VIP TRAVEL AND TOURISM
Vietnam Travel Guide 2027 — Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Tips
THE COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE · 2027
Vietnam Travel Guide 2027: Best Places to Visit, Things to Do & Travel Tips
Explore Vietnam’s dramatic limestone bays, vibrant cities, lantern-lit streets, beautiful beaches, mountain landscapes and incredible local cuisine.
Travel planning information for 2027. Check current entry requirements, prices, schedules and local conditions before departure.
Why visit Vietnam?
Vietnam combines history, food, nature and coastal scenery in one fascinating destination. From Hanoi’s historic streets to the waters of Ha Long Bay, the heritage of Hoi An and the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, there are experiences for a wide range of travellers.
1. Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam stretches from the mountains of the north to the tropical landscapes of the south. These destinations offer a useful starting point for building your travel route.
Capital City
Hanoi
Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, historic landmarks, cafés and traditional food stalls. Hanoi is also a convenient starting point for trips to northern Vietnam.
Natural Wonder
Ha Long Bay
Discover limestone formations rising above emerald waters. Boat cruises and kayaking trips are popular, but schedules can change with weather and sea conditions.
Historic Charm
Hoi An
Walk through heritage streets, browse craft shops, enjoy riverside dining and see the lantern-lit old town after sunset. Nearby countryside makes a relaxing addition to your visit.
Beach & City
Da Nang
Enjoy sandy beaches, seafood, modern city comforts and the Marble Mountains. Da Nang also works well as a base for exploring nearby Hoi An.
Mountain Adventure
Sa Pa
Discover mountain scenery, terraced fields and local communities. Bring layers for cool or misty conditions and choose responsible local guides for treks.
Urban Energy
Ho Chi Minh City
Explore museums, markets, cafés, historic landmarks and a lively dining scene. The city is a starting point for visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta.
River Culture
Mekong Delta
Discover waterways, fruit orchards, rural communities and river markets on a guided excursion. Ask about market schedules before arranging an early-morning trip.
Island Escape
Phu Quoc
Enjoy beach time, seafood, island scenery and water activities. Check seasonal weather and sea conditions before booking boat excursions.
Caves & Nature
Phong Nha
Explore remarkable cave systems, karst landscapes and rural scenery. Check tour requirements, safety instructions and reservation policies before booking cave adventures.
Travel tip: If this is your first visit, combine Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and central Vietnam, or focus on Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Trying to cover every region in one week can make your trip exhausting.
2. Best Things to Do in Vietnam
🚢 Cruise Ha Long Bay
Enjoy limestone landscapes, boat trips and kayaking where permitted. Check the operator’s safety standards and cancellation policy.
🏮 Explore Hoi An
Visit heritage buildings, browse local crafts and enjoy the old town’s evening atmosphere.
🥢 Take a Cooking Class
Learn about Vietnamese herbs, sauces and regional recipes with a local instructor.
🌾 Visit Rice Terraces
Discover northern mountain scenery with a local guide, staying on marked routes and respecting farmland.
🚲 Cycle the Countryside
Explore quieter village roads on a guided cycling trip. Wear a helmet and confirm route difficulty.
🛶 Discover River Life
Experience waterways and rural communities in the Mekong Delta with a responsible tour operator.
3. Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s climate varies considerably between regions. Choose travel dates based on the places you intend to visit rather than relying on one nationwide weather season.
| Period | General pattern | Planning tip |
|---|---|---|
| December–February | Often cooler in the north and warm in the south | Pack layers for Hanoi and mountain areas. |
| March–April | Often a useful travel period in several regions | Check local forecasts and holiday dates. |
| May–August | Hot weather and seasonal rain in many places | Carry sun protection and plan around showers. |
| September–November | Conditions vary; central areas can see heavy rain and storms | Monitor regional weather and flood advisories. |
These are broad patterns, not guarantees. Always check forecasts before boat trips, mountain treks and travel during storm season.
4. Vietnamese Food You Should Try
Phở
A fragrant noodle soup commonly served with beef or chicken broth, herbs and fresh accompaniments.
Bánh Mì
A crisp baguette sandwich with a variety of fillings, vegetables, herbs and sauces.
Bún Chả
A Hanoi favourite featuring grilled pork, rice noodles, fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Fresh Spring Rolls
Rice-paper rolls often filled with vegetables, herbs, noodles and shrimp or other proteins.
Cao Lầu
A distinctive Hoi An noodle dish served with greens and regional toppings.
Vietnamese Coffee
Try traditional hot or iced coffee. Egg coffee is another well-known speciality in Hanoi.
Food safety: If you have allergies, confirm ingredients carefully. Sauces, broths and dressings may contain fish, shellfish, peanuts, soy or other allergens.
5. How to Get Around Vietnam
| Transport | Best for | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic flights | Long distances | Compare baggage limits and airport transfer time. |
| Trains | Intercity travel | Book popular routes ahead and check station locations. |
| Long-distance buses | Budget journeys | Choose reputable operators and verify arrival points. |
| Taxis and ride-hailing | City journeys | Use recognised services and confirm fares. |
| Walking and cycling | Historic towns and countryside | Watch traffic and use suitable safety equipment. |
| Boats and ferries | Islands and river regions | Check weather, operator credentials and safety gear. |
Traffic can be busy in major cities. Take care when crossing roads, and do not ride a motorbike without meeting local licence, helmet and insurance requirements.
6. Essential Vietnam Travel Tips for 2027
🛂 Check Visa Rules
Requirements depend on nationality, purpose and length of stay. Use official government sources before applying.
💵 Prepare Your Money
The local currency is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). Keep some cash for small purchases and protect your cards.
👕 Dress Respectfully
Follow clothing rules at temples and religious sites. Ask before photographing people closely.
🌦️ Pack for the Weather
Bring walking shoes, sun protection, breathable clothing and a light rain jacket.
🛡️ Protect Your Belongings
Keep valuables secure, use reputable transport and check tour operators before paying.
📱 Stay Connected
Consider a suitable SIM or eSIM, save accommodation details and keep offline maps available.
Before departure: Confirm passport and visa requirements, travel insurance, medication rules, airline baggage limits and official travel advisories relevant to your nationality.
7. Suggested 10-Day Vietnam Itinerary
Days 1–2: Hanoi
Explore the Old Quarter, visit historic landmarks, enjoy local food and allow time to recover from your flight.
Days 3–4: Ha Long Bay
Travel to the coast for a boat trip or overnight cruise, depending on weather and sailing conditions.
Days 5–6: Hoi An
Travel to central Vietnam, discover the historic town and sample regional cuisine.
Days 7–8: Da Nang
Enjoy beaches, local restaurants and the Marble Mountains if conditions allow.
Days 9–10: Flexible Departure
Depart from a convenient airport or continue to Ho Chi Minh City if your schedule allows. Keep enough time for transfers.
Prefer southern Vietnam? Build a separate itinerary around Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc instead of rushing through the entire country.
8. Vietnam Travel Budget
These are illustrative daily estimates per person, excluding international flights. Actual spending depends on season, accommodation, location and activities.
| Travel style | Illustrative daily budget | Typical approach |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | VND 600,000–1,200,000 | Hostels, simple rooms, local food and public transport. |
| Mid-range | VND 1,500,000–3,500,000 | Comfortable hotels, varied dining and selected activities. |
| Premium | VND 4,000,000+ | Higher-end accommodation, private transfers and premium tours. |
These are planning estimates, not live quotes. Flights, cruises, cave tours, holiday periods and luxury accommodation can increase costs.
Ways to Save
- Compare flights, trains and buses before booking.
- Stay near the places you plan to visit.
- Eat at reputable local restaurants and markets.
- Check what tour prices include before paying.
- Keep an emergency reserve for delays or unexpected expenses.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vietnam worth visiting in 2027?
Vietnam can be an excellent choice for travellers interested in culture, food, nature, history and beaches. Choose regions based on your interests and travel dates.
How many days do I need in Vietnam?
Seven to ten days can cover selected highlights. Two weeks or longer gives you more time to explore multiple regions.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and travel plans. Check the official Vietnam e-Visa portal and immigration guidance before departure.
What currency does Vietnam use?
The Vietnamese đồng (VND) is the local currency. Check current exchange rates and your bank’s fees before travelling.
Is Vietnam suitable for families?
Many destinations offer family-friendly accommodation, food experiences and cultural attractions. Consider road safety, heat and travel distances when planning.
What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, lightweight clothing, sun protection, rainwear, insect repellent and modest clothing for religious sites. Mountain areas may require warmer layers.
Can I travel around Vietnam by train?
Yes. Trains connect several major destinations. Check schedules, journey times, station locations and availability before booking.
10. Official Vietnam Travel Resources
- Vietnam Tourism — destination inspiration and tourism information.
- Official Vietnam e-Visa portal — visa application information.
- Vietnam Immigration Department — immigration information.
Always confirm entry conditions and application procedures through official sources before making final travel arrangements.
This guide is intended for travel planning. Verify current entry rules, weather, prices and schedules before departure.