In the morning, immerse in Vietnam's history at the War Remnants Museum, which houses exhibits and artifacts from the Vietnam War. Afterward, head to The Lunch Lady for a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. In the afternoon, stroll around Notre Dame Cathedral, a French colonial structure that dates back to the 19th century. In the evening, take a 15-minute walk to Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub of food and shopping.
Head out of the city to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Spend the morning exploring the tunnels and learning about the history behind them. For lunch, stop by Pho Hung for a bowl of pho, Vietnam's signature noodle soup. In the afternoon, visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a Taoist temple dating back to the early 20th century. In the evening, relax in a rooftop bar at Chill Skybar, where you can enjoy a cocktail and panoramic views of the city.
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known for its intricate river system and floating markets. Visit the Cai Be Floating Market in the morning and take a boat tour of the nearby villages. Stop for lunch at the Mango Home Riverside, a restaurant that overlooks the river. In the afternoon, visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a Buddhist temple with a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cambodian architecture. Return to Ho Chi Minh in the evening and stop by Bui Vien Street for a nightcap at one of the many bars in the area.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Reunification Palace, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, or the Saigon Opera House. For a side trip, visit the beach town of Vung Tau or the Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station. To maximize your fun, try a food tour or a street art tour. Finally, make sure to try the street food, especially banh mi and banh xeo, which are popular dishes in Ho Chi Minh. Book your hotels and flights here.