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Capital city Hanoi
Government system Socialist republic, one-party system under the Communist Party of Vietnam
Surface area 331,212 km²
Population Approx. 100 million (2025)
Languages spoken Vietnamese (official), minority languages such as Khmer, Cham, Chinese and others
Major religions Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, local folk religions
Country Overview
🌏 Country Overview
Vietnam is a nation shaped by a long history, rich traditions and striking contrasts. Stretching along the eastern edge of the Indochina Peninsula, it is home to emerald-green rice terraces, karst mountains, tropical beaches and bustling modern cities. The landscape shifts dramatically from the misty highlands of the north to the wide, fertile deltas of the Mekong in the south. Visitors find a fascinating blend of the ancient and the modern, from age-old temples and French colonial boulevards to gleaming high-rise towers.
The Vietnamese people are known for their resilience, hospitality and deep respect for family and community. Centuries of Chinese, French and American influence can still be felt in everything from the cuisine to the architecture. Food plays a central role in daily life, with dishes like phở, bánh mì and fresh spring rolls symbolising the country’s resourcefulness and creativity. Street food culture is especially vibrant, and eating shoulder-to-shoulder with locals is often the highlight of a trip.
Tourism in Vietnam has grown rapidly, thanks to improved infrastructure and its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s safest and most affordable destinations. The country balances heritage with progress: UNESCO sites such as Hội An, Huế and Hạ Long Bay stand alongside modern hubs like Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you seek cultural immersion, adventure, relaxation or culinary exploration, Vietnam offers a journey that is both diverse and unforgettable.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💵 Currency Overview
Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). It is a non-convertible currency, meaning it is not commonly traded outside the country. Tourists often find themselves carrying large amounts of cash since the đồng is issued in very high denominations. Despite the intimidating numbers, Vietnam remains very affordable for most visitors. Currency exchange, ATMs and credit card use are increasingly widespread in major cities, though smaller towns and rural areas still rely heavily on cash transactions.
💴 Denominations
Banknotes are issued in denominations ranging from 1,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Coins are no longer in circulation. Banknotes can be confusing due to their large numbers and similar colours, so paying close attention is important to avoid mistakes. High-value notes (100,000 VND and above) are commonly used for hotels and larger expenses, while smaller denominations are essential for street food, buses and market shopping.
💱 Currency Exchange
Currency exchange is straightforward in Vietnam, with banks, authorised exchange offices and even some hotels offering the service. US dollars are the most widely accepted foreign currency, though euros and other major currencies can also be exchanged in larger cities. It is best to avoid exchanging money on the street as counterfeit risks remain. Always count your money carefully and request smaller denominations for everyday use.
💳 Credit Cards & ATMs
Credit and debit cards are accepted at most hotels, high-end restaurants, shopping malls and larger businesses, particularly in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Đà Nẵng. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely recognised, while American Express is less common. ATMs are plentiful in urban areas and allow withdrawals in đồng, though they usually apply a small fee. In smaller towns and rural areas, cash is still king, so it is advisable to withdraw enough before travelling out of the cities.
Tipping
🍽️ Restaurants
Tipping is not traditionally expected in Vietnam, but in tourist-oriented establishments, leaving 5–10% of the bill is appreciated. At small local eateries, rounding up the bill is a polite gesture rather than a requirement.
🏨 Hotels
In mid-range and luxury hotels, it is common to leave small tips for housekeeping staff and porters. A tip of 20,000–50,000 VND is usually considered generous. Budget hotels and guesthouses rarely expect tips.
🚕 Taxis
Taxi drivers generally do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare to the nearest 10,000 VND is a simple and appreciated gesture. For private drivers booked for day trips, a tip of 100,000–200,000 VND is customary depending on the length of the journey.
🧭 Guides & Drivers
Tour guides rely heavily on tips as part of their income. Around 100,000–200,000 VND per person per day is considered fair. For drivers, a smaller tip of 50,000–100,000 VND per day is standard.
Communications
📶 Communication Advice
📡 Public WiFi
Free public WiFi is widely available in cafés, restaurants, airports and shopping centres. The connection is usually reliable in urban areas but may be slower or unstable in rural regions.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels, from budget hostels to five-star resorts, provide complimentary WiFi. Speeds are generally good in cities but may drop in older buildings or during peak usage hours.
📱 Mobile Networks & SIM Cards
Vietnam has excellent mobile coverage through providers such as Viettel, Vinaphone and MobiFone. SIM cards are cheap and can be purchased at airports or convenience stores. Data packages are generous, making them ideal for travellers who need constant connectivity. Passport identification is usually required to register a SIM card.
Getting around
🚕 Taxis & Ride-Hailing
Metered taxis are widely available in major cities, with reputable companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun recommended. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also popular and often cheaper.
🚌 Buses
City buses are cheap but can be difficult to navigate without Vietnamese language skills. Long-distance sleeper buses are common and affordable, but comfort levels vary.
🚆 Trains
Vietnam’s rail network runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with scenic routes such as the Reunification Express. Train travel is slower than buses or planes but offers a more relaxed journey.
✈️ Domestic Flights
Vietnam has a well-developed domestic flight network with affordable carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways. Flights are the fastest way to cover long distances.
🛵 Motorbikes
Motorbikes are the most common form of transport in Vietnam. Travellers can rent motorbikes, but riding without a valid international licence is illegal. Traffic is chaotic, and road accidents are common, so inexperienced riders are strongly discouraged from driving. Helmets are mandatory.
🚗 Driving Laws
Foreigners must hold a Vietnamese driving licence to drive legally. International Driving Permits are not always recognised. Driving is on the right-hand side, and traffic laws are not always strictly observed. Car rentals with drivers are a safer alternative for long-distance travel.
Health advice
🩺 Health Advice
💉 Recommended Vaccines
| Vaccine | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Strongly recommended |
| Hepatitis B | Recommended for long stays or medical treatment |
| Typhoid | Recommended for most travellers |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Recommended for rural or extended stays |
| Rabies | For those likely to be exposed to animals |
| Tetanus/Diphtheria | Ensure boosters are up to date |
🦠 Diseases
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria (in rural areas), and Japanese encephalitis are risks. Travellers should use repellent, wear protective clothing, and sleep under nets in rural regions.
🤒 Potential Health Issues
Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and stomach upsets from street food are common. Bottled or filtered water is advised, and good hygiene practices are essential.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Major cities have international-standard hospitals and clinics, but rural areas often have limited facilities. English-speaking doctors are available in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
📑 Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended, as serious conditions may require transport to Bangkok or Singapore.
Safety
🚔 Crime
Vietnam is relatively safe, with violent crime rare. Petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is more common, especially in crowded markets and on motorbikes.
⚠️ General Safety Issues
Traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury. Crossing roads requires patience and confidence, as vehicles rarely stop for pedestrians.
📜 Local Laws
Drug offences carry severe penalties, including long prison terms. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Photographing military installations is prohibited.
☎️ Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 113 |
| Fire | 114 |
| Ambulance | 115 |
Climate
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Warm temperatures and light rains make this a pleasant season to travel. Northern regions bloom with flowers, and the central coast enjoys mild weather.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Hot and humid, with heavy rains and occasional typhoons along the coast. Southern Vietnam can be very wet, while the northern highlands remain cooler.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Often regarded as the best season. Clear skies, mild temperatures and beautiful autumn colours in the north make it ideal for sightseeing.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Cooler in the north with mist and drizzle, while the south stays warm and dry. Popular for beach holidays in Phú Quốc and Nha Trang.
🎒 Packing Tips
Light clothing, a waterproof jacket, and mosquito repellent are essential. In cooler northern winters, bring a jumper or light coat.
🏆 Best Time to Visit
Autumn (September–November) offers the most balanced weather across the country, making it the overall best time for tourists.
📊 Climate Summary
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild, blooming | Festivals, landscapes |
| Summer | Hot, wet | Beach resorts |
| Autumn | Clear, pleasant | Sightseeing, trekking |
| Winter | Cool north, dry south | Beaches, cities |
Visa information
📑 Visa Types
Vietnam offers e-visas, visa on arrival (for air travellers), and embassy-issued visas. The e-visa is valid for 30 days and can be applied for online before arrival. Longer stays require embassy applications.
🔗 Useful Links
Official e-visa portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
Vietnam Immigration Department: http://www.immigration.gov.vn
Electrical
All power sockets in Vietnam provide a standard voltage of 220V with a standard frequency of 50Hz.
You can use all your equipment in Vietnam if the outlet voltage in your own country is between 220V-240V. This is the case in most of Europe, Australia, the United Kingdom and most countries in Africa and Asia.
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Vietnam?
Type A – Mostly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, China and Japan. No other plug types will fit in a type A outlet.
Type B – Similar to type A, but with an extra pin for grounding. Mainly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America and Japan. Plugs of type A will also fit into a type B socket.
Type C – The standard European plug. Commonly used in Europe, South-America and Asia, but also in quite a few other countries. Plugs of type E and F will also fit in a type C outlet.
Type D – Mostly used in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and a few African countries. No other plug types will fit in a type D socket.
Type G – From British origin, mainly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia and Singapore, but also in quite a few other countries. No other plug types fit into an outlet of type G.
