Hanoi
Vietnam's historic capital blends ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and a bustling Old Quarter packed with street-side stalls.
Vietnam
Asia · Timeless heritage, lush karst landscapes, and unforgettable culinary adventures await.
Best timeNovember–April
Mid-range budget$85 / day
City guides2
RegionAsia
Why visit Vietnam
Vietnam captivates travelers with its dramatic emerald landscapes, buzzing street-food culture, and rich historical heritage. From the northern misty mountains down to the tranquil waterways of the Mekong Delta, it offers an incredible mix of adventure and cultural immersion. Food lovers, nature seekers, and history buffs will all find unforgettable experiences across the country.
CurrencyVietnamese Dong (VND); cash is king for street stalls, though cards work in hotels and upscale venues.
LanguageVietnamese; basic English is widely spoken in tourist destinations, hotels, and major restaurants.
Visa90-day e-Visas are available online for most nationalities; check latest requirements before your departure.
PlugsTypes A, C, and F; standard voltage is 220V at 50Hz, fitting most international two-pin plugs.
TippingNot traditionally expected, but rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% at sit-down restaurants is appreciated.
SafetyGenerally very safe; watch out for petty pickpocketing in crowded markets and take care crossing chaotic streets.
When to go
The ideal months to visit nationwide are from November to April, when rainfall is low and temperatures are pleasant across most regions.
Spring (Feb-Apr)18-28°C, warm and pleasant
Great nationwide travel conditions, blooming flowers, and moderate crowds before the summer heat.
Summer (May-Aug)28-35°C, hot and humid with rain
Peak domestic travel season, busy central beaches like Da Nang, and frequent tropical showers.
Autumn (Sep-Nov)22-30°C, cooler with lower humidity
Golden rice terraces in northern highlands, pleasant city walks, though typhoons can impact central coasts.
Winter (Dec-Jan)10-20°C in North, 25-30°C in South
Chilly and misty in Hanoi and Sapa, sunny beach weather in southern islands like Phu Quoc.
City guides for Vietnam
Best places to visit in Vietnam
Ha Long Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site famed for emerald waters dotted with thousands of towering limestone karst islands.
Hoi An
A charming, well-preserved ancient trading port famous for lantern-lit alleyways, historic shophouses, and custom tailors.
Hue
The former imperial seat along the Perfume River, renowned for its majestic citadel, royal tombs, and royal cuisine.
Ho Chi Minh City
A vibrant economic powerhouse buzzing with energy, historic war museums, and rooftop cocktail lounges.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang
A paradise for outdoor adventurers featuring some of the world's most spectacular and colossal cave systems.
Classic Vietnam routes
Classic North to South
14 days- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Hue
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh City
Travel between major hubs via domestic flights or scenic sleeper trains like the Reunification Express to experience iconic highlights.
Plan this routeNorthern Mountains and Bays
8 days- Hanoi
- Ninh Binh
- Ha Giang
- Ha Long Bay
Connect these dramatic northern landscapes by private car or sleeper bus, navigating limestone peaks and dramatic mountain loops.
Plan this routeCentral Heritage and Coastal Escape
7 days- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Hue
- Quy Nhon
Hop along the central coast using short train rides over the scenic Hai Van Pass and private transfers.
Plan this routeHow much does Vietnam cost?
Budget$35per person / day
Mid-range$85per person / day
Luxury$250per person / day
Withdrawing cash from local ATMs usually incurs small fees, so take out larger sums when possible.
What to eat in Vietnam
Pho
A fragrant rice noodle soup brewed with beef or chicken, star anise, cinnamon, and fresh herbs.
Banh Mi
A crisp French-style baguette filled with savory meats, pate, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and chili sauce.
Bun Cha
Grilled pork patties and slices served over rice vermicelli noodles, dipping broth, and leafy herbs.
Cao Lau
A regional Hoi An specialty featuring thick noodles, pork, greens, and crunchy croutons in savory broth.
Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)
A rich, creamy Hanoi drink made by whipping egg yolks with condensed milk over robust robusta coffee.
Getting around
Domestic flights link distant cities quickly and affordably via carriers like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet. For regional routes, overnight sleeper trains or limousine vans provide scenic and comfortable alternatives. In urban areas, ride-hailing apps like Grab make getting around straightforward, cheap, and meter-free.
Travel tips
- Download the Grab app beforehand for reliable ride-hailing and food delivery without haggling.
- Cross busy streets by walking at a steady, predictable pace so motorbikes can maneuver around you.
- Buy a local eSIM or physical SIM at the airport for cheap high-speed data everywhere.
- Always keep smaller Dong banknotes handy, as street food vendors often cannot break large 500,000 VND bills.
- Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees when visiting pagodas and historic temples.
- Drink bottled or purified water rather than tap water, even when staying in luxury hotels.
Vietnam travel FAQ
Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam in 2026?
Most international visitors can apply online for a 90-day electronic visa before arriving. Some nationalities also qualify for visa-free entry for up to 45 days. Always verify current embassy guidelines prior to travel.
Is Vietnam safe for solo travelers and women?
Vietnam is regarded as one of Southeast Asia's safest destinations for solo and female travelers. Violent crime is extremely rare, though standard precautions against bag snatching in cities are recommended. Locals are generally welcoming and eager to help visitors.
What is the best way to pay for things?
Cash remains essential for small eateries, street vendors, and markets across the country. Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, modern convenience stores, and upscale dining spots in big cities. Keep a mix of cash and card to travel stress-free.
Can I drive a motorbike in Vietnam?
Riding a motorbike is common, but it legally requires an International Driving Permit that specifically covers motorcycles. Traffic in urban hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is chaotic, so only experienced riders should attempt driving.
How many days should I spend in Vietnam for a first trip?
A two-week trip is ideal to explore both northern and southern highlights without rushing. If you have only one week, it is best to focus exclusively on either the North or the Central region. A three-week stay allows you to experience off-the-beaten-path destinations as well.
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Start planningAI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-08. Check visa rules, prices and opening times before you go. Photos: lehuudat, sdg_Rai on Pixabay.