Danang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is becoming an increasingly popular summer destination. With its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Danang offers the perfect getaway.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic hub, is a vibrant metropolis blending French colonial charm with Southeast Asian energy. During summer, visitors can stroll through colonial-era buildings, savor authentic Vietnamese coffee, and explore the Mekong Delta, experiencing the unique allure of the “Paris of the East.” This guide will detail the e-visa application process, entry requirements, and popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, helping you easily plan an unforgettable summer trip.
To boost tourism, the Vietnamese government continues to optimize visa policies. The 2025 e-visa regulations offer greater convenience for travelers. Here’s the latest information:
E-Visa Eligible Countries & Types
According to Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP (effective August 14, 2023), Vietnam’s e-visa is now available to citizens of all countries and territories. The e-visa offers two main types:
Single-entry visa: Suitable for short-term travel or business trips (30-day validity).
Multiple-entry visa: Ideal for travelers needing multiple entries (30-day or 90-day validity).
Entry Ports for Ho Chi Minh City
When traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, you can use the e-visa at the following entry points:
✅ Airports:
Tan Son Nhat International Airport – The main international airport in Ho Chi Minh City, connecting to various Asian and global routes.
✅ Land Borders (for travelers entering from Cambodia):
Moc Bai Border Gate (Vietnam-Cambodia border)
Bavet Border Gate (connecting to Cambodia)
✅ Sea Ports (for cruise passengers):
Saigon Port – The city’s main port.
| Visa Type | Applicable Ports | Processing Time | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-Visa | 42 entry ports (air, land, sea) | 3-5 business days (express: 2 hours) | Online application, issued as a PDF |
| Visa on Arrival | Only 5 international airports (including Tan Son Nhat) | Requires pre-approved letter, stamping upon arrival | Submit passport, photo, and approval letter |
Recommended Choice: The e-visa is more convenient, applicable for all entry methods, and avoids airport queues.
🔗 Apply for Vietnam E-Visa/Visa on Arrival: Click Here
The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), with denominations ranging from 500 to 500,000. Cash is still widely used in Ho Chi Minh City, but digital payments (e.g., MoMo, ZaloPay) are becoming more common.
Exchange Tips:
Banks: Best exchange rates, safe and reliable (recommend Vietcombank, Techcombank).
Gold/Jewelry Shops: Some offer better rates, but choose reputable ones carefully.
ATM Withdrawals: Accepts international cards (Visa/Mastercard), but may charge fees.
Payment Methods:
Small vendors, night markets, and taxis usually accept only cash.
Large hotels, restaurants, and malls accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).
Recommended Apps:
Google Maps: Essential for navigation (download offline maps).
Grab: Ride-hailing, food delivery, and more (transparent pricing).
Foody: Vietnam’s version of “Yelp” for finding local food.
Google Translate: Supports Vietnamese (offline mode available).
Ho Chi Minh City’s summer is hot and humid, so sun protection and mosquito prevention are crucial:
Sunscreen: Use SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours.
Mosquito Repellent: Dengue fever risk—use DEET-based repellent.
Medical Kit Essentials:
Anti-diarrheal (e.g., Imodium)
Anti-allergy (e.g., Loratadine)
Pain/fever relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen)
Band-aids, antiseptic
🏮 Saigon Central Post Office & Notre-Dame Cathedral
Central Post Office: A century-old French colonial building—send postcards home here.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Iconic red-brick Gothic church, a city landmark.
🏮 Bui Vien Street & Backpacker’s Paradise
Nightlife hub with bars and street food.
🏮 Ben Thanh Market & Dong Khoi Shopping
Ben Thanh Market: Buy handicrafts and souvenirs.
Dong Khoi Street: High-end shopping for gifts.
🏮 Mekong Delta Day Trip
Boat tours to floating markets, orchards, and traditional villages.
🏮 Cu Chi Tunnels
Underground tunnels from the Vietnam War—a must for history buffs.
🏮 Must-Try Ho Chi Minh City Foods
Pho (noodle soup) – Try Pho Quynh or Pho Hoa Pasteur.
Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich) – Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is famous.
Vietnamese Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) – Try Trung Nguyen or Cong Caphe.
Seafood Stalls – Recommended: Quan Oc Dao or 5KU Station.
🌟 Transportation Scams
Taxis: Use reputable companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh—avoid unlicensed taxis.
Grab: Transparent pricing reduces overcharging risks.
🌟 Tipping Customs
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but consider:
Restaurants: If service charge isn’t included, leave 5-10%.
Hotels: 50,000–100,000 VND for bellboys.
Massages: 10–15% tip.
🌟 Cultural Etiquette
Temples/Churches: Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees), remove shoes.
Photography: Ask permission before taking photos, especially of monks.
Dining Etiquette: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in a rice bowl (symbolizes death rituals).
With this guide, your summer trip to Ho Chi Minh City will be smooth and enjoyable! Whether it’s applying for an e-visa or exploring local food and attractions, you’re all set. Start planning your Vietnamese adventure now! 🏮
Ho Chi Minh City Summer Travel Guide Must-Know Visa Application Tips and Travel Guide for Beginners
Danang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, is becoming an increasingly popular summer destination. With its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Danang offers the perfect getaway.
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