What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City in 3 Days?

Planning a short trip and not sure what to do in Ho Chi Minh City in 3 days? This vibrant destination, where modern skyscrapers blend with historic charm, promises an exciting mix of culture, history, and energy. Drawing from years of experience exploring Saigon, we’ve put together a 3-day itinerary packed with local insights and must-see highlights to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 1: Getting Your Bearings in the Vibrant District 1

Morning: Historical Foundations

The first morning is the ideal time to step back in time and explore the iconic landmarks that mark important chapters in Saigon’s history. 

• Reunification Palace (135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia): Beyond its striking architecture, this palace marks the 1975 end of the Vietnam War when tanks stormed its gates. Visit at 8 AM to beat the crowds, spending about an hour exploring the preserved rooms and tunnels. 
• Note: USD prices are approximate and subject to change based on exchange rates.

• Notre Dame Basilica and Central Post Office: A short 10-minute stroll away, these colonial gems reflect Saigon’s French influence.

This morning sets a compelling stage for grasping Saigon’s historical depth, weaving together architectural beauty and poignant narratives.

Afternoon: War History and Local Immersion

After delving into history, the afternoon is a time for you to confront a more recent, profound past before immersing yourself in the vibrant, authentic rhythm of local life.

• War Remnants Museum (28 Vo Van Tan): This museum delivers a sobering look at the Vietnam War with its evocative exhibits. Spending 2-3 hours focusing on the “Agent Orange” display tickets are 40,000 VND (~1.53 USD). 
• Ben Thanh Market: Head here in the late afternoon to experience a vibrant slice of Saigon life. Bargain to 50% off for souvenirs like conical hats, and hunt for banh xeo (crispy pancakes) at 50,000 VND (~1.91 USD) in the back stalls, a local favorite.

This afternoon bridges the weight of history with the lively spirit of local commerce, enriching your Ho Chi Minh City 3 days journey.

Evening: Rooftop Panoramas and Street Food Feasts

As night falls, Saigon puts on a completely different face, dazzling and full of charm.

• EON Heli Bar or Chill Skybar: Sip a cocktail (8.6 USD – 23.6 USD) at these rooftop havens for breathtaking city views, a perfect way to unwind.
• Street Food Crawl on Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Dive into Vietnam street food with bun thit nuong or banh mi from vendors, priced at 2-3 USD, offering an authentic taste of Saigon.

An evening that blends chic elegance with down-to-earth flavors provides a perfect end to your first day of exploring Saigon.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and Neighborhood Charms

Venture beyond the city center to uncover wartime history and the cozy vibes of local neighborhoods. Day two promises a mix of adventure and cultural discovery on your Saigon itinerary.

Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels (Half-Day Trip)

Take a temporary leave from the bustling city center for a journey into the past to explore an extraordinary historical site.

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history, with tours typically departing at 8:00 AM and arriving around 9:30 AM, allowing you to spend 3-4 hours exploring (including travel time). 

The activities you can experience at Cu Chi Tunnels include:

• Watch a Documentary Film: Start your visit with a 20 to 30-minute film that explains the strategic importance of the Cu Chi Tunnels and daily life during the Vietnam War.
• Explore Recreated Underground Areas: See how the Viet Cong lived through features like smokeless kitchens, hidden traps, and weapon workshops.
• Crawl Through a Tunnel Section: Try moving through a narrow tunnel adapted for visitors. It’s a hands-on way to understand the harsh underground conditions.
• Taste Steamed Tapioca with Sesame Salt: Sample the simple, nourishing meal that once sustained soldiers during wartime.
• Insider’s Tip: Choose Ben Duoc instead of Ben Dinh for a quieter and more authentic experience.

Your visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history.

Afternoon: Exploring District 3 & Daily Life

After the morning trip, return to the city and spend the afternoon discovering the quieter, more everyday corners of Saigon. 

• A local Com Tam restaurant in District 3 or Phu Nhuan District: Visit at 12:30 PM for a 1-hour lunch, enjoying a hearty plate of cơm tấm sườn bì chả for 2 – 5 USD, served with fresh herbs and fish sauce.
• Jade Emperor Pagoda (Phuoc Hai Tu): Arrive at 2:45 PM for a 1-hour visit, admiring the intricate wood carvings and mystical atmosphere, then visit the turtle pond to learn about deities like the Jade Emperor, symbolizing longevity.

• Ban Co Market: At 4:00 PM, make a short detour to Ban Co Market (Chợ Bàn Cờ), a vibrant maze of narrow alleys where locals snack on afternoon treats like bánh xèo, bột chiên, or bánh khọt for just 1–3 USD. It’s a great way to experience Saigon’s street food culture in a less touristy area.
• Family-run eateries in Cholon: Continue to Cholon (Saigon’s Chinatown) around 5:00 PM. Immerse yourself in its lively, multicultural vibe and have an early dinner at a family-run Chinese-Vietnamese restaurant. Dishes such as duck noodle soup, dumplings, or hủ tiếu are delicious and budget-friendly, typically 2–6 USD.

The trip to Cholon is a perfect finale, bringing a unique cultural fusion to your day of exploration.

Day 3: Choose Between the Mekong Delta and a City Culture Deep Dive

On your final day, you can choose based on your personal preference: a trip to the green nature of the Mekong Delta or a continued deep dive into the diverse cultural layers of the city.

Option A: Mekong Delta Day Trip

If you want to escape the urban noise and explore the lush, green life of the Mekong region, this is the perfect choice. 

• Departure & Duration: Tours depart around 7:30 – 8:00 AM and return to Saigon by 5:00 – 6:00 PM. It’s a full-day trip into the heart of the Mekong Delta.
• River Cruise & Islets: Cruise along the Tien River, passing the four legendary islets Dragon, Qilin, Tortoise, and Phoenix Peach tied to local folklore.
• Coconut Candy Workshop: Visit a family-run workshop to see how coconut candy is made and enjoy warm samples straight from the pot.
• Sampan Ride Through Canals: Glide through narrow, palm-shaded canals in a wooden sampan for a peaceful, scenic ride.
• Fruit Tasting & Folk Music: Taste tropical fruits like mango and jackfruit while enjoying live Southern folk music, đờn ca tài tử.
• Lunch with Local Specialties: Enjoy regional dishes at a garden restaurant, including crispy deep-fried elephant ear fish served with herbs and dipping sauce.

A trip to the Mekong Delta will be a sweet memory of the hospitality and natural beauty of Southern Vietnam.

Option B: A Deeper Dive into City Culture

If you’re still drawn to Saigon’s vibrant rhythm and want to explore its many faces from historical to contemporary, this itinerary will take you through the city’s cultural evolution.

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (HCMC Branch): Arrive at 9:00 AM and spend about 1.5 hours exploring the lives and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.

• Saigon Opera House & Dong Khoi Street: By 11:00 AM, head to one of the city’s most iconic French-colonial landmarks. After admiring the Opera House’s elegant façade, spend another 1.5 hours wandering Dong Khoi Street. 
• Phu My Hung (District 7): At 2:30 PM, make your way to this modern planned urban zone. Stroll around Crescent Lake and the color-changing Starlight Bridge. 
• Vietnamese Cooking Class: Finish the day with a hands-on class starting at 5:30 PM (lasting around 3 hours). Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll prepare staple Vietnamese dishes like pho or goi cuon. 

Practical Information

Let’s dive into the essential details that will make your Ho Chi Minh City adventure smooth and enjoyable.

Getting Around

Prepare to navigate this vibrant city with ease using tailored transportation options.

• Grab: A convenient and affordable ride‑hailing option via the app, with fares typically from $1 to $3 depending on distance and traffic.
• Walking: Ideal for exploring central areas like Nguyen Hue or Dong Khoi on foot to fully soak in the city’s energy; just be mindful of busy motorbike traffic, especially during rush hours.
• Accommodation Base:In District 1, budget stays range from 20 – 30 USD per night, while mid-range hotels cost around 50 – 80 USD. District 3 offers a quieter option with boutique hotels priced between 40 – 70 USD.

Get ready to savor the flavors and drinks that define Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene.

Food & Drink Essentials

Discover the delicious world of local cuisine with these carefully selected options.

• Must-Try Dishes: Enjoy a bowl of pho for around 30,000 – 50,000 VND (1.20 – 2.00 USD), a banh mi for 15,000 – 30,000 VND (0.60 – 1.20 USD), and cao lau at 20,000 – 50,000 VND (0.85 – 2.10 USD). These dishes offer a flavorful glimpse into Vietnam’s vibrant street food culture.
• Coffee Options: Traditional ca phe sua da (iced milk coffee) at local stalls costs around 10,000 – 20,000 VND (0.40 – 0.80 USD). For specialty brews in a modern setting, visit cafés like The Workshop, where drinks range from 20 – 30 USD.
• Safety Tips: Choose vendors with steady crowds, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, to ensure freshness. Carry hand sanitizer, and consider popular spots like the alleyways near Ben Thanh Market for a safe, authentic experience.

Cultural Tips

Understand and respect local traditions with these valuable insights.

• Temple Etiquette: Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees; scarves can be bought for 2 – 3 USD at markets. Remove hats and keep quiet, especially at places like Jade Emperor Pagoda.
• Language Tips: English is common in tourist areas, but simple Vietnamese phrases like “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you) go a long way. Use a translation app for more complex conversations.
• Local Insight: Respectful behavior enhances your experience. Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up small bills (like 10,000 VND) is appreciated.

Plan your finances effectively to make the most of your Ho Chi Minh City stay.

Budget Expectations

Master your spending with these detailed budgeting guidelines.

• Budget Travel: Expect to spend 30 – 50 USD/day, covering budget guesthouses (15 – 25 USD/night), street food (1 – 3 USD/meal), and occasional Grab rides or public transport (~2–5 USD/day). For a 3‑day stay, total cost roughly 90 – 150 USD.
• Mid‑Range Travel: Plan for 80 – 120 USD/day, including mid‑range hotels (40 – 70 USD/night), restaurant meals (5 – 15 USD each), and regular Grab or taxi use (~5–15 USD/day), plus some activities. Over 3 days, budget 240 – 360 USD
• Spending Tips: To save money, shop at Ben Thanh Market where bargaining can cut prices by up to 50%. Always carry small-denomination VND notes (under 50,000 VND) for street vendors, while credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels and restaurants.

This 3-day itinerary is just a starting point – the real magic happens when we tailor your experience to match exactly what moves you.

Whether you’re drawn to dive deeper into Vietnam’s complex history, want to explore hidden culinary gems that only locals know about, or prefer to venture beyond the typical tourist trail to discover the authentic soul of Saigon, we’ll design something uniquely yours.

At Absolute Asia Travel, we don’t do cookie-cutter tours. We create personal adventures that reveal the Vietnam you came to find – the one that lives in the spontaneous conversations with street vendors, the quiet moments in ancient pagodas, and the unexpected discoveries down those narrow alleyways.