First trip to Vietnam: what to prepare
Updated 3 November 2026 · 4 min read
In short
For a first trip to Vietnam, plan 2 weeks and follow a north-south line through the main stops: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An and Saigon. Check your visa, install an eSIM, and book the cruise, domestic flights and night trains in advance.
What to see by trip length
| Length | Suggested route | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | The North: Hanoi, Ha Long, Ninh Binh | Trying to see the whole country |
| 10 days | North and Centre: Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An | Too many flights |
| 2 weeks | Hanoi, Ha Long, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon, the Mekong | Adding Sapa and Phu Quoc too |
| 3 weeks | The whole line, with Sapa and Phu Quoc | Changing stops every night |
What to prepare, in order
- 3 months before: your flight, arriving in one city and leaving from another.
- 1 month before: your visa, insurance and vaccines.
- 2 weeks before: the cruise, domestic flights and night trains.
- Before you leave: an eSIM, the Grab app and a little cash.
See also the itineraries, when to visit Vietnam and scams to avoid.
Frequently asked questions
How long for a first trip to Vietnam?
2 weeks let you see the North, Centre and South without rushing. With one week, focus on the North.
Where to start a trip to Vietnam?
In Hanoi or Saigon depending on the season, leaving from the other city to avoid backtracking.
What should you book in advance?
The Ha Long Bay cruise, domestic flights, night trains and hotels around Tet.