If you have very little time and prefer spending time in the Mekong Delta or in Mui Ne, you may choose to visit Ho Chi Minh City in only one day and a half.

In this page we outline a 36-hour programme, suitable for the first visit to the city.

 

Ho Chi Minh City 1,5-day itinerary

Ho Chi Minh City is a large metropolis. The heat, traffic, chaos in the city may be too much for many. If you travel to Vietnam with the aim of seeing untouched landscapes, serene remote swathes of land where life still follows the rhythms of nature, you may choose to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for as little as possible. In our opinion you should give it no less than 36 hours.

In this way you can visit the most significant landmarks and the museums linked to its recent history.

 

Itinerary: District 3, city centre

Staying at a hotel located between Ben Thanh and Ben Nghe makes all movements easy and comfortable. Cheaper options can be found a little further away from the city centre. District 3, which lies between the centre and Tan Son Nhat airport, is a great choice if you seek more comfort (and you are willing to pay for it). Here are also a few good Western style 4-star hotels.

 

Ho Chi Minh City 1,5-day itinerary

District 3, city centre

Evening arrival

Where to stay

City centre (Ben Nghe or Ben Thanh)

Day 1

Destinations:

  • War Remnants Museum

  • Independence Palace

  • Jade Emperor Temple

  • Ben Thanh Market

 

How to get around:

  • On foot and by taxi; buses are the cheapest option for the transfer between the airport and the city centre

Day 2 (morning)

Destinations:

  • Cu Chi Tunnels

 

How to get around:

  • Transfers are arranged by the tour operator

 

Morning arrival

If you reach Ho Chi Minh City by noon, we suggest you leave your baggage at the hotel and begin your journey right away. We may begin with the city centre and programme the excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remnants Museum for the next day. Many tour operators offer suitable packages.

 

Related articles:

First journey to Vietnam: suggested 2-week itinerary

TP Ho Chi Minh 3-day itinerary

 

Other destinations:

Hanoi 1,5-day itinerary

Hue 1,5-day itinerary

Sa Dec 2-day itinerary

Can Tho 1,5-day itinerary