Budget 9 Day Vietnam Holiday Trip Itinerary: Explore Vietnam on a Budget

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Cultural Capital

Start your budget 9 day Vietnam holiday trip in Hanoi, the capital city filled with centuries-old architecture and a rich history. Upon arrival, take a budget-friendly airport shuttle or public bus to the Old Quarter, where many affordable hostels and homestays are located.

Budget tips:

• Stay in a hostel dorm (approx. $6–$10/night)

• Enjoy street food like pho, bun cha, and banh mi ($1–$2/meal)

• Visit free sites like Hoan Kiem Lake, Long Bien Bridge, and Dong Xuan Market

Day 2: Explore Hanoi on Foot

Spend your second day walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and French Quarter. Don’t miss:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (free)

• Temple of Literature (~$1 entry)

• Train Street (photo opportunity, free)

Local tip: Use the “Hanoi City Tour” public bus ($1–$2) to explore major attractions without expensive taxis.

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Day Cruise or Overnight Budget Boat

No budget 9 day Vietnam holiday trip is complete without visiting Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Budget-conscious travelers can:

• Book a day cruise ($40–$60, including lunch and kayaking)

• Choose a 1-night budget cruise ($90–$110) with meals and activities

Depart Hanoi early and return the same evening or stay overnight for a more immersive experience.

Day 4: Overnight Train to Da Nang

After returning to Hanoi, take the overnight Reunification Express Train to Da Nang. This option is not only budget-friendly (~$30 for a sleeper berth), but also saves on one night’s accommodation.

Pro tip: Bring snacks and water. Train food is available but limited in variety.

Day 5: Hoi An Ancient Town – Lanterns and Tailors

Arrive in Da Nang and take a 45-minute bus or shuttle to Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most charming towns. Known for its lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and delicious cuisine, Hoi An is a highlight of any budget 9 day Vietnam holiday trip.

Things to do:

• Walk around the UNESCO Ancient Town ($6–$7 for a combo ticket to museums and temples)

• Take a free bike from your hostel and explore rice fields

• Visit An Bang Beach (free)

Budget stays: Hostels from $8/night, or private guesthouses around $15–$20.

Day 6: Cooking Class and Countryside Tour

Get a hands-on experience with a Vietnamese cooking class, many of which include a trip to a local market and a boat ride (from $20–$30).

Alternatively, rent a bicycle or scooter to explore the Hoi An countryside, with lush rice paddies and friendly locals.

Day 7: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Fly from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. $30–$50 with budget airlines like VietJet or Bamboo Airways). Once in Ho Chi Minh City, check into a budget hostel in District 1, the heart of the city.

Things to do on a budget:

• Visit the War Remnants Museum (~$2)

• Explore Ben Thanh Market

• Enjoy vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Walking Street

Day 8: Cu Chi Tunnels and City Sights

Take a half-day tour to Cu Chi Tunnels (~$10–$15), an essential historical site from the Vietnam War era.

Spend the afternoon visiting:

• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon (free)

• Saigon Central Post Office

• Reunification Palace (~$2 entry)

Wrap up your budget 9 day Vietnam holiday trip with a rooftop drink at a low-cost bar like Chill Skybar’s happy hour.

Day 9: Souvenirs and Departure

On your final day, shop for affordable souvenirs like:

• Hand-embroidered items

• Coffee and tea

• Lacquerware

Then catch your flight home or continue your Southeast Asia adventure.