apart from an amazing cooking class in Hanoi , I did book some tours from travel agencies myself. Considering all the dramatic stories and reviews I’ve read, I consider myself lucky with the range of experiences I’ve had:

My tours in Vietnam

• 3-day cruise in Halong Bay , with Cristina Cruises . ★★★★☆. Expensive. We had days debating and researching which company to go with. The promised activities during the day were a bit of hit and miss but generally good fun. Apart from that, weather was a bitch (not their fault, obviously).
• “Cruise boat” in Phu Quoc . ★☆☆☆☆. Terrible. Overcrowded boat (to the point of feeling unsafe), no respect for corals or marine life.
• Cu Chi Tunnels tour in Ho Chi Minh City . ★★★☆☆. Mixed feelings. We paid extra for a semi-private tour with a Vietnam war veteran which turned out to be great. Wasn’t a fan of the place though.

14 Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be and be seen.

Apart from being the business and finantial capital of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant place. If you’re looking for an endless shopping scene, an ecletic music and art offer and sophisticated nightlife, well this city has stuff to keep you busy for days. No wonder it is the top choice for expats in Vietnam.

I was particularly impressed by the huge offer in restaurants. There’s a bit of everything here, from the authentic street food stall to the high-end luxury dining. Cafés where you can work a bit while grabbing a coffee are the best I’ve been. Ever.

And not to mention the rooftop bars. Other places in Vietnam also have them, but Ho Chi Minh City is a whole hub of them. The OMG Rooftop has drinks at decent prices and an awesome view over the Ben Thanh Market in the heart of District 1. Stay in this area to be close to everything!

Check this list of places to stay in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, with top reviews (9 or more), and of course, free WiFi.

Charming shack-themed hotel right in the center of District 1, where everything happens in Ho Chi Minh City but tucked away from the noisy traffic. Superb breakfast and host.

15 The traffic is really hectic.

Are you familiar with those videos with Westerners struggling to cross the road due to the crazy amount of traffic passing by and honking as loud as they can? Yap, that’s a fairly accurate depiction of urban Vietnam .

Check this video of a street crossing I shared on my Facebook page .

Saigon is the city with the largest concentration of motorbikes in the entire world. Traffic in Hanoi is not any better too. Crossroads are not often and I can’t remember seeing any pedestrian lights. It will take some time before you feel comfortable, but it is important not to panic.

The best method to cross a road in Vietnam is to always keep a slow pace all the way. Make yourself predictable on your route and walking speed.

This will give time for drivers to spot you and calculate their next action to go around you. Don’t underestimate them: Vietnamese are highly-skilled drivers and do it every day!

16 WiFi is great!

Except when the government announces sharks have eaten underwater fiber-optic cables (yes, this is a thing), Internet connection in Vietnam is surprisingly fast.

WiFi networks are reliable and can be found pretty much everywhere. I mean, even some street vendors have it. Coffeeshops in HCMC offer speeds up to 100Mbps!

If you want to stay connected at all times you will need a local SIM card. Good news: there are many options available at very affordable prices. Remember: prefer data over text/voice as you can communicate solely using data through Whatsapp, Skype or Apple’s Facetime.

We got our SIM card from Viettel right at Saigon ‘s airport and it was an incredible deal: less than $20 for 20GB (!) of data. We then put it into our mobile WiFi router and done deal: we had data abroad for 2 people for an entire month for under $20!

HUAWEI E5577s-321 Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

17 Be careful with your card.

On our very first sit-down meal in Ho Chi Minh City we decided to pay with card. Stupidly, we let the waiter take the card inside.

When she returned, our safety piece of paper we had put on the back to protect the 3-digit code was gone. We asked what happened several times and only received a bunch of lame excuses. We had to cancel the card immediately – better safe than sorry!

You might argue card cloning attempts can happen anywhere – true that – but it had never happened to me so it’s a good idea to never leave your card out of sight in Vietnam.

18 It’s freaking cheap.

Basically everything that you buy in Vietnam will be a bargain. Food is the best example. You can easily have sit-down meals for less than $5 and street food snacks for 0.20$!

To give you idea of travel costs, it’s quite common to find backpackers on a budget of $30 per day – including accommodation, transportation and meals. Package tours can quickly make your stay more expensive though.

The shopping centers and markets are also full of amazing deals at haggling distance. Here the discount will largely rely on your negotiating skills… My favorite place for shopping was Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City . It’s a true consumerist mecca with hundreds of stalls for every piece of clothing, textiles, gadgets and handicrafts.

Bargains to buy in Vietnam 💸

• 💸 Belts : genuine leather belts are common, as well as faux leather ones. Either should be below $10.
• 💸 Clothing : many international companies have their manufacturing facilities in Vietnam so you can find great quality replicas here. Prices are at least a third of the price of the US/Europe.
• 💸 Sportswear : specially popular for some reason. I bought good quality Nike and Under Armour sportswear clothes (and I don’t really care if they’re genuine or not).
• 💸 Electronics and cell phones : you might get lucky with a great deal but I personally don’t think is worth the risk.
• 💸 Gadget accessories : phone covers, protectors and other accessories are widely available starting at $1.
• 💸 Souvenirs : coffee, tea and handicrafts which make cool pieces of home decoration can be found in streets and markets at competitive prices.

19 Phu Quoc is overrated…

I’ll start with the positives. It was in Phu Quoc island that a lovely family taught us to ride a bike. I will never forget that gesture. Also some remote bays and coves in the north of Phu Quoc island are a true dream, with turquoise waters, crystal clear waters and boasting beautiful views to Cambodia .

We expect more from a place marketed as “paradise island” though.

It’s impossible to look past all the bleached corals, soulless towns, dirty beaches and massive landfills in the open sky by the side of the road. Even what is considered to be the best beach in Vietnam – Sao Beach – was awfully full of trash for most of its extension when I was there.

Ironically the entire island is building new massive resorts and fancy hotels at a unhesitating rate. I fear there will be hardly anything left to lure tourists in by the time they’re finished.

Perhaps I went in the worst possible time or additional factors that created a different atmosphere (e.g. a storm or strong monsoon). Perhaps this is a place for an all-inclusive resort type of vacation. Nevertheless what I’ve seen and that is not enough to make me come back or even suggest anyone to go.

20 While Ninh Binh is underrated.

Quite honestly Ninh Binh was a last-minute addition to our itinerary . I was unsure what to expect and it turned out to be my favorite place of my 2-month backpacking trip to Southeast Asia.

Locals nickname this rural region the “Halong Bay in land” due to the massive limestone cliffs scattered in between the rice fields, ancient pagodas and endless caves . The scenery level is outstanding, the locals are extremely friendly and the whole place still looks and feels an authentic gem.

Most people visit Ninh Binh on a day trip from Hanoi, but this is not even close to make justice to this place. Stay for at least 2 full days to explore it at your own pace – by bike preferably – and let the rural side of Vietnam surprise you once all the day trippers are gone.

21 Avoid tap water!

Pretty self-explanatory isn’t it? It’s the #1 rule of travelers in Asia and even locals in Vietnam know it.

Additionally it’s advisable to implement level 2 of alert and avoid ice and salads – you don’t know if and how they’ve been washed – and only brush your teeth with bottled water. If you do this and wash your hands regularly, you’re on track to avoid 90% of all food poisonings and tummy pains there.

To keep yourself hydrated, you will have to carry bottled water or use a water filtering system at all times. Take your pick.

GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

Buying several water bottles a day is not bad for the environment. This bottle makes clean drinking water from any fresh water source in seconds, removing chemicals and 99.999% of most viruses and bacteria (including E.Coli).

22 Learn how to get around efficiently.

There are many ways of getting around in Vietnam , but here’s a short overview.

Short distances

• 🏍 Motorbikes: with a total of over 45 million bikes, this has to be the unofficial transport of Vietnam . Locals eat, sleep in their bikes and carry all sorts of items on them, including live chickens and pigs! Renting a bike is inexpensive, starting at 100k dong/day. But if you’re a newbie like me, leave the urban areas for driving experts.
• 🏍 Motorbike taxis ( xe om ): translated as hug the driver , these drivers will drive you anywhere you want. As local as it gets.
• 🚖 Taxis: although becoming increasingly better, taxis are often a source of scams for travelers. Grab and Uber are preferable, but if you really need to take a taxi, stick to more reliable companies like Vinasun .
• 📲 Grab/Uber: these ride-sharing apps are seamless options to move around. No scams, fair prices and without issues in the navigation.
• 🚍 Buses: avoid as these are hot, slow and extremely uncomfortable.

Long distances

• 🚍 Buses: the most common way to get around Vietnam both for locals and tourists. Companies have several routes operated by fairly comfortable overnight buses with beds and free WiFi.
• 🚆 Trains: trains haven’t been updated since the Vietnam War so expect them to be clunky and not always clean. That said, it is a great option to slow your pace down and enjoy the journey. Some of the routes – like between Hanoi and Sapa – are beautiful and very popular with travelers.
• ✈️ Flights: not the most authentic way of enjoying your time in Vietnam , but they can come in very handy and cut travel times severely. Internal flights are affordable, specially if you opt for low-cost companies like Jetstar , Lion Air , Tiger and of course, AirAsia .

23 Take care of your belongings.

The million-dong question:

Is Vietnam safe to visit?

Contrarily to popular belief, Vietnam is in general a very safe country. There’s hardly any crime as locals are extremely tranquil, kind and non-violent people.

Apart from the potential of being ripped off by a few thousand dong by travel agents, the only type of crime you are likely to encounter is petty theft. Pickpockets can act in some touristy areas – please name a country where this doesn’t happen though!

On my view the most worrying thing in Vietnam is item-snatching while driving past on a motorbike. It appears to be common in urban areas and thieves can snatch everything from bags to backpacks and phones.

But even this shouldn’t be a major issue if you take basic common–sense precautions:

• Don’t show off any expensive items carelessly.
• Spread your most valuable items across different pockets/bags.
• Avoid using your phone on busy streets.
• Carry your camera with the strip around your body.

24 It’s worth to splurge on a Halong Bay cruise. 🚢

Halong Bay is the #1 destination in Vietnam and it shows by the incredible number of cruise boats navigating the seas. I mean, for some reason this is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World!

Despite the crowds, this place is unique. The landscape of limestone cliffs emerging from the water is magical and there’s no better way to enjoy it than from the sea. Debate whether you prefer a 1-day, 2-day or even a 3-day cruise but if there’s something to splurge your budget this is it!

The general feedback is that luxury cruises in Halong are a fantastic experience; budget ones can be a bit a real nightmare.

If the budget allows, go for one of the top cruise boats , which include transport from Hanoi , top-notch food and all sorts of activities (kayaking, tai-chi, etc).

As much as I love independent travel, I admit it felt good to have a little break during my 2-month trip to Asia and have someone else decide what to eat and do during the day.

Again, I can’t stress enough the importance of doing your homework when choosing your tour. You can have the time of your life or get scammed big time here. To help you further, I’ve narrowed down your search to the best cruise boats in Booking.com and dedicated a full article to picking the right Halong Bay cruise .

My choice for a cruise in Halong Bay 🚢

Cristina Diamond Cruise Can’t recommend it enough. I’d go for the 2 nights cruise for a more complete and relaxing experience, but that’s highly dependent on the time you have available.

25 Some basic words of Vietnamese can go a long way.

As a highly tonal language, Vietnamese has intricate sounds quite hard to replicate with your throat and mouth. I’ve tried to say some words out loud and for some reason it never sounds as the way it is written.

In any case, it’s always good to master some quick words and expressions. Not only it will facilitate your communication with locals – very few of them speak fluent English – but you’re guaranteed to get a smile in return!

Basic Vietnamese words and expressions for travelers 🗣

• 🗣 Hello – Xin chào (sin chow)
• 🗣 Thank you – Cảm ơn (gauhm uhhn)
• 🗣 Excuse me/Sorry – Xin loi (seen loy)
• 🗣 What’s your name – Ban ten gi (ban thane zee)
• 🗣 My name is… – Toi la… (thoy la…)

As a result of periods of European occupation, some words are extremely similar to French. For instance cà phê (from café ), pho mát (from fromage , cheese) and ba gác (from bagage , luggage).

26 Go for the street food!

Being afraid to try street food is missing out on a huge part of Vietnamese culture. Cooked on the spot, served on plastic bowls or dishes it’s better enjoyed in one of the pocket-sized tables and chairs on the spot.

I can officially state my best Gỏi cuốn and pho were from a street food stall. I can’t guarantee the food will always be better than restaurants nor that they always comply to basic sanitary rules. But for the love of pho , you need to at least try!

Eating on the street is as authentic as it gets in Vietnam and a fantastic way to travel on a budget . Full indulging meals can be found for $1. Yes, I said $1.

Pro tips: Prefer the stalls where locals go the most. Pay attention to how they wash the utensils and whether the meat is well cooked. If you’re unsure, start with small snacks before moving to full meals. An nào !

More articles about Vietnam

• Ninh Binh: Detailed Travel Guide to Vietnam’s Hidden Gem
• Ninh Binh Itinerary: Explore Rural Vietnam On Your Own
• Halong Bay: How to Choose The Best Cruise In 6 Easy Steps
• Hanoi vs Ho Chi Minh City: Which Vietnam City Is Right For You?

Are you planning to visit Vietnam? Where? If you have visited already, I want to hear your very own useful Vietnam tips!

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50 Vietnam Travel Tips I Wish I Would’ve Had

Here are all the best Vietnam travel tips I could think of based on my own trips within the country. Let this be your one stop guide to one of the coolest countries in Asia!

One of my favorite things about slow travel is how familiar you become a place that was once completely foreign. Even though I’d planned my own Vietnam itinerary before, I really got to know the country well when I accidentally found myself calling it home for sixteen months! While there, I learned about more places than I could possibly visit and my bucket list grew exponentially. I’ve written quite extensively about specific spots, but I’ve been meaning to write a huge, practical tip guide similar to my Korea Travel Tips post.

If this is your first time visiting the country, here are ALL the tips and advice you’ll need to know.

I’ve divided it up into:

• Things to know before visiting
• How to travel in Vietnam
• Where to stay
• Itinerary tips
• Major things to do
• What to eat
• Safety and hygiene
• Souvenir shopping
• Random travel tips

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam

1. learn some vietnamese.

For the most part, it’s fairly easy to travel Vietnam knowing only English. However, I do think it’s always good to know some Vietnamese, even if it’s as simple as “hello” and “thank you.”

Here are some phrases to help you out:

• xin chao : hello
• cam on : thank you
• oi: used to get attention – combine with “em (younger), anh (older male), or chi (older female)” – “anh oi!”
• troi oi: omg, Vietnam-style
• dung lai o day : stop here
• mot, hai, ba: 1, 2, 3
• – o dau? : where is -?

I actually wound up taking Vietnamese lessons and loved it. If you’re living in Saigon, I can’t recommend Co Kim enough! Check her Facebook page for upcoming sessions.

2. Learn a bit of Vietnamese history

Vietnam has a very long and complex history that explains a lot of what you’ll see today! Like why are there so many French colonial buildings? What actually happened during the Vietnamese War? Who exactly was Ho Chi Minh? What are ethnic minority tribes. Is there royalty in Vietnam?

It’s actually such an interesting history, and the more you see, the more you’ll be curious about! I’d start with a few Youtube videos to get an overview and then find some cool movies to watch and books to read!

3. Know where you’re flying in

There are two main airports for international visitors: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCMC. If you’re living in Asia, you could also probably fly into Da Nang International Airport as well.

Since Hanoi and HCMC are at opposite ends of Vietnam wherever you fly in pretty much just depends on your itinerary! When I came for 2 weeks, I flew in to HCMC from Seoul and then out of Hanoi back to Seoul. I don’t remember the prices being that different.

In case you were wondering:

• Noi Bai – 40-50 minutes from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
• Tan Son Nhat – 15-20 mins from D1 in HCMC, 40ish minutes from Thao Dien
• Da Nang – 10 mins or less into town

4. Make sure to pick up a SIM card

The wifi and data in Vietnam are pretty good all things considered! I distinctly remember having a SIM card and watching the entirety of Brooklyn on my train ride from HCMC to Da Nang with no issues.

You can get them easily at any airport if you have an unlocked phone or dual SIM card holders, or you can order ahead of time here . Make sure you get a phone with calling capabilities because a lot of places will ask you to list your phone number and Grab drivers will always try to call.

Pro Tip: To top off on the go, use Ding.com ! Works really well and is good about returning your money if it doesn’t work for whatever reason. You can also pay via Paypal.

5. Understand Vietnam’s very vast geography

Of all my initial Vietnam travel tips, the biggest one is this — realize just how long this country is. Like longer than you’d think when planning your trip. If you want to travel efficiently, you’re going to want to fly in between places or be prepared to be on a train or bus for hours. Even when distances seem fairly short, you have to factor in the roads and mountains, and often it’s much slower getting to and fro than you’d think (RIP my mental stability during the 8 hours to Mu Cang Chai ).

I would very much plan out where you want to go and check the map AND check airplane or train routes before you book anything. One mistake my friend and I made was thinking we could fly from Quy Nhon to Hue before realizing there were no flights even to Da Nang! We wound up booking private transport and it took us all day to get there.

6. Know the seasons of Vietnam (and how the regions vary!)

I know you think southeast Asia, must mean it’s hot, humid, and sunny for most of the year. WRONG. It definitely gets cold up north and in the Central Highlands during the winter and early spring. While it does stay quite humid and hot along the central coast and southern regions, you do want to be wary of monsoon season. It can start in April or May and last until October. I didn’t find it too terrible to plan around, and it made the weather so slightly cooler. Just be sure to buy some waterproof sandals (I liked having the Birkenstock Gizeh sandals ).

7. Tips for Clothing and What to Wear in Vietnam

Overall, Vietnam isn’t a super conservative. There are just some things to keep in mind. Like you want to cover up slightly more in Hanoi than in Saigon, and it’s always good to have shoulders and knees covered in at temples and when meeting minority tribes! Otherwise you want to dress to be as comfortable as possible in the tropical climate (unless you’re somewhere colder in the winter). I cannot emphasize how much nicer cotton and linen in lighter colors or black will feel! Avoid colors that show sweat because you will most likely sweat a lot. I pretty much lived in linen dresses!

8. Exchange + Money Matters

Since I have Citibank, I mainly used the Citi ATMS around HCMC to take out cash. Here are the main locations:

• In Vincom Center near the Zara entrance
• The Citi building on Nguyen Hue
• At the airport near the exit
• At AIS Sports Centre in Thao Dien

Otherwise you can use just about any ATM to take out cash, though most have smaller limits and will charge a certain fee.

Note: Vietnam is NOT credit card friendly. While most luxury hotels and foreign food restaurants and cafes take card, you can almost guarantee that smaller restaurants, local guesthouses, and tours will not. I even know friends who have issues using Grab with their cards, and I personally used cash the whole time.

9. How much a Vietnam trip can cost…

It’s no secret that Vietnam is probably one of the cheapest countries to visit if you’re coming from a Western country. You could very easily travel for $25 or less a day if you were on a strict budget. That said, I think it’s important to acknowledge that you are probably coming from an economically stronger country, and it’s honestly in poor taste to nitpick over a few 100,000 VND. Obviously, don’t let some restaurant take you for a fool and charge you 10x what they’d charge someone else, but don’t sit there and bargain over a few dong that you know you can afford and would probably pay way more for in your home country.

10. Tipping in Vietnam

Tipping is Vietnam is weird! Overall, no you don’t tip nearly as much as you do in the US. I’d say the main places to tip are with salon services. Otherwise, I just rounded up when I pay for food and delivery.

How to Travel in Vietnam

11. how to book local buses and trains.

Easily the cheapest (and slowest and most sustainable way) of traveling Vietnam is via its local buses and trains. When I first went, we took all sleeper trains! If you want to make sure you have a spot, use booking sites like Baolau or Bookaway . Otherwise, you can buy when showing up at the bus or train station. I personally don’t recommend showing up at the bus stations to buy a ticket because they’re absolutely bonkers. Like a million people yelling at you at once. Even I got overwhelmed!

12. Sleeper Trains vs Sleeper Buses

So if you’re not familiar with these… intere s ting forms of transport, they’re essentially buses or trains built to sleep on! For buses, you don’t have seats but you have 3 rows of essentially beds. Everyone takes their shoes off before they got on board. It’s actually not too bad unless you’re on a mountain getting swung about. Sleeper trains are split between hard sleepers, soft sleepers, soft seaters, and hard seaters. When we took a soft sleeper train from Da Nang to Ha Noi, it was 4 beds to one room.

Sleeper buses are very hit or miss, and if you have trouble sleeping these will be absolute hell. The trains are much steadier. I’ve done the bus twice from HCMC – Vinh Long and Ha Noi – Mu Cang Chai. The south was fine because it’s a relatively flat road but Ha Noi – Mu Cang Chai was probably the most miserable 8 hours of my life. For 7 1/2 hours you’re on mountainous road and just getting swung about!

13. Grab is king within cities

The way everyone gets around if they don’t have their own motorbikes is via Grab (or one of the other iterations of it). Grab is SE Asia’s Uber or Lyft, and it’s also used for food delivery. You can book either a motorbike or a car. The car is safer, of course, but the motorbike is so much faster. If you’re really concerned about safety, I would recommend buying your own helmet that goes all the way around your face and over your ears. The grab helmets are pretty useless if you get into a crash.

14. Flying is super easy in Vietnam

Honestly, the best and easiest way to get around Vietnam is flying. It’s usually not much pricier than the trains and it’s so much faster. For airports, I also recommend booking a driver or Grab car because motorbikes usually can’t drop you off at the entrance. They have a designated spot and it’s a pain in the ass to get from that spot to the departure area.

Pro Tip: Leave off going to the smaller airports until like 30-45 minutes before. Usually they don’t even let you check in until then and there isn’t that much to eat or drink.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

15. where should you base yourself out of:.

I like to split Vietnam into 3 – southern, central, and northern. HCMC is the main city of the south, Da Nang in the center, and Ha Noi in the north. If you’re the type of person that would rather book somewhere for an extended period and travel from there, then those are the three cities to look in!

16. The best way to book anything? Facebook and Instagram!

Yep! While I do love all the normal booking and tour sites, usually the best option is to just contact properties, tours, and even restaurants via Facebook and Instagram DM. I swear Facebook is how Vietnam interacts the most! Every time I wanted to book a hotel, I usually just Facebooked the hotel and had a reservation. Heck, in Saigon if I wanted to order from somewhere, I sometimes skipped over Grab and just Facebooked them!

With most places, you’ll pay at the end of your stay. While you shouldn’t have issues using a credit card, some smaller spots may only take cash.

17. Staying at homestays

One of the fun, more unique things to do in Vietnam is to stay at a homestay. This is more common in the more countryside areas like in the Mekong. Da Lat, or Sa Pa. You basically stay with a local family or person. It’s not glamorous but it’s a nice way to get more insight into the region! Some home stays are more built for visitors while others you’re literally in someone’s guest room.

18. Picking between hotels and hostels

Because Vietnam is a big backpacker spot, there are an abundance of hotels and hostels with high ratings. I remember looking at Hoi An and having a ton to choose from with a rating of 9 or higher. I’d say to help you choose, look at reviews of customer service and where the hotels/hostels are located. I’ve had some of the loveliest experiences at hostels here and some of the worst at nicer hotels!

19. Indulging in luxury in Vietnam

If you’re a hotel buff, you’re going to love all the incredibly-designed hotels throughout Vietnam. Bill Bensley himself has design quite a few, but I’ve only stayed at Da Nang Intercontinental so far. A number of luxury brands have properties here including Azerai, Aman, Anantara, MGallery, Four Seasons, Six Senses, and much more. Not to mention the boutique hotels like Pilgrimage Village in Hue, Poulo Condor in Con Dao, or the Mia in Saigon. I will also say from my luxury stays, I’ve had nothing but amazing customer service, so if you’re looking to indulge, this is the country to do it.

20. What is Airbnb like in Vietnam?

Airbnb does exist in Vietnam! I used it to find a more long term place when I was coming for a month. Now that I think about it, though, after that first time I hardly used it. When you stay long enough, it’s better to try to rent an apartment, and there are just so many hostels, hotels, homestays, and resorts that Airbnb becomes an afterthought.

Vietnam Itinerary Tips

21. first things first, be mindful traveling around tet.

Vietnam has a few holidays throughout the year, but by far the most important is Tet, aka Lunar New Year! When you visit during this time, be prepared for sold out trains, flight prices being much more expensive, and some intense city pollution in the days leading up to the holiday! When I first visited, I made the horrible mistake of booking hard sleepers in our train from HCMC – Da Nang but when I tried to switch to soft sleepers, they were totally booked out. We did manage to at least get some soft seaters, but definitely not a fun journey!

On the flip side, if you do visit Hanoi or Saigon during the actual holiday, it’s pretty much the quietest and cleanest those cities will be all year round! Nguyen Hue Street and a lot of nearby spots are fully decked out for Tet, and the traffic is next to nothing as everyone has gone to their hometowns!

22. Should you book a tour or DIY?

I think tours can make things incredibly easy (which is why I’m roughly planning some TSGA tours for 2023 ;)!). However, Vietnam is a lot easier to visit than it gets credit for. It’s definitely not the breeziest country to visit (Korea and Taiwan are tied for that!), but it’s not some jungle of a country that’s hoping to get back at the imperialist Americans your parents are probably imagining either.

Part of why I believe Vietnam gets SUCH a bad wrap is that in the early ages of travel blogging, pretty much every budget backpacker wrote about it negatively and their posts are what people found. Even when I went in 2016, I remember reading post after post to be wary of scams and how scary the traffic can be. Frankly a lot has changed and in the last decade, and I’d take any post written before 2015 with a grain of salt.

However, Vietnam is very doable to DIY even if you want to go to the more remote areas. I’d say it’s even possible to do solo as a female traveler! As with any country, keep your wits about you, be smart, and find guesthouses and hotels where you can lean on the owners for advice.

23. Where to go if you have…

While you could squeeze in a pretty hectic trip from north to south in a week, you’ll really only skim the surface of Vietnam. You’ll probably have time for Ha Noi, Ha Long or Hoi An/Da Nang, and then some time in HCMC and the Mekong. I would instead pick between northern, central, and southern and explore from there.

For northern Vietnam, try to include Ha Noi, Ha Long, Ninh Binh, and Sa Pa. In central Vietnam, do Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue. If you’re feeling extra adventurous try going between Hue and Phong Nha, which is where the old DMZ is! In southern Vietnam, enjoy the hustle of Saigon, go down to the Mekong Delta, and enjoy one of the beaches areas in Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, or Con Dao.

This is much more doable for a full country trip and what I did on my first trip. Start in Hanoi or HCMC and fly out of the opposite. Include HCMC, the Mekong, Hoi An, Ha Long, and Hanoi. We spent too long in both Hoi An and Ha Long, so you could probably squeeze in Ninh Binh or Sa Pa in that same time frame!

4 Weeks / 1 Month

Here’s where you can really enjoy Vietnam! Though if you’re anything like me and the people I met, the longer you stay, the more you wind up adding to your list of places to see. I would say one month gives you a lot of time to really enjoy the country and lets you slow travel a bit!

I say first start in the north as the top things to do and see are more active and might have you hiking or trekking. Hit up Sa Pa, Ha Noi, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long. If you want to see more, try Ha Giang Pass (on my list!) or Yen Tu and Binh Lieu, two areas in the same province as Ha Long.

If you want to try riding a motorbike (or can drive one!), then here’s how I’d recommend doing central Vietnam. Fly into Dong Hoi to see Phong Nha. Talk to the owner of Phong Nha Farmstay about doing a motorbike tour from there down to Hue where you’ll stop over at the DMZ. Then check out Vietnam’s royal history in Hue before going to the very picturesque Hoi An. Take a moment to enjoy Da Nang and fly out from here to HCMC.

In HCMC, check out the many things to do (at least one day for the main sites and one day for temple hopping in Cho Lon) before making your way to the Mekong Delta. Most people do a day trip which shows you one area, but if you don’t mind staying overnight, check out Vinh Long or Can Tho. To end your trip, pick either Mui Ne, Con Dao, or Phu Quoc for a little beach getaway!

Major Things to Do in Vietnam

I mean this section alone needs to be its own post (working on it, promise). There are so many things to do in Vietnam, but over all here are the big, ore general ones:

24. Take some motorbike lessons…

Why not?! I signed up for a class with Ride with Me Saigon and loved it! Find an instructor who will take you somewhere quiet (so not dropping you in the middle of the city) and patiently get you driving.

25… so you can explore Vietnam’s major loops and highways!

Vietnam is covered in some seriously scenic place best seen via motorbike. The two most famous are Ha Giang Loop super far north and Hai Van pass between Da Nang and Hue. But beyond that there are just so many! When you’re not in the major cities, you’ll find yourself just wanting a motorbike to get around. I never *got* why a lot of people liked motorcycles, but once I started driving I could see why. There’s just something so freeing about it that you don’t get in a car.

26. Cafe hop like your life depends on it

Guys, the Vietnamese cafe scene might actually have Korea beat! I know , I’m shocked. There’s just so much coffee in this country, I wouldn’t be shocked if someone came out with a statistic that people purchased more iced coffees than water bottles here.

On one level, you’ve got your ca phe su dua stands where you can just walk up and get your iced coffee to go complete with a little carrier bag. Then you’ve got the more local places that are wide open and lots of people are just chilling and smoking from the low chairs and tables. Milano Coffee is basically a chain of this. Then you’ve got your wonderfully trendy cafes that just make my heart sing. I promise I’m working on some blog posts to give you specific recommendations (for now they live on my Instagram highlights!).

I know I drank way too much coffee here because my eye started twitching at different times and when I Googled why, I was told it could be from caffeine and a lack of sleep!

27. Learn more about Vietnam’s various ethnic minorities and religions

This recommendation may seem a bit odd as 85% of Vietnam is Vietnamese and 74% is atheist, but the country has a really interesting history with ethnic minorities and various religions! When it comes to ethnic minority tribes, you’ll find many of them in the mountains especially Mu Cang Chai, Sa Pa , and the Central Highlands. If you go trekking, the main thing to do is to meet with some tribes and learn more about their culture within Vietnam.

Religion-wise, Vietnam feels like temple central! Seriously, in Cho Lon , Saigon’s Chinatown, alone, you could spend all day visiting each Buddhist temple. There is also a small presence of Catholicism around the country, so you’ll still find some beautiful Indochine cathedrals and churches.

The coolest thing I learned about though, was Caodaism. It’s a religion wholly unique to Vietnam and its version of the Vatican is in Tay Ninh. Once you see its temple style once, you’ll recognize it when you see it throughout the country.

28. Explore Champa ruins

Once upon a time, central and south Vietnam were part of the Champa Kingdom. As in from the 100s AD to 1832! Today what’s left of their rule are the Chams, now an ethnic minority mainly in Cambodia and Vietnam, and some incredible archeological ruins. The most famous is Mỹ Sơn near Hoi An, but you can find small ones throughout Vietnam like in Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, Binh Dinh, and more. Plus quite a few museums house some Champa artifacts like both the Fine Arts museums in Hanoi and Saigon!

29. Look for the remaining French influences in Vietnamese culture

French had control over Vietnam through the 1800s and early 1900s, and their presence is still felt throughout in the form of architecture and design. It’s kind of funny. I found Vietnam still loved the aesthetics of French colonial rule even though it’s, you know, related to French colonial rule.

You’ll see a lot of places use Indochine designs, and much of the French buildings are still standing and in use. Kind of like the people decided, “We don’t want your oppressive colonialism, but you guys did have good style, so we’ll keep that.”

30. Plan to hike or trek at least once

Even if you’re not a hiker, you’ve got to go at least once in Vietnam. The mountains are just too beautiful! The best places to do this are up in the ricefields of Sa Pa or Mu Cang Chai or the caves of Phong Nha. Of course, there are also various mountains you can do, but many of them have cable cars too, like Nui Ba Den (Black Virgin) and Fansipan.

31. Get to know Vietnam’s coast

If you look at a map of Vietnam, you’ll notice it has a lot of coastline. Ha Long Bay is the most famous area to visit and Da Nang is the best coastal city, but really there are a ton of towns and islands I hadn’t even heard of before I visited. Con Dao has my heart forever, and while I haven’t been to Phu Quoc yet, many of my friends love the resorts there (not so much the trash issue). For the Saigonese, Mui Ne and Phan Thiet are incredibly popular. I also loved Quy Nhon, especially staying at the Anantara there, and I have friends who stayed further south at Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô and loved it too.

Really, I’ve only scratched the surface of what there is to see along Vietnam’s coast, but I’ve seen enough to know you don’t want to skip out on it!

What to Eat in Vietnam

30. the best vietnamese food is found on the sidewalks while you sweat over plastic chairs.

If there is one tip you take from all these Vietnam travel tips, this is the most important! Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of fantastic fine dining in Vietnam. But if you want the most authentic and delicious versions of these dishes, you will find them outside on the sidewalks and buried in neighborhood markets. If they have an actual building, it’s open air and you’re still probably sitting on plastic chairs!

29. It’s good to know a few food terms

The one time I remember totally freezing up is when I first started venturing out to the random food stalls to look for lunch or dinner. Beyond pho and banh mi , I had no idea what to look for! Here are some good terms to know:

• pho: the ultimate soup dish
• bun : noodles
• ga : chicken
• thit : meat
• banh mi: bread, but also a baguette sandwich
• mam : fish sauce
• nuong : fried
• ngọt : sweet

Beginner’s Tip: If you’re in Saigon, I recommend going to Ben Thanh Market first or booking a food tour. The food market there is very used to foreigners, so they have photos on their stalls! And, of course, if you do a food tour they can help explain the dishes and terms in person.

24. Let’s talk about coffee for a minute

I know I went into the cafe scene above, but let’s talk about the coffee itself! Did you know Vietnam is the world’s second largest coffee exporter?! As you might guess, it was the French who introduced coffee to the country and began building plantations.

Today, coffee is truly a part of Vietnamese life. The most classic thing to get is a ca phe sua da, or iced milk coffee (it’s always listed as Vietnamese iced coffee in other countries). You fill a cup with ice and condensed milk, and then you drip your coffee over top. Mix and let the ice melt (easy to do in the tropics). When it’s melted just enough and your glass is sweating with condensation, that is the time to start drinking!

Of course, there are plenty of other variations, and in most trendy cafes you can get your classic lattes, cappuccinos, etc. But just once, while traveling sit down and get a nice big bowl of beef pho and an almost too-strong cup of ca phe sua da!

Variations: Some other variations of Vietnamese coffee to look for: cà phê trứng (egg coffee), more popular in Hanoi; cà phê muối (salt coffee) in Hue, and coconut coffee pretty much everywhere (start with the many Cong Caphes around the country).

31. More drinks to try in Vietnam

I actually have a whole list of Vietnamese drinks to try! There are a lot of cool fruit juices, regional beers, and more worth trying while you’re here. I’m quite partial to lychee iced tea and nuoc mia (sugarecane juice)!

31. How vegetarian and vegan friendly is Vietnam?

Actually, I’d say it’s easier to find vegan and vegetarian-friendly food in Vietnam than I remember it being in Korea, especially in the cities. In the countryside, you’re pretty much shit out of luck, but in the cities big and small, there are also some really good vegetarian options! Try looking to see if there are practicing Buddhist monasteries around too and if they have a restaurant as Buddhist monks are all vegetarian, I believe!

33. Is it easy to get takeout?

Takeout culture is a big thing in the cities here! It’s almost too good, and I admittedly got very lazy. The easiest thing to do is order via Grab (other apps exist but Grab is the most reliable). However, I also found that many restaurants were easily reachable via Facebook and could arrange their own delivery drivers, so I did that whenever possible.

Safety and Sanitary Concerns

34. how safe is it to travel in vietnam.

Over all, Vietnam is fairly safe. The biggest thing you want to worry about is someone on a motorbike swiping your wallet or phone or motorbike accidents (which are pretty rare considering how hectic driving is here). Just keep your things close to your body and have a firm grip on your phone if you pull it out near the road. I always do this thing where I turn against a wall if I look at my phone so it’s harder for someone to come up and grab it.

35. Does Vietnam hate the US and France?

I know what you might be thinking. As an American or French person, should I be worried Vietnamese people will actually hate my guts? Shockingly… no. I remember a friend once saying the US had higher approval ratings amongst Vietnamese than Americans!

Actually, I’d say the one country Vietnam has the most animosity towards is China. It’s similar to Korea and Japan right down to an island dispute (theirs are the Spratly Islands).

36. How are the bathrooms?

Bathrooms range but over all aren’t too bad! I didn’t use them too often, but obviously the more Westernized restaurants and shopping centers have nice, clean ones. I would say the grossest ones are probably on the trains.

37. Wtf is a bum gun?

Guys, let me tell you about the bum gun. I’m mad at myself for not using them sooner but I was apprehensive! Korea bidets are attached to the toilet seat, so you literally just sit there and hit some buttons on the side. Wouldn’t a bum gun be kind of gross and get everywhere? Also how would I get my butt?

Ok, so fear not. All you have to do is open your legs wide and spray front to back. It doesn’t get on the back of the toilet lid and will get all your crevices. If you want to, you can use a little toilet paper to dry or just sort of squat and shake a bit before pulling your bottoms back up! Remember: if your dog pooped on your hand, would you use toilet paper to wipe it off or wash it in water?

39. How clean is Vietnam?

I’m not going to lie to you guys, Vietnam is definitely not the cleanest place I’ve been. Obviously the countryside areas are pretty nice, but the cities can get quite dirty. Recycling is nonexistent and littering is definitely a problem. There always seems to be construction going on, so there are sometimes sparks flying and just a pile of rubble for weeks on end. Sidewalks are nonexistent outside of District 1, and the air pollution is notoriously horrendous.

Chances are if you’re not living in the cities, you won’t notice it as much as a traveler. But it’s just something to be mindful of!

What to Buy for Souvenirs

40. anything related to coffee.

Back to coffee! But seriously coffee beans, drip coffee, the delicious instant coffee packets… Just know you can’t ship coffee beans!

41. Clothes that are tailor made

Vietnam is home to a ton of talented tailors especially in Hoi An! I’ve written about getting clothes tailored here . I was definitely spoiled while living there and had a ton of things custom-made and/or tailored. I already know when I go back, I’m going to have some more things made like suits and silk dresses! If you’re in HCMC, go to TuyetLan Orchids Tailor , and if you’re in Hoi An, go to Izi !

42. Any local boutiques and brands

There are some really cute brands that have sprung up in Vietnam. The ones I love the are Metiseko , Dynasty the Label , and Kilomet 109 !

43. Anything Vietnamese themed

I mean once you get here you’ll see all the cute Vietnam-themed souvenirs in the most random places. My favorite is this Obama bun cha magnet I found in a bookstore in Go Vap! I’ve also picked up some cute illustrated books and postcards and just a lot of cute things I can’t wait to decorate with.

Random Little Vietnam Travel Tips

44. really make sure the person knows what you’re asking.

So one slightly annoying thing I discovered is that Vietnamese people will say, “Yeah, yeah, okay” when they don’t know what you’re saying or they don’t know the answer. This will happen a lot in cafes and restaurants. They’re not actually confirming anything! I try to use my card as much as possible, so I’ll ask if card is okay, and without fail they’ll say “Yeah, yeah, it’s okay,” when it’s definitely not. So if you’re not sure, double and triple check, pull out Google Translate, or, in a credit card case, your actual card and make sure they’re actually saying yes. I remember one time I asked twice and then it was when I physically pulled out my card, they finally said “Oh no, cash only.”

45. There’s a bit of a culture difference between the north and south

I don’t know that I really noticed this on my first trip, but I do distinctly remember liking southern Vietnam way more than northern Vietnam. Most people I’ve talked to prefer the south as it has nicer weather year round and it’s a lot less conservative. For example, I just found out Hanoi still has a curfew left over from the wartime!

46. Is it Saigon or HCMC?

You know how a lot of places have changed names over the years? “So if you’ve a date in Constantinople, she’ll be waiting in Istanbul”? Well, Ho Chi Minh City is the same! Until 1976 when the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was established, HCMC was known as Saigon. Actually if you really want to get into it, there’s a whole article on this regions’ naming history.

So, what’s the “right” thing to call this city? Well, it depends ultimately who you’re talking to, but from my experience and asking local friends here, both are used interchangeably. Saigon obviously rolls off the tongue a lot easier than Ho Chi Minh City and it’s easier to call someone Saigonese, like you’d call someone Hanoian, than it is to say “Ho Chi Minhian” or “Ho chi Minhese” (don’t even think those are things).

On this blog, I use HCMC in my titles, etc but in my actual text I might go back and forth!

47. You’ll meet more than teachers!

I think it’s because I didn’t live in Seoul or Busan while in Korea, but I feel like all the expats I knew were there because they were on an E-2 teaching visa or married. However, in Saigon, I’ve met people doing all sorts of things. The entrepreneurial spirit is really alive here (both expat and Vietnamese) which I think gives the city a really fun energy. Seriously besides teachers I’ve met people who work in furniture manufacturing, alternative energy, ecotourism, fitness, fashion, export/import… the list goes on really! If you’ve got the same spirit, then I think Vietnam is a really cool place to be.

48. Animal welfare has a long way to go.

If you’re a sensitive animal lover, I’m going to warn you that Vietnam is going to be a hard country to enjoy. Animal welfare is improving, but it’s still not at a level you’d probably hope for. And it’s not unusual for dogs to get stolen, so you have to be REALLY diligent if you intend to adopt.

If you do want to get involved in helping out, there are animal volunteer groups! ARC Vietnam Animal Rescue & Care is a good place to start and, of course, fostering is always an option! Another great place doing a lot for animals is R House .

49. How communist is Vietnam?

Yes, Vietnam is communist and has been since the end of the war. It’s not something that I find affects day to day life too much, but I also don’t recommend going around with anti-communist books or questioning the government. And I really, really do not recommend shouting out anything inflammatory against Bac Ho unless you want to get make your embassy’s life a living nightmare!

50. Facebook group are key for finding friends and advice!

I’ve found Facebook groups to be incredible sources of information and just for finding a bit of community. When I first came, I joined Fexpats in HCMC , and it’s remained a great source. The Hanoi equivalent is, I believe, Hanoi is Beautiful, but I couldn’t find it last I checked. If you want to make friends or are confused about anything just search there or ask. Lots of women in there have been here for a few years at least and it’s very chill.

Other good groups I’m in include Vietnam is Awesome, Vietnam Creative Circle, and [VN Legal] Vietnamese Legal!

And that’s all the Vietnam travel tips I have you for you! Let me know if you have questions or comments below!

For more Vietnam travel, read these posts next:

General vietnam.

• How to Plan a Trip to Vietnam
• 22 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Vietnam
• How to Plan the Ultimate Leaving Vietnam Trip

Northern Vietnam

• The Best Things to Do in Hanoi
• What to Do in Halong Bay + Travel Tips
• Hanoi to Halong Bay: How to Get There
• A Day Cruise Along Halong Bay
• Mu Cang Chai Travel Tips
• A Secluded Sapa Itinerary
• Hiking & Herbal Baths with the Red Dzao

Central Vietnam

• Historical Things to Do in Hue: Ultimate Guide
• Hue in One Day: A Speedy Itinerary
• Azerai La Residence Hue Review: A Luxury Stay
• A Semi-Relaxing Phong Nha Travel Itinerary
• Quirkiest Things to Do in Dalat
• How to Visit Yok Don National Park
• Top Things to Do in Hoi An
• How to Spend 3 Days in Hoi An
• Hoi An Tailors: Tips for What to Get Made
• The Vietage: A Luxury Train in Vietnam
• Anantara Quy Nhon Villas: A Luxury Review

Southern Vietnam

• Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City: A Bucket List
• A Guide to 15B Hem Le Than Thon: Little Japan Saigon
• Where to Go in District 5 & Cho Lon of Saigon
• Best Things to Do in District 1, HCMC
• What to Do in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet
• Anantara Mui Ne: Best Resort for a Girls’ Getaway
• Mekong Delta Day Trip: What to Expect
• A Guide to Vinh Long in the Mekong
• Con Dao: An Island Travel Guide
• Azerai Can Tho: A Luxury Stay in the Mekong
• Odys Boutique Hotel Review: A Chic Mid-Range Stay in HCMC

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10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

10 best beaches in vietnam, 20 best things to do in vietnam, 15 must-try vietnamese dishes, ao dai – vietnamese traditional dress.

• Ho Chi Minh City

The 10 best attractions in Da Nang

The 6 best attractions in ha long city, must-visit attractions in hoi an, the 15 best attractions in dalat, 5 must-try foods in ha long, the complete guide to vietnam, vietnam at a glance .

Vietnam – a country in the Indochina Peninsula, Southeast Asia, is famous for its beautiful natural scenery, diverse cuisine, and cultural richness. In recent years, Vietnam has become a familiar destination for travelers from all over the world. In 2019, Vietnam was voted by the world-famous travel magazine Conde Nast Traveler as one of the ten most beautiful countries in the world, where you definitely have to visit once in your life.

Vietnam has many landscapes honored by the world. As of 2020, Vietnam has been recognized by UNESCO as eight world heritage sites. In particular, there are two natural heritage sites (Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park); five cultural heritages (Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi, Citadel of the Ho Dynasty, Complex of Hue Monuments, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary); one mixed heritage (Trang An Landscape Complex) and other intangible cultural heritages.

With 63 provinces and 54 ethnic groups, each province has its own landscape and identity, always giving you a reason to fall in love.

Cut to the chase, let’s watch the video Vietnam from North to South!

Vietnam tourist map

We would like to introduce a great companion for your journey to explore Vietnam: Vietnam Map , which includes all the types of maps you need, such as region, transportation, and city map. We have compressed them to the highest quality, so you can print them on paper and use them on your trips.

Topography and climate of Vietnam

Based on geography and climate, Vietnam is divided into eight regions: Northwest, Northeast, Red River Delta, North Central Coast, South Central Coast, Central Highlands, Southeast, and Mekong River Delta. Each region has relatively different climatic and topographic characteristics.

1. Northwest

Northwest Vietnam consists of 6 provinces: Dien Bien, Son La, Hoa Binh, Yen Bai, Lai Chau, Lao Cai. The famous tourist destinations: Sapa (Lao Cai), Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai), Dien Bien Phu (Dien Bien), Mai Chau (Hoa Binh), Moc Chau (Son La). It is a mountainous area which shares the borderline with China and Laos. This is home of magnificent fold mountains and extremely unmatched landscapes.

The region has two distinct seasons: summer and winter. The summer (April to October) is hot and humid. Winter (November to March) is cold, cloudy that is characterized by drizzle. The average annual temperature is about 25 ºC. In winter, the lowest temperature is in December and January; some places have temperatures below 0 ºC.

2. Northeast

Northeast Vietnam consists of 9 provinces: Ha Giang, Bac Giang, Bac Kan, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Phu Tho, Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, Quang Ninh. The famous tourist destinations: Dong Van (Ha Giang), Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang), Ba Be Lake (Bac Kan), Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh), Mau Son (Lang Son). The region is geographically distinguished with the Northeast by the Red River. There are middle-high mountain ranges blended with vast plateaus. The complicated system of water bodies carving into the limestone mountains creating deep valleys across the region.

The climate is quite similar to the Northwest, but the region is more affected by the humid monsoon climate than the Northwest. Therefore, the Northeast is directly affected by tropical storms in the summer.

3. Red River Delta

Red River Delta consists of 10 provinces: Bac Ninh, Ha Nam, Ha Noi, Hai Duong, Hai Phong, Hung Yen, Nam Dinh, Ninh Binh, Thai Binh, Vinh Phuc. The famous tourist destinations: Hanoi, Cat Ba (Hai Phong), Do Son (Hai Phong), Trang An (Ninh Binh). The delta is situated in the North of Vietnam, this is one of the most densely-populated regions across the country due to the fertile soil and a large concentration of waterways, which are advantageous for agricultural activities.

Like the Northeast and Northwest, the Red River Delta also has two distinct seasons: the summer is from April – November; the winter is from December – March. However, the weather here is milder than in the other two regions.

4. North Central

North Central consists of 6 provinces: Ha Tinh, Nghe An, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thanh Hoa, Thua Thien Hue. The famous tourist destinations: Thien Cam Beach (Ha Tinh), Cua Lo Beach (Nghe An), Phong Nha – Ke Bang (Quang Binh), Hue (Thua Thien Hue). This region is a long-stretching land and also the most narrow part of the country, which is one of the most important economic regions featuring aquaculture and tourism. The area is home of a great collection of three out of eight UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Vietnam.

Due to the monsoon in the northeast, the whole area is affected by cold weather with rain in the winter. This is different from the dry weather in the winter of the North. In the summer, there is the southwest monsoon (also known as Laos wind), so the whole region will have a hot and dry climate. At this time, the daily temperature can reach over 40 ºC; meanwhile, air humidity is very low.

5. South Central Coast

South Central Coast consists of 8 provinces: Da Nang, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Binh Dinh, Phu Yen, Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan. The famous tourist destinations: Da Nang, Hoi An (Quang Nam), Quy Nhon (Binh Dinh), Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), Mui Ne (Binh Thuan). South Central Coast has a strategic position in terms of economic and transport values. The landscapes are dominated by the fertile whale-shaped hills, which is beneficial for herding activities. Bordering a large sea area, the economy strongly relies on marine resources. Here is also a potential travel hub thanks to its well-developed transport system.

The weather here is different from the North Central Coast due to the northeast monsoon blocked by the Bach Ma mountain range. The remarkable feature of the Central climate is that there is a rainy season and the dry season does not occur at the same time in a year in the two climatic regions of the North and the South.

6. Central Highlands

Central Highlands consists of 5 provinces: Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Gia Lai, Kom Tum, Lam Dong. The famous tourist destinations: Dalat (Lam Dong), Mang Den (Kom Tum), Buon Me Thuot (Dak Lak). The region consists of many plateaus, which are surrounded by mountain ranges. Central Highlands is known as the coffee capital of Vietnam as the fertile basalt facilitates the growth of this industrial crop. Some distant and remote mountainous parts of the area are also home to various minority ethnic groups.

Located in the tropical savanna region, the climate in the Central Highlands is divided into two seasons: the rainy season from May to the end of October and the dry season from November to April, in which March and April are the hottest. Particularly, the lands are over 1.000 m high, the climate is cool all year round.

7. Southeast

Southeast Vietnam consists of 6 provinces: Ba Ria Vung Tau, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City. The famous tourist destinations: Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau Beach (Ba Ria Vung Tau), Con Dao Island (Ba Ria Vung Tau), Black Virgin Mountain (Tay Ninh). Southeast is the highly industrialized zone. A massive landmass is used for industrial trees and factories. The landscape highlights the midlands and low mountain ranges. This is where the major river systems meet and concentrate on the most vital ports as well as tourism.

The South is located in a region characterized by the equatorial tropical climate, abundant sunshine, and high humidity. The annual average humidity is about 80 – 82%. The climate has two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season is from May to November and the dry season is from December to April.

8. Mekong River Delta

Mekong River Delta consists of 13 provinces: Long An, Tien Giang, Ben Tre, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Hau Giang, Soc Trang, Can Tho, Dong Thap, An Giang, Kien Giang, Bac Lieu, Ca Mau. The famous tourist destinations: Can Tho, My Tho (Tien Giang), Tram Chim (Dong Thap), Chau Doc (An Giang), Phu Quoc (Kien Giang). It is the southernmost part of the country and dominated by flat floodplains. The low basin of the Mekong Delta is rich in sediment from its mother source and greatly contributes to the agricultural practice of its people for centuries. The region is covered by very little forestry, mainly mangrove forests and swamps to prevent waves and preserve land.

The climate of the Mekong Delta is similar to the Southeast: the tropical monsoon climate, there are two distinct seasons: the rainy season (May to November) and dry season (December – April).

Best time to  visit Vietnam

The ideal time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season. In which the period from December to March is the best time to visit Vietnam. You can rely on the detailed map below to choose the appropriate time to visit each place in the country.

Vietnam Visa

It’s easy to come to Vietnam! Vietnam offers visa exemptions to tourists from 24 countries and e-Visas to travellers from 80 countries.

Vietnam visa exemption

Citizens of 24 countries are exempted from visa when entering Vietnam:

Vietnam visa application

Now you can easily apply for Vietnam Visa with an electronic Visa, E-Visa is available to nationals of 80 countries. What you need to do is visit the official website of the Immigration Department ( click here ) and follow the instructions.

The e-Visa costs 25 USD, takes three working days to process, and is a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days.

Learn more about Vietnam Visa >

Money and Exchange

Vietnamese currency is known as “Dong” or “VND” as currency code. There are no longer coins but only paper and polymerized money, so it is quite easy to carry around. Vietnamese banknotes, however, have many zeros: the smallest bills commonly in circulation are 500 VND, 1.000 VND, 2.000VND, and 5.000VND; and the highest one is 500.000VND.

Cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and other public amenities (but not at street-food stalls), and ATMs are placed densely. The most popular exchange rate when travelling in Vietnam is from USD to VND. It is known among travellers that the best exchange rate is given at jewelry shops; however, it is now considered illegal to exchange currency at those shops. So, the best way is to change money at the airport, local banks, or ATMs.

Learn more about the Vietnamese currency >

Transportation in Vietnam

Vietnam’s transportation network is quite complete with international and domestic airport systems in many provinces, the “famous” North-South railway system, and the extensive road system with the backbone of National Highway 1A. Below is a transportation map in Vietnam with train stations and airports.

Learn more about transportation in Vietnam >

Cost of living in Vietnam

I t is totally possible to live on a budget in Vietnam as the cost of living is claimed to be inexpensive. Most of the items cost less than half of what you would pay in the West or even relatively cheaper in comparison with some tourist hubs in Asia.

Although in big cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi Capital, things could be a bit pricey, there are still lots of opportunities to lead a comfortable lifestyle with an income of under 700 USD (of course, if you are willing to eat local food and enjoy a Vietnamese standard lifestyle). If you live outside of these two major cities, living expenses could be much less. Your lifestyle will determine your cost of living, but generally, Vietnam has a competitive yet fertile job market for both locals and expats and an average rate of living expenses. As long as one has a job and not too bad at money management, they can assure an enjoyable life and travel if they wish.

Internet and Telecommunication

Vietnam offers a very accessible Internet connection that covers most parts of the country. Wi-fi is available in every corner: at restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores, or even at small food vendors sometimes. So there would be very little chance that you lose touch with the world while travelling here.

There are also many SIM card providers that offer 4G data service along. So if you are mostly on the road or wish to keep in touch with people, here is an option. Some of the most reliable telecommunication companies known are Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone. SIM card’s price normally starts from 50.000 – 100.000 (2 – 4,5 USD), and you can add money to buy data packages that are totally affordable, ranging from just 30.000 VND for unlimited access.

Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation in Vietnam varies from around under 10 USD to as much as you could imagine, catering to different budgets and preferences. There are many types of accommodation that you can choose from, from hostels and guesthouses to homestays and luxurious resorts which keep popping up throughout the country. Although hospitality is a huge industry in Vietnam, it is obviously popular among the locals as the young Vietnamese tend to travel more and more these days. So, it is ideal to book your accommodation in advance to make sure of a preferable stay. Booking could be made easily through online booking websites or, particularly for homestays, through direct messages on their Facebook pages.

The vast majority of accommodations are considered very stylish and full of character, of which homestay is one form of accommodation you have to get yourself into. They are not only a place to crash after a long day exploring, but are experience itself. Most places have English-speaking staff, and they accept both cards and cash.

Best places to stay in Vietnam >

Shopping in Vietnam

It is no exaggeration that Vietnam is one of those shopping paradises. There is a whole range of shopping activities that you could take part in, which serve your craving for shopping and offer insight into the country’s culture. You could wander around the local open-markets to embrace the vibrance and dynamic energy of the street business culture of the Vietnamese, or opt for a less hustle and bustle shopping vibe in the shopping malls. A new breeze of shopping experience that is enjoyed by the millennials is the flea-markets, which are often held on weekends gathering the participation of local clothing and handicraft brands. Each market in Vietnam brings the characteristics and colors of the local community here. Going to the market is not only for shopping, but it is also a journey to discover the local culture.

For great trips, convenience stores are a good choice for you. There are many convenience stores in Vietnam, especially in big cities as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, which have almost everything you need. There are many well-known brands such as 7-Eleven, Vinmart, FamilyMart, and Cycle K. Therefore, if you need food or necessities, convenience stores are a quick choice.

Supermarkets or shopping malls are also an option, but most of them only appear in big cities with brands such as Vinmart, Co.op Mart, Vincom, and Lotte Mart.

Vietnam is also known as the manufacturing location for many big fashion names such as Nike and Adidas, so you are likely to get a very competitive price for those.

Due to the variety of items, affordable prices, and a wide range of shopping experiences, shopping would be a great part of your traveling in Vietnam.

15 best places to visit in Vietnam

Coming to the S-shaped country, you can admire the poetic and charming scenery wherever you go. The natural beauty, unique culture have made Vietnam become a tourist destination worldwide. At each place, we have designed an “all-in-one” travel guide page; click on the photo of the destination and explore it your way.

1. Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a famous tourist destination of Vietnam, located in the western part of the Gulf of Tonkin in the northeastern region of Vietnam. With thousands of magnificent islands, Ha Long Bay has been recognized by UNESCO as a natural heritage of the world since 2003.

Ha Long City is a coastal region with two distinct seasons: winter (November to April) and summer (May to October). Affected by the climate of Northeast Vietnam, there are two distinct types of monsoons: the Northeast wind in the winter that brings coldness and drizzle; and the Southwest wind in the summer that brings warmth and rain. The best time to visit Halong Bay is in the spring and autumn (from April to October) because of the chilly weather.

Looking down from above, Ha Long Bay like a picture with thousands of unique rocky islands such as Dau Nguoi, Rong, La Vong, Trong Mai, and Canh Buom. Hidden inside the rocky islands are beautiful caves such as Thien Cung, Dau Go, Sung Sot, Trinh Nu, and Tam Cung.

2. Ninh Binh

About 100 km away from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is a gem of Northern Vietnam. It is located in the southernmost region of the Red River Delta, which is the intersection of two large rivers: the Red River and the Ma River. This is known as the ancient capital of Vietnam, with many historical relics remaining.

You can travel to Ninh Binh at any time of the year. However, the ideal time for tourists to visit this land is in early spring, between the second and third month of the lunar calendar. At this time, the weather is mild, suitable for those who want to admire the spring beauty, and join the temple ceremony at the beginning of the year. If you come to Ninh Binh in late May and early June, you will admire the breathtaking scenery by the bright yellow rice fields along the banks of the Ngo Dong River. The golden color of rice interspersed with the green of the mountains creates a beautifully natural picture. In fall, you will be surprised by the peaceful beauty of the sky clouds combined with the blue Sao Khe River blooming full of lotus flowers and water lilies. The faint pink of the lotus flower combined with the pure white of water lilies creates a beautiful picture like in a fairyland.

Hoi An is located downstream of the Thu Bon River, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. It is a famous tourist city, only about 30km from Da Nang to the South. The Ancient Town of Hoi An carries the diversity of settings and the history of hundreds of years of cultural interference between the three countries of China, Japan, and Vietnam. You will be fall in love with the mix of vibrant lifestyle and ancient architecture of this little town.

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

Hoi An is famous for traditional architecture’s beauty, the harmony of houses, walls, and roads. Along with many ups and downs of history, Hoi An ancient town retains the ancient beauty in every corner.

Da Nang is located in Central Vietnam, with an almost equally divided distance between Hanoi Capital and Ho Chi Minh City. Possessing one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet – My Khe and many incredible natural landscapes, Da Nang City is one of the most attractive tourist destinations of the Central region.

Da Nang’s climate is divided into two distinct seasons: the dry season (from December to August) and the rainy season (from September to November). The best time to travel to Da Nang is from January to July; at this time, the weather is not too hot; the temperature is about 25 – 32 °C, suitable for outdoor activities.

Da Nang is a “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon” city in Vietnam, where there are mountains, forests, beaches, and delicacies. The famous tourist attractions in Da Nang include Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, and Asia’s largest Fantasy Park indoor amusement park. Da Nang also has many fascinating landscapes such as Hai Van Pass, and the primeval forest in Son Tra Peninsula.

Once was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue is considered a royal land with many palaces and tombs of the Kings. If you want to learn about the glorious Vietnam history, you cannot miss this land. Hue also attracts visitors by the poetic and beautiful natural landscapes and friendly people.

The weather in Hue is generally quite harsh, with high temperatures in the dry season (35 – 40 °C), but the dry season is also a good time to visit this city because the weather is less rain, suitable for visiting the palaces and tombs.

In addition to the Hue Imperial Citadel and mausoleums, you should also visit places such as Lang Co Bay, Hon Chen Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Thuan An Beach.

Hue dishes are extremely delicious and cheap. The delicacies can be mentioned such as mussel rice, Hue beef noodle soup, and Hue sweet soup.

Sapa is a scenic spot located in the Northwest of Lao Cai province in Vietnam. It is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam . Situated at an average altitude of 1.500 – 1.800 m above the sea, Sapa is always in the thick fog, creating a fanciful scene.

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

Tourists come to Sapa to enjoy the fresh air and admire the wild beauty of the Northwestern mountains. Terraced fields, waterfalls, and majestic mountains create an impressive beauty for Sapa. Besides, visitors also can explore the customs and cultural beauty of ethnic minorities such as Black H’Mong, Red Dao, Tay, and Giay.

Referring to Sapa, it is impossible not to mention famous tourist destinations such as Fansipan Peak, Ham Rong Mountain, Stone Church, Muong Hoa Valley, and some villages such as Cat Cat, Ta Phin, Ta Van. Come to this foggy land, don’t forget to enjoy a salmon hot pot, drink a cup of Tao Meo wine.

7. Nha Trang

As a coastal city in Khanh Hoa Province, Nha Trang is the top destination of Vietnam. Nha Trang is surrounded by beautiful beaches , majestic mountains, and pristine islands, an ideal place for your vacation. Besides the beautiful beaches, the islands as Hon Tre, Hon Chong, and Hon Mun are always attractions to visit this coastal city.

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

From fine dining restaurants facing the sea to favorite pubs, all are located along the beach in front of Nha Trang city. Coming here, you definitely have to try the famous specialties such as Banh Can, Banh Canh Cha Ca, and Nem Nuong.

8. Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the biggest city in Vietnam, which has long been known as the Pearl of the Far East, a lavish metropolis.

Ho Chi Minh City left a deep impression for the first time with anyone who has ever been to. The bright light of night streets, the colorful signs, the fresh beer pubs, the playgrounds that last all night; all turned Ho Chi Minh City into a paradise of shopping and food in Vietnam. People here are famous for being enthusiastic and generous. For strangers, they are willing to guide every intersection and street corner.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is subdivided into 22 district-level subdivisions. Urban areas include districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, Phu Nhuan, Binh Thanh, Go Vap, Tan Binh. The suburbs include Hoc Mon, Cu Chi, Binh Chanh, Nha Be, Can Gio and Thu Duc City (sub-city).

District 1 is the administrative, economic, and transactional center of Ho Chi Minh City. Therefore, if you are a first-timer, you should visit the famous spots such as Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue walking street, Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, and Bui Vien Street. District 1 is also the place where the majority of tourists choose to stay while in this city.

District 2 and District 3 are the ideal residence with spacious street, elegant and quiet villas.

District 4 is the place where people mainly live by working in warehouses and docks. So coming here, you will discover the daily life of ordinary workers in the city.

District 5 is where more than half a million Chinese people have been living there for a long time. It is also an attractive tourist destination with the name “ China town “.

In the suburbs, a destination not to be missed when coming to Vietnam is Cu Chi Tunnels, a massive underground tunnel system; it is heroic evidence of the history of the “ Vietnam war “.

Coming to Ho Chi Minh City to sip a bottle of Saigon beer on Bui Vien Street, sometimes that’s enough.

Hanoi – the capital, is Vietnam’s important cultural, political, commercial, and tourist center. Over a thousand years of history, Hanoi has become a famous tourist destination in the world.

Hanoi attracts tourists by its ancient beauty, historical colors, and hospitality from local people. The best time to visit Hanoi is in the fall, from mid-August to the end of October. At this time, the weather in Hanoi is cool, and the scenery is extremely romantic.

Hanoi has more than 4.000 monuments and beautiful landscapes. In particular, there are more than 9.000 relics in the ranking of national monuments, with hundreds of temples, structures, and famous attractions. Some prominent relics of Hanoi are the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, Ngoc Son Temple, Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi Cathedral, and Opera House.

Also, the unique culture of the Hanoi people fascinates many tourists around the world. Hanoi is famous for its fine handicraft products in craft villages such as Bat Trang ceramics, Ngu Xa bronze casting, and Yen Thai village. Besides, Hanoi also owns unique cuisine and many different cultural festivals throughout the year.

Hanoi is also remembered as the city with the best street food in the world. Come to Hanoi, do not forget to enjoy specialties such as Pho, Bun Cha, Cha Ca La Vong, and Bun Thang.

Located 22 km northeast of Phan Thiet City center, Mui Ne is one of the most beautiful and famous destinations in Binh Thuan Province. In 2014, Mui Ne ranked 2nd on the top of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia by Canadian traveler site voted. According to Skyscanner, this place has been listed on the list of 10 impressive beaches of Asia Pacific.

The period from April to August is considered to be the best time to travel to Mui Ne. From September onwards, Mui Ne often rains, so it is inconvenient for outdoor activities.

Besides the poetic and idyllic scenery, Mui Ne attracts visitors by the desirable and affluent culinary features. Coming here, you definitely have to enjoy the delicately processed seafood dishes such as Dong, fish salad, Banh Can, and Banh Xeo.

11. Ha Giang

Famous for the majestic scenery, the endless terraced fields, the long buckwheat flower fields, and the cultural identity of upland ethnic people, Ha Giang is one of the destinations that attract many tourists in Vietnam recently. Located in the mountainous north of Vietnam, Ha Giang is a majestic mountain complex, with an average height of 800 m to 1.200 m above sea level.

The northern highland is Dong Van Plateau, including Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac districts, with 90% of the area is limestone mountains, typical for karst terrain. There are sharp rocky mountains, deep and narrow ravines, and cliffs. On October 3, 2010, Dong Van Rock Plateau joined the Global Geopark Network. The western include Hoang Su Phi and Xin Man districts, which are part of Bac Ha Plateau, commonly known as Chay River lift arch, with elevations from 1.000m to over 2.000m. The terrain here is usually domed or semi-arched, interspersed with steep, sometimes sharp, or jagged terrain. The low mountainous region covers the remaining districts and towns, stretching from Bac Me, Ha Giang town, through Vi Xuyen to Bac Quang. This area has strips of old forest interspersed with relatively flat valleys located along rivers and streams.

The best time to visit Ha Giang is from October to December in the buckwheat flower season. Another great time to visit this land is from September to October, which is the rice season.

Coming to Ha Giang, visitors also have access to mountainous residents’ culture through highland markets; one of them is Khau Vai Love Market, a dating place for couples. At this fair, people also sell various handmade products such as embroidered towels, cloth bags, dresses with bright and delicate patterns. Another thing that attracts visitors to come to Ha Giang is the specialties such as dried buffalo meat, Thang Co, Buckwheat flower pancake, and Chao Au Tau.

Moreover, Ha Giang has a rich and diverse cultural treasure, with more than 20 ethnic groups living here. Each ethnic group has its own unique cultural identity, expressed through customs, festivals, and religions.

Dalat is a city in Lam Dong Province, located on Lam Vien Plateau, at an altitude of 1.500 m above sea level, which has many beautiful landscapes. Dalat is one of the most famous tourist cities in Vietnam, a little Paris of Vietnam.

Dalat has an ancient, romantic beauty with many architectural works and old villas from the French colonial period. Dalat has a typical climate of the Central Highlands region with two distinct seasons: rainy season and dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and the dry season lasts from November to April next year. The ideal time to visit Dalat is from October to December, when the flowers bloom throughout the mountains.

Dalat attracts tourists by famous attractions such as Tuyen Lam Lake, Xuan Huong Lake, Bao Dai Palace, Linh Son Pagoda, Truc Lam Zen Monastery, and many beautiful coffee shops. Come to Dalat, don’t forget to enjoy the delicious food such as Lau Ga La E, Banh Mi Xiu Mai, and Banh Can. At night, in the chilly air, visitors can stroll around the night market and Xuan Huong Lake edge to enjoy a cup of hot soy milk, or a Dalat baked rice paper.

13. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is also known as a gem island, the largest island in Vietnam, located in the Gulf of Thailand. Phu Quoc Island, together with other islands, form the Phu Quoc Island District of Kien Giang Province. In 2006, Kien Giang coastal and island biosphere reserve, including Phu Quoc, was recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve.

As a tropical monsoon island equatorial, the Phu Quoc climate is divided into two distinct seasons, which are the rainy season and the dry season. Because it is the gateway to receive the west-southwest monsoon, the humidity in the rainy season is very high, from 85 to 90%. In the dry season, the island is affected by the northeast monsoon, so that the temperature will increase in April and May. The best time to visit Phu Quoc Island is the dry season, from the end of October to March next year. At this time, the weather in Phu Quoc is less rain, which is convenient for travel and relaxation.

Phu Quoc has many beautiful beaches stretching from the north to the south and 99 hills covered by vast primeval forests. In the north of the island, there are Rach Vem, Bai Thom, and Hon Mot fishing villages – with outstanding wild beauty. In the South Island, there are 12 large and small islands such as Hon Thom, Hon Mong Tay, Hon Gam Ghi, Hon May Rut – the ideal places for nature exploration activities such as night squid fishing, diving to see corals, and discovering pristine forest.

Phu Quoc not only attracts tourists with beautiful views but also the delicious dishes made from a rich source of seafood. Some dishes that you cannot miss when visiting Phu Quoc are Herring Salad, Grilled Squid, Quay Noodle, and Sim wine.

14. Quy Nhon

If talking about a hidden pearl of Vietnam, Quy Nhon is a leading candidate. Located in Binh Dinh Province, Quy Nhon is known as one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the South Central Coast with many ideal beaches such as Eo Gio, Ky Co, Cat Tien, Nhon Hoi, and Hai Giang, where visitors can immerse themselves in the majestic natural scenery.

Binh Dinh climate is characterized by humid tropical and monsoon with 2 distinct seasons in a year. The dry season lasts from January to August and the rainy season lasts from September to December. The ideal time to visit Quy Nhon is from January to September when the weather is sunny and less rain.

Coming to Quy Nhon, not only immersed in the clean beaches but also infatuated in the food here. Great dishes in Quy Nhon can be mentioned as Banh Xeo, Bun Ca, Banh It La Gai, and Bao Da wine.

15. Quang Binh

Quang Binh is known as the “cave kingdom” with more than 300 different large and small caves, including Son Doong Cave, En Cave, Thien Duong Cave, Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave, Chay River – Dark Cave, System of Stunted Caves in Le Thuy. Not only that, but Quang Binh also has unbelievably pristine beaches such as Nhat Le Beach, Rock Jump Beach, Vung Chua, and Yen Island. And most importantly, Quang Binh also has attractive spiritual attractions such as the Tomb of General Vo Nguyen Giap, relics of Hang Tam Co, General Memorial Hall, and Hoang Phuc – a pagoda is over 700 years old.

The ideal time to visit this land is from March to September when the weather is pleasant and less rain. From September to March, there are usually heavy rains.

The two famous of these destinations are Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Son Doong Cave. Recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2003, the Phong Nha – Ke Bang Complex is a destination not to be missed when traveling to Quang Binh. Son Doong Cave, located in the core area of ​​Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, is a new cave discovered by the Royal Cave Research Association of England, which was announced as the largest cave in the world in 2010; it was put into operation in the form of adventure travel in 2013. Tourism activities of Son Doong Cave are limited to the number of participants, so the number of people who have conquered Son Doong cave is even less than the number of people who have ever stood on Mount Everest.

In addition to owning a beautiful landscape, Quang Binh also attracts tourists with rich and featured cuisine. With only 100.000 VND, you can enjoy many delicious dishes, including Banh Bot Loc, Banh Canh Ca Loc, and Banh Khoai.

10 must-try foods in Vietnam

Vietnam has been long known as a culinary paradise; for thousands of years of civilization, Vietnamese people have created countless beautiful, harmonious, and delicious dishes. To explore Vietnam is to dive into its diverse cuisine as not only does it always burst with flavors but also is an incarnation of a prosperous breadth of history.

Pho is considered the national dish of Vietnam, a must-try food when coming to this S-shaped country. It has been voted by CNN, BBC, and Business Insider as the best dishes in Asia. In 2016, Pho was voted as one of the top 3 most delicious Vietnamese dishes in the world.

The main ingredients of Pho include noodles, broth, thinly sliced ​​beef, and herbs. A qualified broth has to fulfill three strict criteria: firstly, the broth has to be clear to guarantee visual attractiveness; secondly, it has to come with the subtle sweetness extracted from the pork bones slowly cooked for hours; and thirdly, it has to bring up the herby aroma of cinnamon, anise, ginger. When eating Pho, we usually eat with hot sprinkles and spices such as chili sauce and sauté.

Culinary experts and international media recognized Banh Mi as the must-try dish when coming to Vietnam. The Guardian of England ranked Banh Mi in second place in the top 10 most delicious and attractive street food in the world. This newspaper once wrote: “There is a little known secret that the best sandwich in the world is not in Rome (Italy), Copenhagen (Denmark) or New York City (USA), but on Vietnamese streets.” David Farley, a BBC travel and food writer, praised Banh Mi as “the best sandwich in the world.”

Banh Mi makes of flour, like the Baguette but smaller, with fillings inside. Typically, the fillings have grilled pork, Vietnamese sausage, pate, egg, herbs, and cucumbers.

Banh Mi is sold in almost every street in Vietnam. Thanks to its simplicity and convenience, Banh Mi has become a familiar breakfast for Vietnamese people.

3. Goi Cuon

Goi Cuon is one of two Vietnamese dishes featured in CNN’s list of the world’s 50 best dishes in 2011. It is a favorite dish in Southern Vietnam.

Goi Cuon is usually made from boiled pork, boiled shrimp, fresh vermicelli, thinly sliced ​​cucumber, long-stemmed chives, split onions, pickled carrots, or chopped green mango, herbs, and lettuce. All the ingredients are then rolled with rice paper. Saigon people like to eat Goi Cuon with black sauce. The habit of using black sauce is the culinary touch between Vietnamese and Chinese.

4. Bun Bo Hue

In an episode of “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” on CNN, the famous American chef said: “Hue beef noodle is the best soup in the world.” The Asian Record Organization had also put Hue beef noodles into the top 100 delicious Asian dishes in 2016. This is a popular dish of Hue. Hue beef noodle ingredients include pork leg meat, a piece of boiled pork blood, beef ball, and lemongrass.

To have a good bowl of Hue beef noodles, choosing the ingredients is very important: Beef should be bright red, smooth, and yellow fat. The broth is stewed with beef bones for a naturally sweet taste.

Nowadays, you can enjoy a bowl of Bun Bo Hue anywhere, but a proper bowl must be enjoyed at a roadside restaurant near Trang Tien Bridge, Hue.

5. Mi Quang

Mi Quang is a typical dish of Quang Nam, a province known for many famous tourist destinations such as Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary.

Mi Quang is a Vietnamese soup, which has all kinds of proteins that you could think of. For a “special” bowl of Mi Quang, there are noodles, sliced pork, shrimps, and quail eggs. Mi Quang is not complete without a handful of green herbs, crispy “Banh Da” – a type of rice paper that is thick, cracky, and added sesames.

6. Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepe) was one of the Vietnamese dishes participating in the 2016 Street Food Congress (WSFC), which was held in Manila, Philippines. According to CNN, this was one of the most popular street food in the world in 2016. There are two types of Banh Xeo, Banh Xeo of the Mekong Delta people (usually bigger and softer) and Banh Xeo of the Central Vietnam people (smaller and more brittle).

Due to the popularity it has gained among the foodies from all over the world, the fillings have been added to maximize the dining experience. Authentically, however, Banh Xeo is stuffed with pork belly, shrimp, bean sprouts, and mung beans. The “right” Banh Xeo batter is mixed with coconut milk, added garlic chives, and has to be fried in pork fat. Banh Xeo is no good as take-away food as what makes it really stand out is the dining vibes: the constant sizzling noise on the background, the scent of coconut milk, and turmeric powder as well as the vibrant talking of the eaters who gather to share not only food but stories.

Bun Cha has been voted CNN’s top 10 delicious summer food, National Geographic’s top 10 best street food in the world, which was more famous after president Obama enjoyed this dish in Hanoi in 2016.

Bun Cha consists of three main parts: dipping sauce, grilled pork, and rice noodle. The success of Bun Cha is determined by the dipping sauce. Sauce to eat Bun Cha is a combination of fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, chili, green papaya, and carrots.

Bun Cha is a perfect combination of five flavors: bitter (from herbs and pickled papaya), spicy (from chili), sour (from lemon and vinegar), salty (from grilled pork), and sweet (from meatballs).

For thousands of years of wet rice cultivation, Vietnamese have processed rice into many different dishes, typically noodles, Pho, vermicelli, and Hu Tieu. Hu Tieu is a delicacy born from the essence of rice in one of the largest rice-growing regions in the world: the Mekong Delta.

When being ordered, the cook blanches noodles in a separate pot of boiling water before presenting them in the bowl with blanched bean sprouts, chopped scallions, sliced pork, shrimp, and quail eggs. It is often served with green vegetables and basil.

Cao Lau was voted the best street food in Asia by Australia Traveler News. This dish has been mentioned many times by CNN as one of the best dishes in Vietnam. Cao Lau is a specialty of Hoi An ancient town.

A special feature of Cao Lau is the yellow noodles, which make from rice soaked with ash – from trees in Cham Island, Hoi An. It does not need much broth, but instead, Cao Lau must have minced meat, soy sauce, and roasted pork skin.

Cao Lau is often sold in restaurants with two floors, which are hanging red and blue lanterns. Tourists have enjoyed the delicious taste of Cao Lau and the ancient tourist atmosphere of street corners.

10. Vietnamese Coffee

You may not know it, but Vietnam is the second biggest exporter of coffee in the world. And the coffee here is unlike any you’ve ever seen, Vietnamese often drink coffee with condensed milk, coconut, and sometimes with … eggs. Vietnamese coffee is usually Robusta, stronger than any other type of coffee; a cup can make you awake all day.

Vietnamese drink coffee anywhere and anytime, coffee is so popular that you can find coffee shops anywhere for about 15.000 VND (less than 1 dollar).

Tips and notes

1. Watch carefully when crossing the road: As you know, traffic in Vietnam is quite messy, especially in big cities, so always follow closely and obey traffic signals when crossing the road to ensure your safety. Don’t be afraid as it would be a highlighted experience of your travel. You can always follow a local nearby to cross, we are sure they will happy to help.

2. Keep your phone and wallet carefully when visiting crowded attractions: Anyplace in the world has good and bad people, so remember to keep your personal belongings carefully, especially valuable items. If you visit crowded places, it is a good idea to wear your package on your front.

3. Mo torbike Safety: If you are planning to rent a motorbike in Vietnam, you must have an international driving license and always wear a helmet when driving. Make sure to test the bike carefully to see if it fully functions before going on a long trip.

4. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Vietnam is a land with many interesting, strange and unexpected things, especially in cuisine, the street food looks gruesome such as “flipped duck eggs” (aka baluts) or “Bun Dau Mam Tom”, but believe us, they are delicious! Even if it is not tasty for you, it is still a unique experience, isn’t it?

5. Tip or not tip? In Vietnam, there is almost no “tip culture”, in most cases, you don’t need to tip; but at the following services, tips are often accepted: Spa, massage, nails, foot-massage, tour guide: 3 – 5 USD.

6. Saving the phone number of the embassy (or consulate) of your country in Vietnam. An additional copy of passport, travel insurance, and air tickets to provide in case of loss.

Vietnam itineraries

Here are some suggested Vietnam itineraries you can refer to. The itineraries include detailed information on maps, routes, and costs. Click on the images to learn more!

Vietnam travel guide book

We would like to recommend a great companion: the Vietnam Travel Guide. The book contains travel information from overview to detail, consists of 6 chapters, 135 pages, which is designed in the form of graphics and visual images.

Read more > 

Vietnam travel FAQs

What zone is vietnam in.

Vietnam is GMT/UTC + 7h during Standard Time  (GMT +7) .

Is Vietnam worth a visit?

As a country that owns beautiful beaches, magnificent natural caves, delicious street food, fascinating history, and unique culture, Vietnam must be on the list of destinations to visit at least once in your lifetime.

What is the main language spoken in Vietnam?

Vietnamese’s native language is known as Vietnamese or the Kinh dialect, which is widely spoken by the majority of the Vietnamese. The language is written in the form of Latin alphabets with the addition of five tones. It may be tricky to learn, however, considered as tourist-friendly compared to other character languages in the area.

Do people in Vietnam speak English?

English is the  common  language in Vietnam. Vietnam ranks  31st  among 72 countries in the world and seventh among 19 Asian countries in English proficiency, according to the latest annual English Proficiency Index released by the Swiss Education First (EF).

Is Vietnam safe for tourists?

Do you know? Vietnam is one of the safest countries in the world. A country without war, without ethnic conflict, without guns, without violence, and without terror. According to a recent survey,  78%  of Vietnamese people feel that their life is  happy  or  very   happy .

What can you buy in Vietnam for 1$?

1 USD  is equivalent to about  23.300 VND , a nutritious breakfast such as Pho or Hu Tieu, 2 cups of coffee, 2 loaves of bread, 4 bus tickets in Ho Chi Minh City, 4 500ml bottles of mineral water,… even a dinner!

How many days do you need in Vietnam?

Two weeks is sufficient time to explore Vietnam’s famous localities, but if you want to enjoy more fully, then four weeks would be ideal; 30 days is also the maximum stay for Vietnam E-Visa.

Is street food safe in Vietnam?

Street food is a Vietnamese specialty, mostly safe, but sometimes you can have a little stomach ache with strange foods. But it’s okay, you are traveling, right?

Should you tip at a restaurant in Vietnam?

To be honest, in Vietnam, we don’t have (or very little) “tip culture”. So if you eat in small or medium eateries, you don’t need to worry about it, just pay the right amount on the menu. Of course, you can tip a small amount if you wish to (we’re sure the server would be happy too) but note that it is not necessary.

Thank you for reading the Vietnam travel guide!

#MeetinVietnam

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Can You Watch A Tourist's Guide to Love Online Free?

V iewers are curious to know if they stream and watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love online? So, here are all the streaming details you need to know.

Heartbroken after a blindsiding breakup, Amanda, a jaded travel executive, seeks a fresh start by accepting a secret mission. Dispatched to Vietnam, she poses as a tourist while gathering intel on the industry. Yet, amidst the country’s captivating beauty, a chance encounter with Sinh, a charming Vietnamese expat tour guide, changes everything. Sparks fly as they navigate cultural differences and explore hidden gems in the country. Soon, their professional connection blossoms into a passionate romance.

How to watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love streaming online

You can watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love via Netflix.

Netflix is an online streaming service, offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and original content. Subscribers can watch these programs on demand, anytime and anywhere, on a variety of devices.

Viewers have to simply signup on to the official website with their details to watch and stream it online.

Can you watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love online for free legally?

You can’t watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love for free.

Unlike other streaming platforms, it does not offers free trial. This is why viewers can stream it only if they have a valid subscription.

What is A Tourist’s Guide to Love about?

A Tourist’s Guide to Love follows Amanda, a heartbroken travel executive who seeks solace in an undercover work assignment to Vietnam. Disillusioned by a failed relationship, she encounters Sinh, a charming tour guide who opens her eyes to the beauty of the country and reignites her passion for life. As they explore hidden gems and navigate cultural differences, a spark ignites between them.

The movie features Rachael Leigh Cook as Amanda Riley, Scott Ly as Sinh Thach

Ben Feldman as John, and several others in key roles.

The post Can You Watch A Tourist’s Guide to Love Online Free? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More .