· VN

Vietnam

Vietnam, a Southeast Asian country on the South China Sea, is known for its natural beauty from the rice terraces of the Mekong Delta to the beaches of Phu Quoc. Steeped in history, Vietnam offers ancient cities like Hoi…

#Southeast Asia#Tropical climate#Cultural diversity#Vietnamese cuisine#Historical landmarks

1/2

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Vietnam.

Top Hotels in Hanoi

Top Flights to Hanoi

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Vietnam.

Tours

Explore the Ancient Temples of My Son

Visit the ancient Hindu temple complex of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning ruins amidst lush greenery.

Visit the Imperial City of Hue

Explore the historical and cultural heart of Vietnam's last royal dynasty.

Shopping

Shop at Ben Thanh Market

Discover a diverse array of goods and enjoy local street food at this bustling marketplace.

Outdoor

Halong Bay Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands in Halong Bay.

Hiking in Sapa

Trek through the stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages in Sapa.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Vietnam.

Currency

₫ | VND | Vietnamese Dong

Population

98.2 million

Languages

Vietnamese, Vietnamese, English, French, Chinese

Average weather

Vietnam

Jan

20°14°

Feb

21°15°

Mar

23°17°

Apr

26°20°

May

29°23°

Jun

32°25°

Jul

33°26°

Aug

32°26°

Sep

30°24°

Oct

28°22°

Nov

25°19°

Dec

22°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Vietnam.

What people love

There are many pros to traveling to Vietnam! Here are some detailed reasons why you should consider visiting Vietnam:

Rich History and Culture: Vietnam has a long and fascinating history, with influences from Chinese, French, and American cultures. You can explore ancient temples, pagodas, and historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels and Imperial City of Hue.
Scenic Landscapes: From the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes for nature lovers and photographers.
Delicious Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and bold flavors. Don't miss trying local dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
Affordability: Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination with affordable accommodations, food, and transportation options. You can experience a lot without breaking the bank.
Warm Hospitality: Vietnamese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home during their stay.
Adventure Activities: Whether you enjoy trekking in the mountains, kayaking in Halong Bay, or motorbiking through the countryside, Vietnam offers a wide range of adventure activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Diverse Experiences: From bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to peaceful countryside villages and serene beaches, Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers with different interests.

Overall, Vietnam is a vibrant and captivating destination that offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and adventure for visitors to explore and enjoy.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Vietnam include:

Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Vietnam, especially outside of major tourist areas. This can make communication difficult and potentially lead to misunderstandings.
Traffic and Pollution: Major cities in Vietnam, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are known for heavy traffic congestion and pollution. Navigating the streets can be challenging, and air quality may not be the best in some areas.
Scams: Like in many tourist destinations, there are scams targeting travelers in Vietnam. It's important to be cautious and aware of common scams such as overcharging for goods or services.
Cultural Differences: Vietnam has a unique culture and customs that may be unfamiliar to foreigners. It's important to respect local traditions and practices while traveling in the country.
Health and Safety Concerns: Some areas of Vietnam may have issues with food safety and hygiene. Travelers should take precautions to avoid foodborne illnesses and be aware of potential health risks.

Overall, while Vietnam is a beautiful and culturally rich destination, travelers should be prepared for some challenges such as language barriers, traffic congestion, and potential scams. It's important to do research and plan ahead to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Vietnam, officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, is a country located in Southeast Asia. Here is a brief history of Vietnam:

Early History:

Vietnam has a long history dating back to around 2879 BC when the first Vietnamese kingdom of Van Lang was established.
Throughout its early history, Vietnam was ruled by various dynasties and kingdoms, including the Hung kings, the Ly dynasty, the Tran dynasty, and the Le dynasty.
In the 19th century, Vietnam came under French colonial rule in the period known as French Indochina.

Modern History:

After World War II, Vietnam declared independence from France in 1945 under the leadership of Ho Chi Minh, who founded the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.
The First Indochina War between the Viet Minh and French forces ended in 1954 with the signing of the Geneva Accords, which divided Vietnam into North and South Vietnam.
The Vietnam War, a conflict between communist North Vietnam and the US-backed South Vietnam, lasted from 1955 to 1975 and ended with the fall of Saigon, reunifying the country under communist rule.
Significant events during the Vietnam War include the Tet Offensive, the My Lai Massacre, and the Paris Peace Accords.
After the war, Vietnam underwent a period of economic hardship, known as the "Doi Moi" reforms, which aimed to transition the country towards a socialist-oriented market economy.

Important Figures:

Ho Chi Minh: Founding father of modern Vietnam and leader of the Viet Minh independence movement.
Vo Nguyen Giap: Military leader and strategist who played a key role in Vietnam's victories against French and American forces.
Le Loi: Heroic figure in Vietnamese history who led the Lam Son uprising against Chinese rule in the 15th century.

Important Landmarks:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi: Final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, an important symbol of the Vietnamese nation.
Ha Long Bay: UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.
Hue Imperial City: Ancient citadel in Hue that served as the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen dynasty.
Cu Chi Tunnels: Network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, now a popular tourist attraction.

This overview provides a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Vietnam.