Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Exploring the Hustle and Bustle of Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa (26 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward): Start your day with a classic Vietnamese sandwich at this iconic spot.
  • Ben Thanh Market (Le Loi St, Ben Thanh Ward): Experience the vibrant local life and pick up some souvenirs or local goods.

Afternoon:

  • War Remnants Museum (28 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3): Learn about Vietnam’s modern history, particularly the Vietnam War.
  • Reunification Palace (135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia St, Ben Thanh Ward): Visit this iconic building that served as the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
  • Lunch at Pho 2000 (70-72 Lam Son Square, District 1): Try the famous Vietnamese dish, pho, at one of the city’s oldest restaurants.

Evening:

  • Cu Chi Tunnels (Phú Hối Commune, Củ Chi District): Take a day trip to explore the underground network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
  • Dinner at Propaganda (65B Nguyen Thai Hoc St, District 1): Enjoy a modern Vietnamese meal in a unique setting with political propaganda-themed decor.
  • Bui Vien Street (District 1): End your day with a drink or two at one of the city’s popular backpacker bars.

Day 2 - Discovering Culture and Tranquility

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Cafe Apartment (27 Le Thanh Ton St, District 1): Start your day with a coffee and a pastry in a charming French colonial style café.
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda (73 Mai Thi Luu, District 1): Visit this ornate Taoist temple dedicated to the supreme deity of Chinese folk religion, the Jade Emperor.
  • Central Post Office (2 Cong Xa Paris St, District 1): Admire the beautiful French colonial architecture and pick up some postcards.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral (1 Cong Xa Paris St, District 1): Take a quick look at this iconic cathedral in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at An Bong (25C Le Thanh Ton St, District 1): Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy and welcoming setting.
  • Museum of Fine Arts (97 Pho Duc Chinh St, District 1): Explore Vietnam’s rich artistic history at this museum.
  • Bitexco Financial Tower (2 Hai Trieu St, District 1): Visit the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Quan An Ngon (138 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia St, District 1): Sample a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes in one place.
  • Saigon River Cruise (Ton Duc Thang, District 1): Take a relaxing cruise along the Saigon River and enjoy the city’s skyline at night.

Things to Know:

  • Traffic in Ho Chi Minh City is chaotic, so use Grab or other ride-hailing apps for safe and convenient transportation.
  • Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. Major credit cards are accepted at many establishments, but it’s always good to have cash on hand.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but it may be limited in more rural or residential areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.

Where to Stay:

  • Park Hyatt Saigon (2 Lam Son Square, District 1): Luxury accommodation with a rooftop bar offering stunning city views.
  • The Reverie Saigon (22-36 Nguyen Hue Boulevard, District 1): Another luxury option with multiple dining options and a spa.
  • Saigon Outcast (8 Nguyen U Di, Phu Nhuan District): A more budget-friendly hostel with a social atmosphere.