5-Day Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary

Embark on a half-day tour to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels and learn about the ingenuity of the Vietnamese soldiers. After the tour, enjoy a hearty brunch at The Refinery Restaurant.

Experience the unique art form of Vietnamese water puppetry with a ticket to the Water Puppet Show. This traditional performance will give you insight into the country's rural life and folklore. After the show, take a guided motorbike tour to sample Saigon's street food, visiting local eateries and hidden gems. This tour can be booked through Saigon Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike.

Conclude your day with a cultural dinner at NHAU NHAU, where you can enjoy contemporary Vietnamese cuisine in a stylish setting. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife of Saigon at your leisure, with options ranging from rooftop bars to live music venues.

Embark on a full-day speedboat tour to the Mekong Delta, a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands. Explore the local villages, visit a floating market, and learn about the traditional way of life in the delta. Enjoy a light breakfast at your hotel before departing.

Delight in a sumptuous lunch at Sol Kitchen & Bar, known for its fusion of international and local flavors. After lunch, continue your exploration of the Mekong Delta, visiting the serene Vinh Trang Pagoda with its beautiful gardens and architecture.

Return to Saigon in the evening and unwind with a refreshing cocktail at The First Bar, a sophisticated venue with a wide selection of drinks. For dinner, indulge in the culinary creations of Social Club Restaurant, offering a blend of European and Asian dishes in an elegant setting.

Begin your day with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in Saigon. Then, head to the Cholon (Saigon Chinatown) to explore its vibrant markets and historical sites. For breakfast, enjoy the morning at Kim's Tavern, a local favorite known for its traditional dishes.

After a morning of exploration, take a break and enjoy a leisurely lunch at MY PLACE Saigon, a cozy restaurant offering a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Post-lunch, take a fast-track visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower Saigon Sky Deck to enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond.

As the day winds down, head to Tomatito Saigon - Tapas Bar for a delightful dinner experience. This restaurant offers a modern and lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a variety of Spanish-inspired dishes. After dinner, take a 45-minute panoramic night tour to see the city's illuminated landmarks and vibrant nightlife (book through Saigon 45-Minute Panoramic Night Tour).

Enjoy a leisurely morning with a visit to the serene Thien Hau Temple (Chua Ba Thien Hau), dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Then, take a walk along the Saigon River (Song Sai Gon) and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For breakfast, head to Pickles Eatery for a cozy and comforting meal.

Spend your afternoon at the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected area known for its rich biodiversity. Take a guided tour to learn about the mangrove ecosystem and the conservation efforts in the region. For lunch, enjoy a picnic prepared by your hotel or a local caterer, surrounded by the natural beauty of the reserve.

Reflect on your time in Saigon with a farewell dinner at Qui Cuisine Mixology, where the innovative dishes and cocktails will provide a fitting end to your culinary journey. After dinner, take a moment to enjoy the city's nightlife one last time, perhaps with a visit to a favorite bar or a leisurely walk through the streets.