Ho Chi Minh City Tour 5 Days 4 Nights: Cu Chi Tunnels, Cao Dai Temple & Black Virgin Mountain

Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City

If you are looking for a trip that blends vibrant city life, spritual landmarks, historical depth, and natural beauty, this 5D4N Ho Chi Minh City itinerary is made for you. Over five memorable days, you will dive into Saigon’s dynamic culture, step inside the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, marvel at the colorful Cao Dai Temple, and breathe in the serenity of Black Virgin Mountain. Along the way, you will enjoy local foods, lively streets, and warm hospitality.
Here is a refreshed, immersive guide for your perfect Southern Vietnam adventure.

Day 1: Arrival – Settle In & First Impressions of Saigon

Your journey begins the moment you land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. A private transfer takes you directly to y your hotel in District 1—a lively, convenient area for first-time travelers. After check-in, take a short rest before stepping outside to meet the city.
Evening walk around District 1
Start gently by wandering through the illuminated downtown. Some places to enjoy:

Nguyen Hue Walking
Nguyen Hue Walking
The Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral
Takashimaya
Takashimaya

This first evening lets you ease into Saigon’s dynamic but welcoming rhythm.

Day 2: Motorbike Adventure – Museums – Traditional Shows – Dinner Cruise

Morning: Motorbike City Tour (4 hours)

Discover the real Ho Chi Minh City on a private scooter tour with a local guide. Skip the usual tourist trail and dive into the vibrant streets, rich history, and daily life of Ho Chi Minh City. Ride through alleyways, local neighborhoods, amd iconic landmarks while enjoying Vietnamese coffee and a delicious local treat along the way.
Expect to see:

  • Thich Quang Duc Monument: The Thich Quang Duc Monument honors the Buddhist monk who self-immolated in 1963 to protest religious persecution, symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and Vietnam’s fight for spiritual freedom.
Thich Quang Duc Monument
Thich Quang Duc Monument
  • The Pink church: The entire building — walls, columns, bell tower — is painted in a vibrant pink tone that stands out dramatically against the skyline.
The Pink church
The Pink church
  • Drive through local slum areas and old ghetto buildings: Witness the raw, real side of city life.
The slum area
The slum area
  • The Café Apartment on Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street is a former residential block transformed into a stacked maze of small independent cafés and boutiques, famous for its vibrant balconies, creative interiors, and unique “coffee-with-a-view” experience overlooking the pedestrian boulevard.
The Café Apartment
The Café Apartment
  • Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: A hidden gem filled with spiritual beauty. A peaceful temple filled with incense and ancient statues.
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
  • Saigon River views: Enjoy breezy river views to end you journey.
Saigon River views
Saigon River views

It’s a fun, authentic experience that captures Saigon’s unique character.

Afternoon: Enjoy the local experience by your own

War Remnants Museum: The War Remnants Museum showcases powerful exhibits, photographs, and military artifacts that document the impacts of the Vietnam War, offering visitors a deep reflection on history and peace.

War Remnants Museum
War Remnants Museum

The Independence Palace: The Independence Palace is a historic landmark where the Vietnam War ended, featuring preserved command rooms and architecture that reflect the nation’s journey toward reunification.

The Independence Palace
The Independence Palace

Later, head to Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, local snacks, handicrafts, and traditional items. The hustle and bustle here is a classic Saigon experience.

Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market

Evening: Cyclo Ride, Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruis
Your evening will be filled with culture and relaxation.
Cyclo ride: A cyclo ride offers a slow, immersive way to experience Saigon’s street life, giving visitors an up-close view of local culture, traffic, and daily rhythms.

Cyclo ride
Cyclo ride

Water puppet show: A water puppet show showcases Vietnam’s traditional storytelling through puppets performing on water, accompanied by live folk music and cultural legends.

Water puppet show
Water puppet show

Dinner cruise: A dinner cruise on the Saigon River offers a relaxing evening with scenic city views, illuminated bridges, and a taste of local cuisine on board.

Dinner cruise
Dinner cruise

This perfect combination of art, cuisine, and scenery creates a memorable night in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels – Cao Dai Temple – Black Virgin Mountain

This is a full day of discovery that takes you from wartime history to spiritual architecture and natural landscapes.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Venture into the historic tunnel system where Vietnamese soldiers once lived and fought. Explore the narrow underground passages, learn how they survived, and gain a deeper understanding of the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Cu Chi Tunnels
Cu Chi Tunnels

Cao Dai Temple

Next, travel to Tay Ninh to visit the magnificent Cao Dai Holy See. Known for its rainbow-colored design and spiritual harmony, the temple blends various religions into one peaceful faith.
If you arrive in time for a prayer session, the chanting and atmosphere will leave a lasting impression.

Cao Dai Temple
Cao Dai Temple

Black Virgin Mountain

Finish the day with a refreshing escape to Ba Den Mountain, the tallest mountain in Southern Vietnam.

Black Virgin Mountain
Black Virgin Mountain

Choose between hiking or taking the cable car to enjoy:

  • Panoramic views
  • Peaceful pagodas
  • Green valleys stretching to the horizon

It’s a perfect balance after a long day of cultural and historical exploration.

Day 4: Mekong Delta – A Full Day in My Tho

Swap city life for nature as you head toward the Mekong Delta. My Tho welcomes you with quiet waterways, lush orchards, and friendly locals.

Your journey includes:

A boat ride along the Mekong River
A boat ride along the Mekong River
Visits to coconut candy and honey workshops
Visits to coconut candy and honey workshops
Tasting tropical fruits in a local garden
Tasting tropical fruits in a local garden
A sampan cruise through peaceful canals
A sampan cruise through peaceful canals
Traditional southern folk music
Traditional southern folk music
A local village experience
A local village experience

It’s a calm, scenic day that shows you a different side of Vietnam.

Day 5: Last Hours in Saigon – Departure

Enjoy your remaining time in Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace.

Suggested activities:

  • Sip Vietnamese coffee in a cozy cafe
  • Try one more bowl of Pho or Banh My
  • Pick up last-minute souvenirs or gifts
  • Take one last stroll around District 1

When it’s time, your driver will bring you to the airport for your flight home, ending your unforgettable 5D4N journey through Southern Vietnam.

Conclusion

This 5D4N Ho Chi Minh City itinerary highlights the best experiences the south has to offer—from historic landmarks and vibrant markets to sacred temples and peaceful river scenery. Whether you’re an adventure lover, a culture seeker, or a foodie, this itinerary offers a well-rounded blend of everything that makes Vietnam special.