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10-Day Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

Saturday, March 23: Arrival in Hanoi

Welcome to Vietnam! Start your trip in the capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, explore the historic Old Quarter with its narrow streets, bustling markets, and ancient temples. As the evening sets in, try some delicious vegetarian street food at the Night Market.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Old Quarter exploration: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Night Market: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
Sunday, March 24: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a cruise on the emerald waters, surrounded by limestone karsts and picturesque islands. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch onboard and spend the day exploring caves, kayaking, and swimming.

  • Halong Bay day trip: Budget-friendly, full day
Monday, March 25: Ninh Binh

Travel to the charming town of Ninh Binh, also known as the "Halong Bay on land." In the morning, visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and explore the temples dedicated to Vietnamese emperors. In the afternoon, take a boat ride through the stunning Trang An Grottoes, admiring the limestone cliffs and tranquil waterways.

  • Hoa Lu ancient capital: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Trang An Grottoes: Budget-friendly, 3-4 hours
Tuesday, March 26: Hoi An

Take a flight from Hanoi to the beautiful city of Hoi An. In the morning, wander through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town and admire the well-preserved architectural gems. Explore the local markets and try some vegetarian dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings. In the afternoon, relax on An Bang Beach, known for its golden sands and serene atmosphere.

  • Ancient Town exploration: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Local markets: Budget-friendly, 1-2 hours
  • An Bang Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, March 27: Hue

Travel from Hoi An to the historic city of Hue. In the morning, visit the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its stunning palaces, temples, and gardens. Stop by a vegetarian restaurant for a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River and visit the Thien Mu Pagoda.

  • Imperial Citadel: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Vegetarian restaurant: Budget-friendly, 1-2 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, March 28: Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

Fly from Hue to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). In the morning, explore the historic landmarks including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. In the evening, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

  • Historic landmarks: Free or budget-friendly, 3-4 hours
  • Vegetarian lunch: Budget-friendly, 1-2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Budget-friendly, 2-3 hours
  • Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, March 29: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a region known for its lush greenery and scenic waterways. Explore the floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional villages. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch in a local home and take a boat ride through the narrow canals.

  • Mekong Delta day trip: Budget-friendly, full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, don't miss the enchanting town of Sapa in the northern mountains. Trek through stunning rice terraces, visit tribal villages, and immerse yourself in the local culture. For more off the beaten path experience, consider visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park with its impressive caves and pristine nature.

For good vegetarian food options throughout your trip, make sure to explore local markets and look for vegetarian-friendly restaurants. Vietnamese cuisine offers a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes such as pho chay (vegetarian noodles), banh mi chay (vegetarian sandwich), and fresh spring rolls.

To find budget-friendly stays and flights, check out Kayak for the best deals.

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