Category: - Vietnam Travel Blogs

3 days in Ho Chi Minh City is enough time to explore the city's major attractions, sample its famous street food, and experience the unique blend of history and modern life that defines Saigon. From iconic landmarks and cultural sites to bustling markets and local neighborhoods, this GTrip itinerary covers the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in 3 days while maintaining a comfortable pace for first time visitors.

Hoi An bike tours are among the best ways to explore the countryside, local villages, and authentic culture beyond the Ancient Town. From cycling through lush rice paddies and peaceful riverside paths to visiting fishing communities and traditional craft villages, these tours offer a deeper look into local life that many visitors miss.

Paragliding in Da Nang lets visitors experience the city's coastline from above on a tandem flight with a professional pilot. Launching from the Son Tra Peninsula and landing on My Khe Beach, it offers breathtaking views of the sea, mountains, and skyline.

Snorkeling in Hoi An allows visitors to discover the coral reefs and marine life of the Cham Islands, one of Vietnam's most important marine protected areas. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, the islands offer clear waters and excellent snorkeling conditions for beginners and experienced travelers alike.

Kayaking in Hoi An is one of the best ways to explore the town's peaceful waterways, mangrove forests, and authentic riverside life. Unlike the busy Ancient Town, the rivers around Hoi An offer a quieter side of the destination where you can paddle through coconut groves, spot local fishing activities, and enjoy beautiful natural scenery at your own pace. Whether you are looking for a relaxing sunrise trip or an adventurous eco tour, kayaking provides a memorable experience for all skill levels.

Surfing in Da Nang is one of the top beach activities in Central Vietnam, famous for its beginner friendly waves, warm water, and long sandy coastline stretching along My Khe Beach. Compared to crowded surf destinations in Southeast Asia, Da Nang offers a more relaxed atmosphere, affordable surf lessons, and consistent beach breaks suitable for both beginners and intermediate surfers. The best surfing season is typically from September to March, when wave conditions become cleaner and more reliable.

A cyclo in Hoi An is one of the most relaxing and authentic ways to explore the Ancient Town, especially for first-time visitors. These traditional three wheeled bicycle taxis mainly operate inside the pedestrian streets of the UNESCO listed Old Town, allowing passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of lantern streets, yellow heritage houses, riverside scenery, and local daily life at a slow and comfortable pace. Most cyclo rides last around 30 to 45 minutes and typically cost between 200,000 and 300,000 VND depending on the route and duration.

Parasailing in Da Nang offers one of the fastest ways to experience the city from above, with panoramic views of turquoise water, golden beaches, and the Son Tra Peninsula all in a single flight. Most rides last around 10 to 15 minutes and are available at popular beaches like My Khe and Pham Van Dong, with prices typically depending on flight duration and package options.

Scuba diving in Da Nang offers a fantastic entry point into the vibrant underwater world of Vietnam's central coast. While it may not have the global fame of destinations like the Red Sea or the Great Barrier Reef, Da Nang provides a surprisingly rich, accessible, and affordable diving experience perfect for beginners and casual enthusiasts. Flanked by the Marble Mountains and the sparkling South China Sea, this bustling city is the gateway to protected marine parks and diverse ecosystems waiting to be explored.

The Hoi An lantern boat ride is the quintessential experience that captures the city’s enchanting spirit. As dusk settles over the Ancient Town, the Hoai River transforms into a glittering waterway, reflecting thousands of colorful silk lanterns. This iconic activity is more than just a boat trip. It's a journey into the heart of Hoi An's culture and history. For many travelers, this peaceful float amid a sea of light becomes the most memorable part of their Vietnamese adventure.

Spending 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City is an ideal way to experience the highlights of Vietnam’s largest and most energetic city. This itinerary helps you explore Saigon at a comfortable pace. Designed for first-time visitors, it covers must-see attractions in central HCMC, authentic food experiences, and optional side trips. Therefore, you can make the most of 48 hours without feeling rushed.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City might seem like an impossibly short time to explore Vietnam's largest and most dynamic metropolis. However, with the right plan, it’s more than enough to capture its incredible spirit. Formerly known as Saigon, this is a city of thrilling contradictions. The scent of French-press coffee mingles with street-side pho, ancient temples sit beside gleaming skyscrapers, and a complex history echoes through its vibrant, forward-looking streets.