Southern Vietnam Travel Guide
A comprehensive travel guide to Southern Vietnam, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs.
- Introduction to Southern Vietnam
- List of Places to Visit in Southern Vietnam
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Vietnam
- Best Things to Do in Southern Vietnam: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Vietnam
- Food and Drink Scene of Southern Vietnam
- Where to Stay in Southern Vietnam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Southern Vietnam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Southern Vietnam
- Best Time to Visit Southern Vietnam
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Southern Vietnam: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Southern Vietnam
- Where to Go Next from Southern Vietnam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam is a region in Vietnam, located in the southeastern part of the country, bordering Cambodia to the west and the South China Sea to the east. It is known for its bustling cities, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This comprehensive guide will provide you with information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs and culture in Southern Vietnam.
List of Places to Visit in Southern Vietnam
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Southern Vietnam is home to a plethora of historically-rich monuments and museums that are major crowd pullers. Some of the most popular attractions are:
- War Remnants Museum
- Cu Chi Tunnels
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Reunification Palace
- Ho Chi Minh City Museum
- Ba Thien Hau Temple
Natural Attractions of Southern Vietnam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Southern Vietnam is also known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures. Some of the must-visit natural attractions that you should add to your itinerary are:
- Mekong Delta
- Phu Quoc Island
- Can Tho Floating Market
- Nam Cat Tien National Park
- Vung Tau Beach
- Da Lat City
Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. You can explore the stunning countryside on a bike or hike through the lush green hills. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in the region are:
- Dalat to Nha Trang
- Mui Ne to Da Lat
- Da Lat to Bao Loc
- Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau
Best Things to Do in Southern Vietnam: Activities and Tours
There are countless activities and tours to choose from in Southern Vietnam. Here are some of our top picks:
- Cooking classes
- Yoga retreats
- Scuba diving and snorkeling
- Motorbike tours
- River cruises
- Food tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Vietnam
If you have a week to spare, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Southern Vietnam:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, visit War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels |
| 2 | Explore Ho Chi Minh City - Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office |
| 3 | Take a day trip to Can Tho Floating Market in Mekong Delta |
| 4 | Head to Vung Tau and relax on the beaches |
| 5 | Go hiking or biking in Da Lat City |
| 6 | Visit the stunning island of Phu Quoc |
| 7 | Relax and unwind in Phu Quoc before heading back home |
Food and Drink Scene of Southern Vietnam
Must-Try Dishes
Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its bold and exotic flavors, and Southern Vietnam has its own unique culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes)
- Bun Mam (fermented fish soup)
- Com Tam (broken rice with grilled meat)
- Hu Tieu (noodle soup with seafood or pork)
- Goi Cuon (spring rolls)
- Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette)
Local Beverages
In addition to its food scene, Southern Vietnam has a vibrant drinks scene as well. Some of the must-try local beverages are:
- Ca Phe Sua Da (iced coffee with milk)
- Tra Da (iced tea)
- Sugarcane juice
- Bia Hoi (fresh beer)
Where to Stay in Southern Vietnam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are a variety of accommodation options available in Southern Vietnam, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- The Myst Dong Khoi in Ho Chi Minh City
- La Siesta Hotel & Spa in Da Lat City
- Salinda Resort in Phu Quoc Island
- Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh City
- Pullman Vung Tau
What to Buy in Southern Vietnam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Vietnam is known for its traditional handicrafts, textiles, and accessories. Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Southern Vietnam:
- Ao Dai (traditional Vietnamese dress)
- Lacquerware
- Bat Trang pottery
- Silk products
- Vietnamese coffee
- Conical hats (non la)
Local Culture and Customs of Southern Vietnam
Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in tradition and values such as respect, gratitude, and hospitality. Some of the customs and traditions that you should be aware of when visiting Southern Vietnam are:
- Removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or place of worship
- Bowing or shaking hands when greeting someone
- Properly addressing elders and people of authority
- Dressing modestly in religious or cultural sites
Best Time to Visit Southern Vietnam
The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is during the dry season, which is from December to April. The temperatures are mild, and rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourism season, and prices can be higher than usual.
Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Vietnam
Do:
- Try the local cuisine
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions
- Bargain at markets and street vendors
- Practice basic Vietnamese phrases
Don’t:
- Disrespect religious or cultural sites
- Wear revealing clothing in public
- Overload your schedule
- Leave your valuables unattended
Safety and Health
Safety in Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions:
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you
- Keep your valuables locked in a safe when not in use
- Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night
- Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas
Health in Southern Vietnam
It is recommended to check with your doctor before traveling to Southern Vietnam. In addition, here are some health tips to keep in mind:
- Drink bottled water and avoid tap water
- Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases
- Be careful with street food and make sure it is cooked thoroughly
- Wear sunscreen to protect against sun damage
Getting to Southern Vietnam: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Southern Vietnam
The major airport in Southern Vietnam is Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Phu Quoc International Airport is also a popular entry point for travelers visiting the island.
Bus Stations Near Southern Vietnam
The main bus stations in Southern Vietnam are in Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho.
Other Options
You can also travel to Southern Vietnam by boat from Cambodia or by train from other parts of Vietnam.
How to Get Around in Southern Vietnam
The best way to get around in Southern Vietnam is by motorbike or taxi. You can also take a bus or a train, but keep in mind that they can be slower and less comfortable than other modes of transportation. If you plan on renting a motorbike, make sure to wear a helmet and drive safely.
Where to Go Next from Southern Vietnam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have some extra time in Southern Vietnam, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:
- Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi train journey
- Sihanoukville, Cambodia
- Hue, Vietnam
Conclusion
Southern Vietnam is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to experience the vibrant and rich culture of Vietnam. With its stunning natural landscapes, savory cuisine, and friendly locals, Southern Vietnam is a must-visit destination for any Southeast Asia itinerary.
