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

dhanashree gujar

dhanashree gujar

25 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Discover ancient marvels, immerse yourself in the local culture, and indulge in delicious cuisine. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Trip to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1Unveiling the Past: War Remnants and Architectural Wonders
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$43

·

$ 1

War Remnants Museum
Memorial museum exhibiting photographs, weapons & other objects from the Vietnam & Indochina wars.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$8
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Tao Dan Park
Leafy public park featuring manicured gardens, a Buddhist temple, play areas & sports facilities.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Independence Palace
Historical building of the Vietnam War era, with tours of government offices, war rooms & artifacts.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
$10
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
1880s Catholic cathedral built with French bricks & featuring 58m-tall Romanesque bell towers.
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Bitexco Financial Tower
Iconic 68-floor skyscraper featuring an observation deck, retail shops, dining & a cineplex.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
$25
Day 2From Opera to Night Markets: A Cultural Extravaganza
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$43

·

$ 1

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Ornate 19th-century French colonial opera house that is now home to the city's ballet & symphony.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$13
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Saigon Skydeck
Glass-enclosed observation deck on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower with scenic views.
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
$25
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Ben Thanh Market
Well-known standby for handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing & other goods along with local eats.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
$5
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Bui Vien Walking Street
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Free
10 - 12 min

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Directions

An Dong Market
Indoor market with a huge selection of goods including fabrics, clothing, dried foods & handicrafts.
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Free
Day 3Splash and Art: Water Park and Museum Delights
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$25

·

$ 2

Dam Sen Water Park
Sprawling family-friendly entertainment complex with rides, a water park, cinema & zoo.
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
$20
22 - 27 min

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Directions

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
Classical to contemporary Vietnamese & foreign artworks on display in an elegant colonial building.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$5
6 - 8 min

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Directions

Ho Chi Minh City Book Street
Buzzy, pedestrian-only street with Vietnamese & expat bookstores, plus spots for al fresco coffee.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Free
Day 4Nature's Serenity and Local Market Exploration
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$5

·

$ 2

Thuy Chau Ecotourism
Artificial eco-park with peaceful woodland & riverside walks, picnic spots & a swimming pool.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
16 - 20 min

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Directions

Buu Long Pagoda
Prominent Buddhist temple with ornate architecture, a tranquil ambiance & a vegetarian restaurant.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
42 - 51 min

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Directions

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden
Straightforward zoo showcasing an array of animals, including giraffes, camels, elephants & snakes.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
$5
27 - 33 min

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Hanh Thong Tay Market
Lively bazaar with many vendors for clothing, shoes & accessories, plus street eats.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Free
Day 5Underground Tunnels and Spiritual Tranquility
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$28

·

$ 2

Cu Chi Tunnel
Sprawling underground tunnel complex used by Viet Cong soldiers, plus exhibits & war memorials.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$15
53 - 64 min

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Directions

Đại Nam Văn Hiến
Large complex offering amusement & water parks, a zoo & a course for auto, horse & greyhound racing.
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
$13
43 - 52 min

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Directions

Hoang Phap Buddhist Temple
This colorful pagoda has ornate architecture & religious statues, plus an open courtyard.
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $148 In total

Activities & Food:$143
Transport:$6