Vietnam is one of the most fascinating and affordable countries in Asia — and still relatively undiscovered beyond the standard tourist circuits. From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, through Hoi An, Halong Bay and the mountains of Sapa: this guide covers everything you need to know.
How Much Does Vietnam Cost in 2026?
| Type | Cost/Day | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | €25–40 | Hostel, street food, local transport |
| Mid-range | €60–100 | 3★ hotel, restaurants, tours |
| Premium | €150–300 | Boutique/5★ hotel, Halong cruise, private tours |
6 Essential Destinations in Vietnam
1. Hanoi — The Northern Capital
Old Quarter with 36 artisan streets, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, egg coffee (cà phê trứng). Chaotic, vibrant, completely unlike any other Asian city.
2. Halong Bay — UNESCO Heritage
2,000 limestone islets in the South China Sea. Best experienced by boat — a 2-night cruise with kayaking, cave exploration and sunset among the islands. Book ahead: it sells out in peak season.
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3. Hoi An — The Lantern City
15th-century merchant town, UNESCO Heritage. Lit by paper lanterns at night. Tailors who make custom clothes in 24 hours. Beaches 4km away. One of the most beautiful towns in Asia.
4. Sapa — Rice Terraces and Mountains
Rice terraces in the mountains near the Chinese border. Authentic H’mong and Dao ethnic villages. Trekking between villages. Fansipan (3,143m), Indochina’s highest peak, has had a cable car since 2016.
5. Hué — The Imperial City
Former imperial capital with a Forbidden City, royal tombs and pagodas along the Perfume River. Distinct cuisine — Hué cooking is considered Vietnam’s most sophisticated.
6. Ho Chi Minh City — The Modern South
Former Saigon: War Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien nightlife strip. Vietnam’s most dynamic city, with a skyline in constant expansion.
Suggested 2-Week Itinerary (North to South)
- Days 1–3: Hanoi — old quarter, lake, museums, local food
- Days 4–5: Halong Bay cruise (2 nights on board)
- Days 6–7: Sapa — rice terrace trekking, ethnic villages
- Days 8–9: Hué — imperial city, central Vietnamese cuisine
- Days 10–11: Hoi An — ancient town, beach, tailors
- Days 12–14: Ho Chi Minh City — museums, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
Since 2023, EU citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days (increased from 15). For longer stays, apply for an e-Visa online (90 days, €25) on the official Vietnamese government portal.
What is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam is long and narrow so conditions vary: North (Hanoi, Sapa): October–April is dry and cool. Centre (Hoi An, Hué): February–July. South (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong): November–April. December–March is the best time to travel the country from north to south.
How much does a Halong Bay cruise cost?
1-night cruise (basic): €80–120/person. 2-night cruise (mid-range): €180–300/person including meals, kayaking and cave visits. Luxury cruise (2 nights): €400–700/person. Book well in advance — popular boats sell out months ahead in high season.
Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?
Yes, one of Southeast Asia’s safest countries for tourists. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Main risks: pickpockets in tourist areas, taxi scams (use Grab app), and chaotic traffic — cross the road slowly and steadily.
🇻🇳 Plan Vietnam: Flights to Vietnam | Hotels in Hanoi | Tours & Halong Cruise
For more, see travel insurance for Vietnam.
For more, see Asia travel guides.
Sobre o autor — Rui Carreiro
Born in the Azores — literally in the middle of the Atlantic — Rui Carreiro spent 11 years working in the travel industry before turning that experience into a mission: making extraordinary travel accessible for everyone. He has visited 50+ countries, personally tested hundreds of deals, and researched 500+ destinations. Every guide, comparison and recommendation on this site is written, tested and signed by him. We earn affiliate commissions when you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.---Nascido nos Açores, Rui Carreiro acumulou 11 anos de experiência na indústria de viagens antes de criar o Traveler Whisper. Já visitou 50+ países e testou centenas de deals. Todos os guias e recomendações são escritos, testados e assinados por ele. Ganhamos comissões de afiliado quando reservas pelos nossos links — sem custo adicional para ti.