Day Trip Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City

A Day in Ho Chi Minh City If you only have a day in Ho Chi Minh City and want to hit some key spots, here’s a fun and relaxed itinerary that mixes history, local culture, and amazing views. Morning: Independence Palace Start your day with a visit to Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace). It opens at 8 AM, so getting there early means you can explore before it gets too hot. The palace is a huge part of Vietnam’s history, and walking through its grand halls and war rooms gives you a glimpse into the country’s past. Don’t miss the rooftop where a replica of the helicopter from 1975 sits! Late Morning: Coffee Break at The Café Apartments After soaking in some history, head over to The Café Apartments on Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This old apartment building turned café hub is one of the coolest spots in the city. Each unit is a different coffee shop or boutique, so take your time exploring. Grab a seat at one with a balcony view and enjoy some Vietnamese coffee—whether it’s the famous egg coffee, coconut coffee, or just a strong iced black. Afternoon: Exploring & Lunch Walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, check out the shops, and take in the vibe of the city. For lunch, you can find plenty of options nearby, from local street food to trendy restaurants. If you want something authentic, try a bowl of pho or banh mi from a street vendor. Evening: Saigon Skydeck for Sunset As the sun starts to set, make your way to Saigon Skydeck at the Bitexco Financial Tower. It’s the best place to see the city from above, and the view at sunset is stunning. The ticket gets you access to the 49th floor, where you can take in the skyline and watch as the city lights up for the night. If you want to keep the evening going, there are some great rooftop bars nearby to grab a drink and enjoy the view a little longer. That’s a perfect day in Ho Chi Minh City—history, culture, coffee, and a killer sunset view!