Ultimate Travel Guide to Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know
Vietnam is a country of breathtaking landscapes, layered history, and unforgettable flavors. From the rice terraces of the north to the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, from street food in Hanoi to ancient towns and tropical beaches, Vietnam offers an immersive travel experience that’s both authentic and affordable.
This guide will help you plan a trip through one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding and culturally rich destinations.
Why Visit Vietnam?
Vietnam is the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and dynamic energy. It’s a country where you can cruise through limestone islands one day, trek through highland villages the next, and relax on a beach by sunset — all while enjoying some of the best cuisine in the world.
Top reasons to visit:
- Diverse landscapes from mountains to coastlines
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Hoi An, Hue, and Ha Long Bay
- Vibrant street life and historic cities
- World-renowned Vietnamese cuisine
- Warm, welcoming people and rich traditions
- Affordable travel for all budgets
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s climate varies by region due to its long north-south shape. There’s always a good time to visit, but timing depends on your route.
- North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay):
Best from October to April, with cooler, dry weather - Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An):
Best from February to August, with sunny coastal days - South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc):
Best from December to April, during the dry season
The rainy season typically runs from May to October, especially in the south.
Getting to Vietnam
Vietnam has several international airports and is well-connected to Asia, Europe, and Australia.
- Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport – HAN) – Ideal for northern Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport – SGN) – Main southern hub
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Great for central Vietnam
- Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – For beach holidays
There are direct international flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, Tokyo, Doha, and many European hubs.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Vietnam offers visa-free entry for some nationalities and e-visas for others.
- Citizens of many European and Asian countries can enter visa-free for 15–45 days
- Others can apply for an e-visa online (single-entry, up to 90 days)
- Visa on arrival is no longer standard — check current entry rules before traveling
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
Top Places to Visit in Vietnam
Hanoi
Vietnam’s capital blends French colonial charm with centuries-old temples and buzzing street life. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and local cafés serving traditional egg coffee.
Ha Long Bay
A UNESCO-listed seascape of limestone karsts and emerald waters. Best explored on an overnight cruise with kayaking and cave visits.
Sapa and the Northern Highlands
Stunning terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and mountain trekking. Visit between September and November for golden harvest views.
Hue and Hoi An
Hue is Vietnam’s imperial capital, home to royal tombs and pagodas. Hoi An is a beautifully preserved trading town famous for lantern-lit streets, tailors, and riverside dining.
Da Nang
A modern beach city near Hoi An, known for its bridges, coastal resorts, and access to the Marble Mountains and Bana Hills.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
A paradise for adventure travelers, with some of the world’s largest caves, jungle treks, and underground rivers.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city, filled with skyscrapers, rooftop bars, historical museums, and markets like Ben Thanh.
The Mekong Delta
Life in the delta revolves around the water. Explore floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages by boat.
Phu Quoc and Con Dao Islands
Tropical escapes with white sand beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back luxury.
Vietnamese Cuisine to Try
Vietnamese food is fresh, flavorful, and deeply regional. Every meal is a highlight.
- Pho: Aromatic noodle soup with beef or chicken
- Banh Mi: Crusty baguette sandwich with savory fillings
- Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with noodles and herbs (Hanoi specialty)
- Goi Cuon: Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, herbs, and peanut sauce
- Cao Lau: Regional noodle dish from Hoi An
- Banh Xeo: Crispy savory pancakes with shrimp and pork
- Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da): Strong and sweet with condensed milk
Street food is an essential part of the experience — don’t miss local night markets.
Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam is a long country, so you’ll need a mix of transport options to see it all.
- Domestic flights: Fast and cheap; perfect for long distances
- Trains: The Reunification Express runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with scenic stops
- Buses and minibuses: Widely used and affordable, especially between towns
- Taxis and ride apps: Grab is popular in cities
- Motorbikes: Rent for local trips or guided countryside rides
- Boats: Used in the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay
Book transportation in advance during national holidays and high season.
Where to Stay in Vietnam
Accommodation is plentiful and well-priced, ranging from basic to luxurious.
- Luxury: Beach resorts in Da Nang and Phu Quoc, boutique hotels in cities
- Mid-range: Stylish guesthouses, boutique hotels, and homestays
- Budget: Hostels and budget hotels throughout the country
- Unique stays: Rural homestays in Sapa, eco-lodges in national parks, colonial mansions in Hanoi
Vietnam is great for spontaneous travel, but book ahead for peak periods.
Travel Tips for Vietnam
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) – Credit cards accepted in many places, but cash is essential
- Language: Vietnamese – English is spoken in tourist areas, less so in rural regions
- Tipping: Not required but appreciated (especially for guides and hotel staff)
- Safety: Vietnam is safe for travelers; beware of scams and petty theft in busy areas
- Internet: Fast and reliable – SIM cards with data are inexpensive
- Health: Bring basic medication; bottled water is recommended
Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas and always ask before photographing people.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam is a destination that speaks to the senses — from the sizzle of street food to the scent of incense in ancient pagodas, from lush green rice paddies to bustling urban markets. Whether you’re here for cultural exploration, culinary adventures, or natural wonders, Vietnam promises a journey full of depth, color, and connection.