Must-read Vietnam Travel Guide from A to Z, summarized by Threeland Travel

1. Introduction to Vietnam

Why Vietnam Should Be on Your Travel List

Vietnam should be at the top of your travel list. It offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern lifestyles, with historical sites coexisting with growing urban centers. The country's landscapes are stunning, featuring lush mountains, pristine beaches, vast rice fields, and dramatic karst formations. Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight, renowned for its fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Coupled with the friendly hospitality of the locals, Vietnam provides an unforgettable cultural and natural experience that captivates adventurous travelers.

Overview of Vietnam’s Geography, Culture, and History

Vietnam offers a diverse geographical landscape, spanning the rugged northern mountains to the rich Mekong Delta in the south. The country's history reflects influences from various cultures, including imperial dynasties, colonial powers, and revolutionary movements. Visiting historical sites and museums allows travelers to immerse themselves in the architecture, traditions, and arts of the region. At the core of Vietnamese identity lies a strong emphasis on custom, family, and community, which is evident in the vibrant cultural traditions, festivals, music, and cuisine that permeate daily life.

2. How to Get to Vietnam

International Flights to Major Cities

Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport effectively connects the capital city, Hanoi. From a range of countries around the globe, including the United States, Australia, and significant European cities, travelers can take direct flights. Expect, upon arrival, a mix of traditional characteristics like old temples along with current skyscrapers.

Ho Chi Minh City

Besides being known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is of great importance for international tourists. Vietnam’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport appreciates historical traditions by making flights from a variety of airlines available to this energetic capital. Expect to receive a substantial return when you commit to exploring the energetic night life, special history, and delicious street food while you’re visiting here.

Da Nang

Da Nang is growing in appeal with travelers and has an airport recognized globally that links to different Asian destinations. This is an exceptional entry point for anyone planning to see attractions such as Hoi An and Hue. Da Nang's fascinating shores and improving culinary ambiance set it apart from Ho Chi Minh City.

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Tourist Visa Options

Most travelers will get a tourist visa that provides for stays of up to 30 days. Planning your travel in a certain way will have an impact on your eligibility for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. The best method to get a tourist visa is to visit an embassy or consulate before you leave.

E-Visa Application Process

A selection of nations can take advantage of Vietnam's convenient e-Visa service. The application process online makes things easy for travelers, permitting them to apply for a visa without needing to go to a consulate. Within a few business days, you’ll obtain your e-visa via email, which means it’s simple to construct your itinerary while avoiding the hassle of paperwork.

Visa Waivers for Certain Countries

For nationalities involved, visa exemptions allow stays up to 15 days. Long-term travelers should either apply for a visa before their arrival or secure it upon arrival to enter the country. Check out the latest information on visa policies available on government websites to bypass any confusion.

3. Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Climate Overview

Northern Vietnam: Cool Winters and Warm Summers

November through April is the season when temperatures fall in Northern Vietnam, with occasional rains happening in winter. This is the optimal time to examine cities such as Hanoi and Sapa. Considering how intense the heat and humidity are during summer, the eye-catching greenery and blossoms make it well worth it for those who love being in nature. 

Central Vietnam: Dry Season vs. Rainy Season

During the dry season, which happens from February through August, Central Vietnam has a lot of sunny days perfect for those who enjoy the beach. Alternatively, during the time frame of September to January, heavy rains take priority, which could affect transportation arrangements, especially in coastal areas.

Southern Vietnam: Year-Round Tropical Climate

Southern Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate that remains consistently warm throughout the year, characterized by two main seasons: November to April is the dry season, contrasted by the rainy season from May to October. From March to May, throngs of travelers head to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta for their love of outdoor sports and exploration.

Seasonal Highlights and Festivals

TET (Lunar New Year)

TET is Vietnam's biggest festival, taking place in late January or early February. This serves as the signal of spring's arrival and offers families the opportunity to gather, pay tribute to their ancestors, and celebrate energetically. During TET travel offers a special opportunity to see traditional rituals and energetic parades; however, keep in mind that many businesses could be closed for the holiday.

Mid-Autumn Festival

September or October plays host to another valued celebration: the Mid-Autumn Festival. At the festival dedicated to the harvest moon, there are displays of lanterns, mooncakes, and lion dances. The festival often finds children playing a role in building joy and community spirit within their surroundings.

4. Top Destinations in Vietnam

Hanoi – The Capital with Timeless Charm

Old Quarter

Within Hanoi's Old Quarter are intimate streets filled with unique characters and a lot of local charm. Every roadway celebrates a certain profession, ranging from silk dealers to traditional herbal remedy outlets. When you delve into this area, you will find beautiful markets that sell street food as well as presenting French colonial architecture that illustrates the fascinating story of the city.

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Centrally found within the urban traffic, Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful sanctuary. A walk by the lake supplies a soothing escape and an opportunity to see the rhythms of local life. Don't skip the Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, accessible by a lovely red bridge, which enchants this lovely area.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – A City of Energy and History

War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum hosts some of the most touching places to visit. It helps to appreciate the Vietnam War and the continuing repercussions it has had on the nation. The exhibit celebrates photographs, military tools, and personal accounts that commend the strong personality of the Vietnamese people, therefore it's an important pit stop for those looking to grasp the country’s history.

Ben Thanh Market

Stop by Ben Thanh Market to find a real local meeting, where you can find both farm fresh produce and beautifully designed goods. A great place exists for souvenir shopping, trying local cuisine, and socializing with enthusiastic vendors eager to educate others.

Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Best Cruises and Tours

Both day cruises and overnight tours allow you to experience this beautiful area. Pick a tour that includes kayaking and swimming to allow you to completely embrace the stunning nature that surrounds you. A portion of cruises includes cooking classes and cultural presentations, which enhance your time on the water.

Kayaking and Cave Exploring

Taking a kayak tour in Ha Long Bay is strongly advised, because it offers access to secluded caves and hidden lagoons unreachable to larger ships. Dive into the soothing scenery and stay alert for the unique animals like sea eagles and the friendly monkeys that wander the islands.

Hoi An – Ancient Town and Lantern Festival

Must-See Historic Sites

Hoi An’s array of old architecture, beautiful lanterns, and round waterways create a magical environment that takes you through time. Important places feature the Japanese Covered Bridge as well as the Fujian Chinese Congregation Assembly Hall. Taking in the throngs of appealing dining and cafes is a great method for feeling the vibe.

Cooking Classes and Tailor-Made Clothing

Cooking classes in Hoi An are renowned for showing participants how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using local ingredients that are fresh and vibrant. As well, the community is celebrated for its artisanal tailoring, which allows customers to develop bespoke outfits that resonate with their own sense of style and help local craftsmen.

Hue – The Ancient Capital of Vietnam

Imperial City

Hue’s Imperial City is essential to see during your visit. The site chose for its status as a UNESCO World Heritage boasts palaces, temples, and gardens that illustrate the brilliance of the Nguyen Dynasty. Picture what daily life was like in its exceptional days by passing through its citadel entrances and savoring the sophisticated architecture alongside its historical interpretations.

Perfume River Boat Tours

To fully understand the beauty of Hue, consider taking a boat tour along the Perfume River. Sightseeing tours present splendid views of the castle city and other sites that can be seen during the trip, such as the pagodas and Tombs. Some of the special tours include the sunset tours, this is very beautiful because as the sun sets behind the river there is a golden reflection on the water.

5. What to Eat in Vietnam

Famous Dishes

Pho

Pho is proud to be the Vietnamese representative of the favourites that include delicious soup, rice noodles and meat. Affordable for everyone, this soup is traditionally served with fresh herbs and lime and should be taken in local cafes or street kitchens. The combination of spices and herbs is a great testimony to the Vietnamese culinary minds; therefore, it is not surprising that it is recommended to anyone who visits the country.

Banh Mi

Banh Mi is that food which has the flavor of both French and Vietnamese, it is made by using crispy baguettes stuffed with many kinds of meats and few vegetables and sauces. This wonderful and savoury sandwich is really the epitome of a VN fast-food and also of the versatility of VN cuisine.

Bun Cha

Another enjoyable dish is Bun Cha, which is more common for Hanoi. It includes barbecue pork buns, rice stick noodles and sizzling sauce. Combined with herbs and vegetables, this dish is one of the Vietnamese dishes that reflect food hygiene, delicious, and healthy foods.

Regional Specialties

Northern Cuisine

Due to the cultural differences and the climate, most of the dishes that are found in northern Vietnam are less spicy than their counterparts in the south. Simple dishes like Cha Ca (grilled fish with turmeric) focus on the use of fresh herbs and minimal manipulation of the food, letting the basic flavors speak for themselves.

Central Cuisine

Central Vietnam has always been thought about complex flavors and cooking methods rarely found in the region. That is why its exquisite and popular dishes like Cao Lau (thick noodles with pork and greens) and Banh Xeo (rice pancakes filled with shrimp and bean sprouts) have originated from the region.

Southern Cuisine

Generally Southern Vietnamese foods are sweet, using coconut milk and sugar in their recipes. As to restaurants like Hu Tieu or Goi Cuon, people have delicious tasty and fresh meals come from fresh ingredients.

Street Food Tips and Where to Eat

Best Markets for Authentic Street Food

Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi city has street markets like Ben Thanh and Dong Xuan respectively to locate street foods of your interest. And here you can taste a lot of mouth-watering dishes prepared directly from raw materials. Select those stalls that are well populated by the locals because they are a barometer to the type of food sold in that particular stand.

Food Safety Tips for Travelers

It is still enjoyable to eat street foods but safety should not be compromised. Therefore the next thing to look at when deciding where to eat is freshly prepared foods and avoid foods which were served in dirty dishes or those which appeared to have been reheated. Specifically, avoid food with little or no cooking and process and also it is advisable to hydrant yourself with bottled water while on your trips.

6. How to Get Around in Vietnam

Domestic Flights for Long Distances

Train Travel – Exploring Vietnam by Rail

Reunification Express

Vietnam Railway carries out Reunification Express that connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh and it also offers beautiful sceneries of rural Vietnam. Occasionally you may wish to go for a sleeper cabin especially if you are traveling long distance.

Scenic Train Routes

Some places may not only be appealing but also located attractively; for example, the train journey from Da Nang to Hue is striking as are the mountain and sea coast areas.

Local Transportation

Motorbike Rentals and Safety

Motorbike rental is one of the preferred modes of transport since tourists are free to move around on their own. However their are some traffic regulations and safety measures that one needs to be aware of in a given country. Always wear a helmet and be very careful while riding because traffic is very crazy here.

Bus and Ride-Hailing Apps

Buses can also be said to fall under other means of transport since the cost people are willing to spend while moving from one city to another is relatively low; however the frequency of buses may not be the same. Instead, transport applications such as Grab can be used to access transportation services within city centers which is safer and easier.

7. Cultural Etiquette in Vietnam

Dos and Don’ts in Vietnamese Culture

Respect for Elders and Traditions

Vietnamese people hold their elders and traditional aspects into consideration due to the culture that they follow. Young people have to respect the elderly by extending a hand to them first if they are offering them something or vice versa.

Dress Code in Temples and Religious Sites

When visiting temples and religious sites, adhere to a modest dress code. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes when entering sacred spaces as a sign of reverence.

Common Phrases and Basic Vietnamese Language Tips

Learning a few basic phrases can endear you to locals and enhance your travel experience. Simple greetings such as “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) go a long way in building rapport.

9. Where to Stay in Vietnam

Best Luxury Resorts

Coastal Retreats

• Evason Ana Mandara Nha Tru (Nha Tru Beach): Beachfront bungalows surrounded by lush landscaping, famous Bill Bensley design.
• Pilgrimage Village (Halong Bay): Unique resort on stilts built around limestone islets, cruise on private junk boats included.
• InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort: Five-star accommodation perched on Marble Mountains, indoor/outdoor pools, lagoon-style beach.

City Hotels

• Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (Hanoi): Colonial-style luxury in the French Quarter, spa, rooftop pools overlooking the city.
• Hotel des Arts Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City): Contemporary building with harbor views, modern amenities, and art throughout.
• Park Hyatt Saigon: Upscale river-adjacent location, renowned Moroccan restaurant, sumptuous spa.

Affordable Accommodations

Guesthouses and Homestays

• Hanoi Guesthouse (Hanoi): Family-run guesthouse in Old Quarter with traveler reviews praising friendly service. Dorms from $7.
• Violet Homestay (Mui Ne): Welcoming homestay just off the beach with inexpensive bungalow rooms.
• Grain Boutique Homestay (Hoi An): Unique heritage home converted into affordable accommodation near the river.

Hostels for Budget Travelers

• The Hangout Hostel (Hoi An): Laidback hostel with a bar, communal kitchen, and walking distance to the riverside. Dorms from $8.
• Unity Homestay (Sapa): Clean hostel with mountain views, and helpful staff who organize hiking tours. Dorms $6-7.
• Madame Cuc Hostel (Ho Chi Minh City): This sociable hostel with a rooftop bar, bus/train station transfers, and an in-house travel desk. Dorms $7-10.

10. Outdoor Adventures in Vietnam

Trekking in Sapa

Meeting Ethnic Minority Groups

Trekking in Sapa allows you to interact with the local ethnic minority groups, such as the Hmong and Dao. Engaging with these communities offers valuable insights into their customs and traditions.

Best Trails and Tours

Choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, and join guided tours to ensure you get the most out of your trekking experience. The breathtaking terraced rice fields and stunning mountain vistas will leave you in awe.

• The Fansipan Summit Trail: A strenuous 3-day/2-night trek leading to Vietnam's highest peak with gorgeous mountain scenery.
• Sapa Explorer Trek: A 2-day trek along trails through rice terraces and minority villages like Cat Cat. Guided by Ethnic Travel.
• Sin Chai Trek: One of the most scenic 2-3 day hikes crossing hills and valleys populated by the Black H'mong. Local guides lead the way.
• Independent treks: It's also possible to hike sections of the many trails independently, just bring a map from Sapa tourism offices.

Caving and Exploring Phong Nha

Son Doong Cave

For the adventurous at heart, exploring Son Doong Cave—the largest cave in the world—is an unforgettable experience. Guided tours are available, allowing you to delve deep into this natural wonder while learning about its geological significance.

Other Popular Caves

Other notable caves in the region include Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave, both offering stunning rock formations and underground rivers for exploration. Make sure to allocate enough time to fully appreciate the unique beauty of these caves.

Water Sports and Beach Activities

Snorkeling and Diving in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. Join guided tours to explore vibrant coral reefs and discover the underwater wonders of the sea.

Kite Surfing in Mui Ne

Mui Ne is famous for its wind conditions, making it a kite surfing hotspot. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kiter, the beach offers lessons and rental services, ensuring a thrilling water adventure.

11. Vietnam Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Currency and Payments

Using Vietnamese Dong

The official currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It's advisable to carry cash for street food purchases and small transactions, as not all establishments accept credit cards.

ATMs and Credit Card Use

ATMs are widely available in cities, and most accept foreign cards. However, it's wise to notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent any issues with card usage.

Safety Tips and Health Advice

Vaccinations and Medical Insurance

• Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are recommended for all areas. Consult your doctor about anti-malarial if visiting rural regions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance before arriving to cover emergency medical costs.

Common Scams to Avoid

• Gem scams: Ignore unsolicited gem offers on the streets. Stones are often fake.
• Overpriced taxis: Only take registered taxis from trusted companies like Grab or Mai Linh.
• Counterfeit cash: Be wary of large denomination bills offered as change that may be invalid.
• Gold-plated latrines: A ruse to part tourists from money, public toilets are free to use in Vietnam.
• Fake tour guides: Don't accept offers of guiding services from unknown individuals outside major destinations.

Following basic safety practices like being vigilant of your belongings in crowded areas and avoiding suspect gem/money offers protects you from the few scams targeted at foreigners. With care and common sense, travelers can stay safe in Vietnam.

How to Stay Connected – SIM Cards and Wi-Fi

Staying connected while traveling is crucial for navigation and communication.

Purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM upon arrival gives you access to data and calls at reasonable rates. Various providers offer packages tailored for travelers, ensuring you remain connected throughout your journey.

Additionally, many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, enabling you to stay in touch with loved ones back home.

Conclusion

Why Vietnam is a Must-Visit Destination

Vietnam offers a unique blend of cultures, landscapes, and adventures across diverse cities, coastlines, jungles, and mountains. Visitors are immersed in the vibrant bustle of urban centers like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City filled with imperial palaces and colonial buildings. Natural escapes include the scenic coastlines and islands of Halong Bay and Nha Trang along with the highlands of Sapa and Dalat. The welcoming locals enhance the experience through their rich culinary heritage, festivals, and community spirit. Now is an ideal time to experience this emerging Southeast Asian country.

Final Tips from Threeland Travel

Embrace flexibility when exploring Vietnam beyond peak summer. Enjoy local flavors, scenery, and friendliness - Threeland Travel ensures this guide highlights the many captivating dimensions of your Vietnam journey. Contact us to book your customized Trip to Vietnam and set out on an unforgettable adventure today!

12. FAQs About Traveling to Vietnam

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Yes, most travelers will need a visa to enter Vietnam. Check the current visa requirements based on your nationality and planned length of stay.

What is the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit varies by region, but generally, the dry season from November to April is ideal, with pleasant weather and lower humidity.

What are the must-see attractions in Vietnam?

Key attractions include the historic cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the cultural richness of Hue