7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Vietnam

Sunday, December 24: Hanoi

Start your trip in the bustling city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and bustling markets. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Literature and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. In the evening, indulge in delicious street food at the Night Market.

• Old Quarter: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Temple of Literature: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Night Market: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 25: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the stunning Halong Bay. In the morning, take a scenic cruise through the limestone karsts and emerald waters. Explore the caves and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, kayak around the bay and relax on the beach. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated Cost - Moderate, Time Spent - 8 hours
• Kayaking: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Hoi An

Fly to Hoi An, a charming ancient town. In the morning, wander through the well-preserved UNESCO-listed Old Town, marveling at the architecture and lantern-lined streets. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and try your hand at traditional lantern making. Enjoy a serene boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the evening.

• Old Town: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Local Markets: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, December 27: Hue

Take a bus or train to Hue, the former imperial capital. In the morning, explore the Imperial City, home to the ancient Nguyen Dynasty. Visit the Imperial Citadel and the Purple Forbidden City. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs. Enjoy a traditional Hue cuisine in the evening.

• Imperial City: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Perfume River Boat Trip: Estimated Cost - Moderate, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Royal Tombs: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Hue Cuisine: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant metropolis. In the morning, visit the historic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market for local souvenirs. In the afternoon, discover the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used during the Vietnam War. Enjoy the energetic nightlife in the evening.

• Reunification Palace: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Cu Chi Tunnels: Estimated Cost - Moderate, Time Spent - 4 hours
• Nightlife: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - Evening

Friday, December 29: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip to the picturesque Mekong Delta. In the morning, cruise along the river and witness the vibrant floating markets. Visit local villages and learn about their traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a delicious lunch with local specialties. In the afternoon, explore the fruit orchards and take a bicycle ride through the countryside. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

• Mekong Delta Cruise: Estimated Cost - Moderate, Time Spent - 8 hours
• Visit Local Villages: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Fruit Orchards: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Bicycle Ride: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday, December 30: Da Nang and Departure

Take a morning flight to Da Nang. In the morning, visit the beautiful Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with pagodas and caves. Explore the stunning beaches of Da Nang. In the afternoon, visit the charming Hoi An Ancient Town once again for some last-minute shopping. Catch your evening flight back home.

• Marble Mountains: Estimated Cost - Low, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Da Nang Beaches: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Hoi An Shopping: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, head to the mountainous town of Sapa and explore the picturesque rice terraces inhabited by ethnic minority communities. You can also visit the beautiful Phu Quoc Island for pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Both destinations offer budget-friendly accommodations and a chance to immerse yourself in nature and local culture.

For hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.com.