Vietnam, with its enchanting landscapes, vibrant history, and delicious food, is a perfect destination for tourists visiting Southeast Asia for the first time. From peaceful beaches to bustling cities and foggy mountains, this country provides a unique combination of natural scenery and cultural heritage for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a solo backpacker, taking a family holiday, or going on your honeymoon, Vietnam invites all types of travellers with open arms. This travel guide points out the best places to see in Vietnam, ideal for first-time travellers and also discusses the Vietnam trip cost to assist you in planning your trip effectively.

  1. Hanoi

Being the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is an excellent place to begin your Vietnam tour. This lively city exists as a harmonious mixture of historical heritage and modernity, housing French colonial architecture alongside modern skyscrapers and ancient pagodas. Some of the unmissable attractions in Hanoi are the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, the Old Quarter, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. Do not forget to try out the local egg coffee and wander the narrow streets of the Old Quarter on foot.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 2–3 days

Cost of Trip to Hanoi: Budget travellers might spend approximately Rs. 2,500–Rs. 3,500 per day, including transportation, accommodation, and food.

  1. Ha Long Bay

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is renowned for its emerald waters and numerous towering limestone karsts capped by rainforests. This destination is a nature lover's paradise and is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and tranquil retreat. Some of the highly recommended tourist attractions include cruise tours on old-style junk boats, kayaking in caves and lagoons and Ti Top Island for panoramic views. Ensure that you book an overnight cruise to best appreciate the bay's beauty.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 1–2 days

Cost of Trip to Ha Long Bay: Overnight cruises from Rs. 6,800 to Rs. 26,000 per person, depending on level of luxury.

  1. Sapa

Located in the mountains of the north close to the Chinese border, Sapa is known for stunning scenery over rice terraces and offers a true cultural experience of Vietnam's minority ethnic groups. This destination calls out to all tourists seeking a cultural and historical immersion trip. The main highlights in Sapa include trekking along Muong Hoa Valley, visiting the Cat Cat and the Ta Van villages and climbing Fansipan Mountain. For an enhanced experience, take an overnight train or bus ride from Hanoi to optimise time and convenience.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 2–3 days

Cost of Trip to Sapa: Budget Rs. 3,500–Rs. 4,500 per day, including guided treks and homestay stays.

  1. Hue

Hue was the ancient capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty and is famous for its imperial architecture and historical importance. History buffs and those who love immersing themselves in the local culture must definitely visit this fascinating destination. While visiting this destination, make sure to check out the Imperial Citadel, the Tombs of the Nguyen Emperors, and the Thien Mu Pagoda. Hire a bicycle or motorbike to make the most out of visiting the city's historical attractions.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 1–2 days

Cost of Trip to Hue: Budget Rs. 2,600–Rs. 3,800 per day, including meal and entrance charges.

  1. Hoi An

Hoi An is a perfectly well-preserved ancient town, famous for its lantern-lit streets, riverside atmosphere, and tailor shops, and it is the best place to indulge in the native delicacies. Some of the top places to visit include Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach, and the Japanese Covered Bridge, as well as local tailor-made clothing shops for good quality customisable textiles.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 2–3 days

Cost of Trip to Hoi An: Daily expenses can range from Rs. 3,000–Rs. 4,500, especially if you’re getting custom clothes tailored.

  1. Da Nang

Da Nang is located just north of Hoi An and offers a mix of modern city life, beautiful beaches, and mountain escapes, providing for an incredible experience regardless of the type of traveller visiting the city, whether they are nature lovers, beach lovers, history buffs or just want to relax.

While visiting Da Nang, do not miss out on these wonderful destinations like the My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Golden Bridge and the Dragon Bridge. Visit the Golden Bridge early in the morning to avoid crowds and get clear photos.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 1–2 days

Cost of Trip to Da Nang: Around Rs. 3,500–Rs. 5,000 per day, particularly if you are heading up to Ba Na Hills (entrance cable car).

  1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City must definitely be included in your Vietnam tour, as it is the largest city in the country and is a whirlwind of energy, filled with historic sites, vibrant markets, and a booming nightlife. Some of the top places to visit in the city are the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Ben Thanh Market for an incredible trip. For cheap and convenient transportation, take Grab, which is Vietnam's equivalent of Uber.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 2–3 days

Cost of Trip to Ho Chi Minh City: You can get by on a Rs. 3,000–Rs. 4,000 daily budget, but indulgence in nightlife or upscale hotels will inflate expenses.

  1. Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is a wonderful destination filled with a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands, home to floating markets, traditional villages, and lush landscapes. This destination is perfect for those seeking a serene and peaceful retreat and some of the best places to visit and activities to engage in include the Rang Floating Market, going on boat tours through coconut groves, enjoying home-cooked meals with local families and learning about the local culture. Consider a guided day tour from Ho Chi Minh City if you’re short on time.

Estimated Duration of Stay: 1–2 days

Cost of Trip toMekong Delta: Day tours start at around Rs. 2,000–Rs. 3,500 including transportation and meals.

Vietnam Trip Cost Overview

Category

Budget (Rs./Day)

Mid-Range (Rs./Day)

Luxury (Rs./Day)

Accommodation

Rs. 830 – Rs. 2,075

Rs. 2,490 – Rs. 4,980

Rs. 8,300

Food

Rs. 415 – Rs. 830

Rs. 1,245 – Rs. 2,075

Rs. 4,150

Transport (Local)

Rs. 165 – Rs. 415

Rs. 830 – Rs. 1,660

Rs. 2,490

Entrance Fees/Tours

Rs. 415 – Rs. 1,660

Rs. 2,490 – Rs. 4,150

Rs. 8,300

Total per Day

Rs. 1,825 – Rs. 4,980

Rs. 7,055 – Rs. 12,865

Rs. 23,240

Vietnam is a captivating country filled with diversity and charm. Whether you're attracted to its old towns, bustling cities, or peaceful countryside, your trip to Vietnam will be one to remember. Now that you know everything there is to know about Vietnam trip cost, grab your bags and prepare to discover this Southeast Asian gem!