What the advisory covers and what it does not say
Level 1 is the lowest level, but it does not replace your own judgement. It can change at any time: read it again on travel.state.gov before you leave and consider the State Department's STEP programme for alerts. Americans need a visa to enter: see the Vietnam e-visa.
Areas, theft and scams
In the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake the main risk is bag or phone snatching from a passing motorbike; keep your phone on the inner side of the pavement. The most common scams involve taxis, cyclos and fake drivers at the airport. Details are in scams and safety in Hanoi. Traffic is dense: cross at a steady pace without running.
Insurance and medical care
You pay for care yourself in Vietnam, and Medicare does not cover care abroad. Travel insurance with medical evacuation (SafetyWing, online) avoids a heavy bill; see travel insurance for Vietnam. To see the city with a guide, a small-group half-day tour is a good start.
FAQ
What is the advisory level for Vietnam? Level 1, "Exercise Normal Precautions", per the 24 June 2026 advisory read on 29 October 2026.
Should an American worry about anything in Hanoi? Mostly petty theft and traffic; violence against tourists is rare.
