Vietnam Tours from the UK: Explore the Best of Vietnam with Expert Guides

Vietnam, a blend of traditional and modern elements, captivates British visitors with its vibrant mix of motorcycles, Western fashion, Buddhist monks, and political posters. The charm of Vietnam beckons many to take a direct flight from London to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Why Choose Vietnam for Your Next Adventure?

Choosing Vietnam for your next adventure as a UK citizen can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are several reasons why Vietnam should be at the top of your travel list:

• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Vietnam is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the terraced rice fields of Sapa to the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, the country’s natural beauty is unmatched. The Mekong Delta offers lush greenery and intricate waterways, while the coastal beaches like Da Nang and Phu Quoc provide pristine, relaxing environments.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Vietnam boasts a rich cultural history, blending influences from indigenous cultures, colonial legacies, and contemporary developments. Historical sites like the ancient town of Hoi An, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels offer deep insights into the country’s past. Festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival showcase vibrant traditions and customs.
• Delicious Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its freshness, balance of flavors, and use of herbs and spices. Must-try dishes include pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), fresh spring rolls, and a variety of regional specialties. Street food culture is also a highlight, offering an array of affordable and delicious options.
• Affordable Travel: Vietnam is known for being a budget-friendly destination. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive compared to Western countries. This affordability allows travelers to experience more without breaking the bank, making it ideal for both budget and luxury travelers.
• Warm Hospitality: Vietnamese people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Whether you are in bustling cities or rural areas, locals are often eager to share their culture and assist travelers, making your stay more enjoyable and immersive.
• Vibrant Cities: Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a dynamic blend of the old and new. Hanoi, with its historical charm and colonial architecture, contrasts with the modern skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City. Both cities provide an exciting urban experience with plenty of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
• Adventure Activities: For the adventurous, Vietnam offers numerous activities such as trekking in Sapa, kayaking in Ha Long Bay, exploring caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, and motorbiking along the famous Hai Van Pass. These activities cater to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
• Ease of Travel: Vietnam has a well-developed infrastructure for tourism. International airports in major cities, a reliable train network, and various bus and domestic flight options make traveling within the country convenient and accessible.
• Unique Experiences: Vietnam offers unique experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. From staying in a homestay with ethnic minority families to taking a boat ride through the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, these experiences provide deep cultural immersion and memorable moments.
• Historical Significance: Vietnam’s history, from ancient dynasties to the Vietnam War, has left a profound impact on the country’s identity. Visiting war museums, historical sites, and preserved colonial buildings offers a poignant look into the nation’s past and its resilience.

Vietnam is a captivating destination offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, affordability, and adventure. Whether you are a history buff, foodie, nature enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Vietnam promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

How to Travel from the UK to Vietnam

Plane Tickets from United Kingdom to Vietnam

The most efficient and convenient way to cover the 10,000-kilometer journey from the UK to Vietnam is by air. Flights are available from major UK cities, including London (from both London Heathrow and London Gatwick Airports), Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, and Birmingham, directly to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s two largest cities. Notably, Vietnam Airlines offers direct flights from London Heathrow to Hanoi (departing at 11 A.M. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays) and to Ho Chi Minh City (departing at 11 A.M. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays).

Airfares vary by season, with peak prices typically in July to August, during Christmas, New Year, and around the Lunar New Year. Prices are generally lower during the shoulder season (August to mid-October) and the low season (May to July), when airlines often offer promotions.

Vietnam Visa Information for British Citizens

British passport holders can enter Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa for tourism purposes. For visits up to 90 days, you can apply for an e-visa online. However, the e-visa is only valid at specific entry/exit points, which must be selected during the application process.

For those without fixed travel plans, a regular single-entry visa from the nearest Vietnamese embassy offers more flexibility. For stays longer than 90 days, a visa from the Vietnamese embassy is required before traveling to Vietnam. We offer complimentary assistance in obtaining a Vietnam Visa Approval letter, allowing you to get a visa upon arrival at the airport. This service is free when you travel with us through our trusted Vietnam DMC for your travels.

Must-See Destinations in Vietnam

Vietnam is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of experiences for tourists from the UK. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine make it a must-visit spot in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, relaxing on pristine beaches, or delving into the natural beauty of lush landscapes, Vietnam has something for everyone. Below are some must-see destinations in Vietnam that should be on your itinerary:

• Ha Long Bay: Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests.
• Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam, known for its centuries-old architecture, vibrant street life, and cultural landmarks like the Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter.
• Ho Chi Minh City: A bustling metropolis that blends the old and new, featuring attractions such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Hoi An: A charming town renowned for its well-preserved Ancient Town, vibrant lanterns, and tailor-made clothing shops.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Home to some of the world’s most spectacular caves, including Son Doong, the largest cave in the world.
• Hue: The former imperial capital, known for its historic monuments, pagodas, and the expansive Hue Citadel.
• Sapa: A picturesque town in the northern mountains, famous for its terraced rice fields, ethnic hill tribes, and trekking opportunities.
• Mekong Delta: A region in southern Vietnam with a rich network of rivers, swamps, and islands, known for its floating markets and rice paddies.
• Da Nang: A coastal city with beautiful beaches, the stunning Marble Mountains, and the iconic Golden Bridge.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of diverse landscapes and climates, making it a year-round destination. However, for tourists from the UK, the best time to visit Vietnam largely depends on the specific regions you plan to explore and your personal preferences for weather conditions.

The peak tourist season in Vietnam generally runs from November to April when the weather is cooler and drier. During this period, the northern regions, including Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, experience mild temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and cruising on the bay. Central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Da Nang, also enjoys pleasant weather, with less rainfall and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring ancient towns and relaxing on beaches. Meanwhile, the southern regions, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, remain warm and dry, making it an excellent time for river cruises and city tours.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, from May to October. While these months see more rainfall, particularly in the north and central regions, the showers are often brief and can provide a refreshing break from the heat. Additionally, this period coincides with the lush greenery of rice paddies and blooming flowers, offering stunning landscapes and vibrant photography opportunities.

Here are a few highlights of the best things to do in Vietnam:

• Explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi: Wander through narrow streets filled with history, delicious street food, and vibrant markets.
• Cruise Ha Long Bay: Marvel at the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the ancient town of Hoi An: Experience the charm of lantern-lit streets, traditional houses, and delicious local cuisine.
• Relax on the beaches of Da Nang: Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand along the picturesque coastline of this central Vietnamese city.
• Discover the Mekong Delta: Take a boat trip through the maze of rivers, visit floating markets, and experience rural Vietnamese life.
• Explore Ho Chi Minh City: Immerse yourself in the bustling city life, visit historical landmarks, and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

This comprehensive approach ensures you experience Vietnam’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions, making your visit memorable and enjoyable.

Top Vietnam Tours from the UK

Vietnam offers an array of captivating tours that cater to diverse interests, from bustling cities to tranquil countryside, and from historical landmarks to stunning natural landscapes. For convenience, all flights from the UK arrive either in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, providing you with a perfect starting point for your Vietnam adventure. Here are some of the top Vietnam tours that you can embark on from these cities:

Tours Starting from Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, located on the banks of the Red River in the North, is one of the world’s oldest capitals. Here, travelers can explore well-preserved colonial architecture, ancient pagodas, and unique museums. Hanoi is also a gateway to the country’s mountainous regions (Sapa, Ha Giang, Dien Bien Phu), lush parks, traditional villages, and the iconic Halong Bay.

With a tour lasting 7 to 9 days, you can experience Northern Vietnam or get a glimpse of the entire country, visiting major attractions such as Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoian, Saigon, and the famous floating market in the Mekong Delta. Options include culture and history tours, adventure tours, or culinary tours.

For an immersive experience in local life, culture, and history, check out our sample Vietnam tours: Best of the North, The Uncrowded Alternative to Halong Bay, and Highlights of Vietnam.

For adventure enthusiasts, consider tours involving trekking, biking, or kayaking: 4WD North-West Vietnam, Mountains to The Sea, and Biking – Trekking & Snorkeling.

For a two-week adventure, our tours of Vietnam Discovery, Vietnam Family Holidays, and Vietnam in Depth are excellent choices, covering almost all the major sightseeing spots in Vietnam.

Tours Starting from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Once known as the “Pearl of the Far East,” with a luxury level surpassing Hong Kong and Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City is now Vietnam’s most populous and modern city. Skyscrapers, Oriental-style pagodas, and bustling street food stalls create a dynamic urban atmosphere.

This city is an ideal starting point for your Vietnam journey. Explore key attractions such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, the Reunification Palace, and Ben Thanh Market, or visit the largest floating market on the Mekong River, Cai Rang. From excursions to the Cu Chi Tunnels to romantic sunset cruises on the Saigon River, there is much to experience. Nearby, you can find beautiful beaches, islands, rivers, villages, jungles, and historic sites.

For a short trip, explore Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta with tours like Southern Flavors and Saigon to Phu Quoc via Mekong Delta.

For an in-depth cultural and historical experience, consider tours like Essential Vietnam, Vietnam Impressions, and Absolute Vietnam Discovery.

For luxury travelers, we offer high-end tours with beach breaks in packages like Vietnam Luxury Journey, Luxury Vietnam Holidays, and Best of Vietnam.

Extend your adventure beyond Vietnam by combining your trip with visits to other Southeast Asian countries, such as Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. Explore more options for a Vietnam & Indochina Tour from the UK.

All our Vietnam tour packages are customizable to meet your specific needs and interests, with daily departures available. Feel free to customize your tour with us!