Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam 2 Day Itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning:

  • War Remnants Museum (opens at 7:30 AM): A must-visit museum showcasing the brutal effects of the Vietnam War. (~ 1 hour, VND 15,000 entrance fee)
  • Independence Palace: The former presidential palace of South Vietnam, offering a glimpse into the country’s history. (~ 1 hour, VND 20,000 entrance fee)

Afternoon:

  • Ben Thanh Market: A bustling marketplace for souvenir shopping, trying local street food, and experiencing Vietnamese culture. (free admission)
  • Lunch at Banh Mi 37: Savor a delicious banh mi sandwich at this popular eatery. (~ VND 20,000 - 50,000 per person)

Evening:

  • Sunset Cruise on Saigon River: Relax on a romantic cruise while watching the city’s skyline transform during sunset. (~ 1 hour, VND 500,000 - 700,000 per person)
  • Dinner at The Refinery: Enjoy international cuisine and craft beers in a trendy setting. (~ VND 200,000 - 500,000 per person)

Day 2:

Morning:

  • Cu Chi Tunnels (opens at 7:00 AM): Explore the intricate network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War. (~ 1-2 hours, VND 90,000 entrance fee)
  • Lunch at Cu Chi: Try local Vietnamese dishes like bun cha and banh xeo at one of the many restaurants near the tunnels. (~ VND 50,000 - 100,000 per person)

Afternoon:

  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning French colonial architecture of this beautiful cathedral. (free admission)
  • Central Post Office: Admire the stunning interior and exterior design of this historic post office. (free admission)

Evening:

  • Dinner at Pho 2000: Slurp delicious pho noodles at this popular, affordable eatery. (~ VND 20,000 - 50,000 per person)
  • Night Market on Nguyen Van Chieu Street: Browse local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs under the stars. (free admission)

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Nguyen Shack Hostel (starts at ~ VND 200,000 per night) or similar options
  • Mid-range: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel (starts at ~ VND 1,500,000 per night) or similar options
  • Luxury: Hotel des Arts Saigon (starts at ~ VND 5,000,000 per night) or similar options

Transportation:

  • Taxis: Mai Linh and Vinasun are reputable taxi companies. (~ VND 10,000 - 20,000 for short distances)
  • Grab Bike/Taxi: A popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam. (~ VND 5,000 - 15,000 for short distances)
  • Walking/Cycling: Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems.

Things to Know:

  • Traffic: Be prepared for chaotic traffic and aggressive motorbike drivers.
  • Weather: Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid year-round. Bring sunscreen, hats, and light clothing.
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but many locals speak English.

Tips:

  • Haggle: At markets, haggling is a common practice. Be respectful and have fun!
  • Try Local Food: Street food is delicious and affordable. Try popular dishes like banh mi, pho, and goi cuon.
  • Respect Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples or museums, and remove your shoes when required.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Street Art: Explore the vibrant street art scene in District 3 and Binh Thanh District.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting the Mekong Delta or Can Gio Island for a unique experience.
  • Nightlife: District 1 is home to many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Be cautious of your surroundings and drink responsibly.

Have a fantastic trip to Ho Chi Minh City!