Ho Chi Minh City-7-day-itinerary
Ho Chi Minh City 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Take a taxi or bus (VND 40,000 - USD 2) to your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the War Remnants Museum (VND 15,000 - USD 0.65) to understand Vietnam’s history.
- Evening: Explore the bustling streets of District 1, visit the Ben Thanh Market for a taste of local street food and shopping.
- Where to Stay: Consider staying in District 1 or 3, which are close to the city center. Some popular options include:
- Where to Eat: Try Bánh Mì 37 for delicious Vietnamese sandwiches.
Day 2: History and Culture
- Morning: Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels (VND 90,000 - USD 4), a network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
- Afternoon: Explore the Museum of Vietnamese History (VND 20,000 - USD 0.85).
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre (VND 100,000 - USD 4.25).
- Tips: Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
Day 3: Foodie Heaven
- Morning: Take a Street Food Tour (VND 800,000 - USD 35) to sample the city’s best dishes.
- Afternoon: Visit the Binh Tay Market in Chinatown for a taste of local fruits and snacks.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Anan Saigon, a modern Vietnamese restaurant with a focus on sustainable ingredients.
Day 4: Nature Escapes
- Morning: Visit the Botanical Garden (VND 20,000 - USD 0.85), a peaceful oasis in the city.
- Afternoon: Take a day trip to the Can Gio Mangrove Forest (VND 200,000 - USD 8.50), a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Tips: Pack sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Day 5: Modern Ho Chi Minh City
- Morning: Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower (VND 200,000 - USD 8.50) for panoramic views of the city.
- Afternoon: Explore the Saigon Centre Mall, a modern shopping complex with international brands.
- Evening: Enjoy rooftop cocktails at Rooftop Bar at Rex Hotel (VND 100,000 - USD 4.25).
Day 6: Day Trips
- Morning: Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta (VND 800,000 - USD 35), where you can explore floating markets and traditional villages.
- Tips: Be prepared for long bus rides and early morning departures.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market.
- Afternoon: Depart for Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward journey.
Things to Know
- Vietnam uses Vietnamese Dong (VND) as its currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.
- The city is generally safe, but be mindful of pickpocketing and traffic safety.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples and museums.
- Try to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases, such as “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).
Transportation
- Taxis: Vinasun Taxi or Mai Linh Taxi are reliable options.
- Motorbike Rentals: Available at various shops around the city. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
- Walking and Cycling: The city is relatively flat, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Tips
- Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.
- Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen during outdoor activities.