Inspiration Budget Travel
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Shelly Abramovich
Street food, markets, and nightlife in Hanoi
One of Hanoi’s biggest draws is its street food scene — a haven for foodies on a budget. From pho and banh mi to local specialties like bun cha (barbecued pork with rice vermicelli) and che (sweet soup), Hanoi offers an affordable way to taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine. These meals can range from $0.25 to $3 per portion. Don’t forget to try ca phe trung, Vietnamese egg coffee, for $1 to $2 a cup. Food tourism experiences and street food vendors provide a gastronomic adventure for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal.
Shopping in Hanoi is fun and affordable, especially at local markets — but prepare to bargain, as that’s part of the shopping culture. Start at half the asking price, and then arrive at a happy compromise. This haggling exercise is a play of language barriers and mental math gymnastics, but it’ll be worthwhile. The Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market, is a hub for everything from clothes and souvenirs to electronics and snacks.
Nightlife in Hanoi is as vibrant as its day life. The city has numerous bars and clubs, and the weekend night market and street performances in the Old Quarter are free to enjoy while also providing a lively atmosphere to experience the local culture. Locally brewed bia hoi, the cheapest beer in the world, starts at $0.30 a glass. Visit the Bia Hoi Junction to experience this cornerstone of Hanoian nightlife. To say cheers, yell out, “mot, hai, ba, dzo!”
Travel tips for your budget-friendly Hanoi adventure
Hanoi is a gateway to Northern Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites. Easy and affordable day trips can take you to places like the picturesque Ninh Binh province ($50 to $100) or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay ($39 to $80). Even further north is Sapa, a mountainous town of cascading rice terraces and home to ethnic tribes. Visit the Cat Cat Village, Love Waterfall, and hike up Fansipan Peak — costs range from $1.50 to $6 per experience.
Many affordable accommodations in Hanoi maintain a top-notch standard despite the low price. From cozy hostels to boutique hotels, the city offers a range of accommodations to suit various budget-conscious travelers. You can stay at a hostel dorm for $5 (Tabalo Hostel) to $15 per night (Central Backpackers Hostel). A private hotel room would average about $30 per night. Extended stays, shoulder, or off-season prices go even lower than that.
Getting around Hanoi is incredibly convenient and economical. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle ($1 rental/day). For longer distances, cyclos ($5/ride average), motorbike taxis (use ride-sharing app Grab), motorbike rentals ($4 to $8 per day), and regular taxis are widely available and inexpensive. The public bus system is also cost-effective for getting around ($0.30 per ticket). If you want to treat yourself on a budget and have a well-rounded travel experience without compromising quality — Hanoi in Vietnam is the place to go.
