Question 1

Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam and how do they apply?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Indian passport holders require a tourist visa to visit Vietnam. The official and most convenient method is the official government e-Visa applied for online at evisa.gov.vn.

Question 2

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam's best travel timing varies by region. February to April offers the most balanced weather across the country.

Question 3

What currency is used in Vietnam and how do I manage payments?

Accepted Answer

The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. Cash is essential for local markets, while credit cards are accepted at hotels and modern restaurants.

Question 4

How do I get around Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Long-distance travel is best served by domestic flights or the Reunification Express train. Within cities, the Grab app is the most reliable option.

Question 5

Is Vietnam safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam is considered very safe for tourists, though petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Traffic is the most significant safety risk.

Question 6

What are the must-see destinations in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam's highlights include Hanoi (the charming capital with Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter street food scene), Ha Long Bay (UNESCO-listed bay of thousands of limestone islands, best explored on an overnight cruise), Sapa (highland terraced rice fields and minority village trekking), Hoi An (a beautifully preserved ancient trading port famous for tailoring and lanterns), Hue (imperial citadel and royal tombs along the Perfume River), Da Nang (beach resort with the Golden Bridge), Ho Chi Minh City (dynamic southern metropolis, War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels), and Phu Quoc island.

Question 7

What should I eat in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Vietnamese cuisine is internationally celebrated for its freshness, herbs, and balance of flavours. Must-try dishes include pho (the national noodle soup of beef or chicken broth with fresh herbs), banh mi (a French-inspired baguette sandwich with fillings including pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs), bun cha (Hanoi-style grilled pork with vermicelli and dipping broth), cao lau (thick noodles with pork and greens unique to Hoi An), banh xeo (crispy savoury pancake), and fresh spring rolls (goi cuon). Street food is central to Vietnamese culture and exploring local markets and hawker streets is one of the top travel experiences.

Question 8

What cultural etiquette should I observe in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, and communal halls (dinh). Remove shoes before entering religious sites and many traditional homes. In northern regions particularly, a reserved and respectful demeanour is appreciated. Bargaining is acceptable and expected in markets, but maintain a friendly and light-hearted tone. Avoid raising your voice or showing anger. Offering and receiving items with both hands is a sign of respect. Photographing religious ceremonies and minority villagers should be done with permission.

Question 9

What language is spoken in Vietnam, and will English be sufficient?

Accepted Answer

Vietnamese is the official language. In major tourist cities and well-travelled destinations like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, English is widely spoken by guesthouse, restaurant, and tour operator staff. In rural areas and smaller towns, Vietnamese-only speakers are more common, so a translation app with offline Vietnamese capability is helpful. Some older residents in northern Vietnam may speak French from the colonial period. Young Vietnamese are increasingly learning English, making communication in cities easier year by year.

Question 10

What health precautions should I take for Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Stick to bottled or filtered water throughout your visit, even in reputable restaurants. In rural and highland areas, use mosquito repellent to protect against dengue fever, which is endemic to Vietnam particularly in the wet season. Malaria prophylaxis may be advised for trekking in very remote highland border areas; consult a travel health clinic before departure. Private hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have high standards with English-speaking doctors. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential.

Question 11

How much does a trip to Vietnam cost?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia's most affordable destinations. Budget travelers staying in dormitory hostels, eating street food, and using local transport can manage on approximately USD 20 to 30 (roughly 1,700 to 2,500 INR) per day. Mid-range travelers using private hotel rooms and sitting-down restaurants typically spend USD 50 to 90 per day. A short overnight Ha Long Bay cruise starts from around USD 60 to 80 per person, while premium two-day cruises on luxury vessels range from USD 200 to 400 per person. Domestic flights between cities can be as low as USD 20 to 30 if booked in advance.

Question 12

Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance is not a formal entry requirement for Vietnam, but it is strongly recommended. Quality private medical care is available in major cities, but treatment for emergencies and evacuation from remote areas can be costly without insurance. A policy covering hospitalisation, medical evacuation, personal liability, and trip cancellation is advisable.

Question 13

Can I get a Ha Long Bay cruise, and how do I choose one?

Accepted Answer

An overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam's most iconic travel experiences. Cruises range from budget junk boats to premium luxury vessels. A minimum of two days and one night is recommended to see the main highlights including kayaking through caves and floating villages. Quality budget cruises start from approximately USD 60 per person per night, while luxury overnight cruises on vessels with private balcony cabins range from USD 150 to 350 per person per night. Book through a verified operator and check independent traveler reviews, as the quality of budget operators varies significantly.

Question 14

Is tap water safe to drink in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Tap water in Vietnam is not safe for direct drinking. While municipal water is treated at treatment plants, aging pipes and rooftop holding tanks can cause contamination. Always drink boiled or bottled water. Bottled water is cheap and sold everywhere. Using tap water for brushing teeth is generally fine for most travelers, but avoid swallowing it.

Question 15

What are the emergency numbers in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

In Vietnam, emergency contact numbers are 113 for Police, 115 for Ambulance and Medical Emergencies, and 114 for Fire and Rescue. Calls from any mobile phone or landline are free. In major tourist cities, hotel reception staff or tour guides can assist with translation as emergency dispatchers may only speak Vietnamese.

Question 16

Can I drive a motorbike or car in Vietnam as a tourist?

Accepted Answer

To drive legally in Vietnam, tourists must hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued specifically under the 1968 Vienna Convention alongside their home national license. Driving without a valid 1968 IDP and local motorcycle endorsement invalidates travel medical insurance in the event of an accident. Traffic is dense and chaotic; taking Grab taxis or booking guided Easy Rider motorbike tours is far safer for visitors.

Question 17

What electrical plugs and voltage are standard in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam primarily uses Type A (two flat pins), Type C (two round pins), and universal combination sockets that accommodate both, operating on 220 volts at 50 Hz. Standard mobile phone and laptop chargers work without an adapter in most modern hotels.

Question 18

What is the tipping etiquette in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is not customary or expected in Vietnam in everyday life. In tourist-heavy cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, leaving a small tip of 10 to 15 percent at sit-down restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is appreciated for attentive service. Tipping private tour guides (USD 5 to 10 per day) and boat rowers (USD 1 to 2) is customary.

Question 19

How does street crossing work in Vietnamese cities?

Accepted Answer

Crossing streets crowded with hundreds of motorbikes in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City can be intimidating. The proven technique is to step off the curb with confidence, walk at a steady and predictable pace without stopping suddenly or making erratic movements, and allow motorbike riders to anticipate your path and steer around you. Look drivers in the eye and avoid stepping backwards.

Question 20

What should I know about buying a SIM card in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

High-speed 4G and 5G prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs from top operators Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone are inexpensive and can be purchased at international airports in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Passport registration is legally required at the counter. Viettel provides the strongest coverage in rural areas like Sapa, Ha Giang, and Ninh Binh.

North Vietnam 8 Nights Explorer Package

Gallery

Where you'll stay

Skylark Hotel

Haian Riverfront Hotel Da Nang

Overview

Comprehensive Vietnam Itinerary

Cultural and Natural Highlights

Logistics and Comfort

Day-by-day itinerary

Hanoi City Tour - Half Day

Ninh Binh Day- With Bai Dinh, Trang An, Mua Caves With Guide

Incense Stick Village Tour

Halong Bay - Luxury Day Cruise - SIC

Da Nang Half Day City Tour

Hoi An Ancient Town + Lantern Boat Ride

Golden Bridge & Ba Na Hills Experience

Highlights

Inclusions & policies

Frequently asked questions