The Ultimate 4-Day Saigon Getaway Guide

Experience the vibrant bustle and rich culture of Ho Chi Minh City, the gem of Southeast Asia.

22 April 2023

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, offers breathtaking historical sites such as the Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum. The city's bustling atmosphere can be experienced through a visit to the Ben Thanh Market or by exploring the vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Street. Indulge in the flavorful local food or take a day trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels to experience Vietnam's rich culture and history.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Saigon

  • Stay at The Reverie Saigon, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the city
  • Head for a stroll in the famous Ben Thanh market, a bustling hub of commerce and cuisine!
  • Visit Independence Palace, a historic landmark that played a significant role in Vietnam's modern history
  • Enjoy delicious Pho at Pho Hoa Pasteur, a highly recommended place by many locals
  • Finish the day off with drinks in the vibrant Bui Vien street, with plenty of bars and live music
Day 2

Discovering District 1

  • Walk around Nguyen Hue pedestrian boulevard and take some beautiful shots of the City Hall
  • Visit the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, a legacy left from French occupation
  • Explore the War Remnants Museum, a somber reminder of the Vietnam War
  • Grab lunch at Bành Mì Huỳnh Hoa, an iconic spot offering mouth-watering Bành Mì
  • Take a stroll through the quaint neighborhood of Saigon's Chinatown, with its intricate temples and street side shops
Day 3

Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Take a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, a relic of the Vietnam War with a fascinating history
  • Experience the tunnels first hand and gain insight into how the Viet Cong soldiers lived during the war
  • Learn about the history of the Vietnamese resistance and their victory over the US Army
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring authentic cuisine from the Cu Chi region
  • Return in time to catch the Saigon river sunset, taking in stunning views from a rooftop bar
Day 4

Exploring the Local Taste

  • Take a cooking class at Saigon Culinary Mysteries, which offers a hands-on experience of traditional Vietnamese cooking
  • Have lunch at Cuc Gach Quan, an atmospheric restaurant with a beautiful garden and delicious food
  • Stroll around the funky area of Thao Dien, known for stunning shops, cafes, and restaurants
  • Visit the breathtaking Jungle Bistro, famous for its natural setting and traditional performances
  • End the day on the rooftop bar of Rex Hotel, with panoramic views and a signature cocktail.
  • Saigon is a dynamic, modern city constantly on the move, offering delicious cuisine, rich history, and an endless list of things to 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.

More travel plans

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