Vietnam travel guide

Hanoi

There’s so much to see and do in Hanoi it’s unlikely you’ll find time to stop and take a breath. From the endless aromas from street food vendors permeating the air to the continuous hum of motorbikes and mopeds that zig-zag through the traffic – it’s a city with a lot of spirit. 

Spend some time marvelling at the gorgeous old-school architecture in the Old Quarter, see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and take a walk down Hanoi’s famous “Train Street”, where a railway line cuts its way through a bustling street. 

Ho Chi Minh City

Sat on the Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City bursts with life. With French colonial influences still evident in the city’s architecture, it’s a must for your time in Vietnam. 

No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels. Elsewhere, cruise along the river or just bask at one of the countless superb cafes and bars that line the boulevards.

Halong Bay

Huge limestone karsts rising from the azure sea, Halong Bay may very well be Vietnam’s prettiest spot. 

The best way to explore the many varied, unique, and stunningly picturesque charms of Halong Bay is to jump on a cruise. 

Huế

Huế is one of Vietnam’s most ancient cities and is a real gem in Vietnam’s glittering crown, awash with the ruins of extensive royal palaces. 

Spend a couple of days exploring the former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty that ruled during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Head on a tour of the imposing Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City. 

Hội An

As far from the maelstrom of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as chalk is from cheese, Hội An is an oasis of calm where you can walk at your own pace without needing to dodge motorbike. 

Walk to the Japanese Bridge – one of Hội An’s most famous spots. You should also book a cooking class in Hoi An. You’ll head out on a shopping trip to the local market and learn how to fish from a basket boat. 

Mekong Delta

Looking for a unique experience that takes you into the heart of Vietnam? Explore the Mekong Delta. 

You can either join an all-day cruise from one of the many stops along the river, or explore the incredible natural plant life, wildlife and villages as you negotiate your own way along this stunning river.

Cat Ba Island

Sat 20 km off the coast of Hai Phong, Cat Ba Island is a buzzing tourist island that used to be a local fishing centre – not to mention the perfect spot for adventurous souls looking to go rock climbing, scuba diving, trekking, mountain biking, and kayaking in unbelievably beautiful surroundings.

Phong Nha National Park

If there’s one thing Vietnam isn’t short of, it’s caves, and Phong Nha National Park is the best of the lot. 

Take a dragon boat cruise and drink in the astonishing views as you paddle through the caves. You’ll see scars made by American missile attacks before drifting among the illuminated jagged limestone walls.

Best of Vietnam 

3 Weeks 

Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Tam Coc – Hue – Hoi An – Ba Na Hills – Da Nang – Da Lat – Mui Ne – Ho Chi Minh City – Phu Quoc 

See the country’s highlights in one fell swoop with this all-singing, all-dancing itinerary. 

Cities and Caves 

1 week

Hanoi  – Phong Nha –  Hue

Kick things off in the beautiful city of Hanoi, head to Phong Nha to explore the incredible caves in the National Park. Then zip your way to Hue to discover its famous underground village, Imperial Citadel and stunning local lagoons.

Beautiful Places in Vietnam

2 weeks

Hanoi –  Halong Bay –  Hoi An –  Ho Chi Minh City –  Can Tho –  Phu Quoc

Take in the unique beauty of Vietnam’s most unique and beautiful spots (along with a couple of cities along the way), ending in the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc with its gorgeous clear water and quiet sandy beaches.

Trace the History of the Vietnam War

12 days

Ho Chi Minh City –  Hoi An –  Hue –  Hanoi –  Halong Bay –  Hanoi

Learn the history of one of the 20th-century’s bloodiest conflicts in the very locations it took place in. 

City and Beaches

1 week

Ho Chi Minh City –  Mekong Delta –  Phan Thiet

This one-week tour begins by seeing all the sites in and around Ho Chi Minh City, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta, before spending a few days taking in the paradise that is Phan Thiet from its unmissable beaches.

Cao Bang

Cao Bang is one of the most incredible natural places in a country stacked with natural beauty. 

Blessed with sprawling rice paddies, stunning farmland, and every hue of green as far as the eye can see, Cao Bang is home to several UNESCO sites, Vietnam’s largest waterfall and some of the most awe-inspiring geological structures you’ll see anywhere.

Mui Ne Dunes

You would be mistaken for thinking you were in the Middle East or the wild plains of the Sahara with a visit to Mui Ne Dunes. 

This vast, arid desert in the south of the country offers something very different to the rest of the country. Enjoy sand boarding and jeep touring, and take in the beautiful orange colours as the sun dips below the horizon.

Cham Islands

Cham Islands – a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit for anyone who wants natural beauty and unmatched marine biology. 

This dreamy tropical vacation spot is perfect for all the “s’s.” Sunbathing, snorkelling and scuba diving.

Dong Hoi

If you’re comfortable on a motorbike, Doi Hong, the capital city of the Quang Binh Province is well worth a visit off the beaten tourist track. 

The tunnel network in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a fascinating visit and there are plenty of beaches to lay back and unwind in.

Dishes to try

Pho-Pho-real – While Pho is readily available worldwide, nothing matches the experience of trying the range of noodle soups throughout the country.

Com Ga – A tasty mix of chicken, pickled shallots, and rice is a must-have in Hoi An.

Xoi – This sticky rice comes in savoury and sweet options. A great breakfast, there are more than 20 types of Xoi, many of which are coloured with natural plant extracts.

Drinks to try

Sinh To – These fresh fruit smoothies aren’t just strawberries and bananas. These stunning, refreshing mixes include dragon fruits, custard apples and jackfruits.

Tra Atiso – Believed to be a potent hangover cure, this artichoke tea is said to have liver-cleansing and detoxifying properties. Not only that, it tastes incredible.

When budgeting for visiting Vietnam, I suggest you allocate around £50 / $65 per day to cover your accommodation, food, and travel expenses. This is based on staying at mid-range hotels.

If you’re aiming to go a little more upmarket, allow a minimum of an additional £30 / $37 per day.

Safety

Keep your belongings in a safe place while you travel. Don’t take any more than you need when heading out for the day and keep valuables in your hotel room safe. 

Also, petty scams are common in Vietnam, so keep your wits about you. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Health

Although malaria isn’t a risk in Vietnam, nasty bug bites can lead to conditions such as dengue fever abruptly halting your holiday. Make sure you have bug spray and apply liberally throughout the day.

In addition, do not drink tap water as it can lead to nasty tummy complaints. Instead, drink bottled water or have a reusable water bottle and purifier to ensure it’s safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping isn’t expected in Vietnam’s cafes and restaurants. Some high-class establishments will add a 10% service charge to your bill. 

Otherwise, offering hotel porters and tour guides a small tip is customary, so have some small change available. If you have a few US Dollars handy, you can expect a particularly enthusiastic thank you!

Tips for travelling

To make the most of your Vietnam travelling experience, follow these top Vietnam travel tips.

• Choose when to visit. With a diverse climate, Vietnam is more than 1000 miles (1600 km) from top to bottom. The country is exceptionally humid all year round, with regular monsoons.
• If you’re taking a taxi, negotiate a price with your driver before setting off. Vietnamese taxi drivers can smell tourists from a mile away and try to exploit any naivety.
• Cash is still king in Vietnam. Ensure you carry enough cash to cover shopping, dinner, and taxi fares.
• Pack wisely. Take lightweight, breathable clothes that won’t leave you sweltering or weigh you down.
• Make sure you pack your sunscreen and bug spray. The sun is relentlessly powerful, and bugs are an ever-present nuisance.

How to see the best for free

Vietnam is a great place to visit on a budget. If you want to save your cash to experience the best of the cuisine, there’s plenty to do free of charge.

Several free guided or self-guided walking tours exist around Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other cities and towns. Or, if you’re in a more rural location, there’s no better way to explore than following a hiking trail.

Many of the main attractions in Vietnam offer free admission, too. Visit the splendour of the Notre Dame Cathedral or visit the Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Reunification Palace in Hanoi.

Packing

Don’t forget these things when packing for your travels in Vietnam.

• You won’t want to miss out on exploring the stunning scenery. So pack your waterproof hiking trainers.
• Make sure you can stay connected with a universal travel adapter.
• If you’re heading out for the day and want to post to Instagram or TikTok as you go, don’t forget your USB power bank.
• Keep your feet cool with some women’s sandals.
• And don’t forget your microfibre beach towels!

Travel insurance

Although it’s an extra expense, trust me, travel insurance is a must-buy before you set off on your Vietnam trip for peace of mind. Protection against unforeseen cancellations, losses and medical emergencies makes life so much easier.

I use AXA Travel Insurance for their comprehensive coverage and competitive premiums.

Suggested guidebooks

• Rough Guide to Vietnam
• Lonely Planet Vietnam
• Moon Guide to Vietnam

Interesting facts

• Vietnam is a combination of two words, Viet and Nam. “Viet” is a Chinese word used to describe people from outside China, while “Nam” means to the South.
• Vietnam is known as the “King of Cashews.” More than half the global supply of one of my favourite nuts comes from Vietnam.
• Sepak Takraw is one of Vietnam’s most popular sports. Known as “Kick Volleyball,” players can only use their feet and heads to get the ball over the net.
• Vietnam is the cheapest place in the world to grab a pint! You can get a beer for less than 15p (20 cents) at a streetside bar.

Handy phrases

Although English is widely spoken across Vietnam’s tourist hotspots, here are some local phrases to help you along.

Xin Chao – Hello

Dung – Yes

Khong – No

Vui long – Please

Cam on – Thank you

Bao nhieu – How much is…?

Time zone

Vietnam observes Indochina Time (GMT +07:00) all year round without daytime saving clock changes.

Electricity and adapters

A, C, and F-type plugs are required for Vietnam. I recommend taking a universal adaptor with you to ensure you can keep yourself fully charged throughout your trip to Vietnam.