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Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia bordered by China, Laos, and Cambodia, offers a multitude of experiences for travelers. Known for its rich culture, lush landscapes, and lively coastal cities, Vietnam has a coastline stretching nearly 1,000 miles (1,610 km). The country is divided into three main regions—northern, central, and southern—each with its own attractions. You’ll find UNESCO World Heritage Sites Hội An, an ancient town with beautiful architecture, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, famous for its limestone caves. From tranquil beaches to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, historic war sites, and floating villages, a Vietnam itinerary blends nature, history, and city life.
Continent: Asia
Time-Zone: ICT (Indochina Time) UTC/GMT +7 hours
Language: Vietnamese
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is Vietnam’s official currency. You can exchange money at banks, airports, hotels, and popular exchange spots, like gold and jewelry stores. U.S. dollars are accepted at major hotels in big cities. ATMs are widely available, and most major hotels take debit and credit cards—though they may incur high surcharges.
Hanoi, the capital and second-most populous city of Vietnam surrounded by the Red and Black Rivers is known as the "Paris of the East" for its French influences like tree-lined boulevards, colonial architecture, and a cafe culture. Hanoi is divided in two main areas: the Old Quarter boasting narrow 14th-century streets and the French Quarter showcasing villas and broad avenues. Recognized as one of the world's top ten and most affordable travel destinations, Hanoi offers many tourist attractions including:
Hanoi Train Street: A narrow street where 1902-era train tracks run close to buildings, with trains passing just inches away twice daily between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Hanoi Old Quarter: Representing Vietnam's rich trade history, the area is known for its "36 Streets," where each street is dedicated to a specific craft with traditional shops and local businesses. Walking along the vibrant streets is the best way to explore the city’s highlights including the Ô Quan Chưởng Gate, the only surviving city gate from the 1700s—the Mã Mây House, a preserved heritage home in addition to Bà Đá Pagoda, a peaceful Buddhist monument and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a French Gothic marvel with towering domes and colorful glass windows.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Also called the "Lake of the Returned Sword," this picturesque freshwater lake in the heart of Hanoi is popular for outdoor activities and social events. Legend has it that after defeating the Chinese Ming Dynasty in 1428, King Lê Lợi met a Golden Turtle God on Hoàn Kiếm Lake, who came to reclaim the magic sword that had helped him win the battle.
Turtle Tower: A classic piece of Vietnamese architecture, the tower is located in the center of Hoàn Kiếm Lake and is dedicated to King Lê Lợi.
Ngọc Sơn Temple: Another notable site situated on the northern side of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the temple is connected to the shore by the iconic red Húc Bridge. It honors General Trần Hưng Đạo’s victory over the Mongols in the 13th century.
Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam’s Bố Trạch and Minh Hóa districts, is a vast, 770-square-mile (2,000 sq km) region that preserves one of the largest limestone landscapes in the world. This lush park is home to over 300 caves and includes the scenic Annamite Range. Among its world-famous caves are Sơn Đoòng, the largest cave on the planet; Tu Lan, known for thrilling swimming, climbing, and crawling routes; and Hang Va, celebrated for its impressive stalagmites and beautiful rock pools. The Pygmy Cave, the world’s fourth largest, offers a challenging three-day expedition, while Hang En, the third largest, invites explorers for an unforgettable overnight camping adventure. Visitors can also explore these stunning caves through boat tours, trekking, and kayaking, making Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng an essential stop for any Vietnam itinerary.
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its striking limestone mountains alongside serene blue waters in Ha Long City of Quang Ninh Province. Comprising 1,969 islands, the popular Bai Tu Long Bay, and the largest Cát Bà Island, must-see spots in Halong Bay include Surprise Cave (Sung Sot Cave) and TiTop Island. You can explore the stunning caves, unique floating villages, and local culture and enjoy activities like cruises, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking.
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Cù Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve is a preserved Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th century known for its extraordinary architecture with over 1,100 traditional timber buildings on quaint streets. The iconic 16th-century Japanese Bridge, a 60-foot (18 mt) footbridge with a small temple on top is a must-see landmark. You can explore Hội An by boat or kayak along the Thu Bon River.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's most populous city, serves as the economic center of the nation often compared to European cities with its vibrant cityscapes, French colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, and stunning natural beauty, offering ancient and modern lifestyles. Key attractions include the War Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, and Ben Thanh Market. Don’t miss the historic hideouts of the Viet Cong soldiers, Cu Chi Tunnels, which are a giant network of connecting tunnels.
Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ninh Bình, is renowned for mountainous landscapes formed by limestone peaks reaching up to 656 feet (200 mt). Its northern area, Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital, is popular for its lush rice fields, waterways, and breathtaking cliffs. Popular caves of Trang An are Mua Cave (Dancing Cave), Sang Cave (Light Cave), Toi Cave (Dark Cave), and Nau Ruou Cave (Wine Brewing Cave).
Vietnam’s weather varies widely from north to south, so the best time to visit depends on the region:
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay): March to April is ideal to visit the northern areas due to its warmer, dry weather. From May to August, it’s hot and rainy, while December to February can be very cold with sub-zero temperatures.
Central Vietnam (Hoi An): This region is best from May to September, offering sunny, dry weather for beach visits. The rest of the year is generally rainy and humid.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City): November to January is the best time to visit the southern regions of Vietnam, with cooler, dry conditions. March to July is warm, and the rainy season runs from June to November, creating lush, green landscapes.
Since Vietnam’s weather varies widely across regions, plan your travel dates to match the best conditions for your destination.
If staying for less than 45 days, most travelers don’t need a visa. However, verify visa rules and the application process in advance.
Bargaining is common in Vietnamese markets, especially tourist spots, where prices may be inflated.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas to show respect for local customs.
Use bottled water instead of tap water, and buy it from supermarkets to avoid fake bottles.
Always carry cash in rural areas.
The cost of Vietnam tour packages varies based on the number of people, duration, and locations included. At AdventureTripr, we offer affordable Vietnam tours to suit your budget and requirements.
Accommodations in Vietnam vary from mid-range places to luxurious boutique hotels and comfortable beach resorts. You can opt for affordable eco-lodges, hostels, and guesthouses if you are on a budget or backpacking in rural areas.
Question 1: How to reach Vietnam?
Answer 1: Vietnam is accessible through five major international airports, which connect to destinations worldwide. You can also enter by train or bus from neighboring countries like China, Cambodia, and Laos, or by ferry and cruise options from Cambodia and India.
Question 2: How to travel within Vietnam?
Answer 2: Buses are an efficient, affordable, and comfortable mode of transportation to travel within Vietnam.. Negotiate taxi fares before confirming your ride.
Question 3: How to communicate in Vietnam if I don’t speak Vietnamese?
Answer 3: English is widely spoken in cities, though learning basic Vietnamese phrases or using a translation app can be helpful.
Question 4: What kind of food is available in Vietnam?
Answer 4: Vietnam is famous for its vibrant street food scene alongside refined dining options. Don’t miss local specialties like grilled pork with noodles, turmeric fish with dill, and steamed rice rolls, each offering a unique taste of Vietnamese culinary heritage.