Explore our comprehensive guide on flights to Vietnam and discover valuable tips on finding the most cost-effective period to visit. Securing a flight to Vietnam is the initial step in contributing to the Vietnamese economy.
Vietnam, situated in Asia, has gained worldwide popularity due to its traveler-friendly environment and breathtaking natural beauty. Annually, numerous foreigners flock to Vietnam to immerse themselves in its rich culture, scenic landscapes, or for personal reasons. Regardless of their motivations, they all seek affordable flights to Vietnam. So, when is the best time to find cheap flights?
By booking a flight to Vietnam, you not only embark on an extraordinary adventure but also actively support the Vietnamese economy. During your visit, relish local cuisine, purchase goods from small family-owned shops, and ensure that souvenirs are authentically Vietnamese. Like any other country, Vietnam has its own travel seasons characterized by favorable climates that attract visitors. However, what is the most economical time to fly to Vietnam?
Plan your journey to Vietnam today for an unparalleled experience. Remember to obtain a Vietnam visa prior to your arrival in the country.
Table of Contents
Climate in Vietnam
Vietnam experiences contrasting climates in its different regions. The northern part has a cool and dry season from November to April, while the rest of the year is characterized by hot and rainy weather. The central coast north of Nha Trang also sees wet and cool conditions brought by the winter monsoon between December and February. On the other hand, the southern region remains hot and humid throughout the year. The central highlands have a similar climate, but winters are cooler with temperatures nearing freezing. To find cheaper flights to Vietnam, consider traveling during the low travel season when there are fewer visitors to the country.
Ideal Time for Traveling to Vietnam
Peak Season
Vietnam offers a diverse climate, making it a favorable destination throughout the year except for those who dislike high humidity. In the northern region, the cool and wet winter months span from November to April, while the hot and rainy summer lasts from May to October. The southern part experiences a dry, hot season between December and April, followed by a wet season from May to November. The highest level of humidity occurs between March and May. Heavy rainfall is common in central Vietnam between December and February.
Off-Season
Christmas and Tet (Lunar New Year) around February are family-oriented periods in Vietnam.
Airports in Vietnam
Vietnam has two main international airports: Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, there are several other international airports that accommodate fewer international flights, including:
- Can Tho International Airport
- Chu Lai International Airport
- Lien Khuong International Airport
- Da Nang International Airport
- Cat Bi International Airport
- Phu Bai International Airport
- Cam Ranh International Airport
- Phu Quoc International Airport
- Van Don International Airport
Airlines Serving Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines is the national carrier of Vietnam and offers an extensive domestic network as well as an expanding international one. Jetstar is another domestic carrier with a more limited network. Numerous international airlines, both full service and low-cost carriers (LCCs), now operate flights to Vietnam, including:
- Aeroflot (Hanoi)
- Air Asia (Hanoi)
- Air China (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Air France (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- ANA (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Asiana (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Bangkok Airways (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Cathay Pacific (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- China Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- China Eastern (Ho Chi Minh City)
- China Southern (Hanoi)
- EVA Air (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
Getting around Vietnam
These airlines offer flights within Vietnam:
- Hong Kong Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- JAL (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Jetstar (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Korean Air (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Lao Airlines (Hanoi)
- Lufthansa (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Malaysia Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Philippine Airlines (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Qantas (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Qatar Airlines (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Royal Brunei Airlines (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Silk Air (Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- Singapore Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- THAI (Da Nang, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
- United (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City)
For domestic travel within Vietnam:
- Vietnam Airlines offers flights between Ho Chi Minh City and various destinations such as Buon Me Thuoc, Da Nang, Dien Bien, Da Lat, Hanoi, Hai Phong, Hue, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Rach Gia.
- Domestic flights are also available from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and Danang.
Other transportation options in Vietnam include:
- Vietnam Railways operates the rail network, with the main line connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi via Danang, Hue, and Nha Trang.
- Bus services are popular and affordable but can be slow and crowded. Tourist open-tour buses are recommended for travel between popular destinations. A trip between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City costs less than $30 (approximately 500,000 Vietnamese Dong).
Vietnam Travel Guide
Hue – Former Imperial Capital
Hue, once the capital of Vietnam from 1744 to 1945, offers a glimpse into the country’s history. Situated on the picturesque Perfume River, the Imperial Citadel boasts ten entrances with watchtowers atop each gate. Although parts of the citadel were destroyed in the Tet Offensive of 1968, ongoing restoration work preserves its remaining structures, including the Forbidden Purple City.
Ho Chi Minh Trail – Historical Route
Embark on a thrilling journey along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, spanning over 745 miles from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. This scenic route takes you through significant battlefields like Khe Sanh, Ben Hai Bridge, Truong Son National Cemetery, and Dak Rong Bridge, which marks the beginning of Highway 15 leading to “Hamburger Hill.”
National Parks
Vietnam is home to several renowned national parks. Cuc Phuong, established in 1962, lies within Phong Nha-Ke Bang; Cat Ba is situated on Cat Ba Island in Halong Bay; and Con Dao National Park can be found on Con Dao Island.
Halong Bay – Majestic Natural Wonder
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, mesmerizes visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Comprising nearly 2,000 limestone islands, the bay is adorned with enchanting caves. Two inhabited islands, Tuan Chau and Cat Ba, offer tourist facilities including hotels, a golf course, and a fishing club.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vibrant Metropolis
As Vietnam’s largest city and major port, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant metropolis that captivates travelers. Influenced by its colonial past, the city boasts wide boulevards, colonial villas, and a thriving café culture. Must-visit attractions include the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee (Town Hall), Notre Dame Cathedral, bustling Ben Thanh Market, Quoc Tu Pagoda, War Remnants Museum, and the nearby Reunification Palace featuring an NVA tank on display.
Visa Online Vietnam is a website focused on providing visa services for Vietnam.