Escape the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City with a quick and refreshing trip to Vung Tau. This coastal city, a popular getaway for locals and tourists alike, offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and mouth-watering seafood. Our comprehensive 2-day, 1-night itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your weekend, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler. Get ready for a memorable journey filled with stunning views and delicious food!
Getting to Vung Tau & Where to Stay
How to Get to Vung Tau?
- By Bus or Limousine: The most common and convenient way. Limousine buses offer comfortable seats and a direct journey from HCMC, taking about 1.5-2 hours. Booking tickets is simple, either online or directly at the station.
- By Motorbike: For the adventurous, a motorbike trip allows you to enjoy the scenic coastal route. At approximately 90 km, the drive will take you about 2-3 hours.
- By Ferry: A faster but less frequent option. Ferries depart from Ho Chi Minh City and arrive directly in Vung Tau, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
Booking Bus or Limousine here: Klook Travel -Transport
Where to Stay in Vung Tau?
- Luxury Hotels: For a premium experience, consider hotels like The Imperial Hotel Vung Tau or Pullman Vung Tau.
- Mid-Range: There are plenty of comfortable and affordable hotels near Back Beach (Bãi Sau).
- Homestays: For a more local and cozy stay, check out one of the many charming homestays available.
Vung Tau Itinerary – Day 1: Exploring the City’s Highlights
Morning: Iconic Landmarks & Panoramic Views
Start your day by visiting the most famous sights.
- Christ the King Statue (Tượng Chúa Kitô): Hike up the 800+ steps to reach this magnificent statue. The climb is worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. You can even climb inside the statue for an even better vantage point.
- Vung Tau Lighthouse (Hải đăng Vũng Tàu): A short drive from the statue, this French-built lighthouse is a classic photo op. The road leading up is picturesque, and the view from the top is simply spectacular, especially on a clear day.
Afternoon: Relaxation & Beach Fun
With the busy morning behind you, it’s a good time to unwind.
- Back Beach (Bãi Sau): Known for its long stretch of sand, this is the most popular beach for swimming and sunbathing. Grab a spot, rent a chair, and enjoy the waves.
- Nghinh Phong Cape (Mũi Nghinh Phong): A beautiful, windy spot that offers stunning ocean views and a great place for unique photos. The “Gate to Heaven” here is a must-visit spot for any Instagram enthusiast.
Evening: Seafood Feast & Night Market
End your first day with a culinary adventure.
- Seafood Dinner: Vung Tau is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood. Head to one of the many local seafood restaurants to try local delicacies like Stingray Hotpot (Lẩu cá đuối) or a plate of fresh grilled oysters and prawns.
- Vung Tau Night Market (Chợ đêm Vũng Tàu): Stroll through the market to explore a wide variety of street food and souvenirs. This is the perfect spot for a casual dinner and a vibrant atmosphere.
Vung Tau Itinerary – Day 2: Culture, Food & Departure
Morning: History & Local Delicacies
Start your second day with a touch of history and a local breakfast.
- Bạch Dinh (White Palace): This beautiful colonial villa, once a retreat for French governors, offers a glimpse into Vung Tau’s past. The architecture and surrounding gardens are impressive.
- Breakfast with Bánh Khọt: Don’t leave Vung Tau without trying Bánh Khọt, a local specialty. These mini savory pancakes are fried to a crispy perfection and served with fresh vegetables and a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Before heading back, visit a local shop to buy Bánh Bông Lan Trứng Muối (salted egg sponge cake), a famous Vung Tau treat to bring home.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Views & Journey Home
Enjoy one last stunning view before starting your journey back to HCMC.
- Visit Hồ Mây Park: For a fun and exciting experience, take the cable car up to Hồ Mây Park. This amusement park on the mountain offers great views and various activities.
- Final Meal: Have a final meal of fresh seafood before getting on your bus or motorbike for the trip back to Ho Chi Minh City.
RELATED: 20+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Vung Tau: Explore It All
Estimated Budget & Quick Tips
- Budget: A 2-day trip to Vung Tau can range from 1,500,000 VND to 3,000,000 VND per person, depending on your accommodation and dining choices.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking up to the statue and lighthouse. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. It’s also a good idea to have some Vietnamese Dong on hand for small purchases at local stalls.
Your weekend in Vung Tau is sure to be packed with memories. From climbing the iconic Christ the King statue to savoring fresh local seafood, this city is the perfect place to recharge. We hope this itinerary helps you discover the best of what Vung Tau has to offer, making your short trip feel like a complete adventure. Let the sounds of the ocean and the vibrant local culture be your guide. Have a fantastic trip!
