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The   VIETNAM   trip

For the love of

NIGHT MARKETS

WILD LANDSCAPES

WHAT TO EXPECT

Our small group trip to Vietnam caters to travelers in their 20s and 30s looking for picturesque old town architecture in Hoi An, soaring limestone landscapes in Halong Bay, and energetic streets full of history, motorbikes, and delicious cuisine in Hanoi. We'll kick things off beneath brightly colored lanterns that hang between 400-year-old yellow stucco homes and shops in Vietnam's most atmospheric town to learn about this ancient culture. From there, we'll head to more remote parts of the country - Ninh Binh and Halong Bay - for local adventure and our first glimpse of Vietnam's iconic towering jungle landscapes. Eventually, we'll wind up in Hanoi, the bustling capital full of culture, fantastic food, chaotic streets, and hundreds of boutique shops (perfect for souvenir shopping!). With adventurous local excursions and some of the world's best cuisine, the Vietnam trip is a uniquely moving and culturally immersive bucket list experience.

9 days/8 nights

starting at $2,599  USD

Limited single room upgrades starting from $530 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.

Payment can be broken down into a $500 deposit + 3 additional installments.

All accommodations in a shared room with one other person with the option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)

Flight from Hoi An to Hanoi

8 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 3 lunches, and 6 dinners with some drinks included

Farewell dinner

Rooftop welcome drinks

Walking tour of Hoi An

Bike tour and local farming experience

Countryside lunch and Tam Coc river float

Guided visit to Bich Dong Pagoda

Two night cruise excursion on the magical Halong Bay, including early morning Tai Chi, visit to an ancient cave, kayaking, and more

Hanoi Vespa food tour

Farewell drinks

Local guide on numerous days & tours

FTLO Trip Leader

*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.

not included

Flights (fly into Hoi An and out of Hanoi)

Airport transfers

Mandatory trip insurance 

E-visa for Vietnam (budget approx. $51)

Meals not mentioned (budget around $200)

Incidental expenses (budget $100)

*Itinerary is subject to change

    Day 1 - Hoi An Xin Chào

We'll begin our journey through Vietnam along the ancient streets of this stunning coastal village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consistently named one of the most beautiful towns in Southeast Asia.  After you settle into your hotel, meet up with the group for rooftop drinks overlooking the excitement, followed by a delicious modern Vietnamese dinner. From there, head out to spend the rest of your first night in Vietnam wandering the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An with your new travel crew.   Welcome to Vietnam.

Day 2 - Hoi An

Like a local.

Enjoy a quiet morning and your first delicious breakfast before joining a local guided walking tour for a dive into Vietnam's history, culture, and cuisine. After that, you're free to crisscross through Hoi An's old streets on your own before meeting up with the group for a leisurely bike ride into the countryside. We'll twist through stunning scenes of winding village paths and lush rice paddies—the views are superb and we're likely to have this little bit of paradise all to ourselves (P.S. if you can't ride a bike, we can arrange a tuk-tuk for you!). With the Truong Son Mountains in the distance, you'll join a Vietnamese family for a unique farming experience and a deeper look into local life. Then, round out the day with a cooking class where you'll prepare your own authentic Vietnamese dinner.

    Day 3 - Hoi An Old Town Strolls

Today's free to relax or explore with friends. Catch up on sleep if you need to, then grab some more of that oh so delicious cà phê sua đá and a bánh mì for breakfast. Stroll between the cracked walls of the ancient town or get your final fittings on that brand new áo dài. If you're up for some exercise, split a cab to the Marble Mountains and explore the caves, passageways, and ancient temples. Take your time climbing the 156 steps to the top; the views of the East Sea, Danang, and Hoi An make it completely worthwhile. Grab a lift back to Hoi An and walk across the bridge over the Thu Bồn River to check out the stalls beneath the hanging lanterns of one of Vietnam's most romantic night markets.

    Day 4 - Ninh Binh IN NATURE

After a short flight up to Hanoi, we'll head out of the city in our private transfer to the limestone jungles of Ninh Binh. We'll grab lunch at a local restaurant, and then we're visiting a surreal region of caves and rocky overhangs that stretches along the Ngo Dong River. Surrounded by wild scenery, we'll take a two-hour boat trip downstream, past rugged mountains, rice paddies, and ancient temples poking out of the jungle. After a day spent cruising in limestone paradise, you're evening is free; find a local spot with little red plastic chairs, grab a drink and some tasty Bún Chả, and take in your unreal surroundings with the crew.

    Day 5 - Ha Long Bay To the Bay

Today, we're getting up bright and early to make our way to the coast. We'll board a beautiful boat and head off to explore Halong Bay and its endless expanse of rocky jungled islands. After you settle into your cabin at sea and enjoy a chef-prepared 3-course meal, you can choose to either visit an ancient island cave or check out a local fishing village to learn about the traditional Halong way of life. That evening, enjoy cocktails on deck while watching the sunset floating between Halong Bay's otherworldly rock formations.

Day 6 - Ha Long Bay

Water wonders.

Wake up early to start your day with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the top deck with one hell of a seaside view, or sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board. After that, it's time for a 4-course lunch as we cruise through thousands of limestone islands and islets in search of more secluded areas to swim, kayak, or soak up the sun. That evening, relax on the sundeck with a good book, play cards with your new friends, or chat with the friendly boat staff about their lives in Vietnam over a Bia Hà Nội.

Day 7 - Hanoi

Vespa adventure.

Get up early if you're in the mood for some more sunrise Tai Chi before we head back to land and make our way to the capital and largest city in northern Vietnam—Hanoi! We'll arrive in the early afternoon, and you'll have some free time to settle in or explore a bit on your own. Our hotel is in the middle of town, with easy access to lively local shops, restaurants, and cafes! In the evening, hop on the back of a Vespa for the ride of your life through Hanoi's action-packed neighborhoods with stops at the most delicious in-the-know foodie spots in town. We'll end the night with cocktails at a jazz club hidden behind the old opera house!

Day 8 - Hanoi

Hello hanoi.

Head out to join a walking tour and learn more about Hanoi's fascinating culture. With a history that dates back 10-20,000 years, the eclectic capital is known for its complex cuisine, ancient architecture, energetic nightlife, and ornate hand-made goods. The afternoon is open for you to wander on your own; we highly recommend checking out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or wandering the old streets of the French Quarter before sitting down for a bowl of delicious pho like the locals. That evening, we'll meet up for drinks to watch the sun set over Hanoi before our farewell dinner. The rest of the evening is for you and your new travel crew to enjoy some Saturday night mischief in Vietnam's hustling and bustling capital:)

Day 9 - Hanoi

Until next time.

Sadly, today is our last day together in this incredible country. We'll enjoy one final breakfast with the group before heading our separate ways. The hotel can store your bags if you have a later flight (which we recommend!) and want to do some more exploring on your own! If you've got a few more days, consider flying south to Ho Chi Minh City, the chaotic, action-packed economic powerhouse in southern Vietnam, and then heading off to the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn more about the nation's history. From there, you could keep going south to visit the Mekong Delta or even find a super cheap beach resort down on Phu Quoc island.

"Travel not to escape life, but so life doesn’t escape you."

Just for fun

Vietnam is home to 54 unique ethnic groups.

Motorbikes are the most common form of transport in Vietnam.

Cà phê trứng - or coffee prepared with egg yolk - is a popular way to enjoy coffee in Vietnam! And it's so deliciously creamy, like a mini cup of tiramisu.

While we can’t guarantee private rooms, you sho uld book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.

You will need a Tourist Visa to enter Vietnam. You can obtain a visa upon arrival by applying online prior to the trip. Processing time generally takes anywhere from 7-10 business days and will cost around $65.  For all other nationalities, please check here ​ ​​.  

More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found here .

Keep an open mind that we are traveling to a developing country - we do our best to stick to the itinerary, but be flexible and aware that changes may occur.

We can accommodate dietary requirements, but we do need to know ahead of time. Severe nut allergies will be more difficult since nut oils are used frequently in the local food.

ABOUT VIETNAM

Vietnam is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food. It is also a nation with a complex and fascinating history. In the years since the Vietnam War, the country has experienced a remarkable recovery. Today, travelers from all over the world crisscross the country known for its friendly people, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food on Vietnam vacation packages or independently.

GOod to know

The national language is Vietnamese.

The national currency is the Vietnamese Dong.

Tipping is not customary  in Vietnam but greatly appreciated. 

The closest airport is Danang International Airport (DAD). The departure airport is Hanoi International  (HAN).

Bottled water is recommended and is your best bet for staying healthy.

The weather can change drastically. Pack smart and be prepared for heat, humidity and rain!

Vietnam is a cash-based economy. Be prepared to use cash more than your credit cards. 

Fly into Da Nang / Hoi An (DAD)

You'll need to be in Hoi An by 2pm on Day 1. We do recommend flying in earlier to have some time to explore the city on your own!

Fly out of Hanoi (HAN)

We recommend flying out of Hanoi on day 9 or extending your trip and enjoying a few more days in Vietnam .

Want to check out flights for your trip?

Feel free to also set up flight alerts to Hanoi so you can grab the best deal!

*FTLO is not responsible for any fees or costs related to flights. We strongly suggest that all travelers wait until they receive the official FTLO Greenlight Email to book flights. This will be sent 3-4 months prior to the start date of your trip.

Alumni Reviews

We know how much you'll love the vietnam trip... but don't take our word for it check out some of our alumni reviews. .

Interested in learning more about our Vietnam trip?

We're here to answer any and all questions you might have! Leave us your information below and we'll be in touch with you as soon as possible.

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

2 June 2023 · In: Asia , Travel , Vietnam

A perfect solo travel guide with everything you need to know for backpacking Vietnam on your own! 

Backpacking a new country alone can be scary and intimidating – and I get it! I have been afraid to solo travel for a long time, but once you have done it, it provides an incredible feeling, and you will want to do it again.

Whether it is your first time in Vietnam or you have been several times, this country is incredible to explore as a solo (and female) backpacker. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are welcoming, the lifestyle is affordable and getting around is safe and easy – all the attributes you want for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I share all the inspiration and tips you need to create an unforgettable solo experience in Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

Accommodation for solo travel

• Best tours & activities

Vietnam overview

Capital : Hanoi

Currency : Vietnamese Dong (VND) / 1 GBP = 29,061 VND 

Power plug : type A, C and F

Visa : visa-free for up to 15 days for a few countries. If not or staying up to 30 days, online visa with a fee of $25.

Language : Vietnamese (with a few people speaking English)

Transportation : mainly motorbikes, buses and trains – or planes if far distance.

Internet : hotels offer free wifi. Otherwise, good signal everywhere.

SIM card : 3 main providers which include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.

Travel duration : I would suggest at least 2 weeks.

Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit  and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

I visited the country with my friend Kwelan for 3 weeks, travelling through the north and some remote areas. Kwelan arrived before me and was alone for a few days, and she left before me, so I was alone on my last day. 

Together or alone, we always felt safe , even in small villages hidden in the mountains with no tourists nearby – and even at night.

Yes, many locals were staring at us, but  they were all so friendly and welcoming , waving at us as we walked past their houses. When we were lost, they also helped us. For example, the bus always asked us for the address of our hotel to drop us off in front of it, which was so kind. Plus, most locals did not speak English, but they did not care – we communicated through Google Translate. 

However, like in any other country,  be aware of your surroundings . Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport. Keep your belongings safe as there may be some pickpockets around. For example, on the sleeping bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Otherwise, we never had any problems – quite the contrary. We once forgot the key to our scooter and left it on the engine, and a local kept it until we got back. I also never felt afraid to leave my big backpack at the reception of the guesthouses. I was a bit conscious at first, but after doing it for a few days, I did not mind (and I had my computer in it!).

Also,  do not be scared if Vietnamese people are a bit too forward or pushy . There are times when you may be greeted by a crowd of taxi drivers or locals who want you to join them for a tour, especially when you get off the bus in Sapa. Politely decline and continue your journey. 

One place we felt a bit overwhelmed was on Cat Ba Island . We decided to go to the beach once there, and it was a weird experience. The place was full of locals, mostly men. There were a few women, but they stayed on the beach or, if in the water, they were fully dressed. So, when two female tourists arrived with their bikinis on, everyone was staring – even though we were in our corner reading our books. I could not stand it at one point as people were coming and standing next to us, so I just went for a walk. 

I want to mention that this was the only place this happened. We returned to the beach multiple times, including Hoi An, and we never were in this situation again.

Overall, Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers . The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure. We connected with many people from around the world on our trip, and it was great! As a result, you can shape your experience however you want and make friends along the way. 

Shop the printable backpacking planner

Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable solo trip in Vietnam.

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination

1- it is a safe place to visit.

As mentioned earlier,  Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers . Therefore, you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

My friend Kwelan and I always felt safe, whether we were exploring a small mountain village at night or on a local bus with no tourists nearby. 

2- The locals are friendly & welcoming

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming, always ready to help . Even though most of them do not speak English, they will go above and beyond for others. 

For example, the local bus always dropped us off in front of our hotel to make sure we were safe, which I thought was so kind. Locals were also waving at us, and some asked if they could take photos with us – you can, of course, say no. 

We also had the chance to do the Ha Giang loop with two locals, and it was a great experience. We learned a lot from them and stopped at different local homes for lunch or overnight, which allowed us to connect with their culture and customs on a deeper level. 

Vietnamese people have such a positive energy. Their generosity warmed my heart so much! 💚

3- It is incredibly affordable 

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries I have ever visited . Life is incredibly affordable, which means you can sleep in a nice hotel if you do not feel comfortable in a hostel with dorms. 

It also means you can easily shape your adventure around you and your budget whilst being able to join tours and meet other people without breaking your wallet.

4- You will meet other backpackers

Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route  encompassing the top sites in the country, especially along the coast. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your adventure, whether on the bus, at guesthouses or one of those sites. 

Whilst backpacking north Vietnam, we had the chance to meet many travellers, who were in a group or alone. It was so fun connecting with like-minded people in different places and exchanging our experiences.

And that is one thing I love about this country! You can solo travel and stay alone, or you can meet others on your trip and continue together – the choice is yours. 

5- It has excellent tourist infrastructure

Vietnam has all the infrastructure you need as a tourist . It has a good transportation network allowing you to travel between cities by bus or train, offers many restaurants and bars with an English menu and free wifi and has a thriving hostel scene where you can connect with other backpackers. 

You will also find plenty of possible tours and activities on your trip, which is another excellent way to meet people. 

Tips for a safe solo trip in Vietnam

Here are a few extra tips for a safe and comfortable trip in Vietnam as a solo traveller: 

1- Buy a SIM card & stay connected

Even though Vietnam is a great place to get away from it all and unwind, it is still a good idea to purchase a SIM card upon arrival and stay connected with your friends or family. Let them know your plans and where or what you are going. It will give you an extra sense of security. 

2- Do not carry too much cash

You can easily use your credit card in Vietnam, but having cash on you is also necessary, especially in remote places. However, I would suggest not carrying all your money on yourself at once and making several withdrawals during your trip. If it does not work for you, keep your cash safe in your bag or at your hotel.

3- Be mindful when carrying your bag

Shoulder bags can be an easy target for pickpockets. If you have valuable items, I would recommend carrying a backpack with secure pockets or carrying it across your chest. The other option would be to carry a cross-body bag or belt bag – many travellers had these, and they seemed super practical.  

4- Do your research

Being prepared is essential for a safe and smooth trip! Research the local culture, customs and places to visit, learn more travel tips (like this one) and avoid booking your accommodation at the last minute. Read reviews to find the best dorm hostels for backpackers and solo female travellers.

5- Watch our belongings

Like in any other country, Vietnam can have a few pickpockets and petty crime, especially in busy tourist places and on night buses. Always pay attention to your personal belongings and valuables, and keep them close to you in these situations. In crowded areas, keep your hands on your bag in a secure position. 

6- Drink alcohol in moderation

Vietnam is an incredible place to go out after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. It is also a great way to have fun and meet other people. However, when travelling alone, I suggest being mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially as a solo female backpacker. 

7- Get travel insurance

Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with travel insurance that will cover you in case of emergency. Here is one of my favourite providers:  Nomad Insurance . 

8- Do not drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

How much does a solo trip to Vietnam cost?

It will highly depend on your travel lifestyle and expectations. The good thing about Vietnam is that  the country is incredibly affordable to explore , from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. 

For example, the most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ per night in Hoi An. It included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet. 

Here are a few tips for staying on your budget: 

• Get a travel-friendly bank card (to reduce your fees)
• Stay in hostels & travel by bus (to keep your cost down)
• Volunteer (check out Workaway )
• House-sit (check out Trusted Housesitters )

How to make friends on a solo trip to Vietnam?

Making friends whilst travelling solo in Vietnam is easy ! The country is full of open and like-minded backpackers ready to connect with others. There are many ways to meet them, here are a few: 

• On the bus : you will meet other travellers getting around by bus, especially the night bus. If some want more privacy, you will find people happy to chat with you. 
• At hostels and guesthouses : it is how we met most of our friends from our trip across Vietnam. Hostels and guesthouses in the country are warm and welcoming and the perfect place to exchange with other travellers. 
• On tours and activities : another great way to make new friends is to join a tour or activity where you would be able to meet other adventurers like you. 
• At bars and restaurants : if you like going out and partying, those could also be great places to meet other backpackers who enjoy exploring and dancing the night out. 

Planning your solo backpacking trip to Vietnam

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to visit Vietnam is in  spring (March-April)  and  Autumn (September-November)  when the weather is dry but not too hot, perfect for backpacking and outdoor activities. Plus, these seasons are ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to capture scenic landscapes with vibrant colours.

However, as Vietnam is a long and narrow country, its weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August)  is the hottest season, with harsh sunshine. These months are generally the best for relaxing at the beach but not hiking, as the weather will be hot and humid, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.
• Winter (December – February)  is the coldest season, with chilling winds or heavy rain, especially in the north and mountainous regions. You will also find some snow in a few places, like Sapa. 
• Spring (February – May)  is the best time to see the flower season in Vietnam. The temperatures will rise slowly, and the sunshine will be pleasant with clear blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with lush fields and blooming spring flowers, making the country particularly beautiful.
• Autumn (September – November)  is one of the best seasons to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather where the colours gradually change and temperatures lower, but still a lovely time for exploration and outdoor activities.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements will depend on where you live. Here is an overview:

When visiting Vietnam, your passport must be valid  for 6 months from the date of your arrival . Plus, make sure it is in good condition. 

Vietnam has made it easy for tourists to arrive with its  visa-free policy , which means you can enter the country for  up to 15 days  for tourism and business without needing to apply for a visa. The list includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway,  the United Kingdom , France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.

If you are not on the list or want to stay in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you can apply for an  e-visa through the  online portal . Those electronic visas are only valid for stays of  up to 30 days  with a single entry, as you must select your entry and exit points when applying.

E-visas are super simple and fast. The fee is  25 USD , and the processing time is  3 working days . You will then receive your code by email to print your visa, which you need to enter and leave the country.

If you are staying longer or have questions, check out your government website or contact them. 

How to get to Vietnam

The best way to get to Vietnam is by plane , with frequent flights landing in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. 

As you can imagine, prices can be high depending on where you live, so book your ticket in advance using  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows you to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

I departed from Paris, and my flight was 500€ (which I only booked two months before going). I had a transfer in Thailand, which was easy and quick. The first flight lasted 11h, and the second was 1h30.

How to travel around Vietnam

The bus is the best way to get around Vietnam . It is a cheap, easy and safe way to travel around the country, especially if you do not know how to ride a motorbike on your own.

The bus network runs across the whole country and makes it possible to reach remote villages hidden in the mountains. Local buses are also the main way for Vietnamese people to access distant places and transport goods, which means you can go along with them and hop on one of these buses (be careful in the mountains, everyone was sick!).

And because Vietnam is a lengthy country, you can use sleeper buses. They are super practical to make the most of your trip and not waste time on transport. Inside these buses, you will find small beds where you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during your journey. They are incredibly convenient and cheap, perfect for long night trips. 

Booking local or sleeper buses is easy – ask the reception of your hotel or guesthouse. They will reserve the bus for you, wherever you are. It is one of the safest and most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam. 

And if you want more premium buses, check out  Baolau  and  12go.asia . They provide express minibuses and vans, which are more comfortable and private.

2- By motorbike 

The other best way to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike . However, it might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and will depend on your biking level. 

The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts can be challenging with foggy, cold and wet weather. Keep in mind that accidents are common, so drive slowly! We came across a traveller who had a serious fall and had to go to the hospital. 

On the other hand, travelling across Vietnam on a motorbike is an excellent way to move freely and stop where and when you want! 

I recommend you read beforehand about exploring on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent or buy one, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

3- By train

Another safe way to get around Vietnam is by train . Trains run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. On the other hand, they are a good alternative if no bus is available or to get to a city faster. 

Check the timetables in advance and book your ticket online or ask the reception of your hotel. 

I believe you will also find trains with sleeping cabins for longer journeys. I have never experienced it in Vietnam, so if you have, please let me know in the comments below with any tips or suggestions you have.

How to travel around cities & regions

Travelling within cities and regions is easy and safe. Here are a few options: 

The easiest way to get around each city is on foot . It will allow you to slow travel and soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings. And if you love taking photos, it is the best way to wander and capture candids. Plus, some areas offer beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities.

2- By motorbike

Another way to travel around is by   motorbike . You can easily rent one at the reception of your hotel or guesthouse and start exploring the area. However, be mindful when driving as some roads can be in poor condition, such as Sapa, where the weather is often cloudy and foggy.

If you are not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself and the place you want to reach is a bit far,  use a Grab  (the equivalent of an Uber)  or taxi . You can download the app or just book it in person, you will have many taxis waiting around.

4- With a local guide

Finally, if you are unsure about exploring on your own, feel free to  hire a local guide  who will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to trek through rice terraces on a day trip or multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach remote places.  

What to pack for a solo Vietnam trip

The best way to backpack Vietnam in any season and enjoy this beautiful country is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you pack is essential. Therefore, here are some clothing items and gear you might need to be comfortable on your solo backpacking trip: 

• Good backpack : the most essential item when going backpacking! I would advise having a  good spacious bag  suitable for you and comfortable. I would also suggest having a smaller bag with you when you explore around, as you can leave your heavy backpack at the guesthouse or hotel.
• Comfortable walking shoes : another important item, especially if you like hiking. In any case, I believe having comfortable shoes is a must when exploring a city or joining an excursion. And if you can, try to find an eco-friendly and vegan alternative.
• Mosquito repellent : you will quickly find out that mosquitos are everywhere in Vietnam and quite aggressive! Bring a good mosquito repellent with you to protect your skin from bites.
• Filtered water bottle : tap water is NOT safe to drink in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated wherever you are.
• Sunscreen : protecting your skin from the sun is non-negotiable! So bring a  zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreen  with you, which reduces plastic waste and keeps you healthy by removing harmful components.
• Travel towel : a great item for any adventure, from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains. A  quick-drying towel  made from eco-friendly fibres or recycled materials is a must-have and a perfect all-in-one option. 
• Portable charger : having gear charged on your backpacking trip is essential to capturing your beautiful adventure and coming home with unforgettable memories. That is when solar chargers come in handy! Check out  Goal Zero  and  Anker . 

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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Be prepared for your perfect solo Vietnam trip 🎒

When travelling alone, I understand that finding suitable accommodation where you feel safe and comfortable is a must! Here are some options:

• Hostel : you will find many affordable and high-quality hostels all over Vietnam, even in remote places. Hostels were our favourite places to stay as we loved their welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to meet other travellers.  
• Guesthouse & Hotel : from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels, you will have plenty of choices depending on your lifestyle and budget. We stayed in a few of them on our journey, and they were cosy and private. 

The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com .  We used this platform whilst backpacking across the north, and it was perfect! 

We decided to choose where we wanted to stay each night on the same day, booking at the last minute. I was always amazed by how low the prices were and could not believe it! The most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ a night in Hoi An, and it included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet – not too bad!! We loved it so much that we stayed an extra night.

Best things to do in Vietnam for solo travel

Top places to visit.

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam , a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

Personal experience – I did not spend a lot of time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was extremely hot and humid, and it was hard to breathe. Plus, the noise and smell were intense and challenging to deal with. However, I still enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

Things to do & see in Hanoi:

• Walk through the Old Quarter
• Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Traverse the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Stroll Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Sample Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho & a beer!)
• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Hạ Long Bay

It is impossible not to mention  Hạ Long Bay  as one of the  top things to do in Vietnam . Located on the northwest coast, the bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall islands filled with rainforests. 

From there, you can explore the islands on a boat tour or kayak expedition, scuba dive, rock climb or hike – so many things to do! 

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay:

• Join a boat cruise
• Discover Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Explore Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

If you have time, discover  Cát Bà and its national park , a hidden gem well worth a visit. It is also another great place to start your cruise as the island is more budget-friendly and less touristy. Plus, there are  many things to see and activities to do , such as: 

• Explore Cát Bà National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Hạ Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cát Bà nightlife

Sapa is a remote town  located in the mountains of northwestern Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of  trekking possibilities  that will take you through dramatic landscapes and ethnic villages.

Things to do & see in Sapa:

• Explore Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Rent a motorbike & wander
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Ninh Bình is a city, district and UNESCO World Heritage Protected Site  located southeast of Hanoi. It is the ideal base for adventurers and nature lovers, as the area offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. 

From there, you can discover Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, take a boat tour on its rivers or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for stunning views.

Things to do & see in Ninh Bình:

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Huế is a charming city in central Vietnam full of art and history , which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. 

One main attraction in the area is its impressive 19th-century Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by canals and stone walls. It contains the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines, the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the home of the Emperor, and a replica of the Royal Theater.

Things to do & see in Huế:

• Discover the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Forbidden Purple City
• Stroll through the Imperial City
• See a performance at the Royal Theatre 
• Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda 
• Relax at the Co Ha Gardens 
• Walk along the Perfume River
• Explore the To Mieu Temple Complex

Hội An is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam , famous for its colourful lanterns, well-preserved Ancient Town and mixed architectural styles.

Personal experience – Hội An was an incredible discovery and is as beautiful as the photos you may have seen online! I loved wandering its streets, walking along its canals, admiring its lanterns and strolling through its markets. The city had a fantastic atmosphere, day and night! 

Things to do & see in Hội An:

• Wander through the Old Town
• Relax at An Bang Beach
• Explore the countryside by bike
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary
• Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Marvel at Quan Cong Temple

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam , situated in the southeastern region of the country and surrounding the Saigon River.

From historic museums and stunning architecture to a thriving food and craft beer scene, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this bustling city.

Things to do & see in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Explore the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Visit the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Join a Bonsai River cruise
• Discover the Central Office
• Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Marvel at the Cao Dai Temple

Best tours & activities

Are you looking for the perfect  guided tour in Vietnam ? Check those out:

How to reduce your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their preservation.

Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling solo in Vietnam: 

GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully carefully your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a  filtered water bottle  to stay hydrated on the go.
• Join tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more focused on money than traditional culture! Select an operator with a responsible tourism approach (research their website and ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
• If you decide to snorkel or drive, be sure to choose a responsible operator . Plus, never touch or step on coral and wear  reef-safe sunscreen .
• Do not leave a trace : do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Hire a local guide if possible.  You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
• Shop local . Buy handicrafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
• Eat at local restaurants, and tip your guides or hotel and restaurant staff . It may be small for you but can significantly impact their earnings.
• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites . Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words 🙂

More inspiration for your adventure:

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Vietnam solo travel – FAQ

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit, especially for female backpackers. However, also be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport.

Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers. The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure.

Vietnam is incredibly affordable to explore with a backpack, from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. Although it will depend on your budget and expectations, the lifestyle is extremely cheap.

I recommend spending at least 14 days in Vietnam to have enough time to travel and see the main attractions and highlights at each stop without rushing.

Have you ever experienced a solo trip in Vietnam or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Vietnam Travel Guide: A Complete 3-Week Itinerary

Travel through Vietnam! An enormous country, home to tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and exhilarating mountain roads. Away from the wonderful nature, are cities full of culture and fascinating history. And perhaps best of all, eat your way through delicious street food in one of the most flavorsome countries in the world! Discover Vietnam in this 3 or 4 week Vietnam route.

Vietnam Travel Route (3 or 4 weeks)

Traveling in Vietnam is mostly done by bus or train as there are limited direct flights between places. Three weeks is a good amount of time to travel in Vietnam.

If going as far as Ho Chi Minh, allow another week (4 weeks in total) to see the beauty of far southern islands like Phu Quoc or the extraordinary maze-like rivers of the Mekong Delta.

Also read: Best Things to do in Vietnam

Day 1 – 3: Hanoi

Start your Vietnam route in the buzzing capital of Hanoi ! This ancient city, centered around the misty Hoan Kiem Lake, is home to the best street food on the planet.

Spend at least two days here soaking up the sights, sounds, and flavors of this beautifully chaotic city. Get ready to get lost among the beautiful web of narrow streets with French-style buildings, and bravely attempt to cross the manic roads!

There is an international airport here that serves the rest of the world, as well as domestic flights to other parts of Vietnam . Because of this, it’s a good place to start on your Vietnam travels.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

The quality of guesthouses and hotels in Hanoi is extremely high for the money you’ll pay. Situate yourself in the Old Quarter or near Hoan Kiem Lake so that you can see all the things to do in Hanoi on foot.

Hotels in Hanoi 😴

Day 4 – 6: Sapa

Experience trekking in the wonderful, rolling rice hills of Sapa ! The luscious, green north of Vietnam is an absolute must-see on any Vietnam route.

Hike through the beautiful nature among mountains, paddies, and tribal villages, and stay with a local family to experience their way of living. Between May and September, see the rice fields at their greenest! Note : You will have to go back to Hanoi after Sapa before departing for Ha Long Bay.

Read more: Trek at the rice terraces of Sapa, Vietnam

Getting from Hanoi to Sapa

Bus: Regular direct buses depart Hanoi, taking 6 hours. This is the cheapest and quickest option. Get your bus or train tickets here.

Train: Both day trains and sleeper trains run from Hanoi to Lao Cai (8 hours). From there, take a minivan in 1 hour to Sapa.

Day 7 – 9: Ha Long Bay

Enjoy sailing across the peaceful emerald waters of Ha Long Bay among limestone karsts and floating villages. From Hanoi, book an incredible cruise to either Ha Long or Lan Ha Bay.

These cruises normally include a return transfer from Hanoi and come in a variety of options. For example, a day cruise or a 2 night/3 day cruise. To properly enjoy the beauty of this magical part of Vietnam, spend 2 nights here relaxing and exploring your Vietnam route.  Find a tour online .

Tip: Take the return transfer back to Hanoi from Ha Long Bay. You may need to spend one more night in Hanoi before continuing on the rest of the journey.

Day 10 – 12: Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh province is the natural paradise of Vietnam, home to charming villages, stunning rice fields, rivers, and the limestone mountains of Tam Coc. Enjoy a relaxing few days of seeing the beauty and tranquility of nature. Whether it be spotting wildlife or exploring the mountaintop temples, caves, and shrines, there is something every traveler will love.

Read: Tam Coc, the natural paradise of Vietnam

Where to Stay in Tam Coc

Experience charming wooden bungalows, lotus ponds, and gardens filled with organically grown vegetables – there’s plenty to choose from in the Ninh Binh region.

Hotels in Tam Coc 😴

Getting from Hanoi to Ninh Binh/Tam Coc

By car: Tam Coc is a 2 – 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi. Some guesthouses will offer a return journey to Hanoi for an extra fee.

Bus: Buses run regularly from Hanoi.

Train: There is a direct train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. From Ninh Binh, you can reach Tam Coc in a 10-minute taxi ride.

Book your transportation tickets online

Day 13 – 15: Phong Nha

Explore the spectacular area of Phong Nha, known as the ‘adventure capital of Asia’, and for good reason! There are hundreds of mammoth caves here, nestled between limestone mountains and wide winding rivers. Because of this, travelers can enjoy trekking, climbing, or abseiling through tunnels and rivers.

The most extraordinary of all the caves is Son Doong, big enough to fit in city skyscrapers. To reach this cave is a 4-day trek, with a long waitlist, so make sure to plan ahead if you want to incorporate this into your Vietnam travels. Many others, which are just as impressive, such as Hang En, can be visited in a day trek.

Note: During the rainy season of July- December (especially in the later months) many of the caves become inaccessible.

Getting from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha

Bus: To get to Phong Nha from Ninh Binh, there is a direct overnight bus (7 hours). This is the most efficient and direct option.

Train: There are also trains from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi (8 hours). From Dong Hoi, it is a 1-hour taxi to Phong Nha.

Plane: To fly, go back to Hanoi and take a 1-hour domestic flight to Dong Hoi. From here, take the 1-hour taxi to Phong Nha.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Vietnam trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Day 16 – 17: Hue

Hue is a lovely little city to spend a night and soak up the remarkable culture of Vietnam. It used to be the capital of Vietnam, a royal city on the banks of the wide Perfume River.

As such, it’s filled with ancient tombs, beautiful pagodas, and, most famously, the walled imperial city. Spend a few hours wandering around the ancient Imperial City, surrounded by a moat, and gain a glimpse into the royal history of emperors in Vietnam.

Because of its war-torn past, Hue is also home to many war/history museums, which are fascinating to visit. A cultural gem on your Vietnam route!

Tip: Try the legendary ‘Bun Bo Hue’, iconic of the city.

Getting from Phong Nha to Hue

Bus: From Phong Nha, take a direct bus to Hue. It can be done in 3 hours for as little as 6 USD!

Day Trip: Hai Van Pass to Danang

On your way from Hue to Hoi An , make a stop for the afternoon in Danang. To do this, hire a motorbike and ride the famous, exhilarating Hai Van Pass. This meandering road (20 km) worms through the hills and coastline 500 m above sea level! Because of its height, this is easily one of the most beautiful ways to see this part of the country. Make a stop in Danang to see the golden bridge or the weird and wonderful Ba Na hills.

Note: If motorbiking isn’t really your thing, Danang is reachable by train from Hue. It’s a beautiful journey along the coast, known as one of the best train rides in Vietnam!

Day 18 – 20: Hoi An (end of 3-week route)

Arrive in beautiful, colorful Hoi An! Discover lantern-lit streets and French-style architecture while taking romantic river strolls or relaxing bike rides.

This UNESCO world heritage site offers countless things to do, such as a ride in the traditional basket boats, as well as some of the best food you’ll experience while traveling in Vietnam. Try the famous Banh Mi sandwich here! Hoi An is also the final stop of a 3-week route, and you can fly out from the nearby Danang airport.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to visiting Hoi An

Where to Stay in Hoi An

Depending on what kind of trip you want, you can stay either by the beach or situate yourself more centrally by the old town. It’s best to stay just outside of the old town, as the accommodation will be cheaper and both the beach and the old town will still be easy to reach.

Hotels in Hoi An 😴

Getting from Hue to Hoi An

From Hue, make your way to Hoi An either by motorbike, public transport or minivan. Book your transport here .

Day 21 – 23: Dalat (start of 4-week route) 

Dalat is the perfect place to see Vietnam’s nature at its finest. The green mountain town is situated in Vietnam’s Central Highlands. This is a region home to dense tropical forests, roaring waterfalls, and countless species of wildlife.

Spend time here spotting animals, taking the famous Da Lat cable car, or riding one of the many legendary motorbike journeys in the area. Because of its high location, there are nice mild temperatures all year round, so it’s a great spot to cool off from the heat of the lowlands. 

Tip: Da Lat has an amazing coffee scene! Try a cup of the delicious brew here.

Where to Stay in Da Lat

Stay in a beautiful villa overlooking the city and the surrounding green scenery, or opt for a comfortable hostel with a smaller budget.

Hotels in Dalat 😴

Getting from Hoi An to Dalat

Bus: If heading straight to Dalat from Hoi An, take an overnight bus of 13/14 hours. 

Train:   Overnight train from Danang to Nha Trang (10 hours). From here, take the bus to Dalat in 4 hours.

Plane: Danang to Dalat is a 1.5-hour flight (more expensive than other ways of travel).

Day 24 – 25: Mui Ne

Mui Ne is famous for its relaxed beach vibe, but most importantly for its extraordinary white and red sand dunes! Visit the red sand dunes at sunset to see the fiery colors of the sun blend into the red of the sand.

Alternatively, visit the white sand dunes for adventurous activities like quad biking or sand dune sledding. This is a must-do on any Vietnam travel route!

Getting from Dalat to Mui Ne

Bus: Visit in a 4-hour bus ride from Dalat.

Day 26 – 28: Ho Chi Minh

Spend a few days in the sprawling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh! Formerly known as Saigon, this fantastic city is very modern, with broad tree-lined avenues, bright city lights, and skyscrapers. Get to know the various districts, eat incredible food, and make sure to visit the highly informative war museums. This is a must-visit when traveling in Vietnam!

Make sure to take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels: a huge network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong soldiers in the war. Join a tour that gives you the opportunity to crawl through the tunnels yourself for a true-to-life experience.

Getting from Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh

Bus: 5-6 hours.

Train : 4-5 hours train from Phan Thiet (a 30 min drive from Mui Ne) that takes you directly to Ho Chi Minh.

Day 29 Onwards: Phu Quoc (Optional)

If you have time, visit the beautiful island of Phu Quoc , in the far southwest of Vietnam. This island is a true paradise of secluded white sand bays fringed by clear, emerald waters and hanging palm trees.

Head to the north of the island to explore the Phu Quoc National Park. Here you will find perfectly preserved nature, mountains, and dense forest that’s home to an abundance of incredible wildlife. Phu Quoc is definitely a perfect spot to relax, swing in a hammock, and enjoy the peace of nature after your adventurous Vietnam travels.

Where to Stay on Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is one of the few islands that Vietnam has. It’s not new to tourists, so it is popular, but it’s luckily still not developed enough to be crowded. There’s a variety of accommodations on the island, from budget guesthouses and homestays to luxury hotels. 

Hotels in Phu Quoc 😴

Getting from Ho Chi Minh to Phu Quoc

Bus + Boat: It is possible to take the bus to Rach Gia or Ha Tien (ferry piers) in 7-8 hours. From here, take the ferry to Phu Quoc in 2.5- 3 hours. 

Plane: There is a direct 1-hour flight from Ho Chi Minh to Phu Quoc. This is a little more expensive, but it’s the most efficient way of travel.

Tip: If heading to Phu Quoc it’s worth taking some time to visit other places in the Mekong Delta region. This stunning area of natural beauty is home to a network of rivers, fantastic floating markets, rice paddies, and forests.

Alternative Vietnam Route Options

If your time in Vietnam is limited, spend 3 weeks up until Hoi An and save the south for another trip! If you have more than one month, spend more time in the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc. Remote places like Sapa and Dalat, which take more time to get to, can be removed from the Vietnam route if time is tight.

What’s Vietnamese food like?

Vietnamese food is one of the healthiest cuisines in the world! The fresh, salty, sweet, and sour Vietnamese flavors mixed with herbs and spices bring beautiful harmony to your taste buds. Most dishes are not spicy, but chili flakes are always served on the table separately.

Costs of Traveling in Vietnam

Travel in Vietnam is exceptionally affordable! Delicious food can be bought from street vendors at a very cheap price, and there are very well-priced hotels and guesthouses throughout the country.

Travel is very cheap by bus, but extend your budget if you want to take domestic flights as these can be more expensive. Expect to travel on a budget of 10-20 USD per person and 20-50 USD per person for a bit more comfort.

Travel on a budget in Vietnam, from $110 − $240 USD weekly per person, mid-range $280 − $830 USD, and high-end from $750 − $1250 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $6 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $15 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $20 − $30 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $2 − $30 USD
• Activities: $1 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around in Vietnam

Vietnam’s infrastructure is varied. Although the roads are generally good, the traffic can be bad, so it’s good to always allow for delays when using public transport.

The main way to travel in Vietnam is by bus, and although this is slower, there are excellent sleeper buses which means you don’t have to take days off the itinerary. Good train routes operate down the coast of Vietnam, which also offer sleeper services.

Vietnam has a handful of domestic airports, but if you want to travel to more remote places, prepare to take the bus! ( Find cheap flight tickets )

Via this website you can easily book your busses and trains online

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The climate of Vietnam is different from north to south. In the north, the weather is very seasonal, with hot, humid, and rainy summers and cold, dry winters. In the south, it is hot throughout the year, with the drier months between November to April and the wetter months between May and October. 

Avoid visiting Vietnam during public holidays like TET, as prices will be much higher. It’s also good to note that most shops will be closed and transport services will be greatly reduced.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Vietnam?

Yes! Apply for an electronic visa online before traveling to Vietnam. The e-visa costs 25 USD and is valid for 30 days of travel. It takes 3 days to be approved but allows for more time just in case of delays or problems with the application. For a 90-day visa, apply beforehand using a reputable agency or by visiting the Vietnamese embassy in your home country.

Easily order your Vietnam visa here

Note: As of 2023, citizens of 25 countries can travel to Vietnam without having to apply for a visa and can stay in the country for 14 to 45 days (depending on nationality). Make sure to check beforehand if you’re country is on the exemption list and what conditions apply.

Safety in Vietnam

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel through. Even so, always keep your belongings with you, and be wary of pickpockets and scams. If traveling by motorbike, be very wary of the chaotic traffic on the roads, always wear a helmet, and make sure you have insurance.

Here’s how to:   find the right travel insurance

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Best things to do in ninh binh & tam coc (vietnam), 8 best things to do in mui ne, vietnam.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Thank you so much for this helpful content! It helped and inspired me a lot for my travels to Vietnam 🙏🏼 Just one little remark as it has changed on August 15 2023: a lot of European countries don’t require a visa anymore for a stay up to 45 days :)

Hi Lisa, thanks so much for pointing that out! We’ll update the guide :)

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam is the travel gift that keeps on giving. How do you choose between the misty mountains, scenic beaches and bays, energetic cities and cultural sights when travelling solo in Vietnam? Then there’s the gentleness of the Vietnamese people and their show-stopping cuisine. All of this is Vietnam, but there’s much more, as you’ll see in our trusty guide.

An overview of a solo trip to vietnam.

In a week or slightly more, you can graze the length of Vietnam, from north to south, starting in Hanoi, the boulevard-lined capital home to a French quarter and historic hotels. Moving on to coastal Da Nang, a mountain-backed city used as a portal to Hoi An, pretty as a picture with atmospheric lantern-lit lanes. Cooled by the winds of the South China Sea, palm-lined Mũi Né fishing resort is home to desert-like dunes. Last but not least, Ho Chi Minh City – still called Saigon by locals – is a dizzying mix of thriving modern commerce and ancient temples.

Vietnam’s tropical monsoon climate has regional variations and hits different parts of the country at different times. In the south, the driest months are between December and April, while in the north, it’s spring and autumn.

Vietnam is an inexpensive country to travel solo – so you can switch up staying in historic hotels and ritzy resorts for a sail around Halong Bay in the northeast of Vietnam, without worrying about your budget too much. One opportunity that absolutely shouldn’t be passed up is an overnight stay on a wooden boat styled on a Chinese sailing ship, giving you a close-up view of the limestone islands soaring from the deep green waters – either on deck or from the comfort of your cabin.

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Check out our favourite Vietnam hostels . If you’re planning on spending a few days by the beach, here’s our pick of top beach hotels in Vietnam , while you can keep your carbon footprint to a minimum at one of these eco-friendly hotels up and down the country . Or take your pick from our best of the best roundup for a real treat without breaking the bank.

What to do in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Vietnam is a deceptively slender country stacked with sights from head to toe. With so much choice, we’ve cherry-picked three very different things to do.

1. Take a walking tour of Hanoi

Architectural Landmark

You can’t visit Hanoi and not be charmed, despite the crazy traffic thick with darting mopeds. Be guided through the city on foot by our Local Insider – as part of our 12-day Vietnam small-group adventure – from Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945, to the maze-like, industrious Old Quarter, passing Hanoians balancing produce on bamboo poles, and stopping for street food classics like bánh xeo (savoury pancakes).

2. Go off-roading on Mũi Né’s sand dunes

Natural Feature

Half an hour from Mũi Né, a fishing village turned popular resort in the south, Sahara-like dunes sculpted by the sea breeze rise behind a lotus-topped lake. Hire a quad bike or dune buggy to zig-zag across them as the sun sets.

3. Explore the bustling market streets of Hoi An

A thriving trading post until the 19th century, today Hoi An draws tourists with its picturesque charm. Wooden pagodas and narrow lanes sell silky pyjamas while restaurants peddle seafood-rich dishes you’ll want to return for.

Eating and drinking in Vietnam

The French occupation left its mark in many ways. In terms of cuisine, the baguettes available on most streets are the bedrock of the popular banh mi – pickle-loaded meat sandwiches. Street food really is the way to authentic Vietnamese food culture. Avoid trendy restaurants where they may only serve you what looks tasty. Instead, opt for such down-to-earth places where you can pull out a plastic stool on the pavement.

What’s also ubiquitous here is the sight of Vietnamese squatting low as they breakfast on pho, an aromatic rice noodle soup with a bunch of fresh, green herbs and thin slithers of beef, served in homes, street stalls and restaurants.

You may also want to perk yourself up with a morning coffee – often served cold and sweetened with condensed milk – and later savour an ice-cold beer – the Saigon and Hanoi brands are very popular.

Read our guide on how to spot the best street food stalls in Vietnam , or cut to the chase with our top pick of dishes to eat in Vietnam and the best vegetarian street food Vietnamese dong can buy .

Stay safe, be happy

Vietnam is generally very safe, whether you’re alone or with others. There’s an established tourist trail, which means a huge variety of hotels and plenty of transport options. The main thing to be aware of in larger cities is pickpockets grabbing bags and mobile phones as they whizz by on scooters – but you’d have to be very unlucky to fall victim to this.

For female solo travellers out at night, a metered taxi is the safest form of transport. Booking a small-group trip to Vietnam is one of the best ways to experience the country with the security of a local expert to guide you, yet the freedom to pick your excursions, from street food tours to biking in the hills.

What to do to fit in – and not offend

Vietnamese people are naturally friendly and welcoming to solo travellers. However, if you travel to remote areas, be respectful of their conservative values. Behave as the locals do when visiting pagodas and temples; if they cover up a body part, then so should you. Perhaps unfairly, but particularly if you’re a female solo traveller, dress as the locals do. We don’t mean donning a nòn la conical hat but avoid revealing outfits and don’t topless sunbathe anywhere.

Getting around

Vietnam is a delightful country, but some of the roads are dangerous and best left to native drivers. Air-conditioned coaches chug up and down heavily congested Highway 1, the main route that runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Less stressful are the sleeper cabins on the trains that run alongside. Buy tickets online or at the station (hotels and agencies will do it for a fee), and pre-book in peak holiday periods such as Tet (Vietnamese new year). Buy the highest class you can afford; lower means less comfort and higher gets softer seats, sleeping berths and faster service.

Alternatively, join our immersive 12-day Vietnam adventure to have all your transportation, accommodation and activities arranged for you – you’ll only travel with a small group of like-minded travellers, and beat the crowds everywhere you visit.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Dung Phan .

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Top tips for travelling in vietnam, the best destinations to visit in september.

Local Insider – Showcasing the Beauty of Vietnam

Culture Trip’s Best Value Deals for 2023

The Best Places to Visit in Early 2023

See & Do

Where to find the most spectacular rice fields in vietnam.

Places to Stay

Hip apartments in vietnam you’ll want to call home.

The Best Luxury Resorts in Vietnam

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Vietnam

The Best Luxury Hotels in Vietnam

The Best Hostels to Book in Vietnam

The Best Hotels to Book in Vietnam for Every Traveller

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Vietnam take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Vietnam.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Vietnam. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Vietnam, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Vietnam. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Vietnam, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Vietnam. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Vietnam—such as dengue, Zika, and filariasis—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Vietnam include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Vietnam. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Vietnam’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Vietnam. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Vietnam may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Vietnam, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Vietnam, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Vietnam .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Vietnam, dial 115 for an ambulance, 114 for the fire department, and 113 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you on your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Vietnam before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Vietnam from the US Department of State

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Vietnam for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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

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

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

You’ve spent hours researching.

Talked to friends.

Scoured the internet for blogs.

Watched YouTube videos.

And you’ve finally realised something.

Without a doubt, Vietnam is the place for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25 BEST Things to Do in Hue, Vietnam (2024 Edition)

The perfect vietnam itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks, canyoning in dalat – what it is really like, travelling in vietnam: at a glance.

Here are the basics about travel to Vietnam.

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

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

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

ENTRY / VISA:

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

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

ELECTRICITY:

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

TRANSPORTATION:

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

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

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN VIETNAM

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

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

Take the Overnight Train from Hanoi to Sapa

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

Book your  train ticket here .

Hike Through the Rice Terraces of Sapa

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

Here’s our full post about  trekking in Sapa .

Cruise the Mekong Delta

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

Book a multiday  tour of the Mekong Delta

Go Caving in Phong Nha

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

Book your  Phong Nha cave tour

Ride a Motorcycle

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

Read about how to ride through the famous  Hai Van Pass

Other Things to do in Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE...

A First-Timer’s Guide to Trekking in Sapa

The 11 Best Things to Do in Da Nang, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

33 BEST Things to Do in Vietnam (Epic 2024 Guide)

10 BEST Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam (2024 Guide)

Scuba Diving In Nha Trang – Is It Worth It?

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

Book your  tour of Halong Bay

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

Plan your 3-day  Hanoi itinerary

My Son Temple

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

Book an early morning  tour of My Son

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

Ho Chi Minh City:

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

*  Hanoi Itinerary * Day Trips From Hanoi

Dalat Hoi An

Da Nang Hue Ninh Binh

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

BEST VIETNAM TRAVEL ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

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

1-Week Vietnam Travel Itinerary Highlights

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

Northern Vietnam

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

Central Vietnam

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

South Vietnam

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

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

VIETNAM TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit vietnam.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

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

Budgeting Tips

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

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

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

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

Budget Traveller ($35 Single / $50 Couples)

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

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

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

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

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

A nicer hotel is definitely affordable.

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

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

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

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

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

GETTING TO AND AROUND VIETNAM

Entry requirements.

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

For information about your specific visa requirements click  here

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

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

Apply in advance  here .

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

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

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

Getting to Vietnam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Vietnam

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

Travelling by Air

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

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

Travelling by Taxi, Tuk Tuk Or Mototaxi

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

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

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

Travelling by Bus

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

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

Travelling by Motorbike

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

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

Travelling by Train

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

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

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN VIETNAM

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

Here are a few of our favourites.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PLACES TO STAY IN VIETNAM

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

The accommodation standards can vary in each destination.

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

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

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

Types of Accommodations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Favorite Places to Stay in Vietnam

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

VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS

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

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

GENERAL VIETNAM TRAVEL TIPS 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIETNAM PACKING LIST

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

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

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

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

TRAVEL INSURANCE. SIMPLE & FLEXIBLE.

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

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

Aside from that, common sense will keep you safe.

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

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

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

Some tips for protecting your things:

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

STAYING CONNECTED IN VIETNAM

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

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

Purchase a SIM Card

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

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

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

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

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

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

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

Access Free WiFI

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

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

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KEY VIETNAMESE TRAVEL PHRASES

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

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

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT VIETNAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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Travel to Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

Vietnam is a nation of intriguing contrasts, where the blend of timeless traditions and contemporary aspirations creates a lively and varied society. You can delve into its captivating history, journeying from the imperial citadels of Hue and Hanoi to the historical relics of Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi tunnels. Natural marvels also await, from the breathtaking Halong Bay and the lush Mekong Delta to the majestic Fansipan mountain. For food enthusiasts, Vietnam is a paradise boasting the delicate delights of pho, banh mi, spring rolls, along with abundant seafood and tropical fruits. Whether you're drawn to urban energy or rustic allure, Vietnam's allure lies in its enthralling landscapes and rich culture. In this guide, you'll be accompanied by Vicky, a seasoned travel consultant from TravelVietnam.com . Vicky specializes in curating tours across Vietnam and Southeast Asia, including destinations like Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Together, we'll navigate your journey through Vietnam in 2024, offering insights on the optimal time to visit, travel arrangements, accommodation options, packing tips, transportation guidance, and a comprehensive list of must-see and must-do experiences. Additionally, we'll feature invaluable advice from fellow travelers who've explored Vietnam and our team to help you make the most of your adventure.

Things to Know about Vietnam

Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country with a rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. It is famous for its natural wonders like Ha Long Bay, its historic landmarks like the Cu Chi Tunnels, and its vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam is also known for its flavorful dishes like pho, its unique coffee culture, and its colorful festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan.

In general, here are some things that Vietnam is known for:

• Its beautiful beaches, lush rice paddies, towering mountains, and stunning landscapes like Ha Long Bay
• Its culture, history, and heritage, influenced by Chinese, French, and American colonization
• Its flavorful cuisine, especially street food and Vietnamese coffee.
• Its friendly and hospitable people
• The Vietnam War and its aftermath, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and historical cities

Best Time to Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons : spring (February-April), summer (May-August), autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January). The best time to travel to Vietnam depends on which region you want to visit, as each one has different weather patterns and attractions. Generally speaking, spring (Feb to April) and autumn (August to October) are considered the best seasons for traveling across Vietnam , as they offer pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, and clear skies. However, you can also enjoy Vietnam in any season if you plan ahead and pack accordingly. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of each season:

• Spring: This is a great time to see the flowers blooming in northern Vietnam, especially in Sa Pa and Ha Giang provinces. You can also celebrate Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in late January or early February with locals and enjoy their festive traditions. However, spring can also be crowded with domestic tourists and prices may be higher than usual.
• Summer: This is a good time to enjoy the beaches and islands of central and southern Vietnam, such as Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao. You can also witness some colorful festivals such as Hue Festival in April or Da Nang International Fireworks Festival in June. However, summer can also be very hot and humid, with frequent rainstorms and typhoons.
• Autumn: This is a perfect time to admire the golden rice terraces in northern Vietnam, especially in Mu Cang Chai and Yen Bai provinces. You can also enjoy the cooler weather and the changing colors of the leaves in the mountains. However, autumn can also be prone to flooding and landslides in some areas, especially in October and November.
• Winter: This is a nice time to experience the snow and frost in northern Vietnam, especially in Sa Pa and Mau Son. You can also celebrate Christmas and New Year with locals and expats in the cities. However, winter can also be very cold and foggy, with limited visibility and activities.

Here is a general overview of the best time to visit Vietnam by month:

• January:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An. However, it can be cold in the north,
• February:  The weather is still good in January, but the crowds start to thin out as the peak season comes to an end. This is a good time to visit if you are looking for a more relaxed vacation.
• March:  The weather starts to get warmer in the south, making it a good time to visit beaches like Phu Quoc and Nha Trang. However, it can be hot and humid in the north. Looking for exciting activities? Discover a plethora of things to do in Phú Quốc and Nha Trang.
• April:  The weather is hot and sunny in most parts of Vietnam. This is the start of the peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
• May:  The weather is at its hottest and most humid in May. It is also the start of the rainy season in the north.
• June:  The rainy season starts in the north and central Vietnam, but the south remains dry. This is a good time to visit the Mekong Delta, as the water levels are high and the scenery is lush.
• July:  The rainy season is in full swing in the north and central Vietnam. However, the south remains dry and sunny. This is a good time to visit beaches in the south, as the crowds have thinned out.
• August:  The rainy season starts to taper off in the north and central Vietnam. However, it can still be wet and humid.
• September:  The weather is starting to get cooler in the north and central Vietnam. This is a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Sapa, as the crowds have thinned out.
• October:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit any region of the country.
• November:  The weather is still good in November, but the crowds start to pick up again as the holiday season approaches.
• December:  The weather is dry and sunny in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time to visit popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An. However, it can be cold in the north, especially in the mountainous regions.

Top tourist destinations in Vietnam

If you are looking for some of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam , you have plenty of options to choose from. Vietnam has something for everyone, whether you prefer bustling cities or serene countryside. Here are some of the places you should not miss:

• Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam , is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleyways lined with shops, restaurants, and temples. They can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
• Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is a stunning archipelago of over 1,600 islands and islets. The limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay are a popular destination for boat tours, kayaking, and swimming. You can also explore the caves, grottoes, floating villages, and pearl farms that dot the bay. Ha Long Bay is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a must-see for any traveler.
• Cat Ba Island , an island in Ha Long Bay, is a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the island's lush rainforests, visit its hidden coves and beaches, and view its stunning limestone karsts.
• Sapa: A mountain town in northern Vietnam, Sapa is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can marvel at the breathtaking scenery of rice terraces, valleys, and peaks that change color with the seasons. You can also trek, hike, bike, or homestay with the ethnic minority groups that live in the area. Sapa is a place to experience the local culture, markets, festivals, and customs of these diverse communities. Sapa is also a gateway to other attractions in northern Vietnam, such as Fansipan Mountain, Muong Hoa Valley, and Bac Ha Market.
• Ha Giang , a province in the northeast of Vietnam, is known for its stunning scenery, including the Ha Giang Loop, a popular motorcycle route. Visitors can hike through the mountains, visit ethnic minority villages, and explore the region's natural beauty.
• Mai Chau , a valley in north-central Vietnam, is home to the Black Thai, White Thai, and Muong ethnic minority groups. Visitors can experience the traditional culture of these groups by visiting their villages and participating in their activities.
• Ninh Binh: Nestled in north-central Vietnam, Ninh Binh shines as the home to the extraordinary Tam Coc Karst Landscape and Cuc Phuong National Park. Boat tours through the Ha Long Bay-like landscape and encounters with the diverse flora and fauna bring this region's natural beauty to life.
• Nha Trang:  A beach resort city in central Vietnam, Nha Trang is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs. It is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a charming town in central Vietnam. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including Chinese shophouses and Japanese merchant houses. Hoi An is also a major center for silk production and tailoring. You can shop for custom-made clothes, lanterns, pottery, and other souvenirs at the colorful markets and shops. Hoi An also has a rich culinary scene, with dishes like cao lau, banh xeo, and mi quang. Don't forget to visit the nearby beaches and countryside for some relaxation and adventure.
• Da Nang: This coastal city's allure lies in its pristine beaches and dramatic landscapes. From the heights of Ba Na Hills to the wonders of Marble Mountains, Da Nang caters to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a showcase of the country's royal heritage. You can visit the citadel, palaces, tombs, pagodas, and temples that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also admire the art, culture, and cuisine of the Nguyen Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Hue is famous for its elegant dishes like bun bo hue, banh beo, and com hen. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Perfume River and the surrounding mountains.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the world's largest cave system. Visitors can take a tour of the caves, go kayaking on the Son River, or hike in the park's rainforests.
• Mui Ne , a beach resort town in southern Vietnam, is known for its sand dunes, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Visitors can relax on the beach, go sandboarding or dune bashing, or go windsurfing or kitesurfing.
• Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a blend of modern and historic influences. You can learn about the country's past at the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. You can also enjoy the city's present at the Bitexco Financial Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Opera House. Ho Chi Minh City is also a great place to experience the nightlife, shopping, and street food of Vietnam. You can find everything from luxury malls to local markets, from fine dining to street stalls.
• Mekong Delta: The sprawling Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam is characterized by lush rice paddies, floating markets, and traditional villages. Guided boat tours, market explorations, and countryside hikes unveil the delta's vibrant way of life and natural splendor.
• Phu Quoc: Off the southern coast, Phu Quoc beckons with its idyllic beaches and luxury resorts. This island paradise offers sun-soaked relaxation and the chance to explore its national park's unspoiled beauty.

Things to do in Vietnam

From stunning natural landscapes to rich history and culture, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Vietnam . Here are Vicky's top things to do in Vietnam:

• Visit Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam , where you can experience the old and the new, the traditional and the modern. Hanoi is a vibrant and lively city, full of history, culture, and charm. You can explore the Old Quarter, where you can see the ancient architecture, shop at the colorful markets, and taste the delicious street food. You can also visit the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Water Puppet Theater.
• Cruise on Ha Long Bay, one of the most scenic and iconic places in Vietnam. Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where thousands of limestone islands and islets rise from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.  you can take a cruise on a traditional junk boat, kayak through the caves and grottoes, or visit the floating villages and pearl farms. You can also stay overnight on the boat and watch the sunrise and sunset over the bay.
• Climb the limestone karsts of Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is a province in north-central Vietnam known for its Tam Coc Karst Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to take a boat tour through the caves and grottos of Tam Coc, or hike to the top of the Mua Caves.
• Explore Sapa Valley and Bac Ha Market, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the rice terraces, valleys, and peaks. Sapa is a mountainous town in northern Vietnam, where you can trek, hike, bike, or homestay with the ethnic minority groups that live in the area. You can also visit Bac Ha Market, one of the largest and most colorful markets in Vietnam, where you can see the local people in their traditional costumes selling their products and handicrafts.
• Explore the ancient trading port of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture.  Take a walk through the Old Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and shop for souvenirs at the night market.
• Visit the ancient temples of My Son. My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex located in the central highlands of Vietnam. It was once the capital of the Champa Kingdom, which flourished from the 7th to the 15th centuries.
• Relax on the beaches of Da Nang or Nha Trang. These two coastal cities are home to beautiful beaches and a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Discover Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) , the former imperial capital of Vietnam, where you can witness the grandeur and glory of the Nguyen Dynasty. Hue is famous for its citadel, palaces, tombs, pagodas, and temples, which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Hue is also known for its royal cuisine, art, and culture
• Discover the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon.  Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, and shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market. Visit the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the Vietnam War.
• Explore the Mekong Delta, a vast river delta known for its floating markets, traditional villages, and lush green rice paddies.  Take a boat tour to see the floating markets and visit a traditional village.
• See the Cu Chi Tunnels. These underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can take a tour of the tunnels to learn about the war and the ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.
• Relax on the beaches of Phu Quoc, an island off the coast of southern Vietnam known for its beautiful beaches and resorts.  Go swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island's national park.

Where to Stay in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets and preferences. You can find everything from luxury hotels and resorts to budget hostels and homestays.

Please kindly note that the information provided on hotel booking websites such as Agoda or Booking should be considered as a reference only. Some details on these platforms might not be accurate due to infrequent updates, especially for accommodations in remote areas or budget hotels. The best approach for a satisfying experience is to opt for a comprehensive package tour that includes hotels, related services, and land tours. Local experts are well-equipped to select the optimal hotels and services to ensure the best possible experience for your trip. For instance, even though both hotels are rated as 3 stars in Hanoi, if you were to book a 3-star hotel in Thanh Xuan district, you might secure a double room for around $30 (with certain facility limitations). However, a similarly rated 3-star hotel with comparable or slightly better amenities in the Old Quarter of Hanoi could cost you around $45.

Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing where to stay in Vietnam:

• Location: You should choose a location that is convenient for your travel plans and interests. For example, if you want to explore the historical and cultural attractions of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you should stay near the old quarter or the city center. If you want to enjoy the beach and nature of Da Nang or Nha Trang, you should stay near the coast or the mountains. If you want to experience the rural life of Sa Pa or Mai Chau, you should stay in a village or a farm.
• Price: You should choose a price that suits your budget and expectations. For example, if you want to splurge on a luxurious stay with all the amenities and services, you should expect to pay around $100-$300 per night for a five-star hotel or resort. If you want to save money on a basic stay with minimal facilities and comfort, you should expect to pay around $40-$70 per night for a 3-star hotel or hostel. You can also find many mid-range options that offer decent quality and value for around $60-$100 per night. You can use the Booking.Com or Agoda to compare prices and reviews of different accommodation options in Vietnam. 

Style: You should choose a style that matches your taste and personality. For example, if you want to experience the local culture and hospitality, you should stay in a homestay or a guesthouse, where you can interact with the host family and enjoy their home-cooked meals. If you want to indulge in the colonial charm and elegance, you should stay in a heritage hotel or a villa, where you can admire the architecture and decor of the French or Chinese influence. If you want to relax in the modern comfort and convenience, you should stay in a chain hotel or a serviced apartment, where you can access the facilities and amenities of the international standards.

Amenities: You should choose amenities that suit your needs and preferences. For example, if you want to stay connected and productive, you should look for a place that offers free Wi-Fi, a work desk, and a power outlet. If you want to stay fit and healthy, you should look for a place that offers a gym, a pool, and a spa. If you want to stay entertained and social, you should look for a place that offers a bar, a restaurant, and a game room.

When choosing a place to stay in Vietnam, it is important to consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you are on a budget, there are many affordable hostels and guesthouses available. If you are looking for luxury accommodations, there are many beautiful hotels and resorts to choose from. If you are interested in history and culture, you may want to stay in a city like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. If you are looking for a more relaxing beach vacation, you may want to stay in a resort on Phu Quoc or Nha Trang.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Vietnam, depending on your interests and budget:

• Hanoi:  The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Hanoi, from visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to exploring the Old Quarter. There are a variety of accommodation options in Hanoi, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels.
• Ho Chi Minh City:  Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a mix of French colonial and Vietnamese architecture. There are many things to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City, from visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels to shopping at Ben Thanh Market.
• Da Nang:  A coastal city in central Vietnam, Da Nang is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. There are many things to see and do in Da Nang, from hiking in Ba Na Hills to exploring the Marble Mountains.
• Ninh Binh:  A province in north-central Vietnam, Ninh Binh is home to the stunning Ha Long Bay. There are many things to see and do in Ninh Binh, from boat tours of Ha Long Bay to visiting
• Hoi An:  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An is a charming town in central Vietnam. It is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and its vibrant silk industry. There are many things to see and do in Hoi An, from visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge to shopping for souvenirs at the night market.
• Phu Quoc:  An island off the coast of southern Vietnam, Phu Quoc is known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts. There are many things to see and do in Phu Quoc, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the island's national park. 

How to get around Vietnam

Vietnam is a large and diverse country with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or food, you're sure to find something to love in Vietnam. One of the best things about Vietnam is the ease of getting around. The country has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get to your destination, no matter where you're going.

Here are some of the most common ways to get around Vietnam:

• By plane: This is the fastest and easiest way to get from one city to another in Vietnam, especially if you are short on time or want to cover a long distance. There are many domestic flights that connect the major destinations in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. You can find cheap and reliable airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines. Vietnam Airlines, Vietnam's national carrier, boasts a 4-star rating and exceptional services, often regarded as the country's finest. Bamboo Airways, a newcomer, focuses on the domestic market, aspiring to achieve a high-quality 4-star status. Other airlines primarily offer budget options, requiring careful consideration before booking to match your preferences.
• By train:  Vietnam has a main railroad that goes from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) in the south to Hanoi in the north, with over 20 stops along the way. The railroad covers more than 1,000 miles along the coast, linking almost all major coastal cities between Saigon and Hanoi. This railroad is called the 'Reunification Express' today. There are at least 6 trains every day in both directions on the 'Reunification Express' between Saigon and Hanoi. The trip between the two cities takes about 34 hours to 36 hours. Besides, there are some other trains that run on specific sections of the main railroad, stopping at smaller and bigger stations. Besides the main 'Reunification Express' route, there are some other routes that go to different places. These include: Hanoi → Hải Phòng, Hanoi → Lào Cai, Hanoi → Lạng Sơn, Hanoi → Hạ Long, Hanoi → Thái Nguyên, and Saigon → Phan Thiết. However, the schedules on these routes are not regular and may change, especially after the pandemic.You can easily check the schedules, times and ticket prices at the official website of Vietnam railway: [ https://dsvn.vn/#/timve ] This is a scenic and comfortable way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to enjoy the views of the countryside and the coast. There is a single railway network that runs from north to south, linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can also find trains that stop at other popular destinations such as Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Sapa. You can choose from different types of seats and cabins, depending on your budget and comfort level. 
• By bus:  This is a cheap and flexible way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to explore the off-the-beaten-path places or meet other travelers. There are two types of buses in Vietnam: tourist buses and local buses. Tourist buses are catered for tourists and hit all the major attractions. They usually pick up from the city center or your hotel and offer more comfort and safety than local buses. Local buses are used by locals and offer a more authentic and adventurous experience. They usually depart from bus stations or random spots on the road and offer lower prices but less quality and reliability than tourist buses.
• Taxi:  Taxis are a good option for getting around in cities. They are relatively inexpensive, and they can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi app.
• Grab:  Grab is a ride-hailing app that is popular in Vietnam. It is a convenient and affordable way to get around, and it offers a variety of vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and bicycles. Formerly present in Vietnam, Uber has since been acquired by Grab. As a result, Grab is the only ride-hailing app available in Vietnam now, with Uber no longer operating in the country's market.
• By motorbike: This is an adventurous and independent way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you want to experience the thrill of riding on the roads and discovering every corner of the country. Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transportation in Vietnam, for locals and tourists alike. You can rent or buy a motorbike from many shops or online platforms in Vietnam. You can also join a motorbike tour or hire a driver if you don't want to ride by yourself. You will need a valid driver's license, an international driving permit, a vehicle registration certificate, a vehicle insurance certificate, and a helmet to ride a motorbike in Vietnam. You should also be careful of the traffic rules, road conditions, and weather in Vietnam. 

Cultural tips for Vietnam

Vietnam has a long and complex history of interactions with different countries and civilizations, such as China, France, Japan, and the United States. This has shaped the culture of Vietnam , which is influenced by Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and other beliefs and values. Vietnam also has 54 ethnic groups, each with their own customs and traditions. Therefore, it is important to be respectful and aware of the cultural differences and etiquette when visiting Vietnam. Here are some of the cultural tips that you should know before traveling to Vietnam:

• Greetings: When greeting Vietnamese people for the first time, you should avoid physical contact, such as hugs and kisses, unless they initiate it. Shaking hands is common among men, but not between the opposite sex or with seniors. You should greet the elderly first, and bow your head slightly. You should also address people by their title and surname, or by their relationship to you. For example, you can call an older man "ông" (grandfather), an older woman "bà" (grandmother), a younger man "anh" (older brother), or a younger woman "chị" (older sister). You can also use "xin chào" (hello) or "chào bạn" (hello friend) as a general greeting.
• Face : Face is the concept of preserving one's dignity and respect in Vietnamese culture. It can be given, saved, or lost, depending on one's actions and words. Vietnamese people tend to avoid public confrontation or criticism, as they may cause someone to lose face. Therefore, you should try to be polite, calm, and humble when dealing with Vietnamese people. You should also avoid pointing out mistakes or faults in public or in front of others. If you have to do so, you should do it discreetly and tactfully.
• Dining: Dining is an important part of Vietnamese culture, as it is a way of expressing hospitality and friendship. Vietnamese people usually eat together in a family or group setting, sharing dishes from a common plate. You should wait for the host or the eldest person to invite you to start eating before you do so. You should also use both hands to pass or receive food or drinks. You should avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as it is considered rude and unlucky. You should also avoid pointing your chopsticks at someone or waving them around.
• Gifts: Giving gifts is a common way of showing gratitude and respect in Vietnamese culture. You should bring a small gift when visiting someone's home or meeting someone for the first time. Some of the appropriate gifts are fruits, flowers, sweets, tea, coffee, wine, or books. You should avoid giving sharp objects, such as knives or scissors, as they may imply cutting off the relationship. You should also avoid giving handkerchiefs, clocks, or anything black or white, as they are associated with death and mourning.
• Dress: Dressing appropriately is another way of showing respect and sensitivity in Vietnamese culture. You should dress modestly and conservatively when visiting religious sites or rural areas. You should cover your shoulders and knees and remove your shoes before entering a temple or a pagoda. You should also avoid wearing hats or sunglasses inside these places.

Here are a few cultural tips to help you have a more enjoyable and respectful visit: Vietnamese people are generally very friendly and welcoming . It's a good idea to learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as "hello," "goodbye," "thank you," and "you're welcome." Vietnam is a collectivist society, so it's important to be respectful of others' space. Don't be surprised if people stand close to you or touch you in public. Vietnam is a Buddhist country, so it's important to be respectful of Buddhist customs. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts in temples or pagodas. Vietnamese people are very proud of their country's history and culture. It's a good idea to do some research before you go so you can appreciate the country's unique culture. Vietnam is a tropical country, so it's important to be prepared for the heat and humidity. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and drink plenty of fluids. Vietnam is a relatively affordable country, so you can travel on a budget. However, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand, as credit cards are not always accepted. Vietnam is a safe country, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Don't leave valuables unattended, and be careful walking at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety tips for Vietnam

Vietnam is a safe country to visit, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take some basic precautions. Here are a few safety tips for Vietnam:

• Be aware of your surroundings.  Don't walk around with your head down or your phone out. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for potential pickpockets or scammers. Vietnam is generally a safe country for tourists, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams can happen. Therefore, you should be vigilant and cautious when walking around crowded or touristy areas, such as markets, bus stations, or attractions. You should also avoid walking alone at night or in dark alleys. You should keep your valuables and documents in a safe place or leave them at your hotel. You should also be wary of strangers who approach you with offers or requests that seem too good to be true.
• Don't carry large amounts of cash or valuables.  Keep your valuables in a safe place, such as a money belt or a hidden pocket.
• Be careful crossing the street.  One of the biggest hazards in Vietnam is the traffic, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The roads are often crowded and chaotic, with motorbikes, cars, buses, bicycles, and pedestrians sharing the same space. The traffic rules are not always followed or enforced, and accidents are common. Therefore, you should be very careful when crossing the street, riding a motorbike, or taking a taxi. You should always look both ways, walk at a steady pace, and avoid sudden movements. You should also wear a helmet, follow the traffic signs and signals, and negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi.
• Drink bottled water.  Tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Drink bottled water instead.
• Health: Vietnam has a tropical climate with four distinct seasons: spring (February-April), summer (May-August), autumn (September-November), and winter (December-January). The weather can vary depending on the region and the time of the year. Therefore, you should check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. You should also protect yourself from the sun, heat, insects, and waterborne diseases. You should wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. You should drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration. You should use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants. You should also avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Be respectful of Vietnamese culture.  You should be respectful and aware of the cultural differences and etiquette when visiting Vietnam. Dress modestly and avoid making any offensive gestures or comments. You should greet people with a smile and a nod. You should avoid physical contact or public displays of affection. You should dress modestly and conservatively when visiting religious sites or rural areas. You should remove your shoes before entering a temple or a house. You should avoid pointing your finger or your feet at someone or something.

However, there is more to Vietnam than just safety concerns. Vietnam is a beautiful country with many attractions that appeal to different types of travelers, from bustling cities to serene countryside. If you want to make the most of your trip to Vietnam, you should consider booking tour packages from local tour operators who are reputable and experienced in providing private and escorted tours in Vietnam.

Some of the benefits and values of using local tour operators are:

• They can offer you customized itineraries that suit your interests and preferences.
• They can provide you with knowledgeable guides who can speak your language and share their insights and stories about Vietnam.
• They can arrange your transportation, accommodation, meals, tickets, and other services that can save you time and hassle.
• They can ensure your safety and comfort throughout your trip.
• They can support the local economy and community by hiring local staff and using local products.

One of the local tour operators that I recommend is TravelVietnam.Com, which has been providing high-quality tours in Vietnam since 2006, and I am proud to have been a dedicated member of this company since 2009. We have a team of professional travel consultants, including myself, who can help you plan your dream trip to Vietnam !  We have a variety of tour packages that cover all the major destinations in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Mekong Delta. 

We also have special interest tours that cater to different themes, such as culture, nature, adventure, cuisine, or wellness. We also have flexible options that allow you to customize your own tour according to your budget, schedule, and style. If you are interested in booking a tour with TravelVietnam.Com, you can contact us by email or phone/WhatsApp. You can also read our reviews on TripAdvisor or Trustpilot to see what our customers say about our services.

There are many reputable local tour operators in Vietnam. TravelVietnam.com is one of them. TravelVietnam.com offers a variety of private and escort tours, including tours of Sapa, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Mekong Delta, and Ho Chi Minh City. Here are a few of the benefits of traveling with TravelVietnam.Com: Safety:  We specialize exclusively in offering private and luxury tours in Vietnam , serving as a reliable Vietnam DMC (Destination Management Company). Our dedicated tour guides and drivers escort you throughout the journey, prioritizing the absolute safety of you and your group. With our expertise in organizing Vietnam school tours and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tours, we are well-equipped to provide comprehensive services that ensure your trip is not only secure but also unforgettable. By teaming up with us, you can rest assured, as we help you avoid scams and potential safety concerns while exploring the wonders of Vietnam. Convenience:  We are a local tour operator that can handle all of the details of your trip, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. Knowledge:  With over 17 years of experience in the travel industry, we boast a seasoned team of travel experts. With offices in multiple countries such as Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap, Yangon, Hanoi, and HCM City, we are well-equipped to ensure a memorable journey for you. This local presence allows us to offer insights into local culture and history, making your travel experience truly remarkable.

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Last updated on 2023-10-25 04:47:16.  

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A Guide to Family Travel in Vietnam

In the minds of many Americans, Vietnam is still connected with the war of the 1960s and '70s. But in 2019, Vietnam is vibrant, thriving, safe, welcoming and endlessly fascinating.

It is also the 15th-largest nation in the world by population (95 million and counting), despite its relatively small land area. With crowded cities, traffic congestion and countryside that can be a challenge to get to, parents may think twice before taking kids to Vietnam. We urge you to think a third time, as there are so many wonderful sights and activities in this Southeast Asian nation. Plus, it's easier for US citizens to get a visa than you may imagine.

A Note on Hotels

Vietnam is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia and offers a variety of accommodations. In Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC, formerly Saigon), Hoi An, Da Nang and Hue, there's a wide variety of top-end lodgings. In the smaller towns and cities, travelers will struggle to find international brand hotels but locally run guesthouses and boutique accommodation are usually well-kept, clean, comfortable and a good value.

In HCMC, the Park Hyatt Saigon is a well-appointed five-star hotel that can be booked with points and comes highly recommended by The Points Guy. In Hanoi, the Sofitel Legend Hotel Metropole has hosted US presidents, Charlie Chaplin … even James Bond! The MGallery La Residence Hue Hotel comes recommended by family travelers — the hotel's cooking classes are a high point. For some beach time, check out the InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort (although you're better off in Thailand, Malaysia or Indonesia for a Southeast Asian family beach vacation ).

Points-friendly hotels in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Park Hyatt Saigon: from 15k World of Hyatt points per night
• InterContinental Hotels Saigon: from 40k IHG Rewards Club points per night
• Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers: from 25k Marriott points per night
• Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon: from 17.5k Marriott points per night
• Le Meridien Saigon: from 17.5k Marriott points per night

Points-friendly hotels in Da Nang:

• InterContinental Hotels Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort: from 70k IHG points per night
• Hilton Da Nang: 25k–50k Hilton points per night
• Sheraton Grand Da Nang Resort: from 35k Marriott points per night
• Four Points by Sheraton Da Nang: from 12.5k Marriott points per night

Related: The Best Hotel Credit Cards for Family Travel

Some hotels are bookable via Chase's Ultimate Rewards portal :

Vietnam also offers homestay accommodations in more rural parts of the country. These are a great way for kids to learn about life in another culture. Places like the Mekong Delta (south) and Sapa (north) have a particularly wide selection of homestay accommodations. They may sometimes be pretty basic, but that's part of the experience.

How to Get Around

Getting around Vietnam is easy. Travelers on a lower budget can opt for long-distance buses between cities, though be warned that these are not always very comfortable, even in the deluxe category. If you're just traveling a short distance (such as between HCMC and the Mekong Delta, or Hoi An and Hue), you may be able to grin and bear it for the convenience.

Alternatively, domestic flights within Vietnam are affordable. Vietnam Airlines (a SkyTeam partner) is a good airline and flights can be booked on fairly short notice, if necessary (aside from peak periods, such as Tet, Vietnamese New Year).

Pick a Starting Point: Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam is long and skinny, with China to its north, Laos and Cambodia along its western edge, the South China Sea along its eastern coastline and the Mekong Delta in the south.

Vietnam's two major cities, Hanoi, the capital, and HCMC , are at opposite ends of the country and are different in character and climate. International airlines fly into both cities and many travelers to Vietnam fly into one and out of the other. Keep in mind that in the winter the north can get quite cold, whereas the south remains hot and humid.

Here are the best ways to fly to Asia in business class . Ho Chi Minh City's airport code is SGN while Hanoi's is HAN. There are a ton of airline combinations to get you there but look to American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, ANA, Korean Air, Air China, China Southern, China Eastern, EVA, Japan Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines for the first leg.

Whichever direction you choose to travel Vietnam in, here are a few sights and activities that families will love.

Cruise on Halong Bay

Halong Bay, a few hours' drive north of Hanoi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will stun both parents and kids. Limestone turrets rise out of the bay, creating picture-perfect views at every turn (no matter the season — even in the drizzly, foggy winter, as we found out).

A popular way of experiencing Halong Bay is to take an overnight cruise. These are available in a range of luxury levels, with the most comfortable offering beautiful berths with large windows, top-notch food and lots of scheduled activities like visiting underground caves and, in warm weather, kayaking and swimming. Don't miss Halong Bay.

Cycle in the (Flat) Countryside

Everywhere you go in Vietnam, city or countryside, you'll probably be able to rent a bicycle from your hotel for touring. Parents would justifiably be nervous about biking in the big cities but the smaller towns are great places for kids to let off steam through pedal power. Biking is especially good for getting around the flat villages of the Mekong Delta. A nice way to tour is to hire a local boatman to take you to villages across the delta and have him arrange bike rentals from locals.

Culinary Capital of Vietnam, Hoi An

Hoi An, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Vietnam's most popular tourist destinations for good reason. The beautiful and charming city lies on the coast roughly midway up the country and was once an important trading point. There's still evidence of this in the merchants' houses, the Chinese temples and the canals that crisscross the old town.

The old town area is mostly for pedestrians only, making it a comfortable place to wander with kids. Need souvenirs? This is the place to do it, as the crafts and curio shops are great for browsing. There are also extensive produce markets, excellent cooking classes (more on that below) and boat rides to keep the kids happy. Don't miss the night markets, either, which are beautifully lit up with colorful lanterns. There's also a beach nearby, An Bang Beach, if you need time by the water.

Hoi An has a reputation as Vietnam's culinary capital, and you can get delicious food here in beautiful restaurants for just a handful of dollars.

Vietnamese Food

Vietnamese food may not be as famous around the world as Chinese or Thai, but it should be. It's delicious and it's hard to imagine even fussy-eating kids not being able to find something they like. It is fresh and relies on a lot of vegetables and herbs. It tends to be healthy and nutritious (a bonus for parents), with lots of noodles, spring rolls, soups and even baguette sandwiches (a legacy of Vietnam's days as a French colony).

Of course you should take the usual travel precautions: Don't drink tap water, eat only at busy street-side stalls with high turnover, peel fruit, avoid mystery meat. But you don't need to be overly cautious about food in Vietnam. It is usually of good quality and delicious.

Try a Cooking Class

Make time for a cooking class somewhere on your travels. Older kids are welcome to participate in many places. Cooking classes often include other activities, such as a market or garden tour and/or a boat ride. They are a great way to have fun as a family, learn new things and eat well.

There are a lot of options in Hoi An, in particular. Almost every other restaurant there hosts cooking classes, but do some research and find one with good reviews. The overall experience can vary wildly, from a lavish morning of market tours and culinary wizardry to an uninspiring demonstration in a dirty kitchen.

See a Water Puppet Show

Water puppets are a northern Vietnamese form of puppet theater, and they're great fun for adults and kids. While a water-puppet show might sound a bit touristy, the art form dates from the 11th century, so it's a good way to learn about Vietnamese myths and legends and to appreciate Vietnamese arts. The partly submerged stages are clever and elaborate, with puppeteers in black hiding behind screens. Some English explanations are given at shows put on for tourists, but you don't really need to know Vietnamese to enjoy the show.

Hike Around Sapa

Travelers with older kids who will enjoy hiking — and won't mind long travel days — should check out Sapa and its surrounding areas in the far north of the country. The area is famous for its ancient terraced rice fields, as well as being home to Mount Fansipan, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia. The hiking and trekking in this area is the best in Vietnam and adventurous families who don't mind the inevitable inconveniences of traveling to and around rural areas will enjoy Sapa. It takes about eight hours to get there from Hanoi by train (usually overnight) or 10 hours by bus.

Bottom Line

Vietnam is an easy destination, well set up for adventurous tourists. It's especially fun if you enjoy cultural attractions or are a bit of a foodie. There are also natural attractions for families who like the great outdoors, as long as you don't mind traveling to get to them.

Have you already been to Vietnam? Here are some other Asian destinations your family may enjoy:

• Is Cambodia a Family-Friendly Destination?
• How to Visit Hong Kong With Kids
• Is Nepal a Family-Friendly Destination?
• The Best Destinations in Asia for Families
• 7 Reasons Adventurous Families Should Travel to Singapore
• 5 Top Chiang Mai Activities Made Family-Friendly

For the latest travel news, deals and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Vietnam - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.                    Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Vietnam.

 If you decide to travel to Vietnam:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Vietnam.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must have six months’ validity remaining.

One visa page required for entry stamp.

Not required.

None. However, Vietnamese Dong in excess of VND 15,000,000 or foreign currency in excess of 5,000 U.S. dollars or equivalent must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Hanoi - Consular Annex 170 Ngoc Khanh Ba Dinh District Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone:   From outside Vietnam: +84-24-3850-5000 From the U.S.: 011-84-24-3850-5000 From landline within Hanoi: 3850-5000 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 024-3850-5000

Emergency:   From outside Vietnam: +84-24-3850-5000 or +84-24-3850-5105 From the U.S.: 011-84-24-3850-5000 From landline within Hanoi: 3850-5000 or 3850-5105 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 024-3850-5000 or 024-3850-5105 Fax: (+84-24) 3850-5010 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City 4 Le Duan, District 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Telephone: From outside Vietnam: +84-28-3520-4200 From the U.S.: 011-84-28-3520-4200 From landline within Ho Chi Minh City: 3520-4200 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 028-3520-4200

Emergency: From outside Vietnam: +84-28-3520-4200 From the U.S.: 011-84-28-3520-4200 From landline within Ho Chi Minh City: 3520-4200 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 028-3520-4200 Fax: (+84-8) 3520-4244 Email: Contact Us Here

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS WITHIN VIETNAM

Police: 113 Fire brigade: 114 Ambulance: 115

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Entry Requirements:  You must have a valid passport and a visa (or pre-approval for a visa on arrival) to enter Vietnam. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your planned stay, and you must have at least one blank visa page (not including the endorsement page). Visit  Mission Vietnam’s website  for the most current information. If you arrive in Vietnam without an appropriate visa (which could be an e-visa) or pre-approval for a visa on arrival, you will be denied entry . The U.S. Mission to Vietnam cannot assist U.S. citizens who arrive in Vietnam without required visas. U.S.-Vietnam dual nationals should consult the Department of State’s information page for Travelers with Dual Nationality and the Embassy of Vietnam for travel requirements. You must enter and exit Vietnam on the same passport. If using a Vietnamese passport to enter and exit the country, your passport must have at least six months’ validity from your return date to the United States.

Visas:   The Government of Vietnam requires a “visa sponsor” for all visa categories, except for E-visa. A visa sponsor is a local business or travel agent to apply for a pre-approval letter with a Vietnamese Immigration Office in Vietnam on behalf of the traveler. Only on receipt of the pre-approval letter can a foreigner apply for an appropriate visa at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate abroad, or for a visa on arrival. For more information about this process, please visit the website of the Vietnamese Embassy here . When you apply for a visa to enter Vietnam, be sure to request the visa category that corresponds to your purpose of travel. Please refer to  Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website  for information detailing visa categories. If you plan to work in Vietnam, you must obtain a work permit  before  applying for your visa. If you change the purpose of your visit after you have received your visa, you must obtain a new visa outside of Vietnam appropriate for your new activities before beginning those activities. Under local immigration law, employment-based visas are based on a petition from a specific employer, and workers may be unable to switch jobs without securing a new visa. In addition, employers may prevent the departure of contracted employees from Vietnam if they violate contract terms. Before accepting employment in Vietnam, make sure you understand the conditions of contracts and employment-based visas.

Note that travelers with a U.S. APEC Business Travel Card will still need a valid visa to enter Vietnam.  The United States is a transitional member of APEC and does not reciprocate with other economies regarding full pre-clearance benefits to applicants.  As such, no countries are listed on the back of U.S. APEC Business Travel Cards and card holders are required to present any travel or identity documentation, such as a passport and visa (where applicable), required by Vietnam. If a  U.S. APEC Business Travel Card  holder does not conform to Vietnam’s entry requirements, the card holder may be refused entry.

Please consult  Mission Vietnam’s website  for more information.

Please note that Vietnam requires a valid visa, residence card, or approval from the Immigration Department to leave the country. Immigration officials will apply a fee to replace lost/stolen visas or will assess a fine for any visa overstays. The Government of Vietnam has recently increased the penalties for visa overstays, and fines can be substantial. In addition, the processing of exit visas for cases involving visa overstays can take one to two weeks, and longer for more complex cases.

If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Vietnam, you will need both a replacement passport and a replacement Vietnamese visa to legally remain in or depart Vietnam. The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City can usually issue you a limited validity replacement passport in as little as one business day for emergency purposes; however, the Vietnamese government requires three to five working days to issue a replacement visa. For lost and stolen passports, immigration officials will also request a police report. You must file a report of a lost or stolen passport with the police in the location where the loss or theft of your passport occurred, or authorities may refuse to accept the report. The U.S. Embassy and the Consulate General cannot expedite the replacement of your Vietnamese visa.

If you plan to travel from Vietnam to Laos by land, you should request that an adhesive visa be affixed to your passport instead of a detachable one. Lao immigration officials require proof that travelers have departed Vietnam, something that can only be shown with an adhesive visa. Vietnamese officials remove detachable visas from passports when travelers depart Vietnam, leaving travelers with no proof of their Vietnam departure. This situation can result in Lao officials requiring travelers to return to Vietnam.  

Pre-approval for Visa on Arrival:   The Government of Vietnam has authorized some businesses and travel agencies to arrange for pre-approval for a “visa on arrival” at the airport. On a receipt of a pre-approval letter, travelers may then travel to Vietnam and apply for a visa upon landing to Vietnam. Please be advised that you should not travel to Vietnam without having been issued a pre-approval letter as it may result in a denial of entry by immigration authorities. To avoid having to rearrange your travel date, please do not make travel arrangement before you receive your pre-approval letter.

E-visa:  U.S. citizens can apply online for an E-visa on the  Vietnam Immigration website . The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days, single or multiple entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country.   The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days, single or multiple entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country. An E-visa is usually processed within three to five working days after the Vietnam Immigration Department receives the completed application and E-visa fee. E-visa holders must present the printed E-visa and valid passport at the port of entry. Prior to your travel with an E-visa to Vietnam, we recommend travelers to carefully check their E-visa to make sure all information is correct, and that you will enter/exit Vietnam through a port of entry that you had selected at the time of application. An error on E-visa, including minor differences between the information on the application and the biographical information on the passport, may result in a denial of entry by immigration authorities. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General are unable to change the information on your E-visa or help expedite the process as Vietnamese E-visa is under the sole jurisdiction of the Vietnamese government. 

Certificate of Visa Exemption:  Vietnamese nationals residing abroad indefinitely, their spouses, and their children may apply for a Certificate of Visa Exemption. The certificate has a maximum validity of five years, during which time the holder can enter Vietnam and stay for up to six months without applying for a visa. More information can be found on the  Vietnam Embassy website .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Vietnam. 

Immunization information for travelers can be found on the  Centers for Disease and Control’s website .

Information about  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our  Customs Information page . 

Safety and Security

The Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens overseas always maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness while traveling internationally. Please visit  www.travel.state.gov  for up-to-date information. 

Messages regarding weather-related events are posted  here  and on the Embassy/Consulate General  website . 

While in Vietnam you are subject to Vietnamese laws. U.S. citizenship will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, expelled, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Vietnamese authorities routinely do not provide timely notification of the arrest of a U.S. citizen to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General or approval for consular officials to visit U.S. citizens. The delays for both – particularly for access – can take several weeks. Note that if you enter Vietnam with a non-U.S. passport, the Government of Vietnam has different notification and access responsibilities for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. See our  webpage  for further information. 

Small-scale, peaceful protests occasionally occur in Vietnam’s major cities, but large-scale demonstrations are rare. As in any country, you should avoid large protests, as they can become violent with little or no warning. 

The Government of Vietnam may not allow or authorize travel to certain areas of the country that are deemed sensitive. Check with local authorities before visiting border areas to see if you need to obtain a travel permit issued by local authorities. U.S. citizens have been detained after traveling in areas close to the Vietnamese borders with the People’s Republic of China, Cambodia, and Laos. These areas are not always marked, and there are no warnings about prohibited travel.

Safety standards in Vietnam are not at the same level as those in the United States and vary greatly from company to company and province to province. This is especially true for fire safety codes. Travelers should be aware that many buildings, including hotels, shops, and restaurants, have limited or no fire safety equipment or emergency exits. Ground and water transportation also lack safety regulations. 

Travelers to Vietnam should have no expectation of privacy and should safeguard all personal documents and electronic devices. Exercise caution when discussing sensitive or proprietary information.

Crime:  Crime in Vietnam is rated high. Exercise vigilance and the same commonsense security precautions you would in any major metropolitan city in the United States.  

Violent crime against foreigners is rare; however, petty crimes, such as theft, bag grabs, and pickpocketing occur regularly, especially in crowded areas and tourist locations. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday seasons, including during the day and in well-lit areas. Motorcyclists are known to snatch bags, cameras, cell phones, and other valuables from individuals riding or walking on the street.   If you are targeted by thieves, do not resist, and report the incident immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Keep a tight hold on bags as you enter and exit vehicles and as you walk around. Hold tightly to cell phones when using them outside and lock and stow phones until you actually need to use them.

Some U.S. citizens have reported threats of death or physical injury connected to business-related disputes. You should report such threats to local authorities and if you feel unsafe, you should depart the country. 

Keep your passport and other important valuables in your hotel in a safe or another secured location at all times and carry both photo and digital copies of your passport. You should immediately report the loss or theft of your U.S. passport to the local police and the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulate General. See section on “Visas” for information on what to do if your passport/visa are lost or stolen.

Sexual Assault:  Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment and rape do occur. To minimize the risk avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Male violence against women and sexual harassment is often ignored by the police. In areas foreigners frequent, women have reported harassment and assault such as men exposing themselves, asking for sexual favors, and groping.

Drugs:  Recreational drugs available in Vietnam can be extremely dangerous and can result in death. Drugs sold in Vietnam may be fake, synthetic, or laced with toxic ingredients undetectable to the buyer. This includes nitrous oxide balloons widely available in nightlife establishments. You should also avoid purchasing liquor or cigarettes from street vendors or strangers, as the authenticity of the contents cannot be assured. 

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General for assistance. Vietnam’s local equivalent of an emergency line is 113. Local police will issue a report of a crime, but generally will only initiate investigations for crimes they determine serious, which do not always equate with U.S. standards. Investigations can take several months or even years to complete.

In the event you are a victim of a crime, local police will issue a crime report in Vietnamese, but generally will only initiate investigations for crimes they determine serious. While the overall situation is improving, some police have asked for bribes, ostensibly to support local police efforts or to facilitate investigation of a crime. If you are involved in a situation where a police officer is soliciting money, contact American Citizen Services at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance .  Note that local authorities take a different attitude towards domestic violence cases and are hesitant to get involved in cases involving foreigners. Vietnam has very limited infrastructure to support victims of domestic violence.

Tourism:   The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to Vietnamese laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Vietnam are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines, or even the death penalty. Police periodically raid nightlife establishments suspected of engaging in the drug trade and during these raids will subject all patrons present to drug testing at the police station. A positive result, regardless of whether drugs were consumed in Vietnam or before entry, may result in criminal charges.

In Vietnam, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have proper ID, such as a passport or a copy of your visa. Driving under the influence of alcohol resulting in a fatal accident could lead to immediate imprisonment. If you break local laws in Vietnam, your U.S. passport  will not  help you avoid arrest or prosecution. Note that the Vietnamese legal system allows for lengthy criminal investigation periods that can lead to prolonged pre-trial detention; some investigations can last years without any explanation.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. You can be  prosecuted in the United States  for engaging in sexual conduct with children or for using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country regardless of the legality of these activities under the host country’s laws.

Arrest Notification in Vietnam:    If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately. There are often delays in notification by the Vietnamese authorities to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General and officials have been known to delay consular access to prisoners for several weeks. 

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or forfeit them upon return to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.  

Gambling:  Gambling is highly regulated by the government and persons or businesses running games or gambling halls are required to be licensed. The Government of Vietnam pursues cases of running or playing in unlicensed games aggressively. There are currently U.S. citizens serving jail sentences of three to five years because of illegal gambling.

Dual Nationality:  Dual nationality is accepted by the Vietnamese government in some, but not all, circumstances. However, dual nationals should be aware that Vietnam recognizes their Vietnamese citizenship as primary before others. In such cases, the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General may be limited in the consular services we are able to provide. U.S. citizens who also hold Vietnamese citizenship and are currently residing in Vietnam may wish to contact local authorities and/or seek competent legal advice on how local laws may affect their status. For detailed information on Vietnamese nationality law and other legal issues visit the  Embassy of Vietnam website . 

Work Authorization:  The Government of Vietnam maintains strict laws with respect to foreign workers. U.S. citizens planning to work in Vietnam should make sure that they are in full compliance with Vietnamese regulations. Penalties can be severe and include deportation, fines, or detention. Vietnam immigration law allows for companies sponsoring foreign employees to exercise control over their employees’ visas, including prohibiting their exit from the country if they have any outstanding debts.

Teaching English:  We advise those considering accepting an English teaching job in Vietnam to carefully review the terms of the contract regarding working and living conditions and to ask for multiple references from persons familiar with the institution, especially former U.S. citizen employees, before committing to contracts. Some U.S. citizens have reported their employers have reneged on contract terms, including offering significantly lower salaries than agreed or seizing their passports, and employers have caused complications with the exit visa process for employees who quit, complicating the exit visas required to depart the country. 

Hotels:  Hotels in Vietnam require you to present your passport (and visas, if issued separately) upon check-in so that your stay can be registered with local police. Every guest in a hotel room or private residence must be registered, regardless of nationality. If you stay at a private residence (i.e., at the residence of family or friends), you must comply with registration requirements by visiting the local police station and registering your stay within 24 hours. Some provinces allow registration online.

Exports:  Vietnamese law prohibits the export of antiques. However, these laws are vague and unevenly enforced. Customs authorities may inspect and seize your antiques without compensating you, and the determination of what is an “antique” can be arbitrary. If you purchase non-antique items of value, you should retain receipts and confirmation from shop owners and/or the Ministry of Culture and the Customs Department to prevent seizure when you leave the country.  

Imports:  Vietnamese authorities have seized documents, audio and video tapes, compact discs, literature, and personal letters they deem to be pornographic or political in nature or intended for religious or political proselytizing. It is illegal to import weapons, ammunition, explosives, military equipment and tools (including uniforms), narcotics, drugs, toxic chemicals, pornographic and subversive materials, firecrackers, or children's toys that have "negative effects on personality development, social order, and security."    For up-to-date information on Vietnam Customs information, please visit the  Vietnam Customs website .

Freedom of Expression:   The Government of Vietnam maintains strict control over all forms of political speech, particularly dissent or speech it deems as critical of the government and/or party. U.S. citizens have been detained, tried, and convicted for political activities (including criticizing the government or its domestic/foreign policies or advocating alternatives to Communist Party rule), possession of political material, and non-sanctioned religious activities (including proselytizing). Authorities have also detained U.S. citizens for posting messages on blogs or online chatrooms that are perceived to be political or critical of the government. U.S. citizens of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful with their online postings. Review the latest version of the  Vietnam Human Rights Report  for the latest information on Freedom of Expression in Vietnam.

Association with Groups:   Persons whom the Government of Vietnam perceives to be associated with dissident or political groups may be denied entry to Vietnam, prevented from departing, detained, interrogated, placed under surveillance, or even tried and convicted. Note that if arrested, you could be subject to lengthy detention without access to an attorney or family members. U.S. citizens of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful about associating with dissident groups. U.S. citizen travelers have been summoned by immigration or local security officials for reasons that are unclear or not explicitly related to any suspected or alleged violation of law. We recommend that U.S. citizens finding themselves in this situation contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately for further information and/or assistance.

Photography: Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in questioning by authorities, fines, or delayed travel. You should be cautious when traveling near military bases and avoid photography in these areas.     Disputes: The Vietnamese government has occasionally seized the passports and blocked the departure of foreigners involved in commercial disputes. U.S. citizens whose passports have been seized by Vietnamese authorities should contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance . 

Civil Procedures:  Civil procedures in Vietnam, such as marriage, divorce, documenting the birth of a child, and issuance of death certificates, are highly bureaucratic and can be slow. Local authorities may refuse a request to include a non-Vietnamese name on a birth certificate. In addition, for those wishing to get married in Vietnam, you will need a notarized affidavit of single status. Please contact the  Vietnamese Embassy in Washington, D.C. , or the  Vietnamese Consulate General in San Francisco  or  Houston  concerning documentary requirements for these services. Enforcement of civil orders is frequently difficult or non-existent. 

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for  Women Travelers . 

LGBTQI+ Rights:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or in attending LGBTIQ+ events in Vietnam. See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report   for further details.

Accessibility: Most public places and public transportation are  not  accessible to persons with disabilities. Sidewalks, curb ramps, restrooms, road crossings, and tourist areas are not equipped to assist such individuals. New, modern buildings and facilities in larger urban cities are regularly built with ramps and accessible entryways. 

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Medical facilities in Vietnam, including emergency response services, frequently do not meet international standards and may lack medicine and supplies. We strongly recommend travelers purchase medical evacuation insurance before visiting Vietnam.

• Medical personnel generally speak little or no English. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services. You may obtain lists of local English-speaking physicians from the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City from our  website . 
• International health clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can treat minor illnesses and injuries, but more serious problems often require medical evacuation to other cities in the region. 
• Although you can purchase many prescription and non-prescription medications at pharmacies, some common U.S. medications may not be available. You should bring adequate supplies of medications for the duration of your stay in Vietnam and ensure with the Ministry of Health that the medicine you need is allowed to enter Vietnam. You should carry a copy of your prescription if carrying medicine in a travel case or container.
• We strongly recommend travelers purchase medical evacuation insurance before visiting Vietnam. 
• Travelers to Vietnam are at risk of the following diseases: Tuberculosis, Dengue Fever, Zika, Avian Influenza (H5N1), and HIV. You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the  CDC website .  

We do not pay medical bills. The U.S. government cannot pay medical bills and does not provide medical assistance. Also, be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept upfront payments. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. If covered by TriCare, check the TriCare website ( https://www.tricare.mil/ ) for additional information about overseas coverage. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation as it can cost many thousands of dollars. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

It is extremely important  that travelers have sufficient funds and/or insurance to cover any potential medical costs.  Frequently hospitals will hold onto a patient’s passport as collateral for payment, and patients may have difficulty getting their passport back without paying their medical bills in full.  Patients who do not pay their medical bills in full also run the risk of being barred from departing the country.  

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Air quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in Vietnam’s major cities, and you should consult your doctor prior to travel and consider the impact that seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. To obtain information on the air quality in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, please follow the link to the Environmental Protection Agency’s  AirNow website . Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City’s Air Quality Index (AQI) can be observed either by clicking on the Vietnam location on the map, or by selecting Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in the “Select a City” option on the upper right part of the page. The page provides AQI over the last 24-hour period as well as pollutant concentration and a downloadable historical document. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic in Vietnam is dangerous, chaotic, and undisciplined. Road conditions are poor; traffic accidents are the leading cause of death, severe injury, and emergency evacuation of foreigners in Vietnam. Long-distance buses and trains do not meet U.S. safety standards. Buses and trucks are often overloaded and travel at high speeds with little regard to other modes of road transportation.  

Traffic Laws:  Driving in Vietnam is not comparable to driving in other countries. Vietnamese drivers routinely ignore traffic laws, causing traffic fatalities on a daily basis. We strongly discourage you from operating a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam. Vietnamese drivers and pedestrians may not behave in a manner to which Americans are accustomed. If you do choose to operate a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam, wear a helmet and  always  yield to larger vehicles. Motor bike fatalities are a leading cause of death or serious injury among foreign nationals visiting or living in Vietnam, with several fatalities having occurred on major roads and rural routes within the past year. If you are the victim of a serious motor bike accident in Vietnam, the prognosis for full recovery and survival is low due to Vietnam’s poor medical infrastructure. A motorbike license is required to operate a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam. Motor scooter drivers without a license can be held criminally liable for injuries to or death of a victim in an accident, and you may be held in custody for an extended period of time without the ability to speak to family or a lawyer during the investigation. 

Pedestrians should always look carefully  in both directions  before crossing streets, even when using a marked crosswalk with a green “walk” light illuminated or when crossing what is believed to be a one-way street. When walking on sidewalks, be mindful of scooters that may be behind you. Vietnamese commonly drive their scooters against traffic and on sidewalks. 

Because the United States is not a party to the Convention on Road Traffic, international driving permits and U.S. drivers’ licenses are  not valid  in Vietnam. Foreigners renting vehicles risk fines, prosecution, and/or imprisonment for driving without a Vietnamese license endorsed for the appropriate vehicle. If you wish to drive in Vietnam, contact the Provincial Public Transportation Service of the Vietnamese Department of Communications and Transport to obtain a Vietnamese driver’s license. Note that you may be required to take a medical examination as part of the driver license application process. 

For more information, please refer to Vietnam’s national tourism office website.

Public Transportation:

Bus System:  While Vietnam does have an extensive bus system, buses can be overcrowded and are often driven with little or no regard for passenger safety. 

For-hire vehicles:   Major taxi companies tend to be reliable. Occasionally boutique taxi companies have rigged meters, particularly on routes to and from the international airports. Exercise caution in choosing ground transportation upon arrival at the airport in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Some travelers have reported being robbed by drivers who greeted them upon arrival with a placard showing the traveler's name. If you are expecting to be picked up, ask the company for the driver’s name, phone number, and license plate number before you travel. Areas outside of large cities typically have only rudimentary public transportation and often do not have metered taxis. Travelers are advised to use caution in these situations. 

We strongly discourage the use of motorcycle taxis (known as “xe om”). Motorcycle taxis are unregulated and unsafe, and the helmets provided to riders offer little to no protection against injury in the case of an accident. 

Smartphone-based for-hire vehicle services:  GrabTaxi and local taxi companies are readily available, accessible via Smartphone apps, and routinely utilized by foreigners and locals. 

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Vietnam’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Vietnam’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Vietnam should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) broadcast warnings website  portal.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Vietnam . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Getting around Vietnam is easy whatever your budget

Mar 14, 2024 • 10 min read

From bike to bus, this guide to transportation in Vietnam can help you plan your trip © Efired / Shutterstock

Wrapped around the east coast of mainland Southeast Asia like a mythical Naga serpent, Vietnam naturally lends itself to overland travel. Its two biggest cities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) – are divided by 1100km of rice paddies, tropical jungles, historic townships, wartime relics, national parks and sandy beaches, and most people plot an itinerary that takes in both of these lively hubs.

How you traverse the lush, green Vietnamese countryside is up to you. The famous Reunification Express train line linking Hanoi and HCMC is the obvious choice, with great views and stops all along the Vietnamese coast, but you can also hopscotch around by local bus or zip around by motorcycle, taking in places off the main tourist trail. Traveling by boat is a particularly evocative way to explore, tracing Vietnam’s meandering rivers and buzzing out to islands offshore.

If you're in a neighboring country, there’s no need to fly to Vietnam. Trains and buses provide easy access from China , with smooth connections from Nanning through to Hanoi, and from Kunming to Hanoi via Lao Cai. If you’re heading south or west, international buses run daily to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville in Cambodia and to Hue from Savannakhet in Laos .

Whichever route you plan to take around the country, here’s our guide to getting around Vietnam. 

Take Vietnam’s most famous train between HCMC and Hanoi

If you’re looking to tick off both Hanoi and HCMC and the many sights in the center of the country, there’s no better way to explore than the train. The country’s main railway line weaves along the coast between these two teeming cities, stopping almost everywhere you’d want to break the journey. 

Trains also run from Hanoi to Haiphong (for excursions in and around Halong Bay) and Lao Cai, about an hour's drive from Sapa , Vietnam’s busiest trekking hub. If you’re bound for China, trains connect Hanoi to Kunming, via Lao Cai, and Nanning, via the border town of Lang Son, with onward services to Beijing . 

Trains classified as SE (Super Express) are the smartest and fastest, while those referred to as TN (Thong Nhat) are slower, older and less comfortable. The term “Reunification Express” is used as an umbrella term for many different trains running between Hanoi and HCMC – the SE1 and SE3 leave Hanoi in the evening, reaching HCMC in the morning on day three. To arrive in Hanoi in the morning, take the evening SE4 or SE2 from HCMC.

Ticket options for trains in Vietnam

There are four main ticket classes on trains – hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper and soft sleeper – in increasing order of cost and comfort. These classes are also split into air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options, with a higher fare for AC seats and berths. Some trains have wifi, but connection speeds can be slow (you are better off getting a local data SIM for your mobile).

Hard sleeper carriages have berths in three tiers; the top berth is the cheapest and the lower berth is the most expensive. Soft sleepers generally have two tiers, with four berths per compartment, all at the same price. The Man in Seat 61 website has an excellent in-depth guide to the different classes of train in Vietnam.

Great for daytime journeys, “soft seats” are airplane-style chairs that recline, usually arranged in rows of four, with two chairs on either side of the aisle. “Hard seats” are essentially wooden benches; expect these carriages to be busy and hazy with cigarette smoke. Use some clothes as an improvised cushion to avoid a bruised behind!

Tickets can be bought at railway stations a few days in advance of travel, or online 60 to 90 days in advance. When booking online, many travelers use the booking sites Bao Lau and 12Go.Asia ; booking via the official Vietnam Railways website is only possible with a Vietnamese credit card. 

Buses go almost everywhere in Vietnam

Bus travel in Vietnam can be either convenient and comfortable (when traveling between major cities) or slow and cramped (when traveling in the backwaters), but it’s rarely expensive. In popular traveler hangouts such as Hanoi and HCMC, you’ll see signs advertising “Open Tour" or "Open Ticket" buses – these services run between major cities and you can hop-on and hop-off the bus at any major city along the way. You’ll pay more than for ordinary buses, but routes start and stop in conveniently central locations.

Normal bus services run from dedicated bus stations, and there may be more than one station in each town, serving different destinations, so always check which station you need to go to. Most have dedicated ticket offices and prices and departure times are clearly displayed; buy tickets a day in advance to be certain of securing a seat.

In larger cities, main bus stations are often out of the city center. Have your hotel (or someone Vietnamese-speaking) ask where the nearest pick-up point is (and what time you should be there) which might save you a time-consuming trip to the bus station.

Different bus companies offer different levels of comfort. At the top of the scale are deluxe sleeper services between major cities, with minimal stops en route. You’ll get a reclining seat or even a seat that converts into a horizontal bed, but you’ll need earplugs to sleep through the onboard karaoke sessions and screenings of music videos and martial arts films. Companies such as The Sinh Tourist and Mai Linh Express offer online booking.

In rural areas, buses stop repeatedly to drop off and pick up passengers, so journeys can take an age and buses can be crammed to bursting. Whichever class you travel in, road travel in Vietnam is never fast ­– don’t expect to cover much more than 30 miles (50km) per hour due to the sheer volume of motorbikes, trucks, pedestrians and livestock on the roads.

Motorbikes offer freedom for adventurous travelers

Riding the length of Vietnam is a lifelong dream for many seasoned bikers, and a busy industry has grown up supplying motorcycles to travelers attempting the journey between Hanoi and HCMC. The ride is certainly rewarding, but with local driving conditions, it’s not for novices, and some of the bikes available for rent or purchase are in poor condition; check over machines advertised in hostels and hotels thoroughly before you agree to buy.

Exploring the mountainous northwest is an even bigger adventure, with challenging switchbacks and dramatic vistas appearing around every corner, but you’ll need a more powerful machine to tackle the steep inclines and potholes. Along the coast and in tourist hubs, it’s easy to rent a low-powered scooter or motorcycle from cafes, hotels and travel agencies for local exploring, sometimes for as little as US$5 per day.

Rental agreements tend to be somewhat informal, and you’ll often have to leave your passport as security. Seek out rental firms that offer insurance and provide a formal rental agreement (so you know what’s covered in the event of an accident), and always wear a motorcycle helmet – it’s a legal requirement. As an alternative to hiring your own wheels, some local riders are willing to provide driver services on two wheels for around US$30 per day.

If you have an accident in Vietnam while riding without a valid license (and an International Driving Permit), your travel insurance is unlikely to cover your costs – including the cost of damage to the vehicle, to yourself, and to other vehicles and people. Many travelers wing it, but this means taking a significant risk – every day in Vietnam, around 17 people die and 22 people are injured in road traffic accidents.

Rent a car and driver for hassle-free road transport

Self-drive rental cars are almost impossible to find in Vietnam, but it’s easy to rent a vehicle with a driver who will also double as an informal tour guide and (hopefully) take you to places you would otherwise miss. You'll definitely want to check their ability to communicate in English beforehand. You also won’t have to worry about getting the right driving license or extra car insurance.

Travel agencies in tourist areas offer all sorts of ready-made car-and-driver packages but it’s just as easy to arrange a custom itinerary. Bank on paying US$60 to US$150 per day plus petrol; your driver will cover their own food and accommodation. Split the trip with other travelers to bring down costs. A 2WD car is fine for lowland areas but you’ll need a 4WD for the mountainous north.

Cycling is a great way to explore Vietnam’s backroads

Cycling can be a delightful great way to get around Vietnam, so long as you stick to quiet rural roads and avoid the crowded highways. Much of the country is agreeably flat and bike workshops are easy to find if you have a flat tire or mechanical issue (just don’t expect to find parts for foreign-made bikes).

Bikes can be rented for local exploring from hotels and travel agencies wherever travelers gather, but the quality and mechanical sophistication of bikes varies. For long-distance trips, join a cycle tour or rent a higher quality bike through a cycle-tour company such as Vietnam Cycling or Indochina Bike Tours . To cut out long highway rides, bicycles can be transported on the roof of many buses or in train baggage compartments.

Domestic flights will save you time (but not carbon)

If you’re short on time, domestic flights are a reasonably economical way to get from A to B in Vietnam, but you’ll be churning out extra carbon. Cancellations are common so avoid leaving a short gap between a domestic flight and an international connection (travel a day early if you can). 

Airlines operating domestic routes in Vietnam include Bamboo Airways , Pacific Airlines (formerly Jetstar), Vietjet Air and Vietnam Airlines (who have the most reliable schedules and the best safety rating). 

Go by boat to reach the islands or explore the mighty Mekong

Many of Vietnam’s winding rivers are navigable, but the most important thoroughfare for boats is the mighty Mekong River, which splits into a maze of smaller channels as it reaches the East Sea. Locals use passenger boats to get around all over the country, but tourists tend to stick to organized day cruises from HCMC, Hoi An , Nha Trang , Danang , Hue and Tam Coc .

Boats also run to islands offshore, including tropical Phu Quoc in the south, the islands scattered around Nha Trang Bay, the Cham Islands near Hoi An in central Vietnam, and – of course – the myriad islands and outcrops in Halong Bay and neighboring Bai Tu Long Bay . It's possible to reach the Con Dao Islands by boat from Soc Trang, Vung Tau or Can Tho on the mainland.

Note that sea transport can be disrupted during the May to December typhoon season , particularly in August and September; monitor the weather reports and be ready to change your plans if a storm approaches.

Cities are easily explored by bus, taxi and rickshaw 

Buses provide inexpensive local transport in towns and cities, but routes can be confusing, and pickpockets can be a problem on crowded buses. If you prefer to travel by taxi, the companies Mai Linh and Vinasun are reputable options. Rideshares (sometimes provided by motorcycle) can be booked via Grab , Gojek or Be .

A more fun way to explore is by cycle rickshaw – the buggy-like Vietnamese version is known as a cyclo (although these are becoming increasingly rare). Always agree on a fare before you start your journey. If you have steady nerves, xe om (motorcycle taxis) are the fastest way to navigate city traffic but luggage will have to go in your lap or on your back.

Accessible travel options are limited in Vietnam

While locals are happy to help out, Vietnam is not an easy destination for travelers with disabilities.

If you prefer to travel independently, come with a travel companion, and rent a vehicle with a driver (minivans are available, and can often fit a folding wheelchair) or use open tour buses. Boats and trains, sadly, are not particularly accessible, but with assistance, you may be able to travel in “soft” class carriages without too much trouble.

Many travelers find it easier to come on a disability-friendly tour – packages are easy to find through specialist operators such as Roll in Asia and Enable Holidays . For more information on accessible travel, see Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel Resources . 

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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