Complete guide for your first trip to Vietnam
Vietnam became one of the most searched destinations of 2026, and it is no coincidence: it combines vibrant cities, spectacular nature, mind-blowing food and very accessible prices. If you have never been, this guide will help you plan your first trip to Vietnam without missing a thing.
Why Vietnam is trending in 2026
Vietnam offers a mix that is hard to find anywhere else: thousand-year-old culture, movie-like landscapes and one of the best value-for-money ratios in Southeast Asia. In a single trip you can walk through terraced rice fields, sail bays full of limestone islets and get lost among colorful lanterns in a colonial town.
What you will find:
- Historic cities like Hanoi, Hoi An and Hue
- Stunning nature in Halong Bay, Sapa and Ninh Binh
- Urban energy in Ho Chi Minh City
- The Mekong Delta, with its unique river life
Best time to visit Vietnam
Vietnam is a long, narrow country, so the climate varies a lot by region. In general, the best months across most of the country are February to April and September to November.
By region:
- North (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay): November to April, cool and dry. Spring and autumn are ideal.
- Center (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): February to July, little rain and pleasant temperatures.
- South (Ho Chi Minh, Mekong): December to April, during the dry season.
Tip: if you want to experience Tet (Lunar New Year), aim for February 17, 2026. It is the country biggest celebration, but many businesses close from February 16 to 20.
What to see: the must-visit cities
Hanoi
The capital, full of history, lakes and an old quarter perfect for walking. The ideal starting point to head to Sapa or Halong Bay.
