Ho Chi Minh City in 2 days: Top attractions & unique experiences

Located in southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis where history, modernity, and lively street life intertwine. Exploring Ho Chi Minh City in 2 days allows you to visit its most iconic attractions, experience its energetic atmosphere, and enjoy its world-famous street food. Let Hanoi Voyages be your guide to an adventure in Vietnam’s most exciting city.

When to visit Ho Chi Minh City for the perfect trip

Ho Chi Minh City has a sub-equatorial climate, so the temperature is high but quite stable all year round. The year here is divided into two seasons: rainy season and dry season with different characteristics.

• Dry season (December to April): The ideal time to visit Ho Chi Minh City in 2 Days is during the dry season, from December to April. During this period, the weather is warm but not overly humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The lower humidity and minimal rainfall make it perfect for sightseeing and exploring historical sites.

• Rainy Season (May to November): If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip, visiting during the rainy season can be an option. Hotel and flight prices tend to be lower, and the city is less crowded. However, frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavy downpours may disrupt outdoor plans.

Top attractions should not miss in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is home to attractive architecture, historical landmarks, and lively markets that reflect its dynamic blend of past and present. Here are the top places to visit during your trip:

Independence Palace

The Independence Palace is a symbol of Vietnam’s past and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This is where the Vietnam War officially ended on April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese tanks broke through the palace gates. With its well-preserved architecture and war exhibits, this landmark provides deep insight into Vietnam’s history. If you're visiting Ho Chi Minh City in 2 days, this is a great place to start your journey.

• Location: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

• Entrance fee: 65,000 VND ($2.54) for adults, 15,000 VND ($0.58) for children

Notre-Dame Cathedral

One of the most beautiful and recognizable landmarks in Saigon, Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon was built by French in the late 19th century. The church’s elegant red brick walls, imported from France, and its twin bell towers make it a beautiful sight. Stepping into the cathedral, visitors are greeted by a peaceful and sacred atmosphere, enhanced by beautifully crafted stained-glass windows, high vaulted ceilings, and intricate interior designs. The cathedral is an excellent spot for photography, and many visitors come to admire its architectural beauty.

• Location: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Central Post Office

Right next to Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office is another architectural masterpiece. This building looks like a 19th-century European train station with its grand archways, antique telephone booths, and stunning ceiling. Visitors can admire the elegant French design and send a postcard from one of the most beautiful post offices in the world. Inside, you’ll find a massive portrait of Ho Chi Minh, vintage maps of Saigon, and souvenir stalls selling unique gifts like old Vietnamese stamps and postcards. A visit to this post office is a must for those interested in history and architecture during their Ho Chi Minh City travel.

• Location: 2 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday), 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday & Sunday)

• Entrance fee: Free

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most remarkable historical sites in Vietnam. Located about 60 km from Ho Chi Minh City, this extensive underground network was used as hiding spots, supply routes, and even living quarters during the war. Visitors can crawl through a section of the tunnels to experience how soldiers lived, see booby traps, and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics.

For those interested in adventure, the site also offers a shooting range where you can fire an AK-47. Watching a documentary on the tunnels before exploring them adds depth to the experience. If you're visiting Ho Chi Minh City for 2 days, a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels will add a fascinating and meaningful experience to your journey.

• Location: Cu Chi District

• Entrance fee: 70,000 VND ($2.74)

Ben Thanh Market

No Ho Chi Minh City travel experience is complete without a visit to Ben Thanh Market, one of the city’s busiest and most dynamic markets. This is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, taste authentic Vietnamese food, and experience the local culture. The market is also a great spot to try famous dishes like pho, banh mi, and seafood delicacies. As the sun sets, the night market around Ben Thanh comes alive with even more food stalls and bargain shopping. This market is a must-visit for food lovers and those looking for an authentic Saigon shopping experience.

• Location: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The best way to experience Ho Chi Minh in 2 days

With just 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City, you can experience the perfect mix of history, culture, and local flavors. Follow this itinerary to maximize your time and immerse yourself in the energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 1: Explore the city’s cultural heritage

• Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office.

• Discover the Independence Palace, a key landmark in modern Vietnamese history.

• Explore the War Remnants Museum to understand the country’s past.

• Visit Thien Hau Pagoda in Chinatown, an example of Chinese-Vietnamese architecture.

• End the day at Ben Thanh Market, sampling local dishes like bánh mì, phở, or bánh xèo.

Day 2: Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City

• Cao Dai Temple (Tay Ninh): Located 100 km from the city, this colorful temple is the headquarters of Caodaism, a unique religion blending Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: In the afternoon, explore this underground network used during the war. The tunnels offer a deep dive into Vietnam’s military history, showcasing hidden entrances, secret bunkers, and wartime artifacts.

Beyond these experiences, Ho Chi Minh City has even more to offer. To make the most of your 2-day adventure, let Hanoi Voyages craft a seamless and unforgettable journey for you. With our carefully curated tours, you can explore the best of Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings—discover your perfect itinerary with us!

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Iconic dishes you need to try in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a food-lovers paradise, offering a mix of rich flavors and street food culture. Whether you're visiting for a short stay or exploring Ho Chi Minh City in 2 days, trying these local specialties is a must.

• Phở: Southern-style phở has a slightly sweeter and more aromatic broth. The broth is simmered for hours with beef bones and spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, creating a deep, rich flavor. Whether you prefer phở bò (beef pho) or phở gà (chicken pho), this dish is a must-try. – 50,000 to 90,000 VND ($2.00 – $3.60)

• Bánh xèo: Bánh xèo is a crispy, golden Vietnamese pancake made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The best way to enjoy this dish is by wrapping pieces of it in fresh lettuce and herbs, then dipping them in nước chấm (Vietnamese fish sauce). – 50,000 to 120,000 VND ($2.00 – $4.80)

• Cơm tấm: A staple of Southern Vietnamese cuisine, cơm tấm is a delicious dish made with broken rice, grilled pork chops, a fried egg, shredded pork skin, and pickled vegetables, all topped with sweet and savory fish sauce. – 40,000 to 80,000 VND ($1.60 – $3.20)

• Hủ tiếu: This light yet flavorful noodle soup comes with a pork bone broth, rice noodles, shrimp, minced pork, and fresh herbs. It can be enjoyed as a soup or dry version with a side of broth. – 40,000 to 70,000 VND ($1.60 – $2.80)

• Bánh mì: A crispy baguette filled with meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and chili sauce, bánh mì is one of Vietnam’s most famous street foods. – 20,000 to 50,000 VND ($0.80 – $2.00)

Ho Chi Minh City travel tips: What to know before you go

To make the most of your trip to Ho Chi Minh City, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some essential travel tips to enhance your experience:

Check visa requirements

If you plan to visit Ho Chi Minh City, check Vietnam's visa requirements in advance. Many nationalities, including ASEAN countries, the UK, and the EU, can enter visa-free for 15 to 45 days. Most other travelers can apply for a 90-day e-visa online, which takes around 5 to 7 days to process. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and print your e-visa approval before traveling.

For a detailed guide on Vietnam visas, check out our Vietnam Visa Formalities

Book accommodations in advance

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular destination, and hotels can fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons (December to April). Booking early ensures you get the best prices and preferred locations. District 1 is the best area for first-time visitors, offering easy access to major attractions, while District 3 and District 5 provide a more local experience.

Bargain when shopping

Markets like Ben Thanh Market are great for souvenirs, but prices are often inflated for tourists. Bargaining is expected—start by offering half the quoted price and negotiate from there. Be polite but firm, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal isn’t right.

Stay alert for pickpockets

Like any big city, Ho Chi Minh City has its share of petty theft, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure, avoid flashing expensive items, and be mindful of your bag when walking or using motorbike taxis. Crossbody bags with zippers are a safer choice when exploring the city.

Getting a SIM card

Staying connected is essential for navigating, booking rides, and finding local recommendations. You can buy a Vietnamese SIM card at Tan Son Nhat Airport or from local mobile shops in the city. Popular providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer affordable prepaid data plans. If you prefer not to switch SIMs, consider an eSIM for hassle-free connectivity.

For more details, you can read our blog SIM card in Vietnam: Everything you need to know

With its rich history, lively street life, and incredible food scene, Ho Chi Minh City offers an unforgettable experience even in a short visit. Let Hanoi Voyages curate the perfect Ho Chi Minh City travel experience for you. Book your journey today and discover the best of Ho Chi Minh City in just 2 days!