Plan your trip
Everything you need to know before booking your tickets, and the people who will welcome you in Vietnam's three regions.
From the first read to departure day
Seasons, itineraries, formalities, budget and flights: all the practical information you need before booking, gathered in one place.
-
Plan When to go?
February and March: the dry season lets you combine the North, the Centre and the South in a single trip. For Sa Pa, choose March–April and September–November, when the rice is ripe. See by season -
Choose an itinerary Suggested itineraries
The North in 10 days, through limestone mountains, highlands and craft villages, or 21 days from north to south, all the way to the floating markets of the Mekong Delta. See the itineraries -
Before you fly General information & budget
Vietnam issues e-visas to nationals of many European countries. International cards are accepted in the big cities; in remote areas, cash is still the norm. Read the guide -
On your way Transport
Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City are connected to the major European capitals, by direct flight or with one stopover. Read the guide
Your travel companions on the ground
12 businesses across the three regions, grouped into five categories in the Service directory. Search by name, or open a category to browse the profiles.
-
Accommodation
Hotels in the heart of the old quarters, homestays in the mountains or seaside resorts. 2 doanh nghiệp -
Local agencies – DMC
Vietnam-based agencies that design and organise trips, used to working with European travellers. 3 doanh nghiệp -
Cruises
A night in Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay, or a few days along the Mekong. 2 doanh nghiệp -
Restaurants
From a bowl of phở on a street corner to fine dining across the three regions. 2 doanh nghiệp -
Other tourism services
Guides, transfers, interpreters: the small services that make a trip a success. 3 doanh nghiệp
Frequently asked questions
-
Do European citizens need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
It depends on your nationality. Nationals of some European countries are exempt from a visa for short stays; others apply for an e-visa online. The rules change often: check with the Vietnamese embassy in your country before booking your tickets.
-
How long should a trip last?
Ten days are enough for one region, a fortnight for a north-to-south journey. Allow three to four weeks to add the mountains of the North or the Mekong Delta.
-
How do you get around between the three regions?
Domestic flights link Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City in one to two hours. The North – South train is slower but rich in beautiful scenery; for short distances, opt for a private car with driver.
-
Are the businesses in the directory VNCT members?
The directory brings together VNCT members and other businesses; members carry a badge on their card and their profile. Each profile includes full contact details so that you can deal directly with the business.