Is Vietnam Expensive to Visit for Tourists?

Let’s set the record straight: is Vietnam expensive to visit? The short answer — absolutely not, for most travelers. But affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. On the contrary, travelling in Vietnam offers world-class landscapes, rich heritage, and mouthwatering local food — all at a cost that’ll leave you pleasantly surprised.

1. What Makes Vietnam Seem “Cheap” or “Affordable”?

You’ve probably heard people say “Vietnam is cheap”—and they’re not wrong. But what makes it so?

Strong Exchange Rates

Coming from the US, Europe, or Australia? Your dollar, euro, or pound goes a long way here. One US dollar fetches around 23,000–25,000 Vietnamese Dong, giving you serious purchasing power in everything from local food to transportation.

Local Labor and Living Costs

Vietnam’s cost structure is different. Thanks to affordable labor and a lower cost of living, services, meals, and accommodations come at prices that will leave you pleasantly surprised.

Value-Packed Experiences

Where else can you cruise past limestone pillars in Ha Long Bay, feast on street food in Ho Chi Minh City, sip bia hoi with locals in Hanoi, and relax at a luxury resort in Da Nang — all in one trip, and still stay on budget?

• But remember: “cheap” is relative. It’s about spending smart, not just spending less.

2. How Much Does a Vietnam Trip Cost? Let’s Break It Down!

Daily Budget Ranges (per person)

• Backpackers: Under $30/day — basic dorms, street eats, local buses
• Mid-range travelers: $30–$60/day — hotels, mixed dining, Grab/taxis, some paid attractions
• Luxury travelers: $100+/day — 4–5 star hotels, fine dining, guided tours, flights

No matter where you fall, travelling in Vietnam means getting serious value.

By Category

Accommodation

• Hostels & Budget Stays: From $5–$15 per night. Clean, social, often with breakfast included!
• Boutique & 3-Star Hotels: Around $20–$50 in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.
• Luxury Resorts: Think $80–$150/night—top names like JW Marriott Phu Quoc or InterContinental Da Nang will pamper you with ocean views and world-class service. Yes, this is the total cost, not per hour!

Food & Drinks

• Street Food: A hot bowl of pho? Just $1.50. Banh mi? Around $1. The average cost of a meal in Vietnam is less than $3 in local eateries!
• Mid-range Restaurants: Expect to spend $4–$8 per dish for lunch and dinner.
• Drinks: A glass of local bia hoi? Around $0.30. Even Vietnam’s coffee culture is budget-friendly.

Transportation

• Local: City buses (7,000 VND), Grab rides (30,000–100,000 VND), motorbike rental (~120,000 VND/day)
• Intercity: Overnight trains from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi? Around $35. Domestic flights? As low as $25 if you book early.

Want to go from north to south? Budget $50–$80 total with trains, or $100 with a flight and a few taxis. That’s your vietnam trip cost, coast to coast!

Attractions & Tours

• Ha Long Bay cruise: $35–$90 for a day cruise; $120+ for overnight
• Hue’s Imperial Citadel: ~200,000 VND
• Fansipan Cable Car (Sapa): ~750,000 VND
• Cooking class in Hoi An: ~$20–$30
• Museums in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh: Under $2

You’ll find some attractions are free or donation-based—temples, local markets, old towns—especially in Hoi An or Ninh Binh.

3. Vietnam vs. Other Southeast Asian Destinations

Wondering how Vietnam trip costs compare to nearby gems like Thailand, Cambodia, or Bali? Let’s break it down!

Quick Price Comparison: Vietnam vs. The Neighbors

• Accommodation: In Vietnam, a night at a quality 3-star hotel may cost just $25–$40. In Bali, expect $40–$70 for the same class. In Thailand, you're likely to spend $35–$60 for similar comfort.
   
• Street food: The average cost of a meal in Vietnam from a bustling street vendor? Often under $2. Compare that to $3–$5 in Bangkok or $4–$6 in Siem Reap.
• Transport: Vietnam excels in cheap and efficient transit. Sleeper buses, trains, and Grab rides are often 30–50% less expensive than their counterparts in Thailand or Indonesia.

What Vietnam Offers That Others Don’t

Vietnam isn’t just affordable — it’s unforgettable. What makes it shine?

• A deep sense of history in places like Hue, Hanoi, and the ancient town of Hoi An.
• Wild, winding roads like the Hai Van Pass in Da Nang — ideal for motorbike adventurers.
• Astonishing natural wonders from Ha Long Bay to the rice terraces of Sapa.

Cost vs. Experience: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. If you're asking is Vietnam cheap to visit compared to other Southeast Asian countries, the answer is yes — but with richer rewards. You get authentic experiences, less crowding in off-peak regions, and the joy of discovering a culture that’s uniquely generous, warm, and dynamic.

4. Luxury in Vietnam: Affordable Indulgence

Who says luxury has to come at a steep price? In Vietnam, budget travellers can level up their travel style without draining their savings.

Cost of 4–5 Star Travel in Vietnam

• Top-tier hotels like the JW Marriott Phu Quoc or InterContinental Da Nang offer rooms from $120–$300/night — luxurious by global standards, affordable by Southeast Asia’s.
• Fine dining options in Ho Chi Minh City serve up elegant lunch and dinner sets from just $25–$50 per person.
• Luxury cruises in Ha Long Bay — complete with private cabins, seafood feasts, and kayaking — start around $150 per night.

The Best Part? You Won’t Feel Like You’re Cutting Corners

Vietnam excels at delivering 5-star experiences with authentic cultural immersion. So, if you're wondering is Vietnam expensive to visit in style? Not at all — it’s where luxury meets value.

5. Hidden Costs & Budget Traps to Watch For

Now, let's talk about what can sneak up on the unsuspecting traveler — because even in a country where costs in Vietnam are generally low, smart planning matters.

Currency Confusion

• The Vietnamese Dong comes with big numbers: 100,000 VND ≈ $4 USD. Newcomers might feel overwhelmed, especially when bills start looking alike.
• Pro tip: Separate your bills by color and label denominations for quick access.

Haggling & Common Tourist Traps

• Yes, haggling is expected in markets — especially for souvenirs or services.
• Be wary of inflated pricing in tourist-heavy spots. If you’re quoted a price in USD, it’s usually negotiable.
• Ask locals or your hotel front desk about going rates.

SIM Cards, ATM Fees & Tipping

• SIM cards with data: 100,000 VND ($4). Grab one at the airport or in major cities.
• ATM withdrawals may include a $2–$5 fee — minimize by withdrawing more at once.
• Tipping isn’t required but appreciated — 5–10% is generous in local food restaurants.

When Cheap = Too Cheap

Yes, is Vietnam cheap? Often. But don’t chase the absolute lowest price — whether it's for transport, tours, or accommodation — as it can sometimes mean sacrificing safety or experience.

6. Smart Tips to Save Money in Vietnam

Let’s make your Vietnam trip cost even lighter — without skipping the fun!

Travel Off-Season

• Visit during shoulder months — March–April and September–October — when flights and hotels are cheaper, and the weather is still pleasant.

Book Transport in Advance

• Domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang or Hanoi? Book early and you can fly for $25–$40.
• For buses and trains, apps like Vexere or Baolau help you compare routes and prices.

Use Travel Apps

• Grab for cheap rides and food delivery.
• Agoda or Traveloka for hotel deals.
• Klook for discounted activities and entry tickets.

Volunteer for Free Stay

• Sites like Worldpackers or Workaway connect you with hostels, farms, and NGOs in exchange for help — reducing your total cost while enriching your experience.

7. Is Vietnam Still Worth Visiting in 2025?

With rising global prices, you may wonder: Is Vietnam expensive to visit next year compared to now?

• Yes, some costs have increased slightly, especially in tourist zones.
• But compared to other destinations, Vietnam remains one of the best-value countries on Earth.

Even as tourism grows, Vietnam’s charm, authenticity, and diversity continue to offer depth and warmth that go far beyond price tags.

Whether you're sipping bia hoi in Hanoi or watching the sun set over Long Bay, Vietnam delivers rich experiences at prices that are hard to beat.

8. Conclusion

In the end, whether you're traveling with a backpack or a suitcase, Vietnam proves that unforgettable experiences don’t have to come with a high price tag. From its vibrant cities and serene landscapes to its rich flavors and warm hospitality, Vietnam welcomes all travel styles — and all budgets. So if you’ve been asking yourself, “is Vietnam expensive to visit?”, the journey itself is your answer: affordable, enriching, and absolutely worth it.