What to know before visiting Vietnam

Whether you crave stunning turquoise seas or bustling city tours, Vietnam is the perfect destination to relax and recharge.

When you combine outstanding scenery with a vibrant cultural scene you’ve got the perfect holiday destination. And that’s exactly what Vietnam offers to Australian travellers. There are the experiences every visitor will want to have, from cruising spectacular Halong Bay to zipping around Hanoi on the back of a scooter.

Then there are the endless beaches, tempting islands, the country’s fascinating history and, of course, the food scene. Eat pho and banh xeo (crispy savoury pancakes) from street stalls or sip cocktails at a rooftop bar.

Explore the villages of the Mekong Delta or venture into the mountainous north, home to the hill tribes. Vietnam is a great destination for families, too. Kids will love the beaches around Nha Trang and Da Nang, with their gentle waves and endless activities, from snorkelling to wakeboarding. Throughout the country there are festivals, museums, boat cruises, immense parks and bustling markets.