4-Day Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City · 4 days · 2 travelers · history
A 4-day history/culture trip to Ho Chi Minh City for 2 travelers — mid-range budget, ~₹1,868/day per person. Highlights: Independence Palace.
Estimated budget
Total: ~₹23,149
- Stays: ~₹10,250
- Food: ~₹9,452
- Transport: ~₹0
- Experiences: ~₹2,700
- Miscellaneous: ~₹747
Weather
25-31°C · Moderate showers
Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunscreen, Light rain jacket / umbrella, Light breathable clothing, 4 T-shirts/tops, 2 pairs of bottoms (jeans/trousers/shorts), 4 sets of innerwear & socks, Type A and C power plug adapters for Vietnam's electrical outlets, Waterproof covers or dry bags to protect electronics during sudden downpours
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Saigon colonial history & cafe culture
Things to do
-
Independence Palace
A landmark 1960s modernist building that served as the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the war.
2 hours · ₹135
-
War Remnants Museum
A poignant museum documenting the Vietnam War through photographs, military equipment, and historical exhibits.
2 hours · ₹135
-
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
A historic French colonial cathedral featuring neo-Romanesque architecture and red brick imported from Marseille.
2 hours · ₹135
Where to stay
-
GRAND HOTEL du LAC Boutique Saigon
hotel · ~₹2,250/night
A refined boutique property offering upscale French-inspired colonial aesthetics and personalized service in central Ho Chi Minh City.
Food
-
Tonkin Garden Egg Coffee & Eatery [Cafe & Croissant]
Breakfast · ₹180
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Chez Mimosa Cafe & Breakfast
Lunch · ₹248
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
The Melbourne Cafe
Dinner · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
Estimated cost for the day: ~₹12,816
Day 2: Deep dive into Independence Palace & District 3 bites
Things to do
-
Statue of Ho Chi Minh
A prominent bronze monument dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh located in front of the City Hall.
2 hours · ₹135
-
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
A vibrant pedestrian boulevard in downtown Ho Chi Minh City lined with modern cafes, shops, and street performers.
2 hours · ₹135
-
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens
One of the world's oldest zoos, housing a wide variety of animals, endangered species, and lush botanical gardens.
2 hours · ₹135
Food
-
Miyama - The View
Breakfast · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Nhà hàng - Cà phê Casa Đồng Khởi
Lunch · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Tartine Saïgon - Bà Huyện Thanh Quan, Q3
Dinner · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
Estimated cost for the day: ~₹3,510
Day 3: Saigon architectural icons & rooftop coffees
Things to do
-
Bui Vien Walking Street
The epicenter of Ho Chi Minh City's nightlife, famous for its energetic bars, clubs, cheap beer, and street food.
2 hours · ₹135
-
Dam Sen Water Park
A popular amusement park featuring numerous water slides, wave pools, and aquatic attractions for families and thrill-seekers.
2 hours · ₹135
-
Chi Lang Park
A peaceful urban green space providing a quiet escape with shady trees and walking paths amidst the busy city.
2 hours · ₹135
Food
-
Hot Beans Coffee & Cuisine
Breakfast · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Tartine Saigon - 215 Lý Tự Trọng (4th floor), Q1
Lunch · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
WKND
Dinner · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
Estimated cost for the day: ~₹3,510
Day 4: Independence Palace farewell & boutique café afternoon
Things to do
-
Ben Thanh Market
A historic, bustling indoor market offering local handicrafts, textiles, souvenirs, and traditional street food.
2 hours · ₹135
Food
-
Lys Café
Breakfast · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Cafe Des Beaux Arts
Lunch · ₹248
Ask the staff for their specialty.
-
Cocoa Kitchen
Dinner · ₹450
Ask the staff for their specialty.
Estimated cost for the day: ~₹2,566
Travel tips
- Carry cash in Vietnamese Dong for street food vendors and local markets, though mid-range restaurants accept cards.
- Download a ride-hailing app like Grab to easily navigate Ho Chi Minh City without negotiating taxi fares.
- Keep a sturdy umbrella or rain poncho with you at all times due to the daily moderate showers.
- Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees when visiting cultural and historical sites.