The Ultimate Itinerary Guide: 1, 2, and 3 Days in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately called Saigon by locals, is a vibrant metropolis that blends modern dynamism with deep-rooted history and culture. Whether you’re just stopping by for a quick visit or spending a few days to soak in the city's charm, Saigon has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive itinerary for travelers looking to explore this bustling Vietnamese city over 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days.

Let us take you off the beaten track and explore what Saigon really is

1 Day in Saigon: A Taste of the City

If you only have 1 day in Saigon, don't worry—you can still see many of the city's highlights and enjoy its unique atmosphere. This itinerary offers a compact experience that mixes history, culture, food, and nightlife.

Morning to Afternoon: Iconic Sightseeing

Start your day with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, one of the oldest and most iconic markets in Saigon. From souvenirs to local snacks, the market is a sensory delight. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for the city’s energy and perhaps pick up a traditional conical hat or some Vietnamese coffee beans.

Next, head over to the War Remnants Museum, a sobering but powerful reminder of Vietnam’s past. The exhibits offer deep insight into the Vietnam War and its impacts on the country.

When venturing into the Post Office, we also offer exceptional info and puzzle solving games

Just a few minutes away is the Saigon Central Post Office, a stunning piece of French colonial architecture. Don’t forget to look up at the beautiful ceiling arches and admire the old-fashioned phone booths. Right next door is the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, currently undergoing renovations but still worth a visit for photos and a moment of quiet in the courtyard.

By mid-afternoon, make your way to the Bitexco Financial Tower. Head up to the Sky Deck for panoramic views of Saigon’s ever-growing skyline. It’s a great way to see how the city has evolved over time.

Evening: Pho, Nguyen Hue, and Rooftop Vibes

After a full day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a steaming bowl of pho, Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup. Try Pho Hoa Pasteur, a beloved local spot.

Enjoy quality time with your family in the Cafe Apartment

Post-dinner, stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Boulevard, a pedestrian street that comes alive at night with families, couples, and street performers. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Cafe Apartment - an old apartment block turned into a vertical maze of quirky cafés and boutiques. Pick a balcony spot to enjoy your coffee and people-watch.

End your night with a drink at one of the cool bars in the city - check out our recommended list for cool bars in Saigon.

2 Days in Saigon: A Deeper Dive

Spending 2 days in Saigon allows you to go beyond the main attractions and experience the city like a local. Day one focuses on major sights and shopping, while day two is all about authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Explore and Shop

Start your first day just like the 1-day itinerary—exploring Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, the Post Office, and the Bitexco Tower. After lunch, take time to wander down Dong Khoi Street, known for its high-end boutiques and charming cafés.

For those interested in local designer brands, a stop by The New Playground or L’Usine offers a glimpse into Saigon’s modern, youthful fashion scene. And if you’re looking to pick up unique gifts that you won’t find anywhere else, .

L’Usine is where you can enjoy a cup of beverage while gazing through some of the finest clothing in Saigon

Spend your evening strolling down Nguyen Hue Walking street, people watching and enjoying the nighttime breeze by the Saigon River. Don’t forget to stop by one of the rooftop bars in the area to refresh yourself with tasty cocktails while watching the skylines of Saigon.

Day 2: Discover Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

Start your second day with a Half day tour Ho Chi Minh City like no other - book a Vespa City Tour with Vespa A Go Go to see Saigon in style. Unlike the common city tours, we offers a ride through the hidden alleyways, temples, historical sites and lesser-known local hangouts that even many residents don’t know about. It’s the perfect opportunity to understand Saigon’s culture, history, and evolution from a local’s perspective.

From beginning to end, the Saigon’s Secrets tour will keep you hooked with fascinating stories, deeply researched and beautifully told by our tour guides.

After your adventurous morning, take a break in the afternoon. Relax at your hotel or enjoy a Vietnamese iced coffee at a sidewalk café. Pro tip: have a light lunch to prepare your stomach for an evening feast.

In the evening, get ready for a food tour that redefines street food. Vespa A Go Go offers a guided culinary adventure across five different districts, where you’ll sample ten unique dishes that are beloved by Saigonese locals. From grilled oysters to savory snacks and a BBQ party to sweet local desserts, this tour will take your taste buds on a wild ride. And it’s not just about the food. You’ll have plenty of drinks, including the city’s famous fresh beer—Bia Saigon.

By the end of the night, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a secret side of the city.

3 Days in Saigon: Full Experience

With 3 days in Saigon, you can enjoy a balanced itinerary that includes sightseeing, local experiences, and a taste of Vietnam’s historical countryside. This plan will help you enjoy the city’s rhythm without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Classic Tourist Day

Your first day should mirror the sightseeing-focused itinerary of the 1-day trip. Visit Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Bitexco Tower. Consider also visiting the Independence Palace, which offers a fascinating look at Vietnam's political history and Cold War era architecture.

Wrap up your day with dinner at a famous pho restaurant and a relaxing walk along Nguyen Hue Boulevard.

Day 2: Full Day Vespa Experience

This is where the real magic happens. Book the Vespa A Go Go Day Tour to explore Saigon in a fun and immersive way. You’ll learn about the hidden history of the city, visit temples tucked away in neighborhoods, explore local markets, and see how the city functions beyond the tourist trail. Riding a vintage Vespa gives you access to parts of the city you wouldn't see from a car or on foot.

Nothing beats sipping on a juicy, refreshing nước mía as you dive into the incredible story behind the Weapon Cellar on our Saigon’s Secrets tour.

After a short rest, prepare yourself for the Evening Food Tour. With Vespa A Go Go, you’ll visit five districts and dive into ten authentic dishes, from the popular Vietnamese pizza (grilled rice paper” and to a feast of BBQ and seafood, ended with creative street desserts. It’s a social, cultural, and gastronomic journey all in one.

And don’t forget that our Dining Delights tour takes you through one of Saigon’s most famous wet markets, where you can pick up delicious local snacks to enjoy back at your hotel or even bring home as tasty souvenirs.

This full-day Vespa experience offers something truly unique and makes the most of your limited time in Saigon.

Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels & Evening Relaxation

Use your final day to step outside the city and explore one of Vietnam’s most famous historical sites—the Cu Chi Tunnels. This full-day excursion takes you to a vast network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. It’s a humbling and eye-opening experience, offering insight into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

You’ve probably heard from friends how cool and fascinating Củ Chi is, so why not experience it for yourself with one of our friendly, knowledgeable tour guides?

After returning to the city in the late afternoon, treat yourself to a relaxing evening. Whether it’s a quiet dinner in District 1, a massage at a local spa, or a final drink at a rooftop bar, this evening is your time to reflect on all the incredible memories you’ve made over 3 days in Saigon.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're planning 1 day in Saigon, 2 days in Saigon, or 3 days in Saigon, this city offers an unforgettable blend of history, modernity, delicious food, and warm-hearted locals. From iconic landmarks to hidden alleys, pho to snails, and French colonial buildings to buzzing rooftop bars, Saigon is a city best explored with an open mind—and ideally, from the back of a Vespa.

Vespa A Go Go can’t wait to welcome you on our unforgettable tours through the heart of Saigon.

If you're short on time, opt for a Half day tour Ho Chi Minh City to get a local’s insight in just a few hours. But if you can stay longer, immerse yourself in the full experience. Vespa A Go Go offers one of the most unique and entertaining ways to uncover the soul of Saigon.

No matter how long you stay, Saigon will leave you wanting to return again and again.

Travel Tips

The Ultimate Itinerary Guide: 1, 2, and 3 Days in Saigon

1 Day in Saigon: A Taste of the City

2 Days in Saigon: A Deeper Dive

3 Days in Saigon: Full Experience

Final Thoughts

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