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7-Day Low Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

Exploring Vietnam on a Budget: 7-Day Itinerary

Viewed by 91 travelers

Saturday, December 23: Hanoi

In the morning, start your adventure in Hanoi by visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets filled with food stalls and unique shops in the afternoon. In the evening, experience the bustling atmosphere of the Night Market, where you can try local street food and shop for souvenirs.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Hanoi Old Quarter: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Hanoi Night Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to Pho Thin, a popular local spot known for its delicious pho noodle soup. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND per person.
  • For lunch, try Bun Cha Dac Kim, famous for their grilled pork and vermicelli noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese street food dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.

Sunday, December 24: Halong Bay

Embark on a mesmerizing cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay. Spend the morning exploring the stunning limestone karsts and hidden caves. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on the cruise. In the afternoon, try kayaking or swimming in the bay's emerald waters. As the day ends, witness a magical sunset over the bay before returning to Hanoi.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: $50-100 per person, full day

Monday, December 25: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue by starting your day at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue Citadel. Visit the Imperial City in the morning to explore ancient palaces, temples, and gardens. In the afternoon, explore the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and take a boat ride along the Perfume River. End the day with a delicious dinner of Hue's famous dishes like bun bo Hue.

  • Hue Citadel: $6 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride on Perfume River: $5-10 per person, 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 26: Hoi An

Enjoy the charm of the ancient town Hoi An. In the morning, wander through the well-preserved streets filled with vibrant colored buildings and ancient temples. Spend the afternoon visiting local handicraft shops and getting tailor-made clothing. In the evening, soak up the romantic atmosphere by releasing floating lanterns along the Thu Bon River.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: $6 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Shopping in Hoi An: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Floating Lantern Experience: $1-2 per lantern, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Nha Trang

Head to Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches. Spend the morning relaxing on the white sandy shores or exploring nearby islands on a boat tour. In the afternoon, visit Po Nagar Cham Towers, a cultural and historical site. Indulge in delicious seafood for dinner and experience the vibrant nightlife of Nha Trang.

  • Nha Trang Beach: Free, half a day
  • Boat Tour: $10-30 per person, half a day
  • Po Nagar Cham Towers: $2 per person, 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 28: Ho Chi Minh City

Experience the dynamic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. Begin your day by exploring the historic landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral in the morning. Then visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, wander through Ben Thanh Market for affordable souvenirs and street food.

  • Reunification Palace: $2.50 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: $1 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2-3 hours

Friday, December 29: Mekong Delta

Explore the lush Mekong Delta region, famous for its floating markets and picturesque landscapes. Take a boat tour in the morning and visit the Cai Rang Floating Market, where locals trade fruits and vegetables on boats. In the afternoon, cycle through the countryside and visit local fruit orchards. Enjoy a homestay experience for an authentic taste of Vietnamese life.

  • Mekong Delta Boat Tour: $10-20 per person, half a day
  • Cycling in the Mekong Delta: $5-10 per bike, 2-3 hours
  • Homestay Experience: $10-30 per person, overnight

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

In Vietnam, don't miss out on exploring the mesmerizing caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park or hiking through the terraced rice fields of Sapa. Taste the local street food like banh mi and pho from street vendors for an authentic culinary experience. Venture off the beaten path to places like Da Lat and Cat Ba Island to enjoy nature and avoid crowds.

Looking for affordable flights and hotels? Check out the latest deals on Kayak.

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