Vietnam Essentials: Everything you need to know before travelling

Vietnam is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia — and for good reason. The food alone is worth the trip. Stretching over 1,600km from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, travelling Vietnam end-to-end is one of the great backpacking routes.

Visas

Most nationalities now require an e-Visa, which costs $25 USD and is valid for 90 days with single or multiple entry. Apply at least a week before travel. Some nationalities (UK, EU, Australia) can enter visa-free for up to 45 days — check current requirements before booking.

Getting Around

Vietnam has excellent intercity transport options:

• Sleeper buses — cheap, efficient, and the backpacker default for most routes
• The Reunification Express train — slower but scenic, especially Danang to Hue
• Domestic flights — VietJet and Bamboo Airways are cheap; book 2–3 weeks ahead
• Grab — the go-to app for motorbike taxis and cars in every major city
• Renting a motorbike — popular on the Ha Giang Loop and along the coast

The Classic Route

Most travellers do a north-to-south or south-to-north route. The highlights:

• Hanoi — old quarter, street food, Hoan Kiem Lake
• Ha Long Bay — 2-night cruise is the sweet spot
• Hoi An — lanterns, tailors, best banh mi in the world
• Da Nang — beaches, Marble Mountains, easy day trips
• Ho Chi Minh City — war history, food, nightlife

Money & ATMs

Vietnam runs on cash. The Dong (VND) is the only currency — don't expect USD to be widely accepted outside of tourist shops. ATMs are everywhere in cities; Techcombank and Vietcombank charge the lowest fees. Withdraw larger amounts to minimise fees.

Food

Vietnamese food is extraordinary and outrageously cheap. Do not leave without eating:

• Pho — breakfast noodle soup, best eaten from a street stall at 7am
• Banh mi — the Hoi An version is the benchmark
• Bun cha — grilled pork with noodles, Hanoi's signature dish
• Fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) — everywhere and always good
• Ca phe trung — Hanoi egg coffee, an experience in itself

Eat where the locals eat. If there are plastic stools on the pavement and a queue at 7am, you're in the right place.

SIM Cards

Viettel is the most reliable network with the best rural coverage. A SIM with 60–90GB of data costs around 200,000–300,000 VND ($8–12 USD). Pick one up at the airport on arrival.

Safety

Vietnam is very safe for travellers. The main hazards are traffic (chaotic but navigable — watch locals and follow their lead when crossing) and scams targeting new arrivals at Hanoi and HCMC airports. Use Grab instead of hailing taxis on the street.