Travel to Vietnam in 2026: 8 Essential Tips Every Visitor Must Know

8 essential tips for your travel to Vietnam in 2026: visa info, weather, tour itineraries and budget advice

Planning to travel to Vietnam in 2026? You’re in for an unforgettable journey filled with rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore new corners of the country, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Vietnam with ease and confidence. From updated visa requirements and the best times to visit each region, to essential cultural etiquette and budgeting tips, here are 8 essential travel insights every visitor should know before embarking on their 2026 adventure.

Travel to Vietnam in 2026 travel tips

1. 📅 Visa & Entry Requirements in 2026

Vietnam’s visa policies have continued to evolve in recent years to promote tourism. As travel to Vietnam in 2026:

• E-Visas are now available for over 80 countries. You can apply through Vietnam’s official immigration portal. The process is straightforward and typically processed within 3–5 business days.
• Visa-free travel is still offered to citizens of select countries, including ASEAN members, South Korea, Japan, and several EU nations. Stays vary from 15 to 45 days depending on your passport.
• Extended e-visa validity: In 2026, Vietnam extended e-visas to 90 days with multiple entries, giving travelers more flexibility.

Pro tip: Avoid third-party visa websites with inflated fees. Use the official Vietnamese government site for the most accurate and secure processing.

2. 🌍 Best Time to Visit by Region

Vietnam stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, giving rise to diverse weather patterns and creating three distinct climate zones. Understanding Vietnam seasons and climates is essential for planning your trip, as each region offers a unique travel experience depending on the time of year.

• 🌸 North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay):
  This region experiences four distinct seasons, which is unusual compared to the rest of the country. The best time to visit is during March to May and September to November, when spring and autumn bring mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clear, comfortable weather. These months are perfect for outdoor adventures like trekking in Sapa or cruising Ha Long Bay. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters, especially in mountainous areas, can be surprisingly cool.
• ☀️ Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An):
  Central Vietnam enjoys a warm, mostly dry climate from February through May, making it ideal for sightseeing and beach activities. This is the perfect season to explore historic towns and coastal resorts. However, from August to October, the region is susceptible to typhoons and heavy rainfall, which can cause flooding and travel interruptions, so it’s best to avoid visiting during these months.
• 🌴 South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta):
  The south features a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season, lasting from December to April, offers clear skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity, making it the most comfortable time to explore vibrant cities and waterways. The wet season (May to November) brings frequent short showers that rarely disrupt travel but can cool things down a bit.

Spring in the Hoan Kiem Lake (Lacquer painting) by Nguyen Tu Nghiem

3. 🎉 Festival and Travel Events

Vietnam is famous for its rich traditions and vibrant celebrations. In 2026, the country’s Vietnam holidays calendar is packed with colorful festivals that showcase the heart and soul of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re seeking grand national events or intimate local festivities, these celebrations offer unforgettable experiences. Here’s a curated list of must-see festivals for 2026:

🌸 Tết (Vietnamese Traditional New Year)

• When: In 2026, Tết (Vietnamese Traditional New Year) will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 17. This significant holiday marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is the most important celebration in Vietnam. The official public holiday period for Tết extends from Monday, February 16 (New Year’s Eve) to Friday, February 20, providing a five-day national break for festivities and family gatherings
• What: The most important and widely celebrated festival across Vietnam, marking the lunar new year and the arrival of spring. Expect spectacular fireworks, traditional music and dance, ancestral rituals, and joyful family gatherings.
• Tip: Book your travel and accommodations early – this is the busiest travel period of the year!

🕌 Perfume Pagoda Festival

• When: January to April
• What: A spiritual pilgrimage to the stunning Perfume Pagoda near Hanoi. Visitors climb mountain paths and visit sacred caves, combining religious devotion with breathtaking natural scenery.

🎭 Hue Festival (Biennial)

• When: Every even-numbered year (2026 included)
• What: A grand showcase of traditional Vietnamese arts and culture in the ancient imperial city of Hue. Features include royal music, folk games, parades, and handicraft fairs celebrating the heritage of Vietnam’s former royal capital.

🏮 Mid-Autumn Festival

• When: In 2026, Vietnam’s Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) will be celebrated on Friday, September 25. This cherished cultural event, often referred to as the “Children’s Festival,” is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, coinciding with the full moon.
• What: Often referred to as the “Children’s Festival,” the Mid-Autumn Festival is one of Vietnam’s most beloved cultural celebrations. Though it’s not a formal public holiday, it is joyfully embraced across the country. Families gather to share traditional treats like bánh trung thu (mooncakes), while streets fill with vibrant lantern displays and spirited processions. Children proudly carry handmade lanterns – especially the iconic star-shaped ones – lighting up neighborhoods with color and excitement. The festivities also include lion dances, folk performances, and games, all of which reflect themes of family togetherness, gratitude for the harvest and cultural pride.

🏮 Hoi An Lantern Festival

• When: Monthly, on every full moon night
• What: The historic town of Hoi An switches off electric lights, glowing with thousands of floating lanterns along the river and streets. A magical night for photography, romantic walks, and cultural immersion.

🎆 Da Nang International Fireworks Festival

• When: Usually spring or summer (To be updated)
• What: A dazzling competition of fireworks by international teams along Da Nang’s beach, synchronized to music. A modern celebration attracting huge crowds with spectacular pyrotechnic displays.

🌼 Da Lat Flower Festival (Biennial) – (To be updated)

• When: Every two years
• What: A vibrant celebration of flowers, art, and culture in the cool highland city of Da Lat. Features stunning floral displays, creative exhibitions, and lively cultural performances.

Hmong people celebrate vibrant Traditional Tet festival in Sapa

Why Attend?

Participating in these festivals offers a unique and immersive cultural experience beyond typical sightseeing. From the joyous atmosphere of Tết to the spiritual serenity of the Perfume Pagoda, Vietnam’s 2026 festivals are your gateway to authentic local traditions and unforgettable memories.

4. 🌏 Must-Visit Destinations & Suggested Tours

Vietnam is filled with both iconic landmarks and hidden gems, offering unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From emerald rice fields and dramatic coastlines to ancient cities and lively markets, the country’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage are sure to impress.

Start your adventure in Hanoi, the vibrant capital known for its Old Quarter, street food, and lakeside temples. Then cruise through the breathtaking limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay. Travel south to Hue to explore imperial citadels and wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to the beaches of Da Nang or the misty hills of Da Lat, before ending your journey in Ho Chi Minh City, where modern energy meets colonial charm and war history.

For first-time visitors, Vietnam itinerary suggestions typically follow a 10–14 day north-to-south route, allowing time for optional activities like cooking classes, boat tours and cultural shows. Whether you choose a guided tour or travel independently, Vietnam’s variety ensures a journey full of discovery and lasting memories.

Top Destinations:

• ✨ Hanoi: Wander through the bustling Old Quarter, a maze of historic streets filled with local charm. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and enjoy traditional water puppet shows. Don’t miss savoring authentic street food like bun cha, egg coffee, and pho at roadside stalls.
• ⛰️ Ha Long Bay: Embark on an unforgettable overnight cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, explore hidden caves, and kayak to secluded beaches. Sunset and sunrise on deck are magical highlights.
• ⛳️ Sapa: Trek through breathtaking rice terraces surrounded by misty mountains. Meet and interact with ethnic minority groups like the Hmong and Red Dao, and experience homestays for an authentic glimpse into rural life in northern Vietnam.
• ☀️ Hoi An: Explore this well-preserved ancient town with its mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French architecture. Browse vibrant tailor shops, sample local specialties like cao lầu, and enjoy serene lantern-lit nights by the riverside.
• 🚗 Da Nang: Relax on clean, sandy beaches like My Khe, visit the Marble Mountains, and explore the contemporary cityscape with excellent dining, cafés, and nightlife. It’s a great balance of nature and urban energy.
• 🚀 Ho Chi Minh City: Immerse yourself in the high-energy vibe of Vietnam’s largest metropolis. Visit historic sites like the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels, and unwind with rooftop bars, fusion cuisine, and lively night markets.
• 🌿 Mekong Delta: Cruise through a network of lush canals, visit colorful floating markets like Cai Rang, and sample exotic tropical fruits straight from the orchards. A day or two here offers a peaceful contrast to city life.

Suggested Tour programs:

• North Vietnam Adventure (7 days): Hanoi ➔ Ha Long Bay ➔ Ninh Binh ➔ Sapa
• Cultural Heritage Route (10 days): Hue ➔ Da Nang ➔ Hoi An ➔ My Son Sanctuary
• South Explorer (5–7 days): Ho Chi Minh City ➔ Cu Chi Tunnels ➔ Mekong Delta

Ha Giang blooms vibrantly during the magical flower season.

5. 🌄 Getting Around

Traveling within Vietnam is affordable and offers multiple options:

• Domestic Flights: Ideal for long distances. Carriers like Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air connect major cities.
• Trains: The Reunification Express runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, offering scenic views. Book early for soft-sleeper cabins.
• Buses: Budget-friendly and extensive. Sleeper buses are popular for overnight journeys.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Use Grab or Be for taxis and food delivery in major cities.
• Motorbike Rentals: For confident riders only. Helmets are mandatory. Always check local laws.
• Car: Renting a car in Vietnam can be a convenient option for travelers seeking flexibility, especially when exploring less accessible regions or traveling with family. However, self-driving is not common due to complex traffic rules and busy roads. Most visitors opt for Vietnam car rental services that include a local driver, which ensures safety and local knowledge. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the journey while navigating the country’s diverse landscapes – from winding mountain passes to coastal highways. Always book through a reputable provider and check for insurance and clear terms before confirming your rental.

Tip: Use Google Maps for public transit info and Grab for reliable pricing.

6. 👋 Cultural Etiquette & Local Norms

Vietnamese culture is deeply respectful and rooted in long-standing traditions that shape everyday life. From family values and ancestral worship to community-centered festivals and etiquette, respect is at the heart of social interactions. Visitors will notice gestures like bowing slightly, removing shoes before entering a home, and offering items with both hands – signs of politeness and humility. Culinary customs also reflect cultural depth, with meals often shared family-style and dishes varying by region. Engaging with locals – whether in bustling cities or rural villages – reveals a warm hospitality that defines the Vietnamese spirit. Many Vietnam tours include cultural experiences such as cooking classes, traditional music performances, or visits to craft villages, offering travelers a chance to connect with this rich heritage. For a more meaningful trip, taking time to learn and appreciate these customs can lead to genuine connections and unforgettable moments. Here’s how to blend in:

• Greetings: A nod or slight bow is common. Use both hands when giving or receiving something important.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas.
• Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces.
• Use two hands when giving money or gifts.
• Avoid public displays of affection or raising your voice in public.

Learn a few key phrases:

• “Xin chào” = Hello
• “Cám ơn” = Thank you
• “Bao nhiêu tiền?” = How much is it?

7. 💳 Budget & Cash Tips in 2026

Vietnam remains a budget-friendly destination, but here are key money tips:

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). 1 USD = ~26,000 VND (as of 2025, can be 26,500VND in 2026).
• Cash is king in most places, especially rural areas. Carry small denominations.
• Cards are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and big stores.
• Mobile payments: Apps like Momo, ZaloPay, and VNPay are becoming more widespread.
• ATMs: Widely available, but some charge high withdrawal fees. Stick to local bank ATMs like Vietcombank or BIDV.

Tip: Notify your bank before travel and always carry a backup card.

Nem – Fried Spring rolls

8. 🍽️ Food, Health & Safety Advice

Vietnamese cuisine is a major highlight of any trip. Stay adventurous and safe with these tips:

Must-Try Dishes:

• Pho: Iconic beef noodle soup.
• Banh Mi: Vietnamese sandwich with pickled veggies and pate.
• Goi Cuon: Fresh spring rolls.
• Cao Lau: Regional noodle dish from Hoi An.
• Bun Cha: Grilled pork with noodles (Hanoi specialty).

Street Food Safety Tips:

• Eat where locals eat.
• Choose stalls that cook fresh in front of you.
• Avoid raw vegetables unless washed with clean water.

Health & Safety:

• Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended.
• Travel insurance: A must-have for medical and trip coverage.
• Pharmacies: Widely available but bring personal medications.
• Emergency number: 115 (ambulance), 113 (police), 114 (fire).

Stay hydrated and carry sunscreen, especially in the south.

✈️ Final Thoughts

Vietnam in 2026 promises even more for travelers: better infrastructure, expanded visa access, and an ever-evolving cultural landscape. With these 8 essential tips, you’ll be ready to explore this beautiful country with confidence, respect, and joy.

Happy travels!