There’s something unforgettable about Ho Chi Minh City also known as Saigon.

The traffic feels chaotic at first, the coffee is stronger than expected, and every corner seems to tell a different story. But after a few days, the city starts to make sense — and that’s when you fall in love with it.

If you’re planning a short trip, here’s a balanced 3-day itinerary covering iconic landmarks, hidden corners, rooftop views, shopping, and local food without feeling rushed.

Day 1 — Explore the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: Historic Landmarks in District 1

Start your trip in the centre of the city where many of Saigon’s most famous landmarks are located, with a nice salted coffee from Tonkin Coffee.

Saigon Central Post Office

One of the most beautiful colonial-era buildings in the city, the Central Post Office is still fully operational today. Inside, you’ll find vintage architecture, high arched ceilings, and old-fashioned charm that feels completely different from the busy streets outside. You can write a postcard to your loved ones from there.

Just steps away is:

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

The iconic red-brick cathedral is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most photographed landmarks. Even during renovations, it’s still worth visiting for the atmosphere and the surrounding area.

Take your time wandering around District 1, stopping for Vietnamese iced coffee along the way.

Afternoon: My Favourite Spot in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City Book Street

Book Street quickly became one of my personal favourite places in the city.

Hidden beside the cathedral area, this peaceful pedestrian street is lined with bookstores, cafés, shaded benches, and small creative spaces. It’s the perfect escape from the traffic and noise outside.

Even if you’re not a huge reader, the atmosphere alone makes it worth visiting.

Lunch at Bếp Mẹ Ỉn

Bếp Mẹ Ỉn

For lunch, head to Bếp Mẹ Ỉn for authentic Vietnamese comfort food in a cosy setting.

The area around the restaurant is also worth exploring. Nearby, you’ll find:

• Small local food markets

• Hidden cafés

• Vintage clothing stores

• Cute independent boutiques

It’s a great area to slow down and explore on foot.

Evening: Skyline Views & Night Markets

Bitexco Financial Tower

Before sunset, make your way to Bitexco for panoramic views over the city skyline. Watching the endless stream of scooters from above is one of the best ways to appreciate just how alive this city feels.

Afterwards, explore one of the city’s famous night markets.

Ben Thanh Night Market

One of the most popular night markets in the city, Ben Thanh comes alive after dark with:

• Street food stalls

• Souvenirs

• Local snacks

• Clothes and accessories

It’s touristy, but still a fun experience for first-time visitors.

If you want something slightly more local:

Plenty of food stalls within the market or even try one of the best Banh Mi I had at Banh Mi Ben Thanh.

Nguyen Hue Night Market

Located near the walking street area, this is a great place for evening snacks, people-watching, and soaking up the city atmosphere.

Day 2 — Day Trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta

If you only do one organised tour while visiting Vietnam, make it this one.

Full-Day Tour: Cu Chi Tunnels + Mekong Delta

Cu Chi Tunnels

Start the day exploring the famous Cu Chi Tunnels — an underground network used during the Vietnam War.

You’ll learn about:

• The history of the tunnels

• How people lived underground

• Wartime survival techniques

• Hidden entrances and trap systems

Some sections are open for visitors to crawl through if you want the full experience. I was fascinated by the history of Vietnam and learned a lot about strategies, how the Vietnamese won the war against the Americans!

Mekong Delta

After the tunnels, continue towards the Mekong Delta for a completely different side of Vietnam.

Expect:

• Boat rides through coconut-lined canals

• Small riverside villages

• Tropical fruit farms

• Traditional local workshops

• Relaxed countryside scenery

It’s a nice contrast to the energy of Ho Chi Minh City and gives you a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

Most tours include:

• Hotel pickup

• Transport

• Lunch

• Boat rides

• English-speaking guide

Booking in advance is highly recommended.

We have booked our tour with SST Travel and Harry, our tour guide was the best! He showed us around, explained very well and accommodated us well.

Evening: Relaxed Dinner Back in the City

After a full day tour, keep your evening simple.

Head back to District 1 for:

• Rooftop drinks

• Vietnamese barbecue

• Late-night pho

• A casual riverside dinner

You’ll definitely appreciate a slower evening after the day trip.

Day 3 — Shopping, Japan Town & Saigon at Night

Morning: Shopping Around District 1

District 1

Spend your final day exploring the shopping side of Saigon.

District 1 is packed with:

• Local designer stores

• Boutique fashion shops

• Trendy cafés

• Luxury malls

• Hidden apartment shopping spaces

You’ll find a mix of modern shopping centres and smaller independent stores tucked down side alleys.

Check the blog to explore my favourite places to shop in Saigon!

Afternoon: Explore Japan Town

Little Japan Town

Japan Town feels like a completely different world hidden inside Saigon.

Think:

• Narrow alleyways

• Lantern-lit streets

• Tiny sushi bars

• Matcha cafés

• Stylish cocktail spots

It’s one of the coolest neighbourhoods to casually wander through.

Evening: Night Bus Tour Through the City

Ho Chi Minh City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Finish your trip with a night bus tour around the city.

At night, Ho Chi Minh City becomes even more vibrant:

• Neon lights everywhere

• Busy intersections packed with scooters

• Rooftop bars glowing across the skyline

• Music and street food spilling onto the pavements

The open-top bus gives you a relaxing way to see the city one last time without worrying about navigating traffic yourself.

Try to sit upstairs for the best views.

End your day with my favourite dinner spot - Genji Shokudo, A Japanese Restaurant in District 1

Ho Chi Minh City is a city that somehow feels overwhelming and addictive at the same time.

And somewhere between the coffee shops, chaotic traffic, and warm evenings wandering through Book Street, you’ll probably understand why so many people end up wanting to come back.

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