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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Vietnam

  1. Day 1: Hanoi
    30 minutes (13.7 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

    In the morning, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, followed by a stroll in the Old Quarter for some local street food. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, and in the evening, catch a water puppet show.

  2. Day 2: Halong Bay
    3 hours (170 km) from Hanoi

    Take a day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Go kayaking, swim in the crystal-clear water, and marvel at the stunning limestone caves.

  3. Day 3: Hoi An
    1 hour (30 km) from Da Nang International Airport

    In the morning, explore the ancient town of Hoi An, which is lined with traditional shop houses, pagodas, and Chinese temples. In the afternoon, take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, and in the evening, release a lantern into the river.

  4. Day 4: Hue
    2 hours (109 km) from Hoi An

    Visit the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, and the tombs of the Nguyen Emperors. Hire a motorbike to take a scenic ride along the Perfume River.

  5. Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City
    2 hours (1,055 km) from Hue via flight

    In the morning, visit the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam’s history. In the afternoon, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, which were used during the Vietnam War. In the evening, visit the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

  6. Day 6: Mekong Delta
    2 hours (135 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl”. Visit a local farm, take a boat ride along the river, and enjoy some fresh fruit. Learn how to make coconut candy and watch a traditional folk music performance.

  7. Day 7: Phu Quoc Island
    2 hours (300 km) from Ho Chi Minh City via flight

    Relax on the white sandy beaches of Phu Quoc Island. Take a snorkelling tour to explore the colourful coral reefs, and visit the night market for some local seafood.

Recommendations

Other attractions to consider are the Cao Dai Temple and the Black Virgin Mountain. Take a side trip to the Ba Vi National Park for some hiking and fresh air. To maximize your fun, try bargaining with the vendors at the markets and sample as much street food as possible. Don't forget to try the famous Vietnamese coffee.

For bookings and flight reservations, click here.

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