Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia that has become increasingly popular as a tourist destination over the past few years. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Vietnam offers something for everyone. However, planning your first trip to Vietnam can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the country. In this post, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan a successful trip to Vietnam, including when to visit, where to go, what to pack, and more.
Why Visit Vietnam?
Vietnam is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes, warm people, and a rich culture. It’s one of the most affordable tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and it offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Vietnam:
Natural Beauty
Vietnam is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. From the stunning rice fields in Sapa to the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay, there’s no shortage of natural beauty in Vietnam. Other must-see attractions include the beaches of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island, the Mekong Delta, and the caves of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park.
Rich History
Vietnam has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The country has been influenced by a variety of different cultures, including Chinese, French, and American. As a result, there are many historical sites and museums throughout the country, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, and the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long.
Delicious Cuisine
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and healthy cooking methods. Some of the most popular dishes in Vietnam include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (a French-inspired sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles).
The best time to visit Vietnam
Vietnam has a tropical climate, which means that it’s warm and humid year-round. However, the best time to visit Vietnam depends on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Northern Vietnam
If you’re planning to visit Hanoi, Sapa, or Halong Bay, the best time to go is from September to November or from March to May. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier, making it more comfortable to explore the region.
Central Vietnam
If you’re planning to visit Hue, Danang, or Hoi An, the best time to go is from February to May. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, and there are fewer tourists than during the peak season.
Southern Vietnam
If you’re planning to visit Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, or Phu Quoc Island, the best time to go is from December to April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for exploring the region.
How Many Days for Your First Trip to Vietnam?
The amount of time you need for your first trip to Vietnam depends on how much you want to see and do. However, we recommend spending at least 10 days in Vietnam to get a good sense of the country. Here’s a sample itinerary for a 10-day trip to Vietnam:
Day 1: Hanoi
– Arrive in Hanoi and check into your hotel
– Explore the Old Quarter and visit attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Temple of Literature
– Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Hanoi
– Take a full-day city tour of Hanoi, visiting sites like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
– Sample street food in the bustling Hanoi markets
– Watch a water puppet show in the evening
Day 3: Halong Bay
– Depart for Halong Bay and embark on a cruise along the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters
– Enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting caves
– Overnight on the cruise ship and enjoy dinner on board
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hoi An
– Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Halong Bay
– Continue cruising and exploring the bay before disembarking
– Transfer to Hanoi and take a flight to Hoi An
– Check into your hotel in Hoi An and explore the charming ancient town
Day 5: Hoi An
– Take a walking tour of Hoi An’s ancient town, visiting attractions such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Old House of Tan Ky, and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese
– Visit local markets and shops, known for their tailor-made clothing and leather goods
– Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lantern-making workshop in the evening
Day 6: Hoi An – Hue
– Depart for Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam
– Visit the Imperial Citadel and explore the ancient royal palaces and temples
– Take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tombs of the Emperors
Day 7: Hue – Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
– Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and check into your hotel
– Visit popular landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and Notre Dame Cathedral
– Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market and sample local street food
Day 8: Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
– Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you can explore the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War
– Continue to the Mekong Delta and take a boat trip along the river, visiting local villages and experiencing the region’s agricultural activities
– Enjoy a home-cooked Mekong Delta-style dinner
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City
– Visit the historic Reunification Palace and the vibrant Chinatown district, known as Cho Lon
– Explore the Museum of Vietnamese History and the Jade Emperor Pagoda
– Take a leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the city’s nightlife
Day 10: Departure
– Enjoy your last morning in Ho Chi Minh City by visiting local markets or shopping for souvenirs
– Depart for the airport, bidding farewell to Vietnam
Of course, you can adjust this itinerary based on your preferences and interests.
Where to Go on Your First Vietnam Trip?
Vietnam has many beautiful destinations to explore, but if it’s your first time visiting, we recommend focusing on the following places:
Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and a great place to start your trip. It’s a bustling city with a rich history and culture. Some must-see attractions in Hanoi include the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay is one of the most iconic destinations in Vietnam. It’s known for its stunning limestone cliffs and emerald green waters. You can take a boat tour of the bay or go kayaking to explore the caves and grottoes.
Hue
Hue was the former imperial capital of Vietnam and is home to many historical sites and landmarks. The city is located on the banks of the Perfume River and is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Imperial Citadel and the Thien Mu Pagoda.
Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming town located on the central coast of Vietnam. It’s known for its well-preserved ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some must-see attractions in Hoi An include the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Hoi An Night Market, and the many tailor shops where you can get custom-made clothing.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam and a hub for business, culture, and tourism. Some popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City include the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the Ben Thanh Market.
Decide Your Budget & Travel Style
Vietnam is an affordable destination, but it’s important to decide on your budget before you go. The cost of travel in Vietnam can vary depending on your travel style and the activities you choose to do.
Budget Travel
If you’re on a tight budget, you can expect to spend around $20-30 per day on food, accommodation, and transportation. You can save money by staying in budget guesthouses or hostels, eating at local street food stalls, and taking public transportation.
Mid-Range Travel
If you have a bit more to spend, you can expect to spend around $50-100 per day on food, accommodation, and transportation. This will allow you to stay in nicer hotels, eat at mid-range restaurants, and take private tours or transportation.
Luxury Travel
If you’re looking for a luxury experience, you can expect to spend over $200 per day on food, accommodation, and transportation. This will allow you to stay in 5-star hotels, eat at fancy restaurants, and take private tours or transportation.
Check the Vietnam Visa Policy
Most foreigners need a visa to enter Vietnam, except for citizens of certain countries who are eligible for visa exemptions. You can check the Vietnam visa policy on the website of the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Visa Exemptions
Citizens of ASEAN countries, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and some European countries are eligible for visa exemptions for stays of up to 15-45 days.
E-Visa
If you’re not eligible for a visa exemption, you can apply for an e-visa online. An e-visa allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days and costs $25.
Visa on Arrival
If you don’t have time to apply for an e-visa, you can also get a visa on arrival at the airport. However, this option can be more expensive and time-consuming than getting an e-visa.
What to Pack for Your First Trip to Vietnam?
Packing for your first trip to Vietnam can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Here are some essentials that you should pack:
Clothing
Vietnam has a tropical climate, so it’s important to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. You’ll also want to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring. Sandals or flip-flops are also a good option for the beach or pool.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Vietnam can be quite sunny and humid, so it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You’ll also want to bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Medications
If you take any medications, make sure to bring enough for your trip. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids and pain relievers.
What Not to Bring to Vietnam?
There are some items that you should leave behind when traveling to Vietnam:
Illegal Drugs
Drug laws in Vietnam are strict, and possession or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and even the death penalty.
Pornography
Pornography is illegal in Vietnam, and possession of pornographic materials can result in fines or imprisonment.
Religious Materials
While Vietnam is a predominantly Buddhist country, it’s important to note that the government controls all religious activities. Bringing in religious materials without permission from the government can result in fines or imprisonment.
Conclusion
Vietnam is a beautiful and fascinating country that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or natural beauty, you’ll find plenty to explore in Vietnam. By following the tips in this post, you can plan a successful first trip to Vietnam and create memories that will last a lifetime.