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'Shoestring Budget' 6-Day Itinerary for Vietnam in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Hanoi
    30 minutes (15 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

    In the morning, visit the Temple of Literature to learn about Vietnam's first national university. In the afternoon, explore Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. End the day by watching the water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

  2. Day 2: Halong Bay
    3 hours (170 km) from Hanoi

    Cruise along the stunning Halong Bay to see the limestone cliffs and fishing villages. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on the boat. Return to the mainland in the evening.

  3. Day 3: Hoi An
    1 hour (30 km) from Da Nang International Airport

    Take a morning flight to Da Nang and head to Hoi An. Rent a bike and ride around the town to explore its colorful lanterns and ancient buildings. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and end your day by watching the sunset at An Bang beach.

  4. Day 4: Hue
    3 hours (120 km) from Hoi An

    Take a day trip to the old imperial city of Hue. Visit the ancient Citadel, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Tomb of Tu Duc. Return to Hoi An in the evening.

  5. Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
    1 hour 30 minutes (860 km) from Da Nang International Airport

    Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. End the day by walking around the colorful Ben Thanh Market.

  6. Day 6: Mekong Delta
    2 hours (120 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta to explore the local life of the people in the region. Visit the floating markets, the fruit orchards, and the cottage industries. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

Recommendations

Consider taking a cooking class in Hoi An to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. You can also visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City to learn about the underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. If you have more time, consider taking a trip to the mountainous region of Sapa to see the beautiful rice terraces.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (1 hour, 100,000 VND)
  • Halong Bay Cruise (8 hours, 500,000 VND)
  • Japanese Covered Bridge (1 hour, 20,000 VND)
  • War Remnants Museum (2 hours, 40,000 VND)
  • Floating Market Tour (6 hours, 400,000 VND)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 1,060,000 VND (approximately $45 USD)

Prices are estimated based on December 2023 data and are subject to change. Flights and accommodations are not included in the estimated costs. Please check here for the latest hotel and flight prices.

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