Introduction: Affordable Adventures Await in Vietnam
Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most budget-friendly travel destinations, offering incredible value for money. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the golden beaches of Phu Quoc, travelers can enjoy authentic experiences without breaking the bank. If you’re wondering about the cost of traveling in Vietnam, this guide by Private Tour Asia will walk you through everything — from average daily expenses to detailed price breakdowns for food, transportation, accommodation, and attractions.
Let’s explore how far your dollar can go in Vietnam and how to plan the perfect trip that fits your budget.
1. Overview: Is Vietnam Expensive to Visit?
In short — no!
Compared to most Asian and Western countries, Vietnam offers exceptional value.
Here’s a quick overview of average daily travel costs in 2025:
| Travel Style | Average Daily Cost (USD) | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Traveler | $25–$40 | Hostels, local meals, buses, free attractions |
| Mid-Range Traveler | $50–$90 | 3–4 star hotels, domestic flights, guided tours |
| Luxury Traveler | $120–$300+ | 5-star resorts, private tours, fine dining, premium transport |
You can easily enjoy Vietnam on $40–$60 per day, including accommodation, food, and transportation — perfect for long-term travelers or couples.
2. Accommodation Costs in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a wide range of places to stay — from budget hostels to luxurious resorts.
| Type | Price per Night (USD) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel / Homestay | $5–$15 | Shared dorms or family-run homestays |
| Budget Hotel | $20–$35 | Private rooms with AC and Wi-Fi |
| Mid-Range Hotel | $40–$80 | Boutique hotels or 3–4 star stays |
| Luxury Resort | $120–$300+ | Beachfront or 5-star properties in Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Nha Trang |
Tip: Booking in advance or traveling during the low season (May–September) can save up to 30% on accommodation costs.
3. Food and Drink Prices
Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and eating like a local is one of the best ways to save money.
| Type | Price Range (USD) | Example Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food | $1–$3 | Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, spring rolls |
| Local Restaurants | $3–$6 | Set meals or family-style dishes |
| Mid-Range Dining | $8–$15 | Vietnamese fusion or Western meals |
| High-End Restaurants | $25–$50+ | Gourmet dining or rooftop venues |
Drinks:
- Coffee: $1–$2 (try the famous Vietnamese egg coffee!)
- Local Beer: $1–$2 (Bia Saigon, 333)
- Cocktails: $5–$8
- Bottled Water: $0.50
💡 Pro Tip: Street food isn’t just cheaper — it’s also authentic and delicious!
4. Transportation Costs
Getting around Vietnam is both easy and affordable.
Domestic Transport
| Type | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flight | $30–$100 | Popular routes: Hanoi–Da Nang, HCMC–Phu Quoc |
| Train (soft seat) | $15–$60 | Reunification Express along the coast |
| Sleeping Bus | $10–$25 | Long-distance overnight routes |
| Motorbike Rental | $6–$12/day | Great for local exploration |
| Taxi / Grab | $1–$10 per trip | Grab app offers fixed prices |
Tip: For short distances, use Grab (Vietnam’s Uber) — cheaper and safer than taxis.
5. Entrance Fees and Activities
Most attractions in Vietnam are very affordable.
| Attraction | Entrance Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Hanoi) | Free |
| Imperial City of Hue | $6–$8 |
| Hoi An Ancient Town Pass | $5 |
| My Son Sanctuary | $6 |
| Ha Long Bay Cruise | $35–$80 |
| Cu Chi Tunnels | $5 |
| Phong Nha Cave Tour | $20–$40 |
Tours & Activities:
- Cooking class: $25–$40
- Private day tour: $60–$120
- Scuba diving in Nha Trang: $70–$100
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider booking all-inclusive Vietnam holiday packages with Private Tour Asia — they often include transportation, meals, and entrance fees at discounted rates.
6. SIM Card and Internet Costs
- Local SIM cards: $5–$10 (Viettel, Mobifone, or Vinaphone)
- 4G data packages: $3–$6 for 5–10GB
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and airports — even small towns have great connectivity.
7. Cost of Living by Destination
| City / Region | Daily Budget (USD) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi | $35–$70 | Street food, Old Quarter, museums |
| Ha Long Bay | $50–$120 | Cruises and island tours |
| Hue | $30–$60 | Imperial City, pagodas |
| Hoi An | $40–$90 | Tailor shops, lantern-lit streets |
| Da Nang | $45–$100 | Beaches, Ba Na Hills |
| Ho Chi Minh City | $45–$100 | Modern city life, markets |
| Mekong Delta | $30–$60 | Floating markets and rivers |
| Phu Quoc | $60–$200 | Luxury beach resorts |
8. Hidden Costs Travelers Often Forget
Even though Vietnam is cheap, a few costs can sneak up:
- Visa Fee: $25–$50 (depending on type)
- Travel Insurance: $40–$70 for 2–3 weeks
- Tipping: Not mandatory, but $1–$3 is appreciated
- ATM Fees: $2–$4 per withdrawal
- Souvenirs: $10–$30 (lacquerware, silk scarves, coffee)
💡 Pro Tip: Withdraw larger amounts to reduce ATM fees, and always carry small bills for local markets.
9. Saving Money While Traveling in Vietnam
Here’s how smart travelers keep their budgets in check:
- Eat local street food — it’s both cheap and authentic.
- Travel overnight by bus or train to save on accommodation.
- Use e-wallets or GrabPay for small discounts.
- Book group tours or shared transfers.
- Travel off-season (May–September) for lower prices.
10. Sample Vietnam Budget Itinerary (10 Days)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $250 |
| Food & Drinks | $150 |
| Transport | $100 |
| Entrance Fees & Tours | $120 |
| Miscellaneous | $80 |
| Total (10 days) | $700–$800 |
That’s less than $80 per day for an incredible 10-day Vietnam experience!
11. Luxury Travel Costs in Vietnam
If you prefer comfort and style, Vietnam offers affordable luxury too:
- 5-star hotels from $150 per night
- Private car transfers and chauffeurs available
- Fine dining restaurants averaging $50+ per meal
- Private cruise in Ha Long Bay: $350–$500/night
Even at this level, Vietnam is still cheaper than most luxury destinations in Asia.
12. Final Thoughts: How Much Does It Really Cost to Travel in Vietnam?
The cost of traveling in Vietnam depends entirely on your travel style — but even luxury travelers will find exceptional value.
Whether you’re backpacking through Sapa or cruising Ha Long Bay in style, Vietnam delivers unforgettable experiences at every budget level.
Conclusion: Explore Vietnam Affordably with Private Tour Asia
From street-side pho to five-star resorts, Vietnam offers something for every traveler. Understanding the cost of traveling in Vietnam helps you plan smarter — saving money while enjoying more.
At Private Tour Asia, we design personalized holiday packages that maximize value, comfort, and authenticity.
👉 Ready to plan your Vietnam adventure?
Visit Private Tour Asia to explore custom itineraries and get the best travel deals in Vietnam today!
Last Updated on November 1, 2025 by Elena
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