Ultimate 1 Month Vietnam Itinerary: Everything you need to know – South to North
Welcome to Vietnam, a fascinating country with so much to offer than it’s recognised for. Weaving together a rich tapestry of history, culture, food and breath-taking landscapes.
Nestled in Southeast Asia, Vietnam offers an interesting experience like no other, where ancient traditions harmonise with rapid modernisation and serene natural wonders coexist with bustling cities. 1 month is the perfect length of time to enjoy this incredible country to it’s fullest, travelling the length of Vietnam by sleeper bus is an epic adventure to be had, should you dare to embrace it.
Go explore Vietnam!
Best Time To Travel
Vietnams climate can change hugely depending on the region you will visit, as the country experiences regional variations in weather patterns.
Northern Vietnam: Best months to visit are from October to April as the weather will be mostly cooler and drier.
Central Vietnam: Best months to visit are from February to May as the weather will be mostly warm and dry.
Southern Vietnam: Best months to visit are from December to April as the weather will be mostly comfortable temperatures and have lower rainfall.
Be aware, Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and national holidays will see a peak in local tourists and most places will be either hugely crowded, have inflated prices, or be closed as the celebrations take place. If you prefer less crowds and generally lower prices, we recommend travelling in the shoulder seasons in Vietnam.
Visa
Vietnam requires a visa to enter the country for tourism. You can apply online in advance for a 1-month maximum tourist visa for a fee of $25. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a 15-day maximum tourist visa free of charge.
Be sure to check the current entry requirements for your country.
Food
Vietnam’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, offering a delicious insight into the country’s culture with a huge street food scene.
From the iconic Pho, a steaming bowl of aromatic broth with rice noodles and tender slices of beef or chicken, to the irresistible Banh Mi, a fusion of French and Vietnamese flavours stuffed into a crusty baguette, every bite tells a story of Vietnams culinary heritage. Don’t miss their delicious fresh spring rolls, packed with vibrant herbs, vegetables, succulent shrimp, or grilled meats.
Transport
Vietnam is a larger country than what most of us seem to think, it’s the length that really catches us out so be prepared for some long, tiring journeys if you want to keep your budget low. Vietnam’s infrastructure is generally very well maintained and widely accessible.
Bus travel is the most common transportation, and you should get well acquainted with the infamous sleeper busses as they’ll become your new best friend for the most budget efficient mode of transport for your 1 month in Vietnam. They’re not as uncomfortable as they’re made out to be and from our experience all busses (9) bar 1 were punctual and thankfully we had no breakdowns/accidents, but this isn’t uncommon so do factor this in. They’re budget friendly and usually travel overnight so you don’t miss valuable days exploring.
Trains run across most of the country, running especially well along the coast. They’re easy to book online and available at different schedules throughout the day but also run overnight too.
Domestic flights can be another option if you’re limited on time, however only a few cities are connected via airports and therefore this can be higher in price and usually the airport is outside of the city, so you’ll need additional transport to your destination.
Grab & Go Jek are widely used as an alternative to hopping in a local taxi. The service is easy to use, and prices are very fair.
You can book online very easily on 12Go Asia .
Budget
Vietnam is undoubtedly one of the cheapest countries we have visited but it can be totally dependant on you and your travelling habits. For example, if you want to take domestic flights instead of sleeper buses then you should expect to add extra $$$ to your budget, likewise, if you want to eat in a restaurant for every meal, you should expect to add extra $$$ to your budget. Below is an example of our daily budget for Vietnam for 2 people.
Accommodation: $11
Transport (Bus): $18
Food: $19
Activities: $1.20-$7.50
Motor Bike rent: $5
Alcohol: $0.84 (Beer) – $4.20 (Cocktail)
Currency & ATM’s
The currency used in Vietnam, is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). $1 is currently equivalent to 23,500 VND. It is also common to be told prices in USD and some places will also accept USD as payment but we’d always recommend paying in the local currency. Few places will take card payments and they’ll often charge an extra 3% for the privilege so we suggest you carry cash where possible.
ATM’s are generally in every city and you shouldn’t have trouble withdrawing.
We recommend withdrawing with any of these banks and they all have different withdrawal fee’s but they’re among the lowest fee:
- Agribank (cheapest withdrawal fee – 22,000VND)
- BIDV
- Dong A Bank
- Vietinbank
- Vietcombank
- Techcombank
- Sacombank
Safety
When it comes to safety, Vietnam is considered a relatively safe country for travellers. Always remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. You should keep a close eye on your belongings to avoid falling victim to pickpockets or scams. If you rent a motorbike, it’s perfectly safe to do so but please always wear a helmet and be cautious due to chaotic traffic. You should have an International Drivers License to rent a motorbike or car in Vietnam.
Important thing to note, no one asked us for a deposit or kept our passports as guarantee when renting motorbikes. If someone insists on keeping your passport, walk away and look for someone else. Most rentals will deliver the bike to your hotel and once you’re done, they will collect the motorbike from the hotel too. Almost all rental places will have WhatsApp so you can contact them even before you’ve arrived at your destination and have the rental arranged. The average cost per day (automatic) is anywhere between 100K-150K (this varies depending on location and model).
Always have travel insurance! We use Safety Wings as the company for our travel insurance.
1 Month Vietnam Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Vietnam as we share our carefully crafted route with a few tweaks for you to explore this captivating country as it unfolds seamlessly, enabling you to maximise your time and surround yourself in Vietnam’s majestic landscapes.
Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 days)
Start your journey in Ho Chi Minh, arriving at the international airport, Tan Son Nhat (SGN) and jump in a taxi to District 1 in the city centre so you’re closest to all the action.
Learn lots as you delve into that history at the War Remnants Museum, gaining a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past. Journey underground and explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, about 1.5 hours outside of the city, taking a day tour to the labyrinthine network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War.
Visit the bustling and vibrant market, Ben Thanh, surround yourself in a world of local flavours, handicrafts and bustling commerce. Don’t forget to try your hand at bargaining, the locals will respect your understanding of the importance a little haggling can have. If in doubt, offer 50% of the asking price and negotiate an agreeable and fair price for yourself and the seller. Remember, everything you see at Ben Thanh will be considerably cheaper in other parts of the country. Do NOT give into the urge of buying all your clothes here.
Have the best Banh Mi in Vietnam, at Banh Mi Hống Hoa in Ho Chi Minh City. Our first Banh Mi and honestly, nothing compared so we set the standards high. Order Banh Mi Op La (Baguette with egg) for just 20,000 VND ($0.86) and you won’t be disappointed.
As the sun sets, let the city’s nightlife come alive, offering high spirited bars and bustling street markets. Grab a 20,000 VND ($0.86) beer from the many rooftop bars whilst watching the city end the day. Sample Ho Chi Minh’s nightlife, at the iconic Bui Vien Walking Street, a lively and energetic thoroughfare, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere.
Mui Ne (1-2 days)
A picturesque coastal town well known for its stunning sand dunes, traditional fishing village and excellent conditions for water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing.
Dubai or Vietnam? Mui Ne is an authentic fishing town, about 6 hours from Ho Chi Minh City, boasting a few unique activities, including the white sand dunes. Experience the exhilarating adventure by hopping on an ATV, racing through the vast expanses of sand.
Don’t miss the breathtaking sunset at the red sand dunes, situated north of Mui Ne’s charming fishing village. Go sandboarding with the locals for the best spots in the dunes.
Sip on an ice-cold coconut at Mui Ne’s popular beach club, Pineapple, and enjoy the beach vibes, watching the wind surfers or kite surfers doing their thing.
Uncover the beauty of the Fairy Stream in Mui Ne, where a stream meanders between the vibrant red canyon walls and lush green forest. Admire the artistic hand of nature through intriguing rock formations, shaped over time by wind and rain, resembling sand stalactites. You’ll stroll around 1km through the refreshing water of the stream and finish at a small waterfall, so bring your flip flops!
Da Lat (2-3 days)
Located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, an idyllic town to witness the unparalleled beauty of the country’s nature. This charming mountain town offers a breathtaking panorama of lush greenery, enveloped by dense tropical forests, cascading waterfalls, and a plethora of fascinating wildlife species.
For thrill-seekers, there’s an array of adventure sports and activities, our favourite and one of our most recommended things to do, is to ride the Datlana Alpine Coaster 3 to be sure to get your heart racing on your way down to the scenic Datlana waterfall. You can also zip-line through the lush forest.
Savour the special delights by visiting the lively local markets and street food stalls. Sample the famous strawberry treats, indulge in the flavourful coffee from the region’s coffee plantations, and try local specialities like Banh Trang Nuong (grilled rice paper) or Banh Uot Long Ga (steamed rice paper with chicken intestine).
Nha Trang (1-2 days)
With an abundance of sunshine, Nha Trang boasts more days of glorious rays per year than any other destination in Vietnam. Prepare to indulge in endless sun-kissed relaxation in this coastal paradise.
Indulge in a relaxing morning at the sandy beach facing a stunning bay dotted with 19 islands and islets at Tran Phu Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous and need a dose of adrenaline, join in one of the many water sports activities all along the beach, from parasailing to kite surfing, paddle boarding to jet skiing.
Tantalising your taste buds, a delicious seafood feast awaits for lunch in Nha Trang, the popularly known seafood capital of Vietnam. With copious amounts of fresh fish and shellfish, this culinary experience is an absolute must-do.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a therapeutic mud bath in Nha Trang’s mineral-rich clay, renowned for it’s skin healing properties, such as improved circulation and hydration. After submerging yourself in the oozing, sticky mud, rejuvenate with a shower amidst the cool waterfalls, followed by a refreshing dip in the invigorating hot mineral pools.
Hoi An (2-3 days)
Amidst meandering rivers, lush rice paddies and beautiful beaches, Hoi An embodies the essence of a timeless destination. The golden hues of its shop houses, vibrant blooms and verdant countryside create an enchanting atmosphere. We could have spent double our scheduled time in this charming town.
You need to try the incredible creation that is coconut coffee, to be blown away by the creamy, slightly nutty, and milky sensation. To date, we’re still dreaming of the coconut coffee’s we had in Hoi An. We highly recommend Paddys Café, for maybe the best one yet so be sure you give one a try. For world-famous Banh Mi, head to Banh Mi Phuong where they claim to have the best Banh Mi in the world, as stated by Anthony Bourdain.
Experience the joy of getting tailor-made clothing where skilled tailors and diverse fabric choices is a haven for fashion enthusiasts seeking personalised garments. The rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage observed by intricate techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans. Take home not only beautifully crafted garments but also a treasured piece of Vietnamese culture.
Just 7km away from the old quarter, An Bang Beach captivates with its stunning coastline, ranking among the most delightful sandy stretches in Vietnam.
Flowing through the heart of Hoi An town, the enchanting Thu Bon River sets the stage for a magical experience. As the sun begins its descent stroll along the riverfront and take a leisurely 20-minute boat ride (expect to pay 150,000 VND) as the sky blushes with shades of pink and the floating lanterns illuminate the waters. Don’t miss the chance to release a floating paper lantern into the river, accompanied by a wish.
Ninh Binh (2-3 days)
Discover the enthralling wonders of this spectacular region known as ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’. Enjoy 2-3 days in its spellbinding riverine landscape, where limestone karsts emerge from vibrant green paddies.
Witnessing the sunrise is an absolute must at Hang Mua viewpoint. It etched itself as one of the most cherished memories of our Vietnam journey. A challenging climb of over 500 steps leads to awe inspiring 360-degree views of the majestic vista below. To fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of this remarkable landscape, conquer the hike during sunrise or sunset. To be rewarded with the sight of the dragon perched atop the mountain.
Some of Ninh Binh’s best scenery can is only accessible by boat. Take a boat in Tam Coc & Trang An, where skilled locals row with their feet, guiding each sampan with grace. Glide along tranquil waterways, winding past towering karsts that dominate the landscape, and venture into mystical caves.
Don’t leave without sampling the province’s signature dishes with rich flavours: Com Chay and De Tai Chanh. Com Chay, a crispy fried rice crust, served as a snack or a perfect accompaniment to a comforting stew. De Tai Chanh, an inviting dish crafted from lightly cured goat meat, marinated in zesty lemon juice and enhanced with a blend of chilies, lime leaves, and sesame seeds.
Hanoi (1-2 days)
Admire the ancient allure of Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital city, boasting a rich history that dates back centuries. Explore the harmonious blend of contemporary and classical architecture, beautifully showcased throughout the bustling city centre. From modern marvels to timeless masterpieces, Hanoi is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
We mostly ate our way through Hanoi and for good reason too. Food is a huge part of the culture and some of the best we ate throughout Vietnam, was in Hanoi. A walking street food tour is a must if you like food even just a little. Usually 3 hours long, you’re whisked around the old quarter to the best local spots that you’d never even know existed without the guidance of your host. Northern style Pho is incredible and has to be sampled. Along with Egg Coffee at Café Giang, where it originated. When ingredients were strictly rationed during war times and they created new ways to have their daily staples.
Step into a realm of wisdom and serenity as you visit the Temple of Literature. A historic gem where Vietnamese scholars once pursued knowledge and marvel at its graceful architecture and tranquil courtyards.
Get swept away by the charming ambiance of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow streets bursting with vibrant markets, aromatic street food stalls, and colonial-era buildings, offering an immersive glimpse into the city’s intriguing cultural heritage.
Ha Long Bay (2-3 days)
A UNSESCO World Heritage site and one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, is an extraordinary natural wonder that will leave you speechless. Picture a surreal seascape of emerald waters, dotted with thousands of towering limestone karsts, creating a breathtaking panorama that seems straight out of a fairytale.
Curious about Ha Long Bay’s reputation? Wondering if it lives up to the hype or if it’s just another tourist trap? Our strong recommendation is to opt for a 3-day, 2-night tour that includes Bai Tu Long Bay alongside Ha Long. This less crowded area offers an authentic experience, allowing you to explore local floating fishing villages, mystical caves, and stunning lagoons away from the bustling crowds. While Ha Long Bay attracts many visitors, with careful selection of a reputable tour operator, you can enjoy an incredible boat trip amongst the 7 Natural Wonders of the world that surpasses all expectations.
Hanoi (1-2days)
Arriving back from your unforgettable boat trip in Ha Long Bay, use this day to explore Hanoi’s things to do, that remain on your list you want to see.
Grab a coffee at Hanoi 1990 café, slightly further south than the ‘Train Street’ marked on Google and prepare for the thrilling experience in Hanoi’s Train Street, where you can witness the bustling daily life of locals as they navigate the narrow alleyways, just inches away from the passing train, creating an exhilarating sight.
Sapa (1-2 days)
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the rolling emerald hills of Sapa, where you can delve into the serene countryside of Vietnam and fully immerse yourself in the traditions and cultures of the ethnic minorities in this remarkable region.
Take a breathtaking adventure to summit of Fansipan, the ‘Roof of Indochina’, via the astonishingly lengthy funicular and cable car, treating yourself to panoramic vistas of majestic mountains, lush valleys, and ethereal clouds along the way.
Challenge yourself to a 1- or 2-day trek alongside experience local guides, as you walk 12km from Sapa down to the valley, involving yourself in the authentic village life and witnessing the daily routines of the locals. Engage in meaningful interactions, partake in their daily activities, and gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable beauty of their homes and surroundings.
Ha Giang (3-4 days)
A mesmerising journey through remote and rugged landscapes in the north of Vietnam that will leave you in awe. Traverse winding mountain roads, witness stunning views of towering limestone peaks and observe the rich cultural tapestry of ethnic minority communities along the way spending each night in homestays. Spend 3-5 days self-driving, as part of a group or with an easy rider (a local drives the scooter and you just enjoy the ride). However you do it, you must make this part of your itinerary. From cascading rice terraces to picturesque villages, the Ha Giang Loop promises an extraordinary experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Hanoi (1-2 days)
It’s your last day in Vietnam before you leave the country.
Hit up Beer Street and indulge in the lively atmosphere, where vibrant bars and street vendors line the bustling street, offering a selection of local and international brews to satisfy every beer enthusiasts palate and most importantly drink some of the cheapest beer ever!
Where should you visit next? Check out our Australia, Bali, Philippines, Vietnam & Thailand blogs.
