Vietnam Holidays

How to reach Vietnam

• Flight time: Direct flights to Vietnam from London to either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City take 11 to 12 hours. Alternative routes or flights from other UK airports have a stopover at hubs such as Dubai, Doha or Singapore, with a total flight time of about 15 to 17 hours.

• Transfer time: Upon arrival in Hanoi's Noi Bai or Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat airports, expect 30–60 minutes to the city centre. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek are the most convenient options, while bus services are the cheapest.

• Price: Taxis from the airports into the city cost around VND325,000–VND460,000 (€10–€14). Be aware of possible scams and try to use official taxis or pre-book with Grab, Gojek or through your hotel for reliable options. A bus will cost about VND45,000 (€1.40).

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, dominated by the south or southwesterly monsoon in summer and the northeast monsoon through the winter. The weather also varies significantly between regions, so here's what to expect on holidays to Vietnam:

• The North: North Vietnam enjoys mild, dry conditions in spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November), with temperatures ranging from 20 to 28°C. Summer can be extremely hot and humid, 35°C and above, with increased rainfall, making it a low season for travellers. In the cooler winter months, temperatures dip to 10°C in places like Hanoi.

• The Central Coast: The wet season here (November to January) is shorter than elsewhere, but does sometimes experience typhoons (August to November). Summers are hot and dry, peaking at around 37°C but cooler in the hills. Spring (February to May) is warm and sunny, with temperatures around 24 to 30°C, and even the winter months are good for beach holidays.

• The South: The dry season here is between December and April, while during the wet season (May to November), the rain mainly falls in brief downpours in the afternoons. Temperatures are fairly consistent, at around 30°C, but occasionally peak at 40°C during the hottest months (March to May). The best weather for visiting can be found in March and April or September to November when you'll find warm weather and relatively low rainfall.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Vietnamese is the official language, but many locals speak basic English in major cities and tourist areas. Learning a few Vietnamese phrases will go a long way in rural areas.

• Local habits and customs: Vietnamese people are conservative but tolerant. Modesty is appreciated, especially in rural areas and when visiting temples or pagodas. Be mindful of personal space and avoid raising your voice, which can be considered rude.

• Health and safety: Vietnam is generally safe for travellers, though petty theft can happen in busy areas. Tap water is not recommended; stick to bottled water, and be careful when eating street food.

• Currency: Vietnam's official currency is the dong (VND). ATMs are widespread in big cities, and debit or credit cards are accepted in most mid-range to high-end hotels, restaurants and shops. However, cash is still the preferred payment method in markets and smaller towns.

• Getting around: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek are the best ways to get around cities, while longer trips between cities can be done by bus or train.

• Electricity and plug types: Vietnam's electricity is 220V, mostly with standard European-style two round-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Vietnam is 7 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days. For longer stays, 90-day e-visas should be obtained online in advance.

Best things to do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a diverse and surprising destination, offering a range of historical landmarks, stunning natural beauty and fascinating culture. Whether you're into exploring bustling cities, trekking to temples in the mountains or relaxing on a beach, there's something for everyone on Vietnam holidays.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Ha Long Bay: Known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests, Ha Long Bay offers some of the most iconic views in Vietnam. The best way to experience it is by boat.

• Fansipan Peak: The highest mountain in Vietnam, also known as the "Roof of Indochina", is accessed most easily by a 20-minute cable car from Sa Pa for breathtaking views.

The best districts

• Old Quarter, Hanoi: This historic district is a maze of narrow streets where you'll find everything from traditional markets to tiny cafés and restaurants. It's the perfect place to get lost for a few hours, sample Hanoi's famous street food or pick up souvenirs.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautifully preserved trading port from the 15th century. It's particularly magical at night when the lanterns light up the streets along the Thu Bon River.

• District 1, Ho Chi Minh City: The heart of modern Vietnam is home to many of the city's landmarks, including the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and Ben Thanh Market.

Historical monuments

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-see when in Hanoi, this imposing structure houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, a key figure in Vietnam's fight for independence.

• My Son Sanctuary: This collection of abandoned Hindu temples, built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa kingdom near Hoi An, is a testament to Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.

• The Citadel, Hue: This sprawling complex was once the imperial capital of Vietnam and is a great place to explore ancient architecture, including the Forbidden Purple City and the Thien Mu Pagoda.

Activities for families in Vietnam

Vietnam is a family-friendly destination with a range of activities to keep children and adults entertained, whether you're into nature, history, culture or active fun.

• Water puppet shows: These traditional Vietnamese performances date back to the 11th century and are a must-see for families visiting Hanoi. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is famous for its captivating shows depicting scenes from rural life and Vietnamese folklore.

• Beaches: Vietnam has some beautiful family-friendly beaches. Phu Quoc Island and Nha Trang offer sandy shores, clear waters and plenty of resorts that cater to families with young children.

• Amusement parks: For a fun day out, head to the Sun World resort-cum-theme-parks in Phu Quoc or Da Nang or Vinpearl Land in Nha Trang – all accessed by impressive cable-car rides – for a wide range of rides and attractions, from rollercoasters to water parks.

Free things to do in Vietnam

Travelling on a budget? Vietnam offers plenty of free activities that allow you to explore its culture and beauty without spending much.

• Free guided tours: Several organisations offer free walking tours in major cities, like Hanoi's Free Walking Tours. These tours are an excellent way to explore with the help of local students keen to practise their English.

• Temples and pagodas: Many of Vietnam's religious sites, such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi or the Jade Emperor Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, are free to enter. These peaceful spots offer an insight into Vietnam's spiritual life and are great places to escape the hustle and bustle.

Beaches in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to some of Southeast Asia's most stunning beaches, each offering unique experiences, from vibrant nightlife to serene relaxation. Here are some of the top beaches to consider for your holiday:

My Khe Beach (Da Nang)

My Khe Beach is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its long stretch of soft white sand and clear blue waters, it's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with upscale resorts and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and dining. The vibrant nightlife in Da Nang nearby adds to the beach's appeal.

An Bang Beach (Hoi An)

An Bang Beach is a charming beach just a few kilometres from the ancient town of Hoi An. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it's a great place to unwind, enjoy fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, or take part in yoga classes. The beach is less crowded than some of the other tourist spots, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Long Beach (Phu Quoc)

Phu Quoc is famous for its stunning beaches, and Long Beach is a highlight. This expansive stretch of sand is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. The sunsets here are breathtaking, and the beach is dotted with beach bars and restaurants, making it a perfect place to spend the evening.

Nha Trang Beach

Nha Trang is known for its vibrant beach scene, where visitors can enjoy water sports, beach clubs, and a lively atmosphere. The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, and you'll find plenty of cafes and bars lining the shore. Nha Trang also hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, adding to its appeal.

Bai Dai Beach (Phu Quoc)

Also located on Phu Quoc, Bai Dai Beach offers a more secluded experience with less commercialisation than Long Beach. This beach is known for its soft sand and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. It's a great spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more natural setting.

Ho Coc Beach

Situated on the southeastern coast, Ho Coc Beach is less well-known but offers a serene escape. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and has pristine sands, perfect for swimming and picnicking. It's also a great place to explore nearby natural hot springs and waterfalls.

Vung Tau Beach

Vung Tau is a popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. The beach features a long coastline with plenty of activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball. It's easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy a beach day without travelling far.

Whether you prefer bustling beach towns or quiet, serene escapes, Vietnam's coastline offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.

Local dishes in Vietnam

Vietnam's rich, diverse cuisine reflects the country's varied culture, with a mix of traditional food from hawkers and street kitchens, proper sit-down restaurants serving Vietnamese specialities, and the influence of French colonial flavours and a café scene. Here are some of the essential dishes and drinks to try:

Some typical dishes

• Pho: This famous noodle soup originated in Hanoi and is a must-try. Consisting of flat rice noodles in a beef broth flavoured with ginger and coriander, it's served at any time of day but is typically enjoyed for breakfast.

• Bun cha: Another Hanoi dish, these grilled pork patties are served with cold rice noodles, fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.

• Xoi: Sticky rice topped with various savoury ingredients such as shredded chicken, beans, fried onions, sweetcorn or peanuts. It's a popular snack sold by hawkers or street stalls.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Cha ca: A traditional dish of grilled fish with rice noodles, peanuts and herbs. The most famous version comes from the restaurant Cha Ca La Vong in Hanoi.

• Ca kho to: A southern dish of caramelised fish, typically served in a clay pot with white rice. Slow-cooked in fish sauce, sugar and pepper, it comes out tender with a rich, sweet and savoury flavour.

Street food

• Banh mi: A fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, this crusty baguette is popular street food throughout the country. It can be filled with meat, pàté, omelette, pickled vegetables or herbs.

• Goi cuon: Also known as fresh spring rolls, these are made from rice paper packed with greens, coriander and various combinations of minced pork, shrimp or crab, then served with a peanut dipping sauce. A southern variation has barbecued strips of pork wrapped up with green banana and star fruit.

• Banh xeo: These crispy pancakes, filled with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts, are popular street food, especially in South Vietnam.

Sweets and desserts

• Che: A sweet pudding made with ingredients like coconut milk, beans, fruit and jelly served on ice – a favourite hot-weather snack from street vendors.

• Banh chuoi: A fried banana fritter, often sold at street stalls and a simple but delicious snack, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Local drinks

• Egg coffee (c√† ph™ tr·ª©ng): A Hanoi speciality, this rich drink is made by whipping egg yolk with sugar and combining it with strong Vietnamese coffee. It's served hot or cold and is a must-try while in the city.

• Bia hoi: Known as ‚Äúfresh beer,‚Äù bia hoi is brewed daily and served at street-side stalls for a fraction of the price of bottled beer. Enjoying a glass or two with bar snacks is a quintessential Vietnam experience.