best travel guide book vietnam

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

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

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

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

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

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

ENTRY / VISA:

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

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

ELECTRICITY:

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

TRANSPORTATION:

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

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

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

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

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

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

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

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

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

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

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

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

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

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

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

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE...

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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

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

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

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

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

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

Ho Chi Minh City:

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

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

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

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

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

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

Northern Vietnam

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

Central Vietnam

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

South Vietnam

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

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

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

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

Budgeting Tips

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

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

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

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

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

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

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

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

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

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

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

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

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

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

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

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

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

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

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

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

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

Apply in advance  here .

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

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

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

Getting to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Vietnam

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

Travelling by Air

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

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

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

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

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

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

Travelling by Bus

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

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

Travelling by Motorbike

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

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

Travelling by Train

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

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

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

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

Here are a few of our favourites.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

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

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

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

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

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

Types of Accommodations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

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

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

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

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

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

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

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

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

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

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

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

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

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

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

Some tips for protecting your things:

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

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

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

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

Purchase a SIM Card

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

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

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

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

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

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

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

Access Free WiFI

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

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

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

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

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

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Vietnam Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

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

2. Wander Hanoi

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

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

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

4. Hang out in Hoi An

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

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

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

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

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

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

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

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

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

6. Get active in Mui Ne

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

7. See My Son

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

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

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

9. Check out the rice terraces

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

10. Relax in Hue

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

11. Take a cooking class

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

12. Tour the former DMZ

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

13. Buy a motorbike

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

14. Sample the local coffee

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Vietnam

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

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

How to Get Around Vietnam

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

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

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

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

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

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

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

When to Go to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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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 Ultimate List of Best Vietnam Books to Read!

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Home » The Ultimate List of Best Vietnam Books to Read!

I love to read and nothing excites me more than finding a book before I travel to power-up the anticipation of the trip to come!  In this post, you will find a list of the best Vietnam books to read this year!

I have broken down the best books about Vietnam into helpful sections.

In the Fiction section, you will find the best books on Vietnam war, other Vietnam bestseller novels as well as novels set in Vietnam.  One of my favourites from this list is ‘The Beauty of Humanity Movement’, it might be an oldie but it is a great book that tells an interesting story about key characters and their lives in old Vietnam.

For those keen on travelling to Vietnam, you will most certainly enjoy our suggested collection to help you pick the best Vietnam travel guide book for your type of holiday.

Whichever genre you love to read, I’m sure you will find something on this list to suit your needs and taste buds!  Enjoy!

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Best Vietnam Fiction Books

Find below a list of the best Vietnam novels has to offer! You can find suggestions for the best books set in Vietnam.

1. Best Books Set in Vietnam

Find below suggestions of books to read before visiting Vietnam.

The Beauty of Humanity Movement

by Camilla Gibb

The Beauty of Humanity Movement was one of the first books I read and I still feel like it is one of the best novels set in Vietnam that looks at daily life beyond the war.

Book Synopsis:

Every morning in Hanoi, people line up to breakfast on a bowl of pho, traditional noodle soup, made by Old Man Hung. An itinerant soup vendor living in a shantytown, Hung once owned a café where a group of dissident artists and intellectuals called the Beauty of Humanity Movement met until the Communists shut it down.

If Hung is a link to Vietnam’s past, Tu, the grandson of one of the artists, is a link to its future. It is Tu’s job as a tour guide to show the sites of Hanoi to visitors from the West. One of these is Maggie, a Vietnamese American art curator who has come to Hanoi to catalogue the art collection of the refurbished Hotel Metropole. She also hopes to learn something about her father, an artist, who stayed behind when Maggie and her mother fled to the U.S.

Through the very different perspectives of these three, Gibb fluidly takes the reader from the bitter years of war to the Hanoi that has emerged in the reform era, which, despite all its modernization, is still a mystery to many of us.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD & Paperback). 

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The Best We Could Do

The Best We Could is a national bestseller!

It is an illustrated memoir of one family’s journey from war-torn Vietnam. It is a graphic novel and the story is told in a beautiful emotional voice.  It is about the search for a better future and a longing for the past. The book explores the anguish of immigration.  It also shares the emotions of a family dealing with the lasting effects that displacement has on a child.

The book looks at the story of a family’s daring escape after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970’s.  It looks at the realistic challenges they faced whilst trying to rebuild a new life for themselves.  At the heart of Bui’s story is a universal struggle: While adjusting to life as a first-time mother, she ultimately discovers what it means to be a parent—the endless sacrifices, the unnoticed gestures, and the depths of unspoken love.

The important of the strength of family, the importance of identity, and the meaning of home are some of the main themes that runs throughout this incredible book.  It is the best book about Vietnam family life and the realistic struggles of lost identity.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover & Paperback).

2. Best Vietnam War Books

Find below a collection of the best books on the Vietnam war!  Whilst some of these books are a bit older, they are still brilliant to read and give you great insight into the war.  Some of these are fiction books about Vietnam war (based on factual information), whilst others include some of the best books on Vietnam history of the war.

Saigon: An Epic Novel of Vietnam

by Anthony Grey

‘Saigon: An Epic Novel of Vietnam by Anthony Grey’ happens to be one of the best books on Vietnam War; so if you are after a bit of war history then this one is the perfect book for you!

This book centers around twentieth-century Vietnam.  It tells the story of Joseph’s first visit to Saigon in 1925.  He returns back to Vietnam many times, sometimes as a traveler, other times as a soldier and finally as a reporter.  He falls in love with the exotic land and with Lan, a mandarin’s daughter he cannot forget.

Over five decades Joseph’s life becomes enmeshed with the political intrigues of two of Saigon’s most influential families, the French colonist Devrauxs, and the native Trans—and inevitably with Vietnam’s turbulent, war torn fate. He is there when the hatred of a million coolies rises against the French, and when the French Foreign Legion fights its bloody last stand at Dien Bien Phu. He sees US military “advisors” fire their first shots in America’s hopeless war against the red tide of Communist revolution and tries to salvage something of lasting value on a desperate helicopter flight out of defeated Saigon.

A great read!  If you haven’t read this one yet, then it might be the time for it today!

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD & Paperback). 

The Vietnam War: An Intimate History

by  Geoffrey C. Ward

There still seems to be an argument around about who was right and wrong in their response to the conflict of the Vietnam War.

What we do know is that when the war divided the country, it created deep political fault lines that continue to divide us today.  It has been over 40 years since the war ended, but yet it still haunts their country.

This book is not however about taking sides, the book is all about seeking to understand why this war happened, why it went the way it did.

The authors have done their research, they have interviewed dozens and dozens of people from both America as well as Vietnam to get the true perspectives from people that were actually involved in the war.

People interviewed include U.S. and Vietnamese soldiers and their families, high-level officials in America and Vietnam, antiwar protestors, POWs, and many more.

This book is beautifully written and the illustrations are rich.  The book aims to launch a new national conversation.  Have you read it yet??

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover & Audio CD). 

Fields of Fire

by James Webb

One of the best books on Vietnam  

This book is a great read if you enjoy reading books about the Vietnam war!  This book happens to be one of the best novels about Vietnam and will give you some great insight into what it was like to be in this war!

Fields of Fire is a brilliant book about the Vietnam War.  The book includes some great observations and agonizing human truths about the nonstop combat of the war.

The book looks at unformed men through a man-made hell, following along with their journey until eventually, they face their fate.

The book centers around three young men who were thrown into the murderous realm of the jungle warfare of 1969. They were unaware of what exactly waited for them and there was no way that they could have prepared themselves for the chaos and madness to come.

All of this madness made them take on new identities, take on each other, and each was reborn in fields of fire on the battlefield.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Hardcover, Paperback & Audio CD). 

Catfish and Mandala

by Andrew X. Pham

Catfish and Mandala is the story of an American Odyssey, a book that tells its story through a solo bicycle voyage around the Pacific Rim to Vietnam.

A young Vietnamese-American man was born in Vietnam but raised in California.  He sets off in pursuit of his adopted homeland and his forsaken fatherland.

After the suicide of his sister, Pham decides to leave everything behind and sets off on a year-long bicycle journey.

He crosses the Mexican desert, bicycles from Narita to Kyoto in Japan; and, after five months and 2,357 miles, bicycles to Saigon.

In Vietnam, he’s taken for Japanese or Korean by his countrymen. Only his relatives know that he is truly Vietnamese.

A vibrant, picaresque memoir written with narrative flair and an eye-opening sense of adventure, Catfish and Mandala is an unforgettable search for cultural identity. And in my opinion, a great Vietnam book to read.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Hardcover & Paperback). 

The Sympathizer: A Novel

by Viet Thanh Nguyen

This book won six awards!   The Sympathizer  has the pace and has the suspense of a thriller, but yet the writing style is compared to other popular authors such as Graham Greene and Saul Bellow.

The Sympathizer  is a story of two opposites: love and betrayal.

It tells the story of a communist double agent, a half-French, a half-Vietnamese army captain.  He makes his way to America after the Fall of Saigon, and finds other Vietnamese refugees in Los Angeles, where he tries to build a new life.  He secretly reports back to his communist superiors in Vietnam.

The Sympathizer  is a book that explores identity and America.  It is a powerful novel of both love and friendship.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover & Paperback). 

Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War

by Karl Marlantes 

Vietnam Novels Bestsellers  

A very popular book and one of the most bought of the Vietnam Novels Bestsellers! New York Times bestseller, a National Indie Next and a USA Today bestseller.

Matterhorn was written by a Vietnam veteran.  M atterhorn has been hailed as a “brilliant account of war”.

This book is an epic war novel that centers around the timeless story of a young Marine lieutenant, Waino Mellas, and his comrades in Bravo Company.  They are dropped into the jungle of Vietnam as boys and are forced to fight.

They have the challenge of dealing with the North Vietnamese, with monsoon rain, mud, leeches, tigers, disease and malnutrition.

On top of all of those challenges, they are faced with obstacles that relate to racial tension, competing ambitions, and duplicitous superior officers.

The experience of the war will change them forever.  As they fight as a man right into manhood.  It is a brilliant novel that will take emotions from the tragedy of Vietnam and turn them into a powerful story of courage, camaraderie, and sacrifice.

A great read! Why not grab it now!

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD, MP3 & Paperback). 

When Heaven and Earth Changed Places

by Le Ly Hayslip

What an incredibly emotional novel set in Vietnam.  If you are after a Vietnamese novel that will pull at your heart string then this is the one!

Some believe that during the war, heaven and earth change places not once, but many times.

When Heaven and Earth Changed Places is a novel in the format of a memoir; of a girl on the verge of womanhood, stuck in a world that is turned upside down.

She is the youngest of six children, she is part of a close-knit Buddhist family.  She was only 12 years old when U.S. helicopters landed in her tiny village in central Vietnam.

The government and Viet Cong troops recruited children as spies and saboteurs. Le Ly was one of those children.

Le Ly had a childhood that nobody should have, before the age of sixteen, she had already suffered near-starvation, imprisonment, torture, rape, as well as witness the deaths of family members.

But yet, even through all these obstacles, she still holds fast to her faith in humanity.

Eventually, Le Ly manages to escape to America, and when she is older she returns to the devastated country and family she left behind.

The book is a book of contrasts, with scenes of a joyous reunion, but with the history and emotions of the brutal war years.  The book is about Le Ly, a courageous woman who experienced the true horror of the Vietnam War—and survived to tell her unforgettable story.

The Quiet American

by Graham Greene  

The Quiet American  is perhaps the most controversial novel of Graham Greene’s career.

The novel centers around the main character, Pyle, who is a brash young idealist sent out by Washington on a mysterious mission to Saigon. In Saigon, the French Army is struggling against the Vietminh guerrillas.

As young Pyle’s well-intentioned policies blunder into bloodshed, Fowler, a seasoned and cynical British reporter, finds it impossible to stand safely aside as an observer.

But Fowler’s motives for intervening are suspect, both to the police and himself, for Pyle has stolen Fowler’s beautiful Vietnamese mistress.

A great read, even though it is an older release, it is still one of the most popular books about Vietnam.

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle, Hardcover, Audio CD & Paperback).  

Vietnam Books Non-Fiction

1. vietnam travel guide books.

Find below a list of the most popular Vietnam travel books. 

These books will all help you as you plan your Vietnam holiday. 

We also suggest you take them along on your trip as they can be so beneficial when you get lost, or when you try to find activities to fill in spare time in a day.

National Geographic Traveler: Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Book Synopsis:

The National Geographic travel guide is aimed at active travelers who want authentic, enriching, cultural experiences.

The book covers the following areas:

• Destinations covered include the ancient capital of Hanoi; Ha Long Bay; North-Central Vietnam, including visits to Vietnamese tunnels; Hue and Hoi An; the Southern Central Highlands; Ho Chi Minh City; and the vast Mekong Delta.
• Learn more about Vietnam’s history and culture, including discussions on the hill tribes and the life of the boat people in the Mekong Delta.
• Get information on self-guided walks and drives that you can take, for example, through Hanoi’s picturesque Old Quarter and along the cliffside beauty between Hue and Danang.
• Get lists of ‘Not-To-Be-Missed’ Sites
• Handy information on hand-picked hotels and restaurants for you to enjoy!

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Paperback Only) .

Lonely Planet Vietnam (Travel Guide)

Best travel guide for Vietnam

We personally love Lonely Planet’s guidebooks and never look anywhere else.  They have the best Vietnam guide book for your travels.

Lonely Planet are comprehensive and in depth guide books.  Inside Lonely Planet’s Vietnam Travel Guide Book you will find:

• Colour maps and images throughout
• Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests
• Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots
• Essential info at your fingertips – hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices
• Honest reviews for all budgets – eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss
• Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience – customs, history, architecture, regional specialties, tribes, environment, food, drink
• Free, convenient pull-out Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi map (included in print version), plus over 80 maps
• Covers Northwest Vietnam, Northeast Vietnam, Hanoi, North-Central Vietnam, Central Vietnam, Central Highlands, South-Central Coast, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Siem Reap and more

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle & Paperback).  

___________________________ –

Vietnam ese Children’s Books

Find below a list of some good books about Vietnam that are suitable for children.

Vietnamese Children’s Favorite Stories

By phuoc thi minh tran.

This gorgeous and colorful children’s book has a collection of Vietnamese fairy tales and other folk stories.  These stories are brilliant as they give you and your child some insight into their rich culture.  You will find a charming collection of 15 tales in this book, all written and told by a popular Vietnamese writer – Tran Thi Minh Phuoc.

Some of the folktales in this books are “The Story of Tam and Cam” (the Vietnamese version of Cinderella), “The Jade Rabbit,” and “The Legend of the Mai Flower.”  The stories told include great lessons of concepts such as integrity, hard work and a kind heart triumph over deception, laziness, and greed—as gods, peasants, kings and fools spring to life in legends of bravery and beauty, and fables about nature.

This book was the  **Winner of Creative Child Magazine  and receive the 2015 Book of the Year Award** .  Give this book a go, I bet you will love it!!

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Kindle & Hardcover). 

Vietnam A to Z: Discover the colorful culture of Vietnam!

By elka k. ray.

This is a gorgeous ABC-style book on Vietnam.  It is geared toward smaller children and features creative & colorful illustrations that your child will enjoy.  It is bilingual with English and Vietnamese text so even if you don’t understand Vietnamese, you can still easily explain the new words to your child. This is a beautiful Vietnamese book for kids!  Eye catching for the little ones and educational!  What more can you ask for!?

Click here to see prices for this book (Available in Paperback only).  

Inside Out and Back Again

by Thanhha Lai

Truly a great pick from the Vietnamese books for kids on offer!

Inside Out and Back Again is a New York Times Vietnam Novel  bestseller, a Newbery Honor Book, and a winner of the National Book Award!

The book is inspired by the author’s life as the experienced fleeing Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon during her childhood.  She immigrated to Alabama and tells her moving story as she goes through a change of life, dreams, grief and then healing.

And there you have our Ultimate Reading List of Vietnam Books to inspire wanderlust pre-trip!

Leave us a Comment:

• Which Vietnam book took your fancy?
• Do you have any books set in Vietnam to recommend?
• Have you read and loved any of these Vietnam Novels?
• Are you after more Vietnamese stories for Kids?

Further Reading Suggestions:

• Click to read one of our most popular posts containing bucket-loads of tips and hints of how to prepare for Vietnam!
• Find out what are the most popular places to see in Vietnam here!
• Check out our list of where we stayed throughout Vietnam here !
• Click to read our comprehensive, informative stories of our travels through Vietnam!

Jolene Ejmont

10 thoughts on “the ultimate list of best vietnam books to read”.

The Big Buddha Bicycle Race by Terence Harkin is a great read. It’s more military fiction than straight fiction and it’s a great read.

Oh I do love the title Matt, will have to look it up thanks!

Jonathan Cain’s 12 book series “Saigon Commandos” are the best novels out there about love and war in The ‘Nam circa 1966-75!

Hi Nick, thanks for the suggestion, will have to order it and have a read!!

Thank you it was very helpful

Check out Long Daze at Long Binh the first truly funny book about the Vietnam War. Excellent reviews from Vietnam Veterans of America, Goodreads.com, Midwest Book Review and ReadersFavorite.com, among others. VVA calls it “The best book about ‘Rear Echelon’ life in Vietnam during that time period… nobody will top it any time soon, if ever.”

Thanks for sharing a book with our readers Dan.

Hello Jolene, my wife and I shared a group tour to Vietnam, and, I became fascinated with the history of the conflict, and the conflict, being an avid reader of military history. Have read well over 20 different books with regard to the country. One which I would recommend is ? “Vietnam A Country, Not A War” Have done searches for this book, but it just does not get any hits. I am in the midst of reading “Vietnam-An Epic History of a Tragic War” by Max Hastings. This is very different to any other historical accounts of the conflict, in that, it is written by a reporter, rather than a historian

Thnak you for the tips on the book titles. Will definitely look into those as well. Much appreciated. 🙂

Looks like you might be trying to find this: Where We Were in Vietnam: A Comprehensive Guide to the Firebases and Military Installations of the Vietnam War All best 🙂

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Wander-Lush

Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide

Going to Vietnam the first time was life-changing for sure… The food, culture, landscape, and smell; they’re all inseparable. It just seemed like another planet; a delicious one that sort of sucked me in and never let go. Anthony Bourdain

Land of the Blue Dragon

Vietnam: Where motorbikes outnumber the people. For most travellers, this country is synonymous with three things: Frenetic cities, incredible outdoor adventures, and some of the best food on earth.

After my first visit to Vietnam when I travelled the entire length of the country on the Reunification Express , I told myself that unlike the 97% of people who only visit once, I’d be back. Years later, I moved to Hanoi to work with an NGO – an experience I’ll never forget. I have more dear friends in Hanoi than almost any other city. Vietnam feels like a second home to me.

From the jagged peaks of Ha Giang to the backwaters of the Mekong Delta , the one thing Vietnam isn’t lacking is variety. Join the crush inside the canary yellow walls of Hoi An’s UNESCO Ancient Town , chase dragons in Hue , then find room to breathe in one of rural Northern Vietnam’s hidden oases .

Between the velvety rice terraces of Sapa and Mu Cang Chai and the prickly limestone karsts of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh , you’ll find sand dunes in Mui Ne , waterwheels in Pu Luong , tea fields in Thai Nguyen , and hundreds of sweet hamlets and fascinating small cities in between.

From rustic homestays to boutique apartments, sipping cocktails in a Saigon skybar to knocking back a glass at a bia hoi in Hanoi. Vietnam might come off as a little aloof, but at the end of the day, she certainly knows how to treat her guests.

Vietnam travel essentials

Please note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more .

Late February to April (spring shoulder season) for cooler weather.

How long in Vietnam?

3-4 full days for Hanoi; 2 weeks for the highlights; 3-4 weeks for a good overview.

Daily budget

45-60 USD per person per day (mid-range hotel; restaurant meals; taxis; museum tickets).

Getting there

Fly into Hanoi or Saigon; bus from any neighbouring country.

Vietnam visa

eVisa/VOA (single entry; 30 days) or visa-free for some.

Getting around

Domestic flights (Viet Jet, Jetstar); train; bus/minivan.

Where to stay

Family-run guesthouses, homestays or hotels.

Tours & experiences

Food tours, history walks and trekking.

Explore Vietnam

Discover Hanoi’s local side plus all the best things to do in Vietnam with my latest travel guides.

Vietnam With Kids: 6 Best Vietnam Family Holiday Destinations + Travel Tips

Hanoi to Halong Bay: The Definitive Travel Guide for 2024

How to Travel from Da Nang to Hoi An in 2024: Detailed Transport Guide

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: 12 Fantastic Hotels & Bungalows for Every Budget

Perfect 3-Day Dalat Itinerary: The Best Things to Do in Vietnam’s City of Eternal Spring

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My vietnam favourites.

Trekking in the rice fields around Ta Phin, Sapa.

Must-eat meal

A plate of Pho Cuon in Hanoi’s Truc Bach neighbourhood.

local experience

Rolling up to Hanoi’s Long Bien produce market at 2am.

best souvenirs

Propaganda posters from Hanoi & Hmong textiles.

Getty Images

A land of staggering natural beauty and cultural complexities, of dynamic megacities and hill-tribe villages, Vietnam is unforgettably compelling.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

War Remnants Museum

Ho Chi Minh City

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

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

North-Central Vietnam

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

Hang Son Doong

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

Tu Lan Cave

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

Cat Ba Island

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

Paradise Cave

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

Phu Quoc Island

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

Dragon Bridge

This wonderfully wacky bridge takes the form of a ginormous, colour-changing dragon, weaving its way across the Han River. If that wasn't attention…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Vietnam is a dream destination for travelers but what to do when you finally get there? Here are 15 can't-miss experiences in 2024.

Things to Know

Vietnam serves up a lavish buffet of Asian sights, sounds, scents and flavors, but there are things to know before you come. Try these tips.

Transportation

Whether it's bus, train, private car, motorcycle, bike, plane or boat, you can plan your trip around Vietnam with this guide to getting around.

Visa Requirements

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

Money and Costs

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

Traveling with Kids

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

Best Road Trips

Vietnam was made for exploring by road. From the mountains to the Delta, here are our top road trip routes.

Plan with a local

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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The Essential Vietnam Travel Guide

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT

• WHERE TO STAY IN VIETNAM
• WHERE TO EAT
• WHAT TO DO IN VIETNAM

Over the past decade, Vietnam’s economic boom has ushered in a golden age of travel. Don’t just take our word for it: in 2019, Vietnam received a record-breaking 18 million international visitors. And in 2021, it was named Asia’s Leading Destination by the World Travel Awards.

Pandemic or not, Vietnam remains one of the best travel destinations on earth. From the rice terraces of Sapa to the sprawling skyscrapers of Saigon — Vietnam has it all. We’ve put together an Essential Vietnam Travel Guide to help you get to know the country better.

Travel Guide: When Is The Best Time To Visit Vietnam?

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7 books to read before visiting vietnam.

Vietnam is becoming a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia. The cultural diversity, extreme natural beauty, delicious cuisine are all attracting every year many tourists visit Vietnam. Vietnam is also a budget-friendly destination. However, it is always a great idea to know a bit more about any destinations you’re visiting for the first time. I loved to go through some travel books before planning my first trip to beautiful Vietnam. Here I’ve listed 7 books to read before visiting Vietnam along with my favorite Lonely Planet Vietnam Travel Guide  and Vegetarian Viet Nam . 

Recently I had a solo trip to Vietnam and found this country is very welcoming for any traveler and worth visiting. Locals are open, friendly, and helpful. It is easy to communicate mostly with all in English. I enjoyed trying many street foods in Hanoi. I loved the magical beauty of Halong Bay, the rustic charm of Ninh Binh, the local lifestyle of Mekong Delta, and city touring in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

The following Vietnam guide books will help you to plan your trip and guide you to explore Northern Vietnam to Southern Vietnam. You’ll get to know about Vietnamese culture, must-visit travel attractions, top things to do, and local delicacies. Moreover, it will provide you many expert and budget travel tips to visit Vietnam even for the first time. 

Disclosure: All are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

• 1 Lonely Planet Vietnam (Country Guide)
• 2 The Rough Guide to Vietnam (Travel Guide) (Rough Guides) 
• 3 Vietnam – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
• 4 Vietnamese Food Any Day: Simple Recipes for True, Fresh Flavors 
• 5 National Geographic Traveler: Vietnam, 3rd Edition 
• 6 Vietnam: Vietnam Travel Guide: 101 Coolest Things to Do in Vietnam (Southeast Asia Travel, Backpacking Asia, Hanoi Travel, Saigon Travel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tours, Vietnamese Food, Hoi An)
• 7 Fodor’s Essential Vietnam (Travel Guide)
• 8 Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save These For Later Read!

Lonely Planet Vietnam (Country Guide)

Lonely Planet Vietnam Country Guide to help you to know the best of Vietnam with the most up-to-date tips and information. It covers all parts of Vietnam along with cultural insights, history, and offbeat destinations. You’ll get many insider tips and reviews based on what to do, what to see, and what to eat during your Vietnam travel from Lonely Planet Travel Guide. You may also like to keep foldable Lonely Planet Vietnam Planning Map  along with this travel guide. It comes with practical travel tips with destinations map, many images, a transport guide, and suggestions on itineraries. 

Furthermore, are you thinking to travel like a local in Vietnam? Lonely Planet Vietnamese Phrasebook & Dictionary  is a practical guidebook to teach you useful Vietnamese vocabulary and phrases. You’ll be able to bargain like a pro while eating and shopping from the local eateries and markets. 

If you’re also traveling nearest countries along with Vietnam, then don’t miss to get the guide on Lonely Planet Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Northern Thailand (Multi Country Guide) .

• Vietnamese culture, history, politics, art, cuisine, people, landscapes, and wildlife
• Reviews and insider tips for traveling like a local
• Accessible to hidden destination guide and information
• Colorful maps and images
• Essential tips on any budget
• Vietnam travel itineraries

The Rough Guide to Vietnam (Travel Guide) (Rough Guides) 

The Rough Guide to Vietnam comes with trusted and independent reviews on exciting destinations of Vietnam. Rough Guides help you to get all detailed coverage on popular tourist destinations to offbeat destinations. You’ll get to know about all the right places to see, visit, shop, sleep, and eat in Vietnam. Whether a cruise to Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island, trip to Tam Coc or Da Lat, you’ll have all travel tips itineraries and ideas from this travel guide of Vietnam. 

• Essential tips on outdoor activities, local transport, personal safety, food, and accommodation
• Detailed coverage on Vietnam tourist destinations
• Comprehensive and colorful travel maps and images
• Vietnam travel itineraries to organize trips

Vietnam – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Vietnam – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture by Geoffrey Murray will help you to get the depth knowledge of Vietnamese history, culture, and customs. You can find present Vietnam as open, confident, inviting, and welcoming towards the world. However, Vietnamese peoples have suffered a lot during the Vietnam War and after reunification in 1975. 

This essential guidebook will give you the outline of past to present Vietnam, cultural and social changes, traditions, and modern lifestyle of Vietnam. Moreover, you’ll get practical advice to face any awkward situations during your first visit to Vietnam.  

• Vietnamese history
• The culture and customs of Vietnam
• The outline of present Vietnam, peoples, and cultural changes
• Practical advice on unfamiliar situations

Vietnamese Food Any Day: Simple Recipes for True, Fresh Flavors 

You can’t leave Vietnam without trying many delicious Vietnamese delicacies. Vietnamese Food Any Day: Simple Recipes for True, Fresh Flavors  by Andrea Nguyen comes with 80 simple recipes of Vietnamese food . Inside the book, the writer has shown how to prepare Viet food like famous rice paper rolls, banh mi, pho, honey-glazed pork riblets, coffee ice cream quickly at home by using all simple ingredients. You can buy those ingredients from your local grocery store only. Undoubtedly, for Vietnamese food lovers, this cookbook is a must-read to enjoy cooking in Vietnamese style. 

During my Vietnam trip, I’ve tried all-vegetarian Vietnamese food. If you want to know all about meatless Vietnamese cooking, then Vegetarian Viet Nam by Cameron Stauch is a must-read for you. Chef Cameron Stauch nicely described all details about making Vietnamese healthy, sustainable food with sauces, herbs, noodles, vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, and tofu.

• Vietnamese food
• 80 simple Vietnamese recipes
• Easy to prepare with local ingredients
• Effortless Vietnamese cooking style to make at home

National Geographic Traveler: Vietnam, 3rd Edition 

Are you interested in discovering Vietnam from the travel stories which have appeared in National Geographic Traveler? National Geographic Traveler: Vietnam  is a must-read travel book by James Sullivan who currently lives in Hue, Vietnam with his Vietnamese wife and headed to Vietnam first in 1993. Here he has shared his personal experiences to let you know all about Vietnamese history, culture, and all major sites of Vietnam. This book is a must-read for every traveler to experience a place from local eyes and full with much expert advice. 

• The culture and history of Vietnam
• Expert travel advice from local traveler
• Detailed coverage on major sites of Vietnam
• The list of Not-To-Be-Missed Sites
• Tips on choosing the right restaurants and hotels in Vietnam
• Cultural travel experiences

Vietnam: Vietnam Travel Guide: 101 Coolest Things to Do in Vietnam (Southeast Asia Travel, Backpacking Asia, Hanoi Travel, Saigon Travel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Tours, Vietnamese Food, Hoi An)

Vietnam offers a lot of beautiful destinations to explore, and there are many top things to do as well. 101 Coolest Things to Do in Vietnam  is a perfect travel guide covering the destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An, Sapa, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon, and Mekong Delta. Get to know all the top things to do in Vietnam while visiting those travel destinations. 

• Coolest Things to Do in Vietnam
• Vietnam Travel Guide
• Hanoi Travel Guide
• Saigon Travel Guide
• Vietnam tours and tips
• Backpacking in Vietnam

Fodor’s Essential Vietnam (Travel Guide)

Fodor’s Essential Vietnam Travel Guide by local experts and so this travel guidebook will give you all insider tips, advice and suitable for any budget. You’ll be able to plan your Vietnam trip with the help of sample itineraries along with detailed maps and colorful images. You’ll get all detailed tips on where to eat, shop, and stay in Vietnam. The main destinations covered by this travel guide are Hanoi, Halong Bay, Danang, Dalat, Nha Trang, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc. This Vietnam travel guide also focused on the top reasons to visit each destination and advice on local transportation. 

• Insider tips and travel information from local experts
• Detailed maps and colorful images
• Destination-based best hotels and restaurants in Vietnam
• Top places to see in Vietnam
• Top things to do in Vietnam
• Flavors of Vietnam
• Special feature on Vietnam Today

Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save These For Later Read!

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? Share your top recommendations and must-read travel books to visit Vietnam.

Last update on 2024-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Nafisa Habib

Nafisa Habib loves nature and often got fascinated by old beautiful architecture. Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. To her nothing is so interesting than exploring new destinations around. And knowing a new culture and meeting new peoples on the road? Oh, yeah she just loves that too.

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The Complete Travel Guide to travel to Vietnam (Updated 2023)

Over the past years, Vietnam has emerged as a premier tourist destination in Southeast Asia, with an estimated 18 million international arrivals in 2019. The number is only expected to rise – and for a number of good reasons. The country is renowned for its colorful history, diverse culture and quintessential natural landscapes.

If you are planning to visit, an illustrated guide will prove handy. This post is packed with all the important information so you don’t have to spend a lot of time researching online and browsing multiple websites. We have done much of the work for you and we are extremely proud of this comprehensive article as it will serve as a valuable resource to anyone who wishes to visit Vietnam.

Part I. Travel Visa

3 month multiple entry visas will be available from 15 August 2023. Citizens from all countries are now eligible for the e-visa program. 09 more ports of entry have been added to the list of eligible Entry/Exit points. Effective from 15 August, 2023, regular passport holders of 13 countries will be exempt from visa requirements for Vietnam for 45 days instead of 15 days.

1. Do you need a Visa to go to Vietnam?

Vietnam offers visa exemptions to tourists from 13 countries and e-Visas to tourists from all countries. Travelers can also apply for a visa on arrival online or in person at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

2. Visa Exemptions

Vietnam’s new visa policy effective from 15th August 2023 extends stay duration for 13 countries enjoying unilateral visa exemption from 15 days to 45 days , regardless of passport type and entry purpose. The 13 coutries include: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Belarus .

Below is the full list of 25 countries +Kazakhstan that are exempted from visa requirement:

Brunei, Myanmar, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, The UK, The Philippines, Cambodia, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Chile, Panama.

Notes on Exemptions:

The exemptions listed above are valid until Dec. 31, 2025.

Pro Tip: + All nationalities traveling directly to Phu Quoc Island can visit for 30 days visa-free. You just need to show an outbound ticket on arrival in Vietnam. + If you enter Phu Quoc and then travel to the mainland, you will need to apply for an e-visa/visa to Vietnam. The best way is to apply for evisa/visa in advance and you will need to show your e-visa/visa on arrival at Phu Quoc International aiport for eligible stamp on your passport to visit the mainland later on. If you fail to do so, you might have to apply for a different visa and the procedure would be more complicated.

3. e-Visa Requirements

The e-Visa is one of several visa types offered by the Vietnam Immigration Department to foreigners entering the country. It is  valid for 90 days and  single entry and multiple entry . It costs US$25  for single entry and US$50 for multiple entry for card payments and requires at least three working days  to process.

Vietnam e-Visa Requirements:

• A passport with six (6) months’ validity
• A photo in .jpg format of your full passport data page
• A passport photo in .jpg format (4×6 cm, white background, without glasses)
• A valid international credit or debit card
• An email address for support purposes
• A temporary address in Vietnam
• Your entry and exit dates and entry and exit points/airports

How to Apply for Vietnam’s e-Visa:

Step 1 : Prepare the required materials

Step 2 : Open  the official website  for Vietnam’s e-Visa Application

Step 3:  Upload your .jpg images (passport data page and passport photo) and fill out the required fields on the form.

Step 4: Pay the e-Visa fee of US$ 25 for single entry visa or US$50 for multiple entry visa using any of the payment methods offered. Copy the document code provided. This fee is  not refunded if your application is refused or your visa letter contains any wrong details that have been provided by you in the application form.

Step 5:  Within three working days you will receive an email about your e-Visa application. Use your document code to locate your e-Visa online. Download and print the e-Visa in two copies for safety.

Pro Tip: Tourists with an e-Visa do not need to queue at Visa on Arrival counters. You can go directly to the immigration counter at your point of entry.

3. Vietnam E-visa official website

• https://dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn/bocongan/bothutuc/tthc?matt=26276 for guaranteeing agencies and organizations, and
• https://dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn/bocongan/bothutuc/tthc?matt=26277 for individual foreigners

4. Vietnam Visa on Arrival

If you want a  multiple-entry  visit or a stay that would last  more than 30 days , you may want to apply for a visa on arrival. You will need the following:

• A 4×6 passport photo (white background and no glasses)
• A fully filled-out  visa application form
• A passport or substitute ID valid for six (6) months from the date you plan to visit Vietnam
• Payment (US$25 per person for single entry or US$50 per person for multi-entry) for visa fees
• A Letter of Approval from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate (if you will pick up your visa at the airport)

If you are located close to a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, you may submit your application form, passport, photo, and visa fee in person.

If you are short on time or a Vietnamese embassy is far from your location, there are reputable online services that can provide a valid Letter of Approval for a fee. Bring this letter along with your visa application form and other documents to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airport when you arrive.

Part II. Best Time to Visit

There is really no right or wrong time to visit Vietnam because for much of the year there’s both sunshine and rain in different quantities. Vietnam has more than 2000 miles of coastline and three varying weather systems. You can think of the country as having three separate tourist destinations when it comes to the weather.

In Hanoi and the north, May to October is hot and humid, while November to April is cool and dry. In Central Vietnam, the weather is hot and dry between January and August when temperatures can rise to mid-30°C. Heavy rains tend to pour in the months of September, October and November. The southern region is generally hot and dry from November to April, and a bit warm and wet between May and October, with high precipitation in June, July and August.

1. Weather by Region and Season

Far North (Sapa, Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai, and Ha Giang)

The climate in Sapa and the northwest region is divided into two seasons: the wet season runs from April to September, while the dry season lasts from October to late March. It can get extremely cold in December and January, especially in the evening.

The best time to visit the northeast is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. December and January can get very cold. Try to avoid travel during the rainy season, from May to September.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau and Ninh Binh)

North Vietnam, including the capital Hanoi, has a summer and winter season. The latter is generally cool but mostly dry and lasts from November to April. The coldest months are January, February and March, with average temperatures of 17-22°C .

Summer is from from May to October. It is hot and humid, and it is during this time when the region has its highest rainfall. July to September are frequently the wettest months, during which inclement weather can prevent cruises in Halong Bay.

**Central Vietnam (**Danang, Dalat, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang and Quy Nhon)

Danang, Hoi An and Hue have hot and dry weather that lasts from mid-January to late August. During this period temperatures often rise to mid-30°C. Winter sees an increase in rainfall, with October and November being the wettest.

Hue is usually cooler than Hoi An, particularly early in the year. The coastal city of Quy Nhon shares a similar weather pattern to Hoi An but the dry season lasts a little longer because of its proximity to the southern system.

Dalat, in the Central Highlands, is wet from June to October. It is far drier from November to May, and cold from December to January.

The coastal resort city of Nha Trang in the far south of Central Vietnam has a longer dry season that runs from January to September. The rainy season lasts from October to December, with approximately 50 percent of the annual rainfall pouring in October and November.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc and Con Dao, The Mekong Delta, Phan Thiet and Mui Ne, Ho Tram and Long Hai)

Temperatures remain constant throughout the year, usually ranging from 25 to 35°C. The climate is split into two seasons: wet and dry. The latter starts in November and ends in April or early May. It is slightly hotter and more humid from late February to May. The wet season lasts from May to November, with June, July and August receiving the most rainfall.

In the far south, Phu Quoc and Con Dao often see sunny days so both islands can be enjoyed year-round.

Part III. Holidays & Special Events

1. tet nguyen dan – the vietnamese lunar new year.

Tết is the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture. It is also known as the Vietnamese New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year or Tet Holiday. It is the shortened form of Tết Nguyên Đán, which is the Sino-Vietnamese term for “Feast of the First Morning of the First Day”.

Tết marks the arrival of spring and generally takes place from late January to mid-February. Since a lot of people return home to celebrate the holiday with friends and family, the busy cities clear out and become almost like ghost towns.

Tết can be an exciting time to visit Vietnam, but it is also the busiest time of the year to be there. The festivities will definitely have a huge impact on your travel plans. Markets and shopping malls become busier and hotels get booked. Popular beach destinations and tourist spots like Hoi An have more sightseers than usual.

It can become incredibly noisy though. Cities will have fireworks everywhere, people will be making noise by banging gongs, ringing bells, and lighting firecrackers to scare away evil spirits that bring bad luck. The revelry typically lasts for three days, although in some areas it could drag on for more than a week. The first day of Tet is normally spent with family, the second day is for catching up with friends, and the third day is dedicated to teachers and visiting temples.

Traveling during this holiday season can pose some difficulties. Buses and trains are sold out in advance so travel itineraries can’t wait until the last minute. Museums, shopping areas, and other commercial establishments can be closed for up to five days and this can affect sightseeing plans. See to it that you have things to do to keep you occupied.

Pro Tip: Plan well in advance as hotels and domestic flights might be fully booked already. Please bear in mind that tour guide fee and transportation fees are often increased during this period due to high demand.

Dates for Tet in Vietnam:

• 2022:  February 1-4
• 2023: January 22-26
• 2024: February 10-14

2. Hue Festival

This is a big biennial festival that takes place in the city of Hue, where you can enjoy a wide variety of games, cultural events, and performances held for more than a week. It was created in 2000 with the goal of preserving traditional customs that date back to the Nguyen Dynasty. Since then it has been observed in the months of April, May and June every two years. During this period special showcases are held like the Hue Poetry Festival, Ao Dai Fashion Shows, Dialogue of Drums and Percussions, and sporting activities such as boat racing, kite flying and human chess. There are also movie screenings, street performances and art exhibitions.

In addition, a number of ancient sceneries of the Nguyen Dynasty are reproduced to give tourists a sneak peek into the feudal era of Vietnam. Some of the typical events include the Xa Tac Offering Ritual, the Nam Giao Offering Ritual, and the Royal Refined Music of Hue which was recognized by UNESCO in 2003 as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

3. Mid-Autumn Festival

This magical festival is celebrated on the 14th and 15th day of the lunar month. Also known as the Harvest Festival, Full Moon Festival and Children’s Festival, it features an array of activities like lion dances, children carrying paper lanterns, and food booths selling sticky rice, mooncakes, fruits and sweets. During the night of the festival, families set up their ancestral altar upon which they display offerings honoring the full moon.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is best observed in the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, where locals kick the festivities up a notch. There’s plenty of lantern processions, street performances and art shows. Kids are encouraged to participate in drawing, coloring and essay writing contests, while tourists get to enjoy the awesome sights of brightly colored paper lanterns lining the Japanese Covered Bridge and the banks of the Thu Bon River.

Part IV. Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam is a sinuous, serpentine nation, slithering 1,025 miles down along the eastern seaboard of Indochina. This is probably the reason why imaginative ways of transportation are a fascination. From being pedaled along in a bicycle rickshaw known as the  cyclo  to an exhilarating ride on a motorbike taxi , transportation runs as big a gamut as you’ll find elsewhere in the world.

If you wish to traverse the entire length of the country with side trips to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you have quite a handful of transportation options. The big question is which ones should you choose? Well, the answer depends on your time, budget, and sense of adventure.

If you’re short on time, travelling from north to south by plane makes a lot of sense. If you plan to visit the more remote tourist destinations such as the Northern Highlands, hiring a taxi or taking the train are the best options. If you’re on a budget but have plenty of time and patience, then the bus system will do. Or, if you’re the adventurous type, you may just have to hop aboard a motorcycle!

1. Vietnam by Plane

Vietnam has more than 20 airports. Quite a big number for a relatively small country. The reason behind this is that most of the airstrips constructed during the Vietnam War were converted to peacetime airports.

To date, majority of international flights land in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with daily arrivals coming from Asian hub cities. Bangkok, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Singapore, and Seoul have the most number of flights. Some international flights also head to Danang and Nha Trang.

Major international airline companies include Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Jetstar, and AirAsia.

Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines, VietJetAir, Jetstar and VASCO operate domestic flights.

A lot of tourists explore Vietnam by making their way north from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi, and then they do the other leg by plane. This will only take two hours, but if you take other modes of transport, the journey could take days, weeks, or even months.

The other key cities are also well connected. Whether you need a flight from Can Tho, Da Nang, Da Lat, Hai Phong, Hue, Phu Quoc or Nha Trang – flying to these areas from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh is easy because of the range of available domestic flights.

2. Vietnam by Train

Vietnam has 1,600 miles of railway, with the main line called Reunification Express providing an all-in encounter with the nation’s amazing beauty, people and history. The rail line runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It has multiple stops including popular tourist destinations like Danang, Hue and Nha Trang. Note, however that the whole trip takes more than 40 hours! Moreover, trains are generally more expensive than buses, but the comfort level is well worth it.

Book an overnight train so you can sleep your way through most of the travel time inside an air conditioned sleeper berth. There are several classes on Vietnamese trains, but try to go for the highest level that you can afford. For overnight travel, there are hard-berth and soft-berth compartments, with six and four bunks, respectively.

Vietnam is currently upgrading its train system, but even today, you can rest assured that traveling by train is one the best experiences you can have in this southeast Asian nation. Make sure you purchase your ticket in advance, especially during peak season.

Another option is to engage the services of a private company, which links more luxurious carriages to standard trains. A lot of tourists prefer this when they are going from Hanoi to Lao Cai in the Northern Highlands. A number of companies, including Fanxipan, Chapa Express Train, Sapaly Train, and Victoria Hotels, operate luxurious private carriages called Victoria Express Train. While the Victoria cars are regarded as the most comfortable on this route and travellers don’t need to book Victoria Hotel Sapa to travel on Victoria Express Train like before.

3. Vietnam by Bus

If you have lots of time and comfort is not your top priority, going around Vietnam by bus is a good option. Majority of the cities are served by a bus route, but a word of caution, travelling along the country’s rickety roads may not be for everyone. For instance, a 172-mile bus ride from the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City will take approximately  8 hours .

For tourists and those on a budget, the best bus options are the privately operated vehicles called ‘open tour’ buses. The fares are cheap and they cover all the top destinations. You can purchase an ‘open’ ticket so you can ask the driver to stop if you see something interesting along the Hanoi-Saigon route. However, some prefer to keep their options flexible by purchasing individual tickets as they go.

The open tour buses are better than national buses because they are air-conditioned and operate on fixed schedules with a limited number of passengers. State-run buses can be the exact opposite so beware. Research any private bus company before buying a ticket and see to it that you bring along some snacks and drinks for the ride.

4. Vietnam by Boat

Ferry services can whisk you to the major islands. One thing that you should never miss is a cruise in Halong Bay – the top boat destination in Vietnam. There are dozens of private ships plying the emerald waters, taking tourists to marvel at the magnificent karst island formations. You can choose from day trips and overnight excursions, with a full range of vessels, from bare-bones to the most luxurious.

Boat tours are also offered in the charming city of Hue where local households try to earn a few bucks from passing gappers. Lunch trips, fishing, and snorkeling are available from Hoi An, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang to the nearby islands.

You can also go on a river tour along the Mekong Delta, on board a private company’s river cruise. For tourists who are traveling to both Vietnam and Cambodia, a popular itinerary that links the two neighboring countries is a ride on a fast boat from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc.

5. Vietnam by Motorcycle or Motorbike

For the adventurous, motorbike or scooter rentals are offered in most major cities. You can also find motorcycle rentals, especially in Dalat. Carefully inspect the bike before you roar off and remember that there is a helmet law in Vietnam.

If you are not ready to roll on your own, you may opt for the Easy Rider Adventures in Dalat. It is quite a popular tour company so beware of the imitators. They offer short rides, bespoke, and multi-day trips.

6. Vietnam by Local Transportation

You’ve got three options: taxi, cyclo or the xe om. Metered taxis are cheap by international standards. However, dubious taxis with tampered meters ply the streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Only hire taxis from reputable companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun.

The cyclo is a three-wheel bicycle taxi. They first appeared during the French colonial period following a failed attempt to introduce rickshaws. This mode of transport is dying out, but is still available in some key cities. Cyclo drivers usually hang out near markets and major hotels. Remember to negotiate the fare before going anywhere.

The xe om is a motorbike taxi. Literally translated, xe means motorbike, while om means hug, so now you have an idea on how it works. Going around by xe om is okay as long as you are traveling light and don’t have a lot of luggage. There are lots of xe om drivers hanging around bus stations, hotels, and street corners. Just like with cyclos, negotiate the fare before you hop in.

Part V. Best Places to Stay in Vietnam

When it comes to accommodation in Vietnam, affordable luxury is the name of the game. You get to bask in sheer comfort and convenience in Indochina for what you would normally spend for a cracker-box suite in the United States and major European cities. Pay a little over US$100 and you are treated like royalty! If you plan to visit, go for a luxury room and you can rest assured that it’s worth every single penny.

Check out our mini ebook for additional information so it will be easier for you to pick which hotel perfectly suits your needs and preferences…

Part VI. Top Destinations/Attractions in Vietnam

Vietnam is country of staggering natural beauty, with its islands and beaches considered as among the very best in Southeast Asia. It’s a land of cultural complexities and its cuisine is arguably the most sumptuous in the region**.** More than 20 years have passed since the country was formally unified, and during that period, it has done an exceptional job of mending its wounds. Today, this proud country is a superb travel destination. You can’t go wrong – it’s both exotic and compelling!

Hanoi is chock full of history and culture, particularly in the Old Quarter, which is the tourism hub of the city with its bustling market streets, pulsating nightlife and some of the best local cuisine in the country. If you plan to visit, here are the other destinations that you shouldn’t miss:

• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Water Puppet Theatre
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son
• Dong Xuan Market
• Ba Vi National Park
• Hanoi Opera House
• Temple of Literature

This picturesque town has both culture and breathtaking natural beauty rolled into one enticing package. It is home to a number of ethnic groups and has grown significantly over the past years. What was once a quiet mountain town is now a tourist hot spot. Try to find a homestay in one of the villages or if the weather permits, climb Fansipan which is the highest mountain in Indochina. Check out this list of fun things to do in Sapa to spice up your itinerary…

• Trek and visit the captivating tribal villages
• Take a leisurely stroll near Sapa Lake
• Marvel at the majestic and romantic Love Waterfall
• Take a cable car up to lofty Fansipan
• Gaze in awe at the green rice terraces of Muong Hoa Valley
• Bask in the splendor of Thac Bac Waterfall (or the Silver Falls)
• Enjoy a traditional textile experience at Cat Cat or Ta Phin Village
• Experience the hustle and bustle of the Sapa market
• Snap photos amid the colorful sights of Ham Rong Flower Garden
• Discover history and culture at Sapa Museum
• Go off the beaten track and trek through authentic villages along Muong Hoa Valley
• Stay overnight in one of the homestays in remote villages of Ban Ho or Thanh Phu
• Go ecofriendly by staying overnight in one of the ecolodges near Sapa: Topas Ecolodge, Utopia Lodge
• Visit one of the colorful ethnic markets near Sapa: Coc Ly market on Tuesday, Can Cau Market on Saturday, Muong Khuong, Bac Ha markets on Sundays

3. Halong Bay

No trip to the northern region of Vietnam is complete without a visit to Halong Bay. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong Bay’s towering limestone islands are a sight of ethereal beauty. It’s therefore not surprising that it is northern Vietnam’s premier tourism hub.

The entire Halong Bay or sometimes referred to as the Gulf of Tonkin, covers an area of approximately around 1,500 square kilometers. Experts claim that it took roughly 500 million years to form Halong Bay to the 1,969 islands and islets made from karst limestone. Humans have inhabited the area since time immemorial but inflicted no damage to the natural wonder. The magnificent landscape has definitely added unique cultural values to this unique spot.

Things to do in Halong Bay

• Sign up for a day boat cruise or better, spend a night on a traditional wooden boat
• Kayak around the karst formations, explore fishing villages and hidden lagoons
• Get up early to participate in a Taichi Class on the sundeck and see the Sun rising
• Go spelunking at Hang Sung Sot Cave
• Go squid fishing at night
• Have a bird’s eye view of the landscape on board a seaplane
• Take an excursion to Cat Ba Island and explore one of the caves (Hospital Cave, Trung Trang Cave)
• Bicycling to Viet Hai Village
• Enjoy the serene surroundings at Lan Ha Bay
• Check out Virgin Cave in Bon Hon Island
• Travel to Monkey Island and stay at the secluded Monkey Island Resort

Located in the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is popular for its well-preserved Ancient Town that is traversed by canals. The city is a melting pot of history as clearly reflected by its architecture, a blend of different eras and styles – from French colonial buildings to Vietnamese tube houses, wooden Chinese temples, and the Japanese Covered Bridge with its iconic pagoda.

Things to do in Hoi An

• Explore the UNESCO Heritage Sites including Hoi An Old Town
• Snap amazing photos at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge
• Enjoy a gastronomic treat at the popular restaurants
• Soak up the sun at An Bang Beach
• Get your bicycle and explore the village paths and countryside
• Sharpen your bargaining skills at the Hoi An Central Market
• Take a tour at the Museum of Trade Ceramics
• Enjoy a day of scuba diving and snorkeling at Lao Cham Island
• Have some special tea at Reaching Out Tea House
• Attend a Cooking Class at Sabirama Cooking School
• Go for a stroll to the Lantern Market
• Sit down and learn to make silk lanterns at a local house
• Sip a cup of coffee or cool drink at Faifo Cafe with panoramic view from the rooftop
• Further afield: visit My Son Sanctuary for a half day; spend a full day on Ba Na Hills to explore the viral Golden Bridge and the Amusement complex on the Ba Na Hills with round trip transfers by cable car; trek the Bach Ma National Park

5. Nha Trang

Located in Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is a traveler’s paradise. This resort city offers you miles of of white sandy beaches against a backdrop of verdant mountains, lots of beautiful islands, plenty of historical sites and long hours of sheer relaxation. In addition, there is a menagerie of other captivating activities that will leave you asking for more!

In case you are wondering what to do in Nha Trang, then take a look at the list below.

• Engage in adrenaline pumping water sports, scuba diving and snorkeling
• Embark on sailing trips to neighboring islands
• Take a trip to paradisaical Doc Let or Bai Dai beaches
• Go on excursions to Ponagar Cham temples and the 19th century Long Son Pagoda
• Check out Vinpearl cable car, the world’s longest oversea cable car
• Visit Vinpearl Amusement Park and spend a full day to experience unparalleled fun for kids
• Visit Yang Bay Eco Park, a charming nature park just a stone’s throw away from the town centre
• Kick back and relax Vietnamese style at the Thap Ba Hot Springs and Mud Baths
• Explore the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam
• If you love photography, make sure to drop by the Do Dien Khanh Gallery
• Explore the countryside by bicycle or by boat
• Rafting the Cai River

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” because of its temperate weather, the town of Dalat has been one of the most popular destinations in southern Vietnam’s Central Highlands for getaway holidays . A lot of people call it ‘Le Petit Paris’ and this hill town even has a mini-replica of the Eiffel Tower in its centre! It is also a preferred location among domestic honeymooners, hence it’s also called ‘The City of Flowers’ and ‘The City of Lovers’

Dalat is renowned for its wide variety of flowers, fruits, and vegetables from its farmlands. It’s equally known for its pristine nature sites, beautiful landscape, and minority villages. There’s certainly something for everyone, but here some of the things that you should try if you visit this remarkable place…

• Explore the summer palace of Emperor Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam
• Visit Da Lat Railway, one of Vietnam’s oldest railway stations and known for its art deco architectural style
• Marvel at the unconventional and fairytale-like architecture of the Hằng Nga Guesthouse, also known as the ‘Crazy House’
• Go on a cable car ride to Truc Lam Pagoda, a complex featuring traditional Asian architecture
• Mingle with over 100 monks and nuns at the Truc Lam Pagoda (a Buddhist Zen monastery)
• Take in the stunning vistas atop Lang Biang Mountain
• Allot a few hours and make a trip to Pongour Waterfalls
• Stroll through elaborate floral displays at the Dalat Flower Gardens
• Go on a drive outside the city and visit Lang Biang Mountain and the Elephant Waterfalls
• Head to a village of K’Ho ethnic minority to learn about local life, Vietnamese coffee and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee by the farm owner/local host
• Discover how weasels and coffee come together at the Trai Ham Da Lat Weasel Coffee
• Find cute gifts and haggle for inspired goods at the lowest prices at the Dalat Night Market
• Trek on the quite path through the pine forest, coffee and persimmon plantations up to Pinhatt Mountain in order to enjoy the fabulous, picturesque view of Tuyen Lam Lake.
• Hit the road on two wheels and head off to Lak Lake

7. Ho Chi Minh City

Commonly called Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is known for its French colonial landmarks, including the 19th-century Central Post Office and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which is entirely constructed of materials imported from France. From the cheapest guesthouses to world class hotels, the tastiest of street stalls to the classiest restaurants, the scrum of the markets to the finest boutiques, Ho Chi Minh City is a high-octane conurbation of commerce and culture.

Without further ado, here are the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Savor the flavor of a bowl of Pho
• Visit the Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest temple temple in the city
• Enjoy a romantic dinner on Bonsai River Cruise
• Explore the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Visit the Central Office which was designed by Gustave Eiffel, of Eiffel Tower fame
• Grab a cup of coffee in Tao Dan Park
• Have a drink and enjoy the nightlife in Pham Ngu Lao or Bui Vien Street
• Tour the History Museum with artifacts dating 4,000 years
• Say a prayer at the Notre Dame Cathedral
• Marvel at the splendor of the Cao Dai Temple
• Scale the Bitexco Financial Tower
• Snap some amazing photos at the Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda
• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the fanciest temples in the city
• Tour the Ho Chi Minh City Museum
• Explore the Fine Arts Museum
• Admire the caramel-colored Cha Tam Church
• Shop till you drop and dine at the Ben Thanh Market
• Shop like a local at the Binh Tay Market
• Head to an organic farm in the outskirt of Ho Chi Minh City to learn about herbs, pick up ingredients for the cooking lesson.

8. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta in is the ‘rice bowl’ of Vietnam. It is a water world with its vast maze of rivers, canals, swamps, and floating markets. You’ll also find ornate Khmer pagodas, Buddhist temples, and communities surrounded by rice paddies. Boats are the primary means of transportation, and tours of the region typically start in Ho Chi Minh City or in Can Tho, a bustling city in the heart of the delta.

• Embark on a Sampan Cruise in My Tho. Regardless where the cruise starts, the boat will take you to Dragon (Con Tan Long), Tortoise (Con Quy) and Unicorn (Con Thoi Son) islands
• Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda and the Bat Pagoda
• Tour the Cai Be Fruit Orchard, the largest of its kind in the delta
• Visit floating markets and experience the daily life on the Mekong River
• Pick up a bicycle to ride along peaceful village paths in deeper Mekong Delta
• Sample a bowl of noodle soup at Cai Rang floating market
• Come to the Tra Su Cajuput Forest to see what the wetlands look like
• See the process of traditional silk making in Tan Chau Silk Village
• Go bird watching at Tram Chim National Park
• Scale the Sam Mountain and enjoy a grand view at the peak featuring Cambodia on one side and Vietnam on the other
• Be more daring at Dong Tam snake farm, dubbed “The Kingdom of Snakes”
• Visit Hon Phu Tu – Father and Son Island off the coast of the Cave Pagoda strait

Part VII. What to Eat in Vietnam

Vietnam may have a varied landscape but all of its cuisine features the balance of aromatics, sourness, sweetness, and fish-sauciness. Just like other Asian cuisines, it is all about striking that perfect blend: the sweet and the salty, the fresh and the fermented. Another thing that’s remarkable about Vietnamese cuisine is that it ain’t complex by any means. In fact, most of the popular dishes can be prepared and cooked just as well on the roadside as in a first-rate restaurant. It’s this simplicity, the fresh ingredients, and the subtle variations by region, that makes the food special and keep tourists coming back for more.

Up north, the food has a heavy Chinese influence with its noodle-based soups ands stir-fries. As you head south, there’s more blending of flavors with neighboring Cambodia and Thailand. Down south, the tropical climate nourishes more rice paddies, herb gardens, coconut groves, and jackfruit trees. The food is usually sweeter: savory dishes have more palm sugar and pho has sweeter broths.

It’s tough to talk about Vietnamese food without mentioning French influence. Evidently, colonization had a lasting effect on the entire nation including the land, the people, and the flavors. Perhaps the most distinct is the banh mi, which refers to the French baguette used to make this delectable Vietnamese sandwich. However, the locals have taken this sandwich to a whole new level and made it their own with fish patties, sardines, grilled pork, cilantro, chili-spiked pickled carrots, among other fillings.

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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. 

Related Articles

The Rough Guide to Vietnam

This practical travel guide to Vietnam features detailed factual travel tips and points-of-interest structured lists of all iconic must-see sights as well as some off-the-beaten-track treasures. Our itinerary suggestions and expert author picks of things to see and do will make it a perfect companion both, ahead of your trip and on the ground. This Vietnam guide book is packed full of details on how to get there and around, pre-departure information and top time-saving tips, including a visual list of things not to miss. Our colour-coded maps make Vietnam easier to navigate while you're there. This guide book to Vietnam has been fully updated post-COVID-19. The Rough Guide to VIETNAM covers:  Ho Chi Minh City and around, the Mekong Delta, the central highlands, the southern coast, central Vietnam, the northern coast, Hanoi and around and the far north. Inside this Vietnam travel guide you'll find: RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER

Experiences selected for every kind of trip to Vietnam, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in Ca Mau Peninsula to family activities in child-friendly places, like Tra Su Bird Sanctuary or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Ha Long Bay. PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS

Essential pre-departure information including Vietnam entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more. TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES

Includes carefully planned routes covering the best of Vietnam, which give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip. DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE

Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter of this Vietnam travel guide includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options. INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL

Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for water puppetry, boat trips, cycling, kayaking or exploring markets. HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS

Rough Guides' rundown of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Kon Tum and Son My's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Vietnam, even in a short time. HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Written by Rough Guides' expert authors  with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, this Vietnam guide book will help you find the best places, matching different needs. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Comprehensive 'Contexts' chapter of this travel guide to Vietnam features fascinating insights into Vietnam, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary. FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Ma Pi Leng Pass and the spectacular Khai Dinh Mausoleum. COLOUR-CODED MAPPING

Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Hoi An, Hue and many more locations in Vietnam, reduce the need to go online. USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT

With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time.

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Vietnam Travel Guide Book 2024: Your Ultimate Travel Companion for 2023 and 2024: Uncover the Timeless Charm and Hidden Gems of Vietnam's Enchanting Landscapes (Wright's Wanderlust Guides) Kindle Edition

• Part of series Wright's Wanderlust Guides
• Print length 128 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date November 6, 2023
• File size 66713 KB
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CLL1DQFY
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 6, 2023
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 66713 KB
• Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
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• Print length ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
• #201 in Vietnam Travel
• #1,041 in Vietnam Travel Guides
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About the author

Kian wright.

Introducing Kian Wright, a renowned travel guide writer who proudly represents Usa. Kian's career has been built on a profound understanding of the aspects of travel, and his guidebooks have become indispensable tools for a wide range of explorers. These include families looking to make enduring memories with their children, solo adventurers seeking independence, seasoned travelers seeking novel experiences, budget-conscious globetrotters, and first-time explorers navigating the unknown.

With a love of discovery and a dedication to provide the best advice possible, Kian painstakingly creates each guidebook to meet the specific requirements and tastes of each visitor. His knowledge goes much beyond simple navigation, which is evidence of his constant commitment to making each trip both unique and enlightening.

Being a committed family guy, Kian is aware of the value of travel in fostering relationships and producing priceless memories. His guidebooks, which are designed with families going on excursions together in mind, reflect this knowledge by providing helpful guidance and enlightening suggestions.

With Kian Wright by your side as your reliable guide, go off on an incredible adventure and see the marvels of the globe with assurance, clarity, and an unyielding spirit of adventure.

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Experience Vietnam

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- Local experts  share their love for the  real  Vietnam, offering  fresh perspectives  into the country’s  traditions, values  and  modern trends  to make your travel experience even more meaningful

- In the know   tips  to help you build on your experiences when visiting well-known sights and landmarks

- Fun insights  that will pique your curiosity and take you to the  heart of the place  - try an egg coffee at Loading T in Hanoi for a glimpse of Vietnamese coffee culture; discover The Happy Road’s epic tale of sacrifice; sip  ruou can  rice wine infused with mountain herbs picked by the Ede people

- Insider scoop  on the best festivals, secret hangouts, hidden locations, tantalising local food scene and photo-worthy views

- Handy seasonal trip planner  to guide you on  where to go ,  when to travel  and  what to pack

- Practical information  on money, getting around, unique and local ways to stay, and responsible travel

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Covers  Hanoi, Northern Vietnam, Central Vietnam, Southeast Coast, The Highlands, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta

eBook is available in ePub, MOBI and PDF.

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Edition: 1st

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Vietnam Travel Tips: 16 dos and don'ts in Vietnam

• on Aug 30, 2024       By: Phuong Mai

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Vietnam beckons with a rich tapestry of destinations waiting to be discovered. From the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the enchanting streets of Hoi An and the historic allure of Hanoi, each locale offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences. To fully enjoy your journey through this vibrant country, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. While Vietnamese are generally very hospitable and forgiving, it's still important to be aware of certain dos and don'ts during your stay.

9 essential tips for your trip to Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam , it's important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions. From dressing appropriately to staying hydrated, here are nine key things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Dress appropriately 

Modesty in clothing is highly valued in Vietnam, especially for women. While the dress code in major cities might be more relaxed, it's still advisable to avoid wearing shorts, low-cut tops, or revealing dresses when out and about, particularly when visiting sacred places. Opt for more conservative attire when entering pagodas or temples, where proper dress is particularly appreciated.

Minimize flashy accessories and stay alert 

Avoid wearing too many flashy accessories, and always keep your bag in front of you or out of sight when walking on the street. Although Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination, theft can occur, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. Staying vigilant with your belongings will help prevent any unfortunate incidents.

Keep your accommodation details handy 

Make sure to take a business card from your hotel’s reception desk. This will make it easier for you to return to your hotel by taxi or motorbike taxi, especially since not all drivers speak English and addresses can sometimes be confusing.

Stay hydrated 

The tropical heat in Vietnam, especially during the summer, can be intense, so always carry a bottle of water with you. While water is widely available for purchase, it’s best to buy from supermarkets or stores and ensure that the bottle is sealed.

Remove shoes before entering a local’s home 

Most Vietnamese people do not wear shoes inside their homes. Look out for cues, such as whether the homeowner is wearing shoes indoors or if there’s a shoe rack near the entrance. It’s customary to leave your shoes by the door.

Carry with you a roll of toilet paper 

You never know when you might need it. Many public restrooms in Vietnam do not provide toilet paper, so it’s wise to carry a roll with you to avoid any inconvenient situations.

Be ready to bargain

Don’t hesitate to negotiate at Vietnamese markets until you reach a price you're comfortable with. Locals might try to charge foreigners more, assuming they are unfamiliar with the language or true prices. However, a friendly smile and a polite approach can go a long way in getting a fair deal.

Try the Local Food 

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned as one of the best in the world. While enjoying the local delicacies, it’s a good idea to learn how to use chopsticks, as many food stalls don’t offer forks or knives. Also, remember that sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered a bad omen, so avoid doing so during your stay.

Learn a few words of Vietnamese

It might seem daunting if you’re only staying for a few days, but as Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart." Locals will be delighted if you can manage simple phrases like “ Cảm ơn ” (Thank you) or “ Xin chào” (Hello).

7 Things to avoid when traveling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a welcoming and safe destination, where the locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to respect their customs. To help you navigate your journey smoothly and avoid any awkward situations, here are seven things to avoid when visiting Vietnam.

Taking photos without permission 

While the Vietnamese are known for their warmth and hospitality, they generally prefer not to be photographed without consent. Always ask for permission before taking someone's picture, particularly in the historic town of Hoi An, where taking photos might even require a fee. Additionally, never take pictures of military zones, as this is considered a serious breach of national security and could land you in legal trouble.

Drawing unnecessary public attention 

Asian cultures, including Vietnam, tend to be more reserved compared to Western societies. Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, are frowned upon and can even be seen as offensive. It’s best to save these gestures for private settings to respect local norms.

Panicking when crossing the street

Traffic in Vietnam, especially in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, can be overwhelming. Instead of panicking, which can increase your chances of an accident, be bold and decisive. Look straight ahead and make eye contact with drivers as you cross to safely navigate the chaotic streets.

Pointing your feet towards altars 

When visiting a local’s home, avoid sitting with your feet pointed towards the family altar, as this is considered disrespectful to their religious beliefs. Be mindful of your posture and the direction of your feet when you’re in someone’s home.

Speaking loudly in sacred places 

Silence is valued when visiting places of worship like pagodas, temples, or churches in Vietnam. To show respect, it’s best to keep quiet, join your hands in prayer like the locals, or stroll calmly through these sacred spaces.

Engaging in illegal activities  

If you’re looking to enjoy Vietnam’s nightlife, you’ll find plenty of fantastic bars and pubs in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. However, steer clear of drugs and prostitution, as both are strictly illegal in Vietnam. Involvement in these activities can lead to serious legal consequences.

>> Read more: 

Bringing up the war  

The wounds of war still linger in the lives of many Vietnamese people. Discussing the war in casual conversation can evoke strong emotions or even aggression. It’s best to avoid this topic out of respect for the country’s painful history.

Vietnam warmly welcomes tourists from all walks of life, and locals greatly appreciate efforts to integrate and respect their customs. While they are generally forgiving of minor mistakes, following these guidelines will help you make the most of your experience and minimize any cultural missteps during your trip to Vietnam .

Related articles:

>>  Best things to do in Vietnam: guaranteed for a fulfilling trip

>>  Best Time to Visit Vietnam: A detailed weather guide

>>  10 Days in Vietnam: List of Itineraries for Every Traveler

>>  15-day Vietnam Tour: Travel itineraries for all types of traveler

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The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary (2024) Travel Guide for Vietnam’s Capital

August 1, 2023 by Bino 2 Comments

Vietnam’s capital may be known more than anything for its chaotic and motorbike-filled streets but I have to say that Hanoi remains to be one of my favorite Southeast Asian capitals. There is something about the city that always puts it at the back of my mind as a destination I’d want to visit again and again, with a different Hanoi itinerary each time. It may be the excellent food or the fascinating history or simply the pulsating and distinctively Vietnamese energy. Whatever it is, each visit to Hanoi always leaves me with new finds and restaurants that I won’t hesitate recommending to friends.

For those looking to visit, I have come up with this suggested Hanoi itinerary. Depending on whether you intend to visit Ha Long Bay and Tam Coc, this itinerary is something you can execute in as little as 2 days if you’re coming here only for the weekend or up to 4 days if you intend to make it a short getaway.

the pulsating energy of hanoi

General Tip: In Hanoi, a common scam occurs with some taxi drivers at the airport where they claim the hotel you booked has closed. This is a trick to get you to stay in another hotel where they can get commission. To avoid this, you can ask your hotel to pre-book your transport or you can book one yourself here .

Heading to Central Vietnam? Check out this suggested itinerary for Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Old Hanoi

Hoan kiem lake.

hoan kiem lake

Start your Hanoi itinerary by obtaining your bearings at the Lake of the Returned Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), the focal point where touristic activities in Hanoi are concerned. How the lake came about is the stuff of legends. In the morning, you will find locals doing tai-chi at the park encircling the lake. There is a pagoda in the middle of the lake – an often photographed structure – as well as the Ngoc Son Temple in the northern side which you can cross over to via a red bridge. Opening hours: 8:00 to 18:00, daily / Admission: 30,000 dong (adult)

French Quarter

french quarter of hanoi

Afterwards, head east towards the French Quarter . You will find this area of Hanoi calmer, with plenty of small parks, charming turn-of-the-century hotels as well as buildings dating from the French period such as the post office. The neoclassical Hanoi Opera House in particular, is a fine example of the French influence. The building was modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris.

Old Quarter

hanoi old quarter

By early afternoon, the cramped streets of the Old Quarter starts to buzz with life and that’s a great time to head there to see how local commerce is done. The area offers a beguiling mix of stores housed in old shophouses. The streets are named according to the types of shops found there – there is a street for jewelry (Hang Bac); a street for shoes (Hang Dau) and so on. You can easily spend the entire afternoon here, which is not a bad idea. Bach Ma Temple , said to be the oldest in Hanoi, is located here. Make sure to stop by Cha Ca La Vong (daily 11AM to 2PM, 5PM to 9:30PM) for lunch.

souvenirs along the old quarter of hanoi

For cheap souvenirs, head to Dong Xuan Market or head to Tired City for some cool and totally non-kitschy t-shirts, scarves, postcards and art prints made by local artists. They have a few outlets but the biggest one is in Hang Gai. 

If shopping is not your thing, you can check out some really local experiences such as conical hat making, calligraphy, pottery and even coffee appreciation with Backstreet Academy . For foodies, you can go on a 3-hour food tour of the Old Quarter where you get to visit various eateries specializing in different dishes.

egg coffee from loading t cafe

In the late afternoon, you can head out of the Old Quarter and head southwest to see the imposing St. Joseph’s Cathedral with its neo-gothic façade. Within its vicinity are a number of charming cafes. Loading T Cafe (daily 8AM to 6PM), set in a crumbling mansion, is particularly atmospheric for its vintage interiors as well as semi-open balcony that overlooks the street. Go for a cup of Hanoi’s famous egg coffee which is made with whisked egg white, condensed milk and a little bit of sugar for a truly frothy coffee experience!

Day 2 – Monumental Hanoi

Imperial citadel.

hanoi citadel

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (daily except Monday, 8AM to 5PM) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public. There isn’t much to see here these days so I would only rate it as an optional stop. But if you ever decide to make a visit, try to combine it with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum as it’s within the same area.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

ho chi minh mausoleum

Try to beat the queues and venture to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum in the morning (weekdays are better). It’s free to enter. Do note that the venue is closed on Mondays and Fridays. Opening hours: 7:30 to 10:30 / Admission: Free

Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda

presidential palace of hanoi

From here, it’s a short walk to the Presidential Palace , Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House  as well as the One-Pillar Pagoda . The latter’s exceptionally small size makes it one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Vietnam. As there is a good number of tourist attractions within the area, it’s often crowded here so try to avoid the weekend and public holidays if possible. Opening hours: 8:00 to 17:00, daily

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

quan an ngon

It would be midday by the time you finish, just in time to take a cab ride to Quan An Ngon (daily, 7AM to 9:30PM) for lunch. The venue takes you on a quick culinary tour of Vietnam. While it’s possible to order from the menu, there are stalls that allow you to have a peek at various dishes before you order. If you have a limited amount of time to spend in Vietnam, I’d recommend coming here to allow you to quickly sample the country’s varied specialties in one sitting.

Temple of Literature

temple of literature

From Quan an Ngon, it’s around a 10 minute walk to the Temple of Literature . The spread of Confucianism in Vietnam is perhaps never more apparent than here. During imperial times, only the most gifted scholars were able to study here and the venue offers a good peek of life in the imperial era. The sprawling complex is filled with courtyards, pavilions and ponds and showcases the extent of Chinese influence in Vietnam. Opening hours: 8:00 to 17:00, daily / Admission: 30,000 dong (adult)

Shopping and Cafes at Tay Ho

tran quoc pagoda

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the chic district of Tay Ho or West Lake, one of the up and coming neighborhoods of Hanoi filled with plenty of local designer boutiques, some of the city’s best international restaurants as well as hipster cafes. Aside from being Hanoi’s expat enclave, many dining and drinking establishments also choose to set up shop here due to the lakeside views. The Tran Quoc Pagoda which is found in a small peninsula jutting out from the narrow strip of land separating West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, makes for a picturesque sight early in the morning or towards sunset when the calm waters create a mirror reflection. Otherwise, for a great bird’s eye view of the twin lakes, Summit Lounge – the rooftop bar of the Pan Pacific Hanoi – is the place to go.

Sky High Views at Sky Lotte Observation Deck

sky lotte observation deck

For a bird’s eye view over Hanoi, you can head to Lotte Center for the Sky Lotte Observation Deck . At 65 floors up, you can spot some of the city’s landmarks from the viewing gallery. A highlight here is the Skywalk where visitors get to walk on the floor is made of glass. Best time to visit is around 5 to 6PM – it’s a great place to catch the sunset. You can get discounted tickets here .

Home-style Dinner at Tam Vi

When the Michelin Guide did its inaugural awarding of Michelin stars in 2023, one of the first establishment to earn the accolade in Hanoi was Tam Vi (11AM to 2:30PM/5PM to 9:30PM) – a traditional restaurant serving home-style meals hidden in an alley off Nguyen Thai Hoc. Star dishes here include Crab Soup with Spinach, Vietnamese Ham with Periwinkle Snails as well as the Caramelized Pork with Egg. This is a worthwhile dinner venue as the cuisine is decidedly Northern Vietnamese and quite different from what you’ll get in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Reservations are recommended. I tried reserving for a same-day table and could only get a slot at 8PM. 

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay & Other Excursions

Ha long bay (day trip or overnight option).

ha long bay

Most people who visit Hanoi also make their way to Ha Long Bay . While going to Ha Long Bay is practically a “yes” for most, the main decision you’d likely be facing is whether you should stay overnight in Ha Long Bay or just make it a day trip?

An overnight stay in Ha Long Bay will definitely enable you to visit more spots and you can climb the jagged peaks of some of the islands as well on a longer cruise to get a bird’s eye view of the bay (for example, in Titop Island). This is something you would not be able to do on a day trip though if you are really lacking in time, there’s little other choice.

If you decide to go for a day trip, you can expect a few hours’ cruise along the bay, a seafood lunch, some time for kayaking and exploring a cave called Thien Cung Cave. You can book the Ha Long Bay day tour here .

If you decide to go for an overnight cruise, you can expect the same highlights from the day tour plus around 2 more caves, a nice view point from Titop Island, an additional dinner and breakfast plus a likely cooking class.

Tam Coc / Hoa Lu

If you have already been to Hanoi before and are looking for a different day trip option, a journey through the river valleys of Tam Coc / Hoa Lu is also worthwhile. The landscape is lush and the experience is quite fun as you ride a small bamboo boat down the river surrounded by limestone rock formations. Aside from the boat ride, a typical day tour includes climbing up Mua Cave for a scenic view of the river, surrounding rice fields and mountains.

Perfume Pagoda

A third option for excursions originating from Hanoi is the Perfume Pagoda . Situated some 60km away from Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is one of the country’s most important religious sites. To get here from Hanoi, travelers will need to take a roughly 70 minute car ride to a village followed by a 45 minute or so boat ride down the Yen River to a temple complex. From here, a path leads to another temple as well as a cable car station.

perfume pagoda

Visitors can either take the cable car or hike up to the Perfume Pagoda itself which is situated in a cave. The entrance to the cave is rather dramatic – it is said to resemble a dragon’s mouth and is decorated with Chinese text.

A typical Perfume Pagoda day tour includes round trip transport from Hanoi, a guide and lunch but not the cable car ticket as it is up to the visitor’s discretion whether they’d want to hike or take the cable car. You can book this tour here .

Travel Tips for Hanoi

• In this age of uncertainty, you might wish to get travel insurance. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion that comes with S$10 cash rebate that helps to offset the insurance cost.
• Do note that Hanoi has a pronounced winter season from November to February. A jacket would come in handy. If you visit during these months, there’s a possibility you might not even see any sunshine. On the other hand, July and August is a very humid time in Hanoi. Even if it just says 30 to 32 degrees celsius in the thermometer, you’ll sweat buckets.
• You can pay in USD in some places including shops, restaurants and other tourist-oriented establishments. This does not apply to the small eateries or groceries. Most hotels will be able to change USD to Vietnamese Dong at competitive rates. 
• For those who constantly need to be online, you can purchase local sim cards upon arrival at the airport.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

I’ve been to Hanoi twice and a hotel I can personally recommend is the La Sinfonia del Rey Hotel which conveniently overlooks Hoan Kiem Lake. Rooms are incredibly sleek and I found the clouds painted on the room’s ceilings to be quite relaxing. For a slightly cheaper option,  you can check out La Mejor Hotel located in the Old Quarter. Alternatively, you can use this aggregator HERE to compare for the best prices for hotels in Hanoi with just one look.

Getting Around: GRAB is a cheap, safe and reliable way to get from point to point within Hanoi. Most trips between the various city attractions should not cost more than $5.

Entry Requirements: Certain nationalities may require a visa to enter Vietnam. It’s better to check beforehand. For visa services, you can try Vietnam Visa .

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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November 4, 2017 at 8:35 pm

Thanks for sharing the good travel blog about two days itinerary for Vietnam. It is really beautiful country, You must visit one time in your lifetime.

August 7, 2024 at 11:11 am

Hi looking to fly to vietnam and need traveling guide to buy from Hanoi to Saigon,or any info related to this trip thanks Craig from Canada.

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TRAVEL DESTINATIONS | , VIETNAM

20 genius vietnam travel tips – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share 20 genius Vietnam travel tips in 2024. If you’re planning to travel to Vietnam read this article CAREFULLY to avoid making mistakes and missing important things. 

We absolutely love Vietnam and we can’t stop going back. Vietnam is an amazing country to travel. However, it does have some challenges and some things that you need to know before you go. As long term travelers and a FULL TIME travel family – we have made all the mistakes and had to develop ways to travel better. We are passionate about sharing our tried and tested top tips and travel secrets with you to help you make the most of your Vietnam trip. 

These Vietnam travel tips should help you have an amazing time in Vietnam. Please read this guide carefully if you’re planning to visit Vietnam as we think it will help you a lot.  

Summary of essential Vietnam travel tips

Brief summary of our Vietnam travel tips – KEEP READING for full details

• Get set up with a local SIM card
• Always check your change
• Watch out for ATM charges
• If you’re going rural take plenty of cash
• Avoid popular activities on public holidays
• Respect local customs and culture
• Look after your valuables
• Take care on the roads
• Make the most of the street food
• Download Google translate
• Use a taxi app to get around
• Plan your itinerary carefully
• Use offline maps to get around
• Get bigger water bottles
• Book trips and tours 
• Splash out on an amazing hotel
• Protect yourself from the sun
• Consider taking a luxury cruise
• Try bartering
• Don’t miss Sapa

DON’T MISS THE GUIDE – Thailand vs Vietnam – which country should you visit?

What are the BEST places to visit in Vietnam?

Before we share out PRO Vietnam travel tips we just wanted to share a few recommendations for Vietnam.

If you are planning to visit Vietnam you may be considering a visit to Ho Chi Minh City and the South. There are lots of awesome things to do around Ho Chi Minh including boat trips to the Mekong Delta, day trips to the historic Cu Chi tunnels and plenty of epic temples. Ho Chi Minh is a great place to experience culture, history and amazing food.

We highly recommend a visit to Hanoi in the North. This city is also packed with culture and history and it is a great hub to explore other awesome destinations in the north of Vietnam. Whether it’s walking around Hanoi city exploring temples , or trying the epic Hanoi street food – this city doesn’t disappoint. 

If you get a chance we highly recommend a visit to Sapa. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Sapa . This is an awesome destination for stunning trekking in the hills around Sapa , cultural villages and authentic Sapa homestays . It is possible to take a night train from Hanoi to Sapa – this is a great experience. If the night train is not for you there are other ways to travel from Hanoi to Sapa . 

We also highly recommend a visit to Ha Long Bay. If you are looking for superlative splashout opportunities consider taking a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay . We loved Peony cruises and highly recommend their package. 

What are the BEST things to do in Vietnam?

There are absolutely loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam. In some ways it is hard to narrow it down. To help you you plan your trip here is a list of some of our TOP PICK things to do in Vietnam:

• Explore traditional Vietnamese temples 
• Take a Mekong delta boat tour (around $15 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
• Visit the war Relics Museum (Ho Chi Minh)
• See a traditional water puppet show 
• Visit a Vietnamese market  (e.g. Ben Thanh market or Dong Xuan market)
• Try a traditional Vietnamese cooking course 
• Visit the Reunification palace (Ho Chi Minh)
• Get a Vietnamese massage (amazing prices – normally under $10)
• Visit the Cu Chi tunnels (Around $20 all inclusive from Ho Chi Minh)
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum (Hanoi)
• See the iconic Tran Quoc Pagoda (Hanoi)
• Check out Hanoi train street 
• Explore the Temple of literature (Hanoi)
• Visit the Mua Cave and viewpoint (Trang An near Hanoi)
• Visit the summit of Fanispan (trek or take the cable car and mountain railway)
• Go trekking in Sapa and stay in an authentic homestay
• Take a luxury cruise of Ha Long Bay
• Explore Cat Ba island

1 Get set up with a local SIM card

Having a local SIM is very useful whether you’re booking a taxi online, communicating with a hotel or just scrolling through nonsense on a long bus journey. 

When you arrive in Vietnam we recommend that you get a local SIM card. One way to do this is to buy one in the airport when you first arrive (this is convenient but may be a little bit more expensive). Alternatively, wait until you’re in town and then find a SIM card. There are many SIM card companies available in Vietnam and the choice can be a little bit overwhelming. Different companies offer different packages with varying amounts of data, coverage and prices. Be aware that many SIM card deals only include data and not calls or text messages. You may struggle to make outgoing calls or send text messages, therefore we recommend that you connect with locals through WhatsApp. 

You can find some mobile network shops around towns and cities. One of the biggest network providers is Viettel. They generally have stores around towns and cities and offer a range of deals and packages. Viettel offers the best coverage – however their deals are generally quite expensive. Viettel 30 day packages tend to range between 150,000VND – 300,000VND and include a data limit (normally 10GB – 60GB depending on the package). You can find cheaper 30 day sim cards in small local corner shops and small tour offices.  We found Mobiphone offered good deals at competitive prices. The best way to get a good deal is shop around and barter. You can normally find deals for around 90,000VND – 150,000VND. Shoot for 30GB or more.

2 Always check your change

Here is one of our PRO Vietnam travel tips for being savvy. Start getting your head around the currency before you go. You may be able to get hold of some cash in advance or withdraw from an ATM in the airport. Alternatively bring some US dollars (or another local currency) and exchange in the airport to get you going. 

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). The Vietnamese dong is quite a challenge and currency because the notes are very large. In general you’re not likely to pay for anything that is less than 10,000VND (which is roughly £0.35 or $0.40). These large numbers can make it very difficult to convert currencies, work out prices and figure out how much change you need. We always recommend that you take time to check your change carefully and don’t feel rushed or flustered. Some travelers can be short changed because locals know that the currency is difficult to work with. 

3 Watch out for ATM charges

There are plenty of ATM machines available in all of the main towns and cities in Vietnam. Most ATM machines in Vietnam accept foreign cards including Master Cards, Maestro, Visa and Visa debit cards. However, your local bank may charge you for using your card overseas. Furthermore, Vietnamese ATM machines generally have a charge for using international cards. ATM machines in Vietnam will give you an option to do your transaction in English and they should tell you the withdrawal charges before you withdraw money. We found that Agribank had some of the lowest charges and they are quite widespread around Vietnam. We also recommend that you use a good international card such as Starling or Wise (minimal or no international fees). 

4 If you’re going rural take plenty of cash

Here is one of our Vietnam travel tips for going rural. If you are planning to go to a rural location in Vietnam make sure you take plenty of cash. For example, if you’re traveling to Sapa there are a few cash machines around town. However, as soon as you get out of town there are no cash machines for miles. Therefore, if you are visiting this area make sure you get plenty of cash before you disappear into the hills. Many of the islands in Vietnam are recently developed, however if you’re planning to visit any of the smaller and less developed Islands we recommend taking plenty of cash with you. 

5 Avoid popular activities on public holidays

In recent years domestic tourism has become very popular in Vietnam. increasingly Vietnamese people are traveling around Vietnam and enjoying their awesome country. However, this can make it challenging traveling Vietnam especially during public holidays and weekends. Popular activities in Vietnam can get very busy during public holidays and weekends. If you do need to take a long journey during a public holiday we recommend booking your tickets in advance as early as possible. If possible, we recommend planning your trip carefully so that your slower, “down days” fall on any public holidays or weekends in Vietnam. Also, you may notice that some attractions charge a little bit more during the weekends. Lose-lose, it is more busy and you pay more at the weekend! 

6 Respect local customs and culture

Vietnam is a very friendly, relax and respectful culture. Vietnamese people are generally quite reserved but they are also friendly and outgoing. One of the most important ways to respect local culture and customs is to make sure that you dress conservatively and respectfully when you are visiting temples and significant landmarks. In general, we recommend that you have shoulders and knees covered when you are visiting temples in Vietnam. 

7 Look after your valuables

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is looking after yourself and your belongings. Crime rates are generally quite low in Vietnam. However, it is important to look after yourself and your belongings. Take care if you’re out and about at night, especially if you are on your own. Also watch your bags and belongings especially in busy locations like markets. We tend to use a dry sack inside of a valuables bag to keep cameras and valuables safe. This makes it more difficult for a thief to access and also protect your valuable electrical items in heavy rain. 

Vietnam also has night buses which is a cheap and convenient way to travel around. However, your valuables bag may be very vulnerable on a night bus. We recommend using a small padlock to keep your valuables bag secure and make sure it is not in a position that is easy to grab or access. Keep an arm through a stap.   

8 Take care on the roads

Vietnam has a reputation for hilariously busy roads. If you are visiting one of the biggest cities in Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi be prepared for an ocean of motorbikes speeding down the streets. If you need to cross a road try to find traffic lights or pedestrian crossings. Many locals just walk slowly into the street keeping an eye out for bikes. Slow and steady movement allows the bikes to pass around them. Whatever you do, always take care around the streets and remain vigilant. 

9 Make the most of the street food

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to make the most of the amazing Vietnamese street food. Street food in Vietnam is delicious, cheap and readily available. The awesome street food culture in Vietnam is an amazing part of the experience of traveling here. Many of the towns and cities in Vietnam had street food markets and plenty of small cafes and restaurants along the streets. If you get a chance, we recommend taking a street food tour.

Local guides will be able to show you the best places to eat and tell you about the food. We highly recommend that you try Bahn Mi in Vietnam (this is a french style baguette packed with meat, egg and pickled veggies). Pho Soup is also very common and popular. This noodle soup has a beautiful stock and it is served with sliced meats or prawns and a range of mouthwatering garnishes. Vietnamese spring rolls are also amazing – try them fresh for a crunchy healthy option. Most street food in Vietnam ranges between 30,000VND – 90,000VND. 

10 Download Google translate

Most people in Vietnam speak a reasonably good level of English, especially in the larger towns and cities. However, language can be challenging from time to time. We have found Google Translate to be an amazing language app. Google translate allows you to translate spoken language using your microphone and written text using your camera. In most cases Google Translate is able to help you make sense of documents, information and menus. It is also very good at picking up on spoken text in both Vietnamese and English. If you download Google translate on to your phone you can actually download offline languages so that you can translate without WI-Fi or mobile data. This is super helpful when you are visiting more rural areas with less English and weak wifi. 

11 Use a taxi app to get around

One of the most convenient ways to get around Vietnamese cities is to use local taxis. Due to the increase in use of taxi apps it is becoming very challenging to flag taxis at the side of the road. And if you do find taxis at the side of the road you will need to barter with taxi drivers for a reasonable price. A massive advantage of using taxi apps is that the price is fixed by the app. you will be given a fair local price for your journey without needing to barter. If you wish to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to have mobile data available on your phone. 

The main taxi apps in Vietnam are Grab and Gojek. In order to use a taxi app in Vietnam you will need to download the app from your app store. Once you have the app you can register for an account using your local phone number and email address. When you set up your account, allow it to access your phone’s location to book taxis. You can either enter your destination and allow the auto suggest to bring it up or you can use the map function.

Once you have booked your taxi it normally takes 5 or 10 minutes for the taxi to arrive. You are able to cancel your journey shortly after booking if you need to. Once a taxi has agreed to take you you will be given the registration plate and you will be able to message the driver over the app. watch out for your taxi and then just jump in and go. 

You can use both apps simultaneously to find the fastest taxi and cheapest journey. You can also select “pay with cash” when you book your taxi. We found this to be a very simple and convenient option. Most journeys around cities should cost 30,000VND – 150,000VND.

12 Plan your itinerary carefully

One of our most important Vietnam travel tips is to plan your itinerary carefully. Vietnam is actually a very large country and it takes over 24-hours to travel from the North to the south of Vietnam over land (the country is over 1,000 miles from north to south). Even if you choose to fly this can take up a significant amount of your precious travel time.

Therefore, we recommend planning your itinerary very carefully. Slow down if you can. Consider what things you wish to do before you visit Vietnam and make sure you have enough time to do all of the things you want to do.

In general if you have less than 10 days in Vietnam we recommend focusing on either the north or the South but don’t try to visit both. If you have 10 days or more in Vietnam it is possible to visit both the north and south of the country. However, if you are really wanting an epic trip that visits all of the must-see destinations in Vietnam, then we recommend taking at least two or three weeks for your trip. 

If you’re planning an itinerary that hits the north and south – it may be more efficient to fly into Ho Chi Minh and fly out of Hanoi. Or Fly into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh. This saves traveling up and down the country unnecessarily. Alternatively, you could travel into Hanoi, then travel down the country to Ho Chi Ming, then travel overland to Cambodia by bus. 

• Don’t miss our ULTIMATE 10 day step-by-step itinerary for Vietnam
• We also have a detailed 3 day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh
• You may also be interested in our 3 day itinerary for Hanoi

13 Use offline maps to get around

One of our top Vietnam travel tips is to get hold of some offline maps on your phone. We use an app called Maps.Me to download offline maps in advance. This app syncs up with your phone’s GPS and allows you to pin down your exact location. One of the things that we love about this app is the number of destinations that are listed in the app. You can use the app to search for things like ATM machines, restaurants, petrol stations and much more. Map.Me also allows you to drop pins to remember some of your favourite locations – perfect if you want to revisit places. This really is one of our favourite travel apps. Best of all Maps.Me is a FREE app. 

14 Get big water bottles

Getting drinking water in Vietnam can actually be challenging at times. Pack a refillable water bottle. It is not recommended to drink water directly from the tap in Vietnam. Therefore, you will need to buy bottles of drinking water. Some hotels and guest houses offer water filling facilities which is very useful.

Alternatively you can buy large bottles of water to refill your water bottle. In some cases you will need to buy 5 liter water bottles (these generally cost around 30,000VND and last for a few days). Alternatively, in some locations you can buy big reusable 15 liter bottles of filtered drinking water. This is a great way to fill your bottle if you’re staying somewhere for a longer stint (these 15 liter bottles are quiet heavy). A 15 liter bottle is likely to last around 1 week or more. This is an environmental and economical way of sourcing water in Vietnam. 

15 Book trips and tours 

If you are planning to visit some of the awesome attractions in Vietnam consider booking tours. Tours in Vietnam tend to be very cheap and a fun and convenient way to see local attractions and meet new people. In some cases it may be cheaper to book a tour than to visit independently. Many tours in Vietnam include hotel pickup and drop off, food, guides and other kit that you need. 

There are two ways to book trips and tours in Vietnam: You can either book online in advance or you can find a small tour operator and book directly with them. You generally need to book 1 or 2 days in advance. If you plan to book online in advance, we recommend using Klook to book tours in Vietnam . They have loads of awesome tours in Vietnam and offer very competitive prices. This allows you to read your whole itinerary, work out exactly what’s included, check reviews and find out about pickup and drop off details and timings. 

If you plan to book trips and tours with a local tour operator, you will find plenty of small tour offices located in travel hubs like Ho Chi Minh, the Hanoi old Quarter and Sapa town. Barter with local operators to get the lowest prices. 

The main disadvantage of booking tours is the lack of flexibility. We really enjoy traveling independently because this allows us to see things more cheaply and go at our own pace. However, it is fun to take tours – especially if you just want to relax and go with the flow. 

16 Splash out on an amazing hotel

This may not be one of our most savvy Vietnam travel tips but we really want to mention the amazing luxury hotels in Vietnam. If you have ever dreamed of splashing out on a luxury 5-star hotel, Vietnam may well be the best place to do this. Vietnam offers some of the best value for money accommodation in Southeast Asia (and perhaps some of the best in the world!)

You can find luxury 5 star hotel rooms in Vietnam starting at around £60 per night. Equivalent hotels in Europe would be likely to set you back around £250 per night. For £200 per night you can find some incredibly stylish and decadent properties. Another advantage of splashing out on a luxury hotel in Vietnam is the amazing staff. Not only are Vietnamese people incredibly hospitable and helpful, Vietnamese hotels tend to be very well staffed, much better than other parts of the world. So if you stay in a luxury hotel in Vietnam you can expect an impeccable level of service.

So if there is any part of you that wants to experience 5-star luxury, then Vietnam is probably one of the best places in the world to do this! 

BEST 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh

• The Reverie Saigon – SUPER stylish, amazing facilities & location. Book the Reverie on Agoda or Book the Reverie on booking.com
• Fusion Original Saigon Centre – UNIQUE and artistic beauty & amazing location. You can book Fusion on Agoda or Fusion on booking.com
• Vinapearl Landmark 81 – Luxury hotel at the top of a skyscraper – paradise in the sky. Reserve Viapearl on Agoda or reserve Vinapearl on booking.com

The Best luxury hotels in Hanoi

• The Oriental Jade Hotel Hanoi – Classy, amazing facilities & great location. Book the Oriental Jade on Agoda or Book the Oriental Jade on booking.com
• The Grand Mercure Hanoi – Very stylish, great views and excellent facilities. Book the Grand Mercure on Agoda or Book the Grand Mercure on booking.com
• The Capella Hanoi – Very decadent luxury boutique old quarter hotel. Book the Capella on Agoda or book the Capella on booking.com

TOP PICK luxury hotels in Sapa

• Laxsik Ecolodge – Dreamy luxury mountain lodge. Book Laxsik on Agoda or book Laxsik on booking.com
• Hotel De La Coupole – Beautiful classic style hotel with great facilities. Book Hotel De La Coupole on Agoda or book Hotel De La Coupole on booking.com
• The Silk Path Grand Resort – Breathtaking 5 star hotel. Book the Silk Path on Agoda or Book the Silk Path on booking.com

17 Protect yourself from the sun

Vietnam has a hot tropical climate. One of the most important Vietnam travel tips is to make sure that you protect yourself from the climate.  make sure you drink plenty of water and use sun protection. Sun cream in Vietnam is actually quite expensive. Therefore, we recommend packing some factor 50 suncream. If you are planning to be out during the hottest hours of the day, we recommend using suncream and a small umbrella for shade. A small travel umbrella is very useful because it can protect you from both the sun and the rain. If you are planning to be in the water during the heat of the day we recommend using rash guards that have UV protection. 

18 Use night buses and night trains

One of our top savvy Vietnam travel tips is to use night buses and night trains. This is a fun and very affordable way to travel around Vietnam. The advantage of taking a night bus or night train is that you do not lose any travel time to your journey. Furthermore, you will also save the price of a night’s accommodation elsewhere.

Whether you are planning to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi or from Hanoi to Sapa, you can take night trains with comfortable secure lockable cabins. This allows you to walk around the train, look out the window and enjoy the scenery. Vietnam also has some very cheap and very comfortable night buses available. Some night buses have big reclining seats and other night buses offer beds. Buses often have toilets on board and take stops for walking around and buying food and drinks. 

• Night bus journeys generally cost around $10 – $20
• Night train journeys generally cost around $30 – $80

If you’re taking a night bus or a night train in Vietnam we recommend bringing some food on the journey with you. Some trains and buses may have snacks available, however this is not reliable. Therefore it is important to bring some food along for the journey. Also we highly recommend that you check your arrival time and choose a service that doesn’t arrive too early in the morning! Some night buses and night trains have very early and unsociable arrival times. 

19 Try bartering

One of our budget Vietnam travel tips is to barter. Bartering is a fun and acceptable part of Vietnamese culture. It is not possible to barter for everything in Vietnam, however you can barter for some things. We recommend bartering if you are buying things in markets (especially in tourist areas). You can also barter for taxis (unless you’re using the taxi app). If you decide to book trips or tours through local travel operators you can barter for the cost of the trip. If you are traveling around Vietnam on a tight budget you can also barter for accommodation. Just turn up at a cheap guest house and barter. 

If bartering is done well it can be a very fun and friendly way to connect with locals. keep it in good humor and don’t insult the locals or their products. If you are not happy with the price you don’t need to buy it and if they are not happy with the price they don’t need to sell it. The best bartering is done in good humor and with a good rapport. Don’t miss our full guide on TOP TIPS for bartering in Asia . 

20 Get off the beaten track

If you are looking for Vietnam travel tips that will help you have a unique, memorable and meaningful experience then get off the beaten track. Try new food, connect with locals and disconnect from tech.  We lament the fact that travel has become such a tick box exercise. Vietnam is a stunning and incredible country with so much to offer. The best way to really experience authentic Vietnam is just to explore – no plan or preconceptions. Vietnam is truly an amazing country with incredible locals. If you are feeling brave and have the time, why not find a town on the map where there is not much information online and just go there? Some of our most intrepid, adventurous and memorable travel experiences have happened when we have just gone off script and explored places. Vietnam is packed with incredible scenery, beautiful towns, amazing people and unexplored areas. 

Where are the best places to stay in Vietnam?

We are very impressed by the quality and selection of hotels in Vietnam. In Vietnam your money goes a long way on hotels. Therefore, this is a great opportunity to splash out. If you have ever dreamed of staying in a luxury hotel, why not do it in one of the cheapest countries for 5-star Hotels? Another thing we love about hotels in Vietnam is the style and character. There are plenty of unique boutique hotels in Vietnam, stylishly decorated and packed with charm and character. 

1 Places to stay in Ho Chi Minh

If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh, the best area to stay is District 1, this is the central district with all of the main attractions. There are plenty of amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh offering a wide range of rooms and suites for every budget range.

• Top Pick budget hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Lovenote Home Studio (Find Lovenote on Agoda & Lovenote on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Ho Chi Minh: Leiden Homestay and Cafe (Find Leiden on Agoda & Leiden on booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Ho Chi Minh: The Reverie Saigon (Find the Reverie on Agoda & Reverie on booking.com )

2 Places to stay in Hanoi 

If you are visiting Hanoi the best area to stay is the Old quarter, especially near Hoan Kiem lake. Most of the attractions, bars and street food can be found in the old quarter. There is a great range of Hotels in the Hanoi Old quarter . Whether you are looking for a budget Guest House, a stylish boutique hotel or a luxury 5-star hotel – the Old quarter has plenty to offer. There are so many luxury hotels to choose from in Hanoi we have a dedicated guide to the best 5-star hotels in Hanoi . 

• Top Pick budget hotel in Hanoi: Golden Time 3 Hostel (Find Golden Time on Agoda & Golden Time on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Hanoi: Royal Holiday Hanoi (Find the Royal Holiday on Agoda & the Royal Holiday on Booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Hanoi: The Capella Hanoi (Find the Capella on Agoda & the Capella on booking.com )

3 Places to stay in Sapa

If you are planning to visit Sapa you may well need a place to stay in the town before you start trekking. We have a dedicated article to the best hotels in Sapa town . Sapa is also an amazing place to stay in a luxurious 5-star hotel, we also have a guide on the best 5-star hotels in Sapa . And if you are visiting Sapa we highly recommend that you stay in one of the incredible authentic homestays around Sapa . This is an amazing way to experience Vietnamese mountain culture and food. 

• Top Pick budget hotel in Sapa: Sapa Capsule hostel (Find Sapa Capsule on Agoda & Sapa Capsule on booking.com )
• Best mid-range hotel in Sapa: Sapa Mountain Queen House (Find the Sapa Mountain Queen on Agoda & The Sapa Mountain Queen on booking.com )
• Top pick luxury hotel in Sapa: The Laxsik Ecolodge (Find the Laxsik Ecolodge on Agoda & Laxsik Ecolodge on booking.com )

What is the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

Although Vietnam is a tropical country that doesn’t have distinct Seasons. The best months to visit Vietnam are March and April. The temperatures in March and April are lower on average and there is less rainfall. If you visit Vietnam between May and September the weather is hot and dry. If you visit Vietnam between November and February the temperature is lower and there is more rainfall. Watch out for monsoons and flooding in the winter months. This can affect travel in Vietnam, and very severe pacific storms can be dangerous. 

Vietnam is more than 1000 miles in length from north to south. The average temperatures and climate varies massively across the country. If you are planning to visit the north of Vietnam, especially mountain areas like Sapa, be aware that it can actually be quite cold in the winter months between September and February. We recommend bringing some additional warm layers, especially if you are planning to stay in a homestay or go trekking. 

What are prices like in Vietnam? 

Vietnam is a relatively cheap country. In fact, Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. 

Food in Vietnam is very cheap and readily available. Street food can be found all around towns, cities and villages in Vietnam. Expect to pay around 30,000 – 20,000VND for local food (noodles, banh Mi or BBQ food). This is roughly £1 – £2 or $1.20 – $2.50. 

Hotels and guest houses are also very cheap in Vietnam. You can find dorm beds for around £5 or $7. Private rooms typically start at around £10 or $12. And even at this price the quality is very reasonable. Cheap rooms in Vietnam generally include air conditioning and an ensuite bathroom with hot water. Luxury 5-star hotels normally start at around £50 or $70 per night. It is amazing what you can get for your money at the luxury end of the budget range. 

Transport in Vietnam is also very cheap. all of the big cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh have a local bus network. It can be a little bit challenging and intimidating to use the local transport system – but locals are very helpful so this can be a lot of fun. If you are using a local city bus expect to pay around £0.50 or $0.70. There are also plenty of taxis in Vietnam. Use a taxi app (we will share more about getting taxis soon). Expect to pay around 30,000VND – 150,000VND for most short taxi journeys in Vietnam. It is very cheap to travel around Vietnam. you can travel across the length of the country for around $50 – $100. Short inter city journeys by bus in Vietnam generally cost as little as $10 – $15. 

What is Wi-Fi like in Vietnam? 

In Vietnam many places offer free Wi-Fi, especially in cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.  Most hotels, guest houses and homestays offer free Wi-Fi. It is worth being aware that although Wi-Fi is often available the network may be slow or weak. If you are planning to travel into more rural areas such as the mountains of the north or two remote islands you may struggle to find any Wi-Fi connections. Therefore we recommend sorting out all of your online business before you go. If you are using data on a local SIM card you may find that the signal is weak or non-existent in more rural areas. This is the perfect chance to disconnect from tech and reconnect with nature! 

Is Vietnam a good country for family Travel?

Vietnam is a great country for family Travel. The Vietnamese people are very welcoming towards families and children. There are loads of amazing things to do in Vietnam with kids . Most attractions and transport offer reduced price for kids or FREE entry. We also found the food in Vietnam was child-friendly. Typically street food is not too spicy and there are often options which are great for kids. However, if you’re traveling with a baby it is worth being aware that baby changing facilities are rare in Vietnam. The best place to find baby changing facilities is in large malls or supermarkets.

You can often buy supplies like snacks, baby milk and nappies from small convenience stores. However, if you’re traveling into more rural areas we recommend taking plenty of supplies with you. 

What things should you pack to visit Vietnam?

Hopefully our Vietnam travel tips have been helpful. Here is a packing list for Vietnam. 

• A dry sack for valuables
• Clothes, toiletries and some wet wipes or tissues
• Swimming kit and a travel towel
• Suncream (SPF50+)
• Mosquito repellent (DEET)
• Loose light fitting clothing 
• Sandals of Flip flops
• Trainers or trekking shoes
• Phone, valuables, cameras, chargers, travel documents
• Travel adaptor plug  (plug type A,C and F)
• Water bottle
• A small torch (especially useful for trekking & homestays)
• A warm layer or two, very useful if you are visiting the mountains of the North or taking a train or bus 
• A waterproof layer
• Consider a travel first aid kit (especially if you’re going rural)
• Consider a small travel umbrella – protection from sun and rain

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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22 Days Complete Vietnam (private guide & driver）

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• In-depth Cultural
• Partially Guided
• Personalized

Places You’ll See

• Explore Hanoi's historical sites and markets
• Cruise through Halong Bay's islets and caves
• Experience Tai Chi on a Halong Bay cruise
• Visit the ancient My Son Sanctuary
• Cook and dine on traditional Vietnamese dishes
• Introduction
• Day 1 Welcome to Vietnam!
• Day 2 Stroll around Hanoi & Water Puppet show
• Day 3 Halong Bay Overnight Cruise
• Day 4 Morning Activities & Overnight Train to Lao Cai
• Day 5 Transfer from Lao Cai to Sapa
• Day 6 Trekking in Sapa Tribal Villages
• Day 7 Sapa Tribal Villages and Back to Hanoi
• Day 8 Fly to Hue
• Day 9 Imperial Hue
• Day 10 Tam Giang Lagoon Sunset Tour
• Day 11 Hai Van pass & Motobike Tour
• Day 12 Ba Na Hills & Monkey Mountain
• Day 13 My Son Sanctuary & Transfer to Hoi An
• Day 14 Hoi An City Tour
• Day 15 Tra Que vegetable village & Basket Boat
• Day 16 Fly to Nha Trang
• Day 17 Nha Trang Free Time
• Day 18 Nha Trang Free Time
• Day 19 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City
• Day 20 Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Tour
• Day 21 Mekong Delta
• Day 22 Departure

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• Group of 10 travelers max.
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• Carefully planned itineraries
• Travel with like-minded people
• Travel with your own group of min. 2 travelers
• Choose your preferred dates and duration
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UME Travel Co. Ltd

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1 to 85 years old

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within 2 days

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UME Travel, an online travel service company specializes in tailor-made and boutique small group tour for western clients since 1998. After 20 years of continuous effort, we have extended our tour service to most of the destinations across Southeast Asia and China. We successfully have over...

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Customer Reviews

• Tour Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd 5.0
• Barry · 16th March 2023 Excellent trip. My wife and I were the only two on the trip so it was like getting a private tour. Our guides were... Show more
• Brian · 5th November 2022 An excellent tour, excellent service all the way around!
• Jessica · 8th September 2022 The perfect itinerary for our first trip to Thailand!

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Good to Know

• Currency ₫ Dong Vietnam

As a traveller from USA, Canada you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, G. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F. As a traveller from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B, C, E, F, G.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Vietnam. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Vietnam. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 4th November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 4th November 2024, a minimum payment of €85 is required to confirm your booking with UME Travel Co. Ltd. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Discover the Best Souvenirs in Ho Chi Minh City: What to Buy and Where

Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City is an exhilarating experience, offering everything from traditional handicrafts to modern masterpieces. This guide will steer you through the vibrant markets and sleek boutiques of Ho Chi Minh City, helping you pick out the best souvenirs to remember your journey by.

Traditional Vietnamese Souvenirs

Ao dai – the national dress.

The Ao Dai is a symbol of Vietnamese culture and elegance. This traditional dress can be tailored to fit and comes in stunning fabrics and colors, making it a perfect gift or keepsake.

Non-La – The Conical Hat

The Non-La is a quintessential Vietnamese icon. Made from palm leaves, bamboo, and sedge, this hat is not only a cultural symbol but also a practical item for protecting against the sun. They are commonly found in markets across the city.

Handicrafts and Artwork

Lacquerware.

Vietnamese lacquerware is renowned for its detailed craftsmanship and vibrant colors. These pieces make exquisite gifts and come in various forms, including boxes, vases, and pictures.

Handmade Pottery

Ho Chi Minh City also boasts incredible handmade pottery, often detailed with traditional designs. Visiting local pottery villages or markets provides a chance to see craftsmanship in action and purchase unique pieces.

Local Food and Drink

Vietnamese coffee.

Vietnamese coffee is strong, flavorful, and integral to the local culture. Buy some to take a piece of Vietnam’s coffee culture back home with you. Look for famous brands like Trung Nguyen or explore smaller, artisanal roasters.

Marou Chocolate

Marou is a high-quality chocolate brand sourced from Vietnamese cocoa beans. The bars come in various flavors and packaging, making them perfect gifts.

Textiles and Fabrics

Silk products.

Vietnamese silk scarves, ties, and dresses are highly prized for their quality and beauty. Dive into the markets or silk shops in Ho Chi Minh City to find these luxurious items.

Embroidery Art

Embroidery is a traditional Vietnamese craft. Items like handkerchiefs, tablecloths, and wall hangings adorned with intricate embroidery can be found in many markets and shops.

Top Shopping Spots in Ho Chi Minh City

Ben thanh market.

One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market, offers everything from souvenirs to local food items. It’s a vibrant place to experience the local culture and find unique gifts.

Binh Tay Market

Located in Cholon (Chinatown), Binh Tay Market is known for its wide array of goods and bustling atmosphere. It’s a fantastic place to find handicrafts, textiles, and local specialties.

Vincom Center

For a more modern shopping experience, Vincom Center is home to numerous international and local brands. It’s a great spot to find quality Vietnamese products in a comfortable environment.

Tips for Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

• Bargain Smartly : Haggling is a common practice in Vietnamese markets. Start by offering half the initial price and work your way to a mutually agreeable amount.
• Carry Cash : While many shops accept cards, smaller markets and street vendors often prefer cash. Having Vietnamese Dong on hand ensures a smoother shopping experience.

Ho Chi Minh City’s markets and shops are brimming with treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re searching for traditional handicrafts, stunning textiles, or delicious local treats, this vibrant city promises a shopping experience like no other. Happy shopping!

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