Vietnam ranked among Most affordable destinations as 89% of expats praise cost of living
Latest
It highlighted Vietnam's particularly competitive pricing across food, housing, transport and leisure activities.
Fuel costs about 0.7 EUR (US$0.82) per liter, while an everyday meal can cost less than 1 EUR ($1.17), figures described as strikingly low compared to European price levels.
VND, which has a relatively low value against the euro, significantly boosts purchasing power for tourists and foreign workers. As many European families look for affordable destinations that still offer rich cultural experiences, Vietnam has emerged as a compelling option.
Besides, street food remains one of the country’s biggest draws. In the capital city of Ha Noi and other major urban centers, iconic dishes such as ‘pho’, ‘banh mi’, and ‘bun cha’ typically cost between 1 and 3 EUR - prices considered hard to find in many other well-known tourist destinations.
Accommodation options remain highly accessible. Dorm beds in budget hostels start at around 5 EUR per night, while mid-range hotels and traditional guesthouses generally range from 8 - 20 EUR.
Domestic transportation is also deemed budget-friendly, with monthly public transit passes averaging about 7 EUR, taxi fares under 0.50 EUR per km, and petrol at roughly 0.70 EUR per litre, well below those in much of Europe.
Beyond daily expenses, sightseeing activities are also reasonably priced. A two-day cruise in Ha Long Bay typically runs around 100 EUR, inclusive of an onboard cabin, meals, kayaking, and cave entry fees.
In Sa Pa, a two-day guided trek through terraced rice fields costs about 60 EUR, covering a guide, meals, and an overnight stay in a local homestay.
![]() |
