How to Spend 3 Days in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Ultimate Local Guide

• Mekong Delta, Things To Do, Useful Info

If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon, and wondering how to make the most of 3 days in this vibrant city, you’re in the right place! This guide will take you through an exciting itinerary filled with history, culture, mouth-watering food, and some of Saigon’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we’ve got you covered with the best local experiences!

📅 1. Day 1 – Explore History & Culture in Central Saigon

🏛️ 1.1. Morning – Reunification Palace & War Remnants Museum

Start your journey with two of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks. Head to the Reunification Palace, a historical site where the Vietnam War came to an end in 1975. The palace is a mix of impressive architecture and history, offering a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Afterward, make your way to the War Remnants Museum to understand the country’s turbulent history. The museum is home to chilling exhibits, photographs, and military equipment from the Vietnam War, offering an emotional and educational experience

⛪ 1.2. Midday – Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

Take a short walk from the War Remnants Museum to visit two beautiful French colonial buildings in the heart of Saigon: the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. The cathedral, built in the 19th century, boasts stunning architecture and colorful stained-glass windows. Right across the street is the Central Post Office, which looks like something out of a French postcard. Take time to admire the grand design, including the magnificent ceiling and the ancient phone booths

🍜 1.3. Lunch – Ben Thanh Market Street Food

For lunch, head to Ben Thanh Market, one of Saigon’s oldest and busiest markets. Not only is it a great place to shop for souvenirs, but it’s also home to a variety of delicious street food stalls. Sample classic dishes like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and com tam (broken rice). It’s a must-try for food lovers!

🚶1.4. Afternoon – Hidden Alley Walking Tour

After lunch, take a walking tour through some of Saigon’s hidden alleys. While the city’s main streets are bustling, these narrow alleys provide a more authentic, quieter side of the city. Join a local guide for a personalized tour of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, and get a chance to meet local residents, see their daily routines, and taste traditional snacks.

🌇 1.5. Evening – Rooftop Views & Drinks

End your first day in Saigon with a stunning view of the city skyline at sunset. Head to one of the city’s popular rooftop bars, such as Saigon Saigon Bar or the Bitexco Skydeck, to enjoy a cocktail and relax. The city comes alive in the evening, and there’s no better way to take it all in than from above!

🍜 2. Day 2 – Street Food, Local Life & Motorbike Fun

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🛵 2.1. Morning – Motorbike Adventure Through Local Districts

Saigon is known for its motorbikes, and there’s no better way to experience the city than on the back of one. Start your day with a motorbike tour to explore the local districts. You’ll zip through bustling neighborhoods like District 1, 3, 5, and 10, stopping at markets, temples, and lesser-known sights that you might not find in guidebooks.

Your local guide will share fascinating stories and take you to hidden food stalls where you can taste traditional Vietnamese dishes.

☕ 2.2. Midday – Hidden Café Experience

After your motorbike adventure, stop by one of Saigon’s charming hidden cafes. These cafes are tucked away in unexpected places, such as behind an apartment block or in a narrow alley. Enjoy a cup of rich Vietnamese coffee, like the popular egg coffee or the traditional Vietnamese drip coffee. These cafes offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

🍲 2.3. Lunch – Noodle Dishes Locals Love

For lunch, head to a family-run eatery and try some of the noodle dishes that locals love. You’ll find favorites like bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), hu tieu (noodles with pork and shrimp), and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup). These dishes are staples in the local diet, and trying them is a true Saigon experience

🎨 2.4. Afternoon – Markets & Antique Street

Spend your afternoon exploring Tan Dinh Market, a less-touristy market where you can browse through a variety of goods. Afterward, head to Le Cong Kieu Antique Street, where you’ll find a treasure trove of antiques, art, and vintage items. It’s the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs and learn about the history of the city.

🌃 2.5. Evening – Saigon Street Food Tour

In the evening, join a street food tour to sample some of Saigon’s most famous dishes. A local guide will take you through the streets of District 1 and 3, where you’ll try dishes like grilled seafood, banh mi, goi cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), and delicious desserts. Saigon’s street food is one of the highlights of the city, and this tour will help you discover the best spots.

3. Day 3 – Day Trips Beyond the City

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🌴 3.1. Option 1 – Mekong Delta Day Tour

If you’re ready to venture beyond the city, take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, just a couple of hours from Saigon. You’ll explore the lush rivers and canals on a boat ride, visit floating markets, and taste fresh tropical fruits. The Mekong Delta is a peaceful escape from the fast pace of Saigon and offers a glimpse into rural life in Vietnam.

💣 3.2. Option 2 – Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a must. Located about an hour outside Saigon, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a vast network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Take a guided tour to explore the tunnels and learn how soldiers lived and fought during the war.

🌆 3.3. Evening – Chill by the River or Thao Dien

After a full day of exploring, spend your evening in one of Saigon’s more relaxed areas. Head to the riverside promenade for a peaceful walk, or visit Thao Dien, Saigon’s trendy expat neighborhood, for riverside dining, cafes, and art spaces. This is a great way to wind down your trip and reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had.

🙌 4. Bonus Tips from Saigon Taste Tours

📅 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Saigon is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. If you’re here in April, you’ll get to enjoy local celebrations like Reunification Day on April 30th and Hung Kings’ Festival, which are wonderful opportunities to experience Vietnam’s culture.

📲 Travel Tips & Useful Apps

Here are a few travel tips to make your visit more enjoyable:

• Use Grab for quick and affordable transport (a local alternative to Uber).
• Download Google Translate to help with communication.
• Bring cash for small purchases at markets, as many places don’t accept cards.

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