Vietnam bucketlist experiences

Vietnam

Vietnam is one of our favourite countries. We have been exploring it from South to North, multiple times. From crazy experiences to the best viewpoints in Southeast Asia, these are some of the best things to do in Vietnam for adventurous travellers.

Know before you go

CurrencyVietnamese Dong ₫/đ
PlugsTypes A, B and C (220V / 50Hz)
Best time to visitMarch and April
Time zoneGMT+7
DestinationsHanoi, HCMC, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Da Nang, Sapa

Is Vietnam worth visiting for first timers?

We’ve spent 60 days in Vietnam—15 days racing from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi in late 2023. We then returned for a second trip last year, living like locals for 45 days across central and North Vietnam. After two completely different experiences, we can answer definitively: Yes, Vietnam is worth visiting! But not in the way most travel guides will tell you.

The first trip left us with stunning photos but a surface-level understanding. The second trip—staying in homestays in Sapa, renting monthly Airbnbs in Da Nang, and navigating flooded roads—revealed the real Vietnam, like in Ninh Binh one of the places definitely worth visiting in Vietnam for first timers.

This is what actually happens when you spend real time in Vietnam in 2026, including the 6 things no one warns you about.

Vietnam 10 day itinerary

10-DAY VIETNAM ITINERARY

Vietnam Backpackers Guide

VIETNAM BACKPACKERS GUIDE

Cat Cat village in Sapa Waterfall and monks

SHOUTH OR NORTH VIETNAM BETTER?

how many days spend in Sapa mountains

HANOI TO SAPA BUS JOURNEY

Best area to stay in Hoi An vietnam

CHEAPEST ECOLODGE IN SAPA

Where to go in Vietnam?

We discovered the country from South to North on our first trip. The trip helped us understanding the shift in landscape, people, culture and trust. It’s true, Vietnam offers stunning landscapes, multi-cultural diversity because of the hundred ethnic groups.

We returned in 2026 for another trip, but staying longer as slowmads in Vietnam. This new trip remark our firm idea that it is one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful travel destinations. Read our Vietnam one month itinerary!

Hanoi

Ninh Binh

HCMC

sapa

da nang

hoi an

Best time to visit Vietnam

This chart will help you make wise decision on the best time to visit Vietnam.

To be fair there is not best time, as it is a long country, with different temperature, weather conditions and micro climate that vary from region to region.

  • ☀️ Sunny
  • 🌤️ Mild
  • 🔥 Hot
  • 🌧️ Rainy
  1. January: Mild, 17°C (63°F)
  2. February: Mild, 18°C (64°F)
  3. March: Mild, 21°C (70°F)
  4. April: Sunny, 25°C (77°F)
  5. May: Hot, 29°C (84°F)
  6. June: Hot, 32°C (90°F)
  7. July: Hot, 33°C (91°F)
  8. August: Hot, 32°C (90°F)
  9. September: Rainy, 30°C (86°F)
  10. October: Rainy, 27°C (81°F)
  11. November: Mild, 23°C (73°F)
  12. December: Mild, 19°C (66°F)

Vietnam Unique Experiences

From a crazy adventure on a scooter from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, to the endless rides in Sa Pa to the border with China. Vietnam is still vivid in our memories as one of the most incredible trip.

Train Street Hanoi

Cat Cat Village

Ninh Binh Hike

Our Most Popular Guides

Best coffee places in Hanoi French Quarter

BEST COFFEE PLACES IN HANOI

Hoi An Instagram spots

HOI AN INSTAGRAM-WORTHY PLACES

Hanoi to Sapa sleeper bus journey in Vietnam

HANOI TO SAPA BUS JOURNEY

Supan Ecolodge infinity pool in Sapa

CHEAPEST ECOLODGE IN SAPA

FAQ

Questions about Vietnam?

Is Vietnam safe?

Vietnam is generally considered safe for visitors, with common travel sense advised as in any destination.

Is South Vietnam or North better?

North of Vietnam is much more adventurous than the South. You should plan an incredible trip on the road from North to South, to discover some of the most incredible destination Vietnam has. We also found some places in the centre of Vietnam, that are often overlooked, like Hue, Da Nang and Nha Trang.

Best time to explore Vietnam?

March and April usually offer the best weather across most regions of Vietnam.

How many days for holidays in Vietnam?

Vietnam is a very long country, there are over 1000 Km from North to South. If you want to have a pleasant holiday, you must decide which part of the country you want to visit first. Then plan at least 5 days to 2 weeks in Vietnam.

Is $100 a day enough for Vietnam?

Yes, we spend on average $50 travelling in Vietnam on a budget as a couple. This includes lodging, meals for two, activities and transportation.

Where should I go in Vietnam for the first time?

Vietnam is a very diverse country, for first timers these are our suggestions:
– Da Nang for the beaches;
– Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh for cultural diversity, mountain, best coffee and unique experiences outdoor.
– Ho Chi Minh for recent history, city vibes and street food.