7-Day Low Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

Day 1: Sunday, October 8

In the morning, start your trip by exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi Old Quarter. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the city, visit the local markets, and try delicious street food. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. As the evening sets in, head to Ta Hien Street, also known as "Beer Street," to enjoy affordable and delicious local beers.

• Hanoi Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ta Hien Street (Beer Street): Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Evening

Day 2: Monday, October 9

Embark on a day trip to the stunning Ha Long Bay. Take a boat tour to explore the limestone karsts, hidden caves, and floating villages. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board and take in the breathtaking views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Hanoi in the evening and visit the night market in the Old Quarter for some bargain shopping.

• Ha Long Bay day trip: Estimated cost - Low to moderate, Time spent - Full day
• Night Market in Hanoi Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Evening

Day 3: Tuesday, October 10

Travel to the historic city of Hue. In the morning, visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its palaces, temples, and gardens. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda. End the day by witnessing a beautiful sunset at Dong Ba Market.

• Imperial City in Hue: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dong Ba Market: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Evening

Day 4: Wednesday, October 11

Take a scenic train ride from Hue to Da Nang. Once in Da Nang, explore the famous Marble Mountains, known for their caves, pagodas, and panoramic views. Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants along the beach. End the day by witnessing the spectacular Dragon Bridge, which comes alive with lights and fire on weekend evenings.

• Marble Mountains: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Seafood dinner in Da Nang: Estimated cost - Low to moderate, Time spent - Evening
• Dragon Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Day 5: Thursday, October 12

Travel to the charming town of Hoi An. Begin the day by exploring the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the well-preserved historic buildings, visit local temples, and indulge in shopping for handmade lanterns, silk products, and tailor-made clothing. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the afternoon and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the riverside restaurants.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dinner in Hoi An: Estimated cost - Low to moderate, Time spent - Evening

Day 6: Friday, October 13

Head to the Mekong Delta for a day of exploration. Take a boat tour to visit the floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages. Experience the local way of life and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch. In the evening, return to Ho Chi Minh City and explore the vibrant nightlife in the famous backpacker area of Pham Ngu Lao.

• Mekong Delta day tour: Estimated cost - Low to moderate, Time spent - Full day
• Pham Ngu Lao (Backpacker Area): Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - Evening

Day 7: Saturday, October 14

Explore the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. Take a stroll along Dong Khoi Street and visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office. Indulge in delicious street food for lunch. In the afternoon, explore Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and local products. End your trip by enjoying a dinner cruise along the Saigon River.

• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - Low, Time spent - 2-3 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
• Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Estimated cost - Moderate, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Vietnam, don't miss out on visiting the hidden gem of Ninh Binh. Take a day trip from Hanoi to explore the stunning landscapes, limestone cliffs, and ancient temples. Another local favorite is the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can learn about Vietnam's history and crawl through the underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.