Vietnam is a long, thin country, and half the pleasure is travelling its length — from the tangle of Hanoi's old quarter and the emerald towers of Halong Bay in the north, through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An in the centre, down to the energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the waterways of the Mekong.
It is easy, affordable and endlessly photogenic, with some of the best street food in Asia. This is our short brief on when to go and what to build a trip around.
Best time to go
February – AprilThe safest all-country window — dry and pleasant north to south, before the summer heat and rains.
May – SeptemberHot, and the wet season builds in the south and centre; good value, and the north's mountains (Sapa) are green and terraced.
October – DecemberCooler and dry in the south; the centre (Hoi An, Hue) can see late-year flooding, so we watch the dates.
What not to miss
Halong BayAn overnight cruise among the limestone islands — the classic Vietnam night.
HanoiThe old quarter, Hoan Kiem lake, and a bowl of pho at a plastic-stool café.
Hoi AnLantern-lit lanes, a riverside night market and the best tailoring in the country.
Ho Chi Minh City & the MekongSaigon's buzz, the Cu Chi tunnels, and a boat day through the delta's floating markets.
SapaRice terraces and hill-tribe villages in the far north — cool, green and worth the trip up.
Visas & entry
Many Malaysian and ASEAN travellers enter Vietnam visa-free for short stays, while others need an e-visa. Rules change, so tell us who's travelling and we'll confirm and arrange whatever is needed.
Visa & OCI servicesPractical tips
- Cross the road slowly and steadily — the scooters flow around you; don't stop suddenly.
- Carry small notes for street food and markets; a little haggling is expected and friendly.
- The country is long — a domestic flight or two saves days over the road.
- Have a tailored suit or dress made in Hoi An early in your stay so it's ready before you leave.
