Vietnam continues to be one of the best-value international destinations for Indian travelers. With affordable accommodation, inexpensive local transport, delicious street food, and increasing flight connectivity from India, it is possible to enjoy a memorable overseas holiday without spending a fortune. The biggest question most first-time travelers ask is: Can you visit Vietnam on a budget? The answer is yes. This unstumbled guide covers everything you need to know before planning your trip. Here are the latest visa requirements, realistic travel costs, flight-saving strategies, vegetarian dining options, transport tips, and a practical 7-day itinerary that keeps your expenses under control.
Can You Visit Vietnam On A Budget?
Yes, if you plan carefully and book flights in advance, a 7-day Vietnam trip can cost approximately INR 45,000 to INR 60,000 per person, including return flights, visa, accommodation, food, and local transportation.
How Much Does A Budget Vietnam Trip Cost?
Vietnam e-Visa For Indians
Indian passport holders require a visa before entering Vietnam. The most convenient option is the official Vietnam e-Visa. Current government fees are:
- Single-entry e-Visa: USD 25 (approximately INR 2,100, depending on exchange rates)
- Multiple-entry e-Visa: USD 50 (approximately INR 4,200)
The application is generally processed within three to five working days, although travelers should apply at least two weeks before departure to allow for any delays. A crucial tip is to use only the official Vietnam government e-Visa portal. A number of third-party websites charge significantly higher service fees while offering no additional processing advantage. Always carry both a printed copy and a digital copy of your approved e-Visa while traveling.
How To Get Cheaper Flights?
Flights typically represent the largest expense of a Vietnam trip. The most affordable departure cities are often Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Kochi. Travelers can choose between direct flights and one-stop connections.
The direct flights are operated by airlines such as VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines. One-stop connection routes are typically via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or other Southeast Asian hubs.
Booking two to three months in advance usually offers the best fares. Typical return airfare ranges between INR 18,000 and INR 22,000 for budget fares. Average fares range between INR 22,000 and INR 25,000. Peak holiday season fares are INR 28,000 and above. Being flexible with travel dates can often save several thousand rupees.
Travel Insurance
While travel insurance may not always be checked during entry procedures, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Basic policies covering medical emergencies, baggage delays, and trip cancellations generally cost between INR 800 and INR 1,500 for a one-week holiday.
Daily Budget Breakdown For Indian Travelers
What To Know About The Currency
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). In July 2026, the exchange rate is 1 INR ≈ 273 VND. Since prices often appear in hundreds of thousands of Dong, familiarising yourself with the currency beforehand helps avoid confusion.
How Much Does Accommodation Cost And Where To Stay?
Vietnam offers excellent value across all budget categories. Staying in hostels costs INR 400 to INR 800 per night. If you’re traveling solo, dormitory beds are best suited for you.
Budget hotels and homestays cost around INR 1,000 to INR 1,800 per night. Such private rooms with air conditioning are an excellent option for couples and families.
Booking accommodation outside major holiday weekends usually results in better rates.
Where To Eat?
Food is one of Vietnam’s biggest attractions, and one of its cheapest. Popular street food dishes include Bánh Mì, Phở, and Fresh spring rolls. The typical price for these ranges from INR 100 to INR 250 per meal. Simple, unpretentious local eateries generally cost around INR 250 to INR 500 per meal.
Indian and Vegetarian Dining
Indian restaurants are easy to find in cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City. Vegetarian travelers should also look for “Chay” restaurants that specialise in vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine. The typical cost at these restaurants is INR 350 to INR 700 per meal.
One useful Vietnamese phrase to remember is “Tôi ăn chay.” (I am vegetarian.) Those following strict vegetarian or Jain diets may also find apps such as HappyCow useful for locating suitable restaurants.
How To Get Around Town In Vietnam?
Getting around town in Vietnam is quite affordable. Within cities, travelers have common options like GrabBike, GrabCar, and even public buses. Typical city rides cost between INR 50 and INR 250, depending on distance.
Between cities, budget-friendly transport options are overnight sleeper buses, Reunification Express trains, and low-cost domestic flights. Domestic flights often become economical when booked early, especially for longer routes like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
How To Save Money In Different Parts Of Vietnam
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Sa Pa)
- Exploring the Old Quarter on foot costs almost nothing and offers plenty of cultural experiences.
- Instead of making bookings from expensive international websites, compare prices through reputable local travel agencies after arriving in Hanoi. Many offer similar itineraries at lower prices.
- Booking trekking tours in Sa Pa locally often provides better value than reserving months in advance online.
How To Book Ha Long Bay Cruises Locally?
Where to go: Walk down streets like Hang Be or Ma May in Hanoi’s Old Quarter to find dozens of licensed local operators and small agencies.
What to check: Demand to see the actual license, photos of the boat, and a written list covering round-trip limousine bus transfers, port fees, kayaking, and meals.
Price target: Standard 2-day/1-night budget cruises cost around 1,800,000 to 2,500,000 VND (INR 6,500 to INR 9,500) per person; never pay upfront in full without a physical paper receipt stamped by the agency.
How To Book Sa Pa Trekking Tours Locally?
Where to book: You can book an open bus ticket (170,000 to 400,000 VND one-way) to Sa Pa from Hanoi, then book your trek directly in Sa Pa town at local cafes or minority-run homestays.
Hire local guides: Approach Hmong or Dao women directly in Sa Pa town square for customized village walks, which cost significantly less than booking through an intermediary agency.
What to check: Ensure your local trek explicitly specifies homestay bedding, drinking water, and a return transport ticket back to Hanoi before handing over cash.
Central Vietnam
- Da Nang: Many attractions are completely free, including My Khe Beach, Dragon Bridge (viewing from public areas), and riverside promenades.
- Hoi An: Walking through the Ancient Town is free, although certain heritage buildings require an entrance ticket. Renting a bicycle is an inexpensive way to explore nearby rice fields and beaches.
- Hue: Budget travelers can combine walking with inexpensive local taxis to visit the Imperial City and surrounding attractions.
South Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City: Many landmarks, including the Central Post Office, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and Ben Thanh area’s public spaces, can be explored independently.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Joining a local group tour is usually significantly cheaper than arranging a private excursion.
- Mekong Delta: Small-group day trips generally provide excellent value while including transportation and lunch.
Budget Vietnam Itinerary For Indians (Under INR 50,000)
Days One To Three: Hanoi And Ha Long Bay (or Ninh Binh)
- Explore Hanoi Old Quarter
- Visit Hoan Kiem Lake
- Sample local street food
- Take a budget day trip to Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh
Days Four And Five: Da Nang And Hoi An
- Relax at My Khe Beach
- Visit Marble Mountains
- Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
- Enjoy evening lantern displays
Days Six And Seven: Ho Chi Minh City
- Visit Independence Palace
- Explore the War Remnants Museum
- Walk through Ben Thanh Market
- Optional: Cu Chi Tunnels half-day excursion
- Return flight to India
Estimated Budget
Return Flights: INR 22,000
Vietnam e-Visa: INR 2,100
Accommodation (6 nights): INR 6,000
Food: INR 7,000
Local Transport and Sightseeing: INR 8,000
Estimated Total: INR 45,100
It is important to note that this sample budget assumes shared or budget accommodation, advance flight bookings, and moderate sightseeing expenses. Travelers choosing private hotels, premium cruises, or additional activities should budget accordingly.
Tips And Tricks For Indians To Save More Money In Vietnam
Use Zero-Forex Cards Or Carry USD
Traditional currency exchange at airports often comes with less favorable rates. Many travelers save approximately three to five percent by carrying US Dollars and exchanging them locally at authorised exchange counters. Using zero-forex debit or credit cards for payments and ATM withdrawals wherever accepted can also save quite a lot. Always compare exchange rates before converting money.
Buy The Right SIM Card
Travelers can either purchase an eSIM before departure, or buy a physical Viettel SIM after arrival. It typically costs INR 500 to INR 800 for 10 to 14 days of generous data usage. Airport kiosks are convenient, but city stores sometimes offer slightly better prices.
Bargaining Etiquette
Negotiating prices is common in local markets such as Hanoi Night Market and Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City). A polite approach works best. Smile, ask the price respectfully, and negotiate reasonably rather than aggressively. Vendors are generally receptive to courteous bargaining.
Vegetarian And Jain Food Tips
Besides learning the phrase “Tôi ăn chay”, consider using HappyCow to locate vegetarian restaurants. Explain dietary restrictions clearly if avoiding onion, garlic, or other ingredients. Carry a translated dietary preference card if following a strict Jain diet.
Also Read: Vietnam Visa Guide For Indians: How To Apply, Cost And Other Details
Summing Up
For Indian passport holders, Vietnam remains one of the most rewarding international destinations in terms of value for money. Excellent public transport, affordable accommodation, inexpensive food, and diverse attractions make it suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and backpackers alike. With careful planning and bookings, a week-long Vietnam holiday can comfortably fit within a budget of INR 45,000 to INR 60,000, making it one of the best-value international trips available from India.
