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Dry Season
November to April offers pleasant weather across the country.
Travel guide
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Vietnam is a vibrant country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Da Nang, Vietnam offers a unique travel experience that goes beyond its capital.
Slaza : Sándor Laza · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsNovember to April
- AirportsMajor airports include Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan S
- TransitBuses, trains, and domestic flights connect majo
- PowerVoltage is 220V; plugs types A, C, D.
- TippingNot mandatory, but appreciated.
- LanguageVietnamese is the official language.
01
When to go
The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is more pleasant across the country.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
May to October brings heavy rainfall, especially in the south.
Cool Season
December to February can be cooler in the north, ideal for exploring.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural
Old Quarter
Experience the heart of Hanoi with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant street life.
Can be crowded and noisy.
Relaxation
Hoan Kiem Lake
A picturesque area in Hanoi, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying local cafes.
Best visited early morning or late evening.
Historical
Hue Citadel
Stay near the historic citadel in Hue, rich in history and culture.
Limited nightlife options.
Cultural
Hoi An Ancient Town
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets.
Can be touristy during peak season.
Relaxation
Da Nang Beach
Enjoy the sun and surf at one of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches.
Popular with both locals and tourists.
Beach
Nha Trang
A coastal city known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Can be crowded during holidays.
Urban
Ho Chi Minh City
Experience the bustling energy of Vietnam's largest city with its mix of modernity and tradition.
Traffic can be overwhelming.
Nature
Mekong Delta
Stay in the lush Mekong Delta region, known for its waterways and rural charm.
Less urban amenities.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, best enjoyed at local street vendors.
→ Try it for breakfast.
Banh Mi
A delicious Vietnamese sandwich filled with various meats and vegetables, found in many street stalls.
→ Perfect for a quick lunch.
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, and rice vermicelli, available at local eateries.
→ Great as a light snack.
Bun Cha
Grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs, a specialty of Hanoi.
→ Best enjoyed with a side of fresh herbs.
Com tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a popular dish in Ho Chi Minh City.
→ Look for local stalls for authenticity.
Cha Ca
A unique fish dish from Hanoi, served with turmeric and dill, best found in specialized restaurants.
→ A must-try for seafood lovers.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Halong Bay
Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cu Chi Tunnels
An extensive network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War, located near Ho Chi Minh City.
My Son Sanctuary
Ancient Hindu temple ruins set in a lush landscape, reflecting Cham culture.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Home to stunning caves and diverse ecosystems, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
War Remnants Museum
A museum in Ho Chi Minh City that provides insight into the Vietnam War.
Imperial City of Hue
The former imperial capital with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
Sa Pa Terraces
Famous for its stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority cultures.
Ben Thanh Market
A bustling market in Ho Chi Minh City where you can find local goods and souvenirs.
Nha Trang Cathedral
A beautiful French Gothic cathedral located in the coastal city of Nha Trang.
Bana Hills
Known for its stunning views and the Golden Bridge, a popular tourist destination.
Tam Coc
Often referred to as 'Halong Bay on land', known for its scenic boat rides.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
A lively pedestrian street in Ho Chi Minh City, perfect for evening strolls.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Major airports include Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City).
HANNoi Bai International Airport
SGNTan Son Nhat International Airport
Buses
Buses are an affordable way to travel between cities and regions.
Trains
Vietnam's railway system connects major cities, offering scenic views.
Motorbikes
Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore cities and rural areas.
Taxis
Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in urban areas.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Vietnam uses type A, C, and D plugs, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
Vietnamese Dong is the local currency; cash is preferred in many places.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.
Language
Vietnamese is the official language; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A trip of at least 10 days is recommended to explore major attractions.