In short: For backpackers, Vietnam offers a mix of bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, natural wonders like Ha Long Bay and the Ha Giang Loop, and cultural gems like Hoi An and Hue, all easily accessible and budget-friendly.
| Destination | Best for | Don't Miss | Travel Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | Culture, street food, history | Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Egg Coffee | Urban Explorer |
| Ha Long Bay / Lan Ha Bay | Natural beauty, cruising, kayaking | Overnight cruise, hidden lagoons | Relaxed Adventure |
| Ha Giang Loop | Motorbike adventure, epic landscapes | Mountain passes, ethnic villages, homestays | Off-Road Thrills |
| Hoi An | Charming town, tailoring, cooking | Lanterns at night, Japanese Covered Bridge | Cultural Immersion |
| Hue | Imperial history, ancient architecture | Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, royal tombs | History Buff |
| Ho Chi Minh City | Vibrant city life, modern history | Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, street food | Dynamic Urban |
| Mekong Delta | River life, floating markets, nature | Cai Rang floating market, boat trips, homestays | Rural Escape |
In this guide
- Northern Vietnam: Mountains, History & Bays
- Central Vietnam: Ancient Towns & Imperial Grandeur
- Southern Vietnam: Bustle, Beaches & the Mekong
- Getting Around Vietnam as a Backpacker
- Essential Tips for Backpacking Vietnam
Vietnam is a backpacker's dream, a country that truly has it all: epic landscapes, fascinating history, incredible food, and a vibrant culture that welcomes adventurers with open arms. If you're an independent traveller between 18 and 39 looking for an authentic experience without breaking the bank, you've come to the right place. We've spent years exploring this incredible country and crafting unforgettable itineraries, so we know the best places to visit in Vietnam for backpackers inside and out.
From the misty mountains of the north to the bustling deltas of the south, Vietnam offers a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're into trekking, street food, history, or simply soaking up the local vibe, get ready to discover your next adventure. If you're wondering when to go, check out our guide on Vietnam Weather: Best Time To Visit to plan your trip perfectly.
Northern Vietnam: Mountains, History & Bays
- Best for: Adventure, culture, natural beauty
- Don't miss: Ha Giang Loop, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi Old Quarter
- Getting there: Fly into Hanoi (HAN)
Hanoi: The Heartbeat of the North
Hanoi is often the starting point for many backpackers, and for good reason. This ancient city is a chaotic, charming, and utterly captivating introduction to Vietnam. Dive headfirst into the Old Quarter's narrow streets, where motorbikes weave past street food vendors and ancient temples. It's an assault on the senses in the best possible way.
- Explore the Old Quarter: Get lost in the maze of streets, each traditionally dedicated to a specific trade. Grab a plastic stool and enjoy some pho or bun cha.
- Hoan Kiem Lake: A peaceful oasis in the city centre. Legend has it a giant turtle lives here!
- Water Puppet Theatre: A unique Vietnamese art form, surprisingly entertaining.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay respects to Vietnam's revered leader (check opening times, dress respectfully).
- Street Food Tour: Essential for any foodie. Sample local delights like egg coffee and spring rolls. You can't leave without trying Banh Mi!
Tip: When crossing the road in Hanoi, just keep walking steadily. Don't stop or make sudden movements; the motorbikes will flow around you!
Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay: Limestone Karsts & Kayaking
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ha Long Bay's emerald waters and towering limestone karsts are iconic. While popular, it's still a must-see. For a slightly less crowded experience, consider a cruise in Lan Ha Bay, which offers similar stunning scenery with fewer boats. Many tours depart from Hanoi.
- Overnight Cruise: The best way to experience the bay. Choose a reputable operator for a comfortable and safe trip. Look for options that include kayaking and swimming.
- Kayaking: Paddle through hidden lagoons and past floating fishing villages.
- Ti Top Island: Hike to the viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the bay.
- Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, some cruises offer opportunities to try rock climbing on the karsts.
Ha Giang Loop & Sapa: Epic Landscapes & Hill Tribes
For the ultimate adventure, head north to the mountains. The Ha Giang Loop is a legendary motorbike journey through dramatic mountain passes, terraced rice fields, and remote ethnic minority villages. It's not for the faint of heart, but the views are absolutely breathtaking. If motorbiking isn't your thing, Sapa offers incredible trekking opportunities through similar stunning landscapes, meeting local H'mong and Dzao communities.
- Ha Giang Loop: Rent a motorbike (or go with an 'easy rider' if you're not confident) for 3-5 days. Stay in homestays for an authentic cultural experience.
- Sapa Trekking: Hike through lush valleys and rice paddies, staying overnight in a village homestay.
- Local Markets: Visit Sunday markets like Bac Ha (near Sapa) or Dong Van (Ha Giang) to see vibrant local life and traditional crafts.
Tip: Always ensure you have appropriate travel insurance like SafetyWing before attempting the Ha Giang Loop. Roads can be challenging, and accidents happen.
Central Vietnam: Ancient Towns & Imperial Grandeur
- Best for: Culture, history, relaxation
- Don't miss: Hoi An lanterns, Hue Imperial City
- Getting there: Fly into Da Nang (DAD) or overnight train
Hoi An: Lantern-Lit Charm & Tailor-Made Memories
Hoi An's Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stark contrast to the bustling cities. Famous for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lanterns, and custom tailor shops, it's a place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere. It's also a great spot for a cooking class!
- Ancient Town: Wander the pedestrian-friendly streets, admire the Japanese Covered Bridge, and release a lantern onto the Thu Bon River at night.
- Tailor Shops: Get custom-made clothes for a fraction of the price you'd pay back home. Allow a few days for fittings.
- Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like fresh spring rolls and banh xeo.
- An Bang Beach: Just a short bike ride away, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Hue: Imperial History & Riverside Beauty
Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is steeped in history. Its most famous attraction is the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and gates. It's a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's royal past, though much was destroyed during the Vietnam War.
- Imperial City (Citadel): Explore the Forbidden Purple City, royal tombs, and pagodas within the ancient walls.
- Thien Mu Pagoda: An iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.
- Perfume River Boat Trip: Take a dragon boat trip to visit some of the imperial tombs and pagodas along the river.
- Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour: For history buffs, a day trip to the former DMZ offers a sobering look at Vietnam's wartime past.
Southern Vietnam: Bustle, Beaches & the Mekong
- Best for: City life, history, river excursions
- Don't miss: Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, vibrant markets
- Getting there: Fly into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
Ho Chi Minh City: Dynamic Metropolis & History Lessons
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly Saigon, is a sprawling, energetic city that never sleeps. It's a hub of commerce, culture, and history, offering a different vibe from Hanoi. Expect grand French colonial architecture alongside towering skyscrapers and bustling markets.
- War Remnants Museum: A powerful and sobering look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a half-day trip to explore the intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers.
- Ben Thanh Market: A huge indoor market for souvenirs, clothes, and street food (be prepared to haggle!).
- Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office: Iconic French colonial landmarks.
- Bui Vien Walking Street: The heart of the backpacker district, lively with bars and street performers at night.
Mekong Delta: Life on the Water
The Mekong Delta is a vast, fertile region in southwestern Vietnam, where the mighty Mekong River empties into the sea. It's a world of lush rice paddies, coconut groves, and intricate waterways, best explored by boat. Life here revolves around the river, with floating markets and villages built on stilts.
- Floating Markets: Cai Rang (near Can Tho) is one of the largest and most vibrant. Go early in the morning to see it in full swing.
- Boat Trips: Explore narrow canals, visit local fruit orchards, and see traditional cottage industries like coconut candy making.
- Homestays: Stay with a local family for an authentic experience of delta life.
Getting Around Vietnam as a Backpacker
Vietnam is incredibly well-connected for backpackers. The most popular options include:
- Open Bus Tickets: Buy a ticket that allows you to hop on and off at various stops along the country. These are great value and very flexible. Read our tips on 5 Ways To Win At Vietnam's Overnight Bus.
- Trains: The 'Reunification Express' runs the length of the country, offering a more scenic and comfortable (though often slower) journey.
- Motorbikes: For shorter distances or adventurous loops like Ha Giang, renting a motorbike is popular. Always wear a helmet and ensure you have the correct license and insurance.
- Flights: For long distances (e.g., Hanoi to HCMC), domestic flights are affordable and save a lot of time. You can compare prices on Skyscanner.
Essential Tips for Backpacking Vietnam
- Visa: Most nationalities require a visa for Vietnam. Make sure to arrange this in advance. Check your requirements with a service like Sherpa or read our guide on How To Get Your Vietnam Visa.
- Money: The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available, especially in cities. Consider a travel money card like Wise for better exchange rates.
- Accommodation: Hostels are plentiful, affordable, and a great way to meet other travellers. Look for options with good social areas.
- Language: While Vietnamese is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases (hello, thank you, how much?) will go a long way.
- Packing: Pack light! You'll be moving around a lot. Essentials include lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, and a good daypack. Don't forget bug spray and sunscreen.
Vietnam is an incredible country for backpackers, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and affordability that's hard to beat. Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of Hanoi, cruising through Ha Long Bay, or navigating the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, you're in for an unforgettable journey. Ready to dive in? Check out our 15 Day Small Group Tour in Vietnam or our longer Backpacking Thailand & Vietnam trip for a truly epic adventure!
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to backpack Vietnam?
To experience the highlights from North to South, we recommend at least 2-3 weeks. This allows time for travel between destinations and a deeper immersion into each place without feeling rushed.
Is Vietnam safe for solo backpackers?
Yes, Vietnam is generally very safe for solo backpackers, including women. Petty theft can occur in busy areas, so always be aware of your belongings. Local people are friendly and welcoming.
What's the best way to get around Vietnam?
A combination of overnight sleeper buses, trains (especially the Reunification Express), and domestic flights is most common. Motorbikes are popular for specific regions like the Ha Giang Loop, but require caution and experience.
What's the typical budget for backpacking Vietnam?
A comfortable backpacker budget for Vietnam is typically around $30-50 USD per day, covering hostels, local food, transportation, and activities. This can be lower if you're very budget-conscious, or higher if you splurge on tours or nicer accommodation.
Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?
Most nationalities require a visa for Vietnam, which should be arranged in advance through an e-visa or embassy. Visa policies can change, so it's best to check official requirements before your trip.
Why book with Backpacking Tours?
At Backpacking Tours, we believe in real adventures. We actually run our Vietnam tours ourselves, with expert local guides who know the country inside out. You'll travel in a small group of like-minded 18-39 year olds, following a hand-built itinerary that perfectly balances must-see highlights with authentic local experiences. Our trips offer the freedom of backpacking with the ease of an organised group, providing great value and flexibility, as rated by our past travellers.
