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With so many attractions and activities to choose from, Ho Chi Minh City can be confusing for travelers when it comes to choosing what to experience on their trip. To make things easier, Asia Encounter offers a simulated Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary, combining history, culture, local life and unique experiences. Over three days, you will visit the city’s highlights and participate in activities that are characteristic of this place.
Day 1 of Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary: Exploring history and culture
Ho Chi Minh City is a popular tourist destination with diverse developments and historical sites that tell the story of Vietnam’s wartime past. Starting your trip to Ho Chi Minh City with a day exploring the city’s rich history and stunning architecture will help any visitor fall in love with the city.
Visit the Reunification Palace
Visit the Reunification Palace early in the morning. The site played a significant role in the Vietnam War and represents the country’s post-colonial past. The iconic structure marked the end of the Vietnam War of Independence in 1975. To learn more about the building’s historical significance, take a guided tour. Visit command rooms, bunkers and stunning halls to learn more about Vietnam’s heroic defense history.
Explore the War Remnants Museum
Next, visit the nearby War Remnants Museum. Photos, memorabilia and military equipment are on display at this museum, providing a clear view of the Vietnam War. Visitors can witness the resilience of the Vietnamese people in their fight for freedom and national reunification when they visit this museum.
Tour the Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office
In Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary, visit two of the city’s most famous examples of French colonial architecture: the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office. Built in the late 1800s, Notre Dame Cathedral boasts stunning stained glass windows and neo-Romanesque architecture. The Gustave Eiffel-designed Saigon Central Post Office, located right next door, boasts intricate details and a stunning vaulted ceiling. Pop in to send a postcard or just admire the exquisite interior that takes you back in time.
Stroll through the bustling Ben Thanh Market
Visit the bustling local business hub, Ben Thanh Market, to end your day. From fresh fruit and traditional local food Ho Chi Minh to souvenirs and handicrafts, Ho Chi Minh City has it all. Don’t hesitate to bargain with the vendors, as this is part of the culture and will help you have an enjoyable experience when buying products at a lower price than the original. Snack on some Vietnamese street food while you browse the bustling stalls to get the most out of your Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary.
Day 2 of Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary: Immersing in local life and nature
Enjoying the modern and natural features of the city as well as the local lifestyle is the main goal of the second day.
Spend half a day exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
A remarkable window into Vietnam’s military past is provided by the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 70km from the city centre. The Vietnamese army built a military base inside this vast underground system, along with educational facilities and hospitals. In addition to seeing hidden trapdoors and crawling through parts of the tunnels, visitors can explore the creative ways the Vietnamese army and people survived the wars against imperialism.
Cruise along the Saigon River to watch the sunset
Take a leisurely cruise along the Saigon River as you return to the city. These tours offer exceptional views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyscrapers and quieter riverside settlements. Choose a dinner cruise to enjoy a meal with beautiful scenery and live music, or a sunset cruise to see the city illuminated by a golden light. These are the top things to do on a Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary.
Experience Saigon’s nightlife at Bui Vien Street
Cap off your day at Bui Vien Street, the heart of Saigon’s nightlife scene. This bustling street is lined with lively bars, restaurants, and street vendors. Enjoy a beer at an outdoor bar, sample grilled rice paper, or just soak up the lively atmosphere while the crowd is entertained by street performers.
Day 3 of Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary: Day trips and unique experiences
On your final day, venture further afield and savor distinctive activities that make your trip unforgettable.
Take a Mekong Delta day trip
Just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta cruise offers a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Cruise along the rivers, visit floating markets like Cai Be or Cai Rang and see nearby towns for a taste of country life. Stops often include traditional workshops where you can see how coconut candy, rice paper, and other artisanal products are made.
Learn to make Vietnamese pancakes
Sign up for a Vietnamese cooking class is an amazing thing to do in the Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary. Local specialties such as banh xeo, a crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts, are the subject of many workshops. Before learning how to create and cook this dish, you will buy ingredients at a nearby market under the supervision of a skilled chef.
Dine at a riverside restaurant for your final meal
Round off your Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary with a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant. Popular spots like The Deck Saigon offer elegant dining while taking in sweeping views of the Saigon River. Savor delicacies like fresh spring rolls, grilled shrimp and wine while you reflect on your Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary.
Tips for your Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary
Pack for the weather
Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical climate means warm, humid days and occasional rain. Bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a portable umbrella or raincoat.
Get around easily
For cheap travel, use ride-hailing apps like Grab. While intrepid travellers can rent motorbikes to navigate the busy streets, public buses are available to major attractions.
Stay energized
Stay hydrated and take breaks at cafes for refreshing Vietnamese coffee or smoothies. Try fresh coconut water or sugarcane juice from street vendors to beat the heat.
Savor street food safely
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for street food like banh mi and pho. Choose busy stalls for freshness and avoid drinking tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Time your visits
Visit popular attractions early or late in the day to avoid crowds. Start early for day trips like the Cu Chi Tunnels or the Mekong Delta to make the most of cooler weather.
Embrace unique experiences
Budget for memorable activities like a Saigon River dinner cruise or a Vietnamese cooking class. These add a special touch to your trip.
Respect local customs
Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes before entering homes, and learn simple Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) for friendly interactions.
If you want to spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to explore this city, don’t miss out on Asia Encounter’s 5-day Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary here.
Ho Chi Minh City has a lot to offer visitors. The unforgettable travel experiences combining history, culture and modern life in Ho Chi Minh City will surely appeal to all visitors. This Ho Chi Minh City travel itinerary provides a balanced combination of historical sites, culinary adventures and local experiences. Please consult and contact Asia Encounter whenever you need advice or have questions about your trips to Vietnam. As a tour operator specializing in Southeast Asian countries, Asia Encounter can provide cultural and spiritual values about the rich cultures in this region.
