越南旅游指南

2025 Hanoi Summer Travel Guide: Essential Tips for First-Timers on E-Visa & Must-See Attractions

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city blending ancient culture with modern energy. During the summer, visitors can explore thousand-year-old temples, savor authentic street food, and experience the unique charm of Vietnam. This guide provides detailed information on e-visa applications, entry requirements, and top attractions in Hanoi to help you plan an unforgettable summer trip.


1. Vietnam E-Visa Regulations for 2025 (Updated)

To boost tourism, Vietnam has streamlined its visa policies. In 2025, the e-visa system offers even more convenience for travelers. Here’s the latest info:

E-Visa Eligibility & Types

Under Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP (August 14, 2023), Vietnam’s e-visa is now available to all nationalities. Two main types are offered:

  • Single-entry visa: For short-term travel (30-day validity).

  • Multiple-entry visa: For frequent travelers (30 or 90-day validity).

Approved Entry Points for Hanoi

When entering Hanoi, you can use the following e-visa-approved checkpoints:

✅ By Air:

  • Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi’s main airport, with flights from Asia and beyond).

✅ By Land (for travelers from China/Laos):

  • Huu Nghi Quan Border Gate (China-Vietnam border).

  • Lao Cai Border Gate (connects to Yunnan, China).

✅ By Sea (for cruise passengers):

  • Hai Phong Port (~2 hours from Hanoi).

2. How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa or Visa on Arrival

Visa Type Entry Points Processing Time Application Method
E-Visa 42 ports (air, land, sea) 3-5 business days (express: 2 hours) Online application (PDF format)
Visa on Arrival Only 5 int’l airports (including Noi Bai) Requires pre-approved letter + queue at airport Submit passport, photo & approval letter

Recommended Choice: E-visa is more convenient (no airport queues, valid for all entry methods).

🔗 Apply here: https://www.yuenanyuenan.com/apply/

3. Currency Exchange & Payment Tips

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) (Notes: 500 – 500,000 VND).

  • Cash is still widely used, but digital payments (MoMo, ZaloPay) are growing.

Best Ways to Exchange Money:

✔ Banks (Best rates – Vietcombank, Techcombank).
✔ Gold/Jewelry Shops (Sometimes better rates, but choose reputable ones).
✔ ATMs (Accepts Visa/Mastercard, but may charge fees).

Payment Methods:

  • Small shops, markets, taxis: Cash only.

  • Hotels, restaurants, malls: Accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

Hanoi Summer Travel Guide Essential Tips for First-Timers on E-Visa & Must-See Attractions

4. Must-Have Apps & Translation Tools

📱 Google Maps (Offline maps available).
🚖 Grab (Ride-hailing & food delivery).
🍜 Foody (Vietnamese “Yelp” for local eats).
🗣 Google Translate (Supports Vietnamese offline).

5. Sun Protection, Mosquito Safety & Health Essentials

Hanoi’s summer is hot & humid—prepare accordingly!

Sun & Mosquito Protection:

  • Sunscreen: SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours.

  • Mosquito repellent: DEET-based (Dengue fever risk).

Medical Kit Checklist:

  • Anti-diarrheal (Imodium).

  • Allergy meds (Loratadine).

  • Painkillers (Ibuprofen).

  • Band-aids & antiseptic.

6. Top Things to Do in Hanoi This Summer

🏮 Hoan Kiem Lake & Old Quarter (36 Streets)

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Iconic spot for morning walks & night lights.

  • Old Quarter: Maze of shops, cafés, and street food.

🏮 Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & One Pillar Pagoda

  • Mausoleum: Final resting place of “Uncle Ho” (dress modestly).

  • One Pillar Pagoda: A Unique lotus-shaped temple.

🏮 Hanoi Cathedral (St. Joseph’s)

  • French Gothic architecture is great for photos.

🏮 West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda

  • West Lake: The Largest lake, perfect for sunset cycling.

  • Tran Quoc Pagoda: Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temple.

🏮 Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

  • Traditional Vietnamese puppet show (family-friendly).

🏮 Night Markets & Must-Try Foods

  • Dong Xuan Market: Souvenirs & local crafts.

  • Must-eat dishes:

    • Pho (Try Pho Thin or Pho 10).

    • Bun Cha (Grilled pork noodles – Obama’s favorite at Bun Cha Huong Lien).

    • Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich).

    • Egg Coffee (Best at Giang Café).

7. Practical Tips: Avoiding Scams & Cultural Etiquette

Transportation Safety:

  • Taxis: Use Mai Linh or Vinasun (avoid unmarked taxis).

  • Grab: Fixed prices, safer than street taxis.

Tipping Customs:

  • Not mandatory, but appreciated:

    • Restaurants: 5-10% if no service charge.

    • Hotels: 20,000–50,000 VND for bellboys.

    • Massage: 10-15%.

Cultural Do’s & Don’ts:

  • Temples/Pagodas: Cover shoulders & knees, remove shoes.

  • Photography: Ask permission before taking photos of locals/monks.

  • Dining: Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (symbolizes death).

With this guide, your Hanoi summer trip will be smooth and unforgettable! From e-visa applications to hidden gems, you’re all set for an amazing adventure. Start planning now! 🌟🏮

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Visas to Vietnam have been made very simple.
Here’s why:
  • We do all that is necessary when you apply for a visa.
  • You made the form online, we send the result straight to your email.
  • You arrive in Vietnam, the visa is ready for pick up.
  • We have a 100% guarantee refund policy.
  • (see our refund policy)
Disclaimer: This website is not a government one and we are not affiliated with the embassy. We are in business to help and support those who need to get a visa for Vietnam.