Vietnam at a glance
- Flight time: around 12 hours non-stop from London Heathrow, or one stop from Glasgow and Edinburgh
- Visa: British passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 45 days
- Best time to go: February to April suits a full north-to-south trip
- Ideal length: 12 to 14 nights to see the north, centre and south
- Time difference: 7 hours ahead of the UK (6 hours during British Summer Time)
- Currency: Vietnamese dong (VND)
Where to go on a Vietnam holiday
- Hanoi: the capital's Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature and a water puppet show.
- Halong Bay: an overnight cruise among thousands of limestone islands, with kayaking and a cooking class on board.
- Hoi An: a lantern-lit old town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, tailors, markets and nearby beaches.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum and day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
- The Mekong Delta: floating markets, river villages and a boat journey across the border into Cambodia.
Our Vietnam holidays
- Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An beach and Hanoi: 14 nights, our classic south-to-north twin city and beach holiday.
- Vietnam Hidden Gems: 13 nights, with an overnight Halong Bay cruise included.
- Cambodia and Vietnam: 12 nights in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap for Angkor Wat, and Hoi An.
- Follow the Mekong: a 14-night escorted tour from Bangkok through Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam holiday FAQs
Click or tap a question to see the answer.
Do I need a visa for Vietnam from the UK?
British passport holders can visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days for tourism. Your passport needs at least six months' validity from the date you arrive, two blank pages and no damage. For longer stays you can apply for a 90-day e-visa. Rules can change, so we always check the latest UK government travel advice with you before you go.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Vietnam is a year-round destination, but the weather differs from north to south. February to April is the best time for a full-length trip, with mostly dry, warm weather across the country. The north (Hanoi and Halong Bay) is cooler from December to February. Central Vietnam (Hoi An) is at its best from February to August, while October and November bring its heaviest rain. The south (Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong) is dry from December to April.
How long is the flight from the UK to Vietnam?
Non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City take around 12 to 13 hours. From Glasgow or Edinburgh you fly with one connection, usually through a Middle East or Asian hub, so allow around 15 to 18 hours in total. We will find the best routing from your nearest airport.
How many days do I need in Vietnam?
We recommend 12 to 14 nights to travel from Ho Chi Minh City in the south, through Hoi An, to Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north. With 10 nights, focus on two areas, such as Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An. Allow three weeks or more if you would like to add Cambodia or a beach stay.
Can I combine Vietnam with Cambodia or Thailand?
Yes. Vietnam pairs naturally with Cambodia: our Cambodia and Vietnam holiday includes Angkor Wat, and our Follow the Mekong tour starts in Bangkok and travels by road and river into Vietnam. We can also add extra stays or a cruise, as every holiday is tailored to you.
Is a Halong Bay cruise worth it?
Yes. We recommend staying at least one night on board so you see the bay at sunset and early morning, when the day boats have gone. An overnight cruise is included in our Vietnam Hidden Gems holiday and can be added to any other Vietnam itinerary.
What currency is used in Vietnam?
The currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops in the cities, but carry some cash for markets, street food and tips.
Do I need vaccinations for Vietnam?
Speak to your GP or practice nurse at least six to eight weeks before travel. You can also check the latest health advice for Vietnam on the NHS Fit for Travel website.