Vietnam

Entering Vietnam is straightforward for most international travellers. Vietnam offers a convenient e-Visa system for many nationalities, while citizens of several countries can enter visa-free for a limited period. As entry requirements may change, it’s always best to check the latest regulations before travelling. 

Entry Requirements

Before You Apply

• Check your passport expiry date before booking your trip.
• Apply only through Vietnam’s official e-Visa website or with assistance from a trusted travel company.
• Processing times may vary, so we recommend applying well before your departure.
• Keep a printed or digital copy of your visa approval when travelling.

Nadova Tours Tip
Not sure if you need a visa? Our travel specialists are happy to check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before you book.

Getting around Vietnam is easy thanks to an extensive network of domestic flights, trains, private vehicles and ride-hailing services. Whether you’re travelling between major cities or exploring local destinations, there are convenient transport options to suit every itinerary.

Getting Around Vietnam

Good to Know

• Traffic in major cities can be busy, especially during peak hours.
• Walking is the best way to explore historic areas such as Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Hoi An Ancient Town.
• Domestic flights are recommended for longer distances to make the most of your travel time.
• Grab, Be and Xanh SM offer convenient cashless payment options in most cities.

Nadova Tours Tip
For the most comfortable experience, we recommend combining domestic flights for long distances with private transfers for sightseeing. It saves time and allows you to enjoy each destination at a relaxed pace.

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards and digital payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is still recommended for local markets, street food vendors and smaller family-run businesses.

Payment Guide

Good to Know

• All official transactions in Vietnam are made in Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, airports and licensed exchange offices, with US Dollars and Euros being the most widely accepted.
• Coins are rarely used, and most everyday transactions are made using banknotes or digital payments.
• Keeping a small amount of cash is useful for local purchases and tipping.

Nadova Tours Tip
We recommend carrying both a credit card and some Vietnamese Dong. Cards are convenient in cities, while cash is still the easiest way to pay in local markets, small cafés and rural areas.

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its fresh ingredients, balanced flavours and generous use of herbs. While every region has its own culinary traditions, one thing remains the same—food is an essential part of the travel experience.

Must-Try Dishes

Local Drinks

• Vietnamese Coffee – Don’t miss Cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) and the famous egg coffee in Hanoi.
• Green Tea – Traditionally served with meals and when welcoming guests.
• Bia Hơi – Fresh local draft beer, especially popular in Hanoi.

Good to Know

• Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled or filtered water is recommended throughout your trip.
• Street food is one of Vietnam’s greatest culinary experiences. Choose busy stalls with freshly prepared food for the best quality and flavour.

Nadova Tours Tip
Some of Vietnam’s best meals are found in small local restaurants and street food stalls. Don’t hesitate to try local specialities—our guides will be happy to recommend their favourites.

Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality, respect for others and strong sense of family and tradition. Understanding a few local customs will help you connect more naturally with local people and enjoy a more meaningful travel experience.

Local Etiquette

• Dress respectfully when visiting temples, pagodas and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes should be removed before entering sacred places.
• Stay calm and patient. Raising your voice or showing frustration in public is generally considered impolite.
• Use both hands when giving or receiving gifts, business cards or money whenever possible.
• Avoid placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense offered to ancestors during memorial ceremonies.
• Public displays of affection are generally modest, particularly outside major cities.

Major Festivals

Good to Know

If you’re travelling during Tết, expect larger crowds and increased demand for transport and accommodation. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, as many Vietnamese travel to visit their families during this period.

Nadova Tours Tip
A smile, a little patience and a few simple Vietnamese greetings can go a long way. Respecting local customs is one of the best ways to experience Vietnam beyond the tourist attractions.

Vietnam is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia for international travellers. With a little preparation and common sense, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey throughout the country.

Health

• Comprehensive travel insurance with international medical coverage is strongly recommended.
• Bring any personal prescription medication, along with sunscreen and insect repellent.
• International-standard hospitals and clinics are available in major cities, including Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Pharmacies are widely available in cities and tourist destinations.

Safety

• Violent crime is extremely rare, but keep an eye on your belongings in busy tourist areas.
• Use licensed taxis or trusted ride-hailing apps such as Grab, Be and Xanh SM.
• Book tours and transfers through reputable travel companies or official service providers.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying valuable items unnecessarily.

Emergency Contacts

Nadova Tours Tip
Vietnam is a welcoming and easy country to explore. Simple precautions—such as using trusted transport services and keeping your valuables secure—are usually all you need for a worry-free trip.

Vietnam is located on the eastern coast of the Indochinese Peninsula, sharing borders with China, Laos and Cambodia. Stretching more than 1,600 kilometres from north to south, the country offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, climates and travel experiences.

At a Glance

Diverse Landscapes

From the misty mountains of the north to the fertile Mekong Delta in the south, Vietnam’s geography is remarkably diverse.

Highlights include:

• Mountain ranges and rice terraces in the north.
• Limestone islands and dramatic bays, including Ha Long Bay.
• Long sandy beaches along the central coast.
• The lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, one of the world’s largest river deltas.

Nadova Tours Tip
Vietnam’s diverse geography means every region offers a completely different experience. Combining the north, central and south in one journey is the best way to discover the country’s remarkable variety.