Vietnam offers unforgettable experiences everywhere. From the surreal wonder of the limestone islets of Halong Bay, admired from the deck of a junk boat, to the disbelief of taking ten minutes to cross a street amidst the river of motorbikes in Hanoi. There are moments of pure enchantment, like exploring the majestic cave system in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Vietnamese culture, complex and fascinating, is a journey through history: the ancient trading quarters, with their artisan shops, preserve centuries of tradition and a vibrant mercantile spirit.
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Documents and Visas
As of August 15, 2023, Italian citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 consecutive days. To take advantage of this exemption, you must have a passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry and a booked exit ticket from the country. Currently, this exemption cannot be extended once in Vietnam.
If you plan to stay in Vietnam for more than 45 consecutive days, it is advisable to obtain a visa before departure. For detailed information on processing times, costs, and procedures, it is recommended to contact the Embassy of Vietnam in Italy.
When to Go
Vietnam is a fascinating destination year-round, thanks to its climatic variety, which always offers regions with favorable travel conditions.
In the south, the climate is divided into two main seasons:
- Rainy season (May–November), with heavy rains, especially from June to August.
- Dry season (December–April), with high temperatures and more stable weather. The hottest and most humid period is from late February to May.
The central coast has a different climate pattern:
- Dry season between June and October, with high temperatures and sunny days.
- Possible typhoons between September and November, which may bring heavy rain.
In northern Vietnam, the climate is more varied:
- Cool, humid winters (November–April), with temperatures sometimes dropping below 10°C, especially in mountainous areas.
- Hot, rainy summers (May–October), with humid weather and heavy rainfall.
The mountain regions are generally cooler than coastal areas, and during winter, temperatures can drop below zero.
It is also important to consider Tet (Lunar New Year), which falls between late January and early February. During this period, travel can be challenging: transportation is crowded, hotels are often fully booked, and many activities close for several days. If you plan to visit Vietnam during Tet, booking well in advance is recommended.
Culture and local etiquette
Vietnamese culture is deeply influenced by Confucian traditions, which emphasize respect, harmony, and social hierarchy. Courtesy is essential: greeting with a slight bow or a smile is always appreciated, as is using both hands to give or receive objects. Dressing modestly is recommended, especially in temples and sacred sites, where covering shoulders and knees is appropriate. In public spaces, excessive displays of affection are frowned upon, and raising your voice or losing your temper is considered disrespectful. When visiting a Vietnamese home, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Finally, it is important to remember that discussing politics, especially regarding the government, can be a sensitive topic.
VIETNAM: TRANSPORTATION
How to get to Vietnam: flights and border crossings
Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City is the busiest airport in Vietnam, followed by Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. Danang also has an international airport with some direct flights from abroad.
For travelers coming from Asia, Bangkok is often the main transit point for direct flights to Vietnam, due to its extensive connections and proximity (about an 80-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City). Airfare to Vietnam tends to be high, so booking in advance is recommended to get the best deals.
Land entry: border crossings
Vietnam has about a dozen border crossings with neighboring countries, all subject to strict police controls. Some require the payment of an immigration fee.
- From China:
- Friendship Pass (Dong Dang): located 20 km north of Lang Son, it is the main entry point for travelers to and from Nanning, Guangxi province. An international train connects Beijing and Hanoi twice a week, stopping here.
- Lao Cai: another widely used crossing, located in northwestern Vietnam, near Yunnan province in China.
- Mong Cai: less frequented but available for entry from China.
- From Laos:
- Lao Bao: located in north-central Vietnam, one of the most commonly used crossings. An international bus connects Danang to Savannakhet (Laos).
- Keo Nua Pass (Cau Treo): located west of Vinh, another entry point from Laos.
- From Cambodia:
- Moc Bai: the main border crossing between Vietnam and Cambodia. From here, an international bus service connects Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City.
Depending on your chosen entry point, it is always advisable to check visa requirements and any border fees in advance, as regulations may vary.
Getting around Vietnam: transportation options and travel tips
Vietnam offers various transportation options, each with its advantages and challenges. From national airlines to traditional cyclos, the country can be explored in many different ways.
Domestic flights: convenient but expensive
Vietnam Airlines holds an almost monopoly on domestic flights, with relatively high fares. However, it is the best choice for saving time, especially on long routes such as Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City or flights to the islands.
Buses and minibuses: cheap but slow
Local buses, while among the cheapest transport options, are often crowded and slow. Express buses, with average speeds of about 50 km/h, are slightly more comfortable but still far from Western standards.
Public minibuses share the same drawbacks as local buses, but for those seeking more comfort, private rentals are available.
Trains: a relaxing journey with surprises
Traveling by train in Vietnam is a unique experience: slower than buses, but generally more relaxing. Avoid local trains, known to be overcrowded and extremely slow. Also, watch out for theft in economy class and keep an eye on the windows: some children enjoy throwing stones and other objects at the carriages!
Cars and motorbikes: freedom with risks
Hiring a car with a driver can be a convenient and comfortable option. If stopped by the police, your driver will handle any fines.
For a more adventurous experience, you can rent a motorbike, but be careful: traffic in Vietnam is chaotic, and scams are always a risk. Driving is on the right… almost always!
Whatever mode of transport you choose, traveling in Vietnam will always be an adventure!
Typical food
Vietnamese cuisine is a true sensory journey, blending fresh, spicy, and sweet-sour flavors into irresistible dishes. Each meal is unique, thanks to the use of extremely fresh ingredients like aromatic herbs, crunchy vegetables, fish, and meat. Among the most iconic dishes, pho definitely deserves a mention: a noodle soup with hot broth, meat (usually beef or chicken), fresh herbs, and a mix of spices that warms the heart. For quick street food, banh mi is a crispy sandwich you cannot miss, filled with meat, vegetables, and a sauce mixing Vietnamese and French influences. For those who enjoy fresh, light snacks, goi cuon, Vietnamese spring rolls, are perfect. Filled with shrimp, rice vermicelli, and vegetables, these rolls are delicious with a peanut sauce. Vietnamese cuisine is ideal for those looking for light yet flavorful dishes, where sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements blend perfectly in every bite.
Vietnam Tour
Days 1–3: Hanoi
- Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi. Explore the Old Quarter, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, and visit the Temple of Literature and the Vietnam National Museum of History.
- Day 2: Excursion to Ngoc Son Temple, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and take a bike or motorbike tour around the city. In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show.
- Day 3: Departure for Sapa (by overnight train or bus). Arrive in the morning and relax before exploring.
Days 4–6: Sapa
- Day 4: Arrival in Sapa and transfer to your hotel. Walk through the villages of Cat Cat and Ta Phin, immersing yourself in the culture of the local ethnic minorities.
- Day 5: Trek to the Muong Hoa Valley and visit the villages of Y Linh Ho and Lao Chai. Admire the terraced rice fields and mountainous landscapes.
- Day 6: Visit the Sapa Market to discover local handicrafts and products. In the afternoon, return to Hanoi.
Days 7–9: Ha Long Bay
- Day 7: Transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (approx. 3–4 hours). Board a 2-day/1-night cruise. Explore the stunning limestone islands, go kayaking, and enjoy dinner on board.
- Day 8: Continue the cruise, visit caves and islands such as Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
- Day 9: Flight or train to Hue.
Days 10–12: Hue
- Day 10: Arrival in Hue. Start with a visit to the Imperial Citadel (UNESCO heritage), exploring the Imperial Palace and royal temples.
- Day 11: Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and Minh Mang Mausoleum. Enjoy a boat ride on the Perfume River and explore the ancient imperial tombs.
- Day 12: Free time to visit the imperial gardens or explore local markets. Evening transfer to Hoi An (approx. 3 hours).
Days 13–16: Hoi An
- Day 13: Arrival in Hoi An. Explore the UNESCO Ancient Town, stroll along the Thu Bon River, and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge.
- Day 14: Day dedicated to the Hoi An Market and tailor workshops. Visit An Bang Beach or take a bike to explore the surrounding villages.
- Day 15: Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class and prepare some local dishes. Also visit local museums, such as the Hoi An Museum of History.
- Day 16: Free day to walk in the historic center or shop for local crafts. Evening transfer to Da Nang.
Days 17–18: Da Nang
- Day 17: Arrival in Da Nang (approx. 30–45 minutes). Visit the Marble Mountains, explore temples and caves, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Day 18: Excursion to Ba Na Hills to see the famous Golden Bridge (supported by giant hands). Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening (flight).
Days 19–21: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
- Day 19: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City. Begin with a visit to the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Stroll around Ben Thanh Market and explore the colonial district.
- Day 20: Excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground complex used during the Vietnam War. Afterwards, visit the Reunification Palace and Binh Tay Market.
- Day 21: Visit Giac Lam Pagoda, the Vietnam History Museum, and take a tour of the Mekong Delta. Departure in the evening or the following day.
