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![Ultimate 5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.dev.beautifuldestinations.app/6a045ebe-1b7a-4f16-86dd-3dda2339ac67/originalThumbnail.jpg)
Ultimate 5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Iconic Landmarks and Saigon River Cruise
Morning
Kick off your trip with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), followed by a stroll through the lush greenery of the Central Post Office and the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon). Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Nha Hang Ngon, known for its wide variety of local dishes.
Afternoon
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh), where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with local vendors. Afterward, savor a delectable lunch at Cuc Gach Quan, a restaurant with a charming ambiance and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise along the Saigon River (Song Sai Gon) on a traditional wooden boat and witness the city's skyline from a different perspective.
Evening
Experience the dynamic energy of Saigon's nightlife with a sumptuous dinner at The Deck Saigon, a riverside restaurant offering a blend of Western and Vietnamese flavors. Afterward, enjoy a cultural performance at the Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon) or opt for a relaxing evening at a rooftop bar with panoramic views, such as the Saigon Skydeck.
Bedtime
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![Visit Reunification Palace (Independence Palace) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6a/96.jpg)
4.73Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)
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![Visit Reunification Palace (Independence Palace) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6a/96.jpg)
Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)
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![Visit Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/ef/11.jpg)
4.71Central Post Office
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![Visit Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/ef/11.jpg)
Central Post Office
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![Visit Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f9/e3.jpg)
4.72Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)
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![Visit Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f9/e3.jpg)
Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Saïgon)
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![Visit Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6a/e6.jpg)
4.61Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh)
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![Visit Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6a/e6.jpg)
Ben Thanh Market (Cho Ben Thanh)
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![Visit Saigon River (Song Sai Gon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a8/5e.jpg)
4.69Saigon River (Song Sai Gon)
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![Visit Saigon River (Song Sai Gon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a8/5e.jpg)
Saigon River (Song Sai Gon)
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![Visit Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/fa/b7.jpg)
4.70Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon)
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![Visit Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/fa/b7.jpg)
Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon)
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Cu Chi Tunnels and War History
Morning
Embark on an eye-opening journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels and learn about the history of the war. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Bun Cha Ta, known for its traditional Vietnamese bun cha dish.
Afternoon
After the Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh) to gain further insight into the war's impact. For lunch, head to Pho Hoa Pasteur and savor a bowl of pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup that's a local favorite. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a fascinating Taoist temple filled with intricate statues and carvings.
Evening
Dine at Propaganda Bistro, a restaurant with a unique ambiance that pays homage to Vietnam's history. Enjoy a mix of international and local dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Bach Dang Wharf (Ben Bach Dang) and soak in the evening breeze by the river.
Bedtime
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![Visit Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/12/3f/b4/de.jpg)
4.74Cu Chi Tunnels
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![Visit Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/12/3f/b4/de.jpg)
Cu Chi Tunnels
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![Visit War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6e/61.jpg)
4.64War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh)
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![Visit War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/6e/61.jpg)
War Remnants Museum (Bao Tang Chung Tich Chien Tranh)
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![Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/99/5b.jpg)
4.84Jade Emperor Pagoda
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![Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/99/5b.jpg)
Jade Emperor Pagoda
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![Visit Bangkok Classical Bicycle Tour in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/61b55d9e2e800.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.83Bach Dang Wharf (Ben Bach Dang)
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![Visit Bangkok Classical Bicycle Tour in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/61b55d9e2e800.jpeg/21.jpg)
Bach Dang Wharf (Ben Bach Dang)
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Mekong Delta Discovery and Cultural Shows
Morning
Depart for the Mekong Delta on a full-day tour, exploring the floating markets, lush orchards, and traditional villages. Enjoy a local breakfast on the way and immerse yourself in the delta's unique way of life. Visit the Cai Rang Floating Market and interact with the vendors. Return to the city in the late afternoon.
Afternoon
For lunch, try the vegetarian delights at Hum Vegetarian, which offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Afterward, relax at your hotel or visit the Suoi Tien Theme Park for a fun afternoon if you're traveling with family.
Evening
Experience the traditional art of water puppetry with a performance at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater. For dinner, head to The Racha Room, a stylish restaurant serving modern Asian cuisine with a focus on Thai flavors. End the night with a visit to the lively Bui Vien Walking Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse entertainment options.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
![Visit Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/a2/e5.jpg)
Suoi Tien Theme Park
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![Visit Suoi Tien Theme Park in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/a2/e5.jpg)
Suoi Tien Theme Park
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![Visit Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet Show Ticket in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/59ae291e9728f.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.67Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
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![Visit Ho Chi Minh Water Puppet Show Ticket in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/59ae291e9728f.jpeg/21.jpg)
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
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![Visit Shaw Park Gardens in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/9d/92.jpg)
3.00Bui Vien Walking Street
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![Visit Shaw Park Gardens in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/9d/92.jpg)
Bui Vien Walking Street
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Hidden Gems and Local Delights
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Saigon Unseen Scooter Tour, where you'll explore the city's lesser-known spots and hidden gems with a local guide. Enjoy a breakfast at Bep Me In Saigon, known for its fusion of Vietnamese and international flavors.
Afternoon
After the tour, have lunch at Au Parc Saigon, a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring a mix of Western and Vietnamese dishes. Spend your afternoon at the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thao Cam Vien), one of the oldest zoos in the world, or visit the Museum of Vietnamese History (Bao Tang Lich Su) to delve into the country's rich cultural heritage.
Evening
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Ciao Bella Saigon, an Italian restaurant offering a wide range of classic dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along Dong Khoi Street (Rue Catinat), known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. If you're interested in a more relaxed evening, consider a river cruise with dinner to enjoy the city lights from the water.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
![Visit Saigon City Highlights and Saigon Unseen Scooter Combo Tour in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d9fffd66eb1b7c325d4ab39ce3822801fbb3a1f7d526d8ee279092a26005dddb.jpg/21.jpg)
4.89Saigon Unseen Scooter Tour
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![Visit Saigon City Highlights and Saigon Unseen Scooter Combo Tour in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/d9fffd66eb1b7c325d4ab39ce3822801fbb3a1f7d526d8ee279092a26005dddb.jpg/21.jpg)
Saigon Unseen Scooter Tour
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![Visit Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f1/d3.jpg)
4.94Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thao Cam Vien)
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![Visit Dong Khoi Street (Duong Dong Khoi) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f1/d3.jpg)
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thao Cam Vien)
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![Visit Pham Ngu Lao Street in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f0/d8.jpg)
2.77Museum of Vietnamese History (Bao Tang Lich Su)
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![Visit Pham Ngu Lao Street in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f0/d8.jpg)
Museum of Vietnamese History (Bao Tang Lich Su)
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![Visit Greenwood Great House in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/9e/99.jpg)
4.28Dong Khoi Street (Rue Catinat)
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![Visit Greenwood Great House in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/9e/99.jpg)
Dong Khoi Street (Rue Catinat)
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Culinary Adventure and City Highlights
Morning
Embark on a gastronomic journey with the Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike. Explore the city's culinary scene and popular street food spots while also getting a glimpse of its vibrant culture. Enjoy a breakfast at Secret Garden Restaurant, a hidden gem offering a serene dining experience with a focus on local cuisine.
Afternoon
After the tour, visit the Cho Lon (Chinatown) district, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. Explore its bustling markets, traditional pagodas, and sample some Chinese-Vietnamese fusion dishes for lunch. For a more relaxed afternoon, take a guided tour of the Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck) and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Mandarin Restaurant & Bar, known for its elegant setting and refined Cantonese cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Walking Street (Nguyen Hue Street), where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere, street performances, and the beautiful fountain square.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.
![Visit Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/aabb8670bde2a651dd04e2561eb71f15b2e20d2f82de95bc0fff6556bb13599b.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.93Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike
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![Visit Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/aabb8670bde2a651dd04e2561eb71f15b2e20d2f82de95bc0fff6556bb13599b.jpeg/21.jpg)
Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike
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![Visit Paris Square (Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f9/37.jpg)
5.00Cho Lon (Chinatown)
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![Visit Paris Square (Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris) in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f9/37.jpg)
Cho Lon (Chinatown)
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![Visit Bitexco Financial Tower in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/96/07.jpg)
4.58Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck)
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![Visit Bitexco Financial Tower in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/96/07.jpg)
Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck)
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![Visit Happy Bay Beach in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/97/c0.jpg)
4.86Walking Street (Nguyen Hue Street)
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![Visit Happy Bay Beach in Ho Chi Minh City](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/97/c0.jpg)
Walking Street (Nguyen Hue Street)
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