What to Do in 3 Days in Ho Chi Minh City: A Perfect Itinerary
If you have just three days in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), don’t worry — that’s still enough time to soak in the vibrant culture, rich history, and mouthwatering food. Here's a curated itinerary that includes the must-do experiences for first-time visitors looking to explore the city and its surroundings in a truly unique way.
Day 1: Discover the City Like a Local
Morning: City Tour by Scooter or Jeep
Kick off your Saigon adventure in style with a city tour on a vintage jeep or scooter — one of the most exciting and immersive ways to see the city. Zip through the buzzing streets as your local guide takes you to iconic landmarks like the Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and City Hall. Enjoy the wind in your hair and the city’s energy as you cruise past colonial architecture and hidden alleyways.
Afternoon: Museum Visit & Coffee Break
In the afternoon, take a slower pace by visiting the War Remnants Museum, one of the most important sites to understand Vietnam’s complex history. Afterward, relax at a local coffee shop — Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) is a must-try — and recharge for the evening.
Evening: Food Tour Adventure
When the sun sets, Saigon transforms into a food lover’s paradise. Join a guided food tour by scooter or on foot to explore the city's night-time culinary scene. Indulge in local favorites like bánh mì, bánh xèo, grilled seafood, and ice-cold local beer. This experience is not just about eating — it’s about diving into the heart of Vietnamese street food culture.
👉 If you're looking for a truly local experience, check out our City Tour & Food Tour by Scooter — expertly designed for curious travelers who want to explore Saigon like a local. Our friendly guides and curated routes ensure an unforgettable day!
Day 2: Explore the Mekong Delta
Leave the busy streets behind and head south for a day trip to the Mekong Delta — a peaceful world of rivers, rice fields, and traditional villages. Just two hours from the city, you’ll board a boat and explore floating markets, coconut workshops, and charming countryside roads.
Tip: Choose a less touristy Mekong tour to avoid the crowds and enjoy authentic experiences like visiting family-run workshops, sampling tropical fruits in orchards, and interacting with local people in small villages.
Day 3: Step Into History at the Cu Chi Tunnels
Spend your final morning on a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where you’ll learn about Vietnam's wartime history and the incredible underground system used during the war. Crawl through the tunnels, discover hidden entrances, and even try your hand at shooting real rifles at the on-site range.
You’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City by early afternoon, with plenty of time for some shopping at local markets or just relaxing at a rooftop café to enjoy your last few hours in the city.
Whether you’re into history, food, culture, or adventure, Ho Chi Minh City has something for everyone. And if you're short on time but want the most authentic experience, our City Tour and Food Tour by Scooter are perfect ways to dive into the real Saigon.
