Is Vietnam expensive to visit in 2026? A realistic look at costs and value

What makes Vietnam an affordable destination?

Comparing Vietnam to other Southeast Asian countries

Vietnam offers tremendous value when compared to neighboring destinations like Thailand, Cambodia, or Indonesia. Street food in Vietnam is famously delicious and budget-friendly, while accommodation options range from $5 hostels to $500 luxury suites.

• Cheaper than Thailand for food, transportation, and activities

• More affordable than Cambodia in major cities, especially for transport and tours

• On par with Laos for mid-range and backpacker travel, but with more diverse experiences

In short, Vietnam is still one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for travelers who want their money to go further—without compromising on comfort or experience.

Travel style matters: Cheap or expensive is up to you

Is Vietnam expensive? That depends entirely on how you choose to travel.

• Backpackers can get by on $25–$40/day, staying in hostels, eating street food, and using public buses.

• Mid-range travelers enjoy boutique hotels, guided tours, and occasional splurges at $60–$120/day.

• Luxury travelers can indulge in private cruises, 5-star resorts, and gourmet dining for $200–$500/day or more.

Vietnam is versatile. Whether you’re saving or splurging, the experience remains rich and immersive.

Cost breakdown by category

Accommodation: comfort at every price point

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses from $5–$15 per night

• Mid-range: Boutique hotels and 3-star options from $30–$70

• Luxury: Beachfront resorts and international brands from $150–$500+

You’ll find excellent service even at lower price points, especially in cities like Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hanoi.

Food and drink: delicious and affordable

Vietnamese cuisine is not only flavorful, but also incredibly affordable.

• Street food: Pho, banh mi, and bun cha for $1–$3 per meal

• Mid-range restaurants: Local and Western fusion meals for $5–$15

• Fine dining: Upscale venues in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for $30–$70 per person

Coffee lovers will also rejoice—Vietnamese iced coffee costs just $1–$2, and cocktails in rooftop bars start at around $5–$7.

Transportation: easy and inexpensive to get around

• Local transport: Grab motorbikes or taxis for $1–$3 per ride

• Buses and trains: Intercity buses from $6–$15, sleeper trains from $20–$40

• Flights: Domestic flights with VietJet or Bamboo Airways start at $25 if booked early

Renting a motorbike costs around $6–$10 per day, but driving in big cities is not for the faint-hearted.

Activities and tours: Worth every dong

• Budget-friendly: Museums, temples, and hiking trails under $5

• Mid-range: Cooking classes, cycling tours, and cave treks from $15–$40

• Luxury: Private Halong Bay cruises, spa days, or tailored excursions from $150+

You can enjoy unforgettable experiences at every price level. Many travelers report spending little and still doing a lot.

Sample daily budgets for different travelers

Backpacker ($25–$40/day)

• Hostel dorm: $7

• Street food: $5–$7

• Transport: $3–$5

• Activities: $5–$10

• Extras: $5 (coffee, drinks, SIM card)

Mid-range traveler ($60–$120/day)

• Boutique hotel: $40

• Restaurants: $15–$25

• Flights or taxis: $10–$20

• Tours: $20–$40

• Extras: $10 (gifts, spa, snacks)

Luxury traveler ($200–$500+/day)

• 5-star hotel or resort: $200–$400

• Fine dining: $50–$100

• Private transport: $20–$50

• Luxury tours: $100+

• Extras: $50–$100 (massage, wine, shopping)

Tips to save money while traveling in Vietnam

Travel outside of peak season

Prices rise during Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and peak travel months like December–February and July. Visit during shoulder seasons (March–May or September–November) for better deals and smaller crowds.

Use local services and apps

• Grab app for cheap rides

• Local travel agencies for better-priced tours

• Xe om (motorbike taxis) for short distances

Bargain smart—but respectfully

At markets or with local drivers, bargaining is expected. Always smile, keep it friendly, and know the fair market price.

Is Vietnam still worth the price in 2025?

A destination that delivers incredible value

Vietnam remains a destination where your money goes further—whether you’re here for street food and hostels or beach resorts and luxury tours. You’ll experience vibrant culture, natural beauty, and rich history at a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe or North America.

From trekking in Sapa to sailing in Halong Bay or savoring coffee in a Hanoi alley, every dollar spent brings immense return in memory and meaning.

Budget doesn’t mean boring

Even if you’re traveling on a tight budget, Vietnam delivers. Many free or low-cost activities—such as night markets, historical sites, or local festivals—offer authentic insights without costing much.

Final thoughts: travel smart, spend wisely, and enjoy more

So, is Vietnam expensive to visit in 2025? The short answer is: No—it’s as affordable as you want it to be.

Vietnam continues to be a destination where budget travelers thrive and luxury travelers indulge. With a little planning, you can experience stunning landscapes, vibrant street life, rich traditions, and world-class hospitality—without breaking the bank.

Ready to plan your Vietnam adventure?

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Vietnam offers something for everyone—on every budget. Explore our tailored travel packages, expert-guided tours, and personalized itineraries designed to give you the best value and experience.

Contact our team today to start planning your unforgettable trip to Vietnam!