day trip cost vietnam

How much will a Vietnam trip cost? Full Breakdown 2023

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How much will a Vietnam trip cost is usually the first question that comes to mind the moment you consider Vietnam as an option for your next trip. Isn’t it?

But you hardly ever come across a straightforward answer to this question. But in this post, I aim to clear the confusion for you and give you an actual estimate of a trip to Vietnam – at least one that’s recent, updated, and useful to you for Vietnam trip planning in 2023 .

Don’t want to read the full post? Want a quick estimate for a trip to Vietnam? Use the Vietnam trip budget calculator below.

Vietnam Trip Budget Calculator

Have some extra time? Want more details on the average trip cost to Vietnam? Wondering how to use the calculator above?

Read this entire post to get a complete idea of the costs of traveling to Vietnam.

How Much Does a Trip to Vietnam Cost? Quick Overview

If you don’t want to read the full post but want a quick idea of how much a trip to Vietnam would cost, here’s an overview with the average costs per person.

Budget trip cost to Vietnam: USD 50 per day Mid-range trip cost to Vietnam: USD 80-100 per day High-end trip cost to Vietnam: USD 185+

The above figures are a slightly higher-end estimate of the total costs of a Vietnam trip. The actual costs would differ based on the number of internal flights, the type of Halong Bay cruise you book, the number of cities you cover, the amount of shopping you indulge in, and the type of sightseeing attractions you visit.

Read the detailed break-up section below to get actual per-day Vietnam trip cost estimates of the various heads of expenditure on a Vietnam trip.

Average cost of a trip to Vietnam – Full Breakdown

In this section, we will go over the key components of your Vietnam trip budget one at a time.

1. Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation in Vietnam is fairly affordable and offers tremendous value for money. The price will obviously vary depending on the city in which you’re staying and the quality of accommodation you choose.

But since I do not want to be vague, here are a few estimates for you

Accommodation in Hanoi costs

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and usually included in most Vietnam itineraries.

As a first time visitor to Vietnam, you should choose a stay in the Old Quarter of Vietnam. The location is central and there are plenty of things to do in the Old Quarter . Booking street food tours in Hanoi or tours to nearby places and cities is convenient if you stay in the Old Quarter.

The cost of accommodation in Hanoi shall be as follows:

• Budget accommodation – in hostels, guesthouses, etc. = approximately USD 7-10per person per day
• Mid-range accommodation – in centrally located hotels = approximately USD 40-60 (per person on a twin sharing basis) (We got a steal deal for the 4-star Hanoian Central Spa and Hotel – Agoda winner of the top choice of hotel in Hanoi – 2022)
• High-end accommodation – high end accommodation in Hanoi costs around USD 60-100 per person on a twin sharing basis

Accommodation in Hoi An/Danang costs

Accommodation in Hoi An or Danang is usually cheaper than accommodation in bigger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Out of the central Vietnamese cities, Hoi An is probably the most expensive because of its touristy appeal.

The cost of accommodation in Hoi An, Danang or Hue shall be as follows:

• Budget accommodation – in hostels, guesthouses, etc. = approximately USD 7-10 per person per day
• Mid-range accommodation – in centrally located hotels = approximately USD 30-50 (per person on a twin sharing basis)
• High-end accommodation – high end accommodation in Hanoi costs around USD 50-90 per person on a twin sharing basis

But a few points to remember: – Staying in Hoi An Old Town would be a bit more expensive than staying away from the Old Town – Da Nang is home to numerous luxury chain resorts – a stay at one of the premium properties would be far more expensive than USD 50-90 per person. But mid-range properties in Da Nang are very affordable and offer the best value for money.

But since I do not want to be vague, here’re a few estimates for you

Accommodation in Ho Chi Minh costs

Ho Chi Minh is the biggest city in Vietnam and being its commercial hub – also the most expensive city in Vietnam .

Accommodation in central areas of Ho Chi Minh city like in District 1 or District 3 would be substantially more expensive than accommodation in central areas of Hanoi, Hoi An or Da Nang. But the extra money you spend on accommodation here would get set off against the more affordable stay in other parts of Vietnam.

As a first time visitor to Vietnam, you should choose a stay in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. Most important tourist attractions in SaigonThe location is central and there are plenty of things to do in the Old Quarter . Booking street food tours in Hanoi or tours to nearby places and cities is convenient if you stay in the Old Quarter.

The cost of accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City shall be as follows:

• Budget accommodation – in hostels, guesthouses, etc. = approximately USD 10-15 per person per day
• Mid-range accommodation – in centrally located hotels = approximately USD 50-80 (per person on a twin sharing basis) We absolutely loved staying at Hammock Hotels in District 1 Ho Chi Minh City – and with all the freebies they offer, we ended up saving a lot of money on extras! Read our full review of Hammock Hotel .
• High-end accommodation – high end accommodation in Ho Chi Minh costs around USD 60-100 per person on a twin sharing basis

2. Food in Vietnam

The next expense on your trip to Vietnam shall be food. In Vietnam, you have plenty of food options. From local street food, to dining in local restaurants, cafés or fine dine places serving global cuisine – you can decide what to eat depending on your taste.

But to get the best feel of Vietnamese food, my advice to you would be – to book a food tour in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city (to explore the best local food joints and taste the most authentic and delicious food, desserts and drinks in Vietnam) – eat at a mix of street food places and restaurants serving Vietnamese food or global food (like Indian, Japanese, Italian restaurants) – try their egg coffee, drip coffee, cold brew and other special coffee preparations

But to sum up, here’re typical cost estimates of meals in Vietnam:

• Vietnam street food cost: 1-2 USD per person per meal
• Vietnam Mid-range restaurant food cost: USD 10-15 per person per meal
• Vietnam High-end restaurant food cost: USD 20 and above per person per meal
• Vietnam beverage costs: USD 1-2 per person per beverage
• Alcoholic drink costs in Vietnam: USD 1 to USD 15 per person (Depending on what brand and alcohol you choose. Local beer is super cheap in Vietnam and a bottle of beer would cost only about 0.5-2 USD. But wines and expensive alcohol bottles could go all the way up to USD 15-20 per person depending on where you buy your alcohol from)

3. Sightseeing and Entrance ticket costs in Vietnam

The entrance ticket and sightseeing costs incurred would depend entirely on the places that you choose to visit.

Typically, the average cost of sightseeing in Vietnam per person per day are USD 20 . Some Vietnamese attractions would be expensive but the free sightseeing places would offset those expenses and keep the overall Vietnam entrance ticket and sightseeing tour costs to around USD 20.

Some places where you’d end up spending a lot of money on entrance fees and sightseeing tours are:

Ba Na Hills: Approximately USD 40 (Booking a guided tour of Ba Na Hills using Viator saves some money)

Day trips: During your time in Vietnam, you’d go on a few day trips from your base city. An average day trip costs around USD 60-70 per person .

Some typical day trip options are: – Day trips to Hue from Hoi An or Da Nang – Day trip to My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An or Da Nang – Day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City – Day trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi – Day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi – Day trip to Mua Caves from Hanoi

So if you’re on a budget, you should avoid a few of the above places or try to visit these places by yourself.

4. Local Commute costs in Vietnam

You can commute within a city either on a two-wheeler, or a car with driver. Grabs are available only in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, etc. Public transport is available in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh but isn’t a very practical way of visiting the many tourist attractions in the city.

The typical costs of local commute are:

• Two wheeler rental costs in Vietnam (With petrol) – USD 7 per day
• Costs of hiring a car with a driver are USD 35-40 for about 8 hours

Grab even though available in major cities in Vietnam is often not a convenient – language is a major barrier and communicating with Grab drivers could be a challenge – many areas in the heart of the Hanoi and Hoi An are shut off for vehicular traffic

That said, taking a Grab from the airport to your hotel is one of the most comfortable and value for money option.

The other way of accessing tourist places when on a short trip to major cities in Vietnam is by using the well-connected hop-on-hop-off bus in Hanoi or the hop-on-hop-off bus in Ho Chi Minh city.

5. Inter-city commute within Vietnam

Vietnam is a long country and its major cities are spread out and quite far away from one another. Road journeys between cities are possible but not comfortable or recommended due to the vast distances between two cities.

The best way to travel from one city to another is by a flight. The average cost of an internal flight between two cities is around USD 70-100. I highly recommend booking a Bamboo Airways flight for their excellent hospitality and fewer flight cancellations. Read my full review of the Bamboo Airways .

You could also take a train between cities. The cost of AC- sleeper trains between major cities is around USD 35-50. But for how long a train journey between cities takes and how little the difference in ticket costs is, taking a flight between cities makes the most sense.

6. Other Vietnam Trip Expenses

Now that we’ve covered the basic costs of a trip to Vietnam, it is important to look at a few more expenses that you’d incur while traveling in Vietnam.

Halong Bay Cruise

Most tourists visiting Vietnam visit the Halong Bay area . You could either take a day trip to Halong Bay cruise or go on an overnight cruise to Halong Bay. A 2 day 1 night cruise is the most popular way of visiting Halong Bay. But some even prefer to go on a 3 day cruise to Halong Bay.

The typical average cost of a Halong Bay cruise are:

Day trip to Halong Bay: USD 70 per person 1 night 2 days Halong Bay cruise: USD 160 per person 2 nights 3 days Halong Bay cruise: USD 320 per person

Airport Transfers

Airport transfer costs in Vietnam would depend on the nature of transport you choose.

For a comfortable airport transfer, book a Grab or a private car transfer. Choose an airport shuttle if you’re on a budget. The cost of an airport shuttle is approximately USD 3 . You can take an airport shuttle from Hawould be approximately USD 3.

The costs of airport transfer are:

By Grab (From airport to central touristy areas in Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City): USD 15

By private car : USD 20

Quick note: Getting a Grab will require you to go to a specific Grab pick up point. You’ll need internet access on your phone. Communicating with the driver would be challenge because of the language barriers. The drivers may try to cheat you by taking longer routes.

Plus, the difference in costs of a Grab airport transfer and a private car is minimal. So to save yourself unwanted hassle, I highly recommend booking this private airport pick up in advance .

Leading SIM card companies in Vietnam are Viettel, Mobiphone and Vinaphone. I used Mobiphone and loved the network coverage and data speed. A Sim Card with My husband used Viettel – a slightly more expensive option but ran into trouble with insufficient data (probably because he was scammed and sold a used SIM card).

The sim cards sold at the airport often prove to be more expensive than SIM cards sold at official network companies. But regardless of which network provider you choose and where you buy your SIM from, the cost of a SIM card in Vietnam per day shouldn’t be more than USD 2 per day.

But based on our scammy experience with the vendors, buy an Airalo E-sim in advance . You don’t need to go through the hassle of changing the physical sim card and the prices are comparable with locally sold sim cards.

There are plenty of things to buy in Vietnam – all available at super affordable rates. From silks, souvenirs, coffee, cheap shoes and clothes to fancy artwork – there is something for everyone.

So what you shop for and how much you shop for is a call you have to take and estimating how much you’ll spend on shopping is difficult.

The only tips I have for you to save money on shopping are – to shop from local markets like the Ben Thanh market in Ho Chi Minh city or Da Nang market and – to bargain heavily.

Vietnam Budget Calculator

Now that I have given you a break-down of the costs of a trip to Vietnam, you can use the handy Vietnam budget calculator below.

The Vietnam trip calculator below takes into consideration the following: – the average daily accommodation costs (based on style of travel) – the average daily food, sightseeing and airport transfer costs (based on style of travel) – the average cost of internal flights between cities – the average cost of a Halong Bay cruise.

How to use the Vietnam budget calculator for your Vietnam trip – Insert the number of people traveling to Vietnam – Insert the number of days you plan on spending in Vietnam – Insert the number of internal flights you plan on taking – Insert whether you plan on going on a Halong Bay cruise and the type of cruise you’d take – Insert your travel style (budget, mid-range or high-end)

The result will give you an approximate Vietnam trip budget for all adults put together excluding costs of flights to Vietnam and shopping expenses.

Vietnam Trip Cost – Frequently Asked Questions

Is vietnam expensive.

Vietnam is not an expensive country and traveling on a budget of as low as as 50 USD per day including stay, food, sightseeing, internal commute and flights is easily possible. If you stick to just one city or travel internally within the country by train or bus, eat street food and stay at hostels and guest houses, you can even bring down the per day cost of Vietnam travel to USD 35-40.

How much money Do I need in Vietnam?

As you can see from the above breakdown, if you want to cover Vietnam properly and travel between important cities within the country, your average daily budget inclusive of stay, food, sightseeing, local commute and internal flights or train would be as follows:

The above amounts are purely an estimate and the costs can be brought down further by skipping expensive sightseeing options, opting for airport shuttles, renting two-wheelers for commute, etc.

How much does a trip to Vietnam for 7 days cost?

A trip to Vietnam for 7 days would cost USD 350 for a budget vacation, USD 700 for a mid-range vacation and USD 1295 for a high-end vacation. The suggested costs are costs per person for the entire duration and do not include internal flights, Halong Bay cruise and shopping and other extras.

How much will a Vietnam trip cost from India?

The average cost of a trip to Vietnam from India for 8 nights 9 days inclusive of flights, stay, food and sightseeing for a mid-range traveler would be around INR 1,00,000 .

The break-up of these expenses would be as follows: – Flights to Vietnam from India : INR 25000-30000 – Stay in mid-range accommodation in Hanoi, Hoi An/Danang and Ho Chi Minh city : INR 2,500 per person per day or approximately INR 20,000 for the entire trip – Total Sightseeing costs (inclusive of Hanoi sightseeing, Da Nang, Hoi An, Ba Na Hills and Ho Chi Minh City) = INR 15,000 per person – Food expenses (mix of street food, food at Indian restaurants and mid-range restaurants) = INR 18,000 – Internal flights from Hanoi to Da Nang, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City = INR 18000

In addition to this, you will need to factor the costs of your Halong Bay cruise, shopping and miscellaneous expenditure.

When we went to Vietnam, we also went on a 2 days 1 night Halong Bay cruise, which cost us USD 160 per person. So our total expense per person was approximately INR 130,000.

You can see our experience of the Halong Bay cruise in the video below:

Does Vietnam use cash?

Most commercial establishments, restaurants, hotels, super markets, grocery stores, spas and tour operators accept cards. But small shops and local street food vendors do not accept cards. The only currency accepted all over Vietnam is VND or Vietnamese Dong. So always carry some local currency cash with you when traveling in Vietnam.

Related posts

• Must-have apps when traveling to Vietnam
• Vietnam vs Bali: Ultimate Comparison
• Hanoi in 24 hours – A practical itinerary
• How to travel to Vietnam with kids: A complete guide
• Is Halong Bay worth it? A full evaluation
• Is Vietjet really bad? Full review
• What to buy in Vietnam – a solid shopping guide

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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The Cost of Travel in Vietnam: A 2023 Budget Breakdown

Vietnam is one of the greatest countries in the world.

I should know: I’ve spent a almost full year travelling across this country, making my way from the very top to its southernmost point and exploring a hell of a lot along the way.

I’ve spent months living in Hanoi and Saigon, and celebrated birthdays in Hoi An and Mui Ne. I’ve rented apartments with local families in lesser-known neighbourhoods, diligently worked my way through every street food cart in the area, then partied my way through all of the best backpacker haunts. I’ve travelled solo in the country, with my boyfriend and with friends, and even spent a month showing my boyfriend’s parents around the country. I spent two weeks riding a scooter through the smallest of towns in the Mekong Delta, visiting places that few tourists have ever passed through.

I’ve seen so much of this country and yet there’s something that still continually pulls me back.

(Confession: it’s the food. Vietnamese food is the best .)

But beyond the incredible meals, there’s also the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, the amazing architecture, and the most bustling cities. From the awe-inspiring views up in Sapa and the beaches of Da Nang, to the beauty of Hoi An, the scenery at Halong Bay, and the chaos of Saigon, Vietnam offers something for everyone.

Today, I want to focus on what you’ll pay for all of this magic. Of course, being in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is an affordable country to visit, in comparison to countries in North America and Europe, so your Dong will take you far. Yep, that’s the name of the currency here: the Vietnamese Dong, and you’ll find yourself with plenty of opportunity to make jokes about it.

I usually travel on a mid-range budget in Vietnam, along with occasional splurges, and often average around $50 — I’ve managed to get by on $10 a day when I was a tight backpacker, and splurged on a five-star hotel and been blown away by how much $100 a night can get you.

At the time of writing this, in 2023, $1 equates to around 24,000 VND. You’ll usually get 500,000 VND notes out of the ATMs, so remember that those are worth just over $20 each. Be careful with the 20,000 and 500,000 notes, though — they look very similar and could make for quite the expensive mistake!

A quick housekeeping point before we continue: everything in the post I paid for myself – as always, this is a comp- and press trip-free article.

With all that being said, it’s time to take an in-depth look into just how much it costs to travel in Vietnam. Let’s get started.

Where to Go in Vietnam

I recommend allocating a full month to travel in Vietnam. Here’s how I recommend spending your time over those four weeks:

• Hanoi: 5 nights
• Sapa: 2 nights
• Halong Bay/Bai Tu Long Bay: 1 night
• Ninh Binh: 3 nights
• Phong Nga: 2 nights
• Da Nang: 2 nights
• Hoi An: 5 nights
• Dalat: 3 nights
• Saigon: 3 nights
• Can Tho: 1 night

What’s Included in This Post

The budget breakdown you’re about to read covers accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and miscellaneous costs. All prices are in U.S. dollars, as that’s where most of my readers are located.

Flight costs will vary, depending on where you’re travelling in from. I recommending using Skyscanner’s flight comparison search engine to find the very best deals.

I often book activities and transport online, but generally have found that local travel agents offer cheaper prices. You’ll find one on practically every street in tourist-popular destinations, so there’s always many places vying for your custom; amounts can usually be haggled.

But if that’s not your thing, or you prefer the peace of mind of having things booked in advance, online booking works well, too. More on that below.

Vietnam offers up amazing value for money. Yes, I often splashed out on fun excursions that are a bit pricier, but even then, costs didn’t spiral. It’s all about balance. 

My ethos is: if I’m not going to experience at least some of the sights and activities a place is known for, what’s the point? But equally, I’ve also found some lesser-known – and free – things to do along the way that I’ll be mentioning as well.

Time to jump in.

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for free accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are  hostels . In Vietnam, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Vietnam  are on a par with the rest of Southeast Asia, and you can expect to spend around  $5 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Vietnam, with the price increasing to slightly about  $15 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around  $20 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $40 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel or hotel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually come in at around  $20-$60 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices. I share my personal recommendations below:

The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Places to stay in Vietnam are excellent value.

There were a couple of exceptions where we treated ourselves and upped the budget a bit, but that’s not to say we didn’t see quality options within both price brackets.

For the most part, we stayed in hotels and guesthouses and picked places where breakfast was included. That way, our first meal of the day was covered by what was without exception a first-rate buffet, often with eggs made-to-order any which way we preferred. Going forward, whenever I mention breakfast, you can assume it was part of the rate.

Mid-range properties were super-reasonably priced. And even 5* accommodation doesn’t cost an arm and a leg – much less than a hotel room in Western Europe, Australasia or the USA, for example.

Hotel staff couldn’t do enough for us, from the concierge and the tour desk to the staff at breakfast. Honestly, the Vietnamese people were a delight: really friendly and helpful. Often they were keen to practice their English on us and claimed to not be very good, when in actual fact they were fluent. It put us to shame.

Read on for recommendations on places to stay in Vietnam.

Hanoi: Our stay at this contemporary hotel in the Old Quarter cost us $49 a night , and we can’t speak highly enough of this gem.

Just a five-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and tons of restaurants and bars, our superior double was spacious and modern, with wooden floors, splashes of colour throughout, and a feature wall. The breakfast buffet was varied and staff were incredibly helpful, going above and beyond to help us with forthcoming bookings.

For us, the historic centre was definitely the best area to stay in. It was bustling, atmospheric, and within ambling distance of most attractions. Talking of walking: make sure you watch out for the pesky mopeds in Hanoi, and Saigon too. In fact, there were even more zipping about down south.

Sapa: We opted for a homestay in Sapa, because we really wanted to throw ourselves into things. If you go down that route, Mao and her family are the people to choose.

After an overnight train ride northwards from Hanoi, we were met by Mao’s sister-in-law. We paid $68 per person for a one-night stay in Mao’s home. But that price also covered a two-day excursion. More on the details in the activity section.

It was Mao’s mountainous family home that we stayed in. It was basic, but comfortable: mattress-style beds on the floor enclosed by mosquito nets and shared bathroom facilities. The hospitality was warm, and the family were generous with their time.

We loved our night there and would wholeheartedly recommend it.

Bai Tu Long Bay: Boat time! Bai Tu Long Bay is just eastwards of the more famous Halong Bay, but doesn’t attract the crowds of the former. It’s just as beautiful, so if you want to see those limestone karsts without hundreds of boats surrounding you, this is the way to go.

We chose a two days/one night trip here. Our boat – Viola – was striking yet comfortable – a traditional wooden vessel with 16 cabins featuring dark wood and large windows. We were lucky: the boat wasn’t full, so we managed to bag an upgrade to the Honeymoon suite with a balcony to admire the spectacular scenery from.

Our cost came in at $149 per person for the two night trip, but that did include transfers, separate excursions off the boat, and food.

Ninh Binh: Just a couple of hours south of Hanoi we reached Ninh Binh, and this rather lovely homestay . Run by a family of four, the hospitality was first-rate, and our room was large, with pretty views out to the mountains. There was a roof terrace for drinks and excellent local food, and complimentary bicycles.

The property is outside the centre of town on a quiet residential stretch. We were there to get out and about on bikes, so the quiet location worked well for us. We paid $19 a night and were impressed. The family even invited us to join them one night for a home-cooked meal – an unexpected and kind gesture that we took them up on. That was our first taste of jackfruit.

Phong Nha: We pushed the boat out in Central Vietnam – for us anyway – and spent $45 a night . Located off the beaten path a little (about 15 minutes from the centre of town), this peaceful hideaway was set among lush greenery and rice paddies, and came complete with a swimming pool, wonderful views, complimentary bikes, tasty food, and quaffable fishbowl gin and tonics.

Situated just outside the National Park and the caves the area is famous for, we enjoyed sitting al fresco watching the sunset, sipping on a drink with a plate of crispy spring rolls to munch on.

The vibe was French colonial, with plenty of dark wood, wicker furniture and colourful tiles. And the ethos was ethical, sustainable and local, which got a thumbs up from us.

Danang: We continued with a slightly increased budget here, and spent $62 a night at this stylish beachfront property in a bright and airy superior double. .

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the white sands of My Khe beach and about 25 from the famous Dragon Bridge, this spot offered us the best of both worlds.

We made the most of the glorious rooftop pool and terrace and the plentiful breakfast buffet. And friendly staff were on hand to answer our questions – such as where to get the local bus to Hoi An from.

Hoi An: Just 45 minutes southwards on that bus we were advised about, we reached our next stop. We split our time here: three nights a short cycle from lovely Cua Dai beach at this contemporary hotel with a pool overlooking the Co Co river (we paid $40 per night ).

Our room was spacious, clean, and it was fab to have a balcony. Plus, we were just a 20-minute ride to the sea. And at the latter smaller property, we loved the eye-catching colourful tiles throughout and enjoyed a splash in the dinky pool.

Saigon: We stayed in this first-rate hotel in Saigon, with pale wood and bamboo decor, knowledgeable staff, a quality buffet breakfast, and a rooftop pool with city vistas. We paid $90 per night and were very happy.

Can Tho (Mekong Delta): We were here for just one night, and up very early for a Mekong Delta boat ride the following day. So we opted for a lower end of the price bracket option. And we couldn’t find fault with this virtually riverside boutique hostel , where we paid just $20 per night .

You can expect funky monochrome decor and air-con. Breakfast wasn’t included here, but we knew we’d be eating on our floating market trip.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACCOMMODATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $1178. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $42 PER DAY, OR $21 EACH.

Reminder: in Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay, the cost I’ve used in the calculation included a whole excursion – so food, walks etc.

THE COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM

We chose to travel by bus throughout Vietnam for the most part. We generally found these to be clean, efficient and comfortable. Some had reclining seats that were bedlike, for longer journeys.

To reiterate: shop around for prices; we found there were deals to be had. If, however, you break into a sweat when you think about masterfully haggling with the experts, 12Go Asia is my go-to site for booking overland travel in Southeast Asia. They’ve got buses, trains, and private transport listed, and it’s usually only a dollar or two more than you’ll pay in person, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

Keep in mind that sometimes the buses take less time than advised and you may have to swap buses, which you’re not always pre-informed about. For example, from Phong Nha to Danang we switched buses in Hue. And from Hoi An to Dalat, we changed vehicles in Nha Trang (but did get to see a lovely sunrise at the beach there). Really, for the prices we paid, we couldn’t complain.

Here’s a breakdown of our journeys:

Train from Hanoi to Sapa: $32 per person . Note: we shared our cabin with two other (snoring) people, so would recommend opting for a private cabin if funds allow (around $61 per person).

Bus from Sapa to Hanoi: $12 per person . We used Sapa Express : comfy seats, lovely views, and a very friendly member of staff was on board. Water and a snack were provided, too. The company was also very accommodating when we nearly missed the bus.

Bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh: $7 per person

Bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha: $12 per person

Bus from Phong Nha to Danang: $12 per person

Local bus from Danang to Hoi An: $1 per person

Bus from Hoi An to Dalat: $16 per person

Bus from Dalat to Saigon: $17 per person

Bus from Saigon to Can Tho: $6 per person

Shuttle bus from Can Tho to Ha Tien: $6 per person. Tip: don’t buy your ticket from the office, go directly to a shuttle and ask a driver for a price – they charged us less than what was quoted inside.

There are other modes of transport if buses aren’t for you. Trains are an alternative ( 12Go is a top website for those, too), and Grab was available in Hanoi, Danang and Saigon.

Similar to Uber, you just need to download the app. Scooters are an option with Grab; cheaper than booking a car. Watch out for taxis you hail off the street – they have a reputation for trying to rip off tourists, so it’s easier to use the app.

OUR TOTAL COST OF TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM CAME TO $242. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $8.60 PER DAY, OR $4.30 EACH.

THE COST OF ACTIVITIES AND ENTRANCE FEES IN VIETNAM

We saw and did a lot in Vietnam, ranging from rice paddy walks and scenic boat rides to food tours. There were also some well-known activities that we chose not to do, because of personal preference. For example, Phong Nha is famous for caves, but we opted for a bike ride into the countryside instead.

Here’s a rundown for you, with costs.

Halong Bay two-day/one-night tour from Hanoi: $150 per person. If there’s one thing you have to do when you’re in Vietnam, it’s to visit their most famous attraction. Halong Bay is incredible and well-worth taking the time and spending the money to see it. The rock formations are breathtaking! We opted for a tour that took us to both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, as the latter is free of the tourist crowds. That way, we got the best of both worlds. You can check availability for the tour we booked using the widget below (it is popular, so book well in advance!)

Food tour in Hanoi with Ha Food Tours: $25 per person . An amazing evening; we were fit to burst by the end. Our local tour guide was fun, friendly and very informative. She also gave us recommendations for other restaurants to try (Pho 10 below). We wandered our way around the Old Quarter sampling delights such as Bun Cha, egg coffee (nicer than it sounds!), dried beef salad, crab spring rolls, beef noodles, Bahn Mi, sticky rice, and coconut ice-cream. Told you there was a lot of food! We wouldn’t necessarily have known to go into some of the places, and it was lovely to be led by someone with first-hand knowledge of the city. We thought the price offered excellent value for money, when you coupled all of the food with the guided aspect.

Hoa Lo prison, Hanoi (pay at the entrance): 30,000 VND per person (approximately $1.50) . This was an eye-opening and moving experience. The former jail was used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners, and later by North Vietnam for US Prisoners of War during the Vietnam War.

Sapa walking and homestay with Mao and family : $55 per person (two days, one night). The scenery was amazing in Sapa and the Muong Hoa Valley: rice fields, terraces, tea plants, and lush greenery. If you’re into glorious views and walking (there was a fair amount, and it was medium difficulty at times), this is for you. We met Mao’s sister-in-law in the centre of town, and from there, up we went into the mountains. It was peaceful, picturesque, and a world away from busy Hanoi. Included in the tour were two lunches, plus a plentiful home-cooked dinner and breakfast at Mao’s. Do try the rice wine – ‘happy water’ Mao offers at dinnertime – it was potent, reminding us a bit of sake.

Bai Tu Long Bay boat tour with Premier Travel: $144 per person (two days, one night). Again, the scenery here was pretty spectacular, with limestone rock formations jutting out of the water across the bay. The trip included visiting a pearl farm and an impressive cave, all meals, a summer roll making class, a swim, and a kayak. Just to let you know, it was communal dining, which some people like, and others don’t.

Trang An caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 200,000 VND per person (approximately $8.50) . We were really pleased we chose to cycle out to the river and the Trang An caves. They were a much quieter alternative to Tam Coc (we rode via there another day and it was busy). At Trang An, we jumped aboard a small boat just before 4pm; it was quiet on the water. The scenery was wonderful and the caves we went through made the journey exciting and interesting. Watch your head in some of the caves – they were low. We made a few stops along the way and helped to row for some of the trip. It was a lovely way to spend a few hours. Lunch tip: Quoc Khanh Bamboo Homestay (great views, and very tasty pomelo, pork and shrimp salad).

Mua Caves, Ninh Binh (pay at entrance): 100,000 VND per person (approximately $4.50) . We cycled from our homestay through paddy fields which was fab. The caves involved a 500-step climb – so it may not be for everyone. Tough, but totally worth it for the amazing and far-reaching vistas.

Scooter food tour in Hoi An: $35 per person . Another fantastic food tour. We sampled a whopping nine dishes on this tour — some of which were served in a local’s home who specialised in that particular item. So good, so fun, and so informative; this is a must-do!

Countryside tour in Dalat : $40 per person . One word: loved! We stopped at a cricket farm, the Elephant Falls, a silk factory, a coffee plant, and wandered around a local market sampling bits and pieces. We also enjoyed a lunch pitstop with a fun fruit tasting, and then came the secret aspect. I won’t reveal what that was – it was worth it though.

Crazy House , Dalat (pay at the entrance): 40,000 VND per person (approximately $1.75) . This really was crazy. An unconventional building constructed by Vietnamese architect Đặng Việt Nga, designed to entice people back to nature. You can also stay there too, if that floats your boat.

Saigon Pho Trail : $55 per person . A food and walking tour highlighting the ‘real’ Ho Chi Minh City. We wandered around authentic markets, enjoyed a first-rate breakfast beef pho, calamansi juice, and then a huge lunch. So much tasty food! And a super friendly pair of guides.

Saigon foot scrub: $15 per person . We’d done an awful lot of walking throughout our trip and our feet deserved some attention! There were so many places offering spa services, so we shopped around. Our treatment also included a quick neck and back massage, and a pedicure for me.

Mekong Delta boat ride: $18 per person . We loved this tour so much. It was an early start down to the water where we took a boat tour to the Cai Rang Floating Market. Next, we stopped at a noodle factory and then a cacao plant. A wonderful morning. Our advice? Don’t book online, ask your hotel for a tour recommendation.  

There were also tons of free activities we enjoyed. They can sometimes be just as enjoyable, we think. Read on for a handful of our faves.

Phong Nha Bong Lai Valley bike ride: This was one of my favourite days. So scenic, not too difficult, and two great places to stop for a beer and food – always a bonus! Their names? Pub with Cold Beer (it did what it said on the tin), and Eco Boar Farm.

Danang beach walk: Non Nuoc and My Khe – wide stretches with fine sand.

Hoi An beach walk: Cua Dai. Another lovely stretch; keep an eye out for colourful crabs scurrying along.

Where I’ve mentioned bikes, these were complimentary with our hotel stay.

OUR TOTAL COST OF ACTIVITIES IN VIETNAM CAME TO $418.50. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $15 PER DAY, OR $7.50 EACH.

Reminder: I’ve excluded the Sapa and Bai Tu Long Bay tours from my calculations because I included them in the accommodation costs above.

THE COST OF FOOD VIETNAM

I love, love, love food. Wherever we visit, we put a lot of research time into where to eat and what dishes we should try. We like to taste local specialities, and so we kept our ear out for recommendations. The food in Vietnam was among the best we tasted throughout the year, and super cheap too.

I’m going to list a handful of dishes we regularly ate across the four weeks, with an average price.

Like I said before, for the most part, breakfast was included as part of our room rate, so I won’t include that in this section. And on a handful of days when we were on an excursion, all of our meals were included. So I’ll calculate for the remaining days.

Let’s do it…

Bahn Mi: a super delicious snack that we had virtually every day! A baguette (Viet style – much lighter than the French version) filled with BBQ pork, pate, herbs, chilli, and pickled veg. Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi was our favourite by far and cost just 30,000 a pop (about $1.30). Madam Khanh, Queen of Banh Mi in Hoi An was also very tasty (25,000 VND, approximately $1).

Pho: fragrant noodle soup that struck the balance of being fresh yet filling.

Average cost: 65,000 VND ( approximately $3). Our recommendation? Beef pho at Pho 10 in Hanoi. The broth was delicate and the meat rare (it cooked a bit as it sat in the broth). There were sharing condiments on the table – fresh chilli, a fiery sauce and garlic. One portion and a beer came in at 85,000 VND (around $4).

Bun Cha: a tangy broth, with chargrilled pork patties, rice noodles, fresh vegetables and herbs. The average we paid for this scrummy dish was 90,000 VND ($4) per portion. We loved Bun Cha Ta in Hanoi.

Banh Xeo: super cheap and filling crispy pancakes filled with veggies, pork belly and prawns. Just 23,000 VND ($1) a portion in general.

Com Ga: chicken and rice. Simple yet delicious, and cheap at around 46,000 VND ($2) per portion.

Nem Nuong: pork sausage meat, greens, pickled veg, rice noodles and rice paper – a DIY meal where we wrapped the ingredients in the rice paper. So tasty, and only around 92,000 VND ($4) a portion.

Dumplings and wontons: need little explanation! Miss Ly’s well-known spot in Hoi An was a noteworthy place to try these. We shared, and paid 80,000 VND each (about $3.50).

A couple of evenings we fancied some Western food. For example, we had a yummy pizza each at Fatfish in Danang. That cost us 195,000 VND (about $8.50) per person. A bit more expensive, but still totally manageable.

Burger Bros in Danang cost us 100,000 VND (about $4) each – comparable to local food prices. And it was a really juicy burger.

A few times, we spent a bit more on Vietnamese meals. For instance, we enjoyed an early dinner at the Pub with Cold Beer. The family who owns the place offered a unique ‘kill your own chicken for us to cook’ service (you don’t have to; they can do it for you if you’d prefer). Dave opted to do the honours – brave man. A while later, a BBQed, spatchcocked bird appeared smelling wonderful. It was served with rice, greens and the most amazing sauces – peanut and fresh chilli. We really loved that meal. It cost us 230,000 VND ($10) each, and was so worth it.

Goc Ha Thanh in Dalat came in at 322,000 each (around $14) – that included a starter of spring rolls, coconut prawn curries, a side of veg, water, and local wine. Who knew very drinkable wine was made in Dalat?!

Average daily food cost: $8.57 per day, or $4.29 each

More on drinks next…

We sipped on plenty of bottled water which was dirt cheap, plus beers, and the odd cocktail here and there. A large water cost us about 50 cents.

In Hanoi, ‘fresh beer’ (bia hoi) is famous, and even cheaper than water. It cost us around 8,000 VND (35 cents) a glass. We only found this sold in the capital, out of big freezer chests. It was made fresh each day with few preservatives; foamy and quite light in alcohol. We highly recommend you try it.

Otherwise, we tended to share large bottles of local beer; they came in at about $1 a bottle.

Oh, and for lovers of the chocolate bar Bounty, or fans of coconut in general, you MUST pay Cong Caphe a visit. We stopped at outposts in Hanoi and Saigon. Their coconut smoothie was one of the best things I drank (a bold claim I know) – so good and so simple. It was made of coconut milk whizzed up with crushed ice and coffee. Yum. The chocolate and coconut version was equally delicious too. And the price? 45,000 VND each (about $2). Heavenly, and totally worth it.

In Saigon, we visited Pasteur Street Brewing , where a bottle was 70,000 VND (approximately $3). Dearer than local brands like Bia Saigon, but it was craft beer – and very good.

We indulged in happy hour cocktails at Mango Rooms in Hoi An a few times. They cost about 100,000 each (approximately $4). Keep an eye out for 2 for 1 deals – we found them a great way to be able to sample drinks we may not have done otherwise.

Average daily drink cost: $4.82 per day, or $2.41 each

Like I said, we can’t talk highly enough of the Vietnamese cuisine. Flavourful, packed a spice punch, and totally delicious. Such great value for money, too.

OUR TOTAL COST OF FOOD AND DRINK IN VIETNAM CAME TO $375. THAT’S AN AVERAGE OF $13.40 PER DAY, OR $6.70 EACH.

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES IN VIETNAM

A local SIM card:  I don’t know about you, but one of my least favourite aspects of arriving in a new country is having to figure out how to get connected. Specifically: buying a local SIM card so that I have data to use while I’m in the country.

There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with, various forms of ID you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

This year, I started using  Airalo , which sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in Vietnam, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It’s worked flawlessly for me and now, I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. You’ll pay  $4.50 for 1 GB of data  for Vietnam and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible before buying — all recent iPhones and many Androids are.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Vietnam. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN VIETNAM?

Okay, so after adding everything up, here are costs per person:

• Accommodation: $21 per day
• Transport: $4.30 per day
• Activities: $7.50 per day
• Food and drink: $6.70 per day
• Miscellaneous: $1.50 per day

Grand total spent in Vietnam: $41 per person per day .

Vietnam was excellent value for money, and a highlight of our year. We saw untold wonderful sights, ate incredibly well, and stayed at a range of quality accommodation.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS? DID YOU EXPECT TO BE ABLE TO TRAVEL THROUGH VIETNAM FOR THAT PRICE?

Related Articles on Vietnam 🇻🇳 Photos of Ridiculous Things on Bikes in Vietnam

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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13 comments.

An epic post, Laura! Covers everything I need to know about travel in Vietnam and how much it’ll cost me.

HI Laura, This as a great post – IM a new traveller so very helpful! Can you tell me how long did it take to organise a visa and do you have to have any vaccinations? (Im not partial to them …) Thanks!

It took about 48 hours for my visa to be approved — super easy process, so no worries about that.

There are a few vaccines that are recommended (although not required) — hepatitis A&B and typhoid, in particular — I got both of those vaccines back in 2011 when I first started travelling, then got a top-up a few years ago. Japanese encephalitis is a good idea if you’re going to be staying in any rural areas. It’s not worth taking anti-malarials, as dengue is the real problem there, not malaria — I have multiple friends who have contracted dengue in Vietnam and been really sick, one of whom was left with chronic joint pain from the virus. Because of this, definitely take care to cover up when mosquitoes are active (around sunset) and/or use lots of insect repellent. Dengue really is the biggest thing you need to worry about, as there’s a lot of it in Vietnam. COVID vaccines aren’t required to enter the country anymore.

I’ve had tons of vaccines, though — pretty much any travel-related ones you can get! As somebody who contracted cholera[!!] because I skipped getting the vaccine (and still have health issues from the illness, five years later), I resolved to get every vaccine I could. It sucked to get that sick and know I could have prevented it.

But either way, to answer your question, there’s several that are recommended but none that are mandatory.

Great post! Just confirming are your prices here in USD?

Thanks so much! Yes, they’re in USD.

Hi Lauren, my daughter and I are planning a trip to Vietnam in August. Great to find helpful info on your site, but just wondering what currency your pricing is based on? Travelling as a Kiwi I may need to double it!

Hi Jacqui, My hubby and I are also going in August. I was wondering the same thing as we are Aussies. We’ve been before but 12 years ago so I can’t remember alot and obviously things have changed. When we went last time I only booked the first 3 nights and the concierge at the hotel booked the rest of the 2 weeks for us for $600AUD each which included all accommodation, travel and sight seeing for the whole 2 weeks. It worked out at about a third of the price of what I’d have paid in Australia. I’m really tempted to just do the same again. Enjoy your trip and who knows – maybe we’ll see you on the road!

One of my favorite things about Vietnam was how inexpensive it was! I just came back from two weeks in SE Asia and I really can’t wait to go back. Vietnam was my favorite place we went. The people are SO a friendly and it really was an excellent experience. The food is amazing. And I love that you can get grabs for like $2 across Ho Chi Minh City. I came back to America and cringed paying $40 for my Uber back from the airport haha. I miss the food and people so much already! Planning to try my hand at making egg coffee- I saved a website that tells you how so hopefully it turns out well.

Fantastic article – thank you so much!

This post is really helpful, thank you so much.

How did you apply for a visa? I am in Australia and I hear there are lots of scams and I am not quite sure on what is the best process.

I would love to travel to Vietnam, but found it hard to figure out public transportation. is there a website you know of that is helpful? country is very long are there tips you recommend to save time ie special routes and travel time like overnight….

Hi Shiva! I use 12Go in Southeast Asia and book all of my buses, minivans, and trains through there. You’ll pay an extra dollar or so to use the service but it makes it sooo much easier than hunting down a travel agent to book everything in person! I personally am not a huge fan of travelling overnight as I find I always sleep terribly and lose much of the next day to napping and exhaustion — you may be different though. It’s worth experimenting with for sure! Plus you save money on accommodation by travelling overnight :-) Flying can definitely save you time for some longer legs and domestic flights in Vietnam are always pretty affordable.

Excellent post – thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed overview of your experience.

I’m looking for a place to stay in Hanoi – I was wondering the name of the hotel you have pictured near the top of the article, with a pool overlooking the river. If you could please let me know the name of this place I will be eternally grateful!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Vietnam Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Vietnam?

• How much does a one-week trip to Vietnam cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Vietnam cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Vietnam cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Vietnam

A trip to Vietnam for one person usually costs between $22 and $177 per day and $45 to $354 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $61 (d1,506,691) per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to Vietnam is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere within this range. Also, the prices for individual destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to this range. Below you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a comparison of guided tour costs versus traveling independently.

For budget travelers in Vietnam, planning for around $22 (d555,633) per day should cover essentials such as accommodations in hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and engaging in various activities. If you're a mid-range traveler, setting aside around $61 (d1,506,691) per day would allow for more comfortable stays in typical hotels, dining at regular restaurants, and exploring a diverse range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should consider a daily budget of approximately $177 (d4,387,641) to accommodate higher-end hotel stays, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in more exclusive private tour options. It's important to note that these price ranges are derived from our extensive travel cost data for Vietnam, which is based on valuable insights from other travelers as well as hotel and tour data provided by travel companies. For a more detailed breakdown of travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Vietnam .

How much does a one week trip to Vietnam cost?

When planning a one-week trip to Vietnam, most visitors to Vietnam spend between $157 and $1,240 for their trip, with the average cost falling around $426. This estimate includes essential aspects such as sightseeing, local transportation, food, and accommodations. With a full week, you'll have sufficient time to explore one, two, or possibly three locations within Vietnam, depending on the amount of time you want to spend in each place. The most popular places worth considering are Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi , and Da Nang . Keep in mind that these numbers are based on overall averages and may vary depending on your individual preferences.

How much does a two week trip to Vietnam cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $314 and $2,480 for your trip to Vietnam. The average price for a two week trip is $852. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as Sapa, Nha Trang, and Hoi An.

How much does a one month trip to Vietnam cost?

When embarking on a month-long trip to Vietnam, expenses can range from $673 to $5,314, with an average cost falling around $1,825. For those fortunate enough to have a full month, considering a vacation rental with a kitchen for at least a portion of your stay can help save money with meals. Backpackers often opt for hostels due to their affordability and the added benefit of a social vibe.

Hostel Prices in Vietnam

With more than 220 hostels in Vietnam, the average price is $7 per night for a dorm bed. Hostels are a terrific option for younger independent travelers looking to save money while staying social during their trip. With many types of hostels, it can be overwhelming to sort out the best places, though. Our analysis of the hostels in Vietnam not only found the average price, but also uncovered some surprises about the overall quality, amenities, and atmosphere of hostels in the region. You can see more details from our analysis about typical hostel prices in Vietnam here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Vietnam.

• $9 for a dorm bed at Mad Monkey Hoi An in Hoi An more details
• $7 for a dorm bed at Nexy Hostel in Hanoi more details
• $4 for a dorm bed at Bong Backpackers & Bikes in Ha Giang more details

Hotel Prices in Vietnam

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Vietnam. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Vietnam .

Au Lac Charner Hotel

Angel palace hotel.

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Vietnam?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, there are two primary options to choose from: organized tours and independent travel. Organized tours offer a convenient and hassle-free experience, as all the details of your trip are handled by travel experts. Additionally, you'll have the benefit of an expert guide who can provide valuable insights and knowledge during your journey. This option is often favored by travelers who appreciate the convenience and ease it offers, with many tours providing transportation and expert guides to enhance the overall experience.

On the other hand, independent travel provides a different set of advantages. It offers a higher level of freedom and flexibility, allowing you to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace. This option appeals to travelers who value the ability to make spontaneous decisions and have more control over their travel plans. The independence of traveling on your own can provide a sense of adventure and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture on a deeper level.

Ultimately, the choice between organized tours and independent travel depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Consider your desired level of convenience, the amount of guidance you prefer, and the level of flexibility you seek when making your decision. Both options have their own merits, and the decision should be based on what aligns best with your travel goals and preferences.

Comparing Trip Costs in Vietnam

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Vietnam?

Organized tours typically average around $155 per day and provide the convenience of an all-inclusive package with one comprehensive payment. On the other hand, independent trips usually average around $61 (d1,506,691) per day and involve individual payments for accommodations, local transportation, meals, and sightseeing. Both organized tours and independent trips have their own unique challenges and benefits, so it's crucial to thoroughly understand the aspects of each to make a fair comparison. For a detailed analysis of tour prices in Vietnam, check out our comprehensive guide on tour prices in Vietnam here .

Here are a few sample tours in Vietnam:

• 22 Days from Top Notch North to South of Vietnam ($3,800) 22 days, 18 destinations more details
• Vietnam South to North: Saigon to Hanoi Cycling Tour ($3,500) 16 days, 12 destinations more details
• Getaway Vietnam Tour from Hanoi via Phong Nha cave, Khe Sanh, Hue, Hoi An to… ($4,320) 15 days, 10 destinations more details
• Treasures & Temples of Vietnam & Cambodia - 7 or 9 night cruise - Arrive… ($7,745) 17 days, 14 destinations more details
• Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong (2024) (Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City,… ($8,499) 15 days, 13 destinations more details

More for Vietnam

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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Vietnam trip cost per day & week – Travel budget overview

Your Vietnam trip cost can vary greatly depending on your travel style, with options ranging from budget-friendly to high-end luxury. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive cost overview divided in 3 travel budget styles per day and per week, so you can plan your trip with confidence and get the most out of your experience in this beautiful country.

• Calculate your Vietnam travel cost

Vietnam travel budget per day & week

• Vietnam cost overview
• Cheapest and most expensive season

Vietnam travel budget tips

Calculate your vietnam trip cost.

This tool provides a general cost overview for your Vietnam trip based on your travel style. By entering details about your preferred accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, the calculator will estimate your trip’s average cost. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and actual expenses may vary depending on the season and other factors.

• How long is your trip
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When it comes to traveling in Vietnam, your budget will largely depend on your preferred travel style. Whether you’re a budget traveler, mid-range traveler, or high-end traveler, Vietnam has something to offer for all budgets. From budget-friendly hostels and street food to luxurious resorts and fine dining restaurants, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste and budget in Vietnam.

Budget traveler – travel budget

Vietnam is a popular destination for budget travelers and backpackers, offering affordable options for accommodation, food, and activities. With its delicious and cheap street food, coupled with an abundance of budget-friendly accommodations, it’s easy to have an enjoyable time in Vietnam without breaking the bank.

• Per Day : $25-$35
• Per Week (7 days) : $175-$245
• Accommodation : Budget accommodation such as hostels, guesthouses, and homestays can range from $5-15 per night, so for a week, you could expect to spend around $35-105.
• Transportation : Local buses and trains are relatively cheap in Vietnam, with prices ranging from $1-15 depending on the distance. For a week, transportation costs could add up to around $20-30.
• Activities : There are many free or low-cost activities to do in Vietnam, such as visiting temples, hiking, or exploring local markets. Some more popular activities like a Halong Bay cruise or a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels can cost between $20-40 per person. For a week, budgeting around $50-60 for activities would be reasonable.
• Food & Drink : Vietnamese street food is known for being delicious and affordable. A budget of $10-15 per day for food and drink would allow you to enjoy local specialties and eat at small restaurants or street stalls. For a week, this would add up to around $70-105.

Mid-range traveler – travel budget

For travelers looking for more comfort and convenience, Vietnam is also a great destination for mid-range travel. With a slightly higher budget, mid-range travelers can enjoy more upscale accommodations, transportation, and dining options, while still getting good value for their money.

• Per Day : $50-$80
• Per Week (7 days) : $350-$560
• Accommodation : For mid-range accommodation, you can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per night for a private room in a hotel or a guesthouse.
• Transportation : Transportation costs can vary depending on how you choose to travel. If you opt for public transportation like buses and trains, you can expect to pay around $10 to $15 per day for transportation. Taxis and ride-sharing services will cost more. Renting a motorbike or a car will cost around $10 to $20 per day.
• Activities : Mid-range activities in Vietnam can include guided tours, entrance fees to attractions, and other experiences. Expect to pay around $30 to $50 per activity.
• Food & Drink : Mid-range meals in Vietnam can cost around $5 to $10 per meal. Local street food is usually the cheapest option, while restaurants and cafes will be more expensive. Drinks like beer and cocktails can cost around $2 to $5 each.

Luxury traveler – travel budget

Vietnam offers a plethora of luxury experiences for travelers looking for a high-end getaway. From 5-star hotels and resorts to private tours and fine dining experiences, Vietnam caters to those with discerning tastes and a willingness to spend more.

• Per Day : $150-$300
• Per Week (7 days): $1,050-$2,100
• Accommodation : As a luxury traveler in Vietnam, you can expect to indulge in high-end accommodations with prices ranging from $100 to $500 per night, depending on the level of luxury and location. Private villas, beachfront resorts, and five-star hotels are among the options available.
• Transportation : Transportation options for luxury travelers in Vietnam include private cars, chauffeur services, private jets, and helicopters. Expect to pay around $500 to $1,000 per day for transportation services, depending on the mode of transportation and distance.
• Activities : Luxury activities in Vietnam could include private tours, exclusive events, and personalized experiences. Prices can vary greatly depending on the activity and level of exclusivity, but expect to pay upwards of $200 per activity.
• Food & Drink : Fine dining experiences are also a must for luxury travelers in Vietnam, with high-end restaurants and upscale bars offering premium menus and drinks. Expect to pay around $50 to $100 per meal, with drinks costing $10 or more.

Vietnam trip cost overview

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering about the cost, this list provides a comprehensive overview of prices for common expenses. From accommodation and transportation to food and activities, these estimated costs can help you plan and budget for your Vietnam trip. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your location, season, and travel style, but this list provides a good starting point for estimating your Vietnam trip cost.

Price for accommodation

• 1 night in a hostel: $5-$15 USD
• Mid-range hotel: $25-$50 USD per night
• High-end resort: $150-$500 USD per night

Price for food and drink

• Street food: $1-$3 USD per meal
• Eating at a local restaurant: $3-$7 USD per meal
• Fine dining restaurant: $30-$80 USD per meal
• Soft drink at a local restaurant: $0.50-$1.50 USD
• Local beer: $0.50-$2 USD
• Beer at a bar: $1-3 per bottle/can
• Wine at a bar: $10-30 per bottle
• Cocktails at a bar: $5-10 per drink
• Coffee at a café: $1-3 per cup

Price for activities & services:

• Entrance fee for a temple: $1-$3 USD
• Massage: $10-$20 USD per hour
• Group tour: $20-$50 USD per person
• Private tour: $50-$150 USD per person
• Spa treatment: $20-$50 USD
• Manicure/Pedicure: $5-$20 USD
• Haircut: $3-$10 USD
• Admission fee for museums: $1-5

Price for transportation

• Renting a car with driver: $50-$100 USD per day
• Bus trip between cities: $5-$20 USD
• Train travel: $10-$50 USD
• Motorbike rental: $5-$10 USD per day
• Taxi per km or mile: $0.50-1 per km
• Domestic flights: $30-100 per person

Miscellaneous

• Laundry service: $1-$2 USD per kilogram
• Souvenir T-shirt: $5-$10 USD
• Tailored suit or dress: $50-$200 USD
• Local sim card: $5-$10 USD
• Pack of cigarettes: $1-$3 USD

Cheapest and most expensive seasons in Vietnam

The cheapest season in Vietnam is generally from May to September, which is the low season due to the hot and rainy weather in most parts of the country. The most expensive season is from December to February, which is the peak season for tourism, especially around the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday, and the weather is cooler and drier in the north. Prices for accommodation, transportation, and activities tend to be higher during this period.

• Bargaining is common practice in markets and smaller shops, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
• Always confirm prices before agreeing to services such as taxi rides or tours to avoid being overcharged.
• It’s a good idea to carry cash with you, especially when venturing into rural areas, as many places do not accept credit cards.
• If you’re looking for a cheap mode of transportation, consider renting a bicycle. Many hostels and guesthouses offer bike rentals for a low price.
• Be aware of hidden fees, such as service charges or taxes, when booking accommodations or tours.
• Prices for goods and services can vary widely depending on the region of the country you are in. For example, prices in tourist hotspots like Hoi An or Halong Bay will likely be higher than in more rural areas.
• Vietnamese street food is not only delicious, but it’s also very affordable. If you’re on a tight budget, eating at street food stalls and local markets can help you save a lot of money.
• If you’re planning to stay in Vietnam for an extended period of time, consider renting an apartment or a room in a shared house instead of staying in hotels or guesthouses. This can be a more cost-effective option in the long run.
• The cost of living in Vietnam can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and location. For example, living in a major city like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi will be more expensive than living in smaller towns or rural areas.
• Lastly, keep in mind that while Vietnam is generally a very affordable travel destination, prices for certain activities or services may be higher during peak tourist season or in popular tourist areas.
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Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Vietnam Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Vietnam, a country famous for its emerald bays and rice paddies, can be visited with a  budget of $30 to $65 a day.

My nearly two-week trip to Vietnam cost a total of $1,251 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category
• 📍 My trip’s costs by destination

Planning a trip? Here’s what to know about Vietnam .

• Is Vietnam Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• Vietnam vs. Thailand Costs
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $89
• Flight: $183
• Accommodation: $150
• Transportation: $110
• Entertainment: $488
• Miscellaneous: $247
• Hanoi: $202
• Hoi An: $370
• Cat Ba Island: $146
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash To Bring
• Cash-Only Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Vietnam Trip Planner

Lists By Lukiih is readers-supported. When you buy with my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission. Thanks!

Is Vietnam Expensive To Travel To?

Vietnam ranks as  one of the most affordable  destinations in Asia. It has a relatively low cost of living, a wide range of accommodation options, free attractions, and a competitive tourism market.

Along with Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, Vietnam is often considered an  inexpensive destination  in Southeast Asia.

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Destinations in Asia

For comparison, I visited these countries in Asia within a year of visiting Vietnam, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

*My Cambodia daily budget is high because I splurged on accommodation.

See all my daily budget for each destination I’ve visited .

How Much Is a Trip to Vietnam?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Vietnam Trip Cost

Budget travelers can expect to spend approximately $30 per day or $420 for two weeks of travel in Vietnam, excluding flights.

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

Traveling Vietnam on a Budget

To travel on a budget to Vietnam, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – Stay at a dorm-style hostel for as low as $5 a night . For an additional $10 per night, you can stay at a mid-range hotel, as accommodation prices are very cheap in Vietnam.
• 🏍️ Transportation – Take Vietnam’s “sleeper buses” that travel at night to get around the country, as those are generally the cheapest mode of transportation.

Vietnam doesn’t have public transportation outside Ho Chi Minh City, but the country has a comprehensive bus network .

• 🍜 Food – Eat street food and local restaurants for $2 or less per meal. Tourist restaurants have an upcharge, and the food is not guaranteed to be more authentic or fresher.

Tap water is generally  unsafe to drink  in Vietnam, so you can also stock up on drinks and water at convenience stores instead of paying for them at restaurants or touristy places.

• ⛰️ Entertainment – Skip some of Vietnam’s guided tours, as paying for them will significantly increase your budget.
• ☀️ Travel Season – For the best deals, avoid traveling to Vietnam during the peak season and aim to visit sometime between April and June or September and November.
• 📍 Destination – Visit budget-friendly areas of Vietnam. Some of the most budget-friendly tourist areas include Hoi An, Nha Trang, the Mekong Delta, and Cat Ba Island near Lan Ha Bay.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Vietnam Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler, such as myself, can expect to spend approximately $65 per day or $910 for two weeks of travel in Vietnam, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

Is Vietnam or Thailand More Affordable To Travel To?

People often compare Thailand to Vietnam, as they are  Southeast Asia’s most popular and affordable destinations .

Vietnam is, on average,  slightly more affordable  to travel to than Thailand. However, affordability and cost of living vary by region within each country. Still, Thailand is a more developed country, and Vietnam’s cost of living is lower than Thailand’s.

For tourists, Vietnam’s cost per day is, on average, lower than Thailand’s. Below is a rough daily budget comparison for a mid-range budget traveler.

For a two-week trip, you can expect to spend   roughly  $910  in Vietnam and  $1,120  in Thailand.

You’ll see below that my daily budget in Vietnam is higher because I did relatively expensive activities (e.g., deep water soloing and getting tailored clothes in Hoi An ).

About My Vietnam Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Hanoi : 1 day
• Ninh Binh : 1 day
• Lan Ha Bay : 2 days
• Ha Giang : 3 days
• Hoi An : 3 days
• Da Nang : 2 day

Comparing the two major cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City in southern Vietnam is, on average, roughly 10% more expensive than Hanoi City in northern Vietnam.

• ☀️ High season – I visited Vietnam in November, which is considered the high season.

Vietnam has two peak seasons: one from March to early May and the other from October to December.

• ✌️ Group travel – I traveled with one other person, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Vietnam’s local currency, the Vietnamese Dong.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = 24,300 VND at the time of writing.

Vietnam Trip’s Total Cost: $1,251

My nearly two-week trip to Vietnam cost a total of $1,251, including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in these northern Vietnam and central Vietnam itineraries.

💰 Cost Breakdown for Vietnam

🗓️ daily budget in vietnam: $89.

My Vietnam trip cost $89 per day , excluding my flights from Taiwan and to Thailand. My daily budget is on the higher end because I did relatively expensive activities.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend $65 per day in Vietnam. This generally means staying at $15 per night accommodations, eating a mix of street and restaurant food, and going on several non-private guided tours.

✈️ Flight Cost to Vietnam: $183

I usually take round-trip flights from the United States, but I flew into Vietnam from Taiwan and out to Thailand for this trip. Here are my flight costs:

A round-trip flight between the US and Vietnam that costs under $750 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $850.

Be aware of  bag weight limits  on low-cost airlines that hop around Asia. I flew AirAsia and VietJet Air, and both had a combined carry-on and checked-bag limit of 7kg (about 15 lbs). If you pass this limit, you’ll have to pay an extra checked bag fee. I paid $14 per bag, but some fees were as high as $45.

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Vietnam: $150

My average cost of accommodation in Vietnam was $12 per day. I was able to split accommodations with one other person at all times.

(This total  doesn’t include  overnight stays on the three-day Ha Giang Loop; those are included in the tour price under  entertainment .)

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

Accommodations in Vietnam are incredibly affordable. You can stay at mid-range hotels for as low as $20 per night . Even luxury hotels, which start at  $100 per night , are relatively inexpensive.

🍜 Food Cost in Vietnam: $72

My average cost of food in Vietnam was $6 per day.

The food capital of Vietnam is Hoi An , a small town that serves regional food not found elsewhere.

Cheapest Meals in Vietnam

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

Food in Vietnam is extremely affordable. Many of my meals, which included a drink, were $2 or less , especially at local restaurants. Restaurants that target tourists will charge more.

Most Expensive Meals in Vietnam

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

I recommend going on an authentic food tour early on your Vietnam trip to discover authentic local food and restaurants that you can try throughout your trip.

🏍️ Transportation Cost in Vietnam: $110

My average cost of transportation in Vietnam was $9 per day .

My average cost of transportation is high because I took  a domestic flight  from northern to central Vietnam. Had I not taken any domestic flights, my average cost of transportation would have been  $6 per day.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Grab rides are almost always more affordable than flagging down a taxi or tuk-tuk. Pro tip: use Grab prices as a baseline for negotiating with taxis or tuk-tuks when they’re more conveniently available.

⛰️ Entertainment Costs in Vietnam: $488

My average cost of entertainment in Vietnam was $41 per day. This total includes a 5% to 15% tip at certain places.

A typical mid-range traveler in Vietnam can expect to spend about  $30 a day on entertainment.

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

These Hoi An and Hanoi guides share details on the activities I did in Vietnam.

👗 Miscellaneous Cost in Vietnam: $247

My average cost of miscellaneous spending in Vietnam was $21 per day.

United States citizens traveling to Vietnam are required to get a tourist visa. The visa costs $25 and takes three business days to process. You can apply online here .

Cost Breakdown by Destination in Vietnam

Below are my trip expense breakdowns for Hanoi, Hoi An, and Cat Ba Island . Hanoi is often featured in first-timers’ travel itineraries.

🏍️ Hanoi Trip’s Total Cost: $202

During my three-day trip to Hanoi, I averaged $67 in daily travel expenses.

I went to a few Hanoi attractions with small entrance fees and paid for an Old Quarter street food tour , which I highly recommend doing at the beginning of your Vietnam trip so you can get familiar with authentic food.

Hanoi is at the center of northern Vietnam, so even if you don’t spend much time there, you will likely fly there to access other parts of Vietnam. It’s a bustling city where you can spend a lot or a little on accommodation and food.

Here are the things to do and skip in Hanoi .

👗 Hoi An Trip’s Total Cost: $370

During my three-day trip to Hoi An, I averaged  $123 in daily travel expenses.

I stayed at a nice hotel that I was able to split with someone else. My expenses in Hoi An are exceptionally high because I bought custom-tailored clothes .

Hoi An is one of the most well-known places in central Vietnam and is known as Vietnam’s food capital. Even though it’s a fairly tourist-oriented town, you’ll be able to find plenty of Vietnamese food for cheap if you look for it. This Hoi An travel guide shares an itinerary and great things to do there

🚤 Cat Ba Island Trip’s Total Cost: $146

During my two-day trip to Cat Ba Island, I averaged $73 in daily travel expenses.

Although Cat Ba Island is its own destination, I mainly traveled there to deep water solo (rock climb above water) . I stayed at a no-frills mid-range hotel , which I was able to split with one other person.

Cát Bà Island is a well-known tourist area in Vietnam, so you can expect prices to be high here . I visited during the island’s low season and thought the prices were comparable to other places in Vietnam.

Do You Need Cash in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s economy is  largely based on   cash transactions , especially in non-tourist areas, so bring some cash. I needed to use cash almost everywhere when I visited.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Vietnam.

💵 1. Withdraw cash in Vietnamese dong.

Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), and the US dollar is not widely accepted.

ATMs are readily available in many tourist places in Vietnam, but if your debit card doesn’t reimburse your ATM fees, you’ll want to withdraw a higher amount less frequently to save on fees.

🏧 2. Carry about $30 to $40 worth of cash per day in Vietnam.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Vietnam will need  at least $30 in cash  to cover food, transportation, and attractions. A daily cash expense breakdown can look like this:

• $10 at restaurants and cafes
• $15 for tipping and entrance fees
• $5 for transportation and other miscellaneous spending

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💳 3. Some places in Vietnam take credit cards.

Being able to use a credit card in Vietnam is the exception, but below are some places that  accepted credit cards  during my trip:

• High-production shows – The Bamboo Circus in Hoi An accepted cards, but not the Water Puppet Show in Hanoi.
• High-cost tailoring services in Hoi An – However, these places typically had a 3% credit card fee.
• Grab app rides  – You can also tip through the app, so you don’t need cash for these.

💰 4. Tipping is not customary in Vietnam.

Tipping is  often appreciated  in Vietnam, but it’s optional. Tipping is most often expected from tourists and businesses that serve visitors.

• Tour – Tour guides will gladly accept 10% to 15% tips, especially those serving Americans.
• Dining – Tipping is not expected when eating street food, but upscale restaurants may add a 10% service charge. For many restaurants, rounding your bill up and leaving some change is sufficient as a tip.
• Drivers – You can round up the change for drivers. Getting around Vietnam with Grab was so cheap that I just tipped drivers $1 regardless.

See other essential travel tips for Vietnam before visiting.

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Vietnam Travel Guides

• 🇻🇳 Vietnam Travel Tips: 11 Practical Things To Know
• ⛰️ 10 Epic Days in North Vietnam: Unique & Active Itinerary
• 🍜 Hanoi Guide: 14 Great Things To Do, Eat and Skip
• 🏍️ Ha Giang Loop: Packing List & Firsthand Tips
• 💧 Deep Water Solo in Vietnam: How To & Firsthand Tips
• 🏮 Hoi An Guide: 11 Great Things To Do + 3-Day Itinerary
• 👗 My Hoi An Tailor Experience: Prices & What To Know

Lists by Lukiih is Readers-Supported

If you find my travel tips helpful, say thanks with a bubble tea 🧋!

Can you share the contact for the Da Nang private car day trip?

Hi Bea, I unfortunately don’t have the contact. He didn’t speak any English and I mainly communicated with him through my tailor. You can likely easily find a driver through any local you trust once you get there.

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How Much Does It Cost for A Vietnam Trip 2024/2025? (With Cost Breakdown)

If you're thinking of visiting Vietnam, you might be wondering how much a trip to Vietnam will cost you. The good news is that Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you like traveling solo or prefer a private tour, Vietnam offers something for every wallet.

Even though it's budget-friendly, you won't miss out on quality experiences and great service. With our carefully selected hotels and activities, Vietnam ensures you get the best bang for your buck.

• Cost for a Classic Vietnam Trip
• Cost of International Flights to Vietnam
• Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam
• Cost of Transportation in Vietnam
• Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam
• Cost of Food in Vietnam
• Tips for Maximizing Your Money

1. How much does it cost for a classic tour in Vietnam?

Based on our data from 2023, 31.8% of travelers prefer to spend 6-8 days in Vietnam . In such cases, they typically focus on one part of Vietnam—either the north, central, or southern regions—or engage in cross-border travel to neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia.

Meanwhile, 21.1% opt for an 11-12 day journey across Vietnam , encompassing key destinations such as Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north, Hanoi and Da Nang in the central region, and Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south.

According to our data (for a private tour), the average cost ranges from $180 to $200 per person per day based on double occupancy in 4-star hotels , increasing to $200-$250 in 5-star accommodations, and averaging $150-$180 for 3-star hotels. This price includes hotel stays, domestic airfares, entrance fees to attractions, private guides, and transportation transfers.

For a classic 11-day, 10-night Vietnam trip, the cost typically falls between $1500 and $3000 per person. (The price does not include the international flight from and back to your home.)

If you travel with a family of 4-6 people, due to more individuals sharing the vehicle and guide fees, the price per person can be reduced by around 10%.

As a reference point, here's an approximate breakdown of expenses in Vietnam:

• Hotel: 20-30%, depending on the chosen hotel category.
• Transportation: 15-25%, varying with the number of flights included and the choice of vehicle type, which is determined by factors such as group size and travel preferences.
• Food: 10-15%.
• Attractions and activities: 15-20%, contingent on the selection of sights and whether unique experiential activities are chosen.
• Guide service and miscellaneous expenses: 10-15%.

Here are two itineraries with quotations for your reference:

• 10-Day Best of Vietnam with Mekong Delta : US$ 2,109 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)
• 6-Day Northern Vietnam Discovery Tour : US$ 829 per person (based on 2 persons and 4-star hotels)

2. The Cost of International Flights to Vietnam

The average cost of a round-trip flight from the United States to Vietnam typically ranges from USD 600 to 1500 , depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel season.

The most budget-friendly time to fly to Vietnam is during the off-travel seasons (approximately April to May and September to October) when tourist influx decreases. It is advisable to book flight tickets 3-6 months in advance for the best deals.

Additionally, budget carriers like AirAsia and VietJet Air sometimes offer competitive rates.

For reference, see the cheapest month to fly from New York to Ho Chi Minh City.

(The data source: https://www.skyscanner.com/routes/nyca/sgn/new-york-to-ho-chi-minh-city.html )

As of February 2024, only direct flights are available from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City. Traveling from Los Angeles or New York to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi would require flights with one or more layovers.

For connecting flights, if you are flying from the West Coast, you could opt for layovers in airports like Taipei, Seoul, or Tokyo; while if you are flying from the East Coast, you could consider layovers in Hong Kong or Doha, which may offer conveniences and lower fares.

Upon arrival in Vietnam, most likely, you will land in either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, the country's two main cities. Generally, the cheapest flights to Vietnam tend to arrive in Ho Chi Minh City due to its service of multiple airlines.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

3. The Cost of Accommodation in Vietnam

Accommodation costs form a significant portion of travel expenses in Vietnam, varying greatly based on chosen options and travel seasons. Peak seasons, typically from November to March and July to August, tend to witness higher prices, while off-peak periods may offer discounts ranging from 30% to 50%.

In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the price of hotels is typically higher compared to smaller cities or rural areas such as Hoi An and Sapa, while the rooms are usually smaller. If you are looking for relaxation and comfort, we suggest allocating more budget to stay in leisure-friendly locations such as Hoi An, Sapa, Ha Long Bay, or the Mekong Delta .

Here are the hotel prices in the main destinations for your reference.

In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , it is advisable to stay in the bustling urban areas for a vibrant city experience. Hotel pricing: 4-star hotels ($60-80), 4-star hotels ($80-150), 5-star hotels ($120-220).

Some of our hand-selected hotels for reference:

• In Hanoi: La Siesta Premium Hang Be, from $130
• In Ho Chi Minh City: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint, from $90

For a relaxed stay in Hoi An , boutique hotels in the Ancient Town area are recommended, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and ambiance. Prices typically range from $30-60 for economy options, $50-100 for comfort accommodations, and $90-180 for deluxe choices.

• One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, from $80

In Sapa , if you seek tranquility and a close-to-nature experience, we suggest staying in a resort on the mountains or in the valleys rather than the downtown area.

• One of our hand-selected hotels for reference: Topas Ecolodge, a boutique mountaintop resort, $ 230.

(My experience: I spent two nights at Topas Ecolodg, and it was my favorite hotel during my trip to Vietnam. The stunning views, the infinity pool, and the villa were all perfect. I definitely plan on returning again in the future. )

Another unmissable experience in Vietnam is the overnight cruise , such as the Ha Long Bay cruises in the north and the Mekong cruises in the south.

For Ha Long Bay cruises, recommended options include Stellar of the Sea, Orchid, and Emperor Cruises, with prices ranging from $300 to $600. Contact us for special offers , and reach out to us today to secure a cabin with Mekong Sampan Cruises, where availability often requires booking six months in advance.

4. The Cost of Transportation in Vietnam

In Vietnam, public transportation is both convenient and affordable. For long-distance travel, we recommend taking a flight. For short distances or exploring within cities, we suggest using a private car for ease and flexibility.

Transportation Costs Between Cities

For traveling between cities, flying is the preferred option with competitively cheap airfares ranging from $50 to $150. Budget airlines such as Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways offer affordable domestic flight options within Vietnam.

Although train and long-distance bus services are available, they are not recommended due to due to their limited cost savings compared to flights and relatively lower comfort levels. For example, a soft sleeper ticket on an overnight train from Hanoi to Da Nang can range from $40 to $80, while a bus ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City typically costs around $30 to $50.

However, there is one notable exception —the train between Hanoi and Lao Cai (Sapa), which offers a deluxe sleeper experience rather than merely transportation. This unique journey ranges from $30 to $80, depending on whether you choose shared or VIP air-conditioned cabins.

(My experience: I tried the Chapa Express (one supplier of the deluxe trains). The train was clean and the bed was comfortable. Water, banana, tea & coffee bags, oreo & toothbrushes were given. One drawback is the noise during the ride, affecting sleep quality, but the luxurious train experience is still worth trying.)

Transportation Costs Within the City

In urban areas, taxis are readily available with fares typically starting at $0.5-1 per kilometer. While motorbikes are prevalent in Vietnam, renting one at around $20 per day is not advisable due to safety concerns.

For touring within the city, we highly recommend hiring a private car with a driver. This option costs between US$50 to 100 for a full day of service, providing the most efficient and comfortable means of transportation.

5. The Cost of Attractions/Activities in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a lot of things to see and do. Prices for attractions and activities can vary, but most are budget-friendly.

Most museums and historical sites have an entrance fee of US$2–5 per person. Nature parks typically have fees of US$10–20 per person.

The cost of a water puppet show in Hanoi can range from 4 to 15 USD per person depending on the location and quality of the show. The AO Show in Ho Chi Minh City is about $ 50 per person.

For some unique cultural experiences, such as cooking classes and foodie tours, the prices are about US$30–50 per person.

6. The Cost of Food in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its delectable flavors and affordability .

• Street food options are abundant and can be as inexpensive as 1 to 3 USD per dish.
• Casual dining experiences at local restaurants generally range between 2 to 6 USD per meal.
• Mid-range restaurants typically charge between 8 to 20 USD per meal, while high-end or luxury establishments may cost $40 or more per meal.

Local coffee is notably inexpensive in Vietnam. You can savor a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) for as little as VND 6,000 (approximately $0.25) at modest street stalls.

When it comes to Pho, the beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, prices typically span from 30,000 VND to 60,000 VND (around $1.3 to 2.6).

The average daily expenditure for dining out in Vietnam is approximately $20-30 per person per day .

It's important to note that tipping is not customary in Vietnam, and the prices indicated above generally represent the final amount you're expected to pay.

7. Visa and Travel Insurance Costs

Vietnam E-visas are issued with a validity period of up to 90 days, one entry for 25 USD or multiple entries for 50 USD. Applying for an e-visa is efficient and convenient. You can apply for the e-visa online .

A travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $30 and $200, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.

8. Tips for Maximizing Your Money on a Vietnam Trip

• Plan and research in advance: Research the best time for your travel, budget-friendly accommodation options, local transportation options, and food prices to get an idea of the overall cost of the trip. We are experts in this. Let us know your requirements and budget, and we will happily personalize a trip for you.
• Be flexible: Try to be flexible with your travel dates and times, as prices may vary depending on the season and time of day (especially during the festive season around Christmas and New Year). This can help you save money on airfares, hotels, and other expenses.
• Eat like a local: Local street food is relatively cheap and is an excellent way to experience the culture of the country while saving money. Avoid eating in touristy areas as food prices are generally higher in such places.
• Travel with a local travel agency: Select a reliable and local travel agency, such as Asia Highlights , which offers affordable packages and deals to help you save money.

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Cost of a Trip to Vietnam & the Cheapest Time to Visit Vietnam

The average price of a 7-day trip to Vietnam is $1,037 for a solo traveler, $1,796 for a couple, and $924 for a family of 4 . Vietnam hotels range from $25 to $153 per night with an average of $46, while most vacation rentals will cost $50 to $410 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Vietnam (from all airports) are between $859 and $1,249 per person for economy flights and $2,697 to $3,922 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $23 to $48 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Vietnam

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Vietnam and stay in a Vietnam hotel:

• January 29th to April 15th (except the week of March 12th)
• August 20th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Vietnam is usually late October .

Average Vietnam Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $811-$1,852 ($116-$265 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $23 to $48 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $452 to $1,108 for economy

Lodging : $33 to $46 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $55 to $68 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,424-$3,295 ($203-$471 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $96 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $904 to $2,215 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $2,849-$6,386 ($407-$912 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $93 to $192 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,808 to $4,430 for economy

Lodging : $65 to $93 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $83 to $102 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Vietnam

How cheap can you make a vacation to Vietnam? The cheapest trip to Vietnam is about $95 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 24% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $21.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $662-$1,665 ($95-$238 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $12 to $23 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $21 to $25 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $36 to $66 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,191-$2,933 ($170-$419 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $23 to $46 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $2,388-$5,681 ($341-$812 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $93 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $43 to $50 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $53 to $100 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very easy to travel to Vietnam cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Vietnam Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Vietnam.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Vietnam for a week is $1,886-$8,290 ($269-$1,184 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $46 to $96 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,120 to $2,692 for first class

Lodging : $74 to $153 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $407 to $821 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Vietnam for a week is $3,334-$11,647 ($476-$1,664 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $93 to $191 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,239 to $5,384 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Vietnam for a week is $6,663-$20,834 ($952-$2,976 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $186 to $383 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,479 to $10,767 for first class

Lodging : $147 to $306 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $609 to $1,231 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Vietnam Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Vietnam is much lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Vietnam due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Vietnam Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Vietnam hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Vietnam.

Flight Costs to Vietnam

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,249 average in late December to a low of $859 in late October. Median flight price is $759. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Vietnam our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Wednesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Vietnam, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $390, so you can easily save about 45% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Vietnam can easily cost $174 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $12 per person. Private tours can cost $347 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

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My Vietnam Trip Cost: How Cheap Is Vietnam and My $25 Daily Budget (2024)

Find out exactly how much it will cost to travel Vietnam budget backpacker style and how cheap is Vietnam. Let’s talk about the price of accommodation, transportation, food, and more before I let you know my EXACT Vietnam trip cost!

Traveling can be expensive, even in Asia, so it’s good to keep track of costs and make a budget. I track my spending so I can share with you how much my Vietnam trip cost.

When I was researching online, Vietnam was on the cheaper side when compared to other countries on the banana pancake trail such as Thailand or Laos. Most websites seemed to recommend approximately $20.00 per person per day.

I actually ended up spending more for my cost to travel Vietnam than I had originally planned and what many other websites recommended during my 28 days. Though, this is due to some surprises which resulted in me changing my normal way of getting around as well as some splurges for bucketlist activities.

Though, before I get into my much my Vietnam trip cost, I will let you know the average prices of accommodation, food, and transportation. Then let you know my daily cost to travel Vietnam each day before we finally find out how much over budget I went and money-saving tips so you can avoid doing the same!

How Cheap Is Vietnam and How Much Does It Cost To Travel In Vietnam?

Accommodation costs in vietnam.

• Food Prices In Vietnam
• Transportation Costs In Vietnam
• My Daily Cost To Travel Vietnam
• Total Vietnam Trip Cost

Budgeted VS Actual Vietnam Trip Cost

• Money-Saving Tips To Lower Your Cost To Travel Vietnam

How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: 12.Go Asia

I am traveling around Vietnam with my partner, James. This allows us to split certain costs such as private rooms, taxis, hiring a motorbike etc. Where this is true I will state that the cost is ‘shared’ or ‘split’. Now time to get on to find the cost to travel in Vietnam…

For those travelers on a budget, you will absolutely love the accommodation prices in Vietnam. There are plenty of cheap options right throughout the country.

Hostels : One of the cheapest ways to travel Vietnam is by staying in Hostels. Rooms generally start around $5.00 for an air-conditioned dorm room. We found this a much cheaper choice than staying in private rooms so we would often end up booking shared rooms instead. In my opinion, they were great value for money and often would include extras such as free beers in the evening or a free walking tour.

Guesthouses: If you are traveling Vietnam with a friend or with your partner then a good budget option is by booking Guesthouses. These are usually locally owned accommodations that only have a few rooms. You will get a private bathroom and a clean room. Though the furniture might be a bit dated. It is much more of a local experience where it is expected you take your shoes off outside the building and you will be passing by a family every time you enter/exit.

Hotels: If you enjoy a bit of luxury, though cannot often afford it in Western countries. Then you will absolutely love Vietnam. You can find plenty of affordable hotels here starting from $20.00 per night. Brand-name hotels will be a bit pricier, though it is much cheaper than you can find elsewhere in the world. The service is often second to none and you will be living in uttermost luxury.

Food Prices in Vietnam

Whenever I am asked which country has the best food, I always say Vietnam . The food here is absolutely incredible and extremely easy on the wallet. It is easy to eat out and only spend a couple of dollars. Whilst testing out the street food will cost less than $1.00. The flavors are incredible and no doubt I would come back just to visit some of my favorite restaurants again.

Street food: For those street food lovers Vietnam is the place for you. There are plenty of great options here such as the ever-popular Banh Mi and Pho. Meals start from less than $1.00 and there is no better place to appreciate the crazy hustle and bustle of Vietnam than on little plastic chairs on the curbside. As you will see a bit further down in my daily expenses I actually did not spend too much money on street food in Vietnam. This is simply due to the street food here not being to my personal taste.

Restaurants: I loved all the restaurants in Vietnam. There is plenty of places that cater to vegetarians and vegans, so it was so easy for me to find a delicious spot to eat. The restaurant prices here are insanely affordable and there is always a variety of choices available. I was always able to eat at a restaurant for whatever I was craving and even splurged on my fancier options a couple of times in Hanoi.

Transportation Costs in Vietnam

Vietnam is a large country and no doubt you will be needing to take some sort of public transportation to get around. Luckily the main tourist hubs are well connected and the network of trains, buses, and planes will deliver you there in one piece. Though, if you are traveling the whole country, prepare yourself for some overnight long and painful journeys. Definitely check out 12.Go Asia to book your transport for easy and comfortable options with reviews so you can know what to expect.

Trains: Taking the train is no doubt my personal favorite way of traveling around Vietnam. The main train line runs from Hanoi all the way down to Ho Chi Minh City and makes plenty of stops in popular tourist towns along the way. This includes Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang , and more. I highly recommend booking the 4-berth cabins. They might be a bit more expensive, though are much more comfortable than chairs, roomier than the 6 berths, and are air-conditioned.

Buses: Now, this is where my Vietnam trip cost was blown, all thanks to the horrible bus journeys. The majority of the time this is my main way of getting around. It’s cheap, it’s simple and you eventually get to your destination. Though, after one too many squished journeys with insects crawling all over me, I said goodbye to buses in Vietnam and part of my budget.

Flights: Luckily for those travelers who cannot survive overland travel you can find cheap flights around the country. There are airports in all tourist hot spots, making it super easy to get around. Of course, this is the most expensive way to travel. Though there are plenty of budget airline choices and it makes a great alternative for those long 12+ hour overland journeys.

How Cheap Is Vietnam and My Daily Cost To Travel?

Vietnam trip cost in hanoi, day one – hanoi.

Previous to arriving in Vietnam I had purchased a Visa approval letter online for $17.00 / 385000 VND – Linked is the same company I purchased through and I had no issues at the airport.

While going through immigration I had to buy my Vietnam Visa stamp which cost $25.00 / 565000 VND.

Then James and I split a taxi we had pre-booked from the airport to Chien Hostel $8.80 / 200000 VND.

Craving western food for dinner I grab mac n cheese, fries and a soft drink from S&L’s Diner costing $6.60 / 150000 VND.

We stay in a large dorm room at Chien Hostel which includes breakfast. It costs $5.05 / 115000 VND per night – Check out my review here .

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $62.45 / 1415000 VND

Day Two- Hanoi

Breakfast is included in the rate at Chien Hostel . For lunch, I grab a pizza and tea for $3.50 / 80000 VND. Then on the way back, we split a cookie for $0.55 / 12500 VND. We share the cost of a large bottle of water at $0.33 / 7500 VND each. I join in on a free walking tour which Chien Hostel organizes to familiarize newbies on the highlights of Hanoi. Dinner at Aubergine Cafe which costs me $4.40 / 100000 VND. I order a lemon juice, caramel, ginger and chili tofu with rice- Highly recommend this place for vegetarians!

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $13.83 / 315000 VND

Vietnam Trip Cost In Sapa

Day three- sapa.

Breakfast is included in the rate at Chien Hostel .

We head to Sapa in Northern Vietnam by taking a bus we booked through Chien Hostel . This costs me $9.02 / 205000 VND.

Once in Sapa, we grab lunch at Little Sapa Restaurant . I grab 2 cups of green tea and a toastie which costs $6.16 / 140000 VND. Sapa is freezing in February so I purchase a Beanie to keep my head warm for $6.60 / 150000 VND.

Then we split a taxi to take us to our homestay in Ta Van $5.50 / 125000 VND. Entry fee into the Ta Van area costs us $3.30 / 75000 VND each. We have dinner at our homestay which is true family-style with a variety of delicious dishes. This costs $3.30 / 75000 VND each. The homestay costs $5.98 / 136000 VND per night for a private room including breakfast.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $39.86 / 906000 VND

Day Four- Sapa

A basic breakfast is included in the homestay price. We split a taxi back to Sapa town which costs $4.40 / 100000 VND

For lunch, we hunt for the best deal in town which takes us to La Roma Pizza. We share a pizza, pasta dish, garlic bread and I grab a tea for $7.26 / 165000 VND. Then stop at a small supermarket we grab 2 chocolate bars each, large water and chips for $2.64 / 60000 VND each.

We hike back to Ta Van and visit Luckydaisy’s Bamboo Bar and Restaurant . We share a banana pancake and grab a green tea which costs $2.64 / 60000 VND. The homestay costs $5.98 / 136000 VND per night for a private room including breakfast.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $22.92 / 521000 VND

Day Five- Sapa

A basic breakfast is included in the homestay price.

We hike back to Sapa town and grab lunch at Little Sapa Restaurant again. I grab a cup of green tea, hot chips and an egg baguette which costs $4.84 / 110000 VND.

Then for dinner, we purchase a chocolate croissant from a bakery for $0.66 / 15000 VND.

While in Sapa Town we stay at Luong Thuy Family Hotel in a private room. We split the price which works out to be $4.62 / 105000 VND each per night.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $10.12 / 230000 VND

Day Six- Hanoi

We take a bus from Sapa to Hanoi for $9.68 / 220000 VND. Because we are running late we split a taxi to the bus stop which costs $0.88 / 20000 VND each.

After we arrive in Hanoi we share an Uber to Chien Hostel which costs $0.70 / 16000 VND each.

It’s back for the delicious western food at S&L’s Diner . I grab mac n cheese, hot chips and a soda costing $4.84 / 110000 VND.

Then for dinner, we are craving Indian so stop at Namaste India . I highly recommend this place and is one of the best dining experience I have ever had. It is well worth the price. I order a curry, naan, rice and mango lassie for $9.24 / 210000 VND.

Before bed, we head to the supermarket and purchase a few snacks for our Ha Long Bay trip which costs $2.64 / 60000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $33.03 / 751000 VND

The Cost To Travel Ha Long Bay

Day seven- ha long bay.

We purchase a 3-day / 2-night tour of Ha Long Bay . This is an all-inclusive tour and costs $111.81 / 2540000 VND each. I purchase two soft drinks throughout the day which totals $1.76 / 40000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $113.57 / 2580000 VND

Day Eight- Ha Long Bay

We spend the day relaxing in Ha Long Bay and Cat Ong Island. Purchase pringles and a soft drinks for snacks during the day which costs $1.76 / 40000 VND Daily Cost In Vietnam: $1.76 / 40000 VND

The Cost To Travel In Hanoi

Day nine- hanoi.

I purchase a bottle of water to keep refreshed while trekking on Cat Ba Island. This costs me $0.22 / 5000 VND.

Then we head back to Hanoi for dinner at Namaste India . I order a curry, naan, rice, entree and mango lassie for $13.20 / 300000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $18.47 / 420000 VND

Day Ten- Hanoi

We head to Geckos Cafe for Lunch. I purchase a pasta dish and a soda for $3.74 / 85000 VND. We grab some snacks for the sleeper train from a nearby supermarket. I split the total price with James which works out to be $5.06 / 115000 VND each, Then for dinner, I get a vegetable Banh Mi for $0.66 / 15000 VND A 4 berth sleeper train from Hanoi to Hue costs $31.70 / 720000.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $41.16 / 935000 VND

Vietnam Trip Cost In Hue

Day eleven- hue.

After arriving in Hue we grab breakfast at Hung Vuong Inn where we share an egg baguette and a drink for $1.62 / 37000 VND. For lunch, we walk across the river to a local supermarket. Once there we purchase chocolate, cheese, baguette, crackers, and water for $2.42 / 55000 VND each. Then for dinner, we head to Lien Hoa which is quite a locals restaurant with an interesting English menu. It is sharing style so we order four dishes to share and some rice which works out crazy cheap to $1.98 / 45000 VND each. We are staying at Thanh An Guesthouse 2 in a private room with two double beds, a balcony, and a bathtub. The shared price is $3.52 / 80000 VND each per night. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $9.54 / 217000 VND

Day Twelve- Hue

I have a basic breakfast of some of the food we purchased at the supermarket the previous day. We head over the river to explore the Imperial City of Hue . The entrance fee is $6.60 / 150000 VND. For lunch, we find a simple restaurant overlooking the street side called Lac Thien Restaurant . I order tofu, rice and a lemon juice for $3.30 / 75000 VND. We stop off back at the supermarket to purchase some bread, chocolate, soy sauce, water, and noodles. The price comes to $1.54 / 35000 VND each. Then for dinner, we are craving Indian again so head down the street to Ganesh Indian Restaurant . Here I order a curry, naan, soda, and rice which comes to a total of $7.48 / 170000 VND.

We are staying at Thanh An Guesthouse 2 in a private room with two double beds, a balcony, and a bathtub. The shared price is $3.52 / 80000 VND each per night.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $22.44 / 510000 VND

Vietnam Trip Cost In Hoi An

Day thirteen- hoi an.

I have a basic breakfast of some of the food we purchased at the supermarket the previous day.

We buy tickets and catch a train from Hue to Da Nang . The 4 berth ticket costs $5.63 / 128000 VND. Once in Da Nang, we catch the public bus to Hoi An for $1.32 / 30000 VND. Checked into our hostel we bicycle to the beach where parking costs $0.44 / 10000 VND. At the beach, we share a donut for $0.33 / 7500 VND each. For dinner, we head out for a western meal at Jim’s Snackbar . I order a burger, chips and a soda for $5.54 / 126000 VND. Checking out the old town at night costs $5.28 / 120000 VND for the entrance fee. Then the parking fee for my bicycle in the old town is $0.08 / 2000 VND. Once there we meet up with some friends and grab a beer ( $1.10 / 25000 VND), share a banana pancake ($0.22 / 5000 VND), ice cream ($0.22 / 5000 VND) and water ($0.22 / 5000 VND). We are staying in a dorm room at Little Leo’s Homestay & Hostel , this includes free breakfast and free bike hire. The cost per night each is $6.82 / 155000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $27.20 / 618500 VND

Day Fourteen- Hoi An

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. We hire a motorbike for the day and split the cost. It comes to $2.99 / 68000 VND each. Of course, I have then got to fill up the motorbike, again splitting the price of $1.98 / 45000 VND each. We explore Tra Que Vegetable Village which is free. Then for lunch, we head a bit out of town to Restaurant & Cafe Tuan . Here we share a pizza, tofu, rice and a soda which costs $3.30 / 75000 VND each. Exploring the Pottery Village and the entry cost is $1.10 / 25000 VND as well as $0.11 / 2500 VND each for parking the motorbike. Heading to the beach for a little relax parking costs are shared of $0.22 / 5000 VND each. Since beach chairs aren’t free we purchase a drink to use them. This costs $1.43 / 32500 VND. For dinner, we head to a vegetarian restaurant called Minh Hien Vegetarian Restaurant . I order a tofu dish with rice and a lemon juice which comes to $2.94 / 67000 VND. We get a bit hungry later and grab another amazing burger from Jim’s Snackbar . It costs $5.50 / 125000 VND for a burger and soda. We are staying in a dorm room at Little Leo’s Homestay & Hostel , this includes free breakfast and free bike hire. The cost per night each is $6.82 / 155000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $26.39 / 600000 VND

Day Fifteen- Hoi An

This morning we take a tour of My Son Temple which costs $11.00 / 250000 VND. The entrance fee to My Son Temple is $6.60 / 150000 VND. After the sunrise tour, we grab breakfast at. Here I have avocado on toast for $2.42 / 55000 VND. That evening we pay $0.13 / 3000 VND for bicycle parking in the old town. Then its time for Indian again so we head to Namaste . Here I get a curry, naan, poppadom, rice, soda, and dessert for $6.60 / 150000 VND.

We are staying in a dorm room at Little Leo’s Homestay & Hostel , this includes free breakfast and free bike hire. The cost per night each is $6.82 / 155000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $33.57 / 763000 VND

The Cost To Travel In Da Nang

Day sixteen- da nang.

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. We catch a public bus from Hoi An to Da Nang for $1.32 / 30000 VND. For lunch, we find an amazingly cheap bakery called BonPas Bakery & Coffee where I grab 1 slice of pizza, a cheese bun, cheesecake and ice tea for $2.20 / 50000 VND. Then I buy some new earphones for $2.64 / 60000 VND We do some more grocery shopping at a supermarket and grab some baguettes, peanut butter, water and noodles for $3.96 / 90000 VND. For dinner, we head back to BonPas Bakery & Coffee and I get 2 slices of pizza, a cheese bun and a drink for $1.10 / 25000 VND. We stay at Hachi Hostel in a dorm room. The price is $5.98 / 136000 VND which includes breakfast. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $17.20 / 391000 VND

The Cost To Travel In Nha Trang

Day seventeen- nha trang.

For breakfast/lunch, we stock up on food from BonPas Bakery & Coffee to take on the train with us. The cost is $1.54 / 35000 VND.

We take a train from Da Nang to Nha Trang . It costs $21.00 / 477000 VND for a 4 berth cabin.

Dinner is at a semi upscale restaurant costing $4.40 / 100000 VND We stay at Tabalo Hostel in a 4 bedroom dorm. It costs us $4.84 / 110000 VND each per night including breakfast.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $31.78 / 722000 VND

Day Eighteen- Nha Trang

Breakfast is included in the rate at Tabalo Hostel.

Down at the beach, we relax and hire beach chairs at $1.54 / 35000 VND each.

For lunch is Cafe Des Amis for tofu, rice and a lemon juice totaling $4.18 / 95000 VND. Then it’s Indian again for dinner so we head to Taj Grill Indian Restaurant . I get a curry, rice, naan, and soda for $5.50 / 125000 VND. We visit a small supermarket and purchase some fruit, water and ice cream for $1.54 / 35000 VND. We stay at Tabalo Hostel in a 4 bedroom dorm. It costs us $4.84 / 110000 VND each per night including breakfast.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $17.60 / 400000 VND

Day Nineteen- Nha Trang

We decide to do an amazing snorkeling tour which costs $15.40 / 350000 VND. This rate includes equipment, lunch, water and entry fee into the protected area. We decide to be a bit fancy and have dinner at Da Fernando . I grab a pizza and soda which costs $5.72 / 130000 VND. Then on the way back to the hostel, I grab a bottle of water which costs $0.44 / 10000 VND. We stay at Tabalo Hostel in a 4 bedroom dorm. It costs us $4.84 / 110000 VND each per night including breakfast. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $26.40 /600000 VND

Day Twenty- Nha Trang

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. We have lunch at Ciao Vietnam where I grab a tofu and rice dish with a drink. This costs me $2.24 / 51000 VND. James and I share a box of donuts which we split the price of for $0.22 / 5000 VND. Then for dinner it’s back to Cafe Des Amis for another delicious tofu dish and drink which costs $3.30 / 75000 VND. On the way back from dinner we stop to get some snacks from the supermarket which costs $2.42 / 55000 VND. We finally were over hostels and decided to get a private room for the night at Forget Me Not Hotel . We split the room charge which comes to $5.06 / 115000 VND each. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $13.24 / 301000 VND

Vietnam Trip Cost In Mui Ne

Day twenty one- mui ne.

For breakfast, we eat some of the snacks to brought yesterday.

We catch the bus from Nha Trang to Mui Ne . It costs $5.06 / 115000 each. For lunch, we pop to a restaurant which is next door to our hostel. I order tofu, rice and a soda for $3.34 / 76000 VND. Then for dinner, we head down the road for more Indian at Mughal House Indian Halal Restaurant. I get a curry, rice, naan, and drink for $5.50 / 125000 VND. On the way back we stop off to grab a bottle of water which costs $0.19 / 4500 VND.

We stay at Mui Ne Backpacker Village in a dorm. It costs us $5.50 / 125000 VND each per night including breakfast.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $9.59 / 445500 VND

Day Twenty Two- Mui Ne

For breakfast, we head across the road to The Bar for breakfast. I grab a scrambled egg baguette and water for $2.24 / 51000 VND. After relaxing in the pool lunch is back over at The Bar . I have a cheese toastie and water which costs $2.42 / 55000VND. Then we do for a bit of a walk for dinner down at Dong Vui Food Court . Here I get an Indian thali set for $5.50 / 125000 VND.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $15.66 / 356000 VND

Day Twenty Three- Mui Ne

I start the day with a highlights of Mui Ne tour . This costs $7.04 / 160000 VND each. Then for lunch, I head back to the restaurant next door and grab$4.84 / 110000 VND. Afterwards, we head to the supermarket to grab some snacks for tomorrow which split between us costs $2.20 / 50000 VND.

We stay at Mui Ne Backpacker Village in a dorm. It costs us $5.50 / 125000 VND each per night including breakfast. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $19.58 /445000 VND

Vietnam Trip Cost In Ho Chi Minh City

Day twenty four- ho chi minh city.

We jump on a bus from Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh City which costs $4.35 / 99000 VND each. I purchase a pair of sunglasses for $3.30 / 75000 VND. We a falafel lunch over at Gotcha! which costs $3.52 / 80000 VND. Then for dinner, we head to a local restaurant which costs $2.28 / 52000 VND. Tonight we are staying in a dorm room over at HewaHome . It costs $4.35 / 99000 VND per night which includes breakfast and water. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $17.80 / 405000 VND

Day Twenty Five- Ho Chi Minh City

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. We visit the War Remnants Museum which costs $0.66 / 15000 VND each for entry. For lunch, we grab another delicious Indian meal over at Namaste India . I order a naan, rice, curry, and soda for $5.50 / 125000 VND. Then for dinner, I grab a couple of packets of noodles from the supermarket costing $0.26 / 6000 VND. Tonight we are staying in a dorm room over at HewaHome . It costs $4.35 / 99000 VND per night which includes breakfast and water.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $10.77 / 245000 VND

Day Twenty Six- Ho Chi Minh City

For breakfast, we head to the supermarkets and grab some snack foods for $2.20 / 50000 VND.

We take the cheapest tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels which costs $6.16 / 140000 VND each. Also, the entry fee to Cu Chi Tunnels is an extra charge of $4.84 / 110000 VND. Then we stop back at the Gotcha! for another falafel lunch costing $3.61 / 82000 VND. Tonight we are staying in a dorm room over at HewaHome . It costs $4.35 / 99000 VND per night which includes breakfast and water.

Daily Cost In Vietnam: $21.16 / 481000 VND

Day Twenty Seven- Ho Chi Minh City

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. We split a Grab to the beginning of our free walking tour which costs $0.44 / 10000 VND each. The entry fee into the Independence Palace is $1.76 / 40000 VND. Then for lunch, we head to and I get a tofu dish with a soda which costs $3.08 / 70000 VND. We split a Grab to the beginning of our free night tour which costs $0.35 / 8000 VND each. I pay for petrol in the scooter of the free night tour $3.08 / 70000 VND. Next, we stop for a milk tea which costs $0.44 / 10000 VND. Another stop, this time for coconut ice cream which costs $1.76 / 40000 VND. Tonight we are staying in a dorm room over at HewaHome . It costs $4.35 / 99000 VND per night which includes breakfast and water. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $15.26 /347000 VND

Day Twenty Eight- Ho Chi Minh City

Breakfast is included in the hostel price. Then we stop at the supermarket and grab a snack for the bus which costs $0.44/ 10000 VND. The Grab to the bus terminal costs $0.44 / 1000 VND each. Daily Cost In Vietnam: $0.88 /20000 VND

My Total Vietnam Trip Cost

There was a variety of things that put me slightly over budget. I will say that the times we took train journeys it would have been cheaper to take a bus. Though, due to mishaps that happened at the start of the trip we were well put off the idea.

Unlike a lot of other countries such as Cambodia or Vietnam, visiting Ha Long Bay was a crazy expense which was a one-off. This certainly bumped up my cost per day. Lastly, I did not really eat any street food in Vietnam (yes, I know, I am disappointed in myself as well). I just was not a fan of many of the general street food dishes so I choose to visit supermarkets or eat out in restaurants quite a lot. Though, all in all, my cost per day of $25.55 was not too much over budget and I had an excellent time in Vietnam. We did some unforgettable tours which I absolutely loved and I did not regret doing them at all.

Money Saving Tips To Decrease Your Cost To Travel Vietnam

• Book hostels with free breakfast.
• Check out whether your accommodation also includes free water.
• Share transport with other people, waiting ten minutes to see if anyone else is going to the airport/bus station could save you money.
• Visit supermarkets! They were my go-to choice in Vietnam and I always seemed to be within a 15-minute walk of one.
• Use Uber or Grab instead of taxis whenever possible. I swear this saved us from being scammed so many times and we always knew the price we would pay.
• If the city does not have Uber make sure the taxi driver uses the meter.
• Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations for teaching English abroad , which can be a great way of earning some extra cash!

Check out Passport Symphony’s visiting Vietnam tips.

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Want more Vietnam inspiration? Check out….

• EXPLORE HA LONG BAY ON A BUDGET, VIETNAM
• TOP THINGS TO DO IN MUI NE, VIETNAM
• TOP THINGS TO DO IN HOI AN, VIETNAM
• EXPLORE THE IMPERIAL CITY OF HUE IN VIETNAM
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

21 thoughts on “ My Vietnam Trip Cost: How Cheap Is Vietnam and My $25 Daily Budget (2024) ”

Wow! amazing experience. Definitely help my travel plans this April for a month. Although, I would spend a bit longer in Nah Trang for scuba dive and meet some friends there but travelling alone onwards. I enjoyed reading your blog. Thank you so much for sharing, great photos by the way.

Wow I didn’t know Vietnam was that cheap! I should include it in my itinerary around Asia. I love street food, and meals for less than 1$ damn that is incredible! Gotta love Asia for its cheap prices… makes it possible to travel a lot longer!

Thanks to this post. It’s very informative. Now I can comfortable create my itinerary and travel Vietnam without any worries. Thanks again!

Really helpful post! Travelling Vietnam in December and wasnt sure how much I would need, but this is after really helping me. Thank you :)

Vietnam does not have Uber but you can use Grab in Vietnam. It is quite convenient. But I highly recommend you could use Grab bike to feel as local people

Thanks! It has changed since I have been in Vietnam last.

Hi Tasha thanks a lot for this post, I love budget expenses breakdowns. When you book through 12go do you have to print the ticket? How did you manage to rent a bike for 3 dollars? Was that a motorbike or just a bycicle? Thanks again

Hey! It depends on the different transport companies whether you need to print your ticket or can just show it on your phone. As far as I am aware you only really know which after booking, though plenty of hostels and guesthouses will happily print it out for you for a couple of cents. The 3 dollar bike was just booked through our guesthouse and was just a regular bicycle.

Nice post. Very informative and useful, particularly for first time visitors. Surprised you paid an entrance fee to Ta Van hamlet. I stayed there last year, at Ta Van Ecologic Homestay and didn’t have to pay anything extra on top of my stay there.

im in vietnam right now and this post has been super helpful. Thanks for your links which dirrect me to the booking options as well. It also gives me a good idea on the average price for things to not get scammed. And another trip would be to use Grab transport app. Currently you get 10% off when you load credit on and 10,000 off for every trip you pay with thr credit. So a 50,000 trip easily comes down to 90% total 45,000 with additional 10,000 discount. Total 35,000 for a 25 minute ride in car. Around half price if you do the bike option but they can only take one person at a time.

I’m so surprised to see how expensive Vietnam is. I was expecting much cheaper. I’m from Turkey and you can travel Turkey and have good food & visit beautiful places in better prices (less than 25$). Having dinner 4.40 $ and otel with breakfast included 5.05 $? It’s a bir unproportion!

Really? I cant imagine Turkey being chepaer than Nam. How much is a hostel with breakfast over there?

I think it all depends on how you travel (I am not an EXTREME budget backpacker, I would rather pay a couple dollars more to stay in a 6 bedroom dorm vs a 12 bed dorm and I do enjoy restaurants). I have been to both countries and Turkey was more expensive for my ‘travel style’.

My husband and I are VERY into our budget day to day, but when we travel we seem to let it go out the window! These kinds of posts are SO helpful for us planning our trips…you got to see and do so much while not being too far off your budget!

Exactly! It’s possible and i traveled very comfortably.

Wow! now that was so much detailed. I have pinned your post for a proper read again. We have been planning Vietnam for about 10 days – sometime later this year. I am not sure how much we can cover but definitely Ho-chin min and Hanoi. I loved the budgeting you have done for this tour; it is indeed helpful:)

I would recommend just visiting two maybe three places if you only go for 10 days. That way to can see more instead of rushing through ?

Wowza, what a detailed post!

I am so impressed that you managed to do so much for such a bargain price! Your photos are stunning too. You look happier and more relaxed as you get further into yuor trip. :)

Haha it definitely took a while to write! Yeah it’s a super affordable and I was able to travel very comfortably. If I was to take buses and eat street food it would have been even more cheaper.

This is super helpful! Hoping to visit this beautiful country soon :)

Glad you found this helpful!

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Cost of Travel in Vietnam 

‘How much is the cost of travel in Vietnam’ is definitely a question you need to ask yourself if you have a trip in mind. Vietnam is equipped to cater to a diverse range of tourists. And, the cost of travel in Vietnam varies greatly depending on your budget and the sights you want to see.

The good news is, Vietnam holds a little something for everyone, from a solo backpacker to a family looking for luxury . Food is available around every corner, and a surplus of intercity transport leaves all your options open. Read through our guide on the cost of travel in Vietnam to have all your bases covered.

Accommodation 

For backpackers and people travelling on a minimum budget, Vietnam has plenty of hostels dotted all around. The standards are good due to high competition . Guesthouses on the cheaper end are available, but we do not recommend them. The standards and service will not meet the mark in most cases. Dormitories charge from $7 to $15, and offer fairly good accommodation.

If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers a private room with good standards and equally good service, expect to be charged no less than $30 for a private room. If you have this kind of budget that allows for flexibility, you have the option of homestays, guesthouses and simple hotels. Swimming pools and fancy rooms won’t always be an option, but the rooms are clean and comfortable, and are priced at between $30 and $60 a night.

If you can occasionally spend upto $80, you can get great rooms at guesthouses and boutique-style hotels often with pools. 

Hotels with swimming pools, and boutique hotels with their own character and charm are available for those of you travelling on a comfortable budget desiring a dash of luxury. These are generally in great locations, close to the nearest tourist attractions, and offering great services as well. You’ll be expected to spend from $80 to $130 to avail of a facility like this. Every destination in Vietnam has at least one resort catering to the luxury travellers, and surprisingly, several are available in destinations that are off the beaten path. In this category, the options are endless, spoiling luxury travelers for choice.

Irrespective of your budget, one thing is certain, there will never be a lack in services as in Vietnam, the guest is the King ! Take your pick and click on Plan Your Trip to let us do the hard work for you.

Monuments and activity rates

Vietnam has a rich history, and cities like Hue and Hoi An are a history buff’s paradise . Additionally, each region is replete with activities and things to do. Monuments don’t charge very exorbitant entry fees, activities are priced fair. 

Specific prices for major tourist attractions are:

The War Remnants Museum (Ho Chi Minh City) – VND 4,000 ($1.75)

Entry to the ancient town of Hoi An  – VND 120,000 ($5)

Vietnam Museum Of Ethnology (Hanoi) – VND 40,000 ($1.75)

The famous Cu Chi Tunnels tours start at $25 for half a day, including the charges for entry, a guide and transportation for a group . If you have plans of snorkeling at Nha Trang or Hoi An, a little more than $18 should suffice for the entire day, including lunch and gear.

Further north, a trek in Sapa will be $40 to $100 for a one-day and two-day trek respectively , that start and end in Sapa itself. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are famous for their mouth-watering street food, and offer Street Food Tours that start at $25.

You also have the option of a tour guide, for which you will have to pay anything from $50 onwards for a single day, depending on the activity and length of the excursion. Vietnam doesn’t have a fixed price to hire a guide, as you are mostly quoted a certain amount for each excursion, and prices are then finalized depending on the language required.

Internal transport cost + best modes of transport

In Vietnam’s cities, tourists use taxis and motorbike taxis. The two public taxi brands that we recommend are Vinasun and Mai Linh (green cars or white cars with green red lines). Other taxis may refuse to go by the meter, and are sometimes involved in tourist scams. The fixed starting fee is VND 10,000-12,000 depending on the location. Every additional kilometer is VND 14,000, so the cost for travelling 5 kms will be around VND 68,000 ($3) . However, prices will always change depending on  the company, and additional costs such as airport parking or tolls.

We also highly recommend availing of ride-hailing company Grab (aka Vietnam’s Uber); it enables people to book cars or motorbike taxis with ease via an app. You will avoid unnecessary disputes over use of the meter as the cost of the trip is mentioned at the start of the drive. Prices start from VND 15,000 for short distances on the bike and VND 22,000 for cars, depending on traffic and ride demand.

Grab bikes will give you a helmet, which is a legal requirement in Vietnamese traffic . In smaller towns like Hoi An, Ninh Binh or Phong Nha you can simply rent a bicycle, in Hoi An, hotels give it for free. Don’t expect helmets though, and be alert for the ever-chaotic traffic. 

If you use a mix of taxi hire on the street, Grab services, bicycling and walking, you should spend an average of $10- $15 a day , keeping your daily cost of travel in Vietnam to a minimum. The most convenient would be to hire a car for the entire stay in one city, if your budget allows for it. However, we think that is a waste of money in many cities where everything is within walking distance and taxis are super easy to hire. There are options to keep your cost of travel in Vietnam to a minimum, and we suggest you explore all of them, or simply click on ‘ Plan Your Trip’ and let us help you instead.

Inter-city traveling

In recent years, several new cheap airlines have popped up in Vietnam, resulting in an immense drop in air fares. You can get a domestic flight for as cheap at $35 if you book early enough ; this causes most people to opt for flights over train journeys. However, trains in Vietnam are mostly super comfortable, affordable, and save you a night’s hotel stay . Hence, we recommend using both- flights and trains. Furthermore, it’s a great way to connect with the friendly locals and know their ways of getting around. Train tickets in the comfortable 1st class compartments start at $35.

For the backpackers, the ideal mode of transportation would be a bus. It is the cheapest way to travel, and the routes run across the country. Vietnam has many bus services and they all differ in quality, meaning backpackers with a slightly higher budget can opt to travel cheap, yet comfortable.

Tickets for an overnight bus with sleeping beds are from $15 onwards. But, we only recommend this if you are on a very small budget and don’t mind compromising on comfort to lower your daily cost of travel in Vietnam. The beds are short, the toilets on the bus aren’t the best and the drivers are often rude. You can also use a combination of trains and buses depending on your budget.

The best option for travellers on a comfortable budget covering shorter distances (Hoi An to Hue, Ninh Binh to Hanoi) is to hire a private car. The costs depend on distances and your requirement of an English speaking guide, as the drivers speak zero English. You’ll pay a fee starting at $60 per person for a 5-hour drive without a guide. Cars are mostly new models, comfortable and AC-equipped.

Food and beverage

Going to Vietnam and not experiencing the food is nothing short of a travesty! Vietnam has one of the best street food scenes in the world. The food is flavourful with a restriction on spice, which means anyone can give it a try. The Vietnamese also pay a lot of attention to hygiene for the most part, and most dishes are cooked for many hours.

There’s always an availability of restaurants for travellers hesitant to try out the street food. Though, you will always pay more for western dishes than for local Vietnamese cuisine. Soups like Pho are the cheapest and are available any time of the day for $1 onwards , and for even less in smaller towns.

The average cost of a meal in Vietnam varies but remains affordable- you can spend anywhere between $2 (a dish and beverage) to $50 for a meal in Vietnam. The famous Vietnamese coffee costs $1, while juices and smoothies are for $1.50. Cans of local Vietnamese beer cost $1 but the local bia hoi (fresh beer), mostly available in north Vietnam, only costs – wait for it-  $0.25 a cup! Expect to shell out at least $4 dollars for a cocktail, as they are crafted only due to tourist demand.

Vietnam is a shoppers paradise. The country produces a lot of garments, especially for well-known sports brands like The North Face, Nike and Adidas. There’s cheap, counterfeit products to buy all over the country. Many producers learn techniques at original factories before starting their own productions. As a result, the quality is quite good.

You can get clothes made from scratch with amazing quality and good prices in Hoi An, the city of tailors. A suit (pants and a blazer) wouldn’t cost more than $70, depending on the fabric. A tailor-made dress would cost around $30 . You can also buy local handicrafts and art in most cities. The tribal handicrafts from Sapa are not just great souvenirs, but also support preservation of tribal heritage.

Estimate for a 15-day budget for a trip

Based off of the experience of our Travel Scouts and the information we have gathered, we have provided a budget estimate for 2 weeks in Vietnam. This can be applied for a trip from North to South Vietnam or vice versa.

Backpackers

For backpackers and solo travellers on a budget, an estimate of USD $900 is enough, provided your accommodation stays restricted to dorms. You can travel by flight and train, enjoying a mix of street food and local restaurants. This also gives you some leeway for drinks. Activities would involve few important monuments and group activities.

A recommended experience is Castaway Islands at Halong bay; a 3 day/2 night stay on a gorgeous island at USD $229 inclusive of accommodation, meals and few activities. It is offered by Vietnam Backpacker Hostels , a fairly reliable organisation. We’ll be honest, the multi-day cruise and island trip are expensive. You can travel on a much smaller budget by substituting them for a one-day tour, or skipping Halong Bay all together.

However, Halong Bay is the main highlight of many Vietnam trips , and is worth the expense if you really want to experience it.

Comfort budgets

We recommend private rooms in homestays and budget hotels in good locations for two travellers on a budget. Transportation can switch between flights and shared coaches in train rides. In addition, you can take a  motorbike taxi ride from Hoi An to Hue if you get adventurous enough. Meals will comprise mostly street food, with a few nice treats enjoyed at local restaurants. That, plus all the entry fees mentioned above, two fun activities and Grab for transport brings your total to USD $1300 per person.

Two travellers on a comfort budget can avail of boutique hotels for accommodation. You can also stick to flights and chauffeured taxis accompanied with a guide. Liberally exploring the activities and excursions brings the cost to USD $1950 per person.

Luxury travellers

Luxury travellers can pamper themselves in unique luxury resorts, and easily afford flights. Private transportation with guides for inter-city travels are another bonus. The best of restaurants can provide for all your meals, bringing the total estimate to USD $3500 per person.

Vietnam is a friendly, adventurous country and as you’ve read, quite affordable as well. Alongside navigating the modes of transportation , your cost of travel in Vietnam should now be taken care of. Read our blog post on currency in Vietnam to get a better understanding of monetary transactions in Vietnam. And go ahead and click on ‘Plan Your Trip’ to start your holiday planning now.

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How Much Money Do I Need In Vietnam?

How much money do you need to visit Vietnam? The answer ultimately depends on what kind of food you plan to eat, what standard of accommodation you plan to stay in, and how you plan to make your way around the country.

Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest growing countries but it’s still possible to travel in Vietnam on a backpacker’s budget of $40 or less per day, or enjoy a more comfortable trip for $60 to $100 per day.

Below, we’ve broken down the costs of travelling in Vietnam, from hotels to buses, flights and food. We’ve also covered factors like Vietnam’s currency and the availability of ATMs, credit card usage and the cost of visas and other travel documents.

Vietnam Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Vietnam: See our guides for the best areas and the best hotels to stay in capital city Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .
• Things To Do In Vietnam: Book online from huge lists of activities in Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi , Ha Long Bay , Nha Trang , and more .
• Flights To Vietnam: Find the cheapest tickets and check times to Ho Chi Minh City or the capital Hanoi from dozens of airlines.
• Vietnam Airport Transfers: Book a convenient airport transfer for hassle-free arrival at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi .
• Vietnam Itineraries: Make the most of your trip with our 1-week and 2-week Vietnam itineraries, and our extensive guides for how to spend 2 weeks in Thailand and Vietnam and 2 weeks in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam .
• Vietnam Packing List: Don’t forget any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Vietnam .

How Much Will My Vietnam Trip Cost? How To Quickly Figure It Out

• How Long Are You Going For? Decide how many days you’ll be in Vietnam. Choose some dates.
• Flights: Compare the prices and timings of international flights to Vietnam – between $800 to $1000 for USA and Europe to Vietnam.
• Accommodation: Decide what type of accommodation you want and check pricing. Hanoi (Vietnam’s capital) and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) are a good benchmark, most other places in Vietnam are cheaper
• Private room with own bathroom $12 to 20 a night – see recommended places in Hanoi | see recommended places in Ho Chi Minh City
• Mid range 3 star hotel $30 to 50 a night – see recommended places in Hanoi | see recommended places in Ho Chi Minh City
• Luxury 4 -5 star hotel $100 and up a night – see recommended places in Hanoi | see recommended places in Ho Chi Minh City
• Food in Vietnam: budget $20 a day for a comfortable 3 meals and coffee, snacks etc. This doesn’t include alcohol and cigarettes, both of which are relatively cheap in Vietnam.
• Activities in Vietnam: a full day trip to Halong Bay is $50 , a Hanoi food tour $30 , an Instagram Hanoi tour $35 , a Chu Chi Tunnels Tour $20 , a Mekong Delta 2 day tour $200 … budget for $50 a day on average for things to do in Vietnam. Browse GetYourGuide for a huge list of Vietnam activities and to get a sense of prices for the things you want to do.
• Travel around Vietnam: buses and trains are cheap, domestic flights fairly cheap. You obviously won’t be travelling every day. Budget $200 – $300 for the whole trip to move around. Check 12go for an overview of transport options for specific journeys in Vietnam you want to make e.g. Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang . You can compare the cost and journey time between bus, train and plane to see if the time is worth the money saved.

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Daily Budget for Vietnam

• Although Vietnam is getting more expensive every year, it’s still a cheap country to visit. Costs are comparable to Thailand and other nearby countries like Cambodia, although like with any country, certain things are either cheaper or more expensive in Vietnam than elsewhere.
• As a general rule, you’ll be able to travel around Vietnam as a backpack on a budget of $40 to $50 per day. However, your luxuries will be limited and you’ll spend more of your time eating at local restaurants instead of Western cafés and eateries.
• For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it’s best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you’ll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms.
• For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it’s best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs. This gives you enough to pay for a comfortable three to four star hotel room, eat in mid-range to high-end restaurants and visit most activities and attractions.
• For a five-star experience in Vietnam, expect to pay $150 per day at the bare minimum (you’ll spend about $75-$100 for your hotel room, at the very least) or $200+ if you plan on dining out often and staying in a very luxurious hotel.

Things To Do In Vietnam – How Much Do Activities Cost?

There are countless activity options for your time in Vietnam. Below is a small sample of popular tour and activities in and around Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi – you can book all of these activities online , but you can also simply check them out for a sense of the price and then shop around when you arrive on the ground.

Ho Chi Minh City Things To Do

• Ho Chi Minh City Tour and Cu Chi Tunnels Learn about Vietnam’s history and visit Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion Southern Vietnams Mekong Delta is a stunning maze of rivers, islets, Khmer pagodas, floating markets and small villages with rice paddies. This 9 hour tour is a visual buffet of delights.
• Saigon Skydeck Take in 360-degree views of the city from the 70th floor of Ho Chi Minh City’s tallest building, Bitexco Financial Tower.
• City Motorbike Adventures Urban scooter adventures to explore Saigon’s diverse districts and markets – no need to drive yourself, you’ll be riding on the back of the bike!
• Vietnamese Food Cooking Class Learn how to make Vietnamese food, visit a market for ingredients and dine on your creations.

Hanoi Food Tours

• Old Quarter Food Tour Try a myriad of local delicacies, from the French-influenced Vietnamese banh mi and Bun Cha noodles to sweet milk dessert, fruity drinks, and egg coffee.
• Evening Street Eats Tour the backstreets and local markets to sample some of the best local food under the guidance of a resident foodie.
• Street Food Walking Tour Discover delicious mouth-watering street food from family-run stalls and restaurants.
• Home Cooking Class Learn how to recreate Vietnamese dished with an experienced chef. Includes market visit and take home recipes.

Halong Bay and Sapa Sightseeing

• Halong Bay Deluxe Cruise Enjoy beautiful Halong Bay, this unique location is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and a stunning area not to be missed.
• Hoa Lu – Tam Coc Day Trip Visit Vietnam’s ancient capital and enjoy the scenery and diverse landscapes along the Tam Coc River.
• 2 Day, 1 Night Sapa Trekking Tour Immerse yourself in Vietnams stunning countryside, see village life and include a hotel or homestay.

Travel Insurance For Vietnam

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Food in Vietnam

• One of the easiest ways to save money in Vietnam is to eat local food. Vietnamese food is tasty, affordable and — provided you avoid the deep fried dishes — substantially healthier than most of the alternative options you’ll find in cafés and Western restaurants.
• For the most part, street food stands and small restaurants in Vietnam are clean, sanitary and completely safe. They’re also amazingly cheap, with snacks and small dishes available from as little as 10,000 dong a piece.
• Some of the most popular Vietnamese dishes include pho (noodle soup), which is available for 15,000 to 50,000, depending on the ingredients, and makes a great simple breakfast. Bánh mì, which are meat and pickled vegetable sandwiches, can also be found for 10,000 to 35,000.
• Because of Vietnam’s import taxes, some Western restaurants will be priced equally or higher than they would be in Western countries. Expect to pay 100,000-150,000 for dishes like pizza, Indian curry, spaghetti and other simple dishes and 400,000+ for steak, usually imported from Australia or New Zealand.
• If you like street food, expect to spend $10 to $15 per day for your meals. If you prefer to eat in air conditioned restaurants, it’s best to budget $15 to $30, or more if you plan to eat expensive, imported items like steak and certain seafood dishes.
• Like all countries, food costs can range from cheap to incredibly expensive in Vietnam. If you’re fond of dining in hotels and high-end restaurants and have a taste for nice wine, it’s completely possible to spend $200 or more on a meal for two in a high-end restaurant in Hanoi or Saigon.

Street Food and Cafés in Ho Chi Minh City

• Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: Popular bánh mì outlet close to Ben Thanh Market, with some of the best sandwiches you’ll find in Ho Chi Minh City. Prices are fixed at 35,000 dong as of February 2017, which is more expensive than other bánh mì shops but worth it for the quality ingredients.
• Pho Le: One of Ho Chi Minh City’s most popular pho shops, famous for strongly seasoned pho and its somewhat cramped interior. Like Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, Pho Le is slightly more expensive than other pho restaurants but is famous among locals and visitors alike for its quality.
• Bookworm’s Coffee: Coffee shop and restaurant in Pham Ngu Lao, close to the backpacker district. A great option for strong coffee, tea, burgers and vegetarian food.
• The Workshop: One of many high-end cafés to have opened in Ho Chi Minh City over the last few years, The Workshop serves cold brew coffee, espresso and other favourites in a top-floor location overlooking Dong Khoi Street.

High-end Dining in Ho Chi Minh City

• Mandarine Restaurant Saigon: High-end Vietnamese dining in a beautiful historic building. A great option if you’d like to explore Vietnamese food beyond what’s available on the streets and in the shopping malls.
• La Villa French Restaurant: One of many French restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, La Villa is a great choice if you’re seeking a break from Vietnamese food and want a rich French dinner with great wines and desserts.
• The Deck Saigon: An excellent bar and restaurant, The Deck Saigon is located on the bank of the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 2. One of the best places to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Saigon.

Street Food and Cafés in Hanoi

• Banh Mi 25: Located a short walk from Hoan Kiem, Banh Mi 25 sells great sandwiches priced from 25,000 dong. A great place to enjoy a cup of fresh coffee and a filling sandwich before starting your day.
• S’Patisserie: A nice café and eatery located on the southern edge of Hoan Kiem, S’Patisserie is a great place to enjoy strong coffee and rich, tasty French desserts. Also served a good variety of European lunch dishes.
• Pho Thin: One of Hanoi’s most popular pho restaurants, Pho Thin serves excellent Vietnamese noodle soup for around 50,000 dong. It’s best to arrive a few minutes before you plan to eat, as this restaurant is always crowded with both visitors and locals alike.

High-end Dining in Hanoi

• Spices Garden: High-end Vietnamese dining in a beautiful colonial setting, with a diverse menu covering most areas of Vietnam. Located inside the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.
• La Badiane: Excellent French-inspired restaurant with indoor and courtyard dining areas. Prices are on the high side for Vietnam but very reasonable compared to similar restaurants in Western countries.
• Jacksons Steakhouse: Small, charming steakhouse serving up American, Australian and New Zealand beef. Also has a great cocktail and dessert menu.

Alcohol and Cigarettes in Vietnam

• Alcohol is very affordable in Vietnam, with bia hoi (locally brewed beer served on tap) available from as little as 5,000 dong in local restaurants and backpacker hangouts.
• Expect to pay about 30,000 to 50,000 dong for canned or bottled beers in backpacker areas like Bui Vien in Ho Chi Minh City and the Old Quarter in Hanoi, or up to 100,000 in normal bars and restaurants. Upmarket bars and restaurants may charge 150,000 or more for imported beers.
• Craft beer is available in Vietnam at many Western restaurants, and at brewery bars such as the Pasteur Street Brewing Company in Ho Chi Minh City. Wine is somewhat expensive in Vietnam when compared to most Western countries, although not exorbitantly so.
• Spirits in Vietnam are fairly cheap, with local moonshine available for less than 20,000 dong per bottle and most imported spirits available for 50,000 to 150,000 per glass in bars. As always, it’s possible to drink cheaply or spend a fortune on alcohol in Vietnam, depending on your tastes.
• Cigarettes in Vietnam are extremely cheap, with local cigarettes available from 15,000 dong and imported cigarettes available for 20,000 to 30,000 per pack. In short, even if you’re a very heavy smoker, you’ll spend very little on cigarettes in Vietnam.

Travelling Around Vietnam

• There are three main ways to travel around Vietnam – airplane, train and buses. You look up the cost and buy tickets for each route you want to travel (e.g. Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City) on 12Go – this site lets you compare the prices and time of journey between planes, trains and buses in Vietnam so you can decide when to go slow and cheap or spend some extra cash and get there quickly.

Vietnam Domestic Flights

• Domestic flights are available between most major cities in Vietnam, with connections from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to other tourist destinations cheap and plentiful. Today, several budget airlines operate in Vietnam and offer low-cost domestic flights, including:
• Vietjet, a Vietnamese low-cost airline that offers ultra-budget flights between cities in Vietnam and international destinations such as Bangkok and Hong Kong.
• Jetstar, an international low-cost airline that offers flights between most cities and major tourist destinations in Vietnam.
• The cost of domestic flights in Vietnam varies based on the season. It also varies based on how early ahead of time you book your flights. Book weeks in advance and you can fly from Ho Chi Minh City to a destination like Da Nang for under 700,000 dong (about $30 USD). Book at the last minute, especially during high season, and you could spend two million dong or more.
• You can compare flight prices on 12Go
• If your budget permits, we recommend flying around Vietnam instead of travelling by train or bus. Traffic in Vietnam is extremely noisy and chaotic, and even a short bus trip can end up taking several hours due to road congestion, accidents and interruptions.

Vietnam Buses

• Buses are by far the cheapest way to get around Vietnam. However, the country’s crowded road network means that even short trips of 100 miles or less can take the better part of a day due to interruptions and traffic.
• You’ll also have to deal with noise when you travel by bus, both from other vehicles and from the ubiquitous karaoke machines installed on Vietnamese buses, including overnight ones. If you’re tolerant of noise, however, travelling Vietnam by bus can be pleasant and very affordable.
• The best way to travel around Vietnam by bus is to buy tickets for the specific legs you need to cover a day or two in advance. Bus tickets are available from travel agencies in all major cities and tourist destinations, such as Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang.
• Bus tickets generally cost approximately 50,000 dong per hour of travel time. You’ll pay slightly more for VIP buses (which are worth getting, especially if you like a comfortable trip) but should be able to travel inexpensively at 150,000 to 500,000 dong for most eight to 10 hour bus trips.
• For example, a ticket on a SinhTourist bus between Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang costs just over 160,000 dong ($7 USD) and takes 10 hours, with free Wi-Fi provided on board.
• You can compare bus prices on 12Go

Vietnam Trains

• Vietnam’s train network is a little rough around the edges but offers a great way to travel around the country cheaply. Travelling by train costs about the same as travelling by bus but offers the peace and quiet that’s hard to find on Vietnam’s highways.
• Travelling by train in Vietnam is best for long, overnight journeys that give you plenty of time to rest and relax. Soft sleeper tickets, which provide a bunk in a small room with enough space for four people, offer the best mix of comfort and value for money.
• See 12Go for prices and timings of specific train journies in Vietnam

Vietnam Dong and US Dollars

• Vietnam’s national currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Thanks to its high denomination (one US dollar is worth about 22,700 dong, as of February 2017), it can be quite a confusing currency to adjust to as a visitor.
• The dong has steadily decreased in value compared to most Western currencies over the past few years, so it’s best to check the current exchange rate before you start your trip. Be wary of articles that are more than two to three years old, as they often provide outdated information.
• Vietnamese banknotes range in value from 500 to 500,000 dong. All Vietnamese banknotes have a similar design, with a smiling portrait of Ho Chi Minh and the note’s value printed in a bold, obvious font.
• Despite the huge font, it can be easy to get Vietnamese banknotes mixed up. Before you pull out your money to pay for anything, be aware that the 20,000 dong and 500,000 dont notes — one worth less than a dollar and the other more than $20 — have an almost identical colour.
• This is also true of the 50,000 and 200,000 dong notes, which are both printed on red plastic paper. Double-check that you have the right note before you pay for anything, as merchants have been known to “forget” to give change in this situation in the past.
• Vietnam doesn’t have any coins, meaning you’ll amass a large collection of banknotes (usually low-value, somewhat useless notes like 500 and 1,000 dong) over the course of your stay. It’s best to keep these in your backpack and use them all at once to buy cheap, simple items.
• Although Vietnam used to use the US dollar as an unofficial second currency, as of 2017 almost all transactions are made using Vietnamese dong. The only transactions made using US dollars are for visa processing fees, which you’ll need to pay if you plan to get a visa on arrival.
• You can convert almost all major currencies into Vietnamese dong in any of Vietnam’s major cities and tourist destinations.

Cost of Visas for Vietnam

• Visitors from most Western countries will need a visa to enter Vietnam. Some citizens of European countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days – see this separate page about Vietnam visas for more details. Vietnam allows you to apply for a visa online through the official government website . You upload your documents, pay your fee and once it’s approved, you print out your visa to show the immigration official when you arrive in Vietnam.

ATMs and Credit Cards in Vietnam

• Just a few years ago, ATMs were fairly rare in Vietnam outside of business districts and tourist areas. Today, ATMs from both Vietnamese and international banks are very easy to find in any Vietnamese city and offer competitive fees for withdrawing Vietnamese dong.
• If your ATM card uses the Visa, Mastercard or Cirrus networks, you’ll be able to withdraw cash from almost all Vietnamese ATMs without issues. Fees range from 40,000 to 66,000 dong for each withdrawal, depending on the specific bank.
• To keep your ATM fees down, it’s worth withdrawing several million dong at once. Some ATMs, particularly ATMS operated by Vietnamese domestic banks, have a limit of two million dong per withdrawal. You can avoid these limits by withdrawing cash from CitiBank or ANZ machines.
• Credit cards are accepted by most modern businesses, hotels and chains in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. However, if you’re visiting a small city or off-the-beaten-track destination, it’s always best to carry enough cash to cover your expenses without having to use a credit card.

Spend or Convert Your Dong Before You Leave

• Because Vietnamese dong is not a major regional currency, it can be hard to exchange outside of Vietnam. If you have dong leftover at the end of your trip, it’s best to exchange it at the airport into a currency you can use in your next country.

Accommodation in Vietnam

• Accommodation in Vietnam ranges from ultra-budget rooms in family-owned guesthouses to some of Southeast Asia’s most luxurious hotels. Over the last 10 years, Vietnam has grown at an incredible pace, with new hotels opening throughout the country every few months.
• In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you’ll be able to choose from a huge selection of hotels in all price ranges. In smaller destinations, you’ll find a good mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options at very reasonable prices.

Affordable Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Beautiful Saigon 3 Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located on Bui Vien — Ho Chi Minh City’s version of Bangkok’s Khao San Road — the Beautiful Saigon 3 Hotel is an inexpensive hotel that over delivers in terms of comfort and facilities, with a large outdoor pool and clean, spacious rooms. One of the best budget options in Saigon.
• Duc Vuong Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Another Bui Vien option, Duc Vuong Hotel is a cosy and clean three-star hotel with a variety of rooms and suites priced with budget travellers in mind. One advantage of this hotel (as well as Beautiful Saigon 3 Hotel above) is that it’s within walking distance of several museums.
• Cititel Boutique Ben Thanh Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located close to Benh Thanh Market, Cititel Boutique Ben Thanh Hotel is a modern three-star hotel with clean and comfortable rooms, a good restaurant and a great location in the heart of District 1.

Mid Range Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Silverland Yen Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located close to the Independence Palace and a short walk from Dong Khoi, Silverland Yen Hotel is a great four star hotel with modern rooms and great facilities, including a rooftop pool, fitness centre and more. One of the best mid-range options in the Ben Thanh area.
• Avanti Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located on Le Thanh Ton street, the Avanti Hotel is a great three-star hotel that’s a short walk away from the Independence Palace, People’s Committee Building, War Remnants Museum and other popular sights. A great option if you want to get around Ho Chi Minh City on foot.
• Millennium Boutique Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Millennium Boutique Hotel is a new four-star hotel located no Thai Van Lung Street, close to Ho Chi Minh City’s Japanese district. With a great location close to shopping and attractions, clean and comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool, this is one of the best mid-range hotels in the area.

Luxury Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located on Pasteur Street, Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel is a four star luxury hotel that sits close to the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace and other sights. Rooms here are clean, modern, comfortable and fairly priced for a high-end hotel.
• Rex Hotel Saigon View on Booking.com or Agoda.com The Rex Hotel famously served as a base of operations for the US military leadership during the war. Today, it’s one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest hotels and a great option for anyone that prefers a classic, grand old hotel to the modern buildings that are popping up all over Ho Chi Minh City.
• The Reverie Saigon View on Booking.com or Agoda.com One of Asia’s most luxurious hotels, The Reverie Saigon is as close as Vietnam gets to six-star luxury. Rooms here are extremely lavish and comparable to the top hotels in major world cities like New York and London, both in quality and in price.

Affordable Hotels in Hanoi

• Hanoi Serenity Hotel 2 View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Like most budget hotels in Hanoi, Hanoi Serenity Hotel 2 is located in the city’s Old Quarter. A short walk from sights like the Temple of the Jade Mountain, this is a simple and pleasant three star hotel with clean rooms and a convenient location.
• Spring Flower Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Spring Flower Hotel is a small budget hotel a short distance from Hoan Kiem lake and several of Hanoi’s top sights. Rooms are comfortable and clean, with a variety of good cafés and eateries a short walk away.
• Hanoi Romance Hotel View on Agoda.com Another Old Quarter accommodation option, Hanoi Romance Hotel is a small three-star hotel with modern rooms and a convenient location. Located on a small laneway, this hotel offers a little more peace and quiet than most hotels in the Old Quarter.

Mid Range Hotels in Hanoi

• Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy is a modern four-star hotel located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a short walk from Hoan Kiem and attractions like the Temple of the Jade Mountain. Rooms here are clean and modern, with free Wi-Fi and friendly, helpful staff.
• May De Ville Old Quarter Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Another option close to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, May De Ville Old Quarter Hotel is located just north of Hoan Kiem Lake. Rooms here are clean and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and, for some rooms, good views over the Old Quarter and surrounding area.
• Thang Long Opera Hotel Hanoi View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located across Hoan Kiem Lake, Thang Long Opera Hotel Hanoi is conveniently situated close to many of Hanoi’s top attractions but doesn’t have the noise or bustle of hotels located right in the Old Quarter. Rooms here are clean, spacious and elegantly decorated.

Luxury Hotels in Hanoi

• Apricot Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Apricot Hotel is a neo-classical luxury hotel with excellent views of Hoan Kiem Lake. Rooms and suites here are spacious and very nicely decorated, with lots of natural light and plenty of space for you to stretch out and relax. This hotel also has a rooftop pool with spectacular views.
• Pan Pacific Hanoi View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located right beside Hanoi’s West Lake, the Pan Pacific Hanoi is a modern five-star hotel with a spectacular view of Hanoi’s largest lake. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, offering exactly what you’d expect from an international five-star hotel.
• Fraser Suites Hanoi View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Fraser Suites Hanoi is located a short distance from the West Lake, making it a great option for exploring Hanoi’s CBD and largest recreational area. This is a modern, high-end hotel with large and luxurious rooms and facilities like a gym and outdoor swimming pool.

Affordable Hotels in Hoi An

• Pho Hoi Riverside Resort View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Located close to Hoi An’s Old Town, Pho Hoi Riverside Resort is an affordable resort with large rooms, villas and bungalows. It also has a relaxing riverside location and outdoor pool, making it one of the best budget resorts you’ll find in Hoi An.
• Nova Villa Hoi An View on Booking.com or Agoda.com One of Hoi An’s highest rated budget hotels, Nova Villa Hoi An is conveniently located close to the historic Old Town. Beautiful river views, cosy rooms and an outdoor pool make this one of the best affordable hotels in Hoi An.

Mid Range Hotels in Hoi An

• Hoi An Silk Boutique Hotel and Spa View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Hoi An Silk Boutique Hotel and Spa is a modern four-star hotel located close to the centre of Hoi An. Clean, modern rooms and great facilities such as its calm outdoor swimming pool make this a great option near Hoi An’s main sights.
• Hoi An River Town Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Hoi An River Town Hotel offers large, comfortable rooms with balconies that offer a panoramic view of the Thu Bon River. A short distance from the Old Town, this is a peaceful and luxurious hotel that offers excellent value for money.

Luxury Hotels in Hoi An

• Hoi An Historic Hotel View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Hoi An Historic Hotel is a beautiful colonial hotel located close to Hoi An’s Old Town. Rooms and suites are spacious, comfortable and elegantly furnished, with facilities including a large outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, kid’s play room, beauty salon and spa.
• Hotel Royal Hoi An MGallery View on Booking.com or Agoda.com Another colonial hotel, Hotel Royal Hoi An MGallery combines modern rooms with a grand old hotel atmosphere. Rooms here are spacious and comfortable, with a great outdoor pool and a short walk from the hotel to nearby attractions like the Japanese Bridge and Hoi An Old Town.

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Planning Your Budget: A Guide to Trip to Vietnam Cost 2024

June 25, 2023

Vietnam is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. When planning a trip to Vietnam, it's important to consider the major costs, such as flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities.

A round-trip ticket to Vietnam can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the season and airline. Accommodation costs vary greatly, from budget hotels or hostels for as low as $10 per night to luxury hotels for $200 or more per night. Vietnam's public transportation system is extensive and efficient, with a one-way subway or train ticket costing around $0.50 to $1.50.

Food in Vietnam is delicious and affordable, with budget restaurants offering meals for as low as $1 to $2 per person, while mid-range restaurants can cost around $10 to $20 per person. As for daily expenses, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $20 to $30 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $70 per day.

It's important to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you. With these tips, you can enjoy all that Vietnam has to offer without breaking the bank.

How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to Vietnam?

If you're planning a 2-night, 3-day trip to Vietnam, the cost can vary depending on your travel style, choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities. However, for budget travelers, here's a rough estimate of the cost:

• Flights : The cost of a round-trip ticket to Vietnam can range from $500 to $800, depending on your location in the US.
• Accommodation : For budget hotels or hostels, the cost can range from $10 to $20 per night, with a total cost range of $20 to $40 for 2 nights of accommodation.
• Transportation : The cost of a one-way subway or train ticket can range from $0.30 to $1, with a total cost range of $1.80 to $6 for 3 days of transportation.
• Food and drinks : The cost of a meal at budget restaurants can range from $1 to $5, while street food and convenience store meals can cost even less. The cost of drinks can range from $0.50 to $2, depending on the type of drink and location. The expected cost for food and drinks for 3 days can range from $30 to $60.
• Sightseeing and activities : Some popular attractions in Vietnam that may be free or cost a small entrance fee include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Old Quarter, and Hoi An Ancient Town. Other attractions that may be a bit more expensive per person include the Halong Bay Cruise and the Cu Chi Tunnels. The expected cost range for sightseeing and activities for 3 days can range from $30 to $100.

For a budget traveler who wants a 2-night, 3-day trip to Vietnam, the total cost can range from $100 to $300 . It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, activities, and other expenses. So, plan your trip accordingly and enjoy the beauty of Vietnam!

How much does it cost for flights when traveling to Vietnam?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the most important considerations is the cost of flights. The cost of flights to Vietnam can vary depending on various factors such as the departure location, time of year, airline, and availability.

If you are departing from major cities in the United States such as New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, the cost of a round-trip economy class ticket to Vietnam can range from $600 to $1200 . However, the cost may be higher or lower depending on the time of year you are traveling, the airline you choose, and the availability of flights.

It's important to note that airline prices are subject to change frequently, so it's always a good idea to check with a reputable travel booking website or airline for up-to-date pricing information.

Cheap Flight from San Francisco to Hanoi

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Cheap Flight from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City

So, if you're planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to check out our flight search tool to find the best deals on flights. Click on the button below to start your search now!

How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to Vietnam?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of accommodation. The cost of hotels in Vietnam varies depending on several factors, such as the location, season, and the type of accommodation the travelers are looking for.

• Generally, hotels in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang tend to be more expensive than hotels in smaller cities or rural areas. For example, a mid-range hotel room in Hanoi can cost around 800,000 VND (34 USD) per night, while a luxury hotel room can cost around 3,000,000 VND (128 USD) per night.
• In other cities and smaller towns in Vietnam, the hotel prices are generally lower. For instance, a mid-range hotel room in Hoi An can cost around 500,000 VND (21 USD) per night, while a luxury hotel room can cost around 2,500,000 VND (107 USD) per night.

It's important to note that prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability. During peak tourist season, which is from December to February, hotel prices tend to be higher. On the other hand, during the low season, which is from May to September, hotel prices can be significantly lower.

Best Hotels in Hanoi

Hilton hanoi opera, somerset grand hanoi, the oriental jade hotel, apricot hotel, hanoi daewoo hotel, pullman hanoi, peridot grand luxury boutique hotel, sofitel legend metropole hanoi, pan pacific hanoi, intercontinental hanoi westlake, an ihg hotel, dolce by wyndham hanoi golden lake, grand plaza hanoi hotel, oakwood residence hanoi, capella hanoi, diamond westlake suites, melia hanoi, intercontinental hanoi landmark72, an ihg hotel, grand vista hanoi, somerset west point hanoi, movenpick living west hanoi, fraser residence hanoi, hotel de l'opera hanoi - mgallery, hotel du parc hanoi, jw marriott hotel hanoi, fraser suites hanoi, crown complex hanoi hotel, sheraton hanoi hotel, novotel hanoi thai ha, grand mercure hanoi, elegant suites westlake, smarana hanoi heritage - hotel and retreats, lotte the residence, lotte hotel hanoi, calidas landmark72 royal residence hanoi, grand k hotel suites hanoi, movenpick hotel hanoi centre, wyndham sky lake resort and villas, palmo hotel & apartment 3, metropolis apartment, luxury apartments vinhomes metropolis, sinsoledad nha pho ha noi ( 437 hong ha street ), private villa near hanoi - lala villa - 1000m2, til- vinhomes times city lake view, the five residences hanoi, til_vinhomes skylake, vinhomes dcapitale tran duy hung, phucan house, nesta grand hao nam, gem apartment - vinhomes green bay ha noi, classyc hotel, business travel, san premium hotel - former golden cyclo hotel, hanoi allure hotel, anatole hotel hanoi, hanoi marvellous hotel & spa, roygent parks hanoi, the noble swan hotel & spa, dream hotel and apartment, hanoian central hotel & spa, hilton garden inn hanoi, sunline hotel, fortuna hotel hanoi, super hotel candle, rose garden residences, authentic hanoi boutique hotel, imperial hotel & spa, sunway hotel hanoi, grand cititel hanoi hotel & spa, istay hotel apartment 6, mk premier boutique hotel, hanoi hotel, the ann hanoi hotel & spa, mercure hanoi la gare, wyndham garden hanoi, poonsa duy tan hotel and serviced apartment, royal holiday hanoi hotel, the hanoi club hotel & residences, thang long opera hotel, nesta hotel ha noi, somerset hoa binh hanoi, west lake 254d hotel & residence, lenid hotel tho nhuom, parosand hanoi hotel & apartment, hanoi vacanza premier hotel, diamond legend hotel, la sinfonia del rey hotel & spa, victory legend hotel & spa, little diamond hotel, hanoi brilliant hotel & spa, aira boutique hanoi hotel & spa, parklane hanoi hotel, hanoi paon hotel & spa, hanoi royal palace hotel 2, luxury old quarter hotel & gym, the lapis hotel, grande collection hotel & spa, oriental suites hotel & spa, silk queen hotel, la casa hanoi hotel, dream central hotel, paragon noi bai hotel & pool, conifer grand hotel, shining central hotel&spa, maya boutique hotel & spa, the light hotel, hanoi garden hotel & spa, vision premier hotel & spa, lavender central hotel & spa hanoi, alisa hotel & spa, hanoi lotus boutique hotel, rising dragon hotel, hanoi space hotel, hillary hanoi hotel, parkside sunline hotel, a25 hotel - hoang dao thuy, hanoi hotel royal, aquarius grand hotel, hôtel de souriant premium hanoi, best hotels in ho chi minh city, eastin grand hotel saigon, hotel grand saigon, windsor plaza hotel, caravelle saigon, mai house saigon hotel, hotel majestic saigon, pullman saigon centre, hotel nikko saigon, the myst dong khoi, new world saigon hotel, citadines regency saigon, royal hotel saigon, bay hotel ho chi minh, intercontinental saigon, an ihg hotel, ramada encore by wyndham saigon d1 - formerly m boutique hotel saigon, liberty central saigon riverside hotel, oakwood residence saigon, liberty central saigon citypoint, liberty central saigon centre hotel, vinpearl landmark 81, autograph collection, la vela saigon hotel, the hammock hotel fine arts museum, au lac charner hotel, the odys boutique hotel, the reverie saigon, somerset ho chi minh city, le meridien saigon, prostyle hotel ho chi minh, alagon city hotel & spa, how much does it cost for food when traveling to vietnam.

When traveling to Vietnam, the cost of food and dining can vary widely depending on several factors such as the type of food, the restaurant's location, and the level of formality or luxury. However, Vietnam is known for its delicious and affordable street food, which is a must-try for any traveler.

• Street food or fast food : around 20,000 to 50,000 VND (less than $2 USD) per meal.
• Casual dining or local restaurants : around 50,000 to 150,000 VND ($2 to $6 USD) per meal.
• Mid-range restaurants : around 200,000 to 500,000 VND ($8 to $20 USD) per meal.
• High-end or luxury restaurants : cost upwards of 1,000,000 VND ($40 USD) per meal.

If you're on a budget, there are other affordable options for food in Vietnam. Convenience stores and supermarkets offer a variety of tasty and healthy food at reasonable prices. You can find pre-packaged meals, fresh fruits, and snacks for as low as 10,000 VND (less than $1 USD).

Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, and the prices listed above are typically the final price you will pay. However, prices can vary depending on the location and the time of year. It's always a good idea to check the menu or ask the staff about the prices before ordering.

In conclusion, Vietnam offers a wide range of food options at affordable prices. Whether you're looking for street food or fine dining, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to try the local specialties and enjoy the culinary delights of Vietnam!

How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to Vietnam?

When traveling to Vietnam, visitors are often drawn to the country's rich culture and history, and they may want to bring home a piece of that experience in the form of a souvenir. However, the cost of souvenirs in Vietnam can vary widely depending on what you are looking for, where you are shopping, and the quality of the item.

• Traditional conical hat (non la) : These hats are made from palm leaves and are commonly worn by farmers and workers to protect them from the sun and rain. Non la can be found in many souvenir shops and markets throughout Vietnam, and prices can range from 50,000 to 200,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $2 to $9 USD).
• Vietnamese coffee : known for its rich and bold flavor. Visitors can purchase coffee beans or pre-packaged coffee in many shops and markets throughout the country. Prices can vary depending on the quality and brand, but a bag of coffee beans can cost anywhere from 100,000 to 500,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $4 to $22 USD).
• The ao dai ( traditional Vietnamese clothing): a long, flowing dress that is typically worn for special occasions. Prices for ao dai can vary depending on the quality of the fabric and the level of customization, but visitors can expect to pay anywhere from 500,000 to 2,000,000 Vietnamese dong (approximately $22 to $88 USD).

It's important to note that many souvenir shops in tourist areas have fixed prices, but there may be room for negotiation in other types of stores, such as flea markets or antique shops. Prices can also vary depending on the time of year, and it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to Vietnam?

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, it's important to know how much transportation will cost you. The cost of transportation in Vietnam varies depending on the mode of transportation and the distance traveled.

• Train : Train travel is a popular way to get around Vietnam. The cost of a train ticket depends on the distance traveled and the type of seat you choose. For example, a one-way ticket from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City can cost anywhere from 800,000 VND (34 USD) to 1,600,000 VND (68 USD) depending on the class of seat.
• Subway : Currently, there is only one subway line in Vietnam, which is in Ho Chi Minh City. The cost of a subway ticket is 5,000 VND (0.21 USD) per trip.
• Bus : Buses are a cheap and convenient way to get around Vietnam. The cost of a bus ticket depends on the distance traveled and the type of bus. For example, a one-way ticket from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City can cost anywhere from 400,000 VND (17 USD) to 800,000 VND (34 USD) depending on the type of bus.
• Taxi : Taxis are widely available in Vietnam, and they are a convenient way to get around the city. The cost of a taxi ride depends on the distance traveled and the time of day. For example, a 5 km ride in Hanoi can cost around 70,000 VND (3 USD).
• Rental car : If you want to explore Vietnam on your own, you can rent a car. The cost of a rental car depends on the type of car and the rental period. For example, a small car can cost around 500,000 VND (21 USD) per day.

Vietnam has transportation passes and discount tickets available for visitors. For example, the Vietnam Railways offers a 20% discount for foreigners who purchase a round-trip ticket. The Ho Chi Minh City Public Transport also offers a daily pass for unlimited travel on buses and the subway for 80,000 VND (3.4 USD).

How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to Vietnam?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, it's important to budget for sightseeing expenses. The cost of sightseeing in Vietnam can vary widely depending on the location, attraction, and activity. However, there are many affordable options available for travelers.

Here are some approximate costs for popular tourist attractions and activities in Vietnam:

• Temples and shrines : Entrance fees for temples and shrines in Vietnam can range from free to around 50,000 VND (2 USD) per person.
• Beaches : Vietnam has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches, such as Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc. The cost of visiting a beach in Vietnam can range from free to around 100,000 VND (4 USD) for entrance fees and parking.
• Markets : Vietnam has many colorful and bustling markets, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. You can wander around the market, shop for souvenirs, and try local street food. Visiting a market in Vietnam is usually free, but the cost of shopping and eating can vary depending on what you buy and where you go. Street food in markets can cost around 20,000 VND (less than 1 USD) per dish.
• Water puppet shows : Water puppetry is a traditional art form in Vietnam, which originated in the Red River Delta. You can watch a water puppet show, which features puppets performing on a water stage accompanied by live music and singing. The cost of a water puppet show in Vietnam can range from 100,000 VND (4 USD) to 300,000 VND (13 USD) per person depending on the location and quality of the show.

It's worth noting that there are many free or low-cost sightseeing options in Vietnam as well. Walking tours, parks, and public gardens can provide a great experience without breaking the bank. So, if you're planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to budget for sightseeing expenses and consider all the affordable options available to you.

How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to Vietnam?

Staying connected while traveling is essential, and Vietnam offers several options for accessing Wi-Fi and communication. Here are some options and cost ranges for staying connected while in Vietnam:

• SIM Card : The cost of a SIM card can vary depending on the data plan and provider. For example, Viettel offers a 30-day data plan with 6GB of data for around 200,000 VND (9 USD). Vinaphone offers a similar plan with 5GB of data for around 150,000 VND (6.5 USD). Mobifone offers a 30-day data plan with 6GB of data for around 200,000 VND (9 USD). These SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or at local convenience stores.
• Rental Wi-Fi Router : Rental companies such as Klook and Tep Wireless offer portable Wi-Fi routers for rent. The cost of renting a Wi-Fi router can vary depending on the rental company and plan. For example, Klook offers a 4G portable Wi-Fi router with unlimited data for around 150,000 VND (6.5 USD) per day. Tep Wireless offers a similar plan for around 200,000 VND (9 USD) per day.
• Free Wi-Fi : Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places such as cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls. Some popular coffee chains such as Starbucks and Highlands Coffee offer free Wi-Fi for customers. However, it's important to note that free Wi-Fi can be unreliable and may not be secure.

Many hotels and accommodations in Vietnam offer free Wi-Fi for guests. It's always a good idea to check with your hotel before booking to see if they offer free Wi-Fi. Some smartphone apps such as WiFi Map and Free WiFi Finder provide access to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the country. These apps can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play.

How much does it cost for passport when traveling to Vietnam?

The cost of a passport for traveling to Vietnam depends on the country of citizenship and the type of passport application. Here are some general guidelines for passport fees:

• In the United States, the cost of a new passport book for an adult (16 years or older) is $145, while a child's passport (under 16 years) is $115. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In the United Kingdom, the cost of a standard adult passport is £75.50, while a child's passport is £49. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In Australia, the cost of a new adult passport is AUD $298, while a child's passport is AUD $148. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.

It's important to note that passport fees can vary depending on the country of citizenship and the type of application. Additionally, some countries may require additional fees for visa applications or other travel documents. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on passport and visa requirements and fees.

How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to Vietnam?

Travel insurance is an essential part of any trip, providing peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events. When traveling to Vietnam, it's important to consider the cost of travel insurance and the coverage you need. Here are some general guidelines for travel insurance costs in Vietnam:

• Single Trip Travel Insurance Policy : A single trip travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $30 and $100, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip. This type of policy provides coverage for a single trip and is ideal for travelers who are only visiting Vietnam once.
• Annual Travel Insurance Policy : An annual travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on the coverage and duration of the trips. This type of policy provides coverage for multiple trips within a year and is ideal for frequent travelers to Vietnam.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy : A comprehensive travel insurance policy for Vietnam typically costs between $50 and $200, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip. This type of policy provides coverage for a wide range of events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage.

It's important to shop around and compare travel insurance policies from different providers to find the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Be sure to read the policy details carefully and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking sites offer travel insurance as a benefit or add-on, so be sure to check those options as well.

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to Vietnam?

The cost of traveling to Vietnam can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the length of the trip, the type of accommodation, the level of luxury, the activities planned, and the number of travelers. Here are some estimated costs for a trip to Vietnam:

• Airfare : The cost of airfare to Vietnam can vary depending on the departure city and the time of year. A round-trip ticket from the United States to Vietnam can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per person.
• Accommodation : The cost of accommodation in Vietnam can vary depending on the type of lodging and the location. A budget hotel or hostel can cost around 150,000 VND ($6.50 USD) to 500,000 VND ($22 USD) per night. A mid-range hotel can cost around 1,000,000 VND ($43 USD) to 2,500,000 VND ($108 USD) per night. Luxury hotels and ryokans can cost upwards of 5,000,000 VND ($216 USD) per night.
• Food and Drink : The cost of food and drink in Vietnam can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the level of luxury. A budget meal at a local restaurant can cost around 50,000 VND ($2.15 USD) to 100,000 VND ($4.30 USD) per person. A mid-range meal can cost around 200,000 VND ($8.60 USD) to 500,000 VND ($22 USD) per person. A cup of coffee can cost around 20,000 VND ($0.86 USD) to 50,000 VND ($2.15 USD), while a beer can cost around 20,000 VND ($0.86 USD) to 60,000 VND ($2.60 USD).
• Transportation : The cost of transportation in Vietnam can vary depending on the mode of travel and the distance. A single metro or train ticket can cost around 10,000 VND ($0.43 USD) to 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD), while a long-distance bullet train ticket can cost around 500,000 VND ($22 USD) to 1,500,000 VND ($65 USD). Taxis and car rentals can also add to the transportation costs.

Overall, the cost of traveling to Vietnam can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. For a family, couple, or single traveler, the expected cost range for a trip to Vietnam can be around $1,000 to $5,000 USD , depending on the travel style and preferences.

Methods to Save Money When Traveling to Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam can be an amazing experience, but it can also be expensive. However, there are several ways to save money when traveling to Vietnam. By following these tips, you can enjoy all that Vietnam has to offer without breaking the bank.

• Travel during the low season : The low season in Vietnam is from May to September, which means you can find cheaper flights, accommodation, and tour packages.
• Use public transportation : Public transportation in Vietnam is cheap and efficient. You can use buses, trains, and even motorbikes to get around.
• Eat like a local: Street food in Vietnam is delicious and cheap. You can find local food stalls everywhere, and they offer a wide variety of dishes at very affordable prices.
• Bargain when shopping : Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnam, especially at local markets. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price, and always start with a lower price than what the vendor is asking for.
• Stay in budget accommodation : There are plenty of budget accommodation options in Vietnam, such as hostels and guesthouses. They offer basic amenities at a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels.
• Book tours and activities in advance : Booking tours and activities in advance can save you money, as you can often get discounts for early bookings.

Vietnam has many free attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, and the beaches in Da Nang. You can also find free museums and art galleries in some cities. Traveling to Vietnam doesn't have to be expensive. By visiting during the shoulder season, using public transportation, eating like a local, staying in budget accommodations, and taking advantage of free attractions, you can save money while still enjoying all that Vietnam has to offer.

Tips for Traveling to Vietnam

Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it is important to be prepared and informed before you go. Here are some useful tips for traveling to Vietnam:

Basic Local Phrases: It is helpful to learn some basic local phrases like "xin chào" (hello), "cảm ơn" (thank you), and "xin lỗi" (excuse me). This can make it easier to communicate with locals and show your respect for the local culture.

• Local Customs and Etiquette : There are many customs and etiquette rules in Vietnam that may be different from what you are used to. For example, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, and it is considered impolite to touch someone's head. Be sure to read up on local customs and etiquette before you go to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
• Cash : Some smaller businesses in Vietnam may only accept cash. Be sure to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit more rural areas or small towns.
• Transportation : Taxis and motorbikes are popular modes of transportation in Vietnam. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in a taxi and wear a helmet if you're riding a motorbike.
• Prepaid Transportation Card : If you plan to use public transportation in Vietnam, consider purchasing a prepaid transportation card like the "Thẻ Bảo Trì Xe Buýt" (Bus Maintenance Card). These cards can be used on most public transportation systems and make it easy to pay for fares without having to purchase tickets each time.
• Weather : Vietnam has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and cool and dry winters. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.

By following these tips, you can have a more enjoyable and hassle-free trip to Vietnam. Don't forget to try the delicious street food and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this beautiful country.

Trip to Vietnam Cost

What is the cost of a motorbike rental in Vietnam?

What is the cost of a motorbike tour in vietnam, what is the cost of a domestic flight in vietnam, how much does a tour guide cost in vietnam, what is the cost of a traditional vietnamese massage.

• 1. How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to Vietnam?
• 2. How much does it cost for flights when traveling to Vietnam?
• 3. How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to Vietnam?
• 4. How much does it cost for food when traveling to Vietnam?
• 5. How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to Vietnam?
• 6. How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to Vietnam?
• 7. How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to Vietnam?
• 8. How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to Vietnam?
• 9. How much does it cost for passport when traveling to Vietnam?
• 10. How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to Vietnam?
• 11. How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to Vietnam?
• 12. Methods to Save Money When Traveling to Vietnam
• 13. Tips for Traveling to Vietnam

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Destinations: 6

Travel time (hr): 14+

Transportation costs (USD): 110+

Total cost (USD): 450+

Itinerary details

Things to do : War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, Cu Chi Tunnels, Bui Vien Street.

Ho Chi Minh City   → Nha Trang :

• Transportation: Train
• Travel time: 8 hr 30 min
• Fare: 300,000 VND

Things to do : Nha Trang Beach, Hon Tre Island, Po Nagar Cham Towers, Long Son Pagoda.

Nha Trang → Da Nang :

• Transportation: Plane (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Pacific Airlines, and Bamboo Airways)
• Flying time: 1 hr 5 min
• Airfare: 800,000 – 1,200,000 VND

Things to do : Ba Na Hills, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Da Nang → Hoi An :

• Transportation: Bus (01)
• Travel time: 45 min
• Fare: 30,000 VND

Things to do : Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach, Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

From Hoi An, you take bus 01 back to  Da Nang  to fly to  Van Don Airport  (Quang Ninh).

• Flying time: 1 hr 20 min

Ha Long Bay

You take bus 14A or 14B to get to Ha Long Bay from Van Don Airport (free).

Things to do : Ha Long Bay, Bai Chay Beach, Tuan Chau Island.

Ha Long Bay → Hanoi :

• Transportation: Bus (Trung Thanh Limousine)
• Travel time: 1 hr 30 min
• Fare: 260,000 VND

Things to do : Hanoi Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ta Hien Street.

To reach Noi Bai International Airport from Hanoi city center and complete your 10-day itinerary in Vietnam, you can take bus number 86 for a fare of 35,000 VND.

A few notes

• The exchange rate for USD to VND in 2023 is approximately 1 USD to 23,500 VND.
• Please note that the travel time listed for each leg of the journey does not include airport check-in time. We recommend booking flights in advance to take advantage of lower prices.
• For train travel, we recommend booking tickets through the official website of the Vietnam Railway Corporation at dsvn.vn . This will ensure that you get the most up-to-date schedule information and the best prices.
• The recommendations for tours, hotels, bus operators, and airlines provided above are selected based on their suitability for travelers, with no advertising or affiliate marketing. You can rest assured that these suggestions will meet your needs.
• Although ten days may not be enough to fully explore Vietnam, we have selected the country’s most famous places to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.

10 days in Vietnam costs

For an average expenditure of $450, many tourists can cover basic expenses for a 10-day trip to Vietnam. Here are some estimated fixed costs:

• Transportation costs around $110, depending on the types of transportation used.
• Accommodation in a private hotel or homestay costs about $15-$20 per person per night. Solo travelers may find hostels to be a more economical option at around $5 per night.
• Food expenses are estimated at around $15 per person per day, though this can vary depending on where and what you eat.
• Entrance fees for monuments and tourist attractions are generally between $1 and $5 per ticket, though prices may vary depending on the specific site.

Other itineraries

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Our following article offers several incredible itineraries corresponding to the most famous tourist destinations of Vietnam. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the details!

Best Time for 4 Days in Vietnam

• Discover the Hidden Treasures of Buon Ma Thuot 4 Days
• Honeymoon Excursion in Northern Vietnam 4 Days
• La Siesta Superyacht 4 days 3 nights
• North Vietnam 4 Days Excursion
• Trekking Pu Luong Nature Reserve 4 Days

Vietnam Weather

Vietnam is a tropical-climate country with more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km) in length, causing the weather to vary significantly from North to South. Although this country is generally a year-round tourist destination, it is best to visit Vietnam in Spring, from March to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures and light rainfall. Other times of the year may witness heavy rain and occasional flooding in some regions, which is not good for tourist activities.

>>> See the detailed Vietnam weather and the best time to visit the country here . 

Best Places to Visit During Vietnam Itinerary 4 Days

In northern vietnam.

A corner of Hanoi Old Quater

Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi , is a must-visit destination with bustling markets where tourists can enjoy both the ancient and lively atmosphere. Historical and cultural lovers of the city can explore the most picturesque sites, such as the Grand Opera House and the Presidential Palace. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter, etc. are also must-see destinations in Hanoi.

Wandering along Hanoi Old Quarter’s streets in the early morning, sampling a bowl of “Pho” and watching the local people’s daily activities will be an unforgettable experience for any visitors.

Ha Long Bay

One of Vietnam’s most popular tourist attractions is Halong Bay, where the combination of karst limestone peaks and calm, shimmering seas creates a stunning landscape. With over 2000 islands in the area, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views throughout. To fully experience this World Heritage wonder, it is highly recommended to book an overnight cruise and allow time for personal moments. Watching the ethereal misty dawn or kayaking into grottoes and lagoons are excellent options. For those looking for a less crowded karst landscape, Lan Ha Bay to the south or Bai Tu Long to the north are equally spectacular alternatives.

Located in the Lao Cai province, Sapa is a quaint mountain town with a peaceful atmosphere, free from the noise of bustling cities. The town is home to a variety of tribal groups, making it a fascinating cultural destination. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to do here, as Sapa offers various exciting activities. Fan Si Pan, Vietnam’s highest mountain, is only 19 km from the town. However, the climb is not for the faint-hearted, as the unpredictable weather and rough terrain make it challenging for novice climbers. Additionally, visitors can indulge in some of the finest restaurants in Sapa and explore the stunning waterfalls and mountains that will leave them mesmerized.

In Central Vietnam

The citadel of the city of Huế

Hue , situated on the banks of the Perfume River, was the monarchical capital of the Nguyen dynasty and is now considered one of the best places to visit for 4 days in Vietnam. The city is rich in history and culture, evident in its grand infrastructure, historic landmarks, and stunning architecture. It has a unique charm that can captivate anyone who visits. Its ancient citadel, palaces, tombs, and temples are fascinating attractions, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Vietnam. The Complex of Hue Monuments , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see place for historical lovers in Vietnam where they can explore the ruins of the imperial palace, throne halls, and ancient temples.

Golden Bridge – Danang

Da Nang is a paradise for beach lovers on the central coast of Vietnam. Its long stretches of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters make it a perfect destination for honeymooners , families , and anyone seeking to relax and unwind. But Da Nang is more than just a beach destination. It is also home to several must-see attractions, including the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, the majestic Marble Mountains, the stunning Son Tra Peninsula, the tranquil Linh Ung Pagoda, and the pristine Non Nuoc Beach and My Khe Beach. These attractions showcase the region’s rich culture and history and offer visitors unique experiences.

Mud bath in Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a picturesque coastal city that has been gaining popularity among tourists in recent years. Known for its warm tropical climate and extensive coastline, it offers visitors a plethora of breathtaking beaches with pristine white sand and turquoise waters. The city’s most famous beach, Nha Trang Beach, is a hub of activities, such as beach volleyball, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.

For marine enthusiasts spending 4 days in Vietnam, the National Oceanographic Museum is a must-see attraction that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s marine life history. If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Hon Tre Island is the perfect getaway. Accessible by a cable car ride, the island features tranquil turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and lush green forests that provide a serene environment for relaxation. Your trip to Nha Trang would not be complete without indulging in the famous traditional wellness treatment of mineral mud bathing. The Thap Ba Mud Bath, 100 Egg Mud Bath, and I-Resort are some of the popular destinations where you can pamper yourself with the therapeutic benefits of mineral mud.

Da Lat is a popular destination for tourists due to its pleasantly cool climate, which can be enjoyed all year round. The region boasts a low humidity level, which allows for a refreshing breeze to blow through the area. The picturesque scenery of the valley, with its alluring pine trees and beautiful flowers, makes it a perfect getaway spot. In fact, Dalat was once the summer residence of Vietnamese emperors, who were drawn to its serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the streets in the cool weather, admiring the stunning sunsets, and soaking up the charming atmosphere of the city. For those seeking a break from the heat and humidity, Dalat is also an ideal destination.

In Southern Vietnam

The bustling and vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh is also a worthwhile destination during a Vietnam itinerary. With a blend of traditional heritage and modern development, it’s easy to get swept up in the fast pace and feel overwhelmed by the surroundings. While crossing the street for the first time in Ho Chi Minh City can be daunting, the city’s energy draws you in and beckons you to explore. Despite its frenetic pace, Ho Chi Minh City offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions to discover, from the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Reunification Palace to the War Remnants Museum and the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

Once known as Saigon, the city served as the capital of South Vietnam and the seat of the government until the end of the Vietnam War. Even today, as you venture further into southern Vietnam, you’ll hear it still referred to by its former name.

Mekong Delta

Fruit orchard in Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a true masterpiece of nature and culture. The region is renowned for its vibrant, multicolored, and picturesque floating markets, where locals trade their goods on boats. The traditional architecture of the houses, with their unique designs and the river flowing between them, creates a charming and peaceful atmosphere.

Vietnam offers a variety of breathtaking destinations, but the Mekong Delta should not be missed, especially for nature lovers. The tranquil villages, fish farms, and stunning flower gardens make this place a paradise on Earth. If you are planning to spend 4 days in Vietnam, make sure to add the Mekong Delta to your itinerary.

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is a stunningly beautiful island with pristine beaches that are quickly becoming the resort capital of the country. The island’s beaches are a must-visit attraction. Long Beach, which is located near the town center and has many accommodation options, is the most popular. Sao Beach is also a popular choice, but it can get very crowded. For a quieter and more secluded beach experience, Cua Can and Vang Bau are great options.

Rach Vem, also known as Starfish Beach, is another beautiful beach on the island. The sand is covered in starfish at low tide, making for a unique and memorable experience. Visitors can also take a boat trip to the An Thoi Marine Archipelago, a series of islands that form a marine reserve and offer great snorkeling opportunities with clear waters.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Most Popular Tourist Destinations in Vietnam for 2023/2024

Suggested 4 Days in Vietnam Itineraries

As recommended above, 4 days in Vietnam is not enough to travel throughout the country. Instead, you had better visit just one destination or a region. Most visitors spend their Vietnam itinerary 4 days visiting Hanoi and nearby tourist spots, such as Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Moc Chau, Mai Chau, etc.

Itinerary 1: North Vietnam 4 Days Excursion

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi and explore the stunning night market. Day 2: Leave Hanoi for Hoa Lu and Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province. Day 3: Transfer to Ha Long, embark on a night cruise, and start its 2-day itinerary. Day 4: Disembark the cruise and return to Hanoi.

>>> See the detailed program here .

Itinerary 2: Pu Luong Nature Reserve Trekking Tour 4 Days

Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Day 1: Depart for Mai Chau from Hanoi, visit Poom Coong village on the way. Arrive at Pu Luong Nature Reserve in the afternoon. Day 2: Visit Muong Kho Village, Pu Luong Eco Garden, and the local market. Day 3: Hike Pu Luong and discover local people’s life. Day 4: Return to Hanoi, and visit Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant on the way.

>>> Interested in this tour program, you can check it out at Pu Luong Nature Reserve Trekking Tour 4 Days .

Itinerary 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise 4 Days/3 Nights

Day 1: Leave Hanoi for Ha Long Bay, embark on the cruise, and visit Cua Van Fishing Village and Sang Toi Cave. Day 2: Visit Bai Tu Long Bay, Vung Vieng floating village, and Thien Canh Son Cave. Day 3: Transfer to Cat Ba Island, free time to relax on the beach. Day 4: Visit Sung Sot Cave and return to Hanoi.

>>> Enjoy a luxurious experience in Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vietnam with our La Siesta Superyacht cruise 4-day itinerary .

Itinerary 4: Buon Ma Thuot 4 Days

Buon Ma Thuot 4 days

Day 1: Arrive in Buon Ma Thuot, and visit the Dak Lak Museum of Ethnology and The World Coffee Museum. Day 2: Head to Lak Lake and visit the Palace of Bao Dai King. Day 3: Leave for Buon Ma Thuot, explore Dray Nur Waterfall, Ban Don Suspension Bridge, and Akothon Village. Day 4: Departure.

>>> Explore the hidden treasures of Buon Ma Thuot with our 4-day tour .

Itinerary 5: Nha Trang 4 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Nha Trang, check-in at the hotel, and relax. Day 2: Nha Trang City Tour, visit Vietnam Oceanographic Institute, Long Son Pagoda, Stone Church, etc. Day 3: Enjoy an island tour through Tri Nguyen Aquarium, Mot Island, Tranh Beach Island, etc. Day 4: Departure.

>>> Read the detailed itinerary at this link .

Move further to the South of Vietnam, home to Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island. All are perfect destinations for 4 days itinerary in Vietnam. If time permits, don’t hesitate to extend your trip a bit longer with 5 days motorbike tour in Southern Vietnam or Saigon – Mekong Delta Tour 5 Days .

What to Eat in 4 Days in Vietnam

1. pho – must eat during a vietnam tour package.

Pho (Phở) is a classic Vietnamese dish that features rice noodles as its main ingredient. The name “phở” actually refers to the type of noodle used in the recipe. The dish typically consists of flat rice noodles served in a beef or chicken broth with thinly sliced medium-rare beef or boiled chicken. There are two main types of phở: phở Hanoi, which originated in the north and has a clear broth, and phở Nam, which is popular in the south and features a murkier broth and fresh herb garnishes such as bean sprouts, basil, and mint.

The key to a delicious bowl of phở is the broth, which is typically flavored with fragrant spices like star anise, clove, and cinnamon for a touch of natural sweetness. Interestingly, phở is often consumed as a breakfast dish in Vietnam and can be found on street corners throughout the country. Don’t forget to try it during 4 days in Vietnam.

Banh mi -street food loved by every Vietnamese

Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, may have been influenced by the French baguette, but it has become a distinct Vietnamese creation. The soft and chewy baguette is slathered with pâté and margarine, then stuffed with an assortment of ingredients including pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, pork belly, pork floss, and cucumber. As you bite into the crunchy exterior, your teeth sink into the various textures and flavors that meld together in a delightful explosion of taste.

3. Bun Bo Hue (Hue Beef Noodles)

Bun bo Hue (rice noodle soup with beef)

Bun Bo Hue, a dish representing the renowned royal cuisine of Hue, is a perfect combination of both beauty and taste and a must-eat dish during your Vietnam itinerary 4 days. The bright red color of the broth is the first hint of its bold flavor, which is the result of beef bones and lemongrass simmered for hours to create a citrusy broth. Along with tender beef shanks, flash-boiled vegetables give this dish a vibrant touch.

4. Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

Quang noodles

Mi Quang is a dish that defies classification, as it is a combination of soup and salad. But make no mistake, this noodle dish from Central Vietnam’s Quang Nam province is street food. The vibrant yellow color of the noodles is derived from the turmeric-infused broth, which is made rich in peanut oil. Only a small amount of broth is used to make this “soup,” which can be topped with anything from shrimp and chicken to pork belly and snakehead fish. To enjoy mì quảng, add sliced banana flowers, Vietnamese coriander, basil, and toasted sesame rice crackers.

5. Com Tam (Broken rice)

Broken rice, once considered inferior and consumed by Vietnamese farmers, has now become a staple food for the working class. It has humble origins but can be prepared in various ways. This dish features a caramelized grilled pork chop served with a fried egg on a bed of broken rice, drizzled with a blend of fish sauce, chili, and sugar, and topped with green onion oil. Shredded pickled carrots and daikon, sliced cucumbers and tomatoes, as well as crushed fried pork rinds and shallots, are served on the side for garnish. Your Vietnam itinerary will not be completed if you miss this special dish.

>>> Learn more: Top 30 Popular Vietnamese Dishes: Must-Try Vietnam Foods

Above are some suggested itineraries for 4 days in Vietnam. Despite the short duration, you can still experience the best of the country’s tourism if you plan your trip smartly. No matter how many days in Vietnam you go, the problem is how you prepare for your trip. Still not satisfied with the above-suggested programs, you can check our Vietnam tours for more options or contact us for a private consultation. Our travel experts at IDC Travel are always ready to help.

• 10 Days in Vietnam: Uncover the Secrets of 3 Regions
• Vietnam in Winter: Best Places to Visit & Suggested Itineraries to Embrace the Chill
• 13 Days in Vietnam: How to Plan a Perfect Trip & Suggested Itineraries

FAQ for 4 days in Vietnam

Is a 4-day trip to vietnam enough.

Well, while it’s possible to have a whirlwind adventure in 4 days, the lush landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Northern Vietnam genuinely deserve more of your time. Ideally, spending at least a week allows you to immerse deeper into its breathtaking nature and diverse cultural attractions. Trust us, North Vietnam has so much to offer that you wouldn’t want to rush it!

We are here to help you...

Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our specialists

Hello, I'm Alice Pham - a travel blogger at IDC Travel. I have traveled to almost places in Vietnam and gained numerous useful experiences. I'm here willing to help you plan the most wonderful trip to our stunning S-shaped country.

Comments(2)

I spent 1-week honeymoon holiday in Phu Quoc last year and it was wonderful. People were friendly and the seafood was so fresh. We both want to come back to this pearl island with our kids in the next 3 or 5 years. Kaka.

Hi Josephine, Glad to hear about your wonderful experience in Vietnam. Many more interesting activities are awaiting you and your kids to explore in Vietnam. Hope to see you soon. Thank you so much! Best regards, Alice Pham.

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How much would a Vietnam 7 day trip cost? Finance guideline for your next vacation

Dong – the official vietnamese currency.

How much a Vietnam 7 day trip cost?

• Budget travelers could expect to spend at least $500-$700 .
• Mid-range travelers could expect to spend $1,000-$1,500 ,
• While luxury travelers could spend $2,500 or more .

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7 Day Vietnam Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Vietnam tour with TourRadar. Choose from 352 trips with 767 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

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• Christmas & New Year

Best of Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi 7 Days - Super Save

Great tour, Hotel rooms where well positioned. Guides attentive and kept us informed on each daily routine. Great value for money tour and operation. Had one hiccup with a canceled /changed flight but operators where straight on to it once informed. Will recommend to others for the future.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

DISCOVER VIETNAM IN 7 DAYS

This second time we return vietnam for our short vacation. We keep on trust in lvptravel due to their bro services. We will spend more time 10 days next winter season. My tour leader was so great ! No words to explain about this. We also prefer " banh my pate" pho hanoi, amazing local food. THANKS to All

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Vietnam from Hanoi to Saigon 7 Days - Super Save

I had a really nice time but I would have liked another day or two. One whole day was spent traveling and I just felt like I needed more time.

Vietnam Adventure: Hoi An, Beaches & Ho Chi Minh City

Discovery Northern of Vietnam in 7 Days

Did a lot in a few days. Our main tour guide was very helpful, always got back to us in a timely manner to answer questions and concerns. Would use again. Good accommodations near must see areas.

• Sightseeing

Hanoi and HaLong cruise to Ho Chi Minh 7 days

These 7 days of tours were an excellent way to experience a LOT of Vietnam in a very short period of time. One of the (many) great things about it was the fantastic communication between us and the organizers, Chloe and Tran. They were incredibly helpful, both before and during the tours. Their English was very good. They consistently checked in, answered questions immediately once we got into their time zone, very promptly when we were 12 hours apart. They had excellent suggestions when asked. Tran helped me maneuver a potential medical issue by helping suggest good hospitals in Ho Chi Minh (turned out to be a non issue ) I am very glad we took extra time on both the Hanoi end of the trip and the Ho Chi Minh end as the days were so packed with adventures we barely had time to explore the cities. I do wish I had more time to be in the cities, especially Hanoi. Would recommend coming a day or two earlier just to get a feel for it. Keep this in mind if you book a short “adventure” tour. You see a LOT of Vietnam in a short period of time but you don’t get a lot of time on your own. I only had 7 days to work with initially and it just wasn’t enough time. For the most part I really appreciated having my days mapped out. I liked being picked up and dropped off at airports and not having to think too hard about it. Our hotels were clean and well located. The tours we went on were run by legit companies. Each tour has new guides, new people so you get to meet a lot of different people. Our Halong Bay boat was beautiful- clean, spacious, nice crew. All of our guides were knowledgeable and informative, particularly with history. The only tour we did not like was the Mekong Delta. The guide was great but the tour itself was way too contrived. Felt like we were on a tourist assembly line and missed out on the amazing history and culture of the region. I highly recommend using TourRadar. You get a really good bang for the buck.

Simply Vietnam In 7 Days by Realistic Asia

Simply Vietnam was a fun tour that combined food, culture, beautiful scenery, and history. The tour was subcontracted to other tour groups arranged by Realistic Asia. All of the tour groups that were included see were very informative and efficient. We very much enjoyed the tour.

Glimpse Of Vietnam in 7 Days

I spent a week visiting Vietnam. This tour took me to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh, and I had a marvelous time. This country is a wonderful place to travel. It was not a very expensive tour, and there were so many things to do. Totally worth the money! I have some advice for you: use local stores for water and snacks and don't be frightened to wander off strange areas. Vietnam is really safe, and the people are polite and respectful. I wish I could've stayed longer.

• Coach / Bus

7 Days South to Central of Vietnam

What a fantastic and great trip! Thanks Huyen Anh, and Tin that were my fearless and amazing tour guides. I highly recommend this Tourradar. Transportation was always flawless and very punctual.

7 Days Discovery Central of Vietnam

We were very happy with the organisation and care shown by Hoi An Express, our leader and drivers

• Ocean Cruise

Hanoi - Sapa Highlight Package Tour in 7 Days

We are group of 7 joined with luxury vacation package for whole week from hanoi- north west sapa, bac ha market, we explored many passes to reach the highest mountainous region and visited some primary school, did donation foundations, helps...Lvp operator played an important role in supporting our group for both definitely travel with work in hanoi. Thanks and recommend this operator to everybody

• Hiking & Trekking

7-Day Discover Hanoi with Sapa Trekking & Cruising in Halong Bay

From start to finish with a lot of moving parts from pickups to drop offs, the tours and the guides, to the accommodation and hotel staff were absolutely amazing. We could not rate this any higher. 10 out of 10 so from myself and my wife thank you so much for everything.

7-Day Tour of Northern Vietnam

7-Day Tour of Saigon and Hanoi

7 days Vietnam tour Package from HANOI CITY/ HALONG BAY / SAPA - FANSIPANG PEAK

Had a lot of hesitation before traveling to Vietnam, trip was wonderful, never felt unsafe, partly guide were all good. We visited almost Vietnam highlights. Absolutly feeling satisfied for what we paid. Worth to spend money

What people love about 7 Day Vietnam Tours

Vietnam is a beautiful wonderful country, people are nice and gentle. The trip was well organized and all worked out well

Touring Vietnam with LVPTRAVEL ticked many boxes. The cycling, hiking and kayaking was pitched right given the climate. Energetic, resourceful, fun Guide. Vietnamese are some of the nicest we've met around the world and the food was amazing. Highly recommend this 7-9 Day Tour on package

Regions in Vietnam

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• Northwest Vietnam (50)
• Mekong Delta (34)
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• Southern China (18)
• Vietnam Central Highlands (9)

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Diamond Cruise Halong Bay Day Tour

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From battlefield to capital: Former FSU President reflects on his days in the Vietnam War

The moment John Thrasher arrived in Vietnam, he started counting down the days until he could leave.

"I was there exactly to the day, 365 days," Thrasher said. "It was a long year."

It was 55 years ago when the retired FSU president, lawyer, lobbyist and former top state lawmaker fought in the divisive war that cost thousands of Americans their lives, but he still remembers most of it.

The U.S. was engulfed in turmoil during the Vietnam War, the 80-year-old said, and veterans weren't greeted with parades or much praise, if any, as they returned.

But on Saturday, Thrasher and 69 other Vietnam War veterans will be honored and get to hear two words that are long overdue: "Welcome home."

Honor Flight Tallahassee — a local branch of the nationwide organization that's dedicated to honoring war veterans — is making its 10th annual trip to Washington, D.C., with a total of 76 veterans who served in World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars.

The organization's mission: To bring every veteran to Washington, free of charge, who is capable of going and has never seen the monuments that were built as a tribute to them and the numerous soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty many years ago.

"I'm looking forward to it, I really am," Thrasher said. "Frankly, I think in America generally we don't do enough to honor veterans. And I'm not talking about me now, I don't need that, but there are a lot of these folks that do, and they deserve it."

Although Thrasher has made numerous trips to the nation's capital during his time as a lawmaker, he's never been on an Honor Flight. He applied like the rest of the veterans to be able to experience the monuments with fellow vets.

He said all the monuments are deeply emotionally powerful places. Today, there's a lot of talk about being divided, he said, but the lack of unity seems to dissolve in the presence of these landmarks.

"I think places like that, there are no Republicans or Democrats or other ethnicities or whatever — everybody is an American," he said. "And I think we need more of that."

The trip is a special thing to be part of, and it's even more special to get to share the experience with a loved one, he said. Each veteran has a "guardian" that pairs up with them for the day to help them throughout the trip — Thrasher chose his son, also named John, who was born while he was in Vietnam.

"I think this will be a kind of special bonding trip for him and I, so I'm looking forward to that opportunity," he said.

Diploma to deployment

Fresh out of college, Thrasher, who was 21 at the time, moved to Jacksonville to start his career after graduating from Florida State University. Three months later, he got his Army draft papers, putting his life plans on pause for the next four years.

After his application for a direct commission into the U.S. Army Medical Service Corp in May 1966 was approved, he trained in San Antonio, Texas, and then spent three years abroad in Germany before being shipped to the front lines in Vietnam for his final year of service.

Thrasher was stationed in the central highlands of Pleiku where U.S. troops were defending the country from the North Vietnamese who were infiltrating through the Cambodian-Vietnamese border. He worked in the Fourth Infantry Division as a division surgeon's assistant where it was his job to manage and deploy all the medical units that supported the troops.

He was involved in the U.S. Army Medical Command Vietnam unit, working directly for the chief of staff who worked for the commanding general.

While it was an honor to serve in a higher role with a lot of responsibility, war was still war, and being overseas was a struggle.

"When I went over there, I weighed probably 180 or 190 pounds, and I came back and I weighed 160 pounds," he said. "You just don't eat — I mean there are a lot people worse off than me, but the conditions were not good."

Vietnam was unbearably hot and had volatile monsoon seasons. And not being able to easily communicate with his wife and kids he left behind added to the miserable conditions.

He didn't even know his son was born until two weeks later.

You have to surround yourself with your friends while you're there just to get through, and he said he was fortunate to have found really good friends that made the losses and horrors of war bearable.

"You take every day as a new day," he said. "It's just kind of like life goes on."

'Culture shock'

Coming home was a culture shock.

Initially Thrasher had some regrets about coming home while the war was still waging on, but he acclimated and put the war behind him by immediately throwing himself into his family and his next career.

Four days after safely landing in Seattle, Washington, Thrasher started law school at FSU, which he applied to while he still serving in Vietnam.

After finishing law school, he was elected a state representative, serving as the 90th speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, then became the Republican Party of Florida chair, a state senator, and later FSU's 15th president from 2014 to 2021.

Even now in retirement, he keeps busy by teaching a few classes at FSU's law school and staying involved at The Southern Group, a lobbying firm he helped start.

Thrasher said he had a lot of great experience as a captain in the Army that prepared him for the things he did the rest of his life, and on Saturday he'll get to be surrounded by other veterans whose lives were just as widely impacted by their time in the military as his.

"That's what it's really about, getting to talk to other veterans and exchange stories and memories," he said.

His doctor, who has attended every trip, has been urging him for years to apply to Honor Flight, and Thrasher decided this would be a good year to go while he still could.

"I'm really thankful for the people who helped put it on," he said. "The opportunity to do this is just amazing."

Related: A tale of two Koreas: Ahead of Honor Flight, vets share war stories on, off the front lines

Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow her on X:  @elenabarreraaa .

Tim Cook has arrived in Vietnam for a two-day trip, as Apple boosts ties with its key manufacturing hub

• The Apple CEO has arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam to meet with Apple suppliers and content creators.
• The company has also announced plans to increase spending on suppliers in the country.
• Vietnamese manufacturing has been important for Apple as it moves away from dependence on China.

Tim Cook has arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam, to start a two-day trip to one of Apple's top manufacturing hubs.

During his visit, he's set to meet with content creators, app developers, and students to learn about how they use Apple products, according to local media.

Apple also plans to boost its ties with local suppliers during the trip as well as help fund clean water projects and education opportunities, local newspaper VietnamNet wrote.

In a post on X , the Apple CEO shared a photo of himself drinking egg coffee with two Vietnamese musicians. In another post, he shared his visit to a workshop where creators were using Apple products to create and share their artwork.

Apple also announced plans to increase spending on suppliers in Vietnam.

Since 2019, the company has spent nearly 400 trillion Vietnamese dong ($16 billion) through its supply chains in Vietnam and has more than doubled its annual spending in the country over the same period, the company said in a statement on its Vietnamese website.

The statement added that Apple supports the jobs of 200,000 people in Vietnam through direct employment, via suppliers, and as app developers.

In 2020, major Apple supplier Foxconn moved its iPad and MacBook assembly to Vietnam from China at the request of Apple as it attempted to minimize the impacts of US-China trade tensions.

A couple of years later, Foxconn faced issues with Chinese smartphone makers trying to poach their talent in Vietnam , attracting them with higher salaries.

Apple has faced a recent blow as iPhone shipments fell nearly 10% in the first quarter of 2024, as global smartphone shipments increased.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.