About Vietnam
Vietnam captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, from the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the Mekong Delta's floating markets. This Southeast Asian nation seamlessly blends ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and dynamic modern cities with a rich culinary tradition that has gained worldwide acclaim.
Quick Overview
Capital: Hanoi
Largest City: Ho Chi Minh City
Population: 97,000,000
Languages: Vietnamese (official), English (widely spoken in tourist areas), French (older generation), Chinese (in border regions)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone: UTC+7 (Indochina Time)
Explore Vietnam by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Discover the top 31 must-see destinations in Vietnam, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Ha Long Bay
UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from emerald waters. Take an overnight cruise to explore hidden caves, kayak through lagoons, and witness stunning sunrises. This natural wonder is Vietnam's most iconic landscape and a must-visit destination.
Hoi An Ancient Town
Enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town with lantern-lit streets, well-preserved architecture from 15th-19th centuries, and rich trading port history. Explore Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient merchant houses, and vibrant night markets. Famous for custom tailor shops and cooking classes.
Cu Chi Tunnels
Extensive underground tunnel network used by Viet Cong during Vietnam War, stretching over 250km. Crawl through narrow passages, see hidden trapdoors, and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics. Living quarters, hospitals, and command centers remain preserved underground.
Imperial City of Hue
Former capital's walled fortress and palace complex from Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). Explore throne rooms, royal theaters, gardens, and intricate architecture inspired by Beijing's Forbidden City. Despite war damage, extensive restoration reveals imperial grandeur.
Sapa Rice Terraces
Spectacular stepped rice paddies carved into mountainsides by ethnic minority groups over centuries. Trek through Muong Hoa Valley, visit hill tribe villages (Hmong, Dao, Tay), and experience traditional highland culture. Stunning year-round, especially green season (May-October) and harvest (September).
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Site home to world's largest cave (Son Doong) and spectacular cave systems. Explore Paradise Cave's stunning stalactites, kayak into Phong Nha Cave, or trek through pristine jungle. Adventure tours range from easy walks to multi-day expeditions.
Mekong Delta
Vast river delta with floating markets, fruit orchards, and riverside villages built on stilts. Cruise narrow canals, visit traditional candy workshops, explore Cai Rang floating market, and experience rural Vietnamese life. The delta's intricate waterways create a unique landscape.
My Son Sanctuary
UNESCO World Heritage Site with Hindu temple ruins from Champa Kingdom (4th-14th centuries). Ancient red brick towers dedicated to Shiva showcase intricate carvings despite war damage. Set in lush valley, this archaeological site reveals Vietnam's pre-Vietnamese civilization.
Recommended Itineraries for Vietnam
Plan your perfect Vietnam trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Vietnam Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Vietnam, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Vietnam
- Days 1-2: Vietnam city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Vietnam
- Days 1-3: Vietnam comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Vietnam, departure
Where to Stay in Vietnam
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Vietnam offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($20-35)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($50-100)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($200-500+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Historic French colonial hotel since 1901 in Hanoi's heart. Elegant rooms blend colonial charm with modern luxury, featuring pool, spa, and acclaimed French fine dining. Hosted celebrities from Charlie Chaplin to world leaders.
Check rates on Booking.comHanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa
Boutique hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter offering excellent value with rooftop pool, complimentary spa treatments, and buffet breakfast. Modern rooms, attentive service, and central location make it popular with travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comHanoi Backpackers Hostel
Popular party hostel in Old Quarter with nightly bar crawls and social atmosphere. Clean dorms and private rooms, rooftop bar, and central location. Perfect for solo travelers wanting to meet people.
Check rates on Booking.comPark Hyatt Saigon
Luxurious urban retreat in central Ho Chi Minh City with French colonial elegance. Spacious rooms, rooftop pool, world-class spa, and exceptional dining including famous Square One restaurant. Perfect downtown location for exploring District 1.
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to Eat in Vietnam
Discover the culinary delights of Vietnam, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
La Verticale
Elegant French colonial house serving innovative fusion cuisine. Chef Vincent Troncard creates artistic dishes blending French techniques with Vietnamese ingredients. Intimate atmosphere with wine cellar and tasting menus.
Quan An Ngon
Popular restaurant bringing street food vendors into French colonial villa courtyard. Extensive menu of Vietnamese classics, live cooking stations, and reasonable prices. Great introduction to Vietnamese cuisine.
Banh Mi 25
Iconic banh mi shop on Hanoi's Bat Dan street. Crispy baguettes stuffed with pate, meats, pickled vegetables, and cilantro. Always busy - get takeaway from window.
Bun Cha Dac Kim
Anthony Bourdain's favorite bun cha before the Obama visit. Charcoal-grilled pork, fish sauce broth, herbs, and rice noodles. Smoky and delicious.
The Note Coffee
Instagram-famous cafe covered wall-to-wall with customer notes and messages. Good Vietnamese coffee, cozy atmosphere, and unique decor. Prime people-watching spot in Old Quarter.
Noir Dining in the Dark
Unique sensory dining experience in complete darkness served by visually impaired staff. Multi-course surprise menu heightens taste, smell, and touch. Proceeds support Saigon Children's Charity.
Getting Around Vietnam
Budget Breakdown for Vietnam
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $7-12 (hostel dorm or budget guesthouse) | $25-50 (mid-range hotel or boutique guesthouse) | $100-300+ (luxury hotel or resort) |
| Food (per day) | $5-10 (street food, local restaurants) | $15-30 (mix of local and nicer restaurants) | $50-100 (fine dining, hotel restaurants) |
| Transportation | $2-5 (local buses, Grab bike) | $8-15 (Grab car, occasional taxi) | $20-50 (private car, premium services) |
| Activities | $5-8 (free walking, occasional paid site) | $10-20 (entrance fees, tours) | $30-100+ (private tours, spa treatments) |
| Daily Total | $20-35 | $50-100 | $200-500+ |
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Best Season: November to April (dry season, cooler temperatures)
Peak Season: November to April (dry season, cooler temperatures)
Avoid: June to September (monsoon season, hot and humid)
Essential Travel Tips for Vietnam
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions. Be particularly vigilant for bag snatching from motorbikes and use caution when crossing streets. Monitor weather forecasts during typhoon season (September-November) if visiting central coast.
Watch for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded tourist areas and on motorbikes
Be extremely cautious crossing streets - traffic is chaotic and does not stop for pedestrians; walk slowly and steadily
Drink only bottled or purified water; ice from reputable sources is generally safe in restaurants
Negotiate taxi/Grab fares before getting in, or insist the meter is running to avoid overcharging
Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive cameras, phones, or jewellery
Use registered taxis (Mai Linh green, Vinasun white) or ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek) to avoid unlicensed drivers
Beware of common tourist scams: fake tour operators, overpriced cyclo rides, and shoe-shine freebies that end in a demand for payment
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival for extended stays - US Embassy in Hanoi: +84 24 3850 5000
Carry a copy of your passport; leave the original in your hotel safe
Respect local customs - dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas (cover shoulders and knees)
Avoid street food from vendors with poor hygiene; look for busy stalls with high turnover
The sun is intense - use SPF 50+ sunscreen especially on motorbike trips and boat tours
Purchase travel insurance that covers motorbike riding if you plan to rent one; most standard policies exclude it
ATMs are widely available but use machines attached to banks to reduce skimming risk; inform your bank before travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vietnam safe to visit in 2026?
Vietnam is generally a safe destination for tourists with low rates of violent crime against foreigners. The main risks are petty theft (bag snatching on motorbikes, pickpocketing in crowded markets), traffic accidents (extremely chaotic roads and crossing streets), and tourist-targeting scams. Solo travelers, including women, report feeling comfortable in major tourist areas. Emergency services: police at 113, medical at 115.
What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam is November to April (dry season, cooler temperatures). Vietnam's climate is highly diverse due to its 1,650km north-south length, with three distinct climate zones. Northern Vietnam (Hanoi) has four seasons with a cool dry winter and hot humid summer. Cen
Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
US citizens can apply for a 90-day e-visa (single or multiple entry) online. Passport must be valid for 6 months beyond planned stay with at least one blank page. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Vietnam?
The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND) (VND). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Vietnam?
The main language(s) spoken in Vietnam: Vietnamese (official), English (widely spoken in tourist areas), French (older generation). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Vietnam?
The top attractions in Vietnam include Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, Cu Chi Tunnels, Imperial City of Hue, and Sapa Rice Terraces. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.