The country stretches far enough that the north can be cool and grey while the south is hot and bright on the same day. That single fact should drive your planning, because there is no month when the whole of Vietnam is at its best.
Three regions, three climates
The north has real seasons, including a genuinely cold winter in the mountains. The centre gets a distinct wet spell later in the year that can flood coastal towns. The south is warm year round, split between drier and wetter halves. Pick your travel dates around the region you care most about, then adjust the rest.
Moving between cities
Domestic flights are inexpensive and remove long overland days. Sleeper trains along the coast are a pleasant experience in their own right if you have the time. Within cities, ride-hailing apps for cars and motorbikes have made short trips simple and predictable.
- Crossing roads works by walking steadily and predictably, not by darting
- Check whether your travel insurance covers riding a motorbike before you rent one
- Long overland legs are best broken with a night somewhere in between
Food, region by region
Eating is a large part of the reason to come. The north leans subtler and less sweet, the centre is spicier and more layered, and the south is sweeter with more herbs and fruit. Small specialist shops that make one dish all day are usually better than menus that offer everything. Sit down, point, and be pleasantly surprised.
Manners and money
Politeness is quiet and practical: modest dress at temples, shoes off where indicated, and both hands or a slight bow when giving something to an elder. Prices are often negotiable in markets and fixed in shops. Carry small notes, and note that the currency's many zeros cause more mistakes than anything else.
Common mistakes
Trying to cover Hanoi to the Mekong in ten days, and booking the central coast during its wet weeks. Choose half the country and see it properly.
Our northern Vietnam route notes cover Hanoi and the mountains in one loop.