What inspired you to travel to this destination?
Need help planning your trip? Let's chat!
Looking for specific tours? Start your search here!
Discover the best experiences Vietnam has to offer, from stunning landscapes to rich cultural heritage.
Sail among thousands of limestone karsts and islands in this UNESCO World Heritage site aboard a traditional junk boat.
Wander through 36 ancient streets, sample street food, and experience Vietnam’s capital city’s vibrant culture.
Trek through breathtaking rice terraces and meet ethnic minority groups in Vietnam’s northern highlands.
Step back in time at this former capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, with its citadel, palaces, and royal tombs.
Release lanterns on the Thu Bon River in this beautifully preserved ancient town, especially magical at night.
Sip Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) in Hanoi’s cafes or visit Dalat’s coffee plantations.
Take the scenic coastal route between Hue and Da Nang, made famous by the Top Gear television show.
Navigate floating markets, fruit orchards, and stilt houses in Vietnam’s “rice bowl” region.
Unwind on white sand beaches and snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Vietnam’s largest island.
Explore the world’s largest caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, including Son Doong Cave.
Hear from those who’ve experienced Vietnam’s magic
Discover the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Vietnam through our expert-curated guide to the top must-do experiences.
From natural wonders to cultural treasures, these are the essential experiences for your Vietnam itinerary
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Vietnam’s crown jewel with its limestone karsts rising from emerald waters creating a surreal landscape.
Visit during March to May or September to November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a maze of 36 streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade, offering an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s capital city.
Start your day early to explore Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple before crowds arrive.
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautifully preserved trading port that transports you back in time with its lantern-lit streets.
Visit during the Full Moon Lantern Festival for a magical experience when the town turns off electric lights.
The Hai Van Pass, stretching between Da Nang and Hue, is one of Vietnam’s most scenic routes with breathtaking coastal views.
Start early to avoid traffic and enjoy sunrise views. Beginners should consider an easy rider tour.
Sapa, in northern Vietnam, is famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority cultures in the Hoang Lien Son Mountains.
Visit September-October for golden rice terraces or March-May for planting season’s vibrant green.
Essential information to help plan your Vietnamese adventure
Vietnamese is the official language. English is common in tourist areas.
Vietnamese Dong (VND). $1 ≈ 23,000 VND. ATMs widely available.
220V, 50Hz. Type A, C and D plugs. Bring a universal adapter.
Must-tries: Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Cao Lau, Egg Coffee.
Domestic flights, trains, buses. Use Grab app for city transport.
Varies by region. North has 4 seasons, South is tropical year-round.
Suggested routes to make the most of your Vietnam trip
Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, Water Puppet Show, Street Food Tour
Overnight cruise, kayaking, cave exploration, cooking class on board
Walking tour, lantern-making class, tailor visit, countryside bike tour
War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market
City sights, day trip to Trang An or Tam Coc “Halong on Land”
Village homestay, rice terrace hikes, ethnic minority culture
2-night cruise with more time for activities and relaxation
Imperial City, Hai Van Pass, Ancient Town, beach time
Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, optional beach extension
From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers endless opportunities for adventure, culture, and culinary delights. Each experience will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Check visa requirements before traveling as most visitors need one.
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available.
Use Grab (ride-hailing app) for convenient travel within cities.
Answers to common questions about visiting Vietnam
Most travelers need a visa, though some nationalities get visa exemptions for short stays. E-visas are available for many passport holders.
Vietnam’s climate varies by region. Generally, spring (Feb-Apr) and autumn (Aug-Oct) offer pleasant weather throughout the country.
Yes, Vietnam is generally very safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions against petty theft and be careful when crossing streets.
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. US dollars are sometimes accepted but you’ll get better prices using local currency.
Vietnamese is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, less so in rural regions.
Light, breathable clothing is best. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Swimwear is fine at beaches/resorts.
No, stick to bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.
220V with two-pin round or flat sockets. Bring a universal adapter if your plugs don’t match.
Domestic flights, trains, buses, and private cars are common. Motorbikes are popular but require an international license.
Yes, bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors, but not in established shops or restaurants.
Questions about specific places in Vietnam
2-3 days is ideal to explore the Old Quarter, temples, and nearby attractions like the Perfume Pagoda.
Absolutely! The stunning limestone karsts make it Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonder. Opt for at least an overnight cruise.
This UNESCO-listed ancient town boasts beautiful architecture, lantern-lit streets, tailors, and excellent food.
September-October for golden rice terraces, or March-May for pleasant weather and planting season.
Yes, they complement each other – Hue for imperial history, Hoi An for charming architecture and beaches.
2-3 days minimum to experience floating markets, villages, and the unique river-based culture.
Yes, with calm beaches, water parks, and nature activities, it’s Vietnam’s best family beach destination.
Possible but tours are recommended as they provide historical context and arrange transportation from Ho Chi Minh City.
Home to the world’s largest caves, including Son Doong, with incredible underground rivers and formations.
Nha Trang has livelier beach scene, while Da Nang offers more cultural attractions nearby like Hoi An and Hue.
Questions about Vietnamese cuisine and customs
Pho, banh mi, bun cha, cao lau, banh xeo, fresh spring rolls, and egg coffee are all iconic.
Not usually – chili is served on the side. Northern cuisine is milder, Central food can be spicier.
Tipping isn’t expected but appreciated. 5-10% in restaurants, small amounts for guides/drivers.
Yes, but it’s very crowded. Many businesses close during the Lunar New Year holiday (late Jan/early Feb).
Yes, Buddhist influence means good vegetarian food. Look for “com chay” (vegetarian) restaurants.
A slight bow with hands clasped is polite. Handshakes are common in business. Avoid public affection.
Silk, lacquerware, conical hats, coffee, spices, and hand-embroidered items make great gifts.
Always ask permission first, especially with ethnic minorities. Some may expect small payment.
Don’t touch heads, point with feet, or show anger in public. Dress modestly at religious sites.
Try “ca phe sua da” (iced coffee with condensed milk) or “ca phe den” (black coffee). Egg coffee is a Hanoi specialty.
