Day 1 – Saigon: Historic Core
Morning:
Start your day at the Independence Palace, a landmark symbolizing the end of the Vietnam War. Tour its historic rooms and exhibits, understanding the country’s past. Next, visit the War Remnants Museum nearby, where exhibits of military equipment and moving photographs provide a sobering look at the Vietnam War.
Afternoon:
Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece from the French colonial period. Across the street, explore the Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. After lunch, enjoy the blend of European and Asian architecture in this area.
Evening:
Explore Ben Thanh Market, a lively hub for shopping and street food. Enjoy haggling with vendors and tasting local delicacies. Later, experience the vibrant nightlife at Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a pedestrian-friendly zone filled with street performances and pop-up shops.
Day 2 – Cultural Exploration
Morning:
Visit the tranquil Jade Emperor Pagoda, a Taoist shrine filled with smoky incense and intricate woodwork. Then, go to the Museum of Vietnamese History to see a broad collection of artifacts that depict Vietnam’s cultural evolution.
Afternoon:
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s lively Chinatown. Pay a visit to the intricate Thien Hau Temple, a tribute to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess. Experience the temple’s detailed ceramic sculptures and the calming aroma of spiraling incense coils.
Evening:
Dine at a fusion restaurant in Chinatown, blending Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines. Take a stroll along the riverside, admiring the sparkling city skyline against the Saigon River.
Day 3 – Saigon Skyline and Leisure
Morning:
Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower’s Sky Deck for panoramic city views and interactive displays about the city’s landmarks.
Afternoon:
Head to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens for a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. Enjoy lunch at a local café and experience Vietnam’s coffee culture.
Evening:
Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant, taking in the city’s breathtaking views. Follow dinner with cocktails at a rooftop bar, taking in the skyline and reflecting on your Saigon adventure.
Day 4 – A Peek into the Past
Morning:
Take a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Here, explore the underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war, providing a powerful perspective of the war era.
Afternoon:
After returning to Saigon, unwind at your hotel, relax by the pool, or indulge in a spa treatment.
Evening:
Attend a performance at the Saigon Opera House, a beautiful French colonial building. Follow this with dinner at a restaurant around Dong Khoi Street, a hub for gourmet eateries.
Day 5 – Artistic Saigon
Morning:
Visit the Factory Contemporary Arts Centre, home to provocative works from emerging Vietnamese artists. This converted warehouse is Vietnam’s first purpose-built space for contemporary art.
Afternoon:
Visit the unique Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, a peaceful retreat filled with Buddha statues. Afterwards, explore Thao Dien, a trendy area known for its cafes, boutiques, and art studios.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a riverfront restaurant, taking in beautiful views of the city lights reflecting off the Saigon River. Take a final stroll along the river, reflecting on your exploration of Saigon.
Day 6 – Mekong Delta Excursion
Morning:
Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta. Cruise along the river and experience the local life of the region, surrounded by lush green landscapes and rustic homes.
Afternoon:
Visit a local home and enjoy a traditional lunch. Explore the lush fruit orchards and floating markets, which form an integral part of local life in the Mekong Delta.
Evening:
Return to Saigon. Relax and enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the day’s immersive experiences.
Day 7 – Farewell Saigon
Morning:
Spend the morning at leisure. Perhaps revisit your favorite places or shop for souvenirs.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a Vietnamese culinary experience by taking a cooking class. Learn how to prepare some traditional dishes, a skill and memory you can take home.
Evening:
Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Saigon’s best restaurants. After dinner, take a last walk around the city, savoring the moments of your unforgettable journey.