Main contents:
- Details on the costs of accommodation, transportation, and food in Vietnam.
- A 1-week travel budget in Vietnam can be flexible, depending on your travel style, from budget-friendly experiences to luxury getaways.
Vietnam is a budget-friendly travel destination, offering amazing experiences at great value. However, Vietnam travel cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of traveler you are, the cities you visit, and the activities you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect when planning a trip to Vietnam.
Travel Costs in Vietnam for 1 week
1. Flights to Vietnam: What You Need to Know
Some budget airlines charge extra for baggage, seat selection, and meals
Thinking about jetting off to Vietnam? Whether you’re craving a street food tour in Hanoi, a beach escape in Da Nang, or the buzzing nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, the first step is finding the right flight. Vietnam travel costs depend on flights, accommodation, and activities—of which flights are usually the biggest expense. Prices depend on where you’re flying from, the season, and how early you book. Let’s break it down.
🌎 From North America (USA/Canada)
- Round-trip flights usually cost between $700 – $2,000 USD.
- The West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco) often has cheaper flights than the East Coast (New York, Toronto).
- Common layovers include Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, and Hong Kong.
🌏 From Europe
- Expect to pay between $600 – $1,200 USD for a round-trip ticket.
- Popular airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines (often with layovers in Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul).
- London, Paris, and Frankfurt usually have better deals than smaller cities.
🌏 From Nearby Southeast Asian Countries
- Lucky you! Flights from Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, or the Philippines can be as low as $50 – $200 USD.
- Budget airlines like AirAsia, VietJet, and Scoot frequently run promotions.
- Short-haul flights (2-3 hours) make Vietnam an easy weekend getaway.
🕰️ Best Time to Book & Save Money
- Book early – At least 2-3 months in advance for long-haul flights, especially during peak seasons (Dec-Jan & June-Aug).
- Fly midweek – Tuesday and Wednesday flights are often cheaper than weekend ones.
- Track prices – Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to monitor price drops.
- Compare airports – Vietnam has three major international hubs: Hanoi (HAN), Da Nang (DAD), and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Check all options!
>> Read more: Top 20 Essential Things to Pack for Vietnam
2. How much do accommodation costs range from budget to luxury in Vietnam?
Whether you’re staying in a lively hostel, a cozy boutique hotel, or a luxury beachfront resort, Vietnam has options for every budget!
Accommodation costs in Vietnam range from $10 to $200+ USD per night, depending on the type of stay:
🎒 Budget Travelers ($10 – $35 USD per night)
- Dormitory beds in hostels: $10 – $15 USD
- Basic guesthouses or homestays: $20 – $35 USD
- Perfect for backpackers and solo travelers looking for affordable stays
- Often includes free WiFi, basic amenities, and sometimes free breakfast
🏡 Mid-Range Travelers ($40 – $70 USD per night)
- Private rooms in guesthouses: $40 – $50 USD
- Three-star hotels: $55 – $70 USD
- Offers air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and convenient locations
- Ideal for couples, families, or digital nomads seeking comfort without overspending
🏝️ Luxury Travelers ($80 – $200+ USD per night)
- Five-star hotels and high-end resorts: $80 – $200+ USD
- International brands like Marriott, InterContinental, and Four Seasons available
- Beachfront resorts in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc for ultimate relaxation
- Premium facilities like infinity pools, spas, and rooftop bars
Vietnam has something for every traveler, whether you’re backpacking on a budget, looking for mid-range comfort, or indulging in five-star luxury. Understanding Vietnam travel cost is key to planning your trip, and accommodation is one of the biggest expenses. By choosing wisely, you can enjoy an affordable yet comfortable stay that suits your travel style.
>> Read more: Top 9 Reasons Why Vietnam Is Safe to Travel
3. How much does a meal cost in Vietnam?
Meal costs in Vietnam range from $1 to $50+ USD per meal, depending on where and what you eat. Street food and local eateries offer delicious dishes for as little as $1 to $5 USD, while mid-range restaurants typically charge $5 to $15 USD per meal. For fine dining or luxury dining experiences, expect to pay $20 to $50+ USD per meal.
🏮 Street Food & Local Eateries ($2 – $5 USD per meal)
- Vietnam is famous for its cheap and flavorful street food.
- A bowl of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) costs around $2 – $3 USD.
- Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) is just $1 – $2 USD from a street vendor.
- Fresh spring rolls, grilled meat skewers, or rice dishes range from $2 – $5 USD.
- Street food markets in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a variety of meals for just a few dollars.
Enjoy Vietnam’s flavorful street food at unbeatable prices
🍽️ Mid-Range Restaurants & Cafés ($5 – $15 USD per meal)
- A sit-down meal at a casual Vietnamese restaurant costs around $5 – $10 USD.
- Western food or fusion dishes can range from $7 – $15 USD.
- A meal at a trendy café, including a drink, costs about $8 – $12 USD.
- Many restaurants offer set menus for around $10 – $15 USD, perfect for trying multiple dishes.
Enjoy delicious meals at Vietnam’s mid-range restaurants & cafés without overspending
🍷 Luxury Dining & High-End Restaurants ($20 – $50+ USD per meal)
- Fine dining restaurants serving gourmet Vietnamese cuisine cost around $20 – $50+ USD per person.
- High-end seafood and steak restaurants in major cities start at $30+ USD per meal.
- Hotel restaurants and rooftop dining experiences often have higher prices but offer stunning views and exceptional service.
>> Read more: 10 Healthy Vietnamese Foods You Can’t Miss!
Experience Vietnam’s finest cuisine at luxury restaurants with world-class flavors and stunning ambiance
☕ Vietnamese Coffee & Drinks
- Ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee): Around $1 – $2 USD from street vendors.
- Fresh fruit smoothies: About $1.50 – $3 USD.
- Local beer (Bia Saigon, Bia Hanoi, etc.): Only $0.50 – $2 USD per bottle.
- Cocktails at bars: Generally $5 – $10 USD, depending on the location.
Bold, sweet, and iconic
One of the best parts of traveling to Vietnam is the incredible food scene. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bowl of phở from a street vendor, dining in a trendy café, or experiencing fine dining in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, food remains one of the most budget-friendly aspects of your Vietnam travel cost. No matter your budget, you’ll enjoy delicious and authentic flavors across the country.
4. How much when using transportation in Vietnam?
Transportation costs in Vietnam range from $0.30 to $100+ USD, depending on the mode of transport and distance traveled. Local buses and public transportation are the cheapest, costing around $0.30 to $1 USD per ride. Taxis and Grab rides within cities typically range from $2 to $10 USD per trip. For intercity travel, train and sleeper bus tickets cost between $10 to $50 USD, while domestic flights range from $30 to $100+ USD, depending on the destination and booking time.
Metro and bus
If you’re looking for an affordable way to get around, public transportation in Vietnam is a great option. Bus tickets or metro rides in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City usually cost between $0.30 to $1 USD, making them the cheapest way to travel.
🚍 City Buses ($0.30 – $1 USD per ride)
- Public buses are the cheapest way to get around major cities.
- Fares range from $0.30 to $1 USD, depending on the distance.
- Popular routes connect airports, train stations, and tourist areas.
Budget-friendly way to travel, connecting cities and towns with ease
🚇 Metro (Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi) – $0.30 – $1 USD per ride
- Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are developing their first metro system, with Line 1 expected to open in December 2024.
- Ticket prices will be affordable, around $0.30 – $1 USD per ride.
- Once operational, the metro will be one of the fastest ways to travel within the city.
Vietnam’s metro system fast and modern
Taxis or Grab rides
If you’re wondering, “Is Vietnam expensive to visit?”, the good news is that Vietnam travel cost is quite budget-friendly, especially when it comes to transportation. Whether you choose a traditional taxi or a ride-hailing app like Grab, getting around cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang is cheap and easy.
💰 Prices for taxi and Grab:
- Short city rides (2–5 km): $2 – $5 USD (50,000 – 120,000 VND).
- Longer trips (10+ km): $6 – $15 USD, depending on traffic and location.
- Airport transfers: $10 – $20 USD (varies by city).
🚖 Taxis in Vietnam
- Starting fare: $0.50 – $0.70 USD per km.
- Trusted taxi companies:
- Vinasun (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Mai Linh (nationwide)
- Tip: Always check if the meter is running to avoid scams.
Getting around Vietnam is convenient and affordable
📱 Grab Rides (Vietnam’s Uber Alternative)
- Grab is often cheaper than taxis and allows for cashless payment.
- GrabBike (motorbike taxi) is even cheaper, costing $1 – $3 USD per ride.
Convenient, affordable, and safe trips—just like Uber but local!
Domestic flights
Domestic flights are one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around. With multiple airlines offering competitive prices, flying between major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang can be surprisingly affordable.
💰 Cost of domestic flights Cost in Vietnam
- Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City: $50 – $100 USD one-way
- Hanoi → Da Nang: $30 – $80 USD one-way
- Ho Chi Minh City → Da Nang: $40 – $90 USD one-way
- Other short flights (e.g., to Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hue): $30 – $70 USD
🛫 Best Budget Airlines in Vietnam
- VietJet Air: Low-cost carrier with frequent promotions.
- Bamboo Airways: Mid-range airline with good service.
- Vietnam Airlines: National carrier, slightly higher prices but includes baggage.
Great way to save time when traveling between major cities
Transportation is one of the most budget-friendly aspects of Vietnam travel cost, making it easy and affordable to explore the country. Whether you’re taking domestic flights, buses, trains, or using ride-hailing services like Grab, getting around Vietnam won’t break the bank. From cheap motorbike rentals to comfortable long-distance travel options, Vietnam offers a variety of transportation choices to suit different travel styles and budgets.
5. Activities and Tours
Activities and tours in Vietnam can cost anywhere from $5 to $100+ USD, depending on the type of experience:
🏛️ Entrance Fees for Popular Attractions
Many of Vietnam’s top attractions are budget-friendly, with entrance fees typically ranging from $3 to $10 USD.
- Imperial City, Hue: $6 USD
- Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City: $5 USD
- Hanoi’s Temple of Literature: $2 USD
- My Son Sanctuary, near Da Nang: $6 USD
⛵ Guided Tours & Excursions
If you prefer organized tours, prices vary based on duration and luxury level.
- Ha Long Bay day tour: $30 – $100 USD (higher for luxury cruises).
- Sapa trekking tour (2–3 days): $50 – $150 USD.
- Mekong Delta boat trip: $20 – $70 USD.
🏕️ Adventure Activities
For those seeking outdoor experiences, Vietnam has plenty to offer:
- Trekking in Sapa or Ha Giang: $20 – $50 USD per day.
- Kayaking in Ha Long Bay: $20 – $40 USD.
- Caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: $40 – $70 USD.
Vietnam is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, embarking on scenic tours, or joining adventure activities, your Vietnam tourism cost will remain budget-friendly. By planning ahead, you can experience the best of the country without overspending!
With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling outdoor adventures, Vietnam remains a top-value destination for travelers. Knowing your Vietnam travel cost ahead of time ensures you can enjoy the country’s best experiences without overspending. Whether you’re sightseeing or adventuring, Vietnam offers something for every budget!
From island-hopping to cultural tours, Vietnam offers endless activities for every traveler
>> Read more: How to get a Vietnamese visa fast & hassle-free
How much is the total estimated cost for a 1-week trip to Vietnam?
🇻🇳 Is Vietnam expensive to visit? No! Vietnam is a budget-friendly destination, and your total Vietnam tourism cost will be much lower than in many other countries. Even with flights included, it remains affordable compared to Western destinations. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or enjoying luxury, Vietnam offers amazing experiences at great value. 🚀 Below is a breakdown of the estimated Vietnam travel cost for one week, including flights.
🎒 Budget Traveler: $800 – $1,200 USD
For budget travelers, Vietnam is one of the best places to visit without spending a fortune.
- Flights: $550 – $1,000 USD (round-trip from North America/Europe).
- Accommodation: $5 – $15 USD per night (hostels, budget guesthouses).
- Food: $2 – $5 USD per meal (street food, local restaurants).
- Transportation: $0.30 – $5 USD per ride (buses, metro, Grab, taxis).
- Activities: $3 – $30 USD (entrance fees, budget tours).
🏨 Mid-Range Traveler: $1,200 – $2,000 USD
A mid-range budget allows for comfortable hotels, guided tours, and more convenience.
- Flights: $600 – $1,000 USD (round-trip from North America/Europe).
- Accommodation: $20 – $50 USD per night (3-star hotels, boutique stays).
- Food: $5 – $15 USD per meal (local restaurants, cafes).
- Transportation: $5 – $20 USD per ride (domestic flights, taxis, Grab).
- Activities: $30 – $100 USD (Ha Long Bay cruises, guided tours).
🏝️ Luxury Traveler: $2,500 – $5,000+ USD
For those seeking a high-end experience, Vietnam offers luxury at a fraction of Western prices.
- Flights: $1,200 – $2,000+ USD (round-trip business class).
- Accommodation: $80 – $300 USD per night (5-star hotels, beach resorts).
- Food: $20 – $100+ USD per meal (fine dining, rooftop bars).
- Transportation: $50 – $200 USD (business-class domestic flights, private cars).
- Activities: $100 – $500 USD (private cruises, exclusive tours, spa treatments).
💡Whether you’re a budget backpacker or looking for a luxurious getaway, Vietnam travel cost can be incredibly flexible. With affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and budget-friendly transport options, you can explore this amazing country without overspending. On the other hand, if you’re seeking high-end experiences, Vietnam also offers world-class resorts, fine dining, and premium tours. Want to uncover hidden gems and get insider travel tips? Chat with Laka.AI now and discover local-recommended places and activities! 🌏
FAQs:
International flights to Vietnam vary widely. From the US, round-trip tickets cost $600–$1,200; from Europe, $600–$1,500; from India, $250–$500 (20,000–40,000 INR). To save, book 3–6 months in advance, travel during off-peak seasons (April–May or September–October), and use comparison sites like Skyscanner. Flying into Ho Chi Minh City is often cheaper than Hanoi. A Reddit post noted that flights are the biggest expense, but flexibility with dates can cut costs significantly.
The daily cost depends on your travel style. Budget travelers can expect to spend $20–$40 USD per day, covering hostels ($5–$15), street food ($1–$5 per meal), and public transport ($1–$5). Mid-range travelers typically spend $50–$100 USD, including private hostel rooms or budget hotels ($20–$40), restaurant meals ($5–$10), and occasional taxis or tours. Luxury travelers may spend $150+ USD on upscale hotels ($100+) and private tours. For example, a Reddit user mentioned spending $35–$50 USD/day as a budget backpacker, while another averaged $68 USD/day for a mid-range solo trip.
Traveling with others can lower costs by splitting accommodation and transport. For example, a private room for two costs $10–$30 USD, barely more than a dorm ($5–$15 USD). Solo travelers spend $30–$50 USD/day on a budget, while couples can manage $50–$80 USD/day total. Families of four might spend $100–$200 USD/day. A Reddit user noted that sharing costs with a partner reduced their monthly budget to $49 USD/day versus $68 USD/day solo.
To save, travel off-peak (April–May, September–October) for lower prices. Eat street food, stay in hostels or homestays, and use public transport or overnight buses. Book flights and tours early, and haggle at markets or with non-metered taxis. Reddit users suggest joining group tours ($20–$40 USD) to split costs and using apps like Grab for fair pricing. Free activities like exploring markets or temples also keep costs down.
Vietnam is one of the cheapest and safest destinations in Southeast Asia, comparable to Cambodia or Laos but slightly cheaper than Thailand. Daily costs are lower due to the weak Vietnamese Dong and low labor costs. Reddit users praise Vietnam’s affordability, with $1,000 USD/month covering a comfortable trip. Safety is high, but watch for petty scams like overpriced taxis. Travel insurance ($50–$60 USD/month) is recommended for peace of mind.
Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnam, especially in markets and small local shops. Here are some practical tips to help you bargain like a pro while keeping the experience fun and respectful:
– Smile and Stay Friendly 😊: A genuine smile and polite attitude go a long way. Bargaining is often seen as a light-hearted interaction—so keep it fun, not confrontational.
– Know the Ballpark Price 💸: Ask a local (or use the Laka.ai app 😉) to find out the average price of what you’re buying. This gives you a solid starting point.
– Start Low, But Not Too Low ⚖️: Offer around 20–30% of the asking price. Then work your way up slowly. Sellers often expect this and quote higher prices initially.
– Don’t Show Too Much Interest 😏: If you look overly eager, the seller may not lower the price. Stay cool and consider walking away—this often gets you a better deal.
– Buy More, Pay Less 🛍️: Buying in bulk? Use that as leverage for a discount. “If I buy two, can you give me a better price?” works well.
– Use Local Currency 💵: Always bargain in Vietnamese Dong (VND). Quoting in dollars may lead to inflated prices.
– Be Ready to Walk Away 🚶: If the price isn’t right, walk away politely. You may be called back with a better offer—or find a better deal nearby.
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