Vietnam Travel Guide, Free travel air tickets, visas, Vietnamese attractions and Vietnamese food

Vietnam has rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes, from the ancient city of Hanoi, Sapa and Lulong Bay in North Vietnam, and the World Natural Heritage Halong Bay, to Danang Beach in China and Vietnam, the ancient capital of Hue and Hoi An Lantern City, Ho Chi Minh City in South Vietnam, Dalat Flower Capital, and Nha From Trang Marina Resort to the Mui Ne Desert and the aquatic scenery of the Mekong Delta, as well as Phu Quoc Island with its various amusement parks and resort facilities, each region has its own unique charm and mouth-watering cuisine.



This article will give you a comprehensive grasp of all the necessary information for independent Travel in Vietnam, including weather, visa application, currency exchange, must-have apps, network cards, ticket purchases, city characteristics of various regions in Vietnam, transportation methods in various regions, etc., as well as our personal thoughts The recommended way to plan a Trip to North, Central and South Vietnam, follow the editor’s footsteps immediately and start a wonderful and brain-free trip to Vietnam!

Vietnam independent travel information

Introduction to Vietnam’s land and geographical location

Vietnam is located in the eastern part of the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It has a long and narrow land. The north has four distinct seasons, while the south is hot and humid all year round. Influenced by French colonialism in the past, Chinese and Western cultures are compatible, making it a place rich in multiculturalism and rich folk customs. In recent years, due to the increase in flight options and low consumer prices, it has become a major choice for Chinese people to travel.



Suitable season for Traveling in Vietnam

The most suitable seasons for self-guided Tours in Vietnam are October to December and March to April. This is Vietnam’s dry season, with cool and pleasant weather and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing tours. The rainy season in Vietnam is from June to September, and during the Chinese New Year period from January to February, air tickets and hotels are particularly expensive, so it is recommended to avoid this period of travel.

Climate information table for northern Vietnam (North Vietnam), central (Central Vietnam), and southern Vietnam (South Vietnam)

Area	Travel Month	Rainy Season	Description
North Vietnam (Hanoi)	10 ~ 4	5 ~ 9	Hanoi is located in the north of Vietnam. It has four distinct seasons but a hot climate. The summer is very hot at around 30 degrees Celsius, plus the humidity during the rainy season from May to October. Please pay attention to sun protection when wearing short-sleeves and shorts and carry a sun hat, sunglasses and rain gear with you. ; The weather in autumn is pleasant, so just add a thin coat in the morning and evening; in winter, when the cold wave hits, the temperature may drop below 10 degrees. Wear thin long sleeves and trousers during the day, and wear a thick coat after dark to keep warm.
China-Vietnam (Da Nang)	1 ~ 7	8 ~ 12	The average annual temperature in China and Vietnam is between 25 and 27 degrees. The hottest period is from June to August, with temperatures reaching 35 and 37 degrees. Winter is mild at about 20 degrees. October to December is the period with the heaviest rainfall and is often affected by typhoons. If you want to travel to Vietnam, it is recommended to avoid this time.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City & Phu Quoc Island)	1 ~ 4	5 ~ 11	The rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City in South Vietnam is from May to November, and the weather is sultry. Be careful of heatstroke and remember to prepare rain gear when going out. April and May are the hottest months, so you need to drink more water and take sun protection. Summer clothing is suitable for general wear; December to January is relatively cool and dry, and February to March starts to get hotter.
Northern boundary (Sapa)	3 ~ 9	6 ~ 9	Sapa and Lao Cai Province in the border areas of North Vietnam have an altitude of over 1,600 meters, so even in July to August, the hottest temperature is still a cool 26-28 degrees. But also because the Sapa area has high altitude and low temperatures, when the warm and humid air rises and encounters cold air, the water vapor will condense into fog. Sapa is also known as the Fog City.

Vietnam travel outfit suggestions

Vietnam has a long and narrow terrain, and the climate in the north, middle and south Vietnam is quite different. The winter temperature in Sapa, North Vietnam is about 0 ~ 10 degrees, so it is recommended to wear warm clothes. The temperature in Hanoi in winter is between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, so it is recommended to bring thin long sleeves and a jacket to keep warm. The weather in South Vietnam is between 28 and 38 degrees all year round. You can bring light and breathable clothing, such as cotton T-shirts, shorts, etc. Also, don’t forget to wear shoes suitable for long walks!

Time difference between Vietnam and Taiwan

Vietnam (UTC+7:00) is one hour slower than Taiwan (for example, Taiwan time is 12:00PM, Vietnam local time is 11:00AM), which is why your ticket shows that the flight to Taiwan to Vietnam shows a flight time of only 2 hours, while flights from Vietnam to Taiwan are shown as 4 hours. When you arrive at the place, be sure to switch the time on your phone and watch so that it will not affect the progress of your trip.

Vietnamese local language

Vietnamese is mainly spoken in Vietnam, but in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An, Hue, Phu Quoc Island and other tourist areas, English can also be spoken. It is recommended that you learn some simple Vietnamese greetings, which will make your trip to Vietnam smoother!



Vietnam travel safety matters

"Is Vietnam safe to travel to?" I believe this is the first question that pops into the minds of many tourists who plan to travel to Vietnam. The editor must say that it is really safe to travel to Vietnam. If you want to go on a "free trip to Vietnam" on your own, you don't have to worry at all! However, the editor still wants to remind everyone that you still need to pay attention to the safety of personal belongings. It is recommended to choose a reputable Vietnamese hotel and avoid going out alone at night to ensure that your trip to Vietnam will be more enjoyable and smooth.



Here are 5 safety rules for traveling in Vietnam for your reference:

1. Important belongings still need to be put away, and it is safest to put them in a place where they can be seen. In addition to paying attention to the exposed position of the zipper of your backpack, if you are really worried about encountering pickpockets, you can also refer to an anti-theft backpack. (But the editor has been to Vietnam so many times, but I don’t actually use anti-theft bags~)

2. When taking pictures with your mobile phone, be sure to pay attention to your surroundings (cars coming from the left and right) to prevent being robbed or taken away. It is recommended to take out the banknotes you need to spend that day and put them in your pocket. Keep your wallet in your bag where it is not easy to find. Only spend the money in your pocket without taking out your wallet every time. You need to be careful especially in crowded places.

3. When you need to take a taxi, use the local taxi-hailing app. In addition to avoiding the driver's detours and being overcharged, you can also use different taxi-hailing apps to compare prices with each other and choose the more favorable one.

4. If the merchant does not display the price when shopping, be sure to ask clearly in advance to avoid being taken advantage of. (It is recommended to bargain if you encounter this situation!)

5. Dress as simply as possible and avoid name-brand or expensive clothing to avoid becoming a target for thieves or robbers.

A must-have app for independent travel in Vietnam | Mobile network | Exchange rate | Air ticket prices



In view of the different customs and usage behaviors of online communities, in order to make your free travel in Vietnam smoother, we recommend that you pre-load these apps in advance, which will definitely make Vietnam travel planning more efficient!



Google Maps: a great helper for self-guided exploration. You can find recommended coffees, restaurants, bars, and attractions in Hanoi on Google Map. Let you not worry about stepping on thunder!



Google Translate: Even if you don’t speak Vietnamese, you can definitely open this app when facing locals. Don’t doubt it, even local Arabs have this app on their mobile phones. They rely on this communication tool to communicate with foreigners smoothly.



Grab: Southeast Asia’s largest instant-call service super app for ride-hailing and food delivery services. After downloading the Grab app, you can decide the payment method by yourself. You can bind a credit card or pay in cash. The Grab App operates the same as Uber. After entering the destination you want to go to and the car type you want to travel to, the estimated fare will pop up. After confirming the ride request, the driver's location will also be displayed on the app. Grab App also has built-in food delivery service.

Xanh SM: Xanh SM is currently the largest electric vehicle ride-hailing platform in Vietnam, providing ride services in nearly 60 provinces and cities in Vietnam.

Be: Vietnam’s Be taxi-hailing platform belongs to the same group as Xanh SM. The only difference is that Be offers both gas and electric vehicles. Be can also provide food delivery, delivery of goods, restaurant discounts and other services.



Whatsapp: a commonly used local communication software. The driver or tour guide may message or call you directly through Whatsapp!



XE Currency: A good helper for checking real-time exchange rates. In addition to comparing the exchange rate closest to the market when exchanging currency, it can also be used as a computer for local consumption to convert between Vietnamese Dong, Taiwan Dollar, US Dollar and other currencies.



Vietcetra: English version of Vietnamese local news. Download it, register and switch to the "International" version to view news related to Vietnam's economy, culture, life, travel, and fashion.



MoMo: Vietnam mobile payment super App, you can register with your Vietnamese mobile phone number, provide online payment and SIM card recharge, and also have the function of purchasing tickets. It can be used at Vietnamese chain coffee shop Highlands Cafe, large chain department stores, supermarkets or convenience stores.



iQ Air AirVisual: A good helper to help you monitor the air quality of cities in Vietnam. You can get real-time air quality status of cities around the world. If the air quality in your area is poor, it is recommended to wear a mask when going out (iOS, Android)



Vietnam Telecom Network Comparison

To be honest, the WiFi in Vietnam is really not fast, so it is recommended to buy a good network card or eSIM before going abroad. In addition, there is a big language communication gap in Vietnam, so buying a good network card in Taiwan can save a lot of time! The editor has helped you compile a comparison table of local telecommunications in Vietnam, and also provided a comparison between network cards and eSIM. It is recommended that you choose the most suitable travel plan according to your needs. There are four main telecommunications operators in Vietnam, including Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone, and Vietnamobile.

Operators	Viettel	Mobifone	Vinaphone	Vietnamobile
Signal coverage	★★★★★	★★★★	★★★	★★
Price	$$$	$$	$	$
Description	Vietnam’s largest telecom operator with the widest 4G signal coverage	Vietnam's second largest telecommunications company has no problems in big cities. The quality, stability and speed of the network are not far behind Viettel.	Compared to Viettel, the price is cheaper. In some suburbs, there may only be 3G signal.	The new telecom operators are cheap and have large data traffic, but their signal coverage is not as good as the first three telecom operators. Many places only have 3G signals.

Network Card / eSIM Comparison Recommendations and Costs

eSIM (virtual network card) refers to the physical SIM card that has been embedded in the mobile phone, so you only need to scan the QR Code and complete the simple setting steps to use it, which saves the inconvenience of swapping SIM cards and does not require roaming services when going abroad. . However, the editor would like to remind you that the e-SIM signal in Vietnam is not very good, so it is still recommended that you buy a physical network card, which will make the whole Journey smoother!

Vietnam voltage information



The sockets in Vietnam are 220 volts, and electrical appliances brought from Taiwan can basically be used directly in Vietnam. The power sockets in Vietnam are 2-pin round type (similar to France, Germany, and South Korea) or 2-pin flat type (similar to Taiwan, Japan, and the United States). If the electrical socket you bring is also a two-pin flat or round type, you don’t need to bring a converter, but if it has a three-pin type, you will need a converter.

Vietnam currency exchange information



When traveling to Vietnam, generally only some bank ATMs accept cross-border withdrawals. According to actual testing by the Alto team, even ATMs that accept withdrawals will charge a withdrawal fee of NT$30 to NT$60. Generally, credit cards can be used in department stores, chain supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, fine Vietnamese restaurants, Western restaurants, and stores frequently visited by tourists. However, in roadside stalls and traditional markets, cash is still the only payment method for locals. How to pay!

When you come to Vietnam to exchange currency, it is recommended to bring "Taiwan dollars" or "US dollars" directly to Vietnam to exchange currency. Sometimes the exchange rate at the airport, bank, and bank may not be the best, especially the floating exchange rate at the airport is very large, about 1:740. - 755, so it is recommended not to exchange currency in Taiwan unless necessary.

Generally, the exchange rate for larger banknotes (such as US$100) will be better than the exchange rates for smaller denominations (such as US$20, US$10, and US$5). 1 USD = 23,500 VND / 1TWD = 775 VND. Personal suggestion: If the exchange amount is around USD100 (TWD3,000) and the exchange difference is less than NT$5-10, you can exchange it directly at the airport or any exchange shop. If the amount of currency exchange is USD200 (TWD 6,000) or above, it is recommended to go to the city to exchange currency!

Vietnam tax refund information

Vietnam provides convenient tax refund policies to attract foreign tourists to spend. As long as foreign tourists spend more than 2 million VND (approximately NT$2,600) on the same day at a store certified for tax refund, they can enjoy an 8.5% consumption tax refund. This policy encourages tourists to shop together at the same store to reach the tax refund threshold.



When applying for a tax refund, please note the following steps:

Ask the store for a tax refund form and invoice when shopping.
Bring your passport, which is a necessary document to apply for a tax refund.
Before checking in at the airport, ask the customs to stamp the tax refund form.
After stamping, choose according to your situation:
If you have received tax refund: Put the tax refund form and invoice into an envelope and put it in the mailbox of the tax refund company.
If you have not yet received your tax refund: Go to the tax refund window with your tax refund form and invoice to collect cash.

This is the right way to buy Vietnam independent travel tickets

After you have a preliminary understanding of Vietnam travel, start planning your Vietnam trip step by step! The first step is to buy a plane ticket. Taiwan currently has direct flights to Vietnam from Taipei and Taichung. In addition, Hong Kong also has direct flights to Vietnam. In addition to regular airlines, there are other low-cost airline options such as Vietjet Air. The editor is here to teach you how to buy Vietnam air tickets at the cheapest price.



Guide to buying tickets to Vietnam

When booking air tickets for independent travel in Vietnam, you can choose to take general airlines or low-cost airlines. Prices will vary depending on the city you are traveling to. The editor has compiled a price comparison list of Vietnam air tickets below for your reference~

Flight location	Hanoi	Da Nang	Ho Chi Minh City	Phu Quoc Island
Cheap airline fares	6,000 ~ 9,000	7,000 ~ 9,000	6,000 ~ 8,000	9,000 ~ 14,000
General air fares	9,000 ~ 15,000	10,000 ~ 15,000	8,000 ~ 14,000	12,000 ~ 18,000

＊＊＊Please note＊＊＊

1. The price of round-trip air tickets to Vietnam is easily affected by factors such as departure location, flight time, airline, travel season, etc. If you have budget considerations, it is recommended to pay attention to the promotions of major airlines regularly, and you may have the opportunity to get a better deal. of air tickets.

2. If you are buying a one-way ticket, it is recommended to buy Vietnam Airlines for the "return". Vietjet sometimes has the risk of delays, but the overall comfort of Vietnam Airlines is not inferior to that of China Airlines and EVA Air, but the price is more cost-effective. Luggage is also included!

3. Low-cost airlines: round-trip price including tax is about NT$3,000~5,000

4. General aviation: Usually the price falls between NT$9,000 and NT$18,000. The price of round-trip air tickets to Vietnam is easily affected by factors such as departure location, flight time, airline, travel season, etc. If you have budget considerations, it is recommended to regularly pay attention to the promotions of major airlines, and you may have the opportunity to buy more favorable air tickets. .

Introduction to Vietnam tourist airports, flight times, visa and entry procedures



There are twelve international airports in Vietnam, located in the north, central and south. Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh, Nha Trang Cam Ranh and Phu Quoc Island are currently the airports with direct flights from Taiwan. It is recommended that you make more use of them to save a lot of money. Turnaround time.

North Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport: Taiwan’s direct flights include China Airlines, EVA Air, Mandarin Airlines, Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways.

Central Da Nang International Airport: Taiwan’s direct flights include EVA Air, VietJet Air, Jetstar Airways and StarAir.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City in the south: Taiwan’s direct flights include China Airlines, EVA Air, Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, UNI Air and Mandarin Airlines.



Departure airports and flights from Taipei

Vietnam airport	Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)	Da Nang International Airport (DAD)	Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)	Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)	Nha Trang Cam Ranh International Airport (CRX)
Taipei Time	3 hours	2 hours 50 minutes	3 hours 30 minutes	3 hours 40 minutes	Need to transfer
Taiwan Direct Airlines	China Airlines EVA Air Mandarin Airlines Vietjet Air Vietnam Airlines Bamboo Airways	EVA Air Vietjet Air Starlux Airlines	China Airlines EVA Air Vietjet Air Vietnam Airlines Mandarin Airlines	Starlux Airlines Vietjet Air Tigerair Taiwan	Currently, there are few direct flights from Taiwan to Nha Trang, and flights are sometimes chartered by Taiwanese travel agencies. It is recommended to take a domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Nha Trang.
Hong Kong Direct Airlines	Hong kong express Cathay Pacific Vietnam Airlines	Hong kong express Hong kong Airlines Vietjet Air	Cathay Pacific Vietnam Airlines Vietjet Air	Vietjet Air	There are currently no direct flights. It is recommended to take a domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to reach Nha Trang.
Singapore Direct Airlines	Vietjet Air Scoot Singapore Airlines	Vietjet Air Singapore Airlines	Vietjet Air Scoot Singapore Airlines	No direct flights	There are currently no direct flights. It is recommended to take a domestic flight from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to reach Nha Trang.

Vietnam independent travel visa, Vietnam tourist visa is divided into two types:

Vietnam official document approval letter
Vietnam electronic visa

Visa type	Processing method	Application information	Processing time	Immigration Process
Official document approval letter (urgent)	Travel agency	A copy of a valid passport more than 6 months old from the date of departure	It can be processed on an expedited basis within 12 hours to 3 days, and you will receive an electronic file of the official approval letter.	Bring your passport, 2-inch headshot, photocopy of official approval letter, and US$25. After arriving at the Vietnam airport, go to the visa counter to queue up for processing and then queue up to enter customs.
Electronic visa (general)	1. Official website of Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa application 2. Travel agency	Fill out the form and prepare an electronic copy of a 4X6 headshot and a photocopy of a passport valid for more than 6 months from the date of departure.	It takes 3 working days to send the electronic visa document (but sometimes it is delayed or returned)	Bring a photocopy of your passport and electronic visa and line up directly to enter the customs.

Due to the cumbersome application procedures for a Vietnam official visa, even if you choose a visa on arrival, you still have to wait in line at the airport counter after arrival. If there are large crowds, the waiting time may be extended to one hour. According to many travelers on the Internet, electronic visa applications are often returned without warning or rejected. Generally, it takes about 20 to 40 minutes to wait in line for customs clearance. This kind of waiting time is not used to many Taiwanese tourists.


Vietnam travel transportation

Whether you want to explore a single city attraction or roam across cities or visit rural attractions, knowing the local transportation methods and characteristics in advance can help you explore the charm of Vietnam more efficiently and safely.



Transportation in Vietnamese cities: taxis, motorcycle taxis, buses, rickshaws

1. Taxi (Grab/ Xanh SM / Be App): There are not many legal taxi companies in Vietnam. It is recommended to use Grab or Gojek to hail a taxi. In addition to being safe, the prices are relatively transparent. The starting price of a taxi is about 40-50 NTD. If used in downtown Hanoi, the taxi fare ranges from about 100-150 NTD per trip.

2. Motorcycle taxi (Grab / Xanh SM / Be App): The starting price of a motorcycle taxi is about 20 to 40 NTD. If used in downtown Hanoi, the price per trip ranges from about 60 to 90 NTD. If you want to experience Vietnam’s vibrant and intricate traffic up close, and don’t mind wearing the helmet provided by the driver, we recommend you try a motorcycle taxi! Grab App download: (iOS download point | Android download point)

3. Bus: The bus fare is relatively cheaper, but the route is confusing, and the drivers often speak the local language. Therefore, in order to have more fun traveling freely in Vietnam, it is recommended to use other modes of transportation.

4. Rickshaw: In Hanoi Old Quarter, two people can ride a rickshaw at a time. It is recommended to bargain with the tour guide and use VND 100,000 for half an hour or VND 200,000 for one hour as a reference for bargaining.

Cross-city transportation:

Vietnam is a long and narrow country, so if you want to travel across cities, long-distance sleeper buses and sleeper trains are the cheapest transportation options. Let the editor introduce to you the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each means of transportation one by one, so that you can enjoy your free travel in Vietnam. More fun!

1. Domestic flights: There are currently three airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airlines and Vietjet Airlines, providing cross-city transportation services in Hanoi, Da Nang, Dalat, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh and Phu Quoc Island.

2. Sleeper train: The quality of the sleeper carriage depends on the ticket type, and it is divided into four people per room and two people per room. For detailed fare information, please refer to: Vietnam National Railways official website for purchasing tickets, or ask a travel agency to help arrange a higher-end private carriage.

3. Long-distance buses: Since the train network in northern Vietnam is not well developed, most travel between cities still relies on overnight long-distance buses. Long-distance buses have different fares depending on the sleeper seat class, but overall they are still cheaper than trains. There are also mineral water, Wifi and USB charging facilities on board.

4. Motorcycle: In addition to Vietnamese locals who ride bicycles across mountains and rivers to return to their hometown during the Chinese New Year and festivals, in recent years many European and American tourists also like to rent motorcycles to explore different attractions. Some tourists will first find a motorcycle dealer in Hanoi to rent it for a whole month, or buy a second-hand car directly. After arriving at their destination, they will go to a local dealer to sell it.

Friendly reminder: The quality of motorcycles in Vietnam varies. In addition, the mountainous roads in Vietnam sometimes experience landslides due to heavy rains, making them less safe than other means of transportation. In addition, motorcycle insurance is not popular in Vietnam. If you want to try it, be sure to purchase travel safety insurance first!



Next, I will introduce to you the intercity transportation methods in North, China, and South Vietnam. You can take the time required into your itinerary planning to make the entire journey smoother.

Intercity transportation in North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Lu Long Bay, Sapa, Quang Phu Golf Village):

Hanoi – Halong Bay: Usually cruise ships can arrange shuttle buses departing from the old town of Hoan Kiem Lake. 3 hours drive
Hanoi – Ninh Binh Lulong Bay: medium-sized luxury cars are available
Hanoi – Quang Phu Football: The local travel agency will arrange a shuttle bus to go there
Hanoi – Sapa: It takes more than 6 hours to drive. It is recommended to take a sleeper train to Lao Cai Station, and then transfer to a shuttle bus or take a direct long-distance bus.



For example, the two most recommended bus companies currently going directly to Sapa are Kadam and Sapa Open Tour. A comparison table of the three bus companies is provided below for your reference.




Intercity transportation between China and Vietnam (Da Nang, Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, My Son Holy Land, Hue):
Starting from Da Nang, you can take the Limousine, a medium-sized luxury car, to Ba Na Hills, Hoi An, My Son Holy Land, Hue and other scenic spots.

Route	One-way fare (VND)	One-way fare (approximately NT$)	Travel time
Da Nang → Hoi An	150,000 VND	200 TWD	45 minutes
Da Nang→Hue	250,000 VND	330 TWD	3 hours
Da Nang → Ba Na Hills	350,000 VND	460 TWD	1 hours

Additional instructions:

The above prices are average reference prices. The actual cost may vary depending on the season, vehicle model and purchase channel. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Most bus companies provide hotel pick-up and drop-off services. Some routes also have shuttle buses. ) option, the price may be slightly lower.



Intercity transportation in South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat, Nha Trang, Mui Ne):

Ho Chi Minh City – Mui Ne, Vung Tau: You can take medium-sized limousine buses and sleeper buses
Ho Chi Minh – Da Lat: It takes 8 hours to travel by sleeper bus. It is recommended to take a domestic flight, which only takes 1 hour.
Dalat – Nha Trang: It is more suitable to take a medium-sized luxury car, the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang: You can take a sleeper train for 12 to 15 hours, or take a domestic flight, about 1.5 hours

Destination	Transportation	Travel time	One way fare (NTD)	Other
Ho Chi Minh - Mui Ne	Medium luxury limousine bus	4-5 hours	400
Ho Chi Minh-Vung Tau	Medium luxury limousine bus	2-3 hours	200
Ho Chi Minh-Nha Trang	Airplane	1 hour	1,500 ~ 3,000	VietJet Air Vietnam Airlines Jetstar Pacific
Ho Chi Minh - Dalat	Airplane	40 minutes	1,200 ~ 2,500	VietJet Air Bamboo Airways Vietnam Airlines

Vietnam free travel planning and attraction recommendations



Due to the long transportation time required between tourist attractions in various cities in Vietnam, and the limited number of days off, it is a bit difficult to visit them all at once. If it is your first time to travel to Vietnam independently, the editor recommends that you first choose one of the regions in North, Central and South Vietnam to experience the local culture in depth.

Project	North Vietnam	Central Vietnam	South Vietnam	Phu Quoc Island
Major cities/attractions	Hanoi Ninh Binh Lok Long Bay Sapa Halong Bay	Da Nang Hoi An Hue Hue	Ho Chi Minh Mui Ne Nha Trang Nha Trang	Pearl Island Amusement Park Safari Park Sunset Town
Best travel season	10 ~ 3 Month	4 ~ 8 Month	12 ~ 4 Month	11 ~ 3 Month
Rainy season	5 ~ 8 Month	10 ~ 12 Month	5 ~ 10 Month	5 ~ 10 Month
Featured experience	• Halong Bay Cruise • Canoe experience • Hiking • Train journey	• Golden Buddha's Hand Bridge • Customized Ao Dai • Fishing in the fishing village • Bamboo lantern making	• Floating market • Cu Chi Tunnels Tour • Urban nightlife	• Cross-sea cable car • Theme park • Snorkeling and island hopping • Beach party
Eligible passengers	• Culture lovers • Photography enthusiasts • Nature Explorer	• Literary Youth Traveler • Beach vacation • Cultural experiencer	• Urban Explorer • Food lovers • History buffs	• Vacation and relaxation • Family parenting • Honeymoon trip

North Vietnam free travel plan: Hanoi, Lulong Bay, Halong Bay, Sapa, Quang Phu Ball

Itinerary planning suggestions for North Vietnam can be divided into scenic spots around Hanoi and scenic spots in the bay. It is recommended to arrange 1~2 days for Hanoi city tour, and 2~3 days for bay cruise.



Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and an ancient capital with a history of thousands of years. Its architectural style is deeply influenced by Chinese culture, which can be seen from the Temple of Literature and Imperial College, the first university in Vietnam, Hoan Kiem Lake and the 36 ancient streets with the history of various traditional Vietnamese industries. . In addition, Hanoi Cathedral, Hanoi Opera House, the French Quarter and many elegant European-style buildings left over from the French colonial period can be seen harmoniously coexisting with modern skyscrapers and department stores, showing a multicultural look. In addition, Hanoi's food is rich and diverse, with all kinds of food from the south to the north of Vietnam gathered together, perfectly reflecting the traditional flavor of Vietnam. Friends who like culture, history and food must not miss it!




Ninh Bình

Also known as Lulong Bay, the famous scenic spot is Chang'an Scenic Area. Lulong Bay is known as the "Halong Bay on land" and is famous for its magnificent karst landforms. The limestone peaks stand among the rice fields and the scenery is picturesque. Visitors can take a boat trip through the mountain streams and explore mysterious caves.



Halong Bay

Halong Bay is Vietnam's most famous natural landscape, located in Quang Ninh Province and listed as a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO. There are nearly 2,000 limestone islands in the bay with different shapes, forming a spectacular maritime stone forest. Visitors can take boat tours, explore caves, and admire strange rock formations and secluded beaches. It is recommended that you arrange a two-day and one-night five-star cruise in Halong Bay to hop islands and have a great time!



Sapa

Sapa is located on the Sino-Vietnamese border in northwest Vietnam. It is a beautiful European-style mountain town and a summer resort during the French colonial period. It is world-famous for its Fansipan Peak, the highest peak in Indochina with an altitude of 3,134 meters, and its terraced rice fields. Sapa is one of the largest ethnic minority settlements in Vietnam, retaining rich ethnic minority cultures such as the Black Miao and Yi ethnic groups. Visitors can experience the local market culture, taste special delicacies, and explore virgin forests and waterfalls. Don’t miss these ten must-visit attractions in Sapa!



Quang Phu Cau

Quang Phu Cau is a traditional incense-making village about 35 kilometers away from the center of Hanoi. This village in Yinghe County is world-famous for its unique incense-making craftsmanship. It takes about an hour to drive from Hanoi Old Quarter. It is recommended to choose a chartered car service. The entrance fee to the village is about NT$40 ~ NT$52. Visitors can take photos freely with no time limit. The best time to take pictures is in the morning or afternoon, when the warm sunlight shines on the pink incense baskets, presenting a dreamy scenery. To avoid crowds, it is recommended to avoid going during local festivals in Vietnam

Are you ready to explore the Old Town of Hanoi in depth, visit Halong Bay, a World Natural Heritage Site, visit Lulong Bay where the movie "King Kong" was filmed, and climb Fansipan Peak, the highest peak in Indochina? Come explore North Vietnam with its delicious food, mixed history and world-class natural landscapes! Choose your departure date, book your flight, and leave the rest to Alto!



China-Vietnam free travel plan: Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue

China and Vietnam are a very attractive tourist destination, with affordable prices, good public security, and a combination of natural beauty and rich culture. With Da Nang as the center, surrounding attractions include Hoi An Ancient Town, Hue Imperial City, karst landforms, My Son Holy Land, Ba Na Mountain, etc. It has not only seaside scenery, but also beautiful mountains and rivers and historical relics.



Da Nang

Da Nang is the largest port city in central Vietnam, with beautiful beaches and modern facilities. The famous My Khe Beach stretches for several kilometers with clear water and white sand. The famous Guanyin Statue on Son Tra Peninsula overlooks the coast of Da Nang. The Golden Bridge and French Village on Ba Na Hills are popular attractions. Dragon Bridge, Five Elements Mountain and Cham Sculpture Museum show the cultural charm of the city. Da Nang is also a food paradise. Street food combines tradition and innovation. Don’t miss the top 10 must-eat food in Da Nang when you travel freely in Da Nang!



Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is located on the outskirts of Da Nang City, with an altitude of 1,487 meters. It is a famous summer resort. Take the world's longest single-cable cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy stunning views along the way. The hilltop French village has restored the French colonial architectural style of the early 20th century, making it feel like you are in Europe. The iconic "Golden Bridge" is held up by huge stone hands and has become a popular check-in spot.



Hoi An

Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its well-preserved ancient town. The must-visit attractions in Hoi An include Hoi An Ancient Town, Thu Bon River, An Bang Beach, Japanese Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, etc., and then witness the prosperous past of this ancient port city. Hoi An used to be an important hub for commercial port trade. There are many handicraft experiences with centuries-old craftsmanship, ranging from leather, wood carving, cooking, lanterns, chocolate, to fishing villages. It is recommended to arrange 8 handicraft experiences in Hoi An Ancient Town to enjoy The joy of DIY! Hoi An used to be an important hub for commercial port and trade, and there are many hand-made experiences of centuries-old craftsmanship, ranging from leather, wood carving, cooking, lanterns, chocolate, to fishing villages and fishing.



Hue

Hue was once the capital of Vietnam's last dynasty and has rich historical and cultural heritage. The most famous attraction is the well-preserved Forbidden City, which showcases the glory of the royal family in the past. The Tian Mu Temple and Kai Dinh Imperial Tombs on the Xiangjiang River are each unique in their own way. Hue is also famous for its exquisite palace cuisine. The city is a perfect blend of history, culture and natural beauty, with beautiful riverside views, making it an ideal place to learn about Vietnamese history and culture.



My Son Sanctuary

My Son Holy Land, located near Hoi An, is an important archaeological site in Vietnam and is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The remains of the temple complex of the Champa Kingdom from the 4th to 13th centuries are preserved here. The red brick towers are scattered in the lush valley, showing the unique Cham architectural art. Although damaged by war, more than 70 temples remain. My Son Holy Land is not only a paradise for history lovers, but also an important window to understand Vietnam’s ancient civilization.



South Vietnam free travel plan: Ho Chi Minh City, Dalat, Nha Trang, Mui Ne

South Vietnam is centered on Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). The Mekong Delta is famous for its winding waterways, floating markets and rural scenery. With its beautiful beaches and islands, Nha Trang is the perfect holiday destination. Dalat has a cool climate and is known for its French architecture and romantic atmosphere. South Vietnamese cuisine is rich and diverse, ranging from street food to fine dining restaurants. There are also many historical sites preserved here, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Reunification Palace, which bear witness to the history of the Vietnam War.

Ho Chi Minh City



Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and was once known as Saigon. It is a metropolitan area with a population of 20 million and is also the vibrant economic center of Vietnam. In addition to retaining French colonial buildings, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh People's City Hall, Ho Chi Minh Opera House, and the Central Post Office, there are also the most modern high-rise buildings such as the 451-meter-high Landmark 81 and the Bitexco Financial Building, which overlook the Saigon River and Ho Chi Minh City. metropolitan area. In addition, Ho Chi Minh also has famous Vietnam War attractions such as the Reunification Palace (the old South Vietnamese Presidential Palace), the War Remnants Museum, Chợ Lớn, the largest Chinese settlement in Vietnam, the coffee apartments and Ben Thanh Market, which are the most popular place for tourists to take pictures. The street food and coffee culture is rich and colorful.

Cu Chi Tunnel



The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. This tunnel was originally an underground battle tunnel dug by peasant soldiers for 20 years during Vietnam's resistance to French rule. It was not until 1960 during the Vietnam War that it was transformed into an important underground base for anti-American tunnel warfare. It was built by the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam (Vietnam Communist Party). It has a total length of 200 kilometers and is divided into three layers by countless tunnels less than 80 centimeters wide. Interlaced. At that time, the Vietnamese army used the intricate labyrinth-like tunnels to conduct guerrilla warfare. It was the most mysterious and important underground base during the Vietnam War. It is highly recommended that everyone experience drilling into the Cu Chi Tunnels, feel the wartime life while avoiding the enemy, and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese national history and culture!

Mekong River



The Mekong River is known as the cradle of culture in Vietnam and Indochina, and can be called the mother river of this land. It is highly recommended to experience the local hand-operated boat tour. By taking a boat and wandering among the rivers, you can enjoy a close-up view of the patchwork of sandbars and islands, appreciate the unique customs of people living on the water, gain an in-depth understanding of the daily life of local fishermen, and add more wonderful memories to your free travel in North Vietnam.

Da Lat



Dalat is located on the southern plateau and was a summer resort in South Vietnam during the French colonial period. The climate is cool and pleasant, with summers not exceeding 28 degrees Celsius. Here you will find the Baodaisha Palace of the Kuypup dynasty, French church villas and gardens left over from the French colonial period, so it is known as "Little Paris". In addition, Dalat is also famous for its developed local agriculture of fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, etc. You can find many unique online beauty cafes and online beauty campsites in the suburbs. There are natural landscapes such as waterfalls and lakes in the surrounding area, which are also suitable for outdoor sports.

Nha Trang



Nha Chong is the largest seaside city in the southeast, famous for its beautiful coastline, natural mineral mud baths and diving resorts. There are the famous Nha Trang Catholic Stone Church, the thousand-year-old Cham Pagoda, and Long Son Temple. There is also a Vietnamese version of Disney's Pearl Island Park, complete with numerous resorts and water activities. In addition, there are also many seafood delicacies, so don’t forget to look for opportunities to taste them!

Mui Ne



Mui Ne is a resort town in Binh Thuan Province, famous for its red and white sand dunes and coconut grove beaches. It is suitable for water sports such as surfing and kitesurfing. In addition, the nearby Fairy Creek attracts many tourists because of its unique landforms. Mui Ne has a strong fishing village atmosphere, so don’t forget to taste the fresh seafood here if you have the chance! South Vietnam integrates nature, culture, food and history, and combines modern urban style and traditional cultural characteristics. It is a vibrant and diverse tourist destination.

Phu Quoc Island free travel plan

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest island, located in the Gulf of Siam and famous for its pristinely beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters. This island paradise has 150 kilometers of coastline with fine sand, perfect for leisurely vacations and water sports.

In addition, Phu Quoc Island has the craziest amusement facility group in Vietnam, including the Vietnamese version of Disney VinWonders, the safari park Vinpearl Safari, the Mediterranean Town Cross-sea Cable Car built by Sun World Group, and the Aquatopia water and land amusement facilities in Xiangdao Natural Park. . International resort groups such as JM Marriot, InterContinental Hotels, Sheraton, etc. also have locations in Phu Quoc Island!

VinWonders Phú Quốc



Pearl Island Fantasy Park is the largest theme park in Vietnam, covering an area of ​​approximately 17 hectares. Themed with a fairy tale castle, the park is divided into six major areas, including exciting rides, a refreshing water park, and the world's largest sea turtle zoo. Colorful buildings and whimsical designs transport visitors into a whimsical world full of surprises. Both adults and children can find their own happy time here.

VinPearl Safari Phú Quốc



Pearl Island Wildlife Park is the largest wildlife park in Vietnam. As a sister park of Pearl Island Fantasy Park, it provides visitors with a unique wildlife exploration experience. The park brings together 150 species of rare animals from all over the world, with a total of 3,000 animals, making it a paradise for animal lovers. Visitors can board a park bus to safely observe a variety of amazing large animals up close.

Grand World Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc World is an all-weather city that never sleeps, allowing you to experience the strong European style in Vietnam! The park is designed with a beautiful shopping street based on the theme of Venice canals. No matter day or night, it is full of various recreational facilities and attractions, including romantic gondola rides, childlike Teddy Bear Museums, ancient cities showing Vietnamese traditional culture, etc. A kind reminder to everyone, there is no charge to enter "Phu Quoc World", but some facilities and performances there are chargeable. In addition, compared to other city attractions in Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island has many performances. Interested travelers can make reservations in advance!

Complete information sheet of Phu Quoc Island Show:

Pearl Island Fantasy Park → Central Castle Closing Show
Pearl Island Wildlife Park → South African Zulu dance performance, bird feeding show, animal feeding show
Phu Quoc World → Vietnamese National Essence Show, Closing Venice Mapping Show
Sun World Mediterranean Town → Kiss of the Sea Water Dance Show

Dinh Cậu Temple

Dinh Cau Temple is one of the most representative cultural landmarks in Phu Quoc Island, with a history of more than 80 years. This temple, which combines traditional Vietnamese architectural features, is located on a protruding rock by the sea. It consists of the Dragon King Hall and a historical lighthouse. It is an important belief center for local fishermen to pray for a safe and abundant harvest. There are walking trails surrounding the temple, making it a great location to watch the sunset as it sets. There are also white sand bays and numerous street vendors around the temple, where visitors can enjoy beach activities and taste local snacks such as seafood, rice noodles and spring rolls.

Duong Dong Night Market



Duong Dong Night Market is the largest and busiest night market in Phu Quoc Island, and it is also the best place for tourists to experience the local nightlife. The night market is open from 5pm to midnight and offers a wide variety of food options along the street, including authentic Vietnamese French bread, refreshing coconut ice, fresh seafood dishes, etc. In addition to delicious food, the market also has vendors selling local specialties such as dried fruits, traditional snacks, handicrafts and souvenirs.

Duong Dong Church



Duong Dong Church was built in 1955 and is one of the most historic religious buildings in Phu Quoc Island. The church was originally built to serve the northern Vietnamese immigrants who worked on the island's rubber plantations. Although it declined for a time due to the failure of rubber plantation and the emigration of the population, with the booming tourism industry in Phu Quoc Island, it gradually became a local Catholic again. Center of faith. The church building retains the typical Gothic style, with its white spire towering into the sky and solemn and solemn. Every Easter and Christmas, the church holds grand festivals, decorating the inside and outside of the church with lights and decorations, attracting many believers and tourists.

Mediterranean Town (Sunset Town)

Phu Quoc Island Mediterranean Town (Sunset Town) is a coastal resort built by Sunset Group, located near the quiet beach in the south of Phu Quoc Island. This town fully displays the Mediterranean style. The buildings are mainly white and blue, with red sloping roof tiles, showing typical Santorini architectural features. The park has winding stone paths, delicate arches and colorful flower walls. The central square has a fountain and an amphitheater, and regularly hosts cultural performances and market activities. You can stroll along the promenade or enjoy the sea breeze at an outdoor café. At night, the town illuminated by lights becomes even more romantic.

Aquatopia water park



Aquatopia Water Park is an important attraction of Xiang Dao Nature Park. It was built by an internationally renowned water park design team and integrates Vietnamese cultural elements and modern entertainment facilities. The park is divided into different themed areas, including the thrilling high-speed slide area, which has more than 20 unique slides, such as free-fall slides, whirlpool slides, etc.; there is a happy water play area suitable for parents and children to have fun together. There are interactive water play facilities and shallow water game pools; there are also surf pools that simulate waves and an infinity pool that extends to the seaside. It is recommended to reserve 4-6 hours to experience various facilities in the park.

Sunworld Cable Car (Cáp Treo Hòn Thơm)



The Phu Quoc Sea Cable Car is a breathtaking engineering masterpiece and is the longest sea cable car system in the world. It cleverly connects Phu Quoc Island with neighboring Hong Island, presenting tourists with a unique aerial journey. Taking the cable car, you will have the opportunity to overlook the stunning coastline of Phu Quoc Island and the surrounding islands from a high altitude. Take in world-class scenery at once. In addition to the above attractions, you can also go island hopping to other islands and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island!

Recommended food for free travel in Vietnam

Vietnamese eating habits

Vietnam’s food habits are deeply influenced by geography, climate and culture, and have developed many unique flavors and characteristics:

1. Emphasizing diversity and fresh ingredients, Vietnamese cuisine often uses fresh vegetables and herbs, which not only adds to the flavor of the dishes, but also makes the overall eating habits healthier.

2. Vietnamese cuisine is generally lighter. Compared with the cuisine of other Southeast Asian countries, it uses less fat and emphasizes the original taste of the food.

3. Vietnamese cuisine pays attention to the balance of sour, sweet, salty and spicy. Fish sauce, lemon juice and sugar are often used to adjust the taste to make the sour, sweet, salty and spicy intertwined.

Must-try food in Vietnam: Vietnamese Beef Pho (Phở)



Pho is Vietnam’s national delicacy and can be found in Vietnamese restaurants around the world. The locals are used to having brunch here. The soup, made from rice flour, meat and spices, is the essence and takes a long time to cook. Just like braised pork rice in Taiwan, pho is an important civilian delicacy in Vietnam.

Must-eat food in Vietnam: Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Gỏi cuốn)



Also known as raw spring rolls, they are made with lettuce, herbs, rice noodles and meat as the main ingredients, and are served with peanut sauce or fish sauce. There are many variations across Vietnam, such as the Sapa region which even has salmon spring rolls. Mutton, beef, tofu, even Saba, you can eat raw spring rolls made with raw salmon caught in the stream.

Must-eat food in Vietnam: Vietnamese French Bread (Bánh mì)



This is a representative of Vietnamese-French cuisine and is available all over the country. Combining crispy French bread with meat, vegetables and special sauces, it has a rich texture and is a classic of Vietnamese street food culture.

Must-try food in Vietnam: Vietnamese Seafood Pancakes (Bánh Xèo)



Vietnamese seafood pancake (Bánh Xèo) is a popular street food in Vietnam. Its name comes from the "sizzling" sound when the pancake is cooked. This delicacy is made from rice flour, turmeric powder and coconut milk to make a golden and crispy crust, and is filled with shrimp, pork slices, bean sprouts and green onions. When enjoying, the pancake is wrapped in lettuce leaves, paired with fresh herbs such as mint and basil, and dipped in special fish sauce to perfectly display the characteristics of Vietnamese food culture.

Must-try food in Vietnam: Vietnamese Crystal Dumplings (Bánh Bột Lọc)



Bánh Bột Lọc is a traditional Vietnamese salty snack. It is made of pork or shrimp wrapped in transparent rice noodles. It is often wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed. It has a soft and refreshing taste and is very popular.

Must-eat Vietnamese food: Sticky Rice (Xôi)



Xoi comes with a variety of ingredients, including vegetarian options like beans and lotus seeds, and non-vegetarian options like a variety of meats. Each ingredient imparts a unique flavor, making it an ideal choice for rice lovers.

Must-eat food in Vietnam: Vietnamese BBQ Rice Noodles (Bún chả)



Bún chả is a traditional Vietnamese dish consisting of chargrilled pork meatballs, rice noodles and fresh vegetables. Its uniqueness lies in the grilling method of pork meatballs. The grilled meatballs emit an attractive aroma and are deeply loved by Vietnamese.

Recommended accommodation for independent travel in Vietnam

Accommodation options in Vietnam range from luxury resorts to budget hotels. It is recommended that you select based on factors such as travel destination, budget considerations, location convenience, facility requirements, safety considerations, etc.

There are four types of accommodation for independent travel in Vietnam:

Hotel: Comfortable and safe, suitable for all types of travelers.
Youth hostels: Affordable and suitable for backpackers.
B&B: experience local life, suitable for in-depth travel.
Resort: For a relaxing getaway, usually on a beach or in a rural area.

Recommended accommodation booking websites in Vietnam

If you want to book accommodation for independent travel in Vietnam, you can go to major well-known booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia. The price for booking via mobile phone is likely to be cheaper than booking via desktop, so take advantage of it!

Recommended Vietnamese souvenirs

Vietnamese souvenirs are rich and diverse, perfectly presenting the characteristics of local food, culture and history. It is a good way to share the beautiful memories of traveling in Vietnam with family and friends!

Vietnamese Coffee



Did you know that Vietnam is actually the second largest producer of coffee beans in the world? Because of this, Vietnam is also called a coffee paradise by coffee addicts. Whether you want to buy coffee beans or ground coffee powder, there are many brands to choose from, and the prices are very sweet!

▶︎Recommended brands

Trung Nguyên Coffee
Squirrel Coffee Con Soc
Mr Viet

Vietnamese scented candles



There are many local candle fragrance brands in Vietnam, whether they are the well-known Carpe Diem or niche brands, they are all suitable as gifts.​​

Vietnamese perfume



Perfume production in Vietnam dates back to the French colonial period, but recently Vietnam has also begun to develop high-quality niche perfumes. Most of them are made of natural spices and are affordable. It is a very good gift choice!

▶︎Recommended brands

Miss Saigon perfume: The bottle is designed with a girl wearing Ao Dai, which is quite Vietnamese!
d'Annam: Founded in 2023, it is a very emerging and niche perfume brand from Vietnam and created by Vietnamese perfumers. The brand name is named after the Annam Protectorate established by France, which means "I am from Annam". The style of their perfumes is relatively calm and low-key, but at the same time very elegant and poetic. They are not ostentatious, but they all illustrate clear themes and stories.

vietnamese chocolate



Vietnam’s chocolate culture is gradually emerging, especially the fine chocolate represented by the Marou brand. These chocolates are known for their Single Origin and Bean to Bar production methods, ensuring that each piece of chocolate can showcase the unique flavor of cocoa beans from different regions.

▶︎Recommended brands: Marou, Alluvia

Phu Quoc Island cashew nuts and peanuts



In Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, peanuts and cashews are famous local specialties with unique flavors. Phu Quoc's peanuts are known for their variety of flavors, such as chili and mustard, and are crunchy and nutritious, making them a great snack or drink pairing. Cashew nuts are the most popular with skin on them. They are specially roasted to give them a rich aroma and crispy texture. They are often used in salads or yogurt to add flavor. These specialties are not only representatives of local cuisine, but also a popular choice for tourists to buy souvenirs.

Vietnamese mung bean cake



The taste of Vietnamese mung bean cake is very different from Taiwanese mung bean cake. When you open it, you will find that there is actually a small packaging paper. Not too sweet, perfect with tea or coffee. Suitable for gift giving and personal use.

Vietnam Free Travel FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to travel independently in Vietnam?

Let’s take a 5-day and 4-night trip as an example. The cost for a person to travel independently in Vietnam is approximately NT$20,000~30,000, but the actual price will also be affected by factors such as accommodation, air tickets, dining habits, transportation methods, etc.

How much foreign cash can I bring into Vietnam?

According to Vietnamese government regulations, when entering or leaving Vietnam, if you carry foreign currency cash exceeding US$5,000 or cash exceeding VND15 million, you must declare it to Vietnamese Customs in accordance with the law.

Do you need to tip when traveling in Vietnam?

There is a culture of tipping in Vietnam, but there is no hard and fast rule that you must tip. If you are satisfied with the service provided, it is recommended that you give an appropriate tip depending on the nature of the service. The Vietnamese tipping amount table is provided below for your reference.

What are the cultural shocks of traveling to Vietnam?

The concept of time is different from Taiwan: in Vietnam, if the other party makes an appointment with you at 8 o'clock, the actual time may not start until 30 to 40 minutes later. It is recommended that you add 10 to 20 minutes to the actual start time of the trip to ensure that subsequent activities will not be delayed.

Roadside culture of sitting on the ground: On the roadside in Vietnam, many people sit on low stools with a cup of coffee or eat at roadside stalls. Local people in Vietnam said that the weather in Vietnam is very hot. Sitting on the roadside and enjoying the cool breeze with a cup of iced coffee is one of the greatest enjoyments in the world. In general indoors, you will also see that every household and store has altars to worship the earth god or ancestors, which are placed on the ground. It is very down-to-earth!

There are many zeros on the menus and product prices: This is because the Vietnamese dong currency is small (the smallest banknote is 500 Vietnamese dong). Many restaurant menus and convenience store prices are listed in units of "thousands", or even omitted directly. The last three 0

Chinese characters can be seen on almost all temples and buildings in Vietnam: Vietnam has been using Chinese characters for more than a thousand years. After the war between China and France, the use of Roman pinyin for Chinese characters was abolished, so many ancient buildings still retain Chinese characters.
You need to pay a tip when using public toilets: Public toilets in Vietnam follow the example of Europe, and you need to pay a cleaning fee of 1,000 to 2,000 VND.

There are more motorcycles than Taiwan: Rapidly developing Vietnam has made people affordable to buy highly maneuverable motorcycles. When you first arrive in Vietnam, you may not know how to cross the road through the traffic of motorcycles, but don’t worry, the local tour guide will teach you step by step!

Are there any local customs or taboos in Vietnam?

When entering a temple or religious place, do not wear overly revealing clothing, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. Do not point your fingers at Buddha statues or point at religious objects with your feet, as this is considered blasphemous. Photography may be prohibited at some military installations or government buildings, so it is recommended to ask politely before taking photos. Avoid touching other people's heads, including small children. In Vietnam, the head is considered a sacred body part. In certain places, the left hand is considered unclean, so it is recommended to use the right hand for social interactions whenever possible.

What to pack for a self-guided tour in Vietnam?



In order to have more fun during your free trip to Vietnam, it is very important to pack your luggage properly. In addition to important travel documents, don’t forget mobile power supplies and charging cables, personal toiletries, portable medicines and electronic audio-visual supplies. Read the packing guide for independent travel in Vietnam now, and be fully prepared before departure!

Do I need vaccinations to travel to Vietnam?

The overall climate in Vietnam is hot and humid. In addition to paying attention to hygiene when eating, you should also be prepared to prevent mosquitoes when going out to avoid the spread of dengue fever. If you have health concerns, you may consider going to a hospital to receive the hepatitis A vaccine and measles vaccine before traveling abroad.