Vietnam stretches over 1,600km from north to south, packing an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, cultures and experiences into a relatively small country. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the white sand beaches of Phu Quoc, from the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the frenetic energy of Ho Chi Minh City — Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia's most rewarding destinations.
When to visit
Vietnam's climate varies dramatically by region, which means there's rarely a bad time to visit — you just need to choose the right part of the country.
November to April is generally the best time for central and southern Vietnam. The north (Hanoi, Sapa) can be cool and misty from December to February.
May to October brings the southwest monsoon, with heavy rain in the south. The north is at its best from April to June and September to November.
Year-round: Hoi An and Da Nang tend to be drier from February to August.
Top destinations
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) — Vietnam's commercial engine. The city moves at a relentless pace and the energy is intoxicating. Explore the War Remnants Museum, eat bánh mì from a street cart, and experience the rooftop bar scene after dark. Day trips to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels are highly recommended.
Hanoi — The capital is older, slower and more complex than Saigon. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets each historically dedicated to a different trade. Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature are essential stops.
Ha Long Bay — One of the world's great natural wonders. Thousands of limestone karsts rise from emerald water — best explored on an overnight cruise. Book a reputable operator for a memorable experience.
Hoi An — The most atmospheric town in Vietnam. The Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is preserved almost perfectly. Hire a bicycle, get clothes tailor-made overnight, eat white rose dumplings and cao lau noodles.
Da Nang — A modern beach city with excellent infrastructure and some of the best food in the country. Use it as a base for Hoi An and the Marble Mountains.
Sapa — In the far north near the Chinese border, Sapa offers dramatic mountain scenery, terraced rice fields and the opportunity to trek through hill tribe villages.
Phu Quoc — Vietnam's largest island, with clear water, good beaches and a rapidly developing resort scene. Best visited outside the rainy season (May to October).
Getting around
Domestic flights are cheap and efficient — book in advance with VietJet, Bamboo or Vietnam Airlines. Flying between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is far preferable to the 30+ hour train journey.
Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber equivalent) is reliable and affordable in all major cities. Always use it over unmarked taxis.
Overnight trains between Hanoi and Da Nang are comfortable and offer great views of the coast.
Food you must try
- Phở — Vietnam's iconic noodle soup, eaten at breakfast by locals. Hanoi's phở is cleaner and more refined; Saigon's is more robust.
- Bánh mì — The world's greatest sandwich. A French baguette filled with pork, pâté, pickled vegetables and chilli.
- Bún bò Huế — A spicier, more complex noodle soup from the imperial city of Hue.
- Cao lầu — A Hoi An speciality that can only be made authentically with the local water.
- Cà phê trứng — Hanoi's famous egg coffee. Sounds unusual, tastes extraordinary.
Practical tips
- Visa: Most nationalities can get an e-Visa online before travel. Check current requirements at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available. Cash is preferred for street food and markets.
- Bargaining is expected in markets — start at 40-50% of the asking price.
- Motorbike taxis (xe ôm) through apps like Grab are a fun and cheap way to get around cities.
Staying connected in Vietnam
Vietnam has solid 4G coverage in cities and tourist areas. Get an InstantESIMs Vietnam eSIM before you fly for instant connectivity on arrival — plans start from $1.
