How many days do you need in Vietnam?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Vietnam, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Vietnam?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Vietnam. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Vietnam Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 14, 2024

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start the day with a leisurely walk around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, a perfect way to soak in the local culture and morning activities.

Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, filled with narrow lanes, traditional shops, and street food stalls. Perfect for souvenir shopping.

Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Indulge in a delicious and affordable meal of bun cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish, at the famous Bun Cha Huong Lien restaurant.

100,000 VND, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit St. Joseph's Cathedral

Take a moment to admire the stunning architecture of St. Joseph's Cathedral, a historical landmark in the heart of Hanoi.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Savor a variety of Vietnamese street food and local dishes at Quan An Ngon, known for its affordable and authentic flavors.

150,000 VND, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: More of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on February 15, 2024

9:00AM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

30,000 VND, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho 10

Enjoy a bowl of pho, Vietnam's iconic noodle soup, at Pho 10, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

50,000 VND, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Browse through the vibrant stalls of Dong Xuan Market for budget-friendly souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts.

Flexible, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Treat yourself to cha ca, a grilled fish dish, at Cha Ca Thang Long, a renowned restaurant with a rich culinary history.

200,000 VND, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Discovering Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on February 16, 2024

8:00AM

Explore Trang An Grottoes

Embark on a boat tour through the stunning Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its natural beauty and limestone karsts.

200,000 VND, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Thanh Long Restaurant

Enjoy a satisfying meal at Thanh Long Restaurant, offering a range of local specialties and affordable set menus.

100,000 VND, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda

Discover the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam, with its intricate architecture and serene surroundings.

50,000 VND, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chookie's Beer Garden

Relax and unwind at Chookie's Beer Garden, a laid-back spot offering budget-friendly drinks and casual dining options.

150,000 VND, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 4: Exploring Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam on February 17, 2024

9:00AM

Visit Marble Mountains

Embark on a morning adventure to explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic views.

40,000 VND, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Banh Xeo Ba Duong

Indulge in banh xeo, a savory Vietnamese pancake, at Banh Xeo Ba Duong, a popular local eatery known for its delicious street food.

80,000 VND, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore My Khe Beach

Relax and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque My Khe Beach, known for its soft sands and clear waters, perfect for a budget-friendly beach day.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Waterfront Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood dinner at Waterfront Restaurant, offering a wide selection of fresh and affordable seafood dishes with a view of the sea.

180,000 VND, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Da Nang

Day 5: Venturing to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on February 18, 2024

9:00AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum, showcasing exhibits related to the Vietnam War and its aftermath.

40,000 VND, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ben Thanh Street Food Market

Savor a diverse array of affordable street food at Ben Thanh Street Food Market, a vibrant hub of local culinary delights.

Flexible, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can bargain for souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts at budget-friendly prices.

Flexible, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pho Quynh

Indulge in a comforting bowl of pho at Pho Quynh, a beloved local eatery known for its flavorful and affordable noodle soup.

60,000 VND, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Vietnam Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

8:00AM

11:00AM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: More of Hanoi

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Discovering Ninh Binh

8:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Exploring Da Nang

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Venturing to Ho Chi Minh City

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About Vietnam

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