Vietnam 101: Your Complete Travel Blueprint
This guide is crafted for those who seek more than just the postcard. Whether you're following the winding alleys of a hidden market or pausing to watch a crimson sunset over limestone peaks, Vietnam reveals its soul slowly off the beaten track.
This is your go to resource for planning the perfect Vietnam itinerary. It highlights the top places to visit, the best stays, must-see sights, unforgettable experiences, and practical travel tips we've gathered from our many visits to Vietnam.
Table of contents
Welcome to Vietnam
A place where tradition and transformation walk side by side, Vietnam is a nation in motion. In its buzzing cities, centuries-old pagodas stand quietly beside rooftop bars and glassy high-rises. Out in the countryside, life flows to the rhythm of rivers, rice paddies, and ancestral wisdom. Nature too, wears many faces here. In the north, Hanoi opens the door to dramatic mountains, misty valleys, and karst-studded bays. Central Vietnam, anchored by the coastal city of Danang, offers a more relaxed pace with riverside heritage towns and beaches that go on forever. Further south, Ho Chi Minh City hums with energy, while the Mekong Delta and offshore islands invite deeper exploration into Vietnam’s fluid, floating heart.
Best Time to Visit:
Northern Vietnam
Hanoi
- Best time: October to April
- Why: Cool, dry weather; great for exploring Old Quarters, museums, street food.
- Avoid: May-August (hot, humid, and rainy)
- Typhoon season: (July-Aug)
Ninh Binh
- Best time: March–May and September–November
- Why: Lush greenery, golden rice fields, boat rides through Trang An or Tam Coc are scenic and not too hot.
- Bonus: Late May for blooming lotus ponds
Sapa
- Best time: March–May and September–November
- Why: Clear skies, cool temperatures, and terraced rice fields at their best.
- Avoid: December–February (can be foggy and cold), June–August (heavy rains, landslide-prone)
Halong Bay
- Best time: October to April
- Why: Cooler temperatures, calmer seas – ideal for cruises and kayaking.
- Avoid: July–September (typhoon season; cruises can be canceled)
Central Vietnam
Hoi An
- Best time: February to April
- Why: Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and clear skies-ideal for lantern-lit nights, heritage walks, and beach time.
- Avoid: September to December (frequent rains and occasional flooding in the old town).
Da Nang
- Best time: February to May
- Why: Comfortable weather, blue skies, and fewer crowds-perfect for beach days, Marble Mountains, and the Golden Bridge.
- Avoid: September to November (monsoon season with heavy rain and rough seas).
Southern Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
- Best time: December to March
- Why: Dry, sunny weather with lower humidity-ideal for exploring bustling markets, colonial buildings, and rooftop bars.
- Avoid: May to October (hot and rainy, with occasional flooding in some areas).
Phu Quoc
- Best time: November to March
- Why: Calm seas, clear skies, and warm days—great for swimming, diving, and relaxing beachside.
- Avoid: June to September (monsoon season with rough waters and heavy rainfall).
Dalat
- Best time: November to March
- Why: Crisp mountain air, blooming flowers, and cool, dry weather make it perfect for outdoor adventures, scenic walks, and cafe-hopping in Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring.”
- Avoid: June to September (rainy season with frequent showers, slippery roads, and limited visibility for nature activities).
Getting your Vietnam Visa
Vietnam Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam as they are not eligible for visa-free entry. The most convenient option is the Vietnam e-visa introduced by the Vietnamese government for short-term travel. As of 2025, Indian citizens can apply for a single-entry or multiple-entry e-visa, valid for up to 90 days. The application must be submitted online through the official Vietnam Immigration Portal by uploading a passport-sized photo, a scanned copy of the passport (valid for at least 6 months), and paying the visa fee, which ranges from US$25 to US$50 depending on the number of entries. Processing time usually takes 3-5 working days, but it's advisable to apply at least a week in advance. E-visas are accepted at 13 international airports, 16 land border crossings, and 13 seaports. For long-term stays, business trips, or other non-tourism purposes, Indian travelers must apply for a visa through the Vietnamese Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate General in Mumbai, often requiring an invitation letter or sponsorship from a Vietnamese entity.
Types of Visas and Who Can Apply : Vietnam currently offers several visa options to cater to different kinds of travelers: visa exemption (waiver), e-visa, visa on arrival (for limited purposes), and embassy-issued visas. Citizens of 25 countries including Japan, South Korea, Russia, most ASEAN countries, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK are eligible for visa-free entry, typically for 15 to 45 days depending on their nationality. For everyone else, the Vietnam e-visa is the most popular and efficient method. Available online through the official Vietnam Immigration Portal, this visa allows for single or multiple entries and is valid for up to 90 days. It costs US$25-50, depending on the type and is typically processed within 3-5 working days, although delays can happen during holiday seasons. Those traveling for work, long-term stays or with complex itineraries (e.g., volunteering, teaching, or multiple-country business travel) should apply for a visa via the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate often requiring sponsorship or an invitation letter.
Important Tips, Border Points, and What to watch for: Once your visa is approved, make sure to print out the approval letter or e-visa PDF, and carry it with you at all times during your entry and stay. Vietnam e-visas are accepted at 42 international border gates, including 13 international airports like Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc, and Can Tho. They're also valid at land borders with Cambodia (e.g., Moc Bai–Bavet), Laos (e.g., Cau Treo–Nam Phao), and China (e.g., Huu Nghi–Youyi Guan), as well as several seaports. Visa on arrival is still available but only for those who have pre-arranged it through authorized Vietnamese travel agencies or organizations mostly for business or urgent situations. It is not an option at land or sea entry points. Travelers from countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and India typically use the e-visa system with great success.
Passport Validity: Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned date of entry and carry proof of accommodation, return tickets or onward travel if requested by immigration officers. Travelers from countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, and India typically use the e-visa system with great success.
How to Get There: Air, Land, and Sea
AIR
- 12 international airports allow foreign entry.
- Major airports: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, and Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in Da Nang. There are also direct international flights to major tourism hubs such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.
- Flights from India to Vietnam are available with VietJet Air (budget-friendly with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Kochi to cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, though occasionally delayed), Vietnam Airlines (more reliable and comfortable with direct flights from Delhi), and IndiGo (operating with stopovers).Other names like APG Airlines might show up as codeshare options, but for most travellers, VietJet is ideal if you're watching your budget, while Vietnam Airlines is the better pick for comfort and reliability.
LAND
- -Vietnam shares land borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia.
- -16 international land border crossings accept e-visas.
- -Popular crossings: Moc Bai (Cambodia), Cau Treo (Laos), Huu Nghi (China).
- -E-visa must be pre-approved for land entry; no visa-on-arrival at land borders.
- -Bus and private transfer services operate regularly between neighboring countries and Vietnam.
SEA
- -13 seaports accept foreign entry.
- -Major ports: Ha Long, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Port).
- -E-visa is accepted for sea entry if selected properly during application.
- -Cruise passengers often get visa support onboard.
- -Independent travelers (yachts/ferries) must inform port authorities in advance.
- -Immigration and customs checks are mandatory at seaports.
BASIC FACTS
Pho-The Culinary Staple
- -Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, sharing its borders with China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the east.
- -Stretching over 1,650 km from north to south (about the distance from Kashmir to Kanyakumari), Vietnam is only 50 km to 600 km wide east to west, making it a long, narrow S-shaped country that spans multiple climates.
- -Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, known for its centuries-old architecture, lively street markets, lakes, and French colonial charm.
- -The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It has one of the highest denominations in the world. (1 INR= 300VND)
- -Vietnam is famous for its vibrant street food culture, offering iconic dishes like phở (noodle soup), bánh mì (baguette sandwich), bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), and gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) often best enjoyed on a tiny plastic stool.
- -Son Doong Cave in central Vietnam is the largest cave in the world located in Phong Nha, Vietnam.
- -Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter in the world, famous for its strong brews and unique local twists like egg coffee and coconut coffee.
- -Vietnam is home to 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Ha Long Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Hue Monuments, and Hoi An Ancient Town.
- -The country is religiously diverse with Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism (often blended as Tam Giáo), Christianity, and ancestor worship playing key roles.
- -Water puppetry is a unique Vietnamese art form, dating back to the 11th century and still performed in traditional theaters in Hanoi and rural villages.
- -Vietnam offers e-visas to citizens of over 80 countries, allowing stays of up to 90 days, while certain nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry for a limited period.
BRIEF HISTORY
From Ancient Roots to Modern Resilience
Source: Nguyen Art Gallery
(40 CE – 1800s)
Vietnam’s story isn’t just one of dynasties and dates-it’s a tale of resilience, rebellion, and remarkable transformation. For over a thousand years, this long, narrow strip of Southeast Asia lived under the shadow of Chinese rule. But even then, Vietnam’s fierce spirit never dimmed. In 40 CE, the legendary Trung Sisters rode elephants into battle, leading a revolt that’s still remembered with pride. Ngo Quyen’s victory at the Battle of Bạch Đằng River in 938 finally threw off the last Chinese overlords, opening a chapter of homegrown dynasties. The Trần Dynasty stood tall against the Mongols, while General Trần Hưng Đạo emerged as one of Vietnam’s most celebrated war heroes. Centuries later, Lê Lợi would rise from the countryside to defeat Ming invaders and form the Lê Dynasty-his rebellion, the Lam Sơn Uprising, is etched in Vietnam’s national memory.
(1858 – 1975)
But foreign powers would return. By the late 1800s, the French had colonised Vietnam, folding it into French Indochina. Resistance simmered again. Activists like Phan Bội Châu and Phan Chu Trinh sowed seeds of nationalism, but it was Hồ Chí Minh who truly changed the course. A schoolteacher-turned-revolutionary, he founded the Indochinese Communist Party in 1930 and later the Viet Minh. After Japan’s occupation during World War II, Hồ declared independence in 1945. The French, unwilling to let go, sparked the First Indochina War, which ended in 1954 with the Battle of Điện Biên Phủ-a defining victory for General Võ Nguyên Giáp. Vietnam was then split in two: the communist North led by Hồ and the US-backed South. What followed was the Vietnam War-a brutal, decades-long conflict that ended with the fall of Saigon in 1975 and the reunification of the country.
(1976 – Present)
Vietnam’s post-war years were not easy. Cut off from much of the world, the country faced poverty and economic isolation. But in 1986, the government made a bold move. Đoi Moi or “Renovation” which opened Vietnam to the global market. Since then, the country has transformed at a lightning pace. Skyscrapers rise over ancient pagodas, motorbikes zip past colonial-era buildings, and its people, always grounded in history, are building a future full of energy and optimism.
Vietnam today is proud, pragmatic, and peaceful. It’s a nation shaped by conflict but defined by resilience. When you walk through its cities or sit by its rivers, you can feel the layers of history breathing under the surface.
Getting Around Vietnam
Source: Happy Go Travel
Trains: Scenic Journeys and Comfortable Rides
Vietnam's rail network is one of the most atmospheric ways to travel, especially if you’re not in a rush. The Reunification Express, running between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offers a classic north-south journey through Vietnam’s ever-changing landscapes. For a touch of indulgence, luxury trains like the Violette Train or Laman Express from Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai) deliver a comfortable overnight experience with soft berths, air-conditioning, and even private cabins-ideal for those seeking both scenery and serenity. The Sapa route, in particular, climbs through misty hills and rice terraces, making it one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country.
Buses: Budget-Friendly and Extensive
Vietnam’s bus system is extensive, reliable, and budget-friendly, connecting even the smallest towns and remote villages. Open-tour buses, especially those operated by companies like The Sinh Tourist or Futa Buslines, let you hop on and off along the major tourist routes-perfect for backpackers and budget travellers. Sleeper buses with reclining seats are common for overnight travel, though legroom can be tight for taller travellers. Buses are often the best choice for mountainous or less accessible areas where train routes don’t reach.
Ferries: Coastal and Island Connections
Ferries are limited to coastal and island travel, but they play a vital role in connecting the mainland to destinations like Phu Quoc, Cat Ba Island, and the Con Dao Archipelago. From Ha Long or Hai Phong, ferries and speedboats serve Cat Ba Island, while the route from Rach Gia or Ha Tien to Phu Quoc is well-serviced with fast ferries that take around 1.5-2.5 hours. Though not luxurious, ferry travel can be a scenic and affordable way to explore Vietnam’s lesser-trodden tropical corners.
Flights: Fast Travel Between Regions
Vietnam has a growing network of domestic flights that make long-distance travel quick and convenient, particularly between major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Budget carriers such as VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways offer frequent, low-cost flights, while Vietnam Airlines provides a more premium flying experience. Flying is often the most efficient way to cover large distances especially for travellers short on time or hopping between the northern mountains and southern beaches.
Top Places to Visit
Northern Vietnam
- Hanoi – The bustling capital blends old-world charm with a modern pace. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature and some of the best street food in the country.The most commonly used international gateway into Vietnam is Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
Source: Quang Ninh
- Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage site, this bay is known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. Best explored via overnight cruises or day trips from Hanoi.
- Sapa – Nestled in the mountains near the Chinese border, Sapa is famous for trekking, terraced rice fields, and the culture of its ethnic minority villages.
- Ninh Binh - This peaceful region offers boat rides through limestone caves, ancient temples, and dramatic scenery.
- Ha Giang – A remote northern province with spectacular mountain passes, local ethnic culture, and Vietnam’s most scenic motorbike loop.
Central Vietnam
- Hue – Once the imperial capital, Hue is steeped in history, with ancient citadels, royal tombs, and pagodas lining the Perfume River.
Source: A Fun Couple Blog
- Da Nang – A coastal city with great beaches and a growing food scene. It’s also a gateway to the Marble Mountains and the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills.
- Hoi An – A beautifully preserved ancient town with lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, tailor shops, and a relaxed vibe. Perfect for shopping and food.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – A paradise for adventure seekers, this park is home to some of the world’s largest caves, including the record-breaking Son Doong.
Source:Jungle Boss
Southern Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city. Explore French colonial architecture, bustling markets, the War Remnants Museum, and a top-tier food scene.
- Mekong Delta – Experience river life with floating markets, boat rides, and lush green landscapes in towns like Can Tho and Ben Tre.
- Phu Quoc Island – Vietnam’s island escape in the south. Think white-sand beaches, clear water, resorts, and seafood shacks. Great for diving and relaxing.Phu Quoc is Visa Free for Indians.
- Dalat- Da Lat is a misty highland retreat, known for its cool climate, pine forests, and colonial-era villas that echo with old-world charm. Often called the "City of Eternal Spring," it’s where flower gardens bloom year-round and coffee farms stretch into the hills like green poetry.
Pongour Waterfall, Dalat
Festivals & Public Holidays
Hoi An Lantern Festival: Every full moon, the power switches off in Hoi An’s Ancient Town and the streets are illuminated by hundreds of glowing lanterns. The Hoi An Lantern Festival offers a poetic pause, a moment to float a candle down the Thu Bon River, make a wish or simply marvel at the magic. It’s a celebration of light, peace, and heritage that perfectly captures the soul of the town.
Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Vietnam’s biggest and most meaningful holiday, Tet Nguyen Dan (or just Tet), is the country’s Lunar New Year celebration. It’s a time when life slows down, families reunite, and cities empty out as people head home to honour ancestors and welcome spring. Shops close, streets go quiet, and temples fill with incense and prayers.If you're in Hanoi, Tet offers a rare chance to see the capital in a more intimate light. Catch the early morning rituals at Ngoc Son Temple or Quan Su Pagoda, where locals make offerings and light incense. By night, the area around the Hanoi Opera House comes alive with music, festive gatherings, and colourful firework shows. It’s a great time to witness Vietnamese traditions up close-just remember to plan ahead, as travel and services can be limited during the holiday week.
It is suggested not to visit Vietnam during this period as most of the hotels would remain closed.
Lim Festival: Held in Bac Ninh province, the Lim Festival is a vibrant ode to Quan Ho folk singing-Vietnam’s treasured UNESCO-listed musical tradition. Locals dress in elaborate traditional garb, engaging in duets that play out like melodic courtship. Beyond the singing, there’s tug-of-war, bamboo fighting and wrestling matches-each game a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. For travellers, it’s a colourful and cultural immersion not far from Hanoi.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Held on the 15th day of the lunar month, the Mid-Autumn Festival is all about mooncakes, lion dances, and lanterns. Though celebrated countrywide, Hoi An’s version is particularly magical-with thousands of lanterns lighting up the ancient town. Children parade through the streets with handmade lanterns while families gather to eat traditional sweets. It’s joyful, photogenic and a must-see for families.
Pack Like a Pro: Vietnam Travel Essentials You’ll Actually Use
- Your Passport & Visa Documents
Sounds obvious but double-check: your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Many nationalities need a visa or e-visa-print that approval letter, and keep a few passport photos handy just in case (some remote areas still ask for them). - Clothing for the Heat (and Respect)
Vietnam is hot, humid and stylishly modest. Think breathable, lightweight clothes that can handle sweat, sudden showers and temple visits. A light scarf goes a long way-it can cover your shoulders, work as sun protection or even double as a blanket on buses. - Footwear That Can Keep Up
City walks, hill hikes or just crossing Saigon traffic, Vietnam is best explored on foot. Bring comfy sneakers or hiking sandals that won’t give up on you mid-way up a rice terrace in Sapa. - Rain Gear You’ll Actually Use
The rainy season shows no mercy. A compact poncho or foldable rain jacket will be your best friend on scooter rides or jungle treks. Umbrellas look cute but are less practical when it pours sideways. - Sun & Bug Protection
The tropical sun is relentless, and so are the mosquitoes in places like the Mekong. A good SPF and strong repellent are non-negotiables. Don’t rely on buying them locally-they’re either overpriced or oddly scented. - Swimwear/ Fast-Dry Towel
With so many beaches, waterfalls, and rivers on the itinerary, you’ll want to jump in often. Pack a swimsuit or two and a microfiber towel-they dry fast, take up no space and work great after a sweaty day, too. - Power Bank & Adapter
Between taking snaps, using Google Translate and hunting down the best banh mi, your phone will drain fast. Bring a power bank and a universal adapter (Vietnam uses 220V, Type A/C/F plugs). Trust us-you’ll need both more than once. - Reusable Water Bottle
The heat is no joke-hydrate often. A refillable bottle helps you cut down on single-use plastic and most hotels and hostels offer filtered water. Insulated ones keep your drink cold for hours, which is a small joy in 35°C weather. - Small Daypack
A lightweight backpack is perfect for daily exploring, just big enough for water, camera, rain gear, and snacks. Bonus points if it’s anti-theft, especially for the crowded streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Travel Insurance & Backup Copies
Vietnam is safe, but unexpected stuff happens-missed buses, sudden illness, lost bags. Travel insurance is your safety net. Keep digital and printed copies of your ID, insurance, bookings, and emergency contacts. Just in case.
Stay Connected in Vietnam (Mobile/Internet Access)
Getting a local SIM card in Vietnam is easy, affordable, and highly recommended for travelers. The major telecom providers are Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone which offer wide coverage, even in remote areas like Sapa and Ha Giang. Viettel, operated by the military, tends to have the best national coverage, especially in the highlands and rural regions. You can purchase prepaid SIM cards at the airport, convenience stores, or official retail outlets with just your passport. A basic SIM with around 5–10GB of data can cost between VND 100,000 to 200,000 (approx. ₹350–700) and top-ups are easy to do at local stores or online.
Vietnam has reliable 4G connectivity and 5G is being rolled out in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and even on some buses, though speeds may vary. For longer stays or shared usage, pocket Wi-Fi devices are also an option, available for rent at airports or online in advance.
5 Sustainable & Responsible Travel Tips
- Go local, always. Stay in locally owned guesthouses, eat at mom-and-pop eateries, and shop at village markets. Your money directly supports communities and helps preserve traditions.
- Ditch the disposables. A reusable water bottle, tote bag, and bamboo cutlery aren’t just trendy,they reduce the mountain of plastic left behind by travelers every year.
- Walk softly. Whether you're hiking through rice terraces or wandering temple courtyards, stay on marked paths and leave nature as you found it. That selfie’s not worth the damage.
- Choose ethical experiences. Say no to elephant rides and tiger selfies. Instead, visit sanctuaries or wildlife projects that prioritize conservation and education.
- Be culturally conscious. Learn a few local phrases, dress respectfully, and ask before snapping photos. A little effort earns a lot of respect.
Suggested Itineraries for Vietnam
- Option 1: Northern Vietnam (5 Days): Explore the charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter, cruise through the limestone wonders of Ha Long Bay and soak in the rural beauty of Ninh Binh, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Vietnam. Sample Itinerary
- Option 2: Northern & Central Vietnam (6 Days): In addition to the north, you'll discover the cultural richness of Hoi An and Da Nang from lantern-lit streets to golden beaches and ancient temples.
Sample Itinerary - Option 3: North, Central & South Vietnam (8 Days): A complete journey through Vietnam, including the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City, alongside the scenic north and central highlights, only ideal if you wish to experience the country’s full spectrum of culture, cuisine, and landscapes.
Sample Itinerary
With over 3,000 km of coastline, eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and rapidly expanding tourism infrastructure, Vietnam offers travellers a well-rounded mix of culture, nature, history, and modern convenience. From the karst formations of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the cool highlands of Da Lat, the country caters to a wide range of travel interests.
Start tracing the contours of Vietnam not just on a map, but through its flavours, festivals, and forgotten lanes. With Offbeat Tracks, your journey unfolds gently, and you are never in a rush!