Vietnam Travel FAQs - Everything First-Time Visitors Should Know

Planning your first trip to Vietnam can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming with so many places to see and experiences to choose from. To help you prepare, here are the most common questions travelers ask, with detailed answers to make your journey smoother.

What is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

Vietnam’s long shape means the weather differs greatly from north to south. The north (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay) has four seasons, with the best time to visit between October and April when it’s cool and dry. The central coast (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An) enjoys warm weather year-round, though September to November can bring heavy rain. The south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc) has a tropical climate with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.

If you want the most comfortable conditions across the country, March–April and October–November are ideal for a well-balanced trip.

What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Vietnam?

Some highlights that consistently impress visitors include:

• Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone karsts.
• Hoi An Ancient Town, known for lanterns, tailors, and riverside charm.
• Hue, the former imperial capital with citadels, pagodas, and royal tombs.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang, home to some of the world’s most spectacular caves.
• Sapa and Ha Giang, with mountain views and terraced rice fields.
• The Mekong Delta, where you can see floating markets and lush countryside.
• Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, vibrant cultural and economic hubs that blend history, food, and modern life.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Vietnam?

If you only have a week, it’s best to focus on one region such as the north (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh) or the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc). Ten to fourteen days will allow you to see highlights from north to south at a relaxed pace. Three weeks or more lets you explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Ha Giang, Kon Tum, or the Central Highlands.

For first-time visitors, two weeks is usually the perfect balance between cultural exploration, natural beauty, and time to relax.

Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists?

Vietnam is one of the safest destinations in Asia. Violent crime is extremely rare and locals are generally welcoming and helpful. The main concerns for travelers are petty theft in crowded places, road safety due to heavy traffic, and minor scams in tourist hotspots.

By staying alert, booking services with reliable operators, and using common sense, most visitors find Vietnam a safe and enjoyable country to travel.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Vietnam?

Many travelers do, although Vietnam offers visa exemptions to certain nationalities for stays ranging from 15 to 45 days. Others can apply online for an e-visa, valid for up to 90 days with multiple entries (introduced in August 2023). Always check the latest requirements before traveling, as rules can change.

Threeland Travel can also assist with visa approval letters and guidance to make the process simple.

What are the Must-Visit Places in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang?

In Hanoi, highlights include the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh City offers the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, bustling Ben Thanh Market, and the Cu Chi Tunnels nearby. Da Nang is famous for My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, and the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, and is also the perfect base for exploring Hoi An and Hue.

Which Beaches in Vietnam are the Most Beautiful?

Phu Quoc Island is known for white sand beaches and luxury resorts. Nha Trang is lively with nightlife and water sports. Mui Ne combines beaches with sand dunes and kitesurfing. Con Dao is remote, peaceful, and ideal for a quiet escape. Da Nang’s My Khe Beach is a long, beautiful stretch close to the city. Whether you want lively beach towns or hidden tropical paradises, Vietnam has plenty of options.

What are the Best Hiking and Trekking Spots in Vietnam?

Sapa and Ha Giang in the north are the most famous, offering breathtaking mountain scenery and cultural encounters with ethnic minority groups. Mai Chau and Pu Luong provide gentler treks through rice paddies and stilt villages. In central Vietnam, Bach Ma National Park is great for jungle hikes and waterfalls, while Phong Nha-Ke Bang offers trekking combined with cave exploration.

Can I do a Mekong Delta Tour in Vietnam?

Yes. The Mekong Delta is best explored from Ho Chi Minh City. Day trips to places like Ben Tre and Cai Be include boat rides, fruit orchards, and village visits. A two- or three-day trip allows you to experience floating markets such as Cai Rang in Can Tho. For a more immersive journey, multi-day Mekong River cruises can even take you across the border into Cambodia.

What are the Best Day Trips from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

From Hanoi, popular options include Ninh Binh (with Tam Coc, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Pagoda), Ha Long Bay day cruises, and Perfume Pagoda. From Ho Chi Minh City, travelers often visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Mekong Delta, or Vung Tau beach. Each offers a completely different glimpse into Vietnam’s culture and landscapes.

What Vietnamese Dishes Should I Try?

Vietnam is a food lover’s dream. Must-try dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), cao lau (Hoi An specialty noodles), and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls). For drinks, don’t miss Vietnamese iced coffee or Hanoi’s famous egg coffee. Each region has unique flavors, so every stop brings something new to taste.

Where can I find the Best Street Food in Vietnam?

Street food is everywhere and often the best way to experience local life. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is full of pho, bun cha, and egg coffee. In Ho Chi Minh City, District 1 and Ben Thanh Night Market are great spots for banh mi, broken rice, and seafood. Hoi An’s night market is perfect for trying cao lau, white rose dumplings, and other central specialties.

What Cultural Etiquette Should I know When Visiting Vietnam?

When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Always use both hands when giving or receiving something, and avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects. Respecting elders and offering a polite smile is appreciated everywhere.

What Festivals or Events Should I Experience in Vietnam?

Tet, or Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday, usually in January or February. Streets are filled with flowers, food, and celebrations. The Mid-Autumn Festival in September is famous for lanterns and mooncakes. Hue Festival showcases royal traditions, while Hoi An Lantern Festival happens every month on the full moon, when the town glows with candle-lit lanterns.

What are the Best Hotels and Hostels in Vietnam?

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations. Budget travelers will find hostels and homestays for as little as $10–20 per night. Mid-range hotels are plentiful, typically $30–80 per night. For luxury, resorts in Phu Quoc, Da Nang, and Nha Trang offer world-class comfort starting from $150 per night. Boutique hotels and family-run guesthouses also provide authentic and memorable stays.

Is it Better to Travel Vietnam by Bus, Train, or Plane?

Flights are the quickest way to cover long distances, with affordable options from airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways. Trains are slower but more scenic, especially the coastal route between Hanoi and Da Nang. Buses are the cheapest and widely used, including overnight sleeper buses, though they can be less comfortable for long journeys. Many travelers mix all three depending on budget and time.

How Much Does a Trip to Vietnam Cost?

Vietnam is budget-friendly compared to many destinations. Backpackers can manage $25–40 per day, including hostels and street food. A mid-range budget of $50–100 per day allows for comfortable hotels, domestic flights, and guided tours. Luxury travelers can enjoy five-star resorts and private experiences from $150 per day upwards.

Can I Travel to Vietnam on a Budget?

Absolutely. Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries in Asia. Street food costs just a few dollars, public transport is cheap, and budget accommodations are easy to find. Even with a modest budget, travelers can enjoy a full experience of culture, food, and landscapes without overspending.

Is it Safe to Rent Motorbikes in Vietnam?

Motorbikes are the most common local transport, and many travelers rent them to explore. However, traffic can be hectic. If you rent, always wear a helmet, check the bike condition, and carry an international driving permit. For those not confident, hiring a driver is a safer alternative that still lets you enjoy the open roads.

What is the Local Currency and How do I Exchange Money in Vietnam?

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small towns. You can exchange money at banks, airports, and licensed exchange counters. ATMs are widely available but often have withdrawal limits. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but carrying cash in small denominations is recommended for daily expenses.

Can Threeland Travel Help me Plan my Vietnam Trip?

Yes. Threeland can arrange tailor-made itineraries, hotel bookings, guided tours, visa support, transfers, and even special requests like language guides or family-friendly services. Our travel consultants are available 24/7 to make your trip smooth and memorable.