Heart of Ho Chi Minh: A Budget Day Trip

Experience the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine, explore historical landmarks such as the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, and take a trip to the Mekong Delta all for a reasonable price. Accommodation options include comfortable hostels and budget hotels that won't break the bank.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

  • Start the day with a delicious Banh Mi from Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, a local favourite.
  • Take a walk through the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
  • Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War.
  • Have lunch at Phở 24, a budget-friendly restaurant serving the popular Vietnamese dish Pho.
  • Head to the bustling Ben Thanh Market for some shopping and bargaining with local vendors.
  • End the day with a refreshing Vietnamese coffee at Cafe Giang, known for their egg coffee.
  • Note: Don't forget to try street food like Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese pancake) and Hu Tieu Nam Vang (pork noodle soup) throughout the day for a truly authentic experience.

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.

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