vietnam ho chi minh skyline

Vietnam Holidays

Flights + Hotel

Vietnam: a land of vitality 

Holidays in Vietnam take you to an Asian land of breathtaking beauty, home to rice fields carved out of mountainsides, giant rock pillars rising from misty seas and some of the world’s finest white sand beaches.

The people of Vietnam always offer a warm welcome, whether you're navigating the bustling streets of Hanoi or paddling a kayak around the ‘dragon children’ rock formations of Ha Long Bay.

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, dazzles with its famed French colonial architecture and landmarks such as the Jade Emperor Pagoda. In Da Nang you can enjoy strolls along the thriving waterfront and relax on blissful, sun-kissed beaches.

Find your perfect Vietnam holiday package with Etihad and begin your adventure to this incredible destination.

vietnam ha long bay aerial view

Things to do in Vietnam

Whether you’re looking for romantic coastal getaways, luxury breaks in the heart of the city or adventures to fascinating ancient sites, you’ll find it all in Vietnam.

vietnam ho chi minh skyline

Discover Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City delivers a fast-paced slice of Vietnam life. Prepare for a feast for the senses as you explore buzzing streets filled with the tempting aromas of local cuisine. 

Formerly known as Saigon, the city is home to frequent reminders of its French colonial past. Historic sights here include the 19th-century Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Gothic splendour of Saigon Central Post Office. 

Alongside the traditional markets, you’ll find stylish designer malls in a city that marries old with new in exhilarating fashion. 

Where to stay in Vietnam 

Ho Chi Minh City 

Ho Chi Minh City’s four-star Fusion Suites Saigon makes for a great base on a Vietnam city break, with a central location and amenities including a full-service spa, steam room and sauna.

Five-star accommodation choices here include the Park Hyatt Saigon, close to Ben Thanh Market, the Opera House and Saigon River.

Relax in the pool and spa, while the on-site restaurants offer both local and international dishes. Dive into a Vietnamese feast after a busy day exploring.

vietnam table of traditional vietnamese food
vietnam beach pam trees

Da Nang

This buzzing city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Vietnam, making it the perfect destination for those looking to relax.

If you’re searching for luxury accommodation close to the stunning My Khe Beach, the five-star Four Points by Sheraton Danang is just a five-minute walk away. 

Da Nang is also ideally placed for day trips and is just an hour’s drive away from popular Hoi An. 

Heavenly Hanoi 

The five-star Apricot Hotel is one of many great places to stay if you’re seeking a luxury holiday in Vietnam’s capital. With amenities including an outdoor pool and a fitness suite, it puts you moments away from St. Joseph’s Cathedral. 

Four-star options include the Conifer Grand Hotel, close to St Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa, which is a five-minute walk from Hanoi Old City Gate.

vietnam kiem lake ho minh
vietnam rice fields green hills

All you need to know about Vietnam

Local currency

The currency in Vietnam is the dong (VND). You’ll find that good-natured haggling over prices is standard practice in many markets and souvenir shops in the country.

Getting around

The best way to navigate the busy streets of Vietnam’s cities is by taxi. Trains or coaches are useful options for visitors opting to make longer journeys.

Languages spoken

Vietnamese is the national language. French is spoken as a second language by many people in the country, while English is also widely used throughout Vietnam.

Public holidays

Vietnam celebrates a number of national holidays including Liberation Day (30 April), Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday (19 May) and National Day (2 September).

More about Vietnam

Local cuisine

Wherever you go on your holiday to Vietnam, you’re sure to encounter some unforgettable dining experiences. 

Rice is the staple food here and is frequently served with meat and vegetables. Be sure to try the country’s famous pho soup, made with rice noodles, herbs and meat.  

Grab a banh mi – a baguette stuffed with meat, cucumber and fragrant herbs. One taste you’re unlikely to miss is mam tom – a type of shrimp paste that adds an extra kick of flavour to everything from noodle soups to green mangoes.

For an authentic taste of local life, pick up some freshly cooked food from a street vendor.

vietnamese vibrant plates of food
vietnam fruit seller on boat

Nature

Vietnam has countless things to see, but perhaps the most photographed are the limestone pillars that rise from Ha Long Bay. 

There are plenty of ways to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, with everything from luxury cruises to budget boat trips. 

An overnight tour is a popular option, but day-long outings will cost less and still give you the chance to fully appreciate these natural wonders.

Some operators offer guided kayaking so you can paddle right up to the pillars. There’s also the option of a seaplane tour of the site, which is located in Quang Ninh province.

History

A trip to Vietnam gives you the chance to learn more about the conflicts in the country during the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. 

There are many sites across the country to visit, including the Cu Chi tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City. These were used as hideouts, communication routes and weapon stores.  

The War Remnants Museum, which is housed in an old US Information Service building in Ho Chi Minh City, provides a moving insight into the impact of the conflict on local communities. 

To properly explore it you’ll need to set aside a couple of hours.

vietnam combat tunnel by the beach
vietnam-city-skyline

Why we love Vietnam

“It’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with Vietnam from the moment they arrive. Cities like Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang buzz with life, while there are picture-perfect beaches here too.”

People who love Vietnam also enjoy…

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UAE

With its rich cultural heritage to explore, incredible cuisine to sample and theme park fun for all the family to enjoy, the UAE is a must-visit.

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India

India has something for everyone, with the lively cities of Mumbai and Delhi among the top destinations in this endlessly fascinating country.

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China

If you’re in awe of Vietnam’s incredible history, you’ll love the stunning temples, regal palaces and iconic Great Wall of China, plus the energetic cities.

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Malaysia

A trip to Malaysia promises unbelievable scenery, such as the Cameron Highlands, and wildlife too. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a must-visit.