solo travel to vietnam from india

• Middle East

© 2024 - All rights reserved. Designed and developed by Fork Media Group

Vietnam Solo Travel Guide From India: Everything To Know

Is the backpacker in you craving a solo international trip on a shoestring budget? If yes, then Vietnam with its dewy mountains, long stretches of rice fields, and rolling waterfalls, is the perfect budget-friendly travel destination for you. Vietnam has also recently been listed in the world’s 10 most incredible destinations which are surprisingly cheap. Recently, Neha from Curly Tales went on a 5-day solo trip to Vietnam and explored the beauty of it all – and she loved it! So here’s everything you need to know for a solo Vietnam trip from India.

How To Reach

Vietnam lies in the East of the Indochina peninsula and is easily reachable by air. The distance between India and Vietnam is around 3194 kilometers and the flight time is about 4 hours. Neha from Curly Tales had a great flight experience with Vietjet who had organized some of the best evenings to promote Vietnamese Tourism. The flight was a smooth ride – all thanks to Vietjet’s SkyBoss Service. Neha’s flight experience with Vietjet involved priority check-in, security access to the Luxury Lounge, Complimentary food & beverages on board, and much more. You can travel to Vietnam and the Vietnamese cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc via Vietjet through a direct flight from Mumbai, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

Indian citizens get visas on arrival in Vietnam. However, you do have to apply for it online beforehand. Also, carrying a passport-size photo is a must. The whole process of applying for the visa to stamping costs around ₹3000.

Currency And Sim Card

Two important things to note once you land in Vietnam –

• Get your currency exchange sorted. The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong. The exchange rate as of 2022 for 1 Indian Rupee is 296 Vietnamese Dong (1 INR = 293.647 VND). Travel tip – Carry USD over INR to exchange the currency for Vietnamese Dong as they may not always have INR available.
• Get a Vietnamese sim card. It might cost you around ₹700.

How To Commute Within Vietnam?

Once you arrive in Vietnam, you can take domestic flights to travel across the different cities there. You can also book scooters which cost around ₹400-₹500 per day. To book cabs and bikes you can use the Grab cab app.

What To Do?

The powdery white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and the many quaint hamlets make Vietnam a scenic paradise. The land of the “Ascending Dragon,” has a lot in store for tourists.

Also read: 5 Stunning Infinity Pool Properties In Vietnam To Book Under ₹1500

Explore Hoi An

Hoi An, a town rich in history and architecture, holds its shine with fancy lanterns. This UNESCO Cultural heritage site is best known for its simplicity. Hoi An is located at a distance of 124 km to the south of Hue and takes around 19 hours by road. However, the route is a delight to travel. With narrow canals, pristine, blue, and clear beaches, and friendly locals, Hoi An totally ups the charm of Vietnam.

Solo traveller Neha from Curly Tales expressed that she was pleasantly surprised by its clean surroundings and the availability of varied vegetarian food. Some places you can visit in Hoi An are Vin Wonderland, Cam Thanh or the Bamboo Boat Village, and Cam Thaou Beach.

Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

Located about a kilometer away from the main city, Hoi An Ancient town used to be a small-scale trading port. The best way to explore the town is to enjoy its culture and heritage during the day and witness the well-lit streets with lanterns and lively restaurants.

Visit Cua Dai Beach

Cua Dai beach in Hoi An is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. With soft white sand and blue warm waters, this beach literally translates to ‘Big Sea Mouth.’ An interesting fact about this beach is that it has been rated as Asia’s most beautiful beach by TripAdvisor. However, due to erosion, the tourist influx to the beach has lessened in recent years. But that shouldn’t stop you from exploring its beauty. Totally a must-visit in Hoi An.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Curly Tales (@curly.tales)

Try Vietnamese Street Food

Want to engulf the best of Vietnamese culture? Well, exploring its street food is the first step to it! And the Vietnamese market has a ton of those – from spring rolls, and Banh mi, to Vietnamese ice cream, there’s a lot for you. There are also numerous vegetarian options here. So just have fun and eat your heart out!

The nightlife at Hoi An is very happening, and you will be welcomed by loud music and dazzling clubs. The drinks are quite cheap, so do not miss out on getting happy and high!

Also read: 5 Unique Kinds Of Coffee In Vietnam All Coffee-Lovers HAVE TO Try!

Where To Stay?

Solo traveller Neha from Curly Tales chose ALMANITY WELLNESS RESORT as her stay in Hoi An. The resort is located in the heart of the city and offers all the comfort and luxury. However, you can always go for budget-friendly hotels in the city. There are many budget hotels available at Hoi An with rooms starting at just ₹400 per night.

Is Vietnam Safe For A Solo Traveller

Yes, it is! If you are a solo traveller and are apprehensive about safety in Vietnam, then let us tell you, there’s nothing to worry about! Solo Traveller Neha from Curly Tales expressed that it was safe to walk around in the streets even late at night. And fun too!

Now that you have an idea about planning a trip to Vietnam and exploring the international tourist destination, when are you planning one? Do tell us in the comments section!

Also, to watch the whole video of ‘Travelling from India to Vietnam’, click on the Curly Tales YouTube video below!

Join The # CT Squad!

Sign up for our daily email and get the best delivered straight to your inbox. We pinky promise to make it awesome!

Solo Travel in Vietnam – The Only EPIC Guide You Need to Check Out

Solo travel in Vietnam is one of the best experiences you can have in SE Asia. A solo female travel traveler since last 5 years and having explored Vietnam for over a month, I can say that traveling alone in Vietnam is fascinating, adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.

If you are planning of travelling Vietnam alone or wondering whether a solo trip to Vietnam is right for you, you can come to the right place. Because in this Vietnam travel blog, I’m sharing all about solo travel in Vietnam – safety tips, what to expect, how to plan a trip, costs and other commonly asked questions.

Sit back, grab your coffee and find out how traveling Vietnam solo is one of the excellent experiences.

I’m sure you have a lot of questions and doubts about solo travel in Vietnam. So I am going to dispel and answer each of them in this exhaustive Vietnam solo travel guide.

Is it safe to solo travel in Vietnam?

YES. Vietnam is one of the safest countries to travel alone. Solo travel in Vietnam will be a total package – where you will feel a whole roller-coaster of emotions – thrilling, inspiring, eye-opening, challenging, tiring and ultimately feeling excellent about your entire trip.

So yes, Vietnam is one of the countries safe for traveling alone, especially if you are beginning your solo travel adventures outside your country.

Continue reading to know some safety tips for women traveling alone, and in general for all solo travelers.

Vietnam Solo Travel – What are some tips before you visit Vietnam?

If you are wondering, ‘what should I know as a first time visitor about traveling in Vietnam?’, let me clarify a few things. Vietnam is relatively a popular destination, especially among solo travelers because it is friendly towards solo travelers, safe and comfortable. And this also means that solo travel in Vietnam needs some preparation. 

Here ar e some things to know before traveling solo in Vietnam

• Weather in Vietnam is fickle  – One thing that is not reliable about Vietnam is its weather, which keeps changing often. On a single day, you can experience rain, chilly winds, sunshine and clouds. Yup, so prepare for all sorts of weather, irrespective of the city!
• Humidity  – Weather can be unpredictable, but the constants are humidity and hotness. If you are not used to humid weather, the chances are that you will feel exhausted and drained, pretty quickly. One of the ways to beat this is to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Lot – as many times as you can.
• You cannot possess drugs  – Drugs are illegal in Vietnam. All of them. So don’t try to sneak in any form of drugs, hoping for any concession for foreigners, because there is none. You will be offered, but you should refuse. Carrying drugs is a punishable crime, so steer clear of them.
• Vietnam Visa  – Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality, so make sure to get it sorted. That should be your top priority.
• Beware of land mines  – In Vietnam and Laos, there are hundreds of active land mines or UXO that were dropped decades ago during wars, scattered especially in the countryside. So if you notice any sign to not trespass, it is best to obey the sign.
• Vietnam is a conservative country  – Despite the locals opening up to foreign travelers in recent years, the people are conservative and traditional. Sure, you might not see that in bigger cities and touristy places, but it will be evident once you step into rural parts of Vietnam. So keep this in mind and respect the norm.
• Follow the rules  – There are some monuments and attractions where photography is prohibited, especially those that belong to the government. It is essential to follow the rules, as not following is an offence and you can be fined.
• Wear a helmet while driving a motorbike  – Vietnam is known for fatal motorbike accidents, mostly of international tourists, so don’t be one of them. Wear a helmet, whether you are riding or a pillion.
• Don’t be deceived by Vietnam’s map  – The map of Vietnam looks thin, but let me tell you, the country is enormous! Solo travel in Vietnam is daunting enough and an achievement in itself, so don’t assume that you can travel everywhere in the country, especially if you are here for 2 to 3 weeks. You must enjoy traveling solo in Vietnam, and it’s not a race to see a vast list of places.

I have written a detailed post where I share over 30 things to know before traveling to Vietnam. Go ahead and check that too.

What safety precautions should I take when travelling solo in Vietnam as a female? 

Traveling solo in Vietnam is fantastic, but solo travel needs its set of precautions. Taking general precautions and safety measures that apply to traveling to any destination will help you have a super trip. Here are some general solo travel tips for Vietnam for both men and women, and more specific Vietnam solo female travel tips in the next section.

General Vietnam solo travel tips

Safeguard your belongings

This one is obvious, but we all let our guard down sometimes, and that’s when a theft happens! Mobile and your bags are the primary targets, especially in bigger cities like Hanoi and Saigon. 

Keep your handbags and camera bags safe during all the times. The bigger cities are notorious for bag and mobile theft. People passing by snatch bags and mobiles, and also the motorbike riders, who grab bags when you are out walking or driving or traveling in buses or tuk-tuks. 

To avoid this, keep only the essentials with you. Carry handbags that you can wear on your body, making snatching impossible. Don’t carry more than a bag when you are out as more bags mean most of your attention goes in safeguarding them, along with more risks.

Don’t carry expensive stuff or a lot of cash

Don’t flash your fancy camera and phones out in public . It draws unwanted attention and entices theft, which is common in Saigon or Hanoi. 

Don’t carry a lot of cash, and wear a money belt or hide some money in your hidden pockets .  Don’t open your wallet in front of too many eye s; be discreet while making transactions.

Talk to locals

One of the rules of thumb while traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere is to take the help of locals by talking with them. You don’t have to strike up a conversation with every local.  Your hotel/hostel staff, tour operators, tour guides, tuk-tuk shop owners and locals like these who are in touch with tourists are the best bets . 

These locals usually speak fluent English and have excellent knowledge about costs, attractions, local places to eat, shop, where to drink and so on . You will be surprised by the immensely valuable insider tips that you will get from these people, apart from forming friendships!

Keep your travel documents secure 

Next to safeguarding your money and your electronic equipment comes securing your travel documents, especially your passport. Most hotels or guesthouses in Vietnam usually do not take your passport and keep it that way for best. 

What I do is make copies of relevant travel documents like passport, which I handover when they ask to deposit my passport. It usually works, and you can avoid giving your original documents.  Keep your passport and other tickets safe in a locker or your luggage at the hotel. Do not carry them with you when you go out for sightseeing .

Get the hang of Vietnamese currency

The Vietnamese Dong gets a handful when you withdraw from ATMs or get them at currency centres.  There are too many denominations and notes, so take time to figure out and sort. This way, you will avoid confusion when you transact as sometimes you might receive less than the actual change and lose money .

Meet people and make friends

Traveling solo in Vietnam doesn’t mean you have to be all alone all the time, right? There are times you might feel lonely too, or bored. Well, how do you beat these?  Go and meet people, and make some new friends, because that’s one of the fun things about traveling alone.

Whether at hostels, group tours, or locals that you randomly meet, being friendly and open will lead to memorable experiences. You will be surprised at how many fellow solo travelers you will come across, that will make for a great company. 

Don’t be shy or hesitant to make the first move. If you are an introvert like me, this might be challenging to you at first, but try it out, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the outcomes ! Meeting new people, listening to great stories, traveling and exploring new places with new friends are cool things to do as a solo traveler. Go ahead and try it!

There are many advantages to signing up for tours. It is one of the remarkable ways to meet new people and fellow solo travelers. And the good news about travel in Vietnam solo is that  there are plenty of open tours, mainly organized by hostels and guesthouses , where you are free to drop in any batch. 

Even if it is a walking tour or food tour run by your hostel, go ahead and sign up, especially if you are traveling solo alone for the first time.  You will meet new people, get to know about the place or food, and feel more confident.

Watch what you drink and eat

Whether Vietnam or anywhere else, watch out on what you eat and drink. Yes, you should try local delicacies and alcohol, but before doing so, you need to take certain precautions, especially in Vietnam. 

If you are drunk and you get attacked or robbed, it is less likely to make a case in your favour as drunk tourists and fussy foreigners are frowned upon not only in Vietnam but anywhere. You need to enjoy it, but you also have to be vigilant and sober. Read below further to know about tips for food safety in Vietnam.

Read and research thoroughly before booking

One of the exciting things about travel is planning.  Before you travel solo in Vietnam, do your preparation . Look up and read about cities, a bit about what to expect, weather, culture, people, safety, itinerary, etc. Sure, leave some elements of surprise, but get your basics done.

Before booking your accommodation, read the reviews on different sites carefully, check the location and neighbourhood around the hostels and hotels. Read the fine print, and check about the safety of the areas.  It is best to look out for  hostels and hotels that have a lot of great reviews everywhere . It means that the  place is trustworthy, and is safe to stay and enjoy .

Similarly,  read the reviews before booking any paid guided tours . Some tours are very cheap, but cheap sometimes mean bad experiences. The same goes for booking buses and transport too. Simply put, do a bit of your homework before your solo travel in Vietnam.

Get a Sim Card

One of the things that will help you while traveling alone in Vietnam is getting a local SIM card. Sure, you can manage through the WiFi, which you can get at hotels, hostels, cafes and some restaurants. 

But having  a constant source of the internet will help you with navigation , when you are out exploring, driving and walking on the unknown streets. The cellular packages are cheap, and it makes sense if you are spending about 2 or 3 weeks in Vietnam.  You can also stay connected and seek help if things go wrong . 

An alternative for navigation if you don’t want to buy a sim card is to download Maps.me app, which is an excellent app for offline maps, which you can use to navigate anywhere if you download maps.

Track your expenses

One of the things to take care of is to manage and track your expenses, which you can initially find challenging while traveling solo. I do somethings as a ritual to manage money, like, I  split  my  cash  and cards( both debit and credit) and  keep them in different bags . I often lose wallets, so this helps me to have a backup.

Vietnam is cheap, but it is still essential to know where your money goes . I take a brief note of my expenditures every few days, which helps me stick to my travel budget. 

Sometimes when you are in a new destination, you can easily get carried away to spend – be it on some new attraction you discovered, shopping, a new activity or spontaneous spend on food and drinks or parties. 

Having a budget in mind will help you use your money mindfully , especially if you are a backpacker traveling on a shoestring budget.

If you thought the phrase Be a Roman, when in… is a cliche or oversold, well, it is not. It has another name and is called blending in. Blending and being flexible has its many advantages when you are, you are doing solo travel in Vietnam or anywhere in the world. 

Standing out is cool, but not so when you are alone. Observe locals and dress like them, try to mingle and communicate like them, watch and respect their culture, rules and tradition – in temples, pagodas and government monuments.  Blending will earn respect and admiration from the locals, and you will be safe and also enjoy the process  of blending in!

Let your family know about your whereabouts

It is easy to get lost in your head or the challenges and tasks when you are traveling alone. At times that you might also feel lonely, frustrated and bored, even after meeting people or making friends. That’s where your support system helps. Whether it is your partner or friends or family or any of your loved ones,  keeping in touch will help you feel positive. 

Your loved ones will worry less knowing that you are safe and available to reach. You don’t have to talk for hours, because you came out to be alone, by yourself. Simply go ahead and give them a ring or drop texts often. 

Now, let me share some Vietnam solo female travel tips for you.

In addition to keeping in mind the above safety tips, women traveling alone in Vietnam need to take care of a few new things.  Well, these apply not only if you are doing solo female travel in Vietnam ,  but anywhere else too.

Do not share personal information with anyone

Whether in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world, you will most likely meet people who seem very intrusive. They might be just curious or weird, or maybe harmful too. Whatever it is, watch out and don’t share personal information. You surely don’t have to tell about your relationship status, your full name, the place you are staying or where you plan to go next or any other intimate details.

It not only applies to locals, but to other travelers that you meet as well. It is a good thing to make friends, but you should not reveal much while you are just making friends or with people you just met. 

One of the examples that I can share is a lot of times, men – mostly locals and some times tourists approach female solo travelers frequently. They are the ones that usually ask all awkward, weird questions to flirt or engage further. 

To avoid this, many women wear a fake wedding ring or tell tales of their boyfriends or friends. If you are a solo woman traveler and find yourself in situations like these, you can try this too. It works because I have tried 🙂

Trust your instinct

The bottom line of my above point is, trust your gut while interacting with others. Also, trust your instinct during other times as well. If you feel something is wrong or you get a warning, listen to it and act accordingly. Also, be assertive. If you want to say no, then say so. It feels lovely to be in charge and aware!

Book female dorm rooms

If you are doing solo travel in Vietnam for the first time, or if you are a new solo female traveler, one of the ways to tackle anxiety is to share a dorm with fellow female travelers. You will feel safe; you can avoid unwanted, unpleasant encounters, and make awesome new female friends!

Vietnam’s culture is conservative 

As I mentioned earlier, Vietnam is still a conservative country, especially towards women, which is unfortunate in some instances. What does it mean as you do solo female travel in Vietnam? 

One thing is to dress as the locals do. Skimpy tops, tight clothes and shorts will draw stares, catcalls and propositions, and sometimes, locals might get offended too(although they might not say that out loud). 

So it is best to respect local culture and follow the rules, especially in religious places where you need to be covered from head to toe(including shoulders). As mentioned earlier, it is better to blend in than standing out while traveling alone in Vietnam or anywhere.

Make friends

One of the reasons why women hesitate to travel alone is that they feel lonely. Sure, it is partly true that you sometimes might feel lonely when you are traveling alone, but that should NOT stop you from taking solo trips. 

Because there are many remedies to beat this, if you are traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere and feel this way, go ahead and talk to people. You might find a new company to travel with, form excellent friendships and feel great about traveling alone as a female.

Avoid venturing out alone at night

Avoid going out on the streets alone at night, wherever the place is. Especially, don’t step out on empty streets or side lanes that are central houses for crime and danger. Main roads are better, but if you do want to go out, have someone to accompany you, but otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend you hitting the streets at night.

Even in bigger cities, most crimes and violence happen on the streets at night, so don’t venture out alone at night.

Draw attention if you are targeted

Stares and a few invasive questions and propositions are possible/standard towards solo female travelers in Vietnam, but things usually end there. 

But if you get harassed, or someone tries you to rob or harm you, don’t hesitate to shout and draw attention. Most likely, people will come to help you or intervene. You can then take the help of these locals to report the crime and instigate further action from the police.

Take the help of local women  – The women of Vietnam are some of the kindest and sweetest I have met on the road. They may not speak English, but they will have your back if need be and will make you feel welcomed and safe with their warmth and smiles.

You can rely on Vietnamese women if you ever encounter harassment by local men or fellow travelers in any way. You can walk to the nearest group of women or a woman and ask her for help; you will not be turned away for sure.

Solo travel in Vietnam – Other Frequently Asked Questions

Is public transport safe for solo travel in vietnam how to get around alone.

Vietnam is one of the countries in SE Asia with an excellent transport system. Almost all forms of transport are very easy to use and convenient. You will get to experience the authentic local life in Vietnam when you use them. 

The public transport might seem a bit of a hassle in some cities, but to compensate for it, there are plenty of other great options. It may not meet the luxury and flamboyance of the west, but it is not below par either.

Ease of transport is one of the reasons why you should do solo travel in Vietnam. You can book your transport easily at all hostels and hotels.

Different transport options in Vietnam and how to use them

One of the best experiences during your solo travel in Vietnam will be using trains. Trains are the gateway to experiencing local life at the closest level. The trains are old, and look like heritage monuments(they are because some of them are from colonial times) and run slowly, passing through stunning countryside throughout the country.

It is totally safe to travel on the train during your Vietnam solo trip. Some trains are the popular routes get crowded, but you can avoid this by booking a ticket in the first-class coach, which gives you better space and comfort for a slightly higher price. You can easily reserve your tickets online by selecting the berth and coach of your choice. The trains are not very hygienic(especially best to avoid toilets), but if it is unbearable, you can choose buses.

Overnight trains  – There are overnight sleeper trains(coaches with bed) between some cities, which I’d highly recommend as it saves your day and also your accommodation price. You can book this online, and it is safe to take trains if you are traveling alone in Vietnam. 

If you are a female solo traveler, and you are not comfortable to share a coach with someone, then request the ticket collector to move your seat.

Buses are the most convenient way to get around Vietnam between cities. Almost all the cities are well-connected, and there are different kinds of buses and minivans. It is best to book them at your hostels and hotels, which might charge minimal booking fees in addition, but these buses offer free pickup and drop from your hotel. And this is helpful if you are solo traveling in Vietnam as you will not have to run around carrying your luggage.

Overnight buses are quite popular among travelers, especially backpackers as they can be quickly booked, you get comfortable room and space(unless you are very tall), comes with air-con and free WiFi.

But note that some drivers are known for rash driving, and sometimes accidents occur. If these things scare you, it is better to opt for trains or fly if you get quickly.

Getting around within cities 

The best way to explore attractions in a city is to take a Grab bike, Grab taxi and tuk-tuks. Grab transport can be booked on their app, which is easy and accessible. Grab taxis are cheaper than local taxis and also scam-free. 

If you love driving, then I’d suggest you rent a motorbike and explore the city/town by yourself. Driving in Vietnam is one of the incredible experiences. In smaller cities like Ninh Binh, Hoi An or Hue, rent a bicycle in getting around is a fantastic experience as you pass slowly through the countryside meeting smiling and waving villagers.

In some destinations, you can visit all the places on foot too. But crossing the streets in Vietnam is intimidating, especially if you are new to SE Asia. There are no pedestrian paths; people don’t stop by for those on foot and no traffic signals, which means you can find walking a challenge. The best way to overcome this is to walk and cross the streets with the locals when they do.

Can I afford solo travel in Vietnam? Is it expensive?

Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in SE Asia, but it is still one of the cheapest countries to travel. The food is exceptionally affordable, and if you book in advance, even accommodation, flight and transport could be more reasonable too.

If you are a budget traveler, you can get by USD 12 to 15 per day. If you spend USD 25 to 40 per day, you can almost enjoy luxury travel in Vietnam in some places. 

When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

You can visit Vietnam almost throughout the year, as the country is diverse with different weather in different regions. In general, the best time to go to Vietnam in winter, from October to January. 

People also travel to Vietnam during spring, in March and April, but during these months, it tends to get hot in southern Vietnam. In winter, note that the north of Vietnam is cold, so pack some warm clothes.

How can I avoid scams as a solo traveler in Vietnam?

Like any other country, Vietnam has its share of scams targeted at tourists. The frauds were notorious and high a long time ago, but in recent years, scams are getting rarer, although not absent. 

Read more about the types of scams here. The only way to avoid getting scammed is to be vigilant and use your common sense. If you think things are too good to be true, then probably it is.

What are the best places in Vietnam for a solo female traveler?

To do solo travel in Vietnam, no specific itinerary is required as you can follow a general itinerary. All the places are ideal and safe for solo female travelers so that you can pick any.

I would suggest adding Hanoi, Ninh Binh Tam Coc, Phong Nha, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh if you have about 2 to 3 weeks.

Looking for detailed itineraries? Check out this post where I shared a comprehensive guide on spending 3 weeks in Vietnam , which I did solo. You can find routes for 1, 2 or 4 weeks too, so get them now!

If you are wondering while planning a solo trip to Vietnam for a week Should I visit North or South Vietnam, then it depends on your preferences,

Is tap water in Vietnam safe?

No,  do not drink tap water anywhere in Vietnam  as it is not safe. Always only drink bottled water. Do not please use plastic bottles and contribute to plastic consumption. Carry a container that can be refilled.

Is Vietnam food, safe – especially street food?

Food is one of the reasons why many people even travel to Vietnam! Not trying Vietnamese cuisine on your trip means missing out on a major thing. So don’t do it. Don’t go to Vietnam and not try the food there, because  food in Vietnam is safe.  Plus, the food is very cheap, even in restaurants, and street food is the most affordable. You can fill your belly with just 1 to 2 USD at once. 

Okay, so now that I convinced you to try local food, let me tell you a few things that you need to take care to keep your stomach safe.

If you have never tried SE Asian food before, especially street food, start slow. The key is to introduce food without slow and gentle into your system, and not all at once and going overboard. 

Begin trying Vietnamese food at restaurants that look neat, has a lot of excellent reviews and at places where you find many locals and tourists. These are indications that a restaurant is safe to try.

Avoid fried, spicy or adventurous menus in the beginning. Begin with Pho – rice noodles soup that comes in various variants(just vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Beef, Seafood, Egg). Slowly, begin trying more each day, still following the above rules of dining. 

Egg coffee, BBQ, steak, smoothies, fried fish balls, cold coffee with condensed milk and seafood BBQ are some of the things that you will commonly food among the street food menu, and they are worth giving a try.

Do not eat raw meat in any form – no matter how tempting or curious you are, including seafood.

If you want to eat fruits, buy them whole and cut them yourself. Don’t eat cut fruits. If you order smoothies, politely ask them to show the fruits and verify the condition of fruits by yourself before you get a smoothie.

It is common in SE Asia to find Buffet systems in markets, and even in restaurants. You will find a wide variety of cuisines all displayed(mostly many kinds of noodles, appetizers and soups). So when you see these, check if the food is hot, doesn’t look too colourful(artificial food colours) and the meat looks good. It is always best to eat food that is hot because it means that the food is fresh and you are safe.

When and if trying meat, stay away from the meat that you are not sure. If you can’t identify or trust what animal it came from, it is best to drop the idea of consuming it.

If you have allergies to specific items, it is best to research them before you try anything, and also communicate it with the restaurants to verify. 

Eat where the locals eat  – As mentioned earlier, check out places that are crowded, busy all the time, has plenty of good reviews and has a lot of locals because these places are usually safe to try local food.

Practice the basic hygiene  – Follow the routine hygiene that you do at home. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap or a hand sanitizer before you eat, check if the food is fresh, mind your portions, and experiment in moderation(in the beginning) and everything will be good!

Carry necessary medicines  – You must carry essential medicines while travelling solo in Vietnam, but along with them, also take some medications if you get a bad stomach.

Keep a tab on alcohol  – Not to sound like a party spoiler or a grandma, but watch the drink that you consume. Vietnam is home to some of the most potent liquor, especially home-made rice wines or whiskey, which has high alcohol percentages. So while trying these, keep your quantity in check, especially if you are doing solo travel in Vietnam.

Sometimes, the places with a lot of crowds, too many tables, food out in the open may make you hesitate and give doubts, but these don’t mean anything. It is a part of Vietnamese culture to gather around out on the streets and eat together. Follow your hygiene and interact with locals and watch the way they have fun!

Solo travel in Vietnam – Final thoughts

If you are still wondering why should you do solo travel in Vietnam, let me summarize things for you:

• Vietnam is safe for solo travel.
• There is a well-marked tourist trail.
• People are friendly and warm
• Solo travel in Vietnam is cheap
• And finally, Vietnamese food is out of the world.

Here are some other resources to help you plan your Vietnam trip

The Ultimate 3 Weeks Vietnam Itinerary(+ Other tips & details)

Your Packing List For Vietnam(For Both Men & Women)

95 Fantastic Things to do in Vietnam

30 Things No One Tells You About Vietnam

• Recent Posts

• Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Things To Do in Krakow, Poland - April 12, 2024
• Exploring the Hidden Gems of European Ski Resorts - March 28, 2024
• 25 Beautiful Landmarks In Poland For Your Bucket List - March 16, 2024

Related Posts

20 Greece Solo Travel Bucket List Attractions You Should Check Out

Solo Trip To Los Angeles – 11 Best Things To Do And See!

Spain Solo Travel Bucket List – 40 Fantastic Things You Should Do Alone

Write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• SOLO TRAVEL
• ARUNACHAL PRADESH
• HIMACHAL PRADESH
• UTTARAKHAND
• THE PHILIPPINES
• UNITED STATES
• TRAVEL FACTS AND TRIVIA
• WORK WITH ME

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Are you looking for a destination with equal parts adventure, culture, and delicious food? Look no further than a solo trip to Vietnam !

The Vietnamese are known for being super friendly, so it’s no wonder this is a favorite destination for solo travelers. Don’t be surprised if you start a conversation with a local and spend the day chatting over Vietnamese coffee!

There are so many benefits to solo travel. Firstly, you don’t need to pander to anyone else’s itinerary. You get to do whatever you want, without anyone judging your choices.

Secondly, traveling solo is a character-building adventure like no other. You’ll be surprised by how empowered and independent you will feel after navigating a foreign country alone (with only Google Translate as your trusty sidekick).

Vietnam is a melting pot of history, cuisine, and gorgeous natural scenery – from beaches to lush landscapes, rolling rice terraces, and exquisite nature reserves. Oh, and did I mention that the exchange rate will almost certainly be in your favor?

Let’s dive into your ultimate guide to traveling Vietnam on your own!

5 Things to Do in Vietnam When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in vietnam, the best travel apps for solo travel in vietnam, safety tips for solo travelers in vietnam, tips for solo traveling in vietnam, how to meet people when solo traveling in vietnam, final thoughts for your solo vietnam trip.

Vietnam has an adventurous spirit, often shared by the travelers who visit here. Whatever your interests – you’ll find a treasure trove of fantastic activities based on culture, history, or natural beauty. It wasn’t easy narrowing it down, but here is my top 5 best Vietnam solo travel suggestions:

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

1. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are underground passages built during the Vietnam War. The tunnels shine a light on Vietnam’s wartime past, as well as the resilience of its people. The tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War as a base of operations and hiding spot for Viet Cong soldiers. 

Taking a Cu Chi Tunnels tour makes for a fascinating day trip if you’re staying in Ho Chi Minh and is a great opportunity to meet friends, but is not recommended for those with claustrophobia! The tunnels stretch for miles and include spaces that were used for living, storage, cooking, and even as hospitals. Get ready to crawl! 

2. Spend a Night in an Authentic Junk at Ha Long Bay

Don’t miss the chance to spend a night on an authentic junk (sailing boat) in Ha Long Bay. It’s a solo traveler’s dream, offering a serene escape from the country’s busy cityscapes. 

Take a moment to relax and unwind from your travels while you watch a breathtaking sunset over the misty karsts.

3. Watch a Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Puppet shows don’t only have to be for children! The magic of Vietnamese culture comes to life through the unique water puppetry at the Thang Long Theater. 

This is a must-do for solo travelers in Vietnam looking for a taste of culture. The intricate puppets bring age-old tales to life against a backdrop of traditional music and sparkling waters. It’s an unmissable cultural experience! 

4. Sip on a Bowl of Pho at the Hoi An Night Market

I have really highlighted the street food scene in Vietnam, and for good reason! If you’re staying in Hoi An , a trip to the Hoi An Night Market is a feast for your senses. Join the communal dining scene, engage with locals, and sample some authentic pho. 

This iconic dish is a steaming bowl of Vietnamese soup featuring delicate rice noodles and an aromatic broth infused with local spices. The best part about pho in Vietnam is that you can customize your dish! Choose to add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of Sriracha. As you sip the broth, you will quickly understand why pho is the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Experience the Power of Nature at the Ban Gioc Waterfalls

The Ban Gioc Waterfalls are any nature-lover’s paradise. Nestled in a lush landscape near the border of China and Vietnam, these majestic falls are truly breathtaking! 

The roar of crashing water rushing over the cascading terraces is a sound you won’t soon forget. The journey to the waterfalls is an adventure in itself. Join a multi-day organized tour to best experience the falls or are looking for a more convenient way to explore.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Whether exploring bustling cities or the gorgeous countryside, traveling in Vietnam is always an adventure. Read on for my recommendations of places not to be missed:

Everyone backpacking in Vietnam should visit Hoi An . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site – so it’s no wonder it feels like stepping into a storybook. This city on Vietnam’s central coast has well-preserved architecture and a unique atmosphere – including the iconic lantern-lit streets. From mouth-watering street food around every corner to tailors who can whip up custom-made outfits in no time – you’re in for a budget-friendly treat.

As mentioned, Hoi An’s street food scene is legendary. Visit the Hoi An Night Market, and be sure to try a crispy banh mi roll or a spring roll fresh out of the fryer. Once you’re full to the brim with delicious street food, why not join a traditional lantern-making class?

You can’t say you’ve visited Hoi An without joining a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River. The twinkling lights of boats against the backdrop of fiery oranges and pinks as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic.

Ideal for a solo trip to Vietnam, SnapStay Hoi An is within walking distance of the ancient town. This hostel has a beautiful rooftop bar looking over the city lights – it’s the perfect place to connect with other travelers. 

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is another UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is known for its iconic towering limestone rock formations that jut out from the emerald waters.

Join an affordable boat cruise for the day, or stay overnight on a traditional Vietnamese junk (a type of traditional sailboat, and by no means junk!). Alternatively, if your arms are up for it, explore the bay yourself by hiring a kayak. For the early birds, a sunrise over the magically misty bay is an unmissable experience.

The culinary scene in Ha Long is a seafood extravaganza! Sample the fresh catch of the day, from prawns to fish and even squid – all without breaking the bank. Dine outside and enjoy the fresh sea air for a truly Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Fancy Hostel has friendly English-speaking staff and an in-house travel agent who will happily help you organize your activities. It’s located on the mainland at the gateway to the majestic bay and is a top place to stay for those traveling solo in Vietnam.

Hanoi is LEGENDARY. Vietnam’s capital city is one of my personal favorite cities in the world. It’s only a two to three-hour drive inland from Ha Long Bay. Once again, there is an abundance of affordable great hostels , and budget-friendly street food reigns supreme here. It can be somewhat chaotic as a large city, but you will find respite from the hustle and bustle in Hanoi’s numerous temples and green spaces.

Hanoi is a place of contrasts – where ancient temples stand alongside the vibrant pulse of modern life. The perfect blend of tradition and buzz! 

Be sure to visit the Old Quarter – with its maze-like alleys, craft stores, and quirky cafes. When you’re ready for a moment of zen, find your way to the Hoan Kiem Lake – an oasis between the continuous honking of motorbikes.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is a superb spot to stay, featuring free walking tours, local cooking classes, and a daily happy hour with free beer! What’s not to love?

Sa Pa is a trekking paradise and a must-visit for any nature-loving and adventurous travelers. Located in the country’s north, it is home to breathtaking rice terraces, and fascinating local villages dotted between misty mountains. There are plenty of treks and hiking options available which, luckily, cater to all skill and fitness levels (phew!). 

The locals here are passionate about sharing their customs and culture. You may enjoy learning some local weaving techniques or tasting a traditional home-cooked meal. Markets like Sa Pa Market or the Bac Ha Sunday Market are host to a plethora of handmade crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs to take home.

Sa Pa has many beautiful natural wonders for adventurous solo travelers in Vietnam to explore – including the Silver Waterfall and the iconic Love Waterfall. For unbeatable views, join a challenging trek (or opt for the cable car instead) to the top of Fansipan Mountain – known as the ‘Roof of Indochina.’ Treat yourself to a massage or herbal bath at a local spa to unwind after this active adventure.

Saigonese Trekking Hostel is a great hostel option in central Sa Pa. The friendly staff will be ready and waiting to assist you with your trekking bookings.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s most populous city, situated in the country’s Southern region. This vibrant metropolis, formerly known as Saigon (and still lovingly called this by locals), boasts an eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. This combined with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to delve into the city’s unique past provides a wonderfully diverse HCMC travel itinerary .

This isn’t the first or last time I will mention affordable and delicious street food in this article, but it really is a Vietnamese staple! Chat with curious street vendors, and be sure to sample a Vietnamese iced coffee. As with other major Vietnamese cities, you’ll find many bustling market streets where the unrelenting sound of motorbike honks becomes unnoticeable.

Saigon Authentic Hostel is a perfect place to stay to connect with fellow travelers. Ask at the hostel tour desk for recommendations for a day trip to the Mekong River Delta – where you’ll find lush landscapes and picturesque floating markets. Another fascinating day trip from Ho Chi Minh is to the Cu Chi tunnels.

• Hostelworld : Your go-to for booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb: Ideal for finding hotel and bed and breakfast options
• Couchsurfer: An exciting option for budget travelers to meet locals, but not recommended for solo female travelers in Vietnam
• GetYourGuide: Useful for lining up tours and day trips
• Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder: Great for meeting singles and other solo travelers in your vicinity
• Grab: Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber, especially useful in busy cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• XE Currency: To keep track of currency conversions into the Vietnamese Dong
• Vietnammm: A top app for ordering takeout food from local restaurants
• Foody: To help you discover local restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls
• ToursByLocals: To connect with local guides for personalized tours and experiences
• Smart Bus HCMC: Info on public bus routes, schedules, and stops in Ho Chi Minh City
• Vietnam e-Visa: The official app to apply for and manage your Vietnam visa application online
• Vietnam Traffic Live: To get real-time traffic updates, handy for navigating the bustling streets of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

You should also consider joining Facebook groups specific to Vietnam’s travel and ex-pat scene- such as Backpacking Vietnam, Vietnam Travel Planning, or Hanoi Massive. 

Stop stressing about your phone service when you travel abroad.

Holafly is a digital SIM card that works smoothly like an app — you simply pick your plan, download it, and voilà!

Roam around Europe, but leave the roaming charges for the n00bies.

Traveling Vietnam alone will no doubt be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but safety precautions are key. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and use a money belt to keep valuables close to you. 

While Vietnam is generally safe , solo female travelers in Vietnam are advised to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. Female travelers should also dress modestly to respect local customs. 

As always, opt for reputable accommodations and transportation options. Let someone know your whereabouts and plans by sharing your ‘live location.’ 

Remember the basics: avoid leaving drinks unattended, use official taxis, and trust your instincts – if a situation doesn’t feel right, there is usually a good reason.

• Book yourself into some exciting hostels for at least 50% of your nights in the country. Vietnam is full of eccentric and affordable hostels – such as The One Hostel & Rooftop Pool Hanoi , which features a rooftop pool – perfect for cooling off and meeting fellow solo travelers. Alternatively, take the slide instead of the stairs at Meander Saigon in Ho Chi Minh. They also offer a free walking tour of the city every Sunday!
• Pre-book a few activities and adventures to plan your trip around. As a solo traveler in Vietnam, this is also a great way to make new friends. It is also a fantastic way to safely explore the natural beauty that Vietnam has to offer. For the thrill-seekers out there; take a trip to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to explore the underground world of caves, including the largest cave in the world. If you prefer expansive views, consider an organized hike like this trekking through rice terrace fields tour.
• Have flexibility in your itinerary. You want to allow yourself to go with the flow based on who you meet and what you discover along the way. I have no doubt that you will find the best hidden gems while exploring well beyond the popular tourist spots.
• Plan your own trip. While extensive research is always useful – crafting an unforgettable trip comes down to your own interests and what you’d like to gain from your travels. Maybe you’d prefer a yoga retreat over an adventurous backpacking trek. The choice is yours! 
• Be sure to join walking tours in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An. Try and book a free walking tour through your hostel – it’s a great way to explore the bustling streets and learn about the history of where you are while gaining some valuable insider info and meeting new friends.
• Get clued up on the diverse religious beliefs of locals in Vietnam. When visiting temples or sacred sites, dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions. Solo female travelers in Vietnam should be especially aware of this.
• Don’t be afraid to use friendship settings on dating apps like Hinge or Bumble to connect with like-minded travelers. You never know; your new backpacking bestie might be on the other side of the app!
• Prepare for the weather . Vietnam is a long, skinny country that experiences a range of climates. Winters can be chilly, while summers are hot and humid. Central Vietnam has a rainy season, which brings some storms. A safe bet is to visit during the dry season.
• Get good travel insurance! Good travel insurance is essential for solo backpackers, wherever you are going. If you’re on your own, make sure you’ve got your own back!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Be open and up for the task. The key to meeting people while traveling solo is to be friendly and approachable. Step outside your comfort zone and strike up a conversation. My usual ‘in’ is to ask another traveler to take my picture! 
• Stay in a hostel. When deciding where to stay in Vietnam , I always opt for hostels. Not only are they dirt cheap, but this is a sure way to meet other solo travelers . Most hostels have communal spaces like bars and restaurants and also organize tours for guests to join.
• Join group tours. This could be a free walking tour of a city or a more adventurous tour like a trek or river rafting excursion. Tours are a great way to meet other tourists with similar interests! 
• Explore shared spaces. Coffee shops or communal workspaces are the perfect setting to meet other travelers. You’ll never meet anyone if you stay in your hotel room! 
• Join a pub crawl or food tour. Delicious food and cold beers bring people together, right? Even if you aren’t a drinker, these food-based activities are a fun and relaxed way to connect with fellow explorers. 
• Sign up for a few workshops. One of the best Vietnam solo travel tips is that the country offers fantastic skill-building classes like cooking and traditional crafts. Look out for ones that include communal dining at the end – where you enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants.
• Use social media and apps . Facebook is a great place to find events in your area, while dating apps can be switched to ‘friend mode’ to connect with others traveling solo.
• Volunteer … Volunteering in Vietnam is elite! Not only will you walk away with the warm feeling of giving back, but you might gain a new like-minded friend, too.

Vietnam truly is a solo traveler’s paradise. There is something for everyone – foodies, adrenaline junkies, hikers, culture and history enthusiasts, and yoga and wellness advocates. It doesn’t hurt that travel, accommodation, and food in Vietnam are so affordable.

Vietnam is a cultural melting pot of influences that has been woven together over centuries. From ancient times, Chinese settlers brought tea and other cultural influences. The colonization of Vietnam by the French left behind a legacy of European architecture, baguettes, and even coffee culture!

If you’re worried about getting lost in translation, fear not! Google Translate and some good old-fashioned charades will become your new besties. The language barrier might seem like a challenge, but it also opens up opportunities for unexpected friendships.

The Vietnamese are also well known for their hospitality, for good reason. Locals are passionate about sharing their culture, history, and traditions – which makes for an immersive experience where you truly feel connected to the country and its people. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Vietnam solo travel today!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• +84 988 424 464

Solo travel guide to Vietnam from India: Everything You Need to Know

As a backpacking traveler, do you crave a solo international trip with a reasonable budget? If so, Vietnam, with its mist-covered mountains, vast rice fields, and cascading waterfalls, is the perfect pocket-friendly travel destination for you. Recently, Vietnam made it to the list of the top 10 most amazing destinations in the world with surprisingly affordable costs. Recently, Neha from Curly Tales had a 5-day solo trip to Vietnam and discovered its beauty – and she loved it! So, here’s everything you need to know for a solo trip from India to Vietnam .

How to Get To Vietnam

Vietnam is located on the Eastern side of the Indochinese Peninsula and can be easily reached by air. The distance between India and Vietnam is about 3194 km, and the flight takes around 4 hours.

Neha from Curly Tales had a fantastic flying experience with Vietjet, the airline that organized some of the best evening events to promote Vietnam Tourism. The flight was smooth – all thanks to Vietjet’s SkyBoss service. Neha’s flying experience with Vietjet included priority check-in, access to a luxurious lounge, complimentary food & beverages on board, and more.

You can reach Vietnam and its cities – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc – via Vietjet with direct flights from Mumbai, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

Vietnam Visa

Indian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam . However, you must apply online in advance. Additionally, carrying a passport-sized photo is mandatory. The entire visa application process for stamping can cost around ₹3000.

Currency and SIM Card

Two important things to note when you arrive in Vietnam:

• Arrange your currency exchange. The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). The exchange rate in 2023 for 1 Indian Rupee (INR) is approximately 296 Vietnamese Dong (1 INR = 293.647 VND).
• Travel tip: Bring USD instead of INR to exchange for Vietnamese Dong as INR might not always be available.
• Get a Vietnamese SIM card. It may cost you around ₹700.

Getting Around in Vietnam

When you arrive in Vietnam, you can take domestic flights to travel between different cities. You can also rent a scooter, which costs around ₹400-₹500 per day. To book taxis and motorbikes, you can use the Grab car app.

What to Do?

The smooth white sand beaches, shimmering emerald waters, and ancient villages make Vietnam a beautiful paradise. The land of “Ascending Dragon” has a lot of exciting things to offer travelers.

Explore Hoi An

Hoi An, a town rich in history and architecture, shines with its mesmerizing lanterns. This UNESCO Cultural Heritage is most known for its simplicity. Hoi An is located about 124 km south of Hue and takes about 19 hours by road. However, the routes are a delight to travel. With narrow canals, pristine beaches, lush greenery, and friendly locals, Hoi An truly highlights the charm of Vietnam.

Solo traveler Neha from Curly Tales expressed her surprise at the clean surroundings and the availability of many vegetarian food options at Hoi An.

Some places you can visit in Hoi An are Vin Wonderland, Cam Thanh fishing village to try Basket Boat, and Cam Thao Beach.

Hoi An Ancient Town

Located about one kilometer from the main city, Hoi An’s Old Town used to be a small-scale trading port. The best way to discover this town is to immerse yourself in its culture and heritage during the daytime and witness the illuminated lantern-lit streets and lively restaurants in the evening.

Visit Cua Dai Beach

Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An is one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. With its soft white sand and warm emerald waters, it literally means ‘Big Mouth Beach.’ An interesting fact about this beach is that TripAdvisor rated it as the most beautiful beach in Asia. However, due to erosion, the number of tourists visiting the beach has decreased in recent years. But that shouldn’t stop you from exploring its beauty. It is a must-visit in Hoi An.

Try Vietnamese Street Food

Want to immerse yourself in the best of Vietnamese culture? Well, exploring its street food is the first step to it! And Vietnam has a lot to offer – from spring rolls, Banh mi, to Vietnamese ice cream, there are plenty of things for you to try.

Nightlife in Hoi An is lively, and you will be welcomed with loud music and vibrant clubs. Drinks are relatively cheap, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy a happy and high time!

Where to Stay?

Solo traveler Neha from Curly Tales chose Almanity Wellness Resort for her stay in Hoi An. The resort is located in the city center and provides all the facilities and luxury. However, you can always opt for budget-friendly hotels in the city. There are plenty of affordable hotels available in Hoi An with rooms starting from ₹400 per night.

Is Vietnam Safe for Solo Travelers?

Yes, it is! If you’re a solo traveler and concerned about safety in Vietnam, let us tell you, there’s nothing to worry about! Solo traveler Neha from Curly Tales expressed that walking on the streets, even at night, is safe. And fun too!

Now that you have an idea of planning a trip to Vietnam and exploring its international travel destinations, when are you planning your trip? Let us know in the comments section!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Top Destinations
• Local Insight
• Travel Tips
• Travel News
• Eviva Foundation News
• Vietnam Trade Exhibitions
• MIT 10 Days Vietnam Trek 2023 April 26, 2024
• NAOS GCC Cycle Meeting in Vietnam April 24, 2024
• Hanoi Walking Street – when, where to go April 2, 2024

Destinations

• Vietnam Tours
• Cambodia Tours
• Myanmar Tours
• Indochina Tours

Experiences

• Beaches Tours
• Culture Tours
• Family Tours
• Honeymoon Tours
• Luxury Tours

Our Services

• Vietnam Car Rental
• Hotel & Cruise
• VIP Service
• Ticket Service
• Testimonials
• Travel Blog

Get Updates & More

Subscribe to the free newsletter and stay up to date

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Eviva Tour Vietnam ’s brochure shows a selection of the most luxury holidays Vietnam has to offer, from deluxe beach resorts to the finest mountain adventure.

83A Tran Quoc Toan Str, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

2 June 2023 · In: Asia , Travel , Vietnam

A perfect solo travel guide with everything you need to know for backpacking Vietnam on your own! 

Backpacking a new country alone can be scary and intimidating – and I get it! I have been afraid to solo travel for a long time, but once you have done it, it provides an incredible feeling, and you will want to do it again.

Whether it is your first time in Vietnam or you have been several times, this country is incredible to explore as a solo (and female) backpacker. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are welcoming, the lifestyle is affordable and getting around is safe and easy – all the attributes you want for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I share all the inspiration and tips you need to create an unforgettable solo experience in Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

Accommodation for solo travel

Best tours & activities, vietnam overview.

Capital : Hanoi

Currency : Vietnamese Dong (VND) / 1 GBP = 29,061 VND 

Power plug : type A, C and F

Visa : visa-free for up to 15 days for a few countries. If not or staying up to 30 days, online visa with a fee of $25.

Language : Vietnamese (with a few people speaking English)

Transportation : mainly motorbikes, buses and trains – or planes if far distance.

Internet : hotels offer free wifi. Otherwise, good signal everywhere.

SIM card : 3 main providers which include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.

Travel duration : I would suggest at least 2 weeks.

Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit  and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

I visited the country with my friend Kwelan for 3 weeks, travelling through the north and some remote areas. Kwelan arrived before me and was alone for a few days, and she left before me, so I was alone on my last day. 

Together or alone, we always felt safe , even in small villages hidden in the mountains with no tourists nearby – and even at night.

Yes, many locals were staring at us, but  they were all so friendly and welcoming , waving at us as we walked past their houses. When we were lost, they also helped us. For example, the bus always asked us for the address of our hotel to drop us off in front of it, which was so kind. Plus, most locals did not speak English, but they did not care – we communicated through Google Translate. 

However, like in any other country,  be aware of your surroundings . Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport. Keep your belongings safe as there may be some pickpockets around. For example, on the sleeping bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Otherwise, we never had any problems – quite the contrary. We once forgot the key to our scooter and left it on the engine, and a local kept it until we got back. I also never felt afraid to leave my big backpack at the reception of the guesthouses. I was a bit conscious at first, but after doing it for a few days, I did not mind (and I had my computer in it!).

Also,  do not be scared if Vietnamese people are a bit too forward or pushy . There are times when you may be greeted by a crowd of taxi drivers or locals who want you to join them for a tour, especially when you get off the bus in Sapa. Politely decline and continue your journey. 

One place we felt a bit overwhelmed was on Cat Ba Island . We decided to go to the beach once there, and it was a weird experience. The place was full of locals, mostly men. There were a few women, but they stayed on the beach or, if in the water, they were fully dressed. So, when two female tourists arrived with their bikinis on, everyone was staring – even though we were in our corner reading our books. I could not stand it at one point as people were coming and standing next to us, so I just went for a walk. 

I want to mention that this was the only place this happened. We returned to the beach multiple times, including Hoi An, and we never were in this situation again.

Overall, Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers . The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure. We connected with many people from around the world on our trip, and it was great! As a result, you can shape your experience however you want and make friends along the way. 

Shop the printable backpacking planner

Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable solo trip in Vietnam.

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination

1- it is a safe place to visit.

As mentioned earlier,  Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers . Therefore, you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

My friend Kwelan and I always felt safe, whether we were exploring a small mountain village at night or on a local bus with no tourists nearby. 

2- The locals are friendly & welcoming

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming, always ready to help . Even though most of them do not speak English, they will go above and beyond for others. 

For example, the local bus always dropped us off in front of our hotel to make sure we were safe, which I thought was so kind. Locals were also waving at us, and some asked if they could take photos with us – you can, of course, say no. 

We also had the chance to do the Ha Giang loop with two locals, and it was a great experience. We learned a lot from them and stopped at different local homes for lunch or overnight, which allowed us to connect with their culture and customs on a deeper level. 

Vietnamese people have such a positive energy. Their generosity warmed my heart so much! 💚

3- It is incredibly affordable 

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries I have ever visited . Life is incredibly affordable, which means you can sleep in a nice hotel if you do not feel comfortable in a hostel with dorms. 

It also means you can easily shape your adventure around you and your budget whilst being able to join tours and meet other people without breaking your wallet.

4- You will meet other backpackers

Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route  encompassing the top sites in the country, especially along the coast. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your adventure, whether on the bus, at guesthouses or one of those sites. 

Whilst backpacking north Vietnam, we had the chance to meet many travellers, who were in a group or alone. It was so fun connecting with like-minded people in different places and exchanging our experiences.

And that is one thing I love about this country! You can solo travel and stay alone, or you can meet others on your trip and continue together – the choice is yours. 

5- It has excellent tourist infrastructure

Vietnam has all the infrastructure you need as a tourist . It has a good transportation network allowing you to travel between cities by bus or train, offers many restaurants and bars with an English menu and free wifi and has a thriving hostel scene where you can connect with other backpackers. 

You will also find plenty of possible tours and activities on your trip, which is another excellent way to meet people. 

Tips for a safe solo trip in Vietnam

Here are a few extra tips for a safe and comfortable trip in Vietnam as a solo traveller: 

1- Buy a SIM card & stay connected

Even though Vietnam is a great place to get away from it all and unwind, it is still a good idea to purchase a SIM card upon arrival and stay connected with your friends or family. Let them know your plans and where or what you are going. It will give you an extra sense of security. 

2- Do not carry too much cash

You can easily use your credit card in Vietnam, but having cash on you is also necessary, especially in remote places. However, I would suggest not carrying all your money on yourself at once and making several withdrawals during your trip. If it does not work for you, keep your cash safe in your bag or at your hotel.

3- Be mindful when carrying your bag

Shoulder bags can be an easy target for pickpockets. If you have valuable items, I would recommend carrying a backpack with secure pockets or carrying it across your chest. The other option would be to carry a cross-body bag or belt bag – many travellers had these, and they seemed super practical.  

4- Do your research

Being prepared is essential for a safe and smooth trip! Research the local culture, customs and places to visit, learn more travel tips (like this one) and avoid booking your accommodation at the last minute. Read reviews to find the best dorm hostels for backpackers and solo female travellers.

5- Watch our belongings

Like in any other country, Vietnam can have a few pickpockets and petty crime, especially in busy tourist places and on night buses. Always pay attention to your personal belongings and valuables, and keep them close to you in these situations. In crowded areas, keep your hands on your bag in a secure position. 

6- Drink alcohol in moderation

Vietnam is an incredible place to go out after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. It is also a great way to have fun and meet other people. However, when travelling alone, I suggest being mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially as a solo female backpacker. 

7- Get travel insurance

Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with travel insurance that will cover you in case of emergency. Here is one of my favourite providers:  Nomad Insurance . 

8- Do not drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

How much does a solo trip to Vietnam cost?

It will highly depend on your travel lifestyle and expectations. The good thing about Vietnam is that  the country is incredibly affordable to explore , from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. 

For example, the most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ per night in Hoi An. It included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet. 

Here are a few tips for staying on your budget: 

• Get a travel-friendly bank card (to reduce your fees)
• Stay in hostels & travel by bus (to keep your cost down)
• Volunteer (check out Workaway )
• House-sit (check out Trusted Housesitters )

How to make friends on a solo trip to Vietnam?

Making friends whilst travelling solo in Vietnam is easy ! The country is full of open and like-minded backpackers ready to connect with others. There are many ways to meet them, here are a few: 

• On the bus : you will meet other travellers getting around by bus, especially the night bus. If some want more privacy, you will find people happy to chat with you. 
• At hostels and guesthouses : it is how we met most of our friends from our trip across Vietnam. Hostels and guesthouses in the country are warm and welcoming and the perfect place to exchange with other travellers. 
• On tours and activities : another great way to make new friends is to join a tour or activity where you would be able to meet other adventurers like you. 
• At bars and restaurants : if you like going out and partying, those could also be great places to meet other backpackers who enjoy exploring and dancing the night out. 

Planning your solo backpacking trip to Vietnam

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to visit Vietnam is in  spring (March-April)  and  Autumn (September-November)  when the weather is dry but not too hot, perfect for backpacking and outdoor activities. Plus, these seasons are ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to capture scenic landscapes with vibrant colours.

However, as Vietnam is a long and narrow country, its weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August)  is the hottest season, with harsh sunshine. These months are generally the best for relaxing at the beach but not hiking, as the weather will be hot and humid, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.
• Winter (December – February)  is the coldest season, with chilling winds or heavy rain, especially in the north and mountainous regions. You will also find some snow in a few places, like Sapa. 
• Spring (February – May)  is the best time to see the flower season in Vietnam. The temperatures will rise slowly, and the sunshine will be pleasant with clear blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with lush fields and blooming spring flowers, making the country particularly beautiful.
• Autumn (September – November)  is one of the best seasons to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather where the colours gradually change and temperatures lower, but still a lovely time for exploration and outdoor activities.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements will depend on where you live. Here is an overview:

When visiting Vietnam, your passport must be valid  for 6 months from the date of your arrival . Plus, make sure it is in good condition. 

Vietnam has made it easy for tourists to arrive with its  visa-free policy , which means you can enter the country for  up to 15 days  for tourism and business without needing to apply for a visa. The list includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway,  the United Kingdom , France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.

If you are not on the list or want to stay in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you can apply for an  e-visa through the  online portal . Those electronic visas are only valid for stays of  up to 30 days  with a single entry, as you must select your entry and exit points when applying.

E-visas are super simple and fast. The fee is  25 USD , and the processing time is  3 working days . You will then receive your code by email to print your visa, which you need to enter and leave the country.

If you are staying longer or have questions, check out your government website or contact them. 

How to get to Vietnam

The best way to get to Vietnam is by plane , with frequent flights landing in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. 

As you can imagine, prices can be high depending on where you live, so book your ticket in advance using  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows you to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

I departed from Paris, and my flight was 500€ (which I only booked two months before going). I had a transfer in Thailand, which was easy and quick. The first flight lasted 11h, and the second was 1h30.

How to travel around Vietnam

The bus is the best way to get around Vietnam . It is a cheap, easy and safe way to travel around the country, especially if you do not know how to ride a motorbike on your own.

The bus network runs across the whole country and makes it possible to reach remote villages hidden in the mountains. Local buses are also the main way for Vietnamese people to access distant places and transport goods, which means you can go along with them and hop on one of these buses (be careful in the mountains, everyone was sick!).

And because Vietnam is a lengthy country, you can use sleeper buses. They are super practical to make the most of your trip and not waste time on transport. Inside these buses, you will find small beds where you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during your journey. They are incredibly convenient and cheap, perfect for long night trips. 

Booking local or sleeper buses is easy – ask the reception of your hotel or guesthouse. They will reserve the bus for you, wherever you are. It is one of the safest and most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam. 

And if you want more premium buses, check out  Baolau  and  12go.asia . They provide express minibuses and vans, which are more comfortable and private.

2- By motorbike 

The other best way to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike . However, it might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and will depend on your biking level. 

The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts can be challenging with foggy, cold and wet weather. Keep in mind that accidents are common, so drive slowly! We came across a traveller who had a serious fall and had to go to the hospital. 

On the other hand, travelling across Vietnam on a motorbike is an excellent way to move freely and stop where and when you want! 

I recommend you read beforehand about exploring on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent or buy one, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

3- By train

Another safe way to get around Vietnam is by train . Trains run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. On the other hand, they are a good alternative if no bus is available or to get to a city faster. 

Check the timetables in advance and book your ticket online or ask the reception of your hotel. 

I believe you will also find trains with sleeping cabins for longer journeys. I have never experienced it in Vietnam, so if you have, please let me know in the comments below with any tips or suggestions you have.

How to travel around cities & regions

Travelling within cities and regions is easy and safe. Here are a few options: 

The easiest way to get around each city is on foot . It will allow you to slow travel and soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings. And if you love taking photos, it is the best way to wander and capture candids. Plus, some areas offer beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities.

2- By motorbike

Another way to travel around is by   motorbike . You can easily rent one at the reception of your hotel or guesthouse and start exploring the area. However, be mindful when driving as some roads can be in poor condition, such as Sapa, where the weather is often cloudy and foggy.

If you are not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself and the place you want to reach is a bit far,  use a Grab  (the equivalent of an Uber)  or taxi . You can download the app or just book it in person, you will have many taxis waiting around.

4- With a local guide

Finally, if you are unsure about exploring on your own, feel free to  hire a local guide  who will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to trek through rice terraces on a day trip or multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach remote places.  

What to pack for a solo Vietnam trip

The best way to backpack Vietnam in any season and enjoy this beautiful country is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you pack is essential. Therefore, here are some clothing items and gear you might need to be comfortable on your solo backpacking trip: 

• Good backpack : the most essential item when going backpacking! I would advise having a  good spacious bag  suitable for you and comfortable. I would also suggest having a smaller bag with you when you explore around, as you can leave your heavy backpack at the guesthouse or hotel.
• Comfortable walking shoes : another important item, especially if you like hiking. In any case, I believe having comfortable shoes is a must when exploring a city or joining an excursion. And if you can, try to find an eco-friendly and vegan alternative.
• Mosquito repellent : you will quickly find out that mosquitos are everywhere in Vietnam and quite aggressive! Bring a good mosquito repellent with you to protect your skin from bites.
• Filtered water bottle : tap water is NOT safe to drink in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated wherever you are.
• Sunscreen : protecting your skin from the sun is non-negotiable! So bring a  zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreen  with you, which reduces plastic waste and keeps you healthy by removing harmful components.
• Travel towel : a great item for any adventure, from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains. A  quick-drying towel  made from eco-friendly fibres or recycled materials is a must-have and a perfect all-in-one option. 
• Portable charger : having gear charged on your backpacking trip is essential to capturing your beautiful adventure and coming home with unforgettable memories. That is when solar chargers come in handy! Check out  Goal Zero  and  Anker . 

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Shop the editable travel packing list

Be prepared for your perfect solo Vietnam trip 🎒

When travelling alone, I understand that finding suitable accommodation where you feel safe and comfortable is a must! Here are some options:

• Hostel : you will find many affordable and high-quality hostels all over Vietnam, even in remote places. Hostels were our favourite places to stay as we loved their welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to meet other travellers.  
• Guesthouse & Hotel : from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels, you will have plenty of choices depending on your lifestyle and budget. We stayed in a few of them on our journey, and they were cosy and private. 

The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com .  We used this platform whilst backpacking across the north, and it was perfect! 

We decided to choose where we wanted to stay each night on the same day, booking at the last minute. I was always amazed by how low the prices were and could not believe it! The most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ a night in Hoi An, and it included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet – not too bad!! We loved it so much that we stayed an extra night.

Best things to do in Vietnam for solo travel

Top places to visit.

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam , a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

Personal experience – I did not spend a lot of time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was extremely hot and humid, and it was hard to breathe. Plus, the noise and smell were intense and challenging to deal with. However, I still enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

Things to do & see in Hanoi:

• Walk through the Old Quarter
• Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Traverse the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Stroll Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Sample Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho & a beer!)
• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Hạ Long Bay

It is impossible not to mention  Hạ Long Bay  as one of the  top things to do in Vietnam . Located on the northwest coast, the bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall islands filled with rainforests. 

From there, you can explore the islands on a boat tour or kayak expedition, scuba dive, rock climb or hike – so many things to do! 

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay:

• Join a boat cruise
• Discover Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Explore Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

If you have time, discover  Cát Bà and its national park , a hidden gem well worth a visit. It is also another great place to start your cruise as the island is more budget-friendly and less touristy. Plus, there are  many things to see and activities to do , such as: 

• Explore Cát Bà National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Hạ Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cát Bà nightlife

Sapa is a remote town  located in the mountains of northwestern Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of  trekking possibilities  that will take you through dramatic landscapes and ethnic villages.

Things to do & see in Sapa:

• Explore Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Rent a motorbike & wander
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Ninh Bình is a city, district and UNESCO World Heritage Protected Site  located southeast of Hanoi. It is the ideal base for adventurers and nature lovers, as the area offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. 

From there, you can discover Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, take a boat tour on its rivers or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for stunning views.

Things to do & see in Ninh Bình:

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Huế is a charming city in central Vietnam full of art and history , which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. 

One main attraction in the area is its impressive 19th-century Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by canals and stone walls. It contains the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines, the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the home of the Emperor, and a replica of the Royal Theater.

Things to do & see in Huế:

• Discover the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Forbidden Purple City
• Stroll through the Imperial City
• See a performance at the Royal Theatre 
• Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda 
• Relax at the Co Ha Gardens 
• Walk along the Perfume River
• Explore the To Mieu Temple Complex

Hội An is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam , famous for its colourful lanterns, well-preserved Ancient Town and mixed architectural styles.

Personal experience – Hội An was an incredible discovery and is as beautiful as the photos you may have seen online! I loved wandering its streets, walking along its canals, admiring its lanterns and strolling through its markets. The city had a fantastic atmosphere, day and night! 

Things to do & see in Hội An:

• Wander through the Old Town
• Relax at An Bang Beach
• Explore the countryside by bike
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary
• Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Marvel at Quan Cong Temple

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam , situated in the southeastern region of the country and surrounding the Saigon River.

From historic museums and stunning architecture to a thriving food and craft beer scene, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this bustling city.

Things to do & see in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Explore the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Visit the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Join a Bonsai River cruise
• Discover the Central Office
• Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Marvel at the Cao Dai Temple

Are you looking for the perfect  guided tour in Vietnam ? Check those out:

How to reduce your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their preservation.

Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling solo in Vietnam: 

GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully carefully your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a  filtered water bottle  to stay hydrated on the go.
• Join tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more focused on money than traditional culture! Select an operator with a responsible tourism approach (research their website and ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
• If you decide to snorkel or drive, be sure to choose a responsible operator . Plus, never touch or step on coral and wear  reef-safe sunscreen .
• Do not leave a trace : do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Hire a local guide if possible.  You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
• Shop local . Buy handicrafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
• Eat at local restaurants, and tip your guides or hotel and restaurant staff . It may be small for you but can significantly impact their earnings.
• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites . Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words 🙂

More inspiration for your adventure:

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Vietnam solo travel – FAQ

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit, especially for female backpackers. However, also be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport.

Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers. The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure.

Vietnam is incredibly affordable to explore with a backpack, from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. Although it will depend on your budget and expectations, the lifestyle is extremely cheap.

I recommend spending at least 14 days in Vietnam to have enough time to travel and see the main attractions and highlights at each stop without rushing.

Have you ever experienced a solo trip in Vietnam or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

• Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
• Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest

You will also love

STAY INSPIRED

Join our community today to receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories that will inspire your next adventures, directly to your inbox. Can't wait to see you inside ♡

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Where to Stay in Helsinki: 8 Best Areas (& Hotels)

Follow the journey.

On the Blog

• Privacy Policy

Become an insider!

And receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories ♡

Copyright Lucie Charpentier © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

Why to consider solo travel in Vietnam (and what to expect)

If I’m being honest with you, I was intimidated about planning my very first trip to Southeast Asia.

I knew I wanted to go see beaches in Thailand and temples in Cambodia, and to don some baggy elephant-print pants (I mean, it’s pretty much required, right?). But even though Southeast Asia has been firmly on the backpacker trail for decades, it was worlds away from the places I was comfortable traveling in – and that made it a little bit daunting.

Making it even more daunting was the fact that Vietnam was the country in Southeast Asia that I wanted to visit the most. As a woman, I’m often questioned about my decision to travel alone. But as an American woman, I felt I’d be questioned even more than usual by friends and family once I told them that I wanted to travel to Vietnam .

So I did what I often do when a destination seems intimidating: rather than go 100% solo, I booked a tour to Vietnam instead. The 10-day  Vietnam Express Southbound tour I chose would cover all the sights and cities I wanted to see in Vietnam, but with a local guide to handle all of the logistics and some built-in travel buddies to hang out with. Afterwards, I would do another tour in Cambodia, and then be confident enough to travel through Thailand on my own.

Hoi An, Vietnam

After the trip, though, I realized that I had nothing to fear about traveling in Vietnam either as a solo traveler OR as an American. My experience there was nothing but positive, and it’s a country that I continually dream of returning to.

Here’s why I think you should visit Vietnam (whether completely solo or solo on a small group tour ), and what it’s really like to travel there:

There is an established “tourist trail”

Even though Vietnam at first seemed way outside my comfort zone, the truth is that there’s already an established tourist trail that hits all the main sites in Vietnam. If you decide to travel solo, there’s no need to stress about where to go.

The main sites on Vietnam’s tourist trail include places like Hanoi , Ha Long Bay, Hoi An , Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. Other stops worth making include Hue, beach towns like Nha Trang and Mui Ne , and the highlands of the Sapa region. If you want to get slightly off the beaten path, check out places like Bai Tu Long (an alternative to the popular Ha Long Bay), Phu Quoc Island, or Ha Giang.

There are plenty of touristy activities and experiences in Vietnam, too. Some of my favorite things to do along the tourist trail in Vietnam included kayaking in Ha Long Bay, visiting the Imperial Citadel in Hue, getting custom clothing made in Hoi An, taking a boat ride through the Mekong Delta, and going on a couple of bike tours into the more rural parts of the country.

And, because there’s an established tourist trail, it means that you’ll have the chance to meet other travelers in Vietnam – and because Vietnam is still an emerging destination for travelers, the types of people you meet there will always be intrepid and interesting. In my tour group, we had people of all ages and nationalities, with the commonality being that we were all pretty much up for anything, whether it was dressing up in traditional costumes for a “Royal Banquet Dinner” in Hue, or settling onto plastic stools for steaming bowls of roadside pho in Hanoi.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP TOURS IN VIETNAM

The tourism infrastructure is good

Vietnam is not quite as developed (or, in some cases over-developed) as nearby Thailand, but it still has all the basic infrastructure you need as a tourist. If you’re traveling solo, you can travel between most cities by train or bus (though note that neither of these will be particularly luxurious), and you can get around cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City by ride share (or, more correctly, motorbike-share).

Ho Chi Minh City by night

Restaurants in major cities will usually offer English translations of their menus, and staples like free wifi and comfortable hotels abound right alongside street food stands.

It was nice to have a local guide to help get from Point A to Point B in Vietnam (especially since I was visiting during Tet, when many local businesses were closed for the New Year celebrations), but an experienced traveler could also manage on their own since the main sights on Vietnam’s developing tourist trail are fairly well-connected.

READ MORE: ADVENTURE LOVER? HERE’S WHY YOUR NEXT TRIP SHOULD BE IN VIETNAM

It’s also worth noting that tourism is a fast-growing industry in Vietnam. In 2017, the government pledged the equivalent of $1.3 billion to put towards tourism development between now and 2020, so I predict the ease of travel in Vietnam to only improve in the next couple of years.

An Intrepid group loving life in Vietnam!

READ MORE: 5 UNDERRATED, BEAUTIFUL SPOTS TO VISIT IN VIETNAM

The people are welcoming

One of my biggest fears about visiting Vietnam related to me being an American. All through high school, I learned about the Vietnam War and the United States’ fight against communism in Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, though, that same war is referred to as the “American War,” or even the “War of American Aggression.” Even though I wasn’t alive for this war, I worried that Vietnamese locals who remembered it might not take kindly to me.

These fears were completely unfounded, though. I found Vietnamese people to be warm and welcoming, even when they found out which country I called home.

One of Intrepid’s many local leaders in Vietnam

Some of my favorite memories from Vietnam revolve around the people: having lunch in a local home, where all the neighborhood kids stopped by to give us high-fives; making jokes with the local chef who gave us a cooking lesson in Hoi An; randomly stopping to play a game of soccer with kids during a rural bike ride; and of course getting to know my tour guide, Hai, who was not only a wealth of knowledge about Vietnam, but also had an infectious love for his home country. He was always so excited about every place we were visiting that it was impossible not to catch his enthusiasm.

Is it safe to visit Vietnam?

Like most of Southeast Asia, Vietnam is safe. It’s of course always a gross over-generalization to say that an entire country is either safe or unsafe, but Vietnam is overall a relatively safe place to travel, even when you’re traveling solo. The biggest things to look out for are common scams that try to rip off tourists and petty theft like pickpocketing, but violent crime is quite rare.

My solo adventures in Vietnam included wandering around local markets in Hue , going out at night to meet friends who weren’t on my tour in Hoi An, and organizing my own “tour” to the Reunification Palace and some other sites in Ho Chi Minh City.

Exploring Hue solo

My tour through Vietnam had us visiting the most popular parts of the country, and while having a guide to warn us about places where we might want to keep a closer eye on our belongings was helpful, I certainly wouldn’t classify anywhere in Vietnam as “dangerous” for tourists.

READ MORE: 6 COMMON SCAMS IN VIETNAM (& HOW TO AVOID THEM)

There’s interesting history AND great food

Lastly, Vietnam’s history goes far beyond the Vietnam War. Yes, you can partake in war tourism in various places across the country, but you can also learn a lot about Vietnam’s earlier history, too.

For example, you can learn about Vietnam’s dynastic history in Hue, where the Imperial Citadel at one point was like the Forbidden City in China, and where you can still see royal tombs. In Hoi An, you can visit what was at one time the most important trading ports in all of Southeast Asia, dealing in exotic spices and intricate ceramics. And in Ho Chi Minh City you can visit places like City Hall and the Central Post Office to see remnants of Vietnam’s French colonial past.

Ho Chi Minh City

And of course Vietnam’s history has influenced its food, as well – Vietnamese food is one of my absolute favorites! Enjoy roadside pho, fresh spring rolls, banh mi, and of course Vietnamese coffee , which is served and enjoyed in abundance all across the country (coffee lovers, rejoice!).

What is solo travel in Vietnam like?

Vietnam is welcoming to solo travellers, and it’s a great place to explore alone. With its great tourism infrastructure, welcoming people and amazing food, its a great destination to travel solo.

While I enjoyed exploring Vietnam on a small group tour (and definitely feel like it was the right choice for me at the time), I definitely believe that Vietnam is a solo-friendly destination and look forward to returning there again soon!

Ready to explore incredible Vietnam? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group tours here . (Want to travel with other solo travelers? We have a Vietnam trip just for solo adventurers!)

(Image credits from top to bottom: Intrepid Travel, Amanda Williams, Intrepid Travel x4, Amanda Williams x2.)

Amanda Williams

Amanda Williams is the award-winning blogger behind A Dangerous Business , a travel blog that aims to inspire people to fit more travel and adventure into the lifestyle they already have. Since starting her blog in 2010, Amanda has traveled to more than 50 countries on six continents from her home base in Ohio, and in 2018 won the Silver Award for Best Travel Blog in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition, hosted by SATW.

You might also like

The 7 best places to go on a..., galapagos or madagascar which unique destination should be..., travelling to chile here’s the best time to..., 10 reasons to visit samoa, the 10 antarctica questions you want answered, australia or new zealand where to go on..., 10 epic spots to stop at on your..., small group travel vs coach tours: which style..., costa rica or mexico: which country to check..., 7 of the best destinations for solo travellers..., machu picchu or chichen itza which historical site....

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Solo travel , Vietnam

Solo travel in vietnam: everything to know.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Vietnam was the third country I ever travelled solo having made my way alone through Myanmar and Laos in the weeks previously. That was a while ago now, in 2015. Since then, I’ve travelled solo in Mexico , India , Cuba , South Africa and many more. Since that first solo trip in Vietnam, I returned several times. In 2018, I lived in Vietnam for months, house and cat-sitting while building up my travel blog. I’m not sure why it took me so long to put together this post, but perhaps it’s because Vietnam feels like such a safe and easy place to travel that I didn’t feel the need. But we’re all at different stages of our solo travel journies. If travelling solo in Vietnam still seems scary and overwhelming, don’t worry. I’ve been there. I got you. Let’s figure it out together.

Read next: everything you need to know about solo female travel

VIETNAM ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Book buses and trains in Vietnam: 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator SIM card: Vietnam e-SIM / Asialink card (18 countries) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: the ultimate Vietnam travel itinerary for 2 weeks – 1 month

Is Vietnam safe for solo female travel?

Yes, Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travel . Violent crime is almost non-existent. The main thing to worry about is pickpocketing in tourist cities but I’ll delve into that later. More solo travel blogs:

• Solo travel in Bali
• Solo female travel in Thailand
• Guide to travelling alone in Malaysia
• Where to travel solo in India

Read next: 30 best places in the world for solo female travel

Good things about solo travel in Vietnam

• English is widely spoken
• There’s a clear tourist route down the coast (part of a longer Southeast Asia travel route ) meaning other travellers will be travelling the same way as you. It’s easy to bump into people time again and buddy up
• It’s easy to get a SIM card and data to stay connected
• Vietnam has a great hostel scene plus lots of day tours and activities so it’s easy to meet people
• It’s VERY affordable. You don’t have to do dorms if you don’t want to
• The locals are friendly and will want to chat and practise their English with you.

I can’t think of any specific bad things about travelling alone in Vietnam, however if you’re interested in the general advantages and disadvantages of travelling solo as a woman , read the guide linked.

How to get around Vietnam

This depends on your tolerance for a long bus ride! I remember getting an overnight bus from Hoi An to Hanoi once and everyone thinking I was mad and saying ‘why don’t you just fly?’ but I was like, hey, I’m young and I’ll be fine. Plus, I want the planet to be here when I’m old! Saying that, flights are cheap and will save you a lot of time. If you’re on a tight schedule, I totally get it. So… Travel by air: most major hubs have a nearby airport like Hanoi, Saigon and Hoi An (Da Nang). At the time of writing, you can fly from Hanoi to Saigon for around $70 and to Da Nang for around $40. I use Skyscanner to compare, browse and book flights. Travel by bus: these travel up and down the coast, complete with sleeper bunk beds where you can lie down. One option is to buy a book of tickets at any Saigon or Hanoi travel agency to cover your whole trip. Another option is to buy your tickets individually using the 12Go website. A ticket from Hanoi to Hoi An (16 hours) will cost around $20.

Tip – when travelling by sleeper bus, keep your valuables close in a secure bag around your body, preferably under your clothes.

Travel by train: these are generally a little more expensive than buses with the option of seating or a bunk in a cabin. One perk of taking the train is that there are sections with wonderful views, like the journey between Da Nang and Hoi An. They can also be booked on the 12Go website. Travel by motorbike: the more adventurous way to travel Vietnam! This method of travel is called Easyrider. You can travel the length of the country by bike, either alone or with a driver. A particularly beautiful and famous section is the Hai Van Pass .

How to get around within cities/towns

Here are some safe ways for solo female travellers to get around in Vietnam… Local bus: in bigger cities like Hanoi, you can ride the local bus. Tickets cost from 7,000 to 15,000 VND and should be paid to the driver in cash. Make sure to have small notes as they may not have change. Local taxi: when getting in taxis, agree a price beforehand or insist the metre is on. Occasionally, rigged metres are a thing so if it starts jumping up wildly, get out. Taxi app: my preferred way to travel was by Grab taxi, Asia’s answer to Uber. Taxi app scooters: if you’re feeling confident, select a scooter on Grab rather than a car. A driver will arrive and should have a helmet for you (please insist that they do!). Although you’ll often see whole families on one scooter, Grab drivers will only accept one passenger per scooter.

Vietnam visas

Many nationalities qualify for 15-day entry with no visa. For 30-day and 3-month Vietnam e-visas , you’ll need to apply online. Visas vary for different nationalities so make sure to do your research ahead of your trip!

A solo female travel tip I’d offer anywhere is to stay connected. I usually get a local SIM when I arrive somewhere new because it makes me feel safer, plus it’s convenient to call taxis etc. There are plenty of local stores selling SIM cards. A handy new option, however, is to buy an e-SIM before you arrive with Airalo. Just download it before you travel and connect as soon as you land. If you’re visiting other Asian countries, look into the Asialink card (18 countries).

Best places for solo travel in Vietnam

Next for the fun bit, where to go and what to do when travelling alone in Vietnam!

Picturesque Hoi An is a solo travel dream: big enough to have a wide array of great hostels and activities, small enough to bump into the same people when you’re out and about. It’s an unbelievably pretty and idyllic city. Some will say it’s too busy and touristy these days, but to them I say: wait, are you not a tourist, too? You can’t blame anyone for wanting to be here. Things to add to your Hoi An itinerary include:

• Exploring the Old Town temples and ancient houses
• Crossing the Japanese Bridge
• Relaxing on An Bang Beach
• Seeing where food is harvested in peaceful Tra Que vegetable garden (and try it at Baby Mustard restaurant )
• Eating unique Hoi An street food including dishes not found elsewhere like cao lầu noodles and white rose dumplings
• Taking a day trip to the Marble Mountains near Da Nang
• Checking out all the cute cafes in Hoi An .

A lovely stop between Hoi An and Hanoi is the city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. The citadel may have been destroyed during the War with America and China (you may know it as the Vietnam War) but it’s been restored, boasting some of the most beautiful temples in Asia!

If you’re not all templed-out after the Citadel, don’t miss the Temple of Literature and Linh Mu Pagoda on the Perfume Riverbank, the Royal Temple of Tu Duc, Tu Hieu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb and the Khai Dinh Tomb. Hue is a history lover’s dream! Two days in Hue is a good amount of time to spend because you can spend one day at the Citadel and other temples, then another day visiting the quirky Abandoned Waterpark (the first photo in this blog with the roaring dragon statue) with time for another historic stop in the afternoon.

After several months living in Hanoi, it’s one of my all-time favourite places in Asia, if not the world! Yes, it’s chaotic and a little crazy but it’s also very safe for solo female travel in Vietnam. It’s undeniably charming with towering mansions, countless street food stands and cute cafes where locals and tourists while away days over caphe nau or sau (drip coffee with or without milk). Add to your Hanoi itinerary the top tourist attractions like the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street , the Women’s Museum, the Water Puppet Show, the French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison. As a safe place for solo travel in Vietnam, there’s no risk to getting off-grid and finding lesser-visited areas of the city like charming Ngoc Ha neighbourhood and Truc Bach island on the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, I wrote this guide to the hidden gems in Hanoi !

Foodies shouldn’t miss trying egg coffee (better than it sounds!) at the many Hanoi cafes , finding cool bars like Polite & Co, eating amazing street food and spending an evening on Beer Corner (Ta Hien) drinking ridiculously cheap bia hoi (fresh beer). Stay in a social hostel in the Old Quarter and I’m sure you’ll meet people to go out with!

I spent 3 days in Sapa and it was one the highlights of my Northern Vietnam itinerary . This mountainous region is known for amazing views, hikes and hill tribes with well-preserved cultural heritage. It’s easy to visit independently by booking a bus or train from Hanoi and staying in Sapa town where you can book hiking trips and excursions. However, a super easy option (and a social one) is taking an organised trip from Hanoi including accommodation, guided hikes and transport. There are a few options depending on your time frame and comfort levels, for example:

• Homestay:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in homestay accommodation
• Hotel:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in 3-star hotel room
• Homestay AND hotel:  3 day, 2 night Sapa trip inc 1 night in a hotel and the other in a homestay  (the trip I did!)

Hiking boots are great if you’ve got them but I got by with old battered runners. Depending on the season, the ground may be slippy. I fell over a lot but at least the mud was soft! The hikes should be suitable for most ability levels.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)

I’m definitely a Hanoi girl but I’ve still loved visiting Saigon (also called Ho Chi Minh) over the years. It feels slightly more Westernised than Hanoi and lacks the charm of the Old Quarter, but many things are comparable such as the roads of weaving scooters and the grand French architecture. Things to add to your Saigon itinerary include:

• Learning about the history at the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace
• Taking a day trip down the Mekong Delta
• Visiting the Cu Chi tunnels used during the war
• Catching a show at the Opera House and visit other places in the French area like City Hall and the Post Office
• Exploring the Saigon food scene by eating at Ben Thanh Market and sampling regional dishes like bún bò Huế (beef noodle soup), bun riêu (crab noodles) and bún mắm (seafood broth noodles).

Harder places to travel solo in Vietnam (and how to do it anyway)

These are places that are great for solo female travel in Vietnam but require a little research…

Ha Long Bay

The best way to travel Ha Long Bay is by overnight cruise. But these usually work out more expensive without a travel buddy due to solo surcharges on cabins. However, Ha Long Bay is a real Southeast Asia bucket lister so I would advise still going! There are plenty of tours that can be organised from Hanoi including overnight stays on the boat, kayaking and other activities. My word of advice would be to do your research and pick a tour that suits your travel style and interests. For example, the Castaway cruises are for 19-25 years olds who like heavy drinking and partying. Even at that age, it would not have been the tour for me. Then, there are luxury tours where you’ll mainly be surrounded by honeymooners and families. I feel you could set a comedy show about someone being stuck on the wrong cruise for days! So don’t get caught out.

Browse & compare multi-day Ha Long cruises

Ninh Binh is a spectacular part of Vietnam with sky-high cliffs encompassing cave complexes that can be cruised through by paddle boat, or hiked up for breathtaking views. I’m only listing it as a harder place for solo travel in Vietnam because the attractions are spread across the countryside so you need a scooter. If like me, you’re not a confident driver, this could be challenging. But, like anything, there are ways around it. One option is doing a Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi as part of an organised tour . Another option is staying overnight in Ninh Binh town (take a bus in just over an hour) and asking your accommodation to help you organise a scooter tour for the day with a local driver. Of course, if you’re comfortable driving, you can just hire your own scooter.

Tours and activities in Vietnam

Some of the downsides of solo travel include doing all the research and getting lonely. Vietnam is a country where it’s super easy and affordable to book tours and excursions during which you’re likely to meet new people and take a break from doing all the navigating and admin yourself.

Some of the top tours in Vietnam are:

• A 2-3 day Sapa tour from Hanoi
• A 2-3 day Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi
• Cu Chi tunnels tours and Mekong Delta cruises from Saigon
• Any type of cooking class, market tour or food tour by foot or scooter. Local guides will help find you the best eats you might not know about otherwise. Use GetYourGuide to find these.

Of course, you rarely NEED tours in Vietnam. There are pros and cons of travelling solo or taking a tour but there are plenty of options if you want them. Longer tours: if you’re not feeling ready for solo travel in Vietnam, G Adventures offer well-organised, culturally immersive tours. I’ve travelled with them myself before and can happily vouch for them! Browse G Adventures tours .

Read next: 101 travel tips for backpacking Southeast Asia

What to wear in Vietnam

Vietnam gets hot but it’s also a conservative country (although you don’t need to worry as much as during solo travel in India ) so it’s important to wear clothes that keep you cool, protect you from sunburn and don’t cause cultural offence. This applies to men as well as solo female travellers in Vietnam. Although you can wear shorts and short dresses in other places, at temples you should ensure your legs and shoulders are covered. Travelling with a light sarong is a great idea so you can throw it on at temples. Elsewhere, lightweight summer clothes will do the job. Personally, I like to cover up a bit with cool, breathable fabrics to avoid sunburn. However, Sapa gets cold so you’ll need extra layers if you plan to visit.

Vietnam packing list

Your Vietnam packing list doesn’t need to be extensive. Laundry facilities are cheap and everywhere in Vietnam!

• 4-5 tops/t-shirts
• 2-3 skirts or lightweight pants
• 1 athletic outfit for Sapa hiking
• 7 x underwear
• Sarong/temple cover-up
• Footwear: 1 x sandals, 1 x flip flops, 1 x lightweight runners
• Towel – I use a small microfibre one
• Large backpack and small day backpack for hiking etc
• Secure bag to wear under your clothes on night buses
• Mosquito repellent
• Reusable water bottle (and reusable straw) or purifying water bottle
• Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.

Accommodation for solo travellers in Vietnam

Hostels: like other Southeast Asian countries, it’s a paradise for affordable yet high-quality hostels. You’ll pay as little as $5 a night for a hostel bed often including breakfast, coffee and/or free beer nights. This is the most social option for a solo trip in Vietnam because you’ll meet loads of other people. Use Hostelworld to find hostels.

Tip – assess the photos and reviews to check it’s the right type of hostel for you. There are lots of party hostels so avoid these if you don’t like lots of drinking/like getting a good night’s sleep!

Hotels: from modest guesthouses to 5* luxury, there are SO many options in Vietnam. It’s a great place to splash out and treat yourself because you get incredible value for money. You can stay in 5* hotels for as little as $80. I use Booking.com because I’ve stacked up so many Genius rewards now that I always get 10% off, free breakfast or a room upgrade! Airbnbs: this is not my favourite type of accommodation these days since you pay high service fees, follow a list of rules, get reviewed publically and don’t have access to decent support if anything goes wrong. For the convenience of an apartment, you can find plenty on Booking.com and the first price you see is what you pay. No sneaky fees!

Best time of year to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is huge so has numerous sub-climates. Generally, March to May is considered the ultimate time to visit Vietnam because the north is cold before then. The summer months get boiling hot and very humid but it’s doable if you explore early and stay protected from the sun. The one time I’d suggest avoiding Hoi An is the flooding season of September-December. Also, check the dates of local holidays like Tet because everything will be closed.

Petty crime in Vietnam

As I mentioned, Vietnam is safe for solo female travellers with virtually no violent crime. But what you do need to be careful of is having your bag, phone or money stolen. You’d think it would be worst in Hanoi and Saigon and yes, there’s some of this there. But, actually, I have experienced crime in Hoi An 3 different times over the years. This happens after nights out when guys with motorbikes act as taxi drivers to tourists leaving the clubs. They have lots of clever tricks to fleece your money when you pay, and also when you’re buying food from stands by the bars. On another occasion, they stole my whole bag. Make sure to wear a secure cross-body bag for your phone and purse, and only bring out what you need. Don’t take a scooter taxi home off the street.

My pet peeve is blogs telling female solo travellers not to drink alcohol. You worked hard for this trip, of course you want to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. You know your limits so, as a capable adult, I’m sure you can go out while assessing your surroundings and staying aware. If you have no one to travel home safely with, call a verified taxi using Uber or Grab.

Safety tips for Vietnam

Don’t carry too much cash: Vietnam is largely a cash-based society. But be smart, for example, don’t do what I did in 2015 and get £100 from the ATM en route to a night out (spoiler: I did not come home with it). Try to withdraw on your way to your accommodation, leave it there (in a hostel locker) and take out roughly what you’ll need for the day or evening. Wear a secure bag: Shoulder bags that can easily be pulled off by a passing moped aren’t a great idea in Vietnam. It’s fine to carry non-valuable items like this but I would recommend also wearing a cross-body bag with your money and phone. Do your research: this is a tip for solo female travel in Vietnam but also everywhere. Doing your research about a place before arriving saves you unpleasant surprises or hiccups when you get there. Just by reading this blog, I can tell you’re already doing this!

Well-being tips for solo female travel in Vietnam

Eat where it’s busy: street food in Vietnam is safe to eat and delicious! It annoys me when people knock street food because food poisoning can happen anywhere… My aunt and uncle got it from a fancy hotel in Vietnam! Just follow the basic safety rule of eating where it’s busy and there’s a fast turnover of food. If there’s lots of locals there, it’s a good sign. Don’t drink tap water: always a bad idea! Since buying plastic bottles is unsustainable, I would recommend bringing a refillable water bottle (most hostels and hotels should offer free fill-ups from large filtered units) or a filtering water bottle. Get travel insurance : well, duh! I love budget travel as much as the next person (probably more) but the one thing I never scrimp on is travel insurance. It could cost you your life! I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Get your vaccs: it’s best to check with your healthcare professional but the NHS recommends Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis may also be recommended.

Safety tips for scooter hire

Riding a scooter is a way of life in Vietnam. Sure, accidents happen and perhaps it’s safer to not ride one at all… but that’s not really practical advice! There are more scooters in Vietnam than people. From locals (who start riding as kids) to tourists, they’re everywhere . Just make sure you:

• Wear a helmet
• Don’t listen to music while driving
• Never drink and drive!
• Assess your vehicle before leaving the rental place and take photos of any dents or scratches. This is less of a safety tip and more to ensure you don’t get ripped off!

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, don’t. It’s usually very affordable to call Grab scooters or, in rural areas, hire a driver for the day. Plus, it’s great business for the locals! I wouldn’t ever advise driving in Hanoi or Saigon unless you have years of scooter experience under your belt.

What to budget for solo travel in Vietnam

Of course, this is highly dependent on your travel style but I’d say for budget travel (by which I mean staying in hostels, eating street food and taking public transport), $1,000 a month is plenty. Add a couple of hundred to stay in hotels rather than hostels. If you’re travelling to Vietnam by yourself, don’t worry too much. You won’t blow the budget by staying at hotels or taking taxis as just one person. Some average costs:

• Street food meal – $1-3
• Bed in a hostel dorm – $5-10
• Private room – from $15
• Bus ticket between cities – $5-20 depending on distance.

Get a travel-friendly bank account

Revolut and Wise bank accounts are open to many nationalities and allow you to spend without transaction fees or ATM fees. They’re a godsend! UK travellers can also use Starling and Monzo banks.

Volunteer to keep the costs down

While ensuring you’re not taking a job from a local or doing anything that could be classed as voluntourism or White Savourism, check out volunteer positions using Worldpackers or Workaway . Both have hundreds if not thousands of opportunities in countries including Vietnam. Usually, you receive free food and accommodation in exchange for working a few hours a day. If you want to sign up, I have discount codes for both Workaway and Worldpackers .

Try house-sitting

As someone who personally housesat for 2 months in Vietnam and didn’t pay a penny/cent for it, I would recommend house sitting and/or pet sitting! The idea is that owners go away and advertise for sitters to look after their houses or pets. I housesat in Vietnam but you’ll find gigs everywhere using Trusted Housesitters . Read my review of the website answering the question is Trusted Housesitters worth it?

How to make friends travelling solo in Vietnam

Making friends while travelling solo in Vietnam is mostly the same as anywhere else Hostels: the easy one! Stay in any hostel and you’re bound to meet people. For a bonus, choose hostels with social areas, bars and evening activities. Group tours & activities: browse GetYourGuide and Viator to find cooking classes, food tours, excursions to popular attractions, pub crawls and lots more. Chat to locals around Hoan Kiem Lake: take a walk around Hanoi lake and you’re bound to meet friendly locals who want to practise their English. If they invite you to hang out with them, do it! (but like anywhere, always hang out with strangers in a public setting at least initially).

Read next: how to make friends when travelling solo

FAQs for Vietnam travel

Is tipping expected? There’s not a big tipping culture like in the US but it’s certainly appreciated. Local wages are low so, if you want to be a good traveller, a little goes a long way! Is Vietnam good for veggies and vegans? It’s not the best country in the world but it can be done. Bigger cities will certainly have options and I can personally advise when it comes to vegan food in Hoi An ! What’s the weather like? Well, it can switch from baking heat to rain in a moment. Be prepared! Is English widely spoken? Among young people and in touristic places, yes. Of course, you should brush up on the basics in Vietnamese so you can be polite and say hello and thank you etc. What’s the currency? It’s Vietnamese Dong (VND) and, at the time of writing, the exchange rate is 23,600 VND to $1 USD. Yes, it’s a lot to get your head around! How long to spend in Vietnam? I would suggest a month. If you have 2 weeks, be selective and don’t try to squeeze in too much. I have Vietnam solo travel itineraries for 2 weeks and one month you can follow.

How to cross the road in Vietnam

Okay, I may be a Vietnam travel pro but there are some things I’ll never get my head around! All I can tell you is to relax into it; people will drive around you. Better yet, attach yourself to a local – they got this! Oh, and don’t sue me if those tips don’t work 😉

Read more solo travel blogs

• How to take photos of yourself when travelling solo
• The pros and cons of solo travel
• Solo female travel in South Africa
• The best places in the world for solo female travel
• Solo female safety guide
• 101 solo travel tips

Guides to solo female travel in Asia :

• Solo female travel in Bali
• Taiwan solo travel guide
• Solo travel in South Korea
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to travel alone in Europe for women
• How to make the most of a solo trip to Lisbon
• Where to travel solo in Portugal
• Solo female travel in Italy
• Is solo travel in Croatia safe?
• A women’s guide to solo Romania travel
• Solo female travel in Albania

Guides to solo travel in the Americas:

• A solo female travellers guide to NY
• Is Guatemala safe for solo travel?
• Belize solo travel
• Cuba solo travel guide
• Mexico solo travel guide
• Is Mexico City safe for solo travel?

Thanks for reading!

Read all my Vietnam posts

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

See you next time for more travel adventures,

VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. To stay connected, get a Vietnam e-SIM or as Asialink card (18 countries) with Airalo. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Vietnam: Everything To Know! ”

Hello Rose, I really appreciate your recommandations. I have few questions, i hope you will get to answer. Before you did your trip, did you plan all the places and cities that you want to go or you just go with the flow ? As a digital nomad, i will need to work in the morning and the evening (3 hours each), do you think i will be capable to still enjoy and visit ? Do you suggest to stay more than a month because of this ?

Hey Roni! I had a loose idea of where I wanted to go before the trip but I mainly went with the flow, there is no need to book things far in advance. Yes I should think you’ll be fine spending a few hours each day working. Maybe exclude one place from your itinerary to give yourself a slightly slower pace, I find that working and exploring can get tiring. Enjoy!

Hi Rose, I really liked your blog on Vietnam. I am planning my 1st solo trip there and your blog has been quite informative. Really appreciate. I wish we meet someday at some place. Ciao soon.

Hi Priyanka, really glad the blog helped!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

• Welcome to My Own Way To Travel!

Sign up for Newsletter

Sign up for travel updates, tips, and inspiration!

• Search for:
• Travel Tips

Tips and Tricks to Find Cheap Flights to Anywhere

Middle East Saudi Arabia Travel Tips

Navigating the Sacred Journey: Hajj Essentials for Men and Women

Middle East Solo Travel Travel Accessories

Must-Have Travel Essentials for Women Exploring the Middle East

Navigating Saudi Arabia: Essential Tips Before Your Journey

Middle East Travel Tips

Mastering the Art of Budget Travel in the Middle East: Your Ultimate Guide

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Arabian Cuisine: An Arabian Food Guide

Asia Travel Tips Uzbekistan

Exploring the Enchanting Charms of Winter in Uzbekistan

Unveiling the Treasures of Uzbekistan on a Budget: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

No products in the cart.

Asia , Solo Travel , Travel Tips , Vietnam

My solo trip to vietnam (seven days itinerary).

Vietnam in Southeast Asia is a popular travel destination for all travelers. It is possible to travel Vietnam on a budget and backpackers’ top choice for an affordable tour cost. Moreover, you’ll find many untouched and unexplored places to visit. This naturally beautiful destination allured me, and this year I had a fantastic solo trip to Vietnam. I was happy during my seven days tour in Vietnam . And many things I loved within this short period. Are you planning a trip to Vietnam ? My Vietnam seven days itinerary will inspire you to visit where I’ve also shared my own travel experiences. Read details inside and get all travel tips to enjoy your first visit.

You’re right to think seven days is not enough for Vietnam. There are many beautiful destinations to explore from Northern to Southern Vietnam. But all destinations in Vietnam are not close to each other. So for a short visit, you’ve to plan wisely to save time. As a first-time visitor Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City are must-visit for all in Vietnam. Your Vietnam tour is incomplete without exploring the natural wonder of the world Halong Bay.

My  solo travel guide to Vietnam to explore the historical and cultural places, local life, and food habit in the capital Hanoi and the famous Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the natural and rustic beauty in Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, and Mekong Delta.

Table of Contents

• 1 Best Time To Visit Vietnam
• 2 Is Vietnam Safe To Visit Alone
• 3.2 Ninh Binh
• 3.3 Ho Chi Minh City
• 4.1 Day 1: Hanoi
• 4.2 Day 2: Hanoi
• 4.3 Day 3: Halong Bay
• 4.4 Day 4: Halong Bay, Ninh Binh
• 4.5 Day 5: Ninh Binh, Ho Chi Minh City
• 4.6 Day 6: Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City
• 4.7 Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City
• 5 Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save These For Later Read!

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

In terms of weather, either spring (February – April) or autumn (September – November) is the best time to visit Vietnam. To avoid the hot temperature and excessive rainfall, it is best not to visit during summer and monsoon. I traveled to Vietnam in the first week of March. The weather was pleasant, but you can expect a sudden rain. For cruising in Halong Bay, it is better not to visit Vietnam in the rainy season (June – August). Overall the yearly average temperature is between 21°C – 23°C.

Is Vietnam Safe To Visit Alone

Traveling solo in Vietnam is safe and common to visit as a solo traveler. Most of the locals are friendly and very cooperative minded to guide you the best. You can communicate in English almost with all in the tourist areas. My one week in Vietnam was completely safe. Even I enjoyed a solo cruise trip in Halong Bay and was glad to be introduced there with some more solo female travelers. They’re backpacking and safely touring around Vietnam.

Most importantly, you don’t have to spend a lot from your pockets to travel alone in Vietnam. You don’t have to compromise with comfort and safety. All possible to manage according to your budget from accommodation to food and transportation. You can go for any group tours; you can stay in a hostel, which is very standard and safe as well for female travelers.

Where To Stay in Vietnam

Hanoi Old Quarter in Hanoi is a popular tourist area to eat and sleep on a budget. Plenty of budget accommodations from hostels to hotels are available and best to stay. You can also explore all top Hanoi city attractions from the Old Quarter. Ta Ho and Ba Dinh are also best if you want to keep yourself away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

I stayed two nights at My Moon Hotel, a 3-star hotel located in Hoan Kiem District, and very close to the Old Quarter. The location is best to enjoy a walking tour, shopping, and taste the best street food. I loved the elegant interior, and my room occupied with all modern amenities and facilities. The tour desk service of My Moon Hotel is excellent, which helped me to save my time and enjoy the tour in Hanoi and Halong Bay. They offer free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast for all.

If you’re visiting Ninh Binh , a small city in Northern Vietnam, it is best to stay some days. It takes almost 3 hours by road to reach the town from Hanoi. Many beautiful hotels and hostels offer a lot of facilities at a lower price plus you get the chance to stay very close to nature. I stayed one night at Tam Coc Bungalow. Later regrets not staying more nights. It was my top favorite accommodation in Vietnam.

Tam Coc Bungalow is best for all kinds of travelers. They offer family to single rooms, also dormitory facilities, free Wi-Fi, and standard services for all guests. The restaurant facing the river and mountain views is simply the best to have a complimentary buffet breakfast. You’ll enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and cycling during your stay in Ninh Binh.

Ho Chi Minh City

District 1 is the best and popular place to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. This famous tourist area is also known as the Backpacker District. All tourist-friendly accommodations, restaurants are located in the district area. All major city attractions are nearby only and best to try many street foods by the roadside open-air stalls.

I had two nights of budget stay at Galaxy Boutique Hotel in District 1. I stayed in a single room, but they also have family and dormitory rooms. Buffet breakfast and Wi-Fi are complimentary for all and have all the standard facilities to stay. Ho Chi Minh City international airport is only 7 km from the hotel. The hotel tour desk nicely arranged my Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta tours.

Seven Days Vietnam Tour Itinerary

My seven days Vietnam tour itinerary will help you to explore mainly Northern Vietnam and Southern Vietnam. I wish to explore the central part of Vietnam in the future where the ancient town Hoi An is the top favorite for many tourists. I started my solo trip to Vietnam from Hanoi and ended up in Ho Chi Minh City. It was great to find a lot of budget-friendly options to explore each of the destinations in Vietnam. It is also more convenient, easy, and fun to join many group tours during your trip to Vietnam.

I traveled to Vietnam from  Malaysia  via Malindo Air from Dhaka to Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi. The  visa policy of Vietnam  is not the same for all countries. For majorities, it is a must to obtain a visa; you can even take the facility of electronic visa/E-visa to visit Vietnam.

Walking and motorbike tours are more common and affordable one for touring around the city. You can also go for day tours by bus or taxi in nearby areas of the city. Grab is accessible and popular in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. For long distances, trains and planes are the best transportation to travel around Vietnam.

Get the itinerary along with my complete Vietnam tour experiences. Besides, it is worth and some recommended books to read before visiting Vietnam  for more information related to travel, history, and tradition of this country.

Day 1: Hanoi

Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake

The first day my trip to Vietnam started in the afternoon in Hanoi. It was a relaxed experience while passing the beautiful Nhat Tan Bridge over the Red River. The minimal design of the bridge is very eye-catching and the most beautiful bridge in the city. I took a taxi from Noi Bai International Airport to reach My Moon Hotel.

Hanoi Old Quarter is famous for trying much traditional Vietnamese food from the restaurants to the open-air food stalls in the narrow streets. More than three hours of the guided walking tour in a group was one of the best experiences during my solo travel in Vietnam. We were three in a group and enjoyed seeing and eat like a local with Hanoi Street Food Tour from the afternoon tonight. We tried many different types of Hanoi street food.

Don’t ask what to eat in Hanoi? There is plenty of delicious and tasty food options to try during your stay. The street food tour is trendy in Hanoi, and you can also join in a cooking class to learn about Vietnamese culinary. Food tour at night is one of the top things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Rice/Rice Paper is the main ingredient in preparing most of the famous Vietnamese food. Some of the must-try Hanoian food is Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Nem), Banh Mi , Rice Noodles with Meatballs (Bun Cha), Egg Coffee ( Cà Phê Trứng ), Steamed Rice Pancake (Bánh Cuốn). I liked the taste of Banh Mi, Sticky Rice with Coconut Ice cream (Kem Xoi), and Veggie Spring Rolls the most among various street food in Vietnam.

The striking beauty of the Hoan Kiem Lake is worth to enjoy at night. Hoan Kiem Lake area is one of the popular spots in Hanoi, from locals to tourists around. There is one temple (Ngoc Son Temple) in the middle of the lake but not free to visit. We enjoyed the total view of the lake during our street food tour.

Day 2: Hanoi

Tran Quoc Pagoda, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Presidential Palace Historical site, One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi Citadel

The second day I had a group city tour on a bus with Seven Tours from the morning to the afternoon. Mainly we explored some of the historical and cultural sites in Hanoi. All tourists must have to follow proper dress code (long cloths preferable) before visiting any temples and mausoleum. The lunch and the sightseeing entrance tickets along with the English speaking guide included with Hanoi city tour.

Hanoi blessed with a rich culture and many old architectures. But the traffic is enormous, keeping that mind it is best to start any trip from the morning. And all city attractions are not open every day for visitors.

We started from Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist Pagoda located beside the West Lake. It is free for all to visit. The entire area of the pagoda is scenic, and walking around the West Lake will give you an enchanting experience.

Hanoi offers various museums to visit, and we explored the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Cau Giay District. This unique museum is also a research center. The Museum of Ethnology represents the traditional Vietnamese lifestyle, cultural heritage, and diversity through 54 different Vietnamese ethnic groups.

On the way to the Temple of Literature, we visited one production workshop for disabled people. People with disabilities get the chance to work here, and the workshop helps to showcase their works. You can visit and even buy from them Vietnamese traditional paintings and embroidery materials.

Temple of Literature is the first University of Vietnam to understand better Vietnam’s culture and tradition. Temple of Literature or Temple of Confucius is one of the top attractions in Hanoi and built in the 10th century. The entrance ticket requires to visit this picturesque landmark.

Later we all had lunch with traditional Vietnamese food at Hoan’s Restaurant & Cooking Class, the local restaurant in Hanoi Old Quarter. Alternative food arrangements are there for vegetarians in almost all places in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. I’ve liked this during my one week trip to Vietnam.

The historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place for Vietnam’s beloved national hero, Uncle Ho or Ho Chi Minh. Ho Chi Minh Museum is very close to the mausoleum. Both sites are free for all to visit.

Exploring around Presidential Palace and its historical area is one of the top things to do in Hanoi. There is a lot to explore the most scenic area of the palace. Visitors have first to collect entrance ticket. The yellow-colored Presidential Palace is used to be President Ho Chi Minh’s official residence from 1954 – 1969.

The traditional One Pillar Pagoda is also one Buddhist Temple and located very close to the mausoleum. It built over the water in the middle of a square lake.

Some of the other must-visit tourist attractions in Hanoi are Hanoi Citadel, Hoa Lo Prison, The Perfume Pagoda, Hanoi Opera House, and Dong Xuan Market. Watching Thang Long Water Puppets show is also one of the best things to do in Hanoi at night. Spending two or three days in Hanoi will give you the chance to explore every tourist attraction in the city.

Day 3: Halong Bay

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

The third day morning, I left for Halong Bay from Hanoi, the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam. Within 3.5 hours, we reached our destination. I enjoyed  two days Halong Bay cruise on a budget . It was an overnight cruise tour with Cozy Bay Cruise. The entire journey the most exciting part was to discover the different mysterious moods of Halong Bay in a different hour. I was loving to keep looking many limestone isles and karsts of different shapes from the sun deck of the boat. It was truly fascinating and full of wonder.

We were a total of 18 travelers in a group and had many outdoor to indoor activities to do in two days Cozy Bay Cruise itinerary. I always wanted to visit Vietnam to explore Halong Bay, so cruising around Halong Bay was my top favorite things to do during my entire trip to Vietnam.

After lunch with many varieties of Vietnamese cuisine, we went to visit Surprising Cave or Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, by boat. Surprising Cave is truly the surprising and unique one to explore many different strange shapes of rock formation. You can get the most scenic view of Halong Bay from the top of Titop Island. The relaxing time on the sandy beach of Tiptop is also great, also possible to swim.

We had a sunset party and cooking class to learn the process of making Vietnamese Spring Rolls. We had the yummiest dinner time with delicious Vietnamese food. Many enjoyed fishing at night from the deck. The arrangements for karaoke was there before ending the first day of the cruise tour.

Day 4: Halong Bay, Ninh Binh

Halong Bay, Ninh Binh

The fourth day of my trip to Vietnam was the last day for Halong Bay. You’ll not regret it if you keep two more nights for cruising in the bay, one of the best places to visit in Northern Vietnam.

After a filling breakfast, we started our second day in Halong Bay by visiting Pearl Farm and Pearl House. It was great to see the process of making pearls from the oyster. We had the ultimate fun while kayaking and enjoying some of the best views of Halong Bay in the morning hour. You can enjoy your time according to your way; some preferred only relaxing on the sun deck.

We had our last cruise lunch with the scenic view before leaving for Hanoi. We reached the city by afternoon on the same bus. I went for Ninh Binh from Hanoi by taxi. It was quite dull as it took much time for the traffic in the evening and reached Tam Coc Bungalow at night. I made a mistake and booked the taxi early for Ninh Binh. Later found, I could leave for Ninh Binh from Halong Bay itself, and by doing that, I could save a lot of time.

Day 5: Ninh Binh, Ho Chi Minh City

Ninh Binh, Tam Coc, Ho Chi Minh City District 1 

The fifth day started in the early morning by walking around Tam Coc Bungalow in Ninh Binh. It was great to find a slice of Vietnamese village life from the hotel only. It surrounded by abundant and untouched wildlife and built in a traditional Muong Village. Tam Coc is just 1 km away from the bungalow and holds the extreme natural beauty of Northern Vietnam. Therefore, it is possible to enjoy the rustic charm of country life from Ninh Binh.

After breakfast, I went to enjoy boat riding along the Ngo Dong River. It is possible to see this river view from Tam Coc Bungalow. Tam Coc boat tour is one of the must-do things in Ninh Binh. Bich Dong Pagoda and Mua Cave are two more must-visit attractions in Ninh Binh province of Vietnam.

The whole boat trip is very scenic for limestone mountains, and so Tam Coc is also known as Halong Bay on Land. The boatman/woman row the boat in a typical way by foot instead of hand. The boat tour of Tam Coc – Bich Dong duration is 1.5 hours. During the ride, you’ll be surprised to pass through three beautiful mysterious caves (grottos), Ca grotto, Hai grotto, and Ba grotto. You’ll also see green rice fields both sides of the river and overall the combo of natural and rustic beauty is charming in Tam Coc.

At the last moment, I decided to visit Ninh Binh. Later found it was worth in all way to keep this naturally beautiful destination in my Vietnam seven days itinerary. Most tourists skip this destination instead visit Sapa or Hoi An.

In the afternoon, I had a flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to spend the last two nights in Southern Vietnam. I had a pleasant experience to fly the first time with Jetstar Airways, the world’s popular safest low-cost airlines. The flight duration was 2 hours and also had a complimentary snack during the journey.

I had my first dinner from the roadside food stall nearby Galaxy Boutique Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, which is more popular as Saigon. Vietnamese Noodles Soup (Pho) is popular street food in Ho Chi Minh City, along with many other food options. Saigon, after dark, is quite vibrant than Hanoi.

Most of the shops and local restaurants in District 1 became open till late night and the top popular area among tourists and locals. All love to have street food after dark and merely impossible to imagine the nightlight in Saigon without food. Therefore, walking food tour at night is a must things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 6: Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City

Cai Be, Ben Tre, Mekong Delta, Vinh Long 

The sixth-day early morning after breakfast, I joined a group for a day trip to Mekong Delta , a must-visit Southern region during your trip to Vietnam. Mekong Delta day trip from Ho Chi Minh City was my top favorite things to do in Southern Vietnam. Mekong Delta tour is for you if you like the countryside and want to be familiar with the local culture, daily lifestyle, and activities.

It was worth appreciating and love all the simple things during the Mekong Delta tour. The day-long journey started from Saigon by the AC bus. A tour guide, boat trips, lunch, bicycle ride all included with the tour. It takes 4 hours to reach the Mekong River Delta. We took first a boat ride from Cai Be, explored lush vegetations and floating markets. It is also lovely to see the bright rice paddies from the boat. We visited the coconut candy workshop and enjoyed to see the traditional process of making candy, puffed rice, and grated coconut in Ben Tre province.

All in all, it is worth to buy organic produces, handicrafts from the local peoples. The natural process of making eco-friendly straw bags was simply the best. We also visited a bee farm, mushroom farm, local orchard, enjoyed traditional dance and music. They served us honey tea, black garlic, tropical fruits. After a boat ride on the canals, we had lunch from one homestay.

Later riding bicycles/biking to the villages was very interesting and fun. Before leaving Mekong Delta by bus to Ho Chi Minh City, we explored Vinh Long Market where locals sell different river fishes to vegetables, fruits, flowers along with daily commodities.

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City

Jade Emperor Temple, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Opera House, War Remnants Museum

The seventh day was the last day of my Vietnam tour. A quick trip by motorbike was the cool idea to explore some best landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. There was less traffic, and I enjoyed four hours motorbike tour with the guide. Cricket Tours nicely conducted the whole trip. This motorbike tour was safe, including travel insurance, entrance tickets, and lunch.

Ho Chi Minh City is mainly famous for many years old French colonial architecture. This city played a vital role during the Vietnam War or the Second Indochina War. Therefore, Cu Chi is one of the must-visit places in the city, which used to be the bitter battlefield for many years during the Vietnam War. But at least half-day requires for the trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.

However, we started the Saigon city tour from Jade Emperor Temple, a beautiful Chinese temple of the 19th century. It is free for all to visit. Notre Dame Cathedral or Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is another top city attractions and built in the 18th century. It resembles the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and famous as Mini Asia Notre Dame Cathedral Version.

The interior design of the Saigon Central Post Office is exquisite. This historic post office played an important role during the time of the Vietnam War. I’ve also liked the Beaux-Arts architectural style of Saigon Municipal Opera House. It was fun to enjoy photography here facing this artistic French colonial landmark.

War Remnants Museum in District 3 is a must-visit during your solo trip to Vietnam. This unique museum globally supports the antiwar movement. After collecting the ticket, it is worth to spend some quality time inside the museum. It displays anti-war artworks, exhibits, aircraft, artillery and armor, pictures related to the First Indochina War and Vietnam War.

Ben Thanh Market, Reunification Palace, are also popular tourist attractions. Nguyen Hue Street is one of the best and iconic walking street in Ho Chi Minh City. Best for hangouts with friends at night and filled with many shops and local eateries.

On the way came to know about burning monk Thich Quang Duc. There is a memorial on the roadside and worth to visit to know all about Thich Quang Duc Monument.

Later came back to the hotel after a veggie lunch from Giac Duc Vegetarian restaurant. Vietnamese Iced tea with lunch was very refreshing. By afternoon I left the city with all good memories for Tan Son Nhat International Airport. I hope to come back soon. See you, Vietnam!

Are You On Pinterest? Click To Save These For Later Read!

Are you planning a solo trip to Vietnam? Share your top travel tips or for more query comments below!

Nafisa Habib

Nafisa Habib loves nature and often got fascinated by old beautiful architecture. Here she is with My Own Way To Travel to share her adventures on the road. To her nothing is so interesting than exploring new destinations around. And knowing a new culture and meeting new peoples on the road? Oh, yeah she just loves that too.

Comments are closed.

• Electronics
• Cell Phones and Accessories
• Clothing, Shoes and Jewelry
• Beauty and Personal Care
• Sports and Outdoors
• Luggage and Travel Gear

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller's Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam is the travel gift that keeps on giving. How do you choose between the misty mountains, scenic beaches and bays, energetic cities and cultural sights when travelling solo in Vietnam? Then there’s the gentleness of the Vietnamese people and their show-stopping cuisine. All of this is Vietnam, but there’s much more, as you’ll see in our trusty guide.

An overview of a solo trip to vietnam.

In a week or slightly more, you can graze the length of Vietnam, from north to south, starting in Hanoi, the boulevard-lined capital home to a French quarter and historic hotels. Moving on to coastal Da Nang, a mountain-backed city used as a portal to Hoi An, pretty as a picture with atmospheric lantern-lit lanes. Cooled by the winds of the South China Sea, palm-lined Mũi Né fishing resort is home to desert-like dunes. Last but not least, Ho Chi Minh City – still called Saigon by locals – is a dizzying mix of thriving modern commerce and ancient temples.

Vietnam’s tropical monsoon climate has regional variations and hits different parts of the country at different times. In the south, the driest months are between December and April, while in the north, it’s spring and autumn.

Vietnam is an inexpensive country to travel solo – so you can switch up staying in historic hotels and ritzy resorts for a sail around Halong Bay in the northeast of Vietnam, without worrying about your budget too much. One opportunity that absolutely shouldn’t be passed up is an overnight stay on a wooden boat styled on a Chinese sailing ship, giving you a close-up view of the limestone islands soaring from the deep green waters – either on deck or from the comfort of your cabin.

Check out our favourite Vietnam hostels . If you’re planning on spending a few days by the beach, here’s our pick of top beach hotels in Vietnam , while you can keep your carbon footprint to a minimum at one of these eco-friendly hotels up and down the country . Or take your pick from our best of the best roundup for a real treat without breaking the bank.

What to do in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Vietnam is a deceptively slender country stacked with sights from head to toe. With so much choice, we’ve cherry-picked three very different things to do.

1. Take a walking tour of Hanoi

Architectural Landmark

You can’t visit Hanoi and not be charmed, despite the crazy traffic thick with darting mopeds. Be guided through the city on foot by our Local Insider – as part of our 12-day Vietnam small-group adventure – from Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945, to the maze-like, industrious Old Quarter, passing Hanoians balancing produce on bamboo poles, and stopping for street food classics like bánh xeo (savoury pancakes).

2. Go off-roading on Mũi Né’s sand dunes

Natural Feature

Half an hour from Mũi Né, a fishing village turned popular resort in the south, Sahara-like dunes sculpted by the sea breeze rise behind a lotus-topped lake. Hire a quad bike or dune buggy to zig-zag across them as the sun sets.

3. Explore the bustling market streets of Hoi An

A thriving trading post until the 19th century, today Hoi An draws tourists with its picturesque charm. Wooden pagodas and narrow lanes sell silky pyjamas while restaurants peddle seafood-rich dishes you’ll want to return for.

Eating and drinking in Vietnam

The French occupation left its mark in many ways. In terms of cuisine, the baguettes available on most streets are the bedrock of the popular banh mi – pickle-loaded meat sandwiches. Street food really is the way to authentic Vietnamese food culture. Avoid trendy restaurants where they may only serve you what looks tasty. Instead, opt for such down-to-earth places where you can pull out a plastic stool on the pavement.

What’s also ubiquitous here is the sight of Vietnamese squatting low as they breakfast on pho, an aromatic rice noodle soup with a bunch of fresh, green herbs and thin slithers of beef, served in homes, street stalls and restaurants.

You may also want to perk yourself up with a morning coffee – often served cold and sweetened with condensed milk – and later savour an ice-cold beer – the Saigon and Hanoi brands are very popular.

Read our guide on how to spot the best street food stalls in Vietnam , or cut to the chase with our top pick of dishes to eat in Vietnam and the best vegetarian street food Vietnamese dong can buy .

Stay safe, be happy

Vietnam is generally very safe, whether you’re alone or with others. There’s an established tourist trail, which means a huge variety of hotels and plenty of transport options. The main thing to be aware of in larger cities is pickpockets grabbing bags and mobile phones as they whizz by on scooters – but you’d have to be very unlucky to fall victim to this.

For female solo travellers out at night, a metered taxi is the safest form of transport. Booking a small-group trip to Vietnam is one of the best ways to experience the country with the security of a local expert to guide you, yet the freedom to pick your excursions, from street food tours to biking in the hills.

What to do to fit in – and not offend

Vietnamese people are naturally friendly and welcoming to solo travellers. However, if you travel to remote areas, be respectful of their conservative values. Behave as the locals do when visiting pagodas and temples; if they cover up a body part, then so should you. Perhaps unfairly, but particularly if you’re a female solo traveller, dress as the locals do. We don’t mean donning a nòn la conical hat but avoid revealing outfits and don’t topless sunbathe anywhere.

Getting around

Vietnam is a delightful country, but some of the roads are dangerous and best left to native drivers. Air-conditioned coaches chug up and down heavily congested Highway 1, the main route that runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Less stressful are the sleeper cabins on the trains that run alongside. Buy tickets online or at the station (hotels and agencies will do it for a fee), and pre-book in peak holiday periods such as Tet (Vietnamese new year). Buy the highest class you can afford; lower means less comfort and higher gets softer seats, sleeping berths and faster service.

Alternatively, join our immersive 12-day Vietnam adventure to have all your transportation, accommodation and activities arranged for you – you’ll only travel with a small group of like-minded travellers, and beat the crowds everywhere you visit.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Dung Phan .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

Where to find the most spectacular rice fields in vietnam.

Places to Stay

The best hostels to book in vietnam.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Vietnam

Guides & Tips

Top tips for travelling in vietnam.

Hip Apartments in Vietnam You’ll Want to Call Home

The best destinations to visit in september.

Local Insider – Showcasing the Beauty of Vietnam

Culture Trip’s Best Value Deals for 2023

The Best Places to Visit in Early 2023

The Best Hotels to Book in Vietnam for Every Traveller

The Best Luxury Resorts in Vietnam

The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Vietnam

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1336628
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• This Was How Wonderful Apoorva’s 7 Days Trip To Vietnam Truly Was!

27 Mar 2023

A true wanderer is someone who doesn’t let any sort of life event, be it a job or marriage, come in between him and his escapades. Apoorva Tiwari is one of those few. This individual has justified the phrase ‘once a solo traveler, always a solo traveler’ in the new light. He went for a 7 days trip to Vietnam and came back with memories that would be remembered throughout the lifetime. Vietnam hides plenty of experiences in its lap that are ideal for those who seek some kind of solitude in life.

I decided to go on a solo trip because before I got married this was the go-to event that would help me relax and do something offbeat. Ever since I got married, between the jobs, and starting up something on my own, I realized that it had been quite long since I had done something like this. So, once this was sorted, I started looking out for plausible options. First I’d narrowed down to Europe but the time frame to get a visa as the day of departure was sometime in the first week of July and I was planning this in June. Then I decided upon Cambodia in South East Asia as I wanted to take the path less taken. But that was really out of my set budget. It was then that the agent from TravelTriangle suggested me to take a trip from Mumbai to Vietnam .

Details Of My 7 Days Trip To Vietnam

Trip Type: Solo Trip Cost: INR 60,000 No. Of People: 1 Duration: 7 Days Inclusions: All Meals, Airport Transfers, Shuttle, Guide, Accommodation, Entrance Tickets, Visa Approval, Taxes, Service Charges, Airfare Exclusions: Visa Stamp Fee, Cable Car

Itinerary Summary For My 7 Days Trip To Vietnam

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi, check-in at the hotel, overnight stay in Hanoi Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise (lunch, kayaking, swimming, and more activities), overnight stay on Cruise Day 3: Visit Surprising Cave, check-out from the cruise, arrive in Hanoi, overnight stay in Hanoi Day 4: Sightseeing in Hoa Lu, sailing in Ngo Dong river, overnight stay in Hanoi Day 5: Sightseeing in Perfume Pagoda, overnight stay in Hanoi Day 6: Hanoi City Tour, overnight stay in Hanoi Day 7: Departure

52 Stunning Places To Visit In Vietnam In 2022 For A Natural And Historic Retreat

Weather In Vietnam

I paid a visit to Vietnam in the month of July, and let me tell you that Vietnam in July is all about scorching sun and sweat-inducing heat. It was very hot in Vietnam during the summer season and was already aware of the weather that I will get to face, which helped me pack the things accordingly. It was so humid that I always preferred air-conditioned places, had put lots of sunscreens, and kept having water wherever and whenever I started getting dehydrated. This helped me a lot. But the heat did not become a hindrance even for once as the charm of the city makes up for it. However, those who can’t bear the heat too much, the best time to travel to Vietnam is from March to May.

My Favorite Experiences During 7 Days Trip To Vietnam

My Vietnam itinerary for 1 week covered almost all the experiences that I had intended to take part in. These experiences are very close to my heart that I would remember throughout my lifetime.

1. Halong Bay Cruise

The cruise along the Halong Bay was definitely the highlight of this 7 days trip to Vietnam . The whole journey on the ship was extremely fun and the landscape views that I witnessed just took my breath away. Just relaxing on the boat with ample free time, contemplating over life, and just soaking in the serenity of the surrounding water was an unmatchable experience. Kayaking under the rugged limestone caves, taking the cooking class, gazing at the stars, and indulging in scrumptious delicacies was definitely an addition to the already amazing experience.

2. Exploring The Secret Caves

I got an opportunity to trek and explore through the mysterious yet beautiful Surprising Caves which helped me satiate my thirst for some thrilling escapade. So we starting trekking from one entrance of a massive mountain and witness how gigantic the cave truly is. With the ceilings being covered by the velvety carpet or the stalagmites, stunning motifs that never fail to glisten, various formations of different shapes, and ending the trek to another side of the mountain tat exhibits spectacular views of clear water lake and lush greens are something to cherish forever.

14 Things To Do In Hue Which Make This Town In Vietnam Worth A Visit In 2022!

3. Strolling Around The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu was one of those destinations that completely teleported me to the time of golden days in Vietnam. A destination that has stopped in time. This quaint, little destination was the capital of the Vietnamese Kingdom that was surrounded by Citadel. One can still witness the ruins of the 17th-century temples, 11th-century kingdom, and more marvels from the bygone era of the beautiful destination of Vietnam.

4. Visiting The Perfume Pagoda

Reeking of the essence of spirituality from every nook and cranny, the Perfume Pagoda has its floors covered with an extensive number of beautiful and enchanting Buddhist shrines and temples. This Pagoda blankets some of the most magnificent and unmatchable landscapes that look right out of a storybook. With the places of worship being built right at the peak of the Huong Tich Mountain peak, this place certainly left me awe-inspired.

Hotels In Vietnam

I just stayed in one hotel for the entire 7 days trip to Vietnam . My hotel was beautifully located right in the heart of the Hanoi Old Quarter. This meant that this hotel was conveniently located in the vicinity of the local market, tea shopping spots, street food sellers, and all the basic necessities that I needed. I hardly stayed in the hotel but the little interactions that I had with the staff made me realize the friendly and warm-hearted hospitality of this hotel. The room was spacious and had a clean bathroom with a private tub. The overall experience of the hotel was great.

Vietnam Visa For Indians: Everything You Need To Know Before Applying

Food In Vietnam

Throughout my Vietnam itinerary for 7 days I decided to indulge in the local food that was available in Vietnam. I had no issues in sticking to this decision by virtue of the flavorsome and lip-smacking food that is available readily on the streets. I mainly had dinners as my breakfast was provided at the hotel and the lunch was with the group. There was an amazing variety of seafood that was available. Vietnamese noodles, egg tea, cold coffee, and Banh Mi sandwich were a few dishes in Vietnam that really took me on a culinary roller coaster.

Shopping In Vietnam

There were numerous street shopping areas available in Vietnam. Ranging from handicrafts to fashionable shoes, there was an extensive variety available for us to spend some money on. Vietnam is home to a massive shoe market that sells all the surplus imports of big brands. There are also sports-related shops where one can buy t-shirts, backpacks, and other sportswear. I also bought many beautiful paintings, pearls, and other jewelry from Vietnam.

Vietnamese Street Foods: A Guide To Some Scrumptious Dishes To Try In 2022

Travel Tips

From what to pack for Vietnam for 7 days trip to all the places you should not miss out on, here are a few Vietnam travel tips that helped me out on my solo trip.

• Carry lots of sunscreens if you are traveling during the summer season
• If you are deciding what to wear in Vietnam in July , do not forget to add some T-shirts, shorts, and linen clothing items. Also, pack a little extra so that you don’t have to roam around in sweaty outfits throughout the day.
• Wear extremely comfortable shoes as there is going to be a lot of walking involved.
• Do take a trip on the cruise. It is going to be one of the best experiences of your life.
• Definitely add the Surprising Cave on your bucket list.

My Experience With TravelTriangle

My experience with TravelTriangle was actually pretty nice. The agent that helped me plan out my trip and itinerary was extremely helpful and gave me numerous options, budgets, what was possible, what was not. The agents were quick in connecting with me and answering all the queries that I had regarding the trip. The whole booking process was taken out in a smooth and effective manner.

Our Trip To Vietnam With Kids Gave Us Countless Cherishable Memories

7 days trip to Vietnam offers a great opportunity to witness the nooks of this country. Be it for a solo traveler, honeymooner, or a budget traveler, there is something or the other to do in Vietnam. From cruising along the Halong Bay and unfolding the mysteries of the caves to indulging in delicious delicacies and shopping for some handicrafts, Vietnam has plenty to offer. So, plan a trip to Vietnam just like Apoorva and knit your own tales about the ancient city!

Disclaimer : Some images are for representation purposes only. TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Common Queries You May Have

What is Vietnam best known for?

Vietnam is best known for its war with the United States of America in the year 1960, the export industry, sportswear, fabrics, clothing, and definitely the drool-worthy food.

Is Vietnam safe for tourists?

Yes, definitely. I don’t think I ever felt that this place could be where I don’t want to be. There were times when I was out late at night and I could still see people walking around- both young men and women, simply enjoying the starry nights.

What should we avoid in Vietnam?

It is better to avoid the sun and carry lots of sunscreens, hats, shades, and an umbrella. It is also better to avoid and beware of the pickpockets in this city.

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to pay a visit to Vietnam is during the winter season. From January to March are the best months are the temperature remains comfortable and makes it easy for travelers to stroll around.

Recent Posts

Discover 8 Mysterious Caves in Halong Bay

The Complete Guide To Tam Coc In Vietnam: The Mysterious Caves Of North Vietnam

10 Can Tho Restaurants You Must Dine At On Your Vietnamese Vacay

The Ideal Nha Trang Travel Guide To Help You Plan Your Vietnam Trip Well

Top 12 Hai Phong Nightlife Spots To Explore The City’s After Dark Scenes

Hue Nightlife: 10 Mind-Blowing Places To Watch It Come To Life

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Vietnam »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

Travel - Experience - Share

• Philippines
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• South America
• New Zealand
• Adventure Travel
• Culture & Heritage
• Sustainable & Responsible Travel
• Travel Products & Services
• Travel Tips
• Food & Restaurants
• Hotel & Resorts
• Travel Resources
• Published Work And Features
• Work with Us / Contact Us
• Search for: Search

Best 7 Days Vietnam Itinerary From India – Vietnam Guide

This is a detailed 7 day Vietnam itinerary covering the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang, it is a complete Vietnam travel guide.

Vietnam is a mesmerizing melange of stunning natural beauty, rich traditions and culture, and unique cuisine. A Vietnam itinerary makes for an experience that is sure to sweep you off your feet, in more ways than one. It was love at first sight for us when we visited the country for the first time. After Thailand and Cambodia, Vietnam was the third country we visited, which was cradled by the Mekong River .

The Mekong River flows through six countries, the other three being China, Myanmar, and Lao PDR, making it one of the longest rivers in the world. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, this 1 Week Vietnam Itinerary, based on our personal experience, will surely help you in scripting your own Vietnam adventure.

Table of Contents

Vietnam Travel Guide – 7 Days In Vietnam

We spent 7 days in Vietnam and covered three cities – Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City . Our Vietnam itinerary also included the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay which is located approximately at a distance of about 180 kilometres from Hanoi city. We flew from India’s capital city Delhi to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam on a Vietnam Airlines flight . We also flew on Vietnam Airlines flights for our travel within Vietnam.

This post is more than just a Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary . It is a Guide To Vietnam , especially for first-time visitors to Vietnam. Apart from information about where to visit in Vietnam for the first time, you shall also find information on where to eat, where to stay, currency, language, transportation, and the best time to visit Vietnam . Also included specifically for travellers to Vietnam from India is information about Vietnam trip costs from India , and Vietnam visa for Indians .

Best Vietnam Itinerary – Vietnam In Seven Days

We flew from Bangalore to Delhi, from where we boarded our Vietnam Airlines flight to Hanoi. Currently, you can fly to Vietnam from Delhi or Mumbai, there are direct flights to Hanoi from these places. This Vietnam itinerary spans over seven days and includes the day of arrival in Hanoi and the day of departure from Vietnam.

Vietnam Trip Itinerary – Day One In Hanoi

We arrived in the wee hour of the morning at the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. Immigration was a breeze and we were out of the airport in quick time. Hanoi is the political and cultural capital of Vietnam and there are many Places to visit in Hanoi and interesting experiences to be savoured. We had a packed day ahead. So after checking in at our hotel, Silk Path, we were ready to explore the attractions of Hanoi.

Vietnam Itinerary – Temple of Literature Hanoi

The Temple of Literature is a nice place to start your Hanoi sightseeing. Dating back to the year 1070, this Confucian temple also served as a place of learning exclusively for members of the royal clans. It has the distinction of hosting the first, “ University of Vietnam ,” known as, “ The Imperial Academy ,” between 1076 to 1779 and is located amidst tranquil environs right in the middle of the city.

The Temple of Literature is made up of gardens, pavilions, a lake, and temples. You should not miss the Stellae or stone tablets erected on the bodies of turtles. Incidentally, the turtle (Quy), is one of the 4 holy creatures that are revered in Vietnam, the other three are; Dragon (Long), Unicorn (Ly), and Phoenix (Phuong).  These were erected to honour those who were successful in the royal exams. Something like your degree certificate, but the difference is that these were etched in stone. The Temple of Literature on the currency note of the 100,000 Vietnamese Dong note.

Vietnam Itinerary – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Hanoi

A visit to Hanoi would be incomplete without visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the place where the embalmed body of the legendary Vietnamese leader lies. The mausoleum is in the centre of the historic Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh read the Proclamation of Independence on 2 September 1945, which gave birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh called Uncle Ho by the grateful people of Vietnam lies in a glass chamber inside the mausoleum. The public is allowed inside the Mausoleum in the morning hours between 7.30 AM to 10.30 AM on all days except Mondays and Fridays.

Vietnam Itinerary – One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi

One can take a stroll in Ba Dinh Square and walk to the iconic One Pillar Pagoda Temple which is within walking distance. The One Pillar Pagoda is located in a serene setting and is a Buddhist temple that as the name suggests stands on one pillar. It is one of the famous temples of Hanoi whose origins date back to the 11th century. It was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong. The structure was completely damaged in the year 1954, however, the current structure is the one that was restored in 1955 by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture.

Vietnam Itinerary – Indian Vegetarian Lunch

After visiting the One Pillar Pagoda, we made our way to the Maazi Restaurant in Hanoi which served Indian food. There are many Indian restaurants in Hanoi so Indians and vegetarians can get their quota of spicy food easily. It was an elaborate lunch at the Maazi restaurant, complete with Pani  Poori, Paneer Tikka, Dal, Vegetable Pulao, different curries, in short, the works!

Vietnam Itinerary – Cycle Rickshaw Tour of Old Quarter Hanoi

After a heavy lunch, we hopped on a cycle rickshaw and sat back to enjoy a ride that took us through the historic Old Quarter of Hanoi. This area is the heart of Hanoi and connects the city to its roots. The ride gave us an immersive experience of the city’s culture and the local way of life.

We saw locals sitting on low stools on street corners with friends and family exhibiting a unique community bonding. They bonded over cups of coffee, small barbeques in front of them, or bowls of Pho  Bo, the famous street food of Vietnam. As Christmas was not far away, some of the shops were gaily decorated and it was a riot of colours, men and women were busy shopping as they sauntered on the streets dodging bikes and cycle rickshaws.

Vietnam Itinerary – Kiem Hoan Lake Hanoi

The Hoan Kiem Lake is a green lung space right in the middle of the Old Quarter. It is a popular evening hangout with locals, as we found out. The shimmering waters of the lake and the red-coloured bridge that connected to the small island in the centre of the lake presented a beautiful sight as the sun sank on the western horizon. The lake is surrounded by parks and gardens. The Lake is also referred to as the Sword Lake, or Lake of The Restored Sword, based on a Vietnamese legend associated with the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui).

The Hoan Kiem Lake is just across the road from the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, and hence it was convenient for us to spend some time at the lake before our show began at the theatre.

Vietnam Itinerary – Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Hanoi

Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is part of Vietnam’s culture and heritage. It is a craft that involves skill and a unique method of storytelling. It brings alive the culture of rural Vietnam and its legends and myths alive in a unique way. Water Puppet shows can be seen in Hanoi as well as other cities including Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

In Hanoi, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is where you get to experience this unique art. We watched the show with fascination. It was a fascinating fusion of music, skilful puppetry, and storytelling. The group of puppeteers stood in the water behind the screen for the entire show working at their craft. The moment at the end of the show when the puppeteers appeared from behind the curtains to take their bows standing knee-deep in water, was truly magical.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner Time

After the Water Puppet Show, we took a short walk in the Old Quarter area to one of the popular Indian restaurants in Hanoi, the Tandoor . We had another satisfying Indian vegetarian dinner, which was very good, before making our way back to the Silk Path Hotel to retire for the night. We had to leave early morning the next day for Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Two In Hanoi

It is always an intriguing experience waking up in a new land far away from home. You wake up with excitement, looking forward to new experiences. That is exactly how we woke up in Hanoi on day 2 of our Vietnam trip. We were travelling to Ha Long Bay and hence had to leave our hotel early. The hotel had arranged a packed breakfast for us which we had on our way to the Ha Long International Cruise Port , a drive of about two and a half hours from Hanoi.

Vietnam Itinerary – Aboard Ambassador Luxury Cruise

It was with a great deal of excitement that we arrived at the Ha Long Cruise Port to board our ship. After fortifying ourselves with hot cups of coffee in the lounge, we were taken by an electric golf cart to the boarding jetty. It was an awesome sight as huge liners stood shoulder to shoulder waiting for their turn to sail into the sea. We walked past the ships as our ship was anchored right at the end.

We boarded the luxury Ambassador Cruise which is in essence a floating luxury hotel of sorts. We were given our own luxury room to relax in. But of course, there was so much to see and experience, that there was hardly any time to relax. After a quick snack and coffee, we set about exploring the ship.

Vietnam Itinerary – Sung Sot Caves Ha Long Bay

You can choose to lounge on the upper deck or in the huge restaurant or relax in the jacuzzi. If you are craving privacy you can relax on the balcony of your room and watch the limestone rocks of Ha Long Bay pass by. But if you are the adventurous sort and crave activity, you can get off the ship and a host of activities await you.

One such activity on the Ha Long Bay cruise is a visit to the Sung Sot Caves which literally means, ” Cave of Surprises,” or, “Surprising Cave,” in the Vietnamese language. Discovered by the French in the year 1902. The Sun Sot Caves consist of a series of caverns. We hopped onto a smaller boat that took us to Bo Hon Island. Here we had to climb around 250 odd steps and also descend around the same number to access the many caverns that make up the Sung Sot Cave.

Inside, in semi-darkness, we witnessed the incredible works of the sculptor, Mother Nature. Water had sculpted strange and lifelike figures from the Limestone Karst, creating a surreal landscape. In Ha Long Bay, there are many such caves, however, the Sung Sot Cave is the main one and is an important destination for tourists to Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary – Titop Island Ha Long Bay

After we visited the Sung Sot Caves, we took the boat to Ti Top Island . A small island with a limestone hill flanked by a small sandy beach. The beach was named after the Russian Cosmonaut Gherman Titov by Vietnam’s legendary leader and President Ho Chi Minh, after his visit here in 1962. The beach has a beautiful stretch of crescent-shaped white sand that has been bleached by the surf. It is an idyllic location to just relax on the beach or go for a swim. If you are in for some more rigorous pursuit, you can climb to the top of the hill for a stunning view of Ha Long Bay.

Vietnam Itinerary – Lunch On Board Ambassador Cruise

We returned to the ship after spending some lovely moments on the Ti Top island. A sumptuous buffet spread awaited us at the Ambassador Cruise Liner. It was a massive spread consisting of Vietnamese, Continental, and Pan Asian cuisine. We had a fantastic lunch and retired to our room for some moments of relaxation.

Vietnam Itinerary – Luon Cave Ha Long Bay

After a brief rest on board the luxury liner of Ambassador Cruises, we boarded a smaller boat for our next adventure in Halong Bay. Luon Cave is also part of the Bo Hon Island . It lies at the foot of a massive mountain. The Luon Cave is an arch-shaped entrance carved into the limestone that leads to an enchanting lagoon.

The lagoon itself is enclosed on all sides by limestone rocks covered with greenery and exotic plants, while when you look upwards, you can see white clouds framed against the blue skies. This is also reflected in the clear and tranquil waters of the lagoon. You can visit the Luon Cave either by yourself in a Kayak, or take a bamboo boat, and relax and take pictures of the panoramic scenes that unfold around you.

After an ethereal experience at the Luon Caves, we returned to the Cruise in time to spend some magical moments watching the sun go down on the western horizon, as we slowly set sail to the Ha Long Bay International Cruise Port.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Hanoi

We drove back to Hanoi taking with us beautiful memories of our luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay. We reached Hanoi and proceeded straight to a new Indian restaurant named, ‘ Tadka ,” which was within walking distance from our Hotel. We had another fine Indian vegetarian dinner and decided to take a walk before retiring for the night. We found out that the famous Hanoi Train Street was nearby, and so we went in search of it.

Vietnam Itinerary – Train Street Hanoi

We had seen many images and videos of the intriguing Train Street of Hanoi and wanted to see it with our own eyes as we were in Hanoi. After a few wrong turns, we finally reached the Train Street. We were a bit disappointed as we saw a train go by when we were still at a distance from the place.

However, we thought we could take pictures and videos of the place, train or no train. The place has been renovated and has been opened to the public in 2023. The atmosphere was very vibrant with small eateries and other shops lining both sides of the railway track.

We were busy clicking pictures when the ringing of a bell and the shouts of the shopkeepers alerted us about the approach of a train. Luck was on our side, and we were thrilled as a train hurtled past, we could feel the wind created by the wake of the train on our face, as it rolled past within a whisker of us. If you are visiting Hanoi, do visit the Hanoi Train Street, unabashedly, do not worry if it has been labelled touristy or not. It is an experience not to be missed.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Day Three In Hanoi

This was our last day in Hanoi, and we had half a day for sightseeing before boarding an afternoon flight to our next destination in Vietnam. After a quick breakfast in the hotel, we checked out, lock stock and barrel, and boarded our bus which would take us to the village of Bat Trang, some 16 kilometres from Hanoi,

Vietnam Itinerary – Bat Trang Ceramic Village

The Bat Trang Village by no stretch of imagination looked like a village. It was a small town with streets lined on both sides by shops selling ceramic ware. Inside the shops, it was a riot of colours, as huge vases, cups, saucers, jars, showpieces, and other ceramic ware, with vibrant colours and designs, grabbed your attention. We also watched the different processes involved in the making of ceramic products at one of the workshops.

Bat Trang and pottery or ceramic ware have a history that goes back many centuries. Being close to the Red River, ensured the easy availability of raw materials, and this fueled the growth of the ceramic industry in the village. It was also on a major trade route and this meant the finished products traveled to countries like China and Japan. Today, Bat Trang is a thriving centre of ceramics connected to its roots, but in tune with the times.

Vietnam Itinerary – Lunch In Hanoi

After visiting Bat Trang village it was time to head back to Hanoi, for an Indian vegetarian lunch at one of the best Indian restaurants in Hanoi, Namaste Hanoi . The lunch included some innovative Indian dishes, that left us asking for more. From the restaurant, we drove straight to the airport to catch our Vietnam Airlines flight to our next destination.

Vietnam Itinerary – Departure From Hanoi and Arrival in Nha Trang

It was evening by the time we arrived at the Cam Ranh International Airport in Nha Trang . The distance from Hanoi to Nha Trang is about 1300 kilometres and the flight took about 2 hours.

Vietnam Itinerary – Check In At Potique Hotel Nha Trang

The Cam Ranh International Airport of Nha Trang is about 36 kilometres from the city centre. The road runs parallel to the sea and is lined with many luxury resorts. We soon reached our hotel, the Potique Hotel , a 5-star property within a 2-minute walk from the beach. The hotel incorporates elements of Indo-Chinese architectural design and is an elegant place to stay and wake up in.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Nha Trang

After checking in at the Potique Hotel, we drove to the Ana Marina Yacht Club for dinner. A beautiful place on the edge of the sea. We had a lavish dinner consisting of Vietnamese and Indian cuisine. The restaurant also had live dance and music. After a leisurely dinner, it was time to head back to our hotel for some rest before embarking on the exploration of Nha Trang, the next morning.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Four In Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a lovely seaside city located in Central Vietnam. It has lovely sandy beaches, resorts, clubs, and adventure activities, and has emerged as a popular holiday getaway for travellers from the world over as well as with Vietnamese travellers.

Itinerary Vietnam – Morning Walk To Nha Trang Beach

Early morning saw us taking a short walk from the Potique Hotel to the beach. It had rained in the night and the roads had a watery sheen. We were hoping to catch the sunrise, however, the weather played spoilsport. But we loved the morning vibes, watching the locals go about their morning routine. Some played football by the beach, while some jogged along the edge of the sea. A group of ladies were busy in their Zumba dance routine in a small garden by the beach.

Dominating the Nha Trang skyline with its distinctive architecture is the Trầm Hương Tower . It is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture and is a distinctive landmark of Nha Trang. The place is a venue that hosts cultural and art performances. It was a wonderful experience seeing this landmark up close in the morning, The 2/4 square is located near the Trầm Hương Tower and is a large open space suitable for community activities. We saw people engaged in ball games, or just strolling around in the morning.

Itinerary Vietnam – Ponagar Temple Nha Trang

After breakfast at the hotel, we proceeded to one of the prominent attractions of Nha Trang, the Ponagar Temple . The temple is a Cham temple with its origins dating way back to the 8th century. The presiding deity of the temple is a Goddess who is worshipped as Yan Po Nagar by the Vietnamese people.

We spoke to the Cham priest of the temple and were astonished to note that the Goddess is Uma or Parvati, the consort of Shiva. There are also temples in the complex that are dedicated to Shiva, Skanda, and Ganesha. We also met a few Cham people who had come to visit the temple. A small percentage of the Cham people follow Hinduism, while others follow Islam and Buddhism.

Though it is not known who built the original temple, later inscriptions associate the temple with Cham Kings like Satyavarman, Harivarman I, and Jayavarman II. The temple was originally dedicated to Uma or Parvati.

Best Itinerary For Vietnam – Dam Market Nha Trang

The Dam Market also known as Cho Dam Market is the main local market of Nha Trang. One can buy goods here that range from readymade garments, footwear, groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables, and much more. If you are inclined, you can shop here for souvenirs or local handicrafts.

Vietnam Trip Itinerary – Lunch In Nha Trang

After a brief rest at our hotel, we made our way to the Sailing Club for lunch. We loved the location of the place which was right beside the beach. It was a nice experience having our lunch serenaded by the musical symphony of the surf, sand, and sea,

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Vinpearl Land Nha Trang

After lunch, it was time to take a thrilling speed boat ride to the island of Hon Tre , where Vinpearl Land is located. Here is the VinWonders a theme park, similar to Disneyland. The theme park offers many exciting activities and also has a gorgeous beach. It makes for a wonderful family getaway, excellent for a day trip from Nha Trang. We spent half a day at this park and had a whale of a time before returning to Nha Trang City.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Dinner In Nha Trang

Our saga of eating in Indian restaurants continued in Nha Trang with dinner at the Ganesh Restaurant , one of the popular restaurants in the city for vegetarian and Indian food. The food exceeded expectations as was the cast in all the Indian restaurants where we had eaten during our Vietnam trip.

Vietnam Itinerary – Visiting Night Market of Nha Trang

Vietnam is a country known for its vibrant night markets, and it is a unique experience to visit them. Nha Trang too has its share of night markets. We had a night market, right next to our hotel, and after dinner, we took a stroll through the night market. Shops sold souvenirs, local handicrafts, clothes, and eatables. It was a relatively small market, and we soon left the market for a night visit to the beach and the 2/4 square. The Trầm Hương Tower, the many high-rise buildings, the beach, and the sea looked different under lights at night.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Five In Ho Chi Minh City

After thoroughly enjoying our stay in the enchanting city of Nha Trang and a good night’s sleep, we woke up ready for our next adventure in Vietnam. After breakfast at the Potique Hotel where we were staying, we drove to the Cam Ranh International Airport of Nha Trang to catch our Vietnam Airlines flight to Ho Chi Minh City. We arrived at Ho Chi Minh City during the early noon hours. As there were quite a few places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, that day, we straight away had lunch and proceeded for city sightseeing.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Lunch In Ho Chi Minh City

There was a lot on the agenda for Day 7 of our Vietnam itinerary, so we had an early lunch at Mama Masala , a restaurant that served vegetarian Indian food in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. After lunch, we were ready to explore the sights of Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days From India – Reunification Palace Ho Chi Minh City

The first place on our Ho Chi Minh City itinerary was the Reunification Palace , also known as Independence Palace . The palace was constructed in 1962 at the site of the old palace that had been destroyed by bombing. The Reunification Palace consists of the meeting rooms, guest rooms, and living quarters, of the former Presidents of the Republic of Vietnam. One of the important sights not to be missed in the Independence Palace is an F-5E aircraft that stands forlornly on a terrace. A fascinating page of history connects the aircraft to the Independence Palace and the history of Vietnam itself.

In 1975 a pilot of the South Vietnamese Air Force and an undetected spy flew an F-5E aircraft and bombed the palace, but could not cause any damage. A few days later, on 30th April 1975, a tank of the North Vietnamese Army crashed into the palace, signifying the end of the Vietnam War.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Central Post Office In Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a modern bustling city, but it is full of heritage landmarks. One of the important heritage buildings in Ho Chi  Minh City is the Central Post Office . Built in 1891 by the French with material procured from France, the post office is still functional and is a popular tourist destination.

The central post office of Ho Chi Minh City is a magnificent structure that blends European and Asian architectural elements. It was buzzing with activity, with people at the numerous counters buying stamps and other postal stationery.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Notre Dame Cathedral In Ho Chi Minh City

Standing right opposite the imposing facade of the Central Post Office is the Notre Dame Cathedral , another legacy of the French. The cathedral is modelled on the lines of the original Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The cathedral was built between 1863 and 1880.

Initially, the cathedral was known as the Church of Saigon . It was only after 1959, that it came to be known as Notre Dame Cathedral. Unfortunately, we were not able to appreciate the full magnificence of the heritage structure as it was under renovation. The cathedral has been under renovation for the past six years, and the renovation is expected to be completed only in the year 2027.

Vietnam Itinerary  – War Remnants Museum In Ho Chi Minh City

The Vietnam War which lasted for 20 long years left a trail of devastation and human suffering that the world will never forget. The war which was a proxy war between the Soviet Union, China, and other communist states on the one side and the United States and its allies on the other, continues to remain a blot on human history.

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a grave reminder of the war and the depths to which human depravity can plummet. As we walked through the galleries of the museum, images of the futile but devastating Vietnam War came alive in all their horrific forms. If you are at Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must to know about the traumatic past of Vietnam, and to appreciate its resilience and growth in contemporary times.

Vietnam 7-Day Itinerary – Checkin At Paragon Saigon Hotel

It was early evening when we finally checked into our hotel in Saigon. Our hotel was the Paragon Hotel in a prime location of the city. The hotel was within easy walking distance of the Opera House and the City Hall and located in a nice, upmarket neighbourhood.

Vietnam Itinerary  – Vietnamese Dinner In Ho Chi Minh City

After checking in at our hotel and some rest, it was time for dinner. The place where we had dinner was a restaurant named Home Saigon. The place is located in what was once the home of a former President and has a completely traditional Vietnamese ambience. The cuisine too was Vietnamese, and we enjoyed the Vietnamese vegetarian fare that they served.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Ho Chi Minh City By Night

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its vibrant nightlife. We decided to take a small walk after dinner and sauntered to the Opera House. Saigon by night was a lovely spectacle, and we thoroughly enjoyed our walk. The famous Bu Vien Street, famous with backpackers and also referred to as Walking Street is also near the Opera House, however, we gave it a miss.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Six In Ho Chi Minh City

Day six of our Vietnam trip was also spent in Ho Chi Minh City. We began the day with an early morning city walk to get an immersive experience of Ho Chi Minh City and experience the morning vibes.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Morning Walk In Ho Chi Minh City | Nguyen Hue Boulevard

Our morning walk took us to the Opera House , a landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Chi Minh City Hall in front of which stands a statue of Ho Chi Minh, and the Nguyen Hue Boulevard .

The Nguyen Hue Boulevard has the City Hall at one end and the Saigon Riverfront at the other. It is a beautiful pedestrian street that is filled with morning joggers. Pigeons pranced around in the centre as a little girl with her mother ran after them. A group of ladies jived to music from the player that they had brought with them.

The middle lane of the boulevard is a pedestrian zone, while the lanes on the sides are open to traffic. The boulevard is lined with restaurants, shops, and offices. We saw the Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Office also at one corner of the Boulevard.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Thien Hau Temple Ho Chi Minh City

Breakfast was done, it was time to head out for some more experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. We first visited the Thien Hau Pagoda , a Taoist temple dedicated to the Sea Goddess Mazu . It is believed that Mazu was originally a girl named Lin Moniang, who lived in the 10th century. She possessed miraculous powers with which she saved her family during a terrible typhoon. The temple was originally built in the year 1760 by the Chinese community originating from Guangzhou.

The interior of the temple is covered with murals and has large incense burners in front of the sanctum. Three bronze statues of the deity are placed inside the sanctum. The temple is filled with a peaceful aura and makes for a blissful experience.

Vietnam Itinerary  –  Exploring The Mekong Delta

We then drove to the harbour at a place called My Tho on the Mekong Delta , some 80 kilometres from Hanoi. We would be exploring the islands of the Mekong Delta by boat and the traditional hand-rowed boats called Sampans. The Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and is called Cuu Long in Vietnamese. This translates as a river with 9 dragons.

Vietnam Itinerary – Unicorn Island | Thoi Son Island In The Mekong Delta

The Unicorn Island is also known as Thoi Son Island and is located beside the Thoi Son Canal along the Mekong River. We took a boat from the My Tho city Boat station to the Unicorn Island. On the island, we visited a Honey Bee farm and tasted fresh honey as well as honey tea. We then took a round of the island on a golf cart, before stopping at a fruit orchard where we tasted fresh tropical fruits including Dragon Fruit, Longan, Guava, and watermelon. We also listened to some Vietnamese songs from some talented young musicians here.

Vietnam Itinerary – Cruising On The Thoi Son Canal

After this, we gingerly stepped into a narrow canoe called Sampan . This hand-rowed boat took us along the Thoi Son Canal to our next stop on the Mekong Delta. The ride through the canal was a unique experience as the boatwoman deftly manoeuvred the boat in the narrow canal, avoiding other boats that came from the opposite direction.

We soon alighted at a place where coconut candy was being made. We watched the making of coconut candy right from the dehusking of the coconut to the final product. We also tasted the candy and bought some to take home with us.

We boarded a bigger boat and cruised to Phoenix Island where lunch awaited us.

Vietnam Itinerary – Phoenix Island In The Mekong Delta

We had lunch in a restaurant that stood on the edge of the Mekong River on Phoenix Island . The restaurant was aptly named Mekong Taste. The menu was essentially Vietnamese seafood, however, we managed to fill ourselves with some vegetarian alternatives from the local cuisine, fruits, and coconut water. After a quiet lunch, watching the boats cruising along the Mekong River, it was time for us to bid farewell to the island and the Mekong Delta and drive towards Ho Ch Minh City.

Vietnam Itinerary – Visiting Cho Lon Market Ho Chi Minh City

On the way back from the Mekong Delta, we stopped for some time to visit one of the largest local markets of Ho Chi Minh City, known as Cho Lan Market . The market sold a wide range of products including footwear, apparel, handicrafts, souvenirs, food items including dry fruits, and much more. The market is a good place for shopping as the prices are reasonable and you can also bargain.

Vietnam Itinerary – Dinner In Ho Chi Minh City

After a hectic day at the Mekong Delta, we had a quiet dinner at an Indian restaurant called Tandoor in Ho Chi Minh City. It was our last night in Ho Chi  Minh City and also Vietnam as we would be flying out the next day. We were feeling a little sad already in anticipation of the impending farewell to the beautiful country of Vietnam.

Vietnam Itinerary 6 Days | Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days – Day Seven In Ho Chi Minh City

We woke up on our event day in Vietnam with the realization that our Vietnam tour was all but over. It had been a great experience, and we promised ourselves that we would be back soon to explore more of this gem of Asia. After a leisurely breakfast at our hotel, it was time to drive to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport of Ho Chi Minh City to catch our flight to Hanoi, and from there a connecting flight to Delhi.

If you want a visual experience of our 7-Day Vietnam itinerary click to check out our YouTube video :

Useful Information For First-Time Travellers To Vietnam

If you are planning a visit to Vietnam, here is some useful information that is bound to stand you in good stead.

Vietnam Map

Getting To Vietnam

Vietnam is well-connected with international destinations. The major international airports are the Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, and the Tan Son Nhat International Airport of Ho Chi Minh City.

If you are flying from India, you have direct flights to Hanoi from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Vietnam Airlines is a premium airline that operates flights to and from India. You also have the option of another budget airline, Vietjet to get to Vietnam.

You can book your flight to Vietnam right here through Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  CheapAir  or  Priceline .

Vietnam Visa Information

Vietnam encourages tourism and this is reflected in its Visa rules and policies. We had availed of the Vietnam E Visa For Indians facility. The procedure for Evisa for Vietnam for tourists from India is pretty simple. You need to fill up an online form that requires you to upload your photo and copy of your passport after which you need to make online payment of the Visa fees which are currently 25 USD for single entry evisa and 50 USD for multiple entry evisa. Once you have completed the online application, it usually takes 3-5 working days to get the visa. You can check the status of your visa application and download the visa at this site .

Getting Around Vietnam

If you are visiting multiple destinations in Vietnam, then flying is the best option. The domestic airline network of Vietnam is good and connects all the country’s important cities. If you are looking for a cheaper option to travel within Vietnam, trains are a good choice. Most of the tourist destinations within the country are connected by the Government-run railway network.

Buses are a good option if you are a budget traveller and also have time on your hands. For example, a bus ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City could take around 35-38 hours, while you can fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in a little over 2 hours.

Getting around within the cities of Vietnam like Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City is easy with the availability of cab services. Grab is the main cab-hailing app that you can use in the cities of Vietnam for getting around. Other options include public buses and cycle rickshaws.

Where To Stay In Vietnam

The cities and towns of Vietnam offer a range of accommodation options. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget hotels, or hostels and homestays, you are sure to find something that meets your requirements in Vietnam. The prices are also quite reasonable as compared to many other countries.

We visited the cities of Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City, and here are the places where we stayed during our trip. These are 4-5 star luxury hotels, and we found them very good, and would not hesitate one bit in recommending them.

Hotel In Hanoi

The Silk Path Hotel is centrally located in the Old Quarter area of Hanoi.

Hotel In Nha Trang

The Potique Hotel is located centrally in the downtown area and at a 2-minute walk from the beach.

Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

The Paragon Saigon Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in the central business district of the city.

You can book any of these hotels or any other hotel in Vietnam right here through any of the below options, at the location of your choice here – TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Where And What To Eat In Vietnam | Vietnam For Vegetarians

Vietnam is a paradise for gourmets, and in the words of the famous international chef and author, Anthony Bourdain, “Vietnam. It grabs you and doesn’t let you go. Once you love it, you love it forever.”

Being vegetarians, our adventure with food in Vietnam was limited. However, it would be pertinent to mention here that there is a good range of Vietnamese food which is vegetarian and is great in taste and flavour. In most of the bigger cities, there is always a vegetarian option available. We ate at Indian restaurants most of the time during our 7-day Vietnam trip. Here are the restaurants that we ate in, and we hope this helps you in planning your own food adventure in Vietnam.

Hanoi Restaurants

Maazi Restaurant ADDRESS ngõ 40 Xuân Diệu Tứ Liên, Tây Hồ Hà Nội 10000 Vietnam

Tandoor Hanoi Address: 24 Hang Be Street, Hoan Kiem

Tadka Indian Restaurant Address: 26 Phùng Hưng, Phường Hàng Bông, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội Hà Nội, Hanoi City, 100000, Vietnam.

Namaste Hanoi Address: 46 P. Thợ Nhuộm, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Nha Trang Restaurants

Ana Marina Yacht Club Address: Đường Nguyễn Cơ Thạch, Đường Đệ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa, Vietnam.

Sailing Club Address: 72 74 Trần Phú, Lộc Thọ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 570000, Vietnam.

Ganesh Restaurant Address: 186 Hùng Vương, Lộc Thọ, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa 650000, Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City Restaurants

Mama Masala Address: 83 Đ. Nguyễn Cư Trinh, Street, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam.

Home Saigon Address: 185/28 Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam.

Tandoor Address: 185/28 Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam.

Main Cities To Visit In Vietnam on Your Vietnam Itinerary

During our 7-day Vietnam Itinerary, we covered the cities of Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City. However, there is so much more to see in Vietnam. The main places that are important tourist destinations in Vietnam are:

• Ho Chi Minh City

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is between April to December. This is the period when most of Vietnam has a dry season.

Vietnam Weather

North Vietnam, where Hanoi is located has two main seasons, namely winter and summer. November to April is winter during which the temperature hovers between 17 to 22 degrees Celsius. Summer is usually from May to October when temperatures range between 30 to 38 degrees Celsius.

Central Vietnam where Nha Trang is located experiences hot weather from January to August and sees rain during the winter months.

South Vietnam where Ho Chi Minh City is located generally has a constant temperature throughout the year. There are only two seasons here, one with rain, and the other without rain. The region receives rainfall from May to November.

Vietnam Currency

Vietnam Dong (VND) is the official currency of Vietnam. One Indian Rupee is equal to around 290 VND, and 1 USD is equal to around 24,000 VND. Major credit cards are accepted at the bigger outlets. However, if you are shopping at local markets, you need to have cash in Vietnam Dong. Some shops also accept US dollars.

Vietnam Phone And Internet Network

Vietnam has a good communications network. Free Wifi is available at most public places including restaurants, and markets. You can also buy a local SIM to stay connected. We found the WiFi network very reliable in the cities, and we also had good WiFi in the bus in which we went around in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnamese Language – Common Phrases To Know

It is always good to know some common phrases in the local language of the region that you are visiting. This helps you connect better with the locals. Here are some common phrases that will help you while visiting Vietnam.

• Xin chào – Sin chaw-oh – Hello/Hi, a common greeting with which you greet people
• Cảm ơn – Cam urn – Thank you
• Xin lỗi – Sin lo-oy – Sorry
• Tạm biệt – Dhamn biet – Goodbye
• Bao nhiêu – Ba-oh neo – How much?

Vietnam Travel FAQ

Is a visa needed for travel to Vietnam from India? Currently visa is required for Indians to travel to Vietnam, however, the process is simple and online. In future, Vietnam may give visa-free entry to Indians.

What is the currency used in Vietnam? The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Is Vietnam safe for tourists? Vietnam is as safe as any other country, of course, one needs to take the same kind of precautions that one would take while travelling in any country.

Is Vietnam an inexpensive country for Indians? Vietnam is definitely one of the cheaper countries to travel to from India.

How many days are required for Vietnam? Vietnam is a big country, so the number of days would depend on what you want to see in Vietnam. However, a typical Vietnam itinerary should be planned for about 7 to 8 days.

Which are the best places to visit in Vietnam? Every place in Vietnam has its own unique charm. The places to visit are Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Nin Binh, among others.

We hope you found our Vietnam Itinerary – Vietnam Travel Guide informative and that it helps you chart your own Vietnam trip. We have tried to share as much information as possible so that this post acts as a complete Vietnam travel guide. However, if you need any more information, or need any clarification, do connect with us. For more such posts, subscribe to our blog and newsletter. Connect with us on our social media channels to stay updated with our travel stories.

If you have not subscribed to our blog yet, we highly recommend you do so. Additionally, consider signing up for our monthly newsletter, “ Postcard From India “. Connect with us on various social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X, Linkedin, and YouTube.

The heart of every adventure is found in the power of connections. Stay engaged by interacting with us on our vibrant social media channels. Join a community of like-minded enthusiasts, share your perspectives, and become a part of our flourishing WhatsApp community , driven by a passion for exploration and a profound respect for culture.

Our visit to Vietnam in Southeast Asia was organized by Vietnam Airlines to promote tourism in Vietnam. The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are our own. #Vietnam #VietnamItinerary #VietnamGuide #VietnamTrip

Are you planning a last-minute Holiday? Below are some useful resources to help you book flights, hotels, and tours! And also clothes, luggage and accessories for your trip!

Flights –   Cleartrip  or Makemytrip  or  IndiGo  or  Cheapair  or Priceline

Tours –  Click to book top tours around the world . Book tours and activities here .

Experiences – Book your next unforgettable experience here , with flexible bookings and free cancellations. Reserve tours and activities now and pay later.

Hotels – Click to book the best hotels/resorts . Choose the best stay options with TripAdvisor  or Cleartrip or  makemytrip or  goibibo or  Booking.com or  HotelsCombined or  Agoda

Travel Insurance – Click to book Travel Insurance that covers a range of travel insurance and safety services including medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more

Visas and Travel Documents Application – Click here for Online Travel Visa Check

Online Passport Photo – Get Your Passport Photo Online here

Do You Love Traveling?

Do you want to know how to travel the world? We have put together a very useful travel resources page with the best travel tips . Go check it out now. Thanks for visiting our site Voyager - imvoyager.com  and taking the time to read this post! If you wish to collaborate/work with us then reach us at [email protected] We’d love it if you’d comment by sharing your thoughts on this post and share this post on social media and with your friends. Follow our journey on our social media channels: Facebook   X   Instagram   Pinterest   YouTube 

Start dreaming about your next adventure with Tripadvisor . Book your next unforgettable experience here  with flexible bookings and free cancellations.

60+ Million Users Trust TripAdvisor With Their Travel Plans. Shouldn't You?

Explore these posts:

5 thoughts on “best 7 days vietnam itinerary from india – vietnam guide”.

We have Vietnam in our wishlist since long and your itinerary have solved so much for us. Thanks for sharing everything in great detail.

I challenge, that none of the bloggers/travelers in the world can present an Itenary like this. You took us on a virtual trip to Vietnam through your blog. Cambodia and Vietnam are my long-time bucket list places to visit. I am bookmarking this for my future reference. Hope you had a good time visiting Vietnam.

I love the details and descriptions of each day Thank you for sharing so many details about Vietnam and budget It will be easy to plan a trip after reading this.

We don’t need to go to Vietnam. As we read this, we feel as if we are there and experiencing it all. Good job

Wooha! Amazing 😮 such a detailed article. It was like I am roaming in Vietnam. The pictures added are beautiful. It relishes my eyes. Loved this piece of writing, in fact, a guide. Would love to visit and share the experience as you do 😊

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Vietnam for solo travellers

All photography by Christian Berg

Vietnam promises solo travellers the trip of a lifetime. Steaming bowls of  hủ tiếu  on a boat in the Mekong Delta, glorious sunrises on the beach in Nha Trang, misty hikes in the mountains of Sapa -- here you can have a wealth of beautiful moments all to yourself. If you ever want to share your journey, Vietnamese make wonderful company and will eagerly show you the best of this country. Read on to see why Vietnam is a great destination for your next solo adventure. 

Beautiful stays and warm hospitality .

Picking a place to stay is always fun in Vietnam. Choose from traditional homestays , ethnic stilt houses, tented camps, budget-friendly hostels, boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and more. Your solo foray will be even more special if you choose to immerse yourself with a local family or pick a spot that’s surrounded by nature. In Vietnam, these places are not only affordable, they’ll also give you a deeper understanding of our way of life. 

All across Vietnam, family-run homestays deliver incredible value for money, as well as sumptuous meals and insider tours of the area. In Northern Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to sleep in an ethnic stilt house . Shared rooms are set up with comfortable beds separated by curtains. Wake up to views of mountains and rice terraces, and kick up your feet in a hammock after a day of exploring. In the Centre and South, homestays take on a more tropical feel, often planted amid fruit farms, on the banks of rivers, or in flowering gardens. 

Fantastic street food and coffee 

Vietnam is a paradise for foodies. Vietnamese love eating together, but it’s also normal to roll up for a quick bánh mì or bite of lunch alone. If you’re by yourself, you can easily slip into a busy noodle shop, find a stool next to a sidewalk vendor, or simply order what the next table is having. At busy stalls you may find yourself sharing a table with strangers -- a great opportunity to gather foodie recommendations, perhaps with the help of Google Translate. Almost everywhere, you’ll find Vietnamese are happy to show you how to use your condiments, or help you order if you’re feeling lost on the menu. 

Vietnam’s cities and countryside alike are littered with lovely, quiet cafes where you can spend a few hours jotting down your thoughts over a cup of potent robusta. It won’t take you long to find a new favourite cafe in any place you go. Pull up a stool or lawn chair alongside the locals and soak up the atmosphere. Of course, chances are you’ll get invited to a Vietnamese family meal sooner or later. That's just what we do, especially if we see you’re travelling alone. Dining with a Vietnamese family is a great opportunity to learn about the local way of life and try a variety of authentic Vietnamese food -- don’t pass it up!

Read more:  A beginner's guide to Vietnamese street food

Amazing experiences and destinations 

One of the best things about travelling by yourself is having complete freedom over your itinerary. Destinations such as Hội An, Huế, Pù Luông, Côn Đảo and Phú Quốc are all supremely manageable destinations for solo travellers. Even Vietnam’s chaotic cities can easily be navigated on your own -- that is, as soon as you figure out how to cross the street (the secret is confidence and clear body language.) Once you’ve got your mental map sorted, you’ll find that many small quarters and alleys are perfect for exploring alone on foot.

In Vietnam, most cycling, trekking, island-hopping, boat, or even food tours welcome single bookings. Go with a sustainable tourism provider for an even better experience. Footprint Travel offers fantastic responsible trekking tours in Đà Lạt, Huế, and Ninh Bình. Sens Asia hosts insider street food adventures around Hanoi. In the dry season, cave expeditions with Jungle Boss in Phong Nha take you to magnificent sites filled with millenia-old stalagmites and stalactites. Vietnam's larger-than-life landscapes lend well to uninterrupted thoughts and checking in with yourself. 

Safe destinations and health facilities 

Safety is a concern for every traveller, but especially those visiting a new country alone. Thankfully, Vietnam has consistently been voted among the world's safest countries to travel, even for solo explorers. Despite having a long coastline, Vietnam rarely sees earthquakes, tornadoes, or tsunamis. During the monsoon season, annual flooding occurs in some Central and Northern provinces. Plan your travels to avoid these areas and explore our other beautiful destinations during these months.

Police officers are stationed every few blocks in major cities, and crime against women is scarce. Even in the remote countryside, you’re likely to feel incredibly safe and welcome. If ever you need medical help, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Đà Nẵng, and other urban hubs all have international clinics and hospitals with well-trained, English-speaking staff. A little common sense and preparedness goes a long way to ensure your holiday is safe and stress-free.

Read more:   Health and safety in Vietnam

Easy transportation 

Getting from Point A to Point B in Vietnam is always an adventure. Solo travellers in Vietnam have a lot of options between cities. The smoothest way to go is usually via domestic flights . If you have time to spare, you can reach Vietnam's top destinations by train, sleeper bus, or limousine vans. Limousine vans are a newer way to travel short distances, and are usually affordable, fast and comfortable. In the Mekong Delta, boats and ferries are a leisurely option for slow travellers. Got even more time? The cross-country Reunification Express has train cars with four or six berths, where you can meet fellow travellers and exchange stories throughout the ride. 

Of course, Vietnam’s motorbikes are the ultimate transport experience, and perfect for solo travellers. Hop on a back-of-the-bike tour with EasyRiders to see waterfalls, coastal roads, and beaches in Central Vietnam. Or, take a Vespa tour in Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s streets at night. Whatever itinerary you choose, leave room to adjust your plan. Stop and stay longer whenever you feel like it, or take a diversion if something piques your interest. After all, yours is the only opinion that matters on this trip. Now that’s a real holiday! 

Want more Vietnam travel ideas?  Sign up for our newsletter  to receive our best stories in your inbox.

• You are here:
• Things to do

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Sign in with your social accounts

Sign in with your email

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Vietnam Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ vietnam tours for singles / solo travelers with 5,824 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Vietnam Classic Tour in 9 Days

Excellent Vietnam It was great to visit Vietnam, our seamless tour operated by experienced travel agent lvp travel, I extremely would like to thank all team whom behind the success my trip, Mr Long guide, Alice travel consultant for her tremedous supports

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Vietnam Hike, Bike & Kayak

We had a great tour with wonderful group of like minded people. Rocky, our guide was fantastic. He was personable, organized and knowledgable. Enjoyed all the activities and the food was awesome.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Vietnam - 10 Days. Departure every Monday from Hanoi

My 10 day tour of Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh was even better than I expected!! Legend Travel Group had every detail meticulously planned, from daily tours to hotels and transportation. They had great tour guides and drivers meet us in each city, and I met some great new friends who I was grouped with throughout my tour. I fell in love with Vietnam, the people, culture, and food! Book with Legend Travel Group and get to Vietnam ASAP!!!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Vietnam Express Northbound

We have just returned from a 10 day tour of Vietnam. From the moment we booked this trip to saying our goodbyes on the last day everything was perfect. Our guide Thanh, a local, was superb. He had a great sense of humour and presented himself immaculately every day. He managed our group so well. We were exceptionally lucky as our entire group were lovely. Everyone respected meet up times, so we didn't waste time waiting for anyone and we all got on really well and we didn't have any moaners (people who love to complain about everything). All the accommodation was comfortable and clean, the overnight train is exactly as described, an experience I wouldn't have missed for the world. The day out on the bikes was brilliant fun, led by experienced riders. We felt safe all the time. Thanh took us to some wonderful restaurants, always going through the menu giving us ideas on what he recommended. If you're looking at whether to do the North to South or South to North trip, I'd suggest South to North. Ending the trip in Halong Bay on an over nightboat (again the accommodation on here was so comfortable) literally ended the whole trip on a high. It was excellent value for money and Intrepid's ethos of reducing plastic waste by giving us all our own bag to carry around instead of accepting goods we bought in plastic and having water available on all mini buses and in all hotel rooms so we could top up our own reusable cups was a wonderful touch. The whole experience will remain with us forever and we will definitely book another Intrepid adventure in the future.

Best of Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi 7 Days - Super Save

We had a great time on our tour . Danny was amazing always accommodating and going above and beyond to make our trip run smoothly. The guides along the way were knowledgeable about the history of Vietnam but also shared their history which was fascinating and added to the experience .It was a great way to get a taste of Vietnam.

Essential Vietnam

The tour was well planned and the guide Anh was great. I always felt safe and comfortable while having fun. Do most of the optional activities otherwise you won't enjoy it as much and be prepared for the trains.

• Coach / Bus

7 Days Discovery Central of Vietnam

The whole trip was great and very well organized from picking up at the airport until dropping off at the airport for departure. I was the only one on the tour but on the My Son trip there were two couples joining in. I spent the whole week with the same guide (Ricky) and driver, and I could not have been happier with them. Ricky was very knowledgeable and also very helpful, e.g. helping with hotel check-ins where they did not speak (good) English. The whole trip went very smoothly and according to the itinerary, with guide and driver picking me up every morning on time. In this one week I could visit many amazing places. My favourite ones were the impressive Paradise Cave and the ancient town (car free) of Hoi An. At lunch I was taken to restaurants with local delicious food (included in the tour) and for my free time Ricky pointed out some regions that I should explore (sightseeing and food). Da Nang was probably the least exciting part (but still not boring!), one night there would actually be enough.

Discovery Northern of Vietnam in 7 Days

Amazing experience. Great hotels, food and experiences. Our guide, Mr Hoang, was super caring. Highly recommended this package tour. You will not have to pay any extra-charge during trip, spending some pennies for drinks, souvenir...

Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Empathetic, informative , exhausting and really enjoyable

10 Days in Vietnam From South to North

It was a very memorable adventure. The guides were all terrific - knowledgeable and personable. The excursions were fun and historical. We paid for a group tour, but in the end received almost a private tour except for one excursion. The only drawback was the accommodations in Hanoi - it was less than stellar. I wish they had offered an upgrade choice upfront and we would have taken it.

Magical Vietnam In 10 Days by Realistic Asia

We enjoyed our trip to Vietnam. It was very well organized. A big thanks to Lucy who helped us through our journey.

Incredible Vietnam 9 Days

Incredible Vietnam- a best trip We've ever experienced. There's so much thing to do, confused to decide online market, finally we decided to book our vacation at this operator, they have good reviews, feedbacks from recently customers and that's our wisely decision, all perfect services, trusted people, helpful guide with amazing itinerary...best of traveler's choice in Vietnam

DISCOVER VIETNAM IN 7 DAYS

This second time we return vietnam for our short vacation. We keep on trust in lvptravel due to their bro services. We will spend more time 10 days next winter season. My tour leader was so great ! No words to explain about this. We also prefer " banh my pate" pho hanoi, amazing local food. THANKS to All

Amazing Vietnam Super Save Package In 11 Days

A fabulous 11 day tour! It was our first trip to Vietnam and we were delighted to have Realistic Asia coordinate it for us. They did a great job arranging our accommodations and outings. The local tour guides were on time, informative and hospitable. We felt welcomed everywhere we went. We particularly enjoyed Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and the Mekong Delta. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh were fascinating, although, it was challenging to adjust to the city traffic. Thanks to Long Pham and the Realistic Asia team for the memorable experience.

Vietnam Highlights (10 Days)

Was an excellent tour of a beautiful country. It ran smoothly, I’d highly recommend it.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Vietnam Solo Tours

All 5 star services and PERFECT trip We decided to comback Vietnam earlier than our plan. We still booked our trip through out LVPTRAVEL, nothing to complain and talk much about their professional handle. Informative guide + good hotel, amazing itinerary

A very busy 10 day tour that incorporates so much of Vietnam and leaves you wanting to come back. Law is an amazing guide who has a passion for his job and makes sure everyone gets the most out of their trip. Can highly recommend this tour to anyone after an active tour of Vietnam.

Overall it was a good tour and very well organised. Guides were knowledgeable, and personable. My biggest criticism is that the tour is promoted as '12 people maximum' but in reality at times we were coupled together with other tours in full coaches of 30 people visiting places of interest! This is not a small group tour and Tourradar should be honest about it.

More Tours in Vietnam for Singles and Solo Travellers

• Southern Vietnam tours (481)
• Northern Vietnam tours (381)
• Northeast Vietnam tours (232)
• Halong Bay tours (104)
• Northwest Vietnam tours (76)
• Mekong Delta tours (75)
• Red River Delta tours (61)
• Sapa tours (55)
• South Central Coast Vietnam tours (54)
• Southern China tours (21)
• Siem Reap tours (19)
• Vietnam Central Highlands tours (11)
• North Central Coast Vietnam tours (9)
• Mekong tours (28)
• Ba Be National Park tours (11)
• Phu Quoc Island tours (10)
• Pu Luong tours (9)
• Seniors tours (727)
• Young Adults tours (17)
• Vietnam Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• What is the best time to visit Vietnam in 2024/2025?
• Weather in Vietnam in 2024/2025

Travel Styles

• Budget (472)
• Luxury (116)
• Singles and Solo (1491)
• For Couples (395)
• Young Adults (17)
• Seniors (727)

• Vietnam Tours

Vietnam Solo Travel 2024/2025

Embark on our adventurous solo trips to Vietnam that ensure complete freedom and flexibility. Explore the imperial city of Hue on your own, walk the ancient streets of Hanoi, or cruise the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat. Vietnam is well-equipped with its impressive tourist infrastructure for safe travel to any place you choose to explore. You decide your trip's start and end point, whether from the distinct Southern, Central, or Northern regions of this Southeast Asian haven for solo expeditions. For those seeking a balance between independence and companionship, join a Vietnam group tour only for specific tours like trekking in Sapa or exploring the Mekong Delta, reducing costs while connecting with like-minded travelers. Whether you are traveling to Vietnam alone as a novice or are an experienced solo traveler, our tours ensure a memorable adventure tailored to your preferences and interests. Below are some of our curated solo travel packages to Vietnam for you to choose from.

• 10 Best Things to Do in Vietnam
• Best Time To Visit Vietnam

688 solo trips in Vietnam

• Starts Hanoi, Vietnam
• Ends Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Vietnam Express Southbound

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Local boat rides & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3628'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Sleeper Train
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Flight, Minibus, Sleeper Train & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,360
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 204
• Total Price from: US$ 1,156
• May 07 Only 6 seats left
• May 08 Only 7 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Ends Hanoi, Vietnam

Cycling Vietnam

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,542
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 372
• Total Price from: US$ 2,170
• Jul 28 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 01 Only 8 seats left

Charming Vietnam Tour I Small Group (10 - 14 Pax)

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Local culture & Natural landmarks sightseeing Local culture , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cruise , Caves & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='45471'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Coach, Ferry, Private Vehicle & Rickshaw
• Age Range 1-99 yrs
• Operated in Chinese, English, French, German, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,400
• Special Deal (60%): - US$ 1,440
• Total Price from: US$ 960

Vietnam Heritage Lines I 15-Day Private Tour

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Local culture & Natural landmarks sightseeing Local culture , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cruise , City sightseeing , Bicycle tours & Countryside and village visits 'data-more-tripid='45520'>+4 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Coach, Flight, Minibus, Private Vehicle & Rickshaw
• Age Range 1-85 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,500
• Special Deal (55%): - US$ 1,925
• Total Price from: US$ 1,575

Scenic Vietnam

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='3632'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train, Guest House & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Ferry, Minibus, Sleeper Train & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,870
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 374
• Total Price from: US$ 1,496
• May 18 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 08 Only 8 seats left

Best of Vietnam

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Museum and gallery visits Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Cruise , Natural landmarks sightseeing , City sightseeing & Kayaking and canoeing 'data-more-tripid='14961'>+4 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Flight, Boat, Private Vehicle, Train & Bus
• Age Range 5-79 yrs

• Ends Bangkok, Thailand

Discover Vietnam-Cambodia-Thailand I Top 2024/2025

• Activities Local culture & Natural landmarks sightseeing Local culture , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Honeymoon , Cruise & Beach 'data-more-tripid='45522'>+4 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus, Coach, Flight, Jeep, Minibus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,000
• Special Deal (45%): - US$ 2,250
• Total Price from: US$ 2,750

Vietnam Family Holiday

• Activities Family
• Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train, Home-stay & Resort
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Flight, Minibus & Sleeper Train
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,855
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 185
• Total Price from: US$ 1,670
• Jun 27 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 28 Only 2 seats left

Vietnam Adventure

• Activities Local culture & Cultural, religious and historic sites Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='7529'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Train, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Aug 11 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 08 Only 5 seats left

Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4578'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Flight, Train, Bus, Sleeper Train & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,149
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 345
• Total Price from: US$ 804
• May 06 Only 4 seats left

Vietnam Explorer

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• May 06 Only 8 seats left
• May 16 Only 2 seats left

Summer Idyll 21 Days 20 Nights

• Activities Adventure & Art and architecture Adventure , Art and architecture , City sightseeing , Trekking and Hiking & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='29990'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Home-stay & Sleeper Bus
• Transport Bus, Train & Private Vehicle
• May 04 10+ seats left
• May 05 10+ seats left

Vietnam Express Northbound

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• May 07 Only 8 seats left
• May 12 Only 5 seats left

Vietnam Hike, Bike & Kayak

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Kayaking and canoeing Trekking and Hiking , Kayaking and canoeing , Bicycle tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='4583'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Flight, Private Vehicle, Sleeper Train, Bus & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,899
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 570
• Total Price from: US$ 1,329
• May 19 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 30 10+ seats left

Traveling to Vietnam alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Vietnam who can help build the perfect solo trip in Vietnam.

Vietnam Solo Trip Reviews

• Amalia Vlas

Solo trips and solo holidays

• Asia solo trips
• Central Asia solo trips
• Mediterranean solo trips
• Middle East solo trips
• South East Asia solo trips
• Nepal solo trips
• India solo trips
• Thailand solo trips
• Vietnam trips
• Vietnam budget tours
• Eco tours in Vietnam
• Vietnam guided tours
• Vietnam family tour packages
• Vietnam honeymoon packages
• Vietnam luxury tours
• Vietnam private tours
• Vietnam self-guided tours
• Vietnam small group tours
• Vietnam tailor-made vacation packages
• Vietnam tours for senior citizens
• Vietnam tours for young adults
• Vietnam group tours
• Vietnam last minute deals
• Vietnam travel deals

Vietnam upcoming departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

GetVisaVietnam.com

How to travel to vietnam from india.

If you are looking for a unique travel experience, Vietnam should definitely be on your list. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you on how to travel to Vietnam from India , covering everything from visa requirements to transportation options.

Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens to Travel to Vietnam

Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Vietnam. There are two ways to obtain a visa:

• Apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate General of Vietnam in India: This is a traditional way of getting a visa. You need to submit your passport and other required documents to the embassy or consulate and wait for the visa to be processed. The processing time can take up to 7 working days.
• Apply for an e-visa online: Vietnam offers an e-visa system that allows Indian citizens to apply for a visa online. You can apply for an e-visa on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s website. The e-visa processing time is usually around 3 working days.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam from India

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). The best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April, when the weather is dry and comfortable. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and prices tend to be higher. The rainy season is generally cheaper but can be challenging for outdoor activities.

How to Get to Vietnam from India

There are no direct flights from India to Vietnam . However, there are several airlines that offer connecting flights with layovers in other Asian cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. Some of the most popular airlines that fly from India to Vietnam include:

• Thai Airways
• Malaysia Airlines

The duration of the journey depends on the layover time and the route you choose. On average, it takes around 8-12 hours to reach Vietnam from India.

Pros and Cons of Traveling to Vietnam from India

• Vietnam is a budget-friendly country, with affordable transportation, food, and accommodation options.
• The country has a rich cultural heritage and offers a variety of experiences, from city tours to trekking in the mountains.
• Vietnamese cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and is a treat for food lovers.
• The visa application process is relatively straightforward, and Indian citizens can apply for an e-visa online.
• There are no direct flights from India to Vietnam, which means longer travel times and layovers in other cities.
• Language can be a barrier, as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas.
• Some parts of Vietnam, particularly the big cities, can be chaotic and overwhelming for first-time visitors.

Alternatives to Flying to Vietnam from India

If flying is not your preferred mode of transportation or if you want to explore other countries on the way, there are several alternatives to consider:

• Overland Travel: You can travel overland from India to Vietnam through several Southeast Asian countries. This option requires more time and planning but can be a rewarding experience. The most common route is to travel through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam.
• Cruise: Some cruise lines offer trips that start in India and end in Vietnam, stopping at several ports along the way. This option allows you to see multiple countries without having to worry about transportation and accommodation.
• Train: Rail travel is another option to consider. You can take a train from India to Myanmar and then continue by rail through Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam.

Step-by-Step Guide to Traveling to Vietnam from India

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to travel to Vietnam from India:

• Apply for a visa: Indian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate General of Vietnam in India or apply for an e-visa online.
• Book your flight: There are no direct flights from India to Vietnam, so you’ll need to book a connecting flight with layovers in other cities.
• Plan your itinerary in Vietnam : Decide which places you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider factors like the weather, transportation, and accommodation options.
• Pack your bags: Pack clothes suitable for the weather and activities you have planned. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Make necessary arrangements: Book your accommodation, transportation, and tours in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

In conclusion, traveling to Vietnam from India is relatively easy and straightforward. Indian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam, and there are several transportation options available, including flights with layovers in other Asian cities. Vietnam has a lot to offer, from bustling cities to serene countryside, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers. With proper planning and precautions, you can have an unforgettable experience exploring this beautiful country.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the currency used in Vietnam? The official currency of Vietnam is Vietnamese dong (VND).

2. Is it safe to travel to Vietnam alone as a woman? Vietnam is generally a safe country for women travelers. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and dressing appropriately. You should also keep your valuables like passports, money, and travel documents in a safe place.

3. What are some must-visit places in Vietnam? Vietnam has a lot to offer, from natural wonders to cultural heritage sites. Some of the must-visit places include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, Hue, and Nha Trang.

4. Is it easy to find vegetarian food in Vietnam? Vietnamese cuisine includes a variety of vegetarian options, and it is relatively easy to find vegetarian food in most restaurants. However, it is always best to specify your dietary requirements when ordering.

5. What is the tipping culture in Vietnam? Tipping is not mandatory in Vietnam, but it is a common practice in the service industry. A tip of 10% is appreciated in restaurants, and you can round up the fare for taxi rides or leave small change for other services.

RELATED POSTS

Hanoi Walking Tour – Guide to Walking Tours in Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam or Thailand: Which is the Best Country for Travel?

Tips for Backpacking in Vietnam: Traveling around Vietnam

Hanoi Train Street – Full Instructions to Visit Hanoi Train Streets

• Destinations
• Hotels & Homestays
• Food & Drink
• People & Culture
• Mindful Travel
• Readers' Travel Awards
• Escape to Rajasthan
• READERS TRAVEL AWARDS
• #LOVEGREATBRITAIN
• TAJ SAFARIS
• BOUTIQUE HOTELS
• CNT TOP RESTAURANT AWARDS
• DESTINATION WEDDING GUIDE
• DON’T TRAVEL WITHOUT IT
• #UNDISCOVERAUSTRALIA
• ESSENTIALLY RAJASTHAN

Vietnam travel requirements: rules for entry for Indians

By Condé Nast Traveller

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak in Vietnam , the country has proactively monitored the situation and taken precautionary measures to curtail the spread of the virus. However, Vietnam has only recently begun to welcome international tourists as well as returning Vietnamese so long as they adhere to a certain set of requirements.

Here’s what you need to know

All passengers travelling to Vietnam must make note of the following points:.

• All travellers must present a certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19, with the latest dose no less than 14 days prior to the date of travel.
• All travellers must have a negative RT-PCR test result dated within 72 hours of travel.
• All passengers travelling to Vietnam are required to have medical or travel insurance that covers the treatment of COVID-19, with minimum coverage of $20,000.
• All bookings must be done with an approved package tour program of a travel agency.
• Children under the age of 2 years are not required to present an RT-PCR test result, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Health requirements for Vietnam travel

• Fully vaccinated travellers travelling alone will need only three days of self isolation at their own accommodation. A PCR test must be conducted on day 1 and day 3.
• Travellers without proof of full vaccination will need to self-isolate for 7 days. A PCR test must be administered on day 1 and day 7.

Visas for Vietnam

• Vietnam offers an E-visa, valid upto 30 days for single entry. Travellers can apply here.
• The E-visa can be used by 80 countries

Flights to Vietnam

Flights to Vietnam are now available from most major cities in India, including Mumbai , Bengaluru, Delhi, etc. Airlines including Singapore airlines, THAI Smile, Malaysia Airlines, Air India , etc are operational.

Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .