Sài Gòn Vietnam tourism has a special appeal, bringing together a unique culinary culture, countless impressive experiences, and many attractive destinations, from long-standing relics to bustling, vibrant neighborhoods.
1. An Introduction to Saigon Tourism
Saigon is the old and familiar name for the city named after Uncle Ho—Ho Chi Minh City. As a young metropolis with a history of about 300 years, Saigon attracts visitors with the charming beauty of its many architectural works, its dynamic and modern pace of life, and its generous, friendly people.
Saigon also boasts many famous shopping centers, attractive tourist spots, modern infrastructure, and a diverse range of services, from budget-friendly to high-end. Therefore, Saigon tourism is an ideal choice that can fully meet the entertainment and leisure needs of all domestic and international visitors.
Saigon tourism always holds a special appeal due to the charming beauty of its landscapes, architecture, and dynamic, modern pace of life.
Traveling to Saigon always has a special allure due to the charming beauty of its landscapes, architecture, and vibrant, modern lifestyle (Photo: Collected)
2. Useful Tips for Independent Travel in Saigon Vietnam
Saigon is a dynamic and modern city with countless experiences and services to meet every traveler’s needs. To easily plan and have the perfect trip, consider these important tips:
2.1. When is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City is influenced by a sub-equatorial tropical monsoon climate, so it has stable, pleasant weather that isn’t too harsh. This allows visitors to travel to Saigon Vietnam at any time of the year. The weather in Saigon is divided into two distinct seasons with some specific characteristics:
- Rainy season: From May to November, Saigon often experiences sudden showers, but the temperature remains pleasant.
- Dry season: Lasting from December to April of the following year, the dry season has an average temperature of around 27°C with dry, sunny weather that isn’t too intense.
Visitors can explore Saigon at any time of the year (Photo: Collected)
2.2. Transportation to Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon is a major city and the most important transportation hub in Vietnam. Therefore, tourists have many options for getting to Saigon Vietnam
2.2.1. By Plane
Most domestic airlines operate many direct flights to Tan Son Nhat International Airport. With a high frequency of flights, travelers can quickly get to Ho Chi Minh City, saving significant time and effort.
Tan Son Nhat Airport is located in Tan Binh District, about 8 km from the center of District 1 and about 5 km from District 3 and Phu Nhuan District. From here, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or ride-hailing service to the city center.
Quickly get to Saigon via a direct flight to Tan Son Nhat Airport (Photo: Collected)
2.2.2. By Train
If you have more time and enjoy sightseeing along the way, you can choose to travel to Saigon by train, with a journey time of about 30 hours when departing from Hanoi. The Thong Nhat train has multiple trips a day and stops at many stations from North to South, providing a convenient journey. You can buy tickets at a reputable agent or book online via the dsvn.vn website to get accurate information and prices.
2.2.3. By Bus
When departing from Central or Southern Vietnam, a bus is an optimal choice for travelers due to its affordable price, multiple daily trips, and easy booking. Buses arriving in Saigon stop at Mien Dong Bus Station or Mien Tay Bus Station, from where you can take a shuttle, taxi, or bus to your specific destination. 
Conveniently travel to Ho Chi Minh City by bus (Photo: Collected)
2.2.4. By Motorbike or Car
These are suitable modes of transport for a flexible and proactive journey. The route to Saigon has become significantly shorter thanks to connecting expressways, saving travelers considerable time. However, remember to obey traffic laws and be mindful of your speed for a safe and memorable trip.
2.3. Getting around in Saigon Vietnam
If you’re visiting Saigon for the first time, you’ll be impressed by the vibrant street scene day and night, from personal vehicles to the public transport network. Getting around the city is incredibly convenient with many suitable options:
2.3.1. Motorbike
Renting a motorbike is an ideal option for flexible travel and conveniently exploring the streets and alleys of Saigon Vietnam. You can rent a motorbike at rental shops or your accommodation for about 100,000 to 200,000 VND per day, depending on the type of bike.
Freely explore Ho Chi Minh City by motorbike or car (Photo: Collected)
2.3.2. Public Bus
To save money and leisurely admire the streets of Saigon, you can travel by public bus. The extensive bus network connects many destinations, and high service frequency makes it easy to get around and sightsee.
2.3.3. Ride-hailing Services
Getting around Saigon is now more convenient than ever with the Xanh SM Bike and Xanh SM Taxi services. Xanh SM Taxi offers the best travel experience with quality service, clear metered fares, and a team of polite, professional drivers. The electric vehicles provide a smooth ride, a spacious interior, and a cool environment, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying experience during your Saigon trip.
Easily book and travel conveniently with the Xanh SM taxi service (Photo: Collected)
You can also explore Saigon on a modern electric motorbike with Xanh SM Bike. Professional service, reasonable prices, and a smooth, odorless, and smoke-free ride ensure you’ll have a pleasant and exciting journey with a friendly driver.
2.4. Accommodation
Ho Chi Minh City offers a diverse range of accommodations to meet every traveler’s needs. Depending on your preferences, budget, and desired experience, you can choose to stay at a luxury hotel or a fully-equipped serviced apartment.
Mid-range hotels or cozy homestays are also great options for a memorable stay. Additionally, Saigon has many budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses suitable for everyone’s travel budget.
Enjoy a memorable stay in the luxurious space of Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph Collection.
2.5. What to pack for a trip to Ho Chi Minh City?
Packing, booking rooms, and buying tickets are essential steps when planning your trip. To save time thinking about what to prepare, consider this checklist:
- Book plane or train tickets: You should book at least 2-3 months in advance to secure your spot and get the best price.
- Book accommodation: It’s essential to book your hotel room about a month before your trip to have plenty of options.
- Personal documents: ID card, driver’s license, train/bus tickets (if any), booking confirmations, birth certificate (for children flying).
- Cash and ATM card: You should only carry a small amount of cash along with your ATM card to prevent loss or theft.
- Personal items: Toiletries, sunscreen, phone charger, power bank, phone, electronic devices (if needed).
- Clothes and shoes: You can prepare the quantity of clothes and shoes depending on your type of travel and personal needs. Accessories like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can also make you look more stylish during your trip.
Pack a complete set of items for your trip to Saigon.
3. Where to go in Saigon Vietnam? 15+ most attractive destinations
Saigon’s tourist attractions are incredibly diverse, blending tradition and modernity. They include historical relics, ancient buildings, high-rise buildings, and bustling commercial centers. As a result, Saigon offers visitors a rich and impressive journey. Here are more than 15 attractive destinations that will give you a complete view of a magnificent Saigon Vietnam
3.1. Grand Park Entertainment Universe
- Address: Vinhomes Grand Park, 512 Nguyen Xien Street, Ho Chi Minh City
Located in the Vinhomes Grand Park urban area, the Grand Park is a new entertainment and festival hub suitable for all ages. The Tropical Island Water Park has over 21 modern games, highlighted by the “Sea Monster” slide, the “Tsunami Bay” wave pool, and a 1,680 m² children’s water play area. Visitors can also experience kayaking and “beach” walking in the heart of the city.
The Dreamy Garden offers a diverse world of games, from children’s games like “Wooden Carousel” and “Adventure Train” to challenging thrill rides and a complex of 20+ exciting prize games and 15 unique light trees, creating an impressive entertainment and check-in space.
Additionally, Grand Park provides visitors with a wonderful experience with a series of lively shows and minishows that take place 365 days a year, along with the opportunity for 24/7 shopping on vibrant commercial streets and enjoying a rich culinary scene from all over Vietnam.
3.2. Independence Palace
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ho Chi Minh City
The Independence Palace is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a place that holds important pages of the country’s history, as it witnessed the event of April 30, 1975. With its architectural beauty and great historical value, this is a must-visit sightseeing and photography spot on your trip to Saigon Vietnam.
Visit the Independence Palace—an attractive daytime tourist destination in Saigon Vietnam.
3.3. Ben Thanh Market
- Address: Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Ben Thanh Market is considered a unique cultural symbol and an attractive place to experience local life. The market has a bustling atmosphere with a variety of goods for sale, from souvenirs, fabrics, and fashion items to food stalls and delicious dishes.
Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit destination when you come to Saigon.
3.4. Notre Dame Cathedral
- Address: 01 Cong xa Paris Square, Ho Chi Minh City
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of Saigon’s historical symbols, with construction starting in 1877 and completing in 1880. The building is heavily influenced by Romanesque architecture combined with Gothic styles, creating a magnificent and solemn overall look.
3.5. Nha Rong Wharf – Ho Chi Minh Museum
- Address: 01 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City
Nha Rong Wharf is a famous historical site, as it was the place where Uncle Ho (young man Nguyen Ai Quoc) began his journey abroad to find a way to save the country on June 5, 1911. Besides visiting the wharf, visitors can learn about the different stages of his life through the nine exhibition rooms at the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
The sparkling night scene at Nha Rong Wharf.
3.6. Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
- Address: 02 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens are likened to the “green lung” of the city, with a fresh green space, diverse ecosystems, and a lively world of many animal species. This is an attractive Saigon tourist destination, helping families and groups of friends have a fun visit and an opportunity to relax, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and learn more about the animal world.
3.7. Floating Temple Phù Châu
- Address: 173/36/7B11 Duong Quang Ham, Ho Chi Minh City
The Floating Temple Phù Châu, located in the middle of the Vam Thuat River for 300 years, is a famous spiritual building that attracts many visitors who come to pray for peace and worship. Amidst the water, the small temple impresses with the exquisite architecture of its emerald-green glazed tile roof and the “four sacred animals” carvings. Besides worshiping Buddha, the temple also worships Ba Thuy (Lady Thuy) and many holy mothers according to Southern folk beliefs.
The Floating Temple Phù Châu is located in the middle of the Vam Thuat River, Go Vap District.
3.8. City Theatre
- Address: 07 Lam Son Square, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
The City Theatre, with its distinct Baroque style, is an architectural masterpiece built during the French colonial period with a huge budget. Today, the theater is a symbol of history, art, and a charming sightseeing spot on a trip to Saigon. Visitors can buy tickets to enjoy performances and also tour and admire the splendid architecture and interior.
3.9. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
- Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh, Ho Chi Minh City
The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts has beautiful ancient architecture and a large exhibition space, making it an ideal place for art lovers. It is also a famous check-in spot in Saigon, where visitors can easily take impressive photos.
Check-in at the Museum of Fine Arts, one of Saigon’s most beautiful tourist spots.
3.10. Bach Dang Wharf
- Address: 02 Ton Duc Thang, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Bach Dang Wharf, with its spacious and modern architecture, is the starting point for cruises on the Saigon River. Besides coming here to buy boat tickets, visitors can stroll, play, and have a picnic on the lush green grass of Bach Dang Park.
3.11. Famous Pagodas
Saigon’s famous and long-standing pagodas are not only a spiritual anchor for the city’s residents but also attractive tourist destinations. The pagodas are marked by their solemn, ancient architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and many meaningful Buddhist activities and events. Here are some beautiful, famous, and sacred pagodas you can visit on your trip to Saigon:
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: 73 Mai Thi Luu, Ho Chi Minh City
- Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phap Hoa Pagoda: 870 Truong Sa, Ho Chi Minh City
- Giac Lam Pagoda: 565 Lac Long Quan, Ho Chi Minh City
The Jade Emperor Pagoda with its ancient architecture in the heart of Saigon.
3.12. Cu Chi Tunnels
- Address: An Nhon Tay commune, Ho Chi Minh City
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a famous historical site with a network of underground tunnels more than 200 km long, which included medical stations, living quarters, kitchens, and storage rooms. This is a place that preserves the resounding marks of Saigon’s army and people during the resistance war. When visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, you can participate in memorable activities like crawling through the tunnels, playing paintball, and cycling to see the sights.
3.13. Tan Dinh Church
- Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung, Ho Chi Minh City
Tan Dinh Church was built in 1876 in a Gothic style combined with Romanesque and a touch of Baroque. The building also wears a prominent pink paint color with delicate white and green patterns. With its impressive architecture, Tan Dinh Church has become an attractive sightseeing and check-in spot for many tourists on their trip to Saigon.
The beautiful architecture and prominent pink color of Tan Dinh Church.
3.14. Nguyen Hue Walking Street
- Address: Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the most beautiful and modern squares in Vietnam, stretching over 600 meters from the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee to Bach Dang Wharf. At night, the street is a favorite meeting place for many tourists, with activities like sightseeing, strolling, enjoying food, and participating in many vibrant events and festivals.
3.15. Binh Dong Wharf
- Address: Tau Hu canal, Ho Chi Minh City
Binh Dong Wharf is where many boats carrying fragrant flowers and sweet fruits from neighboring provinces gather in Ho Chi Minh City for trade and commerce. This creates a lively and fresh picture of unique river life in the heart of Saigon.
The bustling scene of Binh Dong Wharf during the Lunar New Year.
3.16. Ho Chi Minh City Post Office
- Address: 02 Cong xa Paris Square, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon Central Post Office is a unique architectural work that combines classic French style with the beauty of Asian design, creating an elegant and impressive look. Inside is a large space with high ceilings and vivid maps on the walls, creating a unique sightseeing experience for visitors.
What is there to see in Saigon? Saigon is famous for its magnificent buildings with distinct Western architecture.
4. What to do in Saigon? 7 unmissable experiences
Known as the city that never sleeps, Saigon will offer you an impressive journey with many exciting entertainment and recreational activities day and night. If you’re wondering what to do during your trip, here are seven of the most attractive experiences you can consider:
4.1. Enjoy a dinner cruise
Enjoying dinner on a cruise is a romantic and exciting way to experience a trip down the Saigon River. Visitors can cruise on the river, admire the sparkling beauty of the city at night, have dinner, and enjoy performances. The ticket price is flexible with a variety of choices for the type of cruise, the quality of the meal, and integrated services.
Cruise on the Saigon River and have a romantic dinner.
4.2. Admire the city from Landmark 81 SkyView
Landmark 81 is currently the tallest building in Vietnam and a new symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, visitors can get a complete view of the prosperous, modern, and no less romantic Saigon. You can also challenge yourself with the “Top of Vietnam” virtual reality game to experience the thrilling feeling of skydiving.
Admire the entire city and experience many exciting activities at Landmark 81 SkyView during your trip to Saigon.
4.3. Experience the river bus
Experiencing the river bus is a great way to discover Saigon from a new perspective. The Saigon River bus departs daily from many wharves, such as Bach Dang, Linh Dong, Binh An, Hiep Binh Chanh, Thanh Da, and passes by many famous landmarks like Ben Nghe Port, Nha Rong Wharf, Den Do Cape, Phu My Bridge, and Binh Khanh ferry terminal. The river bus also has flexible departure times and affordable ticket prices, making it easy to see Saigon from morning until night.
The river bus offers an exciting travel and sightseeing experience for your trip to Saigon.
4.4. See the city from a double-decker bus
Riding an open-top double-decker bus is a new and wonderful way to explore the streets of Saigon. The bus is equipped with a multilingual audio guide, free wifi, and a guide who provides detailed information about important landmarks. Each trip lasts about 60 minutes and passes by famous Saigon tourist destinations like the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the War Remnants Museum, Bui Vien Walking Street, Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the City Theatre.
Tour Ho Chi Minh City on a double-decker bus.
4.5. Immerse yourself in impressive live music
Immersing yourself in the live music scene is an attractive option to enjoy a vibrant night in Saigon. The city’s bars and tea rooms offer a diverse music atmosphere, from powerful rock and improvised jazz to gentle acoustic tunes. You can enjoy the music and relax with a cup of coffee, a cocktail, or a glass of wine.
4.6. Explore the Chinese neighborhoods in Saigon
During your trip, you can visit Saigon’s Chinatown. The Chinese neighborhoods are concentrated most in District 5, along streets like Tran Hung Dao, Chau Van Liem, and Luong Nhu Hoc. Here, you’ll admire ancient houses, discover traditional culture, and can combine your visit with many pagodas and assembly halls. This area is also famous for its restaurants serving Chinese cuisine, offering a rich culinary experience.
Admire the ancient houses and assembly halls in Saigon’s Chinese neighborhoods.
4.7. Have fun in the vibrant backpacker area
Saigon at night puts on a sparkling and lively appearance in many neighborhoods, most notably the Bui Vien backpacker area. The area is home to hundreds of cafes, bars, pubs, and restaurants that operate from night until early morning. This is an ideal destination to immerse yourself in the bustling, fun atmosphere of Saigon at night and enjoy many special dishes. The neighborhood also has public amenities like restrooms, free wifi, and a tourist information station, making for a convenient experience.
Have fun and eat at Bui Vien Backpacker Street—a lively Saigon night spot.
5. Delicious must-try Saigon dishes with addresses
What to eat in Saigon? Saigon’s cuisine is incredibly rich, not only featuring Southern specialties but also bringing together the culinary essence of the three regions of Vietnam and many other countries. Therefore, a trip to Saigon offers a diverse culinary journey with countless delicious options. However, if you want to try Saigon’s most distinctive cuisine, the following seven dishes are the most worthwhile suggestions:
5.1. Com tam (Broken rice)
Saigon’s broken rice is a culinary symbol of this modern city, with its attractive and unique delicious flavor. The dish consists of familiar, rustic ingredients that always delight diners, such as broken rice, pickled vegetables, scallion oil, grilled pork ribs, shredded pork skin, pork patty, and egg.
- Suggested addresses:
- Com Tam Ba Ghien: 84 Dang Van Ngu, Ho Chi Minh City
- Com Tam Bai Rac: 77 Le Van Linh, Ho Chi Minh City
- Com Tam Sa Bi Chuong: 179 Tran Binh Trong, Ho Chi Minh City
What to eat in Saigon? Enjoy the delicious and authentic broken rice of Saigon.
5.2. Hu tieu (Rice noodle soup)
Hu tieu is a popular dish in Saigon, with a distinctive Southern flavor. This dish is easy to eat, with a sweet and savory broth and a variety of ingredients like pork, pork bones, shrimp, heart, and liver.
- Suggested addresses:
- Hu Tieu My Tho Thanh Xuan: 62 Ton That Thiep, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hu Tieu Nam Vang Trung Coi: 80 Cao Thang, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hu Tieu Thanh Dat: 34 Co Bac, Ho Chi Minh City
Hu tieu is a delicious dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner during your trip to Saigon.
5.3. Banh mi (Vietnamese baguette)
Banh mi is a famous Vietnamese street food that enthralls many tourists with its hearty filling and irresistible flavor. Besides the usual familiar ingredients, Saigon banh mi also has a diverse flavor with many unique variations, such as grilled pork banh mi, beef wrapped in lolot leaf banh mi, and ham banh mi.
- Suggested addresses:
- Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Ho Chi Minh City
- Banh Mi Hoa Ma: 53 Cao Thang, Ho Chi Minh City
- Banh Mi Bay Ho: Huynh Khuong Ninh Street, Ho Chi Minh City
5.4. Bun bo (Beef noodle soup)
Bun bo is one of the most popular and delicious dishes that many people choose to eat when they travel to Saigon. The dish attracts diners with its rich and sweet broth, combined with beef shank, pork leg, pork blood cubes, Vietnamese pork sausage, and various fresh vegetables.
- Suggested addresses:
- Bun Bo Ut Hung: 6C Tu Xuong, Ho Chi Minh City
- Bun Bo Ba Nghi: 446 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Ho Chi Minh City
Southern beef noodle soup captivates diners with its rich and sweet flavor.
5.5. Oc (Snails)
Snails are a particularly popular dish in Saigon, with fresh, diverse ingredients and a variety of cooking methods. Saigon’s best snail restaurants also have a friendly atmosphere, giving diners a comfortable and fun dining experience.
- Suggested addresses:
- Oc Nhu: 650/4/29D Dien Bien Phu, Ho Chi Minh City
- Oc Nho: 178 Le Quoc Hung, Ho Chi Minh City
5.6. Xoi (Sticky rice)
Xoi is a common breakfast dish not only in Saigon but also throughout Vietnam. When you travel to Saigon, you can easily find many xoi stalls selling all kinds of delicious sticky rice, from sweet to savory, with many attractive toppings.
- Suggested addresses:
- Xoi Binh Tien: 88 Minh Phung, Ho Chi Minh City
- Xoi Cay Hai Co: 64 Nguyen Duy Duong, Ho Chi Minh City
Discover the rich flavors of many sticky rice dishes on your trip to Saigon.
5.7. Banh trang tron (Mixed rice paper salad)
Banh trang tron is a popular and addictive Saigon snack thanks to its unique and delicious flavor. Each serving of this dish is mixed with a flavorful sauce and combined with many ingredients like quail eggs, dried beef, dried chicken, green mango, Vietnamese coriander, and pork rinds.
- Suggested addresses:
- Banh Trang Tron Chu Vien: 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ho Chi Minh City
- Banh Trang Co Nam: 45 Le Thi Hong, Ho Chi Minh City
6. What to buy as a gift in Ho Chi Minh City?
Saigon’s specialties for gifts aren’t overly diverse because most delicious dishes are best eaten fresh and aren’t suitable for long-distance transport. However, you can still choose some of the following specialties as gifts for family and friends after your trip to Saigon:
- Roasted ground coffee
- Buttery rice paper, fine salt rice paper
- Pia cake
- Rice paper with shredded pork
- One-sun-dried threadfin fish
- Roasted salted cashews
- Dried basil seeds, dried mu trom (sterculia)
Rice paper with shredded pork is one of the delicious gifts that many people choose to bring home from their trip to Saigon.
7. Suggested Saigon travel itineraries for first-time visitors
If you’re visiting Saigon for the first time, you might be a bit confused about how to plan your itinerary among so many attractive destinations. Therefore, you can refer to the suggested itineraries below to have a memorable trip with many experiences:
7.1. 1-day itinerary
A 1-day trip to Saigon is quite rushed, but you’ll still have enough time to explore the city center and visit famous spots. What you need to do is arrange your travel schedule appropriately to have enough time to rest and enjoy your experience:
- Morning: Check in at Notre Dame Cathedral – visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts.
- Noon: Have lunch with Saigon’s special dishes and relax at a cafe.
- Afternoon: Visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
- Evening: Have dinner and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bui Vien Backpacker Street or enjoy the scenery and cool air at the Anh Sao Bridge (Phu My Hung urban area, District 7).
Visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens—one of Saigon’s famous tourist areas.
7.2. 2-day, 1-night itinerary
A 2-day, 1-night trip to Saigon is an ideal plan to explore the unique sights of this dynamic city. Here is a detailed itinerary that you can refer to for your upcoming trip:
- Day 1:
- Morning: Visit the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market.
- Noon: Rest, have lunch, and enjoy a drink at a cafe.
- Afternoon: Visit Nha Rong Wharf, experience the river bus, and watch the romantic sunset.
- Evening: Stroll and enjoy the food at Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Bui Vien Backpacker Street.
- Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Vinh Nghiem Pagoda or Phap Hoa Pagoda.
- Noon: Admire the city from Landmark 81 SkyView, combined with entertainment and shopping at the commercial center.
- Afternoon: Pack your luggage to return, ending a memorable 2-day, 1-night trip to Saigon.
Stroll around Ben Thanh Market on the first day of your Saigon trip.
7.3. 3-day, 2-night itinerary
With a 3-day, 2-night itinerary, you’ll have enough time to feel the vibrant pace of life and the cultural characteristics of this city. From famous attractions to delicious food, Saigon will surely bring you memorable experiences.
- Day 1: Visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts – check in at the City Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral – have fun at the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens – explore Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
- Day 2: Visit Ben Thanh Market – check in at the City Theatre – visit the Chinese neighborhoods – experience dinner on a cruise.
- Day 3: Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels – end your rich 3-day, 2-night trip to Saigon.
Crawl through the tunnels and visit the Cu Chi Tunnels on the third day of your Saigon trip.
7.4. 4-day, 3-night itinerary
With a 4-day, 3-night trip, you’ll have enough time to rest, explore famous destinations, and experience many exciting activities. Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you can refer to and adjust the suggested itinerary below for the perfect trip:
- Day 1: Visit the Independence Palace, check in at Notre Dame Cathedral – shop and eat at Ben Thanh Market – visit Bach Dang Wharf and watch the romantic sunset – experience a cruise on the Saigon River.
- Day 2: Explore nature and the animal world at the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens – visit Nha Rong Wharf – experience the double-decker bus.
- Day 3: Travel to the Cu Chi Tunnels – visit the Floating Temple Phù Châu – stroll around Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Bui Vien Backpacker Street.
- Day 4: Stroll around the Chinese neighborhoods – admire the entire city from Landmark 81 SkyView – travel to the airport or bus station, ending your 4-day, 3-night trip to Saigon.
Visit Bach Dang Wharf and admire the poetic river scenery.
8. How much does a trip to Ho Chi Minh City cost?
The cost of a trip to Saigon doesn’t have a specific number because it depends on each person’s needs and choices. Based on basic needs, the cost for a 3-day, 2-night independent trip to Saigon can be estimated as follows:
- Round-trip plane ticket: 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND per person
- Hotel: 700,000 – 1,500,000 VND per room for 2 nights
- Food: 1,000,000 VND per person for 3 days
- Other costs (travel, entertainment, shopping): 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND per person
Thus, the total estimated cost for a 3-day, 2-night trip to Saigon is about 4,200,000 VND per person. This cost can change depending on the price of services at different times and each person’s needs. To save money, you can use personal transportation and choose basic accommodation and entertainment services.
Easily control your Saigon travel costs based on your needs and priorities.
9. Tips for a safe and money-saving trip to Saigon
Besides referring to travel tips for Saigon, you should also keep in mind a few important things for a safe and money-saving trip:
- Refer to Google Maps for directions and ask locals for help to avoid getting lost, going down a one-way street, or entering a restricted area.
- Ask for the price beforehand when eating or shopping at markets or stalls that don’t have prices listed.
- Keep a close eye on your bag and personal belongings on the street and in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing and theft.
- When thinking about which district to stay in, choose a reputable accommodation located in a central district to ensure security and convenience for sightseeing and entertainment.
Besides its modern neighborhoods and vibrant streets, Saigon still preserves peaceful areas with many ancient, mossy relics. Therefore, a trip to Saigon will leave you with many unforgettable emotions and impressions of one of Vietnam’s most dynamic and modern cities. It’s also an exciting place for you to enjoy entertainment, and explore a multi-colored culture and cuisine.
