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6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

Wednesday, October 25: Hanoi

Start your trip in the vibrant city of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by beautiful temples and parks. Explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops and street food stalls. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a well-preserved Confucian temple and the country's first national university. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of the Hanoi Night Market, offering a variety of local products and street food delights.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, 3 hours
  • Temple of Literature: 30,000 VND ($1.30), 1 hour
  • Hanoi Night Market: Free, 2 hours
Thursday, October 26: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Halong Bay, known for its limestone karsts and emerald waters. In the morning, take a scenic cruise through the bay and admire the stunning landscapes. Explore some of the famous caves, such as Thien Cung Cave or Sung Sot Cave. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, go kayaking or swimming in the bay. As the sun sets, return to Hanoi and relax in a local café or try some Vietnamese street food.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: 1,500,000 VND ($65), 8 hours
  • Entrance to Thien Cung Cave or Sung Sot Cave: 100,000 VND ($4.30), 1 hour
Friday, October 27: Hoi An

Take a flight from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town on the central coast of Vietnam. In the morning, wander through the well-preserved Old Town, filled with colorful lanterns, historic buildings, and unique shops. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, and visit the Fujian Assembly Hall. In the afternoon, relax on An Bang Beach or take a boat ride along Thu Bon River. In the evening, join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

  • Flight from Hanoi to Danang: Approximately 1,000,000 VND ($43)
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: 120,000 VND ($5), 1 hour
  • Fujian Assembly Hall: 80,000 VND ($3.50), 1 hour
  • Cooking class: 500,000 VND ($22), 3 hours
Saturday, October 28: Da Nang

Take a short trip from Hoi An to Da Nang, a modern coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. In the morning, visit the famous Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills offering panoramic views from the top. Explore the stunning Linh Ung Pagoda and its giant Lady Buddha statue. In the afternoon, relax on My Khe Beach or explore the Dragon Bridge, an iconic symbol of Da Nang. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city's night market in the evening.

  • Marble Mountains: 40,000 VND ($1.70), 2 hours
  • Linh Ung Pagoda: Free, 1 hour
  • My Khe Beach: Free, 3 hours
  • Dragon Bridge: Free, 1 hour
  • Da Nang Night Market: Free, 2 hours
Sunday, October 29: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, the energetic metropolis in southern Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace, a significant landmark from the Vietnam War era. Explore the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history. In the afternoon, stroll along Dong Khoi Street and admire the French colonial architectures. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. As the sun sets, explore the vibrant nightlife of bustling Bui Vien Street in the city's backpacker area.

  • Flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City: Approximately 1,000,000 VND ($43)
  • Reunification Palace: 40,000 VND ($1.70), 2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND ($1.70), 2 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
  • Central Post Office: Free, 1 hour
Monday, October 30: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a vast network of rivers, swamps, and islands. In the morning, take a boat tour and explore the floating markets, where locals trade their goods from boats. Visit a local fruit orchard and enjoy fresh tropical fruits. Experience the traditional way of life in the delta's villages and try your hand at making coconut candy. In the afternoon, take a cycling tour around the peaceful countryside or relax in a hammock by the riverside. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: 500,000 VND ($22), 8 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For budget-friendly hidden gems, head to Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. Explore the stunning limestone caves by taking a boat tour along the Ngo Dong River. Another local favorite is the coastal town of Phu Quoc, known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and fresh seafood. Take a motorbike tour around the island to discover hidden spots and enjoy spectacular sunsets. Both destinations offer an authentic Vietnamese experience without breaking the bank.

Check the latest flight and hotel prices on KAYAK.

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