Vietnam

Travel Guide

Travel to Vietnam 

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures. This Southeast Asian gem, adorned with tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and dynamic cityscapes, promises an immersive travel experience. Nestled between the bustling cities are remnants of a rich history, showcasing Vietnam’s resilience and cultural diversity. A key highlight is the delicious street food, making Vietnam a flavorsome paradise for food enthusiasts.

How to plan your trip to Vietnam

Dreaming of the perfect vacation in Vietnam? Explore our Vietnam travel guides. Whether you’re looking to discover all the best things to do in Vietnam by motorbike, wondering how to visit Ha Long Bay on a budget, or the ‘emerald island’ of Phu Quoc, we have you covered. 

For the ultimate adventure around the country, exploring limestone cliffs, vibrant cities, fascinating history, exhilarating mountain roads, pristine beaches, and diving into delicious street food, we recommend spending 3 or 4 weeks in Vietnam. 

Best time to visit Vietnam

The climate in Vietnam varies from north to south, allowing you the flexibility to choose the best time for your visit, depending on where you’re planning to travel in Vietnam. 

North Vietnam: In the northern regions, including the bustling capital Hanoi, summers are hot and humid, while winters bring a cooler, drier atmosphere. The best window to explore iconic destinations like Ha Long Bay is during the spring months of March to May or the fall season between September and November. During these periods, the weather is mild, and the landscapes are adorned with lush greenery, offering a picturesque backdrop for your explorations.

South Vietnam: Moving south, these regions experience a more consistent tropical climate throughout the year. The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Vietnam to explore the southern landscapes, encompassing the Mekong Delta and the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh. The central regions, including Hoi An and Hue, also benefit from this dry period.

Public Holidays: It’s worth avoiding visiting Vietnam during public holidays such as TET and the Vietnamese New Year in late January or early February, as prices will be much higher and transport and transport services will be significantly reduced. 

Coastlines and beaches in Vietnam

Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes extend beyond its bustling cities and historical sites, offering a coastline adorned with pristine beaches and breathtaking natural wonders. Hoi An, a place most known for its lantern-lit streets of the old town, is home to An Bang Beach, a 4-kilometer stretch of golden sand. Lined with deckchairs and beach bars, it provides the perfect setting to unwind while gazing at the ocean. 

Just 30 minutes from Hoi An is the dynamic city of Da Nang, with delicious eateries, architectural marvels like the Dragon Bridge, and some of Vietnam’s finest beaches. Da Nang has so much to offer, whether it’s the 32-mile-long beach, My Khe, or Non-Nuoc beach, surrounded by the Marble Mountains. 

In the North, Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO-listed marvel, is an iconic destination for those seeking a surreal seascape. Limestone karsts rise from the ocean, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Hop on a kayak and explore the bay’s many white sandy beaches, most of which are uninhabited, giving that desert island feeling.

Further down the coast, Mui Ne attracts water sports enthusiasts with its reputation as a kitesurfing hotspot. The beaches come alive with colorful kites during the day, offering a spectacle for both participants and spectators. As the sun sets, Mui Ne transforms into a tranquil haven, perfect for watching the sunset over the glistening waters.

For an island escape, head to Phu Quoc, close to Cambodia. Its white-powder beaches, turquoise waters, palm tree forests, and vibrant markets make it a paradise for nature lovers. Make sure to stop by Phu Quoc, one of the best beaches in the area.

Food, culture and religion in Vietnam

Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker, a history enthusiast, or simply someone with an appetite for new experiences, the rich culture, flavors, and experiences will capture your heart throughout your Vietnam holiday!

Culture: Vietnam’s culture goes back thousands of years, influenced by indigenous people and those from China, France, and other Southeast Asian countries. Respect for the land, sea, and people is instilled from a young age, where family bonds are treasured, art is shared, and lively rituals take place. 

Cuisine: Food plays a vital role in Vietnamese culture, focusing on fresh, healthy, locally sourced ingredients full of flavors, textures, and aromas. The most well-known is Pho, a savory noodle soup that balances sweet, salty, and sour tastes, and the Banh mi, a French-inspired baguette filled with fresh ingredients. 

Religion: Religion plays a significant role in Vietnamese life, with the population mainly following either Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Catholicism, or Cao Dai, peacefully living happily together.  For a look at some of the most breathtaking religious sites, Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, peacefully nestled on an islet of West Lake, and the vibrant Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh province are both worth visiting.

Why you should travel to Vietnam

Vietnam offers an adventure like no other! It’s easy to see why this Southeast Asian treasure is such a popular backpacking destination. With diverse landscapes that’ll leave you in awe, a history that comes alive, out-of-this-world budget-friendly experiences, and the warmth from locals, you’ll feel like you’ve found a home away from home.

Whether you’re cruising through the breathtaking Ha Long Bay, navigating the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City on a motorbike, traversing the vibrant terraced rice fields of Sapa, relaxing on an untouched island paradise, or exploring the underground remnants of the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnams diversity is what sets it apart. 

Let’s not forget the food – it’s a flavor explosion! From steaming bowls of pho to the crunch of fresh spring rolls washed down with delicious tea or coffee, Vietnam boasts some of the best cuisine on the planet. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Safety and Travel Advice Vietnam

When venturing into Vietnam’s captivating landscapes and vibrant cultures, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure you have the most amazing travel experience.

Natural Disasters: While Vietnam is generally safe from natural disasters, staying informed is wise, especially in regions prone to occasional typhoons and flooding. Registering with your embassy for emergency updates can be invaluable, offering real-time information to navigate any unforeseen challenges during your stay.

Crime and Safety in Vietnam: Vietnam is known for its warm hospitality, yet, like any destination, visitors should exercise caution against petty theft. Keep your belongings secure, avoid isolated areas at night, and opt for well-lit, populated spaces. Vigilance enhances your overall safety and ensures a trouble-free exploration of this captivating country.

Learn more about travel safety.

Traffic in Vietnam: Navigating Vietnam’s hectic roads may involve contending with bustling traffic, steep mountains, and poorly maintained roads. If you plan to ride scooters or motorbikes, wear a helmet, protective clothing, and great travel insurance to cover unexpected accidents.

Travel Insurance: Prioritize your safety by securing comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on your vacation in Vietnam. Beyond covering potential accidents, insurance safeguards against unexpected scenarios like flight cancellations or lost baggage. This ensures you can fully immerse yourself in Vietnam’s beauty, knowing you have a safety net in place.

Find the best travel insurance for your trip.