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.

Cultural Immersion, Foodie, Nature - 5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Vietnam

Day 1: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho 2000

Start your day with a bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho at Pho 2000, known for its delicious and authentic flavors.

$5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, try local street food, and interact with friendly vendors.

Free entrance, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Quan Com Pho

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Quan Com Pho, a popular spot for traditional Vietnamese rice dishes.

$7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore War Remnants Museum

Gain insights into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories from the Vietnam War.

$2, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bun Cha 145

Savor a delicious dinner of Bun Cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish, at Bun Cha 145, known for its authentic flavors.

$8, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 2: Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Start your day with a delicious Banh Mi sandwich at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa before heading to Cu Chi Tunnels.

$3, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Cu Chi Tunnels

Embark on a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground network used during the Vietnam War.

$10 (including tour), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Co Chu Saigon

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at Co Chu Saigon, known for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

$6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to the city center and spend the evening exploring local markets or relaxing at a rooftop bar.

$5, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 3: Discovering Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An, Vietnam

9:00AM

Breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Morning Glory Restaurant, known for its extensive menu of Vietnamese dishes.

$6, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historic architecture and colorful lanterns.

Free entrance, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bale Well

Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Bale Well, a local favorite known for its fresh spring rolls and grilled meats.

$5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Ride on Thu Bon River

Embark on a relaxing boat ride along Thu Bon River, offering scenic views of Hoi An's waterfront and surrounding landscapes.

$8, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at White Rose Restaurant

Enjoy a culinary delight at White Rose Restaurant, famous for its signature White Rose dumplings, a specialty of Hoi An.

$10, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 4: Nature Exploration in Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cargo Club

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Cargo Club, a riverside cafe offering a variety of Western and Vietnamese dishes.

$8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Explore Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can participate in farming activities, learn about traditional Vietnamese agriculture, and enjoy the fresh countryside air.

$5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant

Return to Morning Glory Restaurant for a satisfying lunch featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients.

$7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding at An Bang Beach, a tranquil stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

$3, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant & Cooking School

Experience a unique dining experience at Ms. Vy's Market Restaurant & Cooking School, where you can taste a variety of Vietnamese street food dishes.

$12, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 5: Exploring Hanoi's Culture

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Thin

Start your day with a steaming bowl of Pho at Pho Thin, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

$4, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi, and visit Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island within the lake.

Free entrance, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Enjoy a bowl of Bun Bo Nam Bo, a flavorful beef noodle dish, at a local eatery known for its delicious and affordable meals.

$6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Temple of Literature

Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university, and admire its well-preserved architecture and tranquil gardens.

$3, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

End your day with a delectable dinner at Quan An Ngon, a food paradise offering a wide selection of Vietnamese dishes from different regions.

$9, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Hanoi

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Cultural Immersion, Foodie, Nature - 5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Vietnam

Day 1: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

7:00AM

8:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

Day 3: Discovering Hoi An Ancient Town

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Nature Exploration in Hoi An

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Exploring Hanoi's Culture

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About Vietnam

Plan Your Vietnam Trip