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Surprising Vietnam In 11 Days

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“Extremely well organised with quality hotels, guides and transport including internal flights.” Melissa Fenton, traveled in December 2023

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year
• Board a hand-rowed sampan through beautiful Mekong Delta
• Relax on a scenic drive along the beautiful Hai Van Pass
• Take a trip in a unique Vietnamese bamboo basket boat

“The process was so smooth and they are very quick to respond to our request. I highly recommend them.” Fema, traveled in April 2024

• Overnight on a boat in Halong Bay
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City on your own
• Cruise the Mekong and visit My Tho

“Excellent trip, great support - trip just wasn't long enough soo much to see.” Carole Collier, traveled in January 2024

• Feel the magic atmosphere on a boat trip along the river going through caves in Ninh Binh.
• Visit the Mekong delta's orchards, folk music performances, and maze of mangrove-lined riverways
• Explore the system of Cu Chi tunnels to know how the Vietnamese lived during the war.

“The hotels were fantastic, offering clean, comfortable, and well-located accommodations.” John, traveled in June 2024

• In-depth Cultural
• Go back in time and explore the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels
• Enjoy a cruise on Halong Bay and swim in karst grottoes
• Cycle in the countryside and cook Vietnamese meals

“Overall it was very memorable and I would use the agency again for travel in the future.” Quang Tran, traveled in June 2022

• Explore Hanoi's vibrant Old Quarter
• Cycle and relax in the Mekong Delta
• Cruise and dine in stunning Halong Bay

“Itinerary was excellent. Food was very good.” Jason Morrow, traveled in April 2024

• Discover life of locals alongside the mighty Mekong
• Take a dip in the spectacular natural beauty of Ninh Binh
• Be amazed by the never-ending energy of Ho Chi Minh

“We highly appreciated what lvptravel offered, supported our group in seamless tour time.” Donut Mint, traveled in August 2023

• Explore ancient Hoa Lu and scenic Tam Coc
• Discover the Surprise Cave on Halong Cruise
• Cruise and kayak in stunning Halong Bay

“The hotels were all absolutely amazing and the lunch spots were great. This trip takes you on all the highlights of Vietnam.” Sarah May, traveled in January 2024

• Tour the historic city of Hue
• Discover the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay
• Enjoy a traditional Junk Boat cruise

“The north we loved. Sigon we hated last 3 days poor.” Leanne Craig, traveled in July 2024

• Explore Hanoi's vibrant streets and lakes
• Ride through Hanoi in a vintage Jeep
• Experience Hoi An's ancient charm on foot

“Halong Bay was a real highlight for us as it wasn't too busy in the off season.” Brendan Collins, traveled in July 2024

• Explore Hanoi's historic Tran Quoc Pagoda
• Discover Hoi An's ancient charms
• Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels

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Solo Travel in Vietnam – The Only EPIC Guide You Need to Check Out

Solo travel in Vietnam is one of the best experiences you can have in SE Asia. A solo female travel traveler since last 5 years and having explored Vietnam for over a month, I can say that traveling alone in Vietnam is fascinating, adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.

If you are planning of travelling Vietnam alone or wondering whether a solo trip to Vietnam is right for you, you can come to the right place. Because in this Vietnam travel blog, I’m sharing all about solo travel in Vietnam – safety tips, what to expect, how to plan a trip, costs and other commonly asked questions.

Sit back, grab your coffee and find out how traveling Vietnam solo is one of the excellent experiences.

I’m sure you have a lot of questions and doubts about solo travel in Vietnam. So I am going to dispel and answer each of them in this exhaustive Vietnam solo travel guide.

Is it safe to solo travel in Vietnam?

YES. Vietnam is one of the safest countries to travel alone. Solo travel in Vietnam will be a total package – where you will feel a whole roller-coaster of emotions – thrilling, inspiring, eye-opening, challenging, tiring and ultimately feeling excellent about your entire trip.

So yes, Vietnam is one of the countries safe for traveling alone, especially if you are beginning your solo travel adventures outside your country.

Continue reading to know some safety tips for women traveling alone, and in general for all solo travelers.

Vietnam Solo Travel – What are some tips before you visit Vietnam?

If you are wondering, ‘what should I know as a first time visitor about traveling in Vietnam?’, let me clarify a few things. Vietnam is relatively a popular destination, especially among solo travelers because it is friendly towards solo travelers, safe and comfortable. And this also means that solo travel in Vietnam needs some preparation. 

Here ar e some things to know before traveling solo in Vietnam

• Weather in Vietnam is fickle  – One thing that is not reliable about Vietnam is its weather, which keeps changing often. On a single day, you can experience rain, chilly winds, sunshine and clouds. Yup, so prepare for all sorts of weather, irrespective of the city!
• Humidity  – Weather can be unpredictable, but the constants are humidity and hotness. If you are not used to humid weather, the chances are that you will feel exhausted and drained, pretty quickly. One of the ways to beat this is to stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Lot – as many times as you can.
• You cannot possess drugs  – Drugs are illegal in Vietnam. All of them. So don’t try to sneak in any form of drugs, hoping for any concession for foreigners, because there is none. You will be offered, but you should refuse. Carrying drugs is a punishable crime, so steer clear of them.
• Vietnam Visa  – Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality, so make sure to get it sorted. That should be your top priority.
• Beware of land mines  – In Vietnam and Laos, there are hundreds of active land mines or UXO that were dropped decades ago during wars, scattered especially in the countryside. So if you notice any sign to not trespass, it is best to obey the sign.
• Vietnam is a conservative country  – Despite the locals opening up to foreign travelers in recent years, the people are conservative and traditional. Sure, you might not see that in bigger cities and touristy places, but it will be evident once you step into rural parts of Vietnam. So keep this in mind and respect the norm.
• Follow the rules  – There are some monuments and attractions where photography is prohibited, especially those that belong to the government. It is essential to follow the rules, as not following is an offence and you can be fined.
• Wear a helmet while driving a motorbike  – Vietnam is known for fatal motorbike accidents, mostly of international tourists, so don’t be one of them. Wear a helmet, whether you are riding or a pillion.
• Don’t be deceived by Vietnam’s map  – The map of Vietnam looks thin, but let me tell you, the country is enormous! Solo travel in Vietnam is daunting enough and an achievement in itself, so don’t assume that you can travel everywhere in the country, especially if you are here for 2 to 3 weeks. You must enjoy traveling solo in Vietnam, and it’s not a race to see a vast list of places.

I have written a detailed post where I share over 30 things to know before traveling to Vietnam. Go ahead and check that too.

What safety precautions should I take when travelling solo in Vietnam as a female? 

Traveling solo in Vietnam is fantastic, but solo travel needs its set of precautions. Taking general precautions and safety measures that apply to traveling to any destination will help you have a super trip. Here are some general solo travel tips for Vietnam for both men and women, and more specific Vietnam solo female travel tips in the next section.

General Vietnam solo travel tips

Safeguard your belongings

This one is obvious, but we all let our guard down sometimes, and that’s when a theft happens! Mobile and your bags are the primary targets, especially in bigger cities like Hanoi and Saigon. 

Keep your handbags and camera bags safe during all the times. The bigger cities are notorious for bag and mobile theft. People passing by snatch bags and mobiles, and also the motorbike riders, who grab bags when you are out walking or driving or traveling in buses or tuk-tuks. 

To avoid this, keep only the essentials with you. Carry handbags that you can wear on your body, making snatching impossible. Don’t carry more than a bag when you are out as more bags mean most of your attention goes in safeguarding them, along with more risks.

Don’t carry expensive stuff or a lot of cash

Don’t flash your fancy camera and phones out in public . It draws unwanted attention and entices theft, which is common in Saigon or Hanoi. 

Don’t carry a lot of cash, and wear a money belt or hide some money in your hidden pockets .  Don’t open your wallet in front of too many eye s; be discreet while making transactions.

Talk to locals

One of the rules of thumb while traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere is to take the help of locals by talking with them. You don’t have to strike up a conversation with every local.  Your hotel/hostel staff, tour operators, tour guides, tuk-tuk shop owners and locals like these who are in touch with tourists are the best bets . 

These locals usually speak fluent English and have excellent knowledge about costs, attractions, local places to eat, shop, where to drink and so on . You will be surprised by the immensely valuable insider tips that you will get from these people, apart from forming friendships!

Keep your travel documents secure 

Next to safeguarding your money and your electronic equipment comes securing your travel documents, especially your passport. Most hotels or guesthouses in Vietnam usually do not take your passport and keep it that way for best. 

What I do is make copies of relevant travel documents like passport, which I handover when they ask to deposit my passport. It usually works, and you can avoid giving your original documents.  Keep your passport and other tickets safe in a locker or your luggage at the hotel. Do not carry them with you when you go out for sightseeing .

Get the hang of Vietnamese currency

The Vietnamese Dong gets a handful when you withdraw from ATMs or get them at currency centres.  There are too many denominations and notes, so take time to figure out and sort. This way, you will avoid confusion when you transact as sometimes you might receive less than the actual change and lose money .

Meet people and make friends

Traveling solo in Vietnam doesn’t mean you have to be all alone all the time, right? There are times you might feel lonely too, or bored. Well, how do you beat these?  Go and meet people, and make some new friends, because that’s one of the fun things about traveling alone.

Whether at hostels, group tours, or locals that you randomly meet, being friendly and open will lead to memorable experiences. You will be surprised at how many fellow solo travelers you will come across, that will make for a great company. 

Don’t be shy or hesitant to make the first move. If you are an introvert like me, this might be challenging to you at first, but try it out, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the outcomes ! Meeting new people, listening to great stories, traveling and exploring new places with new friends are cool things to do as a solo traveler. Go ahead and try it!

There are many advantages to signing up for tours. It is one of the remarkable ways to meet new people and fellow solo travelers. And the good news about travel in Vietnam solo is that  there are plenty of open tours, mainly organized by hostels and guesthouses , where you are free to drop in any batch. 

Even if it is a walking tour or food tour run by your hostel, go ahead and sign up, especially if you are traveling solo alone for the first time.  You will meet new people, get to know about the place or food, and feel more confident.

Watch what you drink and eat

Whether Vietnam or anywhere else, watch out on what you eat and drink. Yes, you should try local delicacies and alcohol, but before doing so, you need to take certain precautions, especially in Vietnam. 

If you are drunk and you get attacked or robbed, it is less likely to make a case in your favour as drunk tourists and fussy foreigners are frowned upon not only in Vietnam but anywhere. You need to enjoy it, but you also have to be vigilant and sober. Read below further to know about tips for food safety in Vietnam.

Read and research thoroughly before booking

One of the exciting things about travel is planning.  Before you travel solo in Vietnam, do your preparation . Look up and read about cities, a bit about what to expect, weather, culture, people, safety, itinerary, etc. Sure, leave some elements of surprise, but get your basics done.

Before booking your accommodation, read the reviews on different sites carefully, check the location and neighbourhood around the hostels and hotels. Read the fine print, and check about the safety of the areas.  It is best to look out for  hostels and hotels that have a lot of great reviews everywhere . It means that the  place is trustworthy, and is safe to stay and enjoy .

Similarly,  read the reviews before booking any paid guided tours . Some tours are very cheap, but cheap sometimes mean bad experiences. The same goes for booking buses and transport too. Simply put, do a bit of your homework before your solo travel in Vietnam.

Get a Sim Card

One of the things that will help you while traveling alone in Vietnam is getting a local SIM card. Sure, you can manage through the WiFi, which you can get at hotels, hostels, cafes and some restaurants. 

But having  a constant source of the internet will help you with navigation , when you are out exploring, driving and walking on the unknown streets. The cellular packages are cheap, and it makes sense if you are spending about 2 or 3 weeks in Vietnam.  You can also stay connected and seek help if things go wrong . 

An alternative for navigation if you don’t want to buy a sim card is to download Maps.me app, which is an excellent app for offline maps, which you can use to navigate anywhere if you download maps.

Track your expenses

One of the things to take care of is to manage and track your expenses, which you can initially find challenging while traveling solo. I do somethings as a ritual to manage money, like, I  split  my  cash  and cards( both debit and credit) and  keep them in different bags . I often lose wallets, so this helps me to have a backup.

Vietnam is cheap, but it is still essential to know where your money goes . I take a brief note of my expenditures every few days, which helps me stick to my travel budget. 

Sometimes when you are in a new destination, you can easily get carried away to spend – be it on some new attraction you discovered, shopping, a new activity or spontaneous spend on food and drinks or parties. 

Having a budget in mind will help you use your money mindfully , especially if you are a backpacker traveling on a shoestring budget.

If you thought the phrase Be a Roman, when in… is a cliche or oversold, well, it is not. It has another name and is called blending in. Blending and being flexible has its many advantages when you are, you are doing solo travel in Vietnam or anywhere in the world. 

Standing out is cool, but not so when you are alone. Observe locals and dress like them, try to mingle and communicate like them, watch and respect their culture, rules and tradition – in temples, pagodas and government monuments.  Blending will earn respect and admiration from the locals, and you will be safe and also enjoy the process  of blending in!

Let your family know about your whereabouts

It is easy to get lost in your head or the challenges and tasks when you are traveling alone. At times that you might also feel lonely, frustrated and bored, even after meeting people or making friends. That’s where your support system helps. Whether it is your partner or friends or family or any of your loved ones,  keeping in touch will help you feel positive. 

Your loved ones will worry less knowing that you are safe and available to reach. You don’t have to talk for hours, because you came out to be alone, by yourself. Simply go ahead and give them a ring or drop texts often. 

Now, let me share some Vietnam solo female travel tips for you.

In addition to keeping in mind the above safety tips, women traveling alone in Vietnam need to take care of a few new things.  Well, these apply not only if you are doing solo female travel in Vietnam ,  but anywhere else too.

Do not share personal information with anyone

Whether in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world, you will most likely meet people who seem very intrusive. They might be just curious or weird, or maybe harmful too. Whatever it is, watch out and don’t share personal information. You surely don’t have to tell about your relationship status, your full name, the place you are staying or where you plan to go next or any other intimate details.

It not only applies to locals, but to other travelers that you meet as well. It is a good thing to make friends, but you should not reveal much while you are just making friends or with people you just met. 

One of the examples that I can share is a lot of times, men – mostly locals and some times tourists approach female solo travelers frequently. They are the ones that usually ask all awkward, weird questions to flirt or engage further. 

To avoid this, many women wear a fake wedding ring or tell tales of their boyfriends or friends. If you are a solo woman traveler and find yourself in situations like these, you can try this too. It works because I have tried 🙂

Trust your instinct

The bottom line of my above point is, trust your gut while interacting with others. Also, trust your instinct during other times as well. If you feel something is wrong or you get a warning, listen to it and act accordingly. Also, be assertive. If you want to say no, then say so. It feels lovely to be in charge and aware!

Book female dorm rooms

If you are doing solo travel in Vietnam for the first time, or if you are a new solo female traveler, one of the ways to tackle anxiety is to share a dorm with fellow female travelers. You will feel safe; you can avoid unwanted, unpleasant encounters, and make awesome new female friends!

Vietnam’s culture is conservative 

As I mentioned earlier, Vietnam is still a conservative country, especially towards women, which is unfortunate in some instances. What does it mean as you do solo female travel in Vietnam? 

One thing is to dress as the locals do. Skimpy tops, tight clothes and shorts will draw stares, catcalls and propositions, and sometimes, locals might get offended too(although they might not say that out loud). 

So it is best to respect local culture and follow the rules, especially in religious places where you need to be covered from head to toe(including shoulders). As mentioned earlier, it is better to blend in than standing out while traveling alone in Vietnam or anywhere.

Make friends

One of the reasons why women hesitate to travel alone is that they feel lonely. Sure, it is partly true that you sometimes might feel lonely when you are traveling alone, but that should NOT stop you from taking solo trips. 

Because there are many remedies to beat this, if you are traveling solo in Vietnam or anywhere and feel this way, go ahead and talk to people. You might find a new company to travel with, form excellent friendships and feel great about traveling alone as a female.

Avoid venturing out alone at night

Avoid going out on the streets alone at night, wherever the place is. Especially, don’t step out on empty streets or side lanes that are central houses for crime and danger. Main roads are better, but if you do want to go out, have someone to accompany you, but otherwise, I wouldn’t recommend you hitting the streets at night.

Even in bigger cities, most crimes and violence happen on the streets at night, so don’t venture out alone at night.

Draw attention if you are targeted

Stares and a few invasive questions and propositions are possible/standard towards solo female travelers in Vietnam, but things usually end there. 

But if you get harassed, or someone tries you to rob or harm you, don’t hesitate to shout and draw attention. Most likely, people will come to help you or intervene. You can then take the help of these locals to report the crime and instigate further action from the police.

Take the help of local women  – The women of Vietnam are some of the kindest and sweetest I have met on the road. They may not speak English, but they will have your back if need be and will make you feel welcomed and safe with their warmth and smiles.

You can rely on Vietnamese women if you ever encounter harassment by local men or fellow travelers in any way. You can walk to the nearest group of women or a woman and ask her for help; you will not be turned away for sure.

Solo travel in Vietnam – Other Frequently Asked Questions

Is public transport safe for solo travel in vietnam how to get around alone.

Vietnam is one of the countries in SE Asia with an excellent transport system. Almost all forms of transport are very easy to use and convenient. You will get to experience the authentic local life in Vietnam when you use them. 

The public transport might seem a bit of a hassle in some cities, but to compensate for it, there are plenty of other great options. It may not meet the luxury and flamboyance of the west, but it is not below par either.

Ease of transport is one of the reasons why you should do solo travel in Vietnam. You can book your transport easily at all hostels and hotels.

Different transport options in Vietnam and how to use them

One of the best experiences during your solo travel in Vietnam will be using trains. Trains are the gateway to experiencing local life at the closest level. The trains are old, and look like heritage monuments(they are because some of them are from colonial times) and run slowly, passing through stunning countryside throughout the country.

It is totally safe to travel on the train during your Vietnam solo trip. Some trains are the popular routes get crowded, but you can avoid this by booking a ticket in the first-class coach, which gives you better space and comfort for a slightly higher price. You can easily reserve your tickets online by selecting the berth and coach of your choice. The trains are not very hygienic(especially best to avoid toilets), but if it is unbearable, you can choose buses.

Overnight trains  – There are overnight sleeper trains(coaches with bed) between some cities, which I’d highly recommend as it saves your day and also your accommodation price. You can book this online, and it is safe to take trains if you are traveling alone in Vietnam. 

If you are a female solo traveler, and you are not comfortable to share a coach with someone, then request the ticket collector to move your seat.

Buses are the most convenient way to get around Vietnam between cities. Almost all the cities are well-connected, and there are different kinds of buses and minivans. It is best to book them at your hostels and hotels, which might charge minimal booking fees in addition, but these buses offer free pickup and drop from your hotel. And this is helpful if you are solo traveling in Vietnam as you will not have to run around carrying your luggage.

Overnight buses are quite popular among travelers, especially backpackers as they can be quickly booked, you get comfortable room and space(unless you are very tall), comes with air-con and free WiFi.

But note that some drivers are known for rash driving, and sometimes accidents occur. If these things scare you, it is better to opt for trains or fly if you get quickly.

Getting around within cities 

The best way to explore attractions in a city is to take a Grab bike, Grab taxi and tuk-tuks. Grab transport can be booked on their app, which is easy and accessible. Grab taxis are cheaper than local taxis and also scam-free. 

If you love driving, then I’d suggest you rent a motorbike and explore the city/town by yourself. Driving in Vietnam is one of the incredible experiences. In smaller cities like Ninh Binh, Hoi An or Hue, rent a bicycle in getting around is a fantastic experience as you pass slowly through the countryside meeting smiling and waving villagers.

In some destinations, you can visit all the places on foot too. But crossing the streets in Vietnam is intimidating, especially if you are new to SE Asia. There are no pedestrian paths; people don’t stop by for those on foot and no traffic signals, which means you can find walking a challenge. The best way to overcome this is to walk and cross the streets with the locals when they do.

Can I afford solo travel in Vietnam? Is it expensive?

Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations in SE Asia, but it is still one of the cheapest countries to travel. The food is exceptionally affordable, and if you book in advance, even accommodation, flight and transport could be more reasonable too.

If you are a budget traveler, you can get by USD 12 to 15 per day. If you spend USD 25 to 40 per day, you can almost enjoy luxury travel in Vietnam in some places. 

When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?

You can visit Vietnam almost throughout the year, as the country is diverse with different weather in different regions. In general, the best time to go to Vietnam in winter, from October to January. 

People also travel to Vietnam during spring, in March and April, but during these months, it tends to get hot in southern Vietnam. In winter, note that the north of Vietnam is cold, so pack some warm clothes.

How can I avoid scams as a solo traveler in Vietnam?

Like any other country, Vietnam has its share of scams targeted at tourists. The frauds were notorious and high a long time ago, but in recent years, scams are getting rarer, although not absent. 

Read more about the types of scams here. The only way to avoid getting scammed is to be vigilant and use your common sense. If you think things are too good to be true, then probably it is.

What are the best places in Vietnam for a solo female traveler?

To do solo travel in Vietnam, no specific itinerary is required as you can follow a general itinerary. All the places are ideal and safe for solo female travelers so that you can pick any.

I would suggest adding Hanoi, Ninh Binh Tam Coc, Phong Nha, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh if you have about 2 to 3 weeks.

Looking for detailed itineraries? Check out this post where I shared a comprehensive guide on spending 3 weeks in Vietnam , which I did solo. You can find routes for 1, 2 or 4 weeks too, so get them now!

If you are wondering while planning a solo trip to Vietnam for a week Should I visit North or South Vietnam, then it depends on your preferences,

Is tap water in Vietnam safe?

No,  do not drink tap water anywhere in Vietnam  as it is not safe. Always only drink bottled water. Do not please use plastic bottles and contribute to plastic consumption. Carry a container that can be refilled.

Is Vietnam food, safe – especially street food?

Food is one of the reasons why many people even travel to Vietnam! Not trying Vietnamese cuisine on your trip means missing out on a major thing. So don’t do it. Don’t go to Vietnam and not try the food there, because  food in Vietnam is safe.  Plus, the food is very cheap, even in restaurants, and street food is the most affordable. You can fill your belly with just 1 to 2 USD at once. 

Okay, so now that I convinced you to try local food, let me tell you a few things that you need to take care to keep your stomach safe.

If you have never tried SE Asian food before, especially street food, start slow. The key is to introduce food without slow and gentle into your system, and not all at once and going overboard. 

Begin trying Vietnamese food at restaurants that look neat, has a lot of excellent reviews and at places where you find many locals and tourists. These are indications that a restaurant is safe to try.

Avoid fried, spicy or adventurous menus in the beginning. Begin with Pho – rice noodles soup that comes in various variants(just vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Beef, Seafood, Egg). Slowly, begin trying more each day, still following the above rules of dining. 

Egg coffee, BBQ, steak, smoothies, fried fish balls, cold coffee with condensed milk and seafood BBQ are some of the things that you will commonly food among the street food menu, and they are worth giving a try.

Do not eat raw meat in any form – no matter how tempting or curious you are, including seafood.

If you want to eat fruits, buy them whole and cut them yourself. Don’t eat cut fruits. If you order smoothies, politely ask them to show the fruits and verify the condition of fruits by yourself before you get a smoothie.

It is common in SE Asia to find Buffet systems in markets, and even in restaurants. You will find a wide variety of cuisines all displayed(mostly many kinds of noodles, appetizers and soups). So when you see these, check if the food is hot, doesn’t look too colourful(artificial food colours) and the meat looks good. It is always best to eat food that is hot because it means that the food is fresh and you are safe.

When and if trying meat, stay away from the meat that you are not sure. If you can’t identify or trust what animal it came from, it is best to drop the idea of consuming it.

If you have allergies to specific items, it is best to research them before you try anything, and also communicate it with the restaurants to verify. 

Eat where the locals eat  – As mentioned earlier, check out places that are crowded, busy all the time, has plenty of good reviews and has a lot of locals because these places are usually safe to try local food.

Practice the basic hygiene  – Follow the routine hygiene that you do at home. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap or a hand sanitizer before you eat, check if the food is fresh, mind your portions, and experiment in moderation(in the beginning) and everything will be good!

Carry necessary medicines  – You must carry essential medicines while travelling solo in Vietnam, but along with them, also take some medications if you get a bad stomach.

Keep a tab on alcohol  – Not to sound like a party spoiler or a grandma, but watch the drink that you consume. Vietnam is home to some of the most potent liquor, especially home-made rice wines or whiskey, which has high alcohol percentages. So while trying these, keep your quantity in check, especially if you are doing solo travel in Vietnam.

Sometimes, the places with a lot of crowds, too many tables, food out in the open may make you hesitate and give doubts, but these don’t mean anything. It is a part of Vietnamese culture to gather around out on the streets and eat together. Follow your hygiene and interact with locals and watch the way they have fun!

Solo travel in Vietnam – Final thoughts

If you are still wondering why should you do solo travel in Vietnam, let me summarize things for you:

• Vietnam is safe for solo travel.
• There is a well-marked tourist trail.
• People are friendly and warm
• Solo travel in Vietnam is cheap
• And finally, Vietnamese food is out of the world.

Here are some other resources to help you plan your Vietnam trip

The Ultimate 3 Weeks Vietnam Itinerary(+ Other tips & details)

Your Packing List For Vietnam(For Both Men & Women)

95 Fantastic Things to do in Vietnam

30 Things No One Tells You About Vietnam

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Vietnam | Destinations & Tips for 2024

Are you looking for a destination with equal parts adventure, culture, and delicious food? Look no further than a solo trip to Vietnam !

The Vietnamese are known for being super friendly, so it’s no wonder this is a favorite destination for solo travelers. Don’t be surprised if you start a conversation with a local and spend the day chatting over Vietnamese coffee!

There are so many benefits to solo travel. Firstly, you don’t need to pander to anyone else’s itinerary. You get to do whatever you want, without anyone judging your choices.

Secondly, traveling solo is a character-building adventure like no other. You’ll be surprised by how empowered and independent you will feel after navigating a foreign country alone (with only Google Translate as your trusty sidekick).

Vietnam is a melting pot of history, cuisine, and gorgeous natural scenery – from beaches to lush landscapes, rolling rice terraces, and exquisite nature reserves. Oh, and did I mention that the exchange rate will almost certainly be in your favor?

Let’s dive into your ultimate guide to traveling Vietnam on your own!

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5 Things to Do in Vietnam When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in vietnam, the best travel apps for solo travel in vietnam, safety tips for solo travelers in vietnam, tips for solo traveling in vietnam, how to meet people when solo traveling in vietnam, final thoughts for your solo vietnam trip.

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Vietnam has an adventurous spirit, often shared by the travelers who visit here. Whatever your interests – you’ll find a treasure trove of fantastic activities based on culture, history, or natural beauty. It wasn’t easy narrowing it down, but here is my top 5 best Vietnam solo travel suggestions:

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1. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are underground passages built during the Vietnam War. The tunnels shine a light on Vietnam’s wartime past, as well as the resilience of its people. The tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War as a base of operations and hiding spot for Viet Cong soldiers. 

Taking a Cu Chi Tunnels tour makes for a fascinating day trip if you’re staying in Ho Chi Minh and is a great opportunity to meet friends, but is not recommended for those with claustrophobia! The tunnels stretch for miles and include spaces that were used for living, storage, cooking, and even as hospitals. Get ready to crawl! 

2. Spend a Night in an Authentic Junk at Ha Long Bay

Don’t miss the chance to spend a night on an authentic junk (sailing boat) in Ha Long Bay. It’s a solo traveler’s dream, offering a serene escape from the country’s busy cityscapes. 

Take a moment to relax and unwind from your travels while you watch a breathtaking sunset over the misty karsts.

3. Watch a Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Puppet shows don’t only have to be for children! The magic of Vietnamese culture comes to life through the unique water puppetry at the Thang Long Theater. 

This is a must-do for solo travelers in Vietnam looking for a taste of culture. The intricate puppets bring age-old tales to life against a backdrop of traditional music and sparkling waters. It’s an unmissable cultural experience! 

4. Sip on a Bowl of Pho at the Hoi An Night Market

I have really highlighted the street food scene in Vietnam, and for good reason! If you’re staying in Hoi An , a trip to the Hoi An Night Market is a feast for your senses. Join the communal dining scene, engage with locals, and sample some authentic pho. 

This iconic dish is a steaming bowl of Vietnamese soup featuring delicate rice noodles and an aromatic broth infused with local spices. The best part about pho in Vietnam is that you can customize your dish! Choose to add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, or a dash of Sriracha. As you sip the broth, you will quickly understand why pho is the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine.

If you’re a digital nomad and you’re looking to meet fellow remote workers, then have a look at where to stay in Da Nang , a nearby city to Hoi An with a thriving community of expats.

5. Experience the Power of Nature at the Ban Gioc Waterfalls

The Ban Gioc Waterfalls are any nature-lover’s paradise. Nestled in a lush landscape near the border of China and Vietnam, these majestic falls are truly breathtaking! 

The roar of crashing water rushing over the cascading terraces is a sound you won’t soon forget. The journey to the waterfalls is an adventure in itself. Join a multi-day organized tour to best experience the falls or are looking for a more convenient way to explore.

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Whether exploring bustling cities or the gorgeous countryside, traveling in Vietnam is always an adventure. Read on for my recommendations of places not to be missed:

Everyone backpacking in Vietnam should visit Hoi An . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site – so it’s no wonder it feels like stepping into a storybook. This city on Vietnam’s central coast has well-preserved architecture and a unique atmosphere – including the iconic lantern-lit streets. From mouth-watering street food around every corner to tailors who can whip up custom-made outfits in no time – you’re in for a budget-friendly treat.

As mentioned, Hoi An’s street food scene is legendary. Visit the Hoi An Night Market, and be sure to try a crispy banh mi roll or a spring roll fresh out of the fryer. Once you’re full to the brim with delicious street food, why not join a traditional lantern-making class?

You can’t say you’ve visited Hoi An without joining a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River. The twinkling lights of boats against the backdrop of fiery oranges and pinks as the sun dips below the horizon is pure magic.

Ideal for a solo trip to Vietnam, SnapStay Hoi An is within walking distance of the ancient town. This hostel has a beautiful rooftop bar looking over the city lights – it’s the perfect place to connect with other travelers. 

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is another UNESCO World Heritage site not to be missed. It is known for its iconic towering limestone rock formations that jut out from the emerald waters.

Join an affordable boat cruise for the day, or stay overnight on a traditional Vietnamese junk (a type of traditional sailboat, and by no means junk!). Alternatively, if your arms are up for it, explore the bay yourself by hiring a kayak. For the early birds, a sunrise over the magically misty bay is an unmissable experience.

The culinary scene in Ha Long is a seafood extravaganza! Sample the fresh catch of the day, from prawns to fish and even squid – all without breaking the bank. Dine outside and enjoy the fresh sea air for a truly Vietnamese experience.

Ha Long Fancy Hostel has friendly English-speaking staff and an in-house travel agent who will happily help you organize your activities. It’s located on the mainland at the gateway to the majestic bay and is a top place to stay for those traveling solo in Vietnam.

Hanoi is LEGENDARY. Vietnam’s capital city is one of my personal favorite cities in the world. It’s only a two to three-hour drive inland from Ha Long Bay. Once again, there is an abundance of affordable great hostels , and budget-friendly street food reigns supreme here. It can be somewhat chaotic as a large city, but you will find respite from the hustle and bustle in Hanoi’s numerous temples and green spaces.

Hanoi is a place of contrasts – where ancient temples stand alongside the vibrant pulse of modern life. The perfect blend of tradition and buzz! 

Be sure to visit the Old Quarter – with its maze-like alleys, craft stores, and quirky cafes. When you’re ready for a moment of zen, find your way to the Hoan Kiem Lake – an oasis between the continuous honking of motorbikes.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is a superb spot to stay, featuring free walking tours, local cooking classes, and a daily happy hour with free beer! What’s not to love?

Sa Pa is a trekking paradise and a must-visit for any nature-loving and adventurous travelers. Located in the country’s north, it is home to breathtaking rice terraces, and fascinating local villages dotted between misty mountains. There are plenty of treks and hiking options available which, luckily, cater to all skill and fitness levels (phew!). 

The locals here are passionate about sharing their customs and culture. You may enjoy learning some local weaving techniques or tasting a traditional home-cooked meal. Markets like Sa Pa Market or the Bac Ha Sunday Market are host to a plethora of handmade crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs to take home.

Sa Pa has many beautiful natural wonders for adventurous solo travelers in Vietnam to explore – including the Silver Waterfall and the iconic Love Waterfall. For unbeatable views, join a challenging trek (or opt for the cable car instead) to the top of Fansipan Mountain – known as the ‘Roof of Indochina.’ Treat yourself to a massage or herbal bath at a local spa to unwind after this active adventure.

Saigonese Trekking Hostel is a great hostel option in central Sa Pa. The friendly staff will be ready and waiting to assist you with your trekking bookings.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s most populous city, situated in the country’s Southern region. This vibrant metropolis, formerly known as Saigon (and still lovingly called this by locals), boasts an eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. This combined with a visit to the War Remnants Museum to delve into the city’s unique past provides a wonderfully diverse HCMC travel itinerary .

This isn’t the first or last time I will mention affordable and delicious street food in this article, but it really is a Vietnamese staple! Chat with curious street vendors, and be sure to sample a Vietnamese iced coffee. As with other major Vietnamese cities, you’ll find many bustling market streets where the unrelenting sound of motorbike honks becomes unnoticeable.

Saigon Authentic Hostel is a perfect place to stay to connect with fellow travelers. Ask at the hostel tour desk for recommendations for a day trip to the Mekong River Delta – where you’ll find lush landscapes and picturesque floating markets. Another fascinating day trip from Ho Chi Minh is to the Cu Chi tunnels.

• Hostelworld : Your go-to for booking hostels and backpackers
• Booking.com and Airbnb: Ideal for finding hotel and bed and breakfast options
• Couchsurfer: An exciting option for budget travelers to meet locals, but not recommended for solo female travelers in Vietnam
• GetYourGuide: Useful for lining up tours and day trips
• Bumble, Hinge, and Tinder: Great for meeting singles and other solo travelers in your vicinity
• Grab: Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber, especially useful in busy cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• XE Currency: To keep track of currency conversions into the Vietnamese Dong
• Vietnammm: A top app for ordering takeout food from local restaurants
• Foody: To help you discover local restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls
• ToursByLocals: To connect with local guides for personalized tours and experiences
• Smart Bus HCMC: Info on public bus routes, schedules, and stops in Ho Chi Minh City
• Vietnam e-Visa: The official app to apply for and manage your Vietnam visa application online
• Vietnam Traffic Live: To get real-time traffic updates, handy for navigating the bustling streets of cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• Holafly : An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

You should also consider joining Facebook groups specific to Vietnam’s travel and ex-pat scene- such as Backpacking Vietnam, Vietnam Travel Planning, or Hanoi Massive. 

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Traveling Vietnam alone will no doubt be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but safety precautions are key. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and use a money belt to keep valuables close to you. 

While Vietnam is generally safe , solo female travelers in Vietnam are advised to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. Female travelers should also dress modestly to respect local customs. 

As always, opt for reputable accommodations and transportation options. Let someone know your whereabouts and plans by sharing your ‘live location.’ 

Remember the basics: avoid leaving drinks unattended, use official taxis, and trust your instincts – if a situation doesn’t feel right, there is usually a good reason.

• Book yourself into some exciting hostels for at least 50% of your nights in the country. Vietnam is full of eccentric and affordable hostels – such as The One Hostel & Rooftop Pool Hanoi , which features a rooftop pool – perfect for cooling off and meeting fellow solo travelers. Alternatively, take the slide instead of the stairs at Meander Saigon in Ho Chi Minh. They also offer a free walking tour of the city every Sunday!
• Pre-book a few activities and adventures to plan your trip around. As a solo traveler in Vietnam, this is also a great way to make new friends. It is also a fantastic way to safely explore the natural beauty that Vietnam has to offer. For the thrill-seekers out there; take a trip to the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to explore the underground world of caves, including the largest cave in the world. If you prefer expansive views, consider an organized hike like this trekking through rice terrace fields tour.
• Have flexibility in your itinerary. You want to allow yourself to go with the flow based on who you meet and what you discover along the way. I have no doubt that you will find the best hidden gems while exploring well beyond the popular tourist spots.
• Plan your own trip. While extensive research is always useful – crafting an unforgettable trip comes down to your own interests and what you’d like to gain from your travels. Maybe you’d prefer a yoga retreat over an adventurous backpacking trek. The choice is yours! 
• Be sure to join walking tours in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An. Try and book a free walking tour through your hostel – it’s a great way to explore the bustling streets and learn about the history of where you are while gaining some valuable insider info and meeting new friends.
• Get clued up on the diverse religious beliefs of locals in Vietnam. When visiting temples or sacred sites, dress modestly and respectfully to honor local customs and traditions. Solo female travelers in Vietnam should be especially aware of this.
• Don’t be afraid to use friendship settings on dating apps like Hinge or Bumble to connect with like-minded travelers. You never know; your new backpacking bestie might be on the other side of the app!
• Prepare for the weather . Vietnam is a long, skinny country that experiences a range of climates. Winters can be chilly, while summers are hot and humid. Central Vietnam has a rainy season, which brings some storms. A safe bet is to visit during the dry season.
• Get good travel insurance! Good travel insurance is essential for solo backpackers, wherever you are going. If you’re on your own, make sure you’ve got your own back!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

• Be open and up for the task. The key to meeting people while traveling solo is to be friendly and approachable. Step outside your comfort zone and strike up a conversation. My usual ‘in’ is to ask another traveler to take my picture! 
• Stay in a hostel. When deciding where to stay in Vietnam , I always opt for hostels. Not only are they dirt cheap, but this is a sure way to meet other solo travelers . Most hostels have communal spaces like bars and restaurants and also organize tours for guests to join.
• Join group tours. This could be a free walking tour of a city or a more adventurous tour like a trek or river rafting excursion. Tours are a great way to meet other tourists with similar interests! 
• Explore shared spaces. Coffee shops or communal workspaces are the perfect setting to meet other travelers. You’ll never meet anyone if you stay in your hotel room! 
• Join a pub crawl or food tour. Delicious food and cold beers bring people together, right? Even if you aren’t a drinker, these food-based activities are a fun and relaxed way to connect with fellow explorers. 
• Sign up for a few workshops. One of the best Vietnam solo travel tips is that the country offers fantastic skill-building classes like cooking and traditional crafts. Look out for ones that include communal dining at the end – where you enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow participants.
• Use social media and apps . Facebook is a great place to find events in your area, while dating apps can be switched to ‘friend mode’ to connect with others traveling solo.
• Volunteer … Volunteering in Vietnam is elite! Not only will you walk away with the warm feeling of giving back, but you might gain a new like-minded friend, too.

Vietnam truly is a solo traveler’s paradise. There is something for everyone – foodies, adrenaline junkies, hikers, culture and history enthusiasts, and yoga and wellness advocates. It doesn’t hurt that travel, accommodation, and food in Vietnam are so affordable.

Vietnam is a cultural melting pot of influences that has been woven together over centuries. From ancient times, Chinese settlers brought tea and other cultural influences. The colonization of Vietnam by the French left behind a legacy of European architecture, baguettes, and even coffee culture!

If you’re worried about getting lost in translation, fear not! Google Translate and some good old-fashioned charades will become your new besties. The language barrier might seem like a challenge, but it also opens up opportunities for unexpected friendships.

The Vietnamese are also well known for their hospitality, for good reason. Locals are passionate about sharing their culture, history, and traditions – which makes for an immersive experience where you truly feel connected to the country and its people. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Vietnam solo travel today!

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Vietnam Solo Travel Guide

SOLO GUIDES

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Vietnam is an incredible destination for solo travelers to visit. It offers beautiful landscapes, historic temples, rich culture, and vibrant scenery.

As you make your way through the country, you’ll witness the contrasting landscapes, local customs, and traditional architecture. There’s the bustling center of Ho Chi Minh City, the beaches of Da Nang, the Imperial palaces in Hue, the famous limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay, and the rice terraces in Sapa.

Embrace the local culture, visit the colorful markets, ancient temples, and try authentic dishes as you travel across the country.

If you’re planning to travel alone to this diverse country, keep reading below for our solo travel guide to Vietnam.  

Ho Chi Minh City

A common starting point for a solo vacation to Vietnam often starts in Ho Chi Minh City. In this economic center, you’ll find plenty of exciting streets, tasty restaurants,  and interesting shops.  If this is the first city you visit, like me, you might be surprised by all the scooters whizzing by. The streets are filled with energy and traffic as the scooters maneuver in all directions.

Stop by the busy Ben Thanh Market to discover rows of vendors selling food, clothing, handicrafts and more. This indoor market is a lively hub for shopping.  

As you navigate through the city, you’ll encounter fascinating architecture, such as the historic Independence Palace, as well as modern skyscrapers like the Bitexco Financial Tower.  

When the sun begins to set, stroll through Nguyen Hue street, a large pedestrian boulevard optimal for admiring the sights and sounds of the city. Take in the lively atmosphere and grab a late-night snack.

Located in central Vietnam, Da Nang is a coastal city known for its laid-back atmosphere and sandy beaches. Solo travelers looking to relax or cool down might appreciate the popular My Khe beach. Take in dip in the refreshing waters or go for a walk down the the palm tree-lined coast.  

Da Nang is also home to several fascinating bridges. Right in the center lies the dazzling Dragon Bridge, with features the body of a dragon spanning the entire length of the 666m long bridge. Don’t miss seeing the display of colors when the bridge is lit up at night.  

Stop by the Marble Mountains, an enthralling group of five marble and limestone formations. Get a workout in as you climb up all the stairs, and step into the wondrous caves, where you’ll see fascinating temples and statues.

Ha Long Bay

Perhaps one of Vietnam’s most well-known sites, this natural wonder showcases 1600 limestone islands and islets amongst emerald waters.  

Located about 100 miles from the city of Hanoi, there are many tour companies that offer day trips for exploring this spectacular destination. There are also many accommodation options right in the city of Ha Long for solo travelers who wish to spend a bit more time exploring the area.  

One of the best ways to really see the bay up-close, is via a cruise ship. These can be part of an organized day tour from Hanoi, or booked separately for those staying in the city of Ha Long.  

In addition to the beautiful scenery, in the center of the bay lies the Sung Sot Cave. Wander through the lit-up pathways and admire the fascinating details of the rock formations.

This quaint town in central Vietnam is a beautiful historic spot for solo female travelers to stop by for a few days.  

The highlight of the city is the ancient Old Town, filled with charming architecture, cozy cafes, and boutiques selling arts, crafts, traditional clothing, leather goods and more. As you weave through the streets, you’ll come across the historic Cau Temple bridge, which dates back to the 1700’s.

Don’t miss the Old Town in the evening, where the thousands of colorful lanterns that are strung about the center, are beautifully lit up. At the Hoi An Night Market, the town becomes full of energy and showcases local merchants selling food, crafts, and gifts.  

Hoi An also offers some great beaches worth stopping by, such as the An Bang Beach which is located about 2.5 miles away from the Old Town.

Located in central Vietnam, Hue is best known for the Imperial City, a royal palace that was founded in 1802. The former Imperial capital of Vietnam has plenty of history to showcase, with the palace being a must-see during a visit to the city. Step into this massive complex consisting of ornate gates, ancient temples, majestic gardens, and historic pavilions.

In the city of Hue, you’ll also find impressive pagodas and royal tombs, both of which display their elaborate detailing.

Running along the center of the city is Perfume River, a good spot for taking a peaceful stroll along the river banks. Historically noted to be fragrant during the autumn months, Perfume River derives its name after flowers from the nearby orchards had fallen into the water during Fall season, creating an uplifting aroma.

The capital city of Vietnam is located in the Northern region of the country. While Hanoi’s city center is lively, it is quieter compared to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City in the South.

The Old Quarter is a lively area for solo women to browse through. This district features over 40 streets of vendors selling gifts, silk, stationary, local delicacies, and more.

You won’t miss the Hoan Kiem Lake situated in the heart of the city. This peaceful retreat is great for morning walks, people-watching, strolling across the historic red bridge, and admiring the view of the nearby ancient temple.

Hanoi features a variety of interesting attractions to choose from. At the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, visitors will learn about contributions that were made by women to the country’s history and culture. The Temple of Literature which dates back to the year 1070, is a stunning complex showcasing traditional architecture, beautiful grounds, and serene courtyards.

This remote and mountainous region in Northern Vietnam is a popular stop due to its pristine terraced rice fields and lush scenery.

While this town is a bit out of the way, solo female travelers looking for a bit of a trek will be greeted with the sheer beauty of the vast rice fields and awe-inspiring scenery.

Try the mountain cable car which takes visitors seemingly up into the clouds through the Fansipan mountains, showcasing the beautiful backdrop, vast valleys, and terraced hills below.

From Hanoi, Sapa can be reached via an 8 hour-ride on a sleeper train, or a 6-7 hour bus ride.

What To Eat in Vietnam

Vietnam offers many traditional delicacies, some of which are more prominent in certain regions. One of their most popular dishes nationwide, is Pho . This classic soup dish consists of flavorful broth, soft rice noodles, and thinly-sliced beef.

For a tasty item to eat while on-the-go, grab a Banh Mi. This crispy baguette is often filled with savory ingredients such as cold cut meats, grilled pork or chicken, and topped with cucumber, pickled carrots and daikon.

Don’t forget to try the savory Banh Xeo , a crispy fried pancake typically stuffed with bean sprouts, mung beans, shrimp, and pork. This is one of my favorite dishes, there is a subtle hint of coconut milk from the batter.

While traveling by yourself across the country, you’ll encounter other specialty dishes that have originated in specific cities, such as Bun Bo Hue (lemongrass beef noodle soup) in Hue and Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) in Hanoi.

There are a variety of dining options for women traveling alone, ranging from street vendors to casual eateries to a few upscale restaurants. In select cities, there’s a solid selection of vegetarian dishes to choose from as well. These are often at restaurants that create meatless versions of well-known dishes.

Street food tours are also quite popular in Ho Chi Minh City, and are a great option for single travelers looking to sample a bit of everything.

Getting Around Vietnam as a Solo Traveler 

Traveling alone through Vietnam can often include a a combination of transportation modes depending on the cities you wish to visit.

If you’re traveling between medium-sized or larger cities, flying might be a good option to quickly navigate between destinations. Flights are serviced by a few different airlines, and are reasonably-priced. The cities with major airports include Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.  

The flight time from Northern Vietnam (Hanoi) to Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) is about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Flights to cities that are in-between can be as short as 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Trains are also another option for a solo trip across the country, keeping in mind that it does take a longer amount of time compared to flying.

Vietnam’s main train line includes the North-South route which connects the Northern capital of Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in the South. During the route, stops are made in popular cities including Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang.

Through the train window, see the changing landscape as you make your way through urban cities and the rural countryside. Sleeper beds and economy seats are available options.  

The train system also includes the Northwest Route which connects the capital of Hanoi to the mountainous region of Sapa.  

You’ll have likely noticed the abundance of motorbikes whizzing around the cities. Motorbikes are a common method of transportation for locals. Single travelers can find motorbikes tours, which are suitable for short-distance transfers between cities.  

On a tour, hop on the back of a motorbike as a local guide transports you to the next city, all while highlighting the beautiful scenery along the way. Traveling by motorbike gives you the opportunity to see the magnificent landscape along the journey.

Read More for Solo Travelers:

• Group Tours for Singles
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• Cruise Guide for Solo Travelers

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Solo travel in vietnam: everything to know.

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Vietnam was the third country I ever travelled solo having made my way alone through Myanmar and Laos in the weeks previously. That was a while ago now, in 2015. Since then, I’ve travelled solo in Mexico , India , Cuba , South Africa and many more. Since that first solo trip in Vietnam, I returned several times. In 2018, I lived in Vietnam for months, house and cat-sitting while building up my travel blog. I’m not sure why it took me so long to put together this post, but perhaps it’s because Vietnam feels like such a safe and easy place to travel that I didn’t feel the need. But we’re all at different stages of our solo travel journies. If travelling solo in Vietnam still seems scary and overwhelming, don’t worry. I’ve been there. I got you. Let’s figure it out together.

Read next: everything you need to know about solo female travel

VIETNAM ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Book buses and trains in Vietnam: 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Browse hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator SIM card: Vietnam e-SIM / Asialink card (18 countries) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads) Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

Read next: the ultimate Vietnam travel itinerary for 2 weeks – 1 month

Is Vietnam safe for solo female travel?

Yes, Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travel . Violent crime is almost non-existent. The main thing to worry about is pickpocketing in tourist cities but I’ll delve into that later. More solo travel blogs:

• Solo travel in Bali
• Solo female travel in Thailand
• Guide to travelling alone in Malaysia
• Where to travel solo in India

Read next: 30 best places in the world for solo female travel

Good things about solo travel in Vietnam

• English is widely spoken
• There’s a clear tourist route down the coast (part of a longer Southeast Asia travel route ) meaning other travellers will be travelling the same way as you. It’s easy to bump into people time again and buddy up
• It’s easy to get a SIM card and data to stay connected
• Vietnam has a great hostel scene plus lots of day tours and activities so it’s easy to meet people
• It’s VERY affordable. You don’t have to do dorms if you don’t want to
• The locals are friendly and will want to chat and practise their English with you.

I can’t think of any specific bad things about travelling alone in Vietnam, however if you’re interested in the general advantages and disadvantages of travelling solo as a woman , read the guide linked.

How to get around Vietnam

This depends on your tolerance for a long bus ride! I remember getting an overnight bus from Hoi An to Hanoi once and everyone thinking I was mad and saying ‘why don’t you just fly?’ but I was like, hey, I’m young and I’ll be fine. Plus, I want the planet to be here when I’m old! Saying that, flights are cheap and will save you a lot of time. If you’re on a tight schedule, I totally get it. So… Travel by air: most major hubs have a nearby airport like Hanoi, Saigon and Hoi An (Da Nang). At the time of writing, you can fly from Hanoi to Saigon for around $70 and to Da Nang for around $40. I use Skyscanner to compare, browse and book flights. Travel by bus: these travel up and down the coast, complete with sleeper bunk beds where you can lie down. One option is to buy a book of tickets at any Saigon or Hanoi travel agency to cover your whole trip. Another option is to buy your tickets individually using the 12Go website. A ticket from Hanoi to Hoi An (16 hours) will cost around $20.

Tip – when travelling by sleeper bus, keep your valuables close in a secure bag around your body, preferably under your clothes.

Travel by train: these are generally a little more expensive than buses with the option of seating or a bunk in a cabin. One perk of taking the train is that there are sections with wonderful views, like the journey between Da Nang and Hoi An. They can also be booked on the 12Go website. Travel by motorbike: the more adventurous way to travel Vietnam! This method of travel is called Easyrider. You can travel the length of the country by bike, either alone or with a driver. A particularly beautiful and famous section is the Hai Van Pass .

How to get around within cities/towns

Here are some safe ways for solo female travellers to get around in Vietnam… Local bus: in bigger cities like Hanoi, you can ride the local bus. Tickets cost from 7,000 to 15,000 VND and should be paid to the driver in cash. Make sure to have small notes as they may not have change. Local taxi: when getting in taxis, agree a price beforehand or insist the metre is on. Occasionally, rigged metres are a thing so if it starts jumping up wildly, get out. Taxi app: my preferred way to travel was by Grab taxi, Asia’s answer to Uber. Taxi app scooters: if you’re feeling confident, select a scooter on Grab rather than a car. A driver will arrive and should have a helmet for you (please insist that they do!). Although you’ll often see whole families on one scooter, Grab drivers will only accept one passenger per scooter.

Vietnam visas

Many nationalities qualify for 15-day entry with no visa. For 30-day and 3-month Vietnam e-visas , you’ll need to apply online. Visas vary for different nationalities so make sure to do your research ahead of your trip!

A solo female travel tip I’d offer anywhere is to stay connected. I usually get a local SIM when I arrive somewhere new because it makes me feel safer, plus it’s convenient to call taxis etc. There are plenty of local stores selling SIM cards. A handy new option, however, is to buy an e-SIM before you arrive with Airalo. Just download it before you travel and connect as soon as you land. If you’re visiting other Asian countries, look into the Asialink card (18 countries).

Best places for solo travel in Vietnam

Next for the fun bit, where to go and what to do when travelling alone in Vietnam!

Picturesque Hoi An is a solo travel dream: big enough to have a wide array of great hostels and activities, small enough to bump into the same people when you’re out and about. It’s an unbelievably pretty and idyllic city. Some will say it’s too busy and touristy these days, but to them I say: wait, are you not a tourist, too? You can’t blame anyone for wanting to be here. Things to add to your Hoi An itinerary include:

• Exploring the Old Town temples and ancient houses
• Crossing the Japanese Bridge
• Relaxing on An Bang Beach
• Seeing where food is harvested in peaceful Tra Que vegetable garden (and try it at Baby Mustard restaurant )
• Eating unique Hoi An street food including dishes not found elsewhere like cao lầu noodles and white rose dumplings
• Taking a day trip to the Marble Mountains near Da Nang
• Checking out all the cute cafes in Hoi An .

A lovely stop between Hoi An and Hanoi is the city of Hue, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. The citadel may have been destroyed during the War with America and China (you may know it as the Vietnam War) but it’s been restored, boasting some of the most beautiful temples in Asia!

If you’re not all templed-out after the Citadel, don’t miss the Temple of Literature and Linh Mu Pagoda on the Perfume Riverbank, the Royal Temple of Tu Duc, Tu Hieu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb and the Khai Dinh Tomb. Hue is a history lover’s dream! Two days in Hue is a good amount of time to spend because you can spend one day at the Citadel and other temples, then another day visiting the quirky Abandoned Waterpark (the first photo in this blog with the roaring dragon statue) with time for another historic stop in the afternoon.

After several months living in Hanoi, it’s one of my all-time favourite places in Asia, if not the world! Yes, it’s chaotic and a little crazy but it’s also very safe for solo female travel in Vietnam. It’s undeniably charming with towering mansions, countless street food stands and cute cafes where locals and tourists while away days over caphe nau or sau (drip coffee with or without milk). Add to your Hanoi itinerary the top tourist attractions like the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street , the Women’s Museum, the Water Puppet Show, the French Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison. As a safe place for solo travel in Vietnam, there’s no risk to getting off-grid and finding lesser-visited areas of the city like charming Ngoc Ha neighbourhood and Truc Bach island on the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, I wrote this guide to the hidden gems in Hanoi !

Foodies shouldn’t miss trying egg coffee (better than it sounds!) at the many Hanoi cafes , finding cool bars like Polite & Co, eating amazing street food and spending an evening on Beer Corner (Ta Hien) drinking ridiculously cheap bia hoi (fresh beer). Stay in a social hostel in the Old Quarter and I’m sure you’ll meet people to go out with!

I spent 3 days in Sapa and it was one the highlights of my Northern Vietnam itinerary . This mountainous region is known for amazing views, hikes and hill tribes with well-preserved cultural heritage. It’s easy to visit independently by booking a bus or train from Hanoi and staying in Sapa town where you can book hiking trips and excursions. However, a super easy option (and a social one) is taking an organised trip from Hanoi including accommodation, guided hikes and transport. There are a few options depending on your time frame and comfort levels, for example:

• Homestay:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in homestay accommodation
• Hotel:  2 day, 1 night Sapa trip in 3-star hotel room
• Homestay AND hotel:  3 day, 2 night Sapa trip inc 1 night in a hotel and the other in a homestay  (the trip I did!)

Hiking boots are great if you’ve got them but I got by with old battered runners. Depending on the season, the ground may be slippy. I fell over a lot but at least the mud was soft! The hikes should be suitable for most ability levels.

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh)

I’m definitely a Hanoi girl but I’ve still loved visiting Saigon (also called Ho Chi Minh) over the years. It feels slightly more Westernised than Hanoi and lacks the charm of the Old Quarter, but many things are comparable such as the roads of weaving scooters and the grand French architecture. Things to add to your Saigon itinerary include:

• Learning about the history at the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace
• Taking a day trip down the Mekong Delta
• Visiting the Cu Chi tunnels used during the war
• Catching a show at the Opera House and visit other places in the French area like City Hall and the Post Office
• Exploring the Saigon food scene by eating at Ben Thanh Market and sampling regional dishes like bún bò Huế (beef noodle soup), bun riêu (crab noodles) and bún mắm (seafood broth noodles).

Harder places to travel solo in Vietnam (and how to do it anyway)

These are places that are great for solo female travel in Vietnam but require a little research…

Ha Long Bay

The best way to travel Ha Long Bay is by overnight cruise. But these usually work out more expensive without a travel buddy due to solo surcharges on cabins. However, Ha Long Bay is a real Southeast Asia bucket lister so I would advise still going! There are plenty of tours that can be organised from Hanoi including overnight stays on the boat, kayaking and other activities. My word of advice would be to do your research and pick a tour that suits your travel style and interests. For example, the Castaway cruises are for 19-25 years olds who like heavy drinking and partying. Even at that age, it would not have been the tour for me. Then, there are luxury tours where you’ll mainly be surrounded by honeymooners and families. I feel you could set a comedy show about someone being stuck on the wrong cruise for days! So don’t get caught out.

Browse & compare multi-day Ha Long cruises

Ninh Binh is a spectacular part of Vietnam with sky-high cliffs encompassing cave complexes that can be cruised through by paddle boat, or hiked up for breathtaking views. I’m only listing it as a harder place for solo travel in Vietnam because the attractions are spread across the countryside so you need a scooter. If like me, you’re not a confident driver, this could be challenging. But, like anything, there are ways around it. One option is doing a Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi as part of an organised tour . Another option is staying overnight in Ninh Binh town (take a bus in just over an hour) and asking your accommodation to help you organise a scooter tour for the day with a local driver. Of course, if you’re comfortable driving, you can just hire your own scooter.

Tours and activities in Vietnam

Some of the downsides of solo travel include doing all the research and getting lonely. Vietnam is a country where it’s super easy and affordable to book tours and excursions during which you’re likely to meet new people and take a break from doing all the navigating and admin yourself.

Some of the top tours in Vietnam are:

• A 2-3 day Sapa tour from Hanoi
• A 2-3 day Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi
• Cu Chi tunnels tours and Mekong Delta cruises from Saigon
• Any type of cooking class, market tour or food tour by foot or scooter. Local guides will help find you the best eats you might not know about otherwise. Use GetYourGuide to find these.

Of course, you rarely NEED tours in Vietnam. There are pros and cons of travelling solo or taking a tour but there are plenty of options if you want them. Longer tours: if you’re not feeling ready for solo travel in Vietnam, G Adventures offer well-organised, culturally immersive tours. I’ve travelled with them myself before and can happily vouch for them! Browse G Adventures tours .

Read next: 101 travel tips for backpacking Southeast Asia

What to wear in Vietnam

Vietnam gets hot but it’s also a conservative country (although you don’t need to worry as much as during solo travel in India ) so it’s important to wear clothes that keep you cool, protect you from sunburn and don’t cause cultural offence. This applies to men as well as solo female travellers in Vietnam. Although you can wear shorts and short dresses in other places, at temples you should ensure your legs and shoulders are covered. Travelling with a light sarong is a great idea so you can throw it on at temples. Elsewhere, lightweight summer clothes will do the job. Personally, I like to cover up a bit with cool, breathable fabrics to avoid sunburn. However, Sapa gets cold so you’ll need extra layers if you plan to visit.

Vietnam packing list

Your Vietnam packing list doesn’t need to be extensive. Laundry facilities are cheap and everywhere in Vietnam!

• 4-5 tops/t-shirts
• 2-3 skirts or lightweight pants
• 1 athletic outfit for Sapa hiking
• 7 x underwear
• Sarong/temple cover-up
• Footwear: 1 x sandals, 1 x flip flops, 1 x lightweight runners
• Towel – I use a small microfibre one
• Large backpack and small day backpack for hiking etc
• Secure bag to wear under your clothes on night buses
• Mosquito repellent
• Reusable water bottle (and reusable straw) or purifying water bottle
• Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.

Accommodation for solo travellers in Vietnam

Hostels: like other Southeast Asian countries, it’s a paradise for affordable yet high-quality hostels. You’ll pay as little as $5 a night for a hostel bed often including breakfast, coffee and/or free beer nights. This is the most social option for a solo trip in Vietnam because you’ll meet loads of other people. Use Hostelworld to find hostels.

Tip – assess the photos and reviews to check it’s the right type of hostel for you. There are lots of party hostels so avoid these if you don’t like lots of drinking/like getting a good night’s sleep!

Hotels: from modest guesthouses to 5* luxury, there are SO many options in Vietnam. It’s a great place to splash out and treat yourself because you get incredible value for money. You can stay in 5* hotels for as little as $80. I use Booking.com because I’ve stacked up so many Genius rewards now that I always get 10% off, free breakfast or a room upgrade! Airbnbs: this is not my favourite type of accommodation these days since you pay high service fees, follow a list of rules, get reviewed publically and don’t have access to decent support if anything goes wrong. For the convenience of an apartment, you can find plenty on Booking.com and the first price you see is what you pay. No sneaky fees!

Best time of year to visit Vietnam

Vietnam is huge so has numerous sub-climates. Generally, March to May is considered the ultimate time to visit Vietnam because the north is cold before then. The summer months get boiling hot and very humid but it’s doable if you explore early and stay protected from the sun. The one time I’d suggest avoiding Hoi An is the flooding season of September-December. Also, check the dates of local holidays like Tet because everything will be closed.

Petty crime in Vietnam

As I mentioned, Vietnam is safe for solo female travellers with virtually no violent crime. But what you do need to be careful of is having your bag, phone or money stolen. You’d think it would be worst in Hanoi and Saigon and yes, there’s some of this there. But, actually, I have experienced crime in Hoi An 3 different times over the years. This happens after nights out when guys with motorbikes act as taxi drivers to tourists leaving the clubs. They have lots of clever tricks to fleece your money when you pay, and also when you’re buying food from stands by the bars. On another occasion, they stole my whole bag. Make sure to wear a secure cross-body bag for your phone and purse, and only bring out what you need. Don’t take a scooter taxi home off the street.

My pet peeve is blogs telling female solo travellers not to drink alcohol. You worked hard for this trip, of course you want to let your hair down and enjoy yourself. You know your limits so, as a capable adult, I’m sure you can go out while assessing your surroundings and staying aware. If you have no one to travel home safely with, call a verified taxi using Uber or Grab.

Safety tips for Vietnam

Don’t carry too much cash: Vietnam is largely a cash-based society. But be smart, for example, don’t do what I did in 2015 and get £100 from the ATM en route to a night out (spoiler: I did not come home with it). Try to withdraw on your way to your accommodation, leave it there (in a hostel locker) and take out roughly what you’ll need for the day or evening. Wear a secure bag: Shoulder bags that can easily be pulled off by a passing moped aren’t a great idea in Vietnam. It’s fine to carry non-valuable items like this but I would recommend also wearing a cross-body bag with your money and phone. Do your research: this is a tip for solo female travel in Vietnam but also everywhere. Doing your research about a place before arriving saves you unpleasant surprises or hiccups when you get there. Just by reading this blog, I can tell you’re already doing this!

Well-being tips for solo female travel in Vietnam

Eat where it’s busy: street food in Vietnam is safe to eat and delicious! It annoys me when people knock street food because food poisoning can happen anywhere… My aunt and uncle got it from a fancy hotel in Vietnam! Just follow the basic safety rule of eating where it’s busy and there’s a fast turnover of food. If there’s lots of locals there, it’s a good sign. Don’t drink tap water: always a bad idea! Since buying plastic bottles is unsustainable, I would recommend bringing a refillable water bottle (most hostels and hotels should offer free fill-ups from large filtered units) or a filtering water bottle. Get travel insurance : well, duh! I love budget travel as much as the next person (probably more) but the one thing I never scrimp on is travel insurance. It could cost you your life! I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Get your vaccs: it’s best to check with your healthcare professional but the NHS recommends Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid. Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis may also be recommended.

Safety tips for scooter hire

Riding a scooter is a way of life in Vietnam. Sure, accidents happen and perhaps it’s safer to not ride one at all… but that’s not really practical advice! There are more scooters in Vietnam than people. From locals (who start riding as kids) to tourists, they’re everywhere . Just make sure you:

• Wear a helmet
• Don’t listen to music while driving
• Never drink and drive!
• Assess your vehicle before leaving the rental place and take photos of any dents or scratches. This is less of a safety tip and more to ensure you don’t get ripped off!

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, don’t. It’s usually very affordable to call Grab scooters or, in rural areas, hire a driver for the day. Plus, it’s great business for the locals! I wouldn’t ever advise driving in Hanoi or Saigon unless you have years of scooter experience under your belt.

What to budget for solo travel in Vietnam

Of course, this is highly dependent on your travel style but I’d say for budget travel (by which I mean staying in hostels, eating street food and taking public transport), $1,000 a month is plenty. Add a couple of hundred to stay in hotels rather than hostels. If you’re travelling to Vietnam by yourself, don’t worry too much. You won’t blow the budget by staying at hotels or taking taxis as just one person. Some average costs:

• Street food meal – $1-3
• Bed in a hostel dorm – $5-10
• Private room – from $15
• Bus ticket between cities – $5-20 depending on distance.

Get a travel-friendly bank account

Revolut and Wise bank accounts are open to many nationalities and allow you to spend without transaction fees or ATM fees. They’re a godsend! UK travellers can also use Starling and Monzo banks.

Volunteer to keep the costs down

While ensuring you’re not taking a job from a local or doing anything that could be classed as voluntourism or White Savourism, check out volunteer positions using Worldpackers or Workaway . Both have hundreds if not thousands of opportunities in countries including Vietnam. Usually, you receive free food and accommodation in exchange for working a few hours a day. If you want to sign up, I have discount codes for both Workaway and Worldpackers .

Try house-sitting

As someone who personally housesat for 2 months in Vietnam and didn’t pay a penny/cent for it, I would recommend house sitting and/or pet sitting! The idea is that owners go away and advertise for sitters to look after their houses or pets. I housesat in Vietnam but you’ll find gigs everywhere using Trusted Housesitters . Read my review of the website answering the question is Trusted Housesitters worth it?

How to make friends travelling solo in Vietnam

Making friends while travelling solo in Vietnam is mostly the same as anywhere else Hostels: the easy one! Stay in any hostel and you’re bound to meet people. For a bonus, choose hostels with social areas, bars and evening activities. Group tours & activities: browse GetYourGuide and Viator to find cooking classes, food tours, excursions to popular attractions, pub crawls and lots more. Chat to locals around Hoan Kiem Lake: take a walk around Hanoi lake and you’re bound to meet friendly locals who want to practise their English. If they invite you to hang out with them, do it! (but like anywhere, always hang out with strangers in a public setting at least initially).

Read next: how to make friends when travelling solo

FAQs for Vietnam travel

Is tipping expected? There’s not a big tipping culture like in the US but it’s certainly appreciated. Local wages are low so, if you want to be a good traveller, a little goes a long way! Is Vietnam good for veggies and vegans? It’s not the best country in the world but it can be done. Bigger cities will certainly have options and I can personally advise when it comes to vegan food in Hoi An ! What’s the weather like? Well, it can switch from baking heat to rain in a moment. Be prepared! Is English widely spoken? Among young people and in touristic places, yes. Of course, you should brush up on the basics in Vietnamese so you can be polite and say hello and thank you etc. What’s the currency? It’s Vietnamese Dong (VND) and, at the time of writing, the exchange rate is 23,600 VND to $1 USD. Yes, it’s a lot to get your head around! How long to spend in Vietnam? I would suggest a month. If you have 2 weeks, be selective and don’t try to squeeze in too much. I have Vietnam solo travel itineraries for 2 weeks and one month you can follow.

How to cross the road in Vietnam

Okay, I may be a Vietnam travel pro but there are some things I’ll never get my head around! All I can tell you is to relax into it; people will drive around you. Better yet, attach yourself to a local – they got this! Oh, and don’t sue me if those tips don’t work 😉

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Guides to solo travel in the Americas:

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Thanks for reading!

Read all my Vietnam posts

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

See you next time for more travel adventures,

VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. To stay connected, get a Vietnam e-SIM or as Asialink card (18 countries) with Airalo. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Vietnam: Everything To Know! ”

Hello Rose, I really appreciate your recommandations. I have few questions, i hope you will get to answer. Before you did your trip, did you plan all the places and cities that you want to go or you just go with the flow ? As a digital nomad, i will need to work in the morning and the evening (3 hours each), do you think i will be capable to still enjoy and visit ? Do you suggest to stay more than a month because of this ?

Hey Roni! I had a loose idea of where I wanted to go before the trip but I mainly went with the flow, there is no need to book things far in advance. Yes I should think you’ll be fine spending a few hours each day working. Maybe exclude one place from your itinerary to give yourself a slightly slower pace, I find that working and exploring can get tiring. Enjoy!

Hi Rose, I really liked your blog on Vietnam. I am planning my 1st solo trip there and your blog has been quite informative. Really appreciate. I wish we meet someday at some place. Ciao soon.

Hi Priyanka, really glad the blog helped!

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Vietnam

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Cultural GatG, Foodie GatG, Historical GatG, Nature GatG, Tribes GatG

If you're considering  solo travel in Asia , Vietnam is such an interesting country to explore. If you are planning a trip, below is our solo travel in Vietnam guide, which includes where to stay, places to visit in Vietnam, must-see places in Vietnam for solos, what to do in Vietnam, solo tours Vietnam, a Vietnam solo travel itinerary, and the best way to travel around Vietnam.

All companies included have been recommended by women who have experienced solo female travel in Vietnam, and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article for your Vietnam solo travel.

N.b. For every booking made through this article, I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

Vietnam Places To Visit

Best tours in vietnam for solos.

• Accommodation in Vietnam  
• Travelling Around Vietnam 

Itinerary For Vietnam

Travel guide for vietnam.

• Best Time To Visit Vietnam  

Travel Insurance For Vietnam

Vietnam airports.

• Questions about Vietnam

Map of Vietnam

Planning your vietnam holidays, related posts.

Pham Ngu Lao

If you are planning a trip to Southeast Asia, look no further than Vietnam. Although it’s often overshadowed by Thailand and Cambodia, its Asian neighbours, Vietnam is a surprising country with some areas still relatively untouched.

With natural beauty and diverse terrain, you can spend time sailing on beautiful bays, trekking in the mountains, floating down the Delta, or exploring old French Colonial towns. Enough people speak English here to get by and you’ll have no problem being understood in Ho Chi Minh, the capital.

But there is a reason that Vietnam doesn’t get the volume of travellers as its neighbours. It is not as easy to travel here as the infrastructure isn’t as good. For Hanoi solo travel, for example, you do need a bit of patience. The capital is loud with a lot of traffic so it can be overwhelming.

The Vietnamese are very upfront so expect direct questions and an element of curiosity as to why you are travelling alone. Being a conservative country means that it is respectful to dress modestly when you aren’t laying on the beach. This doesn’t mean having to completely cover yourself but look at what the locals are wearing and follow in their footsteps.

Is Vietnam safe for female travellers? You need to be careful with your belongings in Ho Chi Minh. Bag snatching on motorbikes is common here so make sure you put your money and phone in your pockets and out of sight. Begging can be quite common especially by children in tourist areas. Look at other ways to help such as buying from many of the social impact businesses in Vietnam.

Like anywhere, be respectful when you take pictures and ask a local’s permission. Vietnam is a fascinating country to explore independently, but if you are unsure what to see in Vietnam, and don’t want to miss any of the best places to visit in Vietnam, you may feel more comfortable and find it easier to join a group tour in Vietnam.  

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Vietnam .  

Hi Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is perfect to explore on foot but crossing the road isn’t the easiest task. If you prefer to take transport instead there is nothing more fun than hopping on the back of a motorbike (complete with a driver) to take you on your own tour. HCM is a city wired for action with a growing art and music scene. See the beautiful architecture by day and experience the nightlife when the sun goes down.

The size of the city, the noise and the chaotic traffic can be overwhelming so give yourself time to adjust (and enjoy the gourmet food and street snacks) before moving on. Even though Ho Chi Minh isn't the capital m any cheap flights fly here so it is a good base to begin your Vietnam trip.

Spend time visiting old war relics, museums, the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral, or just relax in one of the guesthouses along the riverfront. You’ll find company in the backpacker area of Le Loi and plenty of rooftops to mingle on.

For great views of the city head to the Panorama Saigon Trade Centre (which was once the highest building) or the Bitexco Financial Tower which is the highest. Close to the palace you can pick up cheap goods at Ben Thanh market.

When you are traveling to Vietnam, the War Remnants Museum is one of the places to see in Vietnam to learn more about the Vietnam war. Although this is one of the tourist attractions in Vietnam, be prepared to get emotional as the narrative and the photographs from the war are very moving. Victims from landmines left from the war work in the souvenir shop.

* Click here to discover all activities and best things to do in Vietnam

The Mekong River, Vietnam

The city is a good base to visit the nearby Cu Chi tunnels used by the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War as a way to transport supplies and as living quarters.   Be ready for some goosebumps while visiting such an important part of the world’s history.

Slow down the pace on the Mekong River on a Mekong Delta tour and visit the floating markets at Can Tho, sailing through canals on a sampan (a flat bottomed wooden boat). You’ll find lush greens, rice paddies, and rivers all beautifully woven together as you canoe or kayak along – a must-do in Vietnam.

Head to the Central Highlands for a less-trodden area of Vietnam, not part of the usual tourist track. Spend a few days in Da Lat , a charming alpine area with a colonial palace, French-style villas, and the Xuan Huong Lake. Da Lat is a lovely budget-friendly town. From here you can visit three different waterfalls and even abseil down them.

Visit the coffee region of Buon Ma Thout for unique tasting coffee before hiking to the thunderous waterfalls. If you’ve never seen a pepper plantation before, go to Pleiku which is surrounded by these amongst tea, coffee and rubber plantations.

Stay in a longhouse with the local Mnong in Lak Lake. Here you can watch a Mnong gong performance, and watch their tradition of fishing, whilst being surrounded by low-lying hills. The Central Highlands are perfect for the cultural solo who is interested in the traditional ways of life of the highlanders who live here.

One of the unique places to visit in Vietnam is the Crazy House in Da Lat. Designed by a Vietnamese architect, this Gaudi-style building resembles the arty design of Antoni Gaudi that you would find in Barcelona with its colourful design and use of natural elements. Seeing the exterior is one of the free things to do in Vietnam. Although it is a guesthouse (called Hang Nga Guesthouse) you don’t have to be a guest to look inside. For an admission fee, you can wander around its interior and marvel at its fairytale design.

When you are ready for the beach, either head south to the beautiful bay of Ke Ga, or follow the crowd to Nha Trang, a popular beach town. Nha Trang has three lakes or you can head to Doc Let Beach for a white sand beach (just 1.5 hours by bus). To meet others head to the Sailing Club.

Visit Mui Me for a day or two to see the sand dunes. Yellow is best to visit at sunset and white in the early morning. T he Fairy Stream will send you into a fairy world with an enchanting red canyon and bamboo forest. 

Phu Quoc Island

The best place to visit in Vietnam if you’re a beach GatG is Phu Quoc Island, a paradise island with white-sand beaches, traditional villages and a UNESCO National Park. Find local markets and street food amongst its resorts, bars and cafes. Long Beach is the place for a beachfront restaurant and luxury resort. It’s a gorgeous place located in the south of the country.

A local Vietnamese seller

Next to Hoi An is Da Nang, a coastal city once a colonial port. Danang is halfway between the south and the north. The French influence is easy to see here amongst its French colonial buildings, and w ith a coastline of 30 km it's a good place to stop for the beach. Lang Co Beach and My Khe Beach are the most popular and you can also try diving or water-skiing along the coastline. 

Things to do in Da Nang include climbing to the top of the Marble Mountains, limestone and marble hills where you can find Buddhist pagoda temples and craftsmen working. At the top, you can see the beaches in the distance, or visit Son Tra Mountain, a national park where you can hike jungle scenery and spot monkeys.

See the pink Da Nang Cathedral, a unique Vietnam church with views of the city from the tower. See hundreds of stone and terracotta sculptures and learn more about the Cham tribe at the Cham Museum. Go surfing or jet-skiing at Non Nuoc Beach, see the Buddha statue at the Phap Lam Pagoda or take a photo of Dragon Bridge, the longest bridge in the country.

If you're a history GatG you should definitely stay a night or two in this riverfront town. Hue was once the country's former Royal Capital and is one of the most charming places in Vietnam oozing with Tombs of the Ancient Emperors, pagodas, temples and the gorgeously-names Perfumed River. Visit the Institute of the Blind to support the blind and experience a blind massage. 

Hoi An is the perfect place to learn about local life in Vietnam and see a less “touristy” side of the country.   Take this opportunity to learn how to cook traditional Vietnamese food or go crab-fishing in the coconut groves.

Things to do in Hoi An – Travel from Hue to Hoi An to see beautiful views as you over the Ho An pass. If you are looking for a hand-made silk dress, look no further than the coastal city of Hoi An. The ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a well-preserved port town.

This old French colonial town has hidden gems amongst the Chinese temples, adding to its things to see in Hoi An. See the My Son – a Hindu temple complex, take a culinary cooking class or just sample the local delicacies of banh mi and egg coffee instead. As one of the best places in Vietnam for Vietnamese cuisine, you should definitely come here and sample the noodles which are only sold in Hoi An. There’s also a beach nearby.

Ha Song Doon Cave

This monstrous cave has earned the title of the “largest cave on earth,” and for good reason.   It is absolutely massive and incredibly beautiful.   You have to take a private guided tour to see it, but it is well worth it to be one of the few people who get to experience its glory every year.

Take a tuk tuk ride through the streets of Hanoi

Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has many ethnic minority villages within its highlands and offers the opportunity to stay with local families, cook traditional meals and hike the beautiful highlands.

Things to do in Hanoi – You’ll find plenty of company in Northern Vietnam, whether you decide to stay in a homestay or the city of Hanoi, known as the Paris-of-the-East. Hanoi can be chaotic and a bit overwhelming for some but it does have a nice vibe. Learn about its rich history or take a rickshaw ride to fully experience the city.

When you are in Hanoi, one of the top things to see in Vietnam is a water puppet show. This tradition originated in northern Vietnam from flooded rice paddies where the locals would entertain themselves by performing with puppets whilst standing in the flooded water.

It is an art form that dates back to the 11th century and is usually accompanied by traditional music. Watching a show is one of the non-touristy things to do in Vietnam and the Water Puppet shows take place at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and last for about one hour in total.   When in Hanoi, make sure to see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the resting place of Vietnam’s most popular leader.

If Old Quarter Hanoi gets too much head to the lake to watch the locals doing their morning Thai Chai, dancing and downward dogs. Hanoi is walkable and it’s easy to see the main attraction in one day. Check out the Women’s Museum near the lake. Take a street food tour and go on a cruise in Halong Bay, one of the country's amazing places and  one of the top things to do in Vietnam but it can be a bit touristy.

How to get around Hanoi – Most of the things to see in Hanoi are close to each other so if you enjoy walking you can take your time seeing the sights. Taking a motorcycle taxi is one of the most common ways and easiest but you do need to haggle and write down the address of where you are going to.

Sapa (photo @ Angst)

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Another of the places to go in Vietnam when you are in the north is Pu Luong Nature Reserve . It’s an ideal place to get off the beaten track and see one of the unexplored places in Vietnam, away from the tourism. It’s a place for the nature GatG with mountains, valleys and jungle thrown into the Vietnamese mix. Stay in one of the homestays and learn from the White Thai, and Black Thai ethnic communities, creating crafts, swimming in waterfalls and hiking rice paddies. The Reserve is 150 kms from Hanoi and reachable via a private shuttle, stopping in Mai Chau on the way.

Travel even further north and you’ll reach Lao Cai Province, 8 hours by overnight train from Hanoi. Sapa is only 30 minutes away and if you are a trekking GatG, Sapa is a beautiful area to hike. Sapa is an endless sea of green mountains and rice paddies that looks straight out of the movies. Fan Si Pan, the highest mountain in Vietnam, is also located in Sapa and is one of the must-sees in Vietnam in the north. 

From day hikes to multi-day hikes you’ll pass breathtaking views as you trek through rice paddies. Choose a homestay for an authentic and cultural experience. You’ll need to allow a few days to get here and back.

Mai Chau is an area 160 km from Hanoi and is a good alternative to Sapa. Known for their traditional weaving you can also do a homestay here and learn their traditional weaving techniques. If you are travelling around by motorbike Mu Cang Chai is less touristy but can be difficult to get to without your own transport.

Rice field terraces, near Sapa

Mu Cang Chai

The exploration of gorgeous green mountains and rice paddies continues in Mu Cang Chai . These views never get old but if you only have time to go to one, Sapa and Mu Cang Chai can be interchanged for the same effect pretty easily. This spot is known for its colourful sunsets and the gorgeous yellow that the rice plants turn during harvest.

Ban Gioc-detian Falls

Contrary to public belief, you should in fact go chasing waterfalls.   At least chase down these falls as they are stunning. You can take a raft ride right up to the edge or swim in the turquoise pools below, either way, you can’t go wrong.   Talk about a picturesque moment, it doesn’t get better than this!

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a really popular area with limestone mountains lining the bay. People come here to scuba dive, kayak and rock climb and take one of the area’s many cruises to see the pristine waters and epic mountains up close.   The beaches here are stunning and there are beautiful islands to spend the night on with views difficult to beat.

Halong Bay can be more pricey than other areas in Vietnam and can get overly busy so take an overnight cruise (2 days 1 night) instead of a day trip to make the most of your experience.

To avoid the crowds, go to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi instead. You can stay overnight and take the one-day boat trip for less than the price to Halong Bay.

Here you can hike mountain trails, sunbathe on the beach, and walk along the promenade. It is also home to one of the world’s most endangered primates – the golden-headed langur.

Ninh Binh contains endless rice paddies and gorgeous mountains to explore. It also has the incredible Dragon Mountain Viewpoint that is a Vietnam must-see. Hike up to the top to see this absolutely breathtaking view for yourself. Solo travel Vietnam for beautiful landscapes, culture and a historical journey. 

It can be easy to meet others in Vietnam so you’ll never be short of company travelling here alone. But if you are unsure where to go in Vietnam and feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole of your Vietnam vacation, below are some of the best Vietnam tours for solos.

G Adventures Vietnam

G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters for budget travellers. Most of their small group tours have an average of 12 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. 

Their trips to Vietnam range from a 3 day Halong Bay Independent Adventure to a 15 day G Adventures Best of Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Sapa. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company. 

*  Click here for the full itineraries, prices, and start dates

Intrepid Travel Vietnam

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people who book their trips are solo travellers and they offer Vietnam tours for solo travellers such as the Vietnam Express Southbound tour. Other Intrepid Tours Vietnam range from 8 days to 15 days and include adventures such as an Essential Vietnam tour and a Vietnam Real Food Adventure. 

Intrepid tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more than G Adventures. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our  Intrepid Travel Reviews

Stray Travel

More for the adventurous GatG, Stray is a hop on hop off bus tour offering bus passes around Asia. Their tours to Vietnam also include Thailand, Cambodia, Laos or Bhutan. They also offer trips to Borneo where you can explore the world’s oldest rainforest, get up close and personal to orang-utans, and dive in some of the world’s top dive sites.

If you’re planning on travelling Southeast Asia in two or more months and want the flexibility to go with the flow and meet lots of other travellers, Stray's tour buses are an ideal choice. If you visit during the peak season you may need to pre-book all sections of your trip before you go. Check the review here.

* Check prices and dates for Stray tour to Vietnam

TruTravels Vietnam

For the backpacker solo, TruTravels offers a 13 day tour to Vietnam. Beginning in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll travel to Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and Hanoi, trying street food, taking part in cooking classes and egg coffee workshops and getting your heart pumping with basket boat splashing in Hoi An. Trips have a maximum of 20 people with most travellers between the ages of 18 and mid 30’s. Prices start from £975 based on a twin share.

* Check prices & availability for TruTravels tour

Vietnam Day Tours

You don’t need to pre-book day tours of Vietnam as some hostels and tour companies offer these when you arrive. See You At Lilly’s offer a great Sapa tour (opt for the bus instead of the train if you book), or pop into the Real Kangaroo Cafe in Hanoi for more tours. If you are looking for day tours these companies come recommended by solo female travellers.

Hanoi Backstreet Tours – For a fun afternoon of food and culture on the back of a motorbike in Hanoi. Get off the beaten path and for just a couple of hours or a full day. Proceeds of this Vietnamese tour are donated to the October Foundation supporting the education of disadvantaged children in the remote areas of Vietnam. Click here for tours

Easy Riders – If you love motorbikes Easy Riders are motorbike tours through Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or Da Lat, and up to the Laos border. It’s a great way to see the countryside, the rural lives of farmers and try lots of yummy cuisine along the way. Ask for Toan Lee if he’s available or email him directly at [email protected] Click here for tours.

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day trips in worldwide destinations including Vietnam. Choose from a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, take a boat ride along the Mekong Delta, or a cruise around Halong Bay visiting the islands and caves. Although some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people, there are plenty to book as a solo  including Vietnam tours from Hanoi and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check all tours and prices here

Accommodation in Vietnam

You'll find plenty of Vietnam accommodation from international Vietnam hotels in the main cities, luxury coastal resorts and Vietnam beach resorts to budget hostels. You may need to pay a tax on top of your room cost and expect the accommodation to ask for your passport.

You’ll find local guesthouses along the river which may use an honour system where you write all the food and drink you consume into the guest book and pay when you leave. Rooms generally come with a fan unless you pay more for air-conditioning.

For a more cultural experience, the central highlands and the north of Vietnam offer home-stays in traditional stilt houses within the local communities. They can be quite basic but it definitely an experience.

There is also Airbnb where you can stay with locals in a spare room or even book the whole apartment. You can save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link.  

All of the accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodation Vietnam including budget hotels in Vietnam, Vietnam resorts, or 4 or 5 stars Vietnam, click on the link below. 

• To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in Vietnam

Da Lat – Mr Rot’s Secret Hostel

If you are planning on budget travel to Vietnam, Mr Rot’s Secret Hostel is located a short drive to Xuan Huong Lake. You can hire a bike or a car or book Mr Rots Secret day tour (which is amazing). The rooms are clean and modern and there is a beautiful sun terrace with mountain views.

Mr Rot is really friendly and the staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome. Choose from a bed in a 4-bed dormitory room, a deluxe single or a deluxe double. Breakfast is included.

• Prices from £5 for a bed in a 4-bed dormitory room
• To book, check prices or availability for Mr Rot's Secret Hotel

Hanoi – See You At Lily’s

If you're wondering where to stay in Hanoi, See You At Lily’s is a fabulous hostel. Situated in the Hang Trong District, this friendly hostel is a 15-minute walk to the Opera House. Reception is open 24 hours so it doesn’t matter if you arrive late at night and there is a restaurant on site serving local and Western cuisine and a kitchen to cook your own food (breakfast is included too).

The hostel is colourful and vibrant with friendly staff who can arrange tours for you such as a Sapa tour. Choose from a bed in an 8-bed mixed dorm, a 6-bed female-only dorm, or a twin room or suite.

• Prices from £5 for a bed in a 8-bed mixed dormitory room
• To book, check prices or availability for See You At Lily’s

Hanoi – Republik Backpackers

This backpackers is a great place to meet others and socialise with a good vibe. They offer free beers in the early evenings to get you mingling and free walking tours for an overview of the city. Breakfast is fantastic and there’s also a terrace with views of the city. Hoan Kiem Lake is less than 1km away and you only a few minutes from Dong Xuan Market.

The beds have their own curtains and plug sockets and the lockers big enough to fit your bag. If you want to meet others and do some activities in Hanoi this hostel is perfect. Choose from a bed in a 16-bed dorm room, an 8-bed mixed or female-only dorms or upgrade to a double room.

• Prices from £5 for a bed in a 12-bed mixed dormitory room
• To book, check prices or availability for Republik Backpackers Hostel

Ho Chi Minh – Cozy House 160

This cosy hostel is in a great location, next to lots of restaurants and bars and walking distance to the Vietnam tourist attractions and the things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. (if you don’t mind walking), yet in a side street away from the noise of the busy streets.

The rooms are spacious, clean and stylish and come in a standard double, superior double or deluxe. You can book tours with the helpful staff and you get a buffet breakfast included too (plus free fruit).

• Prices from £21 for a standard double room
• To book, check prices or availability for Cozy House 160

Hoi An – Under The Coconut Tree

If you’re in need of somewhere to rejuvenate yourself and are unsure where to stay in Hoi An, this charming homestay is perfect to get back in touch with nature. With a private path that leads to the beach, you’ll definitely leave here ready for your next adventure.

Choose from a bed in a mixed dormitory room, a bungalow with a double bed or a standard double private room. All come with a fan and toiletries and a shower that makes you feel as though you are outside. Breakfast isn’t included but it only costs a little bit extra.

• Prices from £6 for a single bed in a mixed dormitory room
• To book, check prices or availability for Under The Coconut Tree  

Hue – Bonjour Hostel

This hostel is a great choice if you choose to stay in Hue. Bonjour Hostel is close to bars and restaurants and within walking distance to the citadel. The rooms are clean and come with a fan or air conditioning and hot water. The beds are comfortable and have their own curtain for more privacy.

There is free coffee and tea and banana pancakes for breakfast and the staff are great. The only downside is that you may have to queue for a shower if you are in hurry. Choose from a bed in a 10-bed dormitory, a 6-bed dorm or a double room.

• Prices from £4 for a single bed in a 10-bed mixed dormitory room
• To book, check prices or availability for Bonjour Hostel

Travelling In Vietnam

If you are touring Vietnam on your own and are unsure of how to travel in Vietnam, there is a variety of transportation in Vietnam. If you are short on time then consider taking an internal flight. There is a cheap airline called VietJet that fly throughout Vietnam. You can fly from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City in 1 hour 15 minutes then travel onward from Danang Airport to Hoi An.

Vietnam Travel by Train – There is also Vietnam train travel and for any places where the trains in Vietnam don't go, you can take minibuses around the country. Vietnam is a long country so distances can be vast. For longer distances, the best way to travel through Vietnam is by  taking one of the overnight trains from Sapa to Hanoi, or fly from Hanoi to Danang or Hanoi to Hue instead (which only takes 1 hour 10 minutes).

You may want to ride the Reunification Express when you’re here. The North-South railway connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and the term applies to any train that operates along this line. The railway is a symbol of a reunified Vietnam and passes through rice fields and small towns. The trains have different seating and sleeping options such as a hard seat, a hard berth (with 6 beds), or a soft berth (with 4 beds). You can always upgrade to a VIP cabin for more privacy. You can book tickets for the trains online or with a local travel company. Check train times here

Boat transportation in Vietnam – Boats are another form of public transport in Vietnam and there are also overnight boats such as the overnight boat to Halong Bay which are great if you are travelling Vietnam alone. Some destinations are easy to travel to overland such as Hue to Hoi An.

Bus Vietnam –  If you are backpacking Vietnam alone, you can travel from the south to the north entirely by bus, choosing sleeper buses for overnight journeys (the best way to travel within Vietnam overnight). They are comfortable and reduce your costs travelling as you the bus ticket is also your accommodation costs. It's easy to book a local bus as you go through hostels or small tour companies in Vietnam. When touring in Vietnam, to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay, for example, you can take a bus for 2 hours 40 minutes then a 30-minute ferry across to Ha Long Bay. PSD Express or Giant Ibis are comfortable buses with air conditioning and free water and snacks. 

How to get around Vietnam by bike – One of the fun things to do in Vietnam and the best way to experience road trips in Vietnam is on the back of a motorbike with a hired driver. This way of traveling in Vietnam is such an experience and you can hire a driver to motorbike the Ha Giang Loop or just travel from Hue to Hoi An for example with Hue Easy Driver . 

Internal flights – If you are short on time and wondering how to travel around Vietnam quickly, another method of Vietnam transport are Vietnam airlines that operate domestically to the major cities in the country. 

To help you travel through Vietnam, u se an offline map such as maps.me to get around and download a taxi app such as Grab or Uber to get from the airport to your accommodation. BaoLau is a useful website for booking your Vietnam transportation.

Because of its size, you need at least two weeks to get a taster of the country. Three to four weeks is recommended to see the whole country if you have the time, if not look at spending time in either the south or the north for your Vietnam travel itinerary, or fly internally to maximise your days. You could combine your trip with a neighbouring country and solo travel Vietnam and Cambodia in a month or six weeks for example. Below are examples of Vietnam itineraries, whether you are looking for a Vietnam itinerary 10 days, a week Vietnam itinerary or 14 days in Vietnam.

Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days

Ho Chi Minh City (3 nights), Hoi An (2 nights), Da Lat (2 nights)

Hanoi (3 nights), Ha Long Bay or Cat Ba Island, (1 night), Sapa (3 nights)

10 Days in Vietnam

Hanoi (2 nights), Ha Long Bay (1 night), Hue (2 nights), Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park (2 nights), Ho Chi Minh (3 nights)

2 Weeks in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (3 nights), Hoi An (2 nights), Da Lat (2 nights), Hanoi (3 nights), Ha Long Bay or Cat Ba Island, (1 night), Sapa (3 nights)

Vietnam Itinerary 3 Weeks

Hanoi (2 nights), Sapa (3 nights), Ha Long Bay (1 night), Ninh Binh (2 nights), Hue (2 nights). Da Nang (2 nights), Hoi An (2 nights), Nha Trang (2 nights), Mui Ne (2 nights), Ho Chi Minh City (3 nights)

* Use Rome2Rio or BaoLau to plan your journeys.

If you need a guidebook for your travels we recommend the Solo Girl’s Travel Guides. These guides are written specifically for women and cover every travel detail including exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path destinations and secret beaches.

The author, Alexa West, has plenty of experience of Vietnam solo female travel. She lived in Vietnam and shares all her knowledge including local markets and social hotspots. 

If you are planning on travelling to Vietnam for the first time, the Solo Girl’s Travel Guide to Vietnam covers topics such as must-see places in Vietnam, things to see in Vietnam including Vietnam attractions, what to pack, the best beaches and resorts for your budget, and money-saving tips. It also includes how to get to your hotel without paying tourist prices, off-the-beaten-path adventures and local secrets. For any girl planning a solo trip to Vietnam, it’s your travel Bible. * Buy The Solo Girl's Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Time To Visit Vietnam

Due to the country being so vast the climate varies from region to region so even if it’s hot in one destination it can be colder in another such as the Central Highlands. Ho Chi Minh is hot year-round you can visit anytime but it can be very humid in April.

The rainy season is generally from June to October so if you are travelling during this time just take a raincoat. The rain can sometimes be a welcome respite to the heat and it may only rain heavily for a short while before clearing for the rest of the day or night. You may prefer to avoid the rainy seasons if you are taking a cruise in Ha Long Bay.

November to March are good months to travel here as it can be cooler in the north and not so humid in the south. It is also a good destination for a Christmas break in the south. Try to time your visit with the blossom season in the mountainous areas. September to October is a good period to see the Sapa rice paddies before harvest.

Below is a weather chart showing the annual weather from January to December for solo female travel Hanoi. Click on this link for other regions .

Vietnam is a fascinating country to explore but travel insurance is always recommended if you tour Vietnam to cover you for any travel delays, medical assistance and accidents.

True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Vietnam. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.

All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

* Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Vietnam has several international airports. One in Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Da Nang International Airport. Here’s how to get to and from each one.

Ho Chi Minh – Tan So Nhat International Airport (SGN) is Vietnam’s largest airport and is very close to the city centre. A taxi costs approx £5 for the 6-minute drive. Cheaper options are Airport bus 119 bus which departs Mien Tay Bus Station every 30 minutes and takes 9 minutes from the airport.

Airport bus 109 also runs to the airport. Shuttle bus 49 runs directly from the airport to your hotel. Click here for details of the buses  

Hanoi – Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is a 45-minute bus ride from Hanoi. Taxis cost approximately £18 and only take 25 minutes or you can take the bus for just £1. Hanoi Airport Shuttles run every hour and cost £2. Click here for details  

Da Nang – Da Nang International (DAD) is only a 4-minute ride into Danang. There doesn’t seem to be any bus services so you may have to opt for a taxi for £3. If you are travelling from here to Hoi An it’s just a 30-minute ride.

* Feel more confident with someone waiting for you at the airport when you pre-book a transfer with Hoppa , a reliable and safe service for solo females.

For other airports use Rome2Rio to plan your journey.

Questions About Vietnam

• Can I drink the wa ter? It isn't recommended to drink tap water. Consider taking your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected?   Tipping isn’t expected but it is appreciated
• Fixed price or barter? You can barter in the markets but people come to the city to sell goods because they don’t make enough money in their villages. Just remember that one dollar is not much to us but a lot to them
• Any ATMs? Yes, there are ATMs across the country. It can be difficult to find one in Halong Bay so keep some cash on you. If you are changing money try Lily’s Travel Agency in Hanoi. Make sure that your notes have no marks on them before changing them.
• Which side of the road do they drive? On the right-hand side but the roads can be chaotic with erratic drivers and motorbikes so be careful.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes, and vegans and if you are gluten-free. Try ‘pho chay’ a soup with tofu which is gluten-free, ‘goi cuon’ Vietnamese rice paper rolls with vegetables or ‘banh mi chay’ a baguette with a vegetarian filling.
• Any seven wonders of the world? No, but Halong Bay should be.
• Is Vietnam safe to travel to? Yes but you do need to be careful of bag snatching. When you solo female travel Vietnam, keep your valuables out of sight and your bag tightly on you in the cities in Vietnam. 

If you are ready to solo travel in Vietnam here are some useful links to help you to plan your Vietnam solo trip, including airlines that fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Budget = £30 per day (based on travelling Vietnam on a budget and staying in hostels)

Local Currency – Vietnamese dong (VND) 

Do I need a visa? On a British passport, you can get an e-visa before you travel. Check your country's visa requirement and apply for a Vietnam visa here .

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines & Flights to Vietnam  

The Best Time to Go

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Vietnam  

Events and Festivals in Vietnam  

Local Cost Guide

Local Customs & Etiquette

Lingo – Useful Vietnamese phrases 

Social Impact Program

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation – This amazing foundation works with 1,500 children and youth throughout Vietnam. In the last year alone they rescued 247 people from slavery and trafficking, including girls, boys, and women.

• How To Be a Socially Responsible Tourist in Vietnam
• An American Girl's Vietnam Motorcycle Diaries
• Teach English in Vietnam Without a Degree

4 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Vietnam ”

I read your article and loved it. But I was wondering if you have a much more details itinerary that breaks down the entire trip starting Day 1 of the trip to the last day, also with the timings to start the day and the places that you stayed at. It would be very helpful if you could also let me the know the airlines used, hotels/hostel you stayed at etc.

Regards, Sneha

Hi Sneha, thanks for your comment. I’m just working on a comprehensive guide for Vietnam which will cover everything and will include this itinerary. I recommend joining our Girls about the Globe Facebook group too and searching for Vietnam there. I hope this itinerary helps:

Day One: Arrive Ho Chi Minh city – Arrive in Vietnam and transfer to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh city.Stay overnight in a guest house/hotel by the river.

Day Two: Ho Chi Minh – With a local guide take a trip to the Cu Chi tunnels before learning about the Vietnamese war at the War Museum. In the afternoon take a trip along the Mekong river. Stay overnight in a guest house/hotel by the river.

Day Three: Ho Chi Minh – Nha Trang. In the morning visit a pottery village to learn how to make clay pots? From the city to the beach. Relax on Vietnam’s coastline or take a boat trip with Mama Linh. Stay overnight here

Day Four: Nha Trang – Hoi An. Visit Hoian silk village and watch how silk is made. Visit the Kim Bong Carpentry Village

Day Five: Hoi An – Marble Mountains – Danang. Leave Hoi An to travel to Danang stopping enroute at the Marble Mountains before arriving at the French town of Danang. Stroll around its picturesque lake then visit the Cao Dai temple and the Phap lam Pagoda. Stay overnight

Day Six: Danang – Hue. Travel by train to Hue? There’s so much to see in this Vietnamese town: tombs, pagodas and citadels. See the Tomb of Minh Mang and the Royal Tombs. Stay overnight in a guest house/hotel by the river.

Day Seven: Hue – Hanoi. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and explore the narrow alleys of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Hike to a hilltribe village in the afternoon. Have dinner at Hoa Sua, a local project for the disadvantaged youth. Stay overnight

Day Eight: Hanoi – Halong Bay. Drive to the port before boarding your accommodation for the night as you sail overnight to the beautiful bay. Stay overnight on board the Pelican Boat

Day Nine: Halong Bay – Hanoi. Visit the hiding place of Viet Cong in the afternoon before departing back to Hanoi for the evening.

Day Ten: Hanoi – Sapa? tribes in the North. Travel from Hanoi to a tribal village in north Vietnam and hike through local villages and lush scenery before arriving at a local tribe. Take the night train from Hanoi? Stay overnight in a tribal village in the north / or a hotel in Sapa

Day Eleven: Halong Bay – Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh

I’d say you need to be very careful in Vietnam. Especially, for Europeans or Americans who are used to just straight honest business. Starting from the moment you step out of the airport you need to be vigilant in terms of being scammed. I’m talking about taxis to start with. It is especially prominent in big cities such as HCMC and Hanoi. You also need to be extremely careful when crossing roads and traveling by public transport. The country is gorgeous, nature is beautiful and many people are very friendly and nice. But for some reason some people who are involved in the tourist business tend to think that foreigners owe something extra to them. They overcharge you for everything – from clothes and magnets to tours and food. The thing that stroke me the most was the women in How An who carried big fruit baskets offering those to the tourists to take pictures with. The baskets were full of rocks underneath! What is the point of doing that? Why give these super heavy baskets to the tourists and then charge them for the picture? Anyway, this is an advice from a Russian who spent 4 weeks in Vietnam (HCMC, Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, Phong Nha, Ninh Binh, Halong, Hanoi).

Thanks for sharing your experience Olga. That’s really useful to know x

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• Vietnam for solo travellers

All photography by Christian Berg

Vietnam promises solo travellers the trip of a lifetime. Steaming bowls of  hủ tiếu  on a boat in the Mekong Delta, glorious sunrises on the beach in Nha Trang, misty hikes in the mountains of Sapa -- here you can have a wealth of beautiful moments all to yourself. If you ever want to share your journey, Vietnamese make wonderful company and will eagerly show you the best of this country. Read on to see why Vietnam is a great destination for your next solo adventure. 

Beautiful stays and warm hospitality .

Picking a place to stay is always fun in Vietnam. Choose from traditional homestays , ethnic stilt houses, tented camps, budget-friendly hostels, boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and more. Your solo foray will be even more special if you choose to immerse yourself with a local family or pick a spot that’s surrounded by nature. In Vietnam, these places are not only affordable, they’ll also give you a deeper understanding of our way of life. 

All across Vietnam, family-run homestays deliver incredible value for money, as well as sumptuous meals and insider tours of the area. In Northern Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to sleep in an ethnic stilt house . Shared rooms are set up with comfortable beds separated by curtains. Wake up to views of mountains and rice terraces, and kick up your feet in a hammock after a day of exploring. In the Centre and South, homestays take on a more tropical feel, often planted amid fruit farms, on the banks of rivers, or in flowering gardens. 

Fantastic street food and coffee 

Vietnam is a paradise for foodies. Vietnamese love eating together, but it’s also normal to roll up for a quick bánh mì or bite of lunch alone. If you’re by yourself, you can easily slip into a busy noodle shop, find a stool next to a sidewalk vendor, or simply order what the next table is having. At busy stalls you may find yourself sharing a table with strangers -- a great opportunity to gather foodie recommendations, perhaps with the help of Google Translate. Almost everywhere, you’ll find Vietnamese are happy to show you how to use your condiments, or help you order if you’re feeling lost on the menu. 

Vietnam’s cities and countryside alike are littered with lovely, quiet cafes where you can spend a few hours jotting down your thoughts over a cup of potent robusta. It won’t take you long to find a new favourite cafe in any place you go. Pull up a stool or lawn chair alongside the locals and soak up the atmosphere. Of course, chances are you’ll get invited to a Vietnamese family meal sooner or later. That's just what we do, especially if we see you’re travelling alone. Dining with a Vietnamese family is a great opportunity to learn about the local way of life and try a variety of authentic Vietnamese food -- don’t pass it up!

Read more:  A beginner's guide to Vietnamese street food

Amazing experiences and destinations 

One of the best things about travelling by yourself is having complete freedom over your itinerary. Destinations such as Hội An, Huế, Pù Luông, Côn Đảo and Phú Quốc are all supremely manageable destinations for solo travellers. Even Vietnam’s chaotic cities can easily be navigated on your own -- that is, as soon as you figure out how to cross the street (the secret is confidence and clear body language.) Once you’ve got your mental map sorted, you’ll find that many small quarters and alleys are perfect for exploring alone on foot.

In Vietnam, most cycling, trekking, island-hopping, boat, or even food tours welcome single bookings. Go with a sustainable tourism provider for an even better experience. Footprint Travel offers fantastic responsible trekking tours in Đà Lạt, Huế, and Ninh Bình. Sens Asia hosts insider street food adventures around Hanoi. In the dry season, cave expeditions with Jungle Boss in Phong Nha take you to magnificent sites filled with millenia-old stalagmites and stalactites. Vietnam's larger-than-life landscapes lend well to uninterrupted thoughts and checking in with yourself. 

Safe destinations and health facilities 

Safety is a concern for every traveller, but especially those visiting a new country alone. Thankfully, Vietnam has consistently been voted among the world's safest countries to travel, even for solo explorers. Despite having a long coastline, Vietnam rarely sees earthquakes, tornadoes, or tsunamis. During the monsoon season, annual flooding occurs in some Central and Northern provinces. Plan your travels to avoid these areas and explore our other beautiful destinations during these months.

Police officers are stationed every few blocks in major cities, and crime against women is scarce. Even in the remote countryside, you’re likely to feel incredibly safe and welcome. If ever you need medical help, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Đà Nẵng, and other urban hubs all have international clinics and hospitals with well-trained, English-speaking staff. A little common sense and preparedness goes a long way to ensure your holiday is safe and stress-free.

Read more:   Health and safety in Vietnam

Easy transportation 

Getting from Point A to Point B in Vietnam is always an adventure. Solo travellers in Vietnam have a lot of options between cities. The smoothest way to go is usually via domestic flights . If you have time to spare, you can reach Vietnam's top destinations by train, sleeper bus, or limousine vans. Limousine vans are a newer way to travel short distances, and are usually affordable, fast and comfortable. In the Mekong Delta, boats and ferries are a leisurely option for slow travellers. Got even more time? The cross-country Reunification Express has train cars with four or six berths, where you can meet fellow travellers and exchange stories throughout the ride. 

Of course, Vietnam’s motorbikes are the ultimate transport experience, and perfect for solo travellers. Hop on a back-of-the-bike tour with EasyRiders to see waterfalls, coastal roads, and beaches in Central Vietnam. Or, take a Vespa tour in Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s streets at night. Whatever itinerary you choose, leave room to adjust your plan. Stop and stay longer whenever you feel like it, or take a diversion if something piques your interest. After all, yours is the only opinion that matters on this trip. Now that’s a real holiday! 

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Vietnam solo tours

Let Vietnam steal your heart…and your stomach

Vietnam? More like Viet-nomnomnom. From crunchy bahn mi’s and bowls of steaming pho to crispy spring rolls and rich egg coffee, this fascinating country is known for its  mouthwatering cuisine . But you need someone to share it with. If you’ve always craved  visiting Vietnam  but don’t want to do it alone, one of our small group tours might be just on the menu.

Not only will you travel with a likeminded bunch of future friends, but you can also relax knowing your local leader will handle all the logistics, point out all of the iconic sights, fill you in on the country’s culture and steer you in the direction of the best street food. Bon Appetite

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

It can be hard to fully grasp Vietnam’s culture and what makes this country so unique when trying to navigate the scooter-riddled streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City without getting run over. That’s where our local leaders come in. Promising to give you an insight into daily life, our expert guides really know their stuff, whether that’s where to get the best tailor-made clothing in Hoi An, the ancient stories behind the legendary Ha Long Bay or ideas on how to spend your free time. 

Your safety is extremely important to us, and while Vietnam is known to be a safe country to visit, our local leaders are always on hand to offer advice, provide info on security tips and tricks and inform you of the do’s and don’t’s of the country’s customs. While the locals are friendly in Vietnam and the crime rate is low, you should still be wary of bag snatchers and pickpockets, so make sure you have your belongings where you can see them at all times, especially in busy market areas. 

Sometimes the best part about traveling is not the sights you see, but the people you meet along the way, and on our small group tours, adventure-keen friends aren’t hard to come by. Whether you’re looking for someone to share a bowl of pho with or you want your picture taken in front of the rising islands in Ha Long Bay, you’ll always be surrounded by people just as excited to explore Vietnam as you are. 

Planning a trip to Vietnam can be overwhelming - there are overnight train timetables, temple customs and flight details to think about. But on our trips, we take care of that for you. From the organizing to the logistics, your leader will ensure your tour runs smoothly and safely get you from A to B so all you have to do is turn up (with a fully charged camera) and enjoy the extraordinary landscapes this country offers. 

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I'm new to group travel, what will my group be like?

Intrepid travelers  are connected more by attitude than age. They’re a friendly, open-minded and curious bunch, and a lot of them elect to travel alone (so no third-wheeling, we promise). Our trips attract a mix of genders and ages generally range from 25 to 65. It’s hard to know exactly who you’ll meet, but you can be assured you'll be a part of the fun.

Do I get any free time?

The beauty of traveling with Intrepid is that we encourage travelers to explore at their own pace. When you get to a destination, your leader will offer options on what you can do. Some of the group will do one activity, others will opt for something completely different, while others may just choose to lie in a hammock and read a book. Your Essential Trip Information has more details on what your trip’s itinerary and timeframes permit.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Can I use my mobile phone while in Vietnam?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Vietnam, although remote and mountainous areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Vietnam.

Is Vietnam accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Despite having a high population of people with disabilities, accessible infrastructure and facilities are still limited in Vietnam. Chaotic traffic and pavements blocked by parked motorbikes and street stalls, uneven footpaths and high curbs add to the challenges of getting around for travelers with mobility or vision disabilities. Most entrances to hotels, shops, restaurants and tourist sites will have steps and many doorways will not be able to accommodate wheelchairs wider than 60cm. Some sights and destinations will not be fully accessible (ie. Ha Long Bay boats, Cu Chi Tunnels) but other places such as Hoi An are flat and much more wheelchair-friendly. There are likely to be situations where travelers with disabilities may need to rely on local people to help. Taxis are readily available and an affordable way to get around for travelers who are not confident in exploring independently on foot.

How to stay safe while traveling solo

Share your itinerary

Good advice for us all, but particularly for people traveling solo. Make copies of your itinerary, contact details, passport and travel insurance, then email them to yourself and to one or two friends/family at home. Check-in on social media when you can so people can keep track of where you are. 

Remember the little things

If you’re arriving late in a city by yourself, book a hotel with a front desk or concierge service (many hotels also offer private transfers that don’t cost the earth from the airport or train station).

If you're traveling with us, we can help you organize an  arrival transfer.  Read your maps before you head out for a walk (you can use a map app on your smartphone – or take screenshots of where you’re going if you don’t want to use up your precious data). If you need to check your map when you’re out and about, duck into a shop or café to do it.

Leave the blingy jewelry, wedding rings and designer clothes at home, and aim to dress like the locals do – hit up the local markets if you haven’t packed the right outfits. Aim to keep track of travel times, so you’re not caught out after dark.

Roam if you want to

Most mobile/cell providers now offer travel passes to help manage your international roaming costs (which, let’s face it, are expensive!).

For a few dollars a day, you’ll have access to data, which means you can log into your apps (like Skype, email and WhatsApp) when you’re out of WiFi zones and quickly get in touch with someone – a friend at home, someone in your group, or the police – if you need to.

It might also be worth checking out the local cell/mobile providers as these can be quite cost effective. 

Fare's fair

Solo travelers are way more likely to be ‘taken for a ride’ at the airport by unscrupulous taxi drivers, so do your research before you arrive. Make sure you get a cab from the airport/station taxi rank – if you’re not sure where to go, just head to the information desk for help.

Touts tend to hang out in the arrivals area and promise cheaper rates, but can often be dodgy. When you get to the cab rank, ask the driver to use the meter or request a cost estimate before you hop in the car – if it’s way higher than it should be, pick another vehicle.

A lot of airports have train stations attached as well, so consider public transport if you want to save a dollar or two.

Stick together

It’s one of the advantages of travelling solo on a group tour: safety in numbers. The big, 50-person bus groups stand out on the road, but a small  Intrepid group  of eight or nine people, with a local leader showing the way – including areas to avoid and getting around safely – won’t draw much attention.

Plus, it’s a great way to see parts of the world you may feel uncomfortable exploring on your own. If you want to do things on your own, consider a  day tour  to familiarise yourself with a city and get to know the local way of life. 

Trust your instincts

Solo travel is all about confidence. If you’re relaxed and self-assured on the street, you’re more likely to blend in. When you meet new people, don’t assume they’re all out to get you, but be sensible too and trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is.

Remember: the popular tourist areas are often the most well-lit and secure, but they’re often a juicier target for pickpockets and scammers. Just use your common sense; half of travel safety is simply being aware of your surroundings.

The joy of travel adds up to more than just great memories and good times for this traveller

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

2 June 2023 · In: Asia , Travel , Vietnam

A perfect solo travel guide with everything you need to know for backpacking Vietnam on your own! 

Backpacking a new country alone can be scary and intimidating – and I get it! I have been afraid to solo travel for a long time, but once you have done it, it provides an incredible feeling, and you will want to do it again.

Whether it is your first time in Vietnam or you have been several times, this Southeast Asian country is incredible to explore as a solo (and female) backpacker. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are welcoming, the lifestyle is affordable and getting around is safe and easy – all the attributes you want for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I share all the inspiration and tips you need to create an unforgettable solo experience in Vietnam . Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

Accommodation for solo travel

Best tours & activities, vietnam overview.

Capital : Hanoi

Currency : Vietnamese Dong (VND) / 1 GBP = 29,061 VND 

Power plug : type A, C and F

Visa : visa-free for up to 15 days for a few countries. If not or staying up to 30 days, online visa with a fee of $25.

Language : Vietnamese (with a few people speaking English)

Transportation : mainly motorbikes, buses and trains – or planes if far distance.

Internet : hotels offer free wifi. Otherwise, good signal everywhere.

SIM card : 3 main providers which include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone.

Travel duration : I would suggest at least 2 weeks.

Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit  and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

I visited the country with my friend Kwelan for 3 weeks, travelling through the north and some remote areas. Kwelan arrived before me and was alone for a few days, and she left before me, so I was alone on my last day. 

Together or alone, we always felt safe , even in small villages hidden in the mountains with no tourists nearby – and even at night.

Yes, many locals were staring at us, but  they were all so friendly and welcoming , waving at us as we walked past their houses. When we were lost, they also helped us. For example, the bus always asked us for the address of our hotel to drop us off in front of it, which was so kind. Plus, most locals did not speak English, but they did not care – we communicated through Google Translate. 

However, like in any other country,  be aware of your surroundings . Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport. Keep your belongings safe as there may be some pickpockets around. For example, on the sleeping bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Otherwise, we never had any problems – quite the contrary. We once forgot the key to our scooter and left it on the engine, and a local kept it until we got back. I also never felt afraid to leave my big backpack at the reception of the guesthouses. I was a bit conscious at first, but after doing it for a few days, I did not mind (and I had my computer in it!).

Also,  do not be scared if Vietnamese people are a bit too forward or pushy . There are times when you may be greeted by a crowd of taxi drivers or locals who want you to join them for a tour, especially when you get off the bus in Sapa. Politely decline and continue your journey. 

One place we felt a bit overwhelmed was on Cat Ba Island . We decided to go to the beach once there, and it was a weird experience. The place was full of locals, mostly men. There were a few women, but they stayed on the beach or, if in the water, they were fully dressed. So, when two female tourists arrived with their bikinis on, everyone was staring – even though we were in our corner reading our books. I could not stand it at one point as people were coming and standing next to us, so I just went for a walk. 

I want to mention that this was the only place this happened. We returned to the beach multiple times, including Hoi An, and we never were in this situation again.

Overall, Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers . The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure. We connected with many people from around the world on our trip, and it was great! As a result, you can shape your experience however you want and make friends along the way. 

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Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable solo trip in Vietnam.

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination

1- it is a safe place to visit.

As mentioned earlier,  Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers . Therefore, you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

My friend Kwelan and I always felt safe, whether we were exploring a small mountain village at night or on a local bus with no tourists nearby. 

2- The locals are friendly & welcoming

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming, always ready to help . Even though most of them do not speak English, they will go above and beyond for others. 

For example, the local bus always dropped us off in front of our hotel to make sure we were safe, which I thought was so kind. Locals were also waving at us, and some asked if they could take photos with us – you can, of course, say no. 

We also had the chance to do the Ha Giang loop with two locals, and it was a great experience. We learned a lot from them and stopped at different local homes for lunch or overnight, which allowed us to connect with their culture and customs on a deeper level. 

Vietnamese people have such a positive energy. Their generosity warmed my heart so much! 💚

3- It is incredibly affordable 

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries I have ever visited . Life is incredibly affordable, which means you can sleep in a nice hotel if you do not feel comfortable in a hostel with dorms. 

It also means you can easily shape your adventure around you and your budget whilst being able to join tours and meet other people without breaking your wallet.

4- You will meet other backpackers

Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route  encompassing the top sites in the country, especially along the coast. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your adventure, whether on the bus, at guesthouses or one of those sites. 

Whilst backpacking north Vietnam, we had the chance to meet many travellers, who were in a group or alone. It was so fun connecting with like-minded people in different places and exchanging our experiences.

And that is one thing I love about this country! You can solo travel and stay alone, or you can meet others on your trip and continue together – the choice is yours. 

5- It has excellent tourist infrastructure

Vietnam has all the infrastructure you need as a tourist . It has a good transportation network allowing you to travel between cities by bus or train, offers many restaurants and bars with an English menu and free wifi and has a thriving hostel scene where you can connect with other backpackers. 

You will also find plenty of possible tours and activities on your trip, which is another excellent way to meet people. 

Tips for a safe solo trip in Vietnam

Here are a few extra tips for a safe and comfortable trip in Vietnam as a solo traveller: 

1- Buy a SIM card & stay connected

Even though Vietnam is a great place to get away from it all and unwind, it is still a good idea to purchase a SIM card upon arrival and stay connected with your friends or family. Let them know your plans and where or what you are going. It will give you an extra sense of security. 

2- Do not carry too much cash

You can easily use your credit card in Vietnam, but having cash on you is also necessary, especially in remote places. However, I would suggest not carrying all your money on yourself at once and making several withdrawals during your trip. If it does not work for you, keep your cash safe in your bag or at your hotel.

3- Be mindful when carrying your bag

Shoulder bags can be an easy target for pickpockets. If you have valuable items, I would recommend carrying a backpack with secure pockets or carrying it across your chest. The other option would be to carry a cross-body bag or belt bag – many travellers had these, and they seemed super practical.  

4- Do your research

Being prepared is essential for a safe and smooth trip! Research the local culture, customs and places to visit, learn more travel tips (like this one) and avoid booking your accommodation at the last minute. Read reviews to find the best dorm hostels for backpackers and solo female travellers.

5- Watch our belongings

Like in any other country, Vietnam can have a few pickpockets and petty crime, especially in busy tourist places and on night buses. Always pay attention to your personal belongings and valuables, and keep them close to you in these situations. In crowded areas, keep your hands on your bag in a secure position. 

6- Drink alcohol in moderation

Vietnam is an incredible place to go out after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. It is also a great way to have fun and meet other people. However, when travelling alone, I suggest being mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially as a solo female backpacker. 

7- Get travel insurance

Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with travel insurance that will cover you in case of emergency. Here is one of my favourite providers:  Nomad Insurance . 

8- Do not drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

How much does a solo trip to Vietnam cost?

It will highly depend on your travel lifestyle and expectations. The good thing about Vietnam is that  the country is incredibly affordable to explore , from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. 

For example, the most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ per night in Hoi An. It included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet. 

Here are a few tips for staying on your budget: 

• Get a travel-friendly bank card (to reduce your fees)
• Stay in hostels & travel by bus (to keep your costs down)
• Volunteer (check out Workaway )
• House-sit (check out Trusted Housesitters )

How to make friends on a solo trip to Vietnam?

Making friends whilst travelling solo in Vietnam is easy ! The country is full of open and like-minded backpackers ready to connect with others. There are many ways to meet them, here are a few: 

• On the bus : you will meet other travellers getting around by bus, especially the night bus. If some want more privacy, you will find people happy to chat with you. 
• At hostels and guesthouses : it is how we met most of our friends from our trip across Vietnam. Hostels and guesthouses in the country are warm and welcoming and the perfect place to exchange with other travellers. 
• On tours and activities : another great way to make new friends is to join a tour or activity where you would be able to meet other adventurers like you. 
• At bars and restaurants : if you like going out and partying, those could also be great places to meet other backpackers who enjoy exploring and dancing the night out. 

Planning your solo backpacking trip to Vietnam

Best time to visit vietnam.

The best time to visit Vietnam is in  spring (March-April)  and  Autumn (September-November)  when the weather is dry but not too hot, perfect for backpacking and outdoor activities. Plus, these seasons are ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to capture scenic landscapes with vibrant colours.

However, as Vietnam is a long and narrow country, its weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August)  is the hottest season, with harsh sunshine. These months are generally the best for relaxing at the beach but not hiking, as the weather will be hot and humid, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.
• Winter (December – February)  is the coldest season, with chilling winds or heavy rain, especially in the north and mountainous regions. You will also find some snow in a few places, like Sapa. 
• Spring (February – May)  is the best time to see the flower season in Vietnam. The temperatures will rise slowly, and the sunshine will be pleasant with clear blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with lush fields and blooming spring flowers, making the country particularly beautiful.
• Autumn (September – November)  is one of the best seasons to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather where the colours gradually change and temperatures lower, but still a lovely time for exploration and outdoor activities.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements will depend on where you live. Here is an overview:

When visiting Vietnam, your passport must be valid  for 6 months from the date of your arrival . Plus, make sure it is in good condition. 

Vietnam has made it easy for tourists to arrive with its  visa-free policy , which means you can enter the country for  up to 15 days  for tourism and business without needing to apply for a visa. The list includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway,  the United Kingdom , France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.

If you are not on the list or want to stay in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you can apply for an  e-visa through the  online portal . Those electronic visas are only valid for stays of  up to 30 days  with a single entry, as you must select your entry and exit points when applying.

E-visas are super simple and fast. The fee is  25 USD , and the processing time is  3 working days . You will then receive your code by email to print your visa, which you need to enter and leave the country.

If you are staying longer or have questions, check out your government website or contact them. 

How to get to Vietnam

The best way to get to Vietnam is by plane , with frequent flights landing in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. 

As you can imagine, prices can be high depending on where you live, so book your ticket in advance using  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows you to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

I departed from Paris, and my flight was 500€ (which I only booked two months before going). I had a transfer in Thailand, which was easy and quick. The first flight lasted 11h, and the second was 1h30.

How to travel around Vietnam

The bus is the best way to get around Vietnam . It is a cheap, easy and safe way to travel around the country, especially if you do not know how to ride a motorbike on your own.

The bus network runs across the whole country and makes it possible to reach remote villages hidden in the mountains. Local buses are also the main way for Vietnamese people to access distant places and transport goods, which means you can go along with them and hop on one of these buses (be careful in the mountains, everyone was sick!).

And because Vietnam is a lengthy country, you can use sleeper buses. They are super practical to make the most of your trip and not waste time on transport. Inside these buses, you will find small beds where you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during your journey. They are incredibly convenient and cheap, perfect for long night trips. 

Booking local or sleeper buses is easy – ask the reception of your hotel or guesthouse. They will reserve the bus for you, wherever you are. It is one of the safest and most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam. 

And if you want more premium buses, check out  Baolau  and  12go.asia . They provide express minibuses and vans, which are more comfortable and private.

2- By motorbike 

The other best way to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike . However, it might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and will depend on your biking level. 

The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts can be challenging with foggy, cold and wet weather. Keep in mind that accidents are common, so drive slowly! We came across a traveller who had a serious fall and had to go to the hospital. 

On the other hand, travelling across Vietnam on a motorbike is an excellent way to move freely and stop where and when you want! 

I recommend you read beforehand about exploring on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent or buy one, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

3- By train

Another safe way to get around Vietnam is by train . Trains run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. On the other hand, they are a good alternative if no bus is available or to get to a city faster. 

Check the timetables in advance and book your ticket online or ask the reception of your hotel. 

I believe you will also find trains with sleeping cabins for longer journeys. I have never experienced it in Vietnam, so if you have, please let me know in the comments below with any tips or suggestions you have.

How to travel around cities & regions

Travelling within cities and regions is easy and safe. Here are a few options: 

The easiest way to get around each city is on foot . It will allow you to slow travel and soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings. And if you love taking photos, it is the best way to wander and capture candids. Plus, some areas offer beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities.

2- By motorbike

Another way to travel around is by   motorbike . You can easily rent one at the reception of your hotel or guesthouse and start exploring the area. However, be mindful when driving as some roads can be in poor condition, such as Sapa, where the weather is often cloudy and foggy.

If you are not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself and the place you want to reach is a bit far,  use a Grab  (the equivalent of an Uber)  or taxi . You can download the app or just book it in person, you will have many taxis waiting around.

4- With a local guide

Finally, if you are unsure about exploring on your own, feel free to  hire a local guide  who will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to trek through rice terraces on a day trip or multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach remote places.  

What to pack for a solo Vietnam trip

The best way to backpack Vietnam in any season and enjoy this beautiful country is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you pack is essential. Therefore, here are some clothing items and gear you might need to be comfortable on your solo backpacking trip: 

• Good backpack : the most essential item when going backpacking! I would advise having a  good spacious bag  suitable for you and comfortable. I would also suggest having a smaller bag with you when you explore around, as you can leave your heavy backpack at the guesthouse or hotel.
• Comfortable walking shoes : another important item, especially if you like hiking. In any case, I believe having comfortable shoes is a must when exploring a city or joining an excursion. And if you can, try to find an eco-friendly and vegan alternative.
• Mosquito repellent : you will quickly find out that mosquitos are everywhere in Vietnam and quite aggressive! Bring a good mosquito repellent with you to protect your skin from bites.
• Filtered water bottle : tap water is NOT safe to drink in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated wherever you are.
• Sunscreen : protecting your skin from the sun is non-negotiable! So bring a  zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreen  with you, which reduces plastic waste and keeps you healthy by removing harmful components.
• Travel towel : a great item for any adventure, from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains. A  quick-drying towel  made from eco-friendly fibres or recycled materials is a must-have and a perfect all-in-one option. 
• Portable charger : having gear charged on your backpacking trip is essential to capturing your beautiful adventure and coming home with unforgettable memories. That is when solar chargers come in handy! Check out  Goal Zero  and  Anker . 

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Shop the editable travel packing list

Be prepared for your perfect solo Vietnam trip 🎒

When travelling alone, I understand that finding suitable accommodation where you feel safe and comfortable is a must! Here are some options:

• Hostel : you will find many affordable and high-quality hostels all over Vietnam, even in remote places. Hostels were our favourite places to stay as we loved their welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to meet other travellers.  
• Guesthouse & Hotel : from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels, you will have plenty of choices depending on your lifestyle and budget. We stayed in a few of them on our journey, and they were cosy and private. 

The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com .  We used this platform whilst backpacking across the north, and it was perfect! 

We decided to choose where we wanted to stay each night on the same day, booking at the last minute. I was always amazed by how low the prices were and could not believe it! The most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ a night in Hoi An, and it included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet – not too bad!! We loved it so much that we stayed an extra night.

Best things to do in Vietnam for solo travel

Top places to visit.

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam , a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

Personal experience – I did not spend a lot of time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was extremely hot and humid, and it was hard to breathe. Plus, the noise and smell were intense and challenging to deal with. However, I still enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in Hanoi: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in Hanoi:

• Walk through the Old Quarter
• Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Traverse the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Stroll Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Sample Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho & a beer!)
• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Hạ Long Bay

It is impossible not to mention  Hạ Long Bay  as one of the  top things to do in Vietnam . Located on the northwest coast, the bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall islands filled with rainforests. 

From there, you can explore the islands on a boat tour or kayak expedition, scuba dive, rock climb or hike – so many things to do! 

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay:

• Join a boat cruise
• Discover Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Explore Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

If you have time, discover  Cát Bà and its national park , a hidden gem well worth a visit. It is also another great place to start your cruise as the island is more budget-friendly and less touristy. Plus, there are  many things to see and activities to do , such as: 

• Explore Cát Bà National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Hạ Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cát Bà nightlife

Sapa is a remote town  located in the mountains of northwestern Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of  trekking possibilities  that will take you through dramatic landscapes and ethnic villages.

Things to do & see in Sapa:

• Explore Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Rent a motorbike & wander
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Ninh Bình is a city, district and UNESCO World Heritage Protected Site  located southeast of Hanoi. It is the ideal base for adventurers and nature lovers, as the area offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. 

From there, you can discover Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, take a boat tour on its rivers or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for stunning views.

Things to do & see in Ninh Bình:

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Huế is a charming city in central Vietnam full of art and history , which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. 

One main attraction in the area is its impressive 19th-century Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by canals and stone walls. It contains the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines, the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the home of the Emperor, and a replica of the Royal Theater.

Things to do & see in Huế:

• Discover the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Forbidden Purple City
• Stroll through the Imperial City
• See a performance at the Royal Theatre 
• Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda 
• Relax at the Co Ha Gardens 
• Walk along the Perfume River
• Explore the To Mieu Temple Complex

Hội An is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam , famous for its colourful lanterns, well-preserved Ancient Town and mixed architectural styles.

Personal experience – Hội An was an incredible discovery and is as beautiful as the photos you may have seen online! I loved wandering its streets, walking along its canals, admiring its lanterns and strolling through its markets. The city had a fantastic atmosphere, day and night! 

Things to do & see in Hội An:

• Wander through the Old Town
• Relax at An Bang Beach
• Explore the countryside by bike
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary
• Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Marvel at Quan Cong Temple

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam , situated in the southeastern region of the country and surrounding the Saigon River.

From historic museums and stunning architecture to a thriving food and craft beer scene, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this bustling city.

Things to do & see in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Explore the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Visit the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Join a Bonsai River cruise
• Discover the Central Office
• Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Marvel at the Cao Dai Temple

Are you looking for the perfect  guided tour in Vietnam ? Check those out:

How to reduce your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their preservation.

Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling solo in Vietnam: 

GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully carefully your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a  filtered water bottle  to stay hydrated on the go.
• Join tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife . Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more focused on money than traditional culture! Select an operator with a responsible tourism approach (research their website and ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 
• If you decide to snorkel or drive, be sure to choose a responsible operator . Plus, never touch or step on coral and wear reef-safe sunscreen.
• Do not leave a trace : do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 
• Hire a local guide if possible.  You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.
• Shop local . Buy handicrafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.
• Eat at local restaurants, and tip your guides or hotel and restaurant staff . It may be small for you but can significantly impact their earnings.
• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites . Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words 🙂

More inspiration for your adventure:

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Vietnam travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Vietnam? Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

💧 Can you drink the water in Vietnam? No, drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

🛵 Is it easy to rent a motorbike in Vietnam? Yes, renting a motorbike or motorscooter in Vietnam is easy and cheap (just ask your guesthouse or hotel) and is a great way to explore the country freely.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Vietnam? The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Vietnam? I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Vietnam solo travel – FAQ

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit, especially for female backpackers. However, also be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport.

Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers. The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure.

Vietnam is incredibly affordable to explore with a backpack, from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. Although it will depend on your budget and expectations, the lifestyle is extremely cheap.

I recommend spending at least 14 days in Vietnam to have enough time to travel and see the main attractions and highlights at each stop without rushing.

Have you ever experienced a solo trip in Vietnam or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to Vietnam

Vietnam is the travel gift that keeps on giving. How do you choose between the misty mountains, scenic beaches and bays, energetic cities and cultural sights when travelling solo in Vietnam? Then there’s the gentleness of the Vietnamese people and their show-stopping cuisine. All of this is Vietnam, but there’s much more, as you’ll see in our trusty guide.

An overview of a solo trip to vietnam.

In a week or slightly more, you can graze the length of Vietnam, from north to south, starting in Hanoi, the boulevard-lined capital home to a French quarter and historic hotels. Moving on to coastal Da Nang, a mountain-backed city used as a portal to Hoi An, pretty as a picture with atmospheric lantern-lit lanes. Cooled by the winds of the South China Sea, palm-lined Mũi Né fishing resort is home to desert-like dunes. Last but not least, Ho Chi Minh City – still called Saigon by locals – is a dizzying mix of thriving modern commerce and ancient temples.

Vietnam’s tropical monsoon climate has regional variations and hits different parts of the country at different times. In the south, the driest months are between December and April, while in the north, it’s spring and autumn.

Where to stay in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Vietnam is an inexpensive country to travel solo – so you can switch up staying in historic hotels and ritzy resorts for a sail around Halong Bay in the northeast of Vietnam, without worrying about your budget too much. One opportunity that absolutely shouldn’t be passed up is an overnight stay on a wooden boat styled on a Chinese sailing ship, giving you a close-up view of the limestone islands soaring from the deep green waters – either on deck or from the comfort of your cabin.

Check out our favourite Vietnam hostels . If you’re planning on spending a few days by the beach, here’s our pick of top beach hotels in Vietnam , while you can keep your carbon footprint to a minimum at one of these eco-friendly hotels up and down the country . Or take your pick from our best of the best roundup for a real treat without breaking the bank.

What to do in Vietnam as a solo traveller

Vietnam is a deceptively slender country stacked with sights from head to toe. With so much choice, we’ve cherry-picked three very different things to do.

Take a walking tour of Hanoi

Architectural Landmark

You can’t visit Hanoi and not be charmed, despite the crazy traffic thick with darting mopeds. Be guided through the city on foot by our Local Insider – as part of our 12-day Vietnam small-group adventure – from Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945, to the maze-like, industrious Old Quarter, passing Hanoians balancing produce on bamboo poles, and stopping for street food classics like bánh xeo (savoury pancakes).

Go off-roading on Mũi Né’s sand dunes

Natural Feature

Half an hour from Mũi Né, a fishing village turned popular resort in the south, Sahara-like dunes sculpted by the sea breeze rise behind a lotus-topped lake. Hire a quad bike or dune buggy to zig-zag across them as the sun sets.

Explore the bustling market streets of Hoi An

A thriving trading post until the 19th century, today Hoi An draws tourists with its picturesque charm. Wooden pagodas and narrow lanes sell silky pyjamas while restaurants peddle seafood-rich dishes you’ll want to return for.

Eating and drinking in Vietnam

The French occupation left its mark in many ways. In terms of cuisine, the baguettes available on most streets are the bedrock of the popular banh mi – pickle-loaded meat sandwiches. Street food really is the way to authentic Vietnamese food culture. Avoid trendy restaurants where they may only serve you what looks tasty. Instead, opt for such down-to-earth places where you can pull out a plastic stool on the pavement.

What’s also ubiquitous here is the sight of Vietnamese squatting low as they breakfast on pho, an aromatic rice noodle soup with a bunch of fresh, green herbs and thin slithers of beef, served in homes, street stalls and restaurants.

You may also want to perk yourself up with a morning coffee – often served cold and sweetened with condensed milk – and later savour an ice-cold beer – the Saigon and Hanoi brands are very popular.

Read our guide on how to spot the best street food stalls in Vietnam , or cut to the chase with our top pick of dishes to eat in Vietnam and the best vegetarian street food Vietnamese dong can buy .

Stay safe, be happy

Vietnam is generally very safe, whether you’re alone or with others. There’s an established tourist trail, which means a huge variety of hotels and plenty of transport options. The main thing to be aware of in larger cities is pickpockets grabbing bags and mobile phones as they whizz by on scooters – but you’d have to be very unlucky to fall victim to this.

For female solo travellers out at night, a metered taxi is the safest form of transport. Booking a small-group trip to Vietnam is one of the best ways to experience the country with the security of a local expert to guide you, yet the freedom to pick your excursions, from street food tours to biking in the hills.

What to do to fit in – and not offend

Vietnamese people are naturally friendly and welcoming to solo travellers. However, if you travel to remote areas, be respectful of their conservative values. Behave as the locals do when visiting pagodas and temples; if they cover up a body part, then so should you. Perhaps unfairly, but particularly if you’re a female solo traveller, dress as the locals do. We don’t mean donning a nòn la conical hat but avoid revealing outfits and don’t topless sunbathe anywhere.

Getting around

Vietnam is a delightful country, but some of the roads are dangerous and best left to native drivers. Air-conditioned coaches chug up and down heavily congested Highway 1, the main route that runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Less stressful are the sleeper cabins on the trains that run alongside. Buy tickets online or at the station (hotels and agencies will do it for a fee), and pre-book in peak holiday periods such as Tet (Vietnamese new year). Buy the highest class you can afford; lower means less comfort and higher gets softer seats, sleeping berths and faster service.

Alternatively, join our immersive 12-day Vietnam adventure to have all your transportation, accommodation and activities arranged for you – you’ll only travel with a small group of like-minded travellers, and beat the crowds everywhere you visit.

This is an updated rewrite of an article originally by Dung Phan .

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Here's everything to know before planning a solo trip to Vietnam

By Jemima Skelley | 8 hours ago

More than half of Aussies are planning to take a solo trip this year, from short weekends away to extended holidays around the world.

Vietnam is a popular choice for people taking a holiday on their own – it's relatively cheap, easy to get around, and there are heaps of things to do and see that'll keep you entertained. Plus the food is amazing.

But where to go? We reached out to the experts at InsideAsia for their top tips.

What you add to your itinerary is totally dependent on your interests, timeframe, and budget. The experts at InsideAsia can help you create a fully bespoke trip that ticks all your boxes.

READ MORE: These are the best beaches in Australia, as voted by our readers

Here's everything to know before embarking on a solo trip to Vietnam.

Tip 1: Food is the gateway into any culture

One of the absolute musts in Vietnam is the street food. Perch on a plastic stool slurping a bún chả and grab an incredibly cheap beer or the famous egg coffee and people-watch.

Yep, that's right, egg coffee.

It sounds strange but it tastes amazing - be sure to try one when you're there. 

READ MORE: Liquid hand luggage rules return in the EU this weekend - here's what that means

Get up close and personal with the food culture by taking part in a cooking class. Walk through the markets with a local chef, select your produce and then learn how to cook a traditional meal in their home kitchen as they explain their unique methods.

Food is central to culture and provides meaningful insight into the psychosocial dynamics at play.

Tip 2: Be curious, be open

Solo travel is the ultimate freedom to explore without compromise. You will find that Vietnamese people are very warm and welcoming – the more you embrace the culture, the more it will embrace you.

It's all about getting up early for a syrupy egg coffee (yes, we said egg) while old ladies practise t'ai chi around Hoan Kiem Lake. It's about staying up late to drink beers and eat bun cha barbecued pork with the locals.

It's about meeting people and getting to know the culture, whether that means exploring the morning food markets with a local chef or cutting-edge contemporary art with a young curator.

READ MORE: Grocery store tourism: Why travellers are flocking to supermarkets on holiday

Tip 3: Go with the flow

Not everything will always go to plan when travelling around Vietnam, but don't let that throw you off course. Having the flexibility to adapt is all part of the travel experience, and often leads to the most unexpectedly incredible experiences.

There are countless versions of Vietnam to be explored – from revisiting the Communist era, touring the war museums, visiting temples or meandering the chaotic market streets dating back to the imperial dynasties.

Tip 4: Act confident

Confidence is key. Even if you're unsure, just fake it 'till you make it – you'll be surprised at how far this approach takes you. When crossing the road, put your hand out with authority, signalling others to stop and make way.

Generally speaking, the tourism infrastructure in Hanoi is very good – things are accessible, Google Maps works well and everything is in close proximity. It's best to be on foot and take it all in from the ground. Don't be intimidated by the unfamiliar, lean into it.

Just be sure to observe your surroundings and stay mindful of what is happening around you.

Tip 5: Vary the pace

Vietnam is an amazingly varied country. From city to country to seaside, there's so much diversity of landscapes to be enjoyed. The northern and southern ends of the country are vastly different.

The south is steamy and flat, the food is spicier, and the people are less reserved than their northern counterparts. Embracing the differences and learning to understand the relative cultural nuances is what makes a trip to Vietnam so special – set apart from anywhere else in the world.

Tip 6: Respect the place and the people you meet

When travelling, especially solo, it's essential to approach new cultures and communities with respect and humility. This means being mindful of local customs, traditions, and sensitivities. One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds.

But the trick is to let these interactions unfold naturally. Instead of pressing for information or prying, allow those you meet to share their stories in their own time and way. Remember, travel is as much about what you learn from others as it is about the places you visit.

This is why it can be so great to travel with a guide, who can help you navigate interactions with new people as you travel. 

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Vietnam New Years Singles Vacation 40's - 50's and 60's+ Singles Vacations

Ho chi minh to hanoi.

Vietnam is a country just waiting for those with a sense of adventure, exploration and discovery. Explore ancient temples, view green rice fields dotted with conical hats and hear the blaring of horns and chaos of motorbike traffic. Graceful lakes, slow river life, white sand beaches and traditional dishes will delight you. Join Best Single Travel on our Vietnam Singles Trip, a memorable journey of history and culture.

Vietnam New Years Singles Vacation Itinerary

Vacation Day 1: - Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Upon arrival at Ho Chi Minh airport (SGN) you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to our hotel where you will meet your host guide and the rest of the travelers. To give everyone a chance to arrive there are no activities planned for today but our local guide will be able to offer suggestions if you arrive early and join the group for an optional dinner.

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Tips for Single Travelers in Vietnam

By and large, travelers in Vietnam and the other countries of Southeast Asia are seekers of some kind, whether for an exotic location or an unbending of their cultural norm, or to reconnect with their past and come to terms with it. Many prefer to travel in Vietnam alone. For independent travelers, solo journeys are opportunities to make friends and meet locals. Groups of tourists are intimidating, but single travelers -- though better targets for touts and shysters -- also look like they need help ("sympathy touring," a friend of mine calls it) and will likely be pitied (however unfounded) and offered hospitality by kind Vietnamese families.

A certain camaraderie also develops on long bus rides or in the uncertainty and wonder we share with fellow travelers from the West, and a trip that might start out solo often ends in friendships that last a lifetime.

Travel Buddies Singles Travel Club (tel. 800/998-9099; www.travelbuddiesworldwide.com), based in Canada, runs small, intimate, singles-friendly group trips and will match you with a roommate free of charge. TravelChums (tel. 212/787-2621; www.travelchums.com) is an Internet-only travel-companion matching service with elements of an online personals-type site, hosted by the respected New York-based Shaw Guides travel service.

Many reputable tour companies offer singles-only trips. Singles Travel International (tel. 877/765-6874; www.singlestravelintl.com) offers singles-only escorted tours to places like London, Alaska, Fiji, and the Greek Islands. Backroads (tel. 800/462-2848; www.backroads.com) offers "Singles + Solos" active-travel trips to destinations worldwide.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Vietnam Singles Holidays & Solo Tours

Escorted holidays to Vietnam designed exclusively for solo travellers

Singles Holidays & Solo Tours to Vietnam

Vietnam Escorted Tours for Solo Travellers

Vast, versatile and vibrant: Vietnam is all these things – and so much more. With colour and character at its heart, Vietnam offers you an independent holiday like no other. From exciting, eclectic metropolises such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the peace and permanent tranquillity palpable all the way down the Mekong Delta, finding somewhere that’ll appeal to your interests is a cinch. For an extra-indulgent globetrotting experience, you'll want to discover Vietnam. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like getting in touch with your adventurous side and heading to one of the world’s most eye-catching nations. Our hand-crafted Vietnam tours are designed to give you the experience of a lifetime, leaving you wanting to spend longer in this beautiful country.

We offer a wide range of trips to Vietnam that take in the whole of its 2,000-year history. Whether you can’t wait to cruise among the awe-inspiring rainforest-topped limestone islands of Halong Bay or are aching to visit the amazing Cu Chi Tunnels, it’s a pleasure to provide for such a diverse array of interests. To make your trip extra memorable, be sure to sign yourself up for a variety of optional excursions too. From water puppet shows to Saigon by night and the Cham ruins at My Son, there’s so much to enjoy on your Vietnam singles holiday with Just You!

We’re delighted to have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. 

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Featured Vietnam Solo Escorted Tour Holidays

Discover vietnam.

An intriguing country with a colourful history, stunning landscapes, Vietnam is a truly unique destination. Discover the lively capital Hanoi, cruise on idyllic Halong Bay, journey to the Mekong Delta and explore memorable Ho Chi Minh City.

• Return flights
• 9 nights in 4-star hotels, 2 nights in flight
• 21 included meals: 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

Discover Vietnam with Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh & Mekong River Add-on

• 14 nights in 4-star hotels and 2 nights in flight
• 36 included meals: 15 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners

Frequently Asked Questions about Solo Holidays to Vietnam

The ultimate way to experience this fascinating country is on our Discover Vietnam guided holiday, taking you the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Over 13 days you will get to see the marvellous towns and cities, visiting vibrant temples and tombs, enjoying markets and the local cuisines, take an overnight boat cruise to fully enjoy the wonders of Halong Bay, and see the real Vietnam on a tour of the Mekong Delta. 

The highlights are many - and on everyone's list would be the big cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City - as they are full of delights. 

However, the smaller towns of Hue and Hoi An are also must see's. Hue - the former capital of Vietnam - is a delightful town on the banks of the Perfume River - with a walled citadel and temples, palaces, pavilions and tombs all providing insights to the Vietnamese deep heritage. 

Hoi An is an ancient riverside town, and quite simply the most enchanting place on the Vietnamese coast.

Another amazing experience is Halong Bay - which we explore in style on a traditional boat for an overnight cruise. As we sail, we’ll admire the dramatic limestone peaks rising out of the sea, and we’ll even enter one of the vast caves.

Vietnam has tropical climate with annual monsoons. Rainy seasons in the north and south are from May to September, and in the central regions you will find heavy rainfall from September to January. The cool but mostly dry winter lasts from November to April when temperatures average 17-22°C.

Layers - we recommend you take loose, breathable clothing that covers your knees and shoulders plus a light jacket or fleece / warm layers for the evening during cooler months.

We always recommend comfortable shoes so you can enjoy walking around the destination.

Vietnam is UTC + 7 hours

Destinations you might also like

A country where ancient riches meet modern marvels, China is an excellent choice when it comes to deciding where to travel solo.

In Thailand you'll find an array of treasures, both natural and man-made, including tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples dedicated to Buddha.

With a history reaching back 5 millennia, India is one of the world’s most fascinating countries, full of attractions to delight all the senses.

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OUR COMPANY

We're a modern group travel company for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s.

We believe in responsible travel, openness to new people, and supporting local communities.

We're a travel-obsessed group dedicated to taking you on the most amazing trips possible.

The amazing people you meet on an FTLO trip are often the best part.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Our small group trip to Vietnam caters to travelers in their 20s and 30s looking for picturesque old town architecture in Hoi An, soaring limestone landscapes in Ha Long Bay, and energetic streets full of history, motorbikes, and delicious cuisine in Hanoi. We'll kick things off beneath brightly colored lanterns that hang between 400-year-old yellow stucco homes and shops in Vietnam's most atmospheric town to learn about this ancient culture. From there, we'll head to more remote parts of the country - Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay - for local adventure and our first glimpse of Vietnam's iconic towering jungle landscapes. Eventually, we'll wind up in Hanoi, the bustling capital full of culture, fantastic food, chaotic streets, and hundreds of boutique shops (perfect for souvenir shopping!). With adventurous local excursions and some of the world's best cuisine, the Vietnam trip is a uniquely moving and culturally immersive bucket list experience.

upcoming dates

Nov 2 - 10, 2024

Nov 23 - Dec 1, 2024

Thanksgiving Trip - likely to sell out

Dec 21 - 29, 2024

Dec 28 - Jan 5, 2025

New Year's Eve Trip - likely to sell out

9 days/8 nights

starting at $2,699 USD

Limited single room upgrades starting from $530 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.

Payment can be broken down into a $500 deposit + 3 additional installments.

Upcoming dates

$200 OFF WITH CODE: EB2025VIE

Feb 15 - 23, 2025  

Feb 22 - Mar 2, 2025  

Mar 22 - 30, 2025  

Apr 19 - 27, 2025  

May 24 - Jun 1, 2025

Sep 27 - Oct 5, 2025

Oct 11 - 19, 2025

Nov 8 - 16, 2025

Dec 6 - 14, 2025

​ Dec 27 - Jan 4, 2026

New Year's Eve Trip

Limited single room upgrades starting from $569 are available and can be added during booking, subject to availability.

All accommodations in a shared room with one other person with the option to upgrade to a private room (limited availability)

Flight from Hoi An to Hanoi

8 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 3 lunches, and 6 dinners with some drinks included

Farewell dinner

Rooftop welcome drinks

Walking tour of Hoi An

Bike tour and local farming experience

Countryside lunch and Tam Coc river float

Guided visit to Bich Dong Pagoda

Two night cruise excursion on the magical Ha Long Bay, including early morning Tai Chi, visit to an ancient cave, kayaking, and more

Hanoi Vespa food tour

Farewell drinks

Local guide on numerous days & tours

FTLO Trip Leader

*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.

not included

Flights (fly into Hoi An and out of Hanoi)

Airport transfers

Mandatory trip insurance 

E-visa for Vietnam (budget approx. $51)

Meals not mentioned (budget around $200)

Incidental expenses (budget $100)

Trip itineraries are subject to change. For more information, check out our FAQs [ LINK ]. 

    Day 1 - Hoi An Xin Chào

We'll begin our journey through Vietnam along the ancient streets of this stunning coastal village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consistently named one of the most beautiful towns in Southeast Asia.  After you settle into your hotel, meet up with the group for rooftop drinks overlooking the excitement, followed by a delicious modern Vietnamese dinner. From there, head out to spend the rest of your first night in Vietnam wandering the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An with your new travel crew.   Welcome to Vietnam.

Day 2 - Hoi An

Like a local.

Enjoy a quiet morning and your first delicious breakfast before joining a local guided walking tour for a dive into Vietnam's history, culture, and cuisine. After that, you're free to crisscross through Hoi An's old streets on your own before meeting up with the group for a leisurely bike ride into the countryside. We'll twist through stunning scenes of winding village paths and lush rice paddies—the views are superb and we're likely to have this little bit of paradise all to ourselves (P.S. if you can't ride a bike, we can arrange a tuk-tuk for you!). With the Truong Son Mountains in the distance, you'll join a Vietnamese family for a unique farming experience and a deeper look into local life. Then, round out the day with a cooking class where you'll prepare your own authentic Vietnamese dinner.

    Day 3 - Hoi An Old Town Strolls

Today's free to relax or explore with friends. Catch up on sleep if you need to, then grab some more of that oh so delicious cà phê sua đá and a bánh mì for breakfast. Stroll between the cracked walls of the ancient town or get your final fittings on that brand new áo dài. If you're up for some exercise, split a cab to the Marble Mountains and explore the caves, passageways, and ancient temples. Take your time climbing the 156 steps to the top; the views of the East Sea, Danang, and Hoi An make it completely worthwhile. Grab a lift back to Hoi An and walk across the bridge over the Thu Bồn River to check out the stalls beneath the hanging lanterns of one of Vietnam's most romantic night markets.

    Day 4 - Ninh Binh IN NATURE

After a short flight up to Hanoi, we'll head out of the city in our private transfer to the limestone jungles of Ninh Binh. We'll grab lunch at a local restaurant, and then we're visiting a surreal region of caves and rocky overhangs that stretches along the Ngo Dong River. Surrounded by wild scenery, we'll take a two-hour boat trip downstream, past rugged mountains, rice paddies, and ancient temples poking out of the jungle. After a day spent cruising in limestone paradise, you're evening is free; find a local spot with little red plastic chairs, grab a drink and some tasty Bún Chả, and take in your unreal surroundings.

    Day 5 - Ha Long Bay cruise control

Today, we're getting up early and heading to the coast. Ha Long Bay, we're coming for you! 

Made up of almost 2,000 limestone islands, we'll have a chance to explore them via an authentic boat cruise with lunch included. You'll feel as if you're entering a scene of Jurassic Park or Avatar.

Next up, a lesson in fruit and vegetable carving! This Vietnamese art traces back to the Imperial age, where cuisine was designed to please the Emperor's eyes. This activity is optional but we recommend taking a stab (no pun intended). The evening is yours to enjoy! Gather your crew for some board games and grab a refreshing cocktail from the bar. As you watch the sunset from the deck, raise your glasses and toast to a fantastic day at sea.

Day 6 - Ha Long Bay

Water wonders.

Wake up early to start your day with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the top deck with one hell of a seaside view, or sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board. After that, it's time for a 4-course lunch as we cruise through thousands of limestone islands and islets in search of more secluded areas to swim, kayak, or soak up the sun. That evening, relax on the sundeck with a good book, play cards with your new friends, or chat with the friendly boat staff about their lives in Vietnam over a Bia Hà Nội.

Day 7 - Hanoi

Vespa adventure.

Get up early if you're in the mood for some more sunrise Tai Chi before we head back to land and make our way to the capital and largest city in northern Vietnam—Hanoi! We'll arrive in the early afternoon, and you'll have some free time to settle in or explore a bit on your own. Our hotel is in the middle of town, with easy access to lively local shops, restaurants, and cafes! In the evening, hop on the back of a Vespa for the ride of your life through Hanoi's action-packed neighborhoods with stops at the most delicious in-the-know foodie spots in town. We'll end the night at a jazz club hidden behind the old opera house!

    Day 8 - Hanoi Hello Hanoi

Today is your chance to choose your own adventure! So soak up your last full day in Vietnam as you like.

Start with a cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee at a nearby café, then enjoy a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals practice tai chi and vendors sell fresh lotus flowers.

Next, dive into the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Explore the colorful shops and markets, but don't miss out on trying pho or banh mi from one of the local street vendors.

Our farewell dinner is at sunset and offers panoramic views of the city. Perfect spot to raise a toast to all the memories and friendships made over the last 8 days. Tonight, go out with a bang by exploring Hanoi's vibrant nightlife.

Day 9 - Hanoi

Until next time.

Sadly, today is our last day together in this incredible country. We'll enjoy one final breakfast with the group before heading our separate ways. The hotel can store your bags if you have a later flight (which we recommend!) and want to do some more exploring on your own! If you've got a few more days, consider flying south to Ho Chi Minh City, the chaotic, action-packed economic powerhouse in southern Vietnam, and then heading off to the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn more about the nation's history. From there, you could keep going south to visit the Mekong Delta or even find a super cheap beach resort down on Phu Quoc island.

ABOUT VIETNAM

Vietnam is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food. It is also a nation with a complex and fascinating history. In the years since the Vietnam War, the country has experienced a remarkable recovery. Today, travelers from all over the world crisscross the country known for its friendly people, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food on Vietnam vacation packages or independently.

GOod to know

The national language is Vietnamese.

The national currency is the Vietnamese Dong.

Tipping is not customary  in Vietnam but greatly appreciated. 

The closest airport is Danang International Airport (DAD). The departure airport is Hanoi International  (HAN).

Bottled water is recommended and is your best bet for staying healthy.

The weather can change drastically. Pack smart and be prepared for heat, humidity and rain!

Vietnam is a cash-based economy. Be prepared to use cash more than your credit cards. 

While we can’t guarantee private rooms, you sho uld book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.

You will need a Tourist Visa to enter Vietnam. You can obtain a visa upon arrival by applying online prior to the trip. Processing time generally takes anywhere from 7-10 business days and will cost around $65.  For all other nationalities, please check here ​ ​​.  

More information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found here .

Keep an open mind that we are traveling to a developing country - we do our best to stick to the itinerary, but be flexible and aware that changes may occur.

We can accommodate dietary requirements, but we do need to know ahead of time. Severe nut allergies will be more difficult since nut oils are used frequently in the local food.

flight information

Fly into da nang / hoi an (dad).

You'll need to be in Hoi An by 2pm on Day 1. We do recommend flying in earlier to have some time to explore the city on your own!

Fly out of Hanoi (HAN)

We recommend flying out of Hanoi on day 9 or extending your trip and enjoying a few more days in Vietnam .

Alumni Reviews

We know how much you'll love the vietnam trip... but don't take our word for it check out some of our alumni reviews. .

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Interested in learning more about our Vietnam trip?

Have a question? We're here to help! Whether you're curious about accommodations, accessibility, group vibe, or dietary needs, fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you ASAP.

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Vietnam Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

Vietnam has a complex history that shapes much of its modern life. We recommend visiting the cultural religious and historic sites of Ho Chi Minh City , including a tour of the Củ Chi tunnels leftover from the Vietnam War. Head North for a boat cruise on Ha Long Bay , or visit the capital city of Hanoi to discover its temples, museums and delicious street food.

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Beautiful, serene, and enchanting is how every trip to Vietnam feels. Fly into Hanoi to start your Vietnam explorations in the north and adjust yourself to the local culture.  For something entirely unique, hire an open-sided river boat and drift along the Mekong River to enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the country that you’ll ever see. Holidaying in Vietnam is a constant bombardment on your senses. There are times when it feels downright ridiculous, but there are also times when it leaves you mesmerized.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the Temple of Literature in Hanoi
• Cruise down the Mekong Delta
• Climb the Marble Mountains
• Witness the art and architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb
• Take a boat tour along the Ngo Dong River to Tam Coc
• Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda
• Visit the amazing rice terraces in Sapa

Travel Tips

• Vietnam is a very safe country, but be wary of petty crime. Passerbys on motorbikes may try to steal your bags, and theft on sleeper buses is common. Do not carry valuable items and keep a secure hold of your cameras and cellphones.
• Be sure to haggle whenever visiting markets or buying from street vendors. Try to figure out what the going rate really is, as vendors will always inflate their prices if they think they can get away with it. Pro tip: you’ll always get your lowest price as you walk away. 
• The Vietnamese consider public displays of anger to be very embarrassing. Try not to raise your voice, cross your arms, or lose your temper.
• Wi-Fi is very common in Vietnam, and is often free in hotels, hostels, cafes and restaurants.
• The food you will eat in Vietnam will depend heavily on what area of the country you visit. Central Vietnam is full of spicy foods, while they love sugar in the South. Food in the North tends to be seasonal. Be sure to try Bún Chả and Pho (pronounced Fuh).

Vietnam has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Vietnam before planning your tour.

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Popular Destinations

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Popular Activities

• Active and outdoor Tours
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• Countryside and village visits Tours
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• Explorer Tours
• Kayaking and canoeing Tours
• Local boat rides Tours
• Local culture Tours
• Natural landmarks sightseeing Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Trekking and Hiking Tours

Upcoming Departures

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Trips per Duration

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Why Travel Vietnam?

Looking for the ultimate Asian experience? Look no further. Vietnam has it all, from lantern-lit cities and stunning natural beauty to irresistible street food and captivating history. Travelling through Vietnam delivers an authentic local experience from north to south. Savour the flavours in Hanoi, immerse yourself in Hue's culture and delve into Ho Chi Minh's complex war history. Add to this the vibrant nightlife and golden sandy beaches. It's clear why Vietnam is skyrocketing up the charts as a go-to destination for solo travellers and backpackers in Southeast Asia.

Say Hello Xin Chao

Local Currency Dong

Local Beer Bia Hoi

Favourite Dish Phở

Group Tours in Vietnam

Jumping on a group tour in Vietnam is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel. You'll be picked up when you land and introduced to your new travel buddies for the trip of a lifetime. Our trips include most of the big-ticket items like accommodation, activities, local experiences, and much more. Whether you are travelling solo or with a friend/partner, everyone is welcome on our group tours in Vietnam.

Basket Boat crab fishing in the coconut groves

Sandboards & 4x4’s on the dunes of Mui Ne

Kayak around the limestone islands & caves of Halong Bay

Learn about the war and explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Take on the Dragon Laying mountain for sunset

Cycle around the rice paddies taking in the local life

Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter by 3-wheeled rickshaw

Relax in a natural mud bath in Nha Trang

Discover the ancient Imperial City of Vietnam in Hue

Pick a Trip

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Share the adventure.

On one of our popular backpacking group tours, take a journey through the ‘Land of Ascending Dragon’. Cruise your way through the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay or taste your way through the streets of Hanoi; climb to the Ninh Binh viewpoint or explore the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An; sandboard the dunes of Mui Ne or wander the bustling streets of Hanoi. Our incredible team has designed our group trips in Vietnam to find the perfect balance of culture, adventure, chill time and nightlife.

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If you're short on time and want to experience the best of Hanoi to Hoi An, this group trip is for you!

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Experience everything Vietnam offers in 15 incredible days. It's the perfect backpacking group trip in just over 2 weeks.

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Can’t decide which to go for? Problem solved! We’ve combined the best of both countries, giving you the best 1 month trip in Asia.

Vietnam FAQ's

When is the best time/month to travel to vietnam.

With Vietnam being such a long country spanning over 1,000 miles, it’s impossible to give a simple answer to this popular question. Come rain or shine, Vietnam is one of those destinations that keeps giving and can be travelled throughout the whole year. November through to April is more popular with there being less rainfall. It’s also important to note that the north can get a little chilly from December to February (bring a few warm layers). Otherwise, the South stays pretty hot all year. We run our small group tours in Vietnam all year round.

How many days in Vietnam is enough?

It’s no secret - Vietnam is a big country with lots to see and do, but this shouldn’t put you off as it’s a perfect destination for solo travellers. We suggest giving yourself a solid 2-3 weeks, this will give you enough time to really experience everything Vietnam has to offer. Navigating the various transportation options can be a bit overwhelming at first, but fear not! Our tours in Vietnam are designed to take away all the hassles and worries of planning your trip and travelling alone. We’ll handle all the tough/boring stuff, giving you the freedom to enjoy each and every day to the fullest 🙌🏼

Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

For some, Vietnam is a very easy country to visit with a simple ‘Visa on Arrival’ process for nationalities such as the UK (not including Ireland) and a few other countries. The ‘Visa on Arrival’ allows you 15 days when entering Vietnam. If you need longer or your passport doesn’t qualify for the ‘Visa on Arrival’, you can apply for a one-month visa online or at your local Vietnamese embassy. It’s always a good idea to apply for a visa if you’re unsure of your plans to give you the opportunity to stay longer. Be sure to do your own research, as each country/passport will have different entry requirements, and the rules can often change. It's your responsibility to ensure you've ticked all the necessary boxes to enter Vietnam hassle-free. *You must check your visa eligibility as we are not visa experts. The information above is general in nature. Here’s a blog that we put together to help; ‘An Unofficial Visa Guide to Asia & Australia’.

What injections/vaccinations do I need for Vietnam?

Similar to visas, we are not medical professionals and would hate to give you false or misleading information. We recommend you book an appointment with your doctor or local pharmacy to discuss your travel plans and what precautions you need to be aware of. They will provide up-to-date guidance and will no doubt have your vaccination/immunisation history on file. All the destinations and areas we travel to are generally low-risk, but best to be on the safe side! Click here for a useful resource provided by the UK NHS website.

What about COVID-19 travel restrictions in Vietnam?

It's always a good idea to check whether your destination or airline requires you to be COVID-19 vaccinated or tested to travel. It's your responsibility to ensure you arrive on tour with us in Vietnam without any issues. Click here for a useful resource provided by the UK government.

What kind of people join these group tours?

Planning a solo trip can be daunting, requiring careful consideration and a lot of time. But guess what? Our Vietnam group tours are designed to make your life easier and your travel experience stress-free! From the moment you land, we handle all the logistics and nitty-gritty details, including airport pickup, comfortable accommodations, seamless transportation, engaging local activities, and delicious meals. With our tours, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy your adventure in Vietnam, knowing that every aspect has been expertly taken care of.

Are group tours in Vietnam worth it? Why would I not just travel solo?

I am looking to come alone, do many people travel solo.

Yes, absolutely! Most people actually come alone, with there often being a few people travelling together either as friends or as a couple. Our trips are perfect for solo travellers as you'll make friends from the moment you arrive, and you'll have the confidence and security of doing it as a group.

How much money do you need for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

Once you've booked your flights, paid off your trip and got some solid travel insurance, you'll be all set for that Vietnam adventure. We suggest bringing no less than £300/$400, but this should be the bare minimum. We suggest working from an average of £400-500/$500-700 over 2 weeks, this will cover things like shopping, drinks, extra meals and anything else you fancy treating yourself to... maybe a few massages!?

What should I book first, the flights or the tour?

Great question! We always suggest getting the trip locked in first before booking flights. This way, you won’t be left disappointed if the trip goes full and you’ve already booked your flights. There are usually plenty of flight tickets available, but the spaces are limited with our trips, and the trips fill up pretty fast. We suggest booking your trip first, followed by your flight, and then purchasing your travel insurance to cover all eventualities. Getting these three out of the way as soon as possible is a good idea.

How far in advance do you recommend booking my trip to Vietnam?

The average traveller typically books their trip 3-4 months in advance, which usually means there are plenty of options when it comes to dates. If you decide to book last minute, be prepared for limited availability. If you have your heart set on a specific date or trip, consider placing a deposit right away.

I’ve been looking at a few companies, what makes Feel Free Travel different?

If you're asking this question, you've probably not read what our incredible travellers are saying in the reviews . You would have noticed already that we are insanely passionate about sharing life-changing experiences with our groups. When we travel, it's more like a group of mates with that one friend who thankfully knows where they're going. Our group sizes are small and intimate, averaging 12-16 travellers. If you've not already, click here to join the 'Feel Free Family - Facebook Group' .

Is it possible to book a private tour of Thailand with a group of friends?

We specialise in bringing solo travellers together who arrive as complete strangers and soon become best friends/extended travel family. With that being said, we have been known to offer private tours subject to availability. If you send us an email to [email protected] one of the team will be in touch and see what we can do… no promises!

Feel Free Family

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Best Tour Companies for Singles

Book your next adventure with one of these options.

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Most of you reading this will be more familiar with this city’s former name: Saigon. The city was renamed after the end of the war in Vietnam, but many of the older residents still happily refer to it as Saigon, so we just wanted to prepare you for that before we got further into our guide to dating in Ho Chi Minh City.

With a population of over 9 million people, Ho Chi Minh City is located on the Saigon River, and is a very busy sea port.

It has the largest population of any city in Vietnam, and is an interesting mix of the colonial and the modern – take the scaled-down copy of the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Saigon Central Post Office, as just two examples.

You can see the French colonial influences in many of the older parts of the city, which thankfully survived the conflict.

One key point to mention is that sex tourism is not only frowned upon but is illegal here – prostitution is a serious crime, so avoid any of the “easy girls” you might bump into on your travels in and around the city.

Dating In Ho Chi Min

One of the other bonuses of the French colonial influences is that Vietnamese women are accustomed to seeing and talking to men from other parts of the world, especially the United States.

Experience has shown that dating Southern Viet women tends to be a bit more straightforward though, based on nothing more than they’ve had more positive experiences with Western men than their northern counterparts might have.

Ho Chi Minh City was always more Western-oriented than other cities in the region so if you want to date or marry a smart, sexy Vietnamese woman then Ho Chi Min is probably your best bet for locating the girl of your dreams.

A good portion of the girls in our  Vietnamese Brides Gallery  live in Ho Chi Min City – here is a small sample to show you just how beautiful these women reall are:

Vietnamese women are very traditional though, so this means that once you’ve met the Viet girl of your dreams, and you’ve arranged your first date, you can expect her family to become involved.

How involved? It’s not unusual to have a family member play third wheel on your date. They won’t actually join you on the date, but they do have a habit of appearing at the same bar, café or cinema you’ve just arrived at.

The many traditions Vietnamese women are expected to play up to is also one of the main reasons they want to marry a man from another country – they want a life that’s not burdened with having to get the approval of everyone in her husband’s family for the least little thing.

In terms of communicating you’ll find that Vietnamese and Chinese are the dominant languages, although you will still hear French spoken on a regular basis.

English is not a common language here, although a large percentage of the population will be able to speak at least a little bit of broken English, especially if they’re trying to sell you something.

Regardless of the social standing of the girl you’re dating, if she’s living with her parents there’s absolutely no way she’s going to spend the night at your hotel.

Firstly she’ll be expected to be home by midnight, and no later, secondly many of the better hotels in the city won’t allow you to bring a Vietnamese girl back to your room, especially late at night.

Actually if you meet a girl who’s willing to stay out late, stay at your hotel, and isn’t one bit phased by that idea, then you might want to lock your wallet in the safe overnight. And your watch, cell phone and anything else that isn’t nailed to the floor.

An average of 10,000 Vietnamese women marry American and European men each year, so there’s absolutely no barrier to marriage here except for finding the perfect woman.

Overall we’ve heard lots of stories from single guys who’ve enjoyed a Vietnamese dating adventure, and they 100%, hands down, prefer Vietnamese women to women from any other part of Asia.

Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder though.

The Best Places To Meet Women In Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a very, very busy part of Vietnam. A huge population, growing economy, and an existing European heritage means that the city is perfect for the single guy looking to date Asian women.

Plus eating out and drinking here can be very cheap, with most bars serving drinks for just a dollar, or two.

With millions of women moving through this city every single day, sometimes it takes nothing more than having a meal on your own, or a coffee, to give you the chance to strike up a conversation with a local girl.

Just remember that her English is going to be rusty at best, so do learn at least a handful of Vietnamese phrases.

Vietnamese women are naturally shy, so don’t expect her to do anything other than to make eyes at you – the girl making the first move here is an absolute no-no.

Another thing to be careful about is asking girls for their numbers – you have to be polite and discrete about this, because no decent Viet girl wants to be seen handing her personal cell phone number to some random guy she met in a bar.

Best Ho Chi Min City Bars

There are literally hundreds of different bars in Ho Chi Minh City for you to check out, but here are some of our favorites:

If you’re looking for a venue that sells drinks until 3am, then you’ll want to check out Go2. The only real downside is that the prices are usually at least 2x – 5x higher than other bars.

Most bars in the city close between 12am and 1am, so anywhere open after that is always going to charge more for the privilege.

The girls here dig Western guys, and you’re going to find the Vietnamese girls who hang out here are from middle class families, at least. This means you won’t have to worry about dealing with gold diggers all night.

One of the best places for any foreign guy to meet single Vietnamese girls. They have a Ladies Night every Tuesday, so you don’t want to miss that.

Sax N Art Jazz Club

This is one of the classier clubs, thanks to the live Jazz, which only attracts a more tasteful crowd. Drinking here is going to be tough on your wallet though – drinks cost at least $5 a pop.

Call girls do use some of the upmarket bars to pick up clients, so always be wary of that. Basically if it’s 2am, you’re alone, drunk and meet the most beautiful woman you’ve ever seen, and she’s all on her lonesome…then think twice.

Best Places To Go On A Date In Ho Chi Min City

It doesn’t matter what kind of budget you’re working with there’s always something for you and your date to do in Ho Chi Minh City, including everything from the best coffee you’ve ever tasted, to haggling in local markets, all the way up to dining and relaxing in exclusive restaurants.

Coffee Shops

Vietnam – believe it or not – is the biggest exporter of coffee in the world, and the hundreds of coffee shops in the city are a testament to that.

Basilico (InterContinental Asiana Saigon Residences) is one of the best places to enjoy an early coffee date, along with some incredible pastries and muffins.

Kem Café (District 1) is somewhere you go to be treated like a local, and to practice your hilarious attempts at speaking Vietnamese (the locals will dig it, don’t worry).

There’s also a Gloria Jeans, for those of you who like the familiar, no matter where you are in the world.

Karaoke Bars

You won’t have to look very far to find a karaoke bar, but they’re not quite what you’re used to in the West. These are private booths where you, and your date, can enjoy drinks and singing along to Vietnamese and Western music.

The only thing about bringing your date out for a karaoke night is that she’s probably done it before with her friends, several times, so don’t base your entire date on this one event.

You’ll probably feel like you’re a kid again when you’re visiting a cinema in Vietnam because you won’t pay any more than $10 for a ticket, and often far less than that. Movies are a great idea on a really warm day, because you get to relax and cool down at the same time as getting to know your new girl.

Megastar Cinema is the best of its kind in the city, and it features special “couples” seats, which is a really nice touch.

Galaxy Cinema is also a popular places to catch new movies, plus it has 3 different cinemas dotted around the city. Galaxy Cinema is also a whole lot cheaper than Megastar, and most people prefer the snacks and drinks served here.

If you want to make a lasting impression on your date then bring her along to the 1960 Presidential Club. This exclusive club can offer you and your date a day-long experience of spa relaxation, combined with exceptional Vietnamese and Italian cuisine.

Au Lac do Brazil offers the very best of Brazilian-style food, with live music almost every night of the week. The service and food is excellent, but you can expect to pay extra for that.

The deciBel Lounge offers a combination of great food with a monthly art exhibition, so bring your date here if she has more refined tastes.

One final note on eating out is that you should always ask your Vietnamese date for tips on the best places to eat – she’ll love the fact that you’re trusting her to choose which restaurant you’ll be eating at, which is an important part of your evening with her.

Places To Stay

When visiting Vietnam you can choose between renting an apartment, or simply booking into a hotel – your choice here will depend entirely on how long you plan on staying in the country.

Apartments in downtown Ho Chi Minh City can be had for about $300 per month, although you can get something a lot cheaper if you decide to stay on the outskirts of the city.

Apartment living is only a good idea for somebody who’s visited the city before, so for your first few visits we would strongly suggest staying in a hotel.

If you have a bigger budget to work with then you could consider the Caravelle on Lam Son Square. Rooms here cost around $180 per night, but it is a luxury hotel.

The Hotel Majestic in District 1 has a rooftop bar, and is one of the older hotels in the city.

The Park Hyatt Saigon is a 5-star hotel with some fantastic dining options, a fitness centre, spa and a martini bar. You can however expect to pay anywhere from $220 to over $500 per night to stay in the Park Hyatt.

For those of you working with a more restrictive budget then you can choose from places like the Binh Hung Hotel, which offers a room with air con, fast Internet access, cable TV, and your own shower and bath tub. Rooms here start at $25 per night.

The Thuan Tiel Hotel is another great option, with air conditioned rooms, cable TV, a DVD player, mini bar and toilet facilities. A room here costs just $35 per night.

If you want someplace slightly more upmarket then you can book into the Golden Rose Hotel, which offers all the usual luxuries of A/C, TV, mini bars, plus a massage service and fitness centre too. Rooms here can be yours for just $60 per night.

Ho Chi Minh City has a wide range of hotels, with something to suit all budgets. If you do decide to stay in the really budget-friendly hotels then it’s a good idea to lock all your valuables in your safe, or the hotel safe.

The currency of Vietnam is the Dong (VND), and you can expect to get around 20,000 VND for US$1. You’ll find plenty of ATMs dotted around the city, but most of them have a withdrawal limit of around 2,000,000 VND per day.

Most of the Vietnamese ATMs will accept international credit cards. If you need to withdraw large amounts of cash you’re better off using a bank for that. You can use US dollars when you’re shopping in the heart of the city, but Dong is the currency of choice in more rural areas.

General Safety tips

Ho Chi Minh City is extremely popular with both tourists and backpackers, so the city is a pretty safe place to be.

Vietnamese people are friendly and welcoming by nature, so if you come across anyone giving you a bad vibe then turn around and walk in the opposite direction. Every city in the world has neighborhoods you don’t want to wind up in, so do your best to avoid them here too.

When you’re going out on your dates only ever bring enough cash to pay for what you had planned that evening, plus maybe 10% extra. Carrying around large sums of cash is not a good idea, especially if you wind up on the wrong side of the tracks by accident.

The pickpockets here are experts, and are capable of lifting anything from a wallet to an iPhone without you ever noticing. Cell phone theft here is also extremely common, so if you’re sitting outside a café or bar enjoying a beverage of your choice don’t leave your cell phone/tablet/laptop sitting on the table in front of you – some kids on a motorbike will probably steal it.

How To Get There

The very first step you need to take in planning a trip to Vietnam is finding out how you get a visa to visit the country.

The odd thing here is that if the Embassy or Consulate provides you with a visa letter of approval, you can then simply collect your visa when you land in Vietnam. This is a personal preference thing, but we always prefer to have our visas approved in advance.

If you’re from Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Japan, Russia or South Korea you can stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days without requiring any form of visa.

Fortunately for all the guys who are now planning their trips to Vietnam (you’re welcome!), Ho Chi Minh City is served by the Tan Son Nhat airport, catering for both domestic and international flights from its two terminals.

The airport is located just 8km from downtown, so you won’t have to travel very far once you do land.

American Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Etihad, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Air France, Jetstar, JAL and other airlines offer direct flights to Ho Chi Minh City, but also offer connecting flights from multiple locations in the United States, and throughout Europe.

Once you land you’ll need to get your visa stamped, and then get to your hotel. You can travel into the city by using the No. 152 bus from the airport for about 25 cents (US), another 25 cents for your bags.

Your other option is to grab a taxi to get you to your hotel, but you need to be really wary of the  scam artist taxi drivers  hovering around the airport looking for gullible tourists.

Both Mai Linh and Vinasun taxis can be trusted to get you to your hotel without ripping you off, just make sure that you ask every taxi driver to turn their meter on when you sit inside the cab.

Expect to pay anywhere from US $6 to $14 for the trip from the airport to downtown Ho Chi Minh City.

• Last Modified:May 7, 2020

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Vietnam Travel Tips: 16 dos and don'ts in Vietnam

• on Aug 30, 2024       By: Phuong Mai

Nestled in Southeast Asia, Vietnam beckons with a rich tapestry of destinations waiting to be discovered. From the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the enchanting streets of Hoi An and the historic allure of Hanoi, each locale offers its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences. To fully enjoy your journey through this vibrant country, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural misunderstandings. While Vietnamese are generally very hospitable and forgiving, it's still important to be aware of certain dos and don'ts during your stay.

9 essential tips for your trip to Vietnam

When visiting Vietnam , it's important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions. From dressing appropriately to staying hydrated, here are nine key things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Dress appropriately 

Modesty in clothing is highly valued in Vietnam, especially for women. While the dress code in major cities might be more relaxed, it's still advisable to avoid wearing shorts, low-cut tops, or revealing dresses when out and about, particularly when visiting sacred places. Opt for more conservative attire when entering pagodas or temples, where proper dress is particularly appreciated.

Minimize flashy accessories and stay alert 

Avoid wearing too many flashy accessories, and always keep your bag in front of you or out of sight when walking on the street. Although Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination, theft can occur, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. Staying vigilant with your belongings will help prevent any unfortunate incidents.

Keep your accommodation details handy 

Make sure to take a business card from your hotel’s reception desk. This will make it easier for you to return to your hotel by taxi or motorbike taxi, especially since not all drivers speak English and addresses can sometimes be confusing.

Stay hydrated 

The tropical heat in Vietnam, especially during the summer, can be intense, so always carry a bottle of water with you. While water is widely available for purchase, it’s best to buy from supermarkets or stores and ensure that the bottle is sealed.

Remove shoes before entering a local’s home 

Most Vietnamese people do not wear shoes inside their homes. Look out for cues, such as whether the homeowner is wearing shoes indoors or if there’s a shoe rack near the entrance. It’s customary to leave your shoes by the door.

Carry with you a roll of toilet paper 

You never know when you might need it. Many public restrooms in Vietnam do not provide toilet paper, so it’s wise to carry a roll with you to avoid any inconvenient situations.

Be ready to bargain

Don’t hesitate to negotiate at Vietnamese markets until you reach a price you're comfortable with. Locals might try to charge foreigners more, assuming they are unfamiliar with the language or true prices. However, a friendly smile and a polite approach can go a long way in getting a fair deal.

Try the Local Food 

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned as one of the best in the world. While enjoying the local delicacies, it’s a good idea to learn how to use chopsticks, as many food stalls don’t offer forks or knives. Also, remember that sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered a bad omen, so avoid doing so during your stay.

Learn a few words of Vietnamese

It might seem daunting if you’re only staying for a few days, but as Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart." Locals will be delighted if you can manage simple phrases like “ Cảm ơn ” (Thank you) or “ Xin chào” (Hello).

7 Things to avoid when traveling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a welcoming and safe destination, where the locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to respect their customs. To help you navigate your journey smoothly and avoid any awkward situations, here are seven things to avoid when visiting Vietnam.

Taking photos without permission 

While the Vietnamese are known for their warmth and hospitality, they generally prefer not to be photographed without consent. Always ask for permission before taking someone's picture, particularly in the historic town of Hoi An, where taking photos might even require a fee. Additionally, never take pictures of military zones, as this is considered a serious breach of national security and could land you in legal trouble.

Drawing unnecessary public attention 

Asian cultures, including Vietnam, tend to be more reserved compared to Western societies. Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, are frowned upon and can even be seen as offensive. It’s best to save these gestures for private settings to respect local norms.

Panicking when crossing the street

Traffic in Vietnam, especially in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, can be overwhelming. Instead of panicking, which can increase your chances of an accident, be bold and decisive. Look straight ahead and make eye contact with drivers as you cross to safely navigate the chaotic streets.

Pointing your feet towards altars 

When visiting a local’s home, avoid sitting with your feet pointed towards the family altar, as this is considered disrespectful to their religious beliefs. Be mindful of your posture and the direction of your feet when you’re in someone’s home.

Speaking loudly in sacred places 

Silence is valued when visiting places of worship like pagodas, temples, or churches in Vietnam. To show respect, it’s best to keep quiet, join your hands in prayer like the locals, or stroll calmly through these sacred spaces.

Engaging in illegal activities  

If you’re looking to enjoy Vietnam’s nightlife, you’ll find plenty of fantastic bars and pubs in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. However, steer clear of drugs and prostitution, as both are strictly illegal in Vietnam. Involvement in these activities can lead to serious legal consequences.

>> Read more: 

Bringing up the war  

The wounds of war still linger in the lives of many Vietnamese people. Discussing the war in casual conversation can evoke strong emotions or even aggression. It’s best to avoid this topic out of respect for the country’s painful history.

Vietnam warmly welcomes tourists from all walks of life, and locals greatly appreciate efforts to integrate and respect their customs. While they are generally forgiving of minor mistakes, following these guidelines will help you make the most of your experience and minimize any cultural missteps during your trip to Vietnam .

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