Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Ho Chi Minh City: A Whirlwind Adventure

This itinerary is designed for travelers looking to experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in a short amount of time.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Pham Ngu Lao Street offers numerous hostels and guesthouses with dorm beds starting at $5/night.
  • Mid-Range: Look into boutique hotels in District 1 like The Reverie Saigon or Hotel des Arts Saigon for stylish accommodations around $80-$150 per night.
  • Luxury: Indulge in the opulence of The Park Hyatt Saigon or Caravelle Saigon, starting from $200/night.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-on-arrival.
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Vietnamese. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas.

Transportation:

  • Grab/Gojek: Ride-hailing apps are the most convenient and affordable way to get around.
  • Taxis: Abundant but negotiate fares beforehand or use a meter.
  • Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): An adventurous option for short distances.

Day 1: Historical Immersion & Culinary Delights

  • Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Reunification Palace: Explore this historic landmark, once the presidential palace of South Vietnam.
    • War Remnants Museum: Gain a sobering understanding of the Vietnam War through powerful exhibits and artifacts.

  • Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Enjoy a bowl of Pho, a quintessential Vietnamese noodle soup, at Pho 2000, a legendary eatery known for its flavorful broth.

  • Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM):

    • Cu Chi Tunnels: Embark on a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war.

  • Evening (6:00 PM - onwards):

    • Dinner at Ben Thanh Market: Sample street food delights like banh mi, grilled skewers, and fresh fruit juices.
    • Rooftop Drinks: Head to a rooftop bar like Chill Skybar or Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar for stunning city views while sipping on cocktails.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration & Retail Therapy

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Jade Emperor Pagoda: Visit this ornate Taoist temple adorned with intricate carvings and statues.
    • Notre Dame Cathedral: Admire the beautiful French colonial architecture of this iconic landmark.

  • Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Indulge in Banh Xeo, crispy Vietnamese crepes filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables, at a local restaurant like Banh Xeo 46A.

  • Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM):

    • Shopping: Explore the trendy boutiques and designer stores in District 1, or hunt for bargains at Ben Thanh Market.

  • Evening (6:00 PM onwards):

    • Dinner Cruise on Saigon River: Enjoy a romantic evening with dinner and live music while cruising along the scenic Saigon River.
    • Night Market: Browse through stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and local snacks at the Nguyen Hue Walking Street night market.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Bargain: Don’t be afraid to haggle prices, especially at markets.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in the hot and humid weather.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Saigon Opera House: Catch a traditional Vietnamese opera performance.
  • Cao Dai Temple: Visit this unique temple combining elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.
  • Mekong Delta Tour: Spend a day exploring the picturesque waterways and villages of the Mekong Delta.