What to do and eat in Ho Chi Minh City for one day (On a budget)
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This PinGuide traces a full day’s journey through Ho Chi Minh City, offering an off-the-beaten-path and historical journey. The guide explores eight unique destinations across Districts 1 and 3. It highlights places where visitors can engage with local life and delve into Vietnam’s history.
This itinerary balances food experiences with cultural and historical sites. It provides a look at the city beyond typical tourist routes, showcasing its past, present, and future.
Start your day with a unique breakfast at Bánh mì chảo Dì Nữ.
2 Đặng Trần Côn, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Order Bánh Mì Chảo, a dish served in a small bowl with fried eggs, stir-fried beef, meatballs, ham, pate, sausage, and Laughing Cow cheese. Tear the baguette into pieces and dip it into the sauce. Arrive early to avoid crowds, as this street food stall is often full in the morning.
Walk to Tao Đàn Park to experience a tranquil green space.
55C Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Observe locals dancing, playing shuttlecock, or exercising. Visit the temple dedicated to the Hùng Kings and the small Champa Tower with its garden. The park is open from 7 AM to 10 PM and offers public restrooms.
Continue to the Thích Quảng Đức Monument to reflect on a significant historical event.
Intersection of Cách Mạng Tháng Tám and Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường 6, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Observe the bronze statue of Thích Quảng Đức in a lotus position. Light incense to worship him if you wish. Look for the Cannonball Tree; local belief suggests good luck if its flower falls on you.
Next, explore a piece of war history at the Saigon Commando Secret Weapons Bunker.
287/70 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường 5, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Visit the house on the right, which is a national cultural historical site with free entry and war artifacts. For a different experience, pay the 50,000 VND entrance fee to explore the privately owned house on the left. This house features a hidden passage and a bunker that served as a bathroom and kitchen.
After the bunker, head to Quán Ăn Cô Liêng for lunch.
321 Võ Văn Tần, Phường 5, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Try Bò lá lốt (minced beef wrapped in betel leaves), known for its savory and sweet flavors. Another option is bún thịt nướng (grilled meat vermicelli). This Michelin-selected restaurant is close to the Secret Bunker.
Proceed to the War Remnants Museum for an impactful historical immersion.
28 Võ Văn Tấn, Phường 6, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Allocate time to see the outdoor exhibits, including helicopters, tanks, and 'tiger cages.' Inside, view the photography exhibition illustrating the war's effects on families and communities. The entry fee is 40,000 VND; an audio guide is available for an additional charge.
Next, enjoy a popular Vietnamese street food at Bếp Mẹ Ỉn.
136/9 Đ. Lê Thánh Tôn, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Order bánh xèo, a crispy Vietnamese pancake. This dish is stuffed with prawns, meat, mushrooms, and bean sprouts. It is known for its crispy exterior and soft interior.
Conclude your day with an evening ride on the Saigon Waterbus Bạch Đằng.
10B Tôn Đức Thắng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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Purchase a one-way ticket for 15,000 VND from Bạch Đằng Station to Bình An Station. Sit on the left side when departing Bạch Đằng and on the right side when returning from Bình An for the best views of Landmark 81 and the city skyline. Explore the coffee shops at Bình An Station where locals spend their evenings.