Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Budget-Friendly 14-Day Discovery Tour of Vietnam

Viewed by 57 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with a budget-friendly bowl of authentic Pho at this popular spot.
Located in the Old Quarter.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
VND 20,000 (temple fee), 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Quarter and shop for unique souvenirs.
Self-guided tour through the streets.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi 25

Try one of the most famous Banh Mi sandwiches in a budget-friendly venue.
A short walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Explore the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and surrounding gardens.
Grab ride from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy an array of affordable Vietnamese dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Grab from the mausoleum.
VND 100,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 2: Culture and History

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at KOTO

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this social enterprise that offers affordable options.
Located in the city centre.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam through engaging exhibits.
Grab ride from the cafe.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Xoi Yen

Indulge in traditional sticky rice dishes at a local favourite eatery.
Short walk to the restaurant.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam’s first university and its beautiful gardens.
Taxi ride from lunch.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Ho Chi Minh's House on Stilts

Learn more about the life of Ho Chi Minh by visiting his iconic residence.
Grab from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Com Pho 24

Enjoy cheap and hearty Vietnamese meals in a bustling environment.
Taxi from the mansion.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hanoi

Day 3: Halong Bay Adventure

Halong Bay, Vietnam

8:00AM

Depart for Halong Bay

Take a budget-friendly bus ride to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bus departs from Hanoi bus station.
VND 200,000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Budget Cruise

Embark on an affordable cruise through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay.
Arranged by the cruise company.
Varies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch on Cruise

Enjoy simple yet delicious meals while taking in stunning views.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kayaking in Halong Bay

Explore the stunning bays and lagoons by kayak, surrounded by spectacular landscapes.
Provided by the cruise.
Included, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner with panoramic views of the bay.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Activities

Join in games or relax under the stars on the deck.
Onboard the cruise.
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 4: Halong Bay Relaxation

Halong Bay, Vietnam

6:30AM

Tai Chi on Deck

Start your morning with a peaceful Tai Chi class offered on the cruise deck.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with simple, freshly prepared dishes overlooking the bay.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visiting Sung Sot Cave

Discover the famous Sung Sot Cave with its breathtaking formations.
Boat trip to the cave.
Included, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on Cruise

Savor affordable local dishes while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Swim and Relax on Ti Top Island

Take a refreshing swim or relax on the sandy beach of Ti Top Island.
Boat trip provided by the cruise.
Included, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner on Cruise

Indulge in a final affordable dinner aboard your cruise with delicious cuisine.
Onboard the cruise.
Included, 2 hours

8:00PM

Stargazing

Enjoy the quiet night sky on the deck with fellow passengers.
Onboard the cruise.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Halong Bay

Day 5: Cultural Exploration

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

8:00AM

Check-out from Cruise

Conclude your cruise and prepare to head to Ninh Binh.
Transfer arranged by the cruise.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Ride a budget-friendly bus to the beautiful landscape of Ninh Binh.
Bus service from Halong Bay.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Tam Coc Boat Tour

Experience a boat ride through the stunning rice paddies and limestone mountains.
Boat terminal in Ninh Binh.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Try traditional Vietnamese dishes at a budget-friendly local spot.
Nearby the boat tour dock.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Explore this ancient pagoda nestled among beautiful caves and mountain scenery.
Taxi ride from the restaurant.
VND 20,000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Lotus Restaurant

Enjoy affordable regional flavours at this well-reviewed restaurant.
Taxi to restaurant.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 6: Historic Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a simple breakfast provided at your accommodation.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Explore the ancient ruins and learn about Vietnam's history.
Taxi to the site.
VND 30,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Eatery

Enjoy authentic Ninh Binh cuisine at a local spot.
Near Hoa Lu.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Marvel at the stunning nature and caves abundant in the national park.
Taxi ride to the park.
VND 60,000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Thien Hoa Restaurant

Savour delectable local dishes in a moderately priced atmosphere.
Ride back from the park.
VND 100,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ninh Binh

Day 7: Historical Insights

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Hue

Depart for Hue via a budget-friendly bus ride.
Bus service from Ninh Binh.
VND 150,000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Budget Hotel

Arrive in Hue and settle into your budget hotel.
Check-in process.
Varies, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Bun Bo Hue

Enjoy the famous noodle dish—Bun Bo Hue—of this historic city.
Close to the hotel.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Imperial City

Explore the ruins and architecture of the former imperial capital of Vietnam.
Walking distance.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hanh Restaurant

Taste affordable yet delicious Vietnamese specialties at this local eatery.
A short walk.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk along Perfume River

Enjoy a tranquil evening stroll along the iconic Perfume River.
Walking path by the river.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 8: Cultural Depth in Hue

Hue, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your budget breakfast at the hotel before your day of exploration.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Thien Mu Pagoda

Visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Hue.
Taxi ride to the pagoda.
VND 15,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Khai Dinh Tomb

Marvel at the unique architecture of Khai Dinh’s Tomb, set on the hills.
Taxi from the pagoda.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at La Residence

Enjoy budget-friendly Vietnamese dishes in a nice setting.
Return to the city centre.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc

Explore the beautiful grounds and history of Emperor Tu Duc's resting place.
Short taxi ride.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quoc Phuong Restaurant

Indulge in local flavours with affordable prices.
Taxi from the tomb.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Hue

Day 9: Ancient Town Charm

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Hoi An

Take a budget-friendly bus or train to the charming town of Hoi An.
Bus service from Hue.
VND 100,000, 3 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at Budget Hotel

Arrive and check-in at your budget hotel in Hoi An.
Check-in procedure.
Varies, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Morning Glory

Savor traditional dishes like Cao Lau in a budget-friendly local eatery.
Short walk from hotel.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town

Discover the beautiful architecture and rich history of Hoi An’s Ancient Town.
Self-guided walking tour.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Cargo Club

Enjoy a delightful meal with affordable pricing and a riverside view.
Walk along the river to the restaurant.
VND 150,000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Explore Night Markets

Wander through the vibrant night market filled with local crafts and street food.
Close to Ancient Town.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 10: Heritage and Beaches

Hoi An, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 43

Start your day with delicious coffee and banh mi at this popular spot.
At the cafe.
VND 40,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Japanese Covered Bridge

Visit this iconic symbol of Hoi An, dating back to the 18th century.
Nearby Ancient Town.
VND 20,000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Cooking Class

Join a budget-friendly cooking class to learn Hoi An’s signature dishes.
Class location provided in the itinerary.
VND 500,000, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Cooking Class

Enjoy the delicious meal you cooked during class.
At the cooking class venue.
Included, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at An Bang Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon on the public beach, free of charge.
Taxi from the venue.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Little Faifo

Indulge in local flavours at this cosy restaurant.
Return to Hoi An town.
VND 80,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Hoi An

Day 11: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Take a budget flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.
Flight from Da Nang.
VND 700,000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check in at Budget Hotel

Arrive and settle into your budget hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Check-in process.
Varies, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Pho 24

Enjoy a classic bowl of Pho at one of the city’s affordable spots.
Taxi ride from hotel.
VND 60,000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent history through powerful exhibitions.
Short walk from lunch.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walking Tour of Ben Thanh Market

Experience the bustling atmosphere and shop for souvenirs at the lively market.
Walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Savour an assortment of delicious local dishes at reasonable prices.
Taxi ride from the market.
VND 100,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12: City of Life

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your budget hotel before your day begins.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

Discover the architectural beauty of this stunning French-colonial cathedral.
Short taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Saigon Central Post Office

Experience a slice of history at this beautifully preserved post office.
A short walk from the cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Refinery

Savor budget-friendly French-Vietnamese dishes in a pleasant atmosphere.
Taxi ride from the post office.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Bitexco Financial Tower

Enjoy inexpensive panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Walk back toward the tower.
VND 200,000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Relax in a lush garden while enjoying affordable authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Taxi ride from the tower.
VND 130,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 13: Mekong Delta Experience

Mekong Delta, Vietnam

7:00AM

Travel to Mekong Delta

Set out early using a budget-friendly bus tour to the picturesque Mekong Delta region.
Arranged transportation from Ho Chi Minh City.
VND 800,000 for day tour, 2 hours

9:00AM

Boat Ride on Mekong River

Enjoy a scenic boat tour through the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Part of the arranged day tour.
Included, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Savour traditional Mekong dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Provided in day tour.
Included, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Local Fruit Orchard

Discover the diverse fruits of the Mekong region and participate in tastings.
Part of the arranged tour.
Included, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return Journey to Ho Chi Minh City

Head back to the bustling city after a day in nature.
Part of the arranged tour.
Included, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pho 24

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Pho after a long day of exploration.
A taxi ride from your accommodation.
VND 60,000, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mekong Delta

Day 14: Farewell Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final budget breakfast at your hotel before departure.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Reunification Palace

Explore the historic site that marked the end of the Vietnam War.
Taxi ride to the palace.
VND 40,000, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Savour one of the best Banh Mi sandwiches in Ho Chi Minh City for a budget price.
A short taxi ride.
VND 50,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Ben Thanh Market

Pick up last-minute souvenirs from the vibrant market.
Return to the market.
Free (depending on purchases), 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Hotel and Prepare for Departure

Head back to your hotel to check out and prepare for your journey home.
Short taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Have a final dinner featuring affordable yet creative Vietnamese dishes before your departure.
Taxi ride to the restaurant.
VND 130,000, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About vietnam

Trip Packing List: Vietnam (Late February 2026)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Vietnam (8 days) + Koh Samui, Thailand (14 days) — 30 May 2026
Packing List
Vietnam Weather Guide: Regional Climates & Seasonal Trends
Weather Guide
Essential Vietnam Travel Guide: Visas, Safety & Tips
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your vietnam Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go