Travel to Vietnam from Australia: Everything you should know

1. Do Australians need a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Yes. Australian passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam. The most convenient option is the Vietnam e-visa, which allows stays of up to 90 days with either single or multiple entries. The e-visa costs USD 25 for a single-entry visa and USD 50 for a multiple-entry visa. Travelers planning to stay longer than 90 days should apply for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

To enter Vietnam, your Australian passport must:

Be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Be in good condition, with no significant damage that could affect its validity.
Contain at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

However, Phu Quoc is an exception to Vietnam's standard visa requirements. The island offers a special 30-day visa exemption for eligible foreign nationals. You can qualify by:

Arriving directly in Phu Quoc from another country by international flight or sea, or
Transiting through another international airport or seaport in Vietnam, remaining in the international transit area, and then continuing directly to Phu Quoc by air or sea.

>>> Read more: Vietnamese visa for Australian

2. When is the best time to travel to Vietnam from Australia?

The best time to visit Vietnam from Australia is March to May, when pleasant weather, moderate travel costs, and the Australian Easter holidays all line up nicely for a trip.

Late September to early October is another excellent option, particularly for those traveling during the Australian spring school holidays. This shoulder season brings comfortable temperatures, reasonable prices, and breathtaking rice terraces across Northern Vietnam. However, this period also falls within Vietnam's rainy season, so occasional storms may affect outdoor activities.

If your travel dates are flexible, it's also worth considering the weather in each region. By region, the ideal travel seasons are:

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): October to April for cool, dry weather.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue): February to July for sunny skies and ideal beach conditions.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Phu Quoc): December to April, when the weather is warm, dry, and perfect for outdoor adventures.

>>> Read more about Vietnam weather!

3. How to get to Vietnam from Australia?

The easiest way to travel from Australia to Vietnam is by air. You can choose between direct flights, which typically take around 8.5 to 10 hours depending on your departure airport and destination, or connecting flights, which offer more flexibility and often lower fares.

Direct flights: Non-stop flights are available from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. These direct services are operated by airlines including Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air.
Connecting flights: One-stop flights are offered by carriers including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, and Thai Airways, with connections in major Asian hubs such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok.

Airfares vary depending on the route, airline, and travel season, but budget carriers such as VietJet Air and Scoot often offer competitive fares, especially when booked well in advance.

>>> You might also like: Sydney to Vietnam flights

4. Where should Australians travel in Vietnam?

4.1. Phu Quoc - Best for resort and island holidays

Phu Quoc is Vietnam's largest island, renowned for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and picturesque fishing villages. Visitors can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, join island-hopping tours, sample local seafood, or simply relax while watching spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.

Northern Phu Quoc is home to Phu Quoc United Center, an integrated tourism and entertainment destination featuring VinWonders Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, and Grand World Phu Quoc. With luxury resorts, world-class attractions, and diverse dining in one location, it is ideal for families, couples, and travelers seeking a convenient, all-in-one island holiday.

4.2. Nha Trang - Best for family-friendly beach escapes

Nha Trang is blessed with beautiful islands and excellent marine life. Visitors can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs at Hon Mot, unwind in natural mineral mud baths on Hon Tam Island, or encounter playful wildlife on Monkey Island. Beyond its coastal attractions, Nha Trang is renowned for its fresh seafood, lively beachfront nightlife, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Located on Hon Tre Island, Vinpearl Nha Trang combines luxury beachfront resorts with world-class entertainment in a stunning island setting. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides at VinWonders Nha Trang, waterfront dining and shopping at Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang, and rejuvenating spa experiences at Aquafield Nha Trang, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, and beach lovers.

4.3. Da Nang - Best for beach holidays and cultural attractions

From the world-famous My Khe Beach and the scenic Marble Mountains to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary, Da Nang offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, discover centuries-old temples and ancient ruins, and wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. The city also stands out for its excellent value, offering reasonably priced beachfront accommodation, fresh seafood, and attractions that suit a wide range of budgets.

4.4. Ha Long Bay - Best for cruises and limestone islands

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts that create one of the world's most spectacular seascapes. An overnight cruise offers the best way to experience its beauty, with opportunities to kayak through hidden lagoons, explore impressive limestone caves, and admire breathtaking sunsets and sunrises from the deck.

4.5. Hanoi - Best for history, culture, and local cuisine

Hanoi blends more than a thousand years of history with a vibrant modern culture. Visitors can wander the bustling Old Quarter, watch a traditional water puppet show, sample authentic street food, and sip egg coffee, a local specialty rarely found outside Vietnam. Those looking for a cultural experience will appreciate the city's historic pagodas, lakes, and French-inspired architecture. Hanoi also serves as the gateway to northern highlights such as Sapa and Ninh Binh.

4.6. Ho Chi Minh City - Best for history, culture and city life

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's most dynamic metropolis, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside historic landmarks and bustling local markets. The city offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam's past through the Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and elegant colonial-era buildings. Beyond its historical attractions, Ho Chi Minh City is also celebrated for its vibrant food scene, featuring iconic dishes such as cơm tấm, bánh mì, and hủ tiếu. It is also an excellent base for day trips to the Mekong Delta.

4.7. Hue - Best for imperial heritage and historic landmarks

Hue is Vietnam's former imperial capital, where centuries of royal history come to life through magnificent palaces, temples, and ancient tombs. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, cruise along the Perfume River, and discover the elaborate mausoleums of the Nguyen emperors, each showcasing distinctive architecture and artistry. Hue is also renowned for its refined royal cuisine, offering elegant dishes inspired by the former imperial court.

5. Suggested Vietnam tour packages from Australia

Vietnam tour packages from Australia range from 7 to 15 days, typically covering Hanoi, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and Ho Chi Minh City.

5.1. 7-day Vietnam tour package

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the Temple of Literature. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show and sample authentic Vietnamese street food.
Day 2: Hanoi – Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Spend the afternoon browsing Dong Xuan Market before experiencing the lively atmosphere of Ta Hien Beer Street in the evening.
Day 3: Hanoi to Nha Trang – Fly about 2 hours to Nha Trang. Relax on Tran Phu Beach, visit Long Son Pagoda, Ponagar Cham Towers and Hon Chong Promontory.
Day 4: Nha Trang – Experience a rejuvenating mud bath at Hon Tam Island, or visit VinWonders Nha Trang and Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island for exciting rides, water attractions, and spectacular live shows.
Day 5: Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City – Fly about 1 hour and 5 minutes to Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market, then stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Day 6: Mekong Delta day tour – Join a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta. Cruise along scenic waterways, visit local villages, sample tropical fruits, and enjoy a traditional sampan ride.
Day 7: Departure – Spend your final morning shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a local café before transferring to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight back to Australia.

floating market in Mekong Delta, Vietnam

5.2. 10-day Vietnam tour package

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City – Visit the War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. In the evening, stroll along Bui Vien Street and enjoy the city's vibrant dining scene.
Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels day tour – Explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the resistance war against America. Learn about the tunnels' role in wartime history, visit underground bunkers, and experience traditional Vietnamese countryside landscapes before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc – Fly about 1 hour to Phu Quoc. Relax on the island's white sand beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and watch the sunset from the coast.
Day 4: Phu Quoc – Explore VinWonders Phu Quoc, discover wildlife at Vinpearl Safari, and spend the evening at Grand World Phu Quoc with its shopping, entertainment, and spectacular shows.
Day 5: Phu Quoc to Nha Trang – Fly 1 hour and 20 minutes to Nha Trang and explore the city's coastal highlights. Relax at Tran Phu Beach, visit the iconic Tram Huong Tower by the seaside, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Nha Trang Night Market with local street food and souvenirs.
Day 6: Hon Tre Island (Nha Trang) – Spend the day exploring VinWonders Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island, featuring thrilling rides, water attractions, an aquarium, and spectacular live shows. Continue to Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang, a lively waterfront destination with shopping, entertainment, and wellness experiences at Aquafield Nha Trang.
Day 7: Nha Trang to Da Nang – Fly 1 hour and 5 minutes to Da Nang. Visit Marble Mountains, relax at My Khe Beach, and watch the Dragon Bridge light up in the evening.
Day 8: Hoi An Ancient Town – Explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses, assembly halls, and colorful lantern-lined streets.
Day 9: Da Nang to Hanoi – Fly about 1 hour and 20 minutes to Hanoi. Explore the city's cultural highlights, including the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison. In the afternoon, wander through the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, and enjoy a traditional water puppet show in the evening.
Day 10: Departure – Spend your final hours shopping at Dong Xuan Market or relaxing at a café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake before heading to Noi Bai International Airport.

5.3. 15-day Vietnam tour package

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Check in to your hotel, explore Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, enjoy a traditional cyclo ride through historic streets, and sample Hanoi specialties such as pho and egg coffee.
Day 2: Hanoi to Sapa – Travel to Sapa through the scenic mountains of northern Vietnam. Explore Sapa town and visit Sapa Stone Church.
Day 3: Sapa – Ride the cable car to Fansipan and visit ethnic minority villages such as Lao Chai and Ta Van before returning to Hanoi.
Day 4: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – Transfer to Ha Long Bay by limousine bus for an overnight cruise. Enjoy dinner on board while admiring the bay’s stunning scenery.
Day 5: Ha Long Bay to Hue – Wake up to the peaceful beauty of Ha Long Bay, join a morning cruise activity, and explore limestone caves before returning to Hanoi. Fly 1 hour and 15 minutes to Hue and relax by the Perfume River in the evening.
Day 6: Hue – Explore Vietnam’s former imperial capital with visits to the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs. Enjoy Hue’s distinctive cuisine, including bun bo Hue and local royal-inspired dishes.
Day 7: Hue to Da Nang – Travel to Da Nang via the scenic Hai Van Pass, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Relax at My Khe Beach and enjoy the city’s coastal atmosphere.
Day 8: Hoi An Ancient Town (Da Nang) – Discover Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, explore historic houses and the Japanese Covered Bridge, join a lantern-making workshop, and taste local specialties such as cao lầu and cơm gà Hội An.
Day 9: My Son Sanctuary (Da Nang) to Nha Trang – Visit My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Cham religious site surrounded by lush mountains, before flying 1 hour and 10 minutes from Da Nang to Nha Trang. Spend the rest of the day in Nha Trang relaxing at Tran Phu Beach, visiting Tram Huong Tower, and exploring Nha Trang Night Market in the evening.
Day 10: Nha Trang – Enjoy Nha Trang’s coastal attractions with a visit to VinWonders Nha Trang on Hon Tre Island. Continue to Vinpearl Harbour Nha Trang for shopping, entertainment, and wellness experiences at Aquafield Nha Trang.
Day 11: Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City – Fly 1 hour and 5 minutes to Ho Chi Minh City and explore its iconic landmarks, including the War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market.
Day 12: Cu Chi Tunnels (Ho Chi Minh City) – Visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to explore the underground network. Return to the city for shopping, local cuisine, or exploring attractions at your own pace.
Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc – Fly about 1 hour to Phu Quoc and relax on the island’s beautiful beaches. Explore Phu Quoc National Park, Dinh Cau Temple, and enjoy the night market.
Day 14: Phu Quoc island-hopping tour – Explore Phu Quoc’s southern islands with a boat trip to Fingernail Island, Gam Ghi Island, and May Rut Island.
Day 15: Departure – Enjoy a relaxing morning in Phu Quoc with time for beach activities, cafés, or souvenir shopping before transferring to Phu Quoc International Airport for your flight back to Australia.

6. How much does a Vietnam trip from Australia cost?

A two-week trip to Vietnam from Australia typically costs between AUD 2,000 and AUD 5,000 per person, including return flights, accommodation, food, transportation and daily activities.

Flights: Return airfares from Australia to Vietnam typically start around AUD 420 to AUD 900 for economy round-trips, depending on the airline, booking time, and destination. Major carriers offering these routes include Vietjet Air and Vietnam Airlines.
Accommodation: Budget travelers can find clean hotels and hostels from around AUD 30 - AUD 60 per night, while comfortable four-star hotels typically cost AUD 80 - AUD 150 per night. Luxury beachfront resorts generally start from AUD 200 per night.
Food: Street food and local restaurants can cost as little as AUD 5 - AUD 15 per meal, while dining at upscale restaurants usually ranges from AUD 30 - AUD 60 per person.
Transportation: Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between regions and typically cost AUD 40 - AUD 150 per flight when booked in advance. Within cities, ride-hailing services and taxis are widely available, with fares varying by distance and vehicle type but generally remaining affordable. Public buses usually cost less than AUD 2 per ride.
Activities: Prices vary by destination, the type of activity, its duration, and the inclusions offered.

Your total trip cost will depend largely on your travel style. Here's what you can expect to spend over two weeks:

Budget (AUD 1,500 - 2,200): Stay in budget hotels or hostels, eat mostly local food, use public transport, and choose affordable tours.
Mid-range (AUD 2,500 - 4,000): Stay in 3 star hotels, mix local and international dining, take domestic flights, and enjoy several guided tours and attractions.
Luxury (AUD 5,000+): Stay in five-star hotels and beachfront resorts, dine at premium restaurants, book private transfers, and enjoy luxury cruises and exclusive experiences.

7. Where to stay in Vietnam?

Vinpearl is Vietnam's leading hospitality brand, offering luxury hotels and resorts in many of the country's most sought-after destinations, including Ha Long, Bac Ninh, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Each property offers its own unique blend of premium accommodation and exceptional amenities such as rejuvenating spas and infinity pools with selected resorts providing convenient access to VinWonders amusement parks.

Every type of traveller finds their perfect fit at Vinpearl. Little ones can splash safely in kids’ pools and dive into fun, educational activities while parents relax poolside. Groups of friends can enjoy vibrant beach clubs and lively dining scenes that keep the energy going from day into night. Couples seeking romance will find it in stunning sunset views, secluded private villas, and serene spa escapes designed for two.

With consistently high service standards and an extensive nationwide network of resorts, Vinpearl makes it easy to build an entire Vietnam itinerary around one trusted name.

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8. Tips for traveling to Vietnam from Australia

8.1. Currency and money

Vietnam's official currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). AUD 1 is worth approximately VND 18,300 - 18,400 although exchange rates fluctuate daily.

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, shopping malls, and larger restaurants, cash is still the preferred payment method at local markets, street food stalls, and small businesses. ATMs and currency exchange services are readily available in major cities and tourist destinations, making it easy to access local currency during your trip.

8.2. Time difference

Vietnam follows Indochina Time (ICT, UTC+7) and does not observe daylight saving time. Depending on the time of year, Vietnam is 3 hours behind Australia's east coast during Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) and 4 hours behind during Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). Planning your flights and gradually adjusting your sleep schedule before departure can help reduce jet lag.

8.3. Local etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, and other religious sites by covering your shoulders and knees.
Ask for permission before photographing local people, especially in rural communities or at places of worship.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items as a sign of respect, particularly when interacting with older people.
Keep your voice down in public places and avoid displays of anger, as politeness and courtesy are highly valued.
Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases such as "Xin chào" (Hello), “Xin lỗi” (Sorry) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you).

8.4. Safety

Vietnam is considered a safe country to visit, but following a few simple precautions will help you travel with greater peace of mind:

Stay alert to pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Keep valuables, passports, and cash in a secure place, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics.
Use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps such as Grab and GreenSM to ensure transparent fares and reliable service.
Follow local safety advice when swimming, snorkeling, or joining adventurous activities, especially during rough sea conditions.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or delayed baggage.
Have insect repellant handy since you may counter mosquitoes in Vietnam.

A travel to Vietnam from Australia can provide you with incredibly rich cultural experiences and memorable sights that will stay with you long after your journey is over. Remember to start by obtaining a visa and booking your flight. Once in Vietnam, visit its popular destinations and immerse yourself in all that they have to offer!

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***Visa policies, entry requirements, flight schedules, airfares, exchange rates, and travel costs are subject to change. Please verify the latest information with official government websites, airlines, and service providers before making your travel arrangements.

FAQs about traveling to Vietnam from Australia

How far is Vietnam from Australia?

The direct distance between Vietnam and Australia ranges from approximately 4,800 kilometers (2,980 miles) to 6,800 kilometers (4,225 miles), depending on your departure city and destination.

How long is the flight from Australia to Vietnam?

Direct flights from Australia to Vietnam typically range from 8.5 to 10 hours, depending on your departure and arrival airports.

Which airlines fly to Vietnam from Australia?

Airlines including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, and Thai Airways operate flights to Vietnam from Australia.

How many days are enough for a Vietnam trip?

A 10 - 14 day trip is ideal to explore Vietnam's highlights, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc.

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam from Australia?

Yes. Vietnam is generally a safe destination, with friendly locals and well-developed tourism infrastructure. Travelers should still take basic precautions, especially in crowded areas.

What are the best places to visit in Vietnam from Australia with kids?

Family-friendly destinations include Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Ho Chi Minh City, offering beaches, cultural experiences, and attractions for all ages.