3 day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City, with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history, is a fantastic place to explore at a leisurely pace. Here’s a relaxed 3-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this bustling metropolis.

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of the City

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast. Try a bowl of pho or a banh mi at a local café. Café Giảng is famous for its egg coffee, so you might want to stop by for a unique twist on your morning brew!
• Visit the War Remnants Museum: After breakfast, head to the War Remnants Museum. It’s a poignant place that offers deep insights into Vietnam’s history. Take your time to absorb the exhibits; there’s no rush!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Ben Thanh Market: Stroll over to Ben Thanh Market for lunch. You can sample various street foods like fresh spring rolls, grilled meats, and local fruits. Don’t forget to haggle a bit if you decide to shop for souvenirs!
• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and Central Post Office: After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica and the Central Post Office. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a great spot for some photos. You can even send a postcard home from the post office!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: Treat yourself to dinner at a rooftop restaurant like the Bitexco Tower’s Sky Deck or the Rooftop Garden at the Rex Hotel. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city as the sun sets.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street. It’s lively in the evenings, with street performers and local vendors. Grab a coconut or some ice cream to enjoy as you walk!

## Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Try some Vietnamese pancakes (bánh xèo) or a bowl of hu tieu (noodle soup) at a local eatery.
• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda: After breakfast, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda. This beautiful temple is filled with intricate carvings and statues. Take your time to explore the peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in District 1: Head to a nearby restaurant for lunch. You might want to try some local specialties like com tam (broken rice) or bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodles).
• Relax at Tao Dan Park: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Tao Dan Park. It’s a lovely green space where you can relax, people-watch, or even join in on some tai chi with the locals.

Evening:

• Dinner in District 3: Explore District 3 for dinner. There are plenty of cozy restaurants and street food stalls. Try some grilled seafood or a hot pot for a fun dining experience.
• Live Music or Cultural Show: Check out a local venue for live music or a cultural performance. The Saigon Opera House often has shows, so see if you can catch a performance!

## Day 3: Day Trip and Local Experiences

Morning:

• Breakfast at your Hotel or Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, perhaps trying some Vietnamese yogurt or a fresh fruit platter.
• ## Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. It’s about an hour and a half from the city. You can explore the tunnels and learn about their historical significance. It’s a fascinating experience, but don’t feel pressured to crawl through the tunnels if you’re not up for it!

Afternoon:

• Lunch Near Cu Chi: There are local eateries near the tunnels where you can grab a bite. Try some local dishes before heading back to the city.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City: Once back, take some time to relax at your hotel or a nearby café.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For your last dinner, indulge in a nice meal at a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try. Perhaps a place that specializes in seafood or a traditional Vietnamese restaurant.
• Night Market or Shopping: If you’re up for it, visit a night market for some last-minute shopping or just to soak in the atmosphere. The Binh Tay Market in Cholon (Chinatown) is a great option!

And there you have it! A relaxed 3-day itinerary in Ho Chi Minh City that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌏✈️