11-Day Ho Chi Minh City Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 starts at Ben Thanh Market at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore. Afterward, take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$4 USD) to War Remnants Museum, spending 2 hours there until 1 PM. Finally, take a 5-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon for a 1-hour visit, wrapping up your day by 2 PM. Attractions are ordered by proximity to city center.

Attractions

Ben Thanh Market

A bustling hub of local life, offering a plethora of goods, street food, and souvenirs. Experience the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City in this iconic market.

War Remnants Museum

Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's history through powerful exhibits, photographs, and artifacts documenting the Vietnam War from multiple perspectives.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

This stunning French colonial cathedral is an architectural gem, featuring beautiful stained glass and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful respite in the city.

Start Day 2 at Saigon Central Post Office at 9 AM - allow 45 minutes for browsing. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Binh Tay Market by 10:15 AM; spend 90 minutes exploring this vibrant market. For relaxation, it's a 10-minute ride (~$5 USD) to Tao Dan Park at 12:15 PM; enjoy an hour in the greenery before lunch or more sightseeing.

Attractions

Saigon Central Post Office

An architectural masterpiece combining Gothic and Renaissance styles, this post office is not only functional but also a great place for photography.

Binh Tay Market

Famous for its authentic atmosphere, this market is less touristy and offers a variety of local goods, snacks, and the chance to experience daily life in Chinatown.

Tao Dan Park

A serene escape from the city’s hustle, this park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and spots for relaxing. Ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility.

Day 3 begins at Bitexco Financial Tower at 9 AM - allow 60 minutes for the observation deck. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) to Ho Chí Minh City People's Committee at 10:30 AM, spending 30 minutes admiring the architecture. Next, head to Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão by a 5-minute taxi (~$2 USD) at 11:30 AM, allowing 2 hours to explore local shops and cafes.

Attractions

Bitexco Financial Tower

Experience panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the observation deck of this skyscraper. A must-visit for stunning cityscapes, especially at sunset.

Ho Chí Minh City People's Committee

This stunning French colonial building is a symbol of the city, showcasing intricate architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens around it.

Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão

Known for its vibrant nightlife, this street is filled with local eateries, bars, and cafés, making it perfect for experiencing the nightlife and local cuisine.

Day 4 starts at Cholon at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore the vibrant Chinatown. Travel 15 minutes by taxi (~$7 USD) to Jade Emperor Pagoda for 60 minutes of tranquility at 11 AM. At 12:30 PM, enjoy sushi at Sushi Kizuna, a 20-minute taxi ride (~$8 USD). Allow 2 hours for lunch while savoring a mix of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine.

Attractions

Cholon

Explore Saigon's vibrant Chinatown, rich with history, culture, and unique bites. Experience the local lifestyle and the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

This beautifully ornate pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor. Guests are welcomed to experience the spiritual atmosphere and intricate architectural details.

Sushi Kizuna

A scenic waterfront park offering views of the Saigon River and lush greenery, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and enjoying the outdoors amidst the city.

Start Day 5 at Suoi Tien Theme Park at 9 AM - allow 4 hours of fun. Travel by taxi (15-20 mins, ~$10) to Thao Dien Village at 1:30 PM - enjoy leisurely exploration for 1.5 hours. Finally, take a 10-15 minute taxi ride (~$5) to Saigon River for sightseeing at 3:30 PM, allowing 2 hours to relax and enjoy the views.

Attractions

Suoi Tien Theme Park

A unique cultural theme park featuring a blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and amusement rides. A fun destination for families offering educational experiences.

Thao Dien Village

A charming area known for its expatriate community, featuring trendy cafés, boutiques, and a peaceful riverside ambiance.

Saigon River Sightseeing

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Saigon River, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and the surrounding nature, especially stunning at sunset.

Day 6 starts at Buu Long Tourist Area (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploration. Take a 30-minute taxi ride (~$10 USD) to Starlight Crescent Bridge, arriving by 11:30 AM for 30 minutes. Next, enjoy September 23rd Park at 12:30 PM - allow 2 hours here, a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) from the bridge. This balanced itinerary mixes activity and leisure beautifully.

Attractions

Buu Long Tourist Area

A tranquil park featuring hills, lakes, and gardens, perfect for a relaxing day out with opportunities for picnicking, boating, and peaceful walks in nature.

Starlight Crescent Bridge

An iconic pedestrian bridge adorned with colorful LED lights, making it a popular spot for evening strolls while enjoying views over the water.

September 23rd Park

A hidden gem rich in biodiversity, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, ponds, and a chance to connect with nature away from city life.

Start your day at Nguyễn Huệ at 9 AM for 1 hour, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Then, take a 15-minute walk to Turtle Lake, arriving by 10:30 AM; allow 1 hour to relax by the lake. Next, travel 30 minutes by taxi (~$6 USD) to Bình Quới Tourist Village, starting around 12 PM and enjoying a leisurely 2-hour visit with authentic local cuisine.

Attractions

Nguyễn Huệ

A vibrant pedestrian street bustling with life, lined with shops and cafés, ideal for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Turtle Lake

An urban lake frequented by locals, ideal for relaxation, casual walks, and enjoying food stalls nearby, adding to the city’s lively atmosphere.

Bình Quới Tourist Village

A beautiful waterfront destination offering a taste of traditional Vietnamese village life with rice paddies, gardens, and a variety of local food.

Day 8 starts at HCMC History Museum at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore exhibits on local heritage. Take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Saigon Cao Dai Temple, arriving by 11:30 AM for a 1-hour visit. Afterward, enjoy a 10-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) to Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens at 1 PM, allowing 3 hours to relax and enjoy the attractions.

Attractions

HCMC History Museum

Delve into the rich heritage of Vietnam through artifacts and exhibits that highlight the country's extensive history from prehistoric to modern times.

Saigon Cao Dai Temple

An architectural marvel, this temple represents a unique blend of different religions and philosophies, offering vibrant colors and intricate designs that captivate visitors.

Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Explore the rich diversity of flora and fauna in this peaceful zoo and botanical garden, ideal for families and nature lovers, featuring beautiful landscapes and exotic animals.

Day 9 starts at Dam Sen Cultural Park at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore its attractions. Take a short 10-minute taxi ride (~$5, VND 120,000) to Bình Quới Tourist Village, arriving by 11:30 AM for another 2 hours of leisure by the river. Finally, head to Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens at 2 PM, a 20-minute taxi ride (~$8, VND 200,000), allowing 90 minutes to enjoy the zoo and gardens.

Attractions

Dam Sen Cultural Park

A large amusement and water park featuring lush gardens, lakes, and a variety of rides. Perfect for families and those seeking relaxation.

Bình Quới Tourist Village

A traditional Vietnamese village with beautiful gardens and cultural activities. A peaceful escape from the city hustle.

Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

A serene space filled with tropical plants and trees, ideal for relaxation and leisurely walks in nature.

Day 10 starts at Lotus Port at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to enjoy the scenery. Travel by taxi (approx. 15 minutes, ~$5 USD) to Thuy Chau Ecotourism, arriving by 10:30 AM for 3 hours of nature activities. In the afternoon, take a taxi (around 30 minutes, ~$10 USD) to Saigon Riverfront Park, arriving by 2 PM. Spend 1 hour relaxing by the river.

Attractions

Lotus Port

Spot vibrant lotus blooms in a tranquil pond setting, ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

Thuy Chau Ecotourism

Offers beautiful waterfalls, hiking opportunities, and lush forests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Saigon Riverfront Park

A waterfront park that provides stunning views of the river and city skyline, great for walking and jogging.

Day 11 starts at Thuy Chau Ecotourism at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploring nature and relaxing. Take a 30-minute taxi to PHÚ MỸ HƯNG (approx. $10) for lunch at 11:30 AM, spending 1.5 hours there. Afterward, hop on a 20-minute Grab ride (~$5) to Street Food Man by 1:30 PM for a delightful street food experience lasting 1.5 hours. Each location is conveniently arranged by proximity to the city center.

Attractions

Thuy Chau Ecotourism

Features lush greenery and eco-friendly activities, including kayaking and bicycle rides through nature.

PHÚ MỸ HƯNG

A modern urban area with parks, walking paths, and lakes, ideal for leisure and spending time outdoors.

Street Food Man

Explore the diverse culinary scene while strolling through various outdoor markets featuring local food and handicrafts.

11 days in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: itinerary with Top attractions and Nature and outdoor

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Ben Thanh Market

War Remnants Museum

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11