By Air
Vietnam's main international gateways are Noi Bai Airport (HAN) in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. Da Nang (DAD) also receives direct international flights, particularly from elsewhere in Asia, and is a useful option if you're heading straight to central Vietnam.
Most visitors fly into either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Common routes come from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Seoul, and major European and Australian cities. Vietnam Airlines is the national carrier; budget airlines including VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and low-cost regional carriers also fly in from across Asia.
The flight from London to Hanoi takes around 11–12 hours direct, or longer with a stopover.
Visas
Most nationalities now qualify for Vietnam's e-visa, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entry. Apply at evisa.gov.vn before you travel — it typically takes three to five business days and costs around US$25. Check the official site for current fees, as they change.
Citizens of certain countries (including ASEAN members, some European nationalities, and others) may qualify for visa-free entry. Confirm your status before travel. The old "visa on arrival" system still exists for air entry but requires pre-arranged approval letters; the e-visa is simpler and recommended.
Visas specify entry and exit points. If you plan to exit overland after entering by air, check the terms of your visa before you go.
Overland
Vietnam shares land borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia. The main crossings include:
- China: Lao Cai (for Yunnan/Kunming by rail), Lang Son (for Nanning)
- Laos: Lao Bao (Highway 9), Nam Can, Bo Y, and others
- Cambodia: Moc Bai (for Ho Chi Minh City), Xa Mat, and several crossings near the Mekong Delta
Bus services connect the major border towns. Trains run between Lao Cai and Hanoi (overnight sleeper), with Chinese rail connections onward from Lao Cai to Kunming.
By Sea
Major ports at Ho Chi Minh City, Haiphong, Da Nang, and Vung Tau handle cargo and occasional international cruise arrivals.