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Vietnam on a Shoestring Budget in July 2023

  1. Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter
    30 minutes (13.5 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

    In the morning, explore the charming alleyways of Hanoi Old Quarter. Walk through streets lined with French colonial architecture and stop by the Hoan Kiem Lake. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam, and learn about the country's ancient history. In the evening, head to Ta Hien street for some of the cheapest beer prices in the city.

  2. Day 2: Ha Long Bay
    4 hours (167 km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

    Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay, one of the most picturesque natural wonders of Vietnam. Marvel at the limestone cliffs, caves, and floating villages as you cruise through the beautiful bay. You can also go kayaking and swimming, and witness the stunning sunset over the bay before heading back to Hanoi in the evening.

  3. Day 3: Hue Imperial City
    1 hour 15 minutes (650 km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

    In the morning, fly to Hue and head to the Imperial City, the former seat of Vietnam's Emperors. Visit the royal palaces, temples, and gardens within the walls of the citadel while learning about the Nguyen Dynasty. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Perfume River and visit the Thien Mu pagoda. In the evening, head to Dong Ba Market for some local street food.

  4. Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town
    3 hours (130 km) from Hue Imperial City

    Travel to the charming Ancient Town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, walk around the streets filled with colorful lanterns and visit the Japanese bridge, the Chinese temples, and the local market. In the afternoon, rent a bicycle and cycle to the nearby beaches for some sun and sea. In the evening, enjoy the nightlife and street food in Hoi An.

  5. Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City
    4 hours (30 km) from Hoi An Ancient Town

    Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum and learn about the Vietnam War from the local perspective. In the afternoon, go shopping at the Ben Thanh Market and try some local delicacies like pho and banh mi. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife scene at the Bui Vien Street.

Recommendations

You should also consider taking a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City to learn about the guerrilla warfare tactics of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can also take a boat tour of the Mekong Delta to see the floating markets and villages. To maximize your fun, try bargaining at the local markets and street vendors to get the best prices. Don't forget to try the local coffee, one of Vietnam's specialties. Lastly, we recommend booking hotels and flights in advance through https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.

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