Regarded as one of the most touristy destinations in Vietnam,
Ho Chi Minh City is a compelling destination in Vietnam, especially for those seeking an incredible place to immerse themselves in vibrant cultural attractions and savor delectable dishes. If you are planning your agenda for one day in Ho Chi Minh City, this guide will provide you with information about where to go and what to do in this energetic city.
1. Top places to visit in 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City
1.1. Independence Palace
- Location: No. 135, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Independence Palace is definitely a not-to-be-missed destination on your one day in Ho Chi Minh City. It was once the residence and workplace of South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu during the war. Characterized by its sophisticated architecture, the palace houses hundreds of well-appointed rooms adorned with exquisite furnishings and decorations. Its expansive, elegantly designed grounds boast a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city.
1.2. What to see in 1 day in Saigon? - Saigon Central Post Office
- Location: No. 2, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon Central Post Office has a story that goes way back to the late 1800s, when Vietnam was under French control. After taking over Saigon in 1863, the French built the first version of what would become the Saigon Central Post Office to get their mail system going. Now, it is not only the biggest post office in Vietnam but also one of the oldest buildings from the French colonial period. Even though it has been around for more than 100 years, the post office is still as stunning as ever, mixing French design with Asian details.
1.3. Notre Dame Cathedral
- Location: No. 1, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Notre Dame Cathedral, standing right in the heart of the city, is an architectural marvel. It is famous for being the only one from Southeast Asia on a list of the world's most beautiful cathedrals. Mixing neo-Romanesque with Gothic styles, it has eye-catching twin bell towers, colorful stained-glass windows, and bright red brick walls outside. More than just a place for religious services, the cathedral is a hotspot for anyone looking for a bit of peace or a great photo.
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1.4. War Remnants Museum
- Location: No. 28, Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum is the only museum in Vietnam focused on documenting the war crimes and impacts of conflicts on the Vietnamese people caused by foreign forces. The museum not only showcases the harsh realities of war but also promotes the message of peace. With nine permanent exhibits and numerous special collections, it hosts a variety of activities like conferences and meetings with war veterans throughout the year.
1.5. Ben Thanh Market - an unmissable place on a one-day tour in Ho Chi Minh City
- Location: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
Ben Thanh Market is one of the largest and most vibrant spots to go shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers come here to snag deals on souvenirs, home goods, and local specialties, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the city. Within the market, there is a food court offering an array of delicious options. If you need a breather from browsing, you can easily pause for a taste of local favorites like avocado ice cream, Vietnamese pancakes, or Quang noodles. The rich taste of these freshly made Vietnamese treats will surely satisfy your cravings.
1.6. Chinatown in Saigon
- Location: District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Known locally as Cho Lon, this bustling area is a tapestry of life and culture, with residents engaging in various enterprises, from running traditional food stalls that offer authentic Chinese cuisine to operating stores selling an array of goods and clothing. A distinctive feature of Chinatown is its concentration of herbal medicine shops, particularly along Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street. Visitors to Chinatown have the opportunity to explore this rich tradition, savoring delicious Chinese dishes like noodles, rice, and wontons.
1.7. Bui Vien Street - top things to do in 24 hours in Ho Chi Minh City
- Location: District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Bui Vien Street is an ideal place to enjoy nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City. The street is a picturesque scene where the charm of French colonial architecture merges with contemporary buzz from bustling bars and eateries. Coming here, visitors can dive into an array of international cuisines, appreciate the local traditions, arts, and ways of life, and soak in the dynamic exchange of cultural experiences.
>>> Plan an amazing Ho Chi Minh City 3-day itinerary with this comprehensive guide!
2. What to eat in one day in Ho Chi Minh City?
Sai Gon cuisine represents a delightful fusion of global influences, incorporating elements from French, American, Chinese, Cambodian, and Thai culinary essences. What truly sets Saigon cuisine apart is its characteristic sweetness, with dishes often containing extra sugar and coconut milk. Moreover, Saigon dishes are known for their spiciness, with a generous use of chili and pepper to season the food.
- Com tam (broken rice): This dish is famous for its superb taste that comes from the perfect mix of grilled pork chops and fresh green vegetables. The distinctive sweet chili fish sauce adds a unique flavor that defines this popular meal.
- Banh mi (Saigon sandwich): Banh mi stands out as a favorite street food and a common breakfast choice. The key to its deliciousness lies in the meat filling. It can be customized with various toppings like cucumbers, pickled carrots, daikon radish, scallions, and cilantro.
- Hu tieu Nam Vang (Nam Vang noodle soup): The dish features pork ribs, topped with an array of meats including pork shoulder, pork chop, wonton dumplings, meatballs, shrimp, squid, or fish, and can be served with hu tieu, pho, or noodles.
- Pha lau (offal stew): This delicacy combines either pig or cow entrails with a variety of herbs, all simmered in a mixture of coconut water, curry powder, and a blend of five spices until everything becomes tender. It can be enjoyed with a side of bread, noodles, steamed rice, or sticky rice.
- Fresh spring rolls: Commonly, the stuffing includes pork tenderloin, shrimp, green bananas, and star fruits. Accompanying the roll is a fish sauce-based dipping sauce, mixed with minced garlic, chili, and lemon juice.
3. Recommended itinerary for 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City
The one day in Ho Chi Minh City schedule can greatly vary depending on the interests and personal preferences of each traveler. To help guide your journey and ensure you make the most of your visit, you can refer to the schedule provided below:
- Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty Vietnamese breakfast of pho (noodle soup) or banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) at a local cafe.
- Head to the heart of the city to explore the architectural marvels of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office.
- Continue your historical journey with a visit to the Independence Palace, an iconic symbol of Vietnam's past.
- Lunch:
- For lunch, delve into the local cuisine at a nearby eatery. Don't miss trying some of Ho Chi Minh City's specialties, such as com tam (broken rice), bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli), or goi cuon (fresh spring rolls).
- Afternoon:
- Spend your afternoon at the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into Vietnam's turbulent history.
- Afterward, make your way to Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts and taste more street food delicacies.
- Evening:
- Enjoy dinner with a view at one of the city's rooftop restaurants, offering a sweeping panorama of the cityscape.
- Cap off your day by immersing yourself in Saigon's vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Street.
>>> Read more: Day trips from Ho Chi Minh: Explore 12 hidden gems near the city
4. Useful tips for your one-day trip in Ho Chi Minh City
For a fulfilling one-day trip in Ho Chi Minh City, consider these practical tips to enhance your experience and ensure safety:
- Check the Saigon weather forecast in advance to better plan for your journey.
- Carry a city map or a smartphone equipped with 3G or 4G to help navigate the city more effectively and avoid getting lost.
- Minimize carrying attention-grabbing handbags or purses. If you must carry valuables, be vigilant and split your money into different places.
- Before ordering food or purchasing any item, inquire about the prices to avoid being overcharged.
- Be cautious of interactions with strangers and avoid consuming food or beverages offered by them to prevent scams.
One day in Ho Chi Minh City can be an unforgettable experience, given its status as a top tourist spot in Vietnam, filled with cultural and historical landmarks. Hopefully, this article will assist you in crafting a wonderful day in the city, complete with visits to captivating sites, indulgence in delicious cuisine, and relaxation in cozy accommodations.
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