Discovering Ho Chi Minh: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary

Thursday, August 31:

Start your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City by exploring the famous Ben Thanh Market in the morning. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you wander through the bustling stalls filled with local handicrafts, clothing, and delicious street food. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history. As the evening approaches, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian-only boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and street performances.

• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - VND 50,000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - VND 40,000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, September 1:

Start your day with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used during the Vietnam War. Explore the tunnels, learn about their historical significance, and even crawl through some narrow passages. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat trip along the Mekong Delta and discover the lush scenery, floating markets, and rural villages. Wrap up the day with a cultural show at the Saigon Opera House, showcasing traditional Vietnamese music and dance.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Estimated cost - VND 110,000, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Mekong Delta Boat Trip: Estimated cost - VND 350,000, Estimated time spent - 6 hours
• Saigon Opera House: Estimated cost - VND 600,000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, September 2:

Begin your final day with a visit to the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, an iconic religious site with stunning French Gothic architecture. Afterward, explore the interactive exhibits at the Saigon Science Museum, perfect for the whole family. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Saigon Riverfront, enjoying the scenic views and stopping by the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck for a panoramic view of the city. End your trip with a visit to the Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park, offering amusement rides, water activities, and cultural shows.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: Free entry, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Saigon Science Museum: Estimated cost - VND 50,000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Saigon Riverfront & Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck: Estimated cost - VND 200,000, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park: Estimated cost - VND 500,000, Estimated time spent - 4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Ho Chi Minh City, don't miss out on some hidden gems loved by locals. Visit the Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Street) to browse through a wide selection of books, enjoy a cup of coffee, and soak up the literary atmosphere. For a fun-filled day, head to Dam Sen Water Park, offering thrilling water slides, wave pools, and a relaxing lazy river. Finally, experience the local street food scene at Binh Tay Market, where you can sample authentic Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices.