7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam in June 2023

1. Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
   15 minutes (4.3 km) from Tan Son Nhat International Airport

   Start your day at Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest landmarks in the city and a paradise for foodies. Walk around the streets of District 1, visit the War Remnants Museum, and end your day with a stroll in the lively Nguyen Hue walking street.

2. Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels
   1 hour 30 minutes (70 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

   Immerse yourself in the history of the Vietnam War by exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels. Learn about the life of the Viet Cong soldiers and their guerrilla warfare tactics. Try shooting an AK-47 and taste cassava, a main food source of the Viet Cong during the war.

3. Day 3: Mekong Delta
   2 hours 30 minutes (127 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

   Take a boat ride along the Mekong River, visit a local fruit orchard, and try exotic fruits such as dragon fruit and rambutan. Enjoy traditional music and a performance of the Cai Luong, a southern Vietnamese folk opera. Visit a coconut candy factory and end your day with a cycling tour around the village.

4. Day 4: Hoi An
   1 hour 15 minutes (610 km) from Ho Chi Minh City by plane

   Walk around the quaint streets of Hoi An Ancient Town and admire the blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, and the Hoi An Market. End your day with a sunset boat ride along the Thu Bon River.

5. Day 5: My Son Sanctuary
   1 hour (45 km) from Hoi An

   Explore the Hindu temple ruins of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the history of the Champa Kingdom and admire the intricate carvings and sculptures. End your day with a relaxing walk along An Bang Beach.

6. Day 6: Hanoi
   2 hours (1,084 km) from Hoi An by plane

   Discover the capital city of Hanoi by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Walk around the vibrant Old Quarter and try some street food. End your day at the Hoan Kiem Lake and watch the locals practice tai chi.

7. Day 7: Ha Long Bay
   3 hours 30 minutes (160 km) from Hanoi

   Take a cruise along the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the stunning limestone formations and visit the Surprise Cave. Enjoy kayaking and swimming before heading back to Hanoi.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the Night Market in Hoi An, where you can buy handmade souvenirs and try local delicacies. If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Tam Coc, also known as the "Halong Bay on land," or visit the floating markets in Can Tho. To save money, try staying in hostels or homestays, and use public transportation or rent a motorbike to get around.

For finding hotels and flights, please visit https://trip.tp.st/5u0O2Vxp.