Vietnam has consistently ranked among the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia, and 2026 continues this trend. According to InterNations’ global survey, Vietnam has been recognized as the cheapest country for foreign tourists for four consecutive years.
Whether you are planning your first international trip from India or seeking an affordable Southeast Asian adventure, this comprehensive guide reveals how to explore Vietnam on a budget without compromising on experiences.
Vietnam Budget Travel Overview: Cost Breakdown at a Glance
| Expense Category | Budget Range (7 Days) | Daily Cost | Budget Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights (India-Vietnam) | ₹20,000-₹40,000 | N/A | Book 2-3 months advance, fly off-peak |
| Visa (e-Visa) | ₹2,000-₹2,500 | N/A | Apply online 2 weeks before travel |
| Accommodation | ₹10,500-₹21,000 | ₹1,500-₹3,000 | Choose hostels or budget hotels |
| Food | ₹6,300-₹12,600 | ₹900-₹1,800 | Eat street food and local restaurants |
| Local Transport | ₹3,000-₹5,000 | ₹400-₹700 | Use buses, Grab app, overnight trains |
| Activities & Attractions | ₹3,800-₹4,800 | ₹500-₹700 | Free attractions, budget tours |
| SIM Card & Internet | ₹300-₹500 | ₹50-₹75 | Buy local SIM at airport |
| Miscellaneous | ₹2,000-₹3,000 | ₹300-₹500 | Souvenirs, tips, emergencies |
| Total 7-Day Trip | ₹30,000-₹35,000 | ₹4,500-₹5,400 | Excluding international flights |
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Why Vietnam is Perfect for Budget Travelers in 2026
Vietnam offers exceptional value for money compared to other international destinations. A typical Indian traveler can explore this beautiful country, spending approximately ₹5,400 per day, covering accommodation, food, transport, and activities. This makes Vietnam significantly cheaper than domestic luxury destinations while providing authentic international experiences.
Key Budget Advantages:
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) exchange rate is favorable for Indian travelers, with 1 INR approximately equal to 300-350 VND. This favorable conversion makes even small amounts of rupees stretch considerably further.
Accommodation ranges from budget hostels at ₹500 per night to comfortable mid-range hotels at ₹2,500-₹3,000, offering excellent quality for the price. Street food culture provides delicious meals for ₹100-₹150, while local restaurants serve filling portions for ₹300-₹600.
Transportation costs remain remarkably low: public buses cost ₹25-₹35 per ride, motorbike rentals are ₹300-₹500 per day, and domestic flights between major cities range from ₹1,500-₹4,000.
Flight Costs: How to Find the Cheapest Airfare to Vietnam
Flights typically represent 40-60% of your total Vietnam budget. Understanding booking strategies can save thousands of rupees.
Flight Pricing from Major Indian Cities
Delhi to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi: Round-trip flights range from ₹20,000 to ₹40,000, depending on the season and level of advance booking. Direct flights on VietJet Air, IndiGo, and Vietnam Airlines take approximately 5-6 hours.
Mumbai to Vietnam: Expect to pay ₹22,000-₹42,000 for return tickets. Mumbai offers good connectivity with both direct and connecting flight options.
Bangalore to Vietnam: Flight costs typically range from ₹25,000 to ₹45,000. Bangalore residents should compare both direct and connecting flights through Bangkok or Singapore.
Chennai to Vietnam: Often the most affordable option at ₹18,000-₹38,000 due to proximity and competition on the route.
Money-Saving Flight Strategies
Book flights 2-3 months in advance to secure the best prices. Airlines release promotional fares during this window, offering savings of 20-30% compared to last-minute bookings.
Travel during the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-November), when flight demand is lower. Avoid peak periods such as July-August, December-February, and Tet (Vietnamese New Year in late January or early February), when prices can double.
Set price alerts on flight comparison websites and be flexible with your travel dates. Mid-week departures (Tuesday-Thursday) often cost less than weekend flights.
Consider connecting flights through Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. As journey time increases, savings can reach ₹5,000- ₹10,000 per person.
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Visa Requirements and Costs for Indian Travelers
Indian passport holders require a visa to enter Vietnam, but the process is straightforward and affordable.
E-Visa Application
The standard single-entry e-visa costs approximately ₹2,000 (USD 25) and allows a 30-day stay. Apply through the official Vietnamese government portal at least two weeks before departure. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days.
Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date. The e-visa application requires a passport photo, travel itinerary, and accommodation details.
Visa on Arrival Option
For specific entry points, including Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), travelers can obtain a visa on arrival. This requires obtaining a pre-approval letter online beforehand, then paying a stamping fee of ₹2,000-₹4,000 upon arrival.
The e-visa option generally provides more convenience and certainty for budget travelers.
Budget Accommodation: Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank
Vietnam offers exceptional value in accommodation across all budget levels. Choosing the right lodging significantly impacts your overall travel costs.
Hostel Dormitories
Dormitory beds in backpacker hostels cost ₹500-₹1,500 per night. Popular hostel areas include the Old Quarter in Hanoi, Pham Ngu Lao in Ho Chi Minh City, and the Ancient Town area in Hoi An.
Most hostels include free breakfast, communal spaces for socializing, and helpful staff providing travel advice. Many offer organized tours and activities at discounted rates for guests.
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses
Private rooms in budget hotels or family-run guesthouses range from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night. These typically include air conditioning, private bathrooms, and basic amenities.
For couples or friends traveling together, private rooms often cost the same or less per person than hostel dorms, while offering greater privacy and comfort.
Homestays for Cultural Immersion
Homestays provide authentic Vietnamese experiences at ₹1,200-₹2,000 per night. These family-run accommodations are particularly popular in Sapa, the Mekong Delta, and rural areas.
Benefits include home-cooked meals, cultural exchanges, and insider knowledge about local attractions. The 2026 trend indicates strong growth in homestay popularity, particularly in the highlands and delta regions.
Source: Agoda
Booking Strategies
Book accommodation 3 months in advance for better prices and a wider selection. Properties often offer early-bird discounts of 10-20%.
Read recent reviews focusing on cleanliness, location, and value for money. Properties with ratings above 8.0 on booking platforms generally provide reliable quality.
Stay in central locations to save on transportation costs. A slightly more expensive, centrally located hotel can save time and money on daily transportation.
Food Costs: Eating Well on a Tight Budget
Vietnamese cuisine ranks among the world’s best and offers incredible value. Food represents one area where budget travelers can enjoy luxury experiences at minimal cost.
Street Food Paradise
Street food provides the most authentic and affordable dining experiences in Vietnam. A bowl of pho (noodle soup) costs ₹100-₹150, banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) ranges from ₹150-₹250, and fresh spring rolls cost ₹200-₹350.
Local coffee from street vendors costs just ₹100-₹200, while international coffee chains charge ₹300-₹500 for similar drinks.
Budget Tip: Look for food stalls crowded with locals. Long queues and tissues on the floor indicate popular spots serving quality food at local prices. Avoid tourist-focused restaurants near major attractions, where prices can be 3-4 times higher.
Local Restaurants
Com binh dan (rice buffet restaurants) offer unlimited rice with multiple side dishes for ₹300-₹600 per person. These provide excellent value and authentic Vietnamese dining experiences.
Mid-range local restaurants charge ₹1,000-₹2,000 per person for full meals, including drinks. These establishments offer more comfortable seating and English menus while maintaining reasonable prices.
International and Upscale Dining
International cuisine restaurants cost ₹3,000-₹5,000 per person. Indian travelers can find authentic Indian restaurants in major cities, though prices are higher than those for local Vietnamese food.
Upscale restaurant and hotel dining ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per person. Reserve these experiences for special occasions within your budget.
Daily Food Budget
Budget travelers who eat primarily street food and at local restaurants spend ₹900-₹1,800 per day. This allows three meals plus snacks and drinks.
Mid-range travelers enjoying a mix of local and international dining budget ₹1,800-₹3,600 daily.
Transportation: Getting Around Vietnam Affordably
Vietnam’s well-developed transportation network offers multiple budget-friendly options for both intercity and local travel.
Local City Transportation
Grab and Gojek: These ride-hailing apps operate in major Vietnamese cities, offering transparent pricing and cashless payments. Short rides cost ₹100-₹300, while longer cross-city trips range from ₹400-₹700.
Public Buses: Local buses charge ₹25-₹35 per ride. Routes can be confusing for foreigners, but Google Maps now shows bus routes in major cities. Budget ₹70-₹100 daily for public transport.
Motorbike Rentals: Scooter rentals cost ₹300-₹500 per day and offer maximum flexibility. However, traffic can be chaotic, and international driving permits are required. Consider your driving skills carefully before renting.
Taxis: Metered taxis charge ₹50-₹70 per kilometer. Always ensure the meter is running, and use reputable companies such as Mai Linh or Vinasun.
Intercity Transportation
Overnight Trains: The Reunification Express connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with stops at popular destinations such as Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. Sleeper berths cost ₹800-₹2,500 for overnight journeys, saving both travel time and one night’s accommodation.
Sleeper Buses: Comfortable overnight buses connect major cities for ₹1,500-₹2,000. While sometimes cramped, they offer significant savings on accommodation and maximize sightseeing time.
Domestic Flights: Budget airlines such as VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways offer flights between major cities for ₹1,500- ₹4,000. Flying saves considerable time on longer routes, such as Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
Budget Allocation: Plan ₹3,000-₹5,000 for local transportation over a week-long trip, covering airport transfers, city exploration, and one domestic journey.
Top Budget-Friendly Destinations in Vietnam
Hanoi: The Affordable Capital
Vietnam’s capital offers excellent value, with affordable accommodation in the Old Quarter, free attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, and excellent street food.
Budget Highlights: Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (free entry), explore the Temple of Literature (₹200 entry), and wander the Old Quarter’s narrow lanes filled with cafes and markets. Budget homestays cost ₹1,500 per night.
Source:-Arcadia Consulting
Sapa: Mountain Adventures
This highland town provides stunning rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. Join guided treks for ₹1,200 and stay in hill-village homestays for authentic experiences
The cool mountain climate offers relief from coastal humidity. Budget 2-3 days for proper exploration.
Halong Bay: Affordable Natural Wonder
This UNESCO World Heritage site features emerald waters and limestone karsts. Budget cruises cost ₹3,000-₹4,000 for overnight trips, including meals and activities.
Book directly with operators in Hanoi rather than through hotels to save 20-30%. Tours include kayaking, cave visits, and sunset viewing.
Hoi An: Ancient Town Charm
This riverside town captivates with lantern-lit streets and historic architecture. Entry to the Ancient Town costs ₹700 for a ticket valid at multiple heritage sites.
Budget accommodation ranges from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800 per night. The town is compact and walkable, saving transportation costs. Custom clothing and souvenirs offer excellent value.
Da Nang: Beach City Value
Located near Hoi An, Da Nang offers beautiful beaches and budget accommodation starting at ₹1,500 per night. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring central Vietnam.
Visit the Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, and nearby beaches. Many attractions are free or charge minimal entry fees of ₹150-₹300.
Ho Chi Minh City: Southern Energy
Vietnam’s largest city offers diverse attractions from the Cu Chi Tunnels (₹600 entry) to the War Remnants Museum (₹200 entry). Budget accommodation in the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker district starts at ₹1,200 per night.
The city provides excellent street food, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to the Mekong Delta.
Source: kimkim
Mekong Delta: Rural Authenticity
Day trips to the Mekong Delta cost ₹1,500- ₹2,500 and include transport, boat rides, and lunch. Experience floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional village life.
Budget travelers can take public buses to Can Tho (₹300-₹500) and arrange local boat tours independently to save on costs.
Activities and Attractions: Budget-Friendly Experiences
Vietnam offers numerous free or low-cost activities that provide authentic cultural experiences without straining budgets.
Free Attractions
Explore temples and pagodas throughout Vietnam at no entry fee. Walk through local markets experiencing daily Vietnamese life. Enjoy beaches along the entire coastline at no charge.
Wander through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, stroll along Ho Chi Minh City’s Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or watch sunset from Hoi An’s Japanese Bridge.
Budget-Friendly Paid Activities
Cooking classes cost ₹1,200-₹2,000 and include market visits and meal preparation. Bicycle tours in the countryside range from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.
Museum entry fees typically range from ₹150 to ₹300. Cave exploration and waterfall visits cost ₹300- ₹600 and include a guide.
Tour Packages and Organized Activities
Budget tours to popular destinations such as Halong Bay, Sapa, or the Mekong Delta cost ₹3,000-₹5,000 for full-day or overnight experiences. These typically include transportation, guide services, and meals.
Book tours through hostels or local operators rather than international booking sites to save 30-40%. Compare prices across multiple operators before committing.
Budget ₹3,800-₹4,800 for entrance fees and activities over a week-long trip covering major attractions.
Money Management and Currency Exchange
Understanding currency and payment systems helps maximize your budget and avoid unnecessary fees.
Currency Exchange
Exchange small amounts of Indian Rupees at the airport for immediate needs, such as a taxi or a SIM card. Major banks like Vietcombank, BIDV, and VietinBank offer better exchange rates than airport counters.
Avoid exchanging money at hotels or tourist areas, where rates can be 5-10% higher than at official exchange offices.
ATM Usage
ATMs are widely available in cities. Most charge transaction fees of ₹200-₹400 per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees.
Inform your Indian bank about your travel to Vietnam to prevent card blocks. Carry backup cards from different banks in case of technical issues.
Payment Methods
Street food stalls and local markets accept cash only. Mid-range restaurants and hotels accept both cash and cards. Luxury establishments accept international credit cards.
Carry small denominations for daily expenses. Breaking large 500,000 VND notes at street stalls can be difficult.
Communication: Staying Connected on a Budget
SIM Cards and Internet
Local SIM cards cost ₹100-₹300 at airports or convenience stores. Tourist data packages offering 7-10 GB for seven days cost ₹200-₹400.
Major providers include Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Purchase at the airport immediately after arrival for seamless connectivity.
eSIM Options
Digital nomads and tech-savvy travelers can purchase eSIMs starting from ₹399. Activate online before departure for immediate connectivity upon landing.
Free WiFi
Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants provide free WiFi. Quality and speed vary significantly. Carry a local SIM card for navigation and ride-hailing apps.
Sample 7-Day Vietnam Budget Itinerary Under ₹35,000
Day 1-2: Hanoi (₹6,000-₹8,000). Arrive in Hanoi and stay at an Old Quarter homestay (₹1,500/night). Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and local markets. Try famous street food, including pho and bun cha. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.
Day 3: Sapa (₹3,500-₹4,500) Take an overnight bus to Sapa (₹1,500). Trek through rice terraces with a local guide (₹1,200). Stay in a traditional hill homestay (₹1,500 including dinner and breakfast)
Day 4: Halong Bay (₹3,500-₹4,500) Return to Hanoi and continue to Halong Bay. Join a budget overnight cruise (₹3,000-₹4,000 all-inclusive). Enjoy kayaking, cave visits, and fresh seafood.
Day 5: Da Nang/Hoi An (₹4,000-₹5,500) Fly to Da Nang (₹3,000). Transfer to Hoi An by bus (₹100). Explore Ancient Town, visit tailors, and enjoy riverside dining. Stay in a budget hotel (₹1,200-₹1,800).
Day 6-7: Ho Chi Minh City (₹5,000-₹7,000). Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (₹3,500). Visit Cu Chi Tunnels (₹600), War Remnants Museum (₹200), and explore Ben Thanh Market. Stay in backpacker district (₹1,200-₹1,500/night). Use remaining budget for shopping and final meals.
Total Budget: ₹30,000-₹35,000 excluding international flights, covering accommodation, food, transport, and activities.
Money-Saving Tips for Vietnam Travel
Off-Season Travel Benefits
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-June or September-November) for 20-30% savings on accommodation and fewer crowds at attractions. Avoid the Vietnamese New Year (Tet), when prices spike, and services may be limited.
Bargaining Etiquette
Markets and street vendors expect bargaining. Start at 50-60% of the quoted price and negotiate respectfully. Smile and remain friendly throughout. Know fair market prices by observing other transactions or asking your accommodation staff.
Eating Like Locals
Follow the local meal schedule. Street food is freshest and cheapest during breakfast (7-9 AM) and dinner (6-8 PM) rushes. Observe where locals eat and join them for authentic experiences at local prices.
Transportation Strategies
Book overnight buses and trains to reduce accommodation costs when traveling long distances. Travel during the day only when the scenery is spectacular, such as the Hanoi-Sapa route.
Consider renting motorbikes for 2-3 days rather than daily to negotiate better rates. Some operators offer weekly discounts of 20-30%.
Accommodation Hacks
Stay 3-4 nights at the same property to secure better rates. Many guesthouses offer discounts for longer stays.
Book directly with small hotels and homestays rather than through booking platforms to save commission fees. Show up and ask about available rooms for potential walk-in discounts.
Why Vietnam Offers Unmatched Budget Travel Value
Vietnam successfully balances affordability with quality experiences. Unlike destinations where budget travel means compromising comfort or safety, Vietnam provides excellent standards across all price points.
The country’s compact geography allows diverse experiences within short distances. Explore mountains, beaches, cities, and countryside without extensive travel time or costs.
Vietnamese hospitality ensures a warm welcome regardless of budget. Local communities genuinely appreciate visitors who show interest in their culture and traditions.
For Indian travelers specifically, Vietnam offers several advantages: visa-on-arrival convenience, vegetarian food availability (though limited), cultural familiarity through Buddhist temples and similar family values, and English proficiency in tourist areas.
International travelers appreciate Vietnam’s combination of French colonial heritage, Chinese influences, and indigenous culture, creating unique experiences unavailable elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
The favorable exchange rate, low cost of living, and tourism infrastructure optimized for budget travelers make Vietnam an ideal destination for first-time international visitors, students, young professionals, and families seeking affordable adventures.
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Final Thoughts on Budget Travel to Vietnam
Vietnam proves that budget travel doesn’t require sacrificing quality, comfort, or authentic experiences. With daily costs ranging from ₹4,500 to ₹5,400, travelers can explore one of Asia’s most fascinating countries without financial stress.
The key to successful budget travel in Vietnam lies in smart planning: booking flights early, traveling during shoulder seasons, eating street food, using public transportation, and staying in budget accommodation. These strategies don’t diminish the travel experience; they enhance it by providing authentic interactions with local culture.
Whether you have one week or one month, ₹30,000 or ₹50,000, Vietnam adapts to your budget while delivering unforgettable memories. Start planning your affordable Vietnamese adventure today and discover why millions of budget travelers choose this remarkable destination year after year.