5-Day Ultimate Itinerary in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1: Explore Historical Landmarks

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Hoa

Start your day with a steaming bowl of beef pho at this famed restaurant that draws locals and tourists alike.
Located in District 1, easily reachable by taxi.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Reunification Palace

Explore the historic Reunification Palace, a symbol of Vietnam's reunification with its opulent rooms and significant history.
A short 5-minute taxi ride from the restaurant.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ben Thanh Market

Dive into a variety of street food options, including banh mi and fresh spring rolls at this bustling market.
A quick 10-minute walk from the palace.
VND 70,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore War Remnants Museum

Gain insight into Vietnam's history with poignant exhibits at this thought-provoking museum.
An easy 15-minute walk from the market.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Coffee at The Workshop

Relax in this trendy café known for its specialty coffee and artistic ambiance.
A 5-minute taxi ride from the museum.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Nha Hang Ngon

Savor a delicious array of Vietnamese dishes in an open-air atmosphere at this popular spot.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the café.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at L’Espace

Enjoy a French breakfast in this chic bistro, perfect for fueling your day.
Located near the Saigon Opera House, a short taxi ride away.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Join a Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Take a guided tour to explore the vast underground tunnel system used during the Vietnam War.
A pre-arranged tour typically includes transport.
VND 500,000, 6 hours (including travel time)

4:00PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh for Late Lunch

Recharge with some delicious Chinese dumplings at Dim Tu Tac.
Return from Cu Chi Tunnels before heading to the restaurant.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

5:30PM

Explore Jade Emperor Pagoda

Witness the beauty of this stunning pagoda adorned with intricate carvings and a vibrant atmosphere.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Dim Tu Tac.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Chopsticks

Indulge in fusion Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist amidst chic decor.
A short taxi ride from the pagoda.
VND 180,000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Markets

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

7:30AM

Breakfast at Au Parc

Enjoy a delightful mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean breakfast options in this cozy venue.
Located in District 1, reachable by taxi.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Marvel at the stunning neo-Romanesque architecture of this iconic cathedral.
An easy 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll Through Saigon Central Post Office

Explore this beautiful colonial-era post office, an architectural gem and a working post office.
A 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Savor what many locals claim to be the best banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City before we continue on.
A short taxi ride from the post office.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda

Another cultural highlight, this pagoda is buzzing with activity and charm.
Return to the pagoda, a 10-minute taxi ride.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Afternoon at the Saigon River

Stroll along the riverside, relax, and enjoy the views to recharge.
A 15-minute taxi ride to the riverside area.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Dine in a rooftop garden setting offering amazing views and delicious traditional cuisine.
A quick 10-minute taxi ride.
VND 200,000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventure Activities

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Milk Bar

Start the day with a fresh smoothie bowl in this quaint café.
Easily accessible in the backpacker area.
VND 90,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Mekong Delta Day Tour

Join an exciting day tour to the Mekong Delta and experience the lush landscapes and vibrant local culture.
Pre-arranged tour often includes transportation to and from the delta.
VND 1,000,000, 8 hours (including travel time)

5:30PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Relax and refresh before heading out for dinner.
As part of the tour, return to your hotel or the city center.
Included, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Bebe Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese barbecue feast in a cozy ambiance.
A short taxi ride from the hotel.
VND 150,000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation and Shopping

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

9:00AM

Late Breakfast at Vicano

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with trendy dishes and great coffee to finish off your trip.
Located in the city center, easily accessible by taxi.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Bargain Shopping at Saigon Square

Indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and clothes at this popular market.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the café.
Free to enter, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at McCoy's

Wrap up your Ho Chi Minh experience with a fusion of traditional and Western dishes at this unique restaurant.
Located near Saigon Square.
VND 120,000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Hoang Sa Beach

Take a break at this urban beach area to unwind before heading to the airport.
A short taxi ride away.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Head to the Airport

Conclude your trip with a trip to the airport for departure.
A taxi will be necessary; allow ample time for your flight.
VND 200,000, 1 hour
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