Planning a Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary can be perplexing. The metropolis is sprawling, sweltering and swarming with motorbikes. Sorting out what to do in Ho Chi Minh City can also be complicated.
Put your worries to rest. Our Saigon Travel Itinerary covers all the details for planning your perfect trip to HCMC!
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About Our Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
On our first trip to Vietnam, we bypassed HCMC. Other travelers made it seem inhospitable and utterly confusing.
It was a decision that we came to regret! We missed out on some of Vietnam’s most iconic sights and legendary local cuisine. On a return Vietnam Trip, we made visiting HCMC a priority.
3-Day Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
Our HCMC Itinerary is filled to the brim with top Ho Chi Minh City activities and adventures.
Additionally, we offer tips on what to do at night – from rooftop bars to the infamous Beer Street to Saigon Craft Breweries.
At the end of the article, we include important information – like how to get there, where to stay and what to pack.
DAY 1 in HCMC
After getting checked in (more on where to stay later), start by seeing the top sights. In the evening, enjoy happy hour drinks with a view, then dine on classic Vietnamese cuisine. End the night sampling some innovative beers.
Essential HCMC Sightseeing
First things first: get acquainted with Saigon on a walking tour of District 1. The Notre Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, City Hall, Post Office and Independence Palace are just a few of the must-see sights.
You can use our easy-to-follow Self-Guided Saigon Walking Tour to Ho Chi Minh City Attractions.
It includes sight details, step-by-step directions and a map, too! Those who would rather join a local for a personal introduction can book a Private Tour Guide.
Lunch at Propaganda Bistro
This restaurant features Vietnamese home cooking with a modern touch. The interior is colorfully decorated with historic propaganda wall art murals. We recommend the fresh spring rolls and an herbal infused iced tea!
Independence Palace
Spend the afternoon touring the iconic Independence Palace – or Reunification Hall, as it is now often called. A ticket is required and informational audio guides are available, too.
Take time to see the well-preserved Saigon palace – and don’t miss the rooftop helipad…or the underground command bunker and war rooms.
Saigon Rooftop Drinks
As the relentless sun starts to sink toward the horizon, head up to one of Saigon’s rooftop bars.
While there are many to choose from, we believe a drink at Hotel Caravelle or the Rooftop Garden at the Rex are the ideal spots.
Both are steeped in history and were popular haunts for diplomats and American journalists during the Vietnam War.
Dinner at Ben Thanh Street Food Market
For a first taste of the famous HCMC street food, feast at the jovial and lively Ben Thanh Food Market.
The open-air hall features dozens of vendors all under one roof. Offering a wide range of classic Vietnamese cuisine, we encourage you to try more than one dish!
Sip Saigon Craft Beer
Craft beer in Saigon is absolutely taking off, and it has added a compelling twist to Ho Chi Minh City nightlife.
Finish your first night sipping locally brewed beers at one of the numerous taprooms in HCMC District 1.
DAY 2 in Ho Chi Minh City
Today you’ll learn more about the Vietnam conflicts and their lasting impact on the country. Then, relax in a park before exploring the west end of District 1.
The Wars in Vietnam
Start your day at the War Remnants Museum, which details the timelines of the First Indochina War and the Vietnam War.
Although clearly presented from one side (that of then North Vietnam), the museum is both intriguing and harrowing.
Next, visit the chilling Thich Quang Duc Monument. It marks the spot where a protesting Buddhist monk, Thich Quang Duc, lit himself on fire and burned to death in 1963.
From the steps, stare in awe at the cacophony mess of motor scooters that buzz down Cach Mang Thang Tam Street.
Then escape the madness in nearby Tao Dan Park – an excellent place to reflect on the events that took place in Saigon not so long ago.
Lunch at Huynh Hoa Banh Mi
Join the queue at Huynh Hoa, where they make the absolute best Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City!
Stuffed with cold cuts, pate and veggies, the delectable sandwiches are assembled quickly. (So, even when the line is really long, it moves pretty fast.)
Pro Tip: Use our Saigon Food Guide to find more of HCMC’s best restaurants!
HCMC District 1 West End Attractions
The west of Saigon District 1 is heavily favored by backpackers and budget travelers. However, during the day, there are a few worthwhile sights to check out, too!
Walk west along the fashionable Nguyen Trai shopping street lined with boutiques and name-brand stores to Huyen Si Church. Although not nearly as famous as the Saigon Cathedral, it’s worth a quick peek.
Next, pop into the Thai Binh Market – a very local marketplace that is a true feast for the senses.
While there is still some light left in the day, explore the narrow alleys that lie between Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien Street. Observe how the locals have transformed their homes into cafes, hotels and shops.
Before it gets dark, walk the length of Bui Vien, then watch the sunset from The View Rooftop Bar (and look for their great happy hour cocktail specials).
Pro Tip: Find even more gems in our Guide of Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City!
Dinner: Pho Quynh or Bun Cha 145
Choosing where to eat here is overwhelming; there is a staggering number of restaurants! Options range from high-priced international fare to cheap eats from street vendors.
However, even in the heavily touristic area, we recommend eating like the locals and slurping up noodles from a bowl.
Popular picks for Vietnamese noodle dishes are Pho and Bun Cha. Our two favorite HCMC restaurants specializing in these are Bun Cha 145 and Pho Quynh – and both are in the west end of District 1.
Backpacker Street after Dark
With a full stomach, head out to enjoy a night of revelry. Drink cheap beer from low plastic stools or dance the night away in a HCMC night club.
Whatever you do, keep your wits about you…Bui Vien Street is notorious for petty theft and crime.
Not into slugging beers and thumping music? We hear you, but at least take a quick stroll to observe the madness!
Pro Tip: If you do indulge and need a late-night snack, stop by the Banh Mi 37 food cart for a tasty pork patty sandwich!
DAY 3 in HCMC
On the last day of your Ho Chi Minh City Trip Itinerary, delve into lesser-visited neighborhoods and take a boat ride. Next soar to the Saigon Skydeck for a phenomenal view, then treat yourself to a spectacular dinner.
HCMC District 1 East End Attractions
Start off with an Iced Coconut Coffee from Cong Ca Phe at Turtle Lake. While not really a lake (and hence no turtles), the unadorned 1960s fountain in the middle of a busy roundabout is ringed with cafes, benches and shade.
Once properly caffeinated, head to the east end of HCMC District 1 to the Ngoc Hoang Pagoda.
Famous for its colorful décor and intricate detailing, the Taoist Temple does, in fact, have a pond with turtles in it.
Walk through the less-congested neighborhood to Le Van Tam Park, a popular place for locals to exercise and practice Tai Chi.
Next, visit the pastel pink Tan Dinh Church and then navigate your way through the Tan Dinh Market, which is known for selling textiles and traditional ao dai.
Local Lunch at Banh Xeo 46A
Now make your way to a place made famous when the late Anthony Bourdain dined there.
The signature dish – Banh Xeo – is a giant sizzling savory pancake stuffed with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts and scallions.
Use your chopsticks to break it into pieces, then roll them into lettuce leaves along with herbs and dip it into the sauce for an amazing and perfectly balanced bite!
Afternoon Adventure: Saigon Waterbus or Chinatown
After your filling lunch, go on a little adventure beyond District 1. For a lazy afternoon, skip down to the riverside and hop on the Saigon Waterbus ferry.
Grab a window seat in the air conditioning if you need to cool off. Then cruise all the way to the last stop taking in the landscape views…then ride back!
Alternatively, spend the afternoon in nearby Chinatown. Located west of the city center, it dates to the late 1700s and features temples, markets and, of course, excellent Chinese food!
Pro Tip: Looking for other ways to escape the heat? Spend the afternoon at a pool. Several HCMC hotels offer day passes to non-guests who want to take a swim and utilize the facilities.
Saigon Skydeck and Sunset from a HCMC Rooftop Bar
Before the sun sets, soar to the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower and the Saigon Skydeck.
Take in the 360-degree views, then as the sun goes down, watch as the city light up from another rooftop bar. Popular choices nearby are Broma Not A Bar, Liquid Sky Bar and Breeze Sky Bar.
Vietnamese Meal at Den Long Home Cooked
Make your final meal in HCMC a memorable one with dinner at Den Long Home Cooked.
Everything about the restaurant is top-notch – from the waitstaff to the food to the ambiance. Our favorite dishes are the caramelized chicken, house coconut rice and crispy eggrolls!
Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Our Ho Chi Minh Itinerary details the best way to spend 3 days here. However, there are popular HCMC day trips that you may want to add to your vacation!
Cu Chi Tunnels
Regarded as one of the best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are located about 40 miles to the north. The network of underground tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers.
Today, you can enter the tunnels to experience what it was like. Chi Chi Tunnel Tours depart from District 1 and include English-speaking guides to help explain the history.
Mekong Delta
A Mekong Delta tour from Ho Chi Minh City is a good way to get out and see some of the rural surroundings. You learn about life along the Mekong River and locally made Vietnamese products.
This tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, a boat cruise, island tour and buffet lunch!
Top Tip: Join a VIP Cu Chi Tunnels AND Mekong Delta Tour in a full day excursion to both sights!
Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips
We have a few helpful planning tips along with some honest advice for your itinerary to Ho Chi Minh City.
Getting To HCMC
If flying, you will arrive at the Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN). Direct flights are available from many top destinations in Asia, along with a few from Europe and Australia. Start your search for low fares on SkyScanner!
How To Get Around Ho Chi Minh City
While it’s possible to see a lot on our HCMC Walking Tour, we recommend using Grab Taxi to get between districts. Rides are inexpensive and using the app eliminates any confusion about fares or destination.
Wi-Fi in Vietnam
We an internet connection is essential while visiting Vietnam! In SE Asia we travel with a GlocalMe Mobile Hotspot. We pre-purchase eSIM data plans and can connect up to ten devices at one time.
HCMC Hours, Tickets and Prices
One of the frustrations we encountered was conflicting information. Finding accurate opening hours and ticket prices is often a challenge.
Unfortunately, it is just the way it is in Vietnam…so our best advice is to just go with the flow and allow for a bit of flexibility in your plans.
HCMC Traffic, Scooters and Crossing the Street
The legendary traffic and motorbike pandemonium is no joke. Cars and scooters jostle for the best position and every inch of pavement – including sidewalks – is utilized.
The key to successfully crossing the street is to walk confidently and steadily while making eye contact with on coming drivers.
Don’t just step into traffic; wait for a break, then look both ways (even on streets marked as one-way). Keep a consistent pace; drivers will go around you. Whatever you do, don’t panic and stop.
Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi?
We would be hard pressed to choose one over the other – they are both fascinating and dramatically different!
If you’re traveling to Hanoi, be sure to use our Free Hanoi Walking Tours, read our guide to amazing Hanoi Food and check out our comprehensive Hanoi Itinerary. Hopefully you can also visit Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An and Ninh Binh!
Where To Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
The luxury Hotel Grand Saigon is a located in a preserved French Colonial building in the city center. Top features include spacious rooms, two restaurants, a spa and an outdoor swimming pool.
If you’re transiting through HCMC or need an affordable place near the airport, there are familiar international brands, like Ibis Saigon.
What To Pack for HCMC
We have just a few more hacks for things you will want to pack in your backpack or suitcase on your vacation to Vietnam!
Comfortable Clothing
Vietnam sightseeing is best done in clothing that is loose and breathable. I like to wear summer dresses – and Kris wears T-shirts and shorts. Flip Flops are fine for short exploration.
Just remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses or a wide-brimmed travel hat. If visiting during the peak rainy season (June – August), a travel umbrella or packable raincoat is a necessity!
Anti-Theft Bag for Vietnam
Unfortunately, Ho Chi Minh City is well-known for petty crime. Pickpockets target tourists, so it is best to keep valuables hidden in zippered pockets or concealed beneath clothes.
Kris wore a money belt to keep cash tucked away and I wore a bra stash. You may also want to invest in a specifically-designed anti-theft bag – like the ones from Travelon.
Vietnam Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may reimburse expenses related to cancellations, theft and lost luggage, and could also help with costs from injures or illness when abroad. Check rates and coverage with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Vietnam! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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