4-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

Day 1: Cultural Immersion in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi's peaceful beauty.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Immerse yourself in the charming chaos of Hanoi's Old Quarter, filled with narrow streets, bustling markets, and traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous Vietnamese dish 'Bun Cha' at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where Obama once dined during his visit to Hanoi.
$5, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Hoa Lo Prison

Gain insight into Vietnam's history at Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton', a former prison used during the Vietnam War.
$2, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Watch the Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese art form at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, showcasing puppetry on water with live traditional music.
$4, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Pho Thin

Savor a bowl of authentic 'Pho' at Pho Thin, a local favorite known for its flavorful broth and tender beef slices.
$3, 1 hour
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Day 2: Exploring Hanoi's Surroundings

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Day Trip to Tam Coc

Embark on a budget-friendly day trip to Tam Coc, known as the 'Halong Bay on Land', with stunning limestone karsts and river cruises.
$15, Full day

7:00PM

Street Food Adventure

Indulge in Hanoi's vibrant street food scene at the Night Market, trying local delicacies like Banh Mi, Banh Xeo, and Che.
$10, 2 hours
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Day 3: Historical Charm of Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Explore Ancient Town

Wander through the well-preserved Ancient Town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its charming architecture and lantern-lit streets.
$5 (entrance fee to some sites), 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal at the renowned Morning Glory Restaurant, serving authentic Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.
$8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Japanese Covered Bridge

Admire the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An, blending Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles.
$3, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Unwind at the serene An Bang Beach, just a short bike ride from the town center, offering golden sands and clear waters.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Streets Restaurant Cafe

Experience a mix of Vietnamese and Western cuisine at Streets Restaurant Cafe, known for its social initiatives and delicious food.
$6, 1 hour
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Day 4: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Begin your day at Ben Thanh Market, a bustling market in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, offering a variety of local goods and street food.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore War Remnants Museum

Learn about the Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum, displaying artifacts, photographs, and military vehicles from the conflict.
$2, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Taste a bowl of Pho at Pho 2000, a famous eatery visited by former U.S. President Bill Clinton during his trip to Vietnam.
$4, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Admire the French colonial architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral, a historic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City known for its red-brick facade.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Shop at Saigon Square

Explore the budget-friendly shopping at Saigon Square, a bustling indoor market with a wide range of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bun Rieu Cua Oc Dao

Enjoy a bowl of Bun Rieu at Bun Rieu Cua Oc Dao, a local favorite known for its flavorful crab noodle soup.
$5, 1 hour
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