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1 day in Saigon: Perfect itineraries for first-time visitors

18/04/2025

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Ho Chi Minh City, with its dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, offers a captivating experience for travelers eager to explore its vibrant culture and rich history. If you intend to spend one day in Ho Chi Minh City, this guide will help you optimize your time and uncover the best of what the city has to offer.

1. One day in inner Ho Chi Minh City
2. One day on the outskirts of Saigon
- 2.1. 1-day Can Gio tour
- 2.2. 1-day Cu Chi tour
3. Tips for traveling in Ho Chi Minh City in one day

One day in Ho Chi Minh City can be packed with cultural and historical explorations (Source: Collected)

1. One day in inner Ho Chi Minh City

For those looking to explore the inner Ho Chi Minh City in a single day, here are a few itineraries for one day in Ho Chi Minh City to consider. As these attractions are relatively close to each other, you can easily travel between them by personal vehicle, taxi, bus, or ride-hailing service.

1.1. 1-day District 1 tour – Discover the heart of Saigon

District 1 is the vibrant epicenter of Ho Chi Minh City, pulsating with economic, political, and cultural activity. As the city’s core, it boasts a myriad of administrative offices, banks, company headquarters, upscale hotels, upscale restaurants, bustling shopping centers, and a rich array of entertainment experiences. Here is how to make the most of a single day in this dynamic district:

Morning: It is ideal to start your morning with a breakfast at Pho Minh (63/6 Pasteur Street). After enjoying your meal, visit the Independence Palace to delve into Vietnam’s history. Next, explore Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural gem that reflects the city’s colonial heritage. Continue your cultural journey at Ho Chi Minh City Museum, which offers insights into the city’s development. Wrap up your morning with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local souvenirs and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Afternoon: For lunch, you can choose between Bun Mam Cua Dong (103 Pasteur Street) or Com Tam Moc (85 Ly Tu Trong Street). After lunch, visit the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City to learn about its past. Then, marvel at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a serene spot offering a peaceful retreat. Don’t forget to see Mariamman Hindu Temple, which is known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
Evening: As the evening sets in, you can head to Bui Vien Street to experience the lively nightlife in Saigon. This area features many street food stalls where you can enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including sandwiches, pho, and seafood. Bui Vien Street is famous for its eclectic atmosphere, offering a memorable end to your day.

You can experience a lot in 1 day in Saigon (Source: Collected)

1.2. 1-day District 3 tour

District 3 in Ho Chi Minh City is celebrated for its rich blend of religious architecture, historical sites, and culinary scene. You can follow this itinerary to make the most of 24 hours in Saigon’s District 3.

Morning: Kickstart your day with a tasty breakfast at Banh Mi Hoa Ma (53 Cao Thang Street), which is famous for its flavorful sandwiches. Afterward, immerse yourself in the architectural beauty of Tan Dinh Church, known for its striking pink color and Gothic design. Proceed to Chantarangsay Pagoda, a Buddhist temple celebrated for its serene atmosphere and intricate details. Continue to Xa Loi Buddhist Temple, which provides a peaceful environment.
Afternoon: Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Hu Tieu Nam Vang Lien Hua (381 Vo Van Tan Street). Spend your afternoon at the War Remnants Museum, where you will gain insights into Vietnam’s wartime history. Next, visit Thich Quang Duc Monument, a significant tribute to the Buddhist monk who self-immolated in protest against religious persecution.
Evening: As evening approaches, head to Turtle Lake (Ho Con Rua), a popular spot in District 3 known for its relaxed ambiance. Here, you can indulge in a variety of local treats, including stir-fried corn with shrimp, grilled rice paper, mixed rice paper, sweet soup, and grilled egg cake. Turtle Lake offers a unique blend of tranquil and bustling activities, making it a perfect spot to end your day.

1 day in Ho Chi Minh City offers a glimpse into the vibrant street life (Source: Collected)

1.3. 1-day District 5 & 6 tour – Explore the Chinese-origin community in Saigon

Districts 5 and 6 in Ho Chi Minh City showcase a lively Chinese heritage, a deep spiritual presence, and a fascinating mix of cultural influences. Let’s uncover the essence of these districts and their key attractions in just one day.

Morning: Enjoy a breakfast of banh tieu (pepper bun) at the corner of Phung Hung Street and Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street to energize yourself for the day ahead. Begin your tour with a visit to Ong Bon Pagoda, a beautiful example of traditional Chinese temples. Next, explore An Dong Market, a bustling spot known for its diverse range of goods. Continue to Hao Si Phuong, an alley where you can delve into the local artistry.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Com Ga Dong Nguyen (801 Nguyen Trai Street). Then, visit Thien Hau Pagoda, a significant religious site dedicated to the sea goddess. Finally, take a stroll through Chinatown (also known as Cho Lon), where you can experience the unique features of Chinese architecture, culture, and history in Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening: As evening sets in, make your way to Binh Tay Market for dinner. This renowned wholesale market features an impressive selection of tasty dishes. Here, trying local specialties like stew, vermicelli soup, hot porridge, and rice cakes is a must. You can finish your meal with a delightful dessert such as fresh Hoa Loc mangoes or Vinh Long rambutans.

Join a guided tour to make the most of one day in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

Explore other charming places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City!

2. One day on the outskirts of Saigon

For those who have already explored the bustling inner districts of Ho Chi Minh City and are looking for a weekend adventure, this Ho Chi Minh City one day itinerary offers a refreshing escape to the charming suburbs.

2.1. 1-day Can Gio tour

Situated about 50 km southeast of inner Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio District offers a refreshing escape with its mix of forests, seas, and mountains. Known for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystem, Can Gio is a popular destination for those looking to experience nature. Here is how to make the most of your day in this picturesque district.

Morning: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Lam Son Beefsteak (204A Mieu Ba Street). Next, make your way to 30/4 Beach, a perfect place for unwinding by the sea and enjoying the refreshing coastal breeze.
Afternoon: For lunch, go to Hang Duong Seafood Market, where you can taste a variety of fresh seafood, including clams, snails, crabs, shrimp, and squid. After lunch, visit the Sac Forest War Zone, a historical site where you can learn about Vietnamese special forces during the war. Then, head to Monkey Island. This unique location, recognized by UNESCO for its diverse flora and fauna, allows you to observe fascinating monkeys in their natural habitat. If it is the weekend, you can explore the Tomb of Ong Thuy Tuong and learn about the local traditions of worshiping sea deities.
Evening: If you are in Can Gio during the weekend, you can end your day with a visit to the night market, where you can explore a range of local delicacies.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City can be a whirlwind of activity (Source: Collected)

2.2. 1-day Cu Chi tour

Cu Chi District, situated about 30 km northwest of inner Ho Chi Minh City, is renowned for its historical significance. Here is how to spend 24 hours in Ho Chi Minh City exploring this fascinating district.

Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bun Bo My Ngoc in Phu Hoa Dong Commune. Next, visit Ben Duoc Temple, which is dedicated to honoring the soldiers who fought during the resistance wars against French and American forces. Here, you can offer flowers and burn incense at the Martyrs Memorial Temple to pay your respects.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Ben Duoc Restaurant, which provides a great introduction to the local cuisine. After lunch, explore Cu Chi Liberation Zone’s Reenactment Area to witness a reenactment of the US Cedar Falls raid and watch a 3D film that simulates this historic event. Continue your tour by exploring a section of the famous Cu Chi Tunnels and discover the Hoang Cam kitchen design, which provides insights into the life of guerrillas.
Evening: End your day with a hearty dinner at Hai He Restaurant in Phu Hoa Commune. Try chao mon luon (eel taro porridge), a unique dish made with soft eel meat and tender taro, flavored with a hint of shrimp paste and lemongrass.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City offers a diverse range of experiences (Source: Collected)

Check out other fascinating things to do in Ho Chi Minh City!

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