Day 1
Morning:
Begin your day at the Ben Thanh Market. This bustling hub opens early and is perfect for breakfast while you browse the myriad of stalls selling everything from clothing to local delicacies.
Late Morning:
Visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam’s turbulent past. It’s a sobering but important part of the country’s history.
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at Pham Ngu Lao Street, known for its delicious street food. Post lunch, head towards the Reunification Palace, a significant historical landmark.
Late Afternoon:
Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the adjacent Saigon Central Post Office, both iconic structures showcasing French colonial architecture.
Evening:
As the day cools, take a leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street. It’s a vibrant place filled with performers and local vendors.
Late Evening:
Indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner at one of the local restaurants, then immerse yourself in Saigon’s nightlife at Bui Vien Street, a popular backpacker area.
Day 2
Morning:
Embark on a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 1.5 hours away from the city center. This vast network of tunnels offers a glimpse into the lives of Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War.
Late Morning:
Continue exploring the tunnels, and perhaps try some local Cu Chi tapioca, a common food for soldiers at that time.
Afternoon:
Return to Saigon and refresh yourself with a light lunch. Afterward, visit the Museum of Vietnamese History to delve further into the country’s diverse and fascinating past.
Late Afternoon:
Spend your time at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a Taoist temple filled with intricate statues and the scent of burning incense.
Evening:
Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Saigon River. Enjoy the beautiful city lights reflecting off the water as you relish your meal.
Late Evening:
End your two-day Saigon adventure at the Bitexco Financial Tower’s Sky Deck, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect way to bid goodbye to this vibrant city.