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

Last updated: 2024 Jul 02

Exploring Historical Saigon

Morning

Start your journey with a visit to the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon). This stunning French-colonial cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. Next, head over to the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, another architectural marvel designed by Gustave Eiffel. The beautiful interior and historical significance make it a must-see. For breakfast, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee and pastry at The Workshop Coffee.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam's 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, take a short walk to Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), where you can explore the historic rooms and learn about its role in ending the war. For lunch, savor some authentic Vietnamese pho at Pho Hoa Pasteur.

Evening

Conclude your day with an immersive cultural experience by attending the 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 life. Before heading to the show, enjoy dinner at Nha Hang Ngon, known for its wide variety of local dishes.

Bedtime

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4.72
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)
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Saigon Central Post Office
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Cultural Insights and Culinary Delights

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most atmospheric temples. The intricate carvings and statues are truly mesmerizing. Then make your way to Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum) to learn about traditional healing practices in Vietnam. Enjoy breakfast at L'usine, which offers both Western and Vietnamese options.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring Cholon, also known as Saigon's Chinatown. Start with a visit to the bustling Binh Tay Market (Cho Binh Tay), where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local snacks. Next, visit the serene Thien Hau Temple (Chua Ba Thien Hau), dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. For lunch, try some delicious dim sum at Tien Phat Dim Sum Restaurant.

Evening

Experience Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant nightlife with a food tour by scooter: Ho Chi Minh City: Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings. This tour will take you through various districts while you sample an array of street foods from different vendors. It's an exciting way to see more of the city while indulging in its culinary delights.

Bedtime

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Jade Emperor Pagoda
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Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum)
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History Meets Modernity

Morning

Kick off your third day with a trip to the fascinating underground world of the Cu Chi Tunnels: Ho Chi Minh: Full-Day Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Tour. This tour will give you insight into how Viet Cong soldiers used these tunnels during wartime. The morning portion includes exploring these historical tunnels.

Afternoon

Continue your full-day tour from Cu Chi Tunnels into Mekong Delta region where you'll experience rural life in southern Vietnam firsthand. Enjoy boat rides along picturesque canals lined with coconut trees and visit local workshops that produce coconut candy or rice paper.

Evening

Return back from your full-day tour just in time for dinner at Nha Hang Ngon, known for its wide variety of local dishes.

Bedtime

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Ho Chi Minh: Full-Day Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Tour
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Art and Adventure

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts. This museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary and classical Vietnamese art, offering a deep dive into the country's rich artistic heritage. The beautiful French colonial building itself is worth exploring. For breakfast, head to L'usine, known for its stylish ambiance and delicious breakfast options.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, embark on an exciting adventure with the Saigon: Private Half-Day Car Tour of Ho Chi Minh City. This tour will take you to various significant landmarks including hidden gems that are often missed by tourists. You'll get a comprehensive overview of the city's history, culture, and modern life. For lunch, enjoy some local delicacies at Banh Xeo 46A, famous for its Vietnamese pancakes.

Evening

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at Dam Sen Water Park (Cong Vien Nuoc Dam Sen). This water park offers a variety of slides and pools that are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Before heading to the park, have dinner at Hum Vegetarian, which offers delicious vegetarian dishes in a serene setting.

Bedtime

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Museum of Fine Arts
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Saigon: Private Half-Day Car Tour of Ho Chi Minh City
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Markets and Mekong Magic

Morning

Begin your final day with a visit to the bustling Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh). This iconic market is perfect for picking up last-minute souvenirs and experiencing local life. Enjoy breakfast at one of the market's many food stalls offering traditional Vietnamese dishes like banh mi or pho.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon on an unforgettable journey with the From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour. This tour will take you through lush landscapes and vibrant waterways of the Mekong Delta. You'll visit local villages, enjoy boat rides along scenic canals, and learn about traditional crafts such as coconut candy making.

Evening

Return from your Mekong Delta adventure just in time for dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, known for its home-style Vietnamese cuisine served in a charming setting. End your trip on a high note by visiting one of Ho Chi Minh City's rooftop bars like Chill Skybar for panoramic views of the city.

Bedtime

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