Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling southern metropolis where history and modern life collide. Its lively streets are filled with motorbikes, street markets, and French-colonial architecture, creating a vibrant urban tapestry. From savoring freshly baked bánh mì and rich Vietnamese coffee to exploring historic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, the city offers a mix of culture, cuisine, and adventure. Rooftop bars, hidden speakeasies, and cosy cafes add a modern twist, making Ho Chi Minh City the perfect destination for an unforgettable two-day exploration.
Ho Chi Minh City: A fabulous walking tour
To create this walking tour, I spent time researching online travel guides, blogs, and maps to identify must-see landmarks, hidden cafes, and local eateries. I carefully planned routes to maximise sightseeing on foot, balancing history, culture, and food experiences, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable two-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 1: Colonial Charm, History, and Riverside Views
Morning: Coffee and Local Breakfast
We started the day at Oasis Café, a quiet spot perfect for a morning coffee. The café serves excellent Vietnamese coffee alongside pastries and light breakfast options, ideal to fuel up before exploring. The café is so cool and has koi carp swimming around between the tables. You might have to put your name down for one of the fish tables but otherwise you can wait upstairs on the balcony and look out at the pretty café. There is a strong smell of pond and fish but it’s a lovely, picturesque place if you can get past that.
A full morning of walking and exploring District 1
From there, we wandered to the famous pink church, officially known as Tan Dinh Church. It is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks. Famous for its striking pink façade and Gothic-inspired architecture, it features ornate details, towering spires, and colourful stained-glass windows. It was really beautiful and impressive; exactly what we hoped it would be. On Saturdays and Sundays the gates ate closed and you cannot walk around the outside of the church. But you can still see it perfectly from the roadside.
We carried on the tour and walked down the famous Book Street and browsed all of the little shops selling books in all languages and lots of little trinkets. It was a lovely street and we sat on benches at the side and just people-watched for a while.
Next, we wandered to Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning French-colonial cathedral with twin bell towers. Unfortunately, it had construction work happening in August 2025 and scaffolding covering the entire front of the building, so unfortunately, we didn’t manage to see the building in all its glory.
Next we popped into the Saigon Central Post Office, famous for its Gustav Eiffel–designed architecture and intricate interior. All 3 of these landmarks are a short walk from each other in District 1. The Central Post Office is still a live post office and we watched people go to the kiosks to send their letters and parcels worldwide. It was a really beautiful building!
Lunch: Street Food Classic
For lunch, enjoy the iconic bánh mì at Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa. Their sandwiches are loaded with fresh herbs and pickled vegetables, making it a quintessential Saigon experience.
Afternoon: Heights and Hidden Gems
Next, we discovered Café Apartment on Nguyen Hue Street. This quirky building turned café hub offers boutique shops, art spaces, and multiple floors of coffee spots- a great place to pause and people-watch. We watched the building from outside and decided not to venture in!
From here, we headed to the Skydeck Observation at the Bitexco Financial Tower. It offers panoramic city views, giving a perspective of Ho Chi Minh City’s energetic streets and modern skyline—a perfect photo opportunity. It costs $7.50 per person, as of August 2025. You have 360 degree views at the top and on a clear day; it is beautiful.
Evening: Dinner and Hidden Bars
We dined at Shamballa which offers plant-based Vietnamese and international cuisine in a serene, beautifully decorated space. It is a great spot to experience local flavours in a healthier, eco-conscious way. As evening fell, we treated ourselves to personalised cocktails at Merlin’s, a hidden speakeasy bar tucked away in District 1. With expertly crafted cocktails and a cosy, secretive vibe, it’s the perfect way to experience Saigon’s nightlife differently. We asked for gin-based cocktails that were light and refreshing. What we got was a cucumber and orange gin drink that was absolutely fabulous!
Hotel Recommendations
Luxury
- Park Hyatt Saigon: Colonial elegance, spa, pool, fine dining; around $250/night.
- Caravelle Saigon: Historic, rooftop bar, pool; around $200/night.
Mid-Range
- Leiden Homestay: Boutique charm, stylish rooms; $60–$100/night.
- Hotel Nikko Saigon: Spacious rooms, rooftop pool; around $120/night.
Budget
- Duc Vuong Hotel: Central, rooftop bar; around $30/night.
- Chill Suites: Clean, convenient, near Bánh Mì Ba Huynh; around $35/night.
Eden Star Saigon, our stay, was a mid-range choice with a rooftop pool and bar- perfect for evening relaxation after walking all day.
Day 2: Markets and Parks
Morning: Coffee and Markets
We had breakfast at our hotel and then headed out to explore Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub for souvenirs, handicrafts, and snacks like bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes) or coconut coffee. We were leaving our Vietnam leg of the trip after Ho Chi Minh City and we were going to miss the Vietnamese coffee!
For a peaceful break, walk to Tao Dan Park, where you can observe locals doing tai chi and enjoy the greenery amidst the city bustle.
Afternoon: Spiritual Sites and Urban Exploration
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: This ornate pagoda is a spiritual highlight with intricate carvings and a tranquil atmosphere.
Explore hidden gems like rooftop cafes or boutique stores nearby. We stopped at the The View Rooftop bar for the happy hour drinks and stayed for a few hours. Then we headed back to our hotel to make the most of the sun and our rooftop pool at the Eden Star Saigon Hotel.
Evening: Vegetarian Dinner
We had a beautiful dinner at Hum Signature Vegetarian Restaurant. Hum Signature is a refined vegan restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its elegant atmosphere and beautifully crafted plant-based dishes. Using fresh, local ingredients, it elevates Vietnamese flavours into gourmet creations. With serene decor and attentive service, Hum Signature offers a memorable dining experience for vegans and food lovers alike.
Tips for Exploring Ho Chi Minh City
- Walking is the best way to see District 1, but use Grab for longer distances.
- Weather: Tropical climate; light clothing and occasional rain gear recommended.
- Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Safety: Generally safe; watch belongings in crowded areas.
Two days in Ho Chi Minh City offer an immersive mix of history, architecture, markets, cafes, and nightlife. Walking lets you experience the city intimately, from colonial streets to modern skyscrapers and hidden gems like speakeasy bars and rooftop cafes. Staying at Eden Star Saigon made the trip extra special with its rooftop pool, offering the perfect end to days filled with exploration.
Day Trip Adventures from Ho Chi Minh City
While two days in the city gives you a deep dive into Saigon’s sights and culture, venturing outside the city opens up entirely new experiences. From the verdant waterways of the Mekong Delta to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, there’s plenty to explore.
1. Cu Chi Tunnels
Just about 1.5 hours northwest of the city, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s wartime history.
- What to Expect: Explore the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. You’ll see living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, and even concealed trapdoors. Guides demonstrate how the tunnels functioned and provide context for the ingenious strategies used during the war.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes; the tunnels can be narrow and claustrophobic. Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation for convenience.
- Time Needed: Half-day (3-5 hours).
2. Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a world apart from the urban bustle of Saigon. Often called the “rice bowl of Vietnam,” this region is full of winding rivers, lush greenery, and floating markets.
- What to Expect:
- Take a boat tour along the Mekong River to see small villages, coconut farms, and traditional stilt houses.
- Visit Cai Be or Cai Rang Floating Markets for a glimpse of daily life and fresh tropical fruits.
- Try local specialties like elephant ear fish, tropical fruits, or coconut candies.
- Tips: Tours range from full-day trips to 2-day overnight stays. Early morning departures are best to catch the vibrant floating markets.
- Time Needed: Full-day trip.
3. Vung Tau Beach
If you want some sand and sea, Vung Tau is just a 2-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City.
- What to Expect: Relax on the sandy beaches, enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, or climb Christ of Vung Tau, a massive statue with panoramic coastal views.
- Tips: Ideal for a short escape from the city’s heat. Combine with a seafood lunch for the ultimate day trip.
- Time Needed: Full day.
4. Mỹ Tho and the Tien River
Closer than the Mekong Delta proper, Mỹ Tho (about 2 hours away) offers a more compact riverine experience.
- What to Expect:
- Take a boat trip to explore the Tien River islands.
- Visit coconut candy workshops and local orchards.
- Enjoy traditional folk music performances on the riverbanks.
- Tips: This is a great half-day trip if you want the Mekong experience without committing to a full day.
5. Tay Ninh and the Cao Dai Temple
For something spiritually unique, visit Tay Ninh (roughly 2 hours from the city) to see the Cao Dai Holy See, the temple of Vietnam’s syncretic Cao Dai religion.
- What to Expect: Colorful architecture, a blend of Eastern and Western religious symbols, and the chance to observe the daily noon ceremony with singing, incense, and prayer.
- Tips: Dress modestly. Combining this with a Cu Chi Tunnel tour makes a full-day excursion.
6. Local Countryside and Fruit Farms
If you prefer an off-the-beaten-path day trip:
- Take a bike or motorbike tour to Tra Que or Mekong countryside villages.
- Visit organic fruit farms for tasting tropical fruits like dragon fruit, mangosteen, and rambutan.
- Enjoy lunch with a local family, learning traditional cooking techniques and rural life.
Practical Tips for Day Trips
- Transportation: Most tours offer hotel pick-up. Alternatively, Grab cars or private drivers can take you to the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vung Tau, or Mekong Delta.
- Timing: Start early- many tours depart around 7-8 AM to maximize the day.
- Packing: Bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a small water bottle. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the tunnels or walking tours in villages.
- Booking: Popular tours like the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels can fill up quickly, so reserve in advance online or via your hotel concierge.
If you would like more tips about Vietnam, check out my Hoi An itinerary and my trip around Northern Vietnam.