The Complete Guide To Travel To Vietnam

Over the past years, Vietnam has rapidly become a premier tourist destination in Southeast Asia, welcoming approximately 18 million international visitors in 2019. This number is expected to continue growing, and it’s easy to see why. Vietnam boasts a rich history, a vibrant and diverse culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes that captivate travelers from all over the world.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, having a well-organized guide can be invaluable. This post offers a wealth of essential information, saving you the time and effort of scouring the internet and navigating multiple websites. We’ve compiled everything you need to know into this comprehensive guide, which we’re confident will be a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore Vietnam.

Part I: Travel Visa Updates

Recent changes to Vietnam’s visa policy, officially enacted on August 14, 2023, include the following updates:

• 3-month multiple-entry visas will be available from August 15, 2023.
• Citizens of all countries are now eligible for the e-visa program.
• Nine additional ports of entry have been added to the list of eligible Entry/Exit points.
• Visa exemption: Starting August 15, 2023, regular passport holders from 13 countries will be exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 45 days, an increase from the previous 15 days.

1. Do You Need a Visa to Visit Vietnam?

Vietnam offers visa exemptions for travelers from 13 countries and e-Visas for citizens of all nations. Travelers can also apply for a visa on arrival, either online or in person at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

2. Visa Exemptions

As of August 15, 2023, Vietnam’s updated visa policy extends the stay duration from 15 days to 45 days for citizens of 13 countries, regardless of passport type or purpose of entry. The exempt countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus.

Additionally, here is the complete list of 25 countries plus Kazakhstan that are exempt from visa requirements:

• Southeast Asia: Brunei, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines.
• Europe: Belarus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the UK.
• Asia: Japan, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan.
• Americas: Chile, Panama.

Notes on Exemptions:

These exemptions are valid until December 31, 2025.

Pro Tips:

• Phu Quoc Island: All nationalities can visit Phu Quoc Island visa-free for up to 30 days. Simply present an outbound ticket upon arrival in Vietnam.
• Traveling Beyond Phu Quoc: If you plan to travel to the mainland after visiting Phu Quoc, you will need to obtain an e-Visa or a visa in advance. It’s best to apply for an e-Visa beforehand and present it upon arrival at Phu Quoc International Airport to avoid complications.

3. e-Visa Requirements

Vietnam offers an e-Visa option for travelers, valid for up to 90 days, allowing both single and multiple entries. The e-Visa costs $25 for a single entry and $50 for multiple entries, with a processing time of at least three working days.

Entry Points:

Foreigners holding an e-Visa can enter Vietnam through:

• 13 international airports, including Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang.
• 16 land border gates, such as Mong Cai (Quang Ninh) and Lao Cai.
• 13 sea border gates, including Da Nang and Vung Tau.

Requirements:

To apply for an e-Visa, you’ll need:

• A passport with at least six months of validity.
• A digital photo of your passport data page (.jpg format).
• A passport-sized photo (.jpg format, 4×6 cm, white background).
• A valid credit or debit card for payment.
• An email address for support.
• A temporary address in Vietnam.
• Your intended entry and exit dates and points.

Application Process:

1. Prepare the required materials.
2. Visit the official Vietnam e-Visa website.
3. Upload your images and complete the form.
4. Pay the e-Visa fee and save the document code provided.
5. Check your email within three working days for your e-Visa. Download and print two copies for safety.

Pro Tip: With an e-Visa, you can skip the visa-on-arrival queues and proceed directly to the immigration counter.

4. Vietnam e-Visa Official Website

The official e-Visa for Vietnam can be applied for through the Ministry of Public Security’s Public Service Portal. Depending on who submits the application, use one of these official links:

• For guaranteeing agencies and organizations: Vietnam e-Visa Agency Portal
• For individual foreigners: Vietnam e-Visa Individual Portal

Be cautious of commercial websites offering e-Visa services, as they often charge additional fees for expedited processing.

5. Visa on Arrival

If you require a multiple-entry visa or plan to stay longer than 30 days, consider applying for a visa on arrival. The requirements include:

• A 4×6 passport photo (white background, no glasses).
• A completed visa application form.
• A passport or substitute ID valid for at least six months from your planned entry date.
• Payment of visa fees ($25 for a single entry, $50 for multiple entries).
• A Letter of Approval from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate if collecting your visa at the airport.

Visa Application Options

If you’re near a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, you can submit your visa application form, passport, photo, and visa fee in person. However, if you’re short on time or the nearest embassy is far away, you can use reputable online services to obtain a valid Letter of Approval for a fee. You’ll need to present this letter, along with your visa application form and other required documents, at the Visa on Arrival counter when you arrive at the airport.

Part II: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a year-round destination with diverse weather patterns due to its long coastline and varied geography. The country can be considered as having three distinct regions, each with its own climate:

• North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa): May to October is hot and humid, while November to April is cool and dry. The coldest months are December and January.
• Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Danang, Hue): January to August is hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s°C. The rainy season runs from September to November.
• South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc): November to April is dry and warm, while May to October is warm and wet, with heavy rains in June, July, and August.

1. Weather by Region and Season

Far North (Sapa, Bac Ha, Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang):
This region has two main seasons: wet from April to September and dry from October to March. December and January can be especially cold.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh):
The north experiences a distinct summer and winter. Winter (November to April) is cool and mostly dry, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 22°C, particularly cold in January through March. Summer (May to October) is hot, humid, and the wettest months are July to September, potentially affecting Halong Bay cruises.

Central Vietnam (Danang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang):
From mid-January to late August, the weather is hot and dry, with temperatures in the mid-30s°C. Hue tends to be cooler than Hoi An, especially early in the year. Nha Trang enjoys a longer dry season from January to September, with October and November being the wettest months.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Mekong Delta):
The south remains warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The dry season lasts from November to April, with the wet season from May to November. Phu Quoc and Con Dao islands enjoy sunny weather year-round, making them ideal for visiting any time.

Part III. Holidays & Special Events

1. Tết Nguyên Đán – Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Tết, or Tết Nguyên Đán, is the most significant celebration in Vietnamese culture, also known as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It marks the arrival of spring and typically occurs between late January and mid-February. During this time, cities that are usually bustling become unusually quiet as many people return to their hometowns to celebrate with family and friends.

Visiting Vietnam during Tết can be both exhilarating and challenging. The festive atmosphere includes vibrant markets, bustling shopping malls, and booked-up hotels, especially in popular tourist spots like Hoi An. The holiday is characterized by fireworks, loud celebrations with gongs, bells, and firecrackers, which are believed to ward off evil spirits. The celebrations last for about three days, with each day dedicated to different social interactions: the first day is for family, the second for friends, and the third for teachers and temple visits.

Traveling during Tết requires careful planning. Transportation, including buses and trains, is often booked out well in advance, and many museums, shops, and attractions may close for up to five days, which could impact your itinerary. Booking hotels and domestic flights early is essential, and be prepared for higher tour guide and transportation fees due to the holiday’s high demand.

Upcoming Tết Dates in Vietnam:

• 2022: February 1-4
• 2023: January 22-26
• 2024: February 10-14

2. Hue Festival

The Hue Festival is a biennial event held in the historic city of Hue, known for its vibrant cultural activities and performances that span more than a week. Established in 2000, the festival aims to preserve and celebrate the traditional customs of the Nguyen Dynasty. The festival usually takes place in April, May, or June every two years and features an array of events such as the Hue Poetry Festival, Ao Dai fashion shows, drum and percussion performances, and sports activities like boat racing, kite flying, and human chess.

The festival also offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s feudal past through reenactments of royal rituals like the Xa Tac Offering Ritual, Nam Giao Offering Ritual, and performances of the Royal Refined Music of Hue, which UNESCO recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2003.

3. Mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 14th and 15th day of the lunar month, is also known as the Harvest Festival, Full Moon Festival, and Children’s Festival. It is a magical time filled with activities such as lion dances, children parading with paper lanterns, and food stalls offering sticky rice, mooncakes, fruits, and sweets. On the night of the festival, families set up ancestral altars with offerings to honor the full moon.

Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town, is one of the best places to experience the Mid-Autumn Festival, where the festivities are particularly lively. Lantern processions, street performances, and art shows create a festive atmosphere. Children are encouraged to participate in drawing, coloring, and essay contests, while tourists can admire the beautifully lit lanterns along the Japanese Covered Bridge and the banks of the Thu Bon River.

Part IV. Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam’s sinuous shape stretches over 1,025 miles along the eastern seaboard of Indochina, making transportation an intriguing adventure. From leisurely rides on cyclo (bicycle rickshaws) to thrilling motorbike taxis, the country offers a variety of transport options. Whether you’re planning to explore the entire length of Vietnam or just a few select cities, your choice of transportation will depend on your time, budget, and sense of adventure.

1. Vietnam by Plane

Vietnam has over 20 airports, a significant number for a relatively small country, largely due to the conversion of airstrips from the Vietnam War. The main international airports are in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with daily flights arriving from major Asian hubs like Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Seoul. Domestic flights are operated by airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, VietJet Air, and others, making it easy to travel between cities like Can Tho, Danang, and Nha Trang. Flying is the quickest way to cover long distances in Vietnam, such as the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, which takes just two hours by plane.

2. Vietnam by Train

Vietnam’s railway network spans 1,600 miles, with the Reunification Express connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The journey offers an immersive experience of Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history, with stops at popular destinations like Danang, Hue, and Nha Trang. The full trip takes over 40 hours, and although train tickets are generally more expensive than bus fares, the comfort and scenic views make it worthwhile. For long journeys, booking an overnight train with a soft-berth sleeper compartment is recommended.

Private companies also offer luxurious train services, particularly for the route from Hanoi to Lao Cai in the Northern Highlands. Companies like Fanxipan, Chapa Express Train, and Victoria Hotels operate high-end carriages, with Victoria Express Train being one of the most comfortable options on this route.

3. Vietnam by Bus

For budget travelers with time on their hands, buses are a viable option for getting around Vietnam. The bus network covers most cities, but journeys can be long and uncomfortable due to the country’s winding roads. The 172-mile trip from the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City, for example, takes about eight hours.

Private “open tour” buses are a popular choice for tourists, offering air-conditioned comfort and the flexibility to hop on and off at various destinations along the Hanoi-Saigon route. These buses are preferable to state-run services, which can be less reliable. It’s advisable to research bus companies in advance and bring snacks and drinks for the journey.

4. Vietnam by Boat

Boat travel in Vietnam offers unique opportunities to explore the country’s scenic waterways. A cruise on Halong Bay is a must, with options ranging from day trips to luxurious overnight excursions. Other popular boat tours include river cruises in the Mekong Delta, where you can experience local life along the riverbanks, and ferry services to islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao. For those traveling between Vietnam and Cambodia, a fast boat ride from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc is a popular itinerary.

5. Vietnam by Motorcycle or Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular way to explore Vietnam’s cities and countryside. Rentals are widely available in major cities, and in Dalat, motorcycle tours are especially popular. If you’re not comfortable riding on your own, you can join an Easy Rider tour, which offers guided motorcycle trips ranging from short rides to multi-day adventures.

6. Vietnam by Local Transportation

In cities, you have three main transportation options: taxis, cyclos, and xe om (motorbike taxis). Metered taxis are inexpensive, but it’s important to choose reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid scams. Cyclos, three-wheel bicycle taxis, offer a nostalgic mode of transport, particularly in tourist areas. Negotiate the fare before your journey. Xe om, or motorbike taxis, are a quick and affordable way to get around, especially if you’re traveling light. Again, it’s crucial to agree on the fare before setting off.

Part V: Best Places to Stay in Vietnam

In Vietnam, luxury accommodations are surprisingly affordable, offering an exquisite blend of comfort and convenience at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in the U.S. or major European cities. For just over $100 a night, you can enjoy top-notch service and amenities, making it a fantastic value. Opt for a luxury room and you’ll find it’s well worth the investment.

For more tailored recommendations, check out our mini ebook, which provides detailed information to help you choose the perfect hotel that meets your needs and preferences.

Part VI: Top Destinations and Attractions in Vietnam

Vietnam dazzles with its natural splendor and cultural richness. From pristine beaches to lush landscapes, and from vibrant cities to serene countryside, the country is a feast for the senses. With over 20 years since its unification, Vietnam has gracefully healed and is now an extraordinary travel destination. Here’s a guide to some of its must-visit spots:

1. Hanoi Hanoi, brimming with history and culture, particularly shines in the Old Quarter. This vibrant area is the heart of the city’s tourism scene, known for its lively markets, nightlife, and excellent local cuisine. Key attractions include:

• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Water Puppet Theatre
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
• Dong Xuan Market
• Ba Vi National Park
• Hanoi Opera House
• Temple of Literature

2. Sapa Nestled in the mountains, Sapa offers a blend of cultural experiences and breathtaking natural beauty. The once tranquil town has become a popular tourist destination, and highlights include:

• Trekking through tribal villages
• Strolling by Sapa Lake
• Visiting the Love Waterfall
• Taking a cable car to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina
• Exploring Muong Hoa Valley’s rice terraces
• Enjoying the Silver Falls
• Experiencing traditional textiles at Cat Cat or Ta Phin Village
• Visiting local markets like Coc Ly and Can Cau

3. Halong Bay No visit to northern Vietnam is complete without Halong Bay. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the bay’s stunning limestone islands offer unparalleled beauty. Must-do activities include:

• Taking a boat cruise or staying overnight on a traditional wooden boat
• Kayaking among karst formations and exploring hidden lagoons
• Joining a Tai Chi class on the sundeck at sunrise
• Visiting Hang Sung Sot Cave
• Nighttime squid fishing
• Aerial views from a seaplane
• Excursions to Cat Ba Island and its caves
• Bicycling to Viet Hai Village
• Relaxing at Lan Ha Bay

4. Hoi An Hoi An’s Ancient Town, with its charming canals and well-preserved architecture, is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The city is a cultural melting pot, reflected in its varied buildings and vibrant street life. Highlights include:

• Exploring Hoi An Old Town
• Visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Dining at popular restaurants
• Relaxing on An Bang Beach
• Cycling through the countryside
• Shopping at Hoi An Central Market
• Touring the Museum of Trade Ceramics
• Scuba diving at Lao Cham Island
• Attending a cooking class at Sabirama Cooking School

5. Nha Trang Located on Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant resort atmosphere. Key attractions include:

• Water sports, scuba diving, and snorkeling
• Sailing trips to nearby islands
• Visiting Ponagar Cham temples and Long Son Pagoda
• Riding the Vinpearl cable car
• Exploring Vinpearl Amusement Park
• Relaxing at Yang Bay Eco Park
• Enjoying Thap Ba Hot Springs and Mud Baths
• Visiting the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam

6. Dalat Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Dalat is famous for its temperate climate and floral displays. It offers a range of attractions, including:

• Visiting the summer palace of Emperor Bao Dai
• Exploring the Da Lat Railway Station
• Admiring the Crazy House
• Riding the cable car to Truc Lam Pagoda
• Hiking Lang Biang Mountain
• Visiting Pongour Waterfalls
• Strolling through Dalat Flower Gardens
• Exploring K’Ho ethnic villages and local coffee farms

7. Ho Chi Minh City Formerly Saigon, this bustling metropolis is known for its French colonial architecture and vibrant urban life. Key experiences include:

• Touring the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Savoring Pho at local eateries
• Visiting Giac Lam Pagoda
• Enjoying a Bonsai River Cruise dinner
• Exploring the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace
• Climbing the Bitexco Financial Tower
• Shopping at Ben Thanh and Binh Tay Markets

8. Mekong Delta The Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s ‘rice bowl,’ features a network of rivers, canals, and floating markets. Activities include:

• Cruising on a sampan to various islands
• Visiting the Vinh Trang Pagoda and Cai Be Fruit Orchard
• Exploring floating markets and rural paths
• Sampling local cuisine at Cai Rang market
• Bird watching at Tram Chim National Park
• Visiting Hon Phu Tu Island

Part VII: What to Eat in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful balance of flavors, combining aromatic herbs, sweetness, and savory elements. Each region offers its own unique twist on dishes, from the noodle soups of the north to the sweeter, more complex flavors of the south. French influence is also evident, especially in the iconic banh mi—a Vietnamese twist on the French baguette sandwich, filled with a variety of ingredients like fish patties, grilled pork, and pickled vegetables.

Whether enjoyed from a street stall or a high-end restaurant, Vietnamese food is celebrated for its simplicity, freshness, and regional diversity, making it a continually enticing experience for travelers.