Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes – from the emerald rice paddies of the Mekong Delta to the soaring peaks of Sapa, – the vibrant culture steeped in tradition, and delicious cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds, is a dream destination for many.
Whether you’re drawn to its ancient history, yearn for adventure in its natural wonders, or simply want to savor the flavors of its bustling cities, this guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.
I. How Far in Advance Should I Plan My Trip to Vietnam?
You shoul plan your Vietnam trip sooner. The sooner, the better! We suggest starting 6-9 months ahead of time if you can. This gives you enough time to figure out where you want to go, book flights and places to stay, and get any visas or shots you might need. If you’re going during popular travel times, start planning even earlier to get the best prices and make sure you can find a place to stay. Planning ahead also gives you more time to save money for your trip.
II. Vietnam Trip Planning Tools
Here are some tools that can help you plan your Vietnam trip:
- Guidebooks: Guidebooks are like having a little encyclopedia of Vietnam! They tell you about the best places to visit, things to see, and even give you insider tips. Some popular guidebooks are Lonely Planet, Fodor’s, and Rough Guides. You can find them in bookstores or online.
- Websites: The internet is your best friend when planning a trip! Websites like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet, and Rough Guides have tons of information about Vietnam, including reviews from other travelers. You can also find helpful blogs and articles written by people who have been to Vietnam.
- Travel Apps: Don’t forget to download some travel apps! These can be super helpful for finding your way around, converting currency, and even learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases. Some useful apps for Vietnam are Google Maps, XE Currency, and Duolingo.
III. What is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?
Vietnam has different weather depending on where you go, but in general, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from November to April.
- November to April: This is the most popular time to visit because the weather is warm and sunny. It’s a great time to visit anywhere in Vietnam.
- December to February: Perfect for exploring North Vietnam (like Hanoi and Sapa).
- March to May: Ideal for Central and South Vietnam (like Hoi An, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc).
If you don’t mind a little rain, you can find good deals on flights and hotels during the low season, which is from May to October. Just be ready for some heavy rain!
IV. How Long to Stay in Vietnam?
The duration of your trip will depend on your interests, how much time you have, and your budget.
- To really experience Vietnam: Plan to stay at least two weeks. This will give you enough time to see the highlights and get a feel for the culture.
- For a more in-depth trip: Three to four weeks is ideal. You’ll have time to explore both popular spots and hidden gems at a more relaxed pace.
This will allow you to explore both well-known destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems at a more relaxed pace.
V. Best Things to Do in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a wide range of activities and experiences for travelers. Here are some must-do things to add to your itinerary:
- Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter: Get lost in the maze of narrow streets, find treasures in the colorful markets, and enjoy delicious food from street vendors.
- Cruise Ha Long Bay: See the amazing emerald-green water and towering limestone islands on a boat tour.
- Visit Hoi An Ancient Town: This beautiful town is famous for its old buildings, lanterns lighting up the streets at night, and bustling markets. Rent a bike to explore!
- Take a Boat Tour in the Mekong Delta: Experience life on the water in the Mekong Delta. You’ll see floating markets, lush green scenery, and learn about the local way of life.
- Trek Through Sapa: If you like adventure, go hiking in Sapa. You’ll see amazing rice terraces, visit remote villages, and learn about the different cultures there.
VI. Getting to Vietnam
The most convenient and popular way to get to Vietnam is by air. Most major airlines have direct flights to Vietnam’s two main international airports: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. However, if you’re coming from neighboring countries like Cambodia or Laos, you can also take a bus or train.
VII. Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam has an extensive network of public transportation, making it easy to get around the country. Buses and trains are affordable options for long-distance travel, while taxis and motorbike taxis (known as xe om) are convenient for shorter trips within cities. You can also rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore at your own pace, but make sure to have a valid license and wear a helmet.
VIII. Money and Budget for Vietnam Trip
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While you can use US dollars and credit cards in big cities and tourist areas, it’s best to carry Vietnamese Dong, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in most towns, but it’s safer to use ATMs located at banks to avoid scams. You can travel comfortably in Vietnam on a budget of $25-50 USD per day. However, this excludes expenses such as flights and expensive activities.
IX. Mobile Internet in Vietnam
Having access to the internet is essential for any traveler, especially when navigating through a foreign country. Fortunately, Vietnam has a reliable and widely available mobile network. Upon arrival, you can purchase a SIM card from a local provider (such as Viettel or Mobifone) for a reasonable price. Alternatively, you can also choose to use eSIMs, which allow you to purchase a data plan online without the need for a physical SIM card.
X. Using Your Phone While Traveling in Vietnam
Before departing for Vietnam, it’s crucial to check with your phone provider about international roaming charges. These can be costly, so it’s best to purchase a local SIM card or eSIM instead. If you prefer not to change your SIM card, you can also use Wi-Fi at cafes and restaurants to stay connected.
XI. Passport and Visa Requirements for Vietnam
Most visitors to Vietnam will need a valid passport and a visa to enter the country.
Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure date.
Visa: Most visitors need a visa. The good news is many countries (like the US, Canada, Australia, and most of Europe) can get a “visa on arrival.” You apply online beforehand to get a pre-approval letter, then get the actual visa stamped into your passport when you arrive at the airport. You’ll need:
- Your pre-approval letter
- Two passport-sized photos
- US dollars to pay the visa fee
XII. Final Tips
Now that you have all the information you need to plan your trip to Vietnam, let’s wrap things up with some final tips:
- Pack light and bring comfortable shoes – Vietnam involves a lot of walking and climbing!
- Research cultural customs and etiquette before visiting temples and other religious sites.
- Be respectful of the locals and their way of life.
- Take out travel insurance in case of any emergencies.
- Try the local street food – it’s delicious and cheap!
- Bargain when shopping at markets, but remember to be polite and friendly.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Stay hydrated and drink bottled water.
- Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases such as hello (xin chào), thank you (cám ơn), and goodbye (tạm biệt)
XIII. Conclusion
Vietnam has something for everyone with its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and welcoming people. This guide gives you the key information you need to plan an amazing trip to Vietnam – from the best time to go and what to see, to practical tips on getting around and making the most of your time. Now start planning your adventure and get ready for the experience of a lifetime!