Vietnam Travel Guide

This comprehensive and insightful Vietnam travel guide provides all the essential information you need to plan your trip to Vietnam. 

You’ll find useful tips on obtaining a Vietnam visa, purchasing a SIM card, choosing the best time to visit, and much more. 

The guide also includes recommendations for things to see, do, and eat, as well as safety tips and suggestions for where to stay in each city. 

**Hi dear, some of these links may be affiliate links, allowing me to earn a little commission at no additional cost to you. Cheers!**

General Information about Vietnam

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country with a distinct S-shape. It shares borders with China, Laos, Cambodia, the East Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand. The country boasts a long coastline stretching approximately 3,260 km. 

• Politics: The Socialist Republic of Vietnam 

• Capital city: Hanoi

• Largest city: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Area: 331, 212 km2

• Population: 98,86 million (2023) according to World Bank

• Official language: Vietnamese (majority of the population)

• Official unit of currency: dong (VND ₫)

• Traditional garment: Ao dai

• How to write date: dd.mm.yyyy

Map of Vietnam. Image source

How to Get a Vietnam Visa 

Before traveling to Vietnam, it’s important to check the visa requirements for your country.

Vietnam offers visa exemptions to visitors from ASEAN countries and 84 other countries, with durations of stay ranging from 30 days to a maximum of 6 months (check this list).

If your country is not on that list, you must apply for a visa. Obtaining an e-visa is a recommended and hassle-free option, easily done through Vietnam’s official e-visa website. 

The whole process usually takes 3-4 business days and costs around $25 for a single-entry visa or $50 for a multiple-entry visa. The visa allows you to stay in Vietnam for 30 to 90 days.

Notes: 

Time and accuracy are of the utmost importance. I’ve seen many people fail to obtain a Vietnam e-visa or are unable to pass through Vietnam customs due to silly mistakes. Keep the following in mind: 

• Check if your country is eligible for a visa exemption. Even U.S. citizens have to apply for a visa to visit Vietnam. 
• Apply for your Vietnam visa in advance, ideally 2-3 months before your intended travel date. Don’t let the grass grow under your feet. 
• Ensure that there are no typos in the visa application form. 
• Double-check your visa number to ensure it matches the number you filled out on the form. 
• Always keep 2-4 hard copies of your e-visa with you.  

Best Time to Visit Vietnam 

Vietnam has a diverse climate due to its geography, so the weather conditions vary significantly throughout the country. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Vietnam based on different regions:

	North Vietnam	Central Vietnam	South Vietnam
Places	Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Ha Giang	Phong Nha, DMZ, Hue, Danang, Hoi An, Nha Trang	Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island
Best time	September to November  March to April	February to April September to October	December to February
Reasons	Pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing	Generally dry and sunny, perfect for exploring the ancient ruins and beautiful beaches.	Dry and cool weather, suitable for exploring bustling cities and enjoying outdoor activities.

Besides that, if you’re interested in experiencing vibrant cultural festivals, consider visiting during the Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), which usually falls in late January or early February.

• Related article: The Best Time to Visit Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue 

Health and Safety in Vietnam 

Vietnam is generally very safe, even for backpackers and solo travelers. However, before traveling to Vietnam or any Southeast Asian country, it’s advisable to have travel insurance coverage in case of emergencies. 

If you’re looking for comprehensive travel insurance coverage, consider HeyMondo. It covers medical emergencies, travel disruptions, luggage and gear, trip cancellations, electronic equipment, adventure sports, cruises, and more. 

Alternatively, if you’re a budget-minded traveler looking for affordable insurance policies, you can consider SafetyWing. Their Nomad plan covers medical treatments, lost luggage, injuries, accidents, etc. 

Additionally, if you’re traveling with children under 10, they can be added to the insurance plan at no extra cost. 

Vietnam Travel Guide on Health and Safety 

For more tips and explanations on things to be mindful of in Vietnam, check out our article on culture shocks in Vietnam and how to confidently avoid/embrace them. For now, here are some additional Vietnam travel tips to keep in mind:

• Petty theft and phone snatching are common in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings. Leave your valuables and important documents in the hotel safe. 
• Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic and unpredictable, as there are few rules of the road. This can be scary for most foreigners, so take extra caution when crossing the street. Walk slowly and confidently; the motorbikes and cars will usually avoid you. 
• Avoid riding motorbikes in Vietnam if you’re a first-time rider or don’t have an International Driving Permit (IDP). 
• Bring mosquito spray, as mosquitoes are prevalent here, especially in the food stalls, the countryside, and remote areas.
• Refrain from drinking tap water. Instead, opt for filtered or bottled water.
• Be aware of common money scams, such as old or torn money, incorrect change, etc. 
• Dial 113 for police assistance and 115 for urgent ambulance and healthcare assistance in Vietnam. 

Money and Daily Budget

Vietnamese currency can be confusing to foreigners because the bills have so many zeros. 

Familiarizing yourself with the Vietnamese currency in advance will help you get a good deal when shopping and avoid potential misunderstandings.

As of 2024, 1 USD is approx. equal to 25,000 VND, while 1 euro is approx. equal to 26,000 VND. You can exchange money at banks, exchange counters in airports, or jewelry shops. 

ATMs are conveniently located everywhere and are open 24/7, enabling you to withdraw money easily. Some reputable banks include HSBC, Vietcombank, TPBank, BIDV, and Techcombank. 

Among these banks, HSBC allows you to withdraw any amount of cash you need. TPBank allows withdrawals of up to 5 million VND. The rest typically limit withdrawals to 2-3 million VND per transaction. All banks charge a fee for ATM withdrawals. 

TPBank ATM

Your daily budget will depend on your accommodation, dining, shopping, and touring preferences. It can range from 500,000 – 3,000,000 VND per day, accommodating both backpacker and upscale budgets.  

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is always greatly appreciated. Be sure to give tips directly to the person who provides you with services. 

Internet & Calling

In Vietnam, a robust Wi-Fi network is widely accessible in cafés, restaurants, and hotels. If you are a customer, you can access the Wi-Fi for free. 

To stay connected while traveling in Vietnam, you should buy a Vietnamese SIM card. Depending on the data plan and duration, a SIM card can cost around $10-$20. 

Choose a Viettel SIM card because it’s a reliable network with excellent 4G/5G coverage, even in mountainous regions. It’s best to purchase your SIM card from a Viettel store or SIM card kiosk, where they can assist you with installation and activation. Don’t forget to bring your passport. 

Remember to check your international roaming settings, as using it overseas can be very expensive. To check your balance, dial *101#.

If you plan to travel to other Southeast Asian countries after visiting Vietnam, purchasing an eSIM from Airalo would be an excellent choice. The eSIM works seamlessly, eliminating the need to switch SIM cards. Additionally, their pricing tiers are very affordable. 

Save up to 15% on eSIMs at Airalo.com. Click the codes to redeem the deals. 

HELLOBESTIES10 (10% off, for ANY users) HELLOBESTIES15 (15% off, for NEW users only)

Transportation 

For long-distance travel, you can choose between flights, private transfers, trains, and sleeper buses. Within cities, you can get around by walking, taking Grab motorbikes or taxis, or using public transportation. 

Domestic Flights in Vietnam

The major flight operators in Vietnam are Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines. 

Among these, Vietnam Airlines stands out as a reliable carrier, with a low delay rate and excellent service. On the other hand, Vietjet offers budget-friendly fares but is known for its relatively high delay rates. 

You can book flight tickets via their websites or Traveloka. 

Private Transfers in Vietnam

This option offers convenience and flexibility. You can choose airport pickup and drop-off services or transfers to different destinations. The best part is that you can customize your stops along the way, combining a transfer with a day trip tour. 

Phoebe and Besties is a reliable travel service provider offering transportation services throughout Vietnam. Our 24/7 services include private car transfers, group transportation, airport transfers, and hotel transfers. 

Train Travel in Vietnam

While train travel is generally slower than flights or buses, it is a safe and scenic way to enjoy the diverse landscapes of Vietnam at a leisurely pace. 

Depending on your budget and travel distance, you can choose between hard seats, soft seats, or shared cabins with four or six berths, all with air-conditioning. The cabins are quite small, so claustrophobic individuals should consider this carefully. 

Snacks, cooked food, and drinks are also available on the train. Two highly recommended scenic train routes are Hanoi to Sapa and Danang to Hue.  

Vietnam Sleeping Buses

Solo travelers and backpackers have grown fond of this option due to its unique blend of convenience, fun, and affordability.

There are many types of buses to choose from, such as standard sleeper buses, smaller limousine buses, VIP sleeper buses, and minivans. Opting for a spacious budget option will provide you with a comfortable and enjoyable experience. 

Short Distance Transportation

• Taxis and taxi apps like Grab are widely popular in Vietnam. Traditional taxis charge by the meter, while Grab cars display the total fare on the app. Both only accept VND, so you’ll need some Vietnamese cash on hand. 
• In Hanoi and Saigon, public transportation is more popular with locals. Although the fare is inexpensive, it can be somewhat challenging for foreigners as you need to be familiar with the routes, and the staff rarely speak English. 
• A newly operational metro line in Ho Chi Minh City offers a convenient way for both locals and foreigners to explore the city. 
• Walking is doable but a bit challenging because the locals usually use the sidewalks for their businesses or as parking lots. Sometimes you have to walk on the main road. 
• Cyclo is a fun and authentic way to discover the city. You’ll sit in front while your driver pedals you around from behind. Seeing the traffic around you might be a bit daunting at first, but just sit back, relax, and let your driver navigate around it.
  • Want to give it a try? Choose our Saigon Cyclo tour!

Plugs and Voltage in Vietnam

Vietnam’s standard voltage is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. 

The sockets are of type A (two-prong plug), C (a two-prong plug with round pins, and D (a three-prong plug with round pins). 

Visitors from countries using different plugs or voltages will need to bring a travel adapter or converter.

Vietnam Travel Guide – Where to Stay

This Vietnam travel guide includes some recommended hotels and budget hostels to help you save time sorting through thousands of accommodation options. They are chosen based on their location, price range, and high service ratings.  

• Hanoi
  • Premium: La Siesta Classic 
  • Mid-range: Golden Silk Boutique Hotel
  • Hostel: Mad Monkey Hanoi
• Hue
  • Premium: Azerai La Residence
  • Mid-range: Meliá Vinpearl Hue, Asia Hotel
  • Hostel: Shark Hostel, Bon Ami Hostel
• Da Nang
  • Premium: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Premier Village Da Nang Resort, Hyatt Regency
  • Mid-range: Hilton Da Nang, Meliá Vinpearl Danang Riverfront, A La Carte Danang Beach 
  • Hostel: Rom Casa Hostel Da Nang, Seahorse Tropical Da Nang Hostel
• Hoi An
  • Premium: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hotel Royal Hoi An – Gallery, La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa
  • Mid-range: Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa, Hoi An Golden Holiday Hotel, Vinh Hung Old Town
  • Hostel: The Cuckoo’s Nest Hostel, Mad Monkey Hoi An
• HCMC
  • Premium: Rex Hotel, Park Hyatt, Hotel des Art Saigon, La Siesta Premium Saigon
  • Mid-range: Hotel Continental Saigon, Eden Star Saigon Hotel
  • Hostel: Saigon Chill Hostel, Phan Anh Backpackers Hostel

Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Vietnam 

Vietnam offers a wealth of captivating destinations to explore. This Vietnam travel guide presents the most popular ones, along with some of the best activities in each place that you shouldn’t miss out on.

If you haven’t decided where to travel yet or have a plan but aren’t sure where to start, book Phoebe and Besties, your local travel experts. We can help you plan an itinerary that suits your interests and budget, and introduce you to hidden gems and delicious food in Vietnam. 

North Vietnam Travel Guide

• Ha Noi. Vietnam’s capital city boasts a rich culture, fascinating history, and delicious local cuisine. Charming French-influenced Old Quarter exudes a lively ambiance with its bustling street life. Recommended activities include a city tour, Hanoi food tour, Hanoi cooking class, water puppet shows, a train street visit, and egg coffee. 

• Ha Long Bay. A UNESCO site with breathtaking scenery – emerald bay, limestone mountains, and awe-inspiring caves. A Ha Long Bay day trip is highly recommended, where you can enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise, go hiking, swimming, kayaking, and explore the caves.

• Ninh Binh. Spend a day trip to Ninh Binh to sense the serenity of this tranquil land. Enjoy the scenic boat rides in Trang An complex or Tam Coc, visit ancient temples, hike to the top of Mua Cave or wander around the picturesque Bich Dong pagoda. 

• Ha Giang. The northernmost region of Vietnam, Ha Giang presents a rugged yet breathtaking landscape with towering evergreen mountains, winding hairpin passes, lush rice terraces, and vibrant ethnic cultures. Embarking on a Ha Giang Loop motorbike tour is an absolute must! 

Central Vietnam Travel Guide 

• Pu Luong. Despite remaining a hidden gem compared to other popular destinations, Pu Luong’s allure is undeniable. Unspoiled nature, refreshing air, authentic local culture, and cuisine are just a few of its highlights. Opt for a Pu Luong tour and dive into local daily lives. 

• Phong Nha. Titled “The Kingdom of Caves,” Phong Nha boasts a dense and magnificent cave system that captivates nature enthusiasts. Book a Phong Nha tour for a thrilling cave adventure and exciting activities like kayaking and ziplining.  

• DMZ. Wartime vestiges still stand as reminders of the hardships and bravery of the Vietnamese people during the period when Vietnam was divided. Visiting the Khe Sanh military base, Vinh Moc tunnels, and Hien Luong Bridge will reveal the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese during the war. 

• Hue. Once the former capital of Vietnam, Hue is renowned for its well-preserved majestic citadel, royal tombs, and rituals. A tour of the Huế Citadel is a must-see. A Hue motorbike tour is also highly recommended, letting you soak in the beauty of the Hue countryside. 

• Da Nang. A youthful and energetic city with pristine beaches, majestic mountains, tranquil rivers, and delicious seafood. A Da Nang city tour will let you explore famous landmarks, including the Lady Buddha, Dragon Bridge, and Marble Mountains. If you’re seeking a unique experience, a trip to Bana Hills will leave you in awe.

• Hoi An. An ancient town that boasts a unique blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architecture. Explore its charming lantern-lit streets, join cooking classes and bike tours to food tours, lantern making, and cloth tailoring, there’s something for everyone. Explore our recommended Hoi An tours to make the most of your visit.

• Nha Trang. A lovely coastal city with stunning beaches, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exciting water sports such as surfing and scuba diving. Visit Ponagar Cham temple, join island-hopping tours, or funk up your day at VinPearl Land theme park. 

South Vietnam Travel Guide 

• Sai Gon. Aka Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis where skyscrapers blend in with European-style buildings and remnants of wartime. If you want to learn about Vietnamese history, visit the Cu Chi tunnels or join a cyclo tour of Saigon with all the city’s landmarks included. Dive into the impressive local cuisine by taking a motorbike food tour or cooking class. 

• Mekong Delta. Known as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam, this region boasts vast expanses of rice and fruit farms, where you’ll find warm and welcoming locals. A tour of the Mekong Delta promises an immersive experience, allowing you to witness the daily lives of the people who reside in this vibrant agricultural hub. 

• Phu Quoc. The largest island in Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, lush rainforests, and unreal sunset. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. A visit to Vinpearl Land with plenty of exciting games and impressive water performances is also recommended. 

What to Eat in Vietnam 

Vietnamese cuisine is a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and aromas. Some must-try dishes from this culinary paradise include Pho (northern and southern style), Bánh Mỳ, Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese sizzling pancake), and Spring Rolls (both fresh and deep-fried). 

In addition to these dishes, there are many others that you shouldn’t miss out on:

• Bún Chả. This Hanoi dish consists of grilled pork patties, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. The balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes makes this dish a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 

• Cao Lầu. This Hoi An specialty features thick, smoky yellow noodles, topped with barbecued pork, crispy pork skin, and fresh herbs, and served with a rich broth made from pork gravy and soya sauce. 

• Cơm Tấm. This hearty broken rice dish is a staple of Southern Vietnamese cuisine. It consists of flavorful broken rice topped with grilled pork, fried egg, shredded pork skin, pickles, and sweet and savory fish sauce. 

• Bún Bò Huế. Originating from Hue, this spicy noodle soup is known for its complex and fiery taste. It is made with a rich beef broth, vermicelli noodles, sliced beef, pork knuckles, and a variety of herbs and spices. 

• Vietnamese Coffee. No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying Cà Phê Sữa Đá, the country’s signature iced coffee. Besides, Vietnamese salted coffee, egg coffee or coconut coffee are also worth trying! 

• Chè. These Vietnamese desserts are a sweet and refreshing way to end a meal. They come in various forms, including sweet soups, puddings, and drinks. Some popular che include Chè Ba Màu (3-color sweet soup), Chè Đậu Đen (black bean pudding), and Chè Chuối (banana dessert). 

Chè – Vietnamese dessert

Other Essential Things to Bear in Mind 

• Opening hours. Government buildings are open from Monday to Friday, while privately owned businesses are open until Saturday mornings. The general business hours are from 7:30 – 11:30 am and 1:00 – 4:30 pm, with a siesta break in between. Shops and eateries may open early, all day or even 24/7. 

• LGBTQ+. In Vietnam, particularly in HCMC, the LGBTQ+ community encounters a relatively safe and accepting environment. Incidents of harassment or discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals are uncommon. However, it’s important to be mindful of public displays of affection, as they aren’t widely practiced in Vietnamese culture. 

• Female travelers in Vietnam. Vietnam is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, there are certain risks to be aware of, such as drink spiking, which can occur in social settings.

• Drug Laws in Vietnam. Vietnam has strict drug laws, including the death penalty for drug dealers, particularly those dealing with heroin. Marijuana (weed) is also illegal in Vietnam. 

Vietnam Travel Guide Recap

Bookmark this comprehensive Vietnam travel guide to plan your trip. 

If you’d like assistance with tours, transportation, or itinerary planning, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp using the button on the right, or email us at xinchao@phoebeandbesties.com. 

Do you have any questions? Leave them in the comments below!