Quick summary: Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and stunning rooftop views over three days. This family-friendly itinerary blends culture, shopping, and relaxation with convenient mixed transport options.
Route map + stops
Other
- Ben Thanh Market (Chợ Bến Thành)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 1 - War Remnants Museum (Bảo tàng Chứng tích Chiến tranh)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 3 - Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon (Nhà thờ Đức Bà Sài Gòn)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 2 - Saigon Central Post Office (Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 2 - Bui Vien Street (Phố Bùi Viện)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck (Tòa nhà Bitexco)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 1 - Saigon Opera House (Nhà hát Thành phố)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 2 - Tan Dinh Market (Chợ Tân Định)
Nearest station: Tan Dinh Bus Stop — Line: Bus routes 1, 3 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Nguyen Hue Walking Street (Phố đi bộ Nguyễn Huệ)
Nearest station: Ben Thanh Metro Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Exit 1
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Start your day at the Ben Thanh Market exploring local crafts and tasting street food. Then visit the War Remnants Museum to understand Vietnam’s history. Walk to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Office to admire colonial architecture. End the day with a relaxing stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street enjoying street performances and cafes.
09:00 — Explore Ben Thanh Market
Why go: Experience local culture and shop for souvenirs
Do:
- Browse handicrafts and textiles
- Sample street food specialties
- Photograph vibrant market scenes
How to get there: Walk or taxi from hotel in District 1
Cost / tickets: Free entry; purchases vary
Time needed: 2 hours
11:30 — Visit War Remnants Museum
Why go: Learn about Vietnam’s history through powerful exhibits
Do:
- View photographic displays
- Explore military equipment
- Reflect on historical context
How to get there: Short taxi ride or 15-minute walk from market
Cost / tickets: Entry approx. 40,000 VND
Time needed: 1.5 hours
14:00 — See Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Why go: Admire French colonial architecture and peaceful gardens
Do:
- Take photos of the facade
- Visit inside during mass times
- Relax in nearby park
How to get there: Walk 10 minutes from museum
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 30 minutes
15:00 — Explore Saigon Central Post Office
Why go: Historic building with unique design and local charm
Do:
- Send postcards
- Observe architecture
- Shop for souvenirs
How to get there: Across the street from cathedral
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 30 minutes
17:00 — Stroll Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Why go: Enjoy lively atmosphere and street performances
Do:
- People-watch
- Try local snacks
- Relax at cafes
How to get there: Walk 5 minutes from post office
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Day 2
Begin with panoramic city views from the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck. Visit the Saigon Opera House to appreciate its architecture and possibly catch a show. Spend the afternoon on Bui Vien Street, sampling local eateries and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
10:00 — Visit Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Why go: Panoramic city views from the tallest building
Do:
- Take photos from observation deck
- Enjoy coffee at the cafe
- Learn about city landmarks
How to get there: Taxi or walk from hotel
Cost / tickets: Entry approx. 200,000 VND
Time needed: 1.5 hours
12:00 — See Saigon Opera House
Why go: Appreciate French colonial architecture and cultural shows
Do:
- Tour exterior and lobby
- Attend a performance if available
- Photograph building
How to get there: Walk 10 minutes from Bitexco Tower
Cost / tickets: Free to view exterior; show tickets vary
Time needed: 1 hour
15:00 — Experience Bui Vien Street
Why go: Vibrant street known for nightlife and dining
Do:
- Try local cafes and eateries
- Shop for souvenirs
- Enjoy street music
How to get there: Taxi or walk from Opera House
Cost / tickets: Free to explore; food costs vary
Time needed: 2 hours
Day 3
Explore the colorful Tan Dinh Market in the morning. Have lunch near the Notre-Dame Cathedral area, enjoying traditional Vietnamese dishes. Return to Ben Thanh Market for last-minute shopping before concluding your trip.
09:00 — Visit Tan Dinh Market
Why go: Colorful market with local foods and textiles
Do:
- Shop for fabrics and clothes
- Taste fresh produce
- Photograph pink church nearby
How to get there: Taxi or bus from District 1
Cost / tickets: Free entry; purchases vary
Time needed: 2 hours
12:00 — Lunch near Notre-Dame Cathedral
Why go: Enjoy local cuisine in a historic setting
Do:
- Dine at nearby family-friendly restaurants
- Try pho or banh mi
- Relax before afternoon activities
How to get there: Walk from Tan Dinh Market or taxi
Cost / tickets: Mid-range meal approx. 100,000–200,000 VND
Time needed: 1 hour
14:00 — Return to Ben Thanh Market for last-minute shopping
Why go: Pick up souvenirs and gifts
Do:
- Browse stalls missed earlier
- Buy coffee or spices
- Enjoy final market atmosphere
How to get there: Taxi or walk from lunch area
Cost / tickets: Free entry; purchases vary
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Logistics (read this first)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing
- Carry bottled water and sunscreen
- Use taxis or ride-hailing apps for longer distances
- Respect local customs and dress modestly at religious sites
- Carry small cash for markets and street vendors
- Plan visits to museums early to avoid crowds
Local tips and guide
Local Guide to Ho Chi Minh City
District 1 is the heart of the city, featuring historic landmarks, lively markets, and modern skyscrapers. Ben Thanh Market is a central hub for shopping and food. Nearby, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office showcase French colonial architecture. Nguyen Hue Walking Street offers a pedestrian-friendly promenade with cafes and street performers. For panoramic views, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck. Bui Vien Street is known for its vibrant nightlife and dining options. Tan Dinh Market provides a colorful local shopping experience. Public transport includes buses and the new metro line, but taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for tourists.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Ben Thanh Market?
Morning hours before 11 am are less crowded and cooler for exploring.
Are the rooftop views at Bitexco Tower suitable for children?
Yes, the observation deck is family-friendly with safe viewing areas.
Is public transport reliable in Ho Chi Minh City?
Public buses run regularly but taxis and ride-hailing apps are more convenient for tourists.
Can I use credit cards at markets?
Most markets accept cash only; carry Vietnamese Dong for purchases.
Are the historical sites wheelchair accessible?
Some sites have limited accessibility; check in advance and consider taxis for easier transport.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert travel itinerary created by a seasoned Southeast Asia travel planner
Based on local insights, family-friendly preferences, and mid-range budget considerations