Must-Have Vietnam Travel Apps: Transportation, Accommodation & More
These apps will make your Vietnam travel experience much easier.
Traveling to Vietnam for the first time? Navigating the vibrant landscapes, bustling cities, and rich cultural experiences can be exciting yet challenging. Thankfully, with the right tools at your fingertips, your Vietnam trip can be smoother and more enjoyable. Utilizing travel apps in Vietnam can assist you in everything from navigation to translation, making it easier to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore like a local. Let’s check out the best apps for travelling in Vietnam with Lua Viet Tours!
Transportation & Maps Apps
Navigating Vietnam’s vibrant cities and scenic landscapes can be an adventure in itself. Here are the top apps that will guide you along the way:
Google Maps
An absolute must-have for any traveler, Google Maps provides detailed offline maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and real-time traffic updates. This is especially useful in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, or for venturing off the beaten path into Vietnam’s rural areas. Pro tip: Download offline maps for those areas with limited internet connectivity.
Download Google Map:
Grab
If you are looking for a Vietnam transport app, download Grab! This ride-hailing app, the undisputed leader in Southeast Asia, allows you to conveniently book cars, taxis, or even motorbike taxis at the tap of a button. Enjoy the convenience of upfront pricing, various payment options, and a reliable alternative to traditional taxis.
Download Grab:
Get around the city with Grab. (Image source: Internet)
>>> Consider getting a 4G SIM card that provides reliable internet access throughout your journey.
Language & Communication Apps
While English is becoming increasingly common in tourist areas, having a few essential Vietnamese phrases under your belt will go a long way. These language and communication apps will bridge the language gap and ensure you can connect with locals throughout your trip.
Google Translate
A trustworthy companion for any traveler, Google Translate allows for seamless translation between Vietnamese and over 100 other languages. Download the Vietnamese language pack for offline access, ensuring you can still translate even without an internet connection.
Download Google Translate:
Conveniently communicate with locals via Google Translate. (Image source: Internet)
Vietnamese Phrasebook Apps
While Google Translate is a great tool, pairing it with a dedicated Vietnamese phrasebook app can enhance your travel experience. Apps like Simply Learn Vietnamese, Nemo Vietnamese, and LuvLingua Vietnamese provide audio pronunciations to help you master essential phrases like “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you). These apps also cover practical categories such as ordering food, asking for directions, and negotiating prices in markets.
Stay connected with friends, family, and travel companions back home with WhatsApp, a globally trusted messaging app. WhatsApp allows for free text messages, voice calls, and even video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data. This is a great way to coordinate with your travel group or reach out to tour operators for last-minute bookings.
Download WhatsApp:
Accommodation & Booking Apps
Finding the perfect place to stay in Vietnam is easy with these popular booking apps:
Agoda & Booking.com
These two giants in the travel booking industry offer a vast selection of hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and unique vacation rentals across Vietnam. Easily compare prices, read reviews from fellow travelers, and book your accommodation directly through the app. With Agoda and Booking.com, you’re sure to find a place that matches your budget and style.
Download Booking.com:
Download Agoda:
Find accommodations through these booking apps. (Image source: Internet)
Airbnb
Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture by finding a unique apartment, villa, or traditional homestay through Airbnb. This app allows you to experience Vietnam like a local and support local hosts. Filter your search results by amenities, price range, and even unique features like stunning views or proximity to local attractions.
Download Airbnb:
Food & Restaurant Apps
Unveiling the delicious world of Vietnamese cuisine is an essential part of any Vietnam adventure. These apps will help you discover the best local eats and hidden culinary gems.
Foody.vn
If you’re a foodie eager to explore Vietnam’s culinary delights, Foody.vn is often referred to as the “Yelp of Vietnam.” This app provides extensive reviews, ratings, and recommendations for a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors. With Foody, you’ll discover the best local eateries and must-try dishes, ensuring a flavorful journey through Vietnam’s rich gastronomy.
Download Airbnb:
Explore local food scene with Foody.vn (Image source: Internet)
HappyCow
When it comes to finding delicious plant-based meals, whether you’re strictly vegan or just looking to try some meat-free Vietnamese dishes, HappyCow is your go-to guide. This app is a lifesaver for finding vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and even markets. It’s especially useful in larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where the options are more diverse.
Download HappyCow:
TripAdvisor
While Foody.vn is great for local insights, TripAdvisor remains a valuable resource for reading reviews and finding popular spots, especially for travelers less familiar with Vietnamese cuisine. It offers a broader perspective with international reviews and can help you compare different dining options.
Download TripAdvisor:
Currency Apps
Managing your finances while traveling is crucial. A currency app will help you keep track of your spending and handle currency exchange with ease.
XE Currency
Keep track of exchange rates in real-time with XE Currency. This app is incredibly useful for converting currencies and managing your budget, especially when dealing with Vietnamese Dong (VND). Knowing the current exchange rate will help you avoid being overcharged and ensure you’re getting fair prices.
Download XE Currency:
>>> Looking for a place to exchange money in Ho Chi Minh City? Check our guide now!
Tour & Activity Booking Apps
Make the most of your time in Vietnam by booking exciting tours and activities through these convenient apps:
Klook
Discover and book discounted attractions, activities, and local tours with Klook. This app offers a wide range of experiences, from cooking classes and city tours to day trips and adventure activities. Booking through Klook can often save you money and ensure you secure your spot on popular tours.
Download Klook:
Viator
Viator is another great platform for booking guided tours and unique experiences in Vietnam. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, embarking on a Mekong Delta cruise, or trekking through stunning landscapes, Viator offers a variety of options to suit your interests.
Download Viator:
Viator provides many Vietnam tour options with various experiences. (Image source: Internet)
Weather and Safety Apps
Staying informed about the weather and ensuring your online safety are important aspects of any trip.
AccuWeather
Vietnam’s weather can vary significantly depending on the region and time of year. AccuWeather provides accurate forecasts, helping you plan your activities accordingly. This is particularly useful during the rainy season, allowing you to avoid unexpected downpours and adjust your itinerary as needed.
Download AccuWeather:
VPN
Protect your personal information and ensure secure internet access by using a VPN app. This is especially important when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, which can be vulnerable to cyber threats. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, keeping your data safe from prying eyes.
Exploring Vietnam is an incredible experience, and with the right Vietnam travel apps at your fingertips, your journey will be smoother, more enjoyable, and truly unforgettable. Start downloading these essential Vietnam travel apps and get ready to experience the beauty and wonder of this incredible country. If you’d like our local expert to help you plan your trip, please don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized tour options.
