Ho Chi Minh City Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

-Hour Layover Highlights

If you have a full day, experience the city's main pulse.

Morning: Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), transfer to District 1. See Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior) and Central Post Office. Walk along Dong Khoi Street. Lunch: Authentic Bánh Mì from a street stall or a bowl of Phở at a local eatery. Afternoon: Visit Independence Palace, then War Remnants Museum. Evening: Dinner at local Vietnamese restaurant. Explore the lively atmosphere of Bui Vien A Street for walking only for evening entertainment, or enjoy a sophisticated drink at a Rooftop bar in District 1 for city views.

Layover Considerations

Focus on District 1 landmarks for effectiveness.
Embrace street food for quick and local meals.
Use Grab or reputable taxis for transfers.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A short break makes way for a decent introduction to the city's key features and an experience of local culture.

Day 1: District 1 Exploration

Immerse yourself in history and city life.

Itinerary Focus

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral (exterior) and Central Post Office.
Explore Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum.
Wander through Ben Thanh Market for shopping.
Evening: Dinner, rooftop bar, or the A O Show at Saigon Opera House.

For cultural shows, consider booking the A O Show via GetYourGuide.

Day 2: Historical Excursion & Chinatown

Venture outside the core and explore a district.

Excursion Details

Half-day trip to Củ Chi Tunnels (morning).
Explore Cholon (District 5 - Chinatown), including Thien Hau Temple.
Wander through the bustling Binh Tay Market.

Day 3: River Views & Departure

A relaxing morning before your departure.

Departure Focus

Enjoy a relaxing ride on the Ho Chi Minh City Waterbus.
Revisit a favorite spot for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Enjoy a final Vietnamese meal before departing SGN.
Consider booking airport transfers in advance.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A full week allows deep exploration and popular day trips.

Week Overview

Day 1: Arrival & District 1 Highlights.
Day 2: Củ Chi Tunnels & Cao Đài Temple (full-day tour).
Day 3: Mekong Delta Immersion (full-day tour).
Day 5: Culinary Focus (cooking class, market exploration).

Two-Week & Long-Term Exploration

Two-Week In-Depth

Combine the one-week itinerary with multi-day extensions to The Delta of the mekong river, Mũi Né, Đà Lạt, or flights to other regions/Cambodia. For compensation on potential flight issues, visit Compensair.

Long-Term Stay

Focus on cultural immersion: language classes, volunteering, exploring all districts, frequenting local spots, and extended regional trips. For airport lounge access during longer trips, check Priority Pass.

Travel Pace

Always build in free time for spontaneous exploration. Ho Chi Minh City thrives on discovery.

Affiliate Tip for Itineraries

Discover various reservable activities for your itinerary on GetYourGuide, from tours to classes, making your planning straightforward.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to your specific passions.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Delve deep into Vietnam's past and architectural wonders.

Historical Journey

Day 1: Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh The Museum of the city.
Day 2: Củ Chi Tunnels and Cao Đài Temple (full-day trip).
Day 3: Explore Cholon (Chinatown), Thien Hau Temple, Binh Tay Market.
Wander historic District 1 for From the time of french colonization architecture.

For comprehensive history-focused tours, GetYourGuide offers various options.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Culinary Adventure

Day 1: Join a street food tour (scooter or walking).
Day 2: Participate in a Vietnamese cooking class and market visit.
Day 3: Explore Cholon's Chinese-Vietnamese food. Sample Bánh Mì, Phở, and local desserts.
Indulge in Vietnamese coffee and local desserts like chè.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Seek thrills and natural beauty.

Outdoor Pursuits

Day 1: Guided cycling tour through city paths, Ho Chi Minh City Waterbus.
Day 2: Day trip to Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve for mangrove exploration.
Day 3: Day trip to Vũng Tàu for beaches, swimming, water sports.
Remember insect repellent for natural areas.

For adventure tours and equipment, explore options on Patagonia's website for sustainable gear.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Create unforgettable moments for all ages.

Family Fun

Day 1: Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden. Child-friendly museum or hotel pool.
Day 2: Củ Chi Tunnels (above-ground areas for young children). Kid-friendly cooking class.
Day 3: Full-day trip to Dam Sen Water Park or Suoi Tien Cultural Amusement Park.
Pack snacks, sun protection, and hydrate regularly.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Admire the city's blend of colonial and modern design.

Architectural Wonders

Day 1: Saigon Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, City Hall, Fine Arts Museum.
Day 2: Explore colonial villas in District 3. Visit contemporary art galleries in District 1.
Day 3: Explore The Cafe Apartments on Nguyen Hue. Discover local street art alleys.
Discover emerging local artists and their works.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Seek tranquility and rejuvenation amidst urban life.

Serene Paths

Day 1: Jade Emperor Pagoda, Thien Hau Temple, Giac Lam Pagoda.
Day 2: Join a yoga or meditation class. Traditional Vietnamese massage or spa.
Day 3: Explore peaceful parks (Tao Dan Park). Enjoy healthy vegetarian dining.
Find tranquility at local wellness centers.

Custom Itinerary Note

For family groups trips, ensure plenty of snacks, sun protection, and hydration. Pace yourselves to avoid overtired children.

Budget-Based Plans

Ho Chi Minh City caters to all budgets. Tailor your trip to your financial comfort.

Backpacker's Guide

Travel light, spend smart, experience rich.

Budget Strategies

Accommodation: Hostels or basic guesthouses in Pham Ngu Lao/Bui Vien.
Food: mainly street food and local eateries for best value.
Transport: Public buses, GrabBike for solo travel, walking.
Activities: Free walking tours, parks (Tao Dan), budget museums.

Carry small denominations of VND for quick purchases and bargaining.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

Ease and comfort without excessive spending.

Mid-Tier Choices

Accommodation: Comfortable 3-4 star hotels in District 1 or 3.
Food: Mix of local restaurants, street food, and mid-range dining.
Transport: GrabCar for convenience, reputable taxis, walking.
Activities: Guided tours (Củ Chi, Mekong Delta), museums, rooftop bar, cooking class.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and comfort.

Premium Choices

Accommodation: 5-star hotels (The Reverie Saigon, Park Hyatt Saigon) or high-end boutiques.
Food: Fine dining, exclusive culinary experiences, private food tours, high-end rooftop bars.
Transport: Private cars with drivers for city tours and day trips, premium Grab services.
Activities: Private guided tours, luxurious spa treatments, VIP tickets for A O Show, luxury shopping.

Upgrade your stay with a hotel pool for an invigorating break from the city heat.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Maximize your budget without compromising on experience.

Smart Savings

High-Value: Street food tours give cultural immersion at reasonable cost.
Discounts: Inquire about group discounts or package deals for tours.
Happy Hours: Utilize promotions at bars and restaurants.
Accommodation: Serviced apartments for longer trips can save on cost of food.

Getting Around on a Budget

Efficient ways to explore the city without overspending.

Transport Options

Public buses cover extensive routes and are very inexpensive.
GrabBike is a great budget choice for solo travelers.
Walking short distances has immersive experiences and costs nothing.
Always check the fares or use metered taxis for transparency.

Budget-Friendly Dining

Savor authentic flavors without breaking the bank.

Dining Tips

Street food stalls (quán ăn) are the heart of local cuisine and cheap.
Local markets offer fresh, inexpensive produce and cooked meals.
Enjoy Vietnamese coffee at local cafes for a cultural and budget-friendly experience.
Look for lunch specials at eateries to get good value.

Budget Planning Wisdom

Utilize happy hour promotions at bars and restaurants for discounted drinks and sometimes food, a great way to save.

Seasonal Specialties

Ho Chi Minh City's seasons provide distinct atmospheres and experiences.

Dry Season Highlights December-April

Tropical 'winter' offers ideal conditions.

Best for Dry Weather

Ideal for outdoor sightseeing, walking tours, and city exploration on foot.
Comfortable, dry weather.
Perfect for rooftop bar experiences with clear skies.
Enjoy beaches and coastal areas in pleasant conditions.

Booking travel and accommodation in advance is often recommended during this peak season.

Wet Season Highlights May-November

The 'summer' months unveil different charms.

Rainy Season Perks

Lush Mekong Delta landscapes flourish.
Indoor activities: museums, cooking classes, spa treatments.
Monsoon showers give a refreshing break from the heat.
Fewer crowds at attractions equal a more relaxed experience.

Festival or Event-Centered Visits

Experience cultural celebrations.

Major Celebrations

Tết (Lunar New Year): Late Jan/early Feb. Book everything far in advance.
Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu): Sep/Oct. Colorful lanterns, mooncakes.
Liberation Day (September 2): Public holiday.

Cultural Events

Hung King Temple Festival (April): Commemorating Vietnam's founders.
Buddha's Birthday (May): Parades and temple visits.
Check local listings for cultural performances.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Discover the benefits of traveling during quieter periods.

Off-Season Advantages

Lower prices for flights and accommodation (May-September).
Significantly fewer crowds at popular attractions.
Be prepared for rain with appropriate gear (rain jacket, umbrella).
Plan more indoor activities for afternoons when showers are likely.

Embracing the Rainy Season

The wet season an unique charm to the city.

Rainy Day Charm

Rain often has a cooler, fresher atmosphere.
Local life continues as usual under ponchos and umbrellas.
Enjoy cozy cafes during a downpour.
Often, rain is heavy but brief, followed by sunshine.

Important Seasonal Notes

Tết Travel

If visiting during Tết, expect some closures and reduced services for local businesses. International hotels usually remain open.

Wet Season Planning

During the wet season, arrange outdoor activities for the mornings, as afternoon showers are common.

Seasonal Travel Advice

Always check specific event dates closer to your travel period as they can vary slightly each year.

Ho Chi Minh City Itineraries