Travel to Vietnam from New Zealand

Discover everything you need to know about planning a Vietnam trip from New Zealand in 2026, including updated visa rules, flights, best times to visit, key destinations, and practical planning tips.

Vietnam is increasingly becoming a favored travel destination for New Zealanders. With its varied landscapes, street life, regional food and deep-rooted history, Vietnam offers a mix of adventure, relaxation and cultural exploration. Whether you’re keen on a motorbike ride through the mountains of Sapa, a cruise among the limestone pillars of Ha Long Bay, or a stroll through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, Vietnam tours can fit most travel styles and budgets. Its relative affordability compared with New Zealand makes it especially attractive for longer trips.

Travel to Vietnam from New Zealand with Vietnam Airlines

1. Entry Requirements & Visa Information

New Zealand passport holders need a visa to enter Vietnam. The simplest option for most visitors is the official electronic visa (e-visa), applied for directly through the Vietnam Immigration Department’s online portal. The tourist e-visa can be issued for stays of up to 90 days and is available as single- or multiple-entry, which is useful if you plan to combine Vietnam with other Southeast Asian countries.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Vietnam and that you have proof of onward travel. Processing times for e-visas are usually a few working days, but it is safer to apply at least two to three weeks before your flight in case of delays.

At the time of writing, there are no specific health screening or vaccination requirements for most tourists entering Vietnam. Entry rules can change, and airlines or transit countries may introduce their own conditions, so it’s worth checking the latest information before you fly. Travel insurance that covers medical care and trip disruption remains highly recommended.

2. Flights from New Zealand to Vietnam

There are currently no direct flights from New Zealand to Vietnam, so you will connect through a major hub in Asia or Australia. Common routes link Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang via cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Bangkok or Sydney.

Airlines that often appear on these routes include Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Malaysia Airlines, Cathay Pacific, VietJet and Vietnam Airlines, sometimes on codeshare itineraries with Air New Zealand. Total travel time usually ranges from about 13 to 18 hours, depending on layovers.

For better fares, look 3–6 months ahead, compare across several booking platforms and be flexible with dates. Midweek departures are often cheaper than weekend flights, and flying into one city (for example, Hanoi) and out of another (Ho Chi Minh City) can save both time and domestic travel costs.

Paddy rice terraces, Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai

3. Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather is strongly regional, so the “best time” depends on where you want to spend most of your trip.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): Best Time – March to May & September to November

North Vietnam has four seasons. Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable for travel.

• March to May (Spring): Mild to warm weather, roughly 20°C–28°C. Good for exploring Hanoi on foot and for early-season treks around Sapa. Rice terraces begin to fill with water from late April, giving reflective views before the full green season.
• September to November (Autumn): Often considered the ideal time for the north. Rain eases off, skies clear and temperatures sit around 18°C–26°C. Sapa’s terraces turn golden around early September during harvest and can be excellent for photography and hiking.
• Local festivals: In early April you may be able to add a side trip to the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival in Phu Tho. Around September or October, the Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu) brings lanterns, sweets and family celebrations, especially noticeable in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): Best Time – February to August

Central Vietnam has a more defined dry and wet pattern.

• February to May: Generally dry, warm and sunny (22°C–30°C). Good for sightseeing in Hue and walking around Hoi An’s Ancient Town in the evenings.
• June to August: Hot but mostly dry (often 28°C–36°C). Beach conditions at Da Nang and Hoi An are usually good. This period is popular with Vietnamese families, so expect busier beaches and higher hotel demand, especially in July and early August.
• Festivals: Hoi An’s monthly Lantern Festival takes place on each full moon, with streets and the riverside lit by candles and lanterns. The Hue Festival, held every two years and next expected in 2026, showcases royal court music, traditional arts and performances spread across the city.

South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Best Time – December to April

The south is warm year-round with a dry and a rainy season.

• December to February: Drier, slightly cooler weather (around 25°C–31°C). Good for city walking in Ho Chi Minh City, cruises in the Mekong Delta and beach time in Phu Quoc.
• March to April: Hotter but still mostly dry; daytime highs can reach 34°C or more. Clear skies suit beach trips, but sun protection and frequent water breaks are important.
• Local festivals: Tết (Lunar New Year), usually in late January or February, brings decorations, flowers and crowded public spaces. It is colourful but services can be limited for a few days. In the Mekong, this period leads into a busy season for floating markets and local celebrations.

For New Zealand school holidays, the December–January break lines up well with southern and central Vietnam, which are usually in their dry season at that time.

Read more about seasons in Vietnam

A street hat vendor in Hanoi

4. Budget and Costs

Vietnam is generally budget-friendly compared with New Zealand. Actual spend depends on your travel style, but rough daily ranges are:

• Backpackers: NZD 30–60 per day
• Mid-range travelers: NZD 80–150 per day
• Luxury travelers: From NZD 200+ per day

The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). NZD is not used directly, so you will exchange into VND at banks or licensed exchange counters. ATMs are common in cities and tourist areas, and cards are widely accepted in hotels and many restaurants, though cash still works best in markets and small shops.

Typical costs:

• Street food meal: NZD 2–4
• 3-star hotel: NZD 40–80 per night
• Domestic flight: NZD 60–120
• Guided day tour: NZD 30–100, depending on group size and inclusions

For most New Zealanders, Vietnam offers good value, especially for food, accommodation and internal travel.

5. Suggested Itineraries

7-Day Itinerary

• Day 1–2: Hanoi – Old Quarter, coffee, street food, museums.
• Day 3–4: Ha Long Bay – overnight cruise with kayaking and cave visits.
• Day 5–7: Ninh Binh – boat trip, temples and countryside cycling.

10-Day Itinerary

• Day 1–3: Hanoi
• Day 4–5: Fly to Hoi An – Ancient Town and nearby beach.
• Day 6–7: Da Nang – Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills or Hai Van Pass.
• Day 8–10: Ho Chi Minh City – museums, markets and evening food tours.

14-Day North-to-South Tour

• Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hue → Hoi An → Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta

Domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways) keep longer hops short. On some sections you can swap flights for overnight trains if you prefer slower travel.

Read more about Vietnam tour itinerary suggestions

Traditional melodies and attire bring Vietnamese heritage to life.

6. Must-Visit Destinations

Hanoi: A mix of old temples, colonial buildings and busy street corners. The Old Quarter, Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake are easy first stops. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the surrounding Ba Dinh area give more context to modern Vietnamese history.

Ha Long Bay: A UNESCO-listed seascape of limestone islands and sheltered bays. Most visitors choose a one- or two-night cruise, combining cave visits, short hikes and kayaking. Less-crowded areas like Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are good alternatives if you prefer quieter anchorages.

Sapa: Mountain scenery, terraced rice fields and minority villages. Multi-day treks with homestays are common, ranging from gentle walks to more demanding routes. Cooler air can be a relief after time in the cities.

Hue: The former imperial capital, with the walled Citadel, royal tombs and riverside pagodas spread along the Perfume River. A guided visit helps make sense of the history and layout, especially inside the Imperial City.

Da Nang: A coastal city with long beaches, good food and easy access to Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills. It is also a practical base between Hue and Hoi An, with a growing café and restaurant scene.

Hoi An: Known for its compact Ancient Town, lanterns and riverside setting. Tailor shops, cooking classes and nearby beaches make it easy to slow down for a few days. The monthly Lantern Festival is busy but memorable.

A night market in Vietnam, full of food, lights and noise.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Vietnam’s largest city, known for its energy and contrasts. Central sights include Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market and the War Remnants Museum. Day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels or nearby river areas are easy to arrange.

Mekong Delta: A web of rivers, canals and fields in the south. Trips often include boat rides, visits to small workshops, fruit orchards and local markets. Overnight stays in homestays give you a closer look at life along the water.

7. Food and Drink

Vietnamese food is varied and regional, and eating is usually a highlight for visitors from New Zealand.

• Phở: Noodle soup, usually beef or chicken, with fresh herbs.
• Bún chả: Grilled pork with rice noodles and dipping sauce, common in Hanoi.
• Bánh mì: Warm baguette with a mix of meats, pickles, herbs and sauces.
• Gỏi cuốn: Fresh rice-paper rolls with herbs, vermicelli and shrimp or pork.
• Egg coffee: Strong coffee topped with a sweet egg-yolk foam, mostly associated with Hanoi.

Vegetarian and vegan options are easier to find than they used to be, especially in larger cities and in areas with many temples. Busy, well-turned-over street stalls are usually safest; look for fresh ingredients and food cooked to order. Tap water should be avoided – choose bottled or filtered instead.

Drinks to try include iced coffee with condensed milk, fresh sugarcane juice and bia hơi (light draft beer) in roadside spots.

A shared meal of classic Vietnamese dishes.

8. Accommodation Options

Vietnam has everything from simple guesthouses to high-end resorts:

• Budget: Hostels and basic guesthouses from around NZD 5–10 per night.
• Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and boutique stays from around NZD 30–70 per night.
• Luxury: Resorts and top-end boutique hotels from around NZD 100+ per night.

Agoda, Booking.com and similar platforms work well for most cities. For a closer view of daily life, consider a homestay in Sapa, Ninh Binh or the Mekong Delta. In 2026, more eco-lodges and small sustainable properties are appearing, especially in nature-focused regions.

9. Getting Around Vietnam

Renting a car with a driver is one of the easiest ways to move between sites, especially for families or small groups who want flexibility without driving themselves.

For longer distances:

• Flights: Good for covering big jumps such as Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi–Da Nang.
• Trains: The north–south line (often called the Reunification Express) offers scenic sections; soft-sleeper cabins are the most comfortable option.
• Buses: Sleeper and limousine buses are affordable, but comfort and driving standards can vary by company.

Within cities:

• Grab: App-based car and motorbike rides in most major urban areas.
• Taxis: Use reputable companies and ensure the meter is on.
• Motorbike rental: Cheap but best reserved for confident riders used to busy traffic.
• Cyclos: Pedicabs mainly used for short sightseeing rides in older districts.

10. Travel Insurance & Safety

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Check that your policy covers:

• Emergency medical treatment and hospital care
• Medical evacuation if needed
• Trip cancellation and delays
• Loss or theft of belongings

As in many busy destinations, scams can occur around taxis, money changing and unofficial tour sellers. Use trusted companies, agree on prices in advance if there is no meter and avoid handing your passport to anyone except hotel staff and official officers when required.

In hot months, heat and humidity are often more of an issue than anything else – carry water, take breaks in the middle of the day and use sunscreen and insect repellent.

11. Cultural Tips and Etiquette

• Dress modestly for temples and when visiting rural or more traditional areas (covered shoulders and knees).
• Remove shoes before entering homes and some small shops or temples.
• Bargaining is common in markets, but keep it light-hearted and respectful.
• Tipping is not mandatory, but small tips for guides, drivers and good service are appreciated.

A few useful phrases: “Xin chào” (hello), “Cảm ơn” (thank you), “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (how much?). Even simple Vietnamese words are usually welcomed.

12. Festivals and Events

Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

When: Late January to mid-February (varies with the lunar calendar)
Where: Nationwide
What to expect: Family gatherings, decorated streets, special foods and temporary closures of many shops and restaurants. Book transport and hotels well in advance if you plan to travel at this time.

A Vietnamese family decorating their home for Tết.

Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu)

When: September or October (15th day of the 8th lunar month)
Where: Major cities, especially Hanoi and Hoi An
Highlights: Lanterns, lion dances and mooncakes. Good for families and evening photography.

Hoi An Lantern Festival

When: Monthly on the full moon
Where: Hoi An Ancient Town
Highlights: Streets and rivers lit by lanterns, traditional games and performances. No ticket, but it can get crowded; arriving early helps.

Hue Festival (Biennial)

When: Every two years, usually April or June (next expected in 2026)
Where: Hue
Highlights: Royal music, parades, exhibitions and performances spread across the city’s historic sites.

Perfume Pagoda Festival

When: Mid-January to March (lunar calendar)
Where: Huong Pagoda area, near Hanoi
Highlights: A major pilgrimage with boat trips and walks through limestone landscapes to cave temples. Expect crowds on key dates.

Lim Festival

When: Around mid-February, before or after Tết
Where: Bac Ninh Province, near Hanoi
Highlights: Quan họ folk singing and traditional games in a rural setting.

Reunification Day & Labor Day

When: 30 April and 1 May
Where: Nationwide
Highlights: Public holidays with parades and domestic travel peaks. Transport and hotels can book out early.

Buddha’s Birthday

When: Usually May (8th day of the 4th lunar month)
Where: Pagodas across the country, especially in Hue and Da Nang
Highlights: Processions, lanterns and ceremonies at temples.

National Day of Vietnam

When: 2 September
Where: Major cities, especially Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
Highlights: Flags, public events and fireworks. In 2025, Vietnam marked the 80th anniversary of National Day with expanded celebrations; in following years you can still expect large crowds and a strong sense of occasion around this date.

International Fireworks Festival – Da Nang

When: Annually, usually between May and July
Where: Da Nang
Highlights: Fireworks displays from international teams along the Han River, plus concerts and street events.

International Fireworks Festival in Da Nang.

13. Connectivity and SIM Cards

Buying a local SIM is straightforward and keeps costs down compared with roaming from New Zealand.

• Providers: Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone are the main networks.
• Cost: Around NZD 10–15 for a tourist SIM with enough data for a couple of weeks, depending on package and provider.

Pick up a SIM at the airport on arrival or in city shops. Useful apps include Grab (for transport), Google Maps, Google Translate and common hotel booking apps.

14. Final Travel Tips

• Packing: Light clothing for heat, a thin layer for cooler northern evenings, a rain jacket in wet season, insect repellent and good walking shoes.
• Time zone: Vietnam is UTC+7. It is 5 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) and 6 hours behind New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT).
• Power sockets: Mainly types A and C; voltage 220V. A universal adapter is handy.
• Trip planning: In addition to official sources, check recent reports in Facebook groups, forums and current travel blogs for on-the-ground updates.

For New Zealanders heading to Asia, Vietnam is now a natural first or repeat stop: close enough to reach in a single travel day, different enough to feel like a real break. With realistic planning, an eye on updated visa rules and a flexible itinerary, traveling from New Zealand to Vietnam in 2026 and beyond can be straightforward, good value and full of memorable moments.