Vietnam Holidays

What is Vietnam known for?

• Natural wonders. Much of Vietnam’s appeal as a global tourist hotspot can be attributed to its natural beauty. Breathtaking landscapes, like those found at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, have been recognised by UNESCO as places of great natural significance. The country’s vast elegance extends beyond its land borders and into the surrounding waters. Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist hotspots, where hundreds of limestone pillars and islets rise from the sea.


• Fascinating history. Historic events in this part of Asia have had a key role in shaping the modern world. In particular, the Vietnam War in the mid-20th century brought global powers into conflict. Memorials and other significant points of interest are dotted across the country where visitors can learn more about the war and pay their respects. These include the War Remnants Museum, located in Ho Chi Minh City, which displays various exhibits and artefacts that detail the stories and experiences of the Vietnamese people during this time.


• The hospitality. Vietnamese people are extremely hospitable and welcoming to international visitors, as this is an important aspect of their culture. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions – you’ll find the locals are more than happy to lend a hand. This commitment to welcoming guests is also evident in the hotels and accommodation; the incredible attention to detail can make your stay here that much more enjoyable.

What food and drink should I try in Vietnam?

Vietnam is one of the world's largest coffee-exporting nations, and it’s famous in particular for its production of the Robusta coffee bean. Naturally, coffee is a popular drink in this part of the world, and it’s consumed pretty much at any time of day. There are lots of different ways to enjoy it, but if you find yourself in Hanoi, a cup of egg coffee is a must-try. This iconic beverage is created by whisking condensed milk together with egg yolk to form a creamy head on top of a black coffee.

Any visitor looking to immerse themselves in the local culture has to take a deep dive into the country’s culinary landscape. Global flavours and cooking techniques permeate the dishes, with French influences being particularly prominent after the country colonised Vietnam for almost 70 years. There are also several similarities with Chinese cuisine, and you’ll notice lots of crossover with recipes and ingredients. Ph? is the national dish of Vietnam, and is sold across the country – look out for regional variations of the classic, like Ph? Sài Gòn, which is identifiable by its slightly sweeter broth.

What is the best way to get around Vietnam?

It’s common for visitors to explore different parts of the country in one trip. There are several transport options available if experiencing different regions is part of your itinerary.

Motorbikes are the most popular mode of transportation used by both tourists and locals. With rental shops readily available in the main tourist areas, it’s easy to hire a motorbike, provided you have a driving licence. Remember, the roads might not be as orderly as you’re accustomed to, and traffic is generally really heavy in the main urban areas. Only hire a bike if you’re comfortable on these busy roads, and always wear a helmet for your safety.

For a slightly more scenic, laid-back alternative, trains are a wonderful way to savour the journey as well as the destination. The railway network connects major cities, with trains offering passengers different classes which range from basic seating to sleeper cabins. If you’re planning on using the train at any point during your stay, it’s always worth trying to book your ticket in advance as they can fill up quickly – especially during peak tourist season.

Boats, cyclos and xe om are some of the more unusual ways to get around. For more information on the most common modes of transport in Vietnam, check out our travel guide.

What is the weather like in Vietnam?

Vietnam's climate varies from region to region, influenced by its diverse geography. Generally, the country experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The north has four seasons. Summers (May to September) are hot and humid, while winters (December to February) can be cold, especially in the highlands. Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) are considered the most pleasant seasons, with milder temperatures and less rainfall.

The central region has a more consistent climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The dry season lasts from December to April, while the wet season occurs from May to November, with the highest rainfall in June and July. Southern Vietnam has a warm and humid climate, with little variation in temperature throughout the year.

When is the best time to go to Vietnam?

Travelling during the winter and early spring months will give you the best chance to avoid the worst of the annual rainfall while also benefiting from the slightly cooler temperatures. With this in mind, the majority of the country’s tourism occurs during November and April.

What is the capital of Vietnam?

Vietnam’s capital city is Hanoi, which is situated in the north of the country. The city is packed with historical points of interest – like the Old Quarter and the Temple of Literature – and is also one of the country’s culinary hubs. Heading on a street food tour is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

What language do they speak in Vietnam?

Vietnamese is the national language and is spoken by the majority of the population. Chinese, English and French are some of the most popular secondary dialects.

What is the time difference between Vietnam and the UK?

Vietnam uses Indochina Time (ICT) all year round. ICT is seven hours ahead of GMT, and six hours ahead of BST.

What currency does Vietnam use?

The national currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). The highest denomination of banknote – 500,000 – is worth about 15 GBP at the time of writing.

What countries border Vietnam?

Situated on the Indochina peninsula, Vietnam borders three countries: China, Laos and Cambodia. Various modes of transportation are available if you’re looking to cross these international borders to explore different countries – while it’s relatively easy to do so, it’s still worth organising your travel in advance.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

After recent policy changes, UK visitors are now able to visit Vietnam for up to 45 days without needing a visa. If you choose to extend your stay beyond this period, you must apply for an e-visa, which permits you to stay for 90 days.

How long does it take to fly to Vietnam from the UK?

A direct flight from London to Hanoi takes approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes. There is a very limited number of direct flights each week departing from London Heathrow. If you’re happy to fly with a stopover, you’ll benefit from more flexibility with timings and lower costs.