Vietnam in 7 Nights: A Detailed Guide with Costs, Tips & Must-See Attractions
Vietnam was stop number five on our five-week Southeast Asia adventure, following Thailand, Singapore, Bali, and a quick return to Thailand for Bangkok. We spent 7 nights in Vietnam from March 22–29.
This leg of the journey was extra fun because another friend joined us, making us a group of three for the final two countries of the trip: Vietnam and Japan. Even better, our friend spoke Vietnamese, which made navigating, ordering food, and chatting with locals much easier.
In just one week, we managed to experience four completely different sides of Vietnam:
- 2 nights in Hanoi
- 2 nights cruising Ha Long Bay
- 3 nights in Da Nang
- A 12-hour layover adventure in Ho Chi Minh City before heading to Japan
From lively beer streets and hidden rooftop bars to limestone mountains, coconut boat tours, beaches, and one unforgettable cruise, Vietnam packed a lot into just seven nights.
Vietnam Travel Costs: Very Affordable
One thing that immediately stood out about Vietnam was how affordable it was.
Compared to some of our other stops during this five-week trip, Vietnam felt like incredible value for money. Transportation, food, accommodations, and activities were all budget-friendly without sacrificing the experience.
For accommodations:
- Our Airbnb stays totaled about $280 USD for 5 nights, split three ways.
- Our 2-night Ha Long Bay cruise cost $800 USD total, also split three ways.
Food was inexpensive, Grab rides were often just a few dollars, and even longer transportation days didn’t feel overly expensive.
One important tip: carry cash.
While credit cards are becoming more common in larger cities, many restaurants, markets, cafes, and smaller businesses still prefer cash. We found ourselves using cash for the most part.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
One thing many people don’t realize is that Vietnam’s weather varies dramatically depending on where you are. Since the country stretches more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km) from north to south, different regions have different seasons.
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay)
Best time to visit:
- September to November
- March to April
These months typically offer comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue)
Best time to visit:
- January to August
This region experiences its best beach weather during these months. Monsoon and typhoon season generally runs from September through December.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
Best time to visit:
- December to April
The rainy season usually falls between May and October.
Overall Best Time to Visit Vietnam
If you’re planning to visit multiple regions like we did, March and April are hard to beat.
After spending nearly three weeks sweating through the intense humidity of Thailand, Singapore, and Bali, Vietnam felt noticeably more comfortable. It was still warm, but the humidity was much lower and sightseeing was more enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Vietnam
Where to Stay in Hanoi
Old Quarter
If it’s your first time in Hanoi, this is where I’d stay.
The Old Quarter is the heart of the city and puts you within walking distance of:
- Street food vendors
- Beer Street
- Markets
- Cafes
- Rooftop bars
- Historic attractions
French Quarter
A quieter, more upscale area with:
- Luxury hotels
- Boutique shopping
- Wider streets
- Colonial architecture
Truc Bach & West Lake
Ideal for travelers looking for:
- Modern accommodations
- Upscale restaurants
- A quieter atmosphere
- Family-friendly stays
We stayed in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and while the entrance to our Airbnb was admittedly a little questionable (think dark hallway and old staircase), the actual apartment was fine. For around $60 a night split between three people, it was an incredible deal and the location couldn’t have been better.
Where to Stay in Ha Long Bay
For Ha Long Bay, we booked a two-night cruise with Peony Cruises.
The package included:
- Roundtrip transportation from Hanoi for an additional charge ($35 per person)
- Private cabin with balcony
- 7 meals
- Activities
- Excursions
- Spa services such as massages are an additional charge
- Click here for more details on the Ha Long Bay Cruise
The smaller boutique style of the ship felt more intimate and less crowded than some of the larger cruise options.
Where to Stay in Da Nang
We stayed near:
- My Khe Beach
- An Thuong Tourist Area
This is one of the best areas for visitors because it’s close to:
- Restaurants
- Coffee shops
- Beach clubs
- The beach itself
Our Airbnb was on the 39th floor overlooking My Khe Beach and offered incredible views for a surprisingly affordable price.
How to Get Around Vietnam
Domestic Flights
- Since we were limited on time, we flew between major cities.
- Flights between:
- Hanoi
- Da Nang
- Ho Chi Minh City
- were inexpensive and saved us valuable vacation time.
Airport Transfers
- Klook
- You can pre-book airport transportation through Klook, and your driver will meet you with a sign at arrivals.
- Airbnb Hosts
- Many hosts can arrange private transportation directly. Our Hanoi host arranged our airport pickup, making arrival completely stress-free.
Grab App
- Grab is basically Southeast Asia’s version of Uber.
- We used it constantly.
- Typical rides ranged from:
- $2–15 USD
- You can also use Grab Bike, where a scooter driver picks you up with a helmet and zips you through traffic. It’s one of the fastest and cheapest ways to get around.
Private Drivers
- For longer day trips, hiring a private driver is very convenient.
- For example:
- Hanoi to Ninh Binh, which was a 2 hour drive each way, cost approximately $100 roundtrip
- The driver waited while we explored
- Having transportation sorted made the day much easier.
Vietnam Highlights
If you’re short on time, these were our favorite experiences:
Hanoi Beer Street
Located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Beer Street is one of the city’s most popular nightlife spots. Pull up a tiny plastic stool, grab an inexpensive local beer and eat some local food.
Egg Coffee in Hanoi
Egg coffee is one of Vietnam’s most famous drinks and a must-try while visiting Hanoi. Made with whipped egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk over strong Vietnamese coffee, it’s surprisingly rich, creamy, and tastes more like dessert than coffee.
Tam Coc Boat Ride in Ninh Binh
Often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land,” the Tam Coc boat ride takes you through limestone mountains, rice fields, and natural caves. It’s one of the most scenic day trips from Hanoi and offers a completely different side of Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay Cruise
A cruise through Ha Long Bay was one of the highlights of our trip. Sailing past thousands of limestone islands, kayaking through quiet coves, and meeting other travelers on the cruise was such a fun experience.
Dragon Bridge Fire Show in Da Nang
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, Da Nang’s famous Dragon Bridge comes to life with a free fire and water show. It’s a fun event that attracts both locals and tourists and is worth adding to your itinerary if you’re in the city for the weekend.
Coconut Boat Tour in Hoi An
The Coconut Boat Tour takes you through the coconut palm forests just outside Hoi An in a traditional round basket boat. Many tours include fun spinning demonstrations and local performances. This was such a fun and unique activity to do before heading to Hoi An Ancient Town.
Golden Bridge at Sun World Ba Na Hills
The Golden Bridge is one of Vietnam’s most recognizable landmarks, famous for its giant stone hands that appear to hold up the bridge above the mountains. While you’re there, you can also explore Sun World Ba Na Hills, a mountaintop resort with gardens, restaurants, and a European-inspired village.
My Khe Beach in Da Nang
My Khe Beach stretches for miles along Da Nang’s coastline. Whether you’re looking to swim, relax, or enjoy a beachfront café, it’s one of the best beaches in central Vietnam.
The Gangs Beer Garden in Ho Chi Minh City
If you have time to explore Ho Chi Minh City, The Gangs Beer Garden is a fun place to unwind with local craft beers and Vietnamese food. The lively atmosphere that transforms into a full on party every night at around 8pm.
Is Vietnam Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you enjoy beautiful scenery, amazing food, affordable travel, and a mix of cities, beaches, and nature, Vietnam has something for just about everyone.
I think it’s especially great for:
- First-time Southeast Asia travelers
- Food lovers
- Budget travelers
- Couples
- Solo travelers
- Anyone looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation
Now that you know what to expect when planning a trip to Vietnam, here’s exactly how we spent our seven nights exploring the country.
Read next: 7-Night Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Da Nang
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Loved the way you described each location and adventure. I almost felt like I was there! Great pictures and advice as well. I think I’d like to visit Vietnam one day now after reading this blog.