Da Nang is better for a relaxed, beach-focused, and affordable trip (avg. $58/day), offering cleaner air and close proximity to Hoi An. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is superior for high-energy nightlife, bustling street life, shopping, and historical sites, though it is 14.6% more expensive and faster-paced.
I always say Ho Chi Minh is one of the best cities to visit in Vietnam. Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the 19th Century, is one of the stand-out historical sites located in the area. The Reunification Palace, Central Post Office and Chinatown are also essential to add to your trip.
Da Nang is known for its long and sandy beaches, for being one of Vietnam's fastest-growing cities and for the convenience it offers to destinations in central Vietnam. As the years have gone by, Vietnam has become a more popular place both to visit and to live.
When choosing between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, consider what type of experience you seek. Ho Chi Minh City is perfect for those who enjoy a bustling urban environment with lively nightlife and rich history. In contrast, Da Nang offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery.
How HO CHI MINH Compares to DA NANG and HANOI 🇻🇳 What I Wish I Knew
What is the most peaceful city in Vietnam?
Da Nang maintains one of the lowest crime rates among major Vietnamese cities. Police patrols are frequent, and you'll find tourist police in areas like the beach, Son Tra Peninsula, and the riverside. This visible security presence helps prevent theft, harassment, and scams, giving travelers extra peace of mind.
Many expatriate doctors also advise travellers to vaccinate against diphtheria, hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, polio, and TABT (tetanus, paratyphoid A and B, and typhoid). Also, as malaria is prevalent in a number of areas in Vietnam, malarial prophylaxis may be prescribed.
US casualties across South Vietnam were 2,169 killed for the entire month of May making it the deadliest month of the entire Vietnam War for US forces, while South Vietnamese losses were 2,054 killed. The US claim that VC/PAVN losses exceeded 24,000 killed and over 2,000 captured.
Where should I stay in Vietnam for the first time?
If you only plan to visit for a few days or even a week, D1 or D3 are the best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. They are the most convenient districts from which to start and get your bearings in Saigon and perhaps Vietnam for the first time.
The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites. The risk for mosquito activity is high. Consider an EPA-registered repellent to deter mosquito bites.
Why Do You Need Vaccines for Vietnam? While Vietnam is a welcoming and vibrant country, it has different health risks compared to the UK. Diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis can spread through contaminated food, insect bites or poor sanitation — and some don't show symptoms straight away.
The "3-2-1 vaccine rule" refers to guidelines for monitoring potential lumps at feline (cat) injection sites for Feline Injection-Site Sarcoma (FISS) (a rare cancer), recommending a biopsy if a lump persists for 3 months, is larger than 2 cm, or continues to grow 1 month after the injection. This rule helps vets decide when a lump needs further investigation, emphasizing early detection for better outcomes.
Da Nang International Airport located in Da Nang City is the closest airport to Hoi An Ancient Town. The distance from Da Nang International Airport to Hoi An is about 37km.
There's no single "most beautiful" place in Vietnam as it offers diverse landscapes, but Ha Long Bay (UNESCO site with limestone islands), Ha Giang Loop (dramatic rice terraces, mountains), Hoi An (ancient town, beaches), Phong Nha (massive caves), and Ninh Binh (karst landscapes, river cruises, temples) are consistently ranked as top contenders for sheer natural and cultural beauty.
From 1965 to 1973, 2.15 million people served in Vietnam. About 170,000 people earned status as conscientious objectors. Many thousands of others burned their draft cards. At least 40,000 fled the country, and others served time in prison.
Which district is best to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City has no shortage of excellent hotels. You might opt to stay at the heart of the city in District 1. Alternatively, you might want to take in the vibrancy of District 2 & Binh Thanh. District 3 is a more relaxed substitute, while further afield are even more chances for tranquility and seclusion.
