Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 59 travelers

Vietnam Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Wednesday, October 11: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi, the bustling capital city of Vietnam. Start your day with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can take a peaceful morning stroll and visit Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the narrow streets and ancient buildings of the Old Quarter, known for its vibrant markets and delicious street food. In the evening, join the locals for a traditional water puppet show.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: Estimated Cost - $5-10, Time Spent - 1 hour
Thursday, October 12: Halong Bay

Embark on a breathtaking cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts. Spend the morning exploring the bay's picturesque islands, caves, and floating villages. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, go kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters. Watch a mesmerizing sunset before spending the night on the boat.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated Cost - $50-100, Time Spent - Full day
Friday, October 13: Hoi An

Fly to Hoi An, a charming ancient town with well-preserved architecture and a rich cultural heritage. Start your day with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, one of Hoi An's iconic landmarks. Explore the town's narrow streets filled with tailor shops and art galleries. In the evening, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the Night Market and try local delicacies.

  • Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Night Market: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Saturday, October 14: Hue

Travel to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, home to palaces, temples, and tombs. Take a boat ride along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple. In the afternoon, explore the serene gardens of the Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. Enjoy a traditional Hue-style dinner in the evening.

  • Imperial City: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang: Estimated Cost - $2-3, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 15: Nha Trang

Catch a flight to Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Nha Trang Beach. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Hon Mun Island for snorkeling and exploring colorful coral reefs. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner and experience the lively bars and clubs along Tran Phu Street.

  • Nha Trang Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Half day
  • Boat Trip to Hon Mun Island: Estimated Cost - $25-30, Time Spent - Half day
  • Tran Phu Street: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Monday, October 16: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant metropolis of Vietnam. Start your day with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace, followed by the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market for shopping and street food. In the evening, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and admire the city lights.

  • Reunification Palace: Estimated Cost - $2-3, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Estimated Cost - $2-3, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Tuesday, October 17: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam's "rice bowl." Explore the floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and traditional villages along the river. Take a boat ride through the narrow canals and sample local fruits and delicacies. Visit a coconut candy workshop and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: Estimated Cost - $10-15, Time Spent - Full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences in Vietnam, explore the peaceful town of Sapa in the northern mountains for stunning landscapes and ethnic minority cultures. Discover the serene beauty of Phu Quoc Island with its pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. Visit the ancient Cham ruins of My Son near Hoi An for a glimpse into Vietnam's rich history.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version