7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Sapa, Hanoi, Da Nang

Day 1: Exploring Sapa

Sapa, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Sapa Market

Start your day by exploring the vibrant Sapa Market, immersing yourself in the local culture and trying some traditional Vietnamese delicacies.
USD 10, 2 hours

11:00AM

Trek to Cat Cat Village

Embark on a trek to Cat Cat Village, where you can witness the stunning terraced rice fields and interact with the local H'mong community.
USD 5 for a local guide, 3 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Sapa Love Market

Unwind at the scenic Sapa Love Market, enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and serene atmosphere.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Little Sapa Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Little Sapa Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and warm ambiance.
USD 8, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Journey to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Hanoi

Board an early morning bus from Sapa to Hanoi, enjoying the scenic journey through the Vietnamese countryside.
USD 15, 6 hours

3:00PM

Explore Old Quarter

Upon reaching Hanoi, delve into the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where you can wander through narrow alleys, shop for souvenirs, and sample street food.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor a traditional Vietnamese dish, bun cha, at Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously visited by former President Obama.
USD 5, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Discovering Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

9:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and featuring the historic Turtle Tower.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a flavorful Vietnamese meal at Quan An Ngon, offering a wide array of local dishes in a charming ambiance.
USD 7, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Temple of Literature

Immerse yourself in history at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a symbol of academic excellence.
USD 2, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nang Tam Restaurant

Indulge in a vegetarian feast at Nang Tam Restaurant, known for its delectable plant-based Vietnamese cuisine.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Travel to Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

8:00AM

Take a Bus to Da Nang

Board a morning bus from Hanoi to Da Nang, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and coastal views along the way.
USD 20, 14 hours

10:00PM

Arrive in Da Nang

Upon arrival in Da Nang, check into your accommodation and rest for the night to recharge for the upcoming adventures.
USD 25 for accommodation, Rest

Day 5: Beach Day in Da Nang

Da Nang, Vietnam

9:00AM

Relax at My Khe Beach

Spend a leisurely day at My Khe Beach, soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying beachside activities.
Free, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Bamboo2 Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Bamboo2 Bar & Restaurant, offering delicious seafood dishes and refreshing drinks.
USD 12, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Apsara Restaurant

Indulge in a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine at Apsara Restaurant, overlooking the beautiful Han River.
USD 15, 2 hours

Day 6: Exploring Marble Mountains

Da Nang, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Marble Mountains

Embark on an exploration of the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills with caves, pagodas, and panoramic views of Da Nang.
USD 3, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Be Man Seafood Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood dishes at Be Man Seafood Restaurant, known for its quality seafood and picturesque seaside setting.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit nights.
USD 5 for transportation, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant

Dine at Morning Glory Restaurant, a renowned establishment in Hoi An serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

Day 7: Departure Day

Da Nang, Vietnam

9:00AM

Shopping at Con Market

Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs and gifts at Con Market, a bustling marketplace in Da Nang offering a variety of local products.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banh Xeo Ba Duong

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese crepe, banh xeo, at Banh Xeo Ba Duong, a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
USD 5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Vietnam as you head to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of your unforgettable Shoestring Budget adventure.
Variable, Varies