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5 Days of Culture and Adventure in Ho Chi Minh City

5 Days of Culture and Adventure in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 29

Exploring the Heart of Saigon

Morning
Start your day with a visit to Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon). This iconic landmark is a must-see, showcasing beautiful French colonial architecture. Just a short walk away, you'll find Saigon Central Post Office, another stunning example of French colonial design. Both sites are located in the heart of the city, making them perfect for a morning stroll.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam's rich history at the War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh). This museum offers a sobering look at the Vietnam War through various exhibits and photographs. Afterward, head to Nha Hang Ngon for lunch, where you can enjoy a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting.
Evening
As evening approaches, take part in Ho Chi Minh: Water Puppet Show Ticket. This traditional Vietnamese art form is both entertaining and culturally enriching. For dinner, visit Secret Garden, a rooftop restaurant offering delicious Vietnamese cuisine and stunning views of the city. End your night with drinks at The Racha Room, known for its creative cocktails and vibrant atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)

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Saigon Central Post Office

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War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh)

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Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet Show Ticket

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Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors

Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to Reunification Palace (Independence Palace). This historic site played a crucial role in the end of the Vietnam War and offers guided tours that provide deep insights into its significance. Next, explore Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi), famous for its high-end shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Cuc Gach Quan, known for its home-style Vietnamese cooking. Afterward, join the Saigon: Private Half-Day Car Tour of Ho Chi Minh City which will take you to various significant landmarks including hidden gems that are off the beaten path.
Evening
In the evening, experience local nightlife with Ho Chi Minh City: Local Food and Sights Motorbike Night Tour. This tour combines food tasting with sightseeing as you ride through bustling streets on a motorbike. For dinner before or after your tour, try Bep Me In, which offers authentic Vietnamese dishes in an intimate setting.
Bedtime
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Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

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Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi)

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Saigon Private Half-Day Car Tour of Ho Chi Minh City

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Ho Chi Minh City Local Food and Sights Motorbike Night Tour

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Historical Sites and Culinary Delights

Morning
Kick off your third day by visiting Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most atmospheric temples filled with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. Then make your way to Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum) where you can learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine practices through fascinating exhibits.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch at Hum Vegetarian Cafe & Restaurant, which serves delicious vegetarian dishes in a serene environment. Post-lunch, embark on an exciting culinary journey with the Ho Chi Minh City: Private Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings. You'll get to sample an array of local delicacies while exploring different neighborhoods on foot.
Evening
Conclude your day by visiting the bustling Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh), perfect for shopping souvenirs or trying more street food delights. For dinner, dine at Nam Giao Restaurant, known for its Hue-style cuisine. Wrap up your night at Glow Skybar, offering panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City's skyline along with great music and drinks.
Bedtime
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Jade Emperor Pagoda

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Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum)

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Ho Chi Minh City Private Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings

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Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh)

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Spiritual Exploration and Scenic Views

Morning
Start your fourth day with a visit to Giac Lam Pagoda (Chua Giac Lam), one of the oldest temples in Ho Chi Minh City. This peaceful sanctuary offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the locals and features beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Afterward, head to L'usine Cafe for a delightful breakfast in a chic, modern setting.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, explore Cholon (Saigon Chinatown). Wander through its bustling streets, visit traditional Chinese temples like Thien Hau Temple (Chua Ba Thien Hau), and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For lunch, stop by Nhà Hàng Ngon 138, which offers an extensive menu of Vietnamese dishes in a charming colonial villa.
Evening
As evening falls, take part in Ho Chi Minh: A O Show Bamboo Circus at Saigon Opera House. This captivating performance combines acrobatics, dance, and traditional music to tell stories of Vietnamese culture. For dinner, dine at The Deck Saigon, an elegant riverside restaurant offering international cuisine with stunning views of the Saigon River. End your night with cocktails at Drinking & Healing, known for its creative drinks and lively ambiance.
Bedtime
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Giac Lam Pagoda (Chua Giac Lam)

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Cholon (Saigon Chinatown)

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Thien Hau Temple (Chua Ba Thien Hau)

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Ho Chi Minh A O Show Bamboo Circus at Saigon Opera House

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Adventures Beyond the City

Morning
On your final day, embark on an exciting adventure with the From Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour. This tour takes you out of the city to explore the lush landscapes and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta. You'll visit local villages, enjoy boat rides, and sample regional specialties.
Afternoon
Continue your Mekong Delta exploration with visits to fruit orchards and traditional workshops where you can see how local products are made. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring fresh ingredients from the delta region.
Evening
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening. For your farewell dinner, head to La Villa French Restaurant, offering exquisite French cuisine in an elegant setting. Conclude your trip with drinks at Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city while reminiscing about your adventures.
Bedtime
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From Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour

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