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5 Days in Ho Chi Minh City

5 Days in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 30

Exploring Historic Saigon

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon). This stunning cathedral is a symbol of the French colonial era and offers a peaceful start to your exploration. Afterward, head over to the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural marvel designed by Gustave Eiffel. Take some time to admire the beautiful interiors and maybe send a postcard home. For breakfast, stop by The Workshop Coffee for some excellent coffee and pastries.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, delve into Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh). This museum provides 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 significance in Vietnamese history. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Nha Hang Ngon.
Evening
As evening approaches, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh). Here you can shop for souvenirs, try local street food, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For dinner, head to Secret Garden, which offers delicious Vietnamese dishes in a charming rooftop setting. End your day with a relaxing drink at Rogue Saigon, known for its craft beers and rooftop views.
Bedtime
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Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors

Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the serene Jade Emperor Pagoda. This Taoist temple is filled with intricate carvings and statues that offer insight into local religious practices. Next, head over to Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum) where you can learn about traditional healing methods used throughout Vietnamese history. Enjoy breakfast at L'usine, known for its stylish decor and tasty brunch options.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, join the fascinating tour: Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike. This tour allows you to experience Ho Chi Minh City's culinary delights while exploring hidden gems around town on a motorbike. You'll get to taste various street foods that are integral parts of local culture. For lunch during this tour, you'll be sampling from different street vendors offering authentic flavors.
Evening
Spend your evening exploring more of Ho Chi Minh City's cultural landmarks starting with a visit to the majestic Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon). If possible catch an evening performance or simply admire its beautiful architecture from outside before heading towards dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, famous for its homestyle Vietnamese cooking served in an elegant setting.
Bedtime
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Historic Sites and Modern Marvels

Morning
Kick off Day 3 by visiting one of Ho Chi Minh City's most significant historical sites: The Cu Chi Tunnels through this engaging tour: Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels Tour. These tunnels played crucial roles during wartime; you'll get firsthand experience crawling through them while learning about their historical importance from knowledgeable guides.
Afternoon
After returning from Cu Chi Tunnels trip which takes approximately half-day; spend your afternoon visiting another iconic landmark - The Bitexco Financial Tower & Skydeck via fast track ticket access provided by:  Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket offering panoramic views over entire cityscape providing perfect photo opportunities especially if weather permits clear skies! Grab quick bite nearby tower premises like at chic café named - The Loft serving light meals/snacks along refreshing beverages including smoothies/coffee blends etc.
Evening
Conclude third day itinerary exploring lively Dong Khoi Street featuring numerous shops/boutiques selling everything ranging designer clothes/jewelry/souvenirs etc followed sumptuous dinner reservation made beforehand upscale restaurant called-La Villa French Restaurant serving exquisite French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine within romantic ambiance ideal couples/families alike! Finish off nightcap trendy bar/lounge area such as-Chill Skybar located atop AB Tower boasting spectacular nighttime vistas coupled innovative cocktails/mocktails ensuring memorable end productive sightseeing-filled day!
Bedtime
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Adventures Beyond the City

Morning
Start your day with an exciting tour: From Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta Full-Day Tour. This tour will take you on a journey through the picturesque Mekong Delta, where you'll experience the vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes. You'll visit traditional villages, enjoy a boat ride along the river, and sample delicious local fruits. For breakfast before you leave, grab a quick bite at Pho Hoa Pasteur, known for its flavorful pho.
Afternoon
Continue your exploration of the Mekong Delta with visits to coconut candy factories and bee farms. You'll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at one of the local restaurants included in the tour.
Evening
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening and unwind after your day of adventure. For dinner, head to Hum Vegetarian, which offers a delightful array of vegetarian dishes in a serene setting. End your day with a relaxing drink at The View Rooftop Bar, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping on refreshing cocktails.
Bedtime
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Final Day: Hidden Gems and Farewell

Morning
Ho Chi Minh: Guided Walking Tour of Saigon's Main Sights is perfect for your final day. This guided walking tour will take you through some of Ho Chi Minh City's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. You'll visit places like Paris Square (Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris), Saigon Skydeck, and more. Start your morning with breakfast at L'usine Le Loi, known for its chic ambiance and delicious pastries.
Afternoon
Cooking Class with Ben Thanh Market visit is an excellent way to spend your afternoon. This hands-on cooking class will teach you how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from Ben Thanh Market. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor the meal you've prepared.
Evening
Ho Chi Minh: A O Show Bamboo Circus at Saigon Opera House is a fantastic way to end your trip. This captivating performance combines acrobatics, dance, and traditional music to tell stories about Vietnamese culture and heritage. For dinner before the show, dine at Nha Hang Ngon, which offers an extensive menu of Vietnamese specialties in a beautiful garden setting.
Bedtime
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