travel vietnam

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

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Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

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

2. Wander Hanoi

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

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

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

4. Hang out in Hoi An

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

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

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

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

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

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

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

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

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

6. Get active in Mui Ne

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

7. See My Son

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

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

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

9. Check out the rice terraces

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

10. Relax in Hue

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

11. Take a cooking class

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

12. Tour the former DMZ

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

13. Buy a motorbike

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

14. Sample the local coffee

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Vietnam

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

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

How to Get Around Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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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The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

Khoa Nguyen/Getty Images

Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks. 

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary. 

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

• High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April 
• Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December 
• Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season. 

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south. 

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss. 

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy. 

Meet the Expert

• Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
• Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz. 

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities. 

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April. 

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with. 

Wand_Prapan/Getty Images

A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train. 

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens. 

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Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators). 

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. 

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season. 

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns. 

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts. 

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10. 

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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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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 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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The Perfect Vietnam Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 Weeks

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam for 1, 2, or 3 weeks then you must start with this post to help plan your Vietnam itinerary. 

Vietnam has something for everyone. It’s bursting with history, delicious foods, hiking opportunities, beautiful landscapes, beaches, and of course the wonderful Vietnamese people.  

Our Vietnam itinerary guide will give you an overview of the country, with some great itinerary options depending on how long you plan to visit. 

We have something for everyone with:

• 10 days in Vietnam: Highlights Itinerary – These are the must-see places in Vietnam
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the North
• 1 week in Vietnam focusing on the South
• 2 weeks in Vietnam, by combining the two above
• 3 weeks in Vietnam, or longer, by adding our extended options to your itinerary.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to travelling in Vietnam !

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hanoi 

Day 2 and 3 – halong bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa , day 6 and 7 – hue , day 8 – hoi an, day 9 and 10 – explore saigon, and take a full or half-day tour to the cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta, tour options, da nang , day 2 and 3 – ha long bay, day 4 and 5 – sapa, day 6  – hue, day 7 – hoi an, ninh binh (near hanoi), phong nha – ke bang national park (near hue), my son (near hoi an), ba be national park (near sapa), bach ma national park (between dan nang and hue), dong ha – for dmz tour (between dong hoi and da nang), day 1 – nha trang , day 2 – dalat , day 3 – mui ne , day 4 and 5 – ho chi minh city, day 6 and 7 – phu quoc island, cu chi tunnels or the mekong delta , con dao island, cat tien national park, did you find my vietnam itinerary helpful, 1, 2, and 3-week vietnam itinerary options .

We broke this Vietnam Itinerary into three main sections. 

Simply decide how long you have, and use one of our itineraries to guide you to the top things to do in Vietnam!

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: Vietnam Highlights

Our 10 days in Vietnam itinerary will highlight the absolute best of North and South Vietnam – from hiking in Sapa , to sinking beer in lively Ho Chi Minh City (more commonly referred to by its former name, Saigon).

This can be the core of a longer 2 or 3-week journey by adding extension opportunities to it.

You can do this trip from North to South, or in reverse.

After flying into Hanoi, you’ll have one day to see this beautiful city, so get ready to hit the ground running. 

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is full of beautiful architecture, culture, and unique food.  The old city is surrounded by remnants of fortified walls, and most things you will want to visit are in the Old Quarter. 

I would suggest finding a walking tour, so you can learn about the city’s history as you explore the city.

Take a stroll around the Hoàn Kiếm Lake and visit the Temple of the Jade Moutain, and stop to help the locals practice their English. 

Try the local beer called Bia hơi or fresh beer, which is brewed fresh each morning, and doesn’t contain any preservatives. 

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to have an egg coffee while sitting at a café in Hanoi’s Train Street. 

Then get ready to get out of the way when the train rattles past, so close to you that it takes your breath away!

For dinner, don’t forget to have a regional specialty, called Bun Cha. It’s found all through the old quarter, so you won’t have to go far to find it. 

Where to stay in Hanoi: We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hanoi with our Hanoi city guide .

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and is one of the most popular things to see in Vietnam.  

The stunning bay is full of thousands of limestone islands, pristine beaches, caves, and floating villages.  The Vietnamese call it The Bay of the Descending Dragons. 

One of the best ways to visit the islands is by boat. 

You can take one of the many cruises on offer from the tour operators in town, taking you from Hanoi to Halong Bay, spending a night onboard a boat, and returning you to Hanoi the following day. 

Alternatively, make your own way to Halong Bay, and arrange a boat from there. 

Halong Bay cruise options vary depending on your budget.

The cruises normally include kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, swimming, visiting floating villages, and exploring caves.

If you find the Halong Bay cruises a little out of your budget, check out this guide to Halong Bay on a budget . 

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Halong bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island . Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

After a restful night in Hanoi after your cruise, and having enjoyed some more Bun Cha and fresh beer, it’s time to get on a bus from Hanoi to Sapa.

You can also travel by train if you prefer, but buses are the fastest and the best way to get to Sapa from Hanoi. 

Alternatively, you can hire a private car, which will get you there faster, but at considerably more expensive.

Sapa is a region in Vietnam’s northwest and is home to beautiful terraced rice fields, great trekking, and exquisite vistas. 

Sapa has some of the best trekking in Vietnam . 

You can navigate some of these hikes yourself, arrange a private guide, or organize one of the many tours, either from Hanoi or in Sapa itself. 

The most popular attraction in Sapa is the highest mountain in the region, Fan Si Pan .

But unless you take the cable car to the top, you’ll need more time in the area for this hike. 

Some of the shorter day hikes are Cat Cat, and Tả Phìn , which can be done with or without a guide.

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue. If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

Hue is the old Imperial City, and is where the Nguyen Dynasty held the throne for 143 years. 

The last Emperor, Bao Dai, abdicated his throne and power passed to Ho Chi Minh.

During the American War, the North Vietnamese Army captured Hue as part of the Tet Offensive. 

Thus began a battle to regain the Imperial city by the South Vietnamese and the Americans, which lasted almost a month with thousands dead, and the city was mostly destroyed. 

After spending the previous night in Hue, or arriving in the morning by bus or train, visit the Old City with its pavilions, beautiful temples, and the Royal Palace , all protected by high walls, exquisite gates, and moats. 

Hue is also known for the tombs of the Ancient Emperors.  They are all intricate and beautiful.

But don’t miss the Tomb of Tu Duc , or a visit to Tu Hieu Pagoda , which dates back to 1843. 

One of the last things to do in Hue is to try the famous Bún Bò Huế , a local noodle dish with beef and chili oil, washed down with fresh beer. 

Where to stay in Hue: Spend another night in Hue, then head off early on Day 8 to Hoi An.  The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass.  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Alternatively, you can take a private car or bus.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Hue with our Hue city guide .

Explore the beautiful city, and enjoy some rest and relaxation at the beach, sitting on beach chairs and drinking cold coconuts. 

The old town is simply stunning. As you walk around you’ll pass stores selling little souvenirs,  great restaurants, and lots of clothes.

Hoi An is the place to be if you want to have some clothes made.  Tailors are everywhere, and prices are affordable. 

Make sure to head out into town at night, as the city lights up with hanging lanterns, and comes alive with markets, street food, and people. 

While out and about visit the wooden Japanese Covered Bridge from the 18 th Century, and take a boat ride up the river to get a better view of the lights. 

Use Grab or take a taxi or scooter and head to the beach.  You can sit at one of the many restaurants, use their lounge chairs and stay all afternoon soaking up the sun!

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City the next morning.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your itinerary !

After experiencing incredible Hoi An, it’s time for one last big effort as we reach the home stretch of our 10-day itinerary. 

Our time allows for one of two tour options, or if you have an extra day, both.

Vietnam’s largest city, Ho Chi Minh, is a bustling array of buildings, people, food and scooters! 

Saigon is where a lot of ex-pats live as it offers so much variety and, like New York, the city never sleeps! 

These are your last couple of days in Vietnam, and there is plenty to see.  The Vietnam War Museum, Notre Dame (yes they have one too!), the beautiful Central Post Office, and Independence Palace are all must-see destinations while in HCMC.

One of the things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to head to Bui Ven Walking Street , where all the action happens. 

After dark, this street is packed with people sitting at small plastic tables and chairs sinking beers, eating street food, and people-watching. 

After a few beers and some food, head back to your hotel and get some rest before your flight home.

READ MORE: Consider these 8 day trips from Ho Chi Minh City .

The Cu Chi Tunnels

Even if you’re not particularly interested in Vietnam’s war history, this is an interesting place to visit. 

There are two different locations, Ben Dinh and Ben Doc . 

Most tour companies usually head to the one closest to the city, Ben Dinh, which is also the largest. 

The Tunnels offer an interesting insight into what it was like for the people fighting in the Vietnam/American War, their living conditions, and how they used the tunnels to hide underground during the day and fight the enemy at night.  

Today you can go into some of the tunnels, which have been widened for westerners to fit in. 

You can only visit the tunnels with a guide, which is provided as part of the entry ticket or part of your tour . 

The Mekong Delta Tour

If small little tunnels aren’t your thing and you would prefer to take a pleasant boat ride down the Mekong river instead, there are half-day tours available from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta. 

Mekong Delta tours usually include exploring small canals by a sampan boat, visiting villages and islands, sampling exotic fruit and touring a coconut candy farm. Yum!

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience.

Extension Option

If you’re able to extend your tour to 2 weeks in Vietnam, you’ll have more time for these excursions. Any 2 week Vietnam itinerary should include these!

Da Nang has lots to offer .  If you are comfortable on a scooter or motorbike, you can ride from Hue to Da Nang (before going to Hoi An), through the Hai Van Pass . 

This route used to be a little dangerous due to all the cars and trucks using the pass.

But since they have built the new freeway and tunnel there is very little traffic, making it a very enjoyable and incredibly scenic ride.  

The best way to do this is by motorbike tour from Hue, to either Da Nang or to Hoi An, or in reverse. 

Setting out from Da Nang, Ba Na Hills is a scooter ride away.  You may recognize the bridge seemingly held up by two large hands.

Between Da Nang and Hoi An lies Marble Mountain , and to the east of Da Nang there’s a large Buddhist temple complex and pagoda called Chua Linh Ung .

If you have longer in Vietnam and would like to explore more of this beautiful country, combine our North and South options below to create a 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the North

Start your 2 weeks in Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, with beautiful architecture, culture, and food. 

While in Hanoi don’t forget to try egg coffee, fresh beer (Bia hơi), and especially the regional dish of Hanoi, Bun Cha .   (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hanoi: Spend the night in Hanoi.  We recommend staying right in the Old Quarter.

Ha Long Bay, with its beautiful limestone islands, is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

It’s a must-see while in Vietnam, with an overnight boat tour to the islands, and other fun activities like SUPing, kayaking, and exploring caves. 

The easiest way to see Ha Long Bay is to organize a tour from Hanoi . (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ha Long Bay: Spend the first night at Ha Long Bay, preferably on board a junk boat.  Alternatively, spend the night on Cat Ba Island .  Return to Hanoi, and spend the second night there, ready to head to Sapa in the morning.

Think of beautiful rice terraces set high up in the mountains, trekking, and staying in mountain lodges. 

Sapa is located in the northwest part of the country, and best seen by a two-day tour from Hanoi. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Sapa: Spend two nights in Sapa.  Consider a mountain lodge for the true Sapa experience, and then hop on the bus back to Hanoi early the following day.  Then fly from Hanoi to Hue.

If you would prefer not to fly, you can take an overnight train or bus from Hanoi to Hue instead, arriving in the morning of Day 7.

The old imperial city still has many secrets to uncover. 

Hidden behind towering walls and large gates, you can explore where the last Emperor ruled from before abdicating his rule in favor of Ho Chi Minh.

This is where the North Vietnamese overtook the city, sparking a battle that lasted for almost a month in what was known as the Tet Offensive. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hue: Spend the night in town.  Leave your bags at your hotel while you explore the city the next morning, then head to Hoi An after lunch. 

The most spectacular way is on a motorbike tour through the Hai Van Pass .  The operators will take you on the back of a motorbike, and deliver both you and your luggage to your hotel in Hoi An.

Head to the beach during the day and relax on one of the many lounge chairs offered by the restaurants lining the foreshore of Central Vietnam.

In the evening enjoy the magical old town that comes alive at night with lights, markets, food, and more!  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Hoi An: Spend the night in Hoi An, and fly from nearby Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, or head to Nha Trang to link up with the Southern Vietnam Itinerary below.

READ MORE: Add these things to do in Hoi An to your 2 week Vietnam itinerary!

Extension Options

If you want more time in the north during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, add on these trips such as Ninh Binh and some cool national parks.

Considered the inland version of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh is best seen by boat, on a pushbike, or scooter. 

We spent two full days in Ninh Binh and enjoyed a pushbike ride in the surrounding area.

We then hired a scooter in Ninh Binh and set out to see more of the beautiful lush hills, taking a boat ride through Tam Coc, and visiting pagodas.

You can easily book an awesome 2-day, 1-night tour of Ninh Binh from Hanoi if you’re not comfortable riding a scooter in the crazy Vietnam traffic.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is home to over 300 caves and grottoes.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site protects the oldest karst system in Vietnam. 

It comprises of a precious ecosystem, limestone forest, and the world’s largest cave, Son Doong . 

The park offers eco-tourism, mountain climbing, trekking, flora and fauna, and caving. 

Some of this can be done independently, but tours are often the best option to get the most out of your time. 

The My Son ruins are another important UNESCO World Heritage site in central Vietnam. 

This temple complex was built by the Champas during their rule, and was influenced by Hinduism. 

The ruins of the brick temples and sculptures are often likened to Angkor Wat in Cambodia or Bagan in Myanmar.

Book a tour of My Son to make the most of your experience.

Ba Be Lake is the centre of the National Park, and of the Ba Be Lake legend. 

People believe that the lake was formed by an enchantress, who cursed the people of the surrounding area for not showing compassion to her when she asked for help.

Legends aside, Ba Be Lake offers a wide range of activities, from trekking, kayaking, motor-biking, waterfalls, caves, and the natural beauty and diversity of the area. 

The highest point of Bach Ma National Park is the 1450m high mountain of the same name. 

The park is known for its biodiversity, with lots of birds, flora, mammals, and primates.

The government finally protected the area in 1962, after the area was greatly damaged due to the use of agent orange during the Vietnam War.

The area is now safe for people to explore and is best seen with a tour guide . 

You can hike the Five Lakes Cascade Trail taking in the waterfalls, visit the monastery, and hike the Pheasant Trail .  

A visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), is a great one-day outing for history buffs. 

The DMZ area was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam during the war, and as a result, saw heavy fighting. 

The tour explains the extent of the fighting in this area, and the importance of the location in the Vietnam War. 

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the South

Next on your 2 weeks in Vietnam, spend 1 week in the south of Vietnam. You could easily spend 2 weeks in Vietnam in just the north or the south, but you can also spread out your time between both areas.

Our Southern itinerary begins in Nha Trang.  Either fly there from Saigon or Hanoi, or take a bus down from Hoi An if you’re continuing on from our Northern Itinerary.

Nha Trang is the most famous seaside resort in Vietnam and is known for its white-sand beaches, coastal islands, and clear waters with abundant marine life, making it perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

The town itself also offers interesting cultural sites close by, and places where you can pamper yourself with a mud-bath, or enjoy a seafood dinner. 

Where to stay in Nha Trang: Spend a night in Nha Trang, and take a bus or private car to Dalat the next morning.

After a relaxing time on the beach, it’s time to get some more culture in during your 2 week Vietnam itinerary! 

Dalat is heavily influenced by the colonial period from the French occupation, as the French built their holiday homes here to take advantage of the temperate weather.

With beautiful buildings, gardens, interesting architecture, coffee and tea plantation tours, waterfalls, mountain biking, hiking, and canyoning , you don’t want to miss out on this city!

Where to stay in Dalat: Spend the night in Dalat, and take a bus or private car to Mui Ne the next morning.

READ MORE: Learn more about what to do in Dalat with our Dalat city guide .

Three main things are offered in this beautiful resort destination; relaxation, watersports, and sand dunes.

Mui Ne beach is dotted with resorts, hotels, and hostels, and is a great place to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. 

Although Mui Ne is more than just the beach, this area is set up for tourists and has one main street of shops, cafes, bars, and shopping.

Being a beach town, watersports are a big thing here, and just about everything is on offer from kitesurfing to parasailing. 

The Mui Ne sand dunes are popular, and a spectacular sight. 

There are two locations, the smaller, closer, red sand dunes, and the white sand dunes about 26km from town. 

Tours are available for both locations and you can also hire dune buggies, or go sledding! 

Where to stay in Mui Ne: Spend a night in Mui Ne, then shake the sand from your belongings and take a bus or the train to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) the next morning.

There’s so much to see and experience in this historic city, including day tours to some pretty important locations, that you’ll need two days .  

On the first day, you’ll head out into Ho Chi Minh City.  It has some great cultural sites, like the Vietnam War Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame, and it also boasts some pretty great nightlife too.  

For the second day, we suggest you head out of the city on a day tour.  There are two great options: The Chu Chi Tunnels, or a trip to the Mekong Delta. (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City: For your two nights in Saigon, stay in District 1 to be right in the middle of everything, District 3 if you’d like a more relaxed stay that’s still only moments away from the action or District 4 for a real local experience. Fly to Phu Quoc Island on Day 6.

Phu Quoc is a small island off the coast of Cambodia, lined with white sand beaches and palm trees.  

There are many resorts along the southwest coast providing you with ample opportunity for some relaxation time, while you swim, and eat your last fill of tasty Vietnamese food.   

Phu Quoc island is home to mountains, tropical rainforest, hiking and wildlife, all within its National Park. 

Lots of tours are available to explore the island which offers snorkelling as well, or you can hire a scooter and set off by yourself.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc Island: Spend two relaxing nights on Phu Quoc Island, then fly back to Saigon to catch your onward flight!

If you have more time to spend during your 2 weeks in Vietnam, take the ferry to the mainland, and continue overland to some of the extension options listed below, or to Cambodia.

If you have more time for your 2 week Vietnam itinerary, or you want to further explore one area rather than hopping around, here are some ideas!

Depending on what you did in 7 days for our Southern Vietnam Itinerary, if you have time you might like to see the other option best explored out of Ho Chi Minh City.  (See Above 10-day Vietnam Itinerary)

During the French occupation, and later the Saigon regime, this island was used to house political prisoners and prisoners that were considered especially dangerous.

Aside from its harrowing past, the island is known for its natural beauty with over 80% of the island being a National Park. 

These days the island is frequented for its spectacular snorkelling and diving, with abundant coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and hidden lagoons.   

Can Tho is the de facto capital of the delta region and an unassuming city full of life. 

Most of the activity happens around the pier where you can enjoy great food and cold beer. 

Boat rides are available to show you more of the city and surrounding area, and visit some early-morning markets. 

If you’d like a little break from the tourists and are looking to just relax and hang out with the locals, Qui Nhon is the place to come . 

Unspoiled by tourism, this sleepy town has squeaky white sand beaches, snorkeling, swimming, temples, and museums. 

Cat Tien National Park is comprised of two sections Cat Loc, and Nam Cat Tien, the former being the most visited of the two. 

The river by Nam Cat Tien houses an important Hindu archaeological site and temple, where a large number of artifacts have been uncovered and are now in the Dalat museum. 

The national park has spectacular flora and fauna and trekking.

READ MORE: 33 amazing things to do in Vietnam !

Vietnam is a large and diverse country, with a great deal to offer the traveller who goes in with an open mind and heart. 

While we’ve listed what we feel are the main highlights, there is much more to be explored when you visit Vietnam.

Friendly people really make Vietnam a special place to visit.

The itineraries listed above are a bare minimum if you need to get the most out of a short amount of time. 

While doable, if possible it would be a much more relaxing trip if you could pad it out by adding a few days to your Vietnam itinerary, and slow down a little!

We hope you have a wonderful time there!

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

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Vespa tour through the hoi an countryside, a photo journey inside hang son doong – the world’s largest cave, riding the ho chi minh highway west, motorbiking the road from dalat to nha trang in vietnam, 1 thought on “the perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks”.

Hi, I was wondering how much the 10 day option costs roughly in AUD? Cheers!

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Why travel vietnam.

Vietnam is a country of beauty, culture, and history. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the stunning natural landscapes of Ha Long Bay and Sapa, there is something for everyone in Vietnam. There are many reasons to travel to Vietnam, but here are a few of the best:

• Unspoiled natural beauty:  Vietnam is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world, from the towering limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the lush rice terraces of Sapa.
• Delicious food:  Vietnamese cuisine is one of the most diverse and flavorful in Asia. From pho to banh mi to bun cha, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
• Rich history and culture:  Vietnam has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 2nd century BC. There are many historical sites to explore, from the ancient temples of Hue to the French colonial architecture of Hanoi.
• Friendly people:  Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and warmth. You're sure to feel welcome wherever you go in Vietnam.
• Affordability:  Vietnam is a very affordable travel destination. You can easily find good food, accommodation, and activities without breaking the bank.

If you're looking for a beautiful, affordable, and culturally rich travel destination, then Vietnam is the perfect place for you.

Vietnam Travel Packages

We offers a wide variety of travel packages to Vietnam and Indochina, all designed to help you experience the best of the country. Our packages include all the necessary transportation, accommodation, and activities, so you can relax and enjoy your trip without having to worry about anything.

Our packages are available for all budgets and interests, so you can find the perfect one for you. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventurous jungle trek, or a cultural exploration, we have a package that's perfect for you.

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Culture & History Tours

Highlights of vietnam - 8 days.

Hanoi, Sapa, & Halong Bay: Your 6-Day North Vietnam Itinerary

Vietnam discovery - 14 days, highlights of south & north vietnam - 10 days, adventure & activity, 4wd north-west vietnam - 7 days.

Sapa Adventure - 5 Days

North-east vietnam adventure - 5 days, 10-day northern vietnam tour, culinary tours, taste of vietnam - 11 days.

Hoian Cooking Tour - Half Day

Southern flavors - 6 days, the northern gourmet - 4 days, luxury vietnam tours, best of vietnam - 12 days.

Vietnam Luxury Journey - 9 Days

River floating market - beach break & leisure cruise - 10 days, heritage luxury journey (cambodia &vietnam tour) - 8 days, vietnam & southeast asia tours, angkor wat and north vietnam tour - 9 da….

Central Vietnam & Angkor Temples - 7 Days

Luxury vietnam & cambodia - 16 days, 14-day tour from halong bay to angkor wat, vietnam hotels, sofitel legend metropole hotel.

Mercure Hanoi La Gare Hotel

Grand plaza hanoi hotel, silk path hotel, halong cruises, heritage line violet.

Departure: Daily from Hanoi Price from $314/person * Free Vietnam visa Approval letter.

Mon Chéri cruise

Paradise elegance cruise, glory legend cruises, mekong cruises, pandaw - low water program: upstream.

Jayavarman - Low water program: Downstream

The jahan - low water program: downstream, pandaw - low water program: downstream, vietnam tours, halong bay cruise tour.

Explore the stunning Ha Long Bay on this 3-day cruise. Visit floating villages, go kayaking, and hike through limestone caves.

Mekong Delta Tour

Take a boat ride through the Mekong Delta on this 2-day tour. Visit floating markets, sample local cuisine, and learn about the region's unique culture.

Saigon City Tour

Explore the bustling city of Saigon on this 3-day tour. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Ben Thanh Market.

Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

Discover the charming town of Hoi An on this 2-day tour. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, shop for souvenirs, and sample the local cuisine.

Hanoi City Tour

Explore the capital city of Hanoi on this 3-day tour. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter.

Da Nang Beach Tour

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Da Nang on this 2-day tour. Visit the Marble Mountains, the Cham Museum, and the Dragon Bridge.

Best Time to Visit

If you're looking for the best time to visit Vietnam, you can't go wrong with the dry season. It lasts from November to April, and it's when you'll get the most sunshine and the least rain. Plus, you won't have to deal with too many tourists, so you can have more space and time to enjoy Vietnam's awesome sights.

Want to know more about Vietnam's weather and when to go? Check out our blog post on The best time to visit Vietnam . We'll give you the lowdown on what to expect in each region of Vietnam, and how to plan your trip around the seasons, the crowds, and the prices.

What to See and Do in Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. The bay is home to thousands of limestone karsts, which rise up from the water like giant green mountains.

Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is the largest river delta in Southeast Asia. It is home to a unique ecosystem and a diverse population of people. Visitors to the Mekong Delta can enjoy boat rides, visit floating markets, and learn about the region's unique culture.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City aka Saigon is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. Visitors to Saigon can enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting historical landmarks, shopping at markets, and dining at restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a well-preserved example of a traditional Vietnamese town. Visitors to Hoi An can enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting temples, exploring the old town, and shopping for souvenirs.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam. It is a city with a rich history and culture. Visitors to Hanoi can enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting historical landmarks, shopping at markets, and dining at restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

Da Nang Beach

Da Nang is a city in central Vietnam. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Visitors to Da Nang can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the city's many attractions.

This list offers just a taste of the incredible experiences Vietnam has to offer. To discover more hidden gems, captivating cities, and unforgettable adventures, explore our comprehensive guide to the best places to visit in Vietnam .

Travel to Vietnam

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

Visas and Currency

• Visas:  Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Vietnam for tourism purposes. However, it is important to check with your local Vietnamese embassy or consulate to confirm visa requirements. You can also visit our website for more information on Vietnam entry requirements .
• Currency:  The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). You can exchange your currency for VND at banks, currency exchange bureaus, and some hotels. The exchange rate between the Vietnamese dong and other currencies fluctuates, so it is best to check the latest exchange rate before you travel. You can also visit our website for more information on Vietnamese currency .

Accommodation

Vietnam has a lot of different places to stay, depending on what you're looking for and how much you want to spend. You can choose from hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and even homestays. The prices change depending on where you are, what kind of place you stay in, and when you go.

Do you want to treat yourself to a luxury stay? You can find some amazing five-star hotels in Vietnam. They have everything you need to relax and enjoy yourself, like swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants.

Are you traveling on a tight budget? You can find some great hostels and guesthouses in Vietnam. They may not have all the bells and whistles of hotels, but they have a cozy place to sleep.

Are you looking for something different? You can even find homestays in Vietnam. Homestays let you stay with a local family and learn about Vietnamese culture up close. If you want to know more about hotels and resorts in Vietnam, check out the acccommodations in Vietnam section

South East Asia Tours

• Vietnam & Cambodia Tours
• Vietnam & Laos Tours
• Thailand & Cambodia Tours
• Thailand & Myanmar Tours
• Cambodia & Laos Tours
• Vietnam & Myanmar Tours
• Privacy Policy
• Term & Conditions
• Vietnam Visa
• Country Guides

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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• Things to do

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay. Photo by Aaron Joel Santos

5 must-see heritage sites in Vietnam

21 must-try Vietnamese dishes

10 cool collectibles to buy in Vietnam

7 amazing national parks in Vietnam

7 incredible islands in Vietnam

Get inspired.

There are so many insightful tours, amazing dishes and fun activities in Vietnam, you’ll never run out of interesting things to do. Here are some handpicked ideas to get you started.

Fabulous Food

If there’s one characteristic that unites Vietnamese food, it’s freshness. Pass by any Vietnamese market, you'll be amazed by the abundance of the sea and soil: feathery herbs, plump vegetables and flapping-fresh proteins. Freshness is where the fun begins. Vietnamese cooks enhance beautiful ingredients with aromatic herbs and contrasting textures for maximum delight. Simply put, it's one of the world’s healthiest and most delicious cuisines.

striking scenery

Vietnam is chock-full of forested peaks, thundering waterfalls, and breezy coastline, so it’s no wonder the country is luring more and more outdoor enthusiasts. With so many options at your fingertips, you may need a second (or third) trip to take it all in. And while there are plenty of pulse-pounding activities, Vietnam also presents more leisurely ways to enjoy its vast natural attractions.

timeless culture

In a country like Vietnam, the word ‘culture’ has a thousand meanings. It might mean the red and gold gilded doors of the Hue Citadel, or the tin-filter drip coffee served on every street corner. It might mean the sensitive watercolours hanging in a contemporary gallery, or the throaty cry of Ca Trù sung poetry. It could even encompass the embroidered costumes of the Flower Hmong, or the subtle lines of the áo dài. Past and present, hand-in-hand, are what makes Vietnamese culture so compelling.

changing cities

Spend a few days in its urban centres, and you'll see why so many travellers are taken with Vietnam's captivating energy. In the streets and you'll encounter chaotic markets and colonial-era cafes, sparkling malls, hip rooftop lounges, and tidy boutiques. At least once in your stay, do as the locals do and enjoy an evening of barbecue and beer on the sidewalk, or chat over a cup of tea in the shade of a city park.

blissful beaches

Vietnam is a country with a long, curving coastline. Scattered offshore are dozens of beautiful islets, teeming with sea life and blessed with pristine shores. Vietnam’s coastal cities are packed with activities and on-the-water adventures, while its fishing villages still hold their simple, seaside charms. Wherever you choose, chilled coconuts, basket boats, and seafood dinners are guaranteed.

festivals and special events

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The Ultimate 1 Month Vietnam Itinerary And Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Vietnam

Vietnam is a wonderful country in Southeast Asia. There are lush rice fields in the North and tropical islands in the South.

In between, you can find anything from stunning limestone mountains to colorful temples, historic sites, and interesting cities.

This Vietnam itinerary includes the best things to do in Vietnam and will help you plan your trip. Happy travels!

The ultimate 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Vietnam 1 month itinerary

In the map below you can find our Vietnam travel itinerary, accommodations, and highlights of our month in Vietnam.

I traveled from North to South but you can also do this Vietnam trip itinerary in reverse.

Click here for the interactive map.

The perfect 1 month Vietnam itinerary

Day 1-2: hanoi.

• Day 3-4 : Halong Bay
• Day 5: Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7:  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 8-9:  Hue
• Day 10: Hai Van Pass and the Marble Mountains
• Day 11-17:  Hoi An
• Day 18-19: Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)
• Day 20-21: Dalat and around
• Day 22:  Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 23-25: Ho Chi Minh City and around

• Day 26:  Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Day 27-29: Phu Quoc Island

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Important things to know when planning a Vietnam trip

The best time to visit Vietnam is between February and April . Vietnam is a long narrow country with different climates in the north and south. While the north can be ‘chilly' in winter (around 15°C), temperatures in the south are much more consistent throughout the year (between 22°C and 30°C).

The official currency in Vietnam is the  Vietnamese Dong (VND).   Here  you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 26.000VND and $1 is approximately 23.000VND.

Yes, most nationalities need a visa for Vietnam . You can apply for a visa online. Keep in mind you will need to pay two fees: online you will pay the Visa Pre-Approval Letter Fee and once you arrive at the airport you must pay a Stamping Fee (to be paid in cash, so be sure to bring dollars).

Traveling and getting around in Vietnam is pretty easy. There are many options to choose from (flights, night trains, night buses, minivans, taxis, motor tours, etc.) and plenty of travel agencies selling tickets to each of those options, as well as organized tours . In the itinerary below, you can find more detailed information about how to travel from A to B in Vietnam.

Where to stay in Vietnam on a budget

In this table, you can find the accommodation we stayed at during our trip around Vietnam.

These hotels are all rated 8+ on Agoda and Booking , we stayed in private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. More details about these hotels can be found further on in the post.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices and book ahead to get the best deal.

Itinerary for Vietnam

Ideally, if you have a month in Vietnam as we did, you’d travel from North to South (or vice versa). It's best to start your trip in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, as these are the largest hubs for international flights.

If you have less time available to explore Vietnam, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Further on in the post, I also suggest shorter options (7 and 10 days, plus 2 and 3 weeks) for your Vietnam travel itinerary.

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a fusion of different cultures (Vietnamese, French, and Chinese).

It's a busy city, with many (historic) sights, a chaotic but interesting Old Quarter, beautiful temples, and an abundance of restaurants serving delicious Vietnamese dishes.

I recommend spending at least two days in Hanoi, though you could easily stay much longer in this buzzing city without running out of things to see and do.

Spend two days exploring Hanoi on foot, board a two-day cruise to Halong Bay , and join a tour of the Perfume Pagoda, or a day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc .

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

I personally found visiting the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh very impressive, though also a little creepy.

I mean, the man died in 1969, and yet it looks like he is sleeping in his glass coffin and could wake up any minute.

Combined with an impressive number of guards, soldiers, and other officials and the endless line of Vietnamese honoring their great leader made visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum a very unusual experience.

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum is free, but there can be long queues. The mausoleum is only open from 7:30 am until 10:30 am, so it's best to arrive very early in the morning. Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

While this museum is mostly a promotional campaign of the Communist Party of Vietnam, it's interesting to learn about history from this point of view.

However, I'll be honest: this wasn't the highlight of my Hanoi itinerary and if you only have one day in Hanoi, I'd skip this particular sight.

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays. On the other days of the week, you can visit from 8 am to12 pm or from 2 pm until 4.30 pm.

The Temple of Literature

This ancient temple was built around the year 1100 and nobles, royalty, and other members of the elite traveled from faraway places to study Confucianism here.

It's pretty incredible that the building is almost 1000 years old. Take a moment to look around and imagine how life must have been in those times.

The Temple of Literature is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm. The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person.

Ngoc Son Temple

Located on a tiny island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, it is hard to imagine a place more suited for a temple. It feels like an oasis of peacefulness in the middle of busy Hanoi.

The entrance fee is 30.000VND per person, there is a small booth left of the bridge where you can purchase a ticket. The Ngoc Son Temple is open every day of the week from 8 am until 6 pm.

Where to stay in Hanoi on a budget

Hanoi Serenity Hotel is a great place to stay in the middle of the Old Quarter. The rooms are spacious, clean, and modern.

Breakfast is good and included in the price. The staff is very welcoming and helpful.

Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking

How to travel from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi city center

The easiest way, in my opinion, is taking the Vietjet airport shuttle bus.

This bus leaves every 1-2 hours and costs just 40.000 VND per adult. The price is clearly listed on the side of the bus, so you don't need to bargain.

The bus will stop next to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can disembark and either walk or take a taxi to your accommodation (depending on where you are staying).

Travel tip: if you're exhausted from a long flight and want to get from Noi Bai International Airport to your hotel in Hanoi in a faster way, I recommend booking a private transfer . Your professional driver will be waiting with a personal welcome sign and deliver you safely to your Hanoi hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Click here to book your airport transfer .

Day 3-4: A two-day cruise in Halong Bay

Halong Bay is gorgeous, with its blue-green water and steep limestone cliffs rising high above the water, as far as your eyes can see.

It's one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam and a UNESCO heritage site.

However, I have to admit that while the cruise was a lot of fun and we spent a lot of time chatting with the other travelers on the boat, I didn’t find Ha long Bay as impressive as I thought I would.

Perhaps my expectations were too high, or maybe I was spoilt because we had just visited El Nido in the Philippines , which to me is the ultimate tropical island paradise.

We also were a bit unlucky with the weather. On the first day of our cruise, it was extremely foggy and we barely saw anything of the famous cliffs.

Also, there were many other boats and a lot of trash floating in the water.

That being said, we enjoyed our cruise and I'm happy we went on this cruise. Halong Bay is a unique place to visit and should be part of any itinerary to Vietnam.

Important: cruising Halong Bay is a very popular activity in Vietnam. If you want to make sure you can travel on specific dates I strongly encourage you to book ahead.

Furthermore, I highly recommend booking with a reputable tour operator , I have heard horror stories from other travelers who ended up on a boat with huge rats.

Also check if meals and transport are included and if there are additional fees (for example, to enter Sung Sot Cave or to use a kayak).

This popular Halong Bay tour has great ratings from other travelers (4.8 stars out of 5).

Day 5: Day trip to the famous Perfume Pagoda

I really enjoyed our tour of the Perfume Pagoda because coincidentally we timed our visit perfectly. We did our tour of the Perfume Pagoda tour shortly after the Vietnamese New Year.

The week after the Vietnamese New Year, many Vietnamese people visit this particular pagoda and the Huong Tich cave to make an offering, which makes the tour extra interesting.

During this tour, our guide told us a lot about the complex combination of religions practiced in Vietnam (Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism).

To get to the Pagoda complex, we took a seat in a tiny boat rowed by a small but surprisingly strong Vietnamese man.

During this boat trip over the Yen Stream, we passed lots of boats jam-packed with Vietnamese families who were on their way to visit the pagoda as well.

They smiled enthusiastically, waved, and took pictures of us and it made for an amusing boat trip. Click here to book a tour to the Perfume Pagoda .

Day 6: Day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc

This was the last of the three tours I did around Hanoi and my favorite one as well.

First, we visited Hoa Lu, which was the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009 during the rule of the Dinh Dynasty.

While this historic site was definitely interesting to visit, the highlight of the tour is Tam Coc. The area around Tam Coc is absolutely stunning, it's kind of similar to Halong Bay but with rice fields instead of water.

There are massive limestone cliffs soaring high above bright green rice fields, a beautiful sight!

We made a lovely boat trip along the Hoang Long River (the lady rowing the boat rowed with her feet!) and passed through an impressive case.

While this is a very worthwhile tour, please note that the bus ride from Hanoi to Tam Coc takes at least two hours (depending on traffic).

We opted not to go back to Hanoi, instead, we spent the night at Tam Coc as we planned to travel south.

Check out this excellent Hoa Lu and Tam Coc tour for more detailed information and book your ticket online .

Where to stay in Tam Coc on a budget

Tuan Ngoc Hotel is a small-scale hotel in Tam Coc and one of the best accommodations we stayed at during our one-month Vietnam trip.

The family who runs the hotel is incredibly friendly and really makes you feel at home. The rooms are clean, the bed is very comfortable and the Wi-Fi was good.

All the food was delicious and freshly prepared. A highly recommended place to stay!

Day 7-8: explore Tam Coc and travel to Hue by night train

I was very happy we got to spend another day admiring the beautiful surroundings of Tam Coc. We rented a bicycle and cycled over sandy roads between the rice fields.

We often rent bicycles during our travels and I always very much enjoy this.

Not only is it an eco-friendly way of exploring a place, but it's also healthy and allows for plenty of opportunities to make a quick stop to take a picture.

How to travel from Ninh Binh to Hue by night train

From Tuan Ngoc Hotel it's a 15-minute taxi ride to Ninh Binh station (we paid 100.000 VND). About 15 minutes before the train arrives, a bell will chime and railway employees will check your tickets.

Usually, they will guide you to the right spot on the platform, so you can board the cabin listed on your train tickets ticket.

I enjoyed our train trips in Vietnam. The 4 people soft sleeper cabins are pretty comfortable and I usually got a decent night's sleep. For more information about train travel in Vietnam, check seat61.com .

My most important tip for train travel in Vietnam is to book your train tickets online , at least a couple of days in advance! Beds sell out fast, particularly the soft sleepers.

Click here to book your train tickets via 12Go.

Day 8-9: Hue and around

I spent two lovely days in Hue, the capital of the Nguyễn emperors.

On our first day in Hue, we visited the Imperial City and on the second day, we rented a bicycle and cycled along the Perfume River.

The Imperial City

Hue was the capital of the Nguyễn emperors, who build the Citadel between 1804 and 1833.

Within the 2.5 by 2.5km and 6-meter high wall of the Citadel, the emperors build the Imperial Enclosure and within this enclosure, they build the Forbidden Purple City; a place only the emperor, his concubines, and eunuchs were allowed to enter.

Unfortunately, much of the complex has been destroyed during the Vietnam War, but with help from UNESCO, it is being restored.

The Imperial City is a very impressive complex, with beautiful temples and gardens and a must-visit during any Hue itinerary.

The complex is very green and quiet, it felt like we were the only ones there! Be sure to bring enough water along, it can get quite hot during the day.

The entrance fee to the Imperial City in Hue is 150.000 VND per person. The complex is open daily from 8 am until 5:30 pm (10 pm on Thursday evenings!)

Rent a bicycle

On our second day in Hue, we rented bicycles from our hotel and explored the area around Hue.

Thien Mu Pagoda

We visited the seven-story tall Thien Mu Pagoda, which is often regarded as the symbol of Hue. Found on the northern bank of the Perfume River, the Pagoda is an easy 5-kilometer bike ride from Hue city center.

Keep in mind there are monks living at the site so be sure to dress and behave respectfully.

Chùa Huyền Không temple

Another nice place to visit is the Chùa Huyền Không temple. This unknown temple is beautiful and highly worth a visit. It was built in 1973, around the temple there are lovely gardens and small lilyponds.

From the Thien Mu Pagoda, it's another 3km by bike to reach the Huyen Khong temple.

Other things to do in Hue

If you have more time to spend in Hue, other worthwhile activities are a day trip to Bach Ma National Park , the Tomb of Minh Mang, or the Tomb of Tu Duc.

? Only got a day to explore Hue? Check out this full-day private tour and visit the most significant and popular sights in Hue, (and learn more about the city's interesting history ) . Check availability here .

Where to stay in Hue on a budget

We received such a warm welcome at the Charming Riverside hotel . A cold towel, fresh fruit, juice, and information about Hue and the places of interest in the city.

There are different room options and some even have a river view! Bicycle rental for $2 a day. Breakfast is excellent and the staff is very helpful and accommodating.

Day 10: how to travel from Hue to Hoi An (by minivan)

The distance between Hue and Hoi An is only 150km and shouldn't take more than three hours without stopping along the way. However, that was not what happened during our trip from Hue to Hoi An…

The day before we departed, I asked the hotel how to get from Hue to Hoi An. No problem, they exclaimed, we have a minivan that can take you there for $15 per person.

I booked two tickets and we were picked up by an empty minivan the next morning. But as always in Southeast Asia, that quickly changed, and more and more people piled into the van.

After driving for about half an hour, the driver's phone went off, he had a short chat and pulled over. When one of the passengers asked why we had stopped the driver cheerfully said that more people were coming.

Apparently, they had forgotten to pick up two people in Hue, who were now on their way to our location in a cab. We patiently waited for a while until the missing passengers arrived and resumed our journey.

A friendly Vietnamese guy started talking about the surroundings, and the villages we passed and shared some historical facts.

Interesting, I thought, but why exactly is he telling this stuff? It turned out he was our guide.

Yes, apparently, I did not just book a transfer from Hue to Hoi An, I booked a tour!

Hai Van Pass

Along the way from Hue to Hoi An, we stopped at Hai Van Pass, a 600-meter high pass that gained instant fame when Jeremy Clarkson declared it ‘ A deserted ribbon of perfection ’ in the Vietnam special of Top Gear.

Beautiful? Definitely!

Deserted? Not so much.

The Marble Mountains

We also stopped at the Marble Mountains, which turned out to be an interesting place to visit.

There were many caves and Buddha statues, each of them slightly different. I didn’t know the difference between the different poses and types of Buddha statues but learned a lot during our visit to the Marble Mountains (see pictures above).

The entrance fee to the Marble Mountains is 40.000VND per person. The complex is open every day of the week from 7 am to 5:30 pm.

Final destination: Hoi An

Eventually, we arrived in Hoi An around 5 pm, after a great day of sightseeing. The tour reconfirmed my earlier lessons and my advice to you: when in Southeast Asia, always expect the unexpected:-)

For my husband and myself, it wasn't an issue that the trip had taken an entire day as we were planning to stay in Hoi An for at least a couple of days.

However, some of the passengers would be traveling back to Hue the next day, which unfortunately meant their day of sightseeing in Hoi An was cut short…

Day 11-17: exploring and relaxing in Hoi An

While we planned to spend three days in Hoi An , we ended up spending an entire week! Hoi An is a lovely town, with great food and a very relaxed vibe.

When darkness falls, Hoi An feels like a fairy tale village, lit by thousands of colorful lanterns.

Hoi An Old Town

Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site, with many beautiful historic buildings.

To visit these historic buildings, you need to buy a Hoi An Old Town admission ticket at one of the ticket booths spread around town.

The ticket gives you entrance to five historic buildings. There are 22 sights listed on the heritage map (you'll get one of these when purchasing the ticket) so choose carefully.

On the ticket, it says that it is valid for 24 hours only, but we used the same ticket on Monday and Wednesday without any issues. Some of the most popular sites to visit are:

• The Fujian Assembly Hall (also called Phuoc Kien)
• The Japanese Covered Bridge
• Duc An Old House
• Cam Pho Communal House
• Hoi An Museum

? Got more time to spend in Hoi An? Book this Hoi An bicycle tour and ride through the scenic countryside of Vietnam as you learn about the local way of life and enjoy a delicious lunch. Check availability here .

Have a massage

Something to add to your Hoi An itinerary is getting a massage. In Hoi An, there are many different spas, suitable for every budget.

I had a very relaxing massage at the Kiman hotel , which cost around 300.000 VND and took about an hour.

Get a custom-made dress

If you are looking to get a custom-made dress, suit, or other garments, Hoi An is the place to buy this. I had a beautiful dress made for my sister's wedding that I still wear.

Take a cooking class

During our week in Hoi An, we also took a cooking class . Before the actual cooking started, the instructors took us to the local market to buy the ingredients we were going to use in the dishes.

We learned to make fresh spring rolls and sauteed chicken. I love Vietnamese food and it tasted even better when we prepared it ourselves. Check the availability of the cooking class here.

Hang out at one of the many cafes

One of the best things about Hoi An was relaxing in one of the many cafes! I am a bit of a coffee addict and our favorite place in Hoi An was 11 Coffee.

Phap, the owner of 11 Coffee, is a great guy and a real coffee enthusiast. I can highly recommend visiting his cute cafe, we went there almost every day during our time in Hoi An.

Join a day trip to My Son

One of the most important historic sites near Hoi An is the UNESCO World Heritage site My Son Sanctuary . Learn about the Champa Kingdom and explore the ruins of this former capital.

Click here to book a tour to My Son Sanctuary.

Where to stay in Hoi An on a budget

Option 1: jolie villa homestay.

Our first hotel in Hoi An was Jolie Villa Homestay . We stayed in a spacious room with a huge comfortable bed.

The bathroom was large, clean, and modern. Also, the shower was high enough for tall people such as my husband, which is rare in Vietnam!

Wi-Fi was good (each room has its own router) and there are free bicycles available. You can also freely use the swimming pool at the Kiman hotel , which is also run by this lovely family).

But first and foremost, the host family is awesome, super-friendly, and helpful. They know each guest by name from the moment you arrive and make you feel very welcome. We had an excellent stay here!

Option 2: Sac Xanh homestay

Because all the rooms at Jolie Villa were booked and we wanted to stay in Hoi An for a couple more days, we looked for another hotel and found Sac Xanh homestay .

This was another great budget hotel and we had such a lovely stay with this family. The rooms are basic but spotlessly clean, the bed (with mosquito net) is super comfortable and there are free bicycles available.

The best thing about this homestay was the host family who was very friendly, welcoming, and helpful throughout our stay.

They arranged transport for us to Da Nang train station and helped us make a reservation for bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat.

Also, they made us a delicious Vietnamese breakfast each morning. On the day of our departure, the family organized a special going away lunch and the food was among the best we had in Vietnam.

Day 18-19: how to travel from Hoi An to Dalat (via Nha Trang)

After a relaxing week in Hoi An, it was time to move on. The next destination on our Vietnam tour itinerary was Dalat. In the table above you can find more details about our journey from Hoi An to Dalat.

Even though it was a 24-hour journey, it didn't feel that long because we had a good night of sleep aboard the overnight train and the road from Nha Trang to Dalat was breathtaking.

Click here to book your train tickets from Danang to Nha Trang and bus tickets from Nha Trang to Dalat

Day 20-21: Dalat

We rented two mountain bikes from our accommodation, Cam Ly homestay , to explore Da lat and its surroundings. Dalat is located in the mountains and there are many fun things to see and do.

Ho Xuan Huong Lake

On our first day in Dalat, we cycled around Ho Xuan Huong Lake, located in the heart of Dalat.

The Crazy House

Southwest of the lake you can find the Crazy House, a maze of stairs, and hidden passages in a Gaudi meets fairytale style.

The entrance fee for the Crazy House is 60.000VND per person. It's open every day of the week, from 8.30 am to 7 pm.

Did you know? Besides visiting the Crazy House, you can actually spend the night in one of the 10 unique themed rooms!

We wandered around the Crazy House for about an hour, before cycling to the train station of Dalat.

A train ride from Dalat to Trai Mat

At the pretty Dalat railway station, we got on a beautifully restored train, which brought us to Trai Mat, a little village about 7km away.

In the table below you can find the departure times, the ride from Dalat to Trai Mat (and vice versa) takes approximately 30 minutes.

A return train ticket from Dalat to Trai Mat costs 126.000VND per person

Linh Phuoc temple (Trai Mat)

In Trai Mat, we visited the unique Linh Phuoc temple. The main feature of the temple is the 7-meter high and 49-meter long dragon, which is made of 12.000 bottles!

After our visit to Trai Mat, we returned to Dalat on the historic train and cycled back to our homestay.

Datanla Falls

On our second day in Dalat, we cycled to the Datanla Falls (approximately 6km from town), a nice place to visit. The entrance fee to the Datanla Waterfalls is 30.000VND per person.

? Looking for an adventure? Go on an epic canyoning adventure at the Datanla Waterfalls! Check availability here .

Dalat Truc Lam Zen Monastery

We continued our Dalat itinerary and cycled to the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, located on top of a mountain. This serene complex has lovely gardens and beautiful buildings.

The Truc Lam Zen complex is a lovely place to relax and contemplate all the beautiful things you have seen so far on your trip to Vietnam.

Luckily the way back from the Truc Lam Zen Pagoda to Dalat was mostly downhill, we were pretty tired from climbing all the steep mountains!

? Take the Robin Hill Cable Car and enjoy more panoramic view of Dalat. Click here to buy cable car tickets .

Where to stay in Dalat on a budget

Our stay at Cam Ly Homestay in Dalat was lovely! When we arrived Tri, the owner, welcomed us by name and showed us to our room.

The room was spacious and light, with a comfortable bed (with mosquito net). It had a nice view of the Cam Ly stream and a small balcony.

I highly recommend joining one of the BBQ evenings; there is great food (homemade spring rolls!), and cheap beers and it's a great way to meet other travelers and exchange stories.

Day 22: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City 

Tri, the kind owner of Cam Ly homestay , called the airport shuttle bus the day before our departure and the next morning the shuttle bus picked us up from the homestay (only 15 minutes late, which in Southeast Asia is considered right on time;-).

Liên Khương Airport is located about 30 km south of Dalat, so it wasn't a long bus ride and we arrived at the airport with plenty of time to check in.

The flight from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh was also very short, just 50 minutes. From Ho Chi Minh airport we took bus 152 to the city center.

On the bus, we had to buy one ticket for ourselves and one for our big backpacks.

Granted, these took up just as much space as the average Vietnamese person. And when a ticket costs a mere 5000 VND you can't really complain anyway.

Click here to book a flight to Ho Chi Minh

The word that immediately comes to mind when I think about Ho Chi Minh City is organized chaos.

The rule when crossing the street isn’t ‘ Walk when the traffic light is green ’ but ‘Don’t mind the color of the traffic light, just cross slowly but surely and maintain eye contact all the time’ . 

Whatever you do: don’t stop!

It still amazes me that I have only seen one traffic incident in my month in Vietnam, so despite the chaos, it all seems to work out pretty well.

There are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as in the surrounding area.

I really wanted to visit the Independence Palace (pictured above), the home and office of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, but it's usually open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.

We also visited the Mariamman Hindu temple , the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Central Post Office (pictured below).

The post office was definitely my favorite building, I loved the symmetry on the inside of this beautiful place.

Other places we visited in Ho Chi Minh were the War Remnant Museum and the Cu Chi tunnels (about 40 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City).

Visit the War Remnant Museum

When you are in Vietnam, you’ll inevitably come across some vivid reminders of the Vietnam War such as disabled people and bombed buildings.

If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must. This impressive museum tells a terrible story. It's not a place to visit with young children, as the stories and pictures are truly horrible.

There are disturbing images of entire villages being massacred, pictures of prisoners being tortured, and photos of napalm victims.

Altogether, visiting the War Remnants Museum is extremely depressing. However, when you are in Ho Chi Minh City, you must visit this place and learn about the Vietnam War and what war does to people.

There are no winners in war, only pain, and loss…

The entrance fee is 40.000VND per person and the museum is open daily from 7:30 am until 6 pm.

Take a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels

We took a tour of the Cu Chi tunnels , another vivid reminder of the Vietnam War.

This 200km network of extremely cramped underground tunnels was constructed and used by the Vietcong during the war to fight the Americans with a guerrilla tactic.

When we descended into the tunnels, which have already been widened for tourists, I almost panicked (I am a little claustrophobic) and went back up.

But I felt that, if people lived there for almost 10 years, I should be able to crawl a mere 100 meters through the cramped, hot, dark tunnel with little fresh oxygen.

I was so relieved when I got out and so impressed by the tenacity of the people who had called these tunnels home for years…

Click here for more information about the Cu Chi tunnels tour .

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a budget

Our stay at Thao Nhi Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City was good. We got a free upgrade to a bigger room and the hotel is run by very friendly staff.

The hotel serves delicious and affordable food and is located close to all the sights (in a small street just off the main backpacker street).

Day 26: Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc (by plane)

While it was a long day, it was an easy travel day. We took the local bus (#152) back to the airport, where we had to wait for a couple of hours as our flight was delayed.

Luckily, the flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phu Quoc island was only one hour and there was a taxi waiting for us upon arrival.

The airport is located in the middle of nowhere and arranging a taxi via your accommodation before arrival is recommended, particularly when you are arriving late in the evening.

Click here to book a flight to Phu Quoc

We spent three days in Phu Quoc , which was the perfect way to end our Vietnam travel route. On Phu Quoc, we rented a scooter for a couple of days and explored the beautiful island.

If you plan to travel to Phu Quoc during peak season (December-March), I recommend booking a scooter in advance to make sure there's one available for your trip.

Where to stay in Phu Quoc on a budget

Fortuna Hotel was another lovely place to stay. The rooms are lovingly decorated and spotlessly clean, with private bathrooms.

From the hotel, it's a 20-minute drive to Duong Dong, the main town in Phu Quoc. Not a problem if you rent a scooter but something to keep in mind when booking this hotel.

Alternative Vietnam itineraries (7 and 10 days + 2 and 3 weeks)

Vietnam itinerary 7 days.

If you just have 1 week in Vietnam, don’t worry! While you cannot see everything the country has to offer, you can get a taste and feel of the country.

Here is my suggestion for a 1 week Vietnam itinerary:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and eat your way around this lively cit y
• Day 3:  Make a day trip from Hanoi (such as the Perfume Pagoda, or Hao Lu and Tam Coc )
• Day 3:  Take a flight to Danang and travel to Hoi An
• Day 4-5:  Explore Hoi An
• Day 6: Make a trip to My Son or a bicycle tour around Hoi An
• Day 7: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 10 days

This 10-day Vietnam itinerary includes buzzing Hanoi, the imperial city Hue, and fairytale town Hoi An, but also the two most beautiful natural sights: Halong Bay and Tam Coc.

• Day 1:  Explore Hanoi and eat delicious street food
• Day 2-3: Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 4:  Hanoi + take a night train to Hue
• Day 5-6:  Explore Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Visit the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son
• Day 10: Fly home from Danang

Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks

If you have 2 weeks in Vietnam, I’d recommend traveling either from North to South or vice versa. Your 2 week Vietnam itinerary could look like this:

• Day 1-2:  Explore Hanoi and sample some excellent street food
• Day 3: Make a day trip to Tam Coc
• Day 5-6:  Hue + transfer to Hoi An on day 6
• Day 7-8:  Explore the historic buildings in Hoi An
• Day 9: Make a trip to My Son or explore the countryside around Hoi An by bike
• Day 10: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 11-12: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 12-14: Phu Quoc island

This itinerary for Vietnam in 2 weeks is especially suitable for people looking to travel in one direction instead of a loop.

Vietnam itinerary: 3 weeks

With this 3 weeks Vietnam itinerary, you get to experience very different sides of Vietnam. You'll explore several interesting cities, spend a night in Halong Bay, and get to relax in tropical Phu Quoc.

For this 3 week Vietnam itinerary, I suggest the following route:

• Day 1-2: Eat your way around Hanoi
• Day 3-4 : Make a cruise in Halong Bay
• Day 5: Day tour to the Perfume Pagoda
• Day 6-7: Day trip to the  Hoa Lu and Tam Coc
• Day 11-13:  Explore Hoi An Old Town
• Day 14: Make a day trip to My Son
• Day 15: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Danang
• Day 16-17: Ho Chi Minh and a trip to the Cu Chu tunnels
• Day 18-21: Explore Phu Quoc island

The best Vietnam itinerary: in conclusion

I hope this Vietnam travel guide and sample itineraries will inspire you to visit Vietnam and help you plan your trip.

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message . Also read these posts for more Vietnam travel inspiration:

• 10 interesting facts about Vietnam
• 50 unique things to do in Vietnam
• Authentic things to do in Hanoi
• Backpacking Guide to Vietnam
• Hang Son Doong: the world’s largest cave
• Planning a trip to Vietnam
• Sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh city
• The best Halong Bay cruises
• Things to do in Hoi An
• Things to do in Phong Nha
• Things to know before traveling by night train in Vietnam

This post was updated in November 2022.

Tuesday 20th of December 2022

Thank you for this. Very informative and quite helpful.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Thanks so much Kevin for letting me know:-) Have a great trip to Vietnam en let me know if there's anything you need help with! Lotte

Friday 18th of November 2016

I love that you spend a week in Hoi An LOL :) I did the same! Hoi An is such a cute place with nice food and things to see plus an amazing beach! Phu Quoc island looks wonderful, i had no time for that, maybe some other time? x

Haha Hoi An is so relaxing, I loved the vibe... Phu Quoc was definitely nice, I'm curious to see how the island has developed in the past 2 years. There was talk of direct flights from Russia and China so it might be very different now.

Tuesday 10th of May 2016

Great post, I love that you documented the prices too. We're going to Vietnam in two weeks and we haven't chosen our full itinerary yet so your article is a great inspiration!

Hey Laure, thanks so much for your comment! I am happy to hear my post gave you inspiration for your upcoming trip and helped you plan. Have an amazing journey through Vietnam, I am sure you'll have a great time:-)

Friday 5th of February 2016

A Dutch friend of ours actually moved to Vietnam a couple of years ago and we are invited to come over, however we still haven't made it. We really should, one day...

Awesome! It's always really cool to be shown around by somebody who actually lives there and who can take you to off the beaten track places!

Wednesday 3rd of February 2016

Ik zou het geweldig vinden om Vietnam te bezoeken. Ik zou dan een reis maken en alle overblijfselen en memorials van de Vietnam oorlog bezoeken, maar natuurlijk ook de prachtige natuur en stadjes! Als ik deze foto's zie, wil ik alleen nog maar meer gaan! Grappig he, dat je beleving van temperatuur zo veel anders kan zijn dan de personen die daar wonen. Gaan wij in de winter naar Marokko bv. dan doen wij luchtige kleding aan, terwijl zij helemaal ingepakt zijn. Kom je van de Fillipijnen af, bevries je weer zowat in Vietnam. Zo te zien heeft het je reisplezier niet nadelig beinvloed!

Vietnam is ook zeker qua historie een bijzonder land om te bezoeken... Ik vond het Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum heel bijzonder net als de Cu Chi tunnels en het War Remnant Museum. En reizen is eigenlijk bij alle temperature leuk, zolang het maar droog is;-)

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My passion for travel was ignited early. My first time abroad — I was eight years old, and headed to Zimbabwe to visit my brother who was playing professional soccer in Bulawayo. This experience sparked a sense of adventure and curiosity, and a deep desire to learn all I could about other peoples', languages, and cultures.

Intrigued by other ways of life, in college I majored in East Asian Studies and studied Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. After graduation, I traveled to China to complete research at Xiamen University. From there I journeyed to Thailand and then throughout Southeast Asia. Over the years I have traveled to the region many times, both professionally and personally.

At Audley, I can combine my deep knowledge of the countries I love with my passion for travel. I get to share that passion with others who are eager to explore somewhere new or in a new way.

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Q&A with Alex

What’s your most vivid travel moment?

I was on safari in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, on a small dirt track road with walls of trees on either side. I heard a crack and saw a branch swaying out of rhythm up ahead. As I peered through the leaves, I heard a ground shaking trumpet. From the top of the canopy emerged the face of a full-grown African Elephant. I sat there in awe for what felt like ages. It wasn’t until her stomps started shaking the ground, and her ears started flapping against her neck that my trance was broken. I suddenly became conscious of the fact that I was only about two tusk-lengths away. We hit the gas and hightailed it down the track. I turned back to watch her through the dust, she ran out into the road, gave one last thunderous trumpet, and disappeared back into the trees. I’ve never felt such a part of nature.

Where would you love to travel next?

Oman — It’s been described as the Middle East’s best-kept secret. From the sapphire-teal waters of the Gulf to the vast golden desert and imposing mountain ranges, Oman’s topography has captured my spirit of adventure. Soon I’ll be out camping with camels under the stars of the Wahiba Sands.

Your best piece of travel advice?

Try as many new things as possible. Maybe it’s trying a somewhat interesting new food, accepting a random act of hospitality, or an adventure slightly outside of my comfort zone. I do it with an open mind and a smile. This has led to some of my most unexpected and favorite memories. I remind myself that I only have to try it once, and at the very least I’ll have a great story to tell.

The 15 best things you can do in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Taking a cruise along the Mekong Delta is an incredible experience not to be missed Cultura Exclusive / Rosanna U / Getty Images

The siren song of Vietnam has brought many travelers to its shores in search of incredible landscapes, pearl-white beaches , chaotic and vibrant cities, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world.

The tough decision for travelers isn't whether they should visit Vietnam, it's how they choose what to do with so many incredible options. Do you start in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)? Do you swap the big city experience for the beaches and seafood suppers of Phu Quoc island? Do you dive headlong into the history of a dozen rival empires, or embrace the dynamic, modern Vietnam that has emerged from the aftermath of conflict?

No matter what you want your vacation to look like, accept that you'll never cover everything in one trip and embrace it as a reason to return. Here are 15 incredible things to do that need to be on your Vietnam to-do list.

1. Embrace past and future Vietnam in historic Hanoi

The vibrant capital of the former North Vietnam – and today the capital of the nation – Hanoi is where old and new Vietnam come together. Traces of the imperial past float like ghosts in a city surging skywards – hawkers drift through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter selling snacks from traditional yoke baskets, while the surrounding buildings are lit up with advertising displays and strip lights.

Exploring at street level is highly atmospheric and fantastic fun – mix up days visiting wartime and imperial relics with evenings feasting on some of Asia’s finest food and late nights dousing the sticky summer heat with glasses of bia hoi (local draught beer).

Planning tip: As they say, Hanoi rocks, and the best places to rock out like a local are lively live music venues such as the moody Binh Minh Jazz Club and keep-it-loud Hanoi Rock City .

2. Find your own island in the sun in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Okay, we concede that Halong Bay – the atmospheric sprawl of rocky coves and eroded karst islands to the east of Hanoi – is firmly discovered, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to discover away from the cruise ship crowds. If a tour on a diesel-powered luxury junk doesn’t appeal, consider hiring a kayak to potter around Lan Ha Bay near Cat Ba Island , where outcrops sculpted by wind and waves emerge from the water like the teeth of sea monsters.

Alternatively, leave the diesel fumes behind in calmer Bai Tu Long Bay to the north, where more jungle-capped islands shelter low-key resorts and languorous beaches.

3. Get your fill of imperial cuisine in handsome Hue

Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty held court in Hue until 1945, and the city’s damaged but still impressive historic relics feel somehow closer to imperial China than to the rest of Southeast Asia. However, for many travelers, it’s all about the food. More than half of Vietnam's estimated 3000 local dishes are believed to have originated in Hue, from the vermicelli-noodle-based bun bo Hue and crispy banh khoai pancakes topped with shrimp and pork to canapé-like, soft-and-crunchy banh ram it dumplings. The lavish imperial cuisine known as am thuc cung dinh – created by the emperors’ loyal chefs – can still be sampled in some of Hue's top restaurants, such as Thin Gia Vien and Hoang Phu .

Planning tip: Don’t restrict yourself to posh imperial banquets; for less than 100,000 dong you can gorge on tasty Hue staples at busy stalwart restaurants such as Madam Thu or at food stalls on the streets.

4. Meet Vietnam’s imperial leaders in the Hue tombs

Hue gets a second spot on the list thanks to the astounding imperial tombs, which preserve the mortal remains of a string of Nguyen emperors and empresses, from dynasty-founding Gia Long to Khai Dinh , the last Nguyen emperor to be buried on Vietnamese soil (his son, Bao Dai, the final emperor of Vietnam, was interred in the Cimetière de Passy in Paris ).

While crowds mob the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure, you can still find peaceful moments for contemplation by skipping the boat tours and renting a motorcycle to visit the extravagant mausoleums along the Perfume River. Don’t miss the towering  Thien Mu pagoda , looming over the north bank on the city fringes.

Detour: Equipped with two wheels, you can also buzz north from Hue to enjoy unspoiled dune beaches on the sandy barrier island stretching north and south from Thuan An.

5. Learn to make soups, stir-fries and salads on a cooking course

There’s no better souvenir to bring home from Vietnam than being able to prepare your own Vietnamese feast. Indeed, Vietnamese food arguably has a bigger dinner-party cachet than more familiar Thai cuisine.

Up and down the country, you’ll find cooking courses that start with a fragrant market trip to buy fresh ingredients and local herbs and end with a banquet of the dishes you’ve prepared, covering everything from summer rolls to pho noodle soup.

Hoi An is the most popular destination for aspiring chefs – small and personal Green Bamboo Cooking School is highly recommended. There are also good cooking schools in Hue, Hanoi and HCMC.

6. Unravel Vietnam’s complex religious history in My Son

While travelers mob the regal assembly halls, pagodas and historic homes of Hoi An, nearby My Son offers a calmer vision of Vietnam’s rich and layered past – particularly if you come in the afternoon. The big lure here is the atmospheric collection of UNESCO-listed Hindu temple ruins surrounded by jungle in a loop of the sacred Thu Bon river.

Sharing many architectural features with the Khmer temples of Cambodia and Thailand , these crumbling, red-brick shrines were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Hindu kingdom of Champa, whose descendants – the Cham people – can still be found in pockets in central Vietnam. With only birdsong to disrupt the quiet, the site scores highly for atmosphere as well as history,

Detour: If you use Hoi An as a base for exploring My Son, set aside a day to explore the nearby Cham Islands , an impressive marine reserve whose granite islands are still inhabited by Cham people, most now followers of Islam.

Explore My Son effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

7. Visit the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

One of the world’s youngest faiths, the Cao Dai religion was founded in the Mekong Delta town of Tay Ninh in 1926, fusing elements of ancestor worship, folk religions, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and Roman Catholicism, with the ultimate goal of freeing the soul from the endless cycle of reincarnation.

To explore its complex customs, head to the cathedral-like Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. Inside, you’ll see weapon-toting statues, an all-seeing eye, and even a Communist-looking red star – the sect reveres, amongst other figures, Jesus Christ, Buddha, Mohammed and even French novelist Victor Hugo.

Planning tip: Visitors can enter the shrine to witness prayers four times a day; if you have time to kill before or after a visit, detour 15km (9.3 miles) northeast to Nui Ba Den mountain. You can take a gondola then hike to reach its summit cave temples, then whoosh back downhill on a luge-style slide.

8. Rumble through the highlands by motorcycle

Vietnam largely moves on two wheels, and a motorcycle is by far the most enjoyable way to explore the hill country of the northwest , even if it takes some courage to adjust to the driving conditions, the errant livestock, and the steep, winding roads. Rent a quality bike in Hanoi and pop your wheels on the train to Lao Cai, to avoid the nerve-jangling ride out of the capital.

Once you reach the heart of the hill country, you can rumble out to outlying villages far from the tourist crowds for epic views and nights in charming homestays run by members of Vietnam’s tribal minorities.

Planning tip: You’ll need an international driving permit to ride legally in Vietnam, and this is only available for some nationalities. Many travelers manage to rent a motorcycle without a permit, but if things go wrong, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.

9. See the American War through Vietnamese eyes

Modern-day Vietnam is moving on from conflict, but the battlefields from the American War still linger as a sobering reminder of what people had to go through to get to this point. Sites of American losses such as Hamburger Hill in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) are etched into the popular consciousness, but the wartime tunnels at Cu Chi near HCMC and Vinh Moc near Hue offer a glimpse of the Vietnamese experience, as ordinary people went to extraordinary lengths to resist the world’s greatest superpower.

10. Visit villages in the "Asian Alps"

The former French Hill station of Sapa is surrounded by mountains so impressive that French colonizers called them the “Tonkinese Alps,” and the surrounding villages of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic minorities have become popular destinations for hikers – and somewhat commercialized in the process.

For a taste of the scenic serenity that first drew travelers to these lush green hills, head instead to drier, calmer Bac Ha , or the trails and mountain roads around Ha Giang province, tucked against the border with China and seemingly sculpted by the hands of the gods. Stay in hospitable homestays and explore markets, peaceful stilt-house villages, French-era relics and soaring limestone pinnacles, away from the maddening crowds.

Planning tip: There's a lot of competition for the title of best vista in Vietnam but the lookouts gazing over the Dong Van Karst Plateau are strong contenders. The area is designated as a UNESCO Geopark, and the trip from Yen Minh to Dong Van and over the Mai Pi Leng Pass to Meo Vac is particularly spectacular.

11. Find a perfect cup of coffee in the Central Highlands

It was the French colonizers who brought coffee from the Arabian peninsula to Vietnam, but it was the farmers of the Southwest Highlands who mastered the art of coaxing quality beans from these undulating hills. Rising to 1600m (5250ft), Dak Lak Province provides the perfect terroir for growing robusta beans, and the regional capital of Buon Ma Thuot is a great place to tour plantations and track down a quality cup of ca phe , particularly during the annual coffee festival in March. If you insist on arabica beans, head to Dalat and visit the community K'Ho Coffee cooperative, supporting local coffee growers from the K’Ho minority.

Planning tip: The best time to visit coffee country is from September to the end of December when the harvest season is in full swing and plantations are filled with baskets of red beans.

Transform your visit the Central Highlands by  booking with GetYourGuide.

12. Enter the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in north central Vietnam is a lost world of jungles and caverns, including the world’s largest, Hang Son Doong. The scale of this wonder of nature is simply mind-blowing – a 747 airplane could fly through the cave’s main tunnel.

Parts of the limestone ceiling have collapsed, bringing in natural sunlight, so Hang Son Doong contains an entire rainforest ecosystem with flying foxes, rare langurs, and even a small population of tigers. Since 2012, one tour company – Oxalis Adventure – has been allowed to take a strictly limited number of visitors into Hang Son Doong on challenging four-day treks; the price is stratospheric but so is the scenery.

13. Walk with the ghosts of French Indochina in Ho Chi Minh City

The former capital of South Vietnam may have changed its name from Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) , but the past remains close to the surface, from the American War relics in the HCMC Museum and War Remnants Museum to the city’s elegant French-built mansions and civic buildings – many now housing museums, restaurants and boutique hotels.

To get a feel for vintage Saigon, stop for a cup of ca phe sua (milk coffee) at the elegant Hotel Continental Saigon , sample cutting-edge French cuisine at La Villa , and take a stroll past the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral and the People’s Committee Building – built as HCMC’s Hôtel de Ville but rebranded as the Vietnamese sent the colonizers packing.

Planning tip: To fully appreciate the marvelous, lip-tingling variety of HCMC street food, join a foodie-focused scooter tour with Saigon Street Eats .

Explore Ho Chi Minh City effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

14. Bask on beautiful beaches

It was the beaches of Phu Quoc Island and Danang – developed as a playground for GIs during the American War – that put Vietnam on the map for seaside vacations, but both have developed into lively resorts. To find unspoiled stretches of sand, modern-day castaways aim their sights at the kitesurfing beaches around Mui Ne , the island sands of the Con Dao archipelago and long, languorous Hong Van Beach on Co To Island in Bai Tu Long Bay .

Planning tip: The best time for a beach trip varies as you move around the country. In central Vietnam, skies are brightest from January to August, while December to April is the beach window on the south coast, and northern Vietnam sees plenty of dry days from October to April.

15. Float on the Mekong Delta

Reaching out into the East Sea like an enormous hand, the mighty Mekong Delta marks the end point of Southeast Asia’s longest river – a 4350km (2700 mile) monster, rising on the Tibetan plateau and emptying to the south of Ho Chi Minh City. This waterlogged wonderland is Vietnam’s rice bowl, nurturing a network of sleepy towns and stilt villages whose residents use the river as their primary artery for life and trade.

For comfortable exploring, book an overnight cruise along the main channel near Can Tho or a cross-border trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia. For a less commercial experience, take a day trip to the backwaters near Ben Tre with Mango Cruises or make your own arrangements with boat owners in Delta villages.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

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More From Forbes

Explore the wonders of vietnam and cambodia with heritage line.

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A journey through the lower Mekong River includes captivating experiences.

In its 2023 state of the cruise industry report , the cruising trade organization Cruise Lines International Association forecasts that the industry will host over 36 million guests who set sail in 2024. The majority of these seafaring travelers will choose one of the legacy cruise lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. Fewer still will make it onto the medium-size lines: Viking, Disney or Virgin. And proportionally very few will take a boutique river cruise distinctly off the beaten path. According to the report, 85% of travelers who have cruised would opt for the experience again, and the cruising industry as a whole continues to be one of the fasting-growing sectors of tourism with a forecast to grow by 19% within the next four years.

The lasting component of any mode of travel is often the cultural immersion it facilitates. Numerous surveys conclude that more than half of travelers find experiencing a destination as a local to be a high priority, and travelers considered a trip “wasted” if they don’t experience local culture. Smaller cruise ships are especially adept at providing these intimate experiences.

Guests can fully immerse themselves in the local culture.

For visitors to Vietnam and Cambodia, the Mekong River can feel worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Mekong's floating markets, quaint boat-accessible villages, tranquil river inlets and historic temples all contribute to this unique experience. Through bespoke expeditions and programming offered by Heritage Line , guests can fully immerse themselves in the culture of the mighty Mekong. Riding ox-pulled carts through rice paddies, learning silk weaving alongside local artisans and meditating alongside monks in a Cambodian monastery are just a taste of Heritage Line’s authentic and tailored itineraries meant to bring its visitors closer than ever to the culture they are exploring.

Cambodia and the Mekong River can feel worlds apart.

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The dominant features of the Cambodian landscape are the large, almost generally located, Tonle Sap (Great Lake) and the Bassac River Systems and the Mekong River, the third longest in Asia, which crosses the country from North to South. The river then flows through Vietnam (the lower basin), fanning out across the tropical lowlands of the Mekong Delta then draining into the South China Sea.

The ship offers the luxurious facilities of a five-star resort.

Cruise on Heritage Line’s five-star vessels Jayavarman and The Jahan . Evoking the glory of former British-India, The Jahan cruises the lower Mekong River with 26 exquisitely designed staterooms and suites, all with large balconies. The ship offers all the luxurious facilities of a fine five-star resort throughout its three lavish passenger decks, of which the terrace deck offers guests a pool, two shaded sun lounger areas, open-air bar & lounge, spa, observatory lounge and elegant dining hall. Heritage Line’s Jayavarman merges wonderful French-Colonial ambiance with Khmer art throughout its interiors. 27 elegant staterooms and suites, all with private balconies, are spread over two decks. Luxury public facilities include the Club 1930 Funnel Bar and the ship’s elevated sun deck with pool, both prime open-air venues to kick back with wonderful river views.

A journey through the lower Mekong River includes unique, captivating experiences centered in both education and support of the local community. Guests can choose from three, four or seven nights. This classic Seven-Night Mekong River cruise – named The Lost Civilisation – combines places rarely visited with fantastic historical heritage sites. If offers a complete fluvial discovery of Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong with a combination of experiences one never will forget.

Travelers are treated to dance with classic Apsara performers.

Accompanied by local English-speaking guides, visitors will have the opportunity to visit the town of Cai Be to explore rice paper, rice cookies, rice wine and coconut candy production, taste fruit from a local family’s fruit garden on Tan Phong Island, weave water hyacinth plants into artistic crafts with a small village that supports itself fully on the art form, mingle with residents at local markets, meet with priests at a Cao Dai temple to learn more about the religion along the Mekong, dance with classic Apsara performers and more. In Tan Chau your personal rickshaw driver leisurely navigates through a network of streets, allowing you to observe workshops, street vendors, shops and the intriguing day-to-day activities of the locals.

Head to Phnom Penh, a city once renowned as the "Paris of the East." Despite its rapid development, it has retained much of its rustic charm and elegance. Phnom Penh is a remarkable city with a history and culture that spans centuries, still palpable at every street corner. Start with a cyclo ride, meandering through the town and then visit historic places such as the palace and the silver pagoda. Pause for a delightful lunch in town before continuing to visit one of the country's most famous history museums, "Sosoro," and concluding the tour with a leisurely stroll through the city's French quarter.

Spearheaded by Heritage Line founder John Tue Nguyen, who grew up on the Perfume River in the imperial city of Hue, Vietnam, the team behind Heritage Line is driven by the desire to share undiscovered parts and untold stories of the Southeast Asian River. Nguyen’s gentle dedication to the region affords passengers passengers the unique opportunity to visit these small villages that are often untouched by visitors and learn about their art forms.

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Vietnam Airlines Makes Dramatic U-Turn From Bust To Best Airline Stock

• Vietnam Airlines shares have risen massively throughout 2024, rallying as much as 182.45% during the year.
• However, its market capitalization remains relatively low, around $3 billion.
• The airline and its executives have remained cautious about 2024.

Vietnam Airlines has become one of the best-performing airline stocks this year, with the airline’s turnaround resulting in a massive rally year-to-date (YTD). Yet the stock’s low baseline has meant that Vietnam Airlines still has a relatively low market capitalization, especially when compared to its global peers.

Rallying based on a turnaround

Vietnam Airlines shares have risen by as much as 182.45% YTD, according to data from Yahoo Finance . On January 2, the carrier’s stock closed the day of trading at VND12,500 ($0.48), while on July 11, the airline’s shares opened at VND34,200 ($1.35), rising to VND34,650 ($1.36) at the time of writing. As a result, the current market capitalization of the airline was VND77.4 trillion ($3 billion) on July 11.

In comparison, Delta Air Lines’ $30.2 billion market capitalization meant that it was ranked number one among airlines worldwide, with Ryanair ($26.9 billion) and InterGlobe Aviation ($19.9 billion), the parent company of IndiGo, coming in second and third, respectively, per a market capitalization ranking .

Vietnam Airlines’ current market capitalization would rank it 31st, behind the United States regional carrier SkyWest Airlines ($3.3 billion) and just in front of Hungarian Wizz Air, which has a market capitalization of $2.8 billion at the time of writing.

Meanwhile, the Arca Global Airline Index (AXGAL), trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), has declined as much as 17.86% YTD. On January 2, the index closed at $66.01; on July 10, AXGAL ended the day of trading at $55.62.

According to the NYSE , AXGAL was a modified equal-dollar weighted index measuring the performance of highly capitalized and liquid international airline companies. It tracked the share price performance of select local market companies or American Depositary Receipts (ADR) of major US-based carriers or international airlines.

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Returning to profitability

Vietnam Airlines had not been profitable since Q4 2019, when the carrier ended the period with a profit after tax of VND103.7 billion ($4 million), while its year-end profit after tax was VND2.4 trillion ($94.3 million), with the yearly profit increasing by 14.6% year-on-year (YoY).

Since then, with the onset of the pandemic, the airline and Vietnam’s tourism industry, in general, have suffered due to international travel restrictions. Still, the airline has begun its recovery, and in Q1 2024, it earned a profit of VND4.4 trillion ($173 million), compared to a net loss of VND37.3 billion ($1.4 million) in Q1 2023.

According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (Cục Du lịch Quốc gia Việt Nam, VNAT), 12.6 million international tourists, 3.5 times more than in 2022. Meanwhile, VNAT detailed that as of June, over 8.8 million international visitors came to the country, a 58.4% YoY increase.

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Reducing losses in 2024

Despite the turnaround and improving financial performance, Vietnam Airlines and its executives have remained cautious. The airline noted that it reduced its full-year losses by 49.8% in 2023. The carrier ended the period with a net loss of VND5.6 trillion ($220.2 million).

In a statement in late June, Dang Ngoc Hoa, the chairman of Vietnam Airlines, remarked that the aviation industry has continued to face challenges, and based on these economic forecasts, Vietnam Airlines will focus on restructuring assets, capital, and other areas. Thus, its primary goal was to reduce losses and balance revenues and costs in 2024.

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