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Vietnam

Geographically Vietnam is a very diverse country with a great variety of scenery from the verdant tropical waterways of the deep south to the pine forests and peaks of the far north, from the sandy beaches of the coast to the cool tea and coffee plantations of the Central Highlands.

Vietnam is a long, narrow ‘S’-shaped country curled beside China, Laos and Cambodia. It measures about 1,645 km from north to south and a maximum of 600-km east to west, but is barely 60 km wide at its narrowest point. Its 3,500 km coastline is made up of sandy bays and rocky headlands facing the South China Sea and wide areas of mud and mangrove swamps around the deltas of the Mekong River in the south and the Red River in the north. Three-quarters of the country are mountainous and mostly heavily forested. The highest peaks are in the north-west, an extension to the Himalayas. The tallest mountain, Fan Si Pan, rises 3,143m above sea level. Most of the remaining quarter of Vietnam's land surface is made up of the deltas of its two great rivers and a narrow coastal strip. These ten million hectares of fertile, low-lying land are intensively farmed, and contain the overwhelming majority of Vietnam's 80 million people.

The country can be conveniently divided into three distinct regions, the south, the centre and the north, corresponding to the three administrative regions of Cochinchina, Annam and Tonkin under the French colonial rule. The north of the country was the first to be settled and is characterized by the rich farming lands of the Red River Delta. The centre contains the Truong Son Mountain Range running along the border with Laos in the west and the narrow coastal strip bordering the Eastern Sea in the east. In the south, the Mekong Delta is the country’s most fertile region and Vietnam’s major rice and fruit producing area.

The two great metropolises of the country are the elegant capital city Hanoi and the dynamic, economic powerhouse Ho Chi Minh City. Since 1993 UNESCO has declared five World Heritage Sites in Vietnam, four in central Vietnam and one in the north. The four sites in central Vietnam are former imperial capital Hue, the historic trading port of Hoi An, the centre of the former Cham Kingdom, My Son, and Phong Nha Caves. The fifth World Heritage Site is the spectacular natural wonder that is Ha long Bay in northern Vietnam.

Visa requirementsMost visitors to Vietnam require a visa to enter the country and all travelers must have a passport valid for 6 months after their planned exit from Vietnam. Exceptions: Nationals from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Russia traveling to Vietnam and staying for 15 days or less do not need to apply for entry visas, provided that their passport is valid for at least three months and they can show their return ticket. Those who wish to stay longer than 15 days will need to apply for a visa. Tourists holding ASEAN passports do not need a visa for a visit up to 30 days. Philippines passport holders do not need a visa for a visit up to 21 days. Japanese and South Korean passport holders do not need a visa for a visit up to 15 days. A tourist visa is normally a single entry visa, which means that if you exit Vietnam (for example for a side trip to Cambodia), you will require a new visa to re-enter (or apply for a Multiple Entry Visa) The validity of a Tourist Visa is 30 days and normally a single entry visa is given unless a multiple entry is requested.
Languages spokenVietnamese
Currency usedVietnam Dongs
Country nameSocialist Republic of Viet Nam

Nightlife info

There are plenty of entertainment options in Vietnam and restaurants/bars and nightclubs open until late at night/early in the morning. A wide variety of restaurants are on offer with everything from Vietnamese, Asian, Italian, French cuisine, etc. to fast food.

The cuisine of Vietnam comes as a pleasant surprise to many visitors and is definitely a part of the Vietnam experience not to be missed. One of the characteristics of Vietnamese food is that is always fresh being bought the same morning straight from the market. Food is usually prepared with a minimum of oil and served with the ubiquitous fish sauce called nuoc mam. Typical Vietnamese dishes you can expect to try include pho, a type of rice noodle soup eatenfor breakfast, cha gio (nem in northern dialect), deep-fried spring rolls and goi ngo sen, a delicious salad made with lotus stems, shrimps and peanuts. Due to the strong Buddhist influence  in  Vietnam,  vegetarian  food  is  widely  available  however  more  so  in  Southern Vietnam.

Culture and history info

RELIGION

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Vietnam usually combined with elements of Confucianism and Taoism. About 10% of the country's population is Catholic and there are also communities of Protestants and Muslims. Vietnam is also home to a unique religion called Cao Dai, a religious cocktail of all the world's major faiths.

WEATHER

Hanoi and the north of Vietnam have distinct winter and summer seasons. The mainly dry winter lasts from December to March with average temperatures of 18-20°C but it can drop to as  low  10’s  at  times.  Summer  lasts  from  May  to  October  and  is  hot  and  humid  with temperatures around 30°C. Hue and Danang, in the center of the country, have very hot, dry weather from February to August with temperatures reaching the mid 30's Celsius, but can experience some heavy rainfall between September and January. Ho Chi Minh City and the south have a hot, dry season from December till April with average temperatures around 28°C and a warm rainy season from May to November. In the rainy season, most rain comes in short, heavy bursts.

There is good weather somewhere in Vietnam all year round! Vietnam stretches over 2000 km from North to South. The climate differs all year round from one region to another. The North can be chilly during winter months (December to March). North and Central Vietnam can encounter tropical storms and typhoons from October to January. Overall, the north of Vietnam experiences more marked seasons than the rest of the country with two distinct seasons: wet and dry.

The South, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, benefits from sunshine and warm weather all year round. However, the rainy season lasts from May to November (with showers once or twice a day in general) and a dry season from December to April. The Central Highlands can be chilly. Nha Trang has warm – sometimes hot - weather all year round, with a rainy season from the end of September until December.

WATER

It is not advisable to drink tap water but bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels provide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water per person in the room. Ice cubes in drinks is generally OK in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to avoid it on street stalls or in country areas.   Some minor stomach problems are always possible when travelling in exotic countries. Bring a supply of your usual anti-diarrhoea medicine.

TIME

Vietnam is GMT + 7 and does not operate daylight-saving system.

SAFETY

Vietnam is a safe country to visit. As a global rule, never leave your belongings unattended and always maintain eye contact or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags. Avoid cyclos late at night and choose reliable metered taxi companies (they are really cheap and air-conditioned). Choose Mai Linh Taxi, Vina Taxi, Hanoi Taxi and CP Taxi’s if available, it’s best not to take unknown brands on the street.

SHOPPING

Souvenirs to look out for in Vietnam include lacquerware, silk, conical hats, woodcarvings, hill tribe fabrics and handicrafts, embroidery, marble, ceramics, silver jewelry, antique watches and paintings. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have the best choice when it comes to shopping but Hoi An in the center of Vietnam is also a very good place to hunt for bargains.

A day explore Hoalu – The Halong Bay on land

From $

This one-day trip let's you discover the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh - Le dynasties: Hoa Lu and the so called 'Halong on Land' Tam Coc. Famed for its beautiful landscapes and incredible scenery, this is one of the top destinations in Vietnam. From ancient temples to hidden caves and verdant rice paddies, this province has a bit of everything.

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A day in Hochiminh city

From $

Hochiminh city was named Saigon before the country reunification in 1975 but it is still referred to the locals as Saigon. This is a city of so many contrasts with its fabulous new international hotels, exclusive restaurants vying for space and local markets teeming with local produce and tradition. From lush parks, to bustling markets, get a taste of all the city in this one-day tour.

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A day to Halong Bay

From $

The mystical scenery of Halong Bay where thousands of limestone islands jut out of the emerald sea, sculpted into bizarre shapes and surrounded by colorful floating villages is a truly wonderful destination. And for those who have limited time in Vietnam but want to have a glint of breathtaking Halong Bay, this one day tour would be the best choice.

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A day to Mai Chau valley

From $

The Northwest of Vietnam is still relatively untouched by the outside world. Beautiful scenery and idyllic villages make this area well worth a visit. Have lunch in a traditional stilt-house, travel through fertile valleys and along roads snaking through mountain passes. The area is inhabited mainly by the Thai people who number about one million in Vietnam.

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Best of the South 6 days 5 nights

From $

Westernized, bustling, cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest city. Inside this dense, teeming metropolis are countless links to the past, including a number of notable shrines and temples.  The Mekong Delta, which stretches from Cambodia to the South China Sea, is a vast network of canals and rivers amid a seemingly endless patchwork of rice paddies.

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Best of Vietnam 10 days 9 nights

From $

What makes Vietnam one of the most prized destinations in Southeast Asia is the sheer wealth of different landscapes and unique cultural attractions. Securing the balance between recreational sightseeing and relaxation, this Vietnam tour offers a compelling blend of countryside life styles, historical sightseeing and tropical indulgence.

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Condao Escape 3 days 2 nights

From $

Con Dao islands are the hidden gem located off Vietnam’s southern coast. The islands contain soft white sand, lush jungle, clear blue water and extensive coral reefs. Beside beach relax, this 3 days Con Dao escape tour will offer you an option to explore the area with a visit to a historical sites including former Con Dao prison with its infamous “tiger cage”.

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Discover Halong Bay on land 2 days 1 nights

From $

Discover the scenic landscapes of Ninh Binh province on a 2-day tour to explore Halong Bay on land from Hanoi. Discover the Van Long natural reserve, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties called Hoalu, the vibrant green rice fields dotted with limestone out crops which will impress any visitor to the area. You will live in the authentic Vietnam.

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Fantastic Vietnam 17 days 16 nights

From $

This tour is a fascinating introduction to one of Asia's most captivating countries. From dramatic karst scenery that dominates Halong Bay, exploring hillside trip in the north to the enchanting waterways of the Mekong Delta in the south, each destination offers a window into Vietnam's timeless culture and centuries-old traditions as well as its vibrant present.

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Flavor of Vietnam 14 days 13 nights

From $

Vietnam is a country of diverse scenery and unique culture. What makes Vietnam one of the most prized destinations in Asia is the sheer wealth of different landscapes and unique cultural attractions, each as incredible as the next, that can all be partaken in during a single stay. This Flavors of Vietnam trip will cover all things essential for an in-depth understanding of the country.

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Grand Vietnam 21 days 20 nights

From $

Vietnam is a country of contrasts with a rich colonial history that dominates its cities. Sitting side-by-side with scenes that characterize the spirit of Southeast Asia. The countryside is a stunning portrait of varied landscapes, from the waterways leading to the East Sea to terraced green paddy fields with the hilly central highlands in between.

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Hoian Beach break 4 days 3 nights

From $

Hoian is not only well known for  its cozy town but is also famous for its outstanding beach. The town features narrow streets, traditional old houses while the beach is marked by palm-fringed white sands and crystal water. Whether being a stop during Vietnam tour or an escape from busy cities, Hoian beach is a good choice to enjoy your time with family or friends.

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Hue beach break 4 days 3 nights

From $

Hue is a destination that offers a nice balance of history and leisure for travelers. Hue city still retains many historical monuments while Thuan An beach is known for its beautiful golden sand, blue water with pristine views. Explore Hue ancient capital and enjoy relaxing time in the untouched Thuan An beach is a good option to experience both historical and leisure side.

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Imperial Treasure

From $

Hue and Hoi An are both UNESCO World Heritage listed sites and boast some of the strongest cultural relics in Vietnam. Through this tour, you will touch all the heritages in Vietnam, through Vietnam history which has a lot to tell, and this is why we would like to take you on this wonderful journey to learn about the cultural and historical past of this interesting destination.

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Maichau mountain bike 3 days 2 nights

From $

This three-day mountain adventure explores picturesque Mai Chau valley and surroundings. It features exciting rides ride o­n single tracks and open road through green valleys dotted by rice paddy and ethnic Thai villages of stilt homes. You will enjoy home-stays with Thai minority and learn about the local culture, catching a rare glimpse of this serene mountain world.

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Mui Ne beach break 4 days 3 nights

From $

Mui Ne Beach is a popular tropical beach. Strong sea breezes make it very popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Take a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City, passing rubber plantations and desert-like terrain to the coast. Spend three days relaxing on Mui Ne’s long and sandy beach; standing on top of the hills, you can easily feel the cool winds from the sea.

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Nha Trang beach break 4 days 3 nights

From $

Nha Trang, also known as the Riviera of the South China Sea, offers a beautiful coastline with verdant mountain ranges, white sandy beaches, untouched islets and crystal waters with an abundance of marine life and thriving reefs. With many must-see places, endless to-do’s, and great restaurants to dine at, Nha Trang is surely one of the best beach destinations in Vietnam.

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Northern Jewels

From $

Experience the contrasts of Northern Vietnam from the charming chaos of Hanoi to the relaxing water of Halong Bay. Hanoi, has to be one of Asia’s most fascinating cities offering a unique blend of oriental and western charm while the mystical scenery of Halong Bay where thousands of limestone islands jut out of the emerald sea is a truly wonderful destination.

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One day in charming and historic Hanoi

From $

Hanoi is a city of wide tree lined boulevards, tranquil lakes and colonial villa's with a more sedate pace than other Asian cities.  The city has many cultural-historic sites including the Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, Temple of literature, One Pillar Pagoda. This is a city that will leave you wishing that you need longer time to explore this charming and enthralling capital.

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Phu Quoc beach break 4 days 3 nights

From $

Phu Quoc Island boasts idyllic beaches, romantic sunsets and evergreen forests, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape bustling city life. Fall into the rhythm of life in the tropics, swimming in the clear waters and soaking up the sun. Aside from beachside activities, visitors can also explore traditional villages and expansive nature parks.

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Sapa highlights

From $

Established as a hill station by the French in 1922, Sapa today is the tourism centre of the northwest. Travel to Sapa, spend the days hiking through verdant landscapes to colourful villages, be surrounded of spectacular scenery while driving over mountains and past terraced rice paddies, experience hill tribe customs while staying in local houses.

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Sapa hill tribes

From $

Misty mountains, covered in rice terraces and the green of forests, Sapa is home to different ethnic tribal groups that seem a world apart. Take an overnight train journey from Hanoi into the highlands. Spend the days walking to villages tucked on the mountainside, encountering a diverse mix of ethnic groups and learning about their rich traditions.

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Southern Charm and beaches

From $

Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s historic monuments then glide across the waters of the Mekong Delta. Amazing waterways hidden amongst vibrant tropical fruit gardens, bustling floating markets that offer a cornucopia of items and acres of emerald rice fields are what make the Mekong Delta so unforgettable. Lose track of time during a relaxing break on Phu Quoc Island.

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The North Loop 7 days 6 nights

From $

The North Loop tour in Vietnam will feature the colors of various attractions in Vietnam, with Vietnamese colorful cultures. Sightseeing in Hanoi will take you to visit famous attractions like Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature...Also visit Sapa valley to discover ethnic groups and cruising to the Halong Bay.

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Three days in Hue Hoian

From $

Hue and Hoi An are both UNESCO World Heritage listed sites and boast some of the strongest cultural relics in Vietnam. Visit the old imperial center of Hue, journey down the Hai Van Pass to Da Nang where you will see the finest collection of Cham pieces in the world and admire the architectural, historic and cultural elements of Hoi An Town.

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Trekking to Puluong Nature Reserve 5 days 4 nights

From $

Escape to Puluong Nature Reserve and be amazed by the cascading views of rice fields, surrounded by hidden villages, vegetation, mountains and open land. Trekking in hidden paths is the best way to discover the fauna and flora of Puluong Nature Reserve as well as to experience the rich culture and tradition of Vietnamese ethnic groups living in the area.

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Two days in Mekong Delta

From $

The Cuu Long region , which translates as 'Nine Dragons', otherwise known as the Mekong Delta is a great place to discover Vietnam. Amazing waterways hidden amongst vibrant tropical fruit gardens, bustling floating markets that offer a cornucopia of items and acres of emerald rice fields are what make the Mekong Delta so unforgettable.

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Vietnam Complete 20 days 19 nights

From $

Stretching over 3,200 kms in length with countless mountains, rivers and beaches, Vietnam is one of the most diverse and fascinating countries. Introducing you to the country’s three main regions, this journey starts with the natural splendor and majesty of the north, continues to the historic charm of the central before concluding with the vibrancy of the south.

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Vietnam Essential 9 days 8 nights

From $

In this tour you will experience the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Hoi An ancient town, Hue Imperial Citadel, Halong Bay, atmospheric Hanoi. You will not only discover the beautiful sights in Vietnam but also get to know the Vietnamese people and take away a feeling for the warmth of welcome from local people, for whom a smile is never far away.

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Vietnam Heritage road 5 days 4 nights

From $

Through this tour, you will touch all the heritages in Vietnam, through Vietnam history which has a lot to tell, and this is why we we would like to take you on this wonderful journey to learn about the cultural and historical past of this interesting destination. You will have opportunity to visit Hue and its Perfume River, the charming ancient city of Hoi An, My Son and Tra Kieu.

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Vietnam Highlight 10 days 9 nights

From $

Discover one of the most popular Vietnam’s destinations in our Vietnam highlight tours and experience Vietnamese local life style with Steppe Travel. From north to south, from the natural wonder of Halong Bay to the colorful beauty of the Mekong Delta, you will get a taste of the country’s diverse landscapes, rich culture and attractive historic stories.

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Vietnam Insight 15 days 14 nights

From $

Spend your trip with Steppe Travel in Vietnam Tour to create unforgettable memories  in Southeast Asia. You’ll come up with a memorable and fulfilling experience in one of the world's most magical countries. Your experience in the country will be impossible to put into words and even harder to capture in pictures - you just have to experience it!

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Vietnam Northern highland 13 days 12 nights

From $

Explore Vietnam’s most remote and rugged region with an unforgettable scenic road trip. The journey rewards with visits to hilltribe villages which are the perfect place to see undisturbed pristine countryside. Spend your relaxing time on luxury cruise on Halong Bay in middle of the trip will give you more strength to discover another side of Vietnam’s colorful landscapes.

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Vietnam Southern Charm

From $

Explore Vietnam’s southern wonders on this journey into one of the most fascinating region. The uniquely southern charm with its welcoming introduction to life along the river is the real draw, visitors can explore quaint riverside towns, sample fruits bartered in the colourful floating markets. Other highlights include visits to local orchards, flower markets and fish farms.

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Bassac Cruises on Mekong River

From $

The Bassac, originally built as a traditional Vietnamese wooden rice barge, will take you from Cai Be to Can Tho (or reverse), for a wonderful and leisurely exploration of the Mekong River and its hidden treasures. Well equipped cabins and attentive staff will provide you with all the necessary comforts that you could wish for.

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Bhaya Halong cruises 2 days 1 night

From $

Bhaya vessels are a flawless combination of traditional Vietnamese aesthetic delicacy and western luxury and comfort. Sailing in the midst of the wonder and natural beauty that distinguishes Halong Bay, the Bhaya vessels play a considerable role in the embellishment and protection of this glorious World Heritage Site!

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Indochina Sails Halong Bay 3 days 2 nights

From $

Backed by more than 10-years experiences hosting international guests, Indochina Sails has set a new standard for luxury cruising. All cruises feature spacious, well-appointed cabins, are designed and fitted to international standards while maintaining tradition, creating the perfect balance of modern comforts and nostalgic ambiance.

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The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay

From $

The Au Co is the first and only luxury cruise operator specializing in offering a three-day two-night voyage through world-renowned Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island and the Gulf of Tonkin. The Au Co ship features the very latest safety standards and represents Vietnamese and Oriental culture at its best.

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