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Seven Days in Saigon: A Complete Ho Chi Minh City Experience

From War History to Street Food Paradise

Trip Overview

This comprehensive week-long journey through Ho Chi Minh City balances Vietnam's poignant war history with its vibrant modern energy. You'll explore powerful museums and historic landmarks, venture into the legendary Cu Chi Tunnel network, and immerse yourself in the city's legendary street food scene. The itinerary moves from the bustling downtown districts to quieter cultural corners, with plenty of time for shopping at Ben Thanh Market, sunset views from Landmark 81, and evening strolls through lively neighborhoods. The pace allows for both structured sightseeing and spontaneous exploration, with built-in flexibility for the tropical climate. You'll experience everything from French colonial architecture to contemporary Vietnamese culture, all while savoring some of Southeast Asia's most celebrated cuisine.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$45-75 per day
Best Seasons
December to April (dry season with cooler temperatures)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Vietnam, History enthusiasts, Food lovers, Solo travelers, Couples, Photography enthusiasts

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Colonial Saigon

District 1 - Historic Center
Ease into Saigon with a walking tour of the city's most iconic French colonial landmarks and a first taste of Vietnamese street food culture.
Morning
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon and Central Post Office
Begin at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, built entirely with materials imported from France in the 1880s. The twin bell towers and red brick facade create a stunning European contrast against the tropical backdrop. Next door, visit the ornate Central Post Office with its vaulted ceilings and vintage telephone booths, still functioning as a working post office where you can mail postcards home.
2 hours $0 (free entry)
Lunch
A local pho restaurant near the cathedral district
Traditional Vietnamese noodle soup Budget
Afternoon
Independence Palace
Tour the Independence Palace, the former presidential palace that witnessed the end of the Vietnam War when tanks crashed through its gates in 1975. Explore the preserved 1960s interiors, war command rooms, underground tunnels, and telecommunications center. The period furniture and vintage technology offer a fascinating glimpse into this pivotal moment in history. Don't miss the rooftop helipad and the basement with its network of tunnels.
2-3 hours $5
Arrive before 3pm to allow enough time before closing
Evening
Saigon Opera House exterior viewing and dinner
Admire the illuminated Saigon Opera House from outside, then enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant in District 1 with city views

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Mid-range hotel near Ben Thanh Market)

Central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and provides easy access to public transportation and the airport shuttle

Exchange money at official gold shops rather than the airport for better rates, and grab a local SIM card at any convenience store for data access throughout your trip
Day 1 Budget: $45-60
2

War History & Remembrance

District 1 & District 3
Dedicate today to understanding Vietnam's complex 20th-century history through powerful museums and memorials.
Morning
War Remnants Museum
Spend the morning at the War Remnants Museum, one of Vietnam's most visited museums. The extensive collection includes military equipment, photographs, and exhibits documenting the American War from the Vietnamese perspective. The displays on Agent Orange effects and the war's impact on civilians are particularly moving. Outside, view captured American tanks, helicopters, and aircraft. This emotionally heavy but essential experience provides crucial context for understanding modern Vietnam.
2-3 hours $2
Visit early to avoid crowds and heat; allow time to process the emotional content
Lunch
A Vietnamese vegetarian restaurant near the museum
Buddhist vegetarian Vietnamese Budget
Afternoon
Ton Duc Thang Museum and waterfront area
Visit the Ton Duc Thang Museum dedicated to Vietnam's second president and revolutionary figure. The museum occupies his former residence and displays personal artifacts, photographs, and exhibits about his life and the independence movement. The location along the Saigon River provides a peaceful contrast to the morning's intensity. Take time to walk along the riverfront promenade and observe daily life along the water.
1-2 hours $1
Evening
Statue of Ho Chi Minh viewing and dinner cruise
Visit the Statue of Ho Chi Minh in front of City Hall at sunset, then consider an evening dinner cruise on the Saigon River for a different perspective of the city

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Same hotel as Day 1)

Staying in the same location allows you to settle in and avoid unnecessary packing

Many museums close between 11:30am-1:30pm for lunch, so plan your timing accordingly or visit in the afternoon
Day 2 Budget: $50-70
3

Cu Chi Tunnels Adventure

Cu Chi District
Take a half-day trip to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnel network, experiencing firsthand the underground world of Vietnamese resistance fighters.
Morning
Cu Chi Tunnel
Journey to the Cu Chi Tunnel complex, an immense underground network that stretched over 250 kilometers during the war. Experience crawling through widened sections of the original tunnels, see hidden trapdoors and booby traps, and learn how entire communities lived underground. Watch demonstrations of trap construction and visit the shooting range. The site offers a visceral understanding of guerrilla warfare tactics. The journey takes about 90 minutes each way from central Saigon.
5-6 hours including travel $15-25 for tour
Book a small group tour the day before; morning tours are cooler and less crowded
Lunch
Included in most Cu Chi tours, featuring cassava and local specialties
Traditional Vietnamese countryside food Budget
Afternoon
Return to city and Ben Thanh Market
After returning from Cu Chi in the afternoon, head to Ben Thanh Market, the city's most famous market since 1914. Navigate the maze of stalls selling everything from silk clothing to spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills, sample tropical fruits, and soak in the chaotic energy. The market transforms into a vibrant night market after dark with excellent street food stalls surrounding the perimeter.
2-3 hours $20-40 for shopping
Evening
Ben Thanh Market night food stalls
Explore the night market food stalls around Ben Thanh Market's exterior, trying various Vietnamese street food specialties like banh xeo, fresh spring rolls, and grilled seafood

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Same hotel)

Continue your stay in the central location for convenience

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the Cu Chi Tunnels and bring a small towel as you'll get dusty crawling through the tunnels
Day 3 Budget: $55-85
4

Markets, Medicine & Modern Heights

District 1 & Binh Thanh District
Explore traditional Vietnamese medicine, shop for local goods, and experience Saigon from its tallest building.
Morning
Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine
Discover the fascinating world of traditional Vietnamese medicine at this unique museum housed in a beautiful building inspired by traditional architecture. Explore exhibits on medicinal herbs, ancient healing practices, and the philosophy behind Eastern medicine. The museum features over 3,000 items including antique medical instruments, rare herbs, and detailed displays explaining diagnostic and treatment methods. The rooftop garden showcases medicinal plants still used in Vietnamese healing today.
2 hours $3
Lunch
A modern Vietnamese fusion restaurant in District 1
Contemporary Vietnamese Mid-range
Afternoon
Landmark 81 and Saigon Skydeck
Visit Landmark 81, Southeast Asia's tallest building at 461 meters. Take the high-speed elevator to the Saigon Skydeck observation deck on the 79th floor for breathtaking 360-degree views of the sprawling metropolis. The interactive displays explain the city's geography and development. Time your visit for late afternoon to see the city transition from day to night. The building also houses luxury shopping and dining options worth exploring.
2-3 hours $10-12
Book tickets online to skip queues; sunset timing offers the best photo opportunities
Evening
Bui Vien Walking Street exploration
Experience the energetic nightlife of Bui Vien Walking Street, the backpacker district filled with bars, street food vendors, and live music. Great for people-watching and soaking in Saigon's youthful energy

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Same hotel)

Maintain your central base for easy access to nightlife and next day's activities

Visit Landmark 81 on a clear day; check weather conditions before going as clouds can obscure views from the observation deck
Day 4 Budget: $50-70
5

Culture, Books & River Life

District 1 & District 4
Immerse yourself in Saigon's literary scene, explore local culture, and experience life along the Saigon River.
Morning
Ho Chi Minh City Book Street
Stroll down Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, a charming pedestrian street dedicated entirely to books and reading culture. Browse bookstores selling Vietnamese literature, translated works, and coffee table books about Vietnam. The tree-lined street features outdoor reading spaces, small cafes, and regular cultural events. Even if you don't read Vietnamese, the atmosphere and architecture make it a pleasant morning walk. Pick up beautiful photography books or English translations of Vietnamese classics.
1-2 hours $10-20 for books
Lunch
A cafe along the book street or nearby French-Vietnamese bistro
Cafe fare and light meals Mid-range
Afternoon
Cảng Sài Gòn area and river exploration
Explore the Cảng Sài Gòn (Saigon Port) area to observe the city's working waterfront. Watch cargo ships, traditional wooden boats, and modern vessels navigate the busy Saigon River. Walk along the riverside promenades, visit local markets catering to river workers, and observe daily life in this less-touristy area. The contrast between industrial port activities and traditional river life provides insight into Saigon's role as Vietnam's economic engine.
2-3 hours $0-5
Evening
Indochina Queen dinner cruise
Book an evening cruise on the Indochina Queen, a replica paddle steamer offering dinner cruises along the Saigon River with traditional music performances and city views from the water

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Same hotel)

Continue your established base in the city center

Book Street hosts special events on weekends including book signings, poetry readings, and small concerts - check the schedule for added cultural experiences
Day 5 Budget: $60-90
6

Local Flavors & Hidden Gems

District 1 & District 5
Dive deep into Saigon's culinary scene and explore lesser-known cultural attractions at a relaxed pace.
Morning
Ben Nghe Street Food area exploration
Spend the morning exploring the Ben Nghe Street Food area, experiencing authentic Saigon breakfast culture. Sample local favorites like banh mi, hu tieu (rice noodle soup), and ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk). Watch vendors prepare dishes using generations-old techniques, observe the morning rush of locals grabbing breakfast, and practice your Vietnamese with friendly vendors. This is food tourism at its most authentic and delicious.
2-3 hours $5-10
Lunch
Continue your street food exploration or visit a traditional com tam restaurant
Vietnamese broken rice specialties Budget
Afternoon
Van Thanh Tourist Village
Visit Van Thanh Tourist Village for a peaceful afternoon experiencing traditional Vietnamese culture and crafts. This cultural center showcases traditional architecture, handicraft demonstrations, and cultural performances. Watch artisans create traditional crafts, explore recreated village settings, and learn about rural Vietnamese life. The site offers a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to the city's busier attractions, perfect for your penultimate day when you might appreciate a slower pace.
2-3 hours $5-8
Evening
Tran Hung Dao Statue area and farewell dinner
Visit the Tran Hung Dao Statue commemorating the legendary Vietnamese general, then enjoy a farewell dinner at an upscale Vietnamese restaurant, celebrating your week in Saigon with refined versions of dishes you've discovered

Where to Stay Tonight

District 1 - Central (Same hotel)

Final night in your familiar accommodation before departure preparations

Ask street food vendors for 'it cay' (less spicy) or 'khong cay' (no spicy) if you're sensitive to heat - many dishes can be adjusted to your preference
Day 6 Budget: $45-65
7

Final Experiences & Departure

District 1 & Binh Thanh District
Enjoy your last morning in Saigon with interactive experiences and final shopping before departure.
Morning
Vietopia cultural experience
Spend your final morning at Vietopia, an interactive cultural center where you can participate in hands-on Vietnamese cultural activities. Try your hand at traditional crafts, learn about Vietnamese customs, and engage with cultural exhibits designed to be both educational and entertaining. This participatory experience provides a memorable conclusion to your trip, allowing you to actively engage with Vietnamese culture rather than just observing it. Perfect for picking up last-minute insights and skills.
2-3 hours $8-12
Check opening hours as they may vary; morning sessions are less crowded
Lunch
A final bowl of your favorite Vietnamese dish discovered during the week
Your choice of Vietnamese favorites Budget
Afternoon
Last-minute shopping and departure preparation
Return to Ben Thanh Market or explore local shops for any last-minute souvenirs, Vietnamese coffee, dried fruits, or handicrafts. Pack your purchases carefully, organize your receipts, and prepare for departure. If time allows, revisit your favorite cafe or take a final walk through the neighborhood you've called home for the week. Reflect on your journey from the war museums to the tunnels, from street food stalls to modern skyscrapers.
2-3 hours $20-50
Evening
Airport transfer and departure
Arrange airport transfer allowing 2-3 hours before international flights; consider using the trip to Tan Son Nhat Airport as a final chance to see the city streets

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (Departure day)

Check out and depart for airport

Keep some Vietnamese dong until the very end as airport exchange rates are poor; small bills are useful for tips and final purchases
Day 7 Budget: $40-70

Practical Information

Getting Around

Ho Chi Minh City is best navigated using a combination of methods. Download Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) for reliable, metered motorcycle taxis and cars at fixed prices. Traditional taxis are available but ensure the meter is running. Walking is pleasant in District 1's central areas, especially early morning or evening. Avoid renting motorcycles unless you're experienced with chaotic Asian traffic. For the Cu Chi Tunnels, book organized tours as public transport is impractical. Most attractions in central districts are within a short ride of each other. Budget approximately $5-15 daily for local transportation.

Book Ahead

Book Cu Chi Tunnel tours one day ahead for better group sizes and timing. Reserve Saigon Skydeck tickets online to skip queues. If interested in the Indochina Queen dinner cruise, book 2-3 days in advance, especially on weekends. Accommodation should be booked at least one week ahead during peak season (December-February). All other attractions accept walk-ins, though arriving early helps avoid crowds and heat.

Packing Essentials

Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical heat and humidity; modest attire for religious sites (covered shoulders and knees); comfortable walking shoes that can handle rain; sunscreen and hat for sun protection; small umbrella for sudden rain showers; mosquito repellent; hand sanitizer and tissues; power adapter for Type A, C, or G plugs; photocopies of passport and travel insurance; small daypack for daily excursions

Total Budget

$345-510 for 7 days (excluding international flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels in District 1 ($8-15/night) and eat exclusively at street stalls ($2-5 per meal). Skip the Landmark 81 observation deck and Indochina Queen cruise, opting instead for free riverside walks and rooftop bars with views. Use only Grab bikes instead of cars ($1-2 per trip). Join free walking tours instead of paid guides. Shop at local markets away from tourist areas. Total daily budget can drop to $25-35 including accommodation.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels in District 1 ($150-300/night) with rooftop pools and spa facilities. Book private guided tours with expert historians for Cu Chi Tunnels and museums. Dine at Saigon's finest restaurants featuring modern Vietnamese cuisine and wine pairings. Arrange private car and driver for the entire week. Take helicopter tours over the Mekong Delta. Book VIP experiences at Landmark 81 with champagne service. Enjoy spa treatments and private cooking classes with renowned chefs. Budget $300-500 daily.

Family-Friendly

Add visits to Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens for children. Replace some museum time with interactive experiences at Vietopia (extended visit). Book family rooms near Ben Thanh Market with pools. Choose restaurants with diverse menus including familiar Western options. Make Cu Chi Tunnels visit shorter, focusing on above-ground exhibits. Add cyclo rides through District 1 which children enjoy. Visit during school holidays but book well in advance. Include ice cream stops and breaks at parks. Some museums offer family guides and activities.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Ho Chi Minh City

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Ho Chi Minh City

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Ho Chi Minh City

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Ho Chi Minh City

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