Vietnam Holidays

What is Vietnam known for?

Much of Vietnam’s appeal can be credited to Mother Nature. 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 beauty extends beyond its land and into the surrounding waters; Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist hotspots, with hundreds of limestone pillars and islets rising out from the sea to form a spectacular coastal landscape.

Historic events in this part of Asia have had a key role in shaping Vietnam, in particular, the Vietnam War in the mid-20th century, which brought global powers into conflict. Memorials and other historical points of interest are dotted across the country and are well worth a visit to learn more about the war and pay your 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.

Vietnam has a stellar reputation when it comes to hospitality. Its 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 other accommodations; the incredible attention to detail will make your stay 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 is famous for producing the Robusta coffee bean and so, naturally, coffee is a popular drink here. 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.

On the food front, a private cookery class is a great way to immerse yourself in the country’s culinary culture. Global flavours and cooking techniques define 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 plenty of delicious crossovers with their recipes and ingredients. Pho is the national dish of Vietnam and is sold in every corner of the country – look out for regional variations of the classic, like Pho Sai Gon, which is identifiable by its slightly sweeter broth.

What is the best way to get around Vietnam?

It’s common for travellers to explore different parts of the country in one trip, and there are myriad transport options available if you’re looking to hop between different regions.

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 one, provided you have a driving licence. Bear in mind that the roads might not be as orderly as you’re accustomed to, and traffic is generally very heavy in the main urban areas, so only hire a bike if you’re comfortable on busier roads and always wear a helmet. Cyclos (human-powered rickshaws) and xe om (motorbike taxis) are also common on Vietnamese roads.

For a slightly slower and more scenic alternative, consider travelling by train. 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 riding the rails while in Vietnam, it’s always worth trying to book your ticket in advance as carriages can fill up quickly – especially during peak tourist season.

Check out our guide on transport in Vietnam for more advice and information.

What is the weather like in Vietnam?

Vietnam's climate varies from region to region, influenced by its diverse geography. Generally, the country experiences tropical monsoon conditions, 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?

The majority of the country’s tourism occurs during November and April. We recommend travelling during the winter and early spring months to dodge the worst of the annual rainfall and benefit from the slightly cooler temperatures.

What is the capital of Vietnam?

Vietnam’s capital city is Hanoi, situated in the north of the country. The city is packed with historical hotspots – like the Old Quarter and the Temple of Literature – and is also one of the country’s culinary hubs. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture (and satisfy stomachs) is to head out on a guided street food tour where you’ll have the chance to indulge in fragrant pho, crispy banh mi (baguettes), hearty bun cha (grilled pork patties) and more.

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 common 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.

Which countries border Vietnam?

Situated on the Indochina peninsula, Vietnam borders three countries: China, Laos and Cambodia. There are various modes of transportation available if you’re looking to cross these international borders and while this is 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 around 11 hours and 45 minutes, and there’s 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.