vietnam trip 2023 Vietnam is a beautiful and diverse country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, adventure, or relaxation, you can find it in Vietnam. Vietnam is also a budget-friendly destination that can suit any travel style and preference. However, planning a trip to Vietnam can be overwhelming and challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the country and its regions. That’s why we have created this guide to help you plan your dream Vietnam trip in 2023. In this guide, we will cover the following topics:
- When to visit Vietnam
- Where to go in Vietnam
- How to get around Vietnam
- What to pack for Vietnam
- What to do in Vietnam
- What to eat in Vietnam
- What to avoid in Vietnam
When to visit Vietnam trip 2023
Vietnam is a long and narrow country that stretches from north to south, with different climates and seasons in each region. Therefore, there is no one best time to visit Vietnam, as it depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. However, here are some general tips and recommendations for choosing the best time to visit Vietnam:
- The best time to visit northern Vietnam (including Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh) is from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Avoid the summer months from May to September, when the weather is hot and humid, and the winter months from December to February, when the weather is cold and foggy. vietnam trip 2023
- The best time to visit central Vietnam (including Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Quy Nhon) is from February to May, when the weather is warm and sunny. Avoid the rainy season from September to January, when the weather is wet and stormy. vietnam trip 2023
- The best time to visit southern Vietnam (including Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao) is from December to April, when the weather is hot and dry. Avoid the rainy season from May to November, when the weather is wet and humid. vietnam trip 2023
Where to go in Vietnam trip 2023
Vietnam has many amazing places to visit, each with its own charm and attraction. However, depending on your time, budget, and interest, you may not be able to see them all. Therefore, you need to prioritize and choose the places that suit your travel goals and expectations. Here are some of the most popular and recommended places to visit in Vietnam:
- Hanoi: The capital and cultural hub of Vietnam, Hanoi is a vibrant and historic city that combines French colonial architecture, ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and chaotic traffic. Hanoi is also a great base to explore nearby attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh. vietnam trip 2023
- Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the natural wonders of the world, Ha Long Bay is a stunning seascape of limestone karsts, islands, caves, and emerald waters. Ha Long Bay is best experienced by taking a cruise or a kayak tour, or by staying overnight on a floating village or a private island. vietnam trip 2023
- Sapa: A mountainous town in the northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is famous for its breathtaking scenery of rice terraces, valleys, waterfalls, and ethnic minority villages. Sapa is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle. vietnam trip 2023
- Ninh Binh: A province in the south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land” because of its similar landscape of limestone cliffs and rivers. Ninh Binh is also home to some of the most impressive historical and religious sites in Vietnam, such as the Hoa Lu ancient capital, the Bai Dinh pagoda, and the Trang An complex. vietnam trip 2023
- Hue: The former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a city of history, culture, and romance. Hue is famous for its majestic citadel, royal tombs, pagodas, and gardens that reflect the glory and tragedy of the Nguyen dynasty. Hue is also known for its unique cuisine that blends spicy, sweet, sour, and salty flavors. vietnam trip 2023
- Da Nang: The third-largest city and the most livable city in Vietnam, Da Nang is a modern and dynamic city that offers a mix of urban and beach life. Da Nang is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as My Khe, Non Nuoc, and Son Tra, as well as its iconic landmarks, such as the Dragon Bridge, the Marble Mountains, and the Ba Na Hills. vietnam trip 2023
- Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming and picturesque towns in Vietnam, Hoi An is a must-visit for anyone who loves culture, art, and architecture. Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved ancient town, which features colorful lanterns, wooden houses, canals, and bridges. Hoi An is also famous for its tailor-made clothes, handicrafts, and street food. vietnam trip 2023
- Quy Nhon: A coastal city in the south-central region of Vietnam, Quy Nhon is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Quy Nhon is famous for its pristine beaches, such as Ky Co, Eo Gio, and Bai Xep, as well as its cultural and historical attractions, such as the Banh It towers, the Thap Doi towers, and the Quang Trung museum. vietnam trip 2023
- Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most populous city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is a metropolis of energy, diversity, and contrast. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its colonial landmarks, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace, as well as its modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and nightlife. Ho Chi Minh City is also a great base to explore nearby attractions such as the Cu Chi tunnels, the Mekong Delta, and the Cao Dai temple. vietnam trip 2023
- Mekong Delta: A vast region in the southwest of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is a maze of rivers, canals, islands, and villages that showcase the rural and authentic side of Vietnam. The Mekong Delta is famous for its floating markets, fruit orchards, rice fields, and fish farms. The Mekong Delta is best explored by taking a boat tour or a homestay experience. vietnam trip 2023
- Phu Quoc: The largest and most popular island in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise that offers white sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and lush forests. Phu Quoc is famous for its beach resorts, seafood restaurants, night markets, and national park. Phu Quoc is also famous for its production of fish sauce, pepper, and pearls. vietnam trip 2023
- Con Dao: A group of 16 islands in the southeast of Vietnam, Con Dao is a remote and unspoiled destination that offers natural beauty, wildlife, and history. Con Dao is famous for its pristine beaches, such as Dam Trau, Bai Nhat, and Bai Dat Doc, as well as its marine park, which is home to turtles, dolphins, and dugongs. Con Dao is also famous for its notorious prison, which was used by the French and the Americans to detain and torture political prisoners. vietnam trip 2023
How to get around Vietnam
Vietnam has a well-developed and diverse transportation system that can suit any travel style and budget. However, depending on your destination, time, and preference, you may want to choose the best option that can offer you comfort, convenience, and safety. Here are some of the most common and recommended ways to get around Vietnam:
- Plane: Flying is the fastest and easiest way to travel between major cities and regions in Vietnam. Vietnam has several domestic airlines that offer frequent and affordable flights, such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines. However, flying may not be the most eco-friendly or scenic option, and you may also need to factor in the time and cost of getting to and from the airports. vietnam trip 2023
- Train: Taking a train is a great way to travel along the coast of Vietnam and enjoy the scenic views of the countryside. Vietnam has a railway network that connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with stops at various cities and towns along the way, such as Ninh Binh, Hue, Da Nang, Quy Nhon, and Nha Trang. You can choose between different classes of seats and cabins, from hard seats to soft sleepers. However, taking a train may not be the most comfortable or punctual option, and you may also need to book your tickets in advance or through an agent. vietnam trip 2023
- Bus: Taking a bus is a cheap and convenient way to travel within and between cities and regions in Vietnam. Vietnam has many bus companies that offer regular and reliable services, such as The Sinh Tourist, Futa Bus Lines, Phuong Trang Bus (FUTA), Hoang Long Bus (HL), Mai Linh Bus (ML), Thanh Buoi Bus (TB), etc. You can choose between different types of buses, from local buses to tourist buses to sleeper buses. However, taking a bus may not be the most comfortable or safe option, as the roads and traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic and unpredictable, and you may also encounter scams or delays. vietnam trip 2023
- Motorbike: Riding a motorbike is a fun and adventurous way to explore Vietnam at your own pace and freedom. Vietnam has a huge motorbike culture and you can easily rent or buy a motorbike from various shops and dealers. You can also join a motorbike tour or a motorbike club that can guide you and provide you with support and equipment. However, riding a motorbike may not be the most suitable or safe option for everyone, as you need to have a valid license, insurance, helmet, and skills to handle the challenging road conditions and traffic rules in Vietnam. vietnam trip 2023
- Car: Renting a car is a comfortable and flexible way to travel around Vietnam with your family or friends. You can rent a car from various agencies or online platforms, such as Avis, Hertz, Rentalcars.com, etc. You can also hire a car with a driver who can take you to your desired destinations and provide you with local insights and tips. However, renting a car may not be the most economical or practical option, as you need to pay for the rental fee, gas, tolls, parking, etc. You also need to have an international driving permit and be prepared to deal with the traffic congestion and road hazards in Vietnam. vietnam trip 2023
- Bicycle: Cycling is a healthy and eco-friendly way to discover the rural and authentic side of Vietnam. You can rent a bicycle from various hotels, hostels, shops, or tour operators. You can also join a cycling tour or a cycling club that can offer you different routes and levels of difficulty. However, cycling may not be the most convenient or comfortable option, as you need to have physical stamina, endurance, and equipment to cope with the weather, terrain, and distance in Vietnam. vietnam trip 2023
What to pack for Vietnam
Packing for Vietnam can be tricky and challenging, as you need to consider the weather, culture, activities, and regulations in each region. However, here are some general tips and recommendations for packing for Vietnam:
- Pack light and smart: You don’t need to bring too many clothes or items to Vietnam, as you can easily find and buy them there at a cheap price. You also need to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts that you may want to bring back home. You also need to pack smart and choose the items that are versatile, durable, and suitable for your travel plans and preferences. vietnam trip 2023
- Pack for the weather: You need to check the weather forecast and the climate of each region before you pack for Vietnam. You may need to pack different clothes and accessories for different seasons and regions. For example, you may need to pack warm and waterproof clothes for the winter and rainy season in northern Vietnam, and light and breathable clothes for the summer and dry season in southern Vietnam. You may also need to pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a raincoat or umbrella for any weather condition. vietnam trip 2023
- Pack for the culture: You need to respect the culture and customs of Vietnam when you pack for Vietnam. You may need to pack modest and conservative clothes for visiting religious and historical sites, such as temples, pagodas, tombs, etc. You may also need to pack some formal and elegant clothes for attending special occasions or events, such as weddings, festivals, ceremonies, etc. You may also need to pack some local or ethnic clothes for joining or experiencing some cultural activities or programs, such as cooking classes, homestays, workshops, etc. vietnam trip 2023
- Pack for the activities: You need to pack the appropriate clothes and equipment for the activities that you want to do in Vietnam. For example, you may need to pack swimwear, sandals, towels, snorkels, etc. for beach activities; hiking shoes, backpacks, water bottles, etc. for trekking activities; helmets, gloves, jackets, etc. for motorbike activities; cameras, batteries, chargers, etc. for photography activities; etc.
What to do in Vietnam
Vietnam has a lot of things to do and see that can cater to any taste and interest. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, nature, or relaxation, you can find it in Vietnam. However, depending on your time, budget, and preference, you may not be able to do them all. Therefore, you need to prioritize and choose the things that suit your travel goals and expectations. Here are some of the most popular and recommended things to do in Vietnam:
- Cruise Ha Long Bay: One of the most iconic and unforgettable experiences in Vietnam is cruising Ha Long Bay. You can enjoy the stunning views of the limestone karsts, islands, caves, and emerald waters from the deck of a traditional junk boat or a luxury cruise ship. You can also join various activities such as kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, etc. You can also stay overnight on a floating village or a private island and watch the sunrise and sunset over the bay. vietnam trip 2023
- Trek Sapa: Another one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences in Vietnam is trekking Sapa. You can explore the breathtaking scenery of rice terraces, valleys, waterfalls, and ethnic minority villages from the trails of a mountainous town. You can also immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle by staying at a homestay or a guesthouse with a local family. You can also learn about their traditions, customs, and crafts, such as weaving, embroidery, etc. vietnam trip 2023
- Explore Hoi An: One of the most charming and picturesque towns in Vietnam is Hoi An. You can wander around the well-preserved ancient town, which features colorful lanterns, wooden houses, canals, and bridges. You can also visit some of the historical and cultural attractions, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, the Tan Ky House, etc. You can also shop for some tailor-made clothes, handicrafts, and street food at the various shops, markets, and stalls. vietnam trip 2023
- Experience Ho Chi Minh City: One of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City. You can experience the energy, diversity, and contrast of the city from its colonial landmarks, modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and nightlife. You can also visit some of the historical and cultural attractions, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, etc. You can also taste some of the delicious and diverse cuisine of the city from its restaurants, cafes, street vendors, etc. vietnam trip 2023
- Discover Mekong Delta: One of the most rural and authentic regions in Vietnam is the Mekong Delta. You can discover the maze of rivers, canals, islands, and villages that showcase the rural and authentic side of Vietnam. You can visit some of the floating markets, fruit orchards, rice fields, and fish farms that are the lifeline of the region. You can also join some of the cultural and natural activities, such as cycling, boating, fishing, birdwatching, etc. You can also stay at a homestay or a guesthouse with a local family and enjoy their hospitality and cuisine. vietnam trip 2023
