Dreaming of emerald bays, glowing lantern streets, and bowls of steaming pho? Vietnam travel is filled with colour, flavour, and adventure from north to south. One day you’re cruising past limestone cliffs in Halong Bay; the next, you’re walking through buzzing city streets on a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City.
Planning a trip to a new country can feel a bit overwhelming at first. Do you need a visa? Which airport should you fly into? And where do you even start with your itinerary?
Don’t worry – it’s more straightforward than it sounds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials, from visas and flights to choosing your first destination. Think of it as your practical starting point before the fun really begins.
What you should know before your Vietnam travel
Discover vibrant handmade lanterns lighting up a charming Hoi An market stall
Before you head off on your Vietnam trip, it’s crucial to get the practical details sorted. You won’t be able to experience the best of Vietnam without taking care of a few basics first, starting with the all-important visa!
Vietnam visa & entry requirements
Need a Vietnam visa sorted fast? Skip the stress and apply through Klook’s ultra-fast Vietnam e-Visa service. It’s quick, simple, and perfect if you’re planning a last-minute getaway. Just submit your details and required documents online, and you could receive approval in as little as 1 hour. Ideal if you’ve booked a spontaneous getaway or left it a bit later than planned.
If you’d rather go through the standard route and don’t mind waiting, Vietnam’s official e-Visa system is also easy to use. You can apply online without visiting an embassy, and the visa is available for single or multiple entries for up to 90 days.
Once approved, your e-Visa will be sent to you by email. Print a copy and keep a digital version on your phone to show at immigration. Standard processing usually takes a few working days, so it’s wise to apply well ahead of your departure date to avoid any last-minute stress.
Klook Tip: Double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates before you apply.
How to get there: flights to Vietnam
Touch down in Vietnam and begin your adventure at a bustling international airport
Flying to Vietnam is easier than ever, with multiple direct flights from the UK landing in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on your route, you might also find great deals with a layover in Bangkok, Dubai, or Singapore.
Klook Tip: To score the best deals on flights from the UK to Vietnam, try to book 2-4 months in advance and aim for travel during the country’s shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November). These months often have milder weather and lower airfare prices compared to peak summer or winter holidays.
Vietnam stretches a long way from north to south, so it’s worth thinking about your route carefully. Many UK travellers fly into one city (such as Hanoi) and home from another (like Ho Chi Minh City). It saves doubling back and makes better use of your time.
Let’s be honest—after 12+ hours in the air, the last thing you want is to haggle over taxi fares in a busy arrivals hall. While taxis are available, it’s sensible to be aware that some may take longer routes.
Pre-booking an airport transfer keeps things straightforward. Your driver will be waiting, you’ll know the price in advance, and you can focus on getting to your hotel and settling in.
Choosing your destination
Now that you’re all set with your visa and flights, it’s time to think about where to go in Vietnam. You might feel overwhelmed with the choices, so we’ll break it down by region for you.
Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ninh Binh
Start your Vietnam travel adventure in the north, where you’ll experience history, culture, and natural beauty all in one place
Experience the thrill of Hanoi’s famous Train Street as a train passes by cafés
Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, has that old charm mixed with modern energy. Explore the Old Quarter, where French colonial architecture meets ancient temples, and don’t miss out on trying the famous egg coffee or a bowl of bun cha (grilled pork and noodles). Make sure to visit Train Street, where trains pass just inches away from cosy cafes.
Klook Tip: Consider going on a Hanoi half-day city tour, where you’ll explore all the city’s highlights, such as Train Street, the Old Quarter, and Incense Village!
Cruise through Halong Bay’s limestone karsts and unwind with sunset views on deck
From Hanoi, make your way to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with limestone islands. Taking a day cruise in Halong Bay is a memorable experience, especially if you stay overnight on a boat to see the magical sunrise and sunset over the bay.
Discover the ancient gates of Ninh Binh
For a more peaceful escape, head to Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land”. Here, you can enjoy scenic boat rides through rice fields and towering limestone peaks.
Klook Tip: Go on a Ninh Binh day tour from Hanoi and visit famous spots in a day, such as Hoa Lu and Hang Mua cave!
Central Vietnam: Da Nang & Hoi An
Next, head to Central Vietnam to experience the coastal beauty and charm of cities like Da Nang and Hoi An.
Vietnam's Golden Bridge will hold you in awe as it raises you to the skies
Da Nang is a vibrant city known for its beaches and landmarks like the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills. For a unique experience, take a cable car ride up to the mountain and walk on the bridge, which looks like it’s being held up by giant stone hands!
Step back in time in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, famous for its lantern-lit streets and world-class bespoke tailoring
Just a short drive away is Hoi An, an ancient town filled with colourful lanterns and traditional yellow buildings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for a relaxing walk, and while you’re there, why not have a custom suit or dress made by one of the local tailors?
Southern Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City & The Mekong Delta
Explore the "Rice Bowl of Vietnam" with a traditional sampan boat ride through the canals of the Mekong Delta.
For a lively and bustling experience, head south to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Known as the economic hub of Vietnam, this city is full of life, with its motorbike-filled streets and vibrant markets. Don’t miss out on a visit to the War Remnants Museum or the Cu Chi Tunnels, which give you a glimpse into Vietnam’s history.
After exploring the city, head to the Mekong Delta for a completely different experience. Here, you can take a river cruise, visit floating markets, and discover how locals live on the water.
Travel tips for UK travellers
From street food to SIM cards, mastering the local "Bun Cha" scene is a rite of passage for every British explorer
Vietnam can be very different from Europe, so here are a few tips to make your trip smoother:
Weather
Vietnam’s weather can vary greatly from north to south. The north can be cold in winter (December to February), while the south stays warm year-round. If you want beach weather, Central Vietnam is perfect from April to August.
Money matters
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the currency used in Vietnam, and it can feel like a lot of zeros. 100,000 VND is around £3-4. Cash is widely used, especially at street food stalls, but you’ll find ATMs and card payments available in hotels and malls.
Klook Tip: Stick to withdrawing cash or exchanging money at reputable banks, official exchange counters, or ATMs inside shopping malls and hotels. Avoid standalone machines in quiet streets, as there have been cases of cards being compromised or money deducted without cash being dispensed. If possible, use ATMs attached to bank branches and notify your bank before travelling for extra peace of mind.
Getting around
The traffic in Vietnam can be overwhelming at first. To cross the street, walk steadily and let the motorbikes flow around you. For easy transport within cities, use the Grab app, which works like Uber.
Food and drink
Street food is a must in Vietnam, and it’s often some of the best food you’ll eat on the trip. From pho to banh mi, the flavours are hard to beat. As with many destinations in Southeast Asia, it’s best to drink bottled water rather than tap water.
Stay connected through a Vietnam eSIM
A digital eSIM is the most convenient way to go online immediately after landing without hunting for a physical SIM kiosk.
With a Vietnam eSIM, you can keep your UK physical SIM in your phone for emergency calls or texts while using a local Vietnamese data plan. There’s no need for passport registration with international providers, unlike local physical SIM cards.
FAQs about Vietnam travel
How should I plan my Vietnam trip?
The best way to plan your Vietnam trip is by travelling in one direction, either from north to south or vice versa. This helps you avoid unnecessary backtracking and maximises your time at each stop. Book major attractions or tours in advance, but leave room for spontaneity in your daily plans.
How many days is enough for Vietnam?
To truly enjoy Vietnam without feeling rushed, plan for at least 10 days. However, if you can swing it, 2 weeks or more will give you the freedom to explore the north, centre, and south of the country comfortably.
Is USD $1000 (~GBP £750) enough for 2 weeks in Vietnam?
Yes! Vietnam is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia. With budget-friendly food, accommodation, and transport, your USD $1,000 can go a long way during your trips to Vietnam.
What are the requirements for travelling to Vietnam?
You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates, along with a visa (typically an e-Visa). It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance for extra peace of mind during your trip.
Vietnam is calling!
Vietnam is a country that will leave you with lifelong memories. From the streets of Hanoi to the landscapes of the Mekong Delta, every moment in Vietnam is filled with new experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Vietnam travel adventure today—book your flights, apply for your visa, and get ready to create unforgettable memories!
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Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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