Digital Nomads – 5 Best Places in Vietnam
The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Vietnam
If you’re itching to explore Southeast Asia while keeping your online hustle going strong, Vietnam should be way on top of your list. I’m here to spill the beans with this guide for the digital nomad in Vietnam: best places that’ll make you want to extend your visa indefinitely. Whether you’re into the hustle and bustle of the big city or chill beach towns, this country really has everything for the digital nomads.
Let me take you on a digital tour across these five spots that captured my heart and got me super productive. These destinations indeed check all the boxes you’ll need for your digital hustle.
I have been travelling now for nearly three years. I left my 9-5 job in the UK and have never looked back. The one thing I would always advise anybody considering a nomad lifestyle is to just go for it! It will change you for the better. Music is my passion and I love to attend concerts of any variety but I do have a sweet spot for rock music.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
Key Takeaways
- Hanoi is ideal for networking and coworking spaces
- Da Nang offers a laid-back beach lifestyle with reliable internet
- Nha Trang is best in summer, known for its scenic coast and digital facilities
- Hoi An travel is perfect for its historic charm and strong expat community
- Phu Quoc provides a tropical island experience with decent wifi
Why Should I Be A Digital Nomad in Vietnam?
Vietnam is a digital nomad’s dream come true, and I’m speaking from experience. After laying my roots here for a month, I fell in love with the country. First of all, it is so affordable – you can live large on a fraction of what you’d spend back home. This means more of your hard-earned cash stays in your pocket. But it’s not all about the Benjamins, baby – it’s about lifestyle. Food is out of this world (pho for breakfast: need I say more?). People are warm and friendly, and the internet speeds within major hubs are fast. You’re never far from breathtaking landscapes, either.
But if I’m being completely honest, it’s really the perfect mix of traditional magic and modernity that sets Vietnam apart. One minute you’re careening along streets on a motorbike, dodging street vendors, and soaking in all the sensory overload. Then the next, you’re cozied up in some hip co-working space with Vietnamese coffee in hand, crushing your work for the day. That constant juxtaposition really keeps things exciting and inspiring. And then there is the community – most major cities have a vibrant expat scene, making networking and making friends a blast. Just keep an eye on the official immigration website of Vietnam for the latest in visas, as regulations can change without prior notice.
The 5 Best Places for Digital Nomads in Vietnam
| Destination | Best for | Best Time to Visit | Average Wifi Speeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City | Urban Lifestyle | December to April | 70-80 Mbps |
| Hanoi | History Buffs | November to April | 70-80 Mbps |
| Da Nang | Beaches | February to August | 60-70 Mbps |
| Nha Trang | Water Sports | January to August | 50-60 Mbps |
| Hoi An | Cultural Experience | February to September | 50-60 Mbps |
1. Ho Chi Minh City – The Dynamic Center
If it’s energy you’re after, look no further. Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is an exciting metropolis where sleek skyscrapers and bustling tech hubs stand in contrast to centuries-old pagodas and vibrant street markets.
Best Places for Work and Play
If you need to get work done in Ho Chi Minh City, you’re spoiled for choice. My personal favorite is The Workshop: a stunning co-working space in a colonial-era building that’ll make you actually look forward to starting your workday (it worked for me!). If you have coffee before you start your hustle, hit up The Old Compass Café for killer coffee and a more relaxed vibe. And for those days when you need 100% focus and a productivity boost, Toong Co-working Space in District 4 has amazingly fast Wi-Fi.
But let’s be real – we must always balance our work with play, right? When it’s time to hit the streets, the city delivers big time. I like unwinding with a sunset drink at the Landmark 81 Skyview observatory – that view never gets old. For a taste of local nightlife, Bui Vien Walking Street is where it’s at. It’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s 100% Vietnamese. During those times that you need to escape the urban jungle, hop on a bike and head to the Can Gio Mangrove Forest. It feels like stepping into another world, and it’s the perfect spot to recharge your batteries after a long, long work week. I highly suggest you join one of the many expat groups on Facebook to find fellow digital nomads and get the inside scoop.
Best Time to Visit
As a digital nomad who’s experienced HCMC in all its seasons, I’ve got to say – timing is everything. But the sweet spot for your visit? I’d say December to April. These months bring you the best: it’s dry, relatively cool (by tropical standards, mind you), and you get a much-needed breather from humidity. You’ll find yourself actually enjoying those walks to your favorite coffee shop instead of arriving as a sweaty mess. This period also includes Tet (Vietnamese New Year), usually in late January or early February. While many locals leave the city, as a tourist, experiencing this festive time is really something else.
If you’re thinking of coming between May and November, brace yourself for the wet season. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means – but the rain tends to come in short, heavy bursts, often in the afternoon, which can actually be a great excuse to hunker down in a cozy café and smash out some work. The upside? Fewer tourists and lower prices on accommodations.
Local Eats
If you’re a street food enthusiast, you’ve come to the right place. Let me tell you, the food scene in Ho Chi Minh City is off the charts, and half the fun is diving into the street food culture. Start your workday with a steaming bowl of pho. If this doesn’t boost your spirits for the rest of the day, nothing will! Then for lunch, brave the chaos of Ben Thanh Market and sample some banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes) or com tam (broken rice with grilled pork).
But don’t think it’s all about traditional choices. The city’s got an awesome modern food scene too. A favorite fusion restaurant is Anan Saigon in District 1. Their banh mi burger seriously changed my life. And when you need a break from Vietnamese cuisine (no judgment, it happens to the best of us), The Running Bean in District 2 serves up some of the best Western-style brunch in the city.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Ho Chi Minh City
Let’s talk money—it’s one of the best parts about being a digital nomad in Ho Chi Minh cause you can seriously save for those rainy days. In my experience, you can live quite comfortably on a budget of $1,000–$1,500 per month. A good studio apartment will set you back something along the lines of $400-$600 per month in a good area. For a room in a shared house, that’s even cheaper. This is definitely something to look into if you don’t mind sharing a house with other people. Food is very cheap: eat like a king for $2-$5 per meal if you stick to the local joints, or tuck into international eats for $10-$15.
Now, for the work essentials: a monthly membership at a nice co-working space runs about $100-$150, and you can get a solid 4G data plan for your phone for around $10 a month. Transportation isn’t expensive either – a 5km Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber) ride rarely costs more than $2. Simply put, your money will go a long way here. Just remember to factor in visa runs if you’re staying long-term, and always keep a bit of a cushion for those unexpected expenses.
2. Hanoi – Historic Immersion
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, stole my heart. It’s where ancient traditions and modern ambitions intertwine and gave so much inspiration while I walked the streets, laptop in tow. If there is one place I would love to stay in for months when I return to Vietnam, it’s got to be here in Hanoi.
Best Places for Work and Play
Believe me when I say that I’ve had the most productive work days of my life during my Hanoi stay. These days were mostly spent in the Toong Co-working Space on Trang Thi Street. It’s got this perfect blend of modern amenities and old-school Hanoi vibes that’ll keep your creative juices flowing. Don’t miss checking out The Hanoi Social Club – their flat whites are legendary, and have fueled me through tough days. Their eclectic decor is just a feast for the eyes. If you prefer places that can really boost your focus, Teach Hanoi in the Tay Ho district offers a quiet, no-nonsense environment.
Now, Hanoi knows how to show a digital nomad a good time. After logging out for the day, head to the Hanoi Weekend Night Market in the Old Quarter. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible – perfect for people-watching and scoring some unique souvenirs. If you want a taste of the local nightlife, Bia Hoi Junction is the place to be. Pull up a tiny plastic stool, grab a dirt-cheap beer, and watch the world go by. For quiet days off, West Lake is your oasis. Rent a bike, circle the lake, and stop at one of the lakeside cafes. That view really never gets old, especially at sunset.
Best Time to Visit
As someone who’s sweated through summers and shivered through winters here, I’d vote that the perfect time is from October to December. The weather during these moths is like a perfect high-five – cool, dry, and just right for exploring the city . You’ll get clear skies that make for great photos of Hanoi’s stunning architecture, and the temperatures are ideal for sipping coffee at street-side cafes while you type away.
That said, don’t write off the other seasons entirely. Spring (February to April) can be cushy, especially when the city celebrates Tet. Summer (May to September) is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers. I’ve learned that the trick is to start your work day early, take a siesta during the hottest part of the afternoon, and then hit the streets when things cool down in the evening. Winter (December to February) is surprisingly chilly, but it’s perfect for cozying up in a cafe with a steaming bowl of pho and your latest project.
Local Eats
Half the fun of being a digital nomad in Hanoi is exploring the incredible street food scene. You can see me starting my day in Pho Gia Truyen in the Old Quarter – their pho is the stuff of legends. For lunch, hit up Bun Cha Huong Lien (the very one made famous by Anthony Bourdain and former US President Obama) for mouthwatering bun cha. Don’t fear; the lines move quite fast. And don’t leave Hanoi without having the banh mi from Banh Mi 25: their crispy baguettes stuffed with savory goodness is perfect fuel.
Hanoi has a burgeoning modern food scene that is making waves. For contemporary Vietnamese, Uu Dam Chay in Tay Ho is the go-to. Their vegetarian take on these traditional dishes will make you forget your name for a hot minute. And when homesickness sets in, The Hanoi Social Club has some of the best Western-style brunches in the city.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Hanoi
You can live comfortably in Hanoi for about $800-$1200 a month, and I’m not talking about scraping by. A nice studio apartment in a good area will set you back around $300-$500. Food is ridiculously affordable – expect to spend $1-$3 per meal at local spots, or splurge on Western cuisine for $5-$10.
A monthly membership at a decent co-working space runs about $80-$120, and you can snag a solid 4G data plan for your phone for around $8 a month. Getting around is a breeze and easy on the wallet – a 5km Grab ride usually costs less than $2. Before one goes travelling, travel insurance is always important. Look into getting travel insurance like Safetywing that is designed for digital nomads with good coverage and great premiums.
3. Da Nang – The Coastal Gem
Da Nang is for the digital nomad who loves the beaches. It has a perfect blend of pristine beaches, vibrant city life, and a growing tech scene that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t get here sooner.
Best Places for Work and Play
My favorite place to set up my command center for the day in Da Nang is The Workshop. It’s a stylish coworking space with lightning-fast Wi-Fi, where I met lots of fellow digital nomads. If you’re more of a “coffee shop warrior,” Cong Cafe’s got that grungy-cool vibe down pat, plus their Vietnamese coffee packs a punch that’ll keep you coding (or writing, or designing) like a champ all day long.
Now, when you’re ready to kick back and relax for the rest of the day, head to Waterfront. It’s a breezy coffeehouse with breathtaking views of the Han River. You’d be hard-pressed to find another perfect spot to wrap up your day while sipping on a Vietnamese iced coffee. When feeling beachy, My Khe is your jam. Here, you can pretty much living the dream of alternating between dipping in the ocean and checking emails. Oh, you shouldn’t miss the Dragon Bridge at night, either—the perfect excuse to rub elbows with some locals and swap nomad stories.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re looking for a perfect balance between sun and bearable heat, then you’d want to pay a visit sometime between February to May. The weather is nice, with clear skies and temps that won’t make you melt on your keyboard. At the same time, you avoid the summer crowds and the sky-high prices. Win-win, right?
I’ll let you in on a little known tidbit: f you don’t mind a little rain and cooler temperatures, September through January can be a great time to go. Big crowds are non-existent, and accommodation prices hit rock-bottom. Just remember, typhoon season peaks in October and November, so always keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Local Eats
Your first order of business in Da Nang should be to try some legit mi quang in Con Market. It’s this ridiculously good turmeric noodle dish with all sorts of toppings, and trust me, it’ll be a mainstay in your dreams (in the best way possible). While you’re there, don’t sleep on the city’s take on banh xeo. It’s fun trying them out in every city in Vietnam to see if there are any differences.
Now, if you’re feeling fancy (or just wanna treat yourself after a killer work week), swing by the beachfront seafood joints on Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Fresh catches grilled to perfection, ice-cold beers, and your toes in the sand – I mean, totally irresistible. Oh, and for a quick bite between Zoom calls? Ba Nam’s banh mi stand is where it’s at. Crusty baguettes stuffed with all sorts of goodies – it’s fast food, Vietnam-style, and it’ll rock your world.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Da Nang
Now let’s talk money, honey – ’cause Da Nang keeps up with Vietnam’s affordability. You can easily live large on about $800-1000 a month here, and I’m not talking skimping on anything. We’re talking a sweet studio apartment, coworking space membership, and plenty of cash left over for beach days and banh mi binges.
Rent’s the big win here – you can score a modern studio in the city center or near the beach for around $300-400 a month. Toss in another $200 for a solid coworking space (or cafe-hop for way less if that’s your style), and you’ve still got plenty for food and fun. Local eats are crazy cheap – we’re talking $1-3 for a meal on the street, or splurge on a fancy seafood feast for under $15. Throw in some scooter rental (about $50/month) for zipping around town, the best way to travel here.
4. Nha Trang – The Tropical Paradise
Picture this: crystal-clear waters, a buzzing nightlife, and a growing digital nomad scene. This is Nha Trang, Vietnam’s beach paradise.
Best Places for Work and Play
Get some serious stuff done in LIVINcollective. I loved hammering away on my laptop in this super chill coworking space right by the beach, with surprisingly fast Wi-Fi. It’s a digital nomad fave and can make networking feel like happy hour. If you cannot be parted with your coffee, hit up Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart. Yeah, I know, weird name for a work spot, but it has comfy seats, great coffee, and next thing you know – you’ve gobbled up too many cheese tarts.
When it’s time to clock out and live it up, Sailing Club is where it’s at. It’s a beachfront bar meets dance floor meets digital nomad hangout. Grab a cocktail, dig your toes in the sand, and watch the sun dip below the horizon. For a more laid-back vibe, Louisiane Brewhouse is a fave. Craft beers, a pool right next to the beach, and plenty of space to spread out with your laptop if you’re feeling that workcation life. And if you really wanna treat yourself, and you deserve it, book a day trip to the Thap Ba Hot Springs. The work life balance in Nha Trang will give you a mix of beach time and making cash simultaneously.
Best Time to Visit
If you ask me, the best time to visit Nha Trang is February to April. Take advantage of the perfect beach weather, clear skies and a vibe that’ll have you feeling like you’re living in a travel brochure. The water’s calm, the temps are just right, and you can work from the beach without your laptop turning into a frying pan. Plus, this is when all the cool events start kicking off, so you’ll have plenty to do when you don’t have your nose buried in front of your computer.
Local Eats
Nha Trang’s food scene? It’s a total flavor explosion. You can sample fresh-off-the-boat seafood today and gorge on sizzling street eats the next. Picture yourself biting into a crispy bánh xèo stuffed with shrimp and bean sprouts, or slurping up a bowl of bún chả cá (fish cake noodle soup) that’ll make you forget all about your mom’s cooking (sorry, Mom).
The best news? You can stuff yourself silly without breaking the bank. You know the drill, just follow your nose and loosen that belt buckle! Don’t miss out on the grilled seafood joints along the beach. Nothing beats having plate of lemongrass-scented grilled squid with your toes buried in the sand. If you are game, make sure to have a go at the jellyfish salad. It is weirdly addictive, I promise.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Nha Trang
This beachy paradise is a steal compared to other nomad hotspots, letting you live it up without having an extremely tight budget for yourself. A comfy studio apartment with decent Wi-Fi? You’re looking at about $300-$400 a month.
Food-wise, you can eat like royalty on a peasant’s budget. Local places can fill you up for only $2-3 a meal, while fancier spots might set you back $10-15. Toss in some cheap beers (we’re talking $1 a pop), a gym membership for around $30 a month, and maybe a scooter rental for $50, and you’re still living large on less than $1000 a month.
5. Hoi An – The Cultural Melting Pot
Hoi An’s a time capsule of awesome, where centuries of history blend with modern vibes to create a town that’s equal parts charming and Insta-worthy.
Best Places for Work and Play
Hoi An might be a small city, but it packs a punch when it comes to cool spots to get stuff done. You’ve got to check out The Hub Hoi An. It’s a workspace heaven – decent Wi-Fi, killer coffee, and a chill vibe that’ll make you feel productive. Also, you’ve got to try working from one of the ancient Chinese assembly halls, like Phuc Kien. These historic gems often have quiet courtyards where you can set up shop – a total inspiration booster. The best thing about Hoi-An? It has over 500 tailors and a fabulous fashion scene making it the perfect place to find your perfect firt.
But again, we didn’t come to Vietnam just to stare at a screen. Start with the Old Town – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. Wander across the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, then pop into the Tan Ky House for a glimpse of 18th-century merchant life. History buffs shouldn’t miss the My Son Sanctuary, a cluster of abandoned Hindu temples that’ll make you feel like Indiana Jones. For a beach fix, An Bang is your spot – grab a lounger at Soul Kitchen, order a coconut, and let the good times roll. As night falls, the town transforms. Catch traditional music at the Hoi An Traditional Art Performance Theatre, then hit up Dive Bar for live tunes and craft cocktails.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hoi An, bar none, is February to April. Everyday is a sunny day, there is low humidity, and temperatures won’t make you melt into a puddle. Weather is not too hot, not too cold and just right for exploring the Old Town or cycling through rice paddies without looking like you’ve just run a marathon.
But, to be honest, there really is no terrible time to visit Hoi An. From May to August, it’s hot and steamy – perfect time to frolic in the beach. September to January brings a smattering of rain but has the magical lantern festival every full moon. Let’s be real: Hoi An in the rain looks like a movie set—all shimmering streets and moody vibes. Hoi an is a photographers dream. It is the best place to get pics for that Instagram feed. Consider bring a camera like the Insta360 to capture your whole experience while not weighing your bag down.
Local Eats
You’ve gotta try cao lầu – the town’s claim to fame. These are thick rice noodles with a texture that’ll make your taste buds sing, topped with slices of pork and crispy croutons. Legend has it the noodles are made with water from a secret ancient well, but honestly, I’m too eager to gobble them up to even question that. Hit up Thanh Cao Lau for the real deal. And don’t even think about leaving without stuffing your face with bánh mì at Madam Khanh – The Bánh Mì Queen. Her sandwiches are so good, they should be illegal.
Swing by the Central Market and follow your nose to the food stalls. White rose dumplings (bánh bao bánh vạc) are a must-try – delicate shrimp dumplings that look like little flowers. And if you’re feeling adventurous, brave the line at Bánh Mì Phượng (Anthony Bourdain made it famous, but locals will agree that it’s so worth the hype). Just remember to pace yourself – with food this good, it’s easy to end up in a food coma.
A Digital Nomad’s Budget for Hoi An
Let’s start off with the largest expense: accommodation. A cute studio apartment with decent Wi-Fi will cost you around $300-400 a month. Feeling fancy? Bump it up to $500-600 a month and you’re looking at a larger and cozier place. As far as coworking spaces go, you should be fine with around $50-100 a month for most people’s membership needs, depending on how posh you want to go.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – food and fun. Local eats are your wallet’s best friend. You can have a feast for $2-3 a meal at street stalls or local joints. Even if you splurge on international food every now and then, you’re still only looking at $10-15 tops. Add some bike rental ($1-2 a day), a few beers ($1-2 each), and maybe a cooking class or two if that’s your thing ($20-30), and you’re still living large on $800-1000 a month.
Conclusion
I’m not kidding when I say there’s a spot for every type of digital nomad in Vietnam. Love non-stop energy? Head to Ho Chi Minh City. If you’d appreciate the timeless charm, then it’s Hoi An for you. In Vietnam, you’re in for a trip that’ll spice up your remote work life and your Instagram feed.
But here’s the kicker – Vietnam isn’t just about killer Wi-Fi and dirt-cheap living. Nah, it’s the kind of place that’ll sneak into your heart when you’re not looking. It’s that “holy crap, did that just happen?” moment when you’re zooming through Hanoi’s Old Quarter on the back of a motorbike taxi. The old lady who decides you’re her new best friend and insists on teaching you how to slurp phở properly. Those nights that start with “just one beer” and end with you belting out karaoke with a bunch of locals at 3 AM.
Vietnam’s Top 5 Digital Nomad Spots FAQ
The top cities for digital nomads in Vietnam include Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang. Each city offers unique amenities, coworking spaces, and expat communities.
Yes, in fact, Vietnam is known for its affordability. You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with low living costs, including affordable accommodation, food, and transportation. If budget is important, you can also consider the best places in Cambodia for digital nomads.
There is no specific visa available to work as a digital nomad in Vietnam, if the company or companies you are working for are not based in Vietnam, it falls into a bit of a grey area. It’s essential to always check the latest visa regulations to ensure the current regulations.
It’s varied, but expect faster speeds in cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi playing around at 70-80 Mbps. For those needing higher speeds, consider visiting the best places for digital nomads in Japan to take advantage of the countries advanced infrastructure.
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