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Vietnam

Jaw-dropping scenery meets enchanting culture

Vietnam Farmers Walking On Rice Fields

A pho-nomenal adventure

Xin chào! Bursting with flavour, charm, and colour, Vietnam stretches from lantern-lit Hoi An to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, and it's absolutely brimming with pinch-me moments!

Whether you're gliding along the magical Mekong Delta, trekking through Sapa's emerald rice terraces, or lounging on Nha Trang’s sun-kissed beaches, Vietnam offers experiences you’ll remember forever.

Ready to make your Vietnam dreams a reality? Chat to our friendly Vietnam travel specialists who can help create your dream Vietnam adventure.

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Flight time.

The journey from Auckland to Vietnam typically takes around 11 hours, with a stopover. Though it’s a long trip, the rich history and stunning landscapes of Vietnam await you.

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Best time to go.

The best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. This period is ideal for exploring the country from north to south.

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Time difference.

Vietnam is 5 hours behind New Zealand. The time difference is manageable, but you might need a day or two to fully adjust

Our favourite things to do in Vietnam

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Junk boats in Halong Bay

Sail sail on a traditional ‘junk’ boat around Halong Bay

A great way to explore the area's giant limestone karsts, secret bays, caves and stunning scenery in a unique way.

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Bowl of Pho noodles

Eat ‘Pho’nemonal local food

Chinese, French and Malaysian flavours influence Vietnamese food using lemongrass, mint, coriander, chili and lime to create so many fresh and fragrant dishes

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Woman walking on Golden Hands Bridge

Walk among giants on the Golden Hands Bridge!

Ever seen a bridge quite like this? The Golden Bridge in Da Nang is a marvel!

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Lanterns in Hoi An Vietnam

Market nights & lantern lights

Explore the beauty and the bustle of historic Hoi An’s lantern and candle-lit night market, cycling the beautiful flower markets of Saigon, cruising the Mekong, Vietnam Disneyland - yep there’s one - and crazy traffic you have to experience to believe!

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Man on taxi bike driving through the old quarter

Stroll through Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter

Get lost in the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with over 40 bustling streets lined with shops selling everything from souveniurs to unique finds treasures.

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Women standing on the street at Hoi Ann markets

Get your custom threads in Hoi An!

Make the most of Hoi An—the “Tailor Capital of the World”

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Group of people sitting outside Cafe Hanoi

Sip like a local at Hanoi's oldest coffee spot!

For an authentic Vietnamese coffee experience, head to Café Lam in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Even non-coffee drinkers will enjoy the Vietnamese style made with condensed milk.

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Vespa parked on street

Taste the city on a Vespa

Hop on a Vespa and let someone else navigate the 'organized chaos' of the city!

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Best Vietnam Holidays Ever

Vietnam FAQs

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Vietnam is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on where you're travelling.

March to May and September to November offer pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall across much of the country. Vietnam stretches over 1,600km from north to south, so the weather can vary significantly between regions.

If you're visiting Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, spring and autumn are often the best times to travel.

 

How long should I spend in Vietnam?

Most New Zealand travellers spend 10 to 14 days in Vietnam to experience the country's highlights.

This gives you time to explore many places. You can visit busy Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can also see Halong Bay, charming Hoi An and the beaches of Da Nang or Phu Quoc.

If you have more time, a 2 to 3-week trip lets you explore Vietnam’s culture, food and landscapes in more depth.

 

Where should I go on holiday in Vietnam?

Vietnam offers an incredible variety of experiences.

Popular destinations include:

  • Hanoi for history, culture, and street food
  • Halong Bay for cruising among limestone islands
  • Hoi An for lantern-lit streets and heritage charm
  • Da Nang for beaches and easy access to attractions
  • Ho Chi Minh City for food, nightlife, and history
  • Phu Quoc for tropical beaches and relaxation
  • Sapa for mountains and rice terraces

First-time visitors often combine Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

 

Is Vietnam a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?

Absolutely. Vietnam has become increasingly popular with Kiwi travellers thanks to its affordability, incredible food, rich culture, beautiful scenery and excellent value for money.

Whether you travel as a couple, family, solo traveller or group, Vietnam offers many experiences.

There are options for every travel style and budget.

 

Do I need a visa for Vietnam from New Zealand?

Visa requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest entry requirements before travelling.

Many travellers will need to organise an appropriate visa or e-visa before departure. We recommend confirming current requirements well ahead of your travel dates.

 

How do I find the best Vietnam holiday package?

The best Vietnam holiday packages often combine flights, accommodation, transfers, and touring.

Booking a package can save time and simplify travel between destinations, particularly if you're planning to visit multiple regions. A travel specialist can help customise an itinerary based on your interests, whether that's food, culture, beaches, history, or adventure.

 

Is Vietnam expensive to visit?

Vietnam is often considered one of Asia's best-value destinations.

Accommodation, dining, local transport, and sightseeing are generally affordable compared to many other international destinations, making it possible to enjoy a memorable holiday without stretching the budget.

 

How much does a Vietnam holiday cost from NZ?

The cost of a Vietnam holiday varies depending on where you stay and what experiences you choose. Expect excellent value for accommodation, local transport, dining and day tours and sightseeing.

Vietnam is often one of the most affordable longhaul destinations available to New Zealand travellers.

Where should I stay in Vietnam?

Where you stay will depend on your itinerary. Choose Hanoi for culture and history, Hoi An for charm and beaches, Da Nang for resorts and family holidays. If you’re looking for vibrant city life and electric nightlife, visit Ho Chi Minh City, or for island relaxation - Phu Quoc.

Vietnam offers everything from boutique hotels and luxury resorts to family-friendly accommodation and budget stays.

 

What should I pack for Vietnam?

Pack for warm weather and plenty of exploring.

Essentials include:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Reef safe sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Portable phone charger
  • Rain jacket or compact umbrella

If you're travelling to northern Vietnam during winter, it's worth bringing warmer layers, particularly for places like Sapa.

 

Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Vietnam.

A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, cancellations, travel disruptions, and lost luggage, providing peace of mind throughout your trip.

 

What currency is used in Vietnam?

Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND).

Cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses, particularly in major cities. However, cash is still widely used, so it's helpful to carry some local currency for markets, small shops and local eateries.

 

Is Vietnam safe for travellers?

Vietnam is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination.

As with any overseas travel, it's important to remain aware of your surroundings, secure your valuables, and take extra care when crossing busy roads, particularly in larger cities where traffic can seem overwhelming at first.

 

Can you drink tap water in Vietnam?

No, tap water in Vietnam is not recommended for drinking.

Stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water throughout your trip. Most hotels, restaurants and cafés provide safe drinking water options.

 

How do I get around Vietnam?

Vietnam has a well-developed transport network that makes travelling between destinations relatively easy. Domestic flights are best for longer distances, trains connect major cities, private transfers and tours are also popular with travellers. Otherwise, taxis, ride-share apps and local buses are also common options.

For many visitors, a combination of flights and private transfers offers the most convenience.

 

Is Vietnam easy to travel around?

Yes. Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia's most popular tourism destinations, and travelling around is generally straightforward.

Major tourist hotspots have great tourism services. Many places to stay can help with transport, tours, and onward travel.

 

What are the best things to do in Vietnam?

Some of Vietnam's must-do experiences include cruising through Halong Bay, exploring Hoi An’s ancient town, visiting Cu Chi tunnels, discovering Hanoi’s old quarter and enjoying the decedent street food. Relax on the beaches of Da Nang or Phu Quoc, ride through the countryside and rice fields and soak in the stunning sights of the Mekong Delta.

 

Is Vietnam family-friendly?

Yes, Vietnam is an excellent family holiday destination.

Families can enjoy beaches, cultural experiences, nature, markets, cycling tours, cooking classes, and family-friendly resorts. Many hotels also offer connecting rooms and facilities designed for children.

 

What cultural etiquette should I know before visiting Vietnam?

Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Dress respectfully when visiting temples and religious sites, remove hats when entering sacred spaces, ask permission before taking close-up photos of people and show patience and respect when interacting with locals

Learning a few basic Vietnamese greetings is always appreciated.

 

Do I need cash or can I use cards in Vietnam?

You'll find cards widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and larger attractions.

However, cash is still preferred in local markets, small businesses and some rural areas. We recommend having both available.

 

What apps should I download before travelling to Vietnam?

These apps can make travelling around Vietnam much easier:

  • Google Maps
  • Google Translate
  • Grab (ride-share and food delivery)
  • WhatsApp
  • Airalo or your preferred eSIM app

Downloading offline maps before arrival can also be helpful.

Meet our Vietnam specialists

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Jo Beddard

Jo Beddard

House of Travel Blenheim

I've been involved in travel for over 30 years.  It's more than a job it's a way of life for me!  I've visited close to 90 countries and I love using my experiences to help others plan an amazing trip away.

Jo

Sarah Bright

Sarah Bright

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 28 years in the travel industry, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to explore some amazing corners of the world. Argentina, Costa Rica, Japan, Guatemala and Cambodia are just a few of the highlights — and my list of places still to experience continues to grow!

My next adventures are India and Bali — two destinations that weren’t even on my original bucket list, but ones I’m now incredibly excited to discover. I love that travel can surprise you and take you somewhere completely unexpected!

One of my recent adventures was a trip to the Champagne region with my sister. As wine lovers, it was truly a trip of a lifetime — filled with beautiful scenery, incredible experiences and, of course, plenty of wonderful Champagne! ??

I absolutely love working with my clients to bring their travel dreams to life. From the initial ideas and inspiration through to the finer details, I enjoy collaborating with you to create an adventure that feels uniquely yours.

And my favourite part? Catching up with my clients when they return home and hearing all about their adventures, the special moments and the memories they’ve made along the way.

For me, travel is about so much more than simply booking a holiday — it’s about creating experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime. ????

Sarah

Jessica Osbourn

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Papamoa

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays. 

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica
Anna O'Dell-Smith

Anna O'Dell-Smith

House of Travel Ferrymead

Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own. 

I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again. 

Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans. 


Anna 

Our Vietnam travel blogs

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Best. Vietnam Holidays. Ever!

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