When to Visit Vietnam

Discover Vietnam's diverse climate zones, travel costs, and unique cultural festivals to ensure an amazing travel experience.

Most Affordable Time

Off-Peak Season: May to September is less crowded and offers lower accommodation costs, especially in regions like Hanoi and Ha Long Bay during monsoon rains.

Best Weather for Sightseeing

  • North Vietnam: October to April, great for trekking and cruising.
  • Central Vietnam: February to May, ideal for beaches and historical sites.
  • South Vietnam: December to April, dry and warm.
  • Best Overall: February to April, combining favorable weather and lower costs.

Special Festivals and Traditions

  • Tet (Lunar New Year): Late January - February, colorful celebrations and traditions.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: September - October, lantern parades and mooncakes.
  • Independence Day: September 2nd, parades in major cities.

Recommendations

For budget travelers, choose the monsoon season for lower costs. To enjoy festivals like Tet, book well in advance. Customize your trip to align with regional weather conditions for the best experience.

Travel Insights for Vietnam

Essential Travel Insights for Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam is an enriching experience, offering a blend of cultural history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Below are some essential travel tips, safety advice, and areas to exercise caution for a safe and enjoyable trip.

🛡️ Travel Advisories and Safety

  • 🛡️ Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, including evacuation.
  • 🚦 Traffic Safety: Be cautious in chaotic city traffic; consider ride-hailing apps for transportation.
  • 🕵️ Scams and Petty Crime: Stay alert to scams like overcharging and counterfeit goods. Secure your belongings.
  • 💉 Health Precautions: Get recommended vaccinations and stick to bottled water to avoid health issues.

⚠️ Areas to Exercise Caution

  • 📍 Border Areas: Sensitive regions near borders may require permits; check advisories before planning travel.
  • 🌃 Night Travel: Avoid traveling at night in less touristy areas due to increased risks of accidents and petty crime.

💡 General Tips

  • 🌏 Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly at temples and respect local customs like removing shoes when entering homes.
  • 📶 Connectivity: Use Wi-Fi in cities or a local SIM card for seamless connectivity in remote areas.
  • 💵 Money: Carry small denominations of Vietnamese Dong for everyday purchases, especially in rural areas.
  • 🗣️ Language Barrier: Learn basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance interactions with locals.

🌱 Environmental Considerations

Vietnam is grappling with plastic pollution. Minimize plastic usage by opting for reusable water bottles and bags to contribute positively to the environment.

Vietnam offers a safe, vibrant, and memorable travel experience for visitors. Stay informed, respect the culture, and pack some adventure into your journey!

Explore and Plan with Confidence

Discover in-depth travel information and simplify your journey with our comprehensive tools.

A One-Week Journey in Vietnam

Experience a blend of cultural experiences, historical exploration, and natural beauty. This itinerary focuses on Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An.

Day 1-2: Hanoi
  • Day 1: Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and enjoy a water puppet show.
  • Day 2: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Transport: Navigate Hanoi by taxi, motorbike, or walk.

Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay
  • Day 3: Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Enjoy kayaking, cave visits, and cooking classes.
  • Day 4: Continue cruise activities and return to Hanoi in the evening.

Transport: Shuttle buses or private transfers take 2-3 hours from Hanoi.

Day 5-7: Hoi An
  • Day 5: Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang, then travel to Hoi An.
  • Day 6: Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town and enjoy a Thu Bon River boat ride.
  • Day 7: Visit the My Son Sanctuary or relax at An Bang Beach.

Transport: Take a 1-hour flight from Hanoi to Da Nang, followed by a 45-minute drive to Hoi An.

Travel Tips
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). Carry cash for rural areas.
  • Weather: Check climate variations across regions.
  • Clothing: Dress respectfully, especially at religious sites.
  • Language Barrier: Basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your experience.

A Two-Week Journey in Vietnam

A two-week journey in Vietnam offers an opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Hanoi in the north down to the dynamic life of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, with memorable stops in between.

Week 1: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Hue
  • Day 1-2 - Hanoi:
    ​Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local street food.
    ​Transport: Hanoi can be navigated by foot, taxi, or motorbike.
    ​
  • Day 3-4 - Ha Long Bay:
    ​Take a cruise through Ha Long Bay to see its iconic limestone karsts and isles. Activities include kayaking, cave visits, and squid fishing.
    ​Transport: Book a tour or a shuttle service from Hanoi; travel time is about 2-3 hours.
    ​
  • Day 5-6 - Hoi An:
    ​Wander around Hoi An Ancient Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and enjoy the lantern-lit streets at night. Take a cooking class or go on a food tour.
    ​Transport: Fly from Hanoi to Da Nang (about 1 hour), then take a taxi or shuttle to Hoi An (about 45 minutes).
    ​
  • Day 7 - Hue:
    ​Explore the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and take a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River. Visit the royal tombs of Minh Mang or Khai Dinh.
    ​Transport: Travel from Hoi An to Hue by bus, train, or private car (about 3-4 hours).
Week 2: Da Nang, Nha Trang, Da Lat, and Ho Chi Minh City
  • Day 8 - Da Nang:
    ​Visit the Marble Mountains, enjoy the beaches, and explore the Museum of Cham Sculpture. Consider a side trip to the Ba Na Hills to see the Golden Bridge. Transport: Bus or taxi from Hue to Da Nang (about 2-3 hours).
    ​
  • Day 9-10 - Nha Trang:
    ​Relax on the beaches, visit Vinpearl Land, snorkel or dive among coral reefs, and explore the Po Nagar Cham Towers.
    ​Transport: Fly from Da Nang to Nha Trang (about 1 hour) or take a night train.
    ​
  • Day 11-12 - Da Lat:
    ​Enjoy the cool climate, visit the Valley of Love, Dalat Flower Gardens, and take a cable car to Truc Lam Zen Monastery. Explore the quirky Hang Nga "Crazy House." Transport: Bus or flight from Nha Trang to Da Lat (flight is about 1 hour; bus takes 3-4 hours).
    ​
  • Day 13-14 - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):
    ​Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the historic Post Office. Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels or the Mekong Delta.
    ​Transport: Fly from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1 hour).
Travel Tips
  • Packing: Prepare for varying weather conditions, especially if traveling from north to south.
  • Transport: Consider purchasing a SIM card for easy navigation and to book rides via apps like Grab.
  • Health: Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.
  • Currency: Always have local currency (Vietnamese Dong) on hand for small purchases, though credit cards are widely accepted in cities.
  • Culture: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.

This two-week itinerary in Vietnam provides a comprehensive exploration of the country's major highlights, offering a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences across different regions.

A Three-Week Journey Through Vietnam

A three-week journey through Vietnam offers an opportunity to deeply explore the country's rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and historical sites. This itinerary takes you from the vibrant streets of Hanoi, through central Vietnam’s historic towns and beautiful beaches, to the dynamic life of Ho Chi Minh City, including excursions to the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island.

Week 1: Hanoi and Northern Vietnam
  • Day 1-3: Hanoi:
    ​Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show. Experience the local cuisine with a street food tour.
    ​Transport:     Navigate Hanoi by taxi, motorbike, or on foot for closer attractions.
    ​
  • Day 4-5: Sapa:
    ​Trek through rice terraces to visit local hill tribes like the H’mong and the Dao. Enjoy the stunning views of Fansipan mountain, either by hiking or by cable car. Transport: Overnight train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, then a short bus or taxi ride to Sapa (approximately 5-6 hours in total).
    ​
  • Day 6-7: Ha Long Bay:
    ​Take an overnight cruise to explore the limestone karsts, enjoy kayaking and visit floating villages. Relax on the deck to admire the sunset and sunrise over the bay. Transport: Shuttle bus from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (about 2-3 hours).
Week 2: Central Vietnam - Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An
  • Day 8-9: Hue:
    ​Explore the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and take a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River. Visit the royal tombs of Minh Mang or Khai Dinh.
    ​Transport: Fly from Hanoi to Hue (about 1 hour), or take a scenic train journey (approximately 12-14 hours).
    ​
  • Day 10-11: Da Nang:
    ​Visit the Marble Mountains, relax at My Khe Beach, and explore the Cham Museum. Don’t miss the Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge.
    ​Transport: Bus or taxi from Hue to Da Nang (about 2-3 hours).
    ​
  • Day 12-13: Hoi An:
    ​Wander around the Ancient Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, enjoy a lantern-lit evening, and take a cooking class. Consider a day trip to the My Son Sanctuary.
    ​Transport: Bus or taxi from Da Nang to Hoi An (about 45 minutes).
Week 3: South Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc
  • Day 14-16: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):
    ​Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the War Remnants Museum, and stroll through Ben Thanh Market. Experience the city's vibrant nightlife.
    ​Transport: Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (about 1 hour).
    ​
  • Day 17-18: Mekong Delta:
    ​Take a boat tour to explore the floating markets, rice paddies, and traditional villages. Try local delicacies and visit a fruit orchard.
    ​Transport: Bus or organized tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho or Ben Tre (about 3-4 hours).
    ​
  • Day 19-21: Phu Quoc Island:
    ​Relax on the beaches, snorkel or dive to explore the coral reefs, and enjoy the sunset at Dinh Cau Rock. Visit the Phu Quoc National Park and pepper farms. Transport: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc (about 1 hour). Return to Ho Chi Minh City for your departure.
Travel Tips
  • Weather: Vietnam's climate varies from north to south; pack accordingly and check the weather forecast for each region before you go.
  • Transport: Consider purchasing a SIM card for easy access to maps and transport apps. Vietnam's railway and domestic flights are efficient for long distances.
  • Culture: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples and always ask permission before taking photos of people.
  • Health: Stay hydrated, especially in southern Vietnam's humid climate. Be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.

This three-week itinerary allows for a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam, from the northern mountains to the southern beaches, providing a rich tapestry of experiences across this beautiful country.

Off the Beaten Paths in Vietnam

Venture beyond the usual tourist destinations and uncover Vietnam’s hidden gems.

Scenic view of Vietnam


Exploring Vietnam through its hidden gems offers a unique journey into the heart of its mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, away from the crowded tourist paths. This 14-day itinerary is designed to guide you through lesser-known yet captivating destinations across Vietnam, providing an authentic and memorable experience.
​

Day 1-2: Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Start your adventure in Pu Luong Nature Reserve, located in Thanh Hoa province. This area offers stunning rice terrace landscapes, rich biodiversity, and traditional villages.

  • Trek through the rice terraces
  • Visit local ethnic Thai villages
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the water wheels
  • Stay in a traditional stilt house for an authentic experience

Day 3-4: Ninh Binh

Head to Ninh Binh, known as "Halong Bay on Land" for its limestone karst landscapes. While some areas are well-known, there are plenty of hidden spots to explore.

  • Explore the lesser-known Trang An Grottoes by boat
  • Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
  • Hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views
  • Explore the Van Long Nature Reserve

Day 5-6: Quy Nhon

Travel to Quy Nhon, a coastal city in Binh Dinh province known for its beautiful beaches and Cham temples.

  • Visit the Thap Doi (Twin Towers)
  • Explore Ky Co Beach for its clear waters
  • Enjoy fresh seafood
  • Take a day trip to the stunning Eo Gio coastal archway

Day 7-8: Kon Tum

Venture to Kon Tum, located in the Central Highlands, where you can learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam's ethnic minorities.

  • Visit the Kon Tum Wooden Church
  • Explore surrounding ethnic villages
  • Trek in the Dakbla River area
  • Experience traditional communal Rong houses

Day 9-10: Ha Giang

Head to Ha Giang, the northernmost province of Vietnam, known for its breathtaking landscapes and the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass.

  • Drive the Ha Giang Loop
  • Visit the H'Mong King's Palace in Dong Van
  • Explore the Lung Cu Flag Tower
  • Stay with a local family for a cultural experience

Day 11-12: Phu Quoc Island

Travel to Phu Quoc Island, known for its white-sand beaches and tropical landscapes. While some areas are developed, there are still hidden corners to discover.

  • Explore Bai Sao Beach
  • Snorkel around surrounding islands
  • Visit the Phu Quoc National Park
  • Try the local fish sauce, a specialty of the island

Day 13-14: Ben Tre, Mekong Delta

Conclude your journey in Ben Tre, part of the Mekong Delta, known for its coconut plantations and waterways.

  • Take a boat tour through narrow canals
  • Visit local workshops for coconut products
  • Bike around the peaceful countryside
  • Enjoy lush landscapes and slower pace of life

Travel Tips

  • Transportation: Domestic flights for distant locations; motorbikes or drivers for local travel.
  • Accommodations: Choose eco-lodges, homestays, and boutique hotels.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Optimize travel based on regional weather patterns.
  • Culinary Exploration: Explore diverse Vietnamese cuisine, unique to each region.

Ultimate Guide to Vietnam

Discover the best destinations in Vietnam with curated activities, accommodations, and local specialties.

Hanoi

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and see the Temple of Literature.

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, hostels.

Specialties: Pho, egg coffee, banh mi.

Ha Long Bay

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Cruise among the limestone karsts, explore caves, and enjoy water activities like kayaking and swimming.

Accommodation: Overnight cruises, island resorts.

Specialties: Seafood dishes, especially squid cakes.

Hue

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Imperial City, explore the tombs of Nguyen emperors, and take a boat trip on the Perfume River.

Accommodation: Riverside hotels, guesthouses.

Specialties: Bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh khoai (Hue pancake).

Da Nang

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Relax on My Khe Beach, visit the Marble Mountains, and enjoy the Dragon Bridge light show.

Accommodation: Beachfront resorts, luxury hotels.

Specialties: Mi Quang (turmeric noodles), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake).

Sapa

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Trek through rice terraces, visit local hill tribe villages, and climb Fansipan Mountain.

Accommodation: Mountain lodges, homestays.

Specialties: Thang co (horse meat stew), local corn wine.

Hoi An

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Wander around the Ancient Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and enjoy the beaches.

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, homestays.

Specialties: Cao lau (noodle dish), white rose dumplings.

Phu Quoc Island

Stay Duration: 3-4 days

Activities: Relax on pristine beaches, explore the night market, and visit the island's national park.

Accommodation: Beachfront resorts, eco-lodges.

Specialties: Grilled seafood, fish sauce and Phu Quoc Pepper products.

Can Tho

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit the Cai Rang floating market, take a boat along the Mekong Delta, and explore local fruit orchards.

Accommodation: Guesthouses, hotels by the river.

Specialties: Banh cong (deep-fried shrimp cake), grilled snakehead fish.

Nha Trang

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Swim and snorkel at the beaches, visit the Vinpearl amusement park, and explore Po Nagar Cham Towers.

Accommodation: Seaside hotels, luxury resorts.

Specialties: Seafood hotpot, nem nuong (grilled pork sausage).

Mui Ne

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Sandboarding in the dunes, kite surfing, and visiting the Fairy Stream.

Accommodation: Beachfront resorts, budget hostels.

Specialties: Fresh seafood and banh trang me (sesame rice paper).

Da Lat

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Explore the Valley of Love, trek around Datanla Waterfalls, and visit the Crazy House.

Accommodation: Charming villas, boutique hotels.

Specialties: Artichoke tea, grilled rice paper, avocado ice cream.

Con Dao Islands

Stay Duration: 3-4 days

Activities: Snorkel to witness colorful coral reefs, visit the Con Dao Prison, and relax on untouched beaches.

Accommodation: Eco-lodges, beachfront resorts.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, sea cucumbers, and honey made from wild flowers.

Phan Thiet

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Visit the red and white sand dunes, explore the Cham Towers, and relax at the quiet beaches.

Accommodation: Beachfront villas, budget hostels.

Specialties: Seafood dishes, banh can (mini pancakes).

Hanoi Suburb

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Explore traditional villages, enjoy scenic countryside drives, and visit ancient temples.

Accommodation: Guesthouses, countryside homestays.

Specialties: Traditional rice wine, steamed sticky rice, and grilled river fish.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Trek through Vietnam's oldest national park, watch wildlife, and visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center.

Accommodation: Forest lodges, eco-friendly bungalows.

Specialties: Forest honey and roasted mountain vegetables.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, explore the War Remnants Museum, and shop at Ben Thanh Market.

Accommodation: Urban hotels, boutique stays.

Specialties: Banh xeo (crispy pancake), com tam (broken rice).

Da Nang Suburbs

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Explore the scenic countryside, visit local artisan villages, and enjoy hidden beaches.

Accommodation: Farm lodges, rural homestays.

Specialties: Grilled river fish, rice paper rolls.

Mekong Delta

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Cruise along the river, visit floating markets, and explore fruit plantations.

Accommodation: River lodges, eco-resorts.

Specialties: Tropical fruits, snakehead fish hotpot.

Ninh Binh

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Visit Tam Coc and Trang An for boat rowing, hike Hang Mua, and explore ancient temples in Hoa Lu.

Accommodation: Eco-friendly lodges, rural homestays.

Specialties: Goat meat dishes, burnt rice.

Cat Ba Island

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Enjoy limestone karsts, explore the nearby Lan Ha Bay, and trek in Cat Ba National Park.

Accommodation: Eco-friendly lodges, island resorts.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, clams with tamarind sauce.

Quang Binh

Stay Duration: 2-4 days

Activities: Explore the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, discover the world's largest cave (Son Doong), and cycle scenic countryside.

Accommodation: Local lodges, hotels in Dong Hoi.

Specialties: Banh xeo Quang Binh (local pancakes), fresh river fish.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, take a boat ride into caves, and experience village life.

Accommodation: Eco-friendly lodges, riverside homestays.

Specialties: Peanut candy, fresh river fish, and local banana-based desserts.

Dong Hoi

Stay Duration: 1-2 days

Activities: Explore the Dong Hoi beaches, visit the historic Quang Binh Gate, and enjoy serene walks along the Nhat Le River.

Accommodation: Riverside hotels, budget lodging.

Specialties: Banh bot loc (tapioca dumplings), fresh seafood from the local markets.

Bac Ha District

Stay Duration: 2-3 days

Activities: Experience the famous Sunday market, explore local villages, and trek through hills decorated with plum and pear flowers.

Accommodation: Homestays, mountain lodges.

Specialties: Corn wine, thắng cố (traditional stew), sticky rice dishes.

Explore the Beauty of Vietnam

Discover Vietnam's charm, history, and breathtaking landscapes while planning your trip across different budget ranges.

Budget Travel

  • Accommodation: Budget accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses can range from €5 to €15 per night.
  • Meals: Street food and local eateries offer meals from €1 to €5.
  • Transportation: Local buses and motorbike rentals can cost around €1 to €5 per day.
  • Activities: Sightseeing and entrance fees for various attractions can be around €2 to €10.
  • Total Daily Cost: Approximately €10 to €35.

Mid-Range Travel

  • Accommodation: Mid-range hotels or boutique guesthouses can range from €20 to €50 per night.
  • Meals: Dining in mid-range restaurants can cost between €5 to €15 per meal.
  • Transportation: Renting a car with a driver for day trips or taking domestic flights for longer distances might cost €20 to €50 per day.
  • Activities: Guided tours, spa services, and other recreational activities might add €10 to €30 to your daily expenses.
  • Total Daily Cost: Approximately €55 to €145.

Luxury Travel

  • Accommodation: Luxury resorts and 5-star hotels can start from €100 and can go upwards of €300 or more per night.
  • Meals: High-end dining experiences and international cuisine at top restaurants might cost €20 to €60 or more per meal.
  • Transportation: Private vehicle hires, luxury cruises, and internal flights can range from €50 to €200 per day.
  • Activities: Private tours, high-end spa treatments, and exclusive experiences like helicopter tours might cost €50 to €200 or more.
  • Total Daily Cost: Approximately €220 to €760 or more.

These estimates provide a rough guideline for planning your budget. Costs can vary significantly based on factors such as the time of year (peak vs. off-peak season), specific destinations within Vietnam, and personal spending habits. Always consider additional costs like visas, travel insurance, and unexpected expenses when budgeting for your trip.