Ho Chi Minh City 3 Day Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of the City

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Vietnamese breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, a famous baguette sandwich shop (26 Le Thi Rieng, District 1).
  • Visit the Ben Thanh Market for local goods, food, and to experience the bustling atmosphere.

Afternoon:

  • Head to the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam’s history during the Vietnam War (28 Vo Van Tan, District 3).
  • Take a walk around Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) and explore historic buildings like the Caravelle Hotel and the Hotel Majestic Saigon.

Evening:

  • Dine at An Nam Gourmet Vietnamese Restaurant for a traditional yet sophisticated meal (185 Hai Ba Trung, District 1).
  • Enjoy a drink at Charlie’s RoofTop, offering panoramic views of the city (7 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1).

Day 2: Discover Saigon’s Culture and History

Morning:

  • Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office, both designed by Gustave Eiffel (2 Cong Xa Paris, District 1).
  • Wander around the Jade Emperor Pagoda (73 Mai Thi Luu, District 1) to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s spiritual culture.

Afternoon:

  • Take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War (approx. 1.5 hours drive from the city). Book a tour with a reliable operator for transportation and guidance.

Evening:

  • Savor delicious street food at Food Court Ben Thanh Market or try Quán Ếp Cầu, a seafood restaurant near the market (68 Le Loi, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1).
  • End your day with some live music and cocktails at Rex Hotel Saigon’s Rooftop Bar (141 Nguyen Hue Blvd, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1).

Day 3: Unwind and Explore More

Morning:

  • Relax at Reunification Palace (135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1), once the residence of the President of South Vietnam.
  • Visit the Jardin des Mêmes Vents, a small French colonial garden hidden in the heart of the city (29 Le Thanh Ton, District 1).

Afternoon:

  • Head to Thien Hau Temple (710 Nguyen Trai, District 5) dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu.
  • Explore Pham Ngu Lao Backpacker Street for bars, cafes, and souvenir shops.

Evening:

  • Dine at Propaganda Cafe (60-62 Pham Ngũ Lão, District 1) for creative Vietnamese dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
  • End your trip with a stroll around the lively Bui Vien Walking Street (District 1) and enjoy the nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available and affordable. Use apps like Grab or GoViet for safe and convenient rides.
  • Motorbikes can be rented if you’re feeling adventurous, but remember to wear a helmet and drive carefully!
  • For day trips outside the city, consider booking organized tours or hiring a car with a driver.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.
  • Always negotiate prices before agreeing on any service.
  • Carry small Vietnamese bills as change might not always be readily available.
  • Enjoy your trip to Ho Chi Minh City!