Ho Chi Minh City 2 weeks

Ho Chi Minh City's main international airport, serving as the gateway to the city. Allow time for immigration and baggage claim.

Check into your hotel and take some time to settle in. The Reverie Saigon offers luxurious accommodations with stunning city views, fitting a mid-tier budget.

A magnificent Neo-Romanesque cathedral built by French colonists. Admire its striking red brick facade and twin bell towers. Note: Interior access may be limited due to ongoing restoration, but the exterior is always a sight.

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture and still a functioning post office. It's a great spot for photos and to send a postcard.

Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a charming courtyard setting. This restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes from across Vietnam, perfect for a first taste of local flavors.

A sobering museum detailing the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, featuring graphic photographs and artifacts. It provides crucial historical context.

• Prepare for emotionally impactful exhibits.

Formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, this landmark is preserved as it was on April 30, 1975. Explore its preserved rooms and tunnels.

A legendary spot for authentic pho, a must-try Vietnamese noodle soup. Enjoy a delicious and affordable lunch in a bustling local atmosphere.

Ascend to the 49th floor for panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City. The tower also features a unique helicopter landing pad and a shopping mall.

• Visit during late afternoon for sunset views.

A bustling central market offering everything from souvenirs and clothing to local snacks and street food. It's a great place to practice your bargaining skills and soak in the lively atmosphere.

• Be prepared to haggle for prices.
• Watch out for pickpockets.

Dine on authentic Vietnamese home-style cooking on a hidden rooftop. The ambiance is charming and romantic, perfect for couples.

• Reservations are highly recommended.

Explore the incredible network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the war. You can crawl through some of the tunnels and learn about their ingenious construction.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
• Consider a guided tour for deeper historical insights.

Enjoy a simple, delicious lunch at a local eatery near the Cu Chi Tunnels. This is often included in guided tours.

A large, traditional market in Chinatown (District 6), less touristy than Ben Thanh. It's a great place to see local commerce and find unique goods.

• Great for experiencing authentic local life.

A popular spot for authentic Southern Vietnamese street food with a lively, local vibe. Enjoy a variety of affordable and delicious dishes.

Embark on a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta, experiencing its lush landscapes, river life, and local industries like coconut candy workshops and fruit orchards. This often includes a boat ride on the Mekong River.

• Choose a tour that visits less crowded islands for a more authentic experience.
• Bring insect repellent.

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch as part of your Mekong Delta tour, often featuring local specialties.

After returning from the delta, explore the vibrant street food scene in District 1. Sample local delicacies from various vendors.

• Look for stalls with a high turnover of customers.

Housed in a beautiful colonial building, this museum showcases a wide range of Vietnamese art, from ancient sculptures to contemporary paintings.

Savor delicious Bun Cha, grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, a Hanoi specialty that's also popular in Ho Chi Minh City. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal.

A historic Taoist pagoda known for its intricate carvings, colorful statues, and tranquil atmosphere. It's a beautiful example of Vietnamese temple architecture.

• Visit in the morning for the best incense smoke photography.

A local market known for its fashion and clothing, offering a more authentic shopping experience than tourist-focused markets. Find affordable clothes and accessories.

• Good for finding trendy local fashion.

Dine in a beautifully restored colonial villa serving traditional Vietnamese dishes with a refined touch. The ambiance is intimate and perfect for couples.

• Reservations are essential.

Though called 'night market', it's active in the late afternoon and evening. Explore stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and a wide array of street food.

• Great place to try various Vietnamese snacks.

Experience Vietnam's rich coffee culture at a local coffee shop. Try the strong Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) or a unique egg coffee.

Enjoy a bowl of Hu Tieu, a savory noodle soup that's a local favorite. This spot is known for its flavorful broth and generous toppings.

Known as the 'flower market', this vibrant market is also a great place to find fresh produce, dried goods, and local snacks. It's a sensory overload in the best way.

• Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon.

Enjoy a romantic dinner with stunning views of the Saigon River. This upscale restaurant offers contemporary Asian cuisine and a chic atmosphere.

• Dress code is smart casual.
• Book a table with a river view.

Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, known for its bustling markets, ornate temples, and delicious street food. Immerse yourselves in the local culture and unique architecture.

• Visit Thien Hau Temple for stunning architecture.

Enjoy authentic Chinese dim sum in the heart of Chinatown. This is a great spot to sample a variety of small, flavorful dishes.

Experience a modern side of Ho Chi Minh City in this planned urban district. It offers wide boulevards, parks, and contemporary architecture, a stark contrast to older districts.

• Enjoy a stroll through Crescent Mall area.

Unwind with a cocktail at this popular rooftop bar offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. It's a perfect spot for a romantic evening.

• Dress code is smart casual.
• Arrive before sunset for the best experience.

Explore this lively street known for its numerous Japanese restaurants, izakayas, and bars. It offers a unique culinary and nightlife experience.

Join a guided food tour to discover hidden culinary gems and sample a variety of local dishes with explanations from a knowledgeable guide. This is an excellent way to dive deep into the city's food scene.

• Go on an empty stomach!
• Ask your guide for recommendations beyond the tour.

Enjoy a variety of local dishes as part of your guided food tour. This allows you to taste many different flavors without committing to a full meal at each place.

A great place to find unique, handcrafted souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans. Support local artists and find beautifully made items.

A highly-rated restaurant offering delicious Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine, especially known for its pizzas and burrata. It's a popular spot for both locals and expats.

• Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

Dedicated to the traditional Vietnamese long dress, the Ao Dai. This charming museum showcases the history and evolution of this iconic garment in a beautiful garden setting.

Experience traditional Vietnamese home-style cooking served in clay pots. The food is flavorful and the presentation is unique.

A contemporary art space showcasing works by Vietnamese and international artists. It's a great place to explore the modern art scene in the city.

• Check their schedule for current exhibitions and events.

Dine in a quirky, art-filled bistro that serves contemporary Vietnamese dishes with a creative twist. The vibrant decor adds to the dining experience.

Take a morning flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat, a charming mountain resort town known for its French colonial architecture and cooler climate.

• Book flights in advance for better prices.

Check into your hotel and begin exploring the picturesque city center. Visit the Crazy House and stroll around Xuan Huong Lake.

Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens showcasing a vast array of colorful flowers and local plants. It's a peaceful and picturesque escape.

Enjoy a fine dining experience at this beautiful resort, offering French-inspired cuisine in a charming colonial setting. A perfect romantic dinner.

• Dress code is smart casual.

Explore the bustling local market for fresh produce, coffee, dried fruits, and local handicrafts. It's a great place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Enjoy a final local lunch in Da Lat before heading back to Ho Chi Minh City. Try some local specialties like Banh Canh.

Take an afternoon flight back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Check back into your Ho Chi Minh City hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening. Have a simple, local dinner at a nearby restaurant.

A popular spot for affordable fashion, including brand-name knock-offs and local clothing. It's a great place to find trendy items at low prices.

• Bargaining is expected.
• Best for clothing and accessories.

Indulge in Banh Xeo, crispy Vietnamese crepes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It's a delicious and popular local dish.

A modern, upscale department store offering a wide range of international and local brands, as well as a large food court and supermarket. A good place for a more comfortable shopping experience.

• Great for higher-end goods or a break from street markets.

Dine in a beautifully decorated, atmospheric restaurant offering refined Vietnamese cuisine. The ambiance is intimate and perfect for a romantic evening.

• Reservations are recommended.

Take a day trip to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a unique mangrove ecosystem. Activities include boat trips, visiting a monkey island, and exploring the local flora and fauna.

• Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant in the Can Gio area, often included in tours.

Discover some of Ho Chi Minh City's unique hidden cafes, often found in old apartment buildings. Enjoy a local coffee or tea in a tranquil setting.

• Look for cafes in apartment buildings on Nguyen Hue Street.

Enjoy a luxurious farewell dinner at this exquisite French restaurant set in a beautiful villa by the river. It offers a sophisticated dining experience.

• Dress code is elegant.
• Book well in advance.

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from local shops near your hotel.

Enjoy one last delicious Vietnamese meal before heading to the airport. A final taste of your favorite dishes.

Depart from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Allow ample time for check-in and security.