Are you planning a trip to Vietnam, eager to explore its majestic landscapes and immerse yourself in its rich culture? Ha Long Bay’s beauty, Sapa’s lush rice terraces, and Hanoi’s bustling streets make Vietnam a destination full of unforgettable experiences. However, before embarking on your adventure, it’s crucial to plan your Vietnam travel budget wisely. How much should you set aside for accommodation, food, transport, and activities? In this guide, we’ll break down Vietnam travel costs and share practical tips to help you explore this incredible country without overspending. Let’s dive in!
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Discover Vietnam and the perfect time to travel
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country located on the eastern edge of the Indochina Peninsula. It shares borders with China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and is bordered by the East Sea to the east. Home to gorgeous destinations, Vietnam boasts the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, the misty rice terraces of Sapa, the ancient charm of Hoi An, or the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh city. So, when is the best time to experience the beauty of this country?
Vietnam is a great destination year-round due to its diverse climate, but the best time to visit depends on the regions and activities you have in mind.
- Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): It has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35°C (68°F – 95°F). Winter (December–February) is colder, especially in mountainous areas where it can drop below 10°C (50°F).
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): The weather is often mild and sunny with temperatures between 20 and 30°C (68°F – 86°F). The rainy season usually ends in January, making it a great time for sightseeing.
- Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh city, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): The dry season is the most pleasant with warm temperatures from 25°C–35°C (77°F – 95°F), perfect for visiting floating markets and relaxing on the beaches.
If you’re looking for the best mix of nature, culture, and beach activities with pleasant weather and minimal rain, visiting Vietnam between October and April is highly recommended.
Vietnam travel: Budgeting for transportation expenses
When planning your Vietnam travel budget, transportation is an important expense to consider. With options ranging from budget-friendly buses to comfortable trains and domestic flights, understanding the costs will help you plan effectively.
International flights
If you’re traveling to Vietnam from abroad, international flights can vary in price depending on the season and booking time. Booking in advance often secures better deals.
Average round-trip costs:
💸 From the U.S. & Canada: $1000 -$1,200
💸 From Southeast Asia: $50 -$300
Domestic flights
Estimated airfare prices for select domestic flights in Vietnam:
- Hanoi to Hue: Approximately $130 for a one-way ticket.
- Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh city: Around $130 for a one-way ticket.
- Ho Chi Minh city to Phu Quoc: Approximately $100 for a one-way ticket.
Please note that these prices may fluctuate based on factors such as booking periods, promotions, and seasonal demand. To get the best rates, it’s advisable to book your flights in advance.
Local transportation
Traveling around Vietnam is very convenient, with various transportation options available. Tourists can choose from public transport like buses, taxis or opt for private vehicles such as motorbikes and cars. Each option has a different price range, and below is some useful information to help tourists estimate their Vietnam travel costs.
Bus: Approximately $0.3 – $0.4 for a short distance within cities or towns and about $0.4 – $0.8 for a suburban bus.
Taxis: Typically starts at $0.7 per kilometer charge, and the rate will be diverse based on each taxi brand
Motorbike taxis: Approximately from $0.4 to $0.6 per kilometer charge
Private car: Renting a car typically includes a local driver, with prices starting around $40 per day depending on type, distance & route or additional services
Cyclo rides: Riding a cyclo in Vietnam typically cost between $4 and $12 for a 30 to 60-minute tour, depending on the route and destination. Always agree on the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
📌 Tips: If tourists come to big cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh, it is advisable that you book some transportation apps such as Grab taxi/ car/ motorbike as you will know exactly how much you need to pay for it or get a big deal.
Finding the right place to stay is an essential part of planning your trip. Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts, catering to all types of travelers. This guide will help you estimate the Vietnam travel budget for accommodation and choose the best option for your stay.
Budget hotels
Ideal for travelers seeking affordable options, budget hotels in Vietnam typically offer basic amenities such as clean rooms and free Wi-Fi. Prices generally range from $20 – $40 per night
Mid-range hotels
Mid-range hotels offer more comfort, often including facilities like swimming pools, on-site restaurants and more spacious rooms. The cost typically falls between $40 – $80 per night.
Luxury resorts and hotels
For those seeking premium experiences, luxury resorts and high-end hotels provide top-tier services and exclusive amenities. Prices start at $100 USD and can exceed over $300 USD depending on the location and level of luxury.
Accommodation costs may vary based on the city, season, and demand, with major hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city often being more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Get the best stay at the best price! Contact Hanoi Voyages for budget-friendly options and seasonal discounts.
Eating in Vietnam: Costs and food recommendations
Your visit to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without trying local eateries, from street food stalls for an authentic experience to restaurants catering to international travelers. This Vietnam travel budget guide will help you plan your food expenses and discover must-try dishes.
International restaurants
Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city feature numerous international dining options. Prices are generally higher compared to local eateries ranging from $12 – $35 per person.
📌 Some recommendations: Pizza 4P’s (Hanoi), La Badiane (Hanoi), The Refinery (Ho Chi Minh), El Gaucho (Ho Chi Minh), Mad Cow Wine & Grill (Da Nang)
Local restaurants
Dining at local eateries provides a comfortable atmosphere with a wide selection of Vietnamese dishes. Average meal costs range from $4 – $10 per person. Popular dishes you can try are pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with rice vermicelli), com tam (broken rice with grilled pork), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), …
Street food
Street food is an essential part of the local experience and a great way to manage your Vietnam trip budget. Prices are very affordable, typically ranging from $0.8 to $2.8 per dish, depending on the type of food and location. If you’re mindful of your Vietnam trip cost, enjoying street food allows you to taste authentic Vietnamese flavors without spending much.
Vietnam travel budget: Sightseeing and activity costs
Vietnam offers diverse attractions for every Vietnam travel budget, from cultural sites to outdoor adventures. Here’s what to expect for sightseeing and activity costs.
Entrance fees to attractions
Entrance fees in Vietnam vary by attraction, but most remain affordable.
- Cultural & historical sites: The entrance fee is between $1 – $8 (e.g., Imperial City of Hue, Hoi An ancient town,…)
- Museums & pagodas: The entrance fee is from $0.80 – $4 (e.g, Perfume pagoda, Bai Dinh pagoda,…)
- National parks & natural attractions: The entrance fee is about $2 – $10 (e.g, Ba Vi national park, Phong Nha-Ke Bang,..)
With these reasonable entrance fees, exploring Vietnam’s cultural, historical, and natural wonders is both enriching and budget-friendly.
Outdoor activities
Vietnam offers a range of outdoor experiences, from trekking to water sports, such as boat trips can cost between $20 and $100 per person, depending on the type of excursion chosen. For guided tours or activities such as trekking in Sapa, budget between $30 and $70 per day.
Shopping and souvenirs
Shopping in Vietnam offers great value about rich culture, with souvenirs ranging from $2 to $50. You can find local handicrafts, Vietnamese coffee & tea, and tailor-made clothes in Hoi An, catering to different budgets.
Estimated travel budget for a trip to Vietnam
Planning your Vietnam travel budget? Here’s an estimate of costs for different travel styles, from budget-friendly trips to luxury getaways.
Vietnam is a destination that caters to every budget, offering incredible experiences from affordable street food to high-end luxury stays. With the right planning, you can make the most of your Vietnam travel budget while enjoying the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.
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