Vietnam holidays combine culture, cuisine, scenery, and adventure
A holiday to Vietnam is a journey through vibrant cities, peaceful countryside and spectacular coastline. It’s rich in culture, full of flavour and surprisingly easy to explore.
Vietnam is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression, vibrant, scenic, and full of character. It’s a country that flows from the highlands of the north to the tropical waterways of the south, with centuries of history and some of the best food in Asia along the way. Whether you’re drawn to its cities, beaches, mountains, or markets, there’s so much to discover.
What we love about Vietnam is how easily you can blend different experiences into one trip. Start in Hanoi, where leafy boulevards and crumbling French architecture meet the buzz of markets and street food stalls. Cruise through Halong Bay for peaceful views and dramatic limestone scenery. Head south to the central coast and soak up the charm of Hoi An, where tailors, temples, and top-class cuisine make it a standout stop.
For something a little more active, the northern mountains offer rewarding treks and the chance to meet local communities. Or explore the Mekong Delta in the south, a patchwork of rivers, rice paddies, and floating markets. If you’re after beach time, there are plenty of options too, from laid-back Phu Quoc to more luxurious coastal resorts.
Vietnam suits both first-time visitors to Asia and those returning for a deeper experience. It works just as well for families as it does for couples or solo travellers. We’ll help you make the most of your time here, whether that means travelling slowly and soaking up the culture, or covering the country from top to tail.
Vietnam Trip Inspiration
Our Vietnam specialist, Nia, says:
"Vietnam has such a great rhythm to it – from the early morning buzz of city life to the calm of countryside evenings. It’s one of the few places where you can pack culture, nature, food, and beach into one trip without it ever feeling rushed."
When to go to Vietnam
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Vietnam
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Northern Vietnam experiences cool and dry weather, making it ideal for exploring Hanoi and Halong Bay. The southern regions are warm and pleasant.
February
Weather in the north remains cool, while central and southern areas enjoy warm, dry conditions. Lunar New Year, Tet, is a festive highlight.
March
Spring arrives in the north, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The south remains warm and dry. Ideal for beach destinations like Nha Trang.
April
The entire country experiences pleasant weather. Consider traveling for Tet if you want to immerse in cultural celebrations.
May
May marks the start of the wet season in the north, but central and southern Vietnam remain hot. Be prepared for occasional heavy rains, especially in central and northern Vietnam. Consider coastal areas for water-based adventures. Temperature: North and Central: 30-38°C
June
The entire country experiences its hot and humid season. The mountainous areas like Sapa are a good alternative for cooler temperatures and adventures. Temperature: North and Central: 30-38°C
July
Be prepared for occasional heavy rains, especially in central and northern Vietnam. Consider coastal areas for water-based adventures. Temperature: North and Central: 30-38°C
August
Central Vietnam is a good choice during these months, with great beach weather. Northern Vietnam experiences rainy and humid conditions.
September
The north begins to cool down, and central Vietnam is pleasant. This is an excellent time for outdoor adventures. Temperature: North: 27-33°C, Central: 25-32°C.
October
Most of Vietnam experiences great weather in October. Ideal for trekking in the north and exploring the south Temperature: North: 24-30°C (75-86°F), Central and South: 25-32°C.
November
Northern Vietnam sees pleasant weather with autumn foliage. Central regions continue to be good for beach vacations. Southern Vietnam is warm and dry.
December
Northern Vietnam experiences cool temperatures, perfect for exploring cities. Southern Vietnam remains warm and dry, making it ideal for beach holidays.
Types of Vietnam vacations
Where to go in Vietnam
Top places to visit in Vietnam
Best places to stay in Vietnam
FAQs About Your Vietnam Holiday
Planning a holiday to Vietnam? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
What are the must-see sights and experiences in Vietnam?
Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences, from cruising the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay and exploring the ancient town of Hoi An, to vibrant street food scenes in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Don’t miss the terraced rice fields of Sapa, the historic Cu Chi tunnels, and the Mekong Delta’s floating markets.
Is Halong Bay worth a visit or is it too touristy?
Halong Bay remains one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations and is often considered a must-see when visiting the country. However, its recent popularity means it can feel overcrowded, which may compromise the experience. Instead, we recommend cruising through Bai Tu Long Bay. As Halong’s sister bay, it offers equally spectacular limestone karsts, but with fewer people and less bustle.Usually accessed through high-end cruise operators, you’ll find smaller, more intimate vessels or even private charters, allowing you to explore the emerald waters and dramatic landscapes in a more peaceful setting.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam’s climate varies north to south, but generally, the best time to visit is from February to April or August to October when rainfall is lower and temperatures are more moderate.
What is the ideal Vietnam holiday length?
To truly appreciate Vietnam’s rich diversity, a holiday of at least 10 to 14 days is ideal. This allows you to comfortably explore key regions. With this timeframe, you can balance city life, countryside adventures, and beach relaxation without feeling rushed, ensuring a more immersive and rewarding experience.
Is Vietnam family-friendly?
Yes, Vietnam is suitable for families. Many attractions are educational and engaging for children, such as the water puppet shows and bike tours in the countryside. Accommodations and transport options are also increasingly family-friendly.
What is the best way to get around Vietnam?
Vietnam’s extensive rail, bus, and domestic flight networks make it easy to travel between cities. Within towns, motorbikes, taxis, and cyclos (three-wheeled bikes) offer authentic local transport options.
What should I know before travelling to the Mekong Delta?
The region’s waterways are the main routes, so boat travel is essential, so expect to spend time exploring floating markets, riverside villages, and lush rice paddies by boat. Some people are put off by the Mekong’s dark colour, as the river carries a lot of earth with it. However, it offers a very calming experience, serving as a lifeline to many locals and providing an incredible journey, with so much to see and learn along the way. Be mindful that facilities can be more basic outside major towns, so pack accordingly. The climate is hot and humid, so light, breathable clothing and sun protection are a must.
Is Vietnam a good destination for beach lovers?
Absolutely. Vietnam’s coastline stretches over 3,000 km with beautiful beaches like those in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and the idyllic Phu Quoc Island.
Speak to a Vietnam expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Nia
Vietnam Expert