7-Day Budget-Friendly Food and Nature Adventure in Vietnam

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with a delicious bowl of Pho at Pho Bat Dan, known for its rich broth and tender meat.
Located in the Old Quarter, easily reachable by walking or a short taxi ride.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, filled with local shops, street vendors, and vibrant culture.
Walking through narrow alleyways, don't forget to stop for some coffee!
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor the iconic dish Bun Cha, grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, at this local favorite.
Located within the Old Quarter.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam’s ethnic groups through fascinating exhibits.
Take a taxi; it’s about 15 minutes from the Old Quarter.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at a local café

Enjoy a refreshing drink at a café while people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.
Choose any café nearby; Café Giang is a popular choice for egg coffee.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Taste the famous Cha Ca, a unique dish of grilled fish with turmeric, served with fresh herbs.
Located just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Xoi Yen

Indulge in a hearty breakfast of sticky rice at Xoi Yen, popular among locals.
Located in the Old Quarter, perfect to kick off a busy day.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay your respects to Vietnam's revolutionary leader at the solemn mausoleum.
Take a taxi or bike to the site, around 10 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Wander through the French Quarter

Experience the elegant architecture and European ambiance of Hanoi's French Quarter.
Easy to navigate on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi 25

Grab a delicious Vietnamese baguette sandwich at Banh Mi 25, known for its fresh ingredients.
Near Hoan Kiem Lake, very accessible.
VND 40,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Visit this historic temple dedicated to Confucius, a beautiful example of Vietnamese architecture.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the lunch spot.
VND 30,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy street food at Dong Xuan Market

Dive into the heart of local flavors with snacks and treats straight from the market stalls.
Walking distance from the Temple.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Conclude day two with an array of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming garden setting.
Taxi or a short walk depending on your location.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cruise Halong Bay

Halong Bay, Vietnam

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your hotel before setting out for Halong Bay.
Quick meal to fuel your travel day.
Free with accommodation, 1 hour

8:00AM

Transport to Halong Bay

Take a shuttle bus to Halong Bay, a scenic journey through stunning countryside.
Book this with your hotel; it usually takes around 4 hours.
VND 200,000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the Cruise

Savor a fresh seafood lunch served on board, as you take in the gorgeous karst landscapes.
Included with the cruise package.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Halong Bay

Enjoy kayaking or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Halong Bay, experiencing nature up-close.
Activities organized by your cruise company.
Depends on activity, approx. VND 100,000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Sung Sot Cave

Marvel at the stunning rock formations within Sung Sot Cave, a highlight of the bay.
Accessed via small boat from your cruise.
Included in cruise cost, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Cruise for Relaxation

Unwind on the deck with complimentary tea as you soak in the breathtaking views.
Relax and take in the sunset.
Included, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner on the Cruise

Enjoy a multi-course dinner while taking in the impressive scenery of Halong Bay.
Served onboard your cruise.
Included, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Discover Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast on Board

Relish in a classic Vietnamese breakfast meal provided onboard the cruise.
Enjoy the breakfast while enjoying the morning views.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Transfer to Hoi An

Travel to Hoi An by car; enjoy the scenic journey as you make your way to this charming town.
Coordinate with your cruise for transfer; it takes around 5 hours.
VND 300,000, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Dive into a delicious meal of Hoi An's specialty dishes, including Cao Lau and White Rose.
Located in the heart of Hoi An.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Ancient Town

Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An Ancient Town, admiring its well-preserved architecture.
Easily explored on foot.
VND 120,000 (entrance fee), 2 hours

4:30PM

Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Thu Bon River, capturing the sunset over the beautiful landscape.
Available from various dock points in Hoi An.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cafe 43

Wrap up your day with some simple yet tasty Vietnamese street food at Cafe 43.
Located close to the riverfront.
VND 60,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Culinary Delights of Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam

7:30AM

Breakfast at Local Hotel

Start fresh with a local breakfast at your accommodation before heading out for the day.
Provided by your hotel, check the menu!
Free with accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Join a Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture as you learn to cook traditional dishes in a local cooking class.
Various classes available; book in advance.
VND 400,000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch from Cooking Class

Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you feast on the meal you’ve just cooked!
Included in the cooking class package.
Included, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Hoi An Market

Wander through the lively market, browsing fresh produce, handicrafts, and local snacks.
A short walk from the cooking class location.
Free (shopping optional), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit My Son Sanctuary

Take a taxi or bus to the ancient ruins of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Transport arranged via your hotel or local tours.
VND 150,000, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at H’mong Sisters Restaurant

Enjoy an array of traditional dishes in a cozy, friendly environment as you reflect on your day.
Located in Hoi An's Old Town.
VND 70,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Savor one of Vietnam's best banh mi sandwiches, packed with fresh ingredients.
A short taxi ride to District 1.
VND 40,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's history through impactful exhibits at this significant museum.
Easily reached by taxi.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy a classic bowl of Pho at a restaurant frequented by former US Presidents.
Located in District 1.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs and experience the vibrant local market atmosphere.
A 10-minute walk from Pho 2000.
Free (shopping optional), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of this iconic church.
Within walking distance from Ben Thanh Market.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax at a local café

Take a break and sip on Vietnamese coffee at a nearby café.
Choose a café nearby; The Workshop is a popular spot.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Enjoy a dinner featuring local Vietnamese dishes in a tranquil rooftop garden setting.
Short taxi ride from your café.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Amazing Kolache

Delight in a unique take on breakfast with kolaches - a must-try pastry.
Located in District 1, easily reachable.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Venture out to explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a testament to Vietnam's resilience.
Book a tour or arrange transport from your hotel.
VND 150,000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Pho Stall

Grab a quick lunch at a local stall serving delicious Pho, a Vietnamese classic.
Find a stall nearby the Cu Chi Tunnels.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Reunification Palace

Explore the Reunification Palace, a historical landmark that played a significant role in Vietnam’s history.
Return to the city center by taxi.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Last-minute Shopping at Saigon Square

Grab those last-minute souvenirs and gifts in the lively atmosphere of Saigon Square.
A quick taxi ride from the palace.
Free (shopping optional), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, savoring traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.
Easily accessed by taxi.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
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