Overview
Vietnam stretches more than 1,600 km from north to south, so a typical two- or three-week trip links Hanoi in the north, the central coast around Da Nang and Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City with the Mekong Delta in the south, using domestic flights, sleeper trains or buses in between.
Best time to go
Weather varies by region. The north (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa) has a cool winter and a hot, wet summer; spring and autumn are most pleasant. The central coast is usually best from about February to August, with heavy rain and storm risk in autumn. The south is warm all year, with a dry season from roughly December to April.
Top places in Vietnam
Hanoi
The Old Quarter's lanes, lakes, French-era architecture and legendary street food.
Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay
Thousands of limestone islands, best seen on an overnight cruise.
Sapa and the northern mountains
Rice terraces and trekking among minority villages.
Hue, Da Nang and Hoi An
The former imperial capital, beaches, and Hoi An's lantern-lit old town.
Ho Chi Minh City
Energetic, modern and full of history, markets and rooftop bars.
Mekong Delta
River life, floating markets and orchards by boat and bicycle.
Getting there
Hanoi (Noi Bai) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat) are the main international airports, and Da Nang also has international flights. An open-jaw ticket into one and out of the other saves a long backtrack.
Tap a route to see live fares from our flight partner. We never show made-up prices.
Where to stay
Compare hotels, guesthouses and apartments with our accommodation partner. Check the total price including taxes, and the cancellation terms, before you book.
Tours & activities
Day trips, guided walks, tickets and multi-day tours from established activity marketplaces. Read recent reviews and check what is included.
Visa & entry
Vietnam offers an official electronic visa (e-visa) that all nationalities can apply for online, and some passports, including several European ones, can enter visa-free for a limited stay. Check your nationality's current rules and apply only through the official government portal, as many look-alike sites charge extra fees.
Official sources:
Budget tips
- Street food and local eateries are delicious and inexpensive; follow the crowds.
- Use ride-hailing apps in cities for transparent fares.
- Overnight trains or sleeper buses save a night's accommodation on long legs.
- Compare Ha Long Bay cruises on what is included (kayaking, meals, route) rather than headline price alone.
Before you go
- Travel insurance.
- An eSIM for mobile data from the moment you land.
- A pre-booked airport transfer for a late arrival.
- Car rental and hotel search.
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