Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and world-famous street food, is a dream destination for travelers. While some assume international trips are expensive, I discovered that Vietnam can be incredibly affordable with smart choices. With Bino helping me find local transport, stays, and experiences, I enjoyed an action-packed week without overspending.

Here's my 7-day itinerary for an unforgettable yet cost-conscious Vietnam trip.

Day 1-2: Hanoi – Street Food & Old Quarter Charms

Getting There & Affordable Stays

I flew into Hanoi, Vietnam's lively capital, and found a cozy hostel in the Old Quarter for just $10 per night using Bino.

Exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter

Wandering through the Old Quarter's chaotic yet charming streets felt like stepping back in time. I visited:

  • Hoan Kiem Lake – A peaceful escape in the city's heart (free entry).
  • Train Street – Sipped Vietnamese egg coffee ($2) while watching a train pass inches away from cafés.
  • Night Markets – Bargained for souvenirs and snacks like Banh Mi ($1.50) and Pho ($2).

Day Trip to Ha Long Bay (Without Overspending!)

Instead of an expensive overnight cruise, I booked a shared day tour via Bino for $35, which included a boat ride, kayaking, and fresh seafood lunch. The emerald waters and limestone cliffs were breathtaking!

Day 3-4: Ninh Binh – The “Ha Long Bay on Land”

Getting There

A 2-hour local bus ($5) took me to Ninh Binh, a stunning countryside escape.

Affordable Activities

  • Trang An Boat Ride ($9) – Paddling through caves and karst formations was magical.
  • Hang Mua Viewpoint ($5) – A 500-step climb rewarded me with panoramic views of rice fields.
  • Biking Around Tam Coc ($3 rental) – Peaceful rides through rice paddies felt surreal.

Stay & Food

I found a homestay for $12 per night, which included a home-cooked meal of grilled fish, rice, and fresh veggies.

Day 5: Hue – Vietnam's Imperial City

A scenic train ride along the coast ($10) took me to Hue, once the royal capital of Vietnam.

Top Spots on a Shoestring

  • Imperial Citadel ($6) – Stunning palaces and ancient gates.
  • Thien Mu Pagoda (Free) – A peaceful riverside temple.
  • Local Dish: Bun Bo Hue ($2.50) – A spicy beef noodle soup unique to the city.

I stayed in a dorm-style hostel ($8 per night) and found a free walking tour to learn about Hue's rich history.

Day 6-7: Hoi An – Lanterns & Beaches

Getting There

A local bus ($5) took me to Hoi An, Vietnam's most charming town.

Exploring the Ancient Town

  • Japanese Bridge & Old Houses ($5 pass for all sites) – Walking through the lantern-lit streets at night was unforgettable.
  • An Bang Beach (Free) – A perfect place to unwind with fresh coconut water ($1).

Last Meal in Vietnam

I ended my trip with a plate of Cao Lau ($2.50), Hoi An's famous noodle dish, before catching my flight home.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is one of the best destinations for affordable travel, offering rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes without breaking the bank. With Bino helping me find great deals on rentals, stays, and transport, I made the most of my trip while keeping expenses low.

Need quick local recommendations while traveling? Just send a message to Bino on WhatsApp at +91 9800081110.