Is solo travel in Vietnam safe? My detailed guide!

Is Vietnam a safe country to travel solo?

Yes, Vietnam is considered a safe country for solo travelers. During my various stays in the country, I have always felt a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. Many other solo travellers met on site share the same opinion: problematic situations are rare, and you generally feel safe there. I never felt unsafe, even walking alone at night. There was "no catcalling or leering from the locals; everyone was extremely respectful and kept to themselves". Of course, as everywhere, it is important to remain vigilant, but Vietnam allows you to travel alone with confidence.

The Vietnamese welcome to travellers

What often strikes solo travelers in Vietnam is the spontaneous warmth of the locals. Even if the language can slow down the exchanges a little, the smiles, the simple gestures and the desire to help are almost always there. In the countryside, hospitality is direct: it is not uncommon to be invited to drink tea, share a meal, or exchange a few words, sometimes just by signs.

In Vietnam, warm smiles greet you everywhere, from the elderly sitting in front of their homes to the children playing in the alleyways. I remember a touching moment in a mountain village, on the winding roads of Ha Giang. I passed a traditional wedding party and stopped by remotely to take some pictures. A few moments later, someone invited me to approach, a chair was handed to me. And here I am, toasting with beer, tasting local dishes, and dancing with strangers who have become, for the duration of a meal, my party companions. No one spoke English or French, but the atmosphere was so sincere that no translation was necessary.

Moments like this remind us of that kindness in Vietnam is not a staged act. It is there, natural, simple, disarming. The moment I came across a local wedding remains a very beautiful memory.

Top Destinations for Your Solo Vietnam Adventure

The Vibrant North

• Hanoi: With its bustling Old Quarter alleyways, tasty street food, and ubiquitous coffee culture, Hanoi is a lively and accessible city for solo travelers. You can easily stroll there on foot and get pleasantly lost in the old streets.
• Ha Long Bay: Even though it is a very well-known destination, Ha Long Bay is still must-see. For a solo traveler, the best way to discover it is to embark on a 1 to 2-night cruise. Everything is organized (transport, meals, excursions), so you can enjoy it stress-free, meet other travelers and contemplate the spectacular seascapes in a peaceful atmosphere.

• Sa Pa – Hà Giang: For those who love walking, these two mountainous regions offer awe-inspiring scenery and authentic homestay experiences with local families. It is also an opportunity to discover the cultures of ethnic minorities in a spectacular natural setting
• Ninh Bình (Halong Bay on land): Quiet, green and easy to explore on your own by bike or scooter. Rice paddies, karst formations and boat rides create a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those looking for a slow pace.
• Pu Luong: A quieter alternative to admire the rice terraces, only a few hours' drive from Hanoi. Less touristy than Sa Pa, the place is perfect if you are short on time but want to discover the northern countryside with ease.

📌 Read more: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam and Where to Go?

The Historic Center

• Hue: A gentle city steeped in history, ideal for travelers looking for peace and quiet. With its imperial monuments, pagodas and contemplative atmosphere on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue invites you to slow down. The locals are known for their discreet kindness.
• Hoi An: With its ancient alleys, colorful lanterns, peaceful pace of life, and tranquil beaches, Hoi An offers a perfect setting to slow down and refocus. It is a city where you take your time, ideal for strolling alone while enjoying the local cultural richness and moments of relaxation by the sea.

• Phu Yen – Quy Nhon: Two coastal towns that are still relatively untouristy, ideal if you like wild beaches and meeting locals. Life is simple, the landscapes superb, and the atmosphere very relaxed. There are few foreign travelers, most of the visitors are Vietnamese. If you like to discover places a little apart, where you almost feel like you're alone in the world, this is the place to go, hehe.

The Energetic South

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): Bubbling and full of energy, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a perfect destination for solo travelers who love movement and discovery. This vibrant city offers a wealth of cultural activities, a remarkably varied gastronomic scene, and numerous opportunities to meet new people. From unique coffee shops and historical museums to bustling markets, Saigon constantly delivers memorable experiences.
• The Mekong Delta – Can Tho, Ben Tre, Chau Doc,... For a deep immersion into the river life of the South, nothing compares to a few days exploring the Mekong Delta (including Can Tho, Ben Tre, Chau Doc...). This region offers a profoundly different feeling: everything here exudes tranquility and simplicity. You'll embark on boat rides through an intricate network of rivers and canals, discover vibrant floating markets at dawn, and enjoy warm exchanges with the friendly locals. It's a journey as slow-paced as it is rich in human connection and new discoveries.
• Phu Quoc: If you wish to end your itinerary with a few relaxing days by the sea, Phu Quoc Island is a wonderful option. With its quiet beaches, diverse accommodation choices, and generous natural beauty, Phu Quoc is the perfect place to recharge your batteries in solitude.

Essential Practical Tips for Solo Travelers

After many extended stays across the country, and exchanges with countless travelers met in person or via Reddit, here is a list of concrete tips to make your adventure more fluid and enjoyable.

Buy a local SIM card as soon as you arrive

This is the first thing to do after landing. A Vietnamese SIM (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone) will allow you to easily book rides through apps like Grab, Be, Gojek or Xanh SM, the fastest, safest and cheapest way to get around major cities. These apps work very well in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Dà Nẵng, Huế, Cần Thơ,...

It's very easy to access free Wi-Fi in Vietnam. In most cafes, restaurants, or even small grocery stores, you just have to ask nicely. If you no longer have data to log in, buy a drink or snack, and ask for the password.

📌 Read more: Best Vietnam SIM Card for Tourists 2025

Download offline Google Maps and learn basic Vietnamese phrases

Even with a SIM, the signal can be weak in the mountains or on islands. Downloading maps of the regions you visit in advance ensures that you don't get lost if you lose the network.

There is no need to be fluent, but a simple "Xin chào" (hello), "Cảm ơn" (thank you), "Bao nhiêu tiền?" (how much does it cost?) or "Tạm biệt" (goodbye) is enough to create a link. I recommend this article, "How to Say 'Hello' in Vietnamese Like a Local", to learn the basics of pronunciation.

Managing Your Money: Cash and ATMs

Even if contactless payments are developing, cash is still essential, especially in the provinces or for small expenses. Avoid carrying large sums of money: spread your bills in different areas of your belongings for added security. 

Vietnam is "Super Affordable" , making it ideal for budget solo travelers. Hostel dorms can be found from $5-$10, street food around $1-$2, and local beers (Bia Hoi) for about $0.50. Private rooms in hotels can start from $10 a night. For nearly a month, a traveler might spend around $1,680 USD (without flights), averaging $65 a day including hotels, food, transportation, and sightseeing.

ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted, but carrying Vietnamese Dong is essential for taxis and shopping. US dollars are the easiest currency to exchange and are widely accepted, but ensure they are new and in excellent condition. It's advised to carry cash in a hidden money belt or keep it in a hotel safe and have two wallets for different amounts of cash.

📌 Read more: Currency in Vietnam

Meeting Fellow Travelers and Locals

You’ll never be lonely because you’ll constantly be meeting people. It's easy to find fellow travelers everywhere in Vietnam, and they are often eager to connect. Hostels are highlighted as "the perfect environment for meeting new people to help combat feeling lonely," providing opportunities to foster connections with individuals sharing similar interests.

• Join day trips: If loneliness is starting to take its toll, or if you feel like sharing a moment with other travelers, day trips are perfect. It's a good way to discover a tourist site without worrying about logistics, while meeting new people. You can join tours via GetYourGuide or Viator.
• Stay in Social Hostels: Hostels are designed for social interaction, offering activities like pub crawls and cooking classes. Use Hostelworld to find hostels that organize events like pub crawls, group hikes, or cooking classes, as this is the easiest way to meet people.
• Walking Tours: Free walking tours in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh are good for exploring and meeting people, often ending with food or drinks.
• Backpacker Streets: Hanging out at Bui Vien in Ho Chi Minh or Ta Hien in Hanoi provides opportunities to meet other backpackers.
• Social Media Groups: Join solo travel communities like Girls Who Wander Solo or Girls Love Travel on Facebook. You can also join the Vietnam Travel Guide Facebook group for helpful planning.
• Dating Apps (Friend Section): Use the "friend section" of Bumble to meet same-sex friends, or the dating platform if desired.
• Initiate Conversation: Strike up conversations with people at cafes or locals working in establishments by complimenting them or asking about their favorite experiences.

Visa in Vietnam

Americans and Australians need a visa and should apply at least 10 days in advance, as processing can take 3-5 business days (weekends not included). The correct place to apply for a visa is https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/

What to Pack: Climate Variations and Essentials

Pack according to the region and time of year, as climates vary. Lightweight cotton clothes are suitable for the hot and humid South. For Central Vietnam, pack for warm weather with some cool, wet days, including a jumper or fleece. For North Vietnam, warmer clothes like a down jacket and warm scarf are needed, especially from November to March.
Dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples, as a sign of respect. Avoid shorts and singlet tops unless at the beach.
Consider packing:

• Anti-theft Scarf: A scarf with a hidden zipper for valuables like passports or money.
• Keychain Flashlight: Useful for walking alone at night.
• Mini First Aid Kit: For minor accidents.
• Portable Compact Mobile Phone Charger: A 10,000mAh or above power bank is recommended for multiple charges, especially for navigation and translation.
• Compact Tripod for Mobile Phones: Essential for taking solo photos.

Health and Well-being on the Road

Drink bottled, boiled, or purified water. Consult a doctor for vaccinations and malaria tablets before traveling. Do not flush toilet paper; use the provided bin. Travel insurance is highly recommended for solo or group travel , such as SafetyWing, for coverage in case of accidents or hospital visits.

Getting Around Vietnam

Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab, Be, Gojek, Xanh SM

These apps are the fastest, safest, and cheapest way to get around major cities. They are cheap and reliable in cities, helping to avoid taxi scams and offering a safer alternative to motorbikes for inexperienced riders. Grab cars, motorbikes, or cyclos are recommended as Vietnam does not have tuk-tuks like Thailand and Cambodia.

✈️ Air Travel: Domestic Flights

There are two main companies to be aware of. Vietnam Airlines is the national airline: more reliable, fewer delays, but prices are generally higher. Vietjet Air is a popular low-cost airline, but known for its frequent delays. If you choose Vietjet, always allow a large safety margin, especially if you have connections afterwards. Domestic flights are cheap and plentiful, but schedules can change.

👉 Read more: Detailed Information on Airports in Vietnam Before Your Trip

🚆 Overnight Trains: Scenic and Comfortable

For long distances, the train is a nice option if you have time. You can save a night in a hotel while traveling comfortably. Routes like Hanoi – Hue or Hanoi – Lao Cai (for Sapa) are popular. Trains offer comfortable travel, with scenic routes like Da Nang to Hue.

👉 Read more: Vietnam Train Travel 2025

🚌 Buses: Economical and Extensive

Night bus: They are practical and economical, especially for backpackers. But the quality varies enormously from one company to another. Look for those with a good reputation, such as Futa (Phương Trang), Sapa Express, The Sinh Tourist, or Cat Ba Express. It really changes the travel experience (in terms of comfort, safety, punctuality, etc.). Buses are the cheapest option, connecting most of the country, but can be cramped for taller individuals. Sleeper buses are available on some routes.

Planning Your Solo Vietnam Itinerary: Duration and Sample Routes

How Long Should You Travel Solo in Vietnam?

Two weeks is good. Three weeks is better. If you have 15 days in Vietnam, you will already have a good overview of Vietnam, especially if you focus on one or two regions. But if you want to take the time to discover the country from North to South, without running and without missing any of the most beautiful landscapes, then 3 weeks is ideal.

My advice about Week North-to-South Itinerary

Here is an example of a balanced route, suitable for solo travellers as well as for lovers of cultural discoveries and varied landscapes. This tour passes through the iconic regions of Vietnam, from the mountainous North to the River South in 21 days.

• Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi: settling in, first steps in the old quarter, immersion in the local atmosphere.
• Day 2 – Hanoi: city tour and overnight train to Lao Cai / Sapa.
• Days 3 to 5 – Sapa: rice terraces, hiking, ethnic villages.
• Day 6 – Return to Hanoi and drive to Ninh Binh (Halong Bay on land).
• Days 7 & 8 – Ninh Binh: exploration of karst landscapes, bike rides or boat rides. Return to Hanoi.
• Day 9 – Hanoi → Halong Bay (~4h drive): overnight on a junk or return to Hanoi at the end of the day.
• Day 10 – Halong → Hanoi → flight to Hue.
• Day 11 – Hue: visit the Imperial City, royal tombs, local cuisine.
• Day 12 – Hue → Hoi An (~3h30 drive): Cloud Pass, Lăng Cô Beach.
• Days 13 to 15 – Hoi An: Old Town, Relaxing at the Beach.
• Day 16 – Hoi An → Da Nang → flight to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Days 17 & 18 – Ho Chi Minh City: discovery of the city, markets, museums.
• Days 19 & 20 – Mekong Delta (Bến Tre): boat trips, villages, overnight stay or HCM return.
• Day 21 – Ho Chi Minh City: rest before the return flight.

You can check out some of our 3-week itineraries to help you build your own. And if you prefer to travel with peace of mind, without having to plan everything, our tailor-made tours are made for you: private, flexible, designed at your own pace.

Extending Your Adventure: Beyond Vietnam

Vietnam shares borders with Cambodia and Laos, and is very close to Thailand. This is a great opportunity to extend your solo trip by exploring these neighboring countries as well. To find out what to visit in each of them, take a look at our dedicated tourist maps:

• Vietnam Tourist Map
• Thailand Tourist Map
• Cambodia Tourist Map
• Laos Tourist Map

Final Thoughts on Solo Travel in Vietnam

Solo travel in Vietnam is an experience that is both serene and memorable. The country offers a beautiful balance between nature, culture and conviviality, with an affordable cost of living and great ease of travel. For those who want to explore at their own pace, take their time, or simply refocus, Vietnam is an ideal destination. With a few simple preparations, the journey becomes not only safe, but also deeply rewarding.