3 day itinerary for Ho Chi Minh

Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City, with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history, is a fantastic place to explore over three days. Let’s dive into an exciting itinerary that balances activities and culinary delights!

## Day 1: Historical Exploration & Street Food Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast at Phở Hòa: Start your day with a steaming bowl of phở, Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. Phở Hòa is a local favorite, and their broth is simply divine!
• War Remnants Museum: After breakfast, head to the War Remnants Museum. It’s a poignant place that offers deep insights into Vietnam’s history, particularly the Vietnam War.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa: Grab a delicious bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich) from this popular spot. The combination of crispy bread, savory meats, and fresh veggies is a must-try!
• Reunification Palace: After lunch, visit the Reunification Palace, a historic landmark that was the site of the end of the Vietnam War. The architecture and the stories behind it are fascinating!

Evening:

• Dinner at Ben Thanh Market: Head to Ben Thanh Market for dinner. You can sample various street food options like grilled skewers, fresh spring rolls, and local desserts. The atmosphere is lively, and you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
• Night Walk at Bui Vien Street: After dinner, take a stroll down Bui Vien Street, known for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy the street performances, grab a drink at a local bar, or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

## Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Culinary Delights

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Đen: Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese coffee and some bánh mì at a local café. The strong coffee will give you the energy you need for the day!
• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda: This beautiful pagoda is a serene escape from the bustling city. Admire the intricate architecture and the peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Cục Gạch Quán: This charming restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu full of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Try their clay pot dishes and fresh spring rolls!
• Explore the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and Central Post Office: After lunch, take a short walk to these iconic landmarks. The architecture is stunning, and they’re great spots for some photos!

Evening:

• Dinner at Ngọc Sương: Treat yourself to a seafood feast at Ngọc Sương. Their fresh seafood dishes are a highlight, and the ambiance is lovely.
• Saigon River Cruise: End your day with a relaxing cruise on the Saigon River. Enjoy the city skyline at night while sipping on a cocktail or enjoying a dinner cruise.

## Day 3: Local Markets & Cooking Class

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Try some local breakfast dishes like hủ tiếu (noodle soup) or xôi (sticky rice) at a nearby eatery.
• Visit Chợ Lớn (Chinatown): Explore the bustling streets of Chợ Lớn, where you can find traditional markets and shops. Don’t forget to check out the Thien Hau Temple!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Pho Shop: Enjoy another bowl of phở at a local shop in Chinatown. Each place has its own twist, so it’s worth trying a few!
• Cooking Class: Join a cooking class in the afternoon. Many classes include a market tour where you can learn about local ingredients before cooking traditional dishes. It’s a fun and interactive way to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Chopsticks: After your cooking class, enjoy dinner at The Chopsticks, where you can savor the dishes you’ve prepared or try something new.
• Relax at a Rooftop Bar: End your trip with a drink at a rooftop bar like Bitexco Tower’s Sky Deck or Chill Sky Bar. The views of the city at night are breathtaking!

And there you have it! A delightful three-day itinerary filled with history, culture, and mouthwatering food. Enjoy your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City! If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask!