Vietnam is a dream destination for travelers. To help you prepare your trip, we have created a comprehensive guide on the visa, budget, itinerary, cuisine, practical tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Vietnam Visa
To enter Vietnam, travelers need a visa. There are several options to obtain a Vietnam visa:
- Visa on arrival: available at Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang airports. Cost: 25 USD.
- E-visa: apply online on the official website. Cost: 25 USD.
- Traditional visa: obtained from the Vietnamese embassy in your country. Cost: 45 USD.
For more information on the Vietnam visa, visit our comprehensive guide at the following address: Vietnam Visa.
Travel Budget
The travel budget in Vietnam depends on your preferences and the duration of your stay. Generally, expect around 25-35 € per day for an average traveler, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
- Accommodation: 5-15 € per night for a hotel or hostel.
- Food: 3-10 € per meal for street food or local restaurants.
- Transportation: 1-5 € for buses, trains, and taxis.
- Activities: 5-50 € for tours, museums, and national parks.
For more information on the travel budget in Vietnam in 2026, visit our comprehensive guide at the following address: Vietnam Travel Budget 2026.
Itinerary
Vietnam offers a wide variety of itineraries for travelers. Here are some suggestions for a 2-week stay:
- Hanoi (3 nights): Discover the capital of Vietnam, its temples, lakes, and famous street food.
- Sapa (2 nights): Explore the terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages in the northern mountains.
- Hue (2 nights): Visit the imperial city, the tombs of the emperors, and the Perfume River.
- Hoi An (3 nights): Stroll through the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the beaches in the area.
- Ho Chi Minh City (3 nights): Discover the history and vibrant life of the largest city in Vietnam.
For more detailed itineraries and practical tips, visit our guide on the best things to do in Hoi An in 3 days and our guide on the best time to visit Vietnam in 2026.
Where to Eat
Vietnamese cuisine is famous worldwide for its diversity and flavor. Here are some must-try dishes to discover during your trip:
- Phở: beef broth, rice noodles, basil, and lime.
- Bún chả: grilled pork, cold vermicelli, and dipping sauce.
- Bánh mì: crispy baguette, pâté, meat, pickles, and coriander.
- Cơm tấm: broken rice, grilled pork ribs, fried egg, and sweet fish sauce.
For more practical tips on Vietnamese food and cuisine, visit our guide on the Vietnamese coffee and our guide on the best restaurants in Hanoi.
Best Time to Visit
Vietnam is a tropical country with two main seasons: dry season (December to February) and rainy season (April to September). The best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, when the weather is generally dry and sunny. However, the coldest months are January and February, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 15°C in the North.
For more information on the best time to visit Vietnam in 2026, visit our comprehensive guide at the following address: Best Time to Visit Vietnam in 2026.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't ask for không cay (not spicy) or ít cay (less spicy) if you're sensitive to chili.
- Don't try to negotiate prices in restaurants and street food stalls, as prices are usually fixed.
- Don't expect strict meal times, as Vietnamese people often eat at variable times depending on their schedule.
For more practical tips on traveling in Vietnam, visit our guide on Vietnam travel safety and our guide on getting around Vietnam.