VIETNAM

Vietnam Food Cost per Day: The Best Complete Travel Guide Updated 2024

May 13, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering How much Vietnam food cost per day?, this travel guide will provide you with valuable insights. From estimating the overall food costs from North to South Vietnam to highlighting must-try dishes in various cities, we’ve got you covered. Let’s delve into the world of Vietnamese cuisine and discover the costs associated with savoring its delectable flavors.

Vietnam Food Cost Overall from North to South

Vietnam food cost per day

Vietnam is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine that varies from region to region. When it comes to estimating the cost of food in Vietnam, it’s important to consider the region you’ll be visiting. Generally, big cities and popular tourist areas tend to have slightly higher food prices compared to smaller towns and the countryside.

In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, you can find a wide range of dining options catering to different budgets. While upscale restaurants and international cuisine may be more expensive, there are plenty of local eateries and street food stalls offering delicious and affordable meals. On average, you can expect to spend around 200,000 to 400,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) for Vietnam Food Cost per Day in these cities.

In contrast, smaller cities and rural areas often offer more reasonable food prices. Places like Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Hue, and the Mekong Delta have a vibrant food scene with local markets, street food vendors, and small family-run restaurants. Here, you can savor authentic Vietnamese dishes at lower prices, making it a great opportunity to explore local cuisine without straining your budget.

What to Savor in Vietnam in a Day?

Vietnam is a culinary paradise, offering a plethora of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some must-try dishes in popular cities across Vietnam:

Hanoi

  • Pho: A famous Vietnamese noodle soup with flavorful broth, rice noodles, and your choice of meat or tofu. Estimated cost: 30,000 – 50,000 VND.
  • Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce. Estimated cost: 40,000 – 70,000 VND.
  • Cha Ca: Grilled fish marinated in turmeric, served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and peanuts. Estimated cost: 80,000 – 120,000 VND.

Vietnam food cost per day bun cha hanoi

Halong

  • Fresh Seafood: Indulge in a seafood feast, including prawns, squid, fish, and shellfish, prepared in various styles such as steamed, grilled, or stir-fried. Prices vary depending on the type and size of seafood chosen.

Ninh Binh

  • Com Chay: Crispy rice crust served with stir-fried vegetables, tofu, and your choice of meat. Estimated cost: 40,000 – 60,000 VND.
  • Goat Meat: Ninh Binh is known for its delicious goat meat dishes, often enjoyed with rice or noodles. Estimated cost: 80,000 – 120,000 VND.

Hoi An

  • Cao Lau: A regional specialty of Hoi An, featuring thick noodles, pork, herbs, and a flavorful broth. Estimated cost: 25,000 – 40,000 VND.
  • Banh Mi: Vietnamese baguette filled with various ingredients such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Estimated cost: 15,000 – 30,000 VND.

Vietnam food cost per day Cao Lau Hoian

Hue

  • Bun Bo Hue: Spicy beef noodle soup with a rich and aromatic broth, served with beef, pork, and fresh herbs. Estimated cost: 30,000 – 50,000 VND.
  • Banh Khoai: Hue-style savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and served with a peanut dipping sauce. Estimated cost: 20,000 – 40,000 VND.

Bun Bo Hue

Da Nang

  • Mi Quang: A popular dish in Da Nang, consisting of turmeric-flavored noodles, shrimp, pork, herbs, and peanuts. Estimated cost: 25,000 – 40,000 VND.
  • Banh Xeo: Vietnamese savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. Estimated cost: 20,000 – 40,000 VND.

Ho Chi Minh City

  • Banh Mi: Experience the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, filled with a variety of ingredients like grilled pork, cold cuts, pate, and fresh vegetables. Estimated cost: 15,000 – 30,000 VND.
  • Com Tam: Fragrant broken rice served with grilled pork, egg, pickled vegetables, and fish sauce. Estimated cost: 30,000 – 50,000 VND.

Vietnam food cost per day Com Tam

Mekong Delta

  • Fresh Fruit: Explore the vibrant fruit markets and savor a wide array of tropical fruits such as mangoes, dragon fruit, durian, and pomelo. Prices vary depending on the fruit and quantity chosen.
  • Hu Tieu: A flavorful soup with rice noodles, pork, and seafood, commonly enjoyed in the Mekong Delta region. Estimated cost: 20,000 – 40,000 VND.

Please note that these estimated costs per dish are based on average prices and may vary depending on the specific location, restaurant, or street food vendor you visit when paying for Vietnam Food Cost per Day.

How much does Vietnam food cost per day?

On average, you can expect to spend around 200,000 to 400,000 VND per day on food in Vietnam. However, keep in mind that this estimate can vary depending on your dining preferences and choices. Here’s a breakdown of approximate prices for different types of meals:

  • Street Food: Street food dishes typically range from 20,000 to 50,000 VND per dish, making them incredibly affordable and perfect for budget travelers.
  • Local Eateries: In local eateries, a meal can cost anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 VND, including a main dish and a drink.
  • Mid-range Restaurants: If you opt for mid-range restaurants, expect to spend around 200,000 to 400,000 VND per meal, depending on the restaurant and the city you’re in.
  • Fine Dining: Fine dining experiences can range from 500,000 VND to several million VND per person, offering exquisite Vietnamese cuisine in elegant settings.

>> Explore more: Vietnam Travel Guide – What To Know Before Your Journey

FAQs

How much spending money do you need per day in Vietnam?

Aside from food expenses, there are other factors to consider when estimating your daily spending money in Vietnam, such as accommodation, transportation, and activities. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around 800,000 to 1,500,000 VND per day, including food, accommodation, transportation, and some sightseeing activities. However, this amount can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

How much is a meal in Vietnam in USD?

As currency exchange rates fluctuate, it’s best to check the current rates before your trip. However, as a rough estimate, a meal in Vietnam can cost anywhere from $1 to $10, depending on the type of establishment and the dish you choose.

What can you buy with 20,000 dong in Vietnam?

With 20,000 dong, you can purchase small street snacks, a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee, or a bottle of water. Keep in mind that prices may vary slightly depending on the location.

How much money do I need in Vietnam for 2 weeks?

The amount of money you’ll need for a two-week trip to Vietnam depends on your travel style and preferences. As a general guideline, budget travelers can anticipate spending around 12,000,000 to 20,000,000 VND for two weeks, including accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing activities. This estimate is based on mid-range budget options and can be adjusted according to your specific travel plans.

In conclusion, Vietnam offers a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options that cater to all budgets. From street food stalls to local eateries and upscale restaurants, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. With proper planning and budgeting, you can savor the culinary delights of Vietnam without breaking the bank.

Asia Encounter offers you the flexibility to customize your tour and embark on a truly immersive journey through Asia. Our team of experienced travel consultants is dedicated to providing you with valuable advice and recommendations to ensure your trip is tailored to your preferences and interests.

One of the highlights of an Asia Encounter tour is the opportunity to savor Vietnam’s street food like a local. Our knowledgeable travel consultants are well-versed in the vibrant street food culture of Vietnam and can guide you to the best local spots to sample authentic flavors and culinary delights. From indulging in iconic dishes like pho and banh mi to exploring bustling street food markets, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich gastronomic traditions of Vietnam.

At Asia Encounter, we understand that every traveler is unique, with different tastes and dietary preferences. Our travel consultants will work closely with you to customize your itinerary, ensuring that your tour includes the street food experiences that align with your preferences. Whether you’re an adventurous eater seeking bold flavors or have specific dietary requirements, we will tailor your journey to cater to your needs, guaranteeing a memorable and satisfying culinary adventure.

See more our best-seller tour below:

So what are you waiting for? Let’s customize your tour with us!

MORE INSPIRATION:

VIETNAM 10 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam - Top Vietnam Tourist Places

Discover the best places to visit in Vietnam, from Hanoi and Halong Bay to Phu Quoc Island. Explore top Vietnam tourist places, things to do, and travel tips for your unforgettable adventure.


best area to stay in vietnam hoi an vietnam
VIETNAM Best Area to Stay in Vietnam - Top 7 Best Places in Vietnam

Discover the best areas to stay in Vietnam with our guide to top destinations, from bustling cities like Hanoi and Saigon to serene beaches and mountain retreats. Explore Vietnam's diverse charm!


are americans welcome in vietnam hanoi cycle tour
VIETNAM Are Americans Welcome in Vietnam? What to Expect as a U.S. Visitor

If you're an American planning a trip, you might be wondering if are Americans welcome in Vietnam and do Vietnamese people like American tourists. In a nutshell, yes.