A Shoestring Budget Adventure: Exploring Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Long Bay, Ha Giang Loop, and Hanoi Train Street

• Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
  No estimated time or distance from previous location.

  Start your journey in Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant street food scene, and diverse culture.

• Day 2-3: Mekong Delta
  2.5 hours (108 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

  Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta and explore the floating markets, rice paddies, and fruit orchards, as well as the quaint towns along the delta.

• Day 4-6: Ha Giang Loop
  23 hours (1,308 km) from Mekong Delta

  Head north to Ha Giang province and embark on a breathtaking motorcycle ride along the Ha Giang Loop, passing stunning mountain landscapes, winding roads, and hill tribe villages.

• Day 7-8: Ban Gioc Waterfall and Cao Bang
  6.5 hours (188 km) from Ha Giang Loop

  Visit the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall, which is one of the most stunning natural wonders in Vietnam. Then, explore Cao Bang province, which is home to many historical sites and scenic landscapes.

• Day 9-10: Ha Long Bay
  5.5 hours (200 km) from Cao Bang

  Take a cruise to explore the natural wonder of Ha Long Bay, which features thousands of towering limestone islands and islets rising from the emerald waters.

• Day 11-12: Hanoi and Train Street
  2.5 hours (160 km) from Ha Long Bay

  End your journey in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, and explore its rich history, colonial architecture, and bustling street food scene. Don't miss the unique experience of walking along the Hanoi Train Street, where the train passes just inches away from residents’ homes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mekong Delta Day Trip (1 day, $20)
• Ha Giang Loop Motorcycle Rental (3 days, $45)
• Ban Gioc Waterfall Entrance Fee (1 day, $10)
• Ha Long Bay Cruise (2 days, $60)
• Total Estimated Costs (12 days, $135)

Transportation

You can get around Vietnam by buses, trains, and domestic flights. Buses are the most affordable option, but they can be crowded and not very comfortable. Trains are more comfortable, but they can be more expensive than buses. Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between major cities, but they can be costly. Be sure to research in advance to find the most affordable and convenient mode of transportation for your itinerary.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the ancient town of Hoi An or the beaches of Nha Trang. If you have less time, consider skipping the Mekong Delta or Ban Gioc Waterfall and spending more time in Hanoi or Ha Long Bay.

Airports

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the largest airport in Vietnam and serves Ho Chi Minh City. The airport is located about 6 km northeast of the city center. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the international airport serving Hanoi. It's located about 28 km north of the city center.