Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Start your day with a delicious Vietnamese baguette sandwich at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, renowned for its generous filling and fresh ingredients.
Located in District 1; a short Grab ride or walk will get you there.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Spend the morning at the War Remnants Museum, where you'll gain insights into Vietnam's history and the impact of the Vietnam War.
A quick 5-minute Grab ride from the breakfast spot.
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Relish a bowl of traditional Pho at Pho Hoa, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Approximately a 10-minute walk from the museum.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Wander through Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local crafts, textiles, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
It's a pleasant 15-minute stroll from lunch.
Free entry (shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

Next, head to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, an impressive French colonial architecture landmark.
A short 10-minute walk from the market.
Free entry, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Relax at the Saigon Central Post Office

Don't miss the Saigon Central Post Office, famous for its stunning Victorian architecture and the large map of Vietnam.
Just a 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
Free entry, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Enjoy Vietnamese Coffee at The Workshop Coffee

Savor an authentic Vietnamese iced coffee in one of Ho Chi Minh's best coffee spots.
Take a 10-minute taxi ride or Grab from the post office.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Indulge in dinner at Cuc Gach Quan, where the dishes are inspired by traditional home cooking, served in a rustic setting.
Just a short taxi ride from the coffee shop, approximately 15 minutes.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Insights

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 2000

Start your morning with a light breakfast at Cafe 2000, famous for its Vietnamese coffee and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).
About 10 minutes by Grab from your accommodation.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels

Embark on a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
Pre-booked tours typically include transportation; expect about 1.5 hours travel time.
VND 200,000 (tour cost), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Cu Chi Tunnels Café

Grab a quick lunch at the café near the tunnels; try their spring rolls and fresh vegetable salads.
Concludes your Cu Chi Tunnels tour.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to Ho Chi Minh City and refresh before your evening activities.
Transport is included in the tour package.
Included in tour cost, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda

Spend time exploring the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a beautiful and historic temple dedicated to the Jade Emperor.
A short Grab ride, around 10 minutes from your accommodation.
Free entry, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Ngon Villa

Enjoy an exquisite dinner at Ngon Villa, known for its lush garden setting and delightful array of traditional Vietnamese dishes.
A 10-minute Grab ride from the pagoda.
VND 200,000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening stroll on Bui Vien Street

Immerse yourself in the nightlife on Bui Vien Street, lined with bars and shops; it's a great way to end your day.
Just a 5-minute walk from the dinner location.
Free (unless you purchase drinks), 1.5 hours
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