How Much Money Do I Need For My Trip To Vietnam?

Vietnam remains a captivating destination for international travelers, known for its unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. In addition, the variety of affordable and diverse tourism services continues to attract visitors. As of 2025, the average daily expenditure for tourists is around USD 60-80, which typically covers comfortable accommodation, meals, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.

However, costs can vary significantly by region. Generally, prices in Northern Vietnam tend to be higher compared to the South. Below are some updated tips and estimates for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy an exciting trip in Vietnam.

Accommodation

Vietnam offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury. Budget hotel rates typically range between USD 30-50 per night, while upscale hotels usually start at around USD 80 per night. For more economical choices like motels and guesthouses, travelers can expect to pay approximately USD 20-40 per night.
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Transportation

There are numerous options for traveling around Vietnam. For taxis, expect to pay an average of VND 10,000-15,000 per km (approximately USD 0.42 – 0.63). Motorbike taxis (Xe Om) are a popular option with fares around VND 8,000-12,000 (USD 0.34-0.51), particularly if you know how to negotiate. For inter-city travel, options include buses, trains, and domestic flights, with prices varying widely. Domestic airfares typically range from USD 70-160, depending on the airline and distance. Train fares can range from USD 7 to 80, while buses are generally priced from USD 5 to 60.
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Food

The cost of dining in local Vietnamese restaurants remains quite affordable. Traditional dishes typically range from USD 2-6 each, though prices may increase for specialty dishes unique to certain areas. On average, expect to spend around USD 10-18 per person for lunch and dinner, while breakfast is about USD 4-6 per person.

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Other Expenses

Additional expenses may include entrance fees to local attractions and souvenir shopping. While it's challenging to provide an exact budget for this category, entrance fees typically remain under USD 6 per person, with souvenir prices averaging between USD 3-15, depending largely on your bargaining skills.

In summary, it is possible to navigate Vietnam on a budget of around $30-40 per day for basic food and accommodation. A suggested budget for a 10-day trip to Vietnam, not including the return airfare, would be approximately $700 or more.