Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam: Useful Travel Guide 2026

HERE ARE THE THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO VIETNAM!

You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015! 

Hello, fellow adventurers! Ready to explore the vibrant and captivating country of Vietnam? With its rich history, diverse culture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Vietnam is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. 

But hold on! Before you pack your bags and jet off, there are a few things you need to know. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Vietnam’s Culture

Vietnam’s culture is a fascinating blend of influences from its history. It’s like a beautiful tapestry, each thread woven in tells a story. Understanding this culture is key to a rewarding travel experience.

Respect for Local Customs

When in Vietnam, do as the Vietnamese do! Respecting local customs is not just about being a polite visitor, it’s about immersing yourself in the experience. Here are a few customs to keep in mind:

• Modest Attire: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
• Chopstick Etiquette: Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl – it’s considered bad luck!
• Greetings: A slight bow with hands clasped in front is the traditional Vietnamese greeting. It’s polite and shows respect.
• Shoes Off: When entering someone’s home or a temple, it’s customary to remove your shoes. Look for a pile of shoes at the entrance as a clue!

Read also: Basic Etiquette in Vietnam for Travelers

Language Basics

Don’t worry, you don’t need to be fluent in Vietnamese to travel around. But knowing a few phrases can go a long way.

Here are some useful phrases:

• Hello: “Xin chào” (sin chow)
• Thank You: “Cảm ơn” (kam uhn)
• Yes: “Vâng” (vuhng)
• No: “Không” (kohm)
• Excuse Me/Sorry: “Xin lỗi” (sin loy)
• I Don’t Understand: “Tôi không hiểu” (toy kohm hee-uh)

Trust me, your efforts to speak the local language will be met with smiles and appreciation!

Navigating Vietnam’s Geography

Vietnam, a slender strip of land that hugs the eastern borders of Cambodia and Laos, is a country of stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. Let’s take a closer look!

Major Cities and Attractions

Vietnam’s major cities are a whirlwind of experiences, each with its unique charm.

Here’s a quick overview:

• Hanoi: The capital city, Hanoi, is a blend of old-world charm and modern development. Don’t miss the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature. Travel time from Hanoi airport to the city center is about 30-60 minutes, and a taxi ride costs around 320,000 VND ($14 USD).
• Ho Chi Minh City: Previously known as Saigon, this bustling city is the commercial hub of Vietnam. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. The city center is about a 30-minute drive from the airport, and a taxi ride costs approximately 150,000 VND ($6.50 USD).
• Da Nang: Known for its sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port, Da Nang is a coastal city worth exploring. Check out the Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, and the Dragon Bridge. The city center is about a 10-minute drive from the airport, and a taxi ride costs around 120,000 VND ($5 USD).

Vietnam’s Climate and Best Time to Visit

Vietnam’s climate can be a little complicated as it varies from north to south.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

• North (Hanoi): Winter (November to April) is cooler and can be quite misty. Summer (May to October) is hot and humid with heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Hanoi is spring (February and April) or autumn (September to November).
• Central (Da Nang): The dry season runs from January to August, and the rainy season is from September to December. The best time to visit is January to May.
• South (Ho Chi Minh City): The dry season is from November to April, and the rainy season is from May to October. The best time to visit is during the dry season.

Practical Information for Travelers

Traveling to a new country is exciting, but it also requires some homework. Here’s some practical information to help you prepare for your trip to Vietnam.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Most travelers will need a visa to enter Vietnam. Here’s the scoop:

• Visa on Arrival: Available for many nationalities, including the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. You’ll need to apply online for an approval letter, which costs around $18 USD. On arrival, you’ll pay a stamping fee of $45 USD for a single entry visa or $65 USD for a multiple entry visa.
• E-Visa: Available for 80 nationalities, including the US and UK. It costs $25 USD, and you can apply online.

Remember, requirements can change, so always check the latest information from the official Vietnamese government website or your local embassy.

Health and Safety Tips

Staying healthy and safe is crucial when traveling. Here are some tips:

• Vaccinations: Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Diphtheria. Consult your doctor before traveling.
• Food and Water Safety: Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. When it comes to food, eat at busy places where the food is likely to be fresh.
• Scams: Be aware of common scams like overcharging taxis and street vendors. Always agree on a price before purchasing or using a service.

Currency and Cost of Living

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Here’s a rough guide to costs:

• Accommodation: Budget hotels cost around 400,000 VND ($17 USD) per night, while luxury hotels start at 2,000,000 VND ($86 USD).
• Meals: Street food can cost as little as 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD), while a meal at a nice restaurant might cost around 200,000 VND ($8.60 USD).
• Transportation: A short taxi ride usually costs less than 100,000 VND ($4.30 USD), and a one-hour train ride is about 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD).

Read also: What not to do in Vietnam

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight of any visit to the country. It’s a symphony of flavors that you won’t want to miss!

Must-Try Dishes

Vietnamese food is all about balance. Here are some dishes you must try:

• Pho: Vietnam’s famous noodle soup, usually with beef or chicken.
• Banh Mi: A delicious sandwich filled with meats and vegetables.
• Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with noodles and a tangy dipping sauce.

Street Food Culture

Street food is a big part of Vietnamese culture. It’s where you’ll find some of the most authentic and delicious dishes. 

Just remember to choose busy stalls (high turnover means fresh food), and you’ll be in for a treat!

20 Other Helpful Things To Know Before Traveling to Vietnam

Here are some additional tips and information that you might find useful before your trip to Vietnam:

1. Vietnam sleeps early and begins the day quite early: Most tours start early and attractions open as early as 7 AM. Most cities wind up early in the night with shops beginning to close around 9 PM.
2. Vietnamese coffee is awesome and really strong: Vietnamese coffee is usually very strong. Whether you consume it as a black coffee or add ice or condensed milk, it is strong. So, keep your hydration levels in check.
3. Keep some extra photocopies of your passport: Many hostels or hotels in Vietnam ask for the original copy of your passport. It’s a good idea to have several photocopies to hand over instead.
4. Bikes are definitely the way to explore: Renting bikes and exploring is popular in Vietnam. But be cautious, motorbike accidents are a regular thing and if you aren’t careful, you might injure yourself seriously.
5. Go for registered taxis: Cabs are a convenient way to travel in Vietnam, especially if you are traveling in groups. But tourists are often asked to pay higher prices. Vinasun taxis are professional and reliable.
6. Not everyone speaks or understands English: Learning a few Vietnamese phrases would help as not everyone would understand English, especially in the interior of Vietnam.
7. Traffic is hectic and honking is common: Delays are common and traffic jams are a regular thing, especially in Ho Chi Minh. Honking isn’t rude or offensive, it just means that they are in a hurry and they want you to make way for them.
8. Avoid tap water: Tap water isn’t suitable for drinking. Bottled water is very cheap and most hostels provide purified water.
9. People are friendly and helpful: Vietnamese people are welcoming, helpful, and friendly. However, keep an eye out for scams and always watch your belongings.
10. Ho Chi Minh is busier than Hanoi: Being the capital, Hanoi is more urbanized and progressive, whereas Ho Chi Minh is the nightlife capital and a vibrant city that always looks busy.
11. Vietnam is known for its notorious scams targeted at tourists: Keep your eyes and ears open. Don’t leave your belongings unattended in any cafes or restaurants. Keep the cash hidden and don’t flaunt in public places to avoid unnecessary attention.
12. Carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer: Not all public restrooms in Vietnam will have toilet paper or soap, so it’s a good idea to carry your own.
13. Be prepared for squat toilets: While many tourist areas and hotels have western-style toilets, you’ll often find squat toilets elsewhere.
14. Bargaining is common: In markets and street stalls, prices are often inflated for tourists, so don’t be afraid to haggle.
15. Be respectful when taking photos: Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas and of certain ethnic groups.
16. Try the local beer: Vietnam is known for its cheap and tasty local beers, like Bia Hoi. It’s a great way to cool down after a day of sightseeing.
17. Be aware of travel scams: From rigged taxi meters to street vendors giving incorrect change, be aware of common travel scams in Vietnam.
18. Travel insurance is a must: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers any medical expenses, loss of belongings, and any potential trip cancellations.
19. ATMs are widely available: You’ll find ATMs in most towns and cities, but be aware that they often have withdrawal limits and fees.
20. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: Tipping is not a common practice in Vietnam, but it’s appreciated, especially in the service industry. A 10% tip is generally considered generous.

Conclusion: Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam

So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to the things you need to know before traveling to Vietnam. 

From understanding the local customs to savoring the street food, you’re now equipped to make the most of your Vietnamese adventure. So why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Vietnam!