10 Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways From Ho Chi Minh City

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10 Best Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, commonly referred to as Saigon, is a vibrant city known for its cultural landmarks, lively markets, and tasty street food. However, just outside the city, there are plenty of exciting adventures to be had. Whether you’re looking to relax, experience local culture, or explore nature, these top day trips, overnight trips & weekend getaways from Saigon provide the perfect opportunity to escape the fast pace of city life.

Whether in Ho Chi Minh City as an expat, or spending some time for a vacation, all the bustling markets, delicious street foods, beach near the city, historical attractions, a pulsating nightlife – Saigon has it all. There are plenty of underrated, gorgeous weekend getaways for either day trips and or overnight stay, all around Ho Chi Minh City, making it, perfect for day trips when you want to escape the city and see a different side of Vietnam.

Top Day Trips & Weekend Getaways From Ho Chi Minh City

Explore beyond Saigon and check from the following day trips, from the waterways along the Mekong River Delta, to the remaining of the war site at the Cu Chi, to the beach city of Vung Tau. Saigon / Ho Chi Minh City offers a series of fun day trips, here are the list of top 10 to consider;

1. Mekong Delta Tour

A top destination for adventure day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta is often referred to as Vietnam’s “rice basket.” This lush, watery landscape is characterized by green fields, tranquil villages, and an intricate network of canals and rivulets fed by the mighty Mekong River. The region is not only vital for its agricultural output—yielding rice, sugarcane, fruit, and shrimp—but also offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life, where locals work in harmony with the river’s natural cycles.

Formed by sediment deposits from the Mekong, the delta continues to grow each year, with new land being created as much as 80 meters annually. The river’s two daily tides and its fertile land make this area one of the most densely populated in Vietnam. Popular for both day trips and overnight stays from Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta offers a peaceful yet vibrant escape into rural life, where visitors can explore lush rice paddies, fish farms, and traditional villages.

My Tho and Ben Tre

Begin your Ho Chi Minh City vacation with an adventure to Delta’s My Tho, where a visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda before taking a boat ride through Ben Tre’s coconut waterways and palm-lined canals. Enjoy local coconut candy, visit a bee farm, and indulge in fresh tropical fruits, all while being entertained by traditional Vietnamese music. This unique experience offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavors, ideal for any traveler seeking authentic Vietnam.

2. Cu Chi Tunnels: A glimpse into Vietnam's war history

The town of Cu Chi is a district in the greater Ho Chi Minh City, with a population of around 200,000 people (compared to about 80,000 during the Vietnam War). At first glance, there is little to indicate the heavy fighting, bombing, and destruction that took place here during the war. To truly understand what happened, you have to look beneath the surface—underground.

The Cu Chi tunnel network became famous in the 1960s for its crucial role in allowing the Viet Cong (VC) to maintain control over a large rural area just 30 to 40 kilometers worth a weekend getaways or a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. At its peak, the tunnel system stretched from the South Vietnamese capital all the way to the Cambodian border, with over 250 kilometers of tunnels just in the Cu Chi district alone. Some parts of the network were several stories deep and included trapdoors, living quarters, storage areas, weapons factories, field hospitals, command centers, and kitchens.

3. Tay Ninh Holy Site (Cao Dai Temple)

The Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh town, the capital of Tay Ninh Province, is the headquarters of one of Vietnam’s most unique indigenous religions, Cao Daism. The Cao Dai Great Temple at the sect’s Holy See is one of the most impressive buildings in all of Asia.

Construction of the temple took place between 1933 and 1955 and is a striking blend of architectural styles, featuring elements from a French church, a Chinese pagoda, Hong Kong’s Tiger Balm Gardens, and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. Tay Ninh Province, located northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, is bordered by Cambodia on three sides. The province is dominated by Nui Ba Den (Black Lady Mountain), which rises dramatically above the surrounding plains. To the east, Tay Ninh is bordered by the Saigon River, while the Vam Co River flows from Cambodia through the western part of the province. Check out Religion in Vietnam

Tay Ninh is located 96 km from Ho Chi Minh City on Highway 22, which passes through Trang Bang, the site of the famous photo of a young girl running after a US napalm attack. Several Cao Dai temples are along the route, including one damaged by the Viet Cong in 1975. A convenient way to reach Tay Ninh is by chartered taxi, ideal for a day trip that can also include a visit to Cu Chi. The round-trip cost from HCMC for both stops is around US$45. Buses to Tay Ninh depart from the Tay Ninh bus station in Tan Binh district and the Mien Tay bus station in An Lac.

Take a journey along the Mekong, explore the secrets of Cu Chi and sail through the limestone wonders of Halong Bay – Vietnam has it all – Explore Best Vietnam Tours & Trips

4. Vung Tau: The Best Beach Getaway Near Saigon

For a beach near Saigon, Vung Tau is an ideal choice. Just 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, this coastal destination boasts stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and cultural sites. Front Beach offers calm waters for relaxation, while Back Beach attracts surfers with its strong waves. Don’t miss a hike to the top of the Jesus Christ Statue, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Vung Tau peninsula.

5. Can Gio Mangrove Forest: Best for Wildlife & Nature

For a nature getaway near Ho Chi Minh City, head to Can Gio Mangrove Forest, located just 40 kilometers away. Often called the “Green Lung” of the city, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds. You can explore the peaceful mangroves by canoe, visit the bat swamp, or hike to the historic “Sac Forest” guerrilla base, a key location from the Vietnam War. This eco-tourism destination offers both natural beauty and historical significance.

6. Cat Tien National Park: See rare animals

Cat Tien National Park, a 72,000-hectare UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is renowned for its exceptional weekend – overnight trips from Saigon, it offers best chances for hiking, biking, and birdwatching opportunities within its lush lowland rainforests. Historically a religious center of the Funan empire, the park has seen a remarkable recovery in both wildlife and forests since the American War. With limited visitor capacity, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance. To get there, take Hwy 20 from Ho Chi Minh City, then a 24km road from Talai Junction, or take a bus to Dalat and hire a motorbike for the last 25km.

7. Dong Nai - An ideal places to visit near Saigon

Just 90 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai is an underrated gem perfect for both day and overnight trips from Ho Chi Minh City. The province is famous for its stunning landscapes, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, rivers, and waterfalls, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Dong Nai is also known for its delicious seafood and rice dishes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking natural beauty and cultural experiences.

8. Dalat: Best for weekend trips from Saigon

If you’re looking for a weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat is an enchanting hill station located about 300 kilometers away. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Da Lat offers cool temperatures and picturesque French colonial architecture.

Explore the Valley of Love, with its beautiful gardens, paddle boats, and photo opportunities. For adventure enthusiasts, the Datanla Waterfalls provide exciting activities like canyoning and tobogganing, making it an ideal weekend getaway. Check out Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam

9. Nha Trang: Weekend trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Trang, located over 400 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, is a coastal paradise popular for a weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City or a relaxing Saigon getaway. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Nha Trang is a must-visit destination.

Explore Hon Tre Island, home to the exciting VinWonders amusement park, or unwind at Hon Mun Island, famous for its snorkeling and diving in vibrant coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot for both adventure and relaxation during your Saigon vacation.

10. Mui Ne: Weekend getaway for wind-surfing

Mui Ne, about 200 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City, offer one of the best beaches from Saigon, making it an ideal weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its stunning sandy beaches, towering sand dunes, and charming fishing villages, Mui Ne offers a range of activities. Visitors can swim in idyllic waters, sunbathe, or explore the Red and White Sand Dunes. For adventure seekers, Mui Ne is also a top destination for windsurfing in Vietnam, kitesurfing, and other exciting water sports, along with fresh seafood from local fishing villages.

11. Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is the perfect beach getaway for those looking for a vacation from Saigon, offering a variety of exciting activities and attractions. A popular choice for day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc is home to Starfish Beach, where visitors can relax on white sandy shores and spot starfish in crystal-clear waters.

Phu Quoc National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, while history enthusiasts can explore the Phu Quoc Prison, a former prison camp that highlights Vietnam’s turbulent past.

12. Tan Lap Floating Village

Consider an overnight trip or day trip from Saigon to Tan Lap Floating Village, an ecotourism destination surrounded by scenic beauty. This tranquil floating village, open to visitors, offers a peaceful atmosphere and a boat trip through magical water lilies. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, Tan Lap is an ideal spot for ecotourism. Admission is 50,000 VND, which covers the boat ride guided by a local.

To reach the village, take public transport from Cholon Station or Long An, which takes about 4 hours, or enjoy a more pleasant 2-hour drive or motorbike ride from Saigon.

13. Angkor Wat: Best for a quick weeknd trip

A weekend trip to Angkor Wat from Ho Chi Minh City is a great option for those eager to explore Cambodia’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Located over 300 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Cambodia is easily accessible by plane or car, with affordable bus services also available. Highlights of a visit include the magnificent Angkor Wat temple, as well as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, each offering unique cultural and historical experiences.

Weekend and overnight trips from Ho Chi Minh City to Cambodia are convenient, with daily buses to Phnom Penh taking around 6 to 8 hours, excluding border formalities. Many travelers use this trip as part of a visa run, but Cambodia offers plenty to explore beyond the visa process. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest and most vibrant city, is a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and ancient traditions, where bustling markets and street vendors create an exhilarating atmosphere.