Is two weeks enough time to see Vietnam properly?

Two weeks gives you a solid overview of Vietnam's highlights from north to south. You'll experience different cultures, landscapes, and foods without feeling too rushed. Three weeks would be ideal, but two weeks works well if you focus on major destinations rather than trying to see everything.

Should I book everything in advance or wing it?

Book international flights and first few nights accommodation in advance. Domestic flights should be booked 1-2 weeks ahead for better prices. Everything else can be arranged on the ground, which gives you flexibility and often better prices for tours and activities.

How much cash should I carry?

Vietnam is largely cash-based. Carry $200-300 USD to exchange locally - gold shops offer better rates than banks or airports. ATMs are widely available in cities but rare in rural areas. Keep small denomination Vietnamese dong for street food and local transport.

Is the water safe to drink?

Stick to bottled water, which costs $0.30-0.50 per liter. Ice in restaurants and hotels is generally safe, but avoid ice from street vendors. Most accommodations provide free drinking water. Brush teeth with bottled water to be safe.

What's the best way to get around between cities?

Fly for long distances (Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City). Overnight trains work well for Hanoi to Sapa. Buses are cheapest but can be uncomfortable for long trips. Book flights early for better deals, especially with VietJet and Vietnam Airlines.

How to spend two weeks in Vietnam from north to south

Start in Hanoi for 3 days, take an overnight train to Sapa for 2 days, fly to Hoi An for 3 days, explore Ho Chi Minh City for 3 days, then finish with 3 days in the Mekong Delta. Book domestic flights early and expect to spend $40-60 per day including accommodation.

Plan your route and book flights. Fly into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh City to avoid backtracking. Book Vietnam Airlines or VietJet domestic flights between Hanoi-Da Nang and Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City at least 2 weeks ahead for better prices. Budget $80-120 per domestic flight.
Get your visa sorted. Apply for an e-visa online at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn 3-10 days before travel. Costs $25 and takes 3 business days. Print the approval letter and bring passport photos for arrival.
Book key accommodations early. Reserve hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter, Sapa town center, Hoi An Ancient Town, and Ho Chi Minh City District 1. Book Mekong Delta homestays through tour operators. Expect $25-45 per night for mid-range options.
Download essential apps. Get Grab for transportation, Google Translate with Vietnamese downloaded offline, and Xe Om for motorbike taxis. Download Maps.me for offline navigation in rural areas.

Is two weeks enough time to see Vietnam properly?: Two weeks gives you a solid overview of Vietnam's highlights from north to south. You'll experience different cultures, landscapes, and foods without feeling too rushed. Three weeks would be ideal, but two weeks works well if you focus on major destinations rather than trying to see everything.
Should I book everything in advance or wing it?: Book international flights and first few nights accommodation in advance. Domestic flights should be booked 1-2 weeks ahead for better prices. Everything else can be arranged on the ground, which gives you flexibility and often better prices for tours and activities.
How much cash should I carry?: Vietnam is largely cash-based. Carry $200-300 USD to exchange locally - gold shops offer better rates than banks or airports. ATMs are widely available in cities but rare in rural areas. Keep small denomination Vietnamese dong for street food and local transport.
Is the water safe to drink?: Stick to bottled water, which costs $0.30-0.50 per liter. Ice in restaurants and hotels is generally safe, but avoid ice from street vendors. Most accommodations provide free drinking water. Brush teeth with bottled water to be safe.
What's the best way to get around between cities?: Fly for long distances (Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City). Overnight trains work well for Hanoi to Sapa. Buses are cheapest but can be uncomfortable for long trips. Book flights early for better deals, especially with VietJet and Vietnam Airlines.