Vietnam
Ancient culture, stunning landscapes, and the world's best street food.
Overview
Vietnam stretches 1,600 miles from north to south, packing in an extraordinary range of landscapes, cultures, and cuisines. The north offers misty mountains, rice terraces, and the iconic Ha Long Bay. Central Vietnam is home to the imperial city of Hue and the magical ancient town of Hoi An. The south buzzes with the energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the languid pace of the Mekong Delta. A single trip barely scratches the surface.
Capital
Hanoi
Language
Vietnamese
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
ICT (UTC+7)
Flight Time
~18–22 hrs from USA (with layover)
Best Airport
HAN (Hanoi) or SGN (Ho Chi Minh City)
Best Time to Visit
Vietnam's elongated shape means weather varies dramatically by region. Generally, November through April is the driest and most pleasant time to visit the entire country. The summer months (May–October) bring monsoon rains, particularly in the south.
Flight Costs from USA
Economy Class
$700 – $1,300
Round trip from major US cities
Business / First
$3,000 – $6,500
Round trip from major US cities
Best months to book: May, June, and September
Flying into Hanoi (HAN) and out of Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) — or vice versa — avoids backtracking and is usually the same price as a round-trip. Cathay Pacific and Korean Air often offer the best value with short layovers.
Visa Information
Requirement
eVisa Required
Stay Duration
Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry)
Cost (USD)
$25 USD
US citizens must apply for an eVisa at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. Processing takes 3 business days. The eVisa covers tourism, transit, and business purposes. Visa on Arrival is also available at major international airports.
Top Attractions
Ha Long Bay
Over 1,600 limestone karsts and islets rising from emerald waters. An overnight cruise is the best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hoi An Ancient Town
A perfectly preserved 15th-century trading port. Famous for its lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and incredible food scene.
Hue Imperial City
The former imperial capital of Vietnam, home to a grand citadel, royal tombs, and elaborate pagodas along the Perfume River.
Sapa Rice Terraces
Breathtaking stepped rice paddies carved into the Hoang Lien Son mountains, home to colorful hill tribes.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Vietnam's vibrant southern metropolis — visit the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and the Cu Chi Tunnels nearby.
Phong Nha Caves
Home to Son Doong, the world's largest cave. Even the accessible caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park are awe-inspiring.
Hotels & Areas to Stay
Hanoi Old Quarter
$30 – $150/nightThe beating heart of Hanoi with street food stalls, silk shops, and historic architecture. Hectic but fascinating.
Best for: First-time visitors, budget travelers
Hoi An Town Center
$40 – $200/nightSmall boutique hotels and homestays within walking distance of the Ancient Town and lantern-lit restaurants.
Best for: Couples, cultural travelers
Da Nang Beach Resorts
$80 – $350/nightLuxury resorts lining My Khe Beach — a popular base for day trips to Hoi An and the Marble Mountains.
Best for: Beach lovers, families
Ho Chi Minh City District 1
$50 – $250/nightCentral business and tourism hub with rooftop bars, fine dining, and easy access to key attractions.
Best for: City explorers, foodies
Safety Tips
Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic — especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Cross streets slowly and steadily, make eye contact with drivers, and never assume they will stop.
Use reputable taxi apps like Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) to avoid fare scams. Metered taxis from Vinasun and Mai Linh are also trustworthy.
Motorbike thefts and bag snatchings do occur in cities — keep bags on the side of the pavement, away from passing motorbikes.
Drink only bottled water and avoid ice at street-side stalls unless you are certain it is filtered.
Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Healthcare facilities outside major cities are limited.
Be cautious of "too good to be true" gem or silk deals — a classic tourist scam involves selling counterfeit goods at inflated prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend in Vietnam?
Two weeks is ideal for covering the north-to-south highlights. A week is enough for one region. Budget travelers often spend 3–4 weeks exploring in depth.
Is Vietnam a budget-friendly destination?
Vietnam is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia. Budget travelers can get by on $30–50/day including accommodation, food, and transport.
Should I fly or take the train between cities?
Domestic flights are cheap and fast — Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo offer routes for $20–80. The overnight train from Hanoi to Hue (soft sleeper cabin) is a great experience at ~$25.
Is Vietnam safe for solo travelers?
Yes — Vietnam is generally very safe for solo travelers including women. Standard precautions apply: stay aware in crowded areas and use trusted transport.
What vaccinations are recommended?
Consult your doctor, but commonly recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria prophylaxis may be advised for rural areas.
