16-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Saigon

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Introduction

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa

Start your day with one of Saigon’s best bánh mì sandwiches, a perfect introduction to Vietnamese street food, which is fresh and flavorful.
VND35000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda

Explore this atmospheric Taoist pagoda filled with intricate statues, a fantastic place to experience local spiritual culture.
VND20000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Walk around the bustling market to see local crafts and sample street snacks while immersing yourself in lively local commerce.
Free Entry, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pho Hoa Pasteur

Taste authentic pho noodles, a signature Vietnamese dish with rich broth and fresh herbs, loved by locals and visitors alike.
VND60000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Tao Dan Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk or watch local games and Tai Chi practitioners, providing insights into everyday local life.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

Admire the French colonial architecture in a brief sightseeing stroll, both iconic landmarks of Saigon.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cục Gạch Quán

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes served in a cozy, culturally decorated setting for an authentic dining experience.
VND150000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Visit a Local Game Center

Experience popular Vietnamese indoor games and arcade atmospheres, great for relaxing and mingling with locals.
VND50000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Pagodas and Local Food

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at local street stall

Try 'Xôi Mặn,' a savory sticky rice dish topped with eggs and pork, a traditional breakfast favorite.
VND20000, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Visit Giac Lam Pagoda

See one of the oldest pagodas in Saigon, with peaceful gardens and beautiful Buddha statues, reflecting spiritual heritage.
VND10000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Walk through Chinatown (Cholon)

Explore the vibrant Chinatown area, with its temples, markets, and Chinese-Vietnamese culture blending.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hu Tieu My Tho

Taste the southern style noodle soup known as Hu Tieu, famous for its light broth and fresh seafood.
VND40000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Thiên Hậu Temple

Explore this ornate temple dedicated to the sea goddess, rich with colorful ceramics and elaborate carvings.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Coffee at The Workshop

Enjoy a quality cup of Vietnamese coffee in this stylish café known for its artisan brews and unique ambiance.
VND60000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Pho 2000

Savor pho where former US President Bill Clinton once dined, known for its rich and flavorful broth.
VND70000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Explore Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Enjoy street performances and night market vibes on this popular pedestrian street, soaking up local nightlife energy.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Sites and Street Food

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on April 19, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at local Cao Lau stand

Try this noodle dish from the nearby city of Hoi An, loved for its chewy texture and flavorful pork.
VND30000, 30 minutes

8:30AM

Visit War Remnants Museum

Gain historical perspective on the Vietnam War through vivid exhibits and photographs in this important museum.
VND40000, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Reunification Palace

Tour the historic site where North and South Vietnam’s reunification was declared, featuring preserved 1970s interiors.
VND40000, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bún Chả 145 Bùi Viện

Enjoy Hanoi-style grilled pork with noodles in this vibrant, budget-friendly spot within the backpacker area.
VND40000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mariamman Hindu Temple

Explore this colorful Tamil temple with intricate sculptures dedicated to the goddess Mariamman.
Free, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Street Food Walking Tour

Try local specialties like grilled corn, fresh spring rolls, and coconut ice cream along bustling streets.
VND50000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Secret Garden

Dine on authentic Vietnamese food in a rooftop garden setting, offering a quiet retreat from the busy city below.
VND150000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Visit Mini Golf & Arcade Game Center

Relax with indoor mini golf and arcade games popular among locals, great for an evening of fun and light competition.
VND60000, 1.5 hours
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