vietnam travel blogs 2023

Vietnam Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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Top 5 things to see and do in vietnam.

1. Tour the Mekong Delta

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

2. Wander Hanoi

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

3. Explore Ha Long Bay

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

4. Hang out in Hoi An

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

5. Get adventurous in Sapa

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

Other Things to See and Do

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

3. Relax or find adventure in Dalat

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

4. Visit Cuc Phuong National Park

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

5. Explore Ho Chi Minh City

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

6. Get active in Mui Ne

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

7. See My Son

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

8. Visit the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang

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

9. Check out the rice terraces

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

10. Relax in Hue

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

11. Take a cooking class

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

12. Tour the former DMZ

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

13. Buy a motorbike

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

14. Sample the local coffee

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Vietnam Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Vietnam

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

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

How to Get Around Vietnam

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

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

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

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

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

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

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

When to Go to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Vietnam Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

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

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

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

We have something for everyone with:

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

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

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Hanoi 

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

We broke this Vietnam Itinerary into three main sections. 

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

10 Days in Vietnam Itinerary: Vietnam Highlights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Halong Bay cruise options vary depending on your budget.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sapa has some of the best trekking in Vietnam . 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternatively, you can take a private car or bus.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Mekong Delta Tour

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

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

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

Extension Option

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the North

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The old imperial city still has many secrets to uncover. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extension Options

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 Week Vietnam Itinerary – 1 Week in the South

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The national park has spectacular flora and fauna and trekking.

READ MORE: 33 amazing things to do in Vietnam !

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

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

Friendly people really make Vietnam a special place to visit.

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

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

We hope you have a wonderful time there!

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Vietnam Travel Blog & Guide

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Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s best countries to visit, packed with history, stunning landscapes, cultural highlights, and amazing food. It even has beaches. It’s one of the most exciting destinations imaginable. We visit regularly to create this Vietnam travel blog and guide for you. We’ve had the luxury of time and long visas to really get to know Vietnam. Our aim is to help you plan your trip to Vietnam using this travel guide.

In this travel blog about Vietnam, we’ll show you the best places to go in Vietnam, give you itinerary ideas and look at where to stay, what to eat, and how to travel in Vietnam.

Let’s start with the one most important point I want to make about travel in Vietnam. The first point below.

We’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences with the people of Vietnam and other travel bloggers saying nasty things about the Vietnamese upsets us.

Yes, if this is your first time in Asia, you could find the way things are just different or challenging.

In all our years in Vietnam, we’ve met some of the nicest people imagineable.

We hope you find our Vietnam tips and guides useful in planning your travel, vacation, or holiday in Vietnam. This guide is suitable for first-timers in Vietnam or return visitors looking for different parts of the country to explore.

Things To Know About Vietnam Before You Visit

Have you heard vietnam is difficult or the vietnamese unpleasant.

The Vietnamese can be some of the nicest, friendliest, kindest, and happiest people you could meet.

They’re charming without being pushy, helpful, lovers of children, and just genuinely nice.

Of course, there are some bad apples and most of the bad stories involve taxi driver scams, but in all our time in Vietnam, we’ve seen only good.

You need some travel smarts as you do in any country where haggling over prices is just the normal way to do things. Smile, try to use some Vietnamese, and don’t be obnoxious.

The Vietnamese are good people. See what happened when I fell off my bike while we were living in Hoi An  if you need further proof.

This is one thing that I really want to stress on this Vietnam Travel Blog, we really like the Vietnamese people we’ve met.

Vietnam – Video

A Short Vietnam video giving you a taste of what Vietnam is like.

Traffic and Roads in Vietnam

Because speed limits are low and roads are largely populated by push bikes and scooters, we feel safer on the roads in Vietnam than we have done so far in any Asian country.

Cities are busy but we cycled with our kids every day in Hoi An.

Crossing the road is an adventure. Nobody is going to stop, you just get used to picking your time and weaving between moving vehicles.

Just yesterday I watched two little girls on their way to school.

At 5 years old they know how it’s done and their parents trust they’ll be safe solo.

Just watch out for taxis and buses, they can be unpredictable.

Nobody on a bike has a death wish, they’re all trying to get home to their families safely. But sadly road death rates are high in Vietnam.

Use common sense and don’t hire scooters unless you have a suitable international motorbike license and adequate travel insurance .

Highlights of Vietnam

Vietnam has at least 8 UNESCO-listed sites. These include Ha Long Bay, Hue’s historic sites, the old town of Hoi An, and the Champa complex at My Son Sanctuary (above).

This country also has beaches, islands and resort hotels.

Vietnam has mountains, padi fields and waterways, bustling cities and the sleepiest traditional villages.

Some highlights of Vietnam, below. We’re always adding more!

Best Destinations in Vietnam

There are a million places to visit in Vietnam and I can’t possibly put them all on this page. Let’s just start here with a few popular destinations.

For more detail, you’ll have to find the dedicated post on this site. Just follow the links or use the search box at the top of our sidebar.

A new addition and one that we highly recommend is Phong Nha National Park and caves in Central Vietnam. You’ll find the biggest caves in the world in Vietnam at Phong Nha.

Saigon  (Ho Chi Minh)

Saigon refers to the inner city area of Ho Chi Minh City. Renamed after the war in honor of the North Vietnamese leader.

The area that most people end up staying in is District 1. Here you will find backpacker accommodation and agencies selling tours and transportation to just about anywhere in Vietnam.

One of the best tours from Saigon would be to the Chu Chi tunnels which are located about 50 km west of the city.

This tour can include a Cau Dai temple visit, this religion is unique to Vietnam and was founded in 1912.

Alternatively combine your visit to the tunnels with a Mekong Delta tour, again, direct from HCM. Our links take you to a tour booking platform we trust and use ourselves.

The biggest drawcards in Saigon itself, are the War Remnants Museum and the Old Palace build by the South Vietnamese rulers.

The Old Palace hasn’t been used since tanks drove through its gates in 1975 to officially end the war.

Saigon also boasts French Period architecture, abundant great food, and fascinating markets.

Food tours through the backstreets by scooter are very popular, your driver and guide will know exactly where to find the best Vietnamese street food.

Check them out here!

To book your Cu Chi Tunnels tour in advance (recommended), check this half-day tunnels tour .

To Book Cu Chi, with the additional Cau Dai Temple Tour, look at this double tour of both attractions.

We lived in Hoi An for a few months and we loved our time there.

During our time living in Vietnam we were lucky enough to experience Tet, lunar new year, in Vietnam .

It’s a beautiful time of year to be in Vietnam, but does bring closures.

In Hoi An this is marked by kumquat trees, a kumquat festival , and seas of flowers.

There are lanterns released nightly in Hoi An, but the bigger lantern festivals bring less restrained attractions.

It really is nice to be there when the locals are making their offerrings.

This incredibly picturesque riverside city is something of a tourist hot-spot these days. It combines the charms of the Old Town, with its ancient buildings, tailor’s shops, and Hoi An central market , with nearby rice paddies and beaches.

Hoi An food is world-famous and central Vietnam is a big producer of quality seafood.

Dining in Hoi An is diverse and delicious, expect traditional local foods alongside western restaurants and top-class hotels.

Around town, there are various places of interest to keep you busy, throw a pot at the pottery village , take a free Vietnamese lesson or one of the many local eco tours.

My Son Sanctuary , Danang, and Marble Mountain are a short day trip from Hoi An and Hue is accessible by tour, bus or train.

The nearest large city, Danang, is about 45 minutes away from Hoi An by road.

Da Nang is another beach-side tourist draw, popular with family holiday-makers visiting Hoi An with Kids . Danang has its own airport and the nearest train station to Hoi An.

The best trip to take from lovely Hoi An is always a cooking class with coracle (basket boat) ride Take a look at these fantastic experiences here.

Hoi An is renowned throughout Vietnam and the world for its cuisine.

” You haven’t experienced Vietnam until you’ve visited its noisy, vibrant capital city, Hanoi . Navigate the traffic-choked streets of the Old Quarter to discover crumbling colonial buildings, street vendors and traditional tubular shops.

Hanoi is filled with historic buildings but don’t miss the ornate Temple of Literature, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the UNESCO listed Imperial Citadel of Thang Long.

Learn about the country’s revolutionary leader at the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and palace complex. Next, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake where locals come to exercise and relax.

No trip to Hanoi would be complete without sampling its famous food delights. Dishes such as a Banh Mi sandwich or the city’s signature dish, Bun Cha. Stop in at Café Giang for a Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee), they’ve been serving this traditional brew for over 70 years.

Don’t miss the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show in Hanoi, it’s like nothing you’ll see in any other country. Get discounted skip-the-line tickets here.

Ha Long Bay

“If you are looking for a magical location in Vietnam, then you cannot go past Ha Long Bay in the north of the country.  

With emerald-green waters, limestone islands and mystical caves, all while touring on Junk Boats, Ha Long Bay draws travellers to her every day. It is certainly one of our favourites in South East Asia. 

From day tours through to tours that keep you entertained for 2 days 3 nights, we highly recommend the latter.

Sleeping on a Junk Boat, while doing day visits to floating villages, taking rowing tours, and getting to jump off the boat into the cool refreshing water, is so relaxing and fun. A cruise like this gives you a great insight into local living whi le seeing nature’s beauty up close. 

No matter what your budget, we highly recommend you choose your junk boat tour wisely. S pend a few extra dollars to get a better experience and higher quality boat.

We have done three tours since 2008 and loved Signature Cruises. You can read all about our recent trip to Halong Bay right here. “

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Ha Long Bay, try Lan Ha Bay. Like its bigger neighbour, Lan Ha Bay is a popular multi-day cruise destination. Check it out here.

“Home to Vietnam’s highest peak (Fan Si Pan, which soars 3143m above sea level) Sapa is a must-see destination for nature lovers.

The people of Sapa started welcoming tourists as far back as the early 1900s. French colonists used it to escape the searing heat of Vietnam’s lowlands. During the 1940s, Vietnamese independence fighters drove the French from the region and it wasn’t until a few decades ago that tourists started to return to Sapa.

Within easy reach of Hanoi, by overnight bus or train, Sapa is now one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations.

In Sapa, the magnificent purple mountains sink away into deep valleys, where terraced rice paddies feed the imagination — and the local population.

Many ethnic minorities, including the H’Mong, the Dao and the Dai, make their homes in hidden villages among these hills. Be mindful of travelling ethically in Vietnam and in this delicate region.

For tourists, the big draw is the chance to trek along Sapa’s stunning valleys and mountains. It makes an excellent antidote to the hectic pace of life in Hanoi and is a great place to escape the heat.

Taking a multi-day trek between village homestays gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a slower pace of life. Stretch your legs on the mountain tracks, and indulge in shots of the locally-made rice wine. It burns as it goes down but is said to loosen your muscles after a long day of walking!”

If you want to trek and enjoy the outdoors in Vietnam, Ha Giang is a good alternative, again, a multi-day trip available from Hanoi. See your options here.

We loved Hue. I think what made Hue such a stand-out destination for us was the tour we took and the people we met. A special tour, with local female students, gave us a chance to really get under the skin of Hue. We learned so much more than most tourists.

The company we used was a chance find, a young Vietnamese woman started a company to empower Vietnamese girls. She wanted to help them improve what she called their “soft” skills.

The two students who took us around Hue showed us sites we would never have dreamed of visiting. One was studying English, one Medicine.

If you get the chance, we highly recommend these tours, and once borders open we’ll be back for more. This is a similar Hue motorbike tour and seems to be the same company (by the T-shirts and use of motorbikes.) I can’t find the exact tour we took, but this part was identical and wonderful.

This was a mum and son trip, the whole family couldn’t go. At that point, my elder son was a young teen and loved the things we saw and did in Central Vietnam.

In Hue be sure to try local specialities of salt coffee and Bun Bo Hue .

Tours in Vietnam

How do you want to visit Vietnam? There are heaps of options.

Luxury Tours or Packages

We review hotels for one of Australia’s luxury travel package companies. They get incredible prices on some of the best luxury hotels around the world. We have the job of testing these hotels for them, it’s a tough job. If you’re interested visit the Luxury Escapes website.

Small Group Tours of Vietnam

All of the big adventure travel companies offer small group tours of Vietnam. We’re big fans of Explore Worldwide, GAdventures, and Grasshopper Adventures. My husband and I met on one of these small group tours, decades ago.   If you use the links above, you can look at the Vietnam tours on offer. Most offer cycling tours, this is a very popular way to see Vietnam.

Tours and Transportation Within Vietnam. Booking Trains, Buses and Planes

Every town visited by tourists and backpackers has plenty of small travel agents’ shops selling tours and onward transportation. Everything is very easy to arrange on the ground but you’ll need time and your best haggling skills.

To book train or bus tickets online ( or even flights)in advance,  you can use 12GoAsia. This site has been around a long time and has been popular for Thailand for a very long time. Visit 12GoAsia here .

If you’re short of time or need to book a tour in advance for a particular day, we recommend booking online. Read our Get Your Guide tours review here.  

Classes and Courses to Take in Vietnam

Cooking classes, pottery classes, Vietnamese lessons, yoga, painting and more.  

Theatre, Dance & Music from Lune at 3 Locations in Vietnam and Traditional Vietnamese Water Puppets.

Something I have to add, because we saw a show in Hoi An and thought it was wonderful, are the Lune Theatre productions. You can catch these in Saigon, Hanoi and now, new for 2018, in a purpose-built performance space in Hoi An.

These shows are magical and beautiful, featuring traditional music and instruments, dance, drama and more. The show we saw in Hoi An, “The Mist” beautifully illustrates the life of rice farmers in the Mekong Delta. If you get a chance, go.

You can book Lune tickets in advance for the Saigon/Ho Chi Minh Opera House show here . These shows do sell out so reserve your place.

Find out more on Lune’s own website .. There are 4 different shows that rotate through Lune’s current 3 theatres in Vietnam.

I’ll also mention Vietnamese water puppet shows. We’ve seen shows in Hanoi and Hoi An, great for kids and a lot of fun. These short performances are traditional and well worth seeing. Buy tickets to Hanoi’s water puppet show (discounted and skip-the-line).

Visas for Vietnam

2 week, e-visa, 3 month, multiple entry and more.

Please double-check all information in this section for 2021 and onward.

Vietnam isn’t as easy as other countries in Southeast Asia when it comes to visas. It’s also one of the more expensive countries to enter. You can’t just turn up at the borders empty-handed and expect a visa on arrival unless you’re on a two-week holiday.

Vietnam requires a little forward planning for long-term travellers.  Please read the information below and do your own research for your country. We’re as current as we can be, but for Vietnam the regulations seem to change by the hour.

Visit an Embassy or Apply Online?

Visitors to Vietnam can visit a Vietnamese embassy to buy their Visa. Or arrange an e-visa approval online which they must then produce on arrival.

We were going to visit the Vietnamese embassy in London when we discovered that using a visa agency was actually cheaper and potentially easier. The embassy in London would charge $100 US for each 3 month visa. That was significantly more expensive than using the agency.

We took the agency route (letter of pre-approval) for our 3 month Vietnam visa and had no problems whatsoever on arrival in Vietnam as UK passport holders.

The agencies don’t actually issue the visas but give you an authorization letter from the Vietnamese immigration department. This allows you to receive a visa on arrival.

Airlines are strict and usually won’t let you on the plane without either a full visa or authorization letter, ours was checked at Heathrow.

You pay a small fee to the agency to get the letter emailed to you. The agency will apply for multiple travellers so when you get your letter don’t be surprised that it contains other people’s details such as name, date of birth and passport number.

You can ask for a private letter with just your details for approximately $10 US more per person.

Vietnamese Visa Costs

The costs are normally between $20 and $25 US for the authorization letter. You then need to pay the stamping fee on arrival in Vietnam where the actual visa is stuck into your passport.

This ranges from $20 for a single month to about $25 for a three-month single entry visa. The multiple entry visas attract a higher stamping fee approximately $50 US. All the stamping fees need to be paid in cash in US $.

The authorization letter only works if you are flying into an international airport. It will not work at land crossings. For that you’ll need to have a visa in your passport from an embassy or you will only be entitled to the free 15 day visa on arrival ( certain counties only)

We’ve consulted with the visa company below ( Sherpa , they are based in Canada) and they had the following to say:

We have uncovered a number of recent disclaimers/warnings from various Vietnamese Embassies about travellers getting a Letter for Visa On Arrival.

In short, the VoA route isn’t recommended by the embassies themselves. With a variety of third-party sites mimicking the official embassies. We recognize that this visa is usually the cheapest option, and widely used to this day, but we’ve decided that we are not going to offer Visa on Arrival as an option to travellers through Sherpa.

We will certainly do the eVisa, and we will also process the Loose Leaf Visa, which we are able to do for Canadians and Americans who need more than the eVisa. Overall, we will provide information to travellers in the widget, and we hope that this is helpful. “

Americans’ visa regulations for Vietnam are different again. Visa requirement change constantly, please double-check information with Sherpa or another reputable visa company.

Vietnamese Food

You haven’t been to Vietnam until you’ve eaten a bowl of pho or mi quang perched on a tiny plastic stool at the roadside.

The best food in Vietnam comes from street stalls. It’s what the locals eat and will cost you about a dollar a bowl. Don’t expect a menu, these stalls specialise in one perfectly executed dish only, be that mi quang , banh xeo or bun bo Hue .

Vietnamese food isn’t challenging to western palates, it’s light and fresh with few spices. If you like your food hot you’ll find fresh and dried chilies on the table to add to taste.

You’ll also find restaurants catering to tourists at every price point. None of us has had any tummy trouble at all in Vietnam and there are plenty of dishes to please children. Fresh, steamed and fried spring rolls are a favourite with my kids.

You’ll find incredible fresh seafood in Central Vietnam with prawns costing little. Vegetarians, even vegans, are pretty well catered for in Vietnam too.

Vaccinations for Travel in Vietnam and Health Considerations

Of the 50+ countries we’ve been to I’m happy to say that Vietnam is in the group that gave us zero ilnesses or tummy trouble.

None of us have had any traveller’s diarrhoea or sickness in over 6 months in Vietnam. We’ve eaten everything, at every street food stall and had no trouble at all.

We’re hugely impressed with how clean things are here compared to some other parts of the world. There are few flies, and few mosquitos, there are plenty of rats.

If you get sick in Vietnam it’s usually easy to pop along to a pharmacy, there’s one on almost every street and the pharmacists are very helpful and seem to know their stuff.

We’ve had to buy treatment for ringworm (picked up by one of the kids in London), mouth ulcers, and dressings for bike-related scrapes, it’s been no trouble at all.

I would suggest carrying a basic first aid kit with you including:

• a small bottle of iodine
• plasters and dressings
• paracetamol for kids and adults.

You can read more about our usual travel first aid kit here. The antibiotic powder Pises powder a US doctor put me onto this stuff, buy here) that I always pick up in Thailand was super useful for my cut, infected foot.

We did not take any malaria prophylaxis for Vietnam (20 years ago we had to, these days it’s rare to need it anywhere). This is the malaria map for Vietnam , most of Vietnam is low to no risk.

Find suggested vaccinations for Vietnam here.

Hotels in Vietnam (& Other Accommodation Options)

As travel bloggers in Vietnam, we don’t just stay in hotels. We also stay in hostels, guest houses, apartments, resorts and homestays. All are good options in Vietnam.

The first time we visited Vietnam it was very much a backpacker destination, these days there are plenty of up-market hotels and resorts on offer and the tourists are flooding to Vietnam.

People like us, the digital nomads and long-term travellers are also here and there are amazing bargains to be had in long-term, quality accommodation.

Finding the Best Prices and Deals on Hotels and Resorts in Vietnam

We highly recommend checking online booking sites if you’re serious about finding the best price for your stay, some booking engine compares multiple online booking engines to find you the best deal available.

We like to use Agoda for Asia as they are the experts for the region and often have a bigger selection, particularly try them for smaller hotels and budget accommodation.

If you’re the sort to book a long time in advance, maybe reserving multiple hotels on a fully refundable basis, Booking.com is your friend.

If you’re interested in The Sunrise Resort, pictured above, check here for prices and further information . This is one of the luxury hotels we’ve tested on behalf of Luxury Escapes, an Australian company specialising in incredibly good offers on top-end hotel packages.

Their special offer prices are way below what we paid for these hotels and the quality was superb.

Hostels in Vietnam,

You will find a big selection of hostels, some have private family rooms, on all of the above websites. We haven’t used hostels in Vietnam as guest houses and homestays are very affordable and very good, if you find the place to suit you!

Long-Term Stays, Houses, and Apartments in Vietnam

We’ve booked hotels in Hoi An and Hue through Airbnb and the usual booking sites, both were good, small boutique-style hotels or homestays.

A homestay in Vietnam can be a hotel, hostel, or actual homestay in Vietnam. We prefer not to use Airbnb usually because of the cleaning charges and time-wasting of having to be approved.

To find our beautiful house for 2 months in Hoi An we used a local expats Facebook group. We booked a cheap hotel for arrival and within half a day of posting in the expat group we’d found the perfect house for us. We rented from a lovely local family, at a great price.

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Vietnam Videos

If you’re looking for more Vietnam information you can head to our list of posts about Vietnam here.

The video from the Hoi An floods and Cu Chi tunnels should interest you.

Vietnam Travel Blog with Kids

Is a blog about travelling Vietnam with kids really any different to an adult Vietnam travel blog? Not really. We’ve travelled Vietnam as young backpackers before we were married, and later, with our kids. We stayed in similar places, ate the same food, saw the same sights in Vietnam. Having kids with you makes travel in Vietnam more expensive, and often more fun!

I often wonder why people write posts “this place with kids.” It’s expected of us family travel bloggers, I guess.

Most places are pretty much the same with kids or without and you’ll find yourself staying in the same places and taking the same trips.

Kids really aren’t a problem when you travel but we parents do worry about sickness, road safety, and so on.

So Vietnam with kids , what can I say? There are loads of interesting things for kids to do. Things like the pottery classes above, the Cu Chi tunnels tour, or coconut boat rides, and crab catching.

There is much to learn about culture and history and Vietnamese food is generally lacking in spice or chilli. You can also get just about any Western food here, far more easily than in Thailand.

Nobody in my family has had any sort of tummy trouble or diarrhoea in Vietnam. However, if you’re not used to tropical bugs you may want to read our post on how to avoid mosquitoes.

There are plenty of accommodation options at all price points and likewise plenty of transportation options. There are beaches if that is your want.

We think it’s as easy to take your kids to Vietnam as to any other country. Be mindful of the weather and if you plan to use bikes bring your own helmets. The roads can be dangerous.

I think I’ve seen more tourists with kids, babies and toddlers in Hoi An than in any other Asian destination. It’s a massively popular family holiday hot spot particularly for Australians. For that reason maybe avoid school holidays.

We have a full post on things to do in and around Hoi An for families, here, with more with-kids posts planned.

Vietnam Travel Blog – Conclusion

Thanks for using our website, we make it to be useful to you, so if there’s any information you need, ask in the comments and we can add it to this Vietnam Travel Blog page. We lived in Hoi An for a while, it was wonderful, we go back as often as we can.

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Alyson Long

Options to earn money while travelling, the haystacks of maramures. hay making in breb, 137 thoughts on “vietnam travel blog & guide”.

I absolutely loved reading about Vietnam’s tourism offerings! The vivid descriptions of must-visit destinations, including the best beaches in Vietnam, have inspired me to plan my next adventure. Can’t wait to explore the pristine shores and vibrant culture that Vietnam has to offer!

Your travel blog is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. From hidden gems to practical tips, their firsthand experiences enrich every reader’s journey. With captivating narratives and stunning visuals, it’s a virtual passport to Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. A must-visit destination guide for wanderlust souls

Your Vietnam travel blog is an absolute gem.

Thanks! We love Vietnam, I guess it shows.

Never been to Vietnam before and we’re heading there in February with 13 family members (ages 7 to 78). We’re staying in the Ah Bang area – any restaurant suggestions for eating with a large group? Eg can we make reservations?

Can’t wait to check out some of the sites you write about.

Thanks for your help!

For a large group Mix Greek restaurant in the old town is a nice venue. It’s a proper restaurant rather than the sort of place you go usually. And that’s about the only one I know. We just go to small places usually. But if you were to go in anywhere and ask I’m sure they’s oblige. You may need to pay a deposit because a no-show would be a disaster for them. We have a post about restaurants / food in Hoi An. Since the shutdowns some may have changed, but I know Mix is still there.

Thanks so much for this info it’s great.

We are looking at travelling to Vietnam in December 2023 for about 18 days. The current plan is to fly into Hanoi and make our way down the coast flying out of HCMC. Both of my boys really want some surfing if possible mixed in with the sightseeing. We are currently trying to work out where would be best weather-wise and surf-wise at that time of year. I have looked at Mui Ne, Nha Trang and Vung Tau but am having trouble finding any clear consensus on where would be best for that time of year. Any insights? Thank you

Hi Natalie, the classic Hanoi-Saigon journey normally takes 30 days. Surfing I have no clue sorry, we’re not into beaches. I don’t know if there even is much by way of surf in Vietnam, I don’t recall ever seeing surfers. Best of luck.

@Alyson for World Travel Family, Thanks for your quick feedback. We will definitely not get to see all of Vietnam but hopefully fit in a few good spots along the way. The boys might just need to wait for a surf until we get back home LOL

Thanks for the blog. Nice vietnam travel blog information.

Thanks for sharing this information Alison. We’re in vietnam now, are you guys still here? We’re in Danang for a few more days. Let me know, would love to catch up 😁

We’re not Aimee, but we are in a couple of months! Enjoy 🙂

Hello Alyson,

Thank you for this wonderfully written, consise blog. This gives a good insight in planing, and what to expect when one travels to Vietnam for the first time.

I am planning a for a week long tour in December 2022 and would love some help in finalizing the itinerary.

Can you please help me with that? Thank you!

Sure, send me an email, [email protected] I need to know which airports you are flying into and out of, and I can put together an itinerary. A week isn’t long in Vietnam, bit I’m sure we can put together an itinerary. Do you have any special interests?

Love all things you told me about Vietnam

A delightful piece of information. Thank you for sharing this, the Vietnam travel visa process is carried out completely by online procedure.

Vietnam tourism has reopened again after more than 2 years. People start visiting Vietnam and now most of things come back to normal. We hope more and more travellers will visit Vietnam. Please note now there are some services not really smooth like before becuase the services start reopending.

Hello Dear friend. I have been to Vietnam 2 years ago,nice people and natur. I’m an old backpacker, and now I am looking for information about traveling along the coast from Danang to town to town, spending dags in some places? Are public transport avaiable? To recommend🤔?

Yes, plenty of public transport. The backpacker buses, public Vietnamese recliner/sleeper buses, local short trip buses, trains, taxis, biketaxi, lots of options.

Thank you for coming to our country

Thanks for letting us in and feeding us so well!

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s really helpful !

Hi when is best weather for top to bottom trip?

Well, it depends if you like it hot or cooler. We’ve done that trip, Hanoi to Saigon in December and it was fine. Vietnam does have flooding, landslides and a monsoon season. We were in the floods once, and that can be in October/ November / December in Hoi An. Hue has flooded historically in October. There can be dangerous storms along the coast, I know one arrived in September once. I’d say March to April would be a good time, not too hot, not much rain. Hopefully Vietnam will be open by then! Northern hemisphere spring. All of Vietnam is in the northern hemisphere with the south of Vietnam being only 10 degrees north of the equator making it tropical. The north can get fairly cool, particularly in winter months (January) in the hills. I like it cool but you may find the beaches a bit chilly then. Best of luck!

Nam Du Island is currently very attractive to island tourism in the South of Vietnam. Tourists can experience affordable, fresh seafood. The locals are extremely friendly and helpful.

Quy Nhon is a popular tourist destination in the South Central Coast of Vietnam. There are only two seasons: The rainy season and the dry season. Despite the rain, visitors can travel there at any time of the year to enjoy the beautiful weather.

Thanks, we’ll check it out once borders open for travel.

Awesome blog. It’s a pity that we won’t seen Vietnam opening up right till the end of the year. Wanted to ask though, for a family with young children, would you say that there are less activities for kids, compared to say Thailand or Singapore?

Well it depends what you mean by activities for kids. All kids want is to play, eat nice food and be loved. They don’t need organised activities really I’m not really sure what activities you mean, go ahead and give me some examples. I don’t think Singapore is particularly child focussed, it’s too urban jungle. Thailand, of course, it totally depends where you go. Are we in Bangkok or the jungles of northern Thailand? But Vietnam has a softness about it, a humanity, which I think is very appealing to kids and families. Smiling people, interesting goings-on. I’m not sure on the state of play there now, they were talking about opening Phu Quoc to tourists, but I do have friends there, they’ve been there all year, travelling. Just no neighbouring borders are open so they’ve had a really, really long tome to get to know Vietnam inside-out.

Vietnam is really a great place to pay a visit at least once in a lifetime. I was planning for a family trip in this Asian country. I find this blog very useful and informative. All the given information really helps me to plan the entire trip.

Is Saigon opening in August to US travelers?

I have no idea, sorry. There has just been a fresh outbreak in central Vietnam, Da Nang, they’re locking down again locally. I think we’re all just going to have to get used to living with uncertainty. As far as I know, there’s been no formal announcement on Vietnam, as a whole opening its borders, but I know they were thinking of opening certain areas, like Cat Ba island, maybe.

Start your Vietnam tour in Hanoi, The Best holiday destinations to Vietnam and Indochina (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand) with a variety of tour packages for each destination that are out of this world.

I think after the COVID, Vietnam will be the most wanted country.

Interesting. Vietnam is opening up by I’ve read that they’re only going to open places like Phu Quoc – which I wouldn’t be interested in visiting, unfortunately.

very good information on the blog, I was looking for new vacation destinations and thanks to what I read I decided on vietnam

I hope you get there. Currently, Vietnam has cancelled all visas due to Coronavirus COVID-19 quarantine border shut downs.

Great read, awesome that you take the time to write everything down for people planning to go to Vietnam – mega useful! What I am wondering about – have you ever considered touring through vietnam by motorcycle? Maybe drive by yourself or go on a guided tour with easy riders Or is that too dangerous?

Not really our thing, we prefer bicycles. No I don’t think the roads in Vietnam are particularly dangerous, they certainly feel safer than Thailand and drivers are very courteous of bicycles ( My husband did all his Ironman training there on a road bike, over the Hai Van pass a couple of times a week. We know road death statistics are high, but we had no issues in Central Vietnam. Probably the lack of helmets and sub-standard helmets are a big factor.

Hey! I am planning on going to Vietnam and have heard about the danger of crossing the street which really scares me… is there any way I can avoid it maybe by not going to a certain neighborhood or city? Is it the same in every city or just in hanoi? Is it actually that dangerous?

OK, so crossing the street looks crazy to westerners but it’s actually fine. You’ll see little old ladies and small children doing it. Maybe just stick with a local. Keep a steady forward pace so that the scooter drivers can predict where you’re going and they’ll go around you. You do need to watch out for trucks though, but you won’t see too many of those outside main roads.

Hi, I think your question is great and I have experience so I want to share with you something. Traffic in Vietnam is a bit chaotic but crossing the road is not necessarily difficult for tourists. I suggest 3 ways to cross the road really easily. 1. Raise your hand straight to the sky and cross the street – this action means crossing the street. 2. You can ask a local for a walk or a traffic police – Vietnamese people are very friendly and lovely, so helping someone is very helpful. 3. Find other paths – I’ve seen many tourists wait for a long time to get across the street. But meanwhile there is a pedestrian path to cross the road directly below. (Be quick to observe.)

Very Nice blog and an attractive websites must read highly recommended!! Thanks for sharing with us.

Thank you Lushi

The Australian Government website has a link to obtain a Vietnam visa on line. Takes two or three days and total cost is US$25. Print it out and no problems at customs.

Great thanks! We were in Vietnam a few weeks ago, as UK passport holders we don’t need a visa, we go in for free for 15 days and didn’t have to stand in the queue at the visa desk. What period is the form above for? Is that just for a short holiday or the 3-month visa we normally get? We’re thinking of going back to live there again and just doing visa runs every 3 months, which seems fairly unproblematic.

Hello Alyson, Thank you so much for your great blog, especially about Viet Nam and Hoi An. While I am reading your blog and some friends comments about their needs of finding an accommodation for a month in Hoi An….we would love to offer our homestay options if you see our house suit your needs, that would be our pleasure to welcome you. If you don’t mind allowing us to leave our contact here for any friends who want to connect, that would be so kind of you.

It would be very kind of me indeed Thi Thao. Unfortunaely I can’t allow that as I don’t know your property or anything about it. Also people offer me thousands of dollars to place adverts such as yours. I’m very sorry I can’t allow you to self promote like that, it’s not how this works, you can’t just advertise here.

I am planning a second trip to Vietnam in July 2020. I went in January and the weather was lovely, but I’m a little bit scared about the rainy season in July… Do you have any advise ?

Thank you so much !

It’s very dependent on where in Vietnam you’re going. July in Hoi An was pleasant. We got the floods around Christmas.

Appreciating the persistence you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.

Thanks for all the information, we are trying to book a short break in Hoi An as part of a larger Asian trip, we’re really struggling to book hotels for 2 adults and 4 children – do you have any suggestions? I realise you only have two kids but thought you might have heard from other larger families, Lots of hotels websites don’t seem to allow for combinations of rooms, self-limit to two children etc? Thanks!

I don’t off the top of my head no. When you enter 6 people into Agoda, Booking dot com, etc, do they not give you any suitable options? They will all have fire regulations so you can’t just shoe-horn in an extra couple of little ones. Have you tried The Sunrise? That’s a very child-friendly resort.

I had a quick search, this hotel, Hoi An Silk has rooms that will take 7 if two of your children are under 6. https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=400345

So does this one, The Allegro, adjoining suites https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=4034720

If you want cheap – Banana Garden Villa will also take 7 if 2 are under 6. https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1643033&hl=en&hid=1070277

Thanks so much for your prompt replies – unfortunately we’ll have 11, 9, 7, & 2 years at the time of travel so won’t fit in the 7 when 2 are under 6 category. I’ll keep looking!! Really enjoying your website – very inspiring!

Can you not y’know…pretend the 7 year old is 6 ? That’s super annoying! But they won’t all have the same age restriction, some will be under 12. Keep hunting!

I love vietnam , great country and it becomes better and better. Thank you for your useful article, I rewteet it already. Vietnam see also a surge in Chinese tourists, that s crazy, so soon Prices will increase

Thanks for a great blog! We are planning a trip to Vietnam from 27th Sept to 20th Oct this year. Chinese golden week is 1-7 October and I understand that Vietnam is a popular destination for Chinese tourists. Would you know how this is likely to affect our trip, or give us any advice how to avoid the hordes. Maybe there are areas in VN or types of places that they travel to less? We are planning to spend time in the north and south, not in the centre.

Thank you 🙂

Sorry, I don’t know if the Chinese tourists prefer particular places, but most of them come on organised tours, so if you check out the itineraries of most big tours and avoid those places it should be quieter. But of course that will rule out all the most popular destinations.

Hi! I am traveling to Vietnam in May and wondering how you knew what website to use for a Vietnam Visa? I want to make sure we are getting a valid visa but at the same time, not overpaying!

We used 2 different ones, but off the top of my head now I can’t remember which ones. Take a look at their reviews and be wary of fake reviews. You don’t actually get a visa, you get a letter of approval so that you’ll get your visa on arrival. Anyone who says they’ll get you an actual visa is a scam. Also the group letters, where your letter is shared between a few other people ( e-mailed separately) – that’s totally legit. The others will see limited details, it’s cheaper, this is the way we’ve always done it.

Update to the ever-changing visa system; we arrived by air to Vietnam this month (still here) with an Australian passport and got a visa before arriving. It was still muddy trying to figure it all out as their website wasn’t all too clear and adding to the confusion was every blog/review/website I read said app. letter+stamping. In the end I applied directly through Vietnam Immigration for an e-visa, $25US each and got stamped through at the airport with no extra cost. No approval letter etc just had to print our conformation of visa approval and take it through to get stamped.

It’s also dependent on your nationality and where you’re applying from. We’re on UK passports and on the road. I know a lot of Australians go to their Vietnamese embassy in Australia to sort visas out.

For me, the most interesting place in Ho Chi Minh City is the Museum of War Remnants. The photos are drastic but it’s worth seeing them.

Yep, it’s absolutely fascinating. The war history is a massively important part of any visit to Vietnam.

Wonderful reading! You brought me back memories from my experience in Vietnam – really magical place.

Hello! Thanks for writing a great blog! It has been fun to read! Any suggestions for first time parents traveling WITHOUT their kiddo to Vietnam? My husband and I are considering a 2 week trip this summer, and after visiting several developing countries in my early 20’s, I’m nervous to travel somewhere that requires shots, consideration about drinking the water, bugs, and eating certain foods. I NEVER used to consider those things, but somehow I’ve turned into a worry wart after having our daughter. Any tips/suggestions would be helpful, or even some words to calm the mom worry in me haha!

We had no tummy trouble AT ALL in Vietnam. Times have changed, it’s rare these days to have problems anywhere unless you’re unlucky enough to pick up a virus. It’s happened to us maybe 4 times in 6 years of travel and the sickest we’ve been was in London with norovirus…does that help? I doubt you need many shots for Vietnam. Our doctor told us not to bother with any for a short trip to Thailand before we became full time travellers, but you have to do what makes you comfortable. We ate ALL the food in Vietnam. Every leaf at every street stall. We had no problems. But do always give your chopsticks a good wipe ( locals do) and I always make sure leaves get a good dunk in the hot soup if I can, but we ate salady leaves many, many times. We had clean drinking water on tap in our house there, I imagine many do and restaurants should know what they’re doing. Nobody wants to kill off their customers, particularly not if their customers are the locals. Maybe really touristy restaurants are worse than the places the locals eat? And don’t trust all the fake reviews on Trip Advisor.

Alyson, do you have the Expats facebook page regarding the airbnb accommodation? Hoping to find somewhere homey to stay for about a month.

There’s Danang and Hoi An Expats or Hoi An Expats, I think. The place we rented was direct with the owner, contact details for Dao are in the Living in Hoi An post. But most of the house rentals are for 3 month minimum. If you’d like me to introduce you to Dao directly just find me on Facebook.

Hi Alison. What an inspiring blog, thanks a million! We are planning travelling with our 11 & 6 year old children somewhere to Asia in May / June. I want the kids to experience different life and I believe that backpacking is the way.. Vietnam would be our choice but I wonder what would the weather be like this time of the year and whether you would suggest any region or other country cause of that? Many thanks. Paula

It depends what part of Vietnam Paula. Where were you thinking?

With all honesty, we do not have a set plan and are open for suggestions. We are not fans of big cities, but that’s pretty much it. My children love adventures, floating villages and sleeping on the boat seems great, but if it would rain a lot that’s a much less fun. X

I think Central Vietnam is good in May June but the north and south might be hotter and wet. Central gets wet in October / November / December… I think. Then lovely and cool until about April.

HI Alison! Thanks to your blog we have now booked 3 weeks off work to travel. Would you be able to advise on itinerary? We thinking of flying to Hanoi and flying back from Ho Chi Minth? should we buy tickets before applying for visa? X

3 weeks is cutting it a bit fine. I’ve done that trip in 4 weeks and it fits perfectly but for a short holiday you’ll have to pick your highlights and skip some parts. No you normally buy the tickets first. It’s up to you really. What parts and places most interest you in Vietnam? Then you just string them together in the most cost/time effective way. Sorry, I’m still in the Himalayas so very short on time.

Thanks. Should we finish in Hoi An? My kids love beaches and sea so we would love to spend there 5-7 days. Xx

Hoi An has a couple of beaches but we only went to them maybe 3 times in 6 months. To me, they didn’t seem that great. The restaurants on the beach are expensive and not very good, the sand is covered in deck chairs and umbrellas, that’s not my cup of tea. Also if it’s stormy they’re unusable. The sand washed away and strong surf closed them down. My Ironman husband couldn’t swim there and he was desperate to train for an event. But like I say, we’re not beach people, no interest at all really, so I’m not a good judge of beaches. I think to miss the Cu Chi Tunnels and the museums of HCM would be a great shame though. To me that’s a huge highlight of Vietnam, learning about that part of history and the incredible Vietnamese resilience. Hoi An Old Town and the rice paddies and farms between there and the beach are wonderful though. And of course Hoi An is famous for food and the street food is cheap and superb.

Thank you so much for your efforts in making this wonderful travel guide. You’re so right on about the food in Vietnam which is just so delicious, healthy yet cheap. For street foods, I suggest visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, for unique tastes, Hue is the best place. Hoi An would be the destination for cheap dishes.

This is an amazing travel guide. I have read so much about Vietnam but this has so many important links covering everything I need in one single place. I would really love to visit this beautiful country dotted with history, architecture and amazing landscapes. Pinned it for my future travel

Great article! Vietnam is really a nice destination to visit in Southeast Asia. The country is loaded with world class attractions..

Hi Alyson, Love your article. Can you please tell me if there are many yoga studios in Hoi An? I am hoping to get a job teaching yoga somewhere in Vietnam. Hoi An looks beautiful and I like that it’s smaller than the big cities. I am worried about the floods though as I would be there from October onwards. Do you think it’s best I go somewhere else in Vietnam until the rainy season has passed? If so where else would you recommend? Thanks for your help.

Look up Nomads Yoga, they have a Facebook page. If you can find them on a map of Hoi An that area does not flood and was, in fact, where we lived. Very convenient for everything. The other side of Hoi An, which is very popular with expats and nomads, did have flooding. There is yoga over there too and there is yoga on the beaches, but I know Nomads, they have a nice vegetarian ( maybe vegan) cafe too. It’s near Jack’s Cat Cafe and the main bus stop.

That Vietnam Visa Checker widget is very convenient. Didn’t know such thing existed ! Good article overall Do not miss Ninh Binh next time your come to Vietnam.

great article, it made me miss Vietnam so much plus reading about Sapa, where we haven’t been made me want to go there even more, all the best ania

Thank you for visiting Vietnam, there are many places you should explore such as Ha Noi, Ha Long, Sapa, Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An

WoW what an amazing guide that you have written Alyson, and may I compliment you on every area that you have covered, all about your Vietnam stay with your family as well, some humourus moments gave me a good laugh.

I will be moving to Hoi An early next year for good, if all goes well, I have found your Blog very very helpful in a lot of Areas, especially about long term rentals, the people, and the food, the weather, being a retired chef I can’t wait to get into the kitchen over there and learn new skills.

Regards David

My pleasure. We hope to be back there soon too.

Hello Alyson My daughter and I are planning to visit in March 2019. Have been doing a lot of reading but still unsure if we should book a tour rather than trying it ourselves. The general consensus is that its ok to just arrive and do it yourself. I am a bit concerned about transport and hotels without having anything booked in advance. Have read conflicting reports about using bus and train ? We would also like to go to Cambodia for a few days if possible. Any suggestions in this regard would be extremely helpful.

Thanks kindly

I would book your hotels in advance. Wandering round with bags and a child in the heat isn’t much fun and these days doesn’t really save you money. The only problem is, if you have a hotel booked and then you can’t get on the bus/train/plane for whatever reason, so i’d lean towards booking those too, if possible. Unless you’re comfortable doing what we do and just booking places the day before, once our travel is confirmed. The trains are absolutely fine but time consuming on a short trip. The buses…well…I’m not keen. I worry about crashes, but on the whole driving on Vietnam is slower than in Thailand and death rates lower. But accidents must be pretty rare, I’d just rather take a train as they’re comfortable and we always have plenty of time. Local public buses are pretty rickety. For shorter trips you can always just use an uber or taxi. Fly the big hops maybe. The big tourist / backpacker buses are very modern but have double decker sleeping/seating. They’re almost like beds, but not long enough for a tall westerner to recline.

Hi, I ‘m America,and applied for Evisa and my 2 kids . I got approval e visa today , but not my kids . Regarding to application, I filled 3 appplications and 3 fee. Did I do anything wrong? On the website, I did give an option to put kids under 14 , name . However, the appplication states on the same passports with parents.

I’ve not heard of kids travelling on the same passport as parents for about 20 years sorry. Do they not have their own passports? Ours had their own passports, own visas, always do.

Yes, they have their own visa . That what I filled their own e-visa application. However, my e visa got approved today with an email notification . I didn’t receive anything regarding for both of my kids even though I applied on the same day. I’m getting sorry whether I need to fill their names on my application..

Ours all came together all on one sheet.

Hello Alyson, Thanks heaps for providing such a thorough blog. My wife and I will be arriving in Ho Chi Minh city in late July. I’d love to experience Ha Long Bay. I was just wondering roughly how much it cost to get there from Ho Chi Minh City. I read that you fly there then a car ride to boat, is this correct? We’re Australian so if you could possibly convert for us that would be awesome. Do you have a boat you recommend to travel on? Thanks heaps for any information you can pass on Dale

Dale, hi. Flying is much quicker than the train / bus, yes, only a couple of hours, at least 2 days otherwise. It costs anywhere between $100-$200 US. The best thing is to hop over to Skyscanner and see what flights are available for your dates, prices fluctuate, find the best deal. I haven’t taken a Halong Bay cruise in years sorry so can’t recommend one currently operating.

Hey Alyson, thanks heaps for sparing your time to help, greatly appreciated 😉

Hi Alyson, Great blog with some fab info about Vietnam’. Myself and some friends are traveling out in July and I was wondering if you could provide some information on traveling between Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. What would you recommend? The flights are very expensive and long… surprisingly. But I heard many bad reports about the buses… however I can’t get any recent info, last reviews were 2010/2012! Any advice? Thanks

I haven’t crossed from Vietnam into neighbouring countries since 2001. But we’ve crossed Thailand to Cambodia recently. You’ll find a full post on our site, I think if you search Bangkok to Siem Reap. Buses in Thailand are great. Cambodian buses…not so good. And Laos…not so good either and terribly windy roads. But the overland trip from the south of Vietnam, by boat and bus to Luang Prabang is pretty amazing. It involved speedboats and crash helmets and was pretty crazy. Flying is for wimps 😉

Thank you so much for your reply, I will check out the blog and have a read. I want to travel from Vietnam though as we will only have about 6 days to see both Cambodia and Laos. I am also wondering about the Vietnam visa… we will be in Vietnam about 13 days then travel into Cambodia and Laos then back to Vietnam to fly home. So in totally more than 15 days… but multiple entry. Any info on either or not we need a visa? Website really not clear. Thank you

That’s a messy sort of visa problem. The tourist is 15 days so you’ll need a month or 3 month multiple entry and you MUST have the right documentation before you fly or you won’t be getting on the plane. The tourist visa is only for flying in. But depends on nationality too, it’s different for UK, Australia, US. Which is what I’m about to do, I’m at the airport about to board. Best of luck

There are so many things to see and experience in Vietnam. Their food, culture, and amazing destinations are fantastic.

This is wonderful Alyson! I’ll be visiting Vietnam soon so I’ve been researching non-stop about the country, glad I came across this page. This is a very comprehensive look at the country. I specifically love the theater and arts scene that’s featured here, will definitely check it out.

Great Blog Alyson, My wife is originally from HCMC, and in 2015 we took the opportunity to visit her homeland for 3 weeks, did a tour of Hanoi and ha long bay, fell in love with the country and the people, 2017 we went back for 2 months, we spent w week in Vung Tau, beautiful place great food, rented a scooter from our hotel and cruised all over the place, took a flight from HCMC to Na Trang ($33.00 CAD) each one way, spent a week there also riding all over and checking out the sites, Decided to travel by sleeper bus to Dalat and spent about 4 days there, seemed funny to see locals wearing winter jackets in the evening( me in short pants and a tank top lol, but Dalat is beautiful, we found once we got to HCMC traveling around was quite reasonable, took a tour to Thailand, Bangkok and Pattaya( 5 days 4 nights all in $400.00 CAD, we are heading back in 2019 for another 2 months and who knows maybe this will be my retirement home

I don’t blame you Tim, it’s a wonderful country.

As a Vietnamese, I thank you so much for giving your nice words to our country. I love to read more and more your post in the future. If you have a chance to travel Vietnam again, I will highly recommend you some landscape like The prison Island ” Con Dao” where is really beautiful and peaceful, it bring a lot of historical stories. I really hope you will come there and wrote about Con Dao.

Hi Alyson I’ve just discovered your site and I am finding your information regarding blogging very useful as an about to be blogger. Love reading about Vietnam – My husband and I took our girls flash packing through Vietnam over Christmas 2016. One of my favourite places was Son Trach in Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park. It’s truly beautiful and the caves are jaw droppingly amazing. If you like to get away from the crowds and haven’t been already, I highly recommend a few days, even just to visit the most accessible caves. Thanks for sharing your travels. Cheryl

Hey Alyson! great post! I’ve been living in Da Nang for eight months and think it’s worthy of a mention. It has beautiful beaches, plenty of ESL teaching opportunities, bars, restaurants and thriving expat scene! It doesn’t have much exposure which has led me to create the Da Nang Teacher website. Have you visited Da Nang? if so, what did you think? It’s only 40 minutes from Hoi An, which I personally find too touristy! Oh also, do you accept guest posts RE Nam Les post? I would love to share more about Da Nang! Looking forward to hearing from you!

I’ve been to Danang many times but not posted about it ( lack of time!). Also I’m not a fan, too big city for me, I like countryside. Handy for the shops, cinema and Starbucks though. If you’d like to write about Danang for our site that would be great, please send your pitch to [email protected] . Always looking for new quality content from expert sources. 8 months I’d consider expert, I hate it when people write posts after being somewhere for 5 minutes. I’ll be covering Marble Mountain soon, but Danang is all yours if you want it. I also don’t have any decent photos of Danang, which presumably you do. Cheers!

Those are really good tips for families traveling to Vietnam – a beautiful country!

Alyson, Would you be ale to post an example / picture of the pre-visa document? (visa on arrival) I have received one but when i have read your blog i am worried now if i was scammed or not. The other way is that i can send you my document and you would check it. I have tried the embassy and airlines but they don’t want to talk abut it unless it is provided by them. Regards & Thank you stressed Andy 🙂

We have never done it Andy, we only go in on the 3 month visa, not the e visa 15 day exemption. Sorry

Thx Alyson. I was wondering if it looks the same as you have described with some other travelers names on the document as mine looks. 🙂 We do take our friends daughter with us this Year and we would not like to be stopped on the border…. That would be silly…lol Any help from anyone reading / traveling to Vietnam would be helpful 🙂 Thx

Yes, that’s correct, there will be other people, unless you pay the extra for exclusive documents.

I really love Vietnamese Street Food. I want to travel to Vietnam and i will travel to Vietnam in next year. Thank you for your post

Hi Alyson, thanks a lot for your article. I’m going to vietnam in april and want to go straight from Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An. How hard can i find a shuttle bus connecting two these destinations? They say that cyclo (xnh lo or something else) is another speciality in hoi an. Have you tried it? And can you tell me some address to get some tailor clothes in Hoi An?

There are plenty of buses and coaches but I’d highly recommend the train as more comfortable and probably safer. And yes there are cycle rickshaws in both Saigon and Hoi An. The Hoi An ones always seem to be pedalling Chinese or Korean tour groups around. I’ve never wanted to use one as they are purely a tourist attraction here, whereas in say, parts of India ( Saigon too, moreso) they are a way of getting from A to B.

Cindy, is it possible to post the VoA doc whit your names as i have wrote above? I just wanted to compare my document with yours if it looks the same . 🙂 If you won’t like it i will understand. many thanks

I am heading to Vietnam soon (in 3 weeks for 3 weeks!) with 2 teenage children in tow, We’ll be flying into Hanoi and then taking our time to travel down south before heading over to Thailand. Our first stop however will be Sapa (2 nights already booked), then back to Hanoi for 2 pre booked nights, and then we take it all in our stride. My question is – what is the best way to get from Hanoi (we land 9.ooam) to Sapa – preferably the fastest – cheapest, can you recommend ideas? It is my children’s first overseas adventure and I do plan to stay more to the backpacker/budget trip with a few hotels along the way. We also plan to spend alot of time by the water, in water parks and beaches – can you advise good places to visit and stay at? We don’t have to do everything, I am happy to spend a week in one spot if that feels right for us 🙂 Thank You! N

Great article! Vietnam is my next destination. I am especially curious about the food

I love Vietnam, Vietnam is not small like you think. In your destination, I think it’s not full of Vietnam. You can travel to Mekong Delta, Hue, Phu Quoc, Dalat, Danang… and a lot of other places in Vietnam you must to see. Now, I’m living Vietnam, I love Vietnamese people and Vietnam culture

We love Vietnam too and have been to all of those places except Dalat, we will be there in a week or two.

Thank you all for your comments. Many people do not know the interesting things of Da Lat. If I write about it can you post on the page?

We write our own posts sorry Nam, but if you could write a basic guide I could maybe add to it and include our own experiences when we visit.

Hi. I am currently working in Da Lat and I am studying about foreigners’ preference for Dalat. I searched and read many pages. And Da Lat is rarely mentioned. Can someone tell me why?

Not mentioned here because I’ve never been there! No particular reason, if we go, I’ll write about it.

Well I think it depends on itineraries, people who visit Ho Chi Minh would prefer Da Lat and people would visit the north would prefer Sapa.

What are the highlights of Dalat? What does it have to offer tourists? We’re in Vietnam again now ad may be able to visit this time.

In my opinion, Dalat is a popular destination for Vietnamese because the weather in Saigon and surrounding area is so hot but Dalat weather is cool. For the westerners coming to Vietnam, most of them come from the weather like that so they may want to spend time for other destinations. Sapa in the North is similar to Dalat for the weather but there are more things to do and discover than Dalat so the information about Sapa is richer. Hope you are happy with my idea!

Great article! Vietnam is my next destination. I am especially curious about the food 🙂

Vietnam is a paradise of food. Most of people love the streetfood in Vietnam! Welcome to Vietnam!

We found even the taxi drivers lovely!!! We got the same driver twice and he remembered us. Best place in the world, and the Vietnamese are divine people.

Hi guys, great article! Will you be in Hoi an for their lantern festival, Orla

We were here for last month’s full moon night and will be here for the coming one, yes. The next one should be quite an event with dragon dances froom local kids, but there are lanterns on the river every night in Hoi An.

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Vietnam Travel Blog

Vietnam is an incredible country located in Asia. In fact, Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. It has something for everyone – backpackers, couples, solo travelers, luxury travelers, etc.

Vietnam offers several experiences – from river cruises to rice terraces trekking, from mountain villages to beach holidays, from war museums to boat trips, from temples to cooking classes – you should find something that suits your needs and interests.

If you’re planning your first trip to Vietnam, this guide should answer any questions you may have. We’ll talk about travel facts, the best time to visit Vietnam, the best destinations, recommended itineraries, travel costs, travel essentials and how to prepare for your trip.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a very long country and depending on your destination, you may be facing different types of seasons. We decided to split this section into two sections to help you understand the seasons in Vietnam:

• North Vietnam
• South Vietnam

Top Destinations in Vietnam

Ho chi Minh

Ha long Bay

Vietnam Itineraries

Planning your trip to Vietnam? We created Vietnam itineraries to help you. You can pick the length of your stay and follow our recommended itineraries. We created itineraries for up to one month including our favorite Vietnamese destinations.

• Three weeks
• Ha Noi (2 day)
• Ha Long Bay (2 days)
• Ninh Binh (2 days)
• Back to Ha Noi (1 day)
• Da Nang (2 days)
• Hoi An (2 days)
• Da Lat (2 days)
• Ho Chi Minh (2 days)
• Ha Noi (3 day)
• Hue (2 days)
• Da Lat (3 days)
• Mui Ne (2 days)
• Ho Chi Minh (3 days)
• Sa Pa (2 days)
• Ha Long Bay (3 days)
• Ninh Binh (3 days)
• Phu Quoq Island (3 days)

Vietnam Travel Tips & Costs

In this section, you’ll find general information on costs and how to prepare for your trip. Finally, you will find a table that will provide an overview of cost and options depending on your travel budget.

Accommodation

In Vietnam, you’ll find several options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you’re a budget traveler or not, you won’t have difficulty to find options. You can find dorms starting at $3 per night.

When it comes to food, you can find different types of restaurants. If you eat local food, you can eat for less than VND 100,000. Obviously, you may find elegant restaurants around the country and you can pay more if you wish. The cheapest options are usually in small local restaurants.

Some activities such as hiking or beach bumming are free. Although, if you’re planning on visiting temples, kayaking in Halong bay, cruising along the Mekong river or experiencing other fun activities, you will have to pay for it. You can browse activities in Vietnam here  to have an idea of the costs.

Transportation

In general, it’s pretty easy to get around Vietnam. You can either fly, take a bus or a van or travel by train to reach your destinations.

To book your transport between destinations, you can book via 12GO or via a travel agency. Most of the time, your hotel and hostel may be able to arrange it for you.

Safety in Vietnam

Overall, traveling around Vietnam is pretty safe. Of course, you should always lock your valuables especially if you’re staying in a hostel .

Scams happen every once in a while, as they do in most Asian countries. However, if you are prepared and do your research, you should be able to avoid them. Driving in Vietnam can be very dangerous. Vietnamese traffic is famous and not for being well organized. Make sure you feel comfortable before starting a motorbike trip. Accidents are pretty common.

It’s good to know that there are still a lot of landmines and unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam war buried around Vietnam (especially when walking in forests and the countryside). That said, make sure to have a local guide.

What to Pack for Vietnam

Universal adapter

Mosquito repellent

Quick-dry towel

Waterproof bag

Visa in Vietnam

You can apply on an eVisa to get your 30 days in Vietnam. You can read this post to learn the steps. Note that you can also get longer visas if you wish to spend more time in Vietnam. If you are crossing by land, you can get a visa via a travel agency in Laos or Cambodia.

You can verify your visa requirements here .

Preparing Your Trip to Vietnam

Browse flights on Skyscanner to find deals.

Go To Skyscanner

Book your travel insurance for as little as $42/month.

Go To SafetyWing

Booking.com

Find accommodation anywhere in the world.

Go To Booking.com

Check the visa requirements and apply for a visa if needed.

Go To iVisa

Worldpackers

Volunteer abroad in exchange for free accommodation.

Go To Worldpackers

Book transfers, tours, and activities in advance.

Go To Viator

Vietnam eSIM Plans

It’s hard to find a good data plan when you’re traveling. You have to research the best deals, go to a store, and hope they have a prepaid SIM card for travelers and tourists.

And if they don’t? You could be without service for the rest of your trip. Not only is that frustrating, but it can also be time-consuming.

eSIMs are the solution to your travel woes. With an eSIM plan, you can stay connected no matter where you go. Plus, there are no contracts or cancellation fees, so you can change your plan whenever you want.

If you’re looking for an eSIM plan while in Vietnam, then be sure to check out the providers below. They all offer great plans that will keep you connected while you’re there.

$3 OFF with promo code: MELISS2943

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Vietnam Blog Posts

Is Da Nang Safe? Here’s What You Need To Know

While it may not be as well known as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang is one of South-Central Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations. This bustling coastal city is known for its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning nature-rich backdrop. Da Nang...

The 5 Best Places To Live In Vietnam

Wondering where to live in Vietnam? In this guide, we'll talk about the best places to live in Vietnam. From its stunning natural landscapes to friendly, welcoming locals, Vietnam is a popular choice among expats in South East Asia. What's more, the cost of living is...

Vietnam SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

Are you visiting Vietnam soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a Vietnam SIM card. In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in Vietnam in person and online. We'll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports...

Can You Teach English In Vietnam As A Non-Native English Speaker?

If you look at any job advertisement for a teaching position in Vietnam, you will see that most have a few requirements. These requirements are often the same for most jobs. Having a bachelor’s degree, a TEFL certificate, and being a native English speaker. We all...

Expat Guide: Living In Vietnam

Thinking of moving to Vietnam? Southeast Asia is an attractive place to move for many expats because of the beaches, low cost of living, and the adventure that awaits. Thailand and Bali seem to be the hotspots for expats and travelers alike, but Vietnam is often...

Perfect Vietnam Itinerary 1 Month

Wondering how to backpack Vietnam for one month? This Vietnam budget guide is based on a 25 days itinerary. One goal; make the most of the country by respecting the time limit and a tiny budget. If you are asking yourself what to do in Vietnam, you should stop now....

How To Get A Visa For Vietnam

Depending on your nationality and your current location, you can have different options in terms of visa and transportation. If you are wondering how to apply for your Vietnam visa, you will find all the information here. Note that if you're planning on moving to...

All You Need to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam in 2023

March 13, 2023, 2:04 am

Vietnam is a country offering a one-of-a-kind blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, there are countless experiences waiting for those who wish to explore this Southeast Asian gem.

If you’re considering a trip to Vietnam in 2023, there are a few things you should be aware of before packing your bags.

In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from visa requirements to local customs to help make your trip to Vietnam unforgettable. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into this ultimate guide before you set off for Vietnam this year.

Obtain a visa before arriving in Vietnam

If you plan a trip to Vietnam, you should be aware that there are certain documents that must be gathered prior to the trip.

Apart from a valid passport that must remain valid for at least 6 months from the date of your planned arrival in Vietnam, you may also need to hold a valid visa.

Fortunately, since 2017, Vietnam has been offering electronic visas covering short-term trips to Vietnam related to tourism, business, or transit.

A holder of the Vietnam eVisa can stay in the country for up to 30 days, while the visa remains valid for 30 days as well.

In order to get an eVisa to Vietnam , one needs to make sure that their nationality is eligible for online visa application and then simply follow three steps, including:

• Fill out the online form : indicate your traveling motive and provide all the required details in the online application form; attach your face photo as well as a digital copy of your passport’s bio-data page.
• Cover the processing fee : choose one type of available methods of online patent and pay the service fee.
• Receive the approved eVisa : refresh your email address and download the approved document.

The processing time should take up to 5 business days. Make sure to apply at least 5 days before the planned arrival in Vietnam to receive your visa on time.

Be aware of weather conditions and climate

Vietnam features a year-round tropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 18 – 28°C. However, Vietnam also has distinct wet (May to October) and dry (November to April) seasons.

Knowing which season you’re traveling during will help ensure your visit is full of safe discoveries and enjoyable memories. Vietnam can be especially humid during the wet months, so visitors should plan accordingly by bringing comfortable clothes and accessories that are easy to layer or remove depending on the temperature outside.

Additionally, Vietnam exposes coastal areas and tourists to the threat of typhoons during September and October. Though these storms may look intimidating at first, they can provide an amazing show of nature if the proper precautions are taken beforehand.

Be ready to meet one of the most hospitable nations in Asia

Vietnamese people are renowned for their friendly nature, showcasing their warmth and hospitality to visitors from around the world. The Vietnamese culture is full of welcoming smiles and generous spirits, making Vietnamese people some of the most hospitable in all of Asia.

This spirit of kindness is deeply embedded in Vietnamese society and has been a key part of Vietnamese life for centuries. Their optimism despite hardships shines through every conversation, showcasing an amazing level of resilience and strength. Vietnamese people are truly inspiring, with their friendly demeanor radiating an essence that stays with you once you’ve moved on.

Check other entry requirements to enter Vietnam

Vietnam’s entry requirements have been updated to ensure that citizens around the globe can explore its unique culture with ease.

Visitors from all corners of the world are no longer required to produce a negative COVID-19 test result or present a vaccination certificate on arrival, lessening the administrative burden and emboldening individuals to make Vietnam their next travel destination.

Of course, airlines may still have different requirements before boarding, so it is important for travelers to make sure they check with their airline before embarking on their journey. It definitely looks like Vietnam is open again, and its diversity of landscapes and experiences await!

Try unforgettable Vietnamese cuisine

Exploring Vietnam’s amazing cuisine is a must when visiting this beautiful country! From the street food to exotic dishes served in fine dining establishments, there is something for everyone and every taste.

Make sure to try some of the authentic Vietnamese specialties like Pho Noodles, Banh Mi Sandwiches, Goi Cuon Spring Rolls, or Bun Bo Hue Spicy Beef Soup.

There are countless flavors and varieties that make up Vietnamese cuisine, allowing you to try delicious food every day of your visit. Let Vietnam’s delightful flavors tantalize your taste buds!

Be aware of road safety

When in Vietnam, traffic can be intense, and it is important to always be mindful of road safety. Although traffic may surprise you with its speed and density, keep calm and take your time when crossing the street.

Remember that safety not only protects you from traffic incidents but also helps contribute to traffic peace and orderliness in the long run for both residents and international visitors. Your own actions on the streets of Vietnam can make a difference, so pay attention to your surroundings to keep yourself – as well as those around you – safe!

Bottom Line

Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful place to relax, Vietnam has it all! The culture and cuisine are truly unique, so be sure to explore every corner you can while in Vietnam – no matter where you go, there will always be something special waiting for you.

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Visiting Vietnam 2023: A Brief Travel Guide

• Written by Alya Miranti Azzahra
• Posted on September 6, 2023

Vietnam is known for many things, from its long history to its rich collection of culinary and its economic affordability. In the present day, this Southeast Asian country is one of the most favored destinations among international tourists!

As more travelers are planning their getaways to the country, some might still be wondering about what to prepare and do to turn their Vietnam trip into a reality – especially if it’s their first time visiting Vietnam.

Luckily, you are at the right place, because our article today will present a brief travel guide that encompasses all the essential bits you should know before visiting Vietnam: the country’s profile, the compact travel trips, and the recommended activities to do in Vietnam!

Vietnam: A Country with a Timeless Charm

A fun fact before we start: Vietnam earned the epithet “The Land of the Ascending Dragon” due to its distinctive shape on the world map – a remarkable title for a country with many historic events on its records.

Having been unified since 1975, Vietnam is a multi-ethnic country that is home to more than 50 ethnic groups. The country, whose capital is Hanoi, is sandwiched by China in the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, the East Sea to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. As of 2023, Vietnam’s population is estimated to be 103.8 million, making it one of the top 20 most populated countries !

At present, Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia. This growth has significantly impacted various sectors in the country, particularly the hospitality and tourism industry. After the pandemic ended, Vietnam emerged as a new favorite tourist hotspot in Asia! In the first half of 2023 , Vietnam tourism welcomed over 5.5 million foreign visitors, bringing it closer to its goal of 8 million international tourists.

Vibrant cities, a plethora of natural wonders, fascinating landmarks, savory cuisines, and a rich history, tradition, and culture are some of the timeless charms of Vietnam that entice tourists to visit. As more international travelers are making their way to the country, others might be wondering what they should do before visiting Vietnam. Well, worry not, because we have compiled a list of things you should know before traveling to Vietnam!

Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam (Travel Tips)

Planning a first-time trip to any foreign country can be a bit challenging, but Vietnam is a welcoming destination for newcomers. Hence, before embarking on your Vietnam tour, make sure to check our quick and informative travel guide prepared just for you!

1. Arrange Your Visa

The first and foremost step before visiting Vietnam (and other foreign countries) is to prepare your visa. Visas are granted by Vietnamese authorities, allowing foreign tourists to travel to and enter Vietnam. The good news is that starting on August 15, 2023 , Vietnam has implemented a new electronic visa (e-visa) system for all nationalities, which means visiting Vietnam will be much easier for anyone. To apply for a visa to visit Vietnam, you can find it here !

2. Purchase a Flight Ticket

Remember to purchase your flight ticket to Vietnam! If you are looking for cheap flights to Vietnam , you may try to buy a ticket during the off-season months of April, May, October, and November since fewer tourists are visiting the country, making flight prices lower. Ho Chi Minh is your best bet for Vietnam’s cheapest city to fly into, and there are many airline options that offer direct flights to the country.

3. Pack Proper Outfits

The next essential step is to pack your Vietnam trip clothes into your bag. However, you might want to take some notes about Vietnam’s weather to avoid bringing the wrong outfits! Generally, the best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April, when temperatures are mild, and rainfall is relatively low. If you are planning to travel to a specific region in Vietnam, such as Da Nang with its tropical climate or Halong Bay with its subtropical climate, be sure to do your research first!

4. Organize Your Budget

When visiting Vietnam, you will need to exchange currency for Vietnamese đồng (VND) to seamlessly organize your budget for the trip. Vietnam is known as one of the cheapest countries to travel to, so even with a moderate budget, it’s easy to enjoy a trip to Vietnam without worrying about running out of money. For your travel information, affordable accommodations like comfy Airbnbs (around $20-25 USD/night) and boutique hotels (about $30-40 USD/night) can be found all over the country. Food is quite inexpensive as well, with meals starting at around $2 USD!

5. Learn the Language

Last but not least, it’s important to get to know Vietnam as a country better. You can start by learning its language, Vietnamese. Although English is taught in Vietnamese schools, many people there do not speak English or have only basic proficiency. As a tourist, it’s best to learn common phrases to get around Vietnam, such as “ xin chào ” (which means “hello”) or “ cảm ơn ” (which means “thank you”). An additional pro tip is to learn about the local traditions and culture as well!

Things You Should Do on Your Vietnam Tour

Lots of fascinating things await travelers once they arrive in Vietnam. As exciting as it sounds, sometimes it can also be confusing for tourists about which places they should visit first, what food to try, and other things they should do during their Vietnam trip. Fortunately, there’s no need to feel lost because we have recommended a list of things you should do on your Vietnam tour!

1. Start with Hanoi

For first-timers, consider Hanoi , Vietnam’s renowned capital, for the ideal starting point of your journey in the country! The city is a lively one where tourists can easily find inexpensive accommodations, world-class dining, and historic sights depicted in one place.

2. Tour the Mekong Delta

A home to distinctive ecosystems and various unique communities, there are many reasons why a Mekong Delta tour should be on your list of things to do when visiting Vietnam. Here, travelers can take a boat trip through the Mekong Delta’s waterways, visit floating markets, and even explore the National Park with its more than 100 different bird species. During the trip, tourists will be treated to the scenery of rice fields and local villages all along!

3. Enjoy Hoi An Beaches

Their tropical climates, idyllic backdrops, pristine soft sands, and magnificent turquoise shades of seawater are what make Hoi An beaches a magnet to travelers. Praised as one of the delightful destinations with the best beaches in Vietnam, Hoi An features plenty of natural and attractive beaches, including Cua Dai Beach and An Bang Beach!

4. Trek in Ha Giang

Looking for mountain scenery instead? Head to Ha Giang province, where you will be able to trek to minority villages and rice terraces! You can also ride a motorcycle over some of Vietnam’s most spectacular passes there, while taking photos on the winding mountain road between Dong Van and Meo Vac, two of Ha Giang’s towns.

5. Try the Local Culinary Delights

Visiting Vietnam is incomplete without indulging in its rich collection of local cuisines! There’s a plethora of delicious Vietnamese dishes to try, but some of the best recommendations include bun bo hue (a Vietnamese rice noodle dish with sliced beef), banh mi (a sandwich traditionally baked with broth and wheat, filled with various ingredients), and pho (a savory Vietnamese soup made with broth, noodles, beef, and more).

Wrapping Up

The diverse culture, traditions, historical cities, and alluring natural destinations, not to mention the affordability of everything in Vietnam, are what attract travelers from all around the globe to visit the Land of the Ascending Dragon. Moreover, the recent news of an easy e-visa system for all nationalities is making foreign tourists eager to take their trips to the country, thereby propelling Vietnam’s tourism into a period of rapid growth!

Now, Vietnam is a sea of exciting opportunities for anyone who is ready to take up the challenges – especially in its hospitality and tourism sector. If you are one of those people up for the challenges, RMC Asia will gladly assist you through our Cultural Exchange Programs!

“What are Cultural Exchange Programs?” might be the first thing that popped into your mind. To keep it short, Cultural Exchange Programs are our tailored hospitality internship and management training that take place across prestigious hotels and resorts across Asia’s best destinations, and Vietnam is one of them.

Being a participant in one of our Cultural Exchange Programs is more than just working in hotels or resorts. Our participants will get to experience firsthand the dynamic environment of the international hospitality and tourism industry; work with seasoned experts and fellow participants from all around the world, as well as immerse themselves in the beauty of program destinations!

This is your turn! Join our successful participants and create your memorable internship and management training experience with us.

Recommended: Post-Pandemic Travel Trends: The Future of Hospitality and Tourism Industry

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History Beneath the City Skyline – The Saigon Story

Ho Chi Minh City travel blog. Uff, here goes about my favorite city in Vietnam. Touring Vietnam, we stayed in Ho Chi Minh city (or Saigon) for 2 days. It was the biggest mistake on the trip.

Not only did we miss out on popular spots like the Chu Chi Tunnels, the ever-lively city aura that I enjoyed didn’t last long. We needed at least 2 – 3 days more for a better experience. But even more so, it’s a city that I’d love to imagine myself live in one day.

I daresay I loved it better than my Hanoi tour , the capital of Vietnam. Alas, being someone who enjoys the nightlife, I’d be biased. Nonetheless, this Ho Chi Minh travel blog shall give you a more realistic idea.

Table of Contents

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Blog

Unlike most parts of Vietnam (including Hanoi), a considerable population speaks and understands English in Ho Chi Minh city. Apart from the tourist-popular spaces, the small road-portable stalls, Vietnam locals we met, and Grab taxis could at least understand us.

It was always broken English with a few highlight keywords, but it helped a long way. Ho Chi Minh City is the commerical capital and it definitely looks it. People’s familiarity with tourism, the skyline views, and the evening rush hour lanes told it all.

However, it wasn’t only the bloom the sparked the city. It was the rest of it intricated so well. The Independence Palace gates perfectly aligning to a T-intersection. The Notre Dame Cathedral surrounded by roadways with the Saigon Central Post Office by its side.

We walked around most places, hopping from a bookshop, to stores, and then to a boutique coffee shop. The best part was that it wasn’t a tourist-dominated place. Daily city traffic pass through these roads and that Post Office still runs today!

Day tours in Ho Chi Minh city

Apart exploring the city, Saigon is popular for day tours. With world-famous sites like the Mekong Delta and Chu Chi tunnels, it makes these trips unmissable. One can opt to go by themselves, but with the sites far, it’ll cost a good deal for transport.

So the budget-friendly option is the package trips that a numerous agencies offer. Not having enough time to cover the city, we had a dealbreaker between Chu Chi tunnels and Mekong Delta. Though one package covered both places on the same day, I preferred detailed exploring rather than speeding across places. So we picked Mekong Delta.

Some people sympathetically eyed us for not picking Chu Chi tunnels, but Mekong Delta turned out to be a fairly sweet trip. I got to hold a python!

Book your Saigon trip in advance! For Saigon, I recommend using our trusted partner, Headout.com. The most-picked Saigon trips are for much better pricing here. Here are my favorite deals for Chu Chi tunnels and Mekong Delta on HeadOut.

Book in advance and grab your deals today!

Landing at the SGN Airport

Our late-night flight from Hanoi delayed – so much for beginning the trip. Thus landing far over midnight at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN airport). Being exhausted, I couldn’t tell much of the airport, except that it was much larger than Noi Bai International airport.

After 10 minutes to find our hotel taxi pickup, it wasn’t much of a hassle. Nor was our stay far from the airport.

We drove through the quietness of the city. There wasn’t much I could make out – or I was probably just too tired. But something spoke of organization even through the little alleys we passed through. Alighting from the taxi, our hotel was a short walk between buildings from the drop-off point.

As soon as we got off, a young woman out of nowhere came up, asking if I wanted a ‘massage’. I looked at my phone. It was 3 a.m. What the hell? I thought as we ignored and walked to our budget hotel.

Making a small talk with our receptionist whose hair was also messed up, we sunk into our beds and dozed off. Sleeping late, we inevitably woke late almost in the afternoon. We needed the rest too but at the cost of our precious time at Saigon.

Bánh mì for Breakfast and Independence Palace

We freshened up quick and hit the streets. On the way out our alley, we found a travel agency where we booked our itinerary for the following day. There were a few options and we picked the Mekong Delta. I’d studied about Mekong Delta in school and I couldn’t help wanting to see it firsthand.

Walking out of the agency, we planned on visiting the Independence Palace first. Not keen on fancy breakfast, a road stall with buns caught our eye. It was the best start to our day when the vendor spoke in English.

She asked, “Wheech filling?” It turns out, it was Vietnam’s popular local cuisine called Banh mi. The bread was a baguette with fillings stuffed in. Introduced during the French Colonization in Vietnam, it still is a major part of local Vietnamese diet today.

Thus our history class didn’t start at Independence Palace. It began here – with the pork and chicken Banh Mi.

Exploring the Independence Palace

The grand Independence Palace at its entrance itself is something of a sight. The vast space, gardens, and the fountain amidst kicks you back into time to Vietnam’s dark days.

I never had interest in history before, but something sparked when I walked the hallways. The Indochina occupation, Japanese overthrow, French Colonization, Ngo Dinh Diem brutal rule and American involvement – the walls whispered their tales everywhere.

The Independence Palace or also arguably the Reunification Palace today, isn’t only a display of exhibits. No, this place of power was itself attacked twice . Bombed by fighter planes by rebels of the Ngo Dinh Diem rigid rule. And later its gates crashed by 2 military tankers known as the Fall of Saigon.

I never imagined, but the Vietnam’s history immensely intrigued me here. Even long after returning from Vietnam, I still read about its history. There’s simply so much that happened in this prosperous place.

Saigon travel blog: Read my Independence Palace article on Medium .

A Walk past Saigon Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral

After hours of walking the corridors of history, our next stop was the Saigon Central Post Office. Seeing that it wasn’t far, we decided to walk. The tree shades and lawn all the way was a relief from the heat.

As we crossed the road, we weren’t aware of the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. But there it stood, the French-built Church looming over. Unfortunately, a renovation was in place and the main building was hidden beneath temporary support.

Passing it was the Saigon Central Post Office. The exterior neo-classical sight itself was quite a sight. Interiors, the other hand, were another. The high ceilings were of the original structure while the still-functional post-office was far modern.

Still, it was a post office with stacks of paper and packages piled behind the counters. With tourism calling it a must-visit in Saigon, there were postcard sovenir stalls at the center aisle. It was a rare mix of locals going about their daily lives and sight-seers capturing the same with their high-end DSLRs.

Ho Chi Minh city travel blog: There was nothing particular to see apart from experiencing Saigon’s routine lives. And yet one shouldn’t miss it. We didn’t stay here very long.

Streets, Coconut Coffee and the Waterbus Ride

We finally decided to get coffee. Cafes are of course expensive at the business heart of Vietnam. But Vietnam and coffee? Come on, be a sport! I’d say.

We found one a good 15 minutes down the Hai Ba Trung Main Rd. On the way was a second-hand bookstall and we stopped to buy some. It was a while since I picked up a book, but the Independence Palace spirit hadn’t settled. So we picked a few before walking through the evening busy streets.

We entered the Cộng cafe on Hai Ba Trung Rd. opposite to the baby pink Tan Dinh Church. We got ourselves coconut coffee here which was amazing. The only downside was excessive ice. Popular among the locals, its average pricing and environment seemed to remind me of Starbucks.

Except it was the Vietnamese version with much cozy interiors. Exhausted from the continuous day walk, we were glad we ended up here. We took a fair break before hitting the streets again.

Saigon Waterbus Ride

In Singapore, I’d been on the SG River cruise much similar to this. And my hands wouldn’t stop itching until I got on this boat. It was a slow sail along the river that saw the city’s skyline from a different perspective.

Sitting at the Cong Cafe, there were two problems to be dealt with. One, the sun was setting and the last waterbus was our only chance. Two, the taxi prices were absurd! That’s when we booked Grab scooters that cost much less.

The scooter ride was nothing short of an adventure with the rider a streetsmart kid zooming past slow traffic. He didn’t even have Google Maps on him. Thanks to him (and the other rider), we made it on time.

Saigon Waterbus : The Saigon Waterbus isn’t a tourist attraction. It’s a public transport means where the whole 10.8 km stretch takes 45 minutes one-way. Check the official Saigon Waterbus site for its schedule.

The evening was a bliss for the red sky with shimmering lights seems only a distant paradise now. The breeze, the skyscrapers, smell of the river. I smiled; it was worth the scooter ride.

Ben Than Market and Beer at Ben Nge

Saigon travel blog: With rain pouring cats and dogs, we lost a lot of time upon alighting the waterbus. We waited an hour before making it to our next stop, the Ben Than Market. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much left to see here – the shops were already closing.

Among the few open ones, there was one with bright porcelain Vietnamese figurines. Pretty-shaped lady figures perfect for sovenirs. The vendor was super-friendly and made the trip worth it. How was she friendly, you ask? Well, we bargained the shit out and the price dropped almost by half!

Maybe we were stupid and could’ve got it for lesser, but it is nostalgic to think of now. From here, the Ben Nge Street Food was only a 10-minute walk away – so off we went! The air was cool with a bit of drizzle.

Walk to the Ben Nge Street Food

Ben Nge Street Food, as seen on pictures, was simply a picturesque food place with variety of local meat cuisines. After a stroll through the place and tough-decision making to pick out of the million tempting options, we picked two dishes from different stalls and settled down.

The plan was to eat less and drink more, which I couldn’t follow all too well. I was way too hungry. But we had a couple of beers along anyway. As the night passed most other customers were tourists as well now.

From here, our hotel wasn’t too far so we decided to walk again. The light buzz, drizzle, and Vietnam’s pavements was quite a vibe. It was a 20-minute walk and the buzz died down as we neared the stay. Exhausting, but the day was ending perfectly. Except for one little thing…

Bui Vien Street. Nothing Else

Steps away from our hotel, there was vivid booming music from the other end of the alley. Glancing at each other, we smiled. Before the curiosity killed we had to check it out. Freshening up and dropping off our minibag, we followed the music.

Ho Chi Minh city travel blog : That’s when we said, This is it . This was the wild side of Ho Chi Minh city. Bluntly, the Bui Vien Walking street is a madhouse. Extravagant bars, small eateries, stripclubs, live music venues – any adult entertainment you name, the Bui Vien Street had it. Thus called the Red Light district of Ho Chi Minh city.

Adrenaline rushing, we decided to settle down for our next drink here. The rest was history…

I believe you should’ve assumed this by now, but Bui Vien Street is a pretty expensive place. Though not family-friendly, we saw dozens of tourist families walking through here. When in Ho Chi Minh, it seems like an ideal place for party-fanatics to stay close to.

But mind you, some clubs run till 5 a.m. making it impossible to get a good night’s sleep. Luckily, ours a little stowed away and the music seemed distant when we got back. Or maybe we were just too drunk, we’ll never know.

Mekong Delta for Day 2

Remember that day trip we booked to Mekong Delta? Hats off if you do, I’m glad you read this blog so far. Be my guest and join my travel mailing list below. I’d love to tell you more stories. Considering you actually enjoyed reading this post, of course. *gets nervous

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I’ll be honest, I can’t promise timely articles. But when I knock your mailbox, it’s for the best stories.

Ho Chi Minh city travel blog: Drowsy from the previous night, we hadn’t a choice but to get our asses up and running. We made ourselves Indomie (an instant noodles thingy around here) and dashed out to the travel agency – our meeting point.

A while from Ho Chi Minh city, we dozed off again enoute Mekong Delta. But we were wide awake on the rustic boat that drifted through the river maze to islands amidst the river.

The Mekong day-trip wasn’t only a day-trip, it boasted Vietnam’s rich agricultural resources. It wasn’t necessarily conveyed in words. The river was proof of how close the rural was in touch with its nature. They depended on it heavily for their livelihood.

The tour we got was another small chunk that added to their daily bread. The whole day trip was passing through the four main islands of the Delta. Every island has its own stories, what it stands for today which our guide explained all along.

Unicorn Island , Coconut Candy workshop , Bee Farm , a canal rowboat trip, and the Vinh Trang Pagoda are some places I remember visiting distinctly. Oh, and that Tropical Fruit Garden where they perform South Vietnam’s folk music. The music sounded so different from anything I’ve ever heard!

An honest review : Our passionate guide explained all the way along. Of how locals here ate different types of rats and anything animate. The culture of burying the dead in their own home gardens, and some even in their own houses. But there was so much story I lost track.

It got annoying at some point so I zoned out. The loud boat sounds didn’t help. But as we furthered, the rest of the travelers came out to be great friends later on. An Irish young lady, a hyperactive dude from London, a sweet Singaporean man, a German family (I hope I’m right) and few more.

Ending this Ho Chi Minh city travel blog, away from the city, holding a python over my neck, squeezing into an Auto Rickshaw for a bumpy ride, tasting snake wine (and later chugging a couple more shots). I remember laughing and enjoying the whole day but I look back as I write this and feel the nostalgia hitting hard.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Blog: Sayonara!

This ends our Saigon travel blog. As promised, we made it back in time by 5. We waves our last goodbyes to the friends we’d made and hurried to check out the hotel. We had a flight to our next Vietnam destination later that evening.

We got another Banh Mi for dinner – we couldn’t afford dinner at the airport. I remember looking out the window as we rode the bus to the airport. The busy streets, people flocking out for the breezy evening, buildings starting to light up.

I also remember a sudden melancholy settling in as the landscape furthered away. I’ll miss this . My mind lingered about. My only regret was not having enough time staying in Ho Chi Minh city. Not three or four, I’d stay here at least a week the next time.

Key tip of this Saigon travel blog – stay long in Ho Chi Minh city. Happy traveling :)

Manas Patil

Hi there! I'm a 22-year-old dude all the way from India, I love traveling and building itineraries! Sign up and get your FREE COPY of my travel checklist to get the best of your next vacation!

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Complete Vietnam Travel Blog: How to Plan Your Trip

So you are off to Vietnam! One of our favourite places in Asia and it will always remain a country that we return to time and time again!  

To help you prepare for your Vietnam holiday, you can read our pre-Vietnam travel advice post (which also contains info on popular places to visit in Vietnam), and then use our post on fun things to do in Vietnam .

Vietnam is a great destination for couples, friends or for families. Here is a list of the best places to see in Vietnam .

To get you in the mood for your trip, check out our suggestion of books to read .  You can read all our best posts in this Vietnam travel blog section.

Vietnam can be really rainy, so please check our post on the best time to visit Vietnam before booking your tickets.

P.S.  You can find all our best posts about Vietnam at the end of this blog post.

Vietnam with Kids

Vietnam is an easy Asian country to travel to with kids.  

Vietnam holidays are pretty affordable (if not cheap) and it is easy to find drivers that can take you around to the popular Vietnam attractions.  

Many of the best attractions in Vietnam are outdoors which can make things much easier for travelling families.

There is a wide range of gorgeous family hotels in Vietnam; most of which offer swimming pools and kids’ clubs.

A holiday in Vietnam with kids might be a bit exotic, but it is a safe destination to visit and there are loads of learning experiences available for the kids.

Best Accommodation in Vietnam

If you are looking for the best accommodation in Vietnam, check out our guide to the best choices:

• Where to Stay in Vietnam
• Best Hoi An Hotels
• Where to Stay in Hanoi
• Best hotels in Sapa
• Which cruise is the best Halong Bay cruise ?  Click to find out.

Vietnam Tours

A lot of travellers feel more comfortable travelling around Vietnam on an organized tour.

If you prefer to visit Vietnam on an organized tour; we have compiled a list of the best tours of Vietnam .

Vietnam Transport Guides

For helpful information on how to get around on your Vietnam trip, click to read the guide below:

• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa (& vice versa)
• How to get from Danang to Hoi An (& vice versa)
• How to get from Hanoi to Hoi An (& vice versa)
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay (& vice versa)
• How to get from Sapa to Halong Bay (& vice versa)

Vietnam Itineraries

We want to share some fabulous Vietnam itineraries with you all. First one on our list:

• Vietnam in 5 Days – How to spend 5 days in either the North, the South or in central Vietnam.

Vietnam Travel Guides

You can read our guides to:

• Hanoi Travel Blog Posts
• Sapa Travel Blog Posts
• Halong Bay Travel Blog Posts
• Hoi An Travel Blog Posts

Plan Your Trip to Vietnam

Here are some resources to help you plan your holiday in Vietnam.

• Vietnam Packing List

Travel Insurance

We never travel without  travel insurance with Safety Wing . We have claimed on our travel insurance more than once, claims that would have cost us A LOT out of our own pockets.  Don’t skimp out on insurance!! 

Safety Wing offers incredible plans and is one of the few insurance companies that allow you to grab insurance when you are already travelling!   Click to check on their plans and prices .

Find all of our Vie tnam Travel Blog Posts Below

Everything You Need To Know About A Sapa Hike in Vietnam!

Are you prepared for an unforgettable journey? Embark on a Sapa hike that promises breathtaking vistas, winding through mountains, valleys, and verdant rice paddies. Vietnam … CONTINUE READING

5 Of The Most Popular Caves In Halong Bay To Explore

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From North to South: 15 Epic Vietnam Experiences That’ll Redefine Your Bucket List

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5 Things You Should Do In Hanoi (For Those Short on Time!)

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A Coffee Lovers Guide to Different Types of Vietnam Coffee | Vietnamese Egg Coffee & More!

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Cua Dai or An Bang – Which Beach Near Hoi An Will Win?

Are you dreaming of golden sands, gentle waves, and the perfect spot to soak up the Vietnamese sun? Well, get ready to be spoiled for … CONTINUE READING

Where to Stay in Hanoi Old Quarter: 15 of the Best Hotels

Are you looking for where to stay in Hanoi on your next visit? Our selection of the best hotels in Hanoi will guide you to … CONTINUE READING

7 Best Walking Tours in Hanoi (Old Quarter, Private, Food & More)

Have you been wondering which tour is the best walking tour in Hanoi? I’ve got you covered! Vietnam is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, … CONTINUE READING

15 Best Hotels in Sapa, Vietnam (2024)

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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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Plan your trip to Vietnam in 2023

There are many reasons for foreign tourists to travel to Vietnam in 2023 such as interesting experiences, beautiful scenery, romantic beaches, hospitable people or first-class cuisine. Let's find out details with Vivutravel.

A safe country

Vietnam is the world's leading safe country where tourists freely travel from bustling cities to remote parts of the country without any problems. If you don't have much time, Vivutravel recommends you book a tour through a travel agency to arrange everything in advance, but if you are backpacking, what you need is a smart phone to go anywhere you want.

Wonderful view

Vietnam is a tropical country and is blessed with many beautiful landscapes such as national parks, places such as Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha - Ke Bang recognized as world natural heritages. If you visit northern Vietnam, don't forget to go to Fansian Peak to watch the sun set on the highest mountain in Vietnam, or explore Ha Giang on the road named happiness and immerse yourself in the beauty of Ma Pi Leng Pass, the river Nho Que. If you want to see the most beautiful waterfall in Vietnam, you should come to Cao Bang. The North Vietnam also has the most beautiful terraced fields in the world in Sapa, Y Ty, Hoang Su Phi, and Mu Cang Chai. Gradually going south, the beauty of Vietnam will also be diverse, you can go to Ba Na hills, scuba dive in Cham island, Whale island or relax with the scent of Da Lat flowers.

Best beaches in the world

Vietnam is fortunate to have a long and beautiful coastline. Interspersed with tours in each destination, you can stay at beautiful beach resorts from Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, Tuy Hoa, Nha Trang, Mui Ne to Phu Quoc. Depending on your wishes, a Vietnam travel agency like Vivutravel will design a suitable Vietnam tour for you to experience everything from the mountains to the blue sea.

Vietnam is a cheap destination

Vietnam has just been rated as the top destination in the world after retirement and one of the reasons is that the cost of living and traveling in Vietnam is very cheap. For breakfast you only need 1-2 dollars, lunch and dinner about 3 to 5 dollars, a cup of coffee about 1 dollar, hotels have a variety of prices for each person's budget but from about 15 to 20 dollars and you can sleep a night in a clean, air-conditioned hotel. To move from point A-B, there are many options for you such as motorbike taxi, taxi, public bus, train, plane.

If you have to work online during your trip to Vietnam, don't worry because wifi in Vietnam is free everywhere, extremely fast. All you need is to ask for the password.

Vietnam, country of rich diverse culture and special traditional festivals

There are 54 ethnic groups living peacefully in Vietnam, each with their own cultural characteristics and according to the statistics of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, there are currently 7,966 festivals in the whole country, of which 7,039 folk festivals, 332 historical-revolutionary festivals, 544 religious festivals and nearly 30 "imported" festivals. Through festivals, you will understand more about Vietnamese culture and people and will definitely have interesting experiences.

Friendly and hospitable Vietnamese

In Vietnamese culture, Vietnamese people always respect and cherish their guests. In folklore, there is a saying "When guests come, make tea". In the past, many tourists from the US, France, and Australia were afraid to come to Vietnam because of what happened in the wars or because of the influence through hollyhood movies and then they were completely surprised to see that Vietnamese people are extremely friendly even even when they know you're a Vietnam War veteran. Vietnamese people feel happy with their current life and always welcome guests to Vietnam for tourism or business. During your Vietnam tour, you will encounter friendly smiles and firm handshakes. There have been many stories of people's enthusiastic help to international guests when their motorbikes broke down or lost their way.

A few years ago when Vivutravel brought guests to Ken Homestay in a peaceful village in Bac Giang province and every time they had to say goodbye, tears came out because of the hospitality and sincere affection that the villagers had for tourists.

The best street foods

Vietnam is one of the countries with the best cuisine in the world. Tourists to Vietnam are often impressed with street food. Imagine with 10-15 dollars you can enjoy Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi, rice cakes or fresh drinks. Currently, there are many travel companies in Vietnam that have put street food tours in the program for guests to experience in Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh city and if you want to know the recipe, don't forget to join cooking classes.

Another thing about Vietnamese cuisine is that you will not get bored because each region has its own regional specialties and processing methods for the same dish. Cuisine in the North is a bit salty, the Central is spicy, the South is sweet. However, Vietnamese people always appreciate the harmonious balance in each dish to ensure good health. In general, Vietnamese dishes are like a herbal medicine.

Long history

Vietnam's history spans thousands of years, defending the country and building it. On your Vietnam travel itinerary, you will hear interesting historical stories about national heroes, battles against harsh nature or invaders. Instead of reading books about Vietnam, go and experience.

Vivutravel - Reliable travel company in Vietnam

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Travel To Vietnam: 2023 Vietnamese Travel Guide & Advice

When you travel to Vietnam, immerse yourself in the culture – step into the temples (always dress appropriately! ), trek through the mountains, and chow down on the delicious Phở or Bánh Mì. 

If you are traveling to Vietnam, take a look at our guide below to get started with planning. Psst! Get your travel journal ready for this one, you’re going to need it! 

Vietnam is #5 on our list of the 10 Best Countries To Visit in the World because it has exciting city life as well as jungles, forests, and temples. 

General Information 

• Population: Roughly 96 million 

• Capital: Hanoi  

• Location: Located in Southeast Asia, Vietnam shares borders with Cambodia, Laos, and China. 

• Flag: A red flag with a gold star that sits directly in the center. 

• Timezone: Vietnam Standard Time (Indochina Time), 7:00 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time or UTC. 

• Currency:  đồng

• Language: Vietnamese 

• Climate: Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate with high humidity. However, varied terrain means the temperature and seasons vary across the regions. The temperature typically ranges between 70°F and 95°F throughout the year. 

• Religion: There is no state religion, the country practices freedom of belief and religion. Those that follow a religion follow some sort of Vietnamese folk religion, Buddhism, and Catholicism. 

• Visa Requirement: To find out if a visa is required for your country — and easily get yours if needed — check out iVisa.com.

• Best Time to Visit: March and April are the best months to visit Vietnam, the temperatures are moderate and rainfall is light. Psst! Vietnam is extremely backpacker friendly , with plenty of hostel options . 

Health & Safety 

As of July 2021, the CDC states that the number of cases of COVID-19 in Vietnam is low. The CDC recommends you receive your vaccination(s) before you travel, although travel to Vietnam is currently relatively safe.

• Find information regarding COVID-19 and Vietnam here: https://vn.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/covid-19-information/ 

• Follow the CDC guidelines for current travel advisories, as well as the U.S. Embassy guidelines . 

Typical Costs in Vietnam 

If we compare the  đồng to the American dollar, here are a few comparisons: 

Bottle of water 500ml : 4-6k VND ($.20-.30) Bottle of soda 390ml : 7-10k VND ($.35-.50) Fresh fruit  from a street vendor : 20k VND ($1.00) Fresh coconut from a street vendor : 10-20k ($.50-1.00) Also, Uber rides are incredibly affordable in Vietnam.

Food to Eat in Vietnam 

• Phở! Everyone knows Pho! The iconic Vietnamese dish is a soup dish consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, sometimes chicken. When you travel to Vietnam, you can find Pho; in homes, from street vendors , in restaurants. It’s the national dish of this country.

• Bánh Mì is a short baguette with a thin, crisp crust and soft, airy texture. A Bánh Mì sandwich (like a sub) incorporates meats and vegetables such as chả lụa (pork sausage), coriander leaf (cilantro), cucumber, pickled carrots, and pickled daikon. Lots of variations to this one, but a country fav and an international fav!

• Mì quảng is a must-try dish in Vietnam. It combines noodles, peanuts, rice crackers, pork, and a turmeric broth. It’s served on many occasions and will most often be found in the Quảng Nam Province in central Vietnam.

• Bò kho usually comes with beef, but you can get it with any meat, or tofu. The meat is simmered on a low heat in fish sauce, sugar, and either water or coconut water, with carrots, onions, and coriander. When you eat this dish, rip off chunks of bánh mì — or French bread — and dip it in the stew. Yum!

• Gỏi cuốn is a Vietnamese spring roll or rice paper roll, consisting of pork, prawns, vegetables, bún, and other ingredients wrapped in Vietnamese bánh tráng.

• Bún bò Huế is a great example of a Vietnamese dish that combines salty, sweet, and spicy. The broth is made by simmering beef bones with lemongrass and fermented fish sauce. The dish is served with beef, pork, noodles, herbs, vegetables, and chili.

• Bún chả features rice vermicelli, grilled pork, fish sauce, and herbs. It’s simple, but tasty.

• Bún mắm combines whatever was on sale at the market that day! But most commonly those ingredients are: rice vermicelli, fish paste, seafood, pork, and a combination of greens and sprouts.

• Chả giò (South) / Nem rán (North) is a Vietnamese spring roll with minced pork and veggies wrapped in rice paper and fried until brown. 

• Gà nướng sả is a grilled chicken dish that’s cooked with lemongrass and fish sauce, usually served with vermicelli noodles. 

Drinks To Try in Vietnam 

• Dừa Tươi (Fresh coconut) is..well…fresh coconut, duh! This coconut water is grassier, sweeter, and more full-flavored than the coconut water you have probably tried in a carton. They’re harvested, kept on ice, and then hacked open with a machete for you to enjoy. Here’s an interesting internet fact: Locals will advise you not to drink coconut water after 5 p.m. if you want to sleep well, because they believe it has diuretic properties.

• Rượu Nếp Cẩm (Sticky rice wine) is a strong alcohol (29.5%), mainly enjoyed by men during a social hour in Vietnam. Sticky rice wine (rượu nếp cẩm) is smoother and sweeter than regular rice wine.

• Cà Phê (Coffee) is not made with Arabica beans, but rather Robusta beans. In Vietnam, the beans are roasted with butter and fish sauce to bring out chocolate notes in the final brew. Vietnamese coffee is prepared using a small metal drip filter, and is most commonly served over ice.

• Nước Sâm (herbal tea) , commonly served over ice, is a sweet and nutty herbal tea. This kind of drink is perfect while you are walking the streets in a market. According to Chinese medicine, Nước Sâm is believed to have “cooling” properties, the most basic recipe contains sugar cane, nettle leaves, grass roots, and corn silk.

• Nước Mía (sugar cane juice) comes from squeezing the juice out of the stalks of sugar cane! But we promise, it isn’t as sweet as it sounds. It’s mixed with juice from the calamansi, a tiny sour citrus fruit that smells like a mandarin. The juice has a  crisp grassy flavor, also considered “cooling.”

• Trà Atisô (artichoke tea) is believed to have liver-cleansing and detoxifying properties. There are two versions: a sweetened yellow version made from the artichoke flower and a bitter black version made from the artichoke stems. 

• Egg Coffee is basically a dessert, so it’s a drink you can eat. It’s made with egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. You must try! 

Top Cities to Visit in Vietnam 

• Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest economic center and cultural capital, featuring skyscrapers, charming French colonial structures, and pagodas. You’ll enjoy an exciting nightlife in Ho Chi Minh, delicious street food, and plenty of history. Visit The War Remnants Museum to learn more about the Vietnam War, check out the Cu Chi Tunnels, and be sure to grab some pho along the way! 

• Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital, and it has preserved both historical monuments and architecture while making room for more modern developments. This city is bursting with both French and Chinese influences and features more than 600 temples and pagodas. The best way to explore Hanoi is by taxi. Be sure to explore the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature and National University (many devoted to Confucius), and the Hoa Lo Prison for a step back in time.

• Hoi An sits on the Vietnamese coast and it is remembered as being a an important Southeast Asian trading port back in the 15th-19th centuries. On the 14th day of each lunar month, Hoi An trades electric lights for traditional colored lanterns. Stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town, the Night Market, and An Bang Beach. 

• Da Nang is a good representation of the newer Vietnam. This city has become a magnet for visitors around the world, while maintaining authentic local food and friendly local vibes. Explore the limestone caves and Buddhist grottos of the Marble Mountains, but save time to visit the incredible Golden Bridge too. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it. 

• Halong Bay is an incredible experience all within itself. People visit for the limestone islands, rock formations, and caves. Spend your time by the water via boat, kayak, or on a tour. 

• Nha Trang is the ‘relaxing riviera of southern Vietnam,’ according to TripAdvisor. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and explore the historic Po Ngar temple complex. If you like adventure, try the bun cha ca, a soup made from sailfish and jellyfish.  Otherwise, Nha Trang has great fresh seafood, noodles, and pancakes! 

• Hue should be on your list when you travel to Vietnam, it’s home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites to cross off your list. Check out Hue Imperial City, Bach Ma National Park, the Tomb of Minh Mang, and the Tomb of Tu Doc. 

• Da Lat has cooler temperatures than southern Vietnam, and features beautiful French-era buildings. Visit Datanla Falls, the Crazy House, Linh Puoc Pagoda, Thien Vien Truc Lam, and more.

Must-See Sights in Vietnam 

• Cu Chi Tunnels

• Old Quarter, Hanoi

• The Marble Mountains

• Halong Bay

• Hue Imperical CIty (citadel)

• Lady Buddha

• Po Nagar Cham Towers

• Temple of Literature

• The Golden Bridge

• Tam Cốc-Bích Động

• Ben Gioc Waterfall

• Thein Mu Pagoda

How to Get Around Vietnam 

Depending on where you are, the best way to get around Vietnam may change. However, in most cities, you can walk by foot – be mindful when walking across the street or with traffic, there are lots of people and motorbikes, but they will make way. Motorcycle taxis and motorbike rentals are another fun way to see many parts of Vietnam. 

Bucket list Experiences in Vietnam

Visit floating markets on the Mekong.

Stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Ride the Hai Van Pass, known to be one of the most scenic stretches of coastal road in the world. 

Take a scenic boat ride on Halong Bay, these are views you only see in movies. 

Where to Book Flights 

The cost of airfare can quickly eat up your budget. Click here to find the best flights to Vietnam.

Where to Book Accommodation  

• Vietnam is home to some fantastic hotels. Click here to find the best hotel deals in Vietnam.

• Housesitting is a great way to cut down on travel costs. Click here to find housesitting opportunities in Vietnam.

• Hostels are an affordable option when it comes to accommodations. Click here to find hostels in Vietnam. You may even be able to snag a last minute deal!

• Booking a vacation rental can help to save the budget. Click here to find the best vacation rentals in Vietnam.

Best Travel Tours/Packages of Vietnam

Intrepid Travel: Vietnam Express Southbound – 10 days 

TourRadar: Ultimate Vietnam – 14 days

GAdventures: Noodles and Nightlife – 12 Days

Additional Reading 

Books: A Dragon Apparent by Norman Lewis, Mad About The Mekong by John Keay, The Penguin History of Modern Vietnam by Christopher Goscha

Podcasts: Say Mê Việt Nam – Passionate Vietnam, Vietnam Innovators, Footbridge to Vietnam

Shows: Giọng Hát Việt (The Voice of Vietnam), The Face, Thách Thức Danh Hài (Comedians Challenge), Biệt Tài Tí Hon (Little But Special), Phiên Bản Hoàn Hảo (Perfect Edition)

Here are the top Journo Adventures of our travelers who’ve documented a trip there:

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Welcome to Vietnam Travel Hub! We're here to showcase hidden gems, cultural wonders, and unforgettable experiences.

9 Best Cities Of Vietnam | Cities That Define Vietnam

Hanoi Old Quarter | Exploring Vietnam’s Cultural Gem 2023

20 Things To Do In Vietnam | 2023 Ultimate Guide

Where to next.

Nestled up in the north by the Chinese border, the mountainous province of Ha Giang is home to some of Vietnam’s most mind-bending vistas. Learn more!

Sapa sits in the heart of a scenic, rugged landscape of towering peaks and cascading rice terraces.

One of the world’s oldest capital cities, Hanoi stretches along the Red River, and offers a pleasant mixture of ancient culture and modern energy. Learn more!

Halong Bay is one of Southeast Asia's most jaw-dropping tourist attractions. Learn more!

Ninh Binh - "Halong Bay on Land" - A magical blend of limestone peaks, rice paddies, and serene streams. Learn more!

Famed for its magnificent riverside Citadel, delectable cuisine, and relaxing ambiance, Hue is history-meeting modern delights. Learn more!

Da Nang is the country’s third largest city and an up-and-coming beach destination in Central Vietnam. Learn more!

Widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s most pleasant tourist destinations, Hoi An has seen its fortunes rise and fall throughout the centuries. Learn more!

Nha Trang is well known for its beaches and scuba diving and has developed into a popular destination for international tourists. Learn more!

Da Lat was developed as a resort by the French in the early 1900s, and many reminders of its colonial heritage remain. Learn more!

Ho Chi Minh City is easily the most head-spinning city in Vietnam, so expect to feel somewhat shell-shocked upon arrival. Learn more!

Known as “the River of Nine Dragons”, Mekong Delta spreads out over the south of Vietnam as an intricate network of tributaries and waterways. Learn more!

Phu Quoc is the country’s largest island and a popular getaway with white-sand beaches. Learn more!

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Quang Binh – Travel Guide & 5 Best Things To Do

Quang Binh, a province located in the heart of Vietnam, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. However, this hidden gem boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a plethora of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. From the world-renowned Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to idyllic beaches and charming rural villages, Quang Binh offers something for every traveler.

Quang Binh – Home to Phong Nha National Park

Where is quang binh located.

Quang Binh is a province located in central Vietnam, nestled between Laos to the west and the East Sea. It is situated roughly halfway between Hanoi and Da Nang, making it an ideal stop for those traveling along Vietnam’s coastline. Its strategic location places it near some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes, making it a key destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Where is Quang Binh known for

Historically, Quang Binh was a significant site during the Vietnam War, serving as an essential passage for the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The province suffered heavy bombings, and remnants of its wartime past can still be found throughout the region. Quang Binh’s rich history and resilience are embedded in its identity, and visitors can explore both its cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Today, Quang Binh is most famous for being the gateway to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vast jungle landscapes and incredible cave systems. With dense forests, underground rivers, and massive limestone karst formations, Phong Nha is considered one of the most stunning natural areas in Southeast Asia.

Best things to do in Quang Binh

Quang Binh offers a variety of experiences for travelers, from exploring untouched wilderness to enjoying tranquil beaches. Here are the best things to do in Quang Binh:

1. Explore Phong Nha National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is the crown jewel of Quang Binh, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of Vietnam’s real jungle. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, towering karst mountains, and a network of caves, some of the largest in the world.

For nature lovers, the park offers a range of trekking tours that take you deep into the jungle, where you can encounter waterfalls, wildlife, and dense forests. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of easier ways to explore the park’s stunning caves, from guided cave walks to full-scale expeditions.

• Easy cave walks : Popular caves like Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave are accessible to visitors of all ages. Phong Nha Cave can be reached by boat, offering a beautiful riverside journey before you enter the cave. Paradise Cave, on the other hand, is one of the longest dry caves in the world, and it’s an easy walk along well-maintained paths inside.
• Cave expeditions : For those looking for more adventure, caves like Son Doong , the world’s largest cave, offer multi-day expeditions. These trips require a guide and some physical fitness, but the reward is an experience unlike any other.

Visitors can also drive around the park to take in beautiful spots like the Mooc Stream tourist area , perfect for kayaking and swimming, and the botanical garden , where you can enjoy a self-guided jungle walk.

There are countless things to do and explore in Phong Nha, so it’s worth diving deeper into a more detailed guide. Check out our Phong Nha Travel Guide for more information on how to get there, where to stay, and the best activities.

2. Discover rural life of Quang Binh

Rural Quang Binh offers a glimpse into a quieter, more traditional way of life. Outside the main tourist areas, small villages are dotted across the countryside, where people still farm and live in much the same way as they have for generations. Exploring these areas gives travelers a true off-the-beaten-path experience.

To explore rural Quang Binh, renting a motorbike is one of the best ways to get around. The roads are generally quiet, and the scenery is breathtaking. However, it’s important to have a valid license and some riding experience. Alternatively, you can opt for an Easy Rider tour , where a local guide will take you around on a motorbike, or hire a car with a driver to enjoy the countryside in comfort.

3. Enjoy the local beaches

Quang Binh is home to several beautiful, relatively untouched beaches, offering a relaxing escape from the more adventurous inland activities.

Nhat Le Beach : Located near Dong Hoi, Nhat Le Beach offers white sand and clear blue waters. It’s a peaceful spot where you can unwind, with a few resorts and restaurants nearby for convenience.

Bao Ninh Beach : Just south of Nhat Le, Bao Ninh Beach is another long, sandy stretch, perfect for a quiet day by the sea. It’s less developed, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Dancing Rock Beach : This scenic beach is known for its beautiful rock formations at one end, which are great for photographs. The wide, sandy shore is perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of local seafood restaurants to enjoy nearby.

4. Visit Dong Hoi Town

While Dong Hoi is primarily a gateway to Phong Nha, it has a few attractions worth visiting if you find yourself in town. The quiet riverside town offers a laid-back atmosphere and some historical sites that reflect its rich past.

Dong Hoi Citadel : Built in the 19th century by the Nguyen Dynasty, the Dong Hoi Citadel once served as a military fortification to defend the region. Though much of the original structure has been damaged over time, the remaining walls and gates still stand as a reminder of the city’s turbulent history.

Tam Toa Church : This Catholic church is a poignant symbol of the destruction caused by the Vietnam War. After being heavily bombed, only the church’s facade and bell tower remain, but it serves as a memorial to the resilience of the local population and is an interesting stop for history enthusiasts.

5. Drive along Ho Chi Minh Trail

The Ho Chi Minh Trail is one of the most historically significant routes in Vietnam. During the war, it was used to transport soldiers and supplies from North to South Vietnam. Today, it offers travelers a scenic journey through the mountains, jungles, and countryside of central Vietnam, while also providing a glimpse into the country’s wartime past.

To explore the trail, you can either:

Drive a motorbike : For the adventurous, riding a motorbike along the Ho Chi Minh Trail is an exhilarating way to explore the route. You’ll pass through remote areas, with stunning landscapes and historic landmarks along the way. Make sure you’re experienced, as the roads can be challenging in parts.

Easy Rider tour : If you’d prefer not to drive yourself, an Easy Rider tour offers the same adventure with the added benefit of a local guide. You’ll ride on the back of a motorbike driven by an experienced guide, allowing you to take in the sights without the stress of navigating.

How to get to Quang Binh

The main hub for getting into Quang Binh is Dong Hoi , a small city with an airport, train station, and bus connections. The second significant hub, though not a major city, is Phong Nha National Park itself—the main reason most people visit Quang Binh. If you’re coming from far away, you’ll likely need to travel to Dong Hoi first to get to Phong Nha. However, if you’re already in central Vietnam, there’s a good chance you can get directly to Phong Nha.

How to get directly to Phong Nha

Travelers coming from nearby cities like Hue or Ninh Binh can often find direct buses to Phong Nha. These buses bypass Dong Hoi entirely, saving you time and an extra transfer. Direct routes to Phong Nha are available by:

• Bus : Several buses from cities like Hue and Ninh Binh offer direct routes to Phong Nha, making it easy to skip Dong Hoi. The buses are affordable and convenient for travelers who are already in the central region of Vietnam.
• Private car or transfer : You can also arrange a private car or taxi service from nearby cities directly to Phong Nha, which can be more convenient if you’re traveling with a group or prefer a more comfortable ride.

How to get to Dong Hoi

If you’re coming from further away or a major city, you’ll first need to reach Dong Hoi before heading to Phong Nha. Here are the most common options:

Dong Hoi is well-connected by buses traveling from major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Buses are the most affordable option, especially for overnight trips from cities further away. VIP sleeper buses offer more space and comfort, which is ideal for long distances.

Dong Hoi has a train station on the main north-south railway line, making it easy to reach from cities like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hue, and Da Nang. Trains are generally comfortable and offer both seating and sleeper cabins. Train tickets are reasonably priced, with sleeper cabins being the best choice for overnight trips.

By domestic flight

Dong Hoi Airport is small but connects to Vietnam’s major cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Flights are the fastest way to reach Quang Binh if you’re coming from a distant region.

How to get from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha

Once you arrive in Dong Hoi, there are several options to continue your journey to Phong Nha National Park , located about 45 kilometers away:

• Public bus : The cheapest option is to take the local bus from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha, with buses running frequently and taking around 1-1.5 hours.
• Private car or taxi : A more comfortable and faster option is to arrange a private car or taxi, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
• Tour with pick-up : If you’ve booked a tour in Phong Nha, many operators offer pick-up services directly from Dong Hoi, allowing you to start your adventure as soon as you arrive.

How to get around

Once you’re in Quang Binh, especially in the Phong Nha area, there are various ways to explore the region:

Going by tour

Both private and group tours are the most affordable and convenient ways to explore Phong Nha National Park. Some areas, particularly the caves and jungle trekking routes, can only be accessed with a tour, as they require trained guides and professional gear like ropes, helmets, and torches. Many tours also include camping overnight in the jungle or even inside a cave. Easier cave options, like Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave , can also be visited independently, but you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Driving a motorbike

For those who want a bit more freedom, renting a motorbike is an excellent way to get around Quang Binh. The roads in the province, including Phong Nha, are generally quiet, except for the main highway that connects northern and southern Vietnam, which can have heavy truck and bus traffic. Motorbike rental is cheap, costing around 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day. However, this option is only recommended if you have a valid license and an International Driving Permit.

Easy Rider tour

For a more adventurous option with added safety, an Easy Rider tour allows you to ride on the back of a motorbike with a local guide. These tours not only provide an exciting way to see the area but also ensure that you’re taken to the best spots safely. While there aren’t Easy Riders just for getting around Phong Nha, they do offer multi-day trips that include Phong Nha National Park, the DMZ, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail, with the option of ending in Hue or continuing to Hoi An.

Car with driver

For those who prefer a more comfortable option, hiring a car with a driver is the easiest and most relaxing way to get around. This is ideal for long drives or for those who want to explore the province in comfort, protected from the weather. Cars with drivers can be hired for both day trips around Quang Binh or longer journeys across central Vietnam.

Best time to visit Quang Binh

The best time to visit Quang Binh is from March to August during the dry season, when the weather is sunny and ideal for outdoor activities like visiting Phong Nha National Park or enjoying the local beaches. Temperatures during these months range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with July and August being the hottest.

From September to November , the rainy season brings heavy downpours and occasional storms, making some areas inaccessible. However, this is also the quietest time for tourism, so you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.

The cooler months of December to February offer mild temperatures, making it a good time for sightseeing without the intense heat, though beach activities may be less appealing.

Tips for visiting Quang Binh

How long to visit quang binh.

To truly experience the beauty of Quang Binh, it’s best to spend at least 3 days in the area. This will give you enough time to explore Phong Nha National Park, relax on the beaches, and visit the historical sites in Dong Hoi.

Where to go next?

After visiting Quang Binh, many travelers continue their journey south to Hue , known for its Imperial Citadel and cultural significance, or north to Ninh Binh , famed for its limestone karsts and rivers. You can also continue exploring central Vietnam with a visit to Hoi An , famous for its ancient town and beautiful coastline.

Cash is king

Many rural areas and small villages in Quang Binh do not accept credit cards, so make sure to carry enough cash for food, transport, and entrance fees.

Book tours in advance

For popular activities like the cave expedition or jungle trekking tours, make sure to book well in advance as these tours have limited availability.

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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Hang En adventure camping in cave 2 days 1 night

• Explore the most beautiful cave of Phong Nha
• Overnight campsite inside the cave next to a lake
• Awesome jungle trek and cave exploring

Phong Nha Cave and Dark Cave

• Explore Phong Nha cave by boat and feet
• Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Phong Nha National Park
• Join amazing activities in the Dark Cave, including mud bath, caving and zip lining

Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave

• Take a boat ride through the underground river in Phong Nha cave
• Explore Paradise cave, one of the worlds most beautiful caves
• Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch
• Destination: Phong Nha
• By: Marnick Schoonderwoerd
• August 20, 2024

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Top 9 trips to Vietnam

• Sapa & the Tonkinese Alps

Fragrant cuisines and storied cultures, rice terraces and karst scenery, river cruises and heart-pumping hikes… No two Vietnam trips are the same, but most start in the north and work their way down the country, taking in classic sights like Halong Bay, Hoi An’s Old Quarter, and Ho Chi Minh City’s frenetic buzz.

But you could also hone in on one region of Vietnam, like its mountainous north, or build your tour around a particular interest, like a cruise along the Mekong Delta. Alternatively, perhaps you’d like to combine it with time in other Southeast Asian countries, like Cambodia and Laos.

Whatever route you choose, we’ll help you experience the country more deeply by pairing you with local guides and experts. You might enjoy lunch at the house of an award-winning chef in Hue, take a private hike through Sapa’s deep valleys, or join a family-friendly lantern-making class in Hoi An.

Below, we’ve put together our Southeast Asia specialists’ top tour ideas to help you plan your trip to Vietnam.

Pick your trip

• Highlights of the north & south
• Culture & coast
• Cruising the Mekong Delta
• The great outdoors in the north
• Adventurous Vietnam
• War history tour
• Luxury Vietnam
• Family Vietnam
• Grand tour of Southeast Asia

1. Highlights of Northern & Southern Vietnam

From the mountainous north to the waterways of the south, it’s worth scaling (almost) the entire length of the country to experience Vietnam’s shifting landscapes and cultures. Along the way, you can take in many of its highlights, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, the buzzing metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) , and the peaceful riverbanks of the Mekong Delta.

Where the trip could take you:

Flying into Hanoi , you’ll spend a couple of days soaking up the capital city sights before taking an overnight train to Sapa in the Tonkinese Alps. After time in the rural hills, you’ll ride the train back to Hanoi and be driven to Halong Bay for a cruise among the karst scenery. You’ll also spend time in Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh city to experience their individual characters, plus time to relax along the Mekong Delta.

Experiences you can have:

In Sapa, in the north of the country, you can stay at a hilltop retreat overlooking the rice terraces that wrap around the valley and hike through traditional wooden villages with a local guide. In the south, you can cruise along the Mekong to visit a floating market and take in life along the water.

As for the regions in between, we can help you take in postcard-famed sights from new perspectives. You might choose to pass through busy Halong Bay on a traditional junk (Vietnamese sailing boat) to the quieter waters of Lan Ha Bay, where you can watch the sun sink behind the karst-scattered horizon and wake to morning t’ai chi on deck.

Escape the crowds in Hoi An’s Old Quarter by exploring the city’s surrounding countryside on a privately guided cycling tour , or embrace the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a Vespa, darting from one fragrant food stall to the next.

2. Vietnam’s culture & coast

Houses and restaurants that huddle closely around working railway tracks, cuisine fit for royalty, and slow-paced life along the river… This trip idea gives you a closer look at Vietnamese life up and down the country, as well as the chance to unwind on its white-sand beaches afterwards.

Where this trip could take you:

Making the most of Vietnam’s extensive flight routes, you can cover more ground and experience more of its culture. First, you’ll fly into Hanoi before embarking on a relaxing cruise to Lan Ha Bay. Then, fly south to Da Nang on the coast, a short drive to Hoi An and a couple of hours from Hue . After delving into the stories of each city, you’ll fly to Ho Chi Minh City for a few days before another flight to Phu Quoc island for a palm-fringed beach stay.

We’ll connect you with local guides so you can experience Vietnam’s culture authentically. In Hanoi, you could experience life along the railway that cuts through the heart of the city, where locals drink coffee on the tracks before stepping aside in the nick of time for oncoming trains.

You could also explore the country through its food. Hue, in particular, is known for its elaborate gastronomy, which stems from the cuisine served to the royal court in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Spend the day with award-winning artisan chef Nhu Huy at her home for a private lunch that showcases this innovative and beautifully presented cuisine.

In the south of Vietnam, life and culture is shaped around the Mekong , so we’ll arrange for you to experience it from the water. As you cruise, you’ll see rice paddies stretching out for miles, floating markets where boats heave with fresh produce, and traditional houses perched on the riverbanks.

3. Cruising Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

The Mekong is the lifeblood of Vietnam, feeding into local culture, traditions, and the economy. Cruising gives you a relaxing glimpse into rural life and the opportunity to cross over into Cambodia . We’ll help you choose a vessel and route that suits your style and interests.

This trip focuses on the south of Vietnam, where the Mekong River splays out into an array of channels, before draining into the South China Sea. There are a variety of ways to explore the region, from taking short overnight cruises that depart from sleepy delta towns to staying in luxury hotels along the riverbank, where you can take to the water for a few hours at a time. You could also embark on a longer cruise, from Ho Chi Minh City and across the border into Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh. Some take you even further to Siem Reap , where you can explore Cambodia’s storied Angkor temples.

Your cruise experience will partly depend on the type of vessel you choose. For an intimate take on the Mekong, opt for a private teak sampan to explore the quieter canals. Or choose a larger ship complete with a pool, spa, and gourmet cuisine for a more luxurious experience.

Throughout your journey, you’ll get glimpses into local life, passing by riverside villages, flat rice paddies, and small fishing communities. You might stop off to explore one of these villages on foot, or take a cycling tour through the fields. In the evening, you can sip a cocktail on deck and watch as the sinking sun paints the dusky waters in an orange-pink glow.

If you take a seven-night cruise, your trip will likely end in Siem Reap, where Cambodia’s Angkor temples rise from the jungle. They can get very busy, so we’ll pair you with a private guide for an e-bike tour that steers clear of the crowds and takes you atop thick temple walls for a closer look.

4. The great outdoors in Northern Vietnam

In the mountainous north, ribbon-like rice terraces wrap around mountain valleys and stilted wooden houses perch on their inclines. We can arrange for you to stay in lodges that are far from other visitors. If you’d like a more remote, nature-focused trip, Northern Vietnam merits two weeks in itself.

Hanoi’s international airport is the gateway to Northern Vietnam, and it’s worth spending a couple of days soaking up the city’s culture before you head into the countryside. Mai Chau , Ninh Binh , and Sapa all provide ample opportunity for outdoor adventure, while you can slow things down on a cruise to Lan Ha Bay. If you don’t mind a four-hour drive from Sapa (with a private driver), we also suggest including some time in Hoang Su Phi for an even more secluded escape.

Many Vietnam trips include time in Halong Bay (or in the nearby and quieter Lan Ha Bay), but there’s another karst-scattered landscape in the north that sees fewer visitors: Ninh Bihn. Here, limestone formations tower above flat rice paddies. You can spend the day cycling around them or cruising along the river that cuts its way through the sculpted landscape.

For hiking, Sapa, Mai Chau, and Hoang Su Phi each offer trails that wind up hillsides and through traditional villages. We’ll pair you with guides who’ll lead you to the best trails and help you learn about the culture of the communities who farm the land, such as the Red Dao in Hoang Su Phi.

There’s also plenty of time and space to relax throughout this trip, from a hilltop infinity pool overlooking the rice terraces of Sapa to private picnic lunches against the backdrop of mountain peaks.

5. Adventure trip to Vietnam

Cycling, hiking, caving, and speedboating — Vietnam’s ripe for adventure, whether you’re in the midst of a city or in the remote depths of a national park. This action-packed trip scales the length of the country, from its terraced mountain treks in the north to its vast network of former military tunnels in the south.

Start your adventure in Hanoi before taking the overnight train to Sapa in the Tonkinese Alps for some hiking. After journeying back to Hanoi, you’ll then fly to Dong Hoi to spend a couple of days in the UNECSCO-protected Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park . Further south, you’ll also visit the cities of Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Trekking steals the limelight on this trip. We’ll arrange for you to go with local guides who’ll shed light on the ecology, history, and culture of each region you hike through.

In Sapa, you’ll hike up hills etched with verdant rice terraces, pausing to visit a Red Dao family’s home, where you’ll learn more about this traditional community. In Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, you can embark on multi-day treks through the jungle and into yawning caves, where you can float on underground rivers. You can even spend the night on the sand of an underground beach in the world’s third-largest known cave.

But hiking isn’t the only way to explore Vietnam’s adventurous side. You might also hop on the back of a rickshaw cyclo in Hanoi’s Old Quarter to zip through its maze of narrow streets. Or take a speedboat to the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh city to learn how the Viet Cong soldiers lived and hid there during the war.

6. War history tour in Vietnam

The war that broke out in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia in the 1950s was so far ranging and complex that there’s no one name for it — Americans call it the Vietnam War, the Vietnamese often call it the American War. To better understand its complexities, you can visit key locations across Vietnam and get personal insights from people who lived through it.

Your journey will start in the capital city of Hanoi before traveling south to Thanh Hoa, Hue, Dong Ha (the former Demilitarized Zone), Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, which each hold a piece of war history. You’ll have a private driver and guide for shorter journeys and make use of speedy domestic flights for longer distances.

Throughout your time in Vietnam, we’ll connect you with local guides and veterans who’ll share their personal experiences and stories with you.

In Hanoi, you’ll meet a local Vietnamese veteran for a history-focused tour of the city, including visits to the Army Museum, Hoa Lo Prison, and Huu Tiep Lake, where the wreckage of a B-52 bomber still remains. Further south, you can also visit the Mine Action Visitor Center in Dong Ha, which exhibits the ongoing effects of unexploded ordinance in the DMZ area.

Finally, you can scramble through a section of the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) with a local guide (or veteran) to learn what life was like for the Viet Cong soldiers who lived there under harsh conditions.

7. Luxury Vietnam

From private guides who elevate your experience to the finest hotels where service is second to none, this trip idea lets you take in Vietnam with a luxury touch . It covers the country’s highlights, while also steering you away from the crowds to its lesser-known corners.

Journey down from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City for a luxury tour that takes in the sights of Halong Bay, Hoi An’s Old Quarter, the Mekong Delta, and Vietnam’s tranquil Con Dao Islands further south. You can also include a luxury train journey from Da Nang to Quy Nhon , an unspoiled stretch of coast.

Not only will we recommend the best hotels to suit your taste, but we’ll also help you move from place to place in style. You could stay in a luxury ship suite to cruise the quiet, karst-dotted waters of Lan Ha Bay. Or sail along the Mekong in a private sampan, soaking up rural life along the riverbanks at your own pace.

For an alternative look at Vietnam’s cinematic landscapes, board The Vietage train to the coast, and enjoy gourmet cuisine and a massage along the way. You can then spend a couple of days on the quiet champagne sands of Quy Nhon.

As for delving into the local culture, you might take a private cooking class in Hoi An, learn the age-old practice of calm-collecting in Con Dao, or take a private tour of Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a Vespa.

8. Family trip to Vietnam

From hands-on crafts to high-energy adventures, Vietnam’s culture, history, and dramatic landscapes can keep families of all ages and interests entertained. We suggest focusing on the country’s main cultural hubs, where you’ll find plenty of experiences to keep littles ones (and teenagers) busy.

Travel down the country, spending time in Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City to experience Vietnam’s many facets. We’ll make sure to arrange short flights where possible to avoid long drives, and where driving is necessary, we’ll provide a private driver so you can focus on your family.

Our specialists will tailor your trip to suit the ages and interests of your family. If you have young children, you might enjoy a Vietnamese lantern making class in Hoi An, a water puppet workshop in Hanoi, or making flying kites in Hue.

Older children might like to scout out the best street food spots with a local food blogger in Hanoi. Or spend the day with local fishermen in Hoi An , where you can all learn how to cast traditional nets and catch your own lunch.

For adventurous families, we can arrange rural cycling tours, city tours on the back of a Vespa, and a speedboat ride to the vast network of underground military tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City.

9. Grand tour of Southeast Asia

If you’re planning to visit Southeast Asia just once, it’s worth combining Thailand , Laos , Vietnam, and Cambodia in a single trip. You can experience the highlights of each destination in around three weeks, as well as scratching beneath the surface on private tours that take you away from the main visitor hotspots.

Your exact route will depend on how you want to cross the borders — opt for planes to cover more ground quickly or choose cruising for a gentler approach (the Mekong River meanders through them all). Whichever you pick, you’ll likely visit the Golden Triangle in Thailand, Luang Prabang in Laos, Siem Reap in Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. There are plenty of other destinations that you can weave into the trip, like Vientiane, Phnom Penh, Hoi An, and Hue.

You could choose to explore Southeast Asia through its cuisine, both on street food tours and in cooking classes. For example, in Siem Reap, you can join a local chef to pick out ingredients from the market, before turning them into aromatic Khmer dishes to enjoy afterwards.

This trip also makes space for immersive stays that go beyond standard hotels, from transparent jungle ‘bubbles’ in the Golden Triangle that give you unfettered views of roaming elephants to converted rice barges that carry you along the Mekong.

There are plenty of ways to dig deeper into the cultures of each country too, including witnessing almsgiving in Luang Prabang, a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s merchant houses, and a trip to the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake.

Read more about trips to Vietnam

Essential Vietnam tour

11 days from $3,765pp

Classic Vietnam tour

17 days from $7,375pp

Following the Mekong: Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

20 days from $10,615pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in Vietnam: our highlights guide
• Vietnam family vacations
• Luxury Vacations in Vietnam
• A food journey through Vietnam: bun cha to banh mi
• Vietnam’s best beach resorts

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The General Statistics Office’s latest scenario on Vietnam’s economic growth notes that, based on the on-year growth of 6.42 per cent in the first half of this year, the Q3 and Q4 on-year rates are expected to stand at 6.53 and 6.1 per cent, respectively, bringing the whole-year growth rate to 6.5-6.6 per cent, which is, however, still lower than the 7 per cent rate currently expected by the government.

The economy grew 5.87 per cent in Q1 and 6.93 per cent in Q2.

Vietnam’s total GDP last year hit an estimated $430 billion. A 1 per cent growth rate means an additional $4.3 billion, and an additional 300,000 jobs for the economy.

According to fresh figures released last week by Trading Economics, the S&P Global purchasing managers’ index for Vietnam stood at 54.7 in July, remaining at its highest level since May 2022. New orders grew for the fourth consecutive month, with the expansion rate slightly slower than the near-record pace in June. New export orders also increased, though much softer compared to total new business.

“Consequently, manufacturers ramped up production, with the rate of expansion being the second-fastest on record,” Trading Economics said.

Under Trading Economics’ calculations, enterprises worked to expand capacity by boosting both purchasing activity and employment. Input buying surged, reaching its steepest pace since mid-2022, while staffing levels grew modestly and slower than in June. Furthermore, expectations of continued growth in new orders over the coming year bolstered confidence in the production outlook, although sentiment eased to its lowest level since January.

However, although Vietnam’s industrial manufacturing is maintaining strong growth month-to-month, it does not mean the economy can achieve the growth target of 7 per cent this year or an additional $30.1 billion.

Full-year GDP growth in Vietnam is expected to reach 5.5 per cent by the end of 2024. In the long term, the rate is projected to trend around 6 per cent in 2025 and 6.2 per cent in 2026, according to Trading Economics.

FocusEconomics also predicted that in 2024, Vietnam is poised to be the second-fastest-growing economy in ASEAN after Cambodia (see chart).

“The upsurge in global demand for electronics and IT will be pivotal in driving recoveries in both industrial output and merchandise exports. However, the growth of tourist-related services exports is set to moderate,” FocusEconomics said.

“The primary risk lies in the potential deceleration of external demand. FocusEconomics panellists see GDP expanding 5.8 per cent in 2024, and 6.4 per cent in 2025.”

Other international organisations have also predicted that Vietnam’s economic growth this year will be higher than the 5.05 per cent growth recorded last year.

For example, according to the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) forecast released a few weeks ago, the growth outlook for Vietnam in 2024 and 2025 remains unchanged at 6 and 6.2 per cent respectively, driven by a strong first-half in 2024. However, trade-related manufacturing - one of its main drivers of recovery - is expected to slow down over the near term, while domestic demand will also remain subdued.

“From now until the end of this year, economic growth is projected to slow down compared to the first half due to lingering difficulties. We do not expect that exports and imports will continue witnessing strong double-digit growth, as we saw in the first half of this year,” said Nguyen Ba Hung, principal country economist at the ADB in Vietnam.

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank recently have also projected respectively that the Vietnamese economy will increase at 5.8 and 5.5 per cent this year, citing numerous headwinds ahead, such as geopolitical tensions and trade protection policies in many economies.

According to Fitch Ratings, the fiscal and monetary policies of Vietnam have provided assistance for the economy, so that it may grow 6.3 per cent in 2024 and 7 per cent in 2025. The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office based in Singapore last month also revised Vietnam’s economic growth forecast upward to 6.3 per cent for 2024 in its latest update.

United Overseas Bank analyst Suan Teck Kin commented, “With Q2 performance above our and market expectations and setting a positive tone, the outlook for 2024 remains bright. However, we caution that the second half of this year is likely to see a more muted performance, due to the higher base in H2 of 2023 as well as downside risks that are still present.”

These include conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East, which could disrupt global trade and energy markets. Nevertheless, Kin said, the recovery in the semiconductor cycle, stable growth in China and the region, and the likely easing of monetary policy by major central banks will be supportive of the outlook.

Fiscal policy is bolstering economic growth in 2024, given the anticipated public wage increase and ongoing efforts to accelerate public investment. Strengthening fiscal management will be crucial in addressing the challenges ahead.

This includes enhancing the composition and quality of public spending and services, improving fiscal planning to better account for the medium- to long-term impacts of ageing and climate change, and bolstering safety nets. Revenue mobilisation will be key to funding social spending, tackling climate change, and addressing the significant infrastructure investment needs.

The new Law on Credit Institutions marks a significant step forward and should be complemented by additional measures to strengthen supervision and governance in the financial sector. Further efforts to restore the health of the banking system – including measures to improve asset quality, phase out forbearance measures, and raise bank capital – will strengthen financial stability.

Accelerating the resolution of failed banks is essential to limit costs and improve the financial and monetary system’s functionality. Strengthening the insolvency framework and debt enforcement will facilitate corporate restructuring and enhance financial resilience. Revisions to land and real estate laws are welcome to address legal bottlenecks in the sector. Further efforts to restructure weak developers and promote a sound corporate bond market are warranted.

By Thanh Dat

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