Tips and travel advice for Vietnam

Vietnam has a population exceeding 96 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Southeast Asia. Tourism in Vietnam has experienced significant growth in recent years. The country has become an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and adventure travelers from around the world. From the rice terraces, to bustling streets filled with motorbikes, it's no wonder why millions choose to travel here each year. Here's our round up of Vietnam travel advice, to make sure your trip goes perfectly. 

Planning your trip to Vietnam involves considering various aspects such as safety, budgeting, and the ideal time to visit. In this guide, we've pooled together our top Vietnam travel tips from our local travel experts to help you navigate your journey through this iconic Southeast Asian destination.  We'll cover (among other things) how many days you'll need to travel, how much money to set aside, and how to travel with kids. 

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is widely regarded as a safe destination for tourists, welcoming millions of visitors every year without major issues.

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings, just like you would anywhere else.

Like in many tourist destinations, be aware of common scams and take steps to protect yourself. For example, always agree on prices before taking a taxi or using other services. 

In terms of safety concerns, violent crimes are rare. Your main worry would be petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, particularly in crowded areas or on public transport. However, these incidents are infrequent, so with a bit of awareness, you can explore Vietnam with peace of mind.

For more information, see the UK Government’s foreign travel advice page, or the US Department of State’s travel advisory.

Vietnam for women travellers

For solo female travellers, Vietnam is often seen as a safe and appealing destination. However, like in many places around the world, there are some factors to consider for your safety.

While exploring Vietnam solo, women may encounter instances of harassment or verbal abuse. It’s unfortunate but important to stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Another concern is drink spiking, which can happen in social settings. To stay safe, always keep an eye on your drink and never accept beverages from strangers.

By staying vigilant and taking precautions, solo female travellers can still have a rewarding and enjoyable experience in Vietnam.

Vietnam for LGBTQ+ travellers

For LGBTQ+ travelers, Vietnam offers a relatively welcoming atmosphere compared to some other destinations. Over the years, the country has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, particularly in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

While outward discrimination is uncommon, attitudes towards homosexuality and gender nonconformity can vary based on cultural, generational, and regional factors. 

In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, you might catch the vibrant Viet Pride marches, showcasing the growing LGBTQ+ community and support. However, in more traditional areas, it’s wise to exercise discretion. It’s best to be mindful of public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation, as they’re not widely practiced in Vietnam.

How to get to Vietnam

To reach Vietnam, you'll likely find yourself landing at one of its major international airports: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, or Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang. Keep in mind that travel costs may spike during peak tourism seasons (December, January, and February) or major holidays.

For more information, see our guide to getting to Vietnam.

 How to get to Vietnam from the UK & Ireland

From the UK and Ireland, your best bet is catching a direct flight to either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Expect flight times to range from 11 to 13 hours. Carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, British Airways, and Emirates offer convenient routes from these regions.

 How to get to Vietnam from the US & Canada

While direct flights between Vietnam and North America aren't available yet, you have plenty of options. Flight durations can vary widely, spanning from 17 to 24 hours. Consider carriers like Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, or Singapore Airlines, which often provide popular routes with reasonable layovers in Seoul, Singapore, or Tokyo. 

How to get around Vietnam

In Vietnam, you have a range of transportation options. Motorbikes are ubiquitous, providing a flexible way to navigate the cities and scenic countryside. Public buses offer a budget-friendly mode of transport, albeit with varying levels of comfort. Trains crisscross the country, connecting major cities and offering a leisurely way to take in the sights.

Within cities, taxis, cyclos, and motorcycle taxis (xe om) are readily available for short trips, with negotiations on fares common practice. For a more laid-back experience, bicycles offer a leisurely way to explore smaller towns and rural areas. 

Is Vietnam expensive?

Generally speaking, Vietnam is known for being a relatively affordable destination, particularly when compared to Western countries. Daily expenses tend to be low, and with a willingness to embrace local customs, you can enjoy food, drinks, and accommodation at very reasonable prices.

When it comes to daily expenses, opting for local eateries serving staples like rice and noodle dishes can keep costs down. Similarly, choosing basic accommodations can be quite economical.

However, the expenses for activities such as guided tours, entrance fees to attractions, and souvenirs can add up. That said, most religious sites, like temples and pagodas, often do not charge an entrance fee.

Average cost per day

For budget travellers, sticking to simple meals and modest accommodations could result in a daily expenditure of around £16 ($20 USD, or €18). 

Opting for slightly better accommodations, and dining experiences, and participating in a few tours might bring your daily expenses to a range of £40 ($50 USD, or €46).

Those with a more flexible budget can indulge in mid-level comforts, such as three-star hotels and nicer dining options, with daily expenses ranging from £80 ($100 USD, or €90), depending on the extent of tour activities.

A luxury stay will cost more, but will still be relatively affordable compared to other countries. 

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s geography stretches out quite a bit, meaning its weather can be different depending on where you are. Up north, places like Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa boast cool and dry weather from November to February. This time of year is known for comfortable temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring the sights.

If your heading to central Vietnam, places like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An are best visited between February and August to dodge the peak rainy season. That way, you can soak up the beauty without getting soaked.

Down south in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and the Mekong Delta, the dry season from November to April is your golden ticket. December to February is particularly delightful, thanks to lower humidity levels..

Some may still enjoy a visit to Vietnam during the rainy season. However, trekking enthusiasts, take note: monsoon downpours can lead to flooding in certain areas, messing with transport plans. The rain also tends to invite more mosquitoes. On the bright side, there will be far fewer crowds. 

See our in-depth guide to the weather in Vietnam.

How many days do you need in Vietnam?

If you're tight on time but still eager to get a taste of Vietnam, five days is great. This is especially true if you plan on travelling to other countries, and wish to spend a short amount of time here. With this timeframe, you can hit the highlights like Hanoi's lively streets, and Ha Long Bay, and maybe even squeeze in a visit to the historic city of Hue.

Now, if you've got a bit more flexibility in your schedule, bumping it up to 10 days opens up a whole new world of exploration. You can add gems like the charming town of Hoi An to your itinerary, dive into the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta, and really start to experience Vietnam.

If you truly want to get to know the county, then three weeks is really the best amount of time. With this much time on your hands, you can go from the misty mountains of Sapa to the lively Ho Chi Mihn City, with plenty of detours and spontaneous adventures along the way. Trust us, you won't regret a single moment of it.

Do you need a visa?

For most folks coming from abroad, you'll need a visa to enter Vietnam, with certain exceptions.

Tourist visas are generally valid for thirty days from your specified arrival date, and for a single entry, though longer durations can be arranged.

E-visas are a convenient choice for many nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, India, and China. You'll apply online through the official Vietnamese government website, complete the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the processing fee. Once approved, you'll receive your electronic visa via email. Remember to print it out and have it ready upon your arrival in Vietnam.

You can also apply for a visa directly at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country before your trip, if you prefer a more traditional approach. Be prepared to fill out an application form, provide passport photos, and pay the visa fee.

Travelling to Vietnam with kids

Travelling through Vietnam with children can be challenging and fun. 

Opting for train travel over long bus journeys is advisable, as it offers safer mobility for restless children. Plus, there are discounted fares available for children on domestic flights, trains, and open-tour buses, making it more budget-friendly.

 For instance, kids under five ride for free on trains (as long as they're on your lap), while those aged five to ten enjoy half-price tickets. Keep in mind that reduced-fare children on buses might not get a seat unless you pay full fare. Tours often offer free or discounted rates for kids too. 

To make the journey smoother, pack some familiar snacks and toys to keep the little ones entertained. And don't forget to bring along filter water bottles for everyone, as tap water isn't safe to drink. 

What to pack for your trip to Vietnam

Unsure what to pack in your suitcase before your trip? First off, you're going to want to gear up for the heat and humidity. Lightweight, breathable clothing is a must- including shorts, t-shirts, and loose pants. Pack a swimsuit for beach destinations like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang. Don't forget to bring comfortable walking shoes.

To respect local customs, modest attire is appreciated, especially when visiting temples or rural villages. A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is handy for sudden downpours during the rainy season. You might also want to invest in a waterproof phone case.

The sun is very strong in Vietnam, so definitely don’t forget sun protection. Bug repellent is also crucial, especially in rural areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. 

Travelling to Vietnam with reduced mobility

While the country may present some challenges for travellers with reduced mobility due to varying infrastructure and accessibility standards, with careful planning, you can still have a fantastic experience.

Getting about can be made a little easier by taking internal flights, or by renting a private car or minibus with a driver. Taxis are widely available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major cities. 

Even so, trying to cross roads with speeding traffic and negotiating the cluttered and uneven pavements – where pavements exist – pose real problems. Furthermore, few buildings are equipped with ramps and lifts.

Accommodation-wise, luxury hotels often offer specially adapted rooms, but outside of these, ground-floor rooms or hotels with lifts might be your best bet. Keep in mind that language barriers could make it challenging to communicate your needs effectively. While English is spoken in many tourist areas and by some locals, especially in urban centres like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, it's not universally spoken across Vietnam.