Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam-6-day-itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City: 6-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Backpacker hostels in District 1 (e.g., The Common Room Project, Saigon Hostel) or Phu Nhuan District.
  • Mid-Range: Boutique hotels in Districts 1 & 3 (e.g., The Reverie Saigon, Hotel des Arts Saigon).
  • Luxury: Five-star hotels with rooftop pools and views (e.g., Park Hyatt Saigon, Caravelle Saigon).

Transportation:

  • Motorbikes: Rent one for flexibility, but be cautious of traffic.
  • Grab/Gojek: Ride-hailing apps are cheap and convenient.
  • Taxis: Metered taxis are readily available but negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Bus: Affordable but routes can be confusing.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
  • Bargaining: Expected in markets and with street vendors.
  • Weather: Hot and humid year-round, rainy season from May to November.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & District 1 Exploration

  • Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and transfer to your accommodation.
  • Lunch at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa for delicious banh mi sandwiches.
  • Explore the Reunification Palace, a historical landmark.
  • Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and admire its French colonial architecture.
  • Enjoy dinner at Secret Garden Restaurant, a hidden gem with rooftop views.

Day 2: War Remnants Museum & Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Morning: Reflect on history at the War Remnants Museum.
  • Afternoon: Take a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers.
  • Evening: Indulge in street food delights at Ben Thanh Market, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar like Chill Skybar.

Day 3: Mekong Delta Excursion

  • Join a boat trip to the Mekong Delta, exploring its canals, floating markets, and lush landscapes.
  • Enjoy fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies.
  • Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

Day 4: Art & Culture Immersion

  • Visit the Fine Arts Museum for Vietnamese art collections.
  • Explore the unique exhibits at the Vietnam History Museum.
  • Stroll through Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian-only zone with cafes and shops.
  • Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, a restaurant known for traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting.

Day 5: Shopping & Relaxation

  • Shop for souvenirs and clothing at Ben Thanh Market or Saigon Square.
  • Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment.
  • Enjoy coffee at a local café like L’Usine, known for its stylish ambiance.
  • Dinner at Quan An Ngon, showcasing diverse Vietnamese dishes in a bustling atmosphere.

Day 6: Departure

  • Enjoy a final Vietnamese breakfast before heading to the airport.
  • Reflect on your memorable experiences in Ho Chi Minh City.

Tips:

  • Download Grab/Gojek apps for easy transportation.
  • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chao” (hello) and “Cam on” (thank you).
  • Carry small denominations of VND for street vendors and markets.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the heat.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and explore the many bars and clubs.

Have a fantastic time exploring Ho Chi Minh City!