Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a vibrant blend of rich history, modern skyscrapers, French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a growing arts scene. If you have only 36 hours to explore, here’s a guide to the best experiences that capture the city’s diverse culture, cuisine, and energy.
Day 1
11 a.m. | Start Your Day at Bitexco Financial Tower
Begin your exploration by getting an aerial view of the city from the Bitexco Financial Tower in District 1. Instead of heading to the observation deck on the 49th floor, opt for a coffee at Eon51 Café on the 50th floor, where you can enjoy the cityscape without an entry fee. Sip a cappuccino while gazing over the busy streets, the Saigon River, and the surrounding pagodas and skyscrapers. For a more luxurious experience, the Eon51 Sky Dining restaurant on the next level serves classic Vietnamese dishes like pho, allowing you to savor the view with a delicious meal.
12 p.m. | Stroll Through the French Quarter
The French Quarter of Ho Chi Minh City boasts a charming mix of art deco buildings, reminiscent of Vietnam’s colonial past. Stroll the broad, tree-lined boulevards and marvel at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a neo-Romanesque structure completed in 1880. Constructed with red bricks imported from France, it’s one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Right across the street, explore the Saigon Central Post Office, known for its beautiful arched windows and vaulted ceilings. Designed by architect Marie-Alfred Foulhoux, this building, dating back to 1891, is perfect for history enthusiasts.
2 p.m. | Dive into History at Pittman Apartments Rooftop
A lesser-known but historically significant spot, the rooftop of Pittman Apartments at 22 Lý Tự Trọng Street is where the famous photo of people boarding a U.S. military helicopter was taken during the fall of Saigon in 1975. While it’s not a major tourist site, it holds immense significance in the city’s history. Visiting this site can give you a deeper appreciation of Ho Chi Minh’s resilient past.
3 p.m. | Shopping at Bến Thành Market
Next, visit Bến Thành Market in District 1, one of the city’s oldest markets. Known for its bustling atmosphere and wide range of goods, from clothing and jewelry to fresh produce and handicrafts, it’s a great spot for haggling and picking up souvenirs. Popular items include nón lá (Vietnamese conical hats) and coffee filters. Even if you’re not looking to buy, exploring the market is a vibrant experience. Nearby Lê Công Kiều Street, or Antique Street, has fascinating antique shops filled with old statues, coins, and ceramics.
6 p.m. | Sample Local Flavors with Saigon Free Walking Tours
Embark on a culinary journey with Saigon Free Walking Tours, a student-led tour group that takes visitors to local food spots to sample classic Vietnamese street food. Taste dishes like bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwiches), bún thịt nướng (cold vermicelli noodles with grilled pork), and cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork). You can wash it down with local beer, often available for as little as half a dollar.
10 p.m. | Unwind with a Foot Massage
After a day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a foot massage in the Pham Ngu Lao area, known for its affordable and relaxing massage parlors. Some offer additional services like manicures and pedicures, and many stay open late. Be sure to agree on the price beforehand for a smooth experience.
Day 2
8 a.m. | Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)
Start the second day with a local favorite: cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee). Vietnamese coffee is strong and rich, typically brewed with a dark roast over a drip filter, then sweetened with condensed milk and served over ice. Grab a cup from a street vendor to enjoy a local experience that’s both affordable and delicious.
8:30 a.m. | Relax in Tao Dan Park
Just a short walk from the city center lies Tao Dan Park, a 25-acre green space with towering tropical trees and lush landscapes. Here, you’ll find locals practicing tai chi, shadow boxing, and dancing. The park also houses a small shrine dedicated to the Hùng kings, founders of Vietnam, and a Cham temple replica. This serene spot is perfect for a morning stroll.
12 p.m. | Discover Vietnam’s Craft Beer Scene
Vietnam’s beer culture dates back to the 19th century, and Ho Chi Minh City’s craft beer scene has grown in recent years. Head to Pasteur Street Brewing Co or Heart of Darkness for a taste of locally brewed beers with unique flavors. Heart of Darkness, with its cozy interior and garden space, offers beers like Kurtz Insane IPA with grapefruit and pine flavors and Sacred Fire Golden Ale with passion fruit undertones.
2 p.m. | Explore the Tranquil Binh Quoi Village
If you can’t make it to the Mekong Delta, visit Binh Quoi Village, just eight kilometers from downtown. Resembling a rural village on the Mekong, it’s a peaceful oasis with bamboo huts, small lakes, and traditional fishing boats. Take a stroll, try your hand at fishing, or enjoy a beer while watching traditional Vietnamese performances. The area also offers a traditional buffet on weekends, featuring authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
4 p.m. | Visit the Pagodas Along Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal
Ho Chi Minh is home to many pagodas, each with its own unique style and history. Along the Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal, you can visit three different temples representing three branches of Buddhism. The Jade Emperor Pagoda (Taoist), the Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Mahayana), and Wat Chantaransay (Theravada) all offer unique insights into Vietnamese spirituality. A walk along the canal is a scenic way to explore these religious sites while avoiding busy roads.
6 p.m. | Evening at the Backpacker District
End your trip with a night in Ho Chi Minh’s famous backpacker district. The area includes Bui Vien, De Tham, and Pham Ngu Lao streets, bustling with energy, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars. Here, the nightlife spills into the streets, and you’ll find people from all over the world enjoying a lively night out. For a different perspective, visit one of the rooftop bars at the Rex, Caravelle, or Majestic hotels. Not only are the views breathtaking, but these bars have a rich history; during the Vietnam War, journalists and military officials frequented them.
Tips for Travelers
- Currency Exchange: Currency exchanges in markets like Bến Thành and jewelry shops across the street often offer competitive rates.
- Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps for reliable transportation, as traffic can be challenging to navigate.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is a common practice in markets; don’t be afraid to negotiate for better prices.
In just 36 hours, you can experience a taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant mix of history, cuisine, and culture. From breathtaking views and bustling markets to quiet temples and local food, this itinerary will help you make the most of a short but unforgettable trip to Vietnam’s largest city.
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