Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable travel destinations, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine at a fraction of the price of more expensive tourist hotspots. Whether you're backpacking through the country, enjoying street food, or booking tours, there are plenty of ways to experience Vietnam on a budget.
This guide will provide you with practical tips and tricks for exploring Vietnam without breaking the bank, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure without sacrificing comfort or quality.
1. Affordable Accommodation: Where to Stay on a Budget
Hostels and Guesthouses
One of the best ways to save money on accommodation in Vietnam is by opting for hostels or guesthouses. These budget-friendly options are available in almost every city and are perfect for travelers who are happy to sacrifice a little luxury for a more authentic experience.
- Dorm Rooms: Prices for dormitory rooms start as low as 150,000 VND ($6 USD) per night in major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
- Private Rooms: For a bit more privacy, guesthouses offer simple private rooms starting around 250,000 VND ($10 USD).
Budget Hotels
For slightly more comfort, look for budget hotels. They offer affordable rates and are often a better choice if you’re staying for several nights or prefer a bit more privacy than what hostels offer. In tourist areas like Hoi An or Nha Trang, you can find decent 3-star hotels for around 400,000 VND ($16 USD) per night.
Pro Tip 💡: Use booking apps like Booking.com, Agoda, or Hostelworld to compare prices and find discounts for your stay.
2. Street Food: Delicious and Affordable Eats
Vietnam is famous for its vibrant street food scene, and eating like a local is both affordable and delicious. Street food not only gives you a chance to sample authentic Vietnamese dishes, but it’s also incredibly cheap.
- Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup): A bowl of pho typically costs 30,000-50,000 VND ($1.30-$2 USD).
- Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich): A crispy baguette stuffed with delicious fillings can be found for 20,000-40,000 VND ($1-$2 USD).
- Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake): These savory pancakes cost around 40,000-60,000 VND ($2-$2.60 USD).
- Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon): Fresh spring rolls usually cost around 30,000-50,000 VND ($1.30-$2 USD).
Pro Tip 💡: Look for places crowded with locals, as this usually indicates the food is not only tasty but also affordable. Local markets like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi are great places to find cheap street food.
3. Public Transportation: Save on Travel
Buses and Trains
Vietnam’s public transportation system is reliable and affordable. Local buses in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang cost as little as 7,000-15,000 VND ($0.30-$0.60 USD) per ride, depending on the distance. Buses between cities are also inexpensive, with prices for longer journeys starting at around 150,000 VND ($6 USD).
For intercity travel, Vietnam has an extensive train network that is both comfortable and budget-friendly. Sleeper trains from Hanoi to Hue or Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City typically cost between 500,000-800,000 VND ($20-$30 USD) for a sleeper berth.
Motorbike Rental
Renting a motorbike is a popular and affordable way to explore Vietnam at your own pace. Rental prices start from 100,000 VND ($4 USD) per day, and you can explore rural areas and the countryside without relying on expensive tours.
Pro Tip 💡: Be cautious when renting motorbikes. Always check the condition of the bike, and make sure it has insurance. In major cities, consider using Grab, a ride-hailing app that’s more affordable than traditional taxis.
4. Free and Low-Cost Activities: Explore Vietnam for Less
Walking Tours and Exploring the Old Quarter
One of the best (and cheapest) ways to get to know a city is by walking around. Explore the ancient streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter or wander around Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 to take in the culture, architecture, and atmosphere. Many cities offer free walking tours, often led by local students eager to practice their English.
- Hanoi: Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, or Ngoc Son Temple for free or for a minimal entrance fee.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office — both iconic and free to visit.
Beaches and Nature
Vietnam’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, and many of its best landscapes are free to explore. Whether it's hiking to waterfalls in Sapa, visiting Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, or lounging on the beaches of Phu Quoc, nature offers plenty of low-cost options.
Pro Tip 💡: In Phu Quoc, the beaches are free to enjoy, and you can spend a whole day relaxing under the sun with nothing more than a towel and a good book.
5. Bargaining Tips: Get the Best Deals
Haggling is part of the culture in Vietnam, especially in local markets and small shops. While you should always be polite and respectful, it’s perfectly normal to negotiate for better prices. Here are some tips:
- Start low: Begin by offering about 30-50% of the initial price.
- Be friendly: Smile, be patient, and engage in friendly conversation while negotiating.
- Don’t be afraid to walk away: If the seller doesn’t agree to your price, try walking away. Many times, they’ll call you back with a better deal.
6. Tours and Excursions: How to Save on Activities
While guided tours can be expensive, there are still ways to save on activities and excursions:
- Book Tours in Advance: Use booking platforms like Klook, Viator, or GetYourGuide to find discounts on popular tours and activities, such as boat trips, cooking classes, or guided cultural tours.
- Group Tours: Join group tours rather than private ones. Many companies offer discounted rates for group tours, which can help reduce costs while allowing you to experience the highlights of each destination.
- Local Tours: Opt for local tours organized by your hotel or even by local agencies, as these tend to be more affordable than those targeting tourists.
7. Avoiding Tourist Traps: Stay Away from Expensive Tourist Areas
Some touristy areas in Vietnam tend to be overpriced, especially near major attractions. Here’s how to avoid spending too much:
- Eat away from tourist hubs: Restaurants and cafes near famous landmarks or in tourist districts tend to charge higher prices. Explore the local streets and alleys for authentic and affordable meals.
- Skip high-priced tourist shops: If you're looking to shop, head to local markets or smaller boutiques, not tourist traps that sell overpriced souvenirs.
8. Currency and Money: How to Save on Exchange Rates
Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). To save money on currency exchange:
- Use ATMs: You’ll get the best exchange rates at ATMs in major cities. Just be sure to check for any additional fees your bank may charge.
- Avoid Currency Exchange Booths: Currency exchange services at the airport or tourist areas often charge higher rates. Always compare rates before exchanging large amounts of money.
Pro Tip 💡: Carry a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. You’ll find that many hotels, restaurants, and shops in touristy areas accept cards.
9. Budget Itinerary: How to Make the Most of Your Time in Vietnam
Vietnam is a long country, with many regions to explore, but don’t feel the need to visit every tourist hotspot. Here’s a sample budget-friendly itinerary:
- Hanoi: 3 days exploring the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Temple of Literature.
- Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park: 2 days exploring the caves (optional, but you can book affordable group tours).
- Hoi An: 3 days wandering through the Ancient Town, checking out Japanese Bridge, and enjoying local food.
- Ho Chi Minh City: 3 days exploring Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, and taking a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Pro Tip 💡: If you have more time, consider visiting Sapa or Phu Quoc, as both are budget-friendly spots offering stunning natural beauty and peaceful escapes.
Conclusion: Enjoying Vietnam on a Budget
Exploring Vietnam on a budget is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. With its affordable accommodation, delicious street food, efficient public transportation, and low-cost activities, Vietnam offers an authentic and memorable travel experience without burning a hole in your wallet.
By following these tips and embracing the local culture, you can fully immerse yourself in all that Vietnam has to offer while keeping your travel costs down. Get ready to experience the best of Vietnam on a budget — from vibrant cities to stunning landscapes, it’s a destination that won’t disappoint!
