Plan a trip to Vietnam

District 1 – central Saigon (Sài Gòn & Bến Thành wards)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

The historic downtown that guides still call District 1 centres on Đồng Khởi street, where the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office and Opera House stand, with Nguyễn Huệ walking street running from City Hall to the river. Since 1 July 2025 the district tier has been abolished; the former Bến Nghé ward is now part of Sài Gòn ward, and the area around Bến Thành Market and Phạm Ngũ Lão is now Bến Thành ward. Good to know: • Older addresses and maps still say 'District 1' or 'Quận 1'; check the new ward name when giving or receiving addresses. • Nguyễn Huệ walking street is a common evening meeting spot for locals and visitors.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

District 3 (Bàn Cờ, Xuân Hòa & Nhiêu Lộc wards)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Former District 3 sits next to the old downtown and, according to Vietnam's tourism authority, rivals District 1 for foot traffic, drawing people to its religious sites, museums and a lake. Nguyễn Thượng Hiền street is known for lively sidewalk dining, particularly seafood. In the 2025 reorganization its wards were regrouped into Bàn Cờ, Xuân Hòa and Nhiêu Lộc wards. Good to know: • The War Remnants Museum is listed by the tourism authority among the city's must-see sights; expect graphic wartime photographs.

Source: HCMC: A Feast in the Streets (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Thảo Điền (An Khánh ward)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Thảo Điền is a riverside area that Vietnam's tourism authority describes as having a relaxed, international atmosphere. Under the 2025 reorganization, former Thảo Điền ward was merged with Thủ Thiêm, An Lợi Đông, An Khánh and the rest of An Phú into the new An Khánh ward. It is served by Metro Line 1. Good to know: • 'Thảo Điền' remains the everyday place name, but official addresses now use An Khánh ward.

Source: Vibrant metropolis: Ho Chi Minh City's modern pulse & nightlife culture (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Chợ Lớn – Chinatown, District 5 (Chợ Lớn, An Đông & Chợ Quán wards)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Chợ Lớn, meaning 'big market', is Ho Chi Minh City's historic Chinese quarter, with Teochew, Cantonese and Hokkien influences in its temples, assembly halls and food. The tourism authority recommends it for exploring on foot, taking in Bình Tây Market, Bà Thiên Hậu Pagoda and old townhouse lanes. In 2025 former District 5 was regrouped into Chợ Lớn, An Đông and Chợ Quán wards. Good to know: • Dress modestly and ask before photographing inside pagodas and communal houses. • Temples are often full of incense smoke from ongoing worship — be mindful of people praying.

Source: The best ways to explore Cho Lon (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Phú Mỹ Hưng (District 7)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Phú Mỹ Hưng is a planned urban area in District 7 that Viet Nam News described (in 2017) as a major hub for the South Korean community, with Korean-language signage, shops and an international school. Addresses here may still say District 7 (Quận 7); confirm the current ward when booking deliveries or registering where you stay. Good to know: • Addresses in this area may still be written with 'Quận 7'; confirm the current ward when booking deliveries or registering residence.

Source: Việt Nam: ideal destination for South Koreans to live and work (Viet Nam News (Vietnam News Agency)) · checked November 7, 2026

District 4 & Vĩnh Khánh food street

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Vietnam's tourism authority calls District 4 'an island unto itself' and notes it was considered the city's smallest district. Its Vĩnh Khánh food street is a youthful hangout where diners grill meat and seafood themselves on tabletop coal stoves. Good to know: • Like the rest of the city, District 4 no longer exists as an administrative unit after July 2025; check the current ward name for addresses.

Source: HCMC: A Feast in the Streets (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

HCMC's 2025 map change: no more districts

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

From 1 July 2025 Ho Chi Minh City removed the district tier and reorganized into commune-level wards and communes, merging with Bình Dương and Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu. The expanded city has 168 commune-level units (113 wards, 54 communes and the Côn Đảo special zone). Familiar names like 'District 1' persist in everyday speech, signs and older maps. Good to know: • When registering residence, opening accounts or giving delivery addresses, use the new ward name; ask your landlord or hotel if unsure.

Source: HCM City prepares to operate new wards, communes (Viet Nam News (Vietnam News Agency)) · checked November 7, 2026

Hanoi Old Quarter (Phố Cổ)

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

The Old Quarter is the dense grid of historic streets just north of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, traditionally organised as 36 streets each tied to a trade or craft. Narrow-fronted, deep “tube houses”, old pagodas and street-side food culture define the area. Hanoi reorganised its wards in July 2025, so check the current ward name for addresses. Good to know: • A cyclo ride followed by exploring side streets on foot is the tourism authority's suggested way to see the quarter. • Hàng Mã is where locals buy religious goods and festival decorations — a good place to see seasonal crafts before festivals.

Source: Explore the Old Quarter your way (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Hanoi French Quarter

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

South of the Old Quarter, the French Quarter has wider streets, parks and the city's best-known French colonial buildings and urban planning. Highlights named by the national tourism authority include the Hanoi Opera House and the Vietnamese Women's Museum. Good to know: • Walking is a good way to explore: the tourism authority publishes a walking route linking Reunification Park, the Opera House and nearby streets.

Source: 3 walking tours of Ha Noi (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Tây Hồ / West Lake

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Tây Hồ is the area wrapped around West Lake, Hanoi’s largest lake. The national tourism portal describes it as the city’s multicultural expat neighbourhood, with lakeside cafés, old pagodas and gardens along a roughly 17 km shoreline popular for cycling. Good to know: • The lake loop suits cycling or a long walk.

Source: Comfort Meets Culture at Hanoi's Luxury Hotels (West Lake passage only) (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Ba Đình

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Ba Đình is Hanoi’s historic administrative heart, home to Ba Đình Square and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, built 1973–1975. Nearby are the 11th-century One Pillar Pagoda and the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long.

Source: 11 must-see attractions in Ha Noi (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Han River riverfront (central Da Nang)

Da Nang, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam

Central Da Nang is built along the Han River, where Han Market and the Dragon Bridge are key landmarks. The market, named after the river, began in the French colonial period. The 666 m Dragon Bridge, opened in 2013, is shaped like a dragon and becomes a popular night-photography spot when its lights change colour. Good to know: • The Dragon Bridge's changing night lighting and river reflections make it a favoured night-photo spot.

Source: Han Market (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

Mỹ Khê Beach area

Da Nang, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam

Mỹ Khê is Da Nang's main city beach, running south from the Sơn Trà Peninsula along the coastal road. The city tourism site highlights fine white sand, gentle water, designated swimming and surfing zones and a lifeguard team; locals use it for sunrise swims and morning exercise. Good to know: • Swim within the designated swimming areas, where lifeguards watch. • The tourism authority says beach weather is best March–May and September–October; November–February is the rainy season.

Source: Da Nang (destination page) (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Sơn Trà Peninsula

Da Nang, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam

Sơn Trà is a forested peninsula about 10 km north-east of central Da Nang, described by the city as the city's 'green lung'. Much of it remains near-original forest and is home to rare red-shanked douc langurs; Linh Ứng Pagoda, completed in 2010, sits in the Bãi Bụt area. Good to know: • Do not feed wildlife, keep your distance from animals and take litter away with you.

Source: The Son Tra Peninsula (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

An Thượng

Da Nang, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam

An Thượng is a small grid of streets near My An beach, nicknamed the “Western Quarter”. The city has developed it as a night-market and pedestrian zone with street art and cultural activities, and it is popular with foreign visitors.

Source: An Thuong Night Market (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

Hội An Ancient Town

Hoi An, Da Nang city (formerly Quang Nam province), Central Vietnam

The Ancient Town is Hội An’s compact, walkable historic core on the Thu Bồn River, with over 1,300 heritage structures including old houses, assembly halls, temples and wells. Lanterns light the streets at night and motor traffic is restricted under a pedestrian-street scheme. Since July 2025 Hội An has been part of Da Nang city. Good to know: • Explore on foot; the town was set up as a walking area with light motor traffic.

Source: Hoi An – serene ancient town (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

An Bàng Beach

Hoi An, Da Nang city (formerly Quang Nam province), Central Vietnam

An Bàng is a public beach east of Hội An’s Ancient Town, described by the national tourism authority as unspoilt, with clean water and local fishermen at work.

Source: An Bang – untouched beach near Hoi An (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnamtourism.vn)) · checked November 7, 2026

Cẩm Thanh & Bảy Mẫu coconut forest

Hoi An, Da Nang city (formerly Quang Nam province), Central Vietnam

Cẩm Thanh, about 5 km east of the Ancient Town, is known for the Bảy Mẫu water-coconut and mangrove forest at the lower Thu Bồn River. Once a wartime base, it is now an eco-tourism area where visitors ride round basket boats (thúng chai) and try traditional fishing work. It sits within the Cù Lao Chàm–Hội An biosphere reserve recognised by UNESCO in 2009. Good to know: • Some activities have an environmental-protection element; follow local guides' instructions in the mangroves.

Source: Khu di tích LSVH rừng dừa Bảy Mẫu Cẩm Thanh Hội An (Vietnamese, 2022) (Hoi An Center for Culture & Heritage / Hoi An city (hoianworldheritage.org.vn)) · checked November 7, 2026

Cơm tấm (broken rice)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Vietnam's tourism authority calls cơm tấm perhaps the most essential Saigon dish, found on nearly every street at all hours. It is broken rice topped with slow-grilled marinated pork, often with egg, sausage, egg rolls, scallion oil and fresh and pickled vegetables. The dish began with broken grains that farmers could not sell. Good to know: • Pile on the fresh and pickled vegetables — the tourism authority recommends it.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City Cuisine – From Street Eats to Fine Dining (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bánh mì

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Bánh mì is a sandwich built on a French-style baguette, with fillings such as pâté, assorted meats, herbs, pickled carrot and daikon, and chili sauce. Vietnam's tourism authority says it is said to have originated in Ho Chi Minh City and now varies by region. Sellers' versions differ, especially in the sauce. Good to know: • Try several sellers — the tourism authority notes the differences are part of the fun, and the sauce balances salty, sweet and spicy.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City Cuisine – From Street Eats to Fine Dining (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Hủ tiếu

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Hủ tiếu is a noodle soup with a clear, lightly sweet broth simmered from pork bones, dried squid and shrimp, which Vietnam's tourism authority says is at its best in Ho Chi Minh City. The Nam Vang style is called the standard southern street-food bowl. It can be ordered 'dry', with the broth on the side. Good to know: • Ask for it 'dry' (khô) if you'd like the noodles as a salad with broth on the side.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City Cuisine – From Street Eats to Fine Dining (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Phở — the southern style

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Phở, flat rice noodles in a rich beef or chicken stock, is called Vietnam's quintessential dish by the national tourism authority. The southern version, phở Nam, has a cloudier broth and comes with bean sprouts, basil and mint. The authority notes northerners refined the recipe and considers Hà Nội its home, while southerners tend to add sugar. Good to know: • Expect a plate of fresh herbs and sprouts with southern phở — add them to taste.

Source: 21 must-try Vietnamese dishes (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bánh xèo

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast & Mekong Delta

Bánh xèo is a crisp, turmeric-yellow crepe of rice flour and coconut milk filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts. Vietnam's tourism authority describes it as a Mekong Delta creation eaten widely in the south and centre, and calls the southern version a savoury pancake. It is sold at Bến Thành Market's food stalls.

Source: 21 must-try Vietnamese dishes (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Saigon coffee culture & bạc xỉu

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Vietnamese coffee centres on strong robusta, traditionally slow-dripped through a metal phin filter and often taken with condensed milk over ice. Vietnam's tourism authority calls Ho Chi Minh City the birthplace of bạc xỉu, a sweeter iced drink with more milk and less coffee, and notes the city mixes historic cloth-filter coffee stalls with third-wave cafés. Good to know: • If robusta's bitterness is strong for you, bạc xỉu is the gentler, sweeter option.

Source: Vietnam's Coffee Culture Brews a Global Buzz (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Phở Hà Nội

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Phở is often called Vietnam's national dish, and Hanoi is regarded as the best place to eat it. The broth is simmered for hours from beef bones with spices such as star anise, cinnamon and ginger, then served over rice noodles with beef or chicken. Hanoi-style phở was added to Vietnam's National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2024. Good to know: • Try the condiments the local way: garlic vinegar with beef, lime with chicken.

Source: Famous Hanoi Food and International Fine Dining (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bún chả

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Bún chả is Hanoi's classic lunch: charcoal-grilled pork belly and pork patties served in a warm, sweet-sour dipping broth with rice vermicelli and fresh herbs. Diners add noodles and greens to the broth bite by bite. Good to know: • Dip noodles and herbs into the broth with chopsticks rather than pouring the broth over.

Source: 10 must-try Hanoian dishes (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Egg coffee (cà phê trứng)

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Egg coffee is a Hanoi speciality: strong dark coffee topped with a sweet, creamy foam of whisked egg yolk and condensed milk. The tourism authority traces it to a milk shortage in 1946.

Source: The secret art of Vietnamese coffee (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Chả cá (turmeric fish)

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Chả cá is a Hanoi dish of fish marinated in turmeric and spices, then cooked at the table with spring onions and dill and eaten with rice vermicelli, peanuts and herbs. The tourism authority says it has been made in the Old Quarter since 1871.

Source: Famous Hanoi Food and International Fine Dining (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Cao lầu

Hoi An, Da Nang city (formerly Quang Nam province), Central Vietnam

Cao lầu is Hội An's signature noodle dish: firm, yellowish noodles served with only a few spoonfuls of sauce, slices of char siu-style pork, fresh herbs and crispy fried noodle pieces. Local tradition holds the noodles need water from the old Bá Lễ well and lye made from Chàm Islands tree ash, which is why it is said to be found only in Hội An. Good to know: • Mix the bowl thoroughly before eating, as the sauce sits at the bottom.

Source: Cao Lau Hoi An – a traditional noodle specialty of Hoi An (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bánh mì Hội An

Hoi An, Da Nang city (formerly Quang Nam province), Central Vietnam

Hội An's bánh mì blends the baguette introduced to Vietnam with local fillings such as pâté, char siu pork, Trà Quế herbs and chilli sauce. Hội An's official heritage site promotes it as among the best in Vietnam, with variations including dried-fish, grilled-pork and vegetarian versions.

Source: Banh Mi in Hội An is regarded as the best in Vietnam (Hoi An Center for Culture & Heritage / Hoi An city (hoianworldheritage.org.vn)) · checked November 7, 2026

Mì Quảng

Da Nang, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam

Mì Quảng is the signature noodle dish of Quảng Nam and Da Nang: flat rice noodles over raw greens, with just enough rich broth to cover the noodles, topped with peanuts and eaten with crispy rice crackers. Fresh herbs can fill nearly half the bowl, and locals consider a bowl without them inauthentic. Good to know: • Crumble the rice cracker into the bowl or eat it alongside — both are traditional.

Source: Quang Noodles (Da Nang Tourism Promotion Center / Da Nang Dept. of Tourism (danangfantasticity.com)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bến Thành Market

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Bến Thành Market is central Saigon's best-known market, recognised by its three-faced clock tower at the South Gate. Its aisles sell produce, conical hats, coffee, lacquerware, fabrics and handicrafts, and food stalls serve dishes like bánh xèo and bánh mì. The city's tourism promotion centre says it was renamed Bến Thành in 1912. Good to know: • Agree on a price before buying, keep valuables secure, and ask vendors before photographing or filming them.

Source: 7 must-see attractions in HCMC (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Bến Thành night market

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

After the main market closes, stalls set up along Phan Chu Trinh and Phan Bội Châu streets beside Bến Thành Market. The city's tourism promotion centre describes more than 100 stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing and accessories, plus seafood, grilled food and drinks. Good to know: • Agree the price before you buy, and keep phones and bags away from the street side.

Source: Explore Ben Thanh Market – An attractive destination for your trip to Ho Chi Minh City (Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Promotion Center (visithcmc.vn)) · checked November 11, 2026

Bình Tây Market

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Bình Tây Market in Chợ Lớn is a large wholesale trading centre, which Vietnam's tourism authority says holds more than 2,000 shops of spices, mushrooms, dried fish and other ingredients. It anchors a wider web of Chợ Lớn wholesale markets, including An Đông for clothing and Đại Quang Minh for craft supplies. Good to know: • It is a working wholesale market — step aside for porters and deliveries.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Cái Răng floating market

Can Tho, Mekong Delta

Cái Răng, about six kilometres from central Cần Thơ, is the Mekong Delta's best-known floating market, reached by boat from Ninh Kiều wharf. Traders sell fruit, vegetables and everyday goods from boats, hanging samples from tall poles called cây bẹo so buyers can see what's on offer. Small boats serve breakfast such as hủ tiếu, bún riêu and coffee. Good to know: • Go early in the morning, when trading is busiest. • The dry season (roughly December–April) is recommended for boat trips.

Source: Cai Rang Floating Market – an ecotourism highlight in the waterways of Can Tho (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism – rural tourism portal (nongthon.vietnamtourism.gov.vn)) · checked November 7, 2026

Đồng Xuân Market

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

Đồng Xuân is the Old Quarter's large covered market, built under the French administration in 1889 and today Hanoi's biggest wholesale market, selling clothing, household goods and food. It was partly rebuilt in its original style after a fire in 1994.

Source: Đồng Xuân Market (Wikipedia) · checked November 7, 2026

Old Quarter weekend night market

Hanoi, Red River Delta, Northern Vietnam

On weekend evenings, streets running north from Hàng Đào toward Đồng Xuân Market become a night market and walking street with street food, souvenirs and handicrafts.

Source: Explore the Old Quarter your way (Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Visiting pagodas and temples

Vietnam-wide

At pagodas, temples and other sacred sites, dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and remove your hat and shoes where asked. Don't step over floor-level altars or walk directly in front of them. Ask before photographing people or the inside of religious sites. Good to know: • In Chợ Lớn's pagodas, ask permission before taking photos inside.

Source: Vietnamese etiquette for travellers (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Greetings and forms of address

Vietnam-wide

Vietnamese uses kinship terms instead of 'excuse me': call out 'anh ơi' to a slightly older man, 'chị ơi' to a slightly older woman, 'em ơi' to someone younger, and 'cô', 'chú', 'bà' or 'ông' for people your aunt's, uncle's or grandparents' age. 'Xin chào' (hello) and 'cảm ơn' (thank you) are always appreciated. Pass things with your right hand or both hands. Good to know: • When visiting a home, greet the oldest family members first.

Source: Vietnamese etiquette for travellers (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Shared meals, toasts and home visits

Vietnam-wide

Meals are shared, with each diner given a small rice bowl and chopsticks, and hosts will keep serving you the best pieces. Raising glasses together is common; 'dô' means cheers. When visiting a home, take your shoes off at the door and bring a small gift such as fruit, cake or flowers — but nothing black. Good to know: • To decline more food, politely say you are very full.

Source: Vietnamese etiquette for travellers (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Dress, public behaviour and keeping calm

Vietnam-wide

Cities are relaxed but people outside urban areas dress more modestly; men shouldn't go shirtless in public and swimwear is for beaches and resorts. Public displays of affection are kept low-key. Staying calm matters — loud arguments or causing someone to lose face are frowned upon. Good to know: • Ask before photographing people and respect their privacy.

Source: Vietnamese etiquette for travellers (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year)

Vietnam-wide

Tết, the Lunar New Year, is the most important celebration in Vietnamese culture, marking the arrival of spring and following the lunar calendar. Families reunite, clean their homes, cook special food, honour ancestors and give lucky money (lì xì) to children and elders. Travellers are advised to book services early and be patient, as staff are limited. Good to know: • Book transport and services early and expect reduced staffing around Tết.

Source: Tết Nguyên Đán (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Đờn ca tài tử (southern amateur music)

Southern Vietnam / Mekong Delta

Đờn ca tài tử is a southern Vietnamese music and song tradition with both scholarly and folk roots, especially rooted in the Mekong Delta. It is played at festivals, death-anniversary rituals and celebrations on instruments such as the moon-shaped lute, two-stringed fiddle, sixteen-string zither and bamboo flute. UNESCO inscribed it on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013.

Source: Art of Đờn ca tài tử music and song in southern Viet Nam (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) · checked November 7, 2026

Notre Dame Cathedral & Saigon Central Post Office

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

At the head of Đồng Khởi street, the twin-spired Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception was built between 1863 and 1880 with materials imported from France. Opposite stands the Central Post Office, with old wooden phone booths and historic wall maps.

Source: 7 must-see attractions in HCMC (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Independence / Reunification Palace

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Built on the site of the former Norodom Palace and designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, the palace served as the residence and office of South Vietnam's president. Its basement holds the former command centre and war rooms.

Source: 7 must-see attractions in HCMC (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

War Remnants Museum

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

A three-storey museum of artifacts and photographs from the war, including Nick Ut's Pulitzer Prize-winning image 'The Terror of War'. Decommissioned aircraft, tanks and other military hardware fill the courtyard. Many images are graphic. Good to know: • Content is graphic; consider this before visiting with children.

Source: 7 must-see attractions in HCMC (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Củ Chi Tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

On the northwestern edge of greater Ho Chi Minh City, the Củ Chi tunnel network stretches more than 250 kilometres and was used during the war. Visitors can enter at Bến Đình or Bến Dược, roughly 35 and 70 km from the city respectively. Good to know: • Expect to get dirty — wear clothes you don't mind soiling.

Source: 7 must-see attractions in HCMC (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Cần Thơ & the Mekong Delta

Can Tho, Mekong Delta

Cần Thơ is a busy river city on the Hậu River and the usual base for exploring Mekong Delta floating markets, fruit orchards and rice-paper villages. It is about three hours by road from Ho Chi Minh City. The Bình Thủy ancestral house, built in 1870, blends French and Asian architecture. Good to know: • Dengue occurs in the Mekong Delta including HCMC; use repellent, especially around sunrise and sunset.

Source: Can Tho (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

HCMC Metro Line 1 (Bến Thành – Suối Tiên)

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Ho Chi Minh City's first metro line began commercial service on 22 December 2024, running 19.7 km from Bến Thành in the centre to Suối Tiên in the northeast. It has 14 stations, three of them underground in the centre (Bến Thành, Opera House/City Theater, Ba Son) and the rest elevated. It is operated by HCMC Urban Railway No. 1 Company (HURC1) and was financed with Japanese ODA loans. Good to know: • Handy for reaching Thảo Điền and the eastern side of the city from the centre.

Source: Inauguration of Vietnam's First Underground Urban Metro Line in Ho Chi Minh City (Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)) · checked November 7, 2026

Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport transfers

Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast

Tân Sơn Nhất, which Vietnam’s tourism authority calls the country’s busiest airport, sits about 7 km from the city centre. Taxis, ride-hailing and city buses connect it to town. Good to know: • Taxi companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun have pick-up services at Vietnam’s international airports, according to the tourism authority.

Source: Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 7, 2026

Taxis, ride-hailing and road safety

Vietnam-wide

Ride-hailing apps such as Xanh SM and Grab, which Tuoi Tre News reports lead Vietnam’s app-based taxi market, and metered taxi companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun, which the national tourism authority mentions, are commonly used options in Vietnam’s cities (VoyaKin doesn’t endorse any of them). On a motorbike, rider and passenger must both wear a properly fastened helmet, and both can be fined. Foreign visitors can drive with an international driving permit from a 1968 Vienna Convention country, carried together with their national licence.

Source: Vietnamese ride-hailing app Xanh SM turns the tables, overtakes Grab to dominate market (Tuoi Tre News) · checked November 11, 2026

Vietnam e-visa

Vietnam-wide

According to Vietnam’s tourism authority, the e-visa is open to citizens of all countries and territories and is applied for online before travel. It describes single- and multiple-entry e-visas valid for up to 90 days and says your entry checkpoint must match the one on the approval. Apply only on the official portal, not on look-alike agency sites. These rules change, so confirm them on the official e-visa site before you apply. Good to know: • Double-check your passport details and chosen entry/exit points before submitting.

Source: Overview of Vietnam entry requirements (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Visa-free entry (exemptions)

Vietnam-wide

Vietnam’s tourism authority says citizens of some countries can enter without a visa for a limited stay, under government resolutions or bilateral and ASEAN agreements. Which countries qualify, and for how long, differ and are revised from time to time, and some exemptions have fixed end dates. Check your own nationality on the official e-visa or Immigration Department site before you travel. Good to know: • If you plan to stay longer than your exemption allows, arrange an e-visa before arrival.

Source: Overview of Vietnam entry requirements (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Passport and arrival basics

Vietnam-wide

Vietnam’s tourism authority says your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry and have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Entry rules change, so confirm them on the official e-visa site before you travel.

Source: Overview of Vietnam entry requirements (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Registering where you stay (temporary residence declaration)

Vietnam-wide

In Vietnam, the place where a foreigner stays declares them to the local police: the hotel or host makes the declaration, and you show your passport at check-in. Viet Nam News reports that under a Ministry of Public Security circular in force from 24 July 2026, electronic declarations must be made immediately after you arrive; paper forms go to the commune police within 12 hours (24 hours in remote or mountainous areas). A new declaration is needed each time you change accommodation. The Immigration Department’s portal lists an online temporary-residence declaration service. Good to know: • If you rent through a landlord, ask them to confirm the registration has been made — and note the new ward name since the 2025 reorganization.

Source: Accommodation providers required to register foreign guests’ temporary residence immediately upon arrival (Viet Nam News (Vietnam News Agency)) · checked November 11, 2026

Temporary residence cards

Vietnam-wide

Foreigners who qualify under Vietnam’s Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners can apply for a temporary residence card. Tuoi Tre News reports that the application goes through the agency, organisation or person sponsoring you, and is filed with the Immigration Department or the provincial immigration office where the sponsor is based. Eligibility, validity and procedures change, so check the Immigration Department before applying. Good to know: • Your employer or sponsoring organisation files the application, so start early.

Source: How foreign employees sponsored by firms can obtain temporary resident cards in Vietnam (Tuoi Tre News) · checked November 11, 2026

Work permits

Vietnam-wide

Under Decree 219/2025/ND-CP, in force since 7 August 2025, the employer applies for a foreign worker’s work permit (or for confirmation that the job is exempt) online through the National Public Service Portal. Provincial People’s Committees grant, extend and revoke permits. Foreign documents in the application must be consularly legalised unless a treaty exempts them, then translated into Vietnamese and certified. Rules change, so check the current requirements with the issuing authority before you apply.

Source: Decree 219/2025/ND-CP on foreign workers working in Vietnam (Official Gazette text, Vietnamese) (Government of Vietnam (Công báo, Official Gazette)) · checked November 11, 2026

Emergency numbers

Vietnam-wide

Vietnam’s main emergency lines are 113 for police, 114 for fire and rescue and 115 for medical emergencies. Since September 2025, 112 has been the national hotline for incidents, natural disasters and requests for help, linked with 113, 114 and 115. 111 is the national child protection hotline, staffed 24/7 and free to call. Good to know: • Save the numbers in your phone along with your hotel or landlord’s number to help with Vietnamese.

Source: New 112 hotline connects citizens to unified emergency response (Viet Nam News (Vietnam News Agency)) · checked November 11, 2026

Healthcare and insurance

Vietnam-wide

Vietnam’s tourism authority advises buying travel insurance before your trip, sticking to bottled water, and seeing your doctor or a travel clinic about two months before you leave. It notes that dengue occurs mostly in the Mekong Delta, including Ho Chi Minh City, and recommends insect repellent. It also lists international hospitals and clinics in Ho Chi Minh City, such as FV Hospital and Columbia Asia.

Source: Health and Safety (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026

Staying safe: bag snatching, scams and drug laws

Vietnam-wide

Vietnam’s tourism authority says most robberies in big cities are drive-by snatchings, so don’t hold phones and cameras out on busy streets and keep a tight grip on your bag. Drug laws are severe: Vietnamese courts still sentence drug traffickers to death. Good to know: • Keep bags in a motorbike's seat compartment or hooked at the front, not on your shoulder.

Source: Health and Safety (Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (vietnam.travel)) · checked November 11, 2026