5-Day Budget-Friendly Vietnam Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi City Tour

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with authentic Hanoi street pho, known for its flavorful broth and fresh herbs, which is both filling and budget-friendly.
VND50000, 0h30m

9:00am

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the central Ngoc Son Temple, a prominent cultural site in Hanoi.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:00am

Old Quarter Walking Tour

Explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, spot street vendors, local shops, and experience Hanoi’s unique charm.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try Bun Cha, a delicious grilled pork with noodles dish famous in Hanoi, served affordably here.
VND60000, 1h

2:30pm

Temple of Literature

Visit the historic Temple of Literature to see Vietnam's first university and peaceful gardens.
VND30000, 1h

4:00pm

Water Puppet Theatre

Catch a traditional water puppet show, unique to northern Vietnam, illustrating folk tales.
VND100000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Relax with a variety of local dishes served in a lively outdoor market-style setting at a reasonable price.
VND80000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Depart Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

Travel by shuttle bus (about 3.5 hours) to Ha Long Bay to begin your budget-friendly overnight cruise.
VND200000, 3h30m

11:00am

Board Budget Overnight Cruise

Set sail on the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay aboard an economical cruise, includes lunch and sightseeing.
USD60 approx, Lunch to Evening

1:00pm

Kayaking & Cave Visit

Enjoy kayaking through the scenic bay and visit iconic caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave).
Included in cruise, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner on Board

Feast on freshly prepared seafood and Vietnamese dishes under the stars on your cruise.
Included in cruise, 1h

Overnight

Stay Overnight on Boat

Sleep on the boat amidst the peaceful bay for a memorable experience on budget.
Included in cruise, Overnight
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Day 3: Ninh Binh Adventure

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Return from Ha Long Bay to Hanoi

Early morning disembarkation and shuttle back to Hanoi, approx 3.5 hours.
Included in cruise, 3h30m

12:00pm

Travel Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Take a bus or train to Ninh Binh (2-2.5 hours), a great spot for natural scenery.
VND95000, 2h30m

2:30pm

Lunch at local eatery

Sample local rice and goat meat specialties in Ninh Binh town at budget prices.
VND70000, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Trang An Landscape Complex

Boat trip through serene karst caves and lush rivers, a peaceful and affordable outdoor activity.
VND200000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Long Restaurant

Enjoy Vietnamese home-style dishes with fresh ingredients in an affordable setting.
VND90000, 1h
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Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 21, 2025

6:00am

Travel Ninh Binh to Da Nang by train or bus

Early morning journey south to Da Nang (about 10 hours by train or 15 hours bus; budget travelers might opt for a night train the previous night if preferred).
VND300000, 10h

4:30pm

Transfer Da Nang to Hoi An

Quick and affordable taxi or local bus to charming Hoi An, just 30 minutes away.
VND50000, 0h30m

5:00pm

Check-in Budget Hotel

Check into a guesthouse or hostel offering budget-friendly accommodation near the ancient town.
USD15 approx, Variable

6:00pm

Dinner in Old Town at Bale Well

Enjoy traditional Hoi An dishes like Cao Lau and white rose dumplings in a budget-conscious setting.
VND70000, 1h

7:30pm

Evening stroll & Lantern Viewing

Walk the iconic lantern-lit streets and visit the night market for souvenirs and snacks.
Free to browse, 1h30m
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Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 22, 2025

6:00am

Fly Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City

Take an early budget flight (about 1.5 hours) to maximize your day in the southern metropolis.
VND800000, 1h30m

8:00am

Breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Taste one of the best Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches in the city, very affordable and filling.
VND25000, 0h30m

9:00am

War Remnants Museum

Learn about Vietnam’s history through impactful exhibits; very affordable entrance fee.
VND40000, 2h

11:30am

Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

Visit these iconic French colonial landmarks in the vibrant city center.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pho Hoa Pasteur

Sample delicious southern Vietnamese pho at an affordable price.
VND60000, 1h

2:30pm

Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs and local crafts while enjoying the lively atmosphere on a budget.
Free entry, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hoa Tuc

Enjoy a mid-range dinner with authentic southern Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting.
VND150000, 1h30m
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