Saigon on a Budget: A 3-Day Adventure

Exploit the charms of Saigon without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. For those traveling on a tight budget, there are budget-friendly accommodations, street food, and affordable transportation options. Must-see sights include the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels, and the bustling Ben Thanh Market.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Check into Hotel Terrace Saigon, a budget-friendly hotel conveniently located in the heart of District 1.
  • Head to Ben Thanh Market for a taste of local food, souvenirs and atmosphere.
  • Take in the city's history with a visit to the War Remnants Museum.
  • Get lost in the streets of Saigon by exploring the quaint French colonial architecture, such as The Opera House and Notre Dame Cathedral.
  • Experience a vibrant nightlife by having drinks and food at Chill Sky Bar, a rooftop spot with breathtaking views of the city.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventure

  • Take a tour to Mekong Delta for a unique floating market experience, where local produce is sold on boats.
  • Visit Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the significantly historical role of underground tunnels in the Vietnam War.
  • Indulge in street food and explore the traditional Vietnamese markets of Cho Lon, the city's Chinatown.
  • Take a peaceful walk in the Cong Vien Park and enjoy the tranquility of Saigon's largest green space.
  • Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture by visiting the famous Jade Emperor Pagoda, beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and mythical figures.
Day 3

Food Tour and Gay Nightlife

  • Eat like locals and start your day with a bowl of delicious pho at Pho Binh, a local gem in District 1.
  • Try banh mi at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, a sandwich place that has been on the radar of foodies from all over the world.
  • Explore some hidden alleys and try some Saigon specialties, such as com tam and banh xeo with a food tour.
  • End your evening by going out to Vietnam's first gay bar, Republic Lounge with great music, fantastic cocktails, drag shows and friendly atmosphere.
  • Enjoy the nightlights and experience the hustle and bustle of the walking street, Bùi Viện, with a nightcap at one of its many street bars.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to reach Ho Chi Minh City by plane is to fly to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which is the largest airport in Vietnam and located just north of the city center.

Car

If you are already in Vietnam, then hiring a car or taking a taxi is a good way to reach Ho Chi Minh City. The drive from Da Nang city takes approximately 17 hours via the AH1 highway.

Train

Although there are some train services within Vietnam, there is no direct train to Ho Chi Minh City. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the train as a means of transportation.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Ho Chi Minh City, but it is possible to take a cruise along the Mekong River from Cambodia. The journey takes around four days and terminates in the city center.

Bus

The most popular way to reach Ho Chi Minh City by bus is to travel from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The journey takes around six hours and terminates at Mien Dong Bus Station in the city center.

Destination

Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of motorbikes, street food, and questionable karaoke performances - where crossing the road is an extreme sport and the humidity will make you question your life choices. Get ready to explore Ho Chi Minh City!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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