Ho Chi Minh City 4 Day Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: History and Culture

Morning

  • War Remnants Museum: Start the day with a visit to this museum to understand the history of Vietnam’s struggle for independence. (Open from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM, and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM)
  • Reunification Palace: Take a short walk to the Reunification Palace, the former presidential palace of South Vietnam. (Open from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

Afternoon

  • Lunch at Ben Thanh Street Food Market: Try some local street food at this bustling market.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Visit this beautiful French-built cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Evening

  • Dinner at Pho 2000: Enjoy a delicious bowl of pho at this popular restaurant.
  • Explore Nguyen Hue Street: Take a stroll along this pedestrian street and enjoy the local nightlife.

Accommodation

  • Hotel suggestion: Liberty Central Saigon Centre Hotel or similar
  • Book in advance: Recommended to book your hotel room at least 2 weeks prior to arrival

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available everywhere, but make sure to use a reputable company like Vinasun or Mai Linh.
  • Grab Bike: A popular and affordable way to get around the city.

Day 2: Local Life

Morning

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. (Open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
  • Lunch at a local restaurant: Try some traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Afternoon

  • Binh Tay Market: Visit this local market in Chinatown and try some street food.
  • Thien Hau Temple: Explore this beautiful Chinese temple.

Evening

  • Dinner at Banh Xeo Muoi Xiem: Enjoy a delicious dinner at this popular restaurant.
  • Live Music at Yoko Cafe: End the day with some live music and a cold beer.

Day 3: Foodie Heaven

Morning

  • Ben Thanh Market: Spend the morning exploring this iconic market and trying some local snacks.
  • Coffee at Café Central: Take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at this popular café.

Afternoon

  • Street Food Tour: Join a guided tour to sample the best of Vietnamese street food.
  • Visit the Museum of Vietnamese History: Learn more about Vietnam’s history and culture. (Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM)

Evening

  • Dinner at Anan Saigon: Enjoy a modern take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
  • Rooftop Bar at The View: End the day with a drink and stunning views of the city.

Day 4: Day Trip

Morning

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where you can see floating markets, try local fruit, and explore rural Vietnam.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

Afternoon

  • Visit a local village: Learn about rural life in Vietnam and interact with locals.
  • Return to Ho Chi Minh City: End the day trip and head back to the city.

Things to Know

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  • Language: Vietnamese, but many locals speak English
  • Weather: Hot and humid year-round, so stay hydrated and wear sunscreen
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

Tips

  • Haggle at markets: It’s expected to haggle prices at local markets.
  • Try new foods: Be adventurous and try new Vietnamese dishes.
  • Respect locals: Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, local life, food, and adventure. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the best of Ho Chi Minh City!