Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), or Saigon, is a bustling metropolis that perfectly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and modern innovation. Whether you’re drawn to its colonial architecture, delectable street food, or historical landmarks, there’s no shortage of things to explore. With only three days to explore this dynamic city, it’s essential to plan your time well to get the best of what Ho Chi Minh City has to offer.
Here’s a comprehensive 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in HCMC. From historical sights to culinary delights and local experiences, we’ve got it all covered.
Day 1: Dive into the History and Culture of Ho Chi Minh City
Morning: Start with a Historic Overview
Begin your first day with a visit to some of the city’s most iconic historical landmarks to get acquainted with its past.
- Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)
- The Reunification Palace is a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnam’s history. This grand building was the site of the fall of Saigon in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War. Explore the rooms, which are furnished in 1970s style, and the underground bunkers used during the war.
- Tip: Don’t miss the helicopter on the rooftop and the secret tunnels underneath the palace.
- Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
- A few blocks away from the Reunification Palace, this French colonial cathedral is a beautiful piece of architecture. Built in the late 19th century, it’s a peaceful spot to admire intricate stained-glass windows and the towering spires.
- Saigon Central Post Office
- Just across from the Notre-Dame Cathedral, this colonial-era building is a mix of French and Vietnamese architectural styles. The post office is still in operation, and you can admire its beautiful mosaics, giant maps, and vintage telephone booths.
Afternoon: Explore the War History
- War Remnants Museum
- This museum offers a detailed, sobering look at the Vietnam War. Through exhibits of photographs, military equipment, and personal accounts, you’ll gain insight into the harrowing experiences during the war. The museum’s “Requiem” photo gallery is particularly poignant.
- Tip: The museum can be emotionally intense, so take your time and reflect on the exhibits.
- Ben Thanh Market
- After soaking in the history, head to Ben Thanh Market for lunch. This vibrant market is an excellent spot for sampling local Vietnamese street food like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. It’s also a good place to pick up souvenirs such as handicrafts, textiles, and local spices.
- Tip: Haggling is common in the market, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
Evening: Saigon’s Nightlife and Dinner
- Rooftop Bars
- For dinner with a view, head to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s famous rooftop bars, such as The EON Heli Bar or Bitexco Tower’s Sky Deck. These spots offer stunning panoramic views of the city and are perfect for watching the sunset.
- Dinner Recommendations: Try traditional Vietnamese dishes like bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes) or com tam (broken rice with grilled pork) at a local restaurant.
- Night Market and Walking Street
- After dinner, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian-only avenue that comes alive in the evening. The street is lined with lights, fountains, and street performers, creating a lively atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of local food vendors and shops here to explore.
Day 2: Explore the Local Life and Surrounding Areas
Morning: A Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels
- Cu Chi Tunnels
- No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 1.5 hours outside the city. These underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War to hide, move supplies, and launch surprise attacks. A guided tour will show you how the tunnels were constructed, including hidden trapdoors, living areas, and kitchens.
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking and climbing through narrow tunnels, and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Afternoon: Return to the City and Relax
- Lunch in District 1
- After returning to the city, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the trendy cafés in District 1. A good option is L’Usine, a stylish café and restaurant housed in a former French colonial building.
- Jade Emperor Pagoda
- In the afternoon, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City. The intricate carvings, vivid statues, and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind and absorb the spiritual side of the city.
Evening: Enjoy a Saigon River Cruise
- Dinner Cruise on the Saigon River
- In the evening, enjoy a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, where you can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine while cruising past the city’s illuminated skyline. Many cruises also offer traditional music performances for a unique experience.
- Tip: Choose a cruise that includes a set menu of authentic dishes and offers a cultural performance, like the Saigon Princess Cruise.
- Explore Bui Vien Street
- For a taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s lively nightlife, head to Bui Vien Street, the city’s backpacker district. It’s a bustling area with bars, street food vendors, and plenty of entertainment. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, check out one of the trendy cocktail bars or enjoy a cold Vietnamese bia hơi (beer) with the locals.
Day 3: Modern Ho Chi Minh City and Relaxation
Morning: Cultural Exploration and Shopping
- Museum of Vietnamese History
- Start your last day by visiting the Museum of Vietnamese History, which showcases the country’s diverse cultural heritage, including artifacts from ancient civilizations, traditional clothing, and religious relics. It’s located in a beautiful colonial-era building in Le Van Tam Park.
- Dong Khoi Street
- For some luxury shopping and a glimpse into the modern side of Ho Chi Minh City, head to Dong Khoi Street. This upscale shopping district is home to boutique shops, high-end fashion stores, and art galleries.
Afternoon: Relax and Unwind
- Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Escape the bustle of the city by spending the afternoon at the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest zoos in the world. Walk through the lush gardens, relax by the lakeside, or visit the animal exhibits. It’s an ideal place to unwind before your final evening in the city.
- Spa Treatment
- For ultimate relaxation, treat yourself to a traditional Vietnamese spa experience. Spa treatments such as Vietnamese massage, herbal steam baths, and facials are widely available throughout the city. Some top-rated spas include The Spa at Hotel des Arts or Jasmine Spa.
Evening: Enjoy Your Final Dinner in Ho Chi Minh City
- Dinner at The Deck Saigon
- For a memorable final dinner, dine at The Deck Saigon, a riverside restaurant known for its beautiful ambiance and modern Vietnamese cuisine. The setting is serene and intimate, offering both local and international dishes.
- Take a Last Stroll
- Before you head back to your hotel, take a final walk around Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Le Loi Street, where you can admire the city’s vibrant lights and bustling activity.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a city of contrasts—where history meets modernity, and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. This 3-day itinerary gives you a perfect mix of history, culture, shopping, relaxation, and delicious food. Whether you’re discovering the city’s past at its museums and landmarks or indulging in its vibrant street life, you’ll leave Ho Chi Minh City with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for its unique energy.
