5-Day Southern Vietnam Adventure: Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels, and Mekong Delta Itinerary

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 ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people. For a quick bite, grab a snack at Pho Hoa Pasteur, known for its authentic pho.

Return to the city and enjoy a hearty lunch at Bun Cha Ta, specializing in traditional Vietnamese grilled pork and noodles. Afterward, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda (Chùa Ngọc Hoàng), one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, and then relax at the Saigon Skydeck of the Bitexco Financial Tower, offering panoramic views of the bustling metropolis.

For an enchanting evening, witness the mesmerizing A O Show Bamboo Circus at Saigon Opera House or the traditional Water Puppet Show, both showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. After the show, savor a fusion dinner at The Racha Room, a trendy restaurant with a sophisticated ambiance.

Depart early for a full-day excursion to the Mekong Delta, a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands. Enjoy a scenic drive to the town of My Tho and board a boat to explore the delta. Visit local villages, orchards, and traditional workshops, and savor fresh fruits and honey tea. For breakfast, grab a bite at Cuc Gach Quan, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Continue your Mekong Delta adventure with a visit to the serene Vinh Trang Pagoda in the town of My Tho. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at Secret Garden Restaurant, nestled in a lush garden setting. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon and spend the evening at leisure, exploring the city's nightlife or enjoying a relaxing dinner at a riverside restaurant.

Begin your day with a visit to the Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), a symbol of the end of the Vietnam War. Explore the palace and its historical significance, then head to Cholon (Saigon Chinatown) to immerse yourself in the vibrant Chinese community. For breakfast, try the famous banh mi at Bep Me In Saigon.

After exploring Cholon, visit the atmospheric Thien Hau Temple (Chùa Ba Thiên Hậu), dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. For lunch, indulge in the vegetarian delights of Hum Vegetarian, offering a creative menu in a tranquil setting. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Bitexco Financial Tower Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket, enjoying the panoramic views and learning about the city's history at the interactive exhibits.

Dine at Nha Hang Ngon, a restaurant housed in a beautiful colonial villa, offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Bach Dang Wharf (Bến Bạch Đằng) and enjoy the riverside ambiance. End the evening with a drink at The Deck Saigon, a stylish bar with a view of the Saigon River.

Start your day with a unique experience on the Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike. Hop on the back of a motorbike and let local guides take you to the best street food spots in the city. Taste a variety of dishes and learn about the culinary culture of Vietnam. For a more relaxed morning, you can opt for a visit to the Suoi Tien Theme Park for some family-friendly fun.

For lunch, head to The Refinery, a chic restaurant located in a former opium factory, offering a menu of European and Vietnamese fusion cuisine. Afterward, explore the off-the-beaten-path attractions of Ho Chi Minh City with the Saigon Unseen Scooter Combo Tour, where you'll visit hidden gems and local neighborhoods, gaining a deeper understanding of the city's culture and history.

Conclude your Southern Vietnam adventure with a memorable dinner at Temple Club, housed in a restored 19th-century Chinese temple. Enjoy a mix of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese dishes in a sophisticated setting. After dinner, you can choose to relax at a rooftop bar with city views or experience the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City one last time.