How much does a vacation in Vietnam cost? Which resort is a better choice: Nha Trang or Phu Quoc? What currency should you bring, and how much money will you need for your trip? Here's everything you need to know.
For many years, Vietnam has remained one of Asia's most popular travel destinations. It offers the perfect combination of beach holidays, sightseeing, and authentic local cuisine, all while staying within a reasonable budget.
However, the total cost of your trip depends on more than just its duration. Your expenses will also be influenced by the resort you choose, your travel style, your spending on food and transportation, and whether your flights and accommodation have already been paid for.
In this article, we'll look at how much money you should budget for a one-week or 10-day trip to Vietnam, which currency is best to bring, where you can pay by card, and where you'll need cash. We'll also compare Nha Trang and Phu Quoc to help you decide which destination is more affordable and which one best suits your travel preferences.
At the end, you'll find a practical checklist to help you make sure you don't forget anything before your trip.
What Budget Should You Plan For?
The estimates below are based on two travelers, assuming that flights and accommodation have already been paid for. The budget does not include diving, major shopping, or other expensive activities.
If you're planning a 7-day trip, budget around $350–500 for two people.
For a 10-day trip, the amount will depend on the resort. In Nha Trang, a comfortable budget is $500–650 for two people. This is generally enough for meals at cafes and restaurants, taxi rides, and one or two excursions. On Phu Quoc, it's better to budget $550–750. Because the beaches, hotels, and attractions are spread farther apart, transportation costs are typically higher.
To estimate the budget that best suits your travel style, you can use one of the following four scenarios:
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Budget-friendly – meals at local eateries, walking or renting a scooter, minimal transportation costs, and one inexpensive excursion.
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Moderate – dining at cafes and restaurants, taking taxis without constantly worrying about the cost, and one or two excursions.
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Comfortable – restaurants, seafood, regular taxi rides, massages, spa treatments, and several leisure activities.
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Premium – resort restaurants, luxury spa treatments, private excursions, extensive shopping, and unlimited taxi use.
If your flights and accommodation have already been paid for, the following estimates provide a good guideline for a 10-day trip for two people:
| Travel Style | Budget |
| Budget-friendly | $350–500 |
| Moderate | $500–750 |
| Comfortable | $750–1000 |
| Premium | over $1,000 |
If you're traveling solo, plan on spending approximately 55–60% of the budget recommended for two people. This is because you'll be covering the full cost of taxis, airport transfers, or vehicle rentals on your own rather than sharing these expenses.
For example, for a 10-day trip, a Moderate travel style typically requires a budget of around $300–450, while a Comfortable trip will cost approximately $410–600.
In Nha Trang, the lower end of these ranges is usually sufficient. In Phu Quoc, however, it's better to budget toward the higher end due to higher transportation costs.
It's also advisable to keep an emergency fund of around $50–100 for your first day after arrival, plus an additional $50–100 for unexpected expenses.
What Currency Should You Bring and How Much Do Things Cost?
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Because banknotes have many zeros, it's easy to make mistakes when paying, especially during your first few days. Always double-check the amount before completing a transaction.
If you're traveling from Uzbekistan, the most convenient option is to bring U.S. dollars in cash. Your banknotes should be clean and in good condition, without stains, writing, tears, or heavy creases, as damaged bills may be refused or exchanged at a less favorable rate.
Paying directly in U.S. dollars is generally not cost-effective. It's best to exchange a small amount at the airport for your airport transfer and immediate expenses, then exchange the rest in the city after comparing exchange rates.
Exchange currency only at banks or licensed exchange offices. It's usually better to exchange dollars into dong in smaller amounts as needed, checking the exchange rate, any commission, and the amount you'll receive each time.
The prices below are approximate as of July 2026 and may vary depending on the season, resort, and neighborhood.
Food and Drink Prices
| Item | Approximate Price |
| Bánh mì (traditional Vietnamese sandwich) | 20,000–40,000 VND |
| Pho (traditional Vietnamese noodle soup) | 30,000–100,000 VND |
| Rice or noodles with meat | 40,000–80,000 VND |
| Meal at a local café | 50,000–100,000 VND |
| Meal at a restaurant | 100,000–250,000 VND |
| Seafood dish | 100,000–300,000 VND |
| Drinks from a convenience store | 12,000–20,000 VND |
| Drinks at a café or restaurant | 20,000–50,000 VND |
In Nha Trang, lunch at a local café typically costs around 50,000–100,000 VND per person. On Phu Quoc, a meal at a café usually costs 30,000–150,000 VND, while dining at a restaurant ranges from 150,000–500,000 VND per person.
If you plan to try seafood, be sure to ask in advance whether the price is per kilogram and whether there is a separate cooking fee, as preparation is often charged separately.
Transportation and Travel Costs
Both Nha Trang and Phu Quoc are well served by the Grab app, which allows you to book a car or motorcycle taxi. The fare is displayed before you confirm your booking, although prices may increase during periods of high demand. Vehicle availability can also vary depending on the location and time of day.
A short ride typically costs 50,000–100,000 VND. For regular taxis, fares generally start with a base charge, followed by a rate of approximately 10,000–19,000 VND per kilometer.
Motorbike and Scooter Rental
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Nha Trang: 150,000–200,000 VND per day
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Phu Quoc: 120,000–200,000 VND per day
Gasoline costs approximately 19,000–21,000 VND per liter, although prices may vary.
From Cam Ranh International Airport to Nha Trang, you can take Bus No. 18 for around 75,000 VND per person. A VIP minibus may also operate on the same route, with fares starting at approximately 100,000 VND per person. It's recommended to check the latest schedules and fares before your trip.
A taxi or private transfer from the airport to Nha Trang typically costs around 350,000–500,000 VND per vehicle.
If you plan to rent a motorbike, make sure you have the required documents before your trip. To legally ride a motorcycle in Vietnam, citizens of Uzbekistan must carry a valid national driver's license with the appropriate motorcycle category (Category A or the equivalent for the vehicle being rented), as well as an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. You should carry both documents at all times while riding.
As entry and driving regulations may change, it's advisable to check the latest requirements before your departure.
How Much Do Tours and Activities Cost?
In Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, the most popular activities include boat trips, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, visits to nearby islands, national parks, scenic viewpoints, Buddhist temples, and natural attractions. Other popular experiences include cable car rides, water parks, safari parks, theme parks, mud baths, hot mineral springs, evening shows, and strolls through local night markets.
The cost of tours and activities depends on several factors, including the itinerary, duration, group size, whether transportation and meals are included, and the cost of admission tickets.
Nha Trang
| Activity | Approximate Cost |
| Group snorkeling tour | 550,000–1,300,000 VND |
| Island-hopping tour | 800,000–1,500,000 VND |
| Waterfall tour | From 1,000,000 VND |
| Private tour to Da Lat | Approximately 1,080,000–1,890,000 VND per person |
| Evening cruise | From 2,300,000 VND |
| VinWonders Nha Trang | 1,050,000 VND |
Phu Quoc
| Activity | Approximate Cost |
| VinWonders Phu Quoc | 950,000 VND |
| VinWonders + Vinpearl Safari | 1,500,000 VND |
| Vinpearl Safari (admission only) | 850,000 VND |
| Hon Thom Cable Car and Parks | 850 000 VND |
| Scuba diving (two dives) | 2,300,000–2,600,000 VND |
| Private car with driver | From approximately 1,300,000 VND per group |
| Private speedboat island tour | From approximately 2,800,000 VND per group |
Before booking, make sure to check whether the listed price is per person or for the entire group, and whether it includes transportation, meals, equipment rental, and admission fees.
How Much Does Accommodation Cost?
Vietnam offers accommodation for virtually every budget, from affordable guesthouses and apartments to modern hotels and luxury beach resorts. Prices vary depending on the season, property category, location, and amenities.
If you're planning to travel during peak season or public holidays, it's best to book your accommodation well in advance.
| Category | Nha Trang | Phu Quoc |
| Budget hotel | $20–40 | $25–60 |
| 3–4★ hotel | $35–80 | $50–100 |
| 5★ hotel or resort | $70–150 and up | $110–220 and up |
On Phu Quoc, accommodation—especially beachfront properties—is generally more expensive. The highest demand is from December to March. From May to October, hotel rates are often lower, although the weather tends to be less predictable during this period.
Before booking, pay attention to the location, distance from the beach, guest reviews, meal options, any additional fees or security deposits, and the cancellation policy.
Mobile Connectivity and Other Everyday Expenses
A tourist SIM card or eSIM typically costs between 60,000 and 250,000 VND, depending on the validity period and the data package included. Prices at airport kiosks operated by resellers are often significantly higher, so it's recommended to purchase your SIM card from an official mobile operator and register it using your passport.
It's also a good idea to budget for additional everyday expenses, such as drinking water, laundry services, medications, beach essentials, checked baggage fees, hotel security deposits, or late check-out charges.
How to Choose the Right Resort
Nha Trang is an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy a more active vacation. This vibrant coastal city offers a well-developed infrastructure, a wide selection of cafés and restaurants, numerous sightseeing tours, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Phu Quoc is better suited for those looking for a relaxing beach getaway. The island is known for its long sandy beaches, beachfront hotels and luxury resorts, as well as modern theme parks and a variety of family-friendly attractions.
Nha Trang: Best for Active Holidays and Sightseeing
Nha Trang is an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine a beach vacation with city walks, sightseeing, and a varied excursion program. Thanks to its compact city center, many attractions, cafés, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, so transportation costs are generally low.
The best time for a beach holiday is from January to August, when the weather is typically hot and sunny. The rainy season usually lasts from September to December.
The city's main beach, Tran Phu Beach, is popular because of its convenient location. However, the water may become less clear after heavy rainfall. For calmer seas and wider sandy beaches, many visitors head to Bai Dai or Doc Let Beach. Those interested in boat trips and snorkeling should consider visiting Hon Mun and Hon Tam islands.
Among Nha Trang's most popular attractions are the Po Nagar Cham Towers, the Long Son Pagoda, and the city's famous mud baths and hot mineral springs. Nha Trang is also a convenient base for day trips to Da Lat, VinWonders Nha Trang, and the nearby islands.
Nha Trang is best suited for travelers who appreciate well-developed tourist infrastructure, a wide range of excursions, active recreation, and good value for money. Keep in mind that central areas can be busy and crowded during the peak tourist season.
Phu Quoc: Best for a Relaxing Beach Holiday
Phu Quoc is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a peaceful beach vacation, resort-style accommodation, and a slower pace of travel.
The dry season generally lasts from November to April, with the most pleasant weather typically occurring between December and March. The rainy season runs from May to October, with the most unpredictable weather usually between July and September.
Long Beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets, Bai Sao is known for its white sand and gentle entry into the sea, while Bai Dai is home to many of the island's largest beachfront resorts. Sea conditions can vary depending on the season and the part of the island you visit.
Phu Quoc is home to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Safari, and the Hon Thom entertainment complex, which features the world's longest three-wire oversea cable car. Other popular attractions include the Phu Quoc Night Market and the islands of the An Thoi Archipelago.
Phu Quoc is best suited for travelers who appreciate spacious beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, resort vacations, and family-friendly attractions. However, keep in mind that the distances between beaches and attractions are relatively long, so it's wise to include taxi fares or vehicle rental costs in your budget.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | Nha Trang | Phu Quoc |
| Travel style | City, beaches, sightseeing | Beaches, resorts, theme parks |
| Budget | Generally more affordable | Typically higher due to transportation and accommodation costs |
| Getting around | Compact center, easy to explore on foot | Transportation is usually needed to travel between areas |
| Top attractions | Cultural landmarks, islands, Da Lat | VinWonders, Vinpearl Safari, Hon Thom |
| Best time to visit | January–August | December–March |
Cards, Cash, and Useful Payment Tips
In Vietnam, it's best to carry both a bank card and cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, supermarkets, major restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, you'll usually need Vietnamese dong (VND) when shopping at local markets, dining at small cafés, or visiting more remote areas.
Before your trip, make sure your bank card is enabled for international transactions. It's also worth checking foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal limits, and your bank's currency conversion policy. For added security, it's recommended to bring two cards from different banks and keep them in separate places.
When paying by card or withdrawing cash from an ATM, always choose to pay in Vietnamese dong (VND). Otherwise, the payment terminal or ATM may apply its own exchange rate, which is usually less favorable.
The maximum amount you can withdraw in a single ATM transaction is typically between 2 million and 5 million VND, although some ATMs allow withdrawals of up to 10 million VND. Keep in mind that you may be charged two separate fees: one by the ATM operator's bank and another by your own card issuer.
It's a good idea to keep your main cash reserve and emergency funds separate, carrying only the amount you expect to spend during the day. When paying with cash, double-check the number of zeros and be careful not to confuse the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND banknotes—they have similar colors, but the 500,000 VND note is worth 25 times more.
What Travelers from Uzbekistan Should Know Before Visiting Vietnam
For travel to Nha Trang and other destinations on mainland Vietnam, citizens of Uzbekistan are required to obtain a visa. The easiest option is to apply for an electronic visa (e-visa), which is valid for up to 90 days. The fee is US$25 for a single-entry visa and US$50 for a multiple-entry visa. The official processing time is three working days, but it's advisable to submit your application well in advance.
If you're traveling to Phu Quoc, you can stay visa-free for up to 30 days, provided you arrive directly from abroad and remain only on the island during your visit. The visa exemption also applies if you transit through an international airport or seaport in Vietnam before continuing to Phu Quoc. If you plan to travel to Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, or any other part of Vietnam, you will need a visa or e-visa.
Vietnam also uses an electronic Pre-Arrival Information system. From June 1, 2026, all international passengers arriving in Phu Quoc must complete the declaration, and from June 22, 2026, the requirement also applies to arrivals at Cam Ranh International Airport. The form must be completed on the official government portal within 72 hours before arrival, and travelers should save the QR code generated after submission. The declaration is free of charge and does not replace a visa. As entry requirements may change, it's recommended to check the latest information with your airline before departure.
There are direct flights from Tashkent to both Cam Ranh and Phu Quoc, although flight frequency and seasonal schedules may vary. Be sure to check the timetable before booking your trip.
Although travel insurance is not required to obtain a Vietnamese visa, it is strongly recommended. Choose a policy that covers medical treatment, prescription medications, food poisoning, and adventure or outdoor activities. This can help you avoid significant unexpected expenses in case of illness or injury.
When leaving Uzbekistan, travelers may carry cash equivalent to up to UZS 100 million, subject to the country's customs regulations. Upon arrival in Vietnam, you must declare cash exceeding US$5,000 (or the equivalent in another foreign currency), as well as more than VND 15 million.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Before you fly, make sure you have the following ready:
- A passport with sufficient validity
- An e-visa, if your trip includes Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City, or any other destination on mainland Vietnam
- Your Pre-Arrival Information confirmation and QR code, if the declaration is required for your arrival airport
- Flight tickets and details of your baggage allowance, airport transfer, and hotel reservation
- Travel insurance
- Bank cards enabled for international transactions, along with information about withdrawal limits and applicable fees
- Undamaged U.S. dollar banknotes in cash, plus an emergency reserve of US$50–100
- Your hotel address, offline maps, a tourist SIM card or eSIM, and the weather forecast
While in Vietnam, pay in Vietnamese dong (VND) whenever possible. If you're paying by card, always choose VND as the transaction currency. Exchange your cash in small amounts as needed, and keep your emergency cash separate from the money you carry for daily expenses. Have a wonderful trip and enjoy your time in Vietnam.