Vietnam 6-Day Adventure: City, Nature, and Foodie Experience on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Start your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Located in District 1, easily reachable by walking or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.
VND 0 - VND 100,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Enjoy a delicious bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho at Pho Hoa, a budget-friendly local favorite.
There are multiple Pho Hoa branches in District 1.
VND 40,000 - VND 60,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Bui Vien Street

Stroll along Bui Vien Street, known for its bustling nightlife, street food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere.
Located in Pham Ngu Lao area, a popular backpacker district in District 1.
VND 0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Indulge in a dinner feast at Quan An Ngon, offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes in a rustic setting.
There is a branch near Phan Boi Chau Street in District 1.
VND 100,000 - VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historic Charm of Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

Step back in time as you explore the charming streets, ancient houses, and historic sites of Hoi An Ancient Town.
The town center is easily walkable or rent a bicycle for a convenient way to get around.
VND 120,000 (Entrance ticket to 5 sights), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bale Well

Savor the flavors of Hoi An with a local specialty, White Rose Dumplings, at Bale Well.
Located on Hai Ba Trung Street, a short walk from the town center.
VND 20,000 - VND 40,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Tra Que Vegetable Village

Take a bicycle ride to Tra Que Vegetable Village and experience rural Vietnamese life while learning about organic farming.
Around 3 km northeast of Hoi An Ancient Town, you can rent bicycles or join a guided tour.
VND 20,000 - VND 50,000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Morning Glory

Relish in a dinner feast at Morning Glory, a renowned restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Located on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, famous for its delectable dishes.
VND 100,000 - VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Imperial History of Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Explore the Imperial City

Discover the grandeur of the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in Vietnam's imperial history.
Located along the Perfume River, you can reach the Imperial City by bike, motorbike, or taxi.
VND 150,000 (Entrance ticket), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lac Thien Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal at Lac Thien Restaurant, known for its delicious and affordable Vietnamese dishes.
Situated on Le Thanh Ton Street, a short distance from the Imperial City.
VND 50,000 - VND 100,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Trip on Perfume River

Embark on a scenic boat trip along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda and enjoy the picturesque views.
Boat tours can be arranged near the Thien Mu Pagoda with negotiable prices.
VND 50,000 - VND 100,000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hanh Restaurant

Satisfy your taste buds with a delightful dinner at Hanh Restaurant, offering a variety of local Vietnamese dishes.
Located on Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, famous for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
VND 80,000 - VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Scenic Beauty of Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Cruise on Ha Long Bay

Embark on a budget-friendly cruise to marvel at the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay.
Book a day cruise from the Bai Chay Tourist Wharf or opt for an overnight cruise for a more immersive experience.
VND 500,000 - VND 800,000, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Enjoy a scrumptious seafood lunch onboard the cruise while soaking in the breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay.
Lunch will be served as part of the cruise package.
Included in cruise price, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Discover the intricate stalactites and stalagmites inside Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay.
Included in most day cruise itineraries with a short hike from the docking point.
VND 50,000 - VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a dinner of freshly caught seafood at a local restaurant near Ha Long Bay, offering a taste of the region's culinary delights.
Recommendations provided by the cruise staff for nearby dining options.
VND 150,000 - VND 250,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Charms of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of Hanoi offering a serene escape from the bustling city.
Located in the Old Quarter, easily accessible on foot from most accommodations.
VND 0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Treat yourself to a bowl of Bun Cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish, at Bun Cha Huong Lien, also known as 'Obama Bun Cha' restaurant.
Situated on Le Van Huu Street, a popular spot among locals and tourists.
VND 40,000 - VND 60,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hoa Lo Prison

Gain insights into Vietnam's history at Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton', a former French colonial prison turned museum.
Located on Hoa Lo Street in the French Quarter, easily reachable by walking or taxi.
VND 30,000 - VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at Quan An Ngon, enjoying a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes in a lively setting.
There is a branch near Trang Tien Street, known for its bustling food scene.
VND 100,000 - VND 200,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Exploration Day in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Temple of Literature

Immerse yourself in Vietnam's educational history at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university.
Located on Quoc Tu Giam Street, a short distance from the city center, easily accessible by taxi or cyclo.
VND 30,000 (Entrance fee), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho Gia Truyen

Enjoy a bowl of traditional Pho at Pho Gia Truyen, a renowned spot for its flavorful broth and tender beef slices.
Situated on Bat Dan Street, a hidden gem for pho enthusiasts.
VND 50,000 - VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Old Quarter

Get lost in the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, filled with narrow lanes, traditional shophouses, and vibrant markets.
Navigate the maze of streets on foot, discovering hidden gems and local finds along the way.
VND 0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Delight in a bowl of Bun Bo Nam Bo, a flavorful beef noodle dish at this popular eatery in Hanoi's Old Quarter.
Located on Hang Dieu Street, a must-visit for a taste of this local specialty.
VND 40,000 - VND 60,000, 1.5 hours
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