7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam in October 2023

1. Day 1: Hanoi
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Noi Bai International Airport

   Start your trip in Hanoi, Vietnam's capital city. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter with its bustling streets and traditional architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese puppet show.

   • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, 1-2 hours
   • Temple of Literature: 20,000 VND, 1-2 hours
   • Vietnamese Water Puppet Show: 100,000 VND, 1 hour
2. Day 2: Halong Bay
   4 hours (105 miles) from Hanoi

   Embark on a day trip to the stunning Halong Bay. Spend the morning cruising through the limestone karsts and emerald waters, and take a kayak tour to explore the hidden caves and lagoons. In the afternoon, relax on the beach or go swimming. Enjoy the beautiful sunset before heading back to Hanoi.

   • Halong Bay Day Cruise: 800,000 VND, 8-10 hours
   • Kayak Tour: 200,000 VND, 2-3 hours
3. Day 3: Hoi An
   1 hour flight from Hanoi to Danang, then 30 minutes (18.5 miles) from Danang to Hoi An

   Fly to Danang and transfer to the charming town of Hoi An. Spend the morning exploring the ancient town's narrow streets and historic buildings. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. In the evening, experience Hoi An's famous lantern festival.

   • Japanese Covered Bridge: 120,000 VND, 1-2 hours
   • Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: 150,000 VND, 1-2 hours
4. Day 4: Hue
   2 hours (80 miles) from Hoi An

   Take a day trip to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the Imperial City and explore its palaces, temples, and gardens. In the afternoon, take a boat tour along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs. Enjoy the sunset at the Citadel before returning to Hoi An.

   • Imperial City: 150,000 VND, 2-3 hours
   • Perfume River Boat Tour: 250,000 VND, 2-3 hours
5. Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City
   1 hour flight from Danang to Ho Chi Minh City

   Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street. In the evening, enjoy a delicious street food tour in the bustling District 1.

   • War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND, 1-2 hours
   • Reunification Palace: 40,000 VND, 1-2 hours
   • Street Food Tour: 300,000 VND, 2-3 hours
6. Day 6: Mekong Delta
   2 hours (75 miles) from Ho Chi Minh City

   Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Take a boat tour through the canals, visit local villages, and learn about the rural way of life. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch and try some fresh tropical fruits. In the afternoon, explore the floating markets and cycle through the countryside.

   • Mekong Delta Day Tour: 500,000 VND, 8-10 hours
7. Day 7: Nha Trang
   1 hour flight from Ho Chi Minh City

   Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal city famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach or taking part in water sports activities. In the afternoon, visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers and explore the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner and experience the lively nightlife.

   • Po Nagar Cham Towers: 22,000 VND, 1-2 hours
   • Seafood Dinner: 200,000 VND, cost varies

Recommendations

For additional attractions, consider visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, taking a day trip to the beautiful Phu Quoc Island, or exploring the mountainous region of Sapa. To make the most of your money, try local street food stalls for authentic and affordable meals and consider using public transportation or shared taxis for transportation between cities.

For the best hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, click here.