Our suggestions of activities to combine during your excursion from Saigon, according to your tastes, for an unforgettable passage in 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, the most dynamic spot in the country. Historical and contemporary museums, colonial vestiges, shopping at the local market, or artistic shows ... everything is on the program to make every moment of your 48 hours unique in the pearl of the Far East.

Day 1: Stroll In The Attractive Central District

Start your discovery of Saigon in the 1st district, its central district, by going to Ben Thanh, its most attractive market for a change of scenery in its stalls full of Asian flavors and smells. In one of its canteens, offer yourself without hesitation a breakfast with a bowl of pho soup followed by an iced coffee with milk, the famous drink of the Saigonese. From Ben Thanh, you can easily reach the Museum of Fine Arts located in Pho Duc Chinh Street. Full of charm, this colonial building rich with beautiful antique and contemporary collections is worth a visit of about an hour. As fun as it is instructive, you can admire quality bronze or ceramic works and touching illustrations of the Vietnamese revolutionary history.

Within a 10-minute walk, a bustling stop awaits you in the dominant Bitexco Tower that offers panoramic views of the Saigon River. What a pleasure for the eyes and you can get some great photos of a city in effervescence!

As for your stomach, go to the Rue Pasteur in the same area, full of restaurants, cafes and breweries for your choice. Whether it's a western-chic ambience or a typically traditional backdrop or street-level street kiosks, Saigon delicacies are just right for all tastes and budgets.

After a rest, stroll in Le Duan street for a tower of beautiful French architecture and its prestigious colonial heritage, admiring the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Central Post Office, which are part of the symbols of the city. Then walk along the park 30/4, a nice and wooded place sheltered from the whirlpool of activities, but also try many popular dishes and street cafes. If you feel the soul of a historian, stop at the nearby Independence Palace to fill your curiosity towards a turbulent time known by national history.

In the evening, get on a motorcycle, as a driver or passenger, to experience Saigon's nightlife; it's a unique experience. Gourmet visit or relaxation, it is the opportunity to apprehend the lifestyles of the city that shines in the light of day and night and also to taste the delicious dishes that are king in the streets. Otherwise, enjoy a cocktail and enjoy some music in the hotel Majestic, one of the oldest in Saigon, impregnated with the charm of Indochina. Perfect for an evening out with friends and getting a nice view of the sparkling Saigon River.

Day 2: A Tour Of Exciting Neighborhoods

If you ever want to change air, head to the 5th district to taste a Vietnamese dish in the Cho Lon market before strolling in the alleys of one of the oldest in Saigon. You will find a wide range of traditional souvenir choices for your loved ones. Not far, half an hour in Lady Thien Hau pagoda reveals an ancient

Chinese religious architecture dating from the 18th century that features many beautiful sculptures. Another highlight of Chinatown is Phuoc An, a beautiful and colorful house frequented by many pilgrims and visitors.

For a second unforgettable lunch, go up the Han Thuyen street of the 1st district, which offers you so many irresistible culinary surprises.

Complete your knowledge of historical Vietnamese landmarks in the War Remnants Museum, located in the 3rd arrondissement. An exciting place that makes you think through the poignant witnesses of the atrocities of the war against the Americans between 1955-1957. A must-see museum to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, it is better to visit without children because of some images that are hard to see.

Otherwise, we have an alternative that particularly interests the curious about traditional medicine of Vietnam. Then head to the 10th district for the Fito Museum, which, rich in documentary resources, will also delight you with its relaxing and balmy medicinal plants.

If you are passionate about the traditional Vietnamese tunic, it's the Ao dai Museum that you have to go to admire the impressive collections kept since the 17th century.

Before having a delicious dinner on Pasteur Street or Vo Van Kiet, treat yourself to an hour of immersion in an AO show that combines high-quality folkloric and contemporary performances at the Opéra de ville. Great artists make you dream with a breathtaking choreography deploying 17 instruments. Charming and moving, these are the master words for an evening not to be missed once in Saigon. Note that, given the importance of its audience, tickets for this service, despite being much more expensive than those of state museums, need to be booked days in advance. But for sure, it's well worth it to close a memorable two-day stopover in Ho Chi Minh City.