Which reasons make Northern Vietnam a must-go destination?

Northern Vietnam is considered to be the cradle of ethnic Vietnamese civilization, which is the reason why visitors can find more heritage sites than the central and southern areas. However, this place not only attracts tourists with its historical and cultural values, but also its breathtaking natural sceneries.

A land of history

Northern Vietnam Description

As the oldest region of the country, Northern Vietnam is proud of numerous historical monuments and thousands of traditional folk festivals. These classic architectures such as Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, One Pillar Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Yen Tu Pagoda, and so on, with their ancient beauty, will leave visitors enchanted. The folk festivals, in addition, show the belief and traditions of Vietnamese people clearly. Visiting these historical relics and attending traditional festivals, consequently, gives foreign tourists a chance of understanding this peaceful country and its people.

Paradise of fascinating landscapes

Northern Vietnam Description 1

Regarding Northern Vietnam, natural beauty is an irresistible attraction. This region makes a statement with mighty mountain ranges, stunning rice terraces, and fascinating ethnic groups. Ha Giang and Sapa are two notable mountainous tourist attractions, which make travelers overwhelmed by the beautiful sites and the friendliness of ethnic people.

Northern Vietnam Description 2

Another must-go destination in the north of Vietnam is Halong Bay. Recognized as a natural world heritage by UNESCO, this place attracts millions of visitors each year to explore its poetic beauty. The majestic natural scenery of Halong Bay, which is made up of three elements: rock, water, and sky, captivates the hearts of tourists and makes them find true peace of mind.

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Northern Vietnam Travel FAQs

I heard that Vietnam has visa exemptions. Do I qualify?

Vietnam currently offers visa exemptions from 15 to 30 days for citizens of 22 countries. Find out if you qualify for a Vietnam visa exemption here:

No. Country Maximum visa-free duration Applicable purpose of visit (if any)
1 Chile 90 days Entries that do not include remunerated activities
2 Panama 90 days Entries that do not include remunerated activities
3 Cambodia 30 days Not mentioned
4 Indonesia 30 days Not mentioned
5 Kyrgyzstan 30 days Not mentioned
6 Laos 30 days Not mentioned
7 Malaysia 30 days Tourism, attending press, conference/coverage, official duty, visiting relatives, business negotiation, investment, sports, or attending seminars or conferences
8 Singapore 30 days Entries that do not include remunerated activities
9 Thailand 30 days Not mentioned
10 Philippines 21 days Not mentioned
11 Brunei 14 days Not mentioned
12 Myanmar 14 days Visiting only
13 Belarus 45 days Not mentioned
14 Denmark 45 days Not mentioned
15 Finland 45 days Not mentioned
13 France 45 days Not mentioned
17 Germany 45 days Not mentioned
18 Italy 45 days Not mentioned
19 Japan 45 days Not mentioned
20 Norway 45 days Not mentioned
21 Russia 45 days Not mentioned
22 South Korea 45 days Not mentioned
23 Spain 45 days Not mentioned
24 Sweden 45 days Not mentioned
25 United Kingdom (Not applicable to BNO) 45 days Not mentioned
I am an overseas Vietnamese visitor. Do I need a visa?

Overseas Vietnamese and foreigners who are spouses or children of overseas Vietnamese or Vietnamese citizens are exempt from visa requirements to enter Vietnam. Visitors in this group are allowed to stay visa-free for up to 6 months.

Does Vietnam offer visas on arrival?

Visas granted on arrival are only given to travellers holding a pre-approval visa letter. This letter can be arranged within a few days via your local embassy or a third-party travel agent before your trip.

Vietnam also offers e-visas for stays of up to 30 days to citizens of 46 countries.

How do I apply for an electronic visa?

You can read all about the e-Visa application process on this page. For a short version of how to apply for Vietnam's e-Visa online, see the steps below.

Documents for e-Visa application:

  • 4x6cm digital front facing, white background photo without glasses
  • Scan of passport details page (passport for at least 6 months more)

Step 1: Access https://www.immigration.gov.vn and fill in required information, upload your passport data page image and photo.

Step 2: Receive your document code and pay the e-Visa fee.

Step 3: Receive your e-Visa or related information within 3 working days from the submission of application and payment.

Step 4: Use your document code to check the result and print your e-Visa.

When is the best time to visit Northern Vietnam?

The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is during spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November). Here are some basic information about the weather in places in Northern Vietnam.

Hanoi & Ninh Binh

  • December - March: cool to cold, misty, cloudy
  • April - June: warm to hot, clear skies, sunny
  • June - August: hot, humid, rainy
  • September - November: cool, clear skies, sunny

Halong Bay

  • December - March: cool to cold, misty, cloudy
  • April - June: warm to hot, clear skies, sunny
  • June - August: stormy, hot, humid
  • September - November: mix of sun and clouds, warm to cool

Sapa

  • December - March: chilly, misty, cloudy
  • April - June: warm, clear skies, sunny
  • June - August: stormy, warm, humid
  • September - November: cool, clear skies, dry
Where are the best places to visit in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam has many attractive destinations for tourists, and here are the places that we recommend to help you have the best experience:

  • Hanoi
  • Halong Bay
  • Sapa
  • Ninh Binh

You can see more detailed information about each destination in the section below.

What are the best dishes to eat in Northern Vietnam?

Northern Vietnam is a region with an extremely rich cuisine. Here is a brief list of dishes that you should try when visiting this region:

  • Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
  • Banh Mi (Stuffed Baguette)
  • Bun Cha (Grilled Pork and Noodles)
  • Cha Ca (Grilled Minced Fish Pie)
  • Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls)
  • Hanoi BBQ or Hanoi Barbecue
  • Bun Dau Mam Tom (Rice Noodles with Fried Tofu and Shrimp Paste)
  • Banh Goi (Vietnamese Crispy Dumplings)
  • Bun Thang (Hanoi Rice Vermicelli with Ham, Chicken and Shrimp)
  • Oc Luoc (Boiled Snails)
  • Com Chay Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh Rice Crust)
  • Thit De Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh Goat Meat)
What are the best souvenirs to buy in Northern Vietnam?

The most ideal souvenirs that you can buy when visiting Northern Vietnam are handicraft products, traditional costumes, jewelry, spices and dried food. Below are some typical souvenirs that our customers often buy.

  • Colonial Hat
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Tailor-Made Clothing
  • Ethnic Minority Products
  • Hand Fans
  • Ao Dai
  • Hand Embroidered Stuff
  • Bamboo And Wooden Items
  • Propaganda Posters
  • Snake Wine
  • Cooking Skills
  • Vietnamese Lanterns
  • Pearl Jewelry
  • Vietnamese Cash Money
What should and should not do when visiting Vietnam?

Overall, Vietnam is considered a safe country for foreign tourists. To make sure you do not run into unexpected problems when visiting Vietnam, please refer to the following information:

  • The way of greeting Vietnamese people is no different from Western countries, there is no special cultural ritual that must be performed when communicating.
  • Vietnamese people like to dress modestly. Although the summer weather can be hot, it's best not to show too much skin.
  • Dress politely when visiting religious sites (temples, pagodas, churches). Do not wear shorts, tunics, miniskirts, revealing or flashy clothing and shoes are recommended. If unsure, just follow what the locals do.
  • Keep cash, credit cards, airline tickets, identification and other valuables in a safe place.
  • Follow the guide's instructions closely and should learn basic information about the places you are going to before starting the trip.
  • Do not bring a lot of jewelry or expensive items when going out. Violent crime is rare in Vietnam, but petty theft targeting tourists does happen from time to time.
  • When taking a motorbike taxi or taxi, take good care of your luggage and check the price before you depart.
  • In Vietnam, it is forbidden to show affection between lovers in public. That's why you may come across couples holding hands but not hugging or kissing.
  • Loss of temper in Vietnam means no goodwill. Keep a cool and polite head, you will have many chances to get what you want.
Is Vietnam a good destination for solo female travellers?

Vietnam is one of the safest destinations for solo female travellers in the region. Vietnamese people are for the majority, non-confrontational, and are quite shy around foreigners. That being said, use your judgement wisely. In cities especially Ho Chi Minh City, women should look out for bag snatching from motorists driving by.

What are the most common sicknesses travellers get in Northern Vietnam?

Most likely, the worst you'll come home with is the common cold or some minor stomach woes. Heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration can be an issue in the hot season. Stay vigilant about hydration and applying sunblock.

If you have any other questions or requests, please feel free to contact us

Best places to visit in Northern Vietnam

Hanoi
Hanoi
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Sapa
Sapa
Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh

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