Stroll the bustling Old Quarter streets and scenic Hoan Kiem Lake; good orientation walk and photo stops near Ngoc Son Temple (temple small entrance fee).
See a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance near Hoan Kiem Lake—shows usually run in the evening and are family-friendly (typical start times 7:00–8:00pm).
Visit the mausoleum grounds, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda; mausoleum viewing hours are morning-only and it is commonly closed on Monday & Friday—plan accordingly.
Explore Vietnam’s first national university, a peaceful complex of courtyards and traditional architecture open roughly 8:00–17:00; great for history and photos.
Relax with Vietnamese coffee and watch Old Quarter life; optionally view Train Street (check train times and safety rules—some stretches regulated for visitors).
Many cruises include kayaking or a small boat to visit caves and beaches—these activities typically run mid-afternoon; check your cruise operator's schedule.
Join a market visit plus a half-day cooking class to learn central-Vietnam dishes; classes usually run mornings and include lunch with your prepared dishes.
Afternoon tour to Cu Chi Tunnels (approx 1.5–2h each-way transfer); tunnels open roughly 7:00–17:00—expect a 4–5 hour round trip excursion from the city.
Full-day guided trip departs early from HCMC to My Tho or Ben Tre—includes boat rides among islands, local village visits and fruit tasting; most day tours run 7:30–17:00.
Celebrate final full night with skyline views from a rooftop bar or a relaxed dinner cruise on the Saigon River—both offer memorable group experiences.
Depart hotel to Tan Son Nhat International Airport allowing generous time for check-in and international departure procedures for a 11:00pm–11:30pm flight.