First Time Visit to Vietnam: The Ultimate Travel Guide for Beginners

This Vietnam travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan a stress-free and unforgettable debut trip.

1. Sorting the Essentials: Visas and Connectivity

Before you book hotels, handle your paperwork. Vietnam now offers a convenient 90-day E-visa for citizens of all countries and territories. Apply through the official government portal at least two weeks before your trip to avoid delays.

Upon arrival, your first priority should be connectivity. Purchase a local 4G SIM card (Viettel or Vinaphone) at the airport. Having data is crucial for using maps and translation apps, which are lifelines for navigating the country.

2. Planning the Perfect Itinerary

For a Vietnam itinerary for first-timers, the “Classic Route” is the most popular choice. This usually spans 10 to 14 days and covers the country’s highlights:

• The North: Start in Hanoi, wandering the ancient 36 streets of the Old Quarter. A 2-day cruise in Halong Bay is non-negotiable for its world-famous scenery.

• The Center: Fly or take a train to Da Nang and Hoi An. Hoi An Ancient Town is perfect for shopping, tailoring, and seeing the magical lantern festivals.

• The South: End your journey in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Visit the War Remnants Museum and take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to see life on the river.

3. Navigating Traffic and Transport

The most shocking aspect of Vietnam for new visitors is the traffic. Millions of motorbikes flood the streets, often ignoring lanes.

• Crossing the Street: The golden rule is confidence. Step off the curb and walk at a steady, predictable pace. Do not stop or run. Drivers will weave around you.

• Getting Around: Avoid flagging down random taxis to prevent overcharging. Instead, download the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber). It allows you to book motorbikes or cars for a fixed price, overcoming the language barrier.

4. Money and Food Safety

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While credit cards are accepted in hotels, cash is king for street food and markets. Speaking of food, do not be afraid to eat on the sidewalk! Some of the best food in Vietnam—like Pho and Banh Mi—is found at street stalls. A good rule of thumb: if the stall is crowded with locals, the food is fresh and safe.

5. Respect Local Culture

Vietnam is a modest country. When visiting temples or pagodas, always cover your shoulders and knees. A simple scarf in your bag can save you from being denied entry to sacred sites.

Ready for your adventure? A trip to Vietnam is affordable, safe, and visually stunning. By embracing the chaos and following these tips, you are guaranteed an experience of a lifetime, contact to Jenny from the blog for making your Vietnam package comes true!