Travel to Vietnam

Vietnam is a country that truly ignites the senses, a long, S-shaped land brimming with dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and an incredibly vibrant street life. Its culture is a fascinating tapestry woven from indigenous traditions, Chinese influence, and a colonial past, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty, from the karst peaks of the north to the Mekong Delta's waterways in the south. A typical trip here can range from a deep dive into one or two major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, to an immersive road trip stretching the length of the country. The regional diversity is immense, offering a different flavour at every turn. And when it comes to value, Vietnam is famously affordable, making it an excellent destination for travellers seeking rich experiences without breaking the bank.

Cities to explore in Vietnam

Pively covers multiple cities in Vietnam. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-time visitors, Hanoi offers an unparalleled introduction to Vietnam's culture and history with its ancient Old Quarter, French colonial architecture, and incredible street food scene. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, is the vibrant, modern face of Vietnam, buzzing with energy, fantastic nightlife, and a rich, albeit often somber, wartime history. If you're seeking cultural immersion, Hanoi's labyrinthine streets and traditional arts are a must. For those drawn to nature and adventure, consider exploring beyond Pively's listed cities to places like Ha Long Bay or the central highlands. Ho Chi Minh City provides a great base for exploring the Mekong Delta, offering a contrast between urban dynamism and rural serenity.

Regions to know

Northern Vietnam

This region is characterized by its dramatic mountain scenery, terraced rice paddies, and rich ethnic minority cultures. Hanoi, the capital, is the historical and cultural heart. Key highlights include the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and the mountainous landscapes around Sapa. A minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to explore its diverse offerings, including city exploration and a taste of rural life.

Central Vietnam

Stretching along the coast, Central Vietnam boasts a rich history, beautiful beaches, and ancient towns. Hue, the former imperial capital, offers a glimpse into Vietnam's royal past, while Hoi An enchants with its well-preserved trading port. The region also features the spectacular Hai Van Pass and the beaches of Da Nang. Allow 4-6 days to soak in the history and coastal charm.

Southern Vietnam

Dominated by the mighty Mekong River and its delta, this region is characterized by lush greenery, fertile farmlands, and a more tropical climate. Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis, is the economic powerhouse. The Mekong Delta offers unique floating markets and rural river life. A good introduction requires 4-7 days, focusing on the energy of the city and the tranquility of the delta.

Suggested itineraries

7j — Northern Highlights: Hanoi & Ha Long Bay

Start with 3 days in Hanoi, exploring the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature. Then, take a bus or private transfer to Ha Long Bay for a 2-day/1-night overnight cruise amidst the stunning karst formations, including kayaking and cave visits. Return to Hanoi for your departure. This route offers a concentrated dose of northern Vietnam's most iconic sights.

10j — Cultural Triangle: Hanoi, Hue & Hoi An

Begin with 4 days in Hanoi. Fly or take an overnight train to Hue for 2 days to explore the Imperial City and royal tombs. Travel by bus over the scenic Hai Van Pass to Hoi An for 3 days, enjoying its charming old town, tailor shops, and nearby beaches. Depart from Da Nang (near Hoi An) or return to Hanoi. This itinerary balances history, culture, and scenic beauty.

14j — North to South Discovery: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Spend 4 days in Hanoi, then fly to Da Nang and transfer to Hoi An for 3 days. Take an overnight train or fly to Hue for 2 days. Fly to Ho Chi Minh City for 4 days, exploring its historical sites and vibrant street life. Optionally, take a day trip or overnight to the Mekong Delta. This extensive route covers major highlights and offers a comprehensive overview of Vietnam's diversity.

Best time to go

Vietnam's diverse geography means the best time to visit varies by region. Generally, the dry season from November to April is ideal. Northern Vietnam (including Hanoi) experiences a cool, dry winter from November to March and a hot, humid summer from May to October. Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An) is best visited between February and August, with the months of September to December being prone to heavy rainfall and potential typhoons. Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta) is hot and humid year-round, with a distinct dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. The Tet Lunar New Year (late January/early February) is a major holiday, offering vibrant celebrations but also leading to widespread closures and travel difficulties.

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, US, and UK passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. Other nationalities or longer stays require a visa, which can often be obtained online (e-visa) or via an embassy. Always check the latest requirements with your embassy.
Currency: The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Approximately 27,000 VND to 1 EUR. While cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, cash is king for street food, markets, and smaller vendors. ATMs are widely available in cities; check your bank's foreign transaction fees.
Language: Vietnamese is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations, but don't expect fluency everywhere. Learning a few basic phrases like 'Xin chào' (hello) and 'Cảm ơn' (thank you) is appreciated. Translation apps are very useful.
Transport: Domestic flights are efficient for covering long distances between cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Trains offer a scenic, albeit slower, option, with sleeper berths available. Buses range from basic local services to comfortable 'limousine' buses. Ride-sharing apps like Grab are prevalent and affordable in major cities for taxis and motorbike rides. Road quality varies significantly outside main routes.
SIM / eSIM: Getting a local SIM card or eSIM is straightforward and affordable. Providers like Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone offer good coverage. Data plans are cheap; expect to pay around $5-10 USD for 10-20GB of data. eSIMs via providers like Airalo are also a convenient option.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for excellent service, especially in higher-end establishments (around 5-10%). When eating, use your fork and spoon, and remember it's polite to try a little of everything offered. When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly – cover shoulders and knees. It's considered rude to point with your feet or to touch someone's head. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly the elderly. Bargaining is expected in markets, but do so respectfully. Avoid public displays of anger; remain calm and polite.

Daily budget

Vietnam offers excellent value. Frugal travellers can manage on $25-40 USD per day, staying in hostels, eating street food (like a bowl of Pho for $1-2), and using local buses. A standard budget of $50-80 USD allows for comfortable mid-range hotels, meals in local restaurants ($5-10 per dish), private taxis or Grab, and entrance fees to attractions. For a comfort-focused trip ($100+ USD per day), expect boutique hotels, upscale dining, private tours, and domestic flights. These figures exclude international flights but include accommodation, food, local transport, and activities.