Vietnam is a country of contrasts — misty mountains in the north, bustling cities in the center, and golden beaches in the south.

Street food stalls line the sidewalks, serving steaming bowls of pho and crispy banh mi, while lantern-lit towns and ancient temples tell stories of centuries past. Affordable, safe, and endlessly fascinating, Vietnam is a favorite for both first-time and seasoned travelers.

Quick Facts

  • Bronze Buddha statue in front of a golden temple

    Religion

    A mix of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and folk traditions.

  • Language

    Vietnamese is official; English is common in cities and tourist areas.

  • Pink cathedral with architectural details against a clear sky

    History

    Influenced by Chinese, French, and American presence; unified as the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in 1976.

  • Writing

    Vietnamese uses the Latin alphabet, unlike most of its neighbors — a legacy of French colonial rule.

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THE WEATHER

When to Visit Vietnam

✧ Best time for the North: February–April, when you’ll skip the coldest and rainiest months.

✧ Best time for the South: December–March, with dry skies and lighter crowds.

✧ Central Vietnam (Hoi An & nearby): Pleasant almost year-round.

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Visiting in spring or summer? Start in the South and work your way north.

Traveling in autumn or winter? Begin in the North and head south.

HIGHLIGHTS

Our Top 5 Vietnam Experiences

♡ Ride the Ha Giang Loop in North

♡ Camp inside the Tiger Cave System in Phong Nha

♡ Join a street beer tour in Hanoi

♡ Float through Van Long Natural Reserve in Ninh Binh

♡ Visit the American War Museum in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

♡ Explore the night markets in Da Nang 

Woman selling fish at a market with various fish on trays and a motorcycle in the background.

VIETNAM 101

Know Before you Go

➭ Bring cash – Street stalls and markets rarely take cards.

➭ Keep it secure – A crossbody bag with zippers is your safest bet.

➭ Cross with caution – Motorbikes appear out of nowhere, so double-check before stepping off the curb.

➭ Stick with chicken pho – It’s the easiest way to avoid surprise cuts of meat or tendon.

➭ Try the language – Locals appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is hopelessly off the whole trip.

Shop the Vietnam Collection

  • Phone displaying a Vietnam travel guide app with a woman in a hat and text on a pink background

    Vietnam Travel Guide

    Vietnam Travel Guide

    $27.00
    $27.00

Vietnam FAQ

Is Vietnam safe?

Yes, Vietnam is considered safe and welcoming, with low violent crime. The main issues are petty theft and chaotic traffic, so stay alert in busy areas.

Do I need a Visa for Vietnam?

Yes — most travelers need a visa. Many nationalities can apply for an e-visa valid for 90 days (single or multiple entry).

What's the best way to move around?

Domestic flights save time on long distances. Trains (like the Reunification Express), buses, and motorbikes are popular for shorter trips. Ride-hailing apps like Grab work well in major cities.

What's the local currency?

The Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is king, especially in markets and smaller towns, but ATMs are widely available.