Find Cheap Flights to Vietnam for Your Next Unforgettable Trip

The South enjoys dry, sunny weather, ideal for the beach. The North is cold, especially in Hanoi and Sapa. It is high season in the South.

One of the best times to visit the entire country. The North is warm and dry, and the Center begins its dry season. Ideal for cheap Vietnam airline tickets.

Rainy season in the South and North, but Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue) is at its best. Prices for low-cost Vietnam flights may be lower.

The North and South return to ideal weather. It is the harvest season in Sapa, offering spectacular views. Look for Vietnam flight deals.

Colombian travelers need to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. You can apply for an electronic visa (e-visa) before your trip, which is the simplest and fastest method. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Check recommended health and vaccination requirements, such as typhoid fever and hepatitis A, well in advance. Always carry copies of your important documents separate from the originals, including your flight itinerary and proof of accommodation. The e-visa simplifies the process, but you must apply online and wait for approval before flying. This step is crucial to avoid problems upon arrival at the Vietnamese airport. Always verify the latest information on the official Vietnam immigration website.

The most common and flexible transport is the motorcycle, but for visitors, taxis and shared ride services like Grab (similar to Uber) are reliable and economical in cities. To travel between cities, use overnight trains for long distances; they are comfortable and save you a night's hotel stay. Long-distance buses are the cheapest option, but they can be slow. Internal flights are the best option to cover large distances quickly, such as from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. The main airports are well connected. In cities, walk or use motorbikes (xe ôm) for short distances, but agree on the price before getting on. Consider that traffic is chaotic, especially in large cities, so patience is essential. The urban bus system is functional, although it can be difficult to navigate without knowing the language. Planning your routes in advance will save you time and stress.

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations, from very cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Hostels are ideal for backpackers and budget travelers, offering beds for less than $10 USD. Mid-range hotels are clean, comfortable, and offer excellent value. Consider staying in 'homestays' for a more authentic cultural experience, especially in rural areas or small cities like Hoi An. Book in advance, especially if traveling during high season (December to April). In large cities, look for accommodation near the central districts (District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City or the Old Quarter in Hanoi) for easy access to attractions. Online booking platforms work very well. Always check reviews from other travelers about the location and cleanliness before confirming your reservation. Note that plugs are type A, C, and G, so you will need a universal adapter.

Vietnam is generally safe, but petty theft, especially bag snatching from motorcycles, is common in large cities. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Be careful with taxi scams; use trusted companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or better yet, use the Grab app. Always negotiate the price of motorbikes before starting the trip. Do not exchange money on the street; use banks or official exchange houses. If you rent a motorcycle, inspect the vehicle carefully and never leave your passport as collateral. Drink only bottled water and be careful with ice. To avoid being an easy target, dress discreetly and do not display expensive jewelry or electronic equipment. Learning some basic Vietnamese phrases, such as 'Hello' (Xin chào) and 'Thank you' (Cảm ơn), will be greatly appreciated by locals.

Vietnamese people are very respectful and expect the same from visitors. When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Take off your shoes before entering homes or temples. Use both hands to give or receive objects, especially money. Avoid touching someone's head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Public display of affection is unusual. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants and for guides. Food culture is central; if you eat with locals, expect them to offer to share dishes. Do not stick chopsticks vertically in your rice bowl, as it resembles a funeral ritual. Hierarchy and respect for elders are important in Vietnamese society. A simple gesture of courtesy can greatly improve your interactions with local people.

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Banknotes have many zeros, which can be confusing at first; familiarize yourself with the denominations. Cash is king, especially in markets and rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in large hotels and luxury restaurants, but not everywhere. ATMs are available in cities. It is advisable to carry US dollars or euros for exchange, as they offer better rates. A daily budget for a budget traveler can be $30 to $50 USD, including accommodation, street food, and local transportation. Street food is incredibly cheap and delicious. Negotiate prices in markets, but always with a smile and respect. Avoid exchanging large amounts of money at once. Always ask for the price before consuming something, especially at food stalls or when taking an unregulated taxi.

Vietnamese food is famous for its freshness and balance of flavors. You cannot leave without trying 'Phở', the iconic noodle soup, which is served on almost every corner. 'Bánh Mì', a sandwich made with a crispy baguette and varied fillings, is perfect for a quick lunch. Try 'Gỏi cuốn' (fresh summer rolls) and 'Bún chả' (noodles with grilled pork), a popular dish in Hanoi. Street food is safe if you choose busy stalls. Drink Vietnamese coffee, strong and often served with sweet condensed milk ('cà phê sữa đá'). The cuisine varies greatly between the North (saltier) and the South (sweeter and spicier). Don't be afraid to try local stalls; they often offer the best and most authentic food. The experience of sitting on a low plastic stool on the street is an essential part of the trip. Hygiene is generally good if the place has a lot of customer traffic.