With the efforts of the government to improve tourist conditions, Vietnam is currently one of the ideal destinations that many international visitors choose. If you are coming to Vietnam for the first time, you must make a detailed and specific schedule for a nice trip. Here are some travel tips to Vietnam that we recommend. Let’s explore together and have some helpful information for your trip.
Read now: Tourist visa Vietnam: Condition, Application & Fees 2023 [official]
1. Overview of Vietnam
Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia with an area of about 331,200 km2 and a population of about 99 million people divided into 54 ethnic groups. ” Kinh” or “Viet” is the largest ethnic group, with more than 85% of the population. Vietnam is known for its diverse culture, a combination of the quintessence of many prominent cultures, such as China and India and its long-standing cultural identity.
Main cities: Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is located in the north of Vietnam, with a population of about 7 million. Hanoi is the second largest city in Vietnam, following Ho Chi Minh City in the South of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh is considered the economic centre of Vietnam, with 12.7 million people.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is considered a political centre in the country.
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its dynamic economy, attracting many large companies.
Language: Vietnamese is the official language in the country, while English is increasingly favoured as a second language. Some areas speak French, Chinese, Khmer; mountain areas are Mon-Khmer and Malayo-Polynesian. In large cities such as Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, or Da Nang, many people can speak English at a medium level and make essential communication.
However, when you visit smaller towns and mountainous areas, the English ability of citizens will decline. Therefore, a good grasp of some basic Vietnamese words can significantly help you when exploring the lands in Vietnam. Words like petrol, hotel, and bathroom are on the must-know words list.
In Vietnam, people can speak many different languages, in which English is widely used especially in tourists destinations
Safety: According to the results gathered by the Institute for Economics & Peace on the Global Peace Index, in 2022, Vietnam ranked 44th among the countries with the highest peace index in the world, up 6 places compared to 2021. Therefore, Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel to.
However, there are a few scams to be aware of in motorbikes-related accidents. Although driving motorbikes in Vietnam is something we recommend you do as it is a great way to explore Vietnam, ensure you have the proper license from your home country. Most travel insurance policies won’t cover you otherwise.
Vietnam has ranked 44th among countries with a high global peace index
Vietnam citizens live peacefully under government supervision without almost no riots and terrorism
Transportation: Travelling from one place to another is relatively easy and efficient in Vietnam. You can rent a bicycle or motorbike to transport. In particular, we recommend downloading the Skyscanner App and using the Bookaway or 12Go website to preview bus, boat, and train schedules.
Travelling by motorbike in Vietnam is a great experience for discovering many interesting things
Find out more:
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Vietnam visa: Types, Requirements, Fees & How to get it? [2023]
2. 11+ things you “must-do” – Travel tips to Vietnam
2.1 Sort out your visa
A visa is the first thing you need before coming to Vietnam. You can apply for a visa through many different ways, such as Visa on arrival, Visa at the embassy, or E-Visa as all are accepted. Having a visa will make it easier and more convenient for you to come to Vietn
am. However, firstly you have to check whether or not you are granted a Vietnam visa exemption. Passport holders from 24 countries below do not need a Vietnam tourist visa from January 2023.
| Countries |
Passport required |
Maximum stay |
| Chile |
Yes |
less than 90 days |
| Cambodia |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Indonesia |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Kyrgyzstan |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Laos |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Malaysia |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Singapore |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Thailand |
Yes |
less than 30 days |
| Philippines |
Yes |
less than 21 days |
| Brunei |
Yes |
less than 14 days |
| Myanmar |
Yes |
less than 14 days |
| Belarus |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Denmark |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Finland |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| France |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Germany |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Italy |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Japan |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Norway |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Russia |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| South Korea |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Spain |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| Sweden |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
| United Kingdom |
Yes |
less than 15 days |
Vietnam visa exemption is applied to citizens from 24 countries
2.2 Purchase your travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential for anyone coming to Vietnam, whether you are travelling alone or in a tour group. If you plan to rent a motorbike or bike, hike in a national park or do any water activities, then you need a good policy to protect you in the event of an accident. You can use SafetyWing for your trips to coverage for some high-risk activities or destinations and other things.
You should buy travel insurance to protect yourself when something unexpected happens
2.3 Pick the right season to visit (the first thing about travel tips in Vietnam)
Although the weather is not a consideration when travelling in Vietnam, choosing the right time to visit Vietnam will make the trip perfect. In Vietnam, the distance from the North to the South is 2360 km, so there are apparent differences in weather between regions. However, many travellers still do not realize this and mistakenly believe that the weather and temperature will be the same throughout their trip between areas.
Each region in Vietnam has different weather, temperature and rainfall
A tropical climate with high humidity and abundant rainfall all year round characterizes Vietnam. In particular, Vietnam often experiences unpredictable weather phenomena such as flash floods, storms, and tornadoes…
Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to early December) are the most pleasant times to visit Vietnam. It is not too cold in the North and not too hot in the South, so you can enjoy Vietnam.
You should come to Vietnam in spring or autumn to enjoy the best beauty of Vietnam
Discover the Vietnam weather in each month here:
2.4 Be selective with your itinerary
If it’s your first time in Vietnam, arrange a steady and slow itinerary to explore this S-shaped country. In big cities like Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi or Da Nang, you need at least three full days to go around the corners of the city. In addition, you also need time to learn about the culture, cuisine and beautiful landscapes in Vietnam, as each region has its characteristics. Stretch out your schedule if you have plenty of time. Because your experience may not be as satisfying when you try to cram too much and rush through it.
Stretching out your schedule to explore all the famous places in Vietnam
Another thing to remember: Although Vietnam may look small on the map, it still takes time to travel, mainly if you depend on trains and buses. Combining a few domestic flights is a great way to save time and see more sights.
2.5 Pre-book your airport transfer (my top Vietnam travel tip)
Most visitors who come to Vietnam use taxis to move around in addition to renting motorcycles or bicycles. You should buy a local sim card and download the taxi app as soon as you arrive at your first destination. It is better to book the pickup service in advance. Besides reasonable prices, a taxi in Vietnam will make your trip much easier.
You should book a pickup service to get to the hotel after getting off the plane
2.6 Plan your budget carefully
Although prices in Vietnam are also classified as affordable, not all are cheap. You also need to spend a lot of money on some things, like a trip to Ha Long Bay.
With digital technology development, most people use QR codes or credit cards to pay, but cash is still commonly used in Vietnam so make sure you carry an amount of money. Street food stores, markets, taxis, small hotels and homestays (especially in rural areas) may only accept cash.
Manage your budget wisely and make sure bring some cash when coming to Vietnam
Find out more: Vietnam travel money | 11 Tips to save your money [2023]
2.7 Get a local Sim card
If you plan at least a 5-day Vietnam itinerary or longer, you need to buy a local sim card Vietnam or register a Vietnam esim. Grabbing a sim card upon arrival is the easiest way to keep connected on your trip. You can book one online or have one delivered directly to your hotel.
Prepare a local sim card to connect on your trip to Vietnam.
2.8 Understand the tipping etiquette
Tipping is not compulsory in Vietnam, but it is greatly appreciated. Tipping for tour guides and taxi drivers is a high recommendation. You can take 10-20% depending on your satisfaction with the service. However, some restaurants and cafes will add a 10% service charge to your bill.
Tipping for taxi drivers or tour guides is recommended.
2.9 Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases (sounds interesting things about travel tips to Vietnam)
Vietnamese is the official language in Vietnam, but English is widely spoken – especially in popular tourist areas or among young people. However, if you want a perfect experience and show your respect for the local culture, you should know some basic phrases. As a result, people will appreciate that you took the time to learn Vietnamese, and they will become friendly and hospitable and treat you like family.
Actively learn a few basic phrases before coming to Vietnam
2.10 Pack the right clothes
Due to the nature of the tropical climate, the humidity in regions of Vietnam is relatively high. Therefore, you should bring breathable clothes made of cotton or linen that can be washed and dried overnight. In Vietnam, on hot days, people often cover up carefully to avoid burning their skin and being affected by UV rays, so if you want to blend in, bring long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from the sun.
Bring clothes suitable for the weather and the place you are going to visit
When travelling in the northern provinces in winter, you should bring warm clothes because the temperature can drop below 10 degrees Celsius. You should always carry raincoats and umbrellas with you as in Vietnam; there are also frequent unexpected rains regardless of the season. Especially when visiting temples, churches or religious places, remember to wear discreet and polite clothes to show your respect.
2.11 Don’t forget your camera!
Many visitors take photos when travelling to preserve beautiful experiences. However, you have to remember to be respectful when taking street photos and always ask permission before taking a portrait of someone. It is essential in rural areas.
Remember to use the camera when allowed
3. Reveal wonderful things about Vietnam – Travel tips for Vietnam
3.1 People are lovely
You get a completely different perspective when you talk to the residents. Vietnamese people are well known for their friendly and hospitable spirit. They always say hello and put on big smiles to greet tourists. Also, they are willing to invite tourists for meals and stay at home if they cannot find a place to accommodate them. They are ready to help and give directions if you have difficulty. In general, Vietnamese people are charming, simple and rustic.
Vietnamese people are friendly, hospitable and natural
3.2 Beaches
Vietnam is famous for its beautiful and romantic beaches, with a coastline of 3260 km. You should go to extensive beaches like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang or Da Nang to enjoy the sea air. These are all attractive beach tourist destinations with incredible landscapes, terrifying seafood, and friendly people.
You should visit the big beaches to discover many interesting things
3.3 It’s a paradise for foodies (the top travel tips to Vietnam)
Vietnam is a paradise of delicious food with a harmonious combination of unique flavours from different ingredients, from tamarind to chilli peppers. Some dishes you should try at least once when coming to Vietnam:
- Pho is the Vietnamese national dish, a combination of noodles, meat and delicious broth mixed with coriander to wake up our taste buds.
- Bun cha: grilled pork and noodles.
- Banh mi is one of the most famous street foods in Vietnam, a mixture of meats, vegetables and sauces.
- Goi Cuon: Fresh spring rolls filled with noodles, meat/prawns/crab and greens.
Vietnam is a paradise of unique and delicious dishes
3.4 WiFi is great!
The wifi system in Vietnam is surprisingly fast and stable. You can connect to wifi anywhere on the street because most cafes, shops, and restaurants have wifi installed to serve customers. If you want to always connect to the Internet, immediately own a sim card. You can buy a sim card from Viettel as soon as you get off the airport with only 20,000 VND for 20GB.
You can access the Internet in a cafe, restaurant or even on the sidewalk in Vietnam
4. Destinations visitors “should-come” – Travel tips in Vietnam
4.1 Hanoi is quainter than you think
Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital and a significant economic and political centre. In addition to the hustle of traffic and the busy life of the people, Hanoi also hides the deep and slow aspects of a city of thousands of civilizations. Hanoi is known for its many hundred-year temples and pagodas. It is also where many traces of history and evidence of ancient life remain. Coming to Hanoi, you should visit 36 old quarters in Hanoi, where you can buy handicrafts and explore traditional things you have never known before.
Hanoi is one of the traditional and ancient cities in Vietnam with long-time alleys, hundred-year temples and pagodas.
4.2 Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be and be seen
Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most crowded cities in Vietnam. Life here is always full of new and exciting things. Coming to this place, you can see a modern and classic city. Ho Chi Minh is suitable for you to go to shopping centres, eclectic music, art offers, and sophisticated nightlife.
Ho Chi Minh City is the centre of bustling and dynamic life
Behind the skyscrapers, there are still small alleys. We can find ancient houses interspersed with modern buildings. People work hard in the morning and take time in the evening to relax. In Ho Chi Minh City, there are many delicious dishes. Many tourists come to this city because they are interested in the food here. There are both local dishes and famous international dishes. The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is divided into two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season and no winter here. You will find the weather quite pleasant.
4.3 It’s worth splurging on a Halong Bay cruise
Ha Long Bay is one of the famous landscapes of Vietnam. Thousands of limestone cliffs emerge from the water like dragons and phoenixes. The four seasons of Ha Long are covered with a lovely blue colour of water, sky and green mountains. Visitors from all over the world come here to admire the Bay’s extraordinary beauty. Therefore, Ha Long has twice been recognized as a world natural heritage. If your budget allows, try luxury cruises in Halong Bay as it is a fantastic experience.
Ha Long Bay is famous for its magnificent natural beauty and luxurious cruises
You may like: Halong Bay trip from Hanoi | 6 “super simple” options
7 Harsh things that You WISH You Had Known – Vietnam travel tips
7.1 Airport – stolen checked luggage
The situation of stolen checked luggage often happens at airports in Vietnam and some other places. To avoid becoming a victim of stolen checked luggage, you should not leave anything valuable in your luggage because even if you have locked it carefully, criminals still find a way to open it. That’s why just put anything of value in your bag, and you will have a wonderful trip to Vietnam.
Do not leave valuable things in checked luggage to avoid being stolen
7.2 Crossing streets in Vietnam
When coming to Vietnam, you will surely be overwhelmed by the number of vehicles on the road, especially motorbikes. For many travellers, crossing the street in Vietnam is a nightmare because many obstacles exist.
Be careful when crossing the street in Vietnam
Tips for crossing the street in Vietnam
- Don’t be afraid to face lots of motorbikes, buses, cars, etc., as you cross the street.
- Observe the vehicles carefully, and wait patiently for the traffic signal
- You need to watch out for traffic on both sides because some people break the law and go in the opposite direction.
- You should buy travel insurance before coming to Vietnam.
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7.3 Taxi scams
Taxi scams frequently happen in Vietnam, and they occur to everyone, including local citizens. Taxi drivers will try to drive you around to charge you more. Or in some other cases, the driver has modified the measurement, so the total cost is double or more than the actual price
Check the route carefully before taking a taxi to avoid being scammed
Tips to avoid taxi scams in Vietnam
- Check Google Maps/ or Maps.me to calculate the distance to your final destination. Then you can multiply the length by the amount per kilometre.
- Ask the taxi driver how much you need to pay before you start your trip.
- Choose prestigious taxi companies like Mai Linh, Tien Sa or Vinasun. Or you can also order from Grab (Uber is not available in Vietnam yet).
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See more: Transportation in Vietnam | Useful Information [Update 2023]
7.4 Robbery
Robbery happens everywhere, day or night in Vietnam, and the most common is robbing your phone/bag. Usually, young men on motorbikes at extremely fast speeds grab your bags without your knowledge.
Tips to avoid being robbed in Vietnam
- Phone: Don’t answer your phone when you’re out on the street. If you need to take a phone call, choose a corner and listen to it.
- Bags: I recommend leaving your bags in front of you in crowded areas. Be careful and leave your essentials in your accommodation if you don’t need to take them out.
- Travel Insurance: You should buy travel insurance.
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7.5 Pickpocket
Pickpocketing is a common thing that can occur anywhere, anytime, especially in crowded places. If you are walking down the street or visiting a famous market, you should be careful as you could be a victim of pickpockets.
| Tips to avoid pickpockets in Vietnam
Remember to take care of your things. Always keep your bag in front of you, not your back. So you can check it from time to time to make sure it’s still there. |
7.6 Fraud
Many fake travel agencies try to attract as many tourists as possible. After tricking the visitors, they will send them on another tour for a commission. In these fake tours, you cannot experience the best service that the actual tour brings.
Tips to avoid fake tours in Vietnam
- Make sure you use the right travel agency’s website to search for tours. Some fake websites claim they are authentic, so you need to check them carefully.
- Go to the correct address of the tour company. There can be more than ten stores with the same name on the street, so you should ensure you are going to the right store.
- Book tours with trusted sites like Klook.
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7.7 Overpayments
This situation is quite common for both foreign visitors and locals.
Tips to avoid overpaying in Vietnam
- If you want to be ripped off, you can go to a restaurant with no price sign. Don’t do that, especially if you’re a visitor, because some restaurants even have menus and may charge you to sit.
- You need to be clear about the price before ordering anything. The same goes for eating street food. Remember to ask the price before you buy. If you feel you are paying more than the locals, leave the place and go to another location. There are many restaurants to choose from.
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Hopefully the above travel tips to Vietnam have helped you plan a trip to Vietnam more easily. Vietnam is well known for its attractive destinations with splendid landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people. However, negative phenomena still occur in tourist places, so you need to be more vigilant not to become a victim of such problems. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for timely support.
Contact information:
Wolo International Travel Service and Commercial Investment Joint Stock Company
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