Southeast Asia · 31 Places · Best November
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.
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.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 31 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
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.comBoutique 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.comPopular 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.comLuxurious 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.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
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.
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.
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.
Anthony Bourdain's favorite bun cha before the Obama visit. Charcoal-grilled pork, fish sauce broth, herbs, and rice noodles. Smoky and delicious.
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.
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.
Transportation options in Vietnam include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| 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+ |
November to April (dry season, cooler temperatures)
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
