Is this your first time traveling to Vietnam and looking for the best advice?
Vietnam for Beginners: 17 Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam
This is a list of 17 tips and advice intended for first-time travelers visiting Vietnam for the first time. In this guide, you will find useful tips before you leave and helpful advice to make the most out of your Vietnam trip. We've included suggestions on how to be safe, the best sim card to get, where to exchange money, and many expert recommendations we've gathered over three years of traveling and living in Vietnam.
Here are the top 17 things to know before visiting Vietnam for the first time.
1. Visa is Required to Visit Vietnam
Most visitors from outside Vietnam need a visa to enter the country. However, citizens from 24 countries on this list can enter Vietnam without a visa for a period ranging from 14 to 90 days, including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and several Southeast Asian nations.
Other citizens can apply for an Electronic Visa (E-visa) or a pre-approved visa on arrival online before their trip.
2. Best to Have a Travel Insurance
Though it is not required, having travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Vietnam. Medical facilities in remote areas may be limited, and insurance can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
We recommend Heymondo for travel insurance. (Get 5% off for being our reader!) Their plans include comprehensive coverage and COVID-19 protection for peace of mind during your journey.
3. No Mandatory Travel Vaccines
There are NO mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Vietnam for most travelers. However, it is always wise to consult your doctor before traveling and ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date.
Depending on your itinerary — especially if you plan to visit rural areas — your healthcare provider may recommend additional vaccines such as hepatitis A, typhoid, or Japanese encephalitis.
4. Best Time to Visit Vietnam Varies
Because of Vietnam's long and narrow shape, the weather differs significantly from north to south. There is no single best month to visit the entire country — timing depends on which regions you plan to explore.
In general, these are the most recommended times to visit per region:
- Northern Region: Spring (March to April) and Autumn (September to November)
- Central Region: February to August
- Southern Region: December to May
5. Many Ways of Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam is massive, and distances between major destinations can be significant. Domestic flights are affordable and efficient — carriers such as Vietjet Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines connect Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City in under two hours.
Taking the bus or train is a scenic and budget-friendly alternative, with comfortable sleeper buses available on popular routes. For shorter distances and flexible exploration, renting a motorbike remains a favorite among adventurous travelers — always wear a helmet and ride with caution.
