Vietnam has quickly become one of the most exciting international holiday destinations for Indian travellers. Beautiful beaches, buzzing cities, spectacular landscapes, rich culture, delicious food and plenty of experiences at different budgets make Vietnam an excellent choice for couples, families, honeymooners and groups of friends.
Whether you’re dreaming of cruising through Ha Long Bay, walking through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang and Phu Quoc, or exploring the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam can offer several holidays in one trip.
Planning your first Vietnam holiday from India? This Vietnam Travel Guide for Indians 2026 covers the visa, flights, approximate budget, hotels, best destinations, ideal trip duration and useful travel tips.
Why Visit Vietnam in 2026?
Vietnam is a great option for Indian travellers who want an international holiday combining sightseeing, culture, beaches, nightlife and nature.
Some of the biggest reasons to consider Vietnam are:
- Beautiful beaches and islands
- Historic cities and cultural attractions
- Spectacular mountains, caves and natural landscapes
- Excellent options for couples and honeymooners
- Family-friendly sightseeing
- Vibrant nightlife in major cities
- A wide selection of hotels and resorts
- Interesting local food and growing availability of Indian cuisine in tourist areas
- Convenient connections between major tourist destinations
- Holidays suitable for both budget and premium travellers
One of Vietnam’s biggest advantages is its variety. Northern Vietnam offers Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa; Central Vietnam brings together Da Nang, Hoi An and Hue; while southern Vietnam includes Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong region and tropical Phu Quoc.
Vietnam Visa for Indians in 2026
Indian passport holders planning a holiday to Vietnam should arrange the appropriate visa before travelling.
Vietnam operates an official electronic visa (e-Visa) system. Eligible foreign travellers can apply online, and Vietnam’s e-visa can be issued for a maximum validity of 90 days, with either single or multiple entry, depending on the visa granted.
Basic Vietnam e-Visa Application Process
The general online process involves:
- Completing the e-visa application form
- Uploading the required photograph and passport information
- Providing your intended travel and accommodation details
- Paying the applicable visa fee
- Waiting for the application result
- Downloading the approved e-visa
- Carrying the required travel documents when entering Vietnam
Your name and passport details should be entered carefully and should match your passport.
Important: Visa policies, fees, processing requirements and permitted entry points can change. Travellers should always verify the latest requirements with Vietnam’s official immigration authorities before booking or travelling.
Flights from India to Vietnam
Vietnam is increasingly accessible from India through direct and connecting flights.
The country’s main international gateways for tourists include:
Hanoi – Noi Bai International Airport
Best suited for travellers visiting:
- Hanoi
- Ha Long Bay
- Ninh Binh
- Sapa
- Northern Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Ideal for:
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta
- Southern Vietnam
- Travellers combining the south with other destinations
Da Nang International Airport
A convenient gateway for:
- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Central Vietnam
Phu Quoc International Airport
Best for travellers planning a relaxing island or honeymoon holiday in Phu Quoc.
Flight options vary according to departure city, airline, season and travel dates. Travellers from major Indian cities can find a combination of direct and connecting options.
Travel Tip: Compare a simple return ticket with a multi-city itinerary. For example, arriving in Hanoi and departing from Ho Chi Minh City can sometimes save you from unnecessary backtracking.
How Much Does a Vietnam Trip Cost from India?
Vietnam can work for several different travel budgets.
Your actual holiday cost will depend on your departure city, travel dates, airfare, hotel category, number of nights, sightseeing choices and whether you prefer private or shared transfers.
Approximate Vietnam Holiday Budget
Budget Traveller:
Around ₹45,000–₹65,000 per person
Comfortable Mid-Range Holiday:
Around ₹65,000–₹90,000 per person
Premium Holiday:
₹1,00,000+ per person
These figures are only indicative estimates and can vary significantly.
Your overall Vietnam trip budget may include:
- Return international airfare
- Vietnam visa
- Hotel accommodation
- Breakfast
- Airport transfers
- Domestic flights
- Sightseeing tours
- Cruise or boat experiences
- Meals
- Local transportation
- Travel insurance
- Shopping and personal expenses
Travelling during peak dates, festivals and school holidays can increase airfare and hotel prices.
For the best value, plan early and compare the complete holiday cost, rather than choosing a package only because the headline price looks cheaper.
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
1. Hanoi – Culture, History & Street Life
Vietnam’s capital is a fascinating combination of old and new.
The famous Old Quarter is packed with narrow streets, shops, cafés and local food. Around the city, travellers can explore historic attractions, temples, lakes and museums.
Don’t Miss:
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Temple of Literature
- Local markets
- Vietnamese coffee
- Street-food experiences
Hanoi is also an excellent starting point for trips to Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa.
Recommended Stay: 2–3 nights
2. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam’s Iconic Cruise Destination
If there is one landscape that instantly represents Vietnam, it is probably Ha Long Bay.
Its emerald waters and dramatic limestone formations create one of Southeast Asia’s most memorable landscapes.
An overnight cruise allows travellers to experience the bay at a more relaxed pace.
Depending on your cruise, activities can include:
- Kayaking
- Cave visits
- Sunset views
- Island sightseeing
- Meals onboard
- Overnight accommodation
Recommended Stay: 1 night cruise
For honeymooners and couples, upgrading to a better cruise category can make this one of the highlights of the entire Vietnam holiday.
3. Da Nang – Beaches & Modern Vietnam
Da Nang is an excellent choice for travellers looking for beaches without giving up city comforts.
The city also works as a convenient base for exploring several attractions in Central Vietnam.
Popular Experiences:
- Beaches
- Dragon Bridge
- Ba Na Hills
- Golden Bridge
- Marble Mountains
- Local markets
- Cafés and restaurants
Da Nang International Airport also makes the region easy to combine with other Vietnamese cities.
Recommended Stay: 2–3 nights
4. Hoi An – Vietnam’s Most Romantic Old Town
Hoi An is particularly popular with couples and honeymooners.
The historic town is known for atmospheric streets, traditional architecture, colourful lanterns, cafés and riverside evenings.
Things to Do:
- Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
- Enjoy the lantern-lit streets after sunset
- Take a boat ride
- Visit local markets
- Try Vietnamese cuisine
- Cycle through the countryside
- Visit nearby beaches
Hoi An is approximately a short road journey from Da Nang, making it easy to combine both destinations.
Recommended Stay: 1–2 nights
5. Ho Chi Minh City – Shopping, History & Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City offers a completely different side of Vietnam.
It’s fast, energetic and modern, but historic landmarks and traditional markets remain part of everyday city life.
Popular Experiences:
- Ben Thanh Market
- City sightseeing
- Cafés and restaurants
- Shopping
- Rooftop experiences
- Nightlife
- Cu Chi Tunnels excursion
- Mekong Delta day trip
Recommended Stay: 2–3 nights
6. Phu Quoc – For Beaches & Honeymoons
Want to slow down after a busy sightseeing itinerary?
Add Phu Quoc.
This tropical island is ideal for travellers looking for resorts, beaches and relaxing holiday experiences.
It’s especially suitable for:
- Honeymooners
- Couples
- Families
- Luxury travellers
- Beach lovers
Spend your time relaxing at your resort, exploring beaches, enjoying water activities or simply watching the sunset.
Recommended Stay: 2–4 nights
7. Ninh Binh – Spectacular Natural Scenery
Ninh Binh is a great addition for travellers who want something beyond Vietnam’s major cities.
The region is known for towering limestone landscapes, rivers, countryside and peaceful boat experiences.
It can be visited as a day trip from Hanoi, although staying overnight allows for a slower experience.
Recommended Stay: Day trip or 1 night
8. Sapa – Mountains & Rice Terraces
Travellers who enjoy mountains and cooler landscapes should consider Sapa.
Famous for dramatic valleys and terraced fields, Sapa offers a completely different experience from Vietnam’s coastal cities.
It works particularly well for travellers who enjoy:
- Nature
- Photography
- Mountain scenery
- Local culture
- Walking and trekking
Add Sapa when you have enough time to explore Northern Vietnam without rushing.
Best Vietnam Itinerary for First-Time Indian Travellers
For a first trip, 7 to 10 days gives you enough time to experience more than one part of the country.
7-Day Vietnam Holiday
Day 1: Arrive Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi sightseeing
Day 3: Ha Long Bay cruise
Day 4: Fly to Da Nang – Hoi An
Day 5: Da Nang / Ba Na Hills
Day 6: Hoi An and leisure
Day 7: Departure
9–10 Day Vietnam Holiday
For a more complete experience:
Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Da Nang → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City
Travellers with additional time can add Phu Quoc, Ninh Binh or Sapa depending on their interests.
Don’t try to cover every famous destination in one short trip. Vietnam is a long country, and spending too much time moving between cities can make the holiday tiring.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s weather varies significantly between the north, centre and south.
As a general guide, March to May can offer favourable weather across much of the country, but the ideal month depends heavily on the destinations in your itinerary.
Northern Vietnam
Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa and Ninh Binh can experience cooler conditions during winter and hotter, wetter weather during parts of summer.
Hanoi is particularly pleasant during parts of April–June and September–October.
Central Vietnam
Da Nang and Hoi An generally offer attractive conditions during spring, while Hoi An can experience wetter weather and storms later in the year.
Southern Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City and southern Vietnam remain warm through much of the year, with a distinct wetter period.
Because weather patterns differ by region, always check the forecast for the specific destinations on your itinerary rather than treating Vietnam as having one nationwide season.
Where to Stay in Vietnam
Vietnam offers everything from inexpensive hotels to luxury international resorts.
Hanoi
Stay around the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem area if sightseeing and restaurants are your priorities.
Da Nang
Beach lovers can consider accommodation around the coastal areas, while city-centre hotels may suit travellers prioritising local sightseeing and dining.
Hoi An
Choose accommodation near the Ancient Town for atmosphere and convenient sightseeing, or consider a resort closer to the beach for a quieter stay.
Ho Chi Minh City
Central locations are convenient for first-time visitors who want easy access to sightseeing, restaurants and shopping.
Phu Quoc
A beachfront resort is worth considering if relaxation is the main purpose of your stay.
Food in Vietnam for Indian Travellers
Vietnamese cuisine is one of the country’s major attractions.
Popular dishes include:
- Pho
- Banh Mi
- Vietnamese spring rolls
- Rice and noodle dishes
- Fresh tropical fruits
- Vietnamese coffee
Vegetarian travellers should communicate dietary requirements clearly because sauces and broths may contain meat or seafood ingredients even when a dish appears vegetarian.
In major tourist destinations such as Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, Indian travellers can also find Indian restaurants.
If you are travelling with children, senior citizens or travellers with specific dietary requirements, plan some meal options in advance.
Currency in Vietnam
Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
Cash remains useful for smaller purchases, local markets and some local establishments, while cards are commonly accepted at many hotels, larger restaurants and shopping establishments.
It’s sensible to carry a combination of:
- Local currency
- International debit/credit card
- Backup payment option
Always check your bank’s international transaction and ATM charges before travelling.
Getting Around Vietnam
Depending on your itinerary, you may use:
- Domestic flights
- Private airport transfers
- Taxis
- Ride-hailing services
- Trains
- Tourist buses
- Private vehicles
- Cruises and boats
For travellers visiting Vietnam for the first time, pre-arranged airport transfers and sightseeing can make the holiday much easier, especially when travelling with family or a group.
Essential Vietnam Travel Tips for Indians
1. Don’t Pack Too Many Cities Into One Trip
Choose two or three regions and enjoy them properly.
2. Keep Your Passport and Visa Details Consistent
Check every detail on your visa and travel documents before departure.
3. Carry Travel Insurance
International travel insurance can help protect against unexpected medical and travel-related expenses, subject to policy conditions.
4. Keep Some Local Currency
Useful for small purchases, markets and local transportation.
5. Buy a SIM or eSIM
Mobile internet makes maps, translations and transport apps much easier to use.
6. Respect Local Customs
Dress appropriately when visiting temples, pagodas and religious sites.
7. Check Baggage Allowance Carefully
Domestic and low-cost airline baggage rules may differ from your international flight allowance.
8. Keep Digital Copies of Important Documents
Save copies of your passport, visa, insurance, tickets and hotel confirmations securely online.
Is Vietnam Good for a Honeymoon?
Absolutely.
Vietnam works particularly well for honeymooners because you can combine several experiences in one holiday.
A romantic itinerary could include:
Hanoi → Ha Long Bay Cruise → Da Nang → Hoi An → Phu Quoc
Couples can combine:
- Romantic cruises
- Beach resorts
- Candlelight dinners
- Island experiences
- Spa treatments
- Lantern-lit Hoi An
- Scenic sightseeing
- Luxury hotel stays
For a shorter honeymoon, Da Nang + Hoi An + Phu Quoc can be an attractive combination.
Is Vietnam Good for Families?
Yes. Vietnam can also be an excellent family destination when the itinerary is planned at a comfortable pace.
Families may particularly enjoy:
- Hanoi sightseeing
- Ha Long Bay cruise
- Da Nang beaches
- Ba Na Hills
- Hoi An
- Phu Quoc resorts
For families travelling with young children or senior citizens, avoid changing hotels every night. A slower itinerary with private transfers is usually more comfortable.
How Many Days Are Enough for Vietnam?
For most first-time visitors:
5–6 Days: One region or two nearby destinations
7–8 Days: Two regions
9–10 Days: Hanoi + Ha Long + Central Vietnam + Ho Chi Minh City
12–14 Days: More comprehensive Vietnam holiday
If you have only five nights, don’t try to see the entire country.
A well-planned shorter holiday is usually more enjoyable than a rushed itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam deserves its place among the most exciting international holiday destinations for Indian travellers in 2026.
From Hanoi’s historic streets and the spectacular scenery of Ha Long Bay to Da Nang’s beaches, Hoi An’s lantern-lit evenings, Ho Chi Minh City’s energy and Phu Quoc’s tropical resorts, Vietnam offers something for almost every kind of traveller.
The key is choosing the right destinations according to your available days, budget and travel style.
Planning a Vietnam Holiday from India?
Let Aggarwal Holidays help you design a Vietnam holiday according to your travel dates, budget and preferences.
We can help you plan:
- International flights
- Hotels & resorts
- Vietnam holiday packages
- Honeymoon packages
- Family holidays
- Airport transfers
- Sightseeing
- Ha Long Bay cruises
- Da Nang & Hoi An holidays
- Phu Quoc stays
- Customized Vietnam itineraries
- Visa assistance
Plan your Vietnam holiday with Aggarwal Holidays and travel with confidence.
Travel information, visa rules, prices, flight schedules and entry requirements are subject to change. Travellers should verify current requirements before booking and departure.
