Have you ever dreamed of wandering through emerald rice terraces? Sailing between limestone cliffs? Or savoring the world’s best bowl of pho. If you said yes, this Vietnam travel guide will help you turn that dream into reality. Vietnam is a country that captures your heart from the moment you arrive. It’s where history whispers through ancient temples. Modern life hums in bustling cities. And nature leaves you speechless at every turn.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this Vietnam travel guide covers everything you need to know. Visa rules. The best time to visit. Top things to do. Cultural etiquette. And an itinerary packed with unforgettable experiences.

Vietnam Travel Guide 2026: Visa Requirements, Itineraries & Hidden Gems

Vietnam Entry Requirements and Visas

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Vietnam?

Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam. However, the process has never been easier. Citizens of several countries (including Japan, South Korea, and many European nations) enjoy visa-free stays ranging from 15 to 45 days. For everyone else, an e-visa or visa on arrival is the way to go.

Vietnam E-Visa Requirements

The Vietnam e-visa is quick, affordable, and perfect for independent travelers. You can apply directly through the official government website in just minutes. No agents or middlemen needed.

You’ll need a valid passport (with at least six months before expiration), a passport photo, and your travel itinerary. Processing usually takes 3–5 working days. And the $25 fee grants a 90-day stay, single or multiple entry.

Pro Tip: Always apply through the official Vietnamese government portal to avoid scams.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival Rules

If you’re flying into major international airports like Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City, you can also use the visa on arrival system. You’ll need to obtain an approval letter from a licensed agency before your flight. Then pick up your visa at the airport.

The e-visa is usually simpler, but the visa on arrival is handy for longer stays or multiple entries.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam Weather by Region

Vietnam stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, which means the climate varies widely.

• Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Mai Chau):
  The best time to visit is from October to April, when the air is cool and dry. This time of year is perfect for trekking and exploring cultural villages.

Summers (May–September) bring lush green rice fields and occasional rain.

• Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang):
  The weather here is warm year-round. Visit between February and August for sunny skies and beach days. Autumn brings colorful festivals, while winter can see mild rain.
• Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta):
  Expect tropical warmth all year, with dry season from November to April. The dry season is ideal for river cruises and outdoor adventures.

Dry Season vs. Rainy Season

The dry season (November–April) offers clear skies, cooler temperatures, and perfect travel conditions. The rainy season (May–October) has fewer crowds and vibrant green landscapes.

Health and Safety in Vietnam

Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists?

Vietnam is one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia. Locals are welcoming. Crime rates are low. And solo travelers often remark on the country’s kindness.

That said, like anywhere, stay aware in crowded markets and tourist spots.

Vaccines for Vietnam Travel

Routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended for vacations in Vietnam. If you’re visiting rural areas, consider malaria precautions.

Travel insurance is always a must for peace of mind wherever you’re traveling.

Can I Drink Tap Water in Vietnam?

Stick to bottled or filtered water during your Vietnam vacation. Most hotels provide refill stations or bottled options.

Use caution with ice from street vendors. And pack a reusable bottle with a built-in filter for sustainability.

Top Things to Do in Vietnam

When it comes to unforgettable experiences, the top things to do in Vietnam offer a blend of old-world charm, natural beauty, and cultural discovery that few destinations can match.

This Vietnam travel guide will show you how every region tells a different story. One written in history, flavor, and scenery.

Hanoi

The capital city of Vietnam is where tradition meets modernity. Wander through the Old Quarter’s maze of narrow alleys where time seems to stand still.

Street vendors balance baskets of fruit. The scent of sizzling pho fills the air. And the sound of scooters creates a rhythmic hum.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, dating back to 1070.

As evening falls, sit at a lakeside café near Hoan Kiem Lake. Sip the famous egg coffee while watching locals practice tai chi or couples stroll hand in hand.

Ha Long Bay – A Favorite Destination in All Vietnam Travel Guides

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam’s crown jewels, Ha Long Bay feels like a scene straight from a fantasy novel.

Thousands of limestone karsts rise from jade-green waters, creating a surreal seascape best explored on an overnight cruise.

Spend your day kayaking through hidden lagoons. Swimming off secluded beaches. Or visiting floating fishing villages that have thrived for generations.

As dusk settles, enjoy fresh seafood under the stars and watch the bay glow in the moonlight.

Hue

Once the imperial capital, Hue is where Vietnam’s royal past comes alive. Walk through the moats and gates of the Imperial City. Wander among ancient temples. And marvel at the intricately decorated royal tombs along the Perfume River. Don’t miss Thien Mu Pagoda, perched serenely above the water.

Beyond the monuments, Hue offers a taste of royal cuisine. Take the time to try refined dishes once reserved for emperors. Banh beo (steamed rice cakes) and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) are quite tasty.

Hoi An

A living museum of lantern-lit beauty, Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a kaleidoscope of color and culture. This UNESCO site is famous for its hand-tailored clothing, charming French architecture, and evening lantern festivals that turn the streets into rivers of light.

Visit traditional homes, shop for handicrafts, and learn how to make cao lau, the town’s signature noodle dish. When you need a break, An Bang Beach is just a short ride away. It’s the perfect destination in Vietnam for a quiet swim or sunset cocktail.

Mekong Delta

Often called the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” the Mekong Delta is a world of floating markets, tropical fruit orchards, and slow-moving rivers that stretch toward the sea.

Board a longtail boat at sunrise to witness the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, where traders sell everything from pineapples to coffee directly from their boats. Visit small workshops making coconut candy or rice paper. And enjoy the warm hospitality of a local family over a home-cooked meal.

Check out these other beautiful towns in Vietnam for your next vacation. 

Off the Beaten Path Vietnam Travel Guide

While Vietnam’s famous sights are remarkable, its true magic often lies in the lesser-known corners. These destinations are where few tourists venture but authentic connections await.

Mai Chau Valley

Nestled among emerald-green mountains just a few hours from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a peaceful valley filled with rice paddies, bamboo groves, and stilt-house villages of the White Thai ethnic group. The air is fresh, the pace slow, and the hospitality unmatched.

Wake to the sound of roosters. Cycle through misty fields. And share a traditional dinner cooked over an open fire.

In the evenings, join villagers for a lively dance performance beneath a sky full of stars.

Ha Giang Loop

For thrill-seekers and photographers, the Ha Giang Loop offers Vietnam’s most stunning scenery. This mountainous region near the Chinese border features dramatic limestone peaks, winding roads, and tiny villages perched on hillsides.

Ride a motorbike through the Ma Pi Leng Pass. It’s one of the most beautiful roads in Asia. Then stop for tea with the local Hmong people.

Few experiences compare to watching the sunrise over terraced valleys in this untouched part of Vietnam.

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

If you’re drawn to eco-travel and serenity, Pu Luong is a dream come true. This reserve combines jungle-clad mountains, tiered rice terraces, and waterfalls tumbling into clear pools.

Stay in a sustainable eco-lodge with sweeping valley views. Hike through villages where time seems to pause. And listen to the songs of cicadas at dusk.

It’s a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in an off-the-grid paradise.

Ba Be Lake

Hidden deep within northern Vietnam, Ba Be National Park is home to one of the country’s largest freshwater lakes. Cruise past limestone cliffs. Visit Dau Dang Waterfall. And explore nearby caves like Hua Ma.

The park’s biodiversity makes it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Stay in a lakeside homestay for a front-row view of sunrise mist rising off the water.

Learn how you can visit Vietnam during a family river cruise vacation. 

Best Vietnam Beaches and Islands

Vietnam’s 2,000-mile coastline offers beaches for every kind of traveler. Luxury seekers, divers, couples, and families alike will love spending time on the coast in Vietnam.

Phu Quoc Island

This tropical paradise off Vietnam’s southern coast boasts crystal-clear waters and palm-fringed beaches that rival any in the Maldives. Stay in a boutique beachfront resort. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs. And enjoy a sunset barbecue right on the sand.

Don’t miss the Phu Quoc night market for grilled seafood and the island’s famous fish sauce.

Con Dao

Once a prison island, Con Dao has transformed into an eco-luxury destination. It’s perfect for travelers craving peace, pristine beaches, and rich marine life.

Hike through the national park. Visit historical sites. Or go diving in turquoise waters teeming with turtles.

With limited crowds and protected nature, Con Dao is Vietnam’s best-kept secret.

Nha Trang

Known for its golden beaches, buzzing nightlife, and offshore islands, Nha Trang is Vietnam’s go-to beach playground.

Spend the day island-hopping. Visit the Long Son Pagoda. Or soak in natural mud baths for a unique spa experience.

As night falls, enjoy rooftop cocktails overlooking the sea.

An Bang Beach (Hoi An)

A laid-back stretch just 10 minutes from Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach offers calm waves, family-friendly swimming, and ocean-view restaurants.

Rent a beach chair, order a coconut, and let the sound of gentle surf wash all your worries away.

Vietnam Travel Guide Itinerary Ideas

Sample Vietnam 10-Day Itinerary

Vietnam is long and narrow, making a north-to-south journey the best way to capture its contrasts. You’ll see everything from misty mountains to coastal towns and bustling metropolises during your exhilarating vacation in Vietnam.

Here’s a 10-day Vietnam travel guide itinerary that highlights the best of it all.

Days 1–2: Hanoi

Begin your adventure in the capital city, where ancient history meets modern energy. Explore the Old Quarter’s 36 guild streets, each once dedicated to a specific trade.

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the serene Temple of Literature.

Sample bun cha and egg coffee in hidden local cafes. Then end your day with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake as the city glows at night.

Days 3–4: Mai Chau Valley

Journey a few hours southwest to Mai Chau, a serene valley framed by mountains. Stay with a local family in a stilt house overlooking rice paddies.

Spend your days cycling to nearby villages. Learning about traditional weaving. Or hiking to hidden waterfalls.

Evenings bring music, laughter, and a sense of connection that few places can match.

Days 5–6: Ha Long Bay Cruise

A short drive east leads to the mystical Ha Long Bay. Board a traditional wooden junk boat and glide past towering limestone islands.

Kayak through hidden caves. Visit floating villages. And savor a candlelit dinner as the sun sets over the water.

Sleep aboard your boat and wake up to the quiet beauty of dawn breaking over the bay.

Days 7–8: Hue

Fly or take the scenic train to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Explore the ancient Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. Then cruise the Perfume River to the ornate tombs of Emperor Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.

Sample Hue’s royal cuisine like delicate dishes like nem lui (lemongrass pork skewers) and banh khoai (crispy pancakes).

End your day watching the sunset over the Perfume River.

Day 9: Hoi An & Da Nang

Travel south along the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s most scenic drives. In Da Nang, visit the Marble Mountains or take in the view from the Dragon Bridge before continuing to Hoi An.

Spend the afternoon exploring lantern lit streets, tailor shops, and riverside cafes. As night falls, release a floating lantern into the Thu Bon River and make a wish.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Your final stop is the energetic heart of southern Vietnam. Visit the War Remnants Museum for insight into the country’s history. Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. And shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market.

End your journey with a rooftop cocktail overlooking the glittering skyline or a romantic dinner cruise on the Saigon River. Both are an unforgettable finale to your Vietnamese adventure.

Adventure Add-Ons

Trekking in Sapa

Add a few days in Sapa for breathtaking hikes through terraced rice fields and encounters with Hmong and Dao hill tribes. The cool mountain air and stunning scenery make this a highlight for nature lovers.

Phong Nha Caves

Venture into the depths of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This park is home to some of the world’s largest and most spectacular caves, including Son Doong. Join guided expeditions for a true adventure beneath the earth.

Vietnam National Parks

Explore Cuc Phuong, Vietnam’s oldest national park, known for ancient trees and rare primates. Or head over to Cat Tien, home to elephants and exotic birds. Both offer eco-lodges and guided treks through untouched wilderness.

Motorbike Routes

For thrill-seekers, the Ha Giang Loop or the coastal route between Hue and Hoi An delivers freedom and panoramic views. Whether you ride yourself or hop on the back with an experienced guide, it’s an exhilarating way to see Vietnam’s landscapes up close.

Vietnamese Cuisine and Culture

Must Try Vietnamese Cuisine

Every meal in Vietnam tells a story. From fragrant street food to coastal seafood feasts, you’ll never run out of flavors to explore.

• Pho: Vietnam’s national dish is filled with an aromatic broth, rice noodles, and tender beef.
• Banh Mi: French baguette meets Vietnamese flair with pate, pickled veggies, and herbs.
• Bun Cha: Grilled pork and noodles. This dish is best enjoyed in Hanoi.
• Cao Lau: Hoi An’s chewy noodles with pork and greens.
• Ca Phe Sua Da: Sweet iced coffee. It’s the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Check out these other must try Vietnamese dishes before your next visit. 

Street Food and Safety

Vietnam’s street food is legendary and safe when you know where to go. Eat where the locals line up. Choose vendors cooking the food fresh to order. And always follow your nose.

Vietnam Etiquette and Customs

Politeness and respect are essential. Greet everyone with a smile. Dress modestly at temples. And remove your shoes before entering a person’s home.

Always use both hands when giving or receiving items.

Vietnam Festivals and Holidays

I recommend timing your trip to Vietnam carefully so you can experience one of the local festivals or holidays.

• Tet (Lunar New Year): Fireworks, family feasts, and flower markets.
• Hue Festival: Cultural performances and royal reenactments.
• Hoi An Lantern Festival: Magical evenings when the old town glows with thousands of lanterns.

Essential Vietnam Travel Guide Tips

Vietnam Travel Guide Packing List

Pack light, breathable clothing for the tropical heat. But bring layers for cooler mountain regions.

Don’t forget a rain jacket, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

Vietnam Power Adapter and Voltage

Vietnam uses 220V with plug types A, C, and D. A universal adapter is best for your vacation in Vietnam.

Wi-Fi and SIM Card in Vietnam

SIM cards are affordable and easy to find at the airport. Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone offer excellent coverage. Many hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi as well.

Bargaining in Vietnam Markets

Haggling is part of the fun when shopping in Vietnam! Always smile and be polite. Start low but fair. And enjoy the experience. Especially at night markets and souvenir stalls.

Eco Travel and Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam

Eco Travel Guide for Vietnam

Vietnam is leading Southeast Asia in eco travel and responsible tourism. Stay at eco-lodges in Mai Chau or Pu Luong. Join small group cycling tours. And support family-run homestays instead of large chains.

Sustainable Tourism in Vietnam 2026

With more national parks and community programs, 2026 is the year of sustainable tourism in Vietnam. Many tours now focus on cultural preservation, waste reduction, and local education.

Voluntourism Vietnam

For travelers seeking deeper purpose, voluntourism in Vietnam offers opportunities to teach English, plant trees, or assist with wildlife conservation. Always partner with verified, ethical organizations that truly benefit local communities.

From the misty mountains of Mai Chau to the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a country that will move you, surprise you, and stay with you long after you return home. Its people are warm. Its landscapes are breathtaking. And its culture is endlessly fascinating.

This Vietnam travel guide is just the beginning. Now imagine it brought to life with curated experiences, boutique stays, and insider access that only a travel advisor like me can provide.

Are you ready to experience Vietnam your way?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

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