Vietnam Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Itinerary and Practical Tips

Vietnam was the final stop on our Asian tour, and frankly, it was a country that deserved the title. The first thing that greets you upon landing in Hanoi is that famous hustle and bustle: stalls spilling onto the sidewalks, motorcycles weaving in every direction like a spiderweb, the aroma of coffee brewing on every corner. For the first few hours you're a little disoriented, then you realize that this chaos has its own rhythm—even a strange kind of peace.

Vietnam was a country that surprised us from beginning to end. It has a heavy history; wars, colonialism, poverty… But in its streets, you don't see the mourning of that, but rather an overwhelming energy of life. Lush green rice fields, smiling people, a coffee shop on every corner, skyscrapers on one side and centuries-old temples on the other. We traveled the country from north to south; in this article, I'm describing everything we saw—where, when, how—in detail with our own notes. Grab a relaxing coffee, let's begin.

Located in Southeast Asia, on the eastern coast of the Indochina Peninsula, Vietnam, with its long and thin shape, almost resembles Chile on a map. It is one of the five communist countries in the world; its official name today is the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Although its capital is Hanoi, the country's largest and most vibrant city is Saigon, formerly known as Ho Chi Minh City.

It's a country with approximately 100 million people, and the official language is Vietnamese. Due to its history as a French colony, French was once a second language; today, English is much more common, especially in tourist areas. So, communicating is easier than you might think.

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), but US dollars are readily accepted in tourist areas. Carrying some dollars in small denominations is a great convenience; and exchanging currency isn't a problem in most cities anyway. In short, Vietnam isn't a country that makes things difficult for you when it comes to money.

Its economy has been growing rapidly in recent years; there's been significant momentum in manufacturing, technology, and service sectors. But the heart of the business is still agriculture: rice and coffee are the country's most important products. It's no coincidence that you see a coffee shop on every corner while walking down the street — Vietnam is one of the world's largest coffee producers after Brazil. (By the way, don't leave without trying Vietnamese coffee!)

Its natural beauty alone is a reason to visit this country: lush green forests, endless rice fields, tropical trees, the fairytale scenery of Halong Bay, and Mount Fansipan… If you love nature, Vietnam has so much to offer.

In terms of faith, there isn't a single pattern: Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Catholicism, and local folk beliefs are intertwined. But in Vietnam, religion is more ingrained in daily life—respect for ancestors, rituals commemorating elders, temple visits. You'll see small altars in homes, shops, and even restaurants; people leave food, drinks, or incense there. There's also a Catholic population remaining from the French period, so you'll find churches in the larger cities as well.

A Brief History of Vietnam (Because it will be useful while traveling)

In every article I write, I emphasize the importance of knowing at least a little about the country's history, and I'll repeat it again: knowing even a little about the recent history of Vietnam while traveling there makes every place you see completely different and meaningful. Because there are not only temples and natural wonders here; the traces of the French colonial period, the struggle for independence, and the Vietnam War are still in the air.

In short: the region was under French influence for many years, followed by Japanese occupation and a difficult struggle for independence. Then the country was divided into North and South Vietnam — a communist government in the north under Ho Chi Minh, and a Western (especially US) supported government in the south. This tension gradually escalated into a large and destructive war that the world knows as the 'Vietnam War', and the Vietnamese call the 'War of America'.

The country's forests, tunnels, and the tenacity of the resistance fighters changed the course of the war; the Cu Chi Tunnels, stretching for miles underground, are one of the most striking symbols of this period. At the end of the war, the US withdrew with heavy losses, and in 1976, North and South Vietnam were reunited under the name of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The price was high: millions of civilians and soldiers lost their lives. You feel this weight to your core when you enter the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.

While traveling in Vietnam, you'll hear the name 'Ho Chi Minh' everywhere. For the Vietnamese, he's not just a statesman; he's a symbol of independence and the pursuit of freedom. Just as Gandhi is to India and Atatürk is to us, Ho Chi Minh is to Vietnam. His tomb is in Hanoi today; Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in his honor after 1975.

Visa and How to Travel to Vietnam?

The first thing to check is the visa. Most visitors can apply for Vietnam's 90-day e-visa online in a few days, and several nationalities are visa-exempt for short stays. However, if you have a regular (burgundy) passport, you need to obtain an electronic visa (e-visa) before traveling. The application is made online through Vietnam's official e-visa system; it requires passport information, a photograph, travel dates, and entry and exit points. The result usually arrives by email within a few days — however, don't leave it to the last minute, apply at least a week in advance for peace of mind.

Regarding transportation, my suggestion is to plan your route correctly from the start: schedule your flight to Hanoi for the outbound flight and Ho Chi Minh City for the return flight (or vice versa). Since the country is very long, going back and forth to the same city will waste a significant amount of time. Vietnam is on GMT+7 — coming from Europe, the moderate time difference thankfully doesn't cause serious jet lag.

There are direct and connecting flights from major hubs: from Istanbul, for example, Hanoi is about 9 hours direct and Ho Chi Minh City about 11. Connecting flights take longer depending on the airline. Vietnam is also easily accessible from all around the region — it's possible to reach it with short flights from Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, or China. If you're touring Southeast Asia, Vietnam easily integrates with the region. Traveling by road (especially by bus through Cambodia and Laos) is also possible, but those journeys can be quite long; if time is tight, flying is a more sensible option.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

This is the most frequently asked question, and the honest answer is: Vietnam doesn't have a single climate. The north, central, and south have completely different weather conditions, so the 'best month' depends on your itinerary. However, if you want a general answer, in our opinion, the most balanced periods are March-April and October-November. During these months, the weather is neither scorching nor drenched; you can comfortably travel around most of the country. If you are going for the first time and planning a classic route like Hanoi-Halong-Hoi An-Da Nang-HCMC, March-April is especially good. Since it is a tropical country, don't forget to pack a light raincoat.

If I were to summarize it region by region:

• Northern regions (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong): The most enjoyable time is October-December; the weather is cool, dry, and easy to explore. In winter (December-February), Hanoi is around 16-22°C, not very cold, but the humidity and wind can make it chilly. If you're going to higher altitudes like Sapa, things change — the weather gets much colder in December-January, and you might even see snow, so a thick coat is essential. For seeing Sapa's rice terraces and hiking, the months between August and December, when the fog is less dense, are wonderful.
• Central (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): The best time is generally February-May; rainfall has decreased, and the heat isn't yet oppressive. June-August can be hot and humid (ideal for the beach but tiring when exploring the cities). September-February can be rainy, especially in the Hue area, so choose your dates carefully.

• South (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong, Phu Quoc): Warm year-round, temperatures rarely drop below 20°C. The ideal period is the dry season from December to April. May to November is the rainy season, but don't worry; the rains are often short but heavy showers that come in the afternoon, not throughout the day. If you're going to the Mekong Delta, choose the dry season, as the water level can rise during the rainy season. For Phu Quoc's tropical beaches, December to March is the perfect time.

Then there's Tết — Vietnamese New Year. The date changes every year, but it usually falls between the end of January and February. If your trip coincides with this period, the 10-15 days before the new year are especially enjoyable: the streets are decorated, the markets are bustling, and there's a whole different kind of hustle and bustle. The only warning is that transportation and accommodation become expensive and fully booked during this time, so plan ahead.

Places to Visit and Itinerary in Vietnam

The easiest way to describe the country is by dividing it into North, Central, and South — you can plan your itinerary accordingly. Below, I've compiled information on each region and its key destinations; I've also included links to our separate guides for the cities I've covered in detail.

North Vietnam — Bắc Bộ

It borders China to the north and Laos to the west. Originating in the Red River Delta, it is one of the oldest settlements in Vietnam. The weather can be variable, and winters are quite cold compared to the rest of the country; you can even see snow in the northernmost regions of Ha Giang and Sapa. The best time to visit is from October to December.

The capital, Hanoi, is a quieter, more 'old world' place compared to Ho Chi Minh City. Our favorite thing was aimlessly wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. Another great thing about Hanoi is its convenient base: you can easily take day trips to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa from here. The Imperial Citadel in the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sapa is another star of the northern region. The rice terraces in the Muong Hoa Valley, the mountain villages, and the traditional life that continues in those villages… Here you don't just admire the scenery, you also witness the rural life of Southeast Asia. The famous cliffs of Halong Bay and the river-rock landscapes of Ninh Binh, known as 'Halong on land', are also must-sees of the northern route.

Central Vietnam — Trung Bộ

To the west lie Laos and Cambodia, and to the east, the South China Sea. Because it stretches over a long area, it's one of the richest regions in the country in terms of scenery and things to do: royal history in Hue on one side, the enormous caves of Phong Nha (Quảng Bình) on the other, beaches along the coast, and the fascinating mountain culture of the highlands in the interior. The best time to visit is from February to May.

Hue was the imperial capital of the country during the Nguyễn Dynasty; today, you can still breathe in its history with its palaces, temples, and monuments. Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the tallest pagoda towers in the country, is located here, and this entire historical complex is listed on the UNESCO list as the 'Hue Monuments Complex'.

Da Nang represents the modern face of the region: situated on the South China Sea coast, at the mouth of the Han River, it's famous for the Dragon Bridge and the renowned Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills. It's ideally located for both a beach holiday and access to the surrounding area; a night's stay at one of its stylish resorts is definitely worthwhile.

But I have to admit: our favorite in central Vietnam was Hoi An. This small city on the coast of the South China Sea has a completely different atmosphere, bearing traces of Chinese-Japanese-European architecture. It was an important trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries; today, it enchants with its colorful lanterns, narrow canals, and historic streets — it's even called 'Vietnam's Venice' because of its canals. It's both a UNESCO World Heritage site and a UNESCO Creative Cities network for crafts/folk arts. Add to that the ancient Mỹ Sơn Temples, and your dose of history is complete.

South Vietnam — Nam Bộ

Cambodia is bordered by the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea. The Khmer Empire once dominated the Mekong Delta, and traces of that culture are still present in the region. The climate is warm year-round.

The heart of the region is Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. It's the country's largest and most vibrant metropolis—a veritable whirlwind of motorcycles, cars, rickshaws, and markets spilling out onto the streets. It can be overwhelming at first, but that's part of its magic. Ben Thanh Market, French colonial architecture, street food on every corner… You find the real vibe in Thao Dien (a small island of foreigners with cafes by pools), District 3 (local spots), Binh Thanh (the canal area, lively), and District 5 (Chinatown, Cho Lon), with its temples and legendary Chinese cuisine. The city's nightlife is also a phenomenon; if you're curious, you can check out our article on Ho Chi Minh's nightlife .

If you want to escape the city and experience history and the countryside , the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta tour is perfect for you. In Cu Chi, you'll see the underground traces of war, while on the Mekong, you'll explore a 60,000 km network of waterways used since the 4th century BC, passing through small villages, pagodas, mangroves, and orchards by boat or bicycle. We experienced rural Vietnam at its best here.

If you want to indulge in the sea and sun, Phu Quoc island can be added to your South (and surrounding areas) itinerary; if you want to cool off, Dalat in the highlands; and for a relaxing beach experience, Nha Trang can also be included.

Transportation in Vietnam

Since the country is long, consider transportation in two categories: intra-city and inter-city. But first and foremost: buy a SIM card/internet as soon as you land in Vietnam. Thanks to apps like Grab, you can see the price upfront and travel more safely without having to haggle.

City Transportation

The most practical option within the city is Grab. It works like Uber in Vietnam; you can hail a motorbike or car, see the price beforehand, and there's no bargaining. For short distances, Grab motorbikes are both fast and very cheap. Classic motorbike taxis (xe ôm) are also everywhere and affordable, but a helmet is required, and if you're not using the app, agree on the price upfront. Cyclo bike rickshaws are more of a touristy/nostalgic experience; finalize the price in VND before getting in. The bus network is also widespread and very cheap (tickets in Hanoi cost 7,000-15,000 VND), but journeys can take longer in traffic. Be cautious with regular taxis; Grab is generally safer as meter tricks can occur.

Intercity Transportation

There are three options for intercity travel: train, bus, and plane. The train is both safe and enjoyable — especially on coastal routes like Hue-Da Nang, the scenery is superb. The bus (especially night buses) is the most economical option, but the journeys are long. The plane, on the other hand, is a time-saver for long distances: the train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes a very long time, while the plane takes about 2 hours. If your route is tight, domestic flights are a lifesaver.

Is it possible to rent a car or scooter?

I wouldn't recommend it in big cities. Traffic is heavy, rules don't work the way we're used to, and motorcycles are everywhere — quite tiring for a first-time visitor. A scooter might be sensible in quieter places like Hoi An, but it's risky in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City if you're not used to the traffic.

Where to stay in Vietnam?

Accommodation in Vietnam is both plentiful and affordable; from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, there's something for every budget. When choosing a city, consider the area: In Hanoi, the Old Quarter/Hoan Kiem area is ideal as everything is within walking distance. In Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 is practical if it's your first time, but I recommend exploring areas like Thao Dien or District 3 as well. In Hoi An, a boutique hotel near the old city is a good option, while in Da Nang, the beachfront is enjoyable. Prices and bookings can be very busy in coastal cities during the summer months, so booking early is a good idea.

Our most useful booking sites are: Skyscanner for flights (which also scans smaller and budget airlines); Hostelworld (the widest selection of hostels), Agoda (especially good for Asian hotels) and Booking.com (generally the widest and most affordable hotel pool) for accommodation; and GetYourGuide for tours, workshops and events.

Vietnamese Cuisine

When you think of Vietnam, the first dish that comes to mind is, of course, Pho. You can literally find Pho everywhere in the country: morning, noon, or night, even at hotel breakfasts. This soup, made with rice noodles, lots of fresh herbs, spices, and usually beef or chicken, is so delicious once you've tried it, you can't stop. But Vietnamese cuisine isn't just Pho; street food, bahn mi (a type of tavern), and fresh tropical fruits are something else entirely. We've compiled a list of 10 must-try dishes in our article "10 Delicious Vietnamese Dishes" —don't read this on an empty stomach!

Is Vietnam expensive? (Budget)

Vietnam is a very affordable country for travelers. Street food is often just a few dollars, and a mid-range hotel costs between 20-50 USD per night. Getting around the city is inexpensive with Grab, and even domestic flights are often reasonably priced. You can easily keep your daily budget between 30-50 USD without being overly extravagant. Of course, this figure can increase as much as you want with luxury resorts and fancy restaurants; but the beauty of Vietnam is that it lets you experience a lot on a small budget.

For details such as how much you'll spend in how many days, how long each route takes, and other similar information, you can also check our article on how many days to stay in Vietnam; it includes day-by-day itinerary suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days are needed for a trip to Vietnam?

Seven days is ideal for the main routes, while 10-14 days are better for comfortably exploring the north, central, and south. For detailed itinerary suggestions, you can check out our article 'How Many Days Should You Stay in Vietnam?'.

Do I need a visa to Vietnam?

Most countries have an e-visa system, and the rules change frequently. It's advisable to confirm the requirements and processing time with an official source before traveling, depending on your nationality.

Is Vietnam an expensive country?

No, it's quite affordable for travelers. Street food is a few dollars, mid-range hotels are 20-50 USD per night; the daily budget can easily be kept at 30-50 USD.

Currency and payment methods?

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but be sure to carry cash for street vendors; ATMs are ubiquitous.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Since the country is long, there isn't one ideal month. If you're planning to visit the whole country in one go, spring (March-April) is the most balanced option.

How to travel between cities?

For long-distance domestic flights, the fastest and generally most convenient option is to fly; for the short and scenic Hue-Da Nang leg, the train is a good choice.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No. Choose bottled water; it's cheap and readily available everywhere.

Is internet and SIM cards easy to access?

Yes. You can buy cheap tourist SIM cards or eSIMs at the airport or in the city; coverage is quite good in cities.

Is Vietnam safe?

Generally, yes. The most common problem in big cities is scooter snatching; if you carry your phone and bag carefully, you shouldn't have a problem.