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

Day 1 starts at Ben Thanh Market at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours to explore local goods. Take a 5-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) at 10:30 AM to the War Remnants Museum, where you should spend 2 hours until 1:30 PM. Afterward, enjoy a short 10-minute walk to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon for a final 30 minutes of sightseeing.

Attractions

Ben Thanh Market

Explore this bustling market famous for local handicrafts, textiles, and street food. A must-visit for souvenir shopping and experiencing local daily life.

War Remnants Museum

Gain insights into Vietnam's war history through powerful exhibitions and photographs. A poignant experience reflecting the impact of the Vietnam War.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Admire this stunning French colonial cathedral, featuring striking stained glass and beautiful architecture. An iconic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.

Start Day 2 at Saigon Central Post Office at 9 AM - allow 30 minutes. Take a quick 10-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) to Đường Bùi Viện by 10 AM for a lively 2-hour exploration. Finally, take a 15-minute taxi (~$5 USD) to Saigon Chinatown, arriving around 12:30 PM for a leisurely 3-hour cultural experience.

Attractions

Saigon Central Post Office

Observe the elegant architecture of this historic post office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. A great spot for photos and to send postcards.

Đường Bùi Viện

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious street food along this lively street lined with bars, restaurants, and local vendors.

Saigon Chinatown

Discover the rich heritage and bustling markets of Saigon’s Chinatown, filled with fascinating shops, temples, and authentic cuisine.

Day 3 starts at Nguyễn Huệ at 9 AM - allow 60 mins to explore the lively pedestrian street. Travel 15 mins by taxi (~$5 USD) to Jade Emperor Pagoda at 10:30 AM - allow 90 mins for serene experiences. Finally, head to LUSH Coffee and more 24/7 at 12:30 PM, just a 10-minute taxi ride (~$4 USD) for a leisurely 90 mins of coffee and relaxation.

Attractions

Nguyễn Huệ

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this spacious pedestrian street, perfect for people-watching, with impressive views of the surrounding cityscape.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Explore this iconic pagoda, filled with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for experiencing local spirituality.

LUSH Coffee and more 24/7

Enjoy a unique cafe experience surrounded by beautiful greenery, offering a variety of local drinks and fresh food in a relaxed setting.

Day 4 starts at Tao Dan Park at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to enjoy the greenery. Next, take a 10-minute walk to the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum at 10:30 AM - plan for 2 hours to explore. Afterward, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to The Venerable Thich Quảng Đức Monument at 1 PM - allow 45 minutes for reflection.

Attractions

Tao Dan Park

A refreshing urban park perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic, featuring lush greenery and interesting sculptures throughout the grounds.

Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum

Appreciate a rich collection of Vietnamese artworks in a beautiful colonial-era building, exploring contemporary pieces as well as traditional art.

The Venerable Thich Quảng Đức Monument

Visit this somber yet powerful monument dedicated to the monk who self-immolated as a protest during the Vietnam War, symbolizing peace and resilience.

Day 5 starts at Bitexco Financial Tower at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours for stunning views. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$5) to Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão by 11 AM - enjoy 2 hours exploring street food and local culture. At 1:30 PM, head to the Saigon River for a Luxury Speed Boat Tour—5-minute taxi (~$4) for 2 hours of scenic views.

Attractions

Bitexco Financial Tower

Experience breathtaking panoramic views over Ho Chi Minh City from the Sky Deck of this iconic skyscraper, a highlight of the city’s skyline.

Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão

Experience the vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, and diverse bars along this popular backpacker street, perfect for casual dining and socializing.

Saigon River Tour (Luxury Speed Boat Tours)

Experience the beauty of the Saigon River with a scenic boat cruise. Enjoy views of the city skyline and surrounding landscapes.

Day 6 begins at Turtle Lake at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to enjoy the serene atmosphere. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$3) to La Siesta Premium Saigon, arriving by 10:30 AM for a relaxing 90-minute break. Next, take a 10-minute taxi (~$3) to Le Van Tam Park for a leisurely stroll, starting at 12:30 PM. Enjoy the greenery for 90 minutes before the afternoon ends.

Attractions

Turtle Lake

A tranquil spot within the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying local food from nearby vendors.

La Siesta Premium Saigon

A rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, offering a relaxed vibe and great cocktails.

Le Van Tam Park

A green oasis in the city, ideal for jogging, picnics, and enjoying nature.

Day 1 starts at Hoàn Kiếm Lake at 9 AM - allow 60 minutes to stroll and enjoy the scenery. Next, take a 10-minute walk to Ngoc Son Temple at 10:30 AM, spending 45 minutes exploring this cultural gem. Finally, travel by taxi (approximately $5 USD, 15 mins) to the Temple of Literature at 11:45 AM; plan to spend 90 minutes immersing yourself in Vietnam’s history.

Attractions

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

A serene escape in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers a glimpse of local life alongside its stunning views.

Ngoc Son Temple

This picturesque temple located on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake offers beautiful architecture and a rich history, reflecting Vietnam's cultural heritage.

Temple Of Literature

As Vietnam's first national university, this tranquil complex showcases beautiful traditional architecture and reflects the country's rich scholarly history.

Day 2 starts at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for the show. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD) to Vietnam Museum of Ethnology by 10:30 AM – spend 2 hours exploring. For lunch, head to West Lake with a 15-minute taxi ride (~$4 USD) at 1 PM – enjoy 1.5 hours by the scenic lakeside, perfect for relaxation.

Attractions

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Experience an enchanting traditional Vietnamese art form with vibrant puppetry and live music, showcasing stories of rural life and folklore.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Delve into Vietnam's diverse cultures with fascinating exhibits and outdoor installations that showcase the traditions and lifestyles of various ethnic groups.

West Lake

Hanoi's largest lake offers stunning views, beautiful parks, and a peaceful ambiance—ideal for leisurely walks or cycling around the waterfront.

Ho Chi Minh City & Hanoi, Vietnam 8-day travel plan covering Top attractions and Hidden Gems 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