Vietnam remains one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. With an average annual income in Vietnam around $4,500 USD in 2024, daily expenses are relatively low. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury traveler, Vietnam offers options for every type of visitor.

Budget Travel: $20–$25 per day (€18–€23)

For those looking to travel like a local, costs can be incredibly low. By eating at local food stalls serving cơm tấm (broken rice), phở (noodle soup), or bánh mì, using public buses, and staying in budget hostels or guesthouses, you can comfortably spend between $20–$25 USD per day.

What You Can Afford on a Budget:

✔️ Street food and simple Vietnamese meals ($2–$5 per meal)
✔️ Budget hostels and homestays ($8–$15 per night)
✔️ Local buses and motorbike rentals ($3–$6 per day)

Mid-Range Travel: $40–$50 per day (€35–€44)

If you prefer more comfort, including hotels with air conditioning, sit-down restaurants, and guided tours, expect to spend around $40–$50 USD per day. This budget allows for a mix of local and international dining, occasional domestic flights, and some sightseeing tours.

What You Can Expect:

✔️ 3-star hotels or boutique homestays ($20–$40 per night)
✔️ Local and mid-range restaurants ($5–$12 per meal)
✔️ Organized tours (e.g., Ha Long Bay cruise for $35)

Comfortable Travel: $50–$100 per day (€45–€90)

For those seeking a balance between luxury and affordability, a budget of $50–$100 USD per day allows you to stay in well-rated hotels, dine at higher-end restaurants, and book private transportation.

What’s Included in This Budget:

✔️ 4-star hotels or boutique resorts ($50–$100 per night)
✔️ Fine dining and Western restaurants ($10–$30 per meal)
✔️ Private drivers or domestic flights ($25–$50 per trip)

Luxury Travel: $150+ per day

If you opt for 5-star hotels, private tours, and fine dining, there’s no real limit to how much you can spend. High-end resorts, private yacht tours, and personal chauffeurs can easily push your daily budget beyond $150 USD per person.

Luxury Travel Highlights:

✔️ 5-star international hotels or private villas ($150+ per night)
✔️ High-end restaurants and rooftop bars ($50+ per meal)
✔️ Private tour guides and drivers ($100+ per day)

Bargaining in Vietnam

Haggling is a normal part of Vietnamese shopping culture, especially in markets, souvenir shops, and even when booking accommodations in person. Always negotiate prices unless you’re shopping in a fixed-price store or a high-end establishment.

Money-Saving Tips:

💰 Eat where the locals eat—street food is delicious and cheap.
🚗 Use Grab or local taxis instead of private cars for short trips.
🏨 Book hotels in advance for the best deals, especially during peak season.

Vietnam offers something for every budget, from affordable backpacking to high-end luxury. No matter your travel style, you’ll find incredible value for your money while exploring this beautiful country.