Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a sensory explosion. It is a place where French colonial architecture stands next to modern skyscrapers, and where the smell of incense mixes with the aroma of roasting coffee beans.
For first-time visitors in 2026, the city can feel chaotic. Millions of motorbikes fill the streets, and the energy never stops. But beneath the chaos lies one of Asia’s most fascinating destinations.
If you have 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City, you have just enough time to see the history, taste the food, and do some serious shopping. Here is the perfect itinerary to help you navigate Saigon like a pro.
Day 1: History and Icons (District 1)
The goal of Day 1 is to tick off the famous landmarks and get a feel for the city’s colonial past.
Morning: The Colonial Quarter
Start your day early (around 8:30 AM) to beat the heat.
- Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica: Currently undergoing restoration, this red-brick cathedral is still a stunning backdrop for photos.
- Saigon Central Post Office: Located right next to the cathedral. Step inside to see the beautiful arched maps and send a postcard home. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel (yes, the Eiffel Tower guy).
- Independence Palace (Reunification Palace): A short walk away, this building is frozen in time from 1975. Walk through the war rooms and the underground bunker.
Lunch: Authentic Pho
You can’t start a Vietnam trip without Pho.
- Recommendation: Try Pho Hoa Pasteur or Pho 2000 (near Ben Thanh Market). Order a “Pho Dac Biet” (Special Combo) with a side of fried dough sticks (Quay).
Afternoon: War and Markets
- War Remnants Museum: This is a heavy and emotional experience, but essential to understanding Vietnam’s history. It contains US military vehicles and powerful photography exhibits.
- Ben Thanh Market: Head here in the late afternoon. Walk through the aisles, grab a fresh fruit smoothie, and practice your bargaining skills.
- Tip: Don’t buy clothes here yet. Wait for Day 2. (Read our [Saigon Square vs Ben Thanh Market] guide to know why!)
Evening: The Night Vibe
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: In the evening, this pedestrian street comes alive with locals, street performers, and fountains.
- Dinner: Try Nha Hang Ngon (160 Pasteur). It’s a beautiful villa serving street food style dishes in a hygienic, upscale setting. Perfect for beginners.
Day 2: Culture, Coffee & Serious Shopping
Day 2 is about enjoying the modern lifestyle and upgrading your wardrobe.
Morning: Pink Church and Coffee Culture
- Tan Dinh Church (The Pink Church): Take a taxi to District 3 to see this bright pink church. It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.
- Cafe Hopping: Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter. Skip Starbucks and try a Ca Phe Sua Da (Iced Milk Coffee) at a local chain like Highlands Coffee or a trendy spot like Cong Caphe (try the Coconut Coffee).
Afternoon: The Shopping Spree
Now that you have seen the sights, it is time to shop.
- Saigon Square: This is the highlight for fashion lovers. Unlike the chaotic Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square is air-conditioned and organized. It is the best place to find high-quality “Made in Vietnam” winter coats, sportswear, and golf apparel.
- Golfer’s Note: If you play golf, this is your paradise. (Check out our [Best City for Golf Shopping] guide).
- Takashimaya / Saigon Centre: Directly across the street. Visit the basement food court for a Japanese-style snack or browse the luxury brands upstairs.
Evening: Rooftop Views
Ho Chi Minh City has an incredible skyline.
- Recommendation: End your shopping day with a cocktail at a rooftop bar like Chill Skybar or Rex Hotel Rooftop. Watch the sunset over the busy streets below.
Day 3: Day Trip or Local Gems
For your final day, choose your own adventure.
Option A: The History Buff (Cu Chi Tunnels)
Take a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels. You can crawl through the underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war. It’s a fascinating 45-minute drive from the city.
- Tip: Book a morning tour so you are back in the city by 2 PM.
Option B: The “Slow Travel” Vibe (Cho Lon / Chinatown)
Visit District 5 (Cho Lon).
- Thien Hau Pagoda: A stunning Chinese-style temple filled with incense coils hanging from the ceiling.
- Binh Tay Market: A wholesale market that feels very different from District 1. Great for buying dried food and bulk items.
Final Dinner: The River Cruise
For your last night, book a Dinner Cruise on the Saigon River. It’s a relaxing way to say goodbye to the city while enjoying a buffet dinner and traditional music.
Essential Travel Tips for 2026
- Transport: Do not try to figure out the bus system. Download the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber). It is cheap, safe, and overcomes the language barrier.
- Connectivity: Buy a 4G/5G SIM card (Viettel or Vinaphone) at the airport upon arrival. It is very affordable and fast.
- Safety: The city is safe, but phone snatching happens. Do not hold your phone out loosely near the street. (Read our [5 Common Shopping Scams] guide to stay safe).
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a place that rewards curiosity. Whether you are crawling through history in a tunnel, sipping coconut coffee on a plastic stool, or hunting for bargains at Saigon Square, the energy of this city is infectious.
Enjoy your 3 days in Saigon, and don’t forget to leave some extra space in your luggage—you’re going to need it!