Vietnam Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

October to April is generally dry and pleasant in the north and central regions; December to April is best for southern Vietnam and the Mekong Delta. Avoid the intense monsoon season in central Vietnam (September–November) if you plan to visit beaches and Hoi An.

Currency

Vietnamese đồng (VND); carry cash for markets and small vendors, and expect to use ATMs in cities

Language

Vietnamese is the national language; English is widely spoken in tourism hubs, with limited French and Chinese in some areas

Getting around

Domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, VietJet) save time over long distances, while trains and overnight sleepers connect Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City; motorbike taxis (Xe ôm) and Grab are convenient for short trips. Rent a motorcycle only if experienced and insured; city cycling or walking is practical in compact areas like Hoi An.

Culture & etiquette

Remove shoes when entering homes and some temples, dress modestly at religious sites, and use both hands or your right hand when giving or receiving items as a sign of respect.

Country highlights

Hạ Long Bay

Sail among limestone karsts and islets on a day cruise or overnight junk for spectacular scenery.

Hội An

Stroll the atmospheric lantern-lit old town, have tailored clothing made, and visit nearby An Bang Beach.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Experience bustling street life, French colonial architecture, and iconic street-food alleys around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Sapa and the northern highlands

Trek terraced rice fields and meet ethnic minority communities around Fansipan and Muong Hoa Valley.

Hue Imperial City

Explore the Nguyen dynasty's citadel, royal tombs, and riverside pagodas along the Perfume River.

Mekong Delta

Take boat trips through floating markets, fruit orchards, and crisscrossing canals near Cần Thơ and Mỹ Tho.

What to eat

Phở

A fragrant beef or chicken noodle soup eaten any time of day.

Bánh mì

Crispy French-style baguette sandwich filled with meats, pickles, and herbs.

Gỏi cuốn (spring rolls)

Fresh rice-paper rolls with herbs, pork or shrimp, and peanut dipping sauce.

Bún chả

Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce—Hanoi specialty.

Cao lầu

Hoi An's chewy noodles with pork, greens, and savory broth.

Insider tips

Carry small-denomination VND notes for taxis, markets, and gratuities; many places round up for foreign cards.
Tap water is not safe to drink — use bottled or filtered water and bring a refillable bottle with a filter if you prefer.
Negotiate taxi fares up front or use metered providers and ride-hailing apps like Grab to avoid overcharging.
Pack a light rain jacket and quick-dry clothing; microclimates vary sharply between north, central, and south.
Respect photography rules at religious sites and during ceremonies; always ask before photographing people, especially ethnic-minority children.

Cities in Vietnam

Hanoi🇻🇳 Vietnam

Chaotic streets, timeless lakes, rich flavors

Explore →

Ho Chi Minh City🇻🇳 Vietnam

Chaotic energy, rich history, irresistible food

Explore →

Da Nang🇻🇳 Vietnam

Coastal charm meets vibrant Vietnamese energy

Explore →

Hoi An🇻🇳 Vietnam

Ancient Town, Lanterns, and Culinary Delights

Explore →

Nha Trang🇻🇳 Vietnam

Vietnam's Coastal Gem with Azure Waters

Explore →

Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Many nationalities require a visa or e-visa—check the Vietnamese immigration website; some countries have visa exemptions for short stays.

Is it safe to ride a motorbike in Vietnam?

Traffic is chaotic and road standards vary; only ride if experienced, wear a helmet, and ensure you have proper insurance and an appropriate license.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops in cities, but cash is necessary for street food stalls, markets, and rural areas.

What vaccines or health precautions should I take?

Routine vaccines should be up to date; consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and talk to a travel clinic about malaria prophylaxis for rural areas—bring insect repellent.

Good to know

Country highlights

What to eat

Insider tips

Cities in Vietnam

Good to know — FAQ

Plan your Vietnam trip with Tripmi