- CapitalHanoi
- CurrencyVietnamese dong (VND)
- LanguageVietnamese
- Best timeFebruary to April and August to October (varies by region)
- Plug typesA, C, F
Vietnam stretches more than 1,600 km from the misty mountains of the north to the Mekong Delta in the south. Most visitors travel the length of the country by train, bus or short flights: Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, the central coast around Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang, then Ho Chi Minh City and the delta. Food is cheap, fresh and outstanding everywhere.
Top destinations in Vietnam
Hanoi
Lakes, the Old Quarter's 36 streets and the base for Ha Long Bay and Sapa.
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Hoi An
A lantern-lit UNESCO old town, tailors and beaches near Da Nang.
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Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam's energetic commercial hub and gateway to the Mekong Delta.
Explore →Landmarks & things to see
Ha Long Bay
Thousands of limestone islands in a UNESCO-listed bay, best seen on an overnight cruise.
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Hoi An Ancient Town
A remarkably preserved trading port of wooden shophouses and the Japanese Covered Bridge.
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Cu Chi Tunnels
An extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War.
Discover →Map of Vietnam
Travel tips for Vietnam
- Weather differs sharply between north, centre and south, so check each stop.
- Grab is the easiest way to book cars and motorbike taxis in cities.
- Cross streets slowly and steadily; traffic flows around you.
Where to stay in Vietnam
Hanoi
Old Quarter: Atmospheric, central and full of street food; Hoan Kiem Lake / French Quarter: Grand colonial hotels and wide boulevards; Tay Ho (West Lake): Calmer, expat cafés and lake views.
Hoi An
Old Town edge: Walk to the lanterns but sleep in quiet; An Bang Beach: Beach bungalows a short bike ride away; Cam Thanh: Rice paddies and coconut palms for villas.
Ho Chi Minh City
District 1: Central for sights, rooftop bars and dining; District 3: Leafy, local and great for food; Thao Dien (District 2): Riverside villas and international cafés.
Getting there and around
Most international visitors arrive by air via Hanoi or the main city gateways. Compare fares early for peak season, then use trains, buses, ferries or domestic flights between destinations.
Vietnam FAQ
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam is generally February to April and August to October (varies by region). Conditions vary by region, so check each destination.
What currency is used in Vietnam?
The currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry some cash for markets and rural areas.
Which plugs are used in Vietnam?
Vietnam uses plug types A, C, F. A universal travel adapter covers them.
What should I combine with Vietnam?
Vietnam combines well with Cambodia, Laos, China, Thailand.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change regularly. Check your government's travel advice and the official immigration website before you travel.
