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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam in October 2023

  1. Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
    20 minutes (6.9 km) from Tan Son Nhat International Airport

    Start your trip by exploring the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Visit the War Remnants Museum, stroll around Ben Thanh Market, and taste local street food.

  2. Day 2: Mekong Delta
    2 hours 30 minutes (171 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Cruise along the river, visit local villages, and try tropical fruits. Don't miss the floating market in Cai Be.

  3. Day 3: Hoi An
    1 hour (30 km) from Da Nang International Airport

    Discover the charming ancient town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a walking tour to see the Japanese Covered Bridge, Chinese temples, and old merchant houses. Shop for souvenirs and tailored clothes.

  4. Day 4: Hue
    3 hours 30 minutes (134 km) from Hoi An

    Visit the former imperial capital of Hue to see the citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas. Don't miss the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Perfume River. Taste the local specialty of bun bo Hue.

  5. Day 5: Hanoi
    2 hours (1,170 km) from Da Nang International Airport

    Explore the bustling capital of Hanoi. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Wander around the Old Quarter and try egg coffee.

  6. Day 6: Halong Bay
    3 hours 30 minutes (170 km) from Hanoi

    Take a cruise to the world-famous Halong Bay, a natural wonder of thousands of limestone islands and islets. Swim in the emerald water, kayak to hidden caves, and watch the sunset. Sleep on board under the stars.

  7. Day 7: Sapa
    7 hours (380 km) from Halong Bay

    End your trip in the highland town of Sapa, where you can trek through rice terraces, visit ethnic minority villages, and enjoy the cool climate. Don't forget to try the local corn wine and buy handmade souvenirs.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can visit Nha Trang for beaches, Dalat for flower gardens, or Phu Quoc for island vibes. You can also take a motorbike trip along the Ho Chi Minh Trail or learn how to cook Vietnamese dishes. To save money, use public transportation, eat street food, and bargain at markets.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • War Remnants Museum (2 hours, £1.50)
  • Mekong Delta day trip (12 hours, £10)
  • Hoi An walking tour (3 hours, £5)
  • Hue Imperial City (4 hours, £4)
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (1 hour, free)
  • Halong Bay cruise (2 days, £50)
  • Sapa trekking tour (2 days, £30)
  • Meals (7 days, £70)
  • Accommodation (7 nights, £70)

Total Estimated Costs: £240

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