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How Many Days Are Enough In Saigon ?

Days 4 - 5 - Beyond the City

If you have more than 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City, we highly recommend heading south to the Mekong Delta. While many tourists choose a rushed day trip, staying overnight in Ben Tre (about 2.5 hours from Saigon) allows you to truly embrace the slow pace of river life.

• Depart early from Saigon for Ben Tre. Upon arrival, hop on a traditional rowing boat (sampan) to navigate through small, shaded canals overgrown with water coconut trees.
• Visit a local wet market to see the incredible variety of tropical fruits like mangosteen, durian, and pomelo. This is a much more authentic experience than the touristy floating markets elsewhere.
• Stay at a riverside homestay or a boutique eco-lodge. Enjoy a traditional "garden-to-table" dinner with the famous Elephant Ear Fish (Ca Tai Tuong Chien Xu) wrapped in rice paper and fresh herbs.
• Visit local family-run workshops to see how coconut candy is made or how artisans weave sleeping mats.

3. What to do and see in Saigon

When planning your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary, the sheer number of attractions can be overwhelming. To help you decide how many days in Ho Chi Minh City you truly need, we have categorized the absolute must-see experiences. Whether you are following a strict Saigon travel guide or exploring freely, these are the highlights you shouldn't miss.

• Historical and cultural sites

If you want to understand the soul of the city, you must begin with its history. The most poignant stop on your trip is undoubtedly the War Remnants Museum, which offers a powerful perspective on the Vietnam War. Nearby, the Independence Palace stands as a symbol of contemporary history, frozen in the 1970s.

In the historic center, you'll discover the French colonial legacy with the majestic Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral. These landmarks are essential for effectively exploring the city, regardless of how long to stay in Saigon. Don't forget to visit spiritual sites like the peaceful Jade Emperor Pagoda (Ngọc Hoàng Pagoda), renowned for its mystical atmosphere and intricate carvings.

• Local immersion and flavors

To truly experience the city and answer the question of what to do in Saigon beyond museums, you must immerse yourself in its daily hustle. The heart of this immersion is street food. The famous Ben Thanh Market is a well-known starting point, but you should also explore Chinatown to discover Binh Tay Market and sample authentic Sino-Vietnamese cuisine.

Another unique experience is stopping for coffee (cà phê sữa đá) at the famous Café Apartment on Nguyen Hue Street, a creative hub that is a staple in any modern Saigon travel guide. Finally, spending an evening in residential areas to taste local seafood is essential to feel the true pulse of your trip to Saigon. No Ho Chi Minh City itinerary is complete without tasting these iconic local specialties: Com Tam, Hu Tieu, Pho Saigon

• Enriching day trips

If your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary extends beyond three days, including excursions to the outskirts is crucial. These trips offer a profound insight into the history and rural beauty of South Vietnam, proving that the answer to how many days are enough in Saigon often depends on your desire to see the countryside beyond the skyscrapers.

A trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a must-visit to relive the incredible military ingenuity of the war. Located about 70km from the city center, this 250km-long underground labyrinth was a "hidden city" with living quarters, kitchens, and hospitals. You can try crawling through the narrowed tunnels to feel the intensity of life underground or watch demonstrations of the ingenious traps used during the conflict. For a complete change of scenery, spend a full day exploring the Mekong Delta. Board a traditional wooden boat to cruise the maze of palm-lined canals. Along the way, you’ll visit local orchards to taste exotic tropical fruits, listen to Don Ca Tai Tu (UNESCO-recognized folk music), and visit small family workshops making coconut candy. Understanding this site is key to knowing how many days in Ho Chi Minh City will satisfy your curiosity about Vietnam's resilient history.

4. Practical tips for a successful trip to Saigon

To ensure your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary runs smoothly, here are some essential tips from locals and seasoned travelers. These small details will help you enjoy your trip to Saigon without any unnecessary stress.

• Best time to visit: The dry season from December to April is ideal for outdoor exploring. If you visit during the rainy season (May to November), just bring a light raincoat for short afternoon showers.
• Transportation: Download the Grab or Xanh SM app immediately. It’s the cheapest and safest way to book motorbikes or cars.
• Saigon is safe, but be mindful of your phone and bag when standing near busy streets to avoid petty theft and to enjoy your trip to Saigon.
• The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While high-end hotels and malls accept credit cards, keep some cash for street food and local markets.
• Choosing accommodation in central areas like the historic center helps optimize your Saigon itinerary and saves time between sightseeing. You'll be within walking distance of most major landmarks.
• Saigon is a vibrant and fast-paced city, so it's advisable to alternate sightseeing with relaxing breaks to fully enjoy your visit without feeling tired.

So, how many days are enough in Saigon ? The answer depends on your travel pace and interests. With 2 days in Saigon, you can explore the city’s main landmarks, while a 3-day Saigon itinerary offers a deeper cultural and culinary experience. If you are wondering how long to stay in Saigon, spending 4 to 5 days in Ho Chi Minh City allows time for nearby excursions and a more relaxed rhythm. Whatever your choice, Saigon rewards every visitor with its energy and contrasts. With Autour Asia - Vietnam travel agent, explore Saigon and beyond through well-designed itineraries that help you make the most of your journey.