7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi

Begin your Vietnam adventure in the bustling capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter, filled with narrow streets and vibrant markets. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, delve into Vietnamese history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. As the evening sets in, savor delicious street food in the atmospheric night markets.

• Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Night markets: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 2: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the stunning limestone karsts jutting out of the emerald waters. In the morning, explore the bay by kayak or take a boat tour to visit the hidden caves. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard. In the afternoon, relax on the deck while taking in the mesmerizing views. Overnight on the cruise for a unique experience.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - Mid-range, Time spent - Full day

Day 3: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets and admire the colorful lanterns. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and explore the local markets. In the afternoon, take a leisurely bicycle ride to the nearby beaches or enjoy a boat trip along the Thu Bon River. In the evening, participate in a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1 hour
• Thu Bon River boat trip: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cooking class: Estimated cost - Mid-range, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 4: Hue

Take a scenic train or bus ride from Hoi An to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, explore the majestic Citadel and visit the Imperial City. Discover the history and culture of the Nguyen Dynasty at the Royal Tombs. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy the serene surroundings. End the day with a delicious meal at a local restaurant.

• Citadel and Imperial City: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Royal Tombs: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local restaurant: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the vibrant metropolis of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into Vietnam's past. Explore the bustling streets of District 1 and visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market and sample local street food.

• Reunification Palace: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 6: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City to the lush Mekong Delta region. In the morning, cruise along the Mekong River and explore the vibrant floating markets of Cai Be or Cai Rang. Visit local fruit orchards and experience the rural way of life. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a local village. In the afternoon, take a sampan boat ride through the narrow canals and witness the picturesque countryside.

• Mekong River Cruise: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Full day
• Floating markets: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Sampan boat ride: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 7: Phu Quoc Island

Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island, a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand. In the morning, relax on the pristine beaches and soak up the sun. Explore the vibrant underwater world with snorkeling or scuba diving. In the afternoon, visit the Phu Quoc National Park and trek through its lush trails. Indulge in fresh seafood for dinner and enjoy the stunning sunset views.

• Beach relaxation: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Full day
• Snorkeling or scuba diving: Estimated cost - Mid-range, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Phu Quoc National Park: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Seafood dinner: Estimated cost - Mid-range, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a shoestring budget, don't miss the hidden gem of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province, known as the "Halong Bay on land." Explore the stunning limestone karsts by boat and bicycle. Another local favorite is the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can learn about the Vietnam War and crawl through the intricate tunnel network.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.