Vietnam Travel Handbook
A practical, self-planned guide for Indian travellers
Vietnam has emerged as one of the most value-for-money international destinations for Indian travellers. It offers a rare combination of beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, waterfalls, theme parks, cable cars, European-style towns, islands, and vibrant cities, all supported by excellent tourism infrastructure.
Below is everything you must know before applying.
What makes Vietnam especially attractive is that on many aspects, traveling in Vietnam costs less than many popular domestic tourist destinations in India and most international destinations, while delivering a far superior international experience.
This handbook is based on a fully self-planned Vietnam trip, not a package tour. It focuses on real planning decisions — where to go, how much time to spend, how to move between cities, where to stay, what to eat (especially vegetarian food which many find difficult to find in foreign land), and what to avoid.
Unlike generic internet articles, this handbook contains practical, experience-based insights that help:
- Save money
- Avoid common mistakes
- Improve comfort
- Make the trip smoother and more enjoyable
Use this guide as a ready reference while planning your own Vietnam trip.
I funded majority of the cost of this trip using the reward points of my credit cards. That’s the soul reason I would stay in very premium properties like Sheraton Da Nang & Hanoi, Novotel Resort Phu Quoc, Mercure Da Nang etc. Plus, all my flights were also funded through my credit card rewards.
But to get such huge rewards on credit cards, you need to use right credit cards. Here is the collection of few highly rewarding credit cards.
- Best Credit Cards basis the Spend Categories and Purpose – https://spendwisely.in/card-by-purpose
- Best Credit Cards for Travel – https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-travel-flight-hotel
- Best Credit Card for International Transactions – https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-forex-transactions
- Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access
- Domestic Airports – https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-airport-lounge-access
- International Airports – https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-international-airport-lounge
- Airport Lounge Access for Guests – https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-airport-lounge-for-guests
1. Itinerary
Following is the itinerary I followed for a 13 nights trip covering all key travel destinations of Vietnam. You can modify it as per your preference and no. of days for the trip.
- Phu Quoc: 4 Nights
- Da Nang: 2 Nights
- Ba Na Hills: 1 Night
- Hoi Aan: 1 Night
- Hanoi: 2 Night
- Sapa: 2 Nights
- Halong Bay 1 Night (wasn’t part of our trip)
- Catba Island 1 Night (wasn’t part of our trip)
Quick Summary of Itinerary
| Day | Location & Hotel | Main Activities / Focus | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Mumbai → Ho Chi Minh → Phu Quoc Hotel: Novotel Phu Quoc Resort |
Late-night departure, international transit |
Immigration is mandatory at Ho Chi Minh City even for connecting flights. You must collect checked baggage at Ho Chi Minh City and re-check in for Phu Quoc. Keep minimum 3-hour gap. |
| Day 1 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Resort relaxation | Email hotel 3 days prior for free airport pickup. |
| Day 2 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Sun World Hon Thom, Cable Car, Sunset Town, Shows |
Hon Thom Island entry, water park & beach included in cable car ticket. Prefer Symphony of the Sea show. |
| Day 3 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | VinWonders Theme Park, Grand World | Free VinBus available between VinWonders & Grand World. |
| Day 4 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Starfish Beach or Resort Relaxation | Big resorts deserve one full day to enjoy facilities. |
| Day 5 | Phu Quoc → Da Nang Hotel: Sheraton Grand Danang |
Flight + resort time | Novotel offers free hourly airport shuttle. |
| Day 6 | Da Nang – Sheraton Grand Danang | Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, Dragon Bridge | Carry small cash for Marble Mountains elevator. |
| Day 7 | Da Nang → Ba Na Hills Hotel: Mercure Ba Na Hills |
Explore Ba Na Hills | Guest-only benefits at Mercure French Village. |
| Day 8 | Ba Na Hills → Hoi An Hotel: Villa Soleil |
Ba Na Hills + Hoi An Ancient Town |
Lantern boat ~ VND 150,000 (negotiate). 1 hour cab from Ba Na Hills to Hoi An. |
| Day 9 | Hoi An → Da Nang → Hanoi Hotel: Sheraton Hanoi |
Hoi An old town + flight | – |
| Day 10 | Hanoi → Sapa Hotel: Hotel de la Coupole |
Limousine bus, Sapa town | HK Busline recommended via Klook. |
| Day 11 | Sapa – Hotel de la Coupole | Fansipan cable car & summit | Carry warm clothing and rain jacket. |
| Day 12 | Sapa → Hanoi Hotel: Sheraton Hanoi |
Cat Cat Village + return | Limousine buses are clean and comfortable. |
| Day 13 | Hanoi → Mumbai | Easy sightseeing + departure | Reach airport 3 hours before flight. |
| Day 14 (Optional) | Hanoi | Halong Bay Cruise | Day trip or overnight cruise. |
| Day 15 (Optional) | Hanoi | Ninh Binh Day Trip | Scenic countryside experience. |
Day-Wise Detailed Explanation
Day 0 – Mumbai to Phu Quoc (Transit via Ho Chi Minh)
Your journey starts with a late-night international departure from Mumbai. Most flights to Phu Quoc require a connection at Ho Chi Minh City.
Important Immigration Rule (Very Important):
Even if your journey is booked on a single PNR with a connecting flight, Vietnam immigration is completed at Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) — not at Phu Quoc.
Here’s how it works
✈️ Arrive at Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
🛂 Clear Vietnam immigration at SGN
🧳 Collect your checked-in luggage
🚪 Exit the international arrivals area
🚶♂️ Walk ~10 minutes to the Domestic Terminal
🧾 Re-check your luggage for the domestic sector
🛫 Board your flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc
Important: There is no airside transfer between international and domestic flights at SGN. Every passenger must exit, walk to the domestic terminal, and check in again, even on a single-ticket itinerary.
This step often surprises first-time Vietnam travellers—planning adequate layover time is crucial to avoid missing your onward flight.
This means:
- You must clear immigration
- Collect baggage
- Re-check baggage for the domestic sector
Always keep at least a 3-hour layover at Ho Chi Minh to avoid stress or missed connections.
Or buy Fast-track Immigration Pass from Klook App
Day 1 – Phu Quoc: Resort Relaxation Day
Arrival at Phu Quoc is usually around late morning.
This day is intentionally kept light and relaxed.
Airport Pick-up: Novotel Resort Phu Quoc provides airport pick-up and drop shuttle service on sharing basis and fixed timings (at least once in every two hours). Mail the hotel at-least 3 days in advance to book the airport transfers.
What to do:
- Use Novotel’sfree airport pickup
- Check in, freshen up
- Spend time at:
- Resort’s beach
- Swimming pool
- Spa or lounging areas
- Night Market: There is a really good night market just in front of Novotel Phu Quoc Resort. Explore the night market after 8 PM till 11 PM. Night markets in Vietnam are very happening places and famous for shopping and food.
Why this matters:
Phu Quoc is best enjoyed slowly. Starting the trip with rest helps recover from travel fatigue and jet lag.
Day 2 – Sun World Hon Thom & Sunset Town
Step-by-step plan:
- Take a Grab cab toHon Thom Cable Car Station
- Board theworld’s longest sea cable car
- Reach Hon Thom Island
- Enjoy:
- Aquatopia Water Park
- Theme rides
- Beach access (All included in the cable car ticket — no extra cost)
- Take return cable car before5:00 PM
- ExploreSunset Town – It’s a beautiful European themes town after at the Cable Car drop station. Enjoy the vibes, street performances, market, restaurants, views and foutains.
- Evening shows at Sunset Town (paid activities – prebook from Klook App):
- Symphony of the Sea(7:30 PM – Highly recommended)
- Kiss of the Sea (9:00 PM – Highly recommended)
Day 3 – VinWonders Theme Park & Grand World
VinWonders must-see shows:
- Colors of the Ocean at the Sea Shell – 2:00 PM
- Carnival Parade – 5:00 PM
- Once Show – 6:45 PM
- Takefree VinBus to Grand World (10 minutes)
- Dinner at Indian restaurant at Grand World (Maharaja Indian Restaurant – Pure Veg)
Day 4 – Phu Quoc (Flexible Day)
Options:
- Starfish Beach+ VinPearl Safari
- 3-Island Speedboat Tour
- Complete rest dayat resort and enjoy hotel’s beach and pool
Day 5 – Phu Quoc to Da Nang
- Morning checkout
- UseNovotel’s free airport shuttle
- Flight to Da Nang
- Check-in atSheraton Grand Danang
- Relax at one of Vietnam’s best beaches
Day 6 – Da Nang City Sightseeing
Key places:
- Marble Mountains : Start last morning or afternoon to visit Marble Mountains (use elevator)
- Son Tra Peninsula – Lady Buddha : Take a can to Son Tra Peninsula – Lady Buddha – A beautiful lady Buddha Statue and Pagoda on a mountain overlooking beautiful beach of Da Nang
- My Khe Beach – Spend evening at the most happening beach of Da Nang, take a seat at any of the beautiful cafes & bar right on the beach
- Dragon Bridge – Explore Dragon Beach in the evening. If you happen to be there on a Saturday or Sunday, enjoy Fire Show at Dragon Bridge.
- Night Market: There is a bustling night market just across the road at one end of Dragon Bridge.
- Tip:Carry small cash for Marble Mountains tickets and elevator fees.
Day 7 – Ba Na Hills Reach base station by 10:00 AM
- Mercure Ba Na Hills assists with:
- Luggage handling
- Cable car access
- Explore:
- Golden Bridge
- French Village
- Fantasy Park
- Alpine Coaster
- Sun & Moon Castles
Why stay overnight? – Real Benefits of Staying Overnight at Accor’s Mercure Ba Na Hills 🏰☁️ Save Time • Save Money • Experience the REAL Ba Na Hills
An overnight stay at Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village completely changes the experience — and most people miss this 👇
🚡 One of the most unique hotel access —This is one of the very fww hotels in the world where you reach your hotel room via cable car — with your luggage 🎒🧳. Your stay literally starts with a scenic cable car journey over the lush green forest, waterfalls and through the clouds ☁️. No roads. No buses. Just views and vibes.
✨ Ba Na Hills at night = pure magic
After sunset 🌄, it feels like you’re staying above the clouds ☁️. Silent streets, misty castles, and unreal vibes — something day visitors never see.
🚶♂️ Post 4:30 PM = Ba Na Hills becomes yours
Once the day crowd leaves:
- Empty streets
- Quiet castles
- Peaceful photo spots 📸
- Zero chaos
⸻
🚡 VIP Cable Car access (Huge hidden benefit!)
✔️ Mercure guests get VIP / priority entry into cable cars
✔️ Private cable cars for your family only
✔️ No queues at all
⏳ Day visitors wait 60–90 minutes EACH side, and 10–15 people are packed into one cable car.
This benefit alone saves hours.
⸻
🎢 Fantasy Park with ZERO crowds
🗓️ Friday–Sunday: Open till 7 PM in the evening while day visitors leave by 4:30 PM. From Monday to Thursday, Fantasy park closes by 5 PM. Enjoy unlimited FREE Rides, games, and 4D/5D shows — repeated multiple times 🎮🎠. No queues. No rush. Full fun mode 😍
🎿 Alpine Coaster Happy Hours = Double Win at this Gravity Based Roller Coasters 🎢, Most Popular at Ba Na
- 💰 Pay just VND 50k (instead of VND 80k)
- ⏰ 4:30–5:30 PM | 8:30–9:30 AM
- 🚫 Almost no waiting
- 🌫️ Evening mist rides on mountains = unforgettable
🌉 Golden Hand Bridge — crowd-free access
The iconic Golden Bridge is accessible ONLY to Mercure guests from 6 AM–8 AM. Till ~9 AM, there are very few people — perfect for photos & serenity 📸
🚡 30% discount on Cable Car + ALL attractions if purchased at Mercure check-in,
The two-way Cable Car tickets includes 👇following on all days on your Stay
✔️ All cable cars (up, down & internal)
✔️ All funiculars 🚆
✔️ Unlimited Fantasy Park & Moon Castle games
✔️ 4D / 5D / 7D & 360° movies
✔️ Flying Eye Theatre
✔️ Indoor & outdoor bumper cars
✔️ All rides
✔️ Sun Castle & Moon/Lunar Castle
✔️ Le Jardin D’Amour, Pagoda & Love Garden 🌸
✔️ Thác Thần Mặt Trời waterfall & Golden Horse Statue
✔️Except Alpine Coasters & 10D Show, everything is Free, unlimited times 🤩
Most day visitors don’t even realise what they miss.
Day 8 – Ba Na Hills to Hoi An
- Explore Ba Na Hills till ~3:30 PM
- Last cable car down at 4:30 PM
- Drive to Hoi An
- Evening in Ancient Town
- Lantern boat ride
Lantern Boat Ideal price: VND 150,000 per boat
Avoid noisy motor boats which is offers outside the ancient town. First enter the core ancient town and then choose traditional wooden ones.
Day 9 – Hoi An to Hanoi
- Relaxed morning
- Explore colorful Ancient Town to have a daylight look.
- Visit Cam Thanh Coconut Village and enjoy Basket Boat ride.
- Drive to Da Nang airport for evening flight to Hanoi
Check-in at Sheraton Hanoi for overnight stay
Day 10 – Hanoi to Sapa (Limousine Bus)
- Morning limousine bus
- Travel time: ~6.5 hours (with breaks)
- Best operator:HK Busline
- Book viaKlook App
Keep small change (VND 3,000) for paid toilets during stops.
Day 11 – Fansipan (Roof of Indochina)
- Cable car to Fansipan summit
- Weather can change quickly
- Carry:
- Warm layers
- Rain jacket
Optional afternoon:
- Silver Waterfall
- Dragon Cloud Glass Bridge
- O Quy Ho Pass
Day 12 – Cat Cat Village & Return
- Morning visit to Cat Cat Village
- Afternoon limousine bus back to Hanoi
- Relaxed evening at West Lake or Old Quarter
Day 13 – Hanoi to Mumbai
- Easy morning sightseeing:
- Tran Quoc Pagoda
- Temple of Literature (optional)
- Indian / vegetarian lunch
- Airport transfer
- Fly back to Mumbai
Optional Days – Halong Bay, Ninh Binh or Cat Ba Island days tours are very popular from Hanoi. If you have 1-2 more days, you can add these in your itinerary before departure from Ha Noil
2. Visa (For Indians)
Getting Vietnam’s tourist visa for Indians is very easy. Its complete online process. No physical documents need to be submitted, not even passport. Visa is issued in a PDF document form. You need to take print of the same.
- Visa Type: 30-day Single Entry e-Visa (sufficient to have a Vietnam trip including Phu Quoc)
- Approval rate: Very high
- Processing time: 5–6 working days
- Documents: Passport only (6 months validity)
How to Apply:
- Method -1: Vietnam Visa can be applied directly via following official website: https://evisa.gov.vn
- Method – 2: Apply using third party apps like MakeMyTrip or Atlys. I applied using Atlys App and my experience with them had been good. You just need to scan your passport and click your photo withing the app. Rest everything is done by them. No need to enter any details manually.
👉Atlys Visa App Linl (my referral link):https://bit.ly/atlysvisa
⚠️ Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not mandatory for Vietnam visa, but it is recommended. Buy the travel insurance from Policybazaar (https://travel.policybazaar.com)
3. Currency & Cards
Vietnam is not a fully digitalised payment country. To travel comfortably, you should carry both a credit card / forex card and local cash for daily expenses.
1. Local Currency – Vietnamese Dong (VND)
The official currency of Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong (VND).
The value of VND is very low compared to INR.
📍 Where should you get VND?
Do NOT buy Vietnamese Dong in India.
You’ll almost always get very poor exchange rates.
✅ Best way to manage local currency (recommended)
- Convert INR to USD in India
- The most convenient and reliable option isBookMyForex App
- It is a subsidiary of MakeMyTrip and alegal, trustworthy forex provider in India
- 👉 Download BookMyForex App using following referral link:
https://www.bookmyforex.com/?u=AMITmWHuuIz
- Home delivery of USD
- BookMyForex delivers currencyto your doorstep within 24 hours
- Exchange rates are also good.
- Carry USD to Vietnam
- For a family trip,USD 50 per day is usually sufficient
(assuming you are also carrying a credit card)
- For a family trip,USD 50 per day is usually sufficient
- Exchange USD to VND after reaching Vietnam
You can exchange USD at:- 🏪Local forex exchange shops (best rates – highly recommended)
- 🏨Hotel front desk / reception (reasonable rates)
- ✈️Airport forex counters (lowest rates – use only if needed)
2. Credit Cards – A Must Carry
Along with cash, at least one international credit card is essential.
Credit cards are widely accepted at:
- Hotels 🏨
- Good restaurants 🍽️
- Popular tourist attractions 🎟️
- Local transport & cab apps likeGrab 🚕
👉 Best option: A credit card with zero or low forex mark-up charges
Best Credit Cards for International Transactions
1️⃣ Scapia Credit Card
(Issued by Federal Bank / Bank of Baroda)
- 💳Lifetime Free (no joining fee, no annual fee)
- 🌍Zero forex mark-up charges
- You payexactly what you spend, nothing extra
🔗 Apply here:
https://bit.ly/4edJlDV
🔍 Detailed review:
https://spendwisely.in/cards/federal-bank-scapia-credit-card/
2️⃣ Bank of Baroda – Eterna Credit Card
- 🆓Lifetime Free if applied on or before 31 March 2026
- 💱36% forex mark-up
- 💰75% real cashback on international spends
- Result:Net positive cashback, even after forex charges
🔗 Apply here:
https://bit.ly/4q4Y7kF
🔍 Detailed review:
https://spendwisely.in/cards/bob-eterna-credit-card-from-bank-of-baroda/
More Cards for Forex Spending
Looking for more options with low / zero forex mark-up and better rewards?
👉 Explore the complete list here:
https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-forex-transactions/
4. SIM Card & Mobile Connectivity
Mobile internet is absolutely essential in Vietnam for:
- Cab bookings (Grab)
- Google Maps
- Translation
- Food delivery
- Ticket bookings
How to Buy a Local Vietnam SIM
Local SIMs are easily available without any documentation.
You can buy them in three ways:
- At the airport (many counters)
- At night markets or local shops near your hotel
- Pre-book via apps like Klook (physical SIM or eSIM)
Most Recommended Option (Best Value)
👉 Buy SIM at a local shop or night market near your hotel
Reasons:
- Instant activation
- Better data plans
- Cheaper than airport & app-based SIMs
Recommended Plan (What most tourists should take)
- Data: 15 GB per day
- Validity: 15 days
- Calls: Free incoming calls
- Outgoing calls: Not included
- SMS: Limited / mostly not required
- Cost:
- Physical SIM: VND 200,000
- eSIM: VND 220,000
This plan is more than sufficient for:
- Navigation
- Grab cabs
- WhatsApp calling
- Online bookings
Important Clarification (Calls & SMS)
- Local SIMs are mainly data-focused
- You don’t need outgoing calls
- WhatsApp / Grab in-app calls are sufficient
- Incoming calls are free (rarely needed)
Indian Mobile Number – Why You MUST Activate Roaming
Before leaving India, activate standard international roaming on your Indian SIM.
Typical Cost:
- Prepaid: ₹100–₹150 for 30 days
- Postpaid: ₹150–₹200 (varies by operator)
Why this is IMPORTANT:
- You will receive OTP SMS from:
- Banks
- Credit cards
- Apps
- Incoming SMS is free
- Without roaming, OTPs may not arrive
VERY IMPORTANT:
- Immediately switch OFF mobile data on Indian SIM once you leave India
- Do not make calls or use data
- Charges for calls/data are extremely high
Use Indian SIM only for OTP SMS
Use Vietnam SIM for everything else
5. Local Transportation
Grab App
Grab is the best and most reliable mode of transport in Vietnam.
It is:
- Widely available across Vietnam
- Cleaner & more professional than street taxis
- Transparent pricing
- Extremely affordable
Grab worked flawlessly in:
- Phu Quoc
- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Hanoi
- Sapa
Grab Subscription Passes (Huge Savings)
Vietnam Grab offers subscription passes that tourists can use.
1️⃣ Grab Travel Pass
- Pass Cost: VND 25,000 (~₹85)
- Benefits:
- 25% off GrabPlus (Premium cars)
- 25% off airport rides
- 25% off advance bookings (2 hours prior)
- 10% off other rides
💡 Tip: Always choose GrabPlus.
Base fare is slightly higher, but 25% discount makes it cheaper than normal cars.
2️⃣ Grab Unlimited Pass
- Cost: FREE for first 2 months
- Benefits:
- 5% off all rides
- 20% off GrabPlus rides (5 times)
👉 Can be cancelled anytime within 2 months at no cost.
Best Part – Combine Both Passes
You can apply both passes on the same ride:
- Total discount reaches ~30%
- Final fares are lower than even heavily negotiated local taxis
How to Activate (Do This in India)
- Download Grab App
- Select Vietnam as country
- Add credit card (keep low transaction limit)
- Go to Subscriptions
- Activate:
- Grab Travel Pass
- Grab Unlimited
Bonus: Food Delivery
Grab also delivers food like Swiggy/Zomato.
- Hotels allow outside food
- Indian food delivery worked even at Sheraton
- Grab Unlimited gives food discounts too
Xinh Cab – Xinh Cab is another very popular cab service app in Vietnam. If you don’t use discount passes on Grab app, the you may find the prices on Xinh Cab app lower. You can try this app as well.
Tip – I preferred Grab Ap over Xinh App as I purchased Grab Travel Pass which costed me just Rs.85. Along with that, I took Grab Unlimited Pass which was free for first two months. Both the passes can be applied together on each cab ride. Post this double discount, Grab App was always cheaper than Xinh Cab, at least in my experience.
6. Intercity Travel (One City to Another)
Vietnam has excellent intercity connectivity.
Options Available:
- Domestic flights
- Trains
- Buses & limousine buses
Flights are best for long distances, while limousine buses are ideal for scenic routes.
Hanoi ↔ Sapa (Most Important Intercity Route)
There is no practical train for tourists between Hanoi and Sapa.
Best Option: Limousine Buses
- Travel time: ~6.5 hours
- Includes 2 clean rest stops
- Fully reclining seats
- Charging points
- Massage seats
- Clean & modern
Recommended Operator:
👉 HK Busline (Best in class)
Booking Method:
- Book online via Klook App
Practical Tip:
- Toilets at rest stops cost VND 3,000 per person
- Keep small change handy
7. Vegetarian & Indian Food Guide (With Google Maps)
Vegetarian and Indian food is widely available in all tourist cities.
Phu Quoc
Maharaja Lounge – VinWonders (100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/T2wA3vAsk8bbhnru7
Maharaja – Grand World (100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/y7NHHBTB723BG55h9
Chai Wala – Sunset Town (Snacks & Tea, 100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fsjomWwcLQLhuZ1bA
Da Nang
Rasoi Indian Restaurant (100% Vegetarian)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/C5RfDzQTeWdPfENQ6
Hoi An
Rasoi – Hoi An (Near Ancient Town, 100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fMiCvgn7N65vqgD6A
Sapa
Ganesh Indian Restaurant (Veg & Non-Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/CJvjWgH6inkXKSAP7
Final Notes for Self-Planners
- Vietnam rewards good planning
- Apps (Grab, Klook) are game changers
- Vegetarian food is manageable everywhere
- Local SIM + Grab passes save real money
- This itinerary balances comfort, sightseeing & cost
To make your trips more rewarding , don’t forget to explore right credit cards for you at www.spendwisely.in
1. Itinerary
Following is the itinerary I followed for a 13 nights trip covering all key travel destinations of Vietnam. You can modify it as per your preference and no. of days for the trip.
- Phu Quoc: 4 Nights
- Da Nang: 2 Nights
- Ba Na Hills: 1 Night
- Hoi Aan: 1 Night
- Hanoi: 2 Night
- Sapa: 2 Nights
- Halong Bay 1 Night (wasn’t part of our trip)
- Catba Island 1 Night (wasn’t part of our trip)
Quick Summary of Itinerary
| Day | Location & Hotel | Main Activities / Focus | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | Mumbai → Ho Chi Minh → Phu Quoc Hotel: Novotel Phu Quoc Resort |
Late-night departure, international transit |
Immigration is mandatory at Ho Chi Minh City even for connecting flights. You must collect checked baggage at Ho Chi Minh City and re-check in for Phu Quoc. Keep minimum 3-hour gap. |
| Day 1 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Resort relaxation | Email hotel 3 days prior for free airport pickup. |
| Day 2 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Sun World Hon Thom, Cable Car, Sunset Town, Shows |
Hon Thom Island entry, water park & beach included in cable car ticket. Prefer Symphony of the Sea show. |
| Day 3 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | VinWonders Theme Park, Grand World | Free VinBus available between VinWonders & Grand World. |
| Day 4 | Phu Quoc – Novotel Phu Quoc | Starfish Beach or Resort Relaxation | Big resorts deserve one full day to enjoy facilities. |
| Day 5 | Phu Quoc → Da Nang Hotel: Sheraton Grand Danang |
Flight + resort time | Novotel offers free hourly airport shuttle. |
| Day 6 | Da Nang – Sheraton Grand Danang | Marble Mountains, Son Tra Peninsula, Dragon Bridge | Carry small cash for Marble Mountains elevator. |
| Day 7 | Da Nang → Ba Na Hills Hotel: Mercure Ba Na Hills |
Explore Ba Na Hills | Guest-only benefits at Mercure French Village. |
| Day 8 | Ba Na Hills → Hoi An Hotel: Villa Soleil |
Ba Na Hills + Hoi An Ancient Town |
Lantern boat ~ VND 150,000 (negotiate). 1 hour cab from Ba Na Hills to Hoi An. |
| Day 9 | Hoi An → Da Nang → Hanoi Hotel: Sheraton Hanoi |
Hoi An old town + flight | – |
| Day 10 | Hanoi → Sapa Hotel: Hotel de la Coupole |
Limousine bus, Sapa town | HK Busline recommended via Klook. |
| Day 11 | Sapa – Hotel de la Coupole | Fansipan cable car & summit | Carry warm clothing and rain jacket. |
| Day 12 | Sapa → Hanoi Hotel: Sheraton Hanoi |
Cat Cat Village + return | Limousine buses are clean and comfortable. |
| Day 13 | Hanoi → Mumbai | Easy sightseeing + departure | Reach airport 3 hours before flight. |
| Day 14 (Optional) | Hanoi | Halong Bay Cruise | Day trip or overnight cruise. |
| Day 15 (Optional) | Hanoi | Ninh Binh Day Trip | Scenic countryside experience. |
Day-Wise Detailed Explanation
Day 0 – Mumbai to Phu Quoc (Transit via Ho Chi Minh)
Your journey starts with a late-night international departure from Mumbai. Most flights to Phu Quoc require a connection at Ho Chi Minh City.
Important Immigration Rule (Very Important):
Even if your journey is booked on a single PNR with a connecting flight, Vietnam immigration is completed at Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) — not at Phu Quoc.
Here’s how it works
✈️ Arrive at Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
🛂 Clear Vietnam immigration at SGN
🧳 Collect your checked-in luggage
🚪 Exit the international arrivals area
🚶♂️ Walk ~10 minutes to the Domestic Terminal
🧾 Re-check your luggage for the domestic sector
🛫 Board your flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc
Important: There is no airside transfer between international and domestic flights at SGN. Every passenger must exit, walk to the domestic terminal, and check in again, even on a single-ticket itinerary.
This step often surprises first-time Vietnam travellers—planning adequate layover time is crucial to avoid missing your onward flight.
This means:
- You must clear immigration
- Collect baggage
- Re-check baggage for the domestic sector
Always keep at least a 3-hour layover at Ho Chi Minh to avoid stress or missed connections.
Or buy Fast-track Immigration Pass from Klook App
Day 1 – Phu Quoc: Resort Relaxation Day
Arrival at Phu Quoc is usually around late morning.
This day is intentionally kept light and relaxed.
Airport Pick-up: Novotel Resort Phu Quoc provides airport pick-up and drop shuttle service on sharing basis and fixed timings (at least once in every two hours). Mail the hotel at-least 3 days in advance to book the airport transfers.
What to do:
- Use Novotel’sfree airport pickup
- Check in, freshen up
- Spend time at:
- Resort’s beach
- Swimming pool
- Spa or lounging areas
- Night Market: There is a really good night market just in front of Novotel Phu Quoc Resort. Explore the night market after 8 PM till 11 PM. Night markets in Vietnam are very happening places and famous for shopping and food.
Why this matters:
Phu Quoc is best enjoyed slowly. Starting the trip with rest helps recover from travel fatigue and jet lag.
Day 2 – Sun World Hon Thom & Sunset Town
Step-by-step plan:
- Take a Grab cab toHon Thom Cable Car Station
- Board theworld’s longest sea cable car
- Reach Hon Thom Island
- Enjoy:
- Aquatopia Water Park
- Theme rides
- Beach access (All included in the cable car ticket — no extra cost)
- Take return cable car before5:00 PM
- ExploreSunset Town – It’s a beautiful European themes town after at the Cable Car drop station. Enjoy the vibes, street performances, market, restaurants, views and foutains.
- Evening shows at Sunset Town (paid activities – prebook from Klook App):
- Symphony of the Sea(7:30 PM – Highly recommended)
- Kiss of the Sea (9:00 PM – Highly recommended)
Day 3 – VinWonders Theme Park & Grand World
VinWonders must-see shows:
- Colors of the Ocean at the Sea Shell – 2:00 PM
- Carnival Parade – 5:00 PM
- Once Show – 6:45 PM
- Takefree VinBus to Grand World (10 minutes)
- Dinner at Indian restaurant at Grand World (Maharaja Indian Restaurant – Pure Veg)
Day 4 – Phu Quoc (Flexible Day)
Options:
- Starfish Beach+ VinPearl Safari
- 3-Island Speedboat Tour
- Complete rest dayat resort and enjoy hotel’s beach and pool
Day 5 – Phu Quoc to Da Nang
- Morning checkout
- UseNovotel’s free airport shuttle
- Flight to Da Nang
- Check-in atSheraton Grand Danang
- Relax at one of Vietnam’s best beaches
Day 6 – Da Nang City Sightseeing
Key places:
- Marble Mountains : Start last morning or afternoon to visit Marble Mountains (use elevator)
- Son Tra Peninsula – Lady Buddha : Take a can to Son Tra Peninsula – Lady Buddha – A beautiful lady Buddha Statue and Pagoda on a mountain overlooking beautiful beach of Da Nang
- My Khe Beach – Spend evening at the most happening beach of Da Nang, take a seat at any of the beautiful cafes & bar right on the beach
- Dragon Bridge – Explore Dragon Beach in the evening. If you happen to be there on a Saturday or Sunday, enjoy Fire Show at Dragon Bridge.
- Night Market: There is a bustling night market just across the road at one end of Dragon Bridge.
- Tip:Carry small cash for Marble Mountains tickets and elevator fees.
Day 7 – Ba Na Hills Reach base station by 10:00 AM
- Mercure Ba Na Hills assists with:
- Luggage handling
- Cable car access
- Explore:
- Golden Bridge
- French Village
- Fantasy Park
- Alpine Coaster
- Sun & Moon Castles
Why stay overnight? – Real Benefits of Staying Overnight at Accor’s Mercure Ba Na Hills 🏰☁️ Save Time • Save Money • Experience the REAL Ba Na Hills
An overnight stay at Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village completely changes the experience — and most people miss this 👇
🚡 One of the most unique hotel access —This is one of the very fww hotels in the world where you reach your hotel room via cable car — with your luggage 🎒🧳. Your stay literally starts with a scenic cable car journey over the lush green forest, waterfalls and through the clouds ☁️. No roads. No buses. Just views and vibes.
✨ Ba Na Hills at night = pure magic
After sunset 🌄, it feels like you’re staying above the clouds ☁️. Silent streets, misty castles, and unreal vibes — something day visitors never see.
🚶♂️ Post 4:30 PM = Ba Na Hills becomes yours
Once the day crowd leaves:
- Empty streets
- Quiet castles
- Peaceful photo spots 📸
- Zero chaos
⸻
🚡 VIP Cable Car access (Huge hidden benefit!)
✔️ Mercure guests get VIP / priority entry into cable cars
✔️ Private cable cars for your family only
✔️ No queues at all
⏳ Day visitors wait 60–90 minutes EACH side, and 10–15 people are packed into one cable car.
This benefit alone saves hours.
⸻
🎢 Fantasy Park with ZERO crowds
🗓️ Friday–Sunday: Open till 7 PM in the evening while day visitors leave by 4:30 PM. From Monday to Thursday, Fantasy park closes by 5 PM. Enjoy unlimited FREE Rides, games, and 4D/5D shows — repeated multiple times 🎮🎠. No queues. No rush. Full fun mode 😍
🎿 Alpine Coaster Happy Hours = Double Win at this Gravity Based Roller Coasters 🎢, Most Popular at Ba Na
- 💰 Pay just VND 50k (instead of VND 80k)
- ⏰ 4:30–5:30 PM | 8:30–9:30 AM
- 🚫 Almost no waiting
- 🌫️ Evening mist rides on mountains = unforgettable
🌉 Golden Hand Bridge — crowd-free access
The iconic Golden Bridge is accessible ONLY to Mercure guests from 6 AM–8 AM. Till ~9 AM, there are very few people — perfect for photos & serenity 📸
🚡 30% discount on Cable Car + ALL attractions if purchased at Mercure check-in,
The two-way Cable Car tickets includes 👇following on all days on your Stay
✔️ All cable cars (up, down & internal)
✔️ All funiculars 🚆
✔️ Unlimited Fantasy Park & Moon Castle games
✔️ 4D / 5D / 7D & 360° movies
✔️ Flying Eye Theatre
✔️ Indoor & outdoor bumper cars
✔️ All rides
✔️ Sun Castle & Moon/Lunar Castle
✔️ Le Jardin D’Amour, Pagoda & Love Garden 🌸
✔️ Thác Thần Mặt Trời waterfall & Golden Horse Statue
✔️Except Alpine Coasters & 10D Show, everything is Free, unlimited times 🤩
Most day visitors don’t even realise what they miss.
Day 8 – Ba Na Hills to Hoi An
- Explore Ba Na Hills till ~3:30 PM
- Last cable car down at 4:30 PM
- Drive to Hoi An
- Evening in Ancient Town
- Lantern boat ride
Lantern Boat Ideal price: VND 150,000 per boat
Avoid noisy motor boats which is offers outside the ancient town. First enter the core ancient town and then choose traditional wooden ones.
Day 9 – Hoi An to Hanoi
- Relaxed morning
- Explore colorful Ancient Town to have a daylight look.
- Visit Cam Thanh Coconut Village and enjoy Basket Boat ride.
- Drive to Da Nang airport for evening flight to Hanoi
Check-in at Sheraton Hanoi for overnight stay
Day 10 – Hanoi to Sapa (Limousine Bus)
- Morning limousine bus
- Travel time: ~6.5 hours (with breaks)
- Best operator:HK Busline
- Book viaKlook App
Keep small change (VND 3,000) for paid toilets during stops.
Day 11 – Fansipan (Roof of Indochina)
- Cable car to Fansipan summit
- Weather can change quickly
- Carry:
- Warm layers
- Rain jacket
Optional afternoon:
- Silver Waterfall
- Dragon Cloud Glass Bridge
- O Quy Ho Pass
Day 12 – Cat Cat Village & Return
- Morning visit to Cat Cat Village
- Afternoon limousine bus back to Hanoi
- Relaxed evening at West Lake or Old Quarter
Day 13 – Hanoi to Mumbai
- Easy morning sightseeing:
- Tran Quoc Pagoda
- Temple of Literature (optional)
- Indian / vegetarian lunch
- Airport transfer
- Fly back to Mumbai
Optional Days – Halong Bay, Ninh Binh or Cat Ba Island days tours are very popular from Hanoi. If you have 1-2 more days, you can add these in your itinerary before departure from Ha Noil
2. Visa (For Indians)
Getting Vietnam’s tourist visa for Indians is very easy. Its complete online process. No physical documents need to be submitted, not even passport. Visa is issued in a PDF document form. You need to take print of the same.
- Visa Type: 30-day Single Entry e-Visa (sufficient to have a Vietnam trip including Phu Quoc)
- Approval rate: Very high
- Processing time: 5–6 working days
- Documents: Passport only (6 months validity)
How to Apply:
- Method -1: Vietnam Visa can be applied directly via following official website: https://evisa.gov.vn
- Method – 2: Apply using third party apps like MakeMyTrip or Atlys. I applied using Atlys App and my experience with them had been good. You just need to scan your passport and click your photo withing the app. Rest everything is done by them. No need to enter any details manually.
👉Atlys Visa App Linl (my referral link):https://bit.ly/atlysvisa
⚠️ Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not mandatory for Vietnam visa, but it is recommended. Buy the travel insurance from Policybazaar (https://travel.policybazaar.com)
3. Currency & Cards
Vietnam is not a fully digitalised payment country. To travel comfortably, you should carry both a credit card / forex card and local cash for daily expenses.
1. Local Currency – Vietnamese Dong (VND)
The official currency of Vietnam is Vietnamese Dong (VND).
The value of VND is very low compared to INR.
📍 Where should you get VND?
Do NOT buy Vietnamese Dong in India.
You’ll almost always get very poor exchange rates.
✅ Best way to manage local currency (recommended)
- Convert INR to USD in India
- The most convenient and reliable option isBookMyForex App
- It is a subsidiary of MakeMyTrip and alegal, trustworthy forex provider in India
- 👉 Download BookMyForex App using following referral link:
https://www.bookmyforex.com/?u=AMITmWHuuIz
- Home delivery of USD
- BookMyForex delivers currencyto your doorstep within 24 hours
- Exchange rates are also good.
- Carry USD to Vietnam
- For a family trip,USD 50 per day is usually sufficient
(assuming you are also carrying a credit card)
- For a family trip,USD 50 per day is usually sufficient
- Exchange USD to VND after reaching Vietnam
You can exchange USD at:- 🏪Local forex exchange shops (best rates – highly recommended)
- 🏨Hotel front desk / reception (reasonable rates)
- ✈️Airport forex counters (lowest rates – use only if needed)
2. Credit Cards – A Must Carry
Along with cash, at least one international credit card is essential.
Credit cards are widely accepted at:
- Hotels 🏨
- Good restaurants 🍽️
- Popular tourist attractions 🎟️
- Local transport & cab apps likeGrab 🚕
👉 Best option: A credit card with zero or low forex mark-up charges
Best Credit Cards for International Transactions
1️⃣ Scapia Credit Card
(Issued by Federal Bank / Bank of Baroda)
- 💳Lifetime Free (no joining fee, no annual fee)
- 🌍Zero forex mark-up charges
- You payexactly what you spend, nothing extra
🔗 Apply here:
https://bit.ly/4edJlDV
🔍 Detailed review:
https://spendwisely.in/cards/federal-bank-scapia-credit-card/
2️⃣ Bank of Baroda – Eterna Credit Card
- 🆓Lifetime Free if applied on or before 31 March 2026
- 💱36% forex mark-up
- 💰75% real cashback on international spends
- Result:Net positive cashback, even after forex charges
🔗 Apply here:
https://bit.ly/4q4Y7kF
🔍 Detailed review:
https://spendwisely.in/cards/bob-eterna-credit-card-from-bank-of-baroda/
More Cards for Forex Spending
Looking for more options with low / zero forex mark-up and better rewards?
👉 Explore the complete list here:
https://spendwisely.in/top-credit-cards/card_purpose-forex-transactions/
4. SIM Card & Mobile Connectivity
Mobile internet is absolutely essential in Vietnam for:
- Cab bookings (Grab)
- Google Maps
- Translation
- Food delivery
- Ticket bookings
How to Buy a Local Vietnam SIM
Local SIMs are easily available without any documentation.
You can buy them in three ways:
- At the airport (many counters)
- At night markets or local shops near your hotel
- Pre-book via apps like Klook (physical SIM or eSIM)
Most Recommended Option (Best Value)
👉 Buy SIM at a local shop or night market near your hotel
Reasons:
- Instant activation
- Better data plans
- Cheaper than airport & app-based SIMs
Recommended Plan (What most tourists should take)
- Data: 15 GB per day
- Validity: 15 days
- Calls: Free incoming calls
- Outgoing calls: Not included
- SMS: Limited / mostly not required
- Cost:
- Physical SIM: VND 200,000
- eSIM: VND 220,000
This plan is more than sufficient for:
- Navigation
- Grab cabs
- WhatsApp calling
- Online bookings
Important Clarification (Calls & SMS)
- Local SIMs are mainly data-focused
- You don’t need outgoing calls
- WhatsApp / Grab in-app calls are sufficient
- Incoming calls are free (rarely needed)
Indian Mobile Number – Why You MUST Activate Roaming
Before leaving India, activate standard international roaming on your Indian SIM.
Typical Cost:
- Prepaid: ₹100–₹150 for 30 days
- Postpaid: ₹150–₹200 (varies by operator)
Why this is IMPORTANT:
- You will receive OTP SMS from:
- Banks
- Credit cards
- Apps
- Incoming SMS is free
- Without roaming, OTPs may not arrive
VERY IMPORTANT:
- Immediately switch OFF mobile data on Indian SIM once you leave India
- Do not make calls or use data
- Charges for calls/data are extremely high
Use Indian SIM only for OTP SMS
Use Vietnam SIM for everything else
5. Local Transportation
Grab App
Grab is the best and most reliable mode of transport in Vietnam.
It is:
- Widely available across Vietnam
- Cleaner & more professional than street taxis
- Transparent pricing
- Extremely affordable
Grab worked flawlessly in:
- Phu Quoc
- Da Nang
- Hoi An
- Hanoi
- Sapa
Grab Subscription Passes (Huge Savings)
Vietnam Grab offers subscription passes that tourists can use.
1️⃣ Grab Travel Pass
- Pass Cost: VND 25,000 (~₹85)
- Benefits:
- 25% off GrabPlus (Premium cars)
- 25% off airport rides
- 25% off advance bookings (2 hours prior)
- 10% off other rides
💡 Tip: Always choose GrabPlus.
Base fare is slightly higher, but 25% discount makes it cheaper than normal cars.
2️⃣ Grab Unlimited Pass
- Cost: FREE for first 2 months
- Benefits:
- 5% off all rides
- 20% off GrabPlus rides (5 times)
👉 Can be cancelled anytime within 2 months at no cost.
Best Part – Combine Both Passes
You can apply both passes on the same ride:
- Total discount reaches ~30%
- Final fares are lower than even heavily negotiated local taxis
How to Activate (Do This in India)
- Download Grab App
- Select Vietnam as country
- Add credit card (keep low transaction limit)
- Go to Subscriptions
- Activate:
- Grab Travel Pass
- Grab Unlimited
Bonus: Food Delivery
Grab also delivers food like Swiggy/Zomato.
- Hotels allow outside food
- Indian food delivery worked even at Sheraton
- Grab Unlimited gives food discounts too
Xinh Cab – Xinh Cab is another very popular cab service app in Vietnam. If you don’t use discount passes on Grab app, the you may find the prices on Xinh Cab app lower. You can try this app as well.
Tip – I preferred Grab Ap over Xinh App as I purchased Grab Travel Pass which costed me just Rs.85. Along with that, I took Grab Unlimited Pass which was free for first two months. Both the passes can be applied together on each cab ride. Post this double discount, Grab App was always cheaper than Xinh Cab, at least in my experience.
6. Intercity Travel (One City to Another)
Vietnam has excellent intercity connectivity.
Options Available:
- Domestic flights
- Trains
- Buses & limousine buses
Flights are best for long distances, while limousine buses are ideal for scenic routes.
Hanoi ↔ Sapa (Most Important Intercity Route)
There is no practical train for tourists between Hanoi and Sapa.
Best Option: Limousine Buses
- Travel time: ~6.5 hours
- Includes 2 clean rest stops
- Fully reclining seats
- Charging points
- Massage seats
- Clean & modern
Recommended Operator:
👉 HK Busline (Best in class)
Booking Method:
- Book online via Klook App
Practical Tip:
- Toilets at rest stops cost VND 3,000 per person
- Keep small change handy
7. Vegetarian & Indian Food Guide (With Google Maps)
Vegetarian and Indian food is widely available in all tourist cities.
Phu Quoc
Maharaja Lounge – VinWonders (100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/T2wA3vAsk8bbhnru7
Maharaja – Grand World (100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/y7NHHBTB723BG55h9
Chai Wala – Sunset Town (Snacks & Tea, 100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fsjomWwcLQLhuZ1bA
Da Nang
Rasoi Indian Restaurant (100% Vegetarian)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/C5RfDzQTeWdPfENQ6
Hoi An
Rasoi – Hoi An (Near Ancient Town, 100% Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/fMiCvgn7N65vqgD6A
Sapa
Ganesh Indian Restaurant (Veg & Non-Veg)
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/CJvjWgH6inkXKSAP7
Final Notes for Self-Planners
- Vietnam rewards good planning
- Apps (Grab, Klook) are game changers
- Vegetarian food is manageable everywhere
- Local SIM + Grab passes save real money
- This itinerary balances comfort, sightseeing & cost
To make your trips more rewarding , don’t forget to explore right credit cards for you at www.spendwisely.in
