Vietnam Travel Guide

Vietnam Travel Guide…

This past February, I had the opportunity to visit Vietnam for the first time and, let me tell you, it was unlike anything I ever could have expected. Full of delicious food, cultural experiences, unique history, and a range of climates, Vietnam is a country that should be on everyones bucket list!

Of course, like my other travel guides, I have separated each city in Vietnam that I have visited into their own page. If you scroll all the way to the bottom of this page, you will find my must-dos for Hi Chi Minh, Hoi An, and Hanoi. For now, here is my ultimate guide on everything you need to know about traveling to Vietnam!!

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Northern Vietnam: March-May & September-November to avoid the summer heat and winter rain

Southern Vietnam: Between December & April to experience the nicest weather

If you are looking to visit during Vietnam’s spring season, anytime between March & May is the best. Especially the countryside in Hanoi!

Weather in Vietnam

Hottest month: July – 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degree Celsius)

Coldest month: January – 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius)

Rainiest month(s): July – September

Seasons in Vietnam

Winter: January – March

Average temps of 68°F (20°C)
Less crowded
Best time to experience snow in Sapa

Spring: March – Early April

Average temps of 64°F – 77°F (18°C – 25°C)
Fewer crowds
Frequent drizzling rains
Best for nature adventures

Summer: May – October

Average temps of 77°F – 86°F (25°C – 30°C)
Very hot and humid
Great for outdoor activities (hiking, scuba diving, festivals)

Fall: October – December

Average temps of 62°F – 71°F (17°C – 22°C)
Mostly dry
Amazing weather/temps
Beautiful foliage throughout the country

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language: The national language around Vietnam is Vietnamese

Currency: The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (₫)

Credit Cards and ATMs: Credit cards are hit or miss throughout the country. I recommend using mostly cash throughout the country just because I found that a lot of restaurants/shops only took cash (of course this depends where you decide to eat/shop). There are ATMs almost everywhere but they do charge international fees so keep that in mind.

Plugs/Outlets: Vietnam uses plug types A, C, and F with two pins. If your plug has 3 pins, you may need a converter. I recommend buying a one like this to use for your hair products and other electrinics.

Safety: Overall, Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in. Of course, just like all major cities around the world, you must be aware of your surroundings when it comes to crowds. Pickpocketing can be present in big crowds so keep your personal belongings close to you or tucked away where people can not grab them from your pocket or even your hands.

TRANSPORTATION

In my opinion, the best way to travel between cities in Vietnam is by plane. Not only is this the fastest way because the country is pretty spread out, but air travel is also the most reliable when it comes to timing.

There are numerous airlines in Vietnam and tickets can be extremely cheap. If you are needing to travel by air, I highly recommend flying with Vietnam Airlines. They are a little more expensive than the other airlines but they are the most reliable in the country (you are guaranteed to get to your destination on-time without delays). If you cannot fly with Vietnam airlines, Jetstar Pacific Airlines and Vietjet Air are good alternatives.

Besides air travel, you can also get between cities by bus or train. There are many overnight options to pick from and if you have the time and would like to save some money this may be a good option for you (I would pick the train over the bus just for comfort). The Reunification Express overnight sleeper train is one of the most popular in the country.

When it comes to traveling around in one city, Grab is the way to go. Just like Uber, Grab is a driving/taxi service in Vietnam and it is AMAZING. All you have to do is download the Grab app, put in your information and you are all set! One thing I love about the Grab app is that you can either pay by card through the app or you can pay by cash once you get to your destination. If you are traveling with others and want to split the cost of the ride, the cash option is great for that!

Below are my travel guides for Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An, and Hanoi. Click the pictures to read about the must-dos, best places to stay, and the best food to eat in each city!

I hope you enjoy Vietnam as much as I did!

TRAVEL GUIDES