WanderSnapshot: Vietnam
Motorcycle loops, relaxing beaches, and history lessons
Introduction
Vietnam is a popular stop on the Southeast Asia backpacker trail — known for its beauty, affordability, adventures, and mouthwatering food. With stunning beaches, cascading waterfalls, scenic motorcycle loops, and breathtaking hikes, Vietnam really has something for everyone. It’s also a great destination for both first-time travelers and seasoned nomads.
The country is long and narrow, often split into “north” and “south” when planning a route. Both
regions offer natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant cities — but the weather can vary drastically. When I visited, it was cold in the north, so I hopped south in search of warmer weather.
Vietnam is incredibly affordable, beautiful, and full of surprises. Here’s your guide on what to see, do, eat, and expect.
Vietnam is a popular stop on the Southeast Asia backpacker trail — known for its beauty, affordability, adventures, and mouthwatering food. With stunning beaches, cascading waterfalls, scenic motorcycle loops, and breathtaking hikes, Vietnam really has something for everyone. It’s also a great destination for both first-time travelers and seasoned nomads.
The country is long and narrow, often split into “north” and “south” when planning a route. Both regions offer natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant cities — but the weather can vary drastically. When I visited, it was cold in the north, so I hopped south in search of warmer weather.
Vietnam is incredibly affordable, beautiful, and full of surprises. Here’s your guide on what to see, do, eat, and expect.
Where to go: the North
Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, & Phong Nha
Hanoi
Hanoi is the cultural and economic heart of northern Vietnam. It’s lively, chaotic, and full of character — with endless food options and some of the best coffee I’ve ever had.
One of the must-see spots is Train Street, where trains pass just a couple meters from café tables. If you go, I recommend
stopping by both during the day and at night for the full vibe.
Hanoi can be done in 1–2 days, though many travelers use it as a base between other northern adventures.
Time Needed: 2 days
Hanoi
Hanoi is the cultural and economic heart of northern Vietnam. It’s lively, chaotic, and full of character — with endless food options and some of the best coffee I’ve ever had.
One of the must-see spots is Train Street, where trains pass just a couple meters from café tables. If you go, I recommend stopping by both during the day and at night for the full vibe.
Hanoi can be done in 1–2 days, though many travelers use it as a base between other northern adventures.
Time Needed: 2 days
Sapa
A small mountain town surrounded by bamboo forests and rice terraces, Sapa is home to various local tribes like the Hmong. While there are hostels, most travelers opt for a homestay to learn about tribal life firsthand.
Trekking is the main attraction — walking through rice fields, meeting locals, and enjoying the peaceful nature. Nearby is Fansipan, the tallest mountain in Vietnam and Indochina. You can hike it (multi-day), or take the cable car up.
Time Needed: 2–4 days (longer if hiking Fansipan)
Ha Giang Loop
An absolute must-do in Vietnam. This 3–4 day motorcycle loop through the mountains of Ha Giang is jaw-droppingly beautiful and full of adrenaline. By day, you’re winding through dramatic mountain roads; by night, you’re partying with your new road family.
I did the loop with Jasmine Tours, which is party-heavy and perfect for younger backpackers. If you’re looking for a quieter vibe, Buffalo or Bibi’s might be better.
You can either drive yourself (manual bike and license required) or hop on the back with an easy rider — which I did and highly recommend.
Time Needed: 3–4 days
Cao Bang Province
I didn’t hear much about Cao Bang until after I left Vietnam — and I regret missing it. It’s much less touristy but home to one of the most stunning sights in the country: Ban Gioc Waterfall, right on the border with China. It looks straight out of a fantasy movie.
Time Needed: 2–3 days
Ha Long Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is known for its surreal limestone karsts rising from the sea. Most travelers do a 2–3 day cruise through the bay, often circling Cat Ba Island. I skipped it and deeply regret it — everyone says it’s one of
Vietnam’s most beautiful experiences.
Shorter (1-day) cruises are available if you’re tight on time or budget.
Time Needed: 2–3 days
Ninh Binh
Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features limestone cliffs, green rice fields, and peaceful rivers. The best way to see it? Rent a scooter and explore. The Tam Coc boat ride is the highlight — even in the rain, it was magical.
Time Needed: 2–3 days
Phong Nha
Known as the cave capital of the world, Phong Nha is home to some of the most insane underground systems — including Son Doong, the world’s largest cave (book far in advance). There are still tons of other caves to visit without needing permits or long treks.
Personally, I didn’t love it — but I know others who did. If you’re into caves or unique nature, this might be your jam. Also, it’s one of the only places in the world where you can be a “duck leader.”
Time Needed: 1–2 days
Where to go: the South
Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, Da Lat, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh, & Phu Quoc
Hue
Hue is rich in history, home to the ancient Nguyen Dynasty and tons of historic architecture. But I’ll be honest — as most backpackers, I skipped the historical bit and just went for the abandoned waterpark. It’s eerie, colorful, overgrown, and
very fun to explore. And no — there aren’t crocodiles in the water.
Time Needed: 1 day
Hue
Hue is rich in history, home to the ancient Nguyen Dynasty and tons of historic architecture. But I’ll be honest — as most backpackers, I skipped the historical bit and just went for the abandoned waterpark. It’s eerie, colorful, overgrown, and very fun to explore. And no — there aren’t crocodiles in the water.
Time Needed: 1 day
Da Nang
Getting from Hue to Da Nang can be an experience itself. I took the train — it has amazing views. You can also rent a scooter and ride through the Hai Van Pass, which is scenic and fun (your backpack will get transported for you!).
Da Nang has decent nightlife, solid food, and the famous SunWorld Ba Na Hills amusement park. Personally, I found it overpriced and overrated (950,000 dong entry), but check it out if it sounds like your thing.
Time Needed: 2 days
Hoi An
This town stole my heart. Known for its preserved ancient town, lantern-lit canals, and colorful markets — it’s both charming and calming. You can get a custom-tailored outfit, take a lantern boat ride, spin in a coconut boat, or just chill at the beach.
Many backpackers stop here to slow down and reset. Just… beware of the Mafia.
Time Needed: 3 days
Dalat
Dalat is an adventure hub nestled in the mountains. One of the best things to do here is canyoning, which I absolutely loved. Skip the organized city tour and just rent a scooter to explore waterfalls, gardens, and quirky cafes yourself.
Also, don’t miss Maze Bar — a wild, multistory labyrinth that leads to a hidden bar. It’s unlike anything you’d find back home (for fire safety reasons).
Time Needed: 2–3 days
Mui Ne
Famous for its sand dunes, I did the early morning tour to catch both red and white dunes. They were cool, but smaller than expected. Honestly, I’d say this is skippable if you’re short on time.
Time Needed: 1 day
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
The economic powerhouse of the south. It’s loud, hectic, and full of history. The War Remnants Museum is a must — especially as an American, it was eye-opening to see the war from a different perspective.
Also take a tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you can crawl through real war tunnels.
Time Needed: 3 days
Phu Quoc
This island is Vietnam’s beach paradise — think white sand, turquoise water, and seafood feasts. Great for chilling out, snorkeling, or taking (another) long cable car ride. I didn’t make it here, but wish I had.
Time Needed: 2–4 days
Budget & Money
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Here are the approximate rates:
1 USD = 26,000 VND
1 AUD = 17,000 VND
1 EUR = 30,000 VND
1 GBP =35,000 VND
Prices will often leave off the last three zeros for simplicity (e.g. “50” = 50,000 VND)
Vietnam is also heavy on liquid cash, so make sure you have an easy way to withdraw money. Wise is a great way to get your money with the best conversion. This is what most travelers use.
Daily Budget: 800,000–1,000,000 VND
- Activities – 50,000 to 6,000,000 VND (Ha Giang and Ha Long are going to be more pricy)
- Food & Drink – 50,000-300,000 VND
- Transport – 750,000-1,000,000/way (buses), 150,000-250,000/day (Scooters), & 50,000/ride (Grab)
- Accommodation – 100,000 to 250,000/night for hostels. 500,000/night for budget hotels.
Monthly Budget Suggestions:
- Backpacker: ~25M VND/month
- Comfortable: ~50M VND/month
- Luxury: ~100M VND/month
I personally spent 35M dong ($1,400 USD) in one month, backpacking with a few splurges.
Pro Tip: Always budget a bit more than you think you’ll spend for emergencies or spontaneous plans.
People & Culture
Vietnamese people are kind, generous, and warm — but a bit more conservative than in neighboring countries. Be respectful.
- Dress modestly, especially in temples
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Be polite when interacting with locals
Fun fact: “Happy water” (homemade rice wine) is a social staple in homestays and can get wild.
Vietnamese people are kind, generous, and warm — but a bit more conservative than in neighboring countries. Be respectful.
- Dress modestly, especially in temples
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Be polite when interacting with locals
Fun fact: “Happy water” (homemade rice wine) is a social staple in homestays and can get wild.
Food Scene
Unpopular opinion: I didn’t love Vietnamese food. My first pho was literally noodles in hot water with lettuce. I much prefer Thai food. But, like I said, lots of people disagree with me on that.
That said, the coffee is incredible, and a drunk banh mi at 2am is unbeatable.
Must-Try:
- Coffee: Egg, Salt, Coconut
- Pho (fuh)
- Banh Mi
- Goi Cuon (spring rolls)
- Happy water
Dietary Needs: Vegetarians are well catered for. Vegans and gluten-free travelers will need to ask questions, but it’s manageable.
Must-Try:
- Coffee: Egg, Salt, Coconut
- Pho (fuh)
- Banh Mi
- Goi Cuon (spring rolls)
- Happy water
Dietary Needs: Vegetarians are well catered for. Vegans and gluten-free travelers will need to ask questions, but it’s manageable.
Transport & Navigation
Transport & Navigation
- 12Go: For intercity transport (buses, trains, etc.)
- Grab: Local ride-share app like Uber
- Scooters: Ideal for small towns (not big cities!)
Note: Driving is chaotic. No rules, just vibes. Be careful. I once drove in Da Nang and felt like I was in Mario Kart.
Getting a Visa
Getting a visa for Vietnam can be a little tricky. They have some very strict rules, and if anything is wrong, it’ll get rejected and you have to restart the process.
Beware that there are a lot of evisa websites that will overcharge you for your visa. The visa should only cost about 25USD for single entry and 50USD for multiple entry.
The visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
Make sure you go through the official Vietnamese government website: https://evisa.gov.vn.
Travel Tips
- Don’t over-plan: I booked my first stay and winged the rest.
- You’ll probably get sick: everyone does. Embrace the poop chats.
- Beware of scams: I got scammed my first day when I bought a fake SIM card at the airport.
- Driving is chaotic: no one follows the rules, you just drive and hope the person behind you is paying attention. If you’re crossing the street, pay attention. They won’t stop for pedestrians.
- Vietnam is loud: the constant honking was a bit startling for me.
- Don’t use the hostel soap: they often contain bleaching elements.
- Dislike for Americans: although rare, it is clear that there is still a bit of anti-American sentiment. Be mindful.
Weather & When to Visit
Vietnam is a tropical country near the equator so expect heat, rain, and humidity in the south. In the north it can get quite chilly, rainy and foggy. So prepare for anything.
North: winters can be quite cool and foggy, with temperatures reaching 10°C (50°F). Best to visit March-April or Sept-Nov
South: tropical and humid year round, temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C (77°F-95°F). Best from Dec-Feb.
The actual rainy season is from May to October. Expect typhoons, especially in the center of the country.
Best Time to Visit: February–March
What to Pack:
- Light clothes
- Swimsuit
- Sweater for the north
- Quick-dry sandals/shoes
- Sunscreen
Vietnam is a tropical country near the equator so expect heat, rain, and humidity in the south. In the north it can get quite chilly, rainy and foggy. So prepare for anything.
North: winters can be quite cool and foggy, with temperatures reaching 10°C (50°F). Best to visit March-April or Sept-Nov
South: tropical and humid year round, temperatures ranging between 25°C and 35°C (77°F-95°F). Best from Dec-Feb.
The actual rainy season is from May to October. Expect typhoons, especially in the center of the country.
Best Time to Visit: February–March
What to Pack:
- Light clothes
- Swimsuit
- Sweater for the north
- Quick-dry sandals/shoes
- Sunscreen
Ideal Length of Stay
Aim to stay for at least 1 Month, if not more. This gives you enough time to see parts of both the North and South. I only had a month and managed to squeeze in 11 cities in that time. It did feel quite rushed, I got burnt out, and still regret the parts I missed. If you’re a backpacker, and have the time, do 2 months.
If you only have 2 Weeks, choose either the North or South—don’t try to do both. You’ll feel rushed and exhausted.
Quick Snapshot
Category | Info |
Visa Required? | Yes (check requirements for each nationality) |
Language | Vietnamese, English |
Currency | Vietnamese Dong (26,000 dong ≈ $1 USD) |
Daily Budget | 800,000-1,000,000 dong |
Best Time to Visit | February-March |
Safety Rating | 5/5 (very safe – watch for scams) |
Solo/Female Friendly? | Yes |