Vietnam tour in 15 days: Complete trip budget estimate

Vietnam tour in 15 days is the perfect opportunity to discover the country’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. A journey through Vietnam promises a unique and unforgettable experience unlike any other. However, before setting off, it’s important to plan an appropriate budget to make the most of your adventure. 

In this article, we’ll guide you through the various costs to consider for a complete trip, along with useful tips to help you optimize your budget without compromising the quality of your experience.

Main expenses for a Vietnam tour in 15 days 

Planning your Vietnam 15 days itinerary also means budgeting for your stay. From international flights to accommodations, transportation, meals and sightseeing, understanding the main expenses will help you organize your trip with ease. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs to expect for a well-rounded 15-day journey through Vietnam.

International flight 

The cost of round-trip flights for Vietnam in 15 days depends on your country of departure and the time of year. On average, fares range from $1,200 to $1,400 from Europe, with seasonal fluctuations. To save on airfare, it is recommended to book several months in advance and compare prices on specialist platforms. In addition, choosing flights with layovers or opting for Asian airlines can sometimes offer better fares.

Accommodation 

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget. You can choose from hotels, beachfront resorts or homestays. For a Vietnam tour in 15 days, here are some estimated nightly rates:

• Budget: Budget hotels cost around $20 per night, ideal for travelers on a tight budget.

• Mid-range: 3-star hotels and boutique resorts generally range from $35 to $60 per night, offering more comfort and services.

• Luxury: High-end hotels and resorts can cost up to $120 per night, with premium amenities.

• For a more authentic experience, many Vietnamese families offer homestay accommodations for around $20 to $50 per night, allowing you to experience daily life with locals.

Local transportation 

Getting around Vietnam on a Vietnam tour in 15 days is relatively affordable thanks to a variety of transport options. Trains are very convenient for long-distance travel, with tickets ranging from $20 to $60. For local travel, motorbike taxis and regular taxis are popular options, costing around $2 to $5 per ride. Domestic flights for long-distance travel can range from $110 to $195.

Read more: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around

Food and drink 

Vietnam is a perfect destination for food lovers, with cuisine known for its unique flavors. For a Vietnam tour in 15 days, your food budget will depend on your choices:

• Street food: Very popular and affordable, street food typically costs $1 to $3 for local dishes like pho or banh mi. This is the most budget-friendly option to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine while keeping your costs down.

• Restaurants: If you prefer to dine in restaurants, an average meal costs between $8 and $15 depending on location and cuisine. Higher-end establishments in major cities can cost $20 to $35 per person. Be sure to try local specialties like com tam, spring rolls, or fresh tropical fruit for a full culinary experience.

Activities and sightseeing 

A Vietnam tour in 15 days includes many must-see sights and activities. The costs vary depending on the location:

A Halong Bay cruise, one of the country’s most famous tours, costs around $170 to $200 per person for a 2-day, 1-night trip and around $320 to $370 per person for a 3-day, 2-night cruise.

Exploring Hoi An or Hue, with their historical and cultural sites, is often free or may require a small entrance fee of $2 to $5 per site.

You can reduce these costs by booking tour packages or choosing less touristy activities.

Considering all these expenses, a 15 day Vietnam itinerary can suit a wide range of budgets, from budget-friendly to more luxurious experiences.

Best time to visit Vietnam and adjust your budget 

Choosing the right time to travel is key to balancing weather conditions and expenses for your Vietnam tour in 15 days. Each season offers different travel experiences and impacts your budget in various ways. Let’s explore how Vietnam’s high and low seasons can influence the cost of your trip.

High season and low season in Vietnam

Vietnam has two main seasons: high season and low season. The high season generally runs from September to April, when the weather is drier and more pleasant, with ideal temperatures for exploring the country, especially in the north and along the coast.

In contrast, the low season from May to August coincides with the rainy season, especially in the southern and central regions, where showers can be frequent. However, even in the low season, Vietnam remains a popular destination and some areas, like the north, are less affected by monsoons.

Impact of the seasons on prices (flights, accommodation, activities)

The high season directly impacts the budget for a Vietnam tour in 15 days. During this period, international airfare tends to rise significantly. Similarly, accommodation costs—especially in popular destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Halong Bay—can increase by 20% to 30%, with mid-range hotel prices rising to $70 to $90 per night. Activities and tours, such as Halong Bay cruises or guided tours, are also more expensive due to high demand.

On the other hand, during the low season, even though the weather may be less favorable, you can benefit from much better prices. Flights are cheaper and accommodations are more affordable, with prices from $45 to $70 per night. Tours and activities are also cheaper and you can sometimes find special promotions or discounts. However, note that some areas may be harder to access due to weather, particularly in central and southern regions.

Highlights of a Vietnam tour in 15 days and our budget estimates

A Vietnam tour in 15 days offers a comprehensive and immersive experience of the country, with various itineraries allowing you to explore both Vietnam’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-do tours from Hanoi Voyages, along with budget estimates to help you plan your trip:

Vietnam tour in 15 days starting with Sapa

This Vietnam tour in 15 days takes you to the northern mountains, with an in-depth visit to Sapa, famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. The budget for this tour depends on your accommodation and transportation choices. On average, for a budget-friendly trip, expect around $2,600 per person, including overnight train travel to Sapa, 3-star hotels or homestays and guided tours. For more comfortable accommodations, the budget can rise to $2,700.

Learn more: Vietnam tour 15 days with Sapa

Vietnam tour in 15 days including Pu Luong Nature Reserve

This Vietnam tour in 15 days including Pu Luong Nature Reserve is perfect for nature lovers and hikers. It allows you to explore a protected area of Vietnam with green mountains, rice paddies and diverse wildlife. You’ll visit remote villages and enjoy authentic cultural experiences. The budget for this tour is around $2,400 per person for a budget trip, including homestay accommodation. For more comfort, the budget can reach $2,500 or more.

Learn more: Vietnam tour 15 days with Pu Luong 

Gentle Adventure for Families in Vietnam

This 15-day Vietnam family tour blends soft adventure, culture and beach relaxation—perfect for families with children. It includes a Halong Bay cruise, scenic hikes in Sapa, cultural visits in Hue and Hoi An and beach time. Families can enjoy engaging activities while discovering Vietnam’s rich history and landscapes. The budget is around $2,500 per person, covering quality accommodation, guided tours and domestic transport.

Learn more: Gentle Adventure for Families in Vietnam

Vietnam tour 15 days beach extension

This 15 day Vietnam itinerary with beach extension takes you on a complete journey through Vietnam’s highlights, from the rich history of Hanoi and Hue, the scenic beauty of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, to the charm of Hoi An and the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City. The tour finishes with a beach escape on Phu Quoc Island, offering a relaxing end to an adventure-packed trip. If traveling in a group, the estimated cost per person is around $2,600, depending on the choice of accommodation and tours.

Learn more: Vietnam tour 15 days beach extension

Money-saving tips for traveling in Vietnam

Looking to make your Vietnam tour in 15 days more affordable? With a few smart tips, you can easily reduce travel costs without sacrificing experiences. Here are some practical ways to save money during your Vietnam journey—from transportation to meals and sightseeing.

Use public transport and avoid private taxis 

For a Vietnam tour in 15 days on a budget, one of the best ways to cut costs is to use local public transport. Vietnam has a well-developed bus network that makes it easy to travel between major cities and rural areas. Private taxis or services like Grab (the local version of Uber) are often more expensive and can quickly increase your expenses. Opting for public transport helps save money.

Eat at local markets and popular eateries 

Vietnamese food is delicious and affordable, but there are ways to cut costs even more. Instead of dining at touristy or high-end restaurants, try local markets and small eateries for better value. A traditional street meal, like a bowl of pho or a banh mi, costs just $2 to $3. Even in touristy cities, smaller local venues offer great meals for under $6. For a budget-friendly Vietnam tour in 15 days, this can make a big difference to your overall travel budget.

Book activities and tours in advance for discounts

Another tip for saving money on a Vietnam tour in 15 days is to book your activities and tours in advance. By reserving popular tours—such as Halong Bay cruises or Mekong Delta tours—online, you can often get a 10% to 20% discount compared to booking in person. Planning ahead also helps avoid extra fees and ensures you get the best deals on guided tours and excursions. Additionally, sharing tours with other travelers, such as opting for group boat tours, can make your trip more affordable while still offering rewarding experiences.

A Vietnam tour in 15 days is an unforgettable experience full of discovery and adventure. With a little planning, you can fully enjoy this trip without overspending. By using public transport, choosing local street food and booking activities in advance, you can maximize your experience while keeping costs under control. Vietnam offers options for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for a budget adventure or a luxury getaway. 

If you’re planning your trip, Hanoi Voyages can provide personalized advice and tailor-made services. Get ready for your journey with these tips and enjoy this unique adventure to the fullest!