Day 1: Explore the Heart of Saigon
Morning:
Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, Phở, at Phở Hòa on Pasteur Street. Then head over to the War Remnants Museum to learn about the history of the Vietnam War from a local perspective.
Afternoon:
Visit the Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Just a few blocks away is the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral. Don’t miss the classic Central Post Office nearby, a striking example of French Colonial architecture.
Evening:
Explore the lively Bến Thành Market, where you can try a variety of street foods and shop for souvenirs. End your day at the Bitexco Financial Tower Sky Deck for a panoramic view of Saigon.
Day 2: Delve into Saigon’s Culture and Cuisine
Morning:
Begin your day at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a stunning Taoist shrine filled with intricate carvings and statues. Next, head to the Museum of Vietnamese History, where you’ll get a glimpse of the country’s past from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Afternoon:
Visit the Saigon Opera House and appreciate its French colonial architecture. Afterwards, head to Pham Ngu Lao Street for a late lunch, where you can sample a Bánh Mì sandwich from one of the local vendors.
Evening:
Sign up for a street food tour to try a variety of delicious local dishes. After satisfying your taste buds, enjoy a riverboat cruise along the Saigon River, soaking up the city’s nighttime skyline.
Day 3: Venture Beyond the City
Morning:
Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Here, you’ll learn about the resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people during wartime.
Afternoon:
Upon returning to the city, head to An Dong Market, a local market less frequented by tourists. This is a great place to sample local dishes like Com Tam (broken rice) and pick up some last-minute gifts.
Evening:
For your final night, enjoy a meal at Nha Hang Ngon, a restaurant known for its wide array of traditional Vietnamese dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Nguyen Hue Walking Street, soaking in the vibrant city life of Saigon one last time.