Vietnam’s Best Honeymoon Destinations

Top Honeymoon Destinations in Vietnam

 

There are many spectacular locations to visit in Vietnam, but which are the most romantic, and the most suitable for a honeymooning couple? From resort-style accommodation to a quiet town or beach aware from the popular tourist areas,Vietnam has plenty to offer newlyweds looking for a romantic honeymoon destination.

 

Da Lat

Valley of Love (Vallée d’Amour) Park in Dalat - Vietnam

 

Da Lat (or Dalat) is considered by many to be a traditional choice for honeymooning Vietnamese couples, and there are certainly many elements that make it a wonderfully romantic destination. Attractions in the town - which was once known as La Petite Paris - include several flower gardens that are nothing short of spectacular, including an amazing orchid garden, and a biennial flower festival, along with scenic locations such as the Lake of Sighs, and the Valley of Love. It’s a beautiful place, and is definitely a must-visit for international honeymooners who find themselves in the area.

 

Con Dao Island

Con Dao Island, Vietnam

 

Con Dao Island is one of the most beautiful beach getaways in Vietnam, a remote island location that is largely undeveloped in comparison to the country’s main tourist centers. Con Dao is part of a 16-island archipelago, more than 80% of which is part of Con Dao National Park - lush tropical jungle, pristine beaches clear water, and incredible coral reefs. For newlyweds who want to spend their honeymoon in a romantic location that’s a little off the beaten path, but still provides all the necessities, this is the place to go.

Vietnam has become such a popular tourist destination that it’s easy to find flights there from most of the world’s main air travel centers, with several different carriers. The country’s main centers are well-serviced, and from cities like Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi there are plenty of options for transport to your chosen honeymoon location. Most locations can be reached by air, or by a combination of air and sea or land transport. Another wonderful vacation option, especially for a newly-wed couple, is a cruise around the South China Sea, with stops in Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Hanoi. Most cruise companies now offer couples the opportunity to get married on board, and even provide a range of wedding services. After the cruise is over, there’s the option for honeymoon time in one of the many ideal locations Vietnam has to offer, from fabulous resorts in Halong Bay, to the quiet splendor of Con Dao Island, Hue or Halong Bay.

 

Halong City and Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

 

There are less than 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, and Halong Bay, located near Halong City, is one of them. In English, Halong Bay translates to Bay of the Descending Dragon, or “Where the dragon descends into the sea”, a suitably impressive name for such a magnificent place - an enormous bay in which are scattered more than 1,600 limestone cliff islands. It would be easy to spend weeks exploring the coastline and the bay, but Halong City provides many other attractions as well, including fantastic places to eat, shop, and soak up the atmosphere.

 

Hué

Huong River in Hué, Vietnam

 

The former capital of Vietnam, Hué is situated along the north bank of the river Song Huong - in English, the Perfume River. It’s a place that is very rich in historic treasures, which includes another of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the complex of Hué monuments. The monuments were built over a period of hundreds of years, and include a citadel, royal tombs, a temple, an arena, and the Esplanade of Nam Giao, a series of open-air terraces surrounded by immense stone walls. These structures are impressive enough on land, but they’re even more amazing when viewed from while taking a boat trip on the river. Hué is the ideal choice for newlyweds who are interested in spending time in one of the country’s major cities, while still enjoying a quiet and relaxed honeymoon atmosphere.

 

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island

 

Nothing less than an island paradise, Phu Quoc is another fantastic option for newlyweds looking for a romantic tropical beach-style honeymoon. It’s less than an hour by air from Ho Chi Minh City, but its tranquility is virtually unmatched, and although it’s become a more popular tourist destination over the last decade, there are still long stretches of quiet sands where newlyweds can get away from it all. The island’s beautiful beaches and clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, and on land, there are quiet villages to visit, and bustling open-air markets. Along with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, there are plenty of quiet places to enjoy a meal, or the romance of an evening drink while watching the spectacular sunset.

 

Planning a honeymoon holiday in Vietnam? Browse our honeymoon collection at and contact one of our travel specialists for more information and latest offers./.

 

Tours in Vietnam

• Southern Escape - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• Ancient towns - Away from busy life - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Relaxing in central of Vietnam - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Central Vietnam Explorer - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Heritage path in middle of Vienam - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• Enjoy the heaven on Halong Bay - 2 Days/ 1 Night
• Soaring with Halong Starlight - 2 Days/ 1 Night
• Halong Bay Cruise - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Heaven in the earth - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• The Heaven On The Sea - 4 Days/ 3 Nights

Travel Tips and Behavior in Vietnam

Tips for visiting Vietnam before your trip

 

You Should:

Vietnam Travel Tips

 

• Learn about Vietnam before your trip (The best source is friends or relatives who have visited).
• You should note some typical features of Vietnamese culture.
• Follow Vietnam’s laws - avoid getting involved in illegal issues!
• Leave your passport, papers, air tickets and other important things in the hotel safe.
• Take a hotel card before going out, so you can easily contact your hotel in case you lose your way.
• Call a taxi instead of a Motorbike taxi when going out in the evening.
• Double-check your luggage before leaving home. Ask your travel agent what you should bring.
• Respect the habits of the local people.
• As a courtesy, take off your shoes before entering someone’s house.
• Try to learn some useful Vietnamese for emergency cases.
• Bargain when purchasing something (except for fixed price).
• Take a careful look before crossing streets, especially in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi.
• Practice food safety; cheap or street food may be seen as low quality or made in poor conditions.
• Hire a tour guide if you think it’s necessary to help you avoid unnecessary problems.
• Only bring with you necessary things.
• Should bring some U.S. currency as the dollar is the most popular foreign currency in Vietnam.
• Exchange some currency to Vietnamese đồng (at airport or bank). Dồng will be needed occasionally.
• If possible, get the address or phone number of your diplomatic liaison in Vietnam. U.S. citizens may find current information at the websites of the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the consulate in Ho Chi Minh.
• Make sure that your visiting areas are safe, with no risk of natural problems. See our health advice.
• Buy travel insurance for your trip.
• Be sure that you bring any necessary medicines with you.
• Bring printed e-mails or fax sent by your Vietnam travel agent, or notify a partner in Vietnam 3-4 days prior to your departure. You want to be picked up at the airport on time!
• Respect the environment.

 

You Should Not:

Temple in Vietnam

 

• DO NOT bring highly valued things when going out.
• DO NOT go out late with anyone you don’t know.
• Pointing your fingers at people is considered to be rude.
• Also, do not point at local altars or other religious icons.
• DO NOT throw away water bottles while hiking outdoors.
• Shorts are inappropriate attire when visiting temples or pagodas.
• Should not photograph someone if he/she does not want you to.
• Avoid getting involved in the issues and conflicts of local people.
• DO NOT approach restricted areas, especially army zones!

 

Tours in Vietnam

• Explore the Wonders of Sapa (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Enjoy the heaven on Halong Bay (2 days/ 1 night)
• Vietnam from excursion to highlight in style (15 Days/ 14 Nights)
• Vietnam in style (11 days/ 10 nights)
• Vietnam relaxing (10 days/ 9 nights)
• Discovery Vietnam in style (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam Tour (6 Days/ 5 Nights)
• The cuisine and culture at the South (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• The Heaven On The Sea - Halong Bay (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Central Vietnam Explorer (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour (3 Days/ 2 Nights)
• Vietnam Beach Tour (14 Days/ 13 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam in Depth (13 Days/ 12 Nights)
• Exciting of South Vietnam (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Southern Escape (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Highlights of Mekong Delta (2 days/ 1 night)

40 Unforgettable Experiences to Have in Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Experiences

 

From must-do activities like cruising around Halong Bay or crawling through the Cu Chi Tunnels to brag-worthy feats like drinking snake wine or scuba diving in the South China Sea, here are 40 unforgettable experiences to have in Vietnam. See how many you can check off on your trip.

 

Halong Bay Taichi

 

1. Ride a classic cyclo, Vietnam's ubiquitous three-wheel bicycle taxis.
2. Tuck into a bowl of steaming pho at a street-side restaurant.
3. Light incense at the famous Perfume Pagoda, one of Vietnam's most famous Buddhist shrines.
4. Take a bike tour of Hoi An's charming Old Town.
5. Hire a motorbike and zoom along the city streets.
6. Attend one of Vietnam's unique festivals like the Elephant Racing Festival in Tay Nguyen, the Huong Pagoda Festival or the Le Mat Snake Village Festival.
7. Take a hill tribe trek through the Sapa Valley.
8. Get a suit or dress tailor-made in Hoi An.
9. Learn about Vietnam's turbulent war years at the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City.
10. Watch a traditional water puppet show in Hanoi.

 

Vietnam Cyclo Tour

 

11. Take a street food tour of Hanoi.
12. Ride a dug-out canoe around Lak Lake.
13. Visit the Cai Be floating market on a cruise along the Mekong Delta.
14. Try scuba diving in Nha Trang.
15. Crawl through the famous Cu Chi Tunnels on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
16. Check out Vietnam's tallest temple, the seven-story Tien Mu Pagoda in Hue.
17. Top up your tan at the white sand beaches of Phu Quoc island.
18. Go sandboarding down the Mui Ne sand dunes.
19. Experience Vietnam's rich cultural heritage with a show at the Saigon Opera House in Ho Chi Minh.
20. Hunt for bargains at the markets of Ho Chi Minh City.

 

Street Food in Vietnam

 

21. Enjoy wildlife spotting and bird watching in the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Biosphere Reserve.
22. Savor the unique flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking class.
23. Visit the UNESCO-listed ruins of My Son.
24. Attend a traditional Vietnamese wedding.
25. Ride the scenic Reunification Express train all the way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city.
26. Hike through the Cuc Phuong National Park.
27. Get off-the-beaten-track and explore the natural grottoes of Tam Coc.
28. Take a cruise around Halong Bay on a Junk boat.
29. Purchase some typical Vietnamese souvenirs, like a conical hat, a tailored silk blouse or local handicrafts.
30. Discover Hue's UNESCO-listed Imperial City.

 

Sapa Rice Terraces

 

31. Pay your respects to the founder of unified Vietnam at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex in Hanoi.
32. Photograph the spectacular rice terraces surrounding Sapa.
33. Ride a seaplane over Halong Bay.
34. Look down over Ho Chi Minh City from the Saigon Skydeck.
35. Join the festivities at the vibrant Tet Festival, the Vietnamese New Year.
36. Scale Vietnam's highest peak, Fan Si Pan.
37. Try Vietnam's scariest beverage, Snake Wine - if you dare.
38. Stroll through the spectacular Paradise Cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
39. Take a steamy bath in the Thanh Tan Hot Springs.
40. Enjoy a traditional foot massage while lounging on the beach./.

 

Tours in Vietnam

• Explore the Wonders of Sapa (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Enjoy the heaven on Halong Bay (2 days/ 1 night)
• Vietnam from excursion to highlight in style (15 Days/ 14 Nights)
• Vietnam in style (11 days/ 10 nights)
• Vietnam relaxing (10 days/ 9 nights)
• Discovery Vietnam in style (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam Tour (6 Days/ 5 Nights)
• The cuisine and culture at the South (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• The Heaven On The Sea - Halong Bay (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Central Vietnam Explorer (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour (3 Days/ 2 Nights)
• Vietnam Beach Tour (14 Days/ 13 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam in Depth (13 Days/ 12 Nights)
• Exciting of South Vietnam (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Southern Escape (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Highlights of Mekong Delta (2 days/ 1 night)

When is the best time to visit Luang Prabang?

Best time of Year to Visit Luang Prabang

 

Luang Prabang is one of the best-loved stops on a tour of Laos, and it’s not hard to see why. But when is the best time to plan your trip?

 

Luang Prabang, Laos

 

Nestled on the confluence of the Khan and Mekong Rivers in Laos, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang is full of interest. European architecture left behind by French colonials mixes with traditional Laotian wooden houses, and Buddhist monks in saffron robes walk the streets at dawn collecting alms. Luang Prabang is easy to explore on foot, but going at the right time of year will enable you to enjoy its winding streets and beautiful temples in comfort. Keep reading to find out when to go.

 

LUANG PRABANG’S SEASONS

Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang, Laos

 

Luang Prabang has an annual average temperature of 77°F. Like other countries in Southeast Asia, it’s subject to two seasons, dry and wet, which will have a bearing on your experience of visiting - but perhaps not in the way you might expect.

 

Key highlights

• November to January: dry season is high season, when most people visit.
• March: high humidity and temperatures in the 90s mean this isn’t the best time to visit Luang Prabang.
• August: the wettest month of the year, with flooding a possibility.
• September/October: dragon boat races on the Nam Khan river are a must-see.

 

DRY SEASON - NOVEMBER TO MAY

Bry Season in Luang Prabang, Laos

 

Luang Prabang’s dry season lasts from November to May, but most people visit between November and January, when temperatures are particularly pleasant. This does, however, mean that accommodation is more expensive at this time of year, and restaurants and places of interest are more crowded. From March to May, the mercury climbs as high as 38°C (100°F) - which, as you can imagine, can get rather uncomfortable in the high humidity. If you do happen to visit around mid-April, you’re likely to encounter the festivities associated with the Laos New Year celebrations, which include the tradition of throwing water - welcome relief from the heat.

 

RAINY SEASON - MAY TO OCTOBER

Rainy Season in Luang Prabang, Laos

 

The rainy season in Luang Prabang isn’t anything like as bad as it sounds, and it’s actually a surprisingly good time to visit Luang Prabang. It mostly means that there will be afternoon showers, with plenty of sunshine the rest of the time. Temperatures are cooler, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, as they’re still over 20°C (70°CF) and perfectly comfortable. The rainiest months are August and September, when the Mekong sometimes experiences flooding. With humidity lower, the air is fresher - and all that afternoon rain means that the jungle vegetation and rice paddies are at their most lush and green. Flowers are in colorful bloom, attended by hordes of beautiful butterflies, and the waterfalls - which often dry up in the dry season - are at their most impressive at this time of year. What’s more, with fewer tourists around, accommodation is cheaper and restaurants are easier to get into. Another good reason to visit in Rainy Season: September or October sees dragon boat racing on the Nam Khan river take center stage in Luang Prabang, bringing competitors from surrounding villages and an atmosphere of palpable excitement./.

 

Tours in Laos

• Vientiane - Luang Prabang - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Luang Prabang - Vientiane - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Hidden Delights of Laos - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Sightseeing - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Laos Intangible Charms - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Luang Prabang - 3 Days/ 2 Nights

7 facts about Phnom Penh, Cambodia

7 facts about Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city, is the country’s largest (population of some 1.5 million) and most famous city, and a focal point for the nation’s tourism. Though it’s now a thriving former colonial city with an optimistic outlook, it’s had more than its fair share of strife in days gone by. But this is only one aspect of this fascinating city, as today’s seven facts show.


Indepencencia Monument - Phnom Penh

1. THE NAME MEANS ‘PENH’S HILL’

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh’s interesting and hard-to-spell name literally means ‘Penh’s Hill’, and it comes from a Buddhist temple called Wat Phnom, which has stood in the center of the city since 1373. The ‘Penh’ referred to is a nun who features in a legend about the city’s founding. The story goes that the nun, upon fetching water from the Tonlé Sap (see below), discovered a dead tree in the water, inside which were four bronze statues and one stone statue of the Buddha. She had a temple constructed around the statues and the rest, as they say, is history.

2. IT BECAME THE CAPITAL CITY - FOR THE SECOND TIME - IN 1865

Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Though it was founded in 1372, Phnom Penh only became the country’s capital in 1865. However, this was not the first time in its history that it had enjoyed status as a capital. Back in 1432 it was a royal capital, and it retained this status for 73 years until, in 1505, it was abandoned thanks to in-fighting between royal pretenders. It wasn’t until 360 years later, in 1865, that Phnom Penh was adopted again as a capital, this time by King Norodom I; the current Royal Palace was built at this time.

3. IT WAS ONCE KNOWN AS THE ‘PEARL OF ASIA’...

Phnom Penh’s Parisian-style architecture

Cambodia’s years of French rule have left a mark on Phnom Penh in the significant French influence still visible in the city’s architecture and wide boulevards. It was this Parisian-style architecture that gave it the epithet ‘Pearl of Asia’ by the 1920s, with some also referring to it as the ‘Paris of the East’.

4. ...BUT ITS MORE RECENT HISTORY IS DARK AND TROUBLED

Tuol Sleng genocide museum, Cambodia

Though it’s come through it, it would be wrong not to acknowledge Phnom Penh’s more recent dark history. During the rule of the Khmer Rouge, who took control of Phnom Penh in 1975, a fifth of Cambodia’s population were killed. The city’s inhabitants were evacuated and forced to work as agricultural laborers; Pol Pot, the brutal regime’s leader, had educated people killed along with anyone else he perceived as a threat to the regime. Thankfully this period of Cambodia’s history is now over - Phnom Penh was liberated by the Vietnamese in 1979 - but reminders of the atrocities that took place here are still present, particularly in the form of the chilling Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, 15km away, where countless victims of the regime were murdered.

5. PHNOM PENH’S PAGODAS ARE PARTICULARLY BUSY IN OCTOBER

Phnom Penh’s Central Pagoda, Cambodia

Travel to Phnom Penh in October and you may notice an important festival taking place. Pchum Ben is, after New Year, the second most important event in the Cambodian calendar, and it sees Cambodian families heading to pagodas to dedicate offerings to their ancestors. Roughly translating as “gathering together”, Pchum Ben is a time when families meet to pay their respects and offer good karma to the dead, whom they believe may be suffering in the afterlife for their sins in life. What’s more, they believe that the spirits of the dead come looking for offerings left at pagodas, and if they can’t find any, they will curse them. On the other hand, they will bless their living relatives if they are offered food. So, if you notice the pagodas unusually busy at this time, that’s why.

6. THE TONLÉ SAP: A RIVER WITH A DIFFERENCE

Selling products on the Tonle Sap, Cambodia

Along with the Mekong River, the other water system upon which Phnom Penh is built is called the Tonlé Sap. This unusual system is part river and part lake, but its most bizarre characteristic is that its flow switches direction twice a year. In the dry season it’s like a normal river (albeit one with a small lake), running into the Mekong River at Phnom Penh; but come the monsoon rains, it flows the other way, backing up into a large lake. It’s of great importance in Phnom Penh’s history as a source of fish.

7. ANYONE FOR A TARANTULA KEBAB?

Tarantula kebab is indeed a delicacy in Cambodia

Yes, you read that correctly. Tarantula kebab is indeed a delicacy in Cambodia, and it’s a dish you’re likely to encounter on a trip to Phnom Penh. A tarantula kebab looks every bit as horrible as you’d imagine, but apparently it tastes like a cross between chicken and cod. Not one for the faint-hearted arachnophobe, but luckily there’s plenty of more appetising cuisine on offer in this bustling capital.

Tours in Cambodia

• Impressive Cambodia - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Charms of Cambodia - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Angkor Magnificence - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Highlights of Cambodia - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Cambodia Spotlights - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Siem Reap to Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Tour in Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlight Ancient City - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Classic tour in Phnom Penh - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Siem Reap and Angkor Wat tours - 2 Days/ 1 Night

When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Find out when to visit Siem Reap, the gateway to the ruins of Angkor.

 

Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

Siem Reap is a northern Cambodian village that’s been upgraded to a modern town, and it’s on the map by virtue of the fact that it’s the gateway to the ruins of Angkor. Angkor Wat and rural Cambodia are easily accessed from Siem Reap, which has the full spectrum of accommodation options from which to explore this spectacular part of the country. It can be enjoyed all year round, but if you’re planning a trip, read this guide to decide when is likely to be best for you.

 

SIEM REAP’S SEASONS

Angkor Wat Complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

Like the rest of Cambodia, Siem Reap is hot and muggy all year round, and its two seasons are differentiated primarily by the amount of rainfall each experiences.

 

Key Highlights

• November to April: dry season means less rain and more comfortable temperatures.
• December to February: cooler temperatures make this a popular time to visit.
• April/May: temperatures get uncomfortably hot, often topping 38°C (100°F).
• May to October: Monsoon season is characterised by afternoon showers.
• June: the rainfall steps up a gear in intensity, but temperatures start to fall.
• March and September: the Equinoxes provide the best sunrise photo opportunities.

 

DRY SEASON - NOVEMBER TO APRIL

Dry Season in Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

Cambodia’s dry season runs from November to April. Because Siem Reap is in the north of the country, it tends to be a little cooler, and temperatures are at their most comfortable from December to February, averaging around 25°C (77°F). There’s the least rainfall in December and January.

The busiest times of year for Siem Reap - and therefore the times when hotel rooms will be most expensive - are from Christmas to New Year (it’s a popular Christmas vacation destination thanks to the long hours of sunshine at this time of year), and from March to April. If you’re not a fan of the heat, you’d be best off going earlier in the dry season, as average maximum temperatures rise to around 35°C (95°F) from April to May.

 

MONSOON SEASON - MAY TO OCTOBER

Siem Reap, Cambodia

 

As is the case elsewhere in Southeast Asia, Monsoon Season in Siem Reap doesn’t mean endless rain. The rain - which actually offers welcome relief from the humidity and searing temperatures at this time of year - tends to fall in afternoon showers, with heavier downfalls overnight, but there’s plenty of sunshine the rest of the time, even when the showers become more intense from June onwards. And all that rain makes the vegetation lush and the flowers bloom.

So, despite the name, the rainy season is not a bad time to visit if you don’t mind the heat - and even better, it’s a much quieter time to go. For those who are keen on their photography, another argument in favor of visiting Siem Reap in the Monsoon Season is the fact that the temples of Angkor look fantastic with their moats full - a sight that’s impressive enough in photographs to be worth putting up with a bit of mud to get there.

Tip: If you’re eager to capture a photograph of the sun rising behind the ruins of Angkor, you’ll want to time your visit for one of the two Equinoxes, which are around 20 March and 22 September. Take your pick of a rainy or dry season Equinox./.

 

Tours in Cambodia

• Impressive Cambodia - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Charms of Cambodia - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Angkor Magnificence - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Highlights of Cambodia - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Cambodia Spotlights - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Siem Reap to Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Tour in Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlight Ancient City - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Classic tour in Phnom Penh - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Siem Reap & Angkor Wat tours - 2 days/ 1 night

When is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

It may be hot all year round, but some times of year are better than others for traveling to Phnom Penh. Find out when to visit with our handy guide.

 

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

 

Once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ thanks to its elegant French colonial architecture, Phnom Penh - Cambodia’s capital city - has become a name associated with the brutal Khmer Rouge regime that wiped out a fifth of the city’s population during the 1970s. Thankfully it’s now emerged from this dark period of its history, and although reminders of this phase of its recent past are still present, it’s earned its place on the tourist map. Keep reading to find out when to plan your visit.

 

PHNOM PENH’S SEASONS

Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh - Cambodia

 

Phnom Penh experiences two basic seasons - rainy and dry - though these can be further divided into cool and hot. Annual average temperatures are around 28 to 33°C (82 to 91°F), so it’s safe to say that it’s warm to hot all year round.

 

Key Highlights

• November to January: cooler temperatures in Phnom Penh, ranging from 21 to 32°C (70 to 90°F).
• February to May: temperatures soar to 40°C (104°F) and humidity is high.
• May to September: the rainy season arrives with intense afternoon showers; temperatures are still high.
• October to November: the rain continues, but temperatures start to ease off to between 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F).

 

DRY SEASON - NOVEMBER TO MAY

Independence Monument in Phnom Penh - Cambodia

 

The dry season is when Phnom Penh experiences the least rainfall, and can be split into two sections - the cool season, which runs from November to January, and the hot season, which runs from February to May. Temperatures in the cool season range from around 21 to 32°C (70 to 90°F), while the hot season sees temperatures soaring to overbearing levels, reaching as high as 40°C (104°F) - which feels worse because humidity is also high at this time of year.

The most popular (and so the most crowded) time to visit Phnom Penh is in December and January, when temperatures are at their most pleasant and rainfall is at its lowest.

 

RAINY SEASON - MAY TO OCTOBER

Phnom Penh Rainy Season, Cambodia

 

The rainy season brings short, sharp afternoon showers to Phnom Penh, which often result in flash floods, and the wind is stronger. Days of unending rain aren’t unknown, particularly in May and September, but showers are more likely. Like the dry season, the rainy season sees two distinct temperature periods, with hot temperatures up to September and cooler weather ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 30°C (86°F) leading into the dry season.

If you’re keen to avoid the crowds, the rainy season is a good time to visit Phnom Penh because there will be far fewer tourists around and the rain showers are mostly confined to the afternoons, so you can plan around them. It’s worth noting that October sees the pagodas busier than usual due to the Pchum Ben festival, the second most important event of the year after New Year, which is when local families gather together to head to pagodas to dedicate offerings to their ancestors.

 

Tours in Cambodia

• Impressive Cambodia - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Charms of Cambodia - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Angkor Magnificence - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Highlights of Cambodia - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Cambodia Spotlights - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Siem Reap to Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Tour in Siem Reap and Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlight Ancient City - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Classic tour in Phnom Penh - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Siem Reap & Angkor Wat tours - 2 days/ 1 night

When is the best time to visit Saigon?

Thinking of planning a trip to Saigon? Then be sure to read this guide to the best time to go to the Vietnamese metropolis now known as Ho Chi Minh City.

 

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

 

Now officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon is Vietnam’s largest city, though not its capital (that’s Hanoi). Once described as “the Pearl of the Orient”, it’s now a frenetically busy place where throngs of motorcycles whiz past parks and museums telling the story of the city’s role in Vietnam’s turbulent 20th century history. The city may now be named after a communist leader, but French Colonialists have left behind plentiful traces of Western architecture, which sits alongside the city’s many beautiful temples and gardens. But when’s the best time of year to see all this for yourself?

 

SAIGON’S SEASONS

Saigon Vietnam from the top

 

Saigon is blessed with a pleasant climate all year round, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take its two distinct seasons into account when you’re planning your trip. The rain is only part of the consideration, as humidity varies according to the time of year, and that has a bearing on how sticky your experience of Saigon will be.

 

Key Highlights

• December to April: the Dry Season - hot, dry, and low humidity.
• March to May: temperatures are at their hottest, reaching as high as 39°C (102°F).
• May to November: it’s rainy season in Saigon, and that means more frequent showers - but there’s still sunshine in between.
• December: early-morning temperatures can get as low as 16°C (61°F).

 

DRY SEASON - DECEMBER TO APRIL

Ben Thanh Market in Saigon, Vietnam

 

Running roughly from December to April, the Dry Season is generally thought of as the best time to visit Saigon. March, April and May are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching as high as 39°C (102°F), but there’s less humidity, which makes it much more bearable. In December, temperatures in the early morning can get down to 16°C (61°F), but it’s comfortably warm for a westerner during the day.

If you visit in late December, you’ll get to experience Christmas and New Year in Saigon. Though primarily a Buddhist country, Christmas is celebrated in Vietnam, and you’ll see plenty of decorations up and sales on in the shops.

Note that during Tet - Vietnam’s Lunar New Year celebration, falling between late January and the middle of February - lots of shops and restaurants will be closed, and accommodation will be more expensive. However, the Tet festivities also make it an exciting time to visit Saigon, so if you have a decent budget then it’s still worth traveling at this time.

 

MONSOON SEASON - MAY TO NOVEMBER

Rainy day in Saigon, Vietnam

 

The Monsoon Season sees higher humidity and, of course, more rain. Tropical storms are considerably more frequent, but it’s still a perfectly good time to visit Saigon because the rain isn’t non-stop all day; it usually falls in heavy showers, with sun in between. May to September are a good bet if you’re on a budget, because accommodation prices tend to be cheaper.

It’s worth noting that various public vacations take place over the Monsoon Season, and they can mean that restaurants and shops are closed and public transport is harder to come by. The main ones are Vietnam Reunification Day (30 April), May Day (1 May) and Vietnam National Day (2 September).

 

Tours in Ho Chi Minh City

• Saigon Shopping and Relaxing - Full day
• Saigon Cooking Class (half-day)
• Full Day City Tour
• Half Day City Tour
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Relaxing Tour - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• The cuisine and culture at the South - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Exciting of South Vietnam - 5 Days/ 4 Nights

Epic Journeys: Vietnam South to North

Vietnam is like a supermodel during Paris Fashion Week - long, thin and a bit wibbly. To see the best of the country a journey up (or down) the coast is a must and one of the top road (well mostly rail actually) trips to take on your South East Asian adventure.

Here we profile some of the key destinations on the route, how to get from A to B to sea, and pick out some hidden gems along the way. Hold on to your conical hats...

Vietnam Popular Destinations

 

HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON)

Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon, Vietnam

 

The largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a quintessential busy South East Asian hub which means careening traffic (you WILL learn how to dodge numerous motor bikes), great bars, night life and more attractions than you can shake a stick at. The War Remnants Museum is a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as “Resistance War against America”) and essential for a deeper understanding of the history of the country you’re about to travel through.

Ho Chi Minh is also the jump off to visit the fascinating Củ Chi tunnels and for trips down to the Mekong delta before your journey north.

 

DA LAT

Dalat, Vietnam

 

A 7 - 9 hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City takes you to the intriguing in-land town of Da Lat. It’s an odd place which can feel like more of an European alpine centre than a South East Asian town! The mountainous countryside around the city is beautiful - be sure to take the cable car to the Thien Vien Truc Lam monastery and check out the Datanla waterfall.

 

NHA TRANG

Nha Trang Beach City - Vietnam

 

3 hours from Da Lat by bus (or a 6 - 8 hour train journey from Ho Chi Minh City if you choose to miss out the Vietnamese Alps), the lively seaside town of Nah Trang is a mainstay on the North/South Vietnam route. Kick back and relax on the golden beaches during the day before heading to one of the many friendly bars when the sun goes down to grab a tasty Hanoi or Saigon beer.

If the hubbub of the beach is a bit much for you can jump on a boat to explore the nearby islands or discover the underwater world of the South China Sea on a scuba dive course. You’ll also find quieter stretches of sand further up the coast including the white sands of Doc Let which often ranks as one of Vietnam’s best beaches.

 

HOI AN

Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam

 

Though the train tracks don’t run directly to Hoi An it’s still by far the fastest way to get to this stunning town (other than flying of course). Take the train to Da Nang (9-10 hours from Nha Trang) and jump on the bus for Hoi An - though worth taking a cab if there are more than 2 of you.

Hoi An is well worth the slight diversion from the tracks. Beautiful and unexpected, walking the winding allies, tiny streets and bridges is like stepping back in time. It’s also THE place to get clothes tailor made for a fraction of western prices. Just think how snappy that silver three piece suit will look on the next night train...

 

HUE

Dong Ba Market in Hue - Vietnam

 

Pronounced “Huway” and known for it’s fascinating history, there are two main ways to get to Hue - direct bus from Hoi An or bus back to Da Nang and the train. The latter is known for being particularly scenic and, after epic 10 hour train marathons, the 4 hour ride will be a walk in the park.

However you decide to get there you’ll be bowled over by this city that’s been shaped by conflict over centuries. Be sure to spend some time in the Imperial Citadel and, if two wheels are your thing, to bike to the Tombs of the Emperors on the banks of the river. Just a short drive up the coast is the Tam Giang Lagoon system which, though off the main trail, is well worth a visit for the stunning views.

 

HANOI

Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam

 

Brace yourself for your last long train journey! A meer 12 hours from Hue (though honestly by this point you might consider a flight), the French Colonial capital of Vietnam is where Asia and ye olde Europe collide. Not only is the city itself full of fascinating sights such as Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum and Hoan Kiem Lake it’s also the jump off for the beauty of...

 

HA LONG BAY

Dau Be Island in Halong Bay, Vietnam

 

There’s not a lot we can say about Ha Long Bay that’s not implied by the pictures (i.e. it’s bloody beautiful). If you’ve got the time go on a longer expedition and spend a couple of days sailing round the limestone inlets.

 

SAPA

Sapa, Best place for trekking

 

Time permitting Sapa is a brilliant addition to any Vietnamese itinerary. It’s no walk in the park to get there (yet another long train journey) but the views, tranquillity and endless photo opportunities are more than worth another night on the move./.

Source: Statravel

 

Tours in Vietnam

• Vietnam in style - 11 Days/ 10 Nights
• Vietnam relaxing - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Discovery Vietnam in style - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• North Vietnam Highlights - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Vietnam Beach Tour - 14 Days/ 13 Nights
• Northern Vietnam in Depth - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Stunning twin cities Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlights of Mekong Delta - 2 Days/ 1 Night
• Explore the Wonders of Sapa - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Northern Vietnam Tour - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• The Heaven On The Sea - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Halong Bay Cruise - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Exciting of South Vietnam - 5 Days/ 4 Nights

Travelling with Kids in Vietnam

Travelling with young kids can be challenging due to all the responsibilities. But as for us, it is the perfect time to travel when our kids are young enough to be excited to explore everything and old enough to carry their own packs. In fact, it is always a good time showing our kids the world and created a whole new experience.

Travelling with Kids in Vietnam

 

Is this safe for kids travelling Vietnam and Indochina?

Saigon Street Eats is a street food tour that is a must when visiting Saigon

 

Yes, definitely. Vietnam and other neighbours offer fair medical and healthcare services, especially in main cities. It is advisable to bring full supply of any necessary medicine.

You can avoid the threat of diarrhea and other related diseases by sticking to the safe drinking and eating habits. You will have plenty of chance to enjoy street food since Palm Vietnam Travel chosen local restaurants are careful selected. Also, you can avoid drinking tap water in Vietnam and Indochina since bottled water is widely distributed to purchase.

You expect to see a seemingly chaotic sea of motorbikes if you travel to Hanoi. However, our guides will brief you about how to deal with the traffic. It may be quite a challenge at first for pedestrians but once you know the rules you will get used to it.

 

What you learn

Family Travel with kids in Vietnam

 

With your children accompany, you can see a different part of local people. Asian, especially Vietnamese people are very open to share their personal life and friendly with children. So you will find locals’ friendly smiles or a conversation on a shared thing are naturally flowed with nothing strange remained.

Children are naturally curious about everything. So surrounded by tons of unfamiliar things in foreign countries, you will see your kids make their own experiences with local people, foods and cultures which then later, tell their own stories. You will find it really fascinating to see the world through their eyes, wander in their imagination and see what they interested in. You kids may like what you find very boring and vice versa so you and your kids get inspired from each other to learn and see different perspectives making the experience a lot more memorable.

 

What your kids learn

 

With the exposure to cultural diversity, your kids are inspired to learn and be open-minded to embrace others’ differences, gradually, learning to respect different cultures. Moreover, the living condition varies in many parts of Vietnam as well as other developing countries so being close to local people can help your children picture the deprivation of same-age peers in remote and isolated areas, especially ethnic minorities which then learning to value what they have.

A trip can get your kids distracted and shift their attention to family to soak up in the natural beauty, charm of local people, cultures and great outdoor activities. Meeting new people and staying in different environment can help enhance the ability to adapt to changes regarding physical and cultural aspects. For instance, experiencing the reverse cultures and making new friends can prepare them for any struggles in the near future regarding the cultural differences.

 

Suggested places to visit for family

The ideal time to travel is from November to April when the weather is comfortably cool. Palm Vietnam Travel trip styles vary from culture to adventure, from cruise to nature which involves different level of physical activities for different age range. Here are some suggestions to name but a few for your family to not only explore the most of Vietnam but also have great time spending outdoor:

 

• Ha Long Bay: children under 12 years old will definitely love our cruise trip to Halong bay with spectacular seascape of limestone pillars, caves. meet friendly fishermen and get up close to their daily life when visiting their floating fish village. enjoy various activities such as swimming and kayaking.

Halong Bay - Majestic Water

 

• Ninh Binh: a short and enjoyable trek of approximately 9km to Cuc Phuong National Park are perfectly suitable for children who love to learn about wildlife and habitat. then wander on a local boat trip to Trang An.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

 

• Sapa: for children over 12 years old, a Sapa trekking trip is a perfect to learn about different ethnic minorities and see spectacular yet hidden parts of Vietnam.

Sapa - Heaven Town in the Cloud

 

• Mekong Delta: to experience the mighty Mekong and daily life of local people along the banks, then flying to beautiful tropical Phu Quoc beach to explore the marine biology.

Mekong Delta Floating Market

 

• Hoi An - Da Nang: Enjoy your beach getaway in Da Nang after getting a glimpse of the ancient town of Hoi An.

Walking Tours in Hoi An, Vietnam

 

At the end of the trip, you and your kids will be thankful to the valuable time spent together. It is not the destination that matters. When I travel with kids, I learn to live in the moment with all senses, to observe, to smell, taste and hear in different ways and mostly to value all the precious moments.

If you have any intention in mind, surprise your kids now with the upcoming international children’s day. Your kids are your ideal travel partners. If not, we hope this change your mind. Find helpful tips for travelling with your children in the link provided below./.

 

Tours in Vietnam

• Vietnam in style - 11 Days/ 10 Nights
• Vietnam relaxing - 10 Days/ 9 Nights
• Discovery Vietnam in style - 9 Days/ 8 Nights
• North Vietnam Highlights - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Vietnam Beach Tour - 14 Days/ 13 Nights
• Northern Vietnam in Depth - 13 Days/ 12 Nights
• Stunning twin cities Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlights of Mekong Delta - 2 Days/ 1 Night
• Explore the Wonders of Sapa - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Northern Vietnam Tour - 6 Days/ 5 Nights
• The Heaven On The Sea - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Halong Bay Cruise - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Exciting of South Vietnam - 5 Days/ 4 Nights