A Comprehensive Travel Guide Updated 2025

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City? With just five days to explore this bustling metropolis, you can experience the best that this dynamic city has to offer. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

• Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City: Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, take a taxi or Grab to your centrally located hotel in District 1. This district is the heart of the city, making it easy to access major attractions and experience the local atmosphere. After checking in, freshen up before starting your adventure.
• Visit the War Remnants Museum: Start your journey by learning about Vietnam’s complex history. The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It features powerful exhibits related to the Vietnam War, including photographs, war remnants, and historical documents. The museum offers a sobering glimpse into the country’s tumultuous past and the impact of the war on its people. Allocate at least two hours to fully absorb the exhibits.

Afternoon

• Lunch at Ben Thanh Market: Dive into the local food scene at Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest and most iconic markets in the city. Sample delicious street food options such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and fresh spring rolls. The market is also a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles. Make sure to try some local fruits, like dragon fruit or mangosteen, from the vendors.
• Explore Notre Dame Cathedral: After lunch, take a short walk to Notre Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of District 1. This iconic landmark, built in the late 19th century, showcases striking French colonial architecture. Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the surrounding gardens and the nearby Saigon Central Post Office.

Evening

• Stroll through the Saigon Central Post Office: Just a stone’s throw away from the cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office is another architectural gem worth visiting. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this building features a stunning interior adorned with colorful mosaics and vintage maps. Take some time to explore the post office and perhaps send a postcard home.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Treat yourself to traditional Vietnamese dishes at a nearby eatery. Look for local favorites like com tam (broken rice) or hu tieu (noodle soup). For a unique experience, consider dining at a restaurant that offers a cooking class so you can learn to make your own Vietnamese dishes.
• Evening Walk on Nguyen Hue Walking Street: After dinner, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a vibrant pedestrian area lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and people-watch as locals and tourists mingle. This area is especially beautiful at night, illuminated by colorful lights.

Day 2: Discovering History and Culture

Morning

• Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: Start your day with a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 30 kilometers from the city center. These extensive underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You can crawl through the narrow tunnels and learn about the guerrilla warfare tactics employed during the conflict. Many tour operators offer guided tours that include transportation, making it easy to explore this historical site.

Afternoon

• Return to the City for Lunch: After an enlightening morning, return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Consider trying com tam with grilled pork or a refreshing bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodles).
• Visit the Reunification Palace: Following lunch, head to the Reunification Palace, a historic landmark that was once the residence of the President of South Vietnam. The palace is filled with fascinating artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country’s history. Take a guided tour to learn more about the significance of this site.
• Explore the Jade Emperor Pagoda: After the palace, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the most important Taoist temples in the city. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and statues, and the serene atmosphere provides a perfect contrast to the bustling city outside. Spend some time admiring the architecture and observing local worshippers.

Evening

• Dinner and Rooftop Drinks: Wind down your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar. Venues like the Eon Heli Bar or the Rooftop Garden Bar offer stunning views of the city skyline. Sip on cocktails while watching the sunset, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that Ho Chi Minh City is known for.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Mekong Delta

Morning

• Mekong River Boat Tour: Start your day early with a boat tour on the Mekong River. This day trip typically includes visits to floating markets, local villages, and rice paddies. You’ll have a chance to see the unique lifestyle of the delta’s residents, who rely on the river for their livelihoods. Many tours include a guided boat ride, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Afternoon

• Lunch on an Island: During your tour, enjoy a traditional Mekong meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Taste dishes that highlight the region’s culinary heritage, such as fish cooked in banana leaves or tropical fruits grown nearby.
• Explore Local Craft Workshops: After lunch, visit local craft workshops to see artisans at work. You might encounter traditional rice paper making, coconut candy production, and pottery. Engaging with local craftsmen provides insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Evening

• Return to Ho Chi Minh City: After a fulfilling day in the Mekong Delta, return to the city and unwind. Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps visiting a local night market for some shopping and trying more street food. The Ben Thanh Night Market is a great option, where you can find souvenirs, clothing, and delicious snacks.

Day 4: Culture and Leisure

Morning

• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda: Start your day at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a stunning temple dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Taoist belief. The temple is filled with intricate statues, beautiful altars, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection.

Afternoon

• Lunch at a Cafe: After your visit, head to a nearby cafe to try the famous Vietnamese coffee. Enjoy a traditional ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) or ca phe trung (egg coffee) for a unique treat.
• Explore Tao Dan Park: Spend the afternoon relaxing in Tao Dan Park, a lush green space in the heart of the city. The park is popular for tai chi and morning exercises. Walk along the shaded paths, admire the sculptures, and perhaps join locals in a game of badminton.

Evening

• Dinner in Chinatown (Cholon): For a culinary adventure, head to Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Experience the flavors of Vietnamese-Chinese cuisine at a local restaurant. Look for dishes like dim sum, stir-fried noodles, and aromatic soups. The bustling atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
• Night Market Exploration: After dinner, explore the thriving street markets of Cholon. Take in the vibrant colors, sounds, and smells as you browse through the stalls selling everything from textiles to street food. This experience will deepen your understanding of the local culture.

Day 5: Shopping and Farewell

Morning

• Visit Binh Tay Market: Start your final day by visiting Binh Tay Market, a lesser-known but equally vibrant market in Chinatown. This wholesale market offers a wide range of products, from textiles to spices and souvenirs. It’s a great place to shop for unique items at reasonable prices while experiencing local life.

Afternoon

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy your last meal in the city at a local eatery. Consider trying bun cha (grilled pork with noodles) or a fresh seafood dish. Take your time to savor the flavors one last time.
• Explore the Bitexco Financial Tower: After lunch, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower, the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City. Head to the Skydeck on the 49th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This is the perfect spot to reflect on your journey and capture stunning photos of the skyline.

Evening

• Farewell Dinner: For your final dinner, treat yourself to a memorable meal at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city lights. Options like the Sky36 rooftop bar or the Chill Skybar offer exquisite dining experiences with stunning views. Toast to your adventures in Ho Chi Minh City as you enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Nightlife in Pham Ngu Lao Street: If you have energy left, consider exploring the nightlife in Pham Ngu Lao Street, known for its vibrant backpacker scene. Enjoy live music, dance, or simply relax at a bar with a drink in hand, soaking in the last moments of your trip.

Tips for Your Trip

• Stay Hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water throughout your stay. Consider carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it as needed.
• Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture. Simple phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you) go a long way.
• Use Grab for Transportation: Grab is a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city. Download the app for easy access to taxis and motorbike rides. Public buses are also available and can be a cost-effective option.
• Bargain at Markets: When shopping at markets, be prepared to negotiate prices. It’s common practice in Vietnam, so don’t hesitate to haggle a bit to get the best deal.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and observe local customs. Cover your shoulders and knees, and always remove your shoes when entering sacred spaces.
• Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe, but like any major city, be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

In just five days, you can experience the vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City. This city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with something to captivate every traveler. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, your journey through Ho Chi Minh City will be filled with unforgettable moments. Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an adventure in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities!