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What to do and where to go if you only have 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon)? This article will suggest a wonderful itinerary for you.
I will show you every interesting side to explore within 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s most populous metropolis. The tourist attraction is famed for its dynamic vibe, friendly people, diverse services, many relic sites, and more. Plus, Ho Chi Minh City is a real heaven for budget travelers. It also offers top-tier luxury experiences for the upper class. Today, we just mention the affordable things to do in 24 hours in Saigon. Let’s go!
2 Days in Ho Chi Minh City: Day 1 on an E-motorbike
Getting up after a deep sleep, what will be better than starting a great new day on an e-motor, an environmentally friendly vehicle? You can slowly discover the city and see its hidden beauty at a small cost. This will be an unforgettable first day in Saigon.
From the bustling downtown to the narrow but unique corridors, you won’t just see the city, you’ll cook its food, meet its people, view the sunset, and so on like a local. A riding tour unveils must-see tourist spots and hidden alleys.
The “Saigon 360: The Complete Discovery” tour, led by Jackfruit Adventure, is a perfect recommendation for your sustainable and fun blueprint. Everyone will gather here to begin the itinerary at 7:30 am. Over the course of 11 hours, you will travel 17 kilometers in total, with 15km by e-motorbike and 2km on foot. The road is mostly flat, and don’t worry, because the tour is made for beginner level. E-cars are available if you require.
Here are the tour highlights
Visit iconic landmarks: In Ho Chi Minh City, there is a range of historic sites that travelers should not miss, including the Saigon Opera House, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office, and the Independence Palace. We will take you to check in on all of them along the way. You will also ride across the famous Turtle Lake and Mong Bridge. Learn about our heroic history and French colonial architecture in the heart of Saigon.
Have a Vietnamese home-style lunch: Enjoy a cozy and delectable home-style meal in an off-the-beaten-path alley. The welcoming atmosphere and warm hospitality will bring you an authentic experience like a Saigonese. You will hardly forget this beautiful moment in only 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City.
Join a cooking masterclass: A traditional cooking activity is included in the tour. Learn how to prepare some typical Vietnamese dishes and listen to the stories behind each recipe. I believe you will satisfy your taste buds with our skillful chefs’ guidance.
Admire the glamorous sunset: At specific times, Saigon treats its people and guests to garish sunsets. Follow Jackfruit Adventure to a nice spot to view the sun go down, and the golden light reflects in the sky.
Uncover Saigon nightlife: Dive into glowing, colorful neon lights and try yummy street food. Ho Chi Minh City at night reveals a different world that impresses many.
The trip ends here, and you will be back at your accommodation to rest and relax after a delightful first day in 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City.
The tour consists of transportation, a helmet, drinks, exotic fruits, accidental insurance, a tour leader, a support guide, a first aid kit, ponchos, and a lot of laughter and memories. The price? Only $187/pax. Depending on your group size, with or without children under 7, and on our promotion, you can be discounted. Contact us to get the detailed rate and be ready for the upcoming memorable journey.
2 Days in Ho Chi Minh City: The Second Day on Your Own
I would like to recommend some popular activities for your day 2 in Saigon. Choose the ones you feel interested in and give them a try.
1. Savor Vietnamese cuisine
Vietnamese traditional cuisine is super unique and mouth-watering. Even though you had some dishes on the first day, you must be surprised as there is much more to taste. A citizen born and raised here for over 30 years has not tried all of the Vietnamese dishes yet.
Do not ignore the top dishes such as pho, banh mi, com tam (broken rice), bun bo (beef noodle soup), bun dau mam tom (vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste), chao suon (pork rib porridge), fresh seafood, etc. The prices are very affordable. Just $5 a day is enough for your stomach if you are a backpacker who chooses to order meals at small eateries or street food stalls. Treat your 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City to good local dishes.
2. Sip a cup of coffee
This is a must in your 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam is one of the world’s biggest coffee exporters, so you should not miss our signature coffee, such as iced milk coffee, black coffee, salt coffee, or egg coffee. The first and second have a strong flavor. Feel free to ask the barista to adjust the milk or coffee shots if needed. For me, salt and egg coffee are easier to handle. I love the rich, quite fat, and gently sweet taste of egg coffee. Knock at Little Hanoi Egg Coffee, which has various branches in Saigon.
3. Visit an art gallery
Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum will be your next spot if you love art and culture. This place showcases a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts reflecting Vietnamese art in different periods. The entrance fee is only about $1 per person.
In addition, you can find other private art galleries around the city. Search Google Maps and visit a convenient one, and admire our talented artists’ works. Normally, they don’t charge a penny, and you can buy any artwork that catches your eye.
4. Go shopping
A shopaholic should never miss the shopping experience in your 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you visit shopping malls or traditional markets, there are numerous products to buy at reasonable prices.
Head to Saigon’s well-known buildings, such as Landmark 81, Bitexco, Takashimaya, Vincom, etc., if you seek luxury and high-end items. They are often cheaper than in developed countries. In addition, stop by Saigon markets like Ben Thanh, Ba Chieu, Ho Thi Ky, An Dong, Tan Dinh, and more, to immerse yourself in the local life and savor delicious street food.
In case you want to buy unique things as gifts and souvenirs, read our previous post for your reference.
5. Have fun in Saigon nightlife
After dark, go crazy at bars and clubs with live music and vibrant atmosphere on Bui Vien Walking Street (also known as Western Street). Sing karaoke or hang out with your tripmates at the public parks. Taking a night cycling tour is also a good idea. A short physical training can help you sleep better. Select a suitable one to complete your 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City.
Saigon’s Untold Tales City Night Ride
2-Hour Hidden Saigon by Night: District 4 Alleyways & Street Food
2 days in Ho Chi Minh City is not long, but still enough for visitors to discover many of its special aspects. Follow our guide and tours to get a taste of Vietnam’s history, art & culture, cuisine, daily life, and entertainment. Feel free to contact Jackfruit Adventure for more information. We are here to make your journey extraordinary and perfect.
Let Jackfruit Adventure show you every amazing corner and tasty food in Saigon through our tailor-made tours. An economical, memorable, and enjoyable trip awaits you in just 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City.
