4 Days of Budget Bliss: Ho Chi Minh City Guide

Experience the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Ho Chi Minh City offers a range of affordable options for budget travelers, including budget accommodations, street food, and public transportation. Explore popular tourist attractions like the War Remnants Museum and the Ben Thanh Market to experience the city's rich history and culture. Take a day trip to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam's revolutionary history and witness the resilience of its people.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the City on Foot

  • Check in at Phan Anh Backpacker Hostel, centrally located and affordable
  • Grab a map and wander the streets of District 1, stopping to admire the architecture and street art
  • Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history
  • Have lunch at Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa, known for their delicious banh mi sandwiches
  • Take a sunset stroll around Ben Thanh Market before dinner at Bun Cha 145, serving tasty grilled pork and noodles
Day 2

Get a Taste of Local Life

  • Start the day with a trip to Ben Thanh Market for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast
  • Take a tour of the Mekong Delta region, with a boat trip and visit to a local market
  • Stop for lunch at a riverside restaurant to sample fresh seafood
  • Return to the city for a coffee at the famous Cafe Apartments
  • End the day with dinner at Bún Thịt Nướng Cô Ba Vũng Tàu, serving fresh spring rolls and grilled meat
Day 3

Cultural Activities

  • Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a tranquil Buddhist temple in the heart of the city
  • Walk to the Independence Palace for a guided tour of the former residence of Vietnam's presidents
  • Have lunch at Pho Phuong 25 for authentic pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup
  • Visit the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning Gothic church
  • Check out the Saigon Opera House for a night of traditional Vietnamese dance and music
Day 4

Discover Local Art and Cuisine

  • Visit the Fine Arts Museum for a look at Vietnam's contemporary art scene
  • Have lunch at Quan Bui, a trendy Vietnamese restaurant with a modern twist
  • Take a walking tour of the local street art scene
  • Stop at the Saigon Central Post Office for a glimpse of French colonial architecture
  • End the day with a sunset cocktail and panoramic views at the Sky Bar Saigon, atop the Bitexco Financial Tower.

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

More travel plans

Family-Friendly Fun: 2 Days in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and vibrant culture, making it a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. Families can explore iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace, stroll through the lively Ben Thanh Market, and take a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Saigon River. With its delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and numerous museums and parks, Ho Chi Minh City offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages.

3 Days of Adventure in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam bursting with history, culture, and energy. As a tourist, there are countless attractions to explore such as the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and the bustling markets of Ben Thanh. Additionally, the city is renowned for its delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Vietnam.

Romantic Day Escape: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Experience the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication on a romantic escape to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and savor the local cuisine as you explore the bustling streets and historic landmarks of this cosmopolitan city. Relax in luxurious accommodations and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline on a rooftop bar, making unforgettable memories with your loved one.

5-Day Romantic Getaway to Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, offers a romantic atmosphere with its French colonial architecture, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and a bustling nightlife. Couples can explore the city's landmarks such as the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Cu Chi Tunnels, and even take a sunset river cruise. With affordable luxury accommodations and friendly locals, Ho Chi Minh City is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.