vietnam travel & evisa guide 2026 | best places, things to do, food & visa steps

Vietnam is a year-round favorite for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes, soulful cuisine, and a welcoming culture. From limestone karsts and emerald bays to lantern-lit towns and highland rice terraces, the country packs world-class variety into every itinerary. This 2026 guide distills the must-see places, top activities, essential food, and a simple, step-by-step Vietnam eVisa application so you can plan with confidence—and apply online in minutes.

Why Visit Vietnam in 2026

• Extraordinary diversity in a compact destination (north–central–south).

• Value for money: boutique stays, street food, and transport remain budget-friendly.

• Upgraded infrastructure: more flights, improved highways, and better tourist services.

• Easy online eVisa process for most tourists—fast, secure, and convenient.

Do You Need a Visa for Vietnam? eVisa Overview for Tourists

Vietnam welcomes millions of visitors each year. Most travelers will need a visa. For tourists, the Vietnam eVisa is typically the most convenient option: fully online, handled before you fly, and accepted at designated air, land, and sea entry points.

Vietnam eVisa: What It Is & Who It’s For

• Ideal for short-stay tourism and casual business visits.

• Apply online, receive approval electronically, and carry a print or digital copy when you travel.

• Validity/entry rules are stated on your approved eVisa—always check dates and entry points.

Documents Needed for a Smooth eVisa Approval

• Passport valid 6+ months beyond arrival with at least 2 blank pages.

• Recent passport-style photo (plain background).

• Clear passport biodata page scan.

• Travel details (entry port, tentative dates, stay address).

• Active email and card for fee payment.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Vietnam eVisa Online

1. Complete the online form with accurate personal and travel information.

2. Upload your passport page and compliant photo.

3. Pay the official fee via card.

4. Track your status via the reference details you receive by email.

5. Print/Save your eVisa once approved and carry it to present on arrival.

Visa on Arrival vs eVisa vs Embassy Visa

• eVisa (Recommended): Apply online, quick processing, no airport paperwork.

• Visa on Arrival: Requires a pre-approval letter first; queues and cash stamping fee on arrival.

• Embassy/Consulate Visa: Best for special cases (longer stays, specific purposes) where an eVisa may not fit.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam by Region

• North (Hanoi, Ninh Bình, Hạ Long, Sa Pa):
  Oct–Apr brings cool to mild weather; May–Sep is warmer with summer showers.

• Central (Huế, Hội An, Đà Nẵng, Phong Nha):
  Feb–Aug is generally the driest; Sep–Jan can see rain and occasional storms.

• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phú Quốc):
  Dry season Nov–Apr; wet season May–Oct with brief tropical downpours.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Vietnam

Hội An Ancient Town

A trading port frozen in time—lantern alleys, wooden merchant homes, and riverside cafés. Visit after sunset for the iconic glow.

Complex of Huế Monuments

Imperial palaces, pagodas, and royal tombs along the Perfume River—Vietnam’s dynastic history in one destination.

Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary

Ancient Champa Hindu temples set in a lush valley; go early for quiet photography and cool temperatures.

Hạ Long Bay

Dreamlike limestone islets rising from jade waters. Opt for an overnight cruise to explore hidden lagoons and caves.

Tràng An Landscape Complex

Rowboat through limestone grottoes, rice fields, and tranquil rivers—often called “Hạ Long on land.”

Phong Nha–Kẻ Bàng National Park

Home to vast cave systems, including Paradise Cave and underground rivers. Guided tours range from family-friendly to expedition-level.

Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long – Hà Nội

Hanoi’s historic power center showcases millennia of archeology amid tranquil courtyards.

Citadel of the Hồ Dynasty

An imposing stone fortress amid rural landscapes; great for heritage lovers seeking quieter sites.

More Iconic Places Beyond UNESCO

Khải Định Tomb

A dramatic blend of European and Vietnamese aesthetics, with intricate interiors in Huế’s hills.

Cát Bà Cannon Fort

WWII-era defenses with panoramic island views—pair with hikes in Cát Bà National Park.

Sa Pa Countryside

Rice terraces, ethnic villages, and crisp highland air; trek with local guides for authentic routes.

Nha Trang Beaches

A classic sun-and-sea escape with water sports, island hopping, and lively dining.

Ba Bể National Park

Mirror-calm freshwater lake, caves, waterfalls, and community homestays.

Top Things to Do in Vietnam

Trekking Hotspots

Sa Pa • Mai Châu • Pù Luông Nature Reserve • Hà Giang • Cát Bà National Park • Cao Bằng • Lăng Biang • Sơn Đoòng environs (guided)

Cycling Routes & City Loops

Ho Chi Minh City urban loops • Hanoi Old Quarter & West Lake • Hội An coastal rides • Scenic National Highway segments (experienced cyclists only)

Boating & Scenic Lagoons

Bái Tử Long Bay • Đại Lải Lake • Lập An Lagoon • Phong Nha rivers • Sơn River

Best Dive Sites

Moray Beach • Madonna Rock • Hòn Trầu Nam (Whale Island) • Hòn Nhạn • Hội An/Cham Islands • Côn Đảo

Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes

• Phở – aromatic noodle soup

• Gỏi cuốn – fresh spring rolls

• Thịt nướng – grilled pork & herbs

• Bánh mì – the iconic Vietnamese baguette

• Bánh xèo – crispy turmeric crêpe

• Cao lầu – Hội An’s signature noodles

• Bún bò Nam Bộ – beef with rice noodles

• Cà phê trứng – silky egg coffee

7-Day & 10-Day Sample Itineraries

Classic North Vietnam (7 Days)

Hanoi (2) → Ninh Bình/Tràng An (1) → Hạ Long Bay cruise (2) → Hanoi (2)

Saigon & Beach Break (7 Days

Ho Chi Minh City (3) → Mekong Delta (1) → Nha Trang or Phú Quốc (3)

North–Central–South Highlights (10 Days)

Hanoi (2) → Hạ Long (2) → Đà Nẵng/Hội An (3) → Ho Chi Minh City (3)

Safety, Money, SIM, and Practical Tips

• Cash & Cards: ATMs widely available; carry small bills for markets.

• Connectivity: Buy a local eSIM/SIM on arrival for smooth maps and ride-hailing.

• Transport: Domestic flights save time; night trains are scenic; intercity buses are economical.

• Dress & Respect: Temples/pagodas call for modest attire; remove shoes where posted.

• Health: Stay hydrated; use sunscreen and insect repellent in rural areas.

• Documents: Keep passport + eVisa copies on phone/cloud and one printed set.

Risks of DIY Applications & Why Our Professional eVisa Service Helps

Common pitfalls with DIY applications:

• Photo or passport scans not meeting specifications → rejections/delays

• Incorrect entry port/date → denied boarding or refused entry

• Missing itinerary details or accommodation info → processing stalls

• Last-minute submissions → no buffer for corrections

How our service protects your trip:

• Pre-check of documents and photos for compliance

• Error-free form filing aligned with requirements stated on the portal

• Status monitoring and quick follow-up on clarifications

• Clear travel brief (entry port, what to print, arrival dos & don’ts)

• Support 24/7 until you land

👉 Apply for your Vietnam eVisa.

Final Call to Action: Apply for Your Vietnam eVisa Today

Make your 2026 Vietnam trip effortless. Get your paperwork done right the first time with expert checks, fast processing, and 24/7 guidance.
Apply for your Vietnam eVisa through our website today and travel with peace of mind.