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Vietnam Shoestring Budget Itinerary - July 2023

  1. Day 1: Hanoi
    20 minutes (10 miles) from Noi Bai International Airport

    In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Old Quarter and try local street food. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show.

  2. Day 2: Halong Bay
    4 hours (106 miles) from Hanoi

    Embark on a Halong Bay day cruise, admiring the stunning limestone karsts and exploring hidden caves. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Return to Hanoi in the evening for a delicious bowl of pho.

  3. Day 3: Hue
    1 hour 20 minutes (430 miles) from Hanoi

    Morning visit to the Imperial City, exploring the royal palaces and temples. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy a traditional Hue-style dinner in the evening.

  4. Day 4: Hoi An
    3 hours 30 minutes (78 miles) from Hue

    Explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved architecture and colorful lanterns. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, wander through the narrow streets, and try local specialties like cao lau. Take a sunset stroll along the riverside.

  5. Day 5: Nha Trang
    1 hour 15 minutes (302 miles) from Da Nang

    Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang. Take a boat trip to the nearby islands for snorkeling and swimming. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner and experience the vibrant nightlife along Tran Phu Street.

  6. Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
    2 hours 10 minutes (269 miles) from Nha Trang

    In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace to learn about Vietnam's history. Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market in the afternoon, and indulge in delicious street food. Enjoy a rooftop view of the city in the evening.

  7. Day 7: Mekong Delta
    2 hours (75 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Take a boat trip through the picturesque canals of the Mekong Delta. Visit local villages, fruit orchards, and floating markets. Sample tropical fruits and traditional dishes. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening for a farewell dinner.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City or taking a day trip to the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island. To maximize your fun, interact with locals, try Vietnamese cooking classes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant street culture.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hoan Kiem Lake (1-2 hours, free)
  • Halong Bay day cruise (8 hours, $50-80)
  • Imperial City, Hue (2-3 hours, $6)
  • Hoi An Ancient Town (4-6 hours, $6)
  • Nha Trang beach (full day, free)
  • War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City (2-3 hours, $2)
  • Mekong Delta boat tour (8-9 hours, $10-20)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $74-116

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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