Vietnam
Welcome to “Voyage Through Vietnam” – Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Riches of a Time-Honored Land
Embark on a journey with us as we delve into the heart of Vietnam, a country where ancient traditions meld seamlessly with contemporary life. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay and the rural charm of Sapa, “Voyage Through Vietnam” is your compass to uncovering the many treasures this captivating country has to offer.
Why Vietnam? This Southeast Asian gem is a kaleidoscope of experiences, boasting lush landscapes, a fascinating history, and a vibrant culture. Vietnam is a land of contrasts, where tranquil rice paddies coexist with dynamic urban landscapes, offering a journey that is as diverse as it is memorable.
Best Time To Visit
Vietnam: A Land of Diverse Seasons, Each Offering Unique Charms.
Spring (March to May): Ideal for cultural and nature exploration. Mild weather (20°C to 30°C) perfect for trekking in Sapa and sightseeing in cities like Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City.
Summer (June to August): Hot (up to 35°C), great for beach activities in Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc Island. A season rich in tropical fruits and vibrant beach life.
Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures (25°C to 30°C) and less rainfall. Optimal for visiting heritage sites like Hue and enjoying beautiful landscapes, including golden rice fields.
Winter (December to February): Cool in the north (around 10°C), warmer in the south (20°C to 25°C). Suitable for city explorations in Hanoi and urban experiences in central and southern regions.
What To Expect
Capital: Hanoi
Population: 97.47 million (2021)
Language: The official language in Vietnam is Vietnamese
Currency: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong. 1 USD is 24550 Dong. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: You won’t have a problem finding ATMs in Vietnam’s big cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Most ATMs accept Visa cards, but you might struggle to find one that accepts Cirrus and Maestro. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: The plugs in Vietnam are types A, C, and F. The standard voltage is 220 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Issues related to violent crimes, such as armed attacks and robberies, are at a low level. Vietnam is also evaluated as a safe destination.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Vietnam and reasons to visit Vietnam
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Vietnam
1. Cruise Ha Long Bay
Embark on a cruise through Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. A boat trip here offers spectacular views, cave explorations, and the chance to see traditional floating villages.
2. Explore Hoi An's Ancient Town
Stroll through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to 19th centuries. Its buildings and street plan reflect a unique blend of influences, both indigenous and foreign. Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the vibrant lantern-lit night market.
3. Visit the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City
This museum offers a poignant view of the Vietnam War through the eyes of the Vietnamese people. It presents a powerful collection of photographs, military vehicles, and artifacts, providing a thought-provoking insight into the impact of the war.
4. Trek in Sapa
Head to the northern mountains and trek through the scenic landscapes of Sapa. This region is known for its terraced rice fields, stunning mountain scenery, and rich cultural diversity, home to various ethnic minority groups. Trekking here often includes homestays in local villages.
5. Experience the Cu Chi Tunnels
Located near Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an immense network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore a section of the tunnels, gaining insight into the underground life of soldiers and the ingenious strategies employed during the war.
Vietnam Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – 120,000–250,000 VND / £4–8 GBP / $5–10 / €4.50–9
- Hostel Private Rooms – 350,000–700,000 VND / £12–24 GBP / $14–28 / €13–26
- Budget Hotels – 400,000–900,000 VND / £14–30 GBP / $16–36 / €15–34
- Airbnb Private Rooms – 300,000–750,000 VND / £10–26 GBP / $12–30 / €11–28
- Airbnb Apartments – 800,000+ VND / £28+ GBP / $32+ / €30+
- Campsites – 100,000–250,000 VND / £3.50–8 GBP / $4–10 / €4–9
Transportation
- Local Bus or Minibus – 7,000–50,000 VND / £0.25–1.70 GBP / $0.30–2 / €0.30–1.90
- Intercity Bus – 100,000–500,000 VND / £3.50–17 GBP / $4–20 / €3.75–19
- Taxi (per km) – 12,000–20,000 VND / £0.40–0.70 GBP / $0.50–0.90 / €0.45–0.85
- Motorbike Rental (per day) – 100,000–250,000 VND / £3.50–8 GBP / $4–10 / €4–9
- Car Rental (with driver, per day) – 1,200,000–2,500,000 VND / £40–85 GBP / $48–100 / €45–95
Food
- Budget Meal (Street Food, Local Eateries) – 40,000–80,000 VND / £1.40–2.80 GBP / $1.60–3.20 / €1.50–3
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – 120,000–300,000 VND / £4–10 GBP / $5–12 / €4.50–11
- Coffee (Vietnamese or Western-style) – 25,000–60,000 VND / £0.85–2 GBP / $1–2.50 / €0.95–2.30
- Beer (Local Draft or Bottle) – 15,000–50,000 VND / £0.50–1.70 GBP / $0.60–2 / €0.55–1.90
Activities
- Museum Entry – 30,000–100,000 VND / £1–3.50 GBP / $1.25–4 / €1.20–3.75
- Guided Tours – 500,000–1,500,000 VND / £17–50 GBP / $20–60 / €19–57
- Halong Bay Boat Tours – 1,200,000–3,500,000 VND / £40–120 GBP / $50–140 / €47–132
- Caving Tours (Phong Nha, Son Doong, etc.) – 1,000,000–6,000,000 VND / £35–200 GBP / $40–240 / €38–225
- Cooking Classes – 600,000–1,500,000 VND / £20–50 GBP / $24–60 / €22–57
- Scooter City Tour (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City) – 400,000–1,000,000 VND / £14–35 GBP / $16–40 / €15–38
Vietnam Suggested Budgets
🛏️ Backpacker – 600,000 VND Per Day
💲 ~$24 | ~€22 | ~£19
A backpacking budget in Vietnam allows you to:
- Stay in hostel dorms or budget guesthouses.
- Eat street food like banh mi, pho, and com tam (broken rice).
- Use public transportation like buses or motorbike taxis (xe om).
- Enjoy free or cheap activities, like exploring temples, hiking, or free walking tours.
Extra Costs:
- If you drink, add 50,000–150,000 VND ($2–6) for beers or cocktails.
- Long-distance buses and trains can add 200,000–500,000 VND ($8–20) to your budget.
🍜 Midrange – 1,400,000 VND Per Day
💲 ~$56 | ~€52 | ~£46
A midrange budget gives you more comfort and flexibility:
- Stay in private rooms in hostels, midrange hotels, or Airbnb rentals.
- Dine at local and midrange restaurants, trying hotpot, fresh seafood, or Vietnamese BBQ.
- Use taxis, Grab (ride-hailing app), or motorbike rentals for transport.
- Visit museums, take boat tours, and explore caves or waterfalls.
- Enjoy a couple of drinks at rooftop bars or trendy cafes.
Extra Costs:
- If taking domestic flights, add 1,000,000–2,500,000 VND ($40–100) per trip.
- Popular day tours, like Ha Long Bay or the Mekong Delta, can cost 800,000–1,800,000 VND ($32–72).
🏨 Upscale – 3,000,000+ VND Per Day
💲 ~$120+ | ~€110+ | ~£95+
A luxury budget lets you fully indulge in Vietnam:
- Stay in boutique hotels, luxury resorts, or high-end Airbnbs.
- Dine at fine-dining restaurants and enjoy wine or cocktails at top venues.
- Use private drivers, premium train services, or domestic flights for easy travel.
- Join private tours, such as an exclusive Mekong River cruise or a luxury Halong Bay overnight cruise.
- Experience premium activities like spa treatments, cooking classes, or adventure tours in places like Phong Nha Caves, Sapa, or Da Nang.
Extra Costs:
- 5-star experiences like private yacht rentals or helicopter tours can start at 10,000,000+ VND ($400+).
Vietnam Money-Saving Tips
Vietnam is one of the best budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia, offering amazing food, affordable accommodations, and plenty of free attractions. If you’re looking to make your money go even further, here are some key tips to save during your trip:
1 – Bring a Water Bottle with a Filter – Tap water in Vietnam isn’t safe to drink, and buying bottled water adds up. Bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, like LifeStraw or Grayl, to save money and reduce plastic waste.
2 – Eat Street Food – Some of the best and cheapest food in Vietnam is found at street stalls and markets. Dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha are delicious and cost as little as 40,000–80,000 VND ($1.60–$3.20).
3 – Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours – Many cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offer free walking tours where local guides share the history and culture of Vietnam. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
4 – Use Local Transport – Public buses, motorbike taxis (xe om), and ride-hailing apps like Grab are much cheaper than taxis. Avoid metered taxis unless they are from reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun.
5 – Stay in Hostels or Homestays – Hostels in Vietnam from Hostelworld are incredibly affordable, with dorm beds starting at 120,000 VND ($5) per night. Homestays, especially in rural areas like Sapa or the Mekong Delta, offer budget-friendly stays with home-cooked meals. Use Booking.com for hotels and guesthouses.
6 – Travel by Sleeper Bus or Train – Overnight sleeper buses and trains help you save on accommodation while covering long distances. A sleeper bus from Hanoi to Hue can cost around 400,000 VND ($16), much cheaper than a flight.
7 – Rent a Motorbike for Longer Trips – Renting a motorbike (100,000–250,000 VND per day) is a cheap way to explore places like Ha Giang, Dalat, or Phong Nha. Just make sure you have an international driver’s permit and always wear a helmet!
8 – Use Couchsurfing for Free Stays – Couchsurfing is popular in Vietnam, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where locals offer free accommodation in exchange for cultural exchange.
9 – Visit Free Attractions – Many of Vietnam’s best attractions are completely free, including Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh City’s Notre Dame Cathedral, and the beautiful beaches of Da Nang and Phu Quoc.
10 – Travel During the Shoulder Season – Visiting Vietnam in April-May or September-November means cheaper flights, discounted hotels, and fewer tourists while still enjoying great weather.
How to Get Around in Vietnam
Vietnam’s transportation system is diverse, affordable, and (mostly) efficient, with plenty of options depending on your budget and travel style. Here’s a guide to getting around Vietnam with ease:
🚶 Walking
In cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Da Nang, walking is a great way to explore. Many areas, like Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Hoi An’s Ancient Town, are pedestrian-friendly, but be cautious when crossing roads—traffic can be chaotic, and motorbikes often don’t stop! Take FREE Walking Tours to get your bearings!
🚌 Public Transportation
- City Buses – Buses operate in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, with fares starting at 7,000–10,000 VND ($0.30–$0.40) per ride. Though cheap, they can be crowded and slow, especially during rush hours.
- Metro (Ho Chi Minh City) – Vietnam’s first metro line is expected to open in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in 2025, improving transit within the city.
🚖 Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
- Metered Taxis – Stick to reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid scams. Fares start at 12,000–15,000 VND ($0.50–$0.65) per km. Always check that the meter is running.
- Grab & Be (Ride-hailing apps) – Grab (Vietnam’s Uber) is a safer, cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book cars or motorbike taxis (GrabBike) via the app. Be is another local alternative.
🛵 Motorbike Rentals
- Renting a motorbike is the most popular and flexible way to explore Vietnam, especially in rural areas and coastal towns.
- Costs start at 100,000–250,000 VND ($4–$10) per day. In places like Da Nang, Hue, and Ninh Binh, a motorbike allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Important: You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorbike endorsement to legally ride in Vietnam.
🛺 Cyclos & Electric Buggies
- Cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) are a traditional but touristy way to explore cities like Hanoi and Hue. Always agree on a price before hopping in—expect to pay 100,000–200,000 VND ($4–$8) for a short ride.
- Electric buggies are available in Hoi An and parts of Hanoi, offering a comfortable, eco-friendly way to explore old towns.
🚌 Long-Distance Buses & Sleeper Buses
Buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities. They range from budget to luxury sleeper buses with reclining seats and WiFi. Popular routes and prices:
- Hanoi to Sapa – 250,000–450,000 VND ($10–$18) (5–6 hours)
- Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – 180,000–350,000 VND ($7–$14) (2.5–3.5 hours)
- Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat – 300,000–500,000 VND ($12–$20) (6–8 hours)
For longer routes, sleeper buses save on accommodation costs and are popular among budget travelers. Book through The Sinh Tourist, Futa Bus, or Hung Thanh Travel.
🚂 Trains
Vietnam’s railway network connects major cities along the coast and offers scenic travel, especially on the Hanoi to Da Nang or Hanoi to Lao Cai (for Sapa) routes.
- Soft-seat trains (cheaper) and sleeper berths (for overnight trips) are available.
- Sample fares:
- Hanoi to Da Nang (soft seat: 650,000 VND / $26, sleeper berth: 900,000 VND / $36)
- Hanoi to Sapa (Lao Cai) (sleeper train: 750,000+ VND / $30+)
- Book tickets at Vietnam Railways (dsvn.vn) or through travel agencies.
✈️ Domestic Flights
Vietnam is long and narrow, making domestic flights a time-saving alternative to long bus/train journeys. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer budget-friendly flights between major cities.
- Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City – From 1,000,000 VND ($40) (2 hours)
- Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang – From 600,000 VND ($24) (1.5 hours)
- Hanoi to Phu Quoc – From 1,500,000 VND ($60) (2 hours)
Booking in advance or during airline promotions can get you flights for under $25!
🚗 Car Rentals
- Renting a car in Vietnam is not common, and self-driving isn’t recommended due to chaotic traffic and strict regulations.
- Instead, renting a car with a driver is a good option for comfort and convenience. Expect to pay 1,200,000–2,500,000 VND ($48–$100) per day, depending on the distance.
🛳️ Ferries & Boats
- Ha Long Bay Cruises – Prices vary from 1,200,000–3,500,000 VND ($50–$140) for day trips or overnight cruises.
- Phu Quoc Ferry – Ferries run from Ha Tien or Rach Gia to Phu Quoc for 350,000–500,000 VND ($14–$20).
- Mekong River Boats – Local ferries and private cruises are available in the Mekong Delta, costing as little as 50,000 VND ($2) for short crossings.
🚀 Final Travel Tips
- Book buses and trains in advance during peak seasons (Tet holiday, summer).
- Always confirm taxi fares or use Grab to avoid scams.
- Wear a helmet when riding a motorbike, as police frequently check tourists for violations.
- Pack motion sickness medicine if taking long-distance buses—the mountain roads are winding!
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