Ho Chi Minh itinerary – A guide that makes the most of your time

Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, may not be the capital of Vietnam, but it is a living museum of historical events and a melting pot of rich, unique indigenous culture. Once the capital of the southern Vietnamese regime, this place has witnessed many historical events as well as features an extremely unique indigenous culture.

Let’s explore this vibrant metropolis like never before with a 4-day-3-night Ho Chi Minh City itinerary of Vietnam Adventure.

A few words about our Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

With our Ho Chi Minh City itinerary, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s pride. Those are historical museums, bustling markets, vibrant walking streets, and indulge in the delectable local cuisine – It’s not all about the city, but at least you’ll have moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Daytime Activities For The Itinerary

There are many fun things to do in the city during the day. So to make the most of your time, let’s check out the following list of places to visit and activities to do:

Independence Palace 

The Independence Palace is an architectural marvel in Ho Chi Minh City. Above all, it is a silent witness to the tumultuous history of Vietnam, spanning from the French colonial period to the resistance against American forces.

Initially constructed in 1868 by the French under the name Norodom Palace, the building served as the residence and workplace for the Governor of Cochinchina. Following Vietnam’s independence from French colonial rule, it became the central hub for the leaders of South Vietnam.

On April 30, 1975 tanks of the Liberation Army crashed through its gates. And this fateful day marked the end of the Vietnam War and heralded the reunification of the country. You can watch this moment on Youtube, and trust us, it is one of the most cool moments you have ever seen.

War Remnants Museum

Just a short distance from the Independence Palace lies the War Remnants Museum – also a stop for anyone seeking to delve deeper into Vietnam’s tumultuous history. Here, you will encounter all that the war left behind, such as a vast array of military equipment, artifacts, and photos showing the devastating consequences of the war.

Notre Dame Cathedral and  Central Post Office

The Notre Dame Cathedral is also a timeless architectural work and a splendid example of a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The basilica’s two towering bell towers, each reaching 58 meters high, are visible from afar. Stepping inside, you are greeted by a vast and open space that can accommodate up to 1,200 people.

Just across the square from the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, you will come to the Saigon Central Post Office. This is a masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel, the genius behind the iconic Eiffel Tower. This building is not only a testament to the grandeur of French colonial architecture but also a spot to send postcards and pick up unique souvenirs.

Cu Chi Tunnels

This complex but delicately arranged system of tunnels is another witness to the war against America. Spanning over 250 kilometers, the Cu Chi Tunnels were initially constructed during the French resistance in the 1940s and were further expanded during the Vietnam War. This elaborate and sophisticated military structure is sure to blow your mind with its multiple levels, intricate tunnels, and functional rooms such as kitchens, hospitals, storage areas, and living quarters for soldiers.

Ben Thanh Market

For your shopping time, you can head over to the vibrant Ben Thanh Market. This iconic market is where you can find an array of goods, from fresh produce and local specialties to stylish clothes, intricate handicrafts, and unique souvenirs.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

This museum preserves a vast collection of paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and more, offering a comprehensive view of Vietnam’s artistic heritage. From traditional Vietnamese art to contemporary masterpieces, there’s always something to captivate art enthusiasts of all tastes.

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre, was inaugurated in 1900 during the French colonial period. Originally built to host French artistic performances in Saigon, this architectural masterpiece was designed by French architect Eugène Ferret, thereby showcasing the elegance of European neoclassical style.

Today, the Opera House hosts a plethora of significant cultural events. From concerts, ballet, and opera to theatrical plays and dance performances, it serves as a stage for talented artists and renowned art troupes.

Zoo and Botanical Garden

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, is among the oldest zoo-and-garden complexes in Vietnam and even the world. This is the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the lush greenery right in the heart of the city.

The zoo is home to a diverse array of rare animals, including tigers, elephants, giraffes, and an array of beautiful birds. Meanwhile, the botanical gardens showcase a stunning variety of plants and flowers. 

Night Activities For The Itinerary

Just like Las Vegas in many ways, Ho Chi Minh City truly comes alive at night, often even more bustling than during the day. To fully immerse yourself in the city’s electrifying nightlife, there are a few activities you absolutely must add to your to-do list.

Enjoy street food at Ho Thi Ky market

Ho Thi Ky Flower Market is a paradise of blooming flowers and an ideal spot for street food enthusiasts as well. Amidst the stalls of colorful blossoms, you’ll discover countless street food vendors offering a variety of local treats. From banh mi and pho to spring rolls and grilled seafood, your taste buds should be in for a delightful adventure.

Stroll Along Bui Vien Street Or Nguyen Hue Street 

These streets are also the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant nightlife. The most special feature of these streets is that they are full of walkers, and that is probably the reason why these streets are often very crowded in the evenings.

Head Over To Hanh Thong Tay Market And Buy Cheap Clothes

Located in the bustling Go Vap District, this vibrant market offers an array of affordable clothing options. As you explore the numerous stalls and shops, you’ll find a wide variety of apparel, from trendy streetwear to traditional attire. The items here are reasonably priced, but don’t hesitate to try your hand at bargaining – it’s all part of the experience.

See The City From Landmark 81 Or Bitexco

Landmark 81 and Bitexco are the tallest buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can have a mesmerizing 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the bustling metropolis. The twinkling lights, especially along the Saigon River, will create a mesmerizing nighttime sight of the city. They are also perfect for capturing beautiful photos and bringing home

Have A Floating Dinner On The Saigon River

There’s something truly magical about having dinner on the Saigon River at night. The gentle sway of the boat and the cool evening breeze – all create the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening.

As the boat sets sail, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, alive with vibrant nightlife, twinkling lights, and iconic landmarks.

Have a Panoramic View From a Rooftop Bar

Rooftop bars like EON Heli Bar, Saigon Rooftop Bar, and Social Club Rooftop Bar can truly elevate your nightlife experience in Ho Chi Minh City. These high-altitude spots give you breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s twinkling skyline, and of course, the delicious drinks here add to the fun.

Watch a Water Puppet Show

The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater is where the traditional Vietnamese art of water puppetry is brought to life for both local and international visitors. Each performance at the theater lasts around 50 minutes and features a rich variety of acts. These range from enchanting folk tales and legends to educational and entertaining skits.

The water puppets are masterfully controlled via the puppets by skilled puppeteers standing behind the stage curtain. What’s more, traditional folk music, especially the sounds of the dan bau, dan nhi, and bamboo flutes, blend with the splashing water and lighting effects to create a magical and mesmerizing atmosphere.

Conclusion

No need to spend months exploring – just follow our Ho Chi Minh City itinerary to fully experience the city’s unique charm. So don’t wait any longer to immerse yourself in the rich culture of this city, once known as the “Pearl of the Far East.”