Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights

Explore Vietnam with our ultimate guide: discover must-see places, plan your itinerary and learn how to save on your trip with reward points.

Vietnam is a captivating travel destination, offering a combination of breathtaking scenery, rich history and delicious cuisine. Heare are some of the best places to visit for an unforgettable adventure in this Southeast Asian country.

What’s more, the guide includes practical tips on how to organize your trip and how to save with points.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Vietnam-10

Travelling to Vietnam – Highlights

Vietnam is divided into three main regions: the north, center and south. Here’s what to see and do in each of these regions.

The north

Hanoi

Start or end your trip to Vietnam by exploring Hanoi, the country’s capital. This city is known for its lively atmosphere, narrow streets full of motorcycles, colorful markets and French colonial architecture. A change of scenery guaranteed!

The foodies will be delighted by the abundance of street food and the myriad of small local cafés. Don’t miss a visit to the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and Hô Chi Minh’s mausoleum. If you’re looking for some late-night action, Ma Mây Street in the Old Quarter is packed with restaurants and bars.

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Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Marchande de rue_Hanoi_Vietnam

Ha Long Bay

The famous Ha Long Bay is the most photographed place in Vietnam, and with good reason. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder is made up of thousands of limestone islands and islets emerging from emerald waters.

The best way to visit the bay is on a one, two or three-night cruise. There are cruises to suit all budgets and comfort levels, starting at $70 for one night and going up to over $1,000 for a 5-star cruise. Most packages include the cabin, meals and activities such as kayaking and swimming.

Be sure to check whether transport from Hanoi is included, as the port is a 2.5-3 hour drive away.

If you have time, I recommend cruises that also stop off at Cát Bà Island, the largest in the bay. I loved the bike ride through the rural countryside.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Vietnam-09

Ninh Bình

Nicknamed the “Ha Long Bay on land”, Ninh Bình was a last-minute addition to my itinerary, and what a pleasant surprise! From May to July, during the harvest season, the rice paddies offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. You can admire the golden fields crossed by the river and framed by mountains. Go to the Hang Mua lookout for a breathtaking view of the region.

Even out of season, Ninh Bình has much to offer visitors. Points of interest lie a little outside the city, mainly around the village of Tam Coc. The Tràng An landscape complex is another UNESCO World Heritage site. The site is made up of rocks, caves and temples linked by a network of rivers. For around $14, a leisurely punt takes you around the complex in two to three hours.

Some cruise packages cover the Hanoi-Ha Long Bay-Ninh Bình triangle. So it’s easy to add this region before or after your cruise. Alternatively, Ninh Bình can be reached from Hanoi by van in 2-3 hours for around $15. Some visitors also opt for a day trip from the capital (from $75).

Sa Pa

The small town of Sa Pa is perched in the mountains near the Chinese border. Here you can admire rice terraces and hike to explore the tribal villages of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. I recommend a day trip with a local guide to fully immerse yourself in the culture and traditions.

Before going there, I’d heard a lot of negative comments about Sa Pa’s popularity and overtourism. I was surprised because my visit in December 2022 was very peaceful. The pandemic has certainly put a damper on tourism, but it’s still a pleasant place to visit for the time being.

To reach Sa Pa from Hanoi, you have two choices: train or bus. The two options are similar in terms of comfort and price: expect to pay around $20 for a one-way ticket. I recommend taking the night bus, as the journey is shorter and you’ll arrive directly in the center of Sa Pa in six hours.

Currently under construction, an airport at Lào Cai should open in a few years’ time, facilitating access to Sa Pa.

Hà Giang

This region has been gaining in popularity in recent years. It mainly attracts visitors looking for an experience similar to Sa Pa, but without the mass of tourists. The main attraction is the Ha Giang Loop, a three-day, 350 km adventure on a motorcycle. Most visitors join a group with a company that takes care of all the arrangements. You have the choice of driving your own motorcycle or riding as a passenger with an experienced driver. All-inclusive packages start at $250.

Hà Giang can be reached from Hanoi by night bus in 6 hours for around $20. Prices and journey times are similar from Sa Pa.

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The center

Da Nang

Da Nang is the largest city in the central region. In recent years, tourism has developed strongly in the area, and there are now many large hotels (new or under construction) along My Khe beach. Wave-hunters will be happy to know that surfing is possible here, and autumn is the best time to indulge in this activity.

The famous bridge held up by giant hands can be found in the Sun World Ba Na Hills theme park ($43 for a day ticket). Located about 45 minutes from the city, you’ll need to take a cab to get there ($20) or join a day trip that usually includes round-trip transportation, park admission and lunch.

Although the bridge is impressive, I found the entrance fee and transportation to be expensive for what the park has to offer. I’d only recommend the visit if you’re going with children.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - danang-pont-vietnam-unsplash

For a less expensive activity outside Da Nang, head for the Marble Mountains. You can visit caves, temples, pagodas and gardens across five hills of marble and limestone. The entrance fee is $3 and cab transport from Da Nang should cost around $12.

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Hoi An

This charming little coastal town is one of my favorites in Vietnam. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with well-preserved colonial houses, temples, Japanese bridges and colorful lanterns on every corner.

If you’re lucky enough to visit the city on a full moon day, you can take part in the lantern festival. During this evening, all the lights in the houses and shops go out, and the river is filled with lanterns floating on the water. A truly magical show! You can also admire Hoi An from the river on a short boat trip (around $10 for 20 minutes).

The town is also renowned for its excellent tailors. You’ll find countless boutiques where you can have tailor-made clothes made for you at very low prices. Men’s suits are particularly popular. Expect to pay around $130 for a suit (pants, shirt and jacket).

Hoi An is easily accessible from Da Nang, either by a 1.5-hour bus ride ($10) or a 30-minute cab ride ($20).

Hué

Vietnam’s historic city, Hué is the former imperial capital of the Nguyen dynasty. History and architecture buffs will love visiting iconic sites such as the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City and the Celestial Lady Pagoda. Access to all monuments inside the citadel is subject to a fee (around $9). What’s more, there are numerous mausoleums and tombs of former kings outside the city, accessible via a boat trip on the Perfume River.

Hué is almost three hours by train ($10) or bus ($15) from Da Nang.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Crédit Marie-Ève
Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Crédit Marie-Ève

Phong Nha

If you’re looking for a place off the beaten track in Vietnam, Phong Nha-Ke Bàng National Park is for you. Nicknamed the kingdom of caves and caverns, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to the world’s largest cavern and longest underground river. Adventure-seekers can discover several cave systems by boat and on foot. Expect to pay around $100 for a day trip that visits two caves.

The village of Phong Nha is about an 8-hour bus ride from Da Nang ($25). A faster option is to take a domestic flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi airport (1 h, $60), then a cab (45 mins, $23) or bus (1 h 30, $2) to Phong Nha.

The south

Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly Saigon, Vietnam’s largest city was renamed in honor of Vietnamese hero Ho Chi Minh when the war ended in 1975. Start or end your trip by exploring this metropolis; this is where you’ll find Vietnam’s tallest skyscrapers, such as the Landmark 81 and its luxurious 5-star Vinpearl hotel.

Visit the Reunification Palace, Notre-Dame de Saigon Cathedral and Ben Thanh market for a taste of Vietnamese urban life. Don’t miss the War Remnants Museum for an insight into the country’s history.

The Cu Chi tunnels are another interesting place to learn more about the Vietnam War. Located on the outskirts of town, you’ll need to take a 1.5-hour cab ride ($35) or a 2.5-hour bus ride ($1) to get there. Access to the site costs around $6.

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Mekong Delta

Located south-west of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta is a labyrinth of rivers, islands and marshes surrounding the river of the same name. The most important towns for tourism are Can Tho and Ben Tre.

The Mekong Delta is famous for its floating markets, including Cai Rang in Can Tho. It’s an experience to be had in the morning, when hundreds of loaded boats ply the river to sell and trade their fresh produce.

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Near My Tho is the impressive Vinh Trang pagoda. This superb Buddhist temple is the most famous in the region, blending Vietnamese, Khmer and Chinese styles.

Many travelers explore the region on day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. Guided tours are affordable (from $30) and mainly visit My Tho and Ben Tre.

Can Tho, the region’s main city, is about a 4-hour bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City ($10).

Nha Trang

Vietnam’s leading seaside resort, Nha Trang attracts visitors with its long white sandy beaches and diving sites. There are many large hotel chains and all-inclusive resorts.

After a day or two at the beach, visit the Ba Ho and Fairy Spring waterfalls, the Po Nagar historic site and the Long Son pagoda.

Nha Trang is more than ten hours by bus from Ho Chi Minh City ($20) or an hour’s flight ($40).

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Crédit Marie-Ève

Da Lat

I loved my few-day visit to Da Lat. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and a small lake, this town has a romantic, peaceful charm. Renowned for its cool, pleasant year-round climate (or polar climate, if you ask people from the south!), it’s popular with local tourists.

Every two years, in December, the town takes on magnificent colors for the Da Lat Flower Festival.

Don’t miss a visit to the Linh Phuoc pagoda and a gondola ride ($6) over the mountains. This leads to a station near a lake, a monastery and a magnificent garden.

If you’d like to try a local dish, goat meat (dê) is a local specialty and is eaten in hot pots or grilled.

Da Lat is a four-hour bus ride from Nha Trang ($20), an eight-hour night bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City ($20) or a one-hour flight ($40).

Phú Quoc

This island is nicknamed “The Pearl of Vietnam” because of its magnificent scenery and the pearl farms that can be found everywhere. The country’s most beautiful beaches can be found here, including Sao Beach, Long Beach and Starfish Beach.

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Tourism is growing steadily, and there are two Marriott Bonvoy hotels here, with others under construction.

Don’t miss a visit to the night market at Duong Dong, the cable car over the sea at An Thoi ($34), a tour of a pearl farm and a pepper plantation. It’s also a great destination to visit with the kids, with the VinWonders and Vinpearl Safari theme parks ($77 for both).

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, it can be reached by ferry from Hà Tiên (1 h 15, $20) in the extreme south of the country, or by air, which is by far the most popular option (two hours and $60 from Hanoi or one hour and $40 from Hô Chi Minh City).

Planning your trip to Vietnam

Itinerary suggestions

Vietnam has a lot to offer in terms of magnificent landscapes and culture. To make sure you don’t run out of time and have time to visit all three major regions, I recommend at least a two-week trip.

The question on everyone’s mind when planning a trip to Vietnam: should you travel from north to south or from south to north? The answer depends on the season and the time you spend in the country. The weather is very distinct between the northern, central and southern regions.

For example, if you’re visiting the country in February (the month with the best weather in all regions), the direction of your itinerary won’t matter much. Likewise, if you’re traveling for seven to ten days, the weather won’t have time to vary much. So choose the direction of your itinerary according to which flights suit you best.

Second example: your trip lasts a month, from May to June. The rainy season is fast approaching in the south of the country, while the climate remains favorable in the center and north. In this case, it’s best to take a south-to-north route.

I really like this site, which can help you choose the best time to visit Vietnam.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - vietnam-meteo

1 week

One week is a very short time to visit Vietnam‘s main attractions. If you don’t have more time, I recommend you focus on a single region. Here are my suggestions for places to discover:

  • North: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa
  • South: Hô Chi Minh and its museums, Mekong delta, Mui Né

2 weeks

In two weeks, you’ll have time to explore the country’s three main regions and points of interest. Spend around five days in each region, choosing domestic flights to save time on transport. Here’s an example of an itinerary that’s fairly busy, but takes in all the major attractions:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
  • Day 2: Visit Hanoi and its picturesque districts
  • Day 3: Departure for the Ha Long Bay cruise
  • Day 4: Ha Long Bay cruise
  • Day 5: Return to Hanoi, night bus to Sa Pa
  • Day 6: Visit Sa Pa and hike through the villages
  • Day 7: Return to Hanoi, flight to Da Nang
  • Day 8: Visit to the imperial city of Hué
  • Day 9: Visit Hoi An
  • Day 10: Visit My Son and/or the Marble Mountains
  • Day 11: Flight to Da Lat, city tour
  • Day 12: Flight to Hô Chi Minh City, city tour
  • Day 13: Mekong Delta excursion
  • Day 14: Return flight
Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Vietnam-03
Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Crédit Marie-Ève

1 month

For an itinerary of more than three weeks, I suggest the same route as the two-week itinerary, but staying longer at each destination. You can also add off-the-beaten-path places like the three-day motorcycle trip to Hà Giang, a visit to the caves of Phong Nga and a night or two on the island of Cát Bà in Ha Long Bay.

For beach lovers, consider a visit to Phú Quoc, Nha Trang or Mui Né.

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An organized tour with G Adventures

If you’re short on time, traveling solo and want to explore the country without the hassle, my colleague Marie-Ève suggests you opt for a G Adventures tour. Because she wanted to maximize her time and visit the country from one end to the other, she opted for this 12-day tour.

Explore G Adventures

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - G Adventures circuit Vietnam

G Adventures favors small groups and offers tours with a wide range of optional activities, giving you the freedom to travel in your own way, despite the group aspect. The company is committed to supporting local businesses and offering authentic experiences with local guides. This one was a bit more for backpackers, with accommodation sometimes in hostels, a few nights on trains and a few nights in shared hotel rooms.

Travelling to Vietnam with points

Vietnam has two major airports at opposite ends of the country: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. As there are no direct flights between Canada and Vietnam, you’ll need to make a stopover in Europe, the Middle East or Asia.

Aeroplan

On Aeroplan from Montreal, you have a few options with a stopover in Frankfurt or Tokyo. Prices vary from route to route, and you’ll be faced with dynamic pricing for the segment operated by Air Canada.

It is also possible to use Aeroplan points to fly with Emirates to Vietnam, with a stopover in Dubai. Fares range from 60,000 to 110,000 Aeroplan points for a one-way trip in economy class, and 120,000 – 225, 000 points in business class.

Availability is rare, but Turkish Airways also connects Montreal to Ho Chi Minh City via Istanbul for 60,000 Aeroplan points in economy class and 87,500 in business class.

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Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - yul-ist-sgn-tk-fr
Featured

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card

4.8 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
TDVisaAeroplan
Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
$0 $139
First year free
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$1,000Annual fee rebated$139Total$1,139Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$1,139
Welcome offerAfter $12,000 in 12 months
Up to 50,000 points
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on TD's website

With this offer for the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you can get up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†.

  • Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
  • Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,000 within 90 days of Account opening†.
  • Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†

This card also allows you to enjoy travel benefits, such as a free first checked bag for you and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation†, as well as a rebate on the NEXUS program application fee (up to $100 CAD per eligible cardholder) every 48 months†.

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn 1.5 points† per $1 spent on:

  • Grocery purchases
  • Gas and electric vehicle charging purchases
  • Purchases made directly with Air Canada® (including Air Canada Vacations®)

You also earn 1 point† per dollar on all other eligible purchases made with your card.

Annual fee

Primary card$139
Additional card$75

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 1.5xGas
  • 1.5xGroceries
  • 1.5xAir Canada flights
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,714
2nd Year Value$425

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 4 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Avios

The easiest and cheapest option is to book on Qatar Airways with Avios. Availability with Qatar Airways is generally easy to find, and points pricing follows a fixed chart according to distance.

A one-way flight from Montreal to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City costs just 47,500 Avios plus $211 in taxes. This flight has a cash value of $1662. The valuation calculation yields more than 3¢ per mile, making it an excellent use of Avios!

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - yul-doh-sgn-qr

Avios are easy to accumulate in Canada with credit cards. Here are the main options:

Of course, you don’t have to book your round trip with the same program. For example, you can book your outbound flight with Aeroplan points and your return with Avios.

American Express® Gold Rewards Card

4.5 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
American ExpressAmexAmex Membership Rewards
Annual fee
$250
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$1,020Total$1,020Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$1,020
Welcome offerAfter $12,000 in 12 months
Up to 60,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

The American Express® Gold Rewards Card combines points on everyday spending with benefits for your next getaway. With a $250 annual fee, its main advantages are a $100 annual travel credit for bookings through American Express Travel Online and 4 complimentary visits per calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges in Canada.

The welcome offer can reach 60,000 Membership Rewards points in the first 12 months.

You earn 5,000 points for each monthly billing period in which you charge $1,000 in net purchases to the Card. Your regular spending brings you closer to your next trip.

For everyday spending, earn 2 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and at eligible gas stations, grocery stores, and drugstores in Canada, then 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

You choose how to use your rewards: reduce the cost of purchases or transfer points to partner loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Avios, or Marriott Bonvoy. The Card also includes a $50 NEXUS credit toward eligible application or renewal fees and a first Supplementary Gold Rewards Card with no annual fee. Each benefit’s terms apply.

Annual fee

Primary card$250
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xPharmacy
  • 2xGas
  • 2xTravel
  • 2xGroceries
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,555
2nd Year Value$589

Transfer partners

  • AeroplanAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • Etihad GuestAirline
  • Flying BlueAirline
  • Hilton HonorsHotel
  • Marriott BonvoyHotel

Card benefits

Airport lounge access$160

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $1,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
Featured

RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

4.5 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
RBCVisaRBC Avion Rewards - Elite
Annual fee
$120
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$935Total$935$255 deferred bonus, excluded from the first-year estimate and not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$935
Welcome offer35,000 points after approval; 20,000 after $5,000 in eligible transactions within 6 months; 15,000 credited 12–16 weeks after the first account anniversary. Eligible account must remain open and in good standing; offer terms and posting times apply.
Up to 70,000 points
Ends Nov 25, 2026
Apply Now

on RBC's website

For a limited time, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card offers a welcome bonus of up to 70,000 Avion points, worth up to $1,500 in travel.

  • 35,000 points upon approval of your application
  • 20,000 points when you charge $5,000 in purchases to your account within the first six months
  • 15,000 points credited 12–16 weeks after the first account anniversary, provided the account is open and in good standing when the points are credited

You can redeem your Avion points for flights with more than 500 airlines, with no blackout periods or seat restrictions, or transfer them to partner programs such as American Airlines AAdvantage, The British Airways Club, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles and WestJet Rewards.

The card earns you 1.25 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on all your other eligible purchases. It also includes extensive insurance coverage: emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, collision coverage for rental vehicles, and mobile devices.

The annual fee is $120.

Annual fee

Primary card$120
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 1.25xTravel
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,312
2nd Year Value$271

Transfer partners

  • American Airlines AAdvantageAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • WestJet RewardsAirline

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Unlimited / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Unlimited / 15 days
Travel medical (65+)Unlimited / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,500 / 1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

RBC British Airways Visa Infinite

4.1 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
RBCVisaBritish Airways Club
Annual fee
$165
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$1,000Total$1,000Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$1,000
Welcome offerAfter $6,000 in 3 months
50,000 Avios
Apply Now

on RBC's website

With this exceptional welcome offer for the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card, you can earn 50,000 Avios!

With this card, you benefit from a companion voucher (by spending $30,000 or more during a calendar year). Additionally, you can enjoy a 10% discount on British Airways flights when booking with your RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card.

With the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card, you get:

  • 3 Avios per dollar spent with British Airways and BA Holidays
  • 2 Avios per dollar on dining and food delivery
  • 1 Avios per dollar for all your other purchases

In addition, you benefit from extensive insurance coverage:

  • Out-of-province/country emergency medical insurance
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Flight delay and essential items purchase insurance
  • Hotel or motel burglary insurance
  • Rental vehicle collision and damage insurance

Annual fee

Primary card$165
Additional card$75

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,447
2nd Year Value$243

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Included
Travel medical (55-64)Included
Travel medical (65+)Included
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionUp to $50,000 / 90 days
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

American Express Platinum Card®

4.7 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
American ExpressAmexAmex Membership Rewards
Annual fee
$799
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$1,190Total$1,190$510 deferred bonus, excluded from the first-year estimate and not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$1,190
Welcome offerAfter $10,000 in 3 months
Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

The American Express Platinum Card® suits travellers who want airport lounge access, annual credits, and hotel benefits. With a $799 annual fee, it brings together several useful travel privileges:

  • A $200 annual travel credit for eligible bookings through American Express Travel;
  • A $200 annual dining credit at participating restaurants in Canada;
  • Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, subject to each network’s rules;
  • Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, plus access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts hotel program.

The welcome offer can reach 100,000 Membership Rewards points: earn 70,000 points after $10,000 in net purchases in the first 3 months, then 30,000 additional points after making a purchase between months 15 and 17 of Cardmembership.

Earn 2 points per dollar on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada and eligible travel purchases, and 1 point per dollar on other purchases. You can use points to reduce the cost of purchases or transfer them to partner programs such as Aeroplan, Avios, or Marriott Bonvoy.

The Card also includes a NEXUS credit of up to $100 every 4 years and travel insurance, subject to applicable terms. It is particularly suited to travellers who regularly use the included credits and privileges.

Annual fee

Primary card$799
Additional card$250

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xTravel
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1xAll spending

Value

2nd Year Value$470

Transfer partners

  • AeroplanAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • Etihad GuestAirline
  • Flying BlueAirline
  • Hilton HonorsHotel
  • Marriott BonvoyHotel

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Getting around Vietnam

Vietnam may look small on a map, but this country stretches over 1,650 km from one end to the other! To get from one destination to another, you can choose between short domestic flights or long-distance buses (mainly overnight journeys).

Buses

Night buses are a very popular means of transport in Vietnam. They are frequent and fairly reliable, but punctuality can leave something to be desired. A journey that was supposed to take three hours ended up taking five. You’ll need a lot more time than the information you’re given.

I found these buses comfortable, but you may not have the same experience as me depending on your size. Each seat is fully reclinable and converts into a bed. I was able to stretch out my legs completely, but not everyone was. One last detail: there’s no toilet on board. However, stops at rest areas are frequent on long journeys.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Vietnam-18

Domestic flights

If long bus journeys aren’t your cup of tea, domestic flight options abound. Four airlines operate in Vietnam:

Vietnam Airlines offers the most comprehensive range of services. As a member of SkyTeam, you can use FlyingBlue or Delta SkyMiles points to book award tickets. Vietnam Airlines serves almost every destination in Vietnam, with an impressive number of flights every day.

Bamboo Airways is a new Vietnamese airline. Having tried it on the Da Lat-Da Nang route, I was just as pleased with the service as I was with Vietnam Airlines. Bamboo Airways is partnered with Air Canada, so you can book these flights with Aeroplan points.

I also tested VietJet Air from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Because of the traffic in Hanoi, I missed my originally booked flight. I had no trouble changing my ticket on-site, and there was no charge. The flight itself is a classic low-cost experience, with no fuss and very friendly cabin crew.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Vietnam-23

There’s no need to book domestic flights months or weeks in advance. Prices are always low, even at the last minute. It’s best to keep a little flexibility in your itinerary in case anything goes wrong (or if you fall in love with Ninh Bình like me and want to stay longer!).

Here’s a comparison of travel time and cost between flight and bus on popular routes:

DurationCost
TripFlightBusFlightBus
Hanoi – Da Nang1 h 204:00 p.m.$65$25
Da Nang – Nha Trang1 h 1010 h$70$30
Nha Trang – Hô Chi Minh City1 h 511 h$50$20

The plane saves a lot of time, but the savings are not substantial with the bus. I therefore recommend taking domestic flights when possible and taking the bus for destinations that don’t have an airport nearby (such as Sa Pa, Ha Long Bay and Ninh Bình, among others).

Trains and other means of transport

The train network links Hanoi to the north and Ho Chi Minh City to the south along the coast. The whole trip takes 31 to 35 hours! Several stops are made along the train route, mainly in the major cities of Dong Hoi, Hué, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Mui Ne and others. Various classes are available, but I recommend taking the upper class with a berth and air conditioning for a long journey.

Scooters and motorcycles are the preferred means of transport for getting around towns and villages. Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber is Grab, where it’s very common to simply hop in behind the driver. Rest assured, the helmet is included…

Regular cars are also available, but these are more expensive and there are fewer drivers.

I’ve also met travelers who rented a motorcycle in Hanoi and rode all the way to Hô Chi Minh! If this is an adventure you’re interested in, check with local tourist agencies for the best prices.

Vietnam Travel Guide | Itineraries and Highlights - Crédit Marie-Ève

Accommodation in Vietnam

With Marriott Bonvoy points

There are also a number of luxury hotels under the JW Marriott and Autograph Collection brands, such as the Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa and the Vinpearl Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City. If you book with points, don’t forget the 5th night free trick!

Review: Sheraton Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort | Marriott Bonvoy - Sheraton Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort-06

Marriott Bonvoy hotels can be found in major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. At the time of writing, there are 20 hotels open and more under construction. As tourism continues to expand in the country, we can expect further additions to the Marriott Bonvoy collection in the coming years. These hotels are very affordable, with nights starting at 10,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

With flexible travel points

In addition to the major hotel chains, Vietnam is also full of small, independent hotel options. Rates are very low, and it’s easy to find accommodation for under $50 a night. You can book your hotels on platforms such as Booking.com or Expedia for TD. For example, the generous welcome bonus of the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card could cover most of your accommodation expenses.

Explore TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card

TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card

4.4 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
TDVisaTD Rewards
Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
$0 $139
First year free
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$800Annual fee rebated$139Total$939Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$939
Welcome offerAfter $7,500 in 6 months
Up to 160,000 points
Apply Now

on TD's website

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you can earn up to 160,000 TD Rewards Points† as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†:

  • 20,000 TD Rewards Points for the first purchase made with your card†
  • 140,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of account opening†
  • A Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points†

Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD, and enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277)†.

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn:

  • 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
  • 6 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on your grocery, dining and public transit purchases
  • 4 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on your recurring bill payments and purchases of streaming services as well as digital games and media
  • 2 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on all other purchases made with your card

This card also allows you to enjoy a range of travel benefits, including an annual travel credit, complimentary airport lounge visits, and a birthday bonus that boosts your points each year†.

Annual fee

Primary card$139
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 6xGroceries
  • 6xRestaurants
  • 6xTransit
  • 4xBills & recurring payments
  • 4xStreaming
  • 2xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,430
2nd Year Value$531

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$160

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 4 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Travel to Vietnam – Vietnamese cuisine

As a food lover, I couldn’t write a travel guide to Vietnam without mentioning the food. Vietnamese cuisine seduced me with its flavors and variety from one region to another. I liked it so much that I took a course at the Rose Kitchen in Hanoi, an experience I highly recommend.

Here are the essential dishes to try:

  • Bánh mì: sandwich in a baguette with meat, pâté and pickled vegetables.
  • Pho: soup with a highly aromatic broth, rice noodles, herbs and a beef or chicken filling.
  • Bún cha: rice noodles with charcoal-grilled meatballs in a sweet-and-sour broth. My favorite Vietnamese dish!
  • Nem rán: fried spring rolls.
  • Bún bò Hué: spicy soup in sweet and sour broth with rice vermicelli and beef garnish.
  • Cà phê: Vietnamese coffee, much stronger than American filter coffee and usually served with sweetened condensed milk. The coconut iced coffee and the egg coffee are also a must-try.
  • Lâu: Vietnamese version of fondue or hot pot. Served with a variety of meats, seafood, noodles, herbs and lots of vegetables.

Bottom Line

Vietnam is a magnificent country offering a rich diversity of landscapes, cultures and memorable experiences. It’s also an excellent destination for maximizing the value of your reward points. With a good variety of points in your wallet, such as Aeroplan points, Avios and Marriott Bonvoy points, you’ll have a fabulous trip at a great price.

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Card

4.5 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
ScotiabankVisaScene+
Annual fee
$150
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$350
Welcome offer15,000 points after $3,000 in 3 months and 20,000 more after $10,000 total in 6 months. Eligible accounts must be opened by January 3, 2027.
Up to 35,000 points
Ends Jan 3, 2027
Apply Now

on Scotiabank's website

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite+* Card for eligible accounts opened by January 3, 2027, you can earn up to 35,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points:

  • 15,000 Scene+ points after charging $3,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months
  • An additional 20,000 Scene+ points after charging $10,000 in purchases to your account within the first six months

Annual bonus. Earn 10,000 Scene+ points each year you make $40,000 in eligible purchases over 12 months. Earn 2,000 additional points for each further $10,000 in eligible purchases in that same year.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

It also includes a new convenient benefit for travellers: enjoy 10 GB of free GigSky global mobile data for 15 days, as well as access to Travel Essentials to use essential apps like messaging, maps, and email while on the go. Cardholders also continue to receive 1 GB of free GigSky mobile data per year, plus a 20% discount on future GigSky purchases.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

  • No fees for foreign currency transactions
  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 3xWith the partner brand
  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$704
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Exclusive | Contest

National Bank World Elite® Mastercard®

4.8 / 5Our rating reflects the opinion of our editors. It is not influenced by the card issuer.
National BankMastercardNBC Rewards
Annual feeNo annual fee the first year
$0 $150
First year free
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome offer$315Annual fee rebated$150Total$465Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
$465
Welcome offer+ First-year annual fee refundedUp to 15,000 points from net purchases, plus 10,000 with payment insurance for 90 days and 10,000 with a first eligible chequing account. Conditions apply.
Up to 35,000 points
Ends Mar 31, 2027
Apply Now

on National Bank's website

With Milesopedia, take advantage of an exclusive offer on the National Bank World Elite Mastercard from November 5, 2026 to March 31, 2027: up to 35,000 reward points and a refund of the first-year annual fee for the primary cardholder.

Net purchases earn up to 15,000 of the 35,000 bonus points. The remaining 20,000 depend on payment insurance and opening a first eligible chequing account.

  • 10,000 points when you sign up for credit card payment insurance and keep it for at least the first 90 days
  • 5,000 points after $5,000 in net purchases in the first 90 days
  • 10,000 points after $20,000 in net purchases in the first 12 months
  • 10,000 bonus points when you open a first National Bank current account within 14 days of your card application (conditions apply)
  • The $150 annual fee is charged to your new card account, then refunded as a credit on your statement within five months of opening the account, provided it remains open and in good standing

As a bonus, when you sign up for the card you get a chance to win one of five $10,000 À la carte Travel gift certificates (National Bank contest, November 5, 2026 to March 31, 2027).*

The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is the best Mastercard credit card offered by NBC.

With this card, you earn up to 5 points per dollar on your purchases:

  • 5 points per dollar for groceries and restaurants
  • 2 points per dollar on gas and electric recharge purchases
  • 2 points per dollar on recurring bills
  • 2 points per dollar on À la carte Travel
  • 1 point per dollar for all other purchases

And since it’s a Mastercard, you can use it at Costco.

With this card, you have access to a $150 annual travel credit that you can use in any of these categories:

  • Airport parking
  • Baggage fees
  • Seat selection
  • Access to airport lounges
  • Airline ticket upgrades

What’s more, you can enjoy access to DragonPass airport lounges and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau.

Finally, Milesopedia has named the National Bank World Elite Mastercard as the Best Travel Credit Card in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$80,000
Household$150,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 5xRestaurants
  • 5xGroceries
  • 2xGas
  • 2xBills & recurring payments
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,060
2nd Year Value$923

Card benefits

Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 60 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel Medical (65–75)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Travel AccidentIncluded

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Practical information

Do Canadians need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Yes Canadian passport holders need a visa to enter Vietnam. Electronic visa applications (eVisa) are made online in advance. It will be processed within three working days, and the visa is valid for a single entry into the country, for a maximum stay of 30 days. To apply for a visa extension, contact local tourist agencies. If you are arriving in Vietnam by land from a neighboring country, please note that it is NOT possible to obtain a visa at the border.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

It all depends on the region you want to visit, as the weather is very different in the north and south. Generally speaking, February, March and April are the months with the best weather in the whole country.

What is the recommended length of stay in Vietnam?

For a satisfying experience and to discover the country’s main attractions, a minimum duration of two weeks is recommended. Depending on your preferences and travel style, you may need three weeks or even a month. Vietnam is full of places to discover!

What currency is used in Vietnam?

The currency used in Vietnam is the dong (₫ or VND). This currency is not available outside the country. The easiest way to get dongs is to exchange them for US dollars at local jewelry stores. Larger denominations (100 USD and 50 USD) are preferred to smaller ones.

To withdraw dong at an ATM while keeping fees down: our guide to withdrawing cash abroad.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches are on the island of Phu Quoc, in the Gulf of Thailand. Nha Trang, Da Nang and Mui Né are other popular seaside resorts.

Are vaccinations required to visit Vietnam?

No vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam. Routine travel vaccinations are strongly recommended (hepatitis A and B, tetanus, typhoid fever). Rabies vaccination is also recommended for visits to rural areas. Consult a travel health professional or your pharmacist for advice tailored to your medical situation.

Is there a risk of malaria in Vietnam?

The risk of contracting malaria in Vietnam is low, especially in areas popular with visitors (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long, Da Nang, Phu Quoc). Preventive treatment is generally not necessary. However, preventive measures against insect bites are still recommended.

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