10 Days in Ho Chi Minh City: A Journey Through History and Culture

Verdan Menne

26 Nov 2023

Embark on a 10-day adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this bustling metropolis. From exploring ancient marvels to indulging in authentic street food, this itinerary has it all.

Trip to Ho Chi Minh City

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Literary Bliss and Culinary Delights

$45

$ 2

Buzzy, pedestrian-only street with Vietnamese & expat bookstores, plus spots for al fresco coffee.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

3 - 4 min

Directions

1880s Catholic cathedral built with French bricks & featuring 58m-tall Romanesque bell towers.

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

6 - 9 min

Directions

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

7 - 9 min

Directions

Straightforward zoo showcasing an array of animals, including giraffes, camels, elephants & snakes.

No time set

•

26 - 32 min

Directions

Sprawling family-friendly entertainment complex with rides, a water park, cinema & zoo.

No time set

•

$20

45 - 54 min

Directions

Theme park featuring a range of rides & water-based activities amid iconic Buddhist imagery.

No time set

•

$20

Day 2Blooms and Panoramic Views

$25

$ 1

Vendors with colorful bouquets of flowers line this busy outdoor market also offering street food.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

15 - 18 min

Directions

Iconic 68-floor skyscraper featuring an observation deck, retail shops, dining & a cineplex.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

$25

Day 3Vibrant Nightlife and Sky-high Thrills

$25

$ 1

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

7 - 9 min

Directions

Glass-enclosed observation deck on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower with scenic views.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$25

Day 4Market Hopping and Park Serenity

Well-known standby for handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing & other goods along with local eats.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

11 - 16 min

Directions

Relaxed stretch of green space & walkways with a playground, duck pond & lots of trees.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 5Local Flavors and Riverside Strolls

$ 1

Covered market with stalls selling home goods, produce & local dishes like pho & spring rolls.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

17 - 21 min

Directions

Park, market & recreation area on the banks of the Saigon River, with boat rides & local fare.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 6Art Appreciation and Urban Oasis

Classical to contemporary Vietnamese & foreign artworks on display in an elegant colonial building.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

13 - 20 min

Directions

Leafy public park featuring manicured gardens, a Buddhist temple, play areas & sports facilities.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

Day 7Unveiling the Horrors of War

Memorial museum exhibiting photographs, weapons & other objects from the Vietnam & Indochina wars.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Day 8Journey into the Underground

$15

Sprawling underground tunnel complex used by Viet Cong soldiers, plus exhibits & war memorials.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$15

Day 9Spiritual Tranquility and Market Treasures

$ 1

This colorful pagoda has ornate architecture & religious statues, plus an open courtyard.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

28 - 34 min

Directions

Lively bazaar with many vendors for clothing, shoes & accessories, plus street eats.

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

•

Free

Day 10Presidential Grandeur, Theatrical Splendor, and Sacred Serenity

$23

$ 1

Historical building of the Vietnam War era, with tours of government offices, war rooms & artifacts.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$10

14 - 21 min

Directions

Ornate 19th-century French colonial opera house that is now home to the city's ballet & symphony.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$13

41 - 50 min

Directions

Prominent Buddhist temple with ornate architecture, a tranquil ambiance & a vegetarian restaurant.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Budget breakdown: $155 In total

Activities & Food:$150

Transport:$5