Southern Vietnam – A must-go destination for visitors

When it comes to the south of Vietnam, people often think of Ho Chi Minh City, the most bustling and modern city in the nation. But the south of Vietnam is not only the vibrant urban energy of the metropolis but also consists of the peaceful and mellow countryside, the immense sea areas, and stunning islands.

Southern Vietnam Description

Mekong Delta – The Magic Land of Vietnam

Considered “the rice bowl of Vietnam”, the Mekong Delta is the biggest delta in Vietnam as well as the third’s largest delta in the world, which produces a large amount of food for domestic and export. This delta is a vast maze of rivers, swamps and islands, which takes travelers a long time to discover its unique splendor.

Southern Vietnam Description 1

The region is also home to floating markets, Khmer pagodas, and villages amid abundant fruit orchards and rice paddies. Traveling by boat on meandering rivers and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere is not an easy-to-find experience for any tourist visiting Vietnam.

The gorgeous island beach destinations

Southern Vietnam Description 2

Beaches are, for many travelers, the main reason for a visit to Vietnam. In Southern Vietnam, Con Dao and Phu Quoc are two must-see destinations for holidaymakers. While the former is an island of enormous natural beauty with forested hills, deserted sandy beaches, and incredible coral reefs, the latter is an up-and-coming island beach destination that attracts millions of vacationers each year.

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Southern 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 Southern Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is from December to April. During this period, the temperature is pleasant and there is almost no rain. Here are some basic information about the weather in places in Southern Vietnam:

Saigon / Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

  • May - November: sporadic rainfall, hot, humid
  • December - April: clear skies, hot, sunny

Phu Quoc Island

  • July - September: stormy, hot, humid
  • October - June: clear skies, hot, sunny
Where are the best places to visit in Southern Vietnam?

Southern Vietnam is a region with many attractive destinations for tourists, and here are the places that we recommend to help you have the best experience in Southern Vietnam:

  • Saigon / Ho Chi Minh City
  • Mekong Delta
  • Phu Quoc Island

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

What are the best dishes to eat in Southern Vietnam?

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

Southern Vietnam (Saigon, Mekong Delta)

  • Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
  • Com Tam (Broken Rice)
  • Xoi (Sticky Rice)
  • Banh Mi (Stuffed Baguette)
  • Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls)
  • Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls)
  • Bun Cha (Grilled Pork and Noodles)
  • Goi Cuon (Spring Roll)
What are the best souvenirs to buy in Southern Vietnam?

The most ideal souvenirs that you can buy when visiting Southern 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 Southern Vietnam?

Most likely, the worst you'll come home with is 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 Southern Vietnam

Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon
Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta
Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc Island

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All tours related to Southern Vietnam

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Duration: 18 Days 17 Nights
Destinations: Bagan, Da Nang, Halong Bay, Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, Mandalay, Mekong Delta, Saigon / Ho Chi Minh City, Sapa, Yangon
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