Once you land in the largest airport in Vietnam, start your trip by taking a taxi to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Head to the iconic Ben Thanh Market, where you can find almost everything from food stalls to local handicrafts. Take a break from the heat and the hustle and bustle of the city and visit the Reunification Palace. The building played an important role in Vietnam's history and has beautiful French-inspired interiors. End your day by walking through the winding streets of the Old Town and indulge in some delicious street food.
Start your day by taking a taxi to the War Remnants Museum, where you can learn about the aftermath of the Vietnam War. After that, take another taxi to the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Both landmarks are in close proximity to each other and have stunning French colonial architecture. End your day by visiting the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas, which is a beautiful pagoda showcasing Vietnamese and Chinese influences.
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where you can experience the rural side of Vietnam. Take a boat trip through the maze of waterways and visit some local villages where they make coconut candy and rice paper. Lunch will be a feast of Vietnamese cuisine cooked with fresh local ingredients. The trip ends with a relaxing sampan ride through the quiet canals shaded by coconut trees.
Ho Chi Minh is a busy city with a variety of transportation options such as taxis, buses, and motorbikes. Taxis are convenient and reasonably priced, while buses are the cheapest option for getting around. A motorbike can be rented for a more adventurous experience for around $10 per day. Expect traffic, and be careful when crossing the streets. Budget for around $20-$30 in transportation costs per day depending on the mode of transport you choose.
If you have more time, take a day trip to the nearby Cu Chi tunnels and learn about Vietnam's history during the war. If you have less time, prioritize visiting the Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. They are within walking distance of each other and showcase the different aspects of Ho Chi Minh.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the main airport in Ho Chi Minh and is located 4 miles north of the city center. Most hotels offer airport transfers for a fee, and taxis are readily available outside the airport. The airport has free wi-fi and a variety of shops and eateries to keep you entertained while waiting for your flight.