Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon: motorbikes, markets and motorbike-fuelled energy

Local time: UTC+7
Population: 9.3M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Affordable

Food$$$$$About $15 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $44 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $1.1 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇻🇳 VND =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

SGNTan Son Nhat International AirportVietnam's largest airport, about 2 km straight-line from the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Bus 152City centre	5,000 VND plus 5,000 VND luggage	30-45 min
Cheapest option; departs every 15 min.
Bus 109City centre	20,000 VND plus 20,000 VND luggage	25-40 min
Express bus, every 45 min.
Ride app (Grab, Xanh SM, beTaxi)City centre	70,000-150,000 VND	15-30 min
Fixed fare; easiest with luggage.
TaxiCity centre	100,000-180,000 VND	15-30 min
Use Mai Linh or Vinasun; insist on the meter.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Ho Chi Minh City

Getting around

Ride apps for most trips; Metro Line 1 for Ben Thanh to Suoi Tien.

Metro ★Metro Line 1 links Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien and the Eastern Bus Terminus. Fares 7,000-20,000 VND, trains every 8-12 min, 5AM-10PM.
BusGreen and blue buses cover 170+ routes. Fares 5,000-7,000 VND local, 10,000-50,000 VND intercity. Tap a contactless Visa or Mastercard.
Taxi / ride apps ★Grab, Xanh SM and beTaxi work well; fares are fixed and often cheaper than street taxis. Use Mai Linh or Vinasun metered taxis and check the meter is on.
Motorbike taxiXe om are everywhere. Agree a price first or book via app; short hops about 20,000 VND.
Ferry / waterbusSaigon Waterbus runs on the Saigon River from District 1 to Thu Duc. A cheap river ride.
Rental carNot practical for visitors; traffic is heavy and parking is hard. Use apps and the metro instead.
WalkingFine for short blocks, but long walks are impractical in the heat. Use a ride for anything far.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers the war sites, Ben Thanh and a street-food crawl; add a night for a Cu Chi or Mekong day trip.

Best for

FoodStreet bowls, markets and coffee from dawn to late.
HistoryWar sites, temples and the old Saigon core.

Weather by month

32°23°Jan🌧 4d

34°23°Feb🌧 3d

35°25°Mar🌧 4d

35°26°Apr🌧 11d

33°26°May🌧 25d

32°25°Jun🌧 27d

31°25°Jul🌧 29d

31°25°Aug🌧 29d

31°24°Sep🌧 29d

30°24°Oct🌧 28d

31°24°Nov🌧 19d

31°23°Dec🌧 10d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Tropical city: hot all year, with a dry season roughly December to April and a very wet season from May to October.

Best time: December to MarchHighs 31-34°C, lows 23-25°C and only 3-10 rain days a month. Best for walking and markets.
Wet season: May to October25-29 rain days a month. Showers are often heavy but short; streets can flood.
Hot year-roundHighs stay 30-35°C. March and April are hottest at 35°C. Plan outdoor sights for early morning.
Pack rain gear in the wet monthsA light rain jacket or umbrella helps from May to October. Wear quick-dry shoes.
Humid most daysLows rarely drop below 23°C. Light, breathable clothes work all year.
What to packLight clothes, sunscreen, a hat and a refillable water bottle; add rain gear for May-October.

Landmarks 20

Must-see · 6

1
War Remnants Museum
A powerful museum documenting the Vietnam War through photographs, military equipment and personal accounts. It is one of the city's most visited sights and offers a sobering perspective on modern history. Tip: visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat; tickets are inexpensive.
2
Cu Chi Tunnels
An extensive network of underground tunnels used during the war, now a popular historical site where you can crawl through sections and learn about guerrilla tactics. It's a must-see for history buffs. Tip: go early to beat the heat and crowds; wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
3
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
A beautiful French colonial cathedral in the heart of the city, though currently under renovation. Its distinctive red bricks and twin towers make it a iconic landmark. Tip: check if interior visits are allowed; exterior viewing is still worthwhile, and it's free.
4
Independence Palace
The former presidential palace, famous for the tank crashing through its gates in 1975, marking the end of the war. The preserved rooms and bunkers offer a fascinating glimpse into history. Tip: rent an audio guide for context; go early to avoid tour groups.
5
Saigon Central Post Office
A stunning example of French colonial architecture, still functioning as a post office. Its vaulted ceilings and old maps make it a photographer's delight. Tip: visit during opening hours and send a postcard for a unique souvenir.
6
Ben Thanh Market
The city's most famous market, offering everything from souvenirs to local snacks. It's a great place to experience the bustling atmosphere and practice bargaining. Tip: visit early morning for fewer crowds and fresher food; bargain hard.

Cultural

Christian 2

Harbor 1

Market 1

Skyscraper 2

Modern History 2

Museum 2

Palace 1

Buddhist 1

Historical Square 1

Other Religion 1

Natural

River 1

Activities

Food 1

Theater 1

Amusement Park 3

Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Củ Chi · 19 min by road

★★★★★ · Half day · 24 km from Ho Chi Minh City

Best way: Public bus plus a short taxi takes 1.5–2 hours each way with a last-mile gap, so a tour minibus is simplest.

Local bus 13 or tour minibuses run from central Saigon to Cu Chi town in roughly 1.5-2 hours, then a short taxi or shuttle reaches the tunnels site.

Car19 min · taxi ≈ 348,000 VND

What to see

Cu Chi Tunnels historic site
Ben Duoc temple and tunnel section
Firing range and wartime exhibits
Rice-paper and rubber plantation stops en route

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Tunnels site is open daily; mornings are cooler and quieter
Wear closed shoes—you'll crawl through narrow tunnels
Combine with the Cao Dai temple on many day tours

Mỹ Tho · 57 min by road

★★★★☆ · Full day · 72 km from Ho Chi Minh City

Best way: Buses take 3h36m with a last-mile boat leg, so a Mekong Delta tour is the practical way to see it in a day.

Buses from Mien Tay station run directly to My Tho in about 1.5-2 hours; many visitors join a Mekong Delta tour that includes the boat leg from My Tho's waterfront.

Bus3 h 36 · from $12-$18
Car57 min · taxi ≈ 1,020,000 VND

What to see

Mekong Delta boat ride among coconut palms
Thoi Son (Unicorn) Island orchards
Vinh Trang Pagoda
Ben Tre coconut-candy workshops nearby

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Book the boat trip at Mỹ Tho's waterfront or as part of an organized tour
Go in the dry season (December–April) for calmer waterways
Weekday tours are less crowded than weekends

Vũng Tàu · 4 h 25 by bus

★★★★☆ · Full day · 104 km from Ho Chi Minh City

Best way: Express buses reach Vũng Tàu in 2–2.5 hours, or the fast ferry in about 1.5 hours, dropping you near the beach.

Fast ferries from Bach Dang pier reach Vung Tau in about 1.5 hours, or express buses take 2-2.5 hours via the highway.

Bus ★4 h 25 · from $5-$7
Car1 h 41 · taxi ≈ 1,468,000 VND

What to see

Christ the King statue viewpoint
Back Beach (Bai Sau)
White Palace (Bach Dinh)
Nghinh Phong Cape

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Fast ferry from Bạch Đăng pier is the quickest option
Weekends are busy with Saigon day-trippers—go on a weekday
Seafood is best at the waterfront restaurants

Tây Ninh · 1 h 14 by road

★★★☆☆ · Full day · 86 km from Ho Chi Minh City

Best way: The listed bus option takes 10h50m, making public transport impractical for a day trip, so a tour is the way.

Buses from the An Suong or Mien Tay area run to Tay Ninh in about 2-2.5 hours; from town a short taxi or local bus reaches the Cao Dai temple and Ba Den Mountain cable car.

Bus10 h 50 · from $17-$19
Car1 h 14 · taxi ≈ 1,216,000 VND

What to see

Cao Dai Holy See temple and noon ceremony
Ba Den Mountain cable car
Black Virgin Mountain pagoda
Tay Ninh local markets

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Time your visit for the Cao Dai temple's noon ceremony
Ba Den Mountain cable car runs daily; check weather before going
Start early—it's about 2–2.5 hours each way by road

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Ho Chi Minh City rewards visitors with street food, history and relentless energy. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Food

One tasty day: market breakfast, Chinatown bites, then a scooter food tour after dark.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 780,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 264,706

Day 1

Markets, Chinatown and street food at night

Tickets ≈ VND 780,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 264,706

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:00–09:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Go early for the food stalls and coffee. Prices are negotiable.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

09:15–09:45 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. Cool inside, good for a short break.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ VND 114,363
3

10:30–12:30 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

About 20–30 minutes by taxi. Snack as you walk; check on the day which stalls are open.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ VND 101,138
4

18:30–20:00 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Back in District 1. Stalls get busy from about 19:00.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00
Taxi · 669 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ VND 21,371
5

20:15–22:15 · ≈ VND 500,000–900,000 per person; check inclusions

Evening street food tour by scooter

Book ahead. Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00, so confirm a later slot or swap the order.

Open Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00

1 night · Food

One night of eating: market snacks, a scooter food tour and late stalls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 780,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 164,974

Day 1

Arrive, market and evening food tour

Tickets ≈ VND 780,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 74,631

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

14:00–15:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Start with snacks and coffee inside. Bargain politely.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

15:15–15:45 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. Good shade and photos.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 959 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 25,426
3

17:30–21:30 · ≈ VND 500,000–900,000 per person; check inclusions

Evening street food tour by scooter

Book ahead. Tell them about allergies. You ride pillion.

Open Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00
Taxi · 669 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ VND 21,371
4

21:45–22:45 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Stalls run to about 23:00. Cash in small notes helps.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Chinatown morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 90,343

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–10:30 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Go early for the markets. About 20–30 minutes by taxi.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 24 min · ≈ VND 90,343
2

11:15–12:00 · Free to walk · drinks and food extra

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Lunch stop. Quiet by day, busy at night.

Open Busy from evening into late night

1 night · History

The old Saigon core on foot, then the war sites the next morning.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 140,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 982,100

Day 1

Colonial core and riverfront

Tickets ≈ VND 105,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 85,952

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:00–08:30 · Free to view from outside

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon Landmark quest

Exterior only. Interior often closed, check on the day.

Open Exterior visible any time · interior often closed for restoration, check on the day
2

08:40–09:10 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Right across the square.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 798 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 23,172
3

09:30–11:00 · ≈ VND 65,000 adult · check on the day

Independence Palace Landmark quest

Closes around 15:30, so go before lunch.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–15:30
Taxi · 603 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ VND 20,441
4

11:30–13:30 · ≈ VND 40,000 adult · check on the day

War Remnants Museum Landmark quest

About 10 minutes by taxi. Busy by midday.

Open Daily roughly 07:30–17:30 · last entry about 30 min before close · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ VND 42,339
5

16:30–17:15 · Free to walk · boat rides cost extra

Bach Dang Wharf Landmark quest

Sunset by the river. Dinner nearby.

Open Open any time · boat services daytime to evening

Day 2

Tunnels, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 35,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 896,147

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

07:30–11:30 · ≈ VND 35,000 entry · tours cost more; check on the day

Cu Chi Tunnels Landmark quest

About 1.5–2 hours each way. Book a tour or driver. Bring water.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–17:00
Taxi · 63 km · ≈ 3 h 36 min · ≈ VND 896,147
2

13:30–14:00 · Free · small donation welcome

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Short temple stop on the way back if time allows.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–18:00

1 night · Shopping

Markets, malls and skyline views with easy District 1 walks.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 650,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 249,339

Day 1

Market morning, skyline evening

Tickets ≈ VND 400,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 79,413

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:30 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Best for shopping in the morning. Fix prices before you buy.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

11:00–11:30 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Short walk. Good for souvenirs and postcards.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 1398 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ VND 31,578
3

16:30–17:30 · ≈ VND 200,000 skydeck · check on the day

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Skydeck to about 21:30. Go before sunset.

Open Skydeck daily roughly 09:30–21:30
Taxi · 315 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ VND 20,000
4

18:00–19:00 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Dinner and drinks with a view. Smart-casual is safer.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 2

Chinatown shops, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 250,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 169,926

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–10:30 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Markets and fabric shops. Bring cash.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 11 km · ≈ 43 min · ≈ VND 169,926
2

11:30–12:30 · ≈ VND 250,000 skyview · check on the day

Landmark 81 Landmark quest

Mall and skyview. About 20–30 minutes by taxi.

Open Skyview daily roughly 10:00–22:00

2 nights · Food ★ Recommended length

Two nights of markets, street bowls and coffee, with a scooter food tour as the centrepiece.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 780,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 268,419

Day 1

Arrive, market and night stalls

Tickets ≈ VND 80,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 57,747

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

15:00–16:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Browse the market while it is still open. Prices are negotiable.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

16:15–16:45 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

A short walk away. Good for a photo and a rest.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 1279 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 29,912
3

19:00–20:30 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

The food stalls set up outside the market in the evening. Point at what looks busy.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Chinatown morning, scooter tour at night

Tickets ≈ VND 700,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 174,334

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Go early for the markets and noodle stalls. About 20-30 minutes by taxi from District 1.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 33 min · ≈ VND 127,613
2

11:30–12:00 · Free · small donation welcome

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Small temple, often busy. Dress respectfully.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–18:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ VND 46,721
3

17:30–21:30 · ≈ VND 500,000–900,000 per person; check inclusions

Evening street food tour by scooter

Book ahead. Tell them about allergies. You ride pillion, so bring a light jacket.

Open Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00

Day 3

Coffee and a last walk, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 36,338

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to walk · drinks and food extra

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Quiet in the morning. Good for a slow coffee before checkout.

Open Busy from evening into late night
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ VND 36,338
2

11:00–11:30 · Free to walk · boat rides cost extra

Bach Dang Wharf Landmark quest

Riverside stroll near the hotels. Check your airport timing on the day.

Open Open any time · boat services daytime to evening

2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

War sites and the old Saigon core, paced so you are not rushed.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 620,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 1,077,463

Day 1

Old Saigon core on foot

Tickets ≈ VND 185,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 75,096

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–09:00 · Free to view from outside

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon Landmark quest

Exterior only is likely. Check on the day whether the interior is open.

Open Exterior visible any time · interior often closed for restoration, check on the day
2

09:10–09:40 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Right next door. Cool inside.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 798 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 23,172
3

10:00–11:30 · ≈ VND 65,000 adult · check on the day

Independence Palace Landmark quest

Closes early afternoon, so go before lunch.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–15:30
Taxi · 603 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ VND 20,441
4

13:30–15:30 · ≈ VND 40,000 adult · check on the day

War Remnants Museum Landmark quest

About 10 minutes by taxi. Heavy content, so take your time.

Open Daily roughly 07:30–17:30 · last entry about 30 min before close · Source
Taxi · 1392 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ VND 31,483
5

18:30–20:00 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Dinner at the evening stalls.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Cu Chi Tunnels, then skyline

Tickets ≈ VND 435,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 958,598

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

07:30–11:30 · ≈ VND 35,000 entry · tours cost more; check on the day

Cu Chi Tunnels Landmark quest

Leave early to beat the heat. The drive is long, so book a tour or driver.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–17:00
Taxi · 66 km · ≈ 3 h 46 min · ≈ VND 938,598
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ VND 200,000 skydeck · check on the day

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Skydeck for sunset. Check the day's closing time.

Open Skydeck daily roughly 09:30–21:30
Taxi · 315 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ VND 20,000
3

18:30–19:30 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Dinner or a drink with a view to finish.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 3

Temple and river, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 43,770

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:30–09:00 · Free · small donation welcome

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Quiet early. Short taxi from District 1.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–18:00
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ VND 43,770
2

10:00–10:45 · Free to walk the banks · cruises cost extra

Saigon River Landmark quest

Walk the bank near Bach Dang. Check airport timing on the day.

Open Open any time

2 nights · Shopping ★ Recommended length

Markets, malls and Chinatown shops, with evenings for food and views.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 480,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 386,026

Day 1

Ben Thanh and the centre

Tickets ≈ VND 280,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 86,279

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Morning is calmer for shopping. Agree prices before you buy.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

10:15–10:45 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Short walk. Postcards and small souvenirs inside.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 1398 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ VND 31,578
3

16:30–17:30 · ≈ VND 200,000 skydeck · check on the day

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Skydeck at sunset. Check closing time on the day.

Open Skydeck daily roughly 09:30–21:30
Taxi · 1062 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 26,866
4

19:00–20:30 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Dinner at the night stalls.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Chinatown shops and riverside

Tickets ≈ VND 200,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 263,409

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Markets and small shops. About 20-30 minutes by taxi.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 38 min · ≈ VND 151,750
2

16:00–17:30 · Free

Phu My Hung riverside walk

Mall and riverside in Phu My Hung. Cooler in the late afternoon.

Open Open any time · best in the evening
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ VND 111,659
3

19:00–20:00 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Drink with a skyline view to close the day.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 3

Last morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 36,338

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free to walk · drinks and food extra

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Small shops and coffee. Check out first if you can.

Open Busy from evening into late night
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ VND 36,338
2

11:00–11:30 · Free to walk · boat rides cost extra

Bach Dang Wharf Landmark quest

Riverside walk. Check airport timing on the day.

Open Open any time · boat services daytime to evening

3 nights · Food

Eat your way from market mornings to scooter street-food nights, with a Mekong day out.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 1,580,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 1,318,788

Day 1

Arrive and ease into District 1

Tickets ≈ VND 80,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 57,747

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Go early for the market and a coffee. Prices are negotiable.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

10:15–10:45 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. Cool inside.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 1279 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 29,912
3

19:00–20:30 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Night food stalls around the market. Point and try.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Street food by scooter, then skyline

Tickets ≈ VND 700,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 101,093

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Chinatown walk. Snack as you go. Check on the day for market hours.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ VND 101,093
2

17:30–21:30 · ≈ VND 500,000–900,000 per person; check inclusions

Evening street food tour by scooter

Book ahead. Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00.

Open Tours usually start around 17:00–18:00

Day 3

Mekong day trip

Tickets ≈ VND 800,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 1,133,951

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

07:30–15:30 · ≈ VND 400,000–900,000 per person; check inclusions

Mekong Delta day trip (My Tho)

Full day. Early pickup. Bring water and sun cover.

Open Full day, usually early pickup around 07:30–08:30
Taxi · 80 km · ≈ 4 h 32 min · ≈ VND 1,133,951
2

20:00–21:00 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Wind down with a skyline drink. Most open late afternoon to late night.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 4

Last morning, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 25,997

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–10:00 · Free to walk · drinks and food extra

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Quiet by day. Good for a last coffee and snack.

Open Busy from evening into late night
Taxi · 1000 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 25,997
2

11:00–11:45 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Pick up food gifts. Roughly 06:00–18:00.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later

3 nights · History

War sites, old Saigon and temples at an easy pace, with one long day out.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 870,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 1,225,646

Day 1

Old Saigon core

Tickets ≈ VND 65,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 46,150

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

08:00–08:30 · Free to view from outside

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon Landmark quest

Exterior only. Interior often closed for restoration, check on the day.

Open Exterior visible any time · interior often closed for restoration, check on the day
2

08:45–09:15 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Two minutes on foot.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 798 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 23,172
3

09:30–11:00 · ≈ VND 65,000 adult · check on the day

Independence Palace Landmark quest

Roughly 08:00–15:30. Go before midday heat.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–15:30
Taxi · 784 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 22,978
4

12:00–13:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Lunch and a wander.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later

Day 2

War history and river evening

Tickets ≈ VND 240,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 117,125

1

07:30–09:30 · ≈ VND 40,000 adult · check on the day

War Remnants Museum Landmark quest

Right at opening. Allow time, it is heavy.

Open Daily roughly 07:30–17:30 · last entry about 30 min before close · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ VND 40,845
2

10:30–11:00 · Free · small donation welcome

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Short taxi ride. Morning is calm.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–18:00
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ VND 56,281
3

17:30–18:00 · Free to walk · boat rides cost extra

Bach Dang Wharf Landmark quest

Sunset by the water.

Open Open any time · boat services daytime to evening
Taxi · 315 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ VND 20,000
4

18:30–19:30 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Dinner with a view.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 3

Cu Chi Tunnels

Tickets ≈ VND 115,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 930,483

1

07:00–11:00 · ≈ VND 35,000 entry · tours cost more; check on the day

Cu Chi Tunnels Landmark quest

Morning departure before the heat. Book transport ahead.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–17:00
Taxi · 66 km · ≈ 3 h 44 min · ≈ VND 930,483
2

19:00–20:30 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Easy evening food near the market.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 4

Temples and towers, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 450,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 131,888

1

08:00–08:20 · Free to view from outside

Tan Dinh Church Landmark quest

Exterior any time. Interior at mass times, check on the day.

Open Exterior any time · interior at mass times, check on the day
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 16 min · ≈ VND 58,649
2

10:00–11:00 · ≈ VND 200,000 skydeck · check on the day

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Skydeck roughly 09:30–21:30.

Open Skydeck daily roughly 09:30–21:30
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 20 min · ≈ VND 73,240
3

13:00–14:00 · ≈ VND 250,000 skyview · check on the day

Landmark 81 Landmark quest

Skyview roughly 10:00–22:00. Check travel time.

Open Skyview daily roughly 10:00–22:00

3 nights · Shopping

Markets, malls and Chinatown browsing, with skyline breaks between hauls.

Tickets & tours: ≈ VND 915,000
Taxis: ≈ VND 308,092

Day 1

Market morning and old core

Tickets ≈ VND 145,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 74,816

1

08:00–09:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Morning is best for shopping. Bargain politely.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1131 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ VND 27,835
2

09:30–10:00 · Free to enter

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Short walk. Good for postcards.

Open Daily roughly 07:00–19:00
Taxi · 798 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 23,172
3

10:15–11:45 · ≈ VND 65,000 adult · check on the day

Independence Palace Landmark quest

Roughly 08:00–15:30.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–15:30
Taxi · 843 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 23,809
4

19:00–20:30 · ≈ VND 50,000–120,000 per dish

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Evening food stalls.

Open Evening roughly 18:00–23:00

Day 2

Chinatown and towers

Tickets ≈ VND 400,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 134,655

1

09:00–11:00 · Free to walk · market food extra

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00. Markets and snacks.

Open Best daytime roughly 08:00–17:00
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 29 min · ≈ VND 114,655
2

16:30–17:30 · ≈ VND 200,000 skydeck · check on the day

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Late afternoon into sunset. Skydeck roughly 09:30–21:30.

Open Skydeck daily roughly 09:30–21:30
Taxi · 315 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ VND 20,000
3

18:30–19:30 · ≈ VND 150,000–300,000 per drink

Rooftop bar skyline view

Dinner with a view.

Open Most open from late afternoon to late night

Day 3

Parks and river, easy day

Tickets ≈ VND 370,000 pp · taxis ≈ VND 72,624

1

08:30–11:30 · ≈ VND 120,000 entry · water park extra; check on the day

Đầm Sen Park Landmark quest

Morning on a weekday. Bring sun cover.

Open Daily roughly 08:00–18:00
Taxi · 4 km · ≈ 19 min · ≈ VND 72,624
2

15:00–16:00 · ≈ VND 250,000 skyview · check on the day

Landmark 81 Landmark quest

Skyview roughly 10:00–22:00. Malls nearby for browsing.

Open Skyview daily roughly 10:00–22:00

Day 4

Last buys, then fly

Tickets ≈ VND 0 pp · taxis ≈ VND 25,997

1

09:00–10:00 · Free to enter · food and goods priced per stall

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Final gifts. Roughly 06:00–18:00.

Open Daily roughly 06:00–18:00 · night food stalls later
Taxi · 1000 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ VND 25,997
2

10:30–11:30 · Free to walk · drinks and food extra

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Shops and coffee before the airport.

Open Busy from evening into late night

Swap in instead

Swap a city day for the Cu Chi tunnels; book a tour or go by bus, and check the day's schedule.
Take the Saigon Waterbus to Thu Duc for a cheap river ride and a different view of the city.
Add a Mekong Delta day trip to My Tho or Ben Tre; long bus rides, so start early.

Getting around

Metro Line 1 links Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien and the Eastern Bus Terminus; fares 7,000-20,000 VND, trains every 8-12 min, 5AM-10PM.
Green and blue city buses cover 170+ routes; fares 5,000-7,000 VND local, 10,000-50,000 VND intercity; tap a contactless Visa or Mastercard.
Grab, Xanh SM and beTaxi apps work well for cars and motorbike taxis; fares are fixed and often cheaper than street taxis.
Use Mai Linh or Vinasun metered taxis and check the meter is on; other firms may overcharge.
Motorbike taxis (xe om) are everywhere; agree a price first or book via app; short hops about 20,000 VND.
Saigon Waterbus runs on the Saigon River from District 1 to Thu Duc; walking long distances is impractical in the heat.

Where to stay

District 1 · ≈ VND 900,000–3,500,000 a night
Walk to Ben Thanh Market, the river and the main sights; Metro Line 1 starts here.
Pham Ngu Lao · ≈ VND 400,000–1,200,000 a night
Backpacker strip with the cheapest beds, tour desks and late-night food.
District 3 · ≈ VND 700,000–2,500,000 a night
Quieter streets, local cafés and a short ride to District 1 sights.
District 7 · ≈ VND 1,200,000–4,000,000 a night
Modern riverside area with malls and family hotels; far from the old city, so plan on taxis.

Food & drink

Start with pho for breakfast; a bowl at a local stall is often 40,000-70,000 VND.
Try banh mi, com tam (broken rice) and bun bo Hue; street stalls are cheap, roughly 30,000-60,000 VND a dish.
Vietnamese coffee is strong: ca phe sua da (iced with condensed milk) costs about 20,000-45,000 VND.
Eat at busy stalls with high turnover. Drink bottled or filtered water; skip ice if you have a sensitive stomach.
Book a street-food walk or a cooking class early in the trip; check prices and reviews before you book.

Tips

When crossing the street, walk slowly and predictably; motorbikes will flow around you
Download Grab for safe, cheap, and meter-free rides around the city
Vietnamese iced coffee (Cà phê sữa đá) is incredibly strong and sweet — a must-try
Be highly vigilant against bag-snatching by passing motorbikes, especially in District 1
Street food is generally safe and delicious; look for stalls with high turnover of locals

Sources for prices and hours

War Remnants Museum

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels
Learn about Vietnam War history from a guide
24,629 reviews · 4.7 rating

Entry includedHotel pickup

Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour with AM/PM Departure

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (24,629)

$17View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Cu Chi Tunnels

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
Experience coconut village and local life
14,635 reviews · 4.7 rating

Lunch includedHotel pickup

Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta with Coconut Village Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (14,635)

$40View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Ben Thanh Market

Bui Vien Walking Street

Taste street food from Michelin-recommended spots
Explore local markets and hidden alleys by scooter
6,067 reviews · 4.9 rating

Food includedGuide

Saigon: Premium Scooter Street Food Tour (Michelin Optional)

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (6,067)

$33View tour

Take this tour to unlock 5 landmark quests

War Remnants Museum

Independence Palace

Saigon Central Post Office

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Ben Thanh Market

Visit key heritage sites in Ho Chi Minh City
Explore Chinatown and local life
2 reviews · 4.5 rating

GuideHotel pickup

Saigon City Half/Full-Day: Heritage, Chinatown & Local Life

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (2)

$28View tour

Souvenirs

Marou Vietnamese chocolate

VND 300000–4500002 bars, 80g each · shop prices

Marou is a Ho Chi Minh City chocolate brand that makes bars from single-origin Vietnamese cacao. It is a local favorite for gifts.

Where: Maison Marou, Calmette

Ask for packaging that keeps the chocolate from melting on the trip home.

Vietnamese robusta coffee and phin filter

VND 180000–400000250g coffee, 1 dripper · estimate

Vietnamese coffee is strong and often served with condensed milk. The phin is the small metal drip filter used to brew it at home.

Where: Trung Nguyên Legend official store

Check the coffee label to see whether flavorings have been added.

Flights

Hotels

Search all Ho Chi Minh City hotelsHotels.com

Popular hotels

eSIM

Get an eSIM for Ho Chi Minh CityStay connected in Vietnam from day one · Airalo

1 GB7 days$4 USDSelect plan →2 GB15 days$6.5 USDSelect plan →3 GB30 days$8.5 USDSelect plan →

Compare all 7 plans · choose data and duration

Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in Ho Chi Minh CityDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 20

Must-see · 6

War Remnants Museum

Cu Chi Tunnels

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Independence Palace

Saigon Central Post Office

Ben Thanh Market

Cultural

Christian 2

Harbor 1

Market 1

Skyscraper 2

Modern History 2

Museum 2

Palace 1

Buddhist 1

Historical Square 1

Other Religion 1

Natural

River 1

Activities

Food 1

Theater 1

Amusement Park 3

Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Củ Chi · 19 min by road

What to see

Good to know

Mỹ Tho · 57 min by road

What to see

Good to know

Vũng Tàu · 4 h 25 by bus

What to see

Good to know

Tây Ninh · 1 h 14 by road

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Evening street food tour by scooter

War Remnants Museum Landmark quest

Independence Palace Landmark quest

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon Landmark quest

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Rooftop bar skyline view

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Evening street food tour by scooter

Ben Thanh night food stalls

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Pham Ngu Lao backpacker street

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon Landmark quest

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Independence Palace Landmark quest

War Remnants Museum Landmark quest

Bach Dang Wharf Landmark quest

Cu Chi Tunnels Landmark quest

Jade Emperor Pagoda Landmark quest

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest

Saigon Central Post Office Landmark quest

Bitexco Financial Tower Landmark quest

Rooftop bar skyline view

Cho Lon (Chinatown) walk

Landmark 81 Landmark quest

Ben Thanh Market Landmark quest