ho chi minh vietnam places to visit

15 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Jul 20, 2021 • 12 min read

Ho Chi Minh City has a skyline of tall buildings perfect to get a birds-eye-view of the city © Ho Ngoc Binh / Getty Images

It would be easy to roar around Ho Chi Minh City like one of the local motorcyclists – stopping at every corner, but never really seeing much – but Vietnam's most populated city is worthy of some slow exploration. 

From world-class museums and Vietnam's tallest skyscrapers to fragrant, incense-filled temples and street food stalls that recall old Saigon, this former French colonial city is well worth at least three or four days of your time. These are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. War Remnants Museum

Best museum in Ho Chi Minh City

To understand the context of the war with the USA, and its devastating impact on Vietnamese civilians, this remarkable, deeply moving museum is an essential visit. Many atrocities documented here were well publicised, but rarely do Americans and Europeans hear the victims of military action tell their own stories. While some displays are one-sided, many of the most disturbing photographs illustrating atrocities are from US sources, including those from the My Lai massacre.

The museum primarily deals with the American War, but the French-colonial period and conflicts with China are also documented. US armoured vehicles, artillery pieces, bombs and infantry weapons are on display outside. One corner of the grounds is devoted to the notorious French and South Vietnamese prisons on Phu Quoc and Con Son islands. Artefacts include that most iconic of French appliances, the guillotine, and the notoriously inhumane ‘tiger cages’ used to house war prisoners. Allow at least a couple of hours for your visit.

2. Jade Emperor Pagoda 

Built in 1909 in honour of the supreme Taoist god (the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang), this is one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, stuffed with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of incense ( huong ) fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings. Its roof is encrusted with elaborate tile work, and the temple's statues, depicting characters from both Buddhist and Taoist lore, are made from reinforced papier mâché.

Inside, worshippers mass before the ineffable Jade Emperor, who presides – draped in luxurious robes and shrouded in a dense fug of incense smoke – over the main sanctuary. He is flanked by his guardians, the Four Big Diamonds (Tu Dai Kim Cuong), so named because they are said to be as hard as diamonds.

3. Eat street food in District 4

Best for foodies 

Just south of the glitzy Dong Khoi area, it's a short walk over the Ben Nghe Channel to working-class District 4. Here the ambience is far more Saigonese, with little or no concession to tourism, and narrow lanes, street markets and shabby concrete apartment blocks. Order a coffee here and expect a drip-fed Vietnamese coffee that resembles engine oil rather than a frothy cappuccino.

District 4 is the best area in the city to sample authentic street food, with dozens of places on Ɖ Vinh Khanh. For great seafood at affordable prices, try Oc Dao 2 . HCMC is a city in love with snails, and District 4 is something of a magnet for snail eaters, with many fine places on the buzzing alley Lo J KTT, including Oc Po , which is always packed.

4. Giac Lam Pagoda 

Believed to be the oldest temple in HCMC (1744), Giac Lam is a fantastically atmospheric place set in peaceful, garden-like grounds. The Chinese characters that constitute the temple's name (覚林寺) mean 'Feel the Woods Temple' and the looming Bodhi tree (a native fig tree, sacred to Buddhists) in the front garden was the gift of a Sri Lankan monk in 1953. Prayers are held daily from 4am to 5am, 11am to noon, 4pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm.

Next to the tree stands a gleaming white statue of compassionate Quan The Am Bo Tat (also known as the Goddess of Mercy) on a lotus blossom, a symbol of purity. As at many Vietnamese Buddhist temples, aspects of both Taoism and Confucianism can be found here. For the sick and elderly, the pagoda is a minor pilgrimage sight, as it contains a bronze bell that, when rung, is believed to answer the prayers posted by petitioners. About 3km from Cholon, Giac Lam Pagoda is best reached by taxi or xe om (motorbike taxi).

Read more:   Best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

5. Check out the craft beer scene

Best bars in Ho Chi Minh City

Happening HCMC is concentrated around the Dong Khoi area, with everything from dives to designer bars open until 1am. Pham Ngu Lao stays open later, and PNL's Ð Bui Vien is a pedestrian-only street from 7pm to 2am on Saturdays and Sundays. Dance clubs usually kick off after 10pm. Amongst all the late night action is a blossoming craft beer scene, including the following bars.

Heart of Darkness

This premier craft brewery has an always-interesting selection of innovative beers on tap. The selection varies as the Heart of Darkness brewers are always trying something, but the Dream Alone pale ale and Sacred Fire golden ale are great drops.

With almost 40 taps, BiaCraft is an essential destination for thirsty souls. Complementing its own creations are ales and ciders from craft breweries in Saigon and Hanoi; it's possible to take out freshly sealed cans of all available beers. Combine a tasting paddle with probably the city's best bar food, with quirky offerings like drunken baby potatoes and Nashville hot quail.

Rogue Saigon

Live music and Vietnamese craft beers combine on Rogue's rooftop terrace in a gritty building on the riverside edge of District 1. You'll find good beers such as Lac Brewing's Devil's Lake IPA, and music with an acoustic, blues or rock vibe. There are DJ sessions on Saturday and also jams and quiz nights.

6. Architecture 

Ho Chi Minh City is littered with faded, century-old buildings from when it was still under French colonial rule. Scores of heritage buildings are scattered throughout the city, mainly in Districts 1 and 3. Here's some of the most historically intriguing. 

People’s Committee Building 

One of the city’s most prominent landmarks is home to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. Built between 1901 and 1908, the former Hôtel de Ville decorates the northwestern end of ÐL Nguyen Hue, but unfortunately the ornate interior is not open to the public.

Central Post Office 

The city's landmark French-era post office is a period classic, designed by Marie-Alfred Foulhoux (though often credited to Gustave Eiffel) and built between 1886 and 1891. Painted on the walls of its grand concourse are fascinating historical maps of South Vietnam, Saigon and Cholon, while a mosaic of Ho Chi Minh takes pride of place at the end of its barrel-vaulted hall. Note the magnificent tiled floor of the interior and the copious green-painted wrought iron.

Municipal Theatre (Saigon Opera House)

Gracing the intersection of Ð Dong Khoi and ÐL Le Loi, this grand colonial edifice with a sweeping staircase was built in 1897 and is one of the city's most recognisable buildings. Officially known as the Municipal Theatre , the Opera House captures the flamboyance of France’s belle époque. Performances range from ballet and opera to modern dance and musicals.

7. Explore Dong Khoi Area

This well-heeled area, immediately west of the Saigon River, packages the heart of old Saigon into a swish enclave of designer shops and skyscrapers. Slicing from the river to august Notre Dame Cathedral via the Opera House (Municipal Theatre), ritzy Ð Dong Khoi is the main shopping strip and lends its name to the encircling civic centre and central business district. 

Yet it’s the wide, tree-lined boulevards of ÐL Le Loi and ÐL Nguyen Hue, perpetually swarming with motorbikes, that leave more of an impression – not least if you’ve survived crossing them on foot. It’s in these grand thoroughfares that French-colonial elegance and urban modernity fashion an alluring concoction.

Read more:   Top 20 free things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

8. Notre Dame Cathedral

Built between 1877 and 1883, Notre Dame Cathedral enlivens the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's government quarter, facing Ð Dong Khoi. A red-brick, neo-Romanesque church, it has twin bell towers that are both topped with spires and crosses that reach 60m. This Catholic cathedral, named after the Virgin Mary, includes some lovely stained-glass windows and interior walls inlaid with devotional tablets. Its red bricks were imported from Toulouse, France.

9. History Museum

Built in 1929, this notable Sino-French museum houses a rewarding collection of artefacts illustrating the evolution of the cultures of Vietnam, from the Bronze Age Dong Son civilisation (which emerged in 2000 BCE) and the Funan civilisation (1st to 6th centuries CE) to the Cham, Khmer and Vietnamese. Highlights include valuable relics taken from Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and a fine collection of Buddha statues. There's good English information.

There's also a perfectly preserved mummy of a local woman who died in 1869, excavated from Xom Cai in District 5; and some exquisite stylised mother-of-pearl Chinese characters inlaid into panels. It's located beside the Botanical Gardens.

10. Botanical Gardens

One of the first projects undertaken by the French after establishing Cochin-China as a colony was founding these fantastic, lush gardens . Once one of the finest such gardens in Asia, they’re very agreeable for strolling beneath giant tropical trees. Skip the miserable zoo though.

11. Cholon (Chinatown)

Rummage through Cholon (District 5) and lift the lid on a treasure trove of historic temples and Chinese flavours. Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown is less Chinese than it once was, largely due to the 1978–79 anti-capitalist and anti-Chinese campaign, when many ethnic Chinese fled the country, taking with them their money and entrepreneurial skills. 

A lot of those refugees have since returned (with foreign passports) to explore investment possibilities. Full-form written Chinese characters (as opposed to the simplified system used in mainland China) decorate shopfronts and temples in abundance, adding to the sensation that you have strayed into a forgotten corner of China. 

Cholon means ‘big market’ and during the American War it was home to a thriving black market. Like much of HCMC, Cholon’s historic shopfronts are swiftly disappearing under advertising hoardings or succumbing to developers’ bulldozers, but some traditional architecture survives and an atmospheric strip of traditional herb shops thrives between Ð Luong Nhu Hoc and Ð Trieu Quang Phuc, providing both a visual and an olfactory reminder of the old Chinese city.

12. Fine Arts Museum

With its airy corridors and verandas, this elegant 1929 colonial-era, yellow-and-white building is stuffed with period details; it is exuberantly tiled throughout and home to some fine (albeit deteriorated) stained glass, as well as one of Saigon's oldest lifts. Hung from the walls is an impressive selection of art, including thoughtful pieces from the modern period. As well as contemporary art, much of it (unsurprisingly) inspired by war, the museum displays pieces dating back to the 4th century.

These include elegant Funan-era sculptures of Vishnu, the Buddha and other revered figures (carved in both wood and stone), and Cham art dating from the 7th century to the 14th century. More statuary is scattered around the grounds and in the central courtyard (accessed from the rear of the building). There’s a selection of lovely prints for sale (from 150,000d) at the shop. Building No 2 alongside hosts lesser-known works and stages exhibitions.

13. Reunification Palace

Surrounded by royal palm trees, the dissonant 1960s architecture of this landmark government building and the eerie ambience of its deserted halls make it an intriguing spectacle. The first Communist tanks to arrive in Saigon rumbled here on 30 April 1975 and it’s as if time has stood still since then. The building is deeply associated with the fall of the city in 1975, yet it's the kitsch detailing and period motifs that steal the show. It's also known as the Independence Palace.

The ground floor is arranged with meeting rooms, while upstairs is a grand set of reception rooms, used for welcoming foreign and national dignitaries. In the back of the structure are the president’s living quarters; check out the model boats, horse tails and severed elephants’ feet. Perhaps most fascinating of all is the basement with its telecommunications centre, war room and warren of tunnels, where hulking old fans chop the air and ancient radio transmitters sit impassively. Towards the end are rooms where videos appraise the palace and its history in Vietnamese, English, French, Chinese and Japanese. The national anthem is played at the end of the tape and you are expected to stand up – it would be rude not to.

14. Rooftop bars

Best thing to do at night

Enjoy Ho Chi Minh City’s frenetic energy from a barstool high above the chaos below. Saigon Saigon Bar in the historic Caravelle Hotel was a favourite hangout of wartime journalists who would report from the ninth storey vantage point, cold beer in hand. Today, that same beer with the same great views is available as The Caravelle Terrace Draft.

For cocktails that are equally artsy as alcoholic, Shri Restaurant & Lounge tops the list. Located 23 floors up, sip on innovative cocktails inspired by various neighbourhoods like the Ben Thanh featuring lychee and ginger found in the city’s best-known market or the Thao Cam Vien with notes of cucumber and elderflower, inspired by the botanical gardens.

15. Skyscraper observation towers

From the street level, Ho Chi Minh City seems incredibly chaotic, but there’s a quiet beauty to the city when experienced from above the fray. A number of skyscrapers have observation towers (or bars) which offer views of the city's tree-lined boulevards and the snaking Saigon River.

Bitexco Financial Tower

From the 68-storey  Bitexco Financial Tower  – or, indeed, its chic  EON Heli Bar  on the 52nd floor – visitors can sip on a coffee whilst watching the world go by.

Landmark 81

At 81 stories high, the Tetris -like Landmark 81 is Vietnam's tallest building. Its Blank Lounge, some 76 floors up, is where they share the views of the sprawling metropolis with the public. 

You may also like: Vietnam tips: a first-timer's guide Best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City in 2020 Ho Chi Minh City’s best rooftop bars

This article was first published March 2020 and updated July 2021

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » Ho Chi Minh

14 BEST Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh (2024)

Ho Chi Minh is a wholly unique city where you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into another world from the moment you land. It’s always busy and noisy, the streets are frankly terrifying for tourists, and the food is strange and almost always delicious. When you travel to Ho Chi Minh, you’ll walk away changed, it’s just unavoidable.

But this isn’t always the easiest city to explore. Everything is different in Ho Chi Minh, from the language to the food and even the way you cross the street! To help you navigate this strangeness and stay alive while you explore all the historical and beautiful places to visit in Ho Chi Minh, make sure you take this easy guide along with you.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Ho Chi Minh:

These are the best places to visit in ho chi minh, faq on the best places to visit in ho chi minh, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in ho chi minh.

Pham Ngu Lao

Known as the “backpacker district,” Pham Ngu Lao is an area in District 1 that attracts budget travelers thanks to the low prices for everything from food and drink to accommodation.

• Join a Vintage Vespa Tour and explore Saigon on two wheels.
• Take a day trip out to the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn how the village protected themselves during the War.
• Learn about Saigon’s troubled past at the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City.

If Pham Ngu Lao isn’t quite your cup of Vietnamese coffee, there’s something in Ho Chi Minh for everyone. Be sure to check out where to stay in Ho Chi Minh and find the best accommodation in the area nearest to your favourite attractions!

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#1 – Giac Lam Pagoda

• The oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh.
• The gardens around this pagoda are amazing and deserve lots of attention.

Why it’s so awesome: Giac Lam Pagoda was built in 1744 and is the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh. Brightly colored and cheerful, the pagoda looks amazing set against the lush green trees and gardens that surround it. It looks great in photos and remains one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh if you’re looking for some serenity.

What to do there: When you arrive at the temple, make sure you pay attention to the Bodhi tree at the entrance of the temple, which was a gift from a Sri Lankan monk in 1953. The temple itself is beautiful and looks amazing in photos, but don’t forget to explore the gardens as well. They include some amazing architecture and have a serene atmosphere which is the perfect antidote to the busy city streets.

#2 – The Central Office – One of Ho Chi Minh’s coolest historical sites!

• A slightly strange area to visit, but this is still one of the most important landmarks in Ho Chi Minh.
• Bring your camera with you and marvel at this building, designed by one of the most famous architects in the modern world.

Why it’s so awesome: You might think that visiting a post office sounds boring, but this office is a little different. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the famous Eiffel Tower and dates back to 1886. Built in a gothic style, this stunning building remains one of the most striking points of interest in Ho Chi Minh.

What to do there: Take your camera along with you and explore this monument to architecture and French influence. Make sure you go inside as well, as the huge domed roof looks amazing and the walls are adorned with colonial maps that are worth some study.

#3 – The Reunification Palace

• The former home of the president of South Vietnam during the war.
• This building has an important significance to modern Vietnam as it was the place where the North Vietnamese invaded in 1975 and Ho Chi Minh surrendered.

Why it’s so awesome: Vietnam’s troubled history is very close to the present and you’ll feel it everywhere in the city. If you want to learn more about this history, then you need to put this building on your Ho Chi Minh sightseeing itinerary . It’s a monument to the Vietnam War and to the end of the war.

What to do there: This building looks the same as it did in 1966 and it carries its history heavily. If you want to gain a really complete understanding of the building and its place in history, then take the free tour. The guide will help you understand the cultural and historical significance of the building to the war and to modern Vietnam.

#4 – Pham Ngu Lao Street – A great place to visit Ho Chi Minh at night

• Ho Chi Minh’s bar and café hub.
• This is the best place to visit in Ho Chi Minh for a fun night out with friends.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the street where you need to go if you want to have a night out with friends. There are a huge range of bars and cafes in the area where you can sit and relax after a day of walking and sightseeing. Some of the best places to add to your Ho Chi Minh itinerary are located in this area too. So, if you can’t afford to stay at these expensive hotels, you can at least enjoy a drink in their luxurious bars and stay in one of Ho Chi Minh’s best hostels dotted around the area.

What to do there: Grab a group of friends and enjoy the friendly, busy atmosphere. You can have a drink, grab a meal, and explore the music and nightlife. Also, make sure that you have a drink at the Rex, the Majestic, or the Caravelle Hotels as they all have rooftop bars. There’s nothing quite like having a drink while looking out over the lights of the city.

#5 – The History Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Ho Chi Minh

• If you want to go deep into a location, then you need to learn more about its history and this is the place to learn about Ho Chi Minh’s past.
• The museum is located in a beautiful garden which provides a nice respite from the busy city.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum was once a French colonial villa and the building and grounds still reflect that history. But it’s what’s inside the museum that’s really worth the trip. It contains artifacts that span 4,000 years of Vietnam’s history, from Bronze Age weapons and art to pieces from the Cham and Khmer Kingdoms.

What to do there: Put aside a couple of hours to explore the history and art on display at this museum. And when you’re done, decompress in the garden and let all that history and artwork sink in and influence how you think about Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh in particular.

#6 – The War Remnants Museum – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Ho Chi Minh

• This is a harrowing museum and definitely not a place to take the kids.
• When you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh, it’s important that you learn about this part of its history from the local point of view.

Why it’s so awesome: Most people in western countries knows about the Vietnam War, but as you backpack around Vietnam you’ll think about it from new perspectives you may have never considered. In Ho Chi Minh, this war is often known as the American War, and this museum explores it through this very different viewpoint. It doesn’t shy away from the darker sides of the war either, so prepare yourself to have an emotional and harrowing tour through a part of history you thought you knew about.

What to do there: Take your time to explore when you get to this museum, as it will teach you things about the War that you can’t find in the history books. You’ll get to see a variety of different types of war relics from Huey helicopters to attack bombers and tanks. But even more tragic, the museum includes personal memorabilia from the war’s victims as well as old photographs that will take you back to that dark time in history.

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#7 – Cu Chi Tunnels

• A slightly terrifying and enlightening look at the past.
• The Cu Chi Tunnels were used by the Vietcong guerrillas during the Tet Offensive in 1968 and they’re a stark and frightening piece of the past.

Why it’s so awesome: The Cu Chi Tunnels are a series of underground tunnels and chambers which stretch for 30km outside of the city and they were used by the Vietcong guerrillas during the Vietnam War. You can actually crawl through these tunnels now and experience what it must have been like during that time which is an extreme and viscerally important experience.

What to do there: Don’t even think about exploring these tunnels if you have claustrophobia as they are very small and dark and frightening even if you don’t have trouble with tight spaces. But if you’re feeling brave and want to experience this little slice of history when you visit Ho Chi Minh City , take the time to immerse yourself in what it must have been like for those fighters during the war.

#8 – Notre Dame Cathedral

• A stunning neo-Romanesque style that sits like a beacon in the middle of the city.
• This cathedral was built in the 1800s and is in the center of the city, which makes it a great place to start your explorations.

Why it’s so awesome: You wouldn’t expect to be able to see a building in this style right in the middle of Ho Chi Minh. It’s a jarring contrast the buildings around it and that’s what makes it one of the most popular points of interest in Ho Chi Minh. Built between 1877 and 1883, the towers are 40 meters high and the inside is lushly decorated with stained glass windows and devotional tablets.

What to do there: The staff at this cathedral are available during the week to teach you all about the history of the cathedral. So, if you want to learn more about significance in Ho Chi Minh’s history , make sure you show up during working hours.

#9 – The Mekong Delta – A must visit place to visit in Ho Chi Minh on the weekend!

• This is one of the most densely populated areas in Vietnam and a fascinating mix of cultures and attractions.
• There are lots of tours to this area available in Ho Chi Minh.

Why it’s so awesome: Stretching over 39,000 square kilometres, this mass of waterways is densely populated and one of the hotspots in Ho Chi Minh for travelers. The Mekong Delta is about 4 hours from the city, which makes it the perfect place to visit on an organized tour. The waterways are filled with floating markets, homes, and schools and you simply can’t miss what all this looks like when it’s arranged around rushing water.

What to do there: If you have limited time to stay in this beautiful area of Vietnam then it’s probably best that you find an organized tour. That way you have the transport organized for you as well as a guide who can show you the best places.

#10 – Cao Dai Temple

• Possibly the most beautiful Cao Dai temple in Vietnam.
• This religion integrates other major religions into its doctrines, which is why the mix of religious statues inside the temple are the main draw for tourists.

Why it’s so awesome: Cao Dai is a relatively new religion established in Vietnam in the 20th century. It’s a monotheistic religion that integrates aspects from all the major religions within its doctrines. There are several Cao Dai temples in Vietnam, but the temple in Ho Chi Minh is said to be the most beautiful in the country.

What to do there: This temple looks amazing in pictures, so make sure you take a few selfies outside. Once you’re inside, you’ll find ornately carved dragons and a dazzling mix of religious statues that are from sometimes opposing religions but nonetheless look amazing together. Make sure you examine the effigies of Brahman, Buddha, and Christ in particular because they’re reflective of the inclusiveness this religion is known for.

#11 – Bitexco Financial Tower

• One of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh for amazing views!

Why it’s so awesome: This tower was designed by Carlos Zapata and reaches 68 storeys in the air and 262 meters. The building was designed to resemble a lotus bulb and there’s a sky deck on the 48th floor where you can take in the views of the city.

What to do there: Try to get to the tower at sunset for amazing views of the city against the colorful sky. You can also grab a drink at the rooftop bar if you want to sit and relax against the backdrop of that stunning vista.

#12 – Ben Thanh Market – A must-see for foodies!

• This is the best place to visit if you want to try eating everything!
• Make sure that you bargain hard when you want to buy something at this market, it’s both expected and necessary to get a good price.

Why it’s so awesome: This market is in the center of the city and is one of the most popular landmarks in Ho Chi Minh for shopping and eating. It contains a huge range of world-class street food vendors selling snacks and meals and you can find almost every type of souvenir in the market that you can imagine.

What to do there: When you arrive at the market, spend some time perusing the stalls first. You’ll find a dizzying array of ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs for sale and make sure that you bargain to ensure you get a good price. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to the food sections and try as many snacks as you can fit in your stomach!

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#13 – Jade Emperor Pagoda – One of the most religious places to see in Ho Chi Minh

• A working pagoda that includes some of the most stunning imagery and statues in the city.
• This temple is incredibly atmospheric and almost spooky.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the type of pagoda that you probably imagined when you were planning your Ho Chi Minh itinerary. It’s atmospheric, with the heavy smell of incense and strange, fierce characters glaring at you from the walls. It was built in 1909 in honor of the supreme Taoist God, the Jade Emperor, and is also stunningly beautiful with amazing woodcarvings and a tiled roof.

What to do there: This is a working pagoda, so you’ll find people worshipping at the altars and praying at the statues. This means that you need to be quiet and respectful while you explore. Make sure that you explore all the different rooms. The room on the left-hand side of the Jade Emperor’s chamber is dedicated to the Chief of Hell and contains the Hall of the Ten Hells. You’ll find some amazing and slightly disconcerting imagery in this room.

#14 – The Fine Arts Museum

• A unique opportunity to learn more about Ho Chi Minh’s art scene.
• The building itself is a work of art as well, a colonial-era building with lots of period details.

Why it’s so awesome: This art gallery is housed in a colonial building from 1929 that includes stained glass, lovely verandahs, and art from the modern and ancient past. Some of the artwork dates back to the 4th century and a lot of it was inspired by the war and its effects on Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam as a whole.

What to do there: If you want to learn more about art in Vietnam, then this is the best place to visit in Ho Chi Minh. Explore the artwork on the walls, but also explore the ground as well. There are some amazing statues scattered around from the 7th through to the 14th century. And if you want to take home a memento of your visit, head to the shop for some great prints for reasonable prices.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh

What is Ho Chi Minh famous for?

Ho Chi Minh is famous for its Pho (noodle soup) and historical attractions.

Is Ho Chi Minh a safe place to visit?

Ho Chi Minh is considered a safe place to visit but you should be careful when wandering around the clubs and bars at night, which tend to attract suspicious individuals.

What is the prettiest place to visit in Ho Chi Minh?

The Mekong Delta is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam on the whole.

What is an unusual place to visit in Ho Chi Minh?

The Cao Dai Temple has some of the most unusual and unique architecture and is one of the more unusual places to visit near Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh is an exciting, frantic, frenetic city that will change what you think of Vietnam, traveling and the world. There are lots of amazing places to visit in Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam is safe meaning you don’t have to watch your back all the while you soak up the cultural wonders around you. The best part of being in this city is actually experiencing its heartbeat, the amazing food, and the local way of life. Ho Chi Minh isn’t a city that’s easily accessible to tourists. Not a lot of people speak much English and it is definitely very foreign. But it’s also a city that will delight your taste buds and your wanderlust. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of this experience, this guide should point you in the right direction.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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15 Incredible Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City – formally known as Saigon – is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam . From delicious food to beautiful French architecture to an up-and-coming craft beer scene, you’ll find no lack of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Too often this booming metropolis is just a quick stopping point on many people’s Vietnam itinerary before heading to the north to Hoi An, Hanoi, and Halong Bay. But we think it’s a shame not to spend at least a few days in this big, bustling city. You can learn about the Vietnamese-American war at the War Remnants Museum, sip coffee at endless cute coffee shops, and party at posh rooftop nightclubs.

After traveling all over Vietnam, we actually made the decision to live in Saigon . And having explored all of the incredible things that this city has to offer, we have compiled our list of the best things to do in Saigon. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips

• The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Make sure you pick up a local Vietnamese SIM card . Internet is incredibly cheap and you’ll find it’s quite handy to have for using Google Maps and Grab to get around town. We recommend buying one at the airport as soon as you land.
• Instead of taking taxis, download Grab – it’s the Uber of SE Asia ! You can just type your address into the app rather than having to explain it to the driver and you don’t need to negotiate the price before getting in.
• Saigon is organized into “Districts”, or neighborhoods. The “ex-pat community” is in District 2 and the “backpacker area” is in District 1. We live in District 4 because it is centrally located, but less expensive than District 1. Each District has its own unique offerings – for more info on the different districts, you can check out our ex-pat guide to Saigon !
• For more Vietnam travel tips, read our list of 15 things to know before visiting Vietnam !

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

The Myst Dong Khoi

The Myst Dong Khoi is a spectacular hotel, perfect if you are looking for a luxurious getaway. The rooftop pool is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Rooms are light and bright with classic decor and super comfortable beds.

Check Prices on Booking.com

Cochin Zen Hotel

The Cochin Zen Hotel is a truly lavish hotel in District 1, situated halfway between Ben Thanh market and Reunification Palace. You’ll love enjoying a refreshing cocktail on the rooftop pool with a view as well as working out in the well-equipped fitness center. Rooms are modern with every amenity you could wish for!

The Hammock Hotel

The Hammock Hotel offers something that you don’t get very often in your hotel – your own private hammock! Plus a free minibar full of snacks and beers that is restocked daily during your stay. You’ll love everything about this trendy hotel!

The 15 Best Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. visit the independence palace.

The Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) was originally called Norodom Palace. It was the base for Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem until his death in 1963. Diem was incredibly unpopular and the palace was bombed by his own air force in 1962 in an attempt to assassinate him. So he decided to build a new residence there, but one that included a bomb shelter in the basement in case it happened again. His fears were realized when he was murdered by his own troops.

The new residence, the Reunification Palace became the home to the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War (or American War as it is called here). It is an incredible example of 1960s architecture. It is open-air, with classic 60s-style furniture and decor. Meeting rooms dominate the lower floor, with an impressive bar on the second floor, and a bomb shelter and communication hub in the basement.

This was also the site that ended the Vietnam War when a North Vietnamese army tanker crashed through the main gate in 1975. These days, a visit to Reunification Palace is on every visitor’s Ho Chi Minh City bucket list . It is also depicted on the 200,000 VND note.

Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00am – 3:30pm Entrance Fee: 65,000 VND for adults, 15,000 VND for children

2. See the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is an incredibly moving experience, one that will change the way you think about the casualties of the Vietnam War. As US citizens, most of us have been sheltered from the atrocities that our country inflicted on Vietnam. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll leave this museum feeling shocked and emotional.

The outside area contains a display of various vehicles and weapons that were used during the war. And the ground floor has a display of anti-war posters and memorabilia. As you climb up the stairs, the museum gets more interesting as well as more difficult to see.

Photos of the aftereffects of the chemical Agent Orange that was dropped all over Vietnam are incredibly sad and overwhelming. Disabilities that have resulted due to exposure to the chemical have passed down several generations. The Requiem exhibition of photos of journalists who were killed during the conflict is also heartbreaking.

A visit to the War Remnants Museum is sure to be an eye-opening and emotionally draining experience. It may not be a fun afternoon, but it is still one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

3. Send a letter at the Post Office

Another one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to send a letter from the central post office!

The Ho Chi Minh City Post Office was constructed in the late 1800s with Gothic architectural influences. It is by far the most impressive piece of French architecture in the city.

While the building is impressive from the outside, the interior really steals the show. Marvel at the grand arches inside, the beautiful marble floors, and the row of old wooden telephone booths on the left-hand side.

Ho Chi Minh City’s Central Post Office is actually still in use and on most days you’ll find it buzzing with activity. One activity that visitors to Vietnam love is buying a few postcards from one of the souvenir stands and sending them to friends and family back home.

The post office is right near the Notre Dame Basilica , the city’s cathedral, which is also worth a visit.

4. Shop Til You Drop!

The most popular place for tourists to shop in Ho Chi Minh City is Binh Than Market. Note that we said it is the most popular place – not the best. We find it to be crowded, overpriced, and full of generic trinkets. Prepare to get hassled by the overzealous ladies at each booth. And if you do decide to buy something at Binh Than Market, be sure to negotiate prices. You should pay 50-75% of their initial offering price.

For a more authentic market experience, you should check out Binh Tay Market in District 5. We also like the following markets:

• Central Market (Address: 4 Phạm Ngũ Lão)
• Saigon Square 1 (Address: 81 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa)
• Russian Market (Address: 328 Võ Văn Kiệt)

If you are more interested in shopping where the locals do, there are several large malls around town – Vincom Center Mall and Saigon Centre Mall are both conveniently located in District 1.

If you want something a bit more unique, we would recommend that you try out The New Playground (Address: 26 Lý Tự Trọng) for all of the latest fashion from hip Vietnamese clothing brands. It’s located just across the street from Vincom Center Mall. We also love the Hello Weekend Market which changes location every few weeks – check out their Facebook page for more details.

We actually wrote a whole guide about shopping in Ho Chi Minh City that you should check out if you want to do some serious shopping while you’re in town.

5. Embrace Saigon’s Coffee Culture

Vietnamese people are quite passionate about their coffee. And you’ll find cute coffee shops on virtually every corner of the city.

If you want to get some work done, check out The Workshop in District 1. They have coffee-snob-worthy brews, reliable Wi-Fi, and plenty of seating for everyone. If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy coffee shot, Padma de Fleur is a florist turned coffee shop where your beverage comes served with a tiny bouquet. And L’Usine is an upscale coffee shop with some delectable American breakfast classics.

There are also several reliable coffee shop chains around town if you just want to get a quick coffee fix on the go. Phuc Long Coffee (pronounced “ phoop lawm “) is our favorite classic Vietnamese coffee and Cong Caphe serves up some of the best coconut coffee in the country.

Also, while egg coffee may have originated in Hanoi , you’ll still find plenty of cafes serving up amazing egg coffee in Saigon . Try the amazingly cute Goc Ha Nội coffee shop tucked down a little alleyway off of Bui Vien Street or the hip Okkio Cafe near Ben Thanh market.

For more recommendations, read our post about the best coffee shops and cafes in Ho Chi Minh City .

6. See the Skyline from the Bitexco Tower

At 860 feet in height, the Bitexco Financial Tower is the tallest tower in Saigon to date. It provides absolutely spectacular views of the city below and is a must-visit when the skies are clear! The Saigon Skydeck is the observation deck on the 49th floor. Adults must pay 200,000 VND to catch the view from the observation deck and children 4-12, seniors, and people with disabilities will pay 130,000. Combine with the World of Heineken for 50,000 VND more (includes two drinks).

If that cost seems steep just for a view, consider checking out the EON Heli Bar on the 52nd floor. It doesn’t give you 360° views like the sky deck, but it’s free to enter. Cocktails are rather expensive by Vietnam standards but it’s a small price to pay for the amazing view.

7. Sample Saigon’s Craft Beer

Ho Chi Minh City has an amazing up-and-coming craft beer scene. Brewers from beer capitals around the world are moving here to try new and interesting flavor combinations. Tasting rooms are trendy and lively, and most also offer yummy snacks to complement their brews.

We loved the craft beer in Saigon so much that we wrote an entire post about it – The Best Microbreweries in Saigon !

8. Eat Seafood on Vinh Khanh Street

Have you been dreaming about slurping snails out of their shells while sitting on a tiny plastic stool on a busy street in Saigon? Well, you’re in luck because Vinh Khanh Street is lined with restaurants serving all types of fresh, tasty seafood. Figuring out how and what to order can be tricky so check out our complete guide to eating snails in Vietnam !

9. Stroll along the Pedestrian Mall

Nguyen Hue Street is a wide pedestrian-only area that runs directly in front of the People’s Committee, all the way to the river. It is off-limits to vendors and motorbikes so it is one of the only places in the city where you can walk without being concerned about getting hit or hassled.

There is a large, picturesque statue of Ho Chi Minh and a fountain that puts on a show in the evenings. Not only is it a lovely place to have a stroll, but the street is also lined with quaint coffee shops, delicious restaurants, and shops. Be sure to stop into Apartment 42 (sometimes called the “Cafe Apartments”) – an old apartment building that now contains trendy shops and eateries! If you’re facing the People’s Committee, it’s on the right-hand side, you can’t miss it.

10. Party on Bui Vien Street

Bui Vien is the backpacker street of Saigon. It’s similar to Khao San Road, but not quite as crazy. Filled with bars playing dance music, small beer shops with plastic tables spilling into the street, restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques – you can see why backpackers love it.

Bui Vien is labeled as a “walking street” but that is most certainly not true. The sidewalks are filled with parked motorbikes and restaurant tables so you’ll be forced to walk in the street most of the time. And cars and motorbikes frequently drive on Bui Vien so they’ll be whizzing by you while you make your way down the crowded street.

Start your evening at a bar with outdoor seating so you can watch the madness unfolding around you. And later you can wander into whatever bar seems the liveliest! No doubt you’ll be partying here until the wee hours of the morning.

11. Check out the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

If you want to learn more about the history, culture, and tradition of Ho Chi Minh City, this museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Not only is the building itself quite beautiful, but it also has a variety of interesting exhibitions housing archaeological artifacts, currencies, and old ceramic remnants. The museum extensively covers Vietnam’s fight for independence as well.

Outside you’ll find several war machines, including the jet that was used by a South Vietnamese soldier to bomb the Reunification Palace.

12. Listen to Live Music

There are quite a few live music venues in Ho Chi Minh City where up-and-coming locals sing American hits. One of our favorites is at the Ben Thanh Street Food Market , directly across the street from the souvenir market that bears the same name. Every Tuesday and Saturday night from 7:30 – 9:30 pm they have young artists performing your favorite hits. Plus they have a bunch of food and drink vendors for you to choose from!

Yoko Cafe is another great music venue in town. They have a wide variety of acts from blues to pop to acoustic. The space is small so be sure to arrive early if you want a table. Check their Facebook page to see what shows are coming up. Regardless of the artist, you’re sure to have a great time!

13. Dine on Dumplings in Chinatown

Chinatown is located in District 5 and is a great dining option if you are sick and tired of Vietnamese food. The dumplings here rival those that you’ll find at the best dim sum restaurants in Hong Kong, and for a fraction of the price!

We loved Sủi Cảo Đại Nương (address: 125 Duong Chau Van Liem, Phuong 14, Quan 5) but ordering was a bit confusing. You can order your dumplings fried, steamed, or in soup (or order all three as we did).

14. Take a Trip to the Mekong Delta

Visiting the Mekong river delta is probably the most touristy thing you can do around Ho Chi Minh City, but worth it if you’d like to see a bit of the countryside. It’s also easy to get off the beaten path if you plan your own Mekong Delta trip .

If you do decide to go with a tour group, there are two standard tour options. The shorter tour takes you to a small village where you’ll see a small honey factory and a candy shop. You’ll get to enjoy music by the locals and take a short boat ride on the Mekong. You’ll be encouraged to buy honey and candy and you’ll be asked for tips at the show and on your boat. It’s a bit off-putting but you can give a small amount or nothing at all if you prefer.

The longer tour takes you to a floating market in the Mekong river delta town of Can Tho . Or you can do a multi-day tour. No matter which tour you choose, expect a bit of a show but know that your tourism dollars are helping these communities.

15. Climb Through the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are 75 miles of interconnecting tunnels that were used by the Vietnamese military during the Vietnamese War (or American War as they call it). They served as hiding spots and as routes for communication and supplies.

Many soldiers even lived in these tunnels for periods although living conditions were bleak. Of course, air and water were not readily available, but they also had to deal with the creatures living underground. Many soldiers became ill while living in the tunnels and malaria was not uncommon.

Today, tourists are invited to crawl around in the safer parts of the tunnels to experience what life was like for the soldiers during the war. If you have breathing difficulty or experience claustrophobia, this tour probably isn’t for you.

That’s it – 15 of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City! Did we miss your favorite Saigon activity? Let us know in the comments below .

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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7 thoughts on “15 incredible things to do in ho chi minh city (saigon)”.

Of course you need to tip in Vietnam, just like anywhere else you want good service in the world..its better to tip ahead..

I really appreciate your post and you explain each and every point very well. Thanks for sharing this information.

Should I buy my Cu Chi Tunnels tour online or in person when I arrive in HCMC? How much should I expect to pay for a no-frills tour?

The War Remnants Museum is great. Of course it’s all from the Vietnamese perspective, detailing American atricities but none of the Vietnamese.

Thank you for a such comprehensive guide. It has been a great help.

Eon Heli Bar closed two years ago. Just checked.

Do you mean the Heineken world ? Is it still closed ? I’m currently in Ho Chi Minh and was really looking forward to going.

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14 Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh + Things To Do

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam previously known as Saigon until it was renamed after the revolutionary leader and statesman in 1975. It is still commonly known as Saigon as much as it has preserved its French-colonial heritage.

The primary attractions for tourists in Ho Chi Minh are the Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, History Museum, and Jade Emperor Pagoda. But besides those historical landmarks, Ho Chi Minh is also known for its food. Vietnam’s most popular dish, Pho, is available on almost every corner of the city, from street food vendors to fine dining stops. There are also exotic eats like fertilized duck eggs and deep-fried snakes in various places, meant for those who have a brave heart and stomach. Ho Chi Minh enjoyed post-war modernizations, which transformed its sleepy streets into vibrant ones. As a result, crowds flock to check out its nightlife, diverse markets, fresh beer, coffee, high-end tailoring, and shopping.

Ho Chi Minh is accessible via the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the busiest gateway in the country, serving routes to major Asian cities, including Manila, Taipei, Bangkok, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, and Guangzhou.

1. Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Location : 86 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Formerly the Hôtel de Ville de Saïgon, this elegant building is one of Ho Chi Minh’s most iconic landmarks. It was built during the early 1900s in French-colonial style and later renamed as the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. A popular time to visit is during nighttime when the building & grounds are lit up.

Admission/entrance fee — None/Free to take pictures from outside.

How to go : Found at the heart of the city, the Ho Chi Minh City Hall is easily reached from hotels/hostel in District 1. From Pham Ngu Lao, you can get there on foot (20 minutes walk;1.7km) or by taxi/car/motorcycle. Don’t break a sweat by taking a taxi/Grab car, which should cost VND 20,000 to 30,000. By GrabBike, the fare is VND 12,000 to 15,000.

See prices & book online

Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour

Saigon Half Day Private Tour

Saigon City Half Day Join-in Tour

Ho Chi Minh Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

Ho Chi Minh Tours & Discounts

Ho Chi Minh Airport Private Transfers – Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN)

Ho Chi Minh Private City Transfers for Surrounding Areas

Ho Chi Minh Private Car Charter

Vietnam WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to Visit in Vietnam  |  Ho Chi Minh Itinerary  |  Things to do in Hanoi  |  Indochina Travel Guide .

More travel tips coming up! In the meantine, enjoy this  quick list  of attractions and tourist spots in Ho Chi Minh. To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

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2. Saigon Skydeck

Location : Bitexco Financial Tower, 36 Hồ Tùng Mậu, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Opening hours — 9:30 am to 9:30 pm. Admission/entrance fee — VND 200,000 per person.

How to go : You can find the Bitexco Financial Tower near the riverside end of Nguyen Hue Walking Street. The entrance to Saigon Skydeck is located along Ho Tung Mau Street.

Saigon Skydeck (Bitexco Financial Tower)

3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Location : 22 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Nguyen Hue used to be one of the main thoroughfares of Ho Chi Minh. Now, it’s totally closed to traffic and a must-visit attraction of the city, especially at night when you can see French-colonial style & modern buildings lit up. Stretching from Ho Chi Minh City Hall to the Mekong River, it’s almost a kilometer in length.

Opening hours — All day/night. Admission/entrance fee — None/Free.

How to go : Right in front of Ho Chi Minh City Hall. You can’t miss it!

4. Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Location : 01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

How to go : Follow Dong Khao street until you reach Saigon Norte Dame Basilica. You can’t miss it!

5. Saigon Central Post Office

Location : 2 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Admission/entrance fee — None/Free. Opening hours — 7 am to 7 pm.

How to go : Facing the front/facade of Saigon Norte Dame Basilica, you can find the Saigon Central Post Office on your left.

6. The Lunch Lady (Nguyen Thi Thanh)

Location : Chung Cư, Lô D, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Đa Kao, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

If you want to try delicious local Vietnamese food, this is one of the best places to go. The Lunch Lady was made famous when it got featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show “No Reservations” in 2009.

Opening hours — 9 am to 3 pm. Prices — Mains from VND 40,000 per dish.

How to go : You can find it on a quiet corner near Hoang Sa Street. The Lunch Lady can be hard to find for first-timers & a long walk away from Saigon Central Post Office/Ho Chi Minh City Hall. So, better get there by Grab/Taxi & check Google Maps for directions.

7. Jade Emperor Pagoda

Location : 73 Đường Mai Thị Lựu, Đa Kao, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Opening hours — 7 am to 6 pm. Admission/entrance fee — None/Free.

How to go : If you feel like taking a walk after a full meal at The Lunch Lady, you can go to the Emperor Jade Pagoda on foot. Walk towards the riverside and turn left at Hoang Sa Street. Turn another left once you reach the bridge. Cross to the other side of Dien Bien Phu Street (at the roundabout), turn left and walk towards Mai Thi Luu Street. Once you reach the corner, turn right and walk a couple of meters to the Emperor Jade Pagoda.

8. Ho Chi Minh shopping

Ho Chi Minh  is a shopper’s paradise, especially for bargain-hunters looking to buy items from top international brands at a fraction of the price. If you didn’t already know,  Vietnam  is home to factories of many famous clothing/bag brands including The North Face, Nike, Under Armour, Kipling, Forever21, Mango, Zara and more. Bags & active/sportswear clothing are sold at shocking rock-bottom prices in  Ho Chi Minh .

Ben Thanh Market  — A large marketplace housed in the historic Central Market building. It’s probably the most popular place to buy souvenirs, Vietnamese art, branded goods & local handicrafts. Sellers often offer higher prices to non-local, so bargain hard & shop around before buying. Not keen on shopping? There are many good food stalls here that serve local Vietnamese dishes. Ben Thanh Market is located on Duong Le Loi Street, District 1 ( See map ).

Saigon Square  — Sellers are not as aggressive as those in Ben Thanh Market & prices are often cheaper too. This air-conditioned mall is packed with stalls selling clothing, bags, accessories, and jewelry. Here, you can buy Nike dri-fit shirt for around USD 5 / PHP 250 & The North Face bags/jackets for USD40 or less. Shocking, right? Most of the items are factory overruns or class A imitation. So, check the quality of the items before buying. Saigon Square is located on 81 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1 ( See map ).

9. Ho Chi Minh nightlife

For a fun night out & drinks, head to Bui Vien Street,  Ho Chi Minh ‘s version of Khao San Road in  Bangkok . It is the famous backpacker area filled with bars, restaurants & dance clubs.

If you’re looking to splurge & enjoy views overlooking the city, here’s a list of cool rooftop bars in  Ho Chi Minh :

Alto Heli Bar & EON 51  — 52nd & 51st floor, Bitexco Financial Tower, 2 Hai Trieu Street, District 1; bitexcofinancialtower.com.

Chill Skybar  — 26th floor, AB Tower, 76A Le Lai Street, District 1; chillsaigon.com.

Top of the Town Bar  — 25th floor, Windsor Plaza Hotel, 18 An Duong Vuong Street, District 5.

Level 23 Wine Bar  — 23rd floor, Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers, 88 Dong Khoi Street, District 1; sheratonsaigon.com.

Shri Restaurant & Lounge  — 23rd floor, Centec Tower, 72-74 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1; shri.vn.

Grand Café  — 20th floor, Grand Hotel, 8 Dong Khoi Street, District 1; grandhotel.vn.

Saigon Saigon Bar  — 10th floor, Caravelle Hotel, 19-23 Lam Son Square, District 1; caravellehotel.com.

Breeze Sky Bar and M Bar  — 5th and 8th floor, Hotel Majestic, 1 Dong Khoi Street, District 1; majesticsaigon.com.vn.

Rooftop Garden Bar  — 5th floor, Rex Hotel, 141 Nguyen  Hue  Street, District 1; rexhotelvietnam.com.

Broma  — 4th floor, 41 Nguyen  Hue  Street, District 1; facebook.com/bromabar.

10. Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh City Opera House)

Location : 07 Công Trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Like most city attractions in District 1, Saigon Opera House is within an easy walk from Ho Chi Minh City Hall. In fact, it’s just right around the block. Follow Nguyen Hue Walking Street eastwards & turn left to Saigon Opera House.

11. Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

Location : 07 Lam Sơn, Phường 6, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Opening hours — 7:30 to 11 am, 1 to 4 pm Admission/entrance fee — VND 15,000 per person.

From the War Remnants Museum, follow Le Quy Don Street eastwards (on your right after exiting) until the dead end. Turn left to the next intersection and another right to get to the entrance gate of the Reunification Palace.

12. War Remnants Museum

Location : 28 Võ Văn Tần, Phường 6, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Opening hours — 7:30 am to 6 pm Admission/entrance fee — VND 15,000 per person.

How to go : It’s around 1 kilometer or a 15-minute walk away from Norte Dame Basilica/Central Post Office. If you’re coming from The Lunch Lady/Emperor Jade Pagoda, the War Remnants Museum is better reached by Grab/taxi.

Where to go near Ho Chi Minh

13. Mekong River Delta

Location : Southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

See the beautiful countryside of Mekong Delta including iconic fishing villages with stilt houses, rice paddies, floating markets. The most popular destinations in the Mekong Delta include My Tho (nearest & most accessible from Ho Chi Minh), Vinh Long & Can Tho. Travel time from Ho Chi Minh to My Tho is 1h by bus. To Can Tho, travel time is 3-4h.

Mekong River Delta Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City-Mekong Delta River Cruise

Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh

14. Chu Chi Tunnels

Location : TL15, Phú Hiệp, Củ Chi, Hồ Chí Minh 733814, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Famous underground tunnels that were used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots and location of several military campaigns. It’s an easy day trip away from Ho Chi Minh City.

Chu Chi Tunnel Travel Essentials

Ho Chi Minh City-Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour

Beyond Ho Chi Minh

Location : Lâm Đồng, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Da Lat Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh via Limousine

Da Lat to Mui Ne, Nha Trang or HCMC Car Transfer

Top discounts

Shared City Transfers between Da Lat and Mui Ne via Shuttle Bus

Da Lat Waterfalls Day Tour

Da Lat Private Car Charter

Location : Phan Thiet, Bình Thuận Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

Private Da Lat Airport Transfers (DLI) for Da Lat City, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, and Tuyen Lam Lake

Location : Central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Da Nang Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Hue Private Day Tour from Da Nang

My Son & Hoi An Private Day Tour from Da Nang

Location : Northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi Travel Essentials

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

Hanoi Private Car Charter

Private City Transfers for Hanoi City and Surrounding Areas

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Location : Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Phnom Penh Travel Essentials

Phnom Penh – Ho Chi Minh, Kampot, or Kep Bus by Giant Ibis

Phnom Penh half-day join-in city tour

Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Bus (Shared transfer by Giant Ibis)

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap Travel Essentials

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Ho Chi Minh that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh tourist spots, things to do in Ho Chi Minh, where to go in Ho Chi Minh & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

The main tourist area in  Ho Chi Minh  is District 1. It's the best place to stay if you want a convenient location near top tourist spots, restaurants, shopping & nightlife.

District 1 is packed with hotels & hostels that cater to any budget.

Most low-cost places & affordable hostels can be found in the area of Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien streets, the backpacker district of  Ho Chi Minh .

Meanwhile, excellent mid-range and luxury hotels are located near the riverside & Nguyen  Hue  Walking Street.

Cinnamon Boutique Hotel

Splurge / Le Thi Rieng, District 1

See discounts

Tripwriter Hotel

Splurge / Pham Ngu Lao, District 1

Hotel Nikko Saigon

Splurge / Nguyen Van Cu Street, District 1

Liberty Central Saigon

Splurge / Pasteur Street, District 1

Caravelle Saigon Hotel

Splurge / Lam Son Square, District 1

Hotel Majestic Saigon

Splurge / Dong Khoi Street, District 1

Rex Hotel Saigon

Splurge / Nguyen Hue, District 1

Nguyen Shack Saigon

Mid-Range / Ben Thanh , District 1

Phan Anh Backpackers

Budget / Pham Ngu Lao, District 1

Son Tung Hotel

Budget / De Tham Street, District 1

Phuc Khanh Hotel

Budget / Yersin, District 1

La Hostel Saigon

Budget / Nguyen Thai Hoc, District 1

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Ho Chi Minh hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Airbnb Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Ho Chi Minh Essentials & Top Discounts

Ho chi minh airport private transfers – tan son nhat airport (sgn), vietnam mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

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Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam: Top 20 Places to Visit

• October 10, 2023
• Last updated on December 6, 2023
• Vietnam Travel Blogs

Ho Chi Minh city is the largest city in Vietnam, where you can find many interesting things to explore, such as history, culture, and cuisine. Most tourists visiting Vietnam will include Ho Chi Minh City in their itinerary. Another name that people often use for Ho Chi Minh City is Saigon, which was its former name before the city changed its name in 1976, so in this article, we will use both names interchangeably. Let’s explore Ho Chi Minh City and the places to visit here together with SVietnam Travel.

Table of Contents

Overview of Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh City is located in the southern region of Vietnam. It is the largest and most vibrant economic center of Vietnam, with a population of over 9 million people. Situated at the heart of Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City serves as a crucial transportation hub for road, waterway, and air travel, making it an extremely important international gateway for Vietnam.

The history of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City spans approximately 300 years, marked by numerous ups and downs and significant events during its formation and development. Today, Ho Chi Minh City has transformed into a modern metropolis with towering skyscrapers and remarkable landmarks, while still preserving many historical values that cater to all travelers interested in exploring this place.

Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh city

The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is divided into two distinct seasons throughout the year: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. If you visit during the rainy season, it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat when going outside because Ho Chi Minh City often experiences sudden showers (rain followed by clear skies, then rain again). The temperature in this city typically ranges from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.

Each season in Ho Chi Minh City has its own beauty and unique charm, so you can visit at any time of the year. However, in our opinion, the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is during the dry season from December to April for a more convenient exploration of the city. To learn more about the best times to visit Vietnam and its cities, you can refer to: Best Time To Visit Vietnam (Including cities)

Transportation to Ho Chi Minh city

Being the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City has a comprehensive transportation infrastructure, and you can travel to Saigon using various modes of transportation, such as planes, trains, cars, and motorcycles.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is located right in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, making it very convenient for travel. Virtually all flights to the entire Vietnamese territory are connected to this airport with high frequency.

You can choose to travel to Saigon by train for an interesting experience where you can admire the scenery on both sides of the tracks. However, it may take quite some time to travel by train as they tend to run relatively slowly.

For short distances, you can opt for car transportation to get to Saigon. However, please note that traffic congestion is a common occurrence here due to the high density of personal vehicles on the road.

Best Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city

Independence palace.

Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, is one of the historical sites in Saigon listed as a special national heritage. Formerly, it was the workplace of the Governor-General of French Indochina and President Ngo Dinh Diem. It is most renowned for its role in the liberation of South Vietnam and the reunification of North and South Vietnam on April 30, 1975. Afterward, it was preserved as a historical tourist attraction. This is undoubtedly a must-visit destination when you come to Ho Chi Minh City.

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ho Chi Minh City.

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is also a popular tourist destination in Ho Chi Minh City, frequently visited by travelers. This market was constructed in the late 19th century and is among the oldest markets in Vietnam. Today, it remains bustling due to its central location and international popularity as a tourist attraction. The market offers a wide range of products, including clothing, footwear, fabrics, handicrafts, local specialties, jewelry, and various food items. However, it’s worth noting that the vendors here are known to charge higher prices, so it’s advisable to haggle, aiming for a 30-50% discount.

Address: Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

Located in the heart of District 1, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is another historical symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. Construction of the cathedral began in 1877 and was completed in 1880, designed by French architect J. Bourad in a Romanesque and Gothic architectural style. In front of the cathedral, there is a square with four intersecting roads forming a cross shape. Currently, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is temporarily closed for renovation and interior upgrades, expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Address: 01 Paris Commune Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Saigon Central Post Office

The Saigon Central Post Office was constructed from 1886 to 1891, featuring the distinctive yellow paint characteristic of French architecture at the time. It was designed by the renowned French architect Auguste Vildieu and his assistant Foulhoux. Over 100 years later, it remains the largest post office in Vietnam, maintaining its original design. Inside, you’ll find a vaulted ceiling, with a prominent bust of the god Mercury in the center, surrounded by a laurel wreath, symbolizing communication. The post office’s architecture is reminiscent of the Orsay train station in Paris and stands adjacent to Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, forming a unique architectural complex in Ho Chi Minh City.

Address: 125 Cong Xa Paris Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.

Landmark 81

Landmark 81, completed in 2018, is one of the largest projects in Ho Chi Minh City and is currently the tallest building in Vietnam. Here, you can enjoy various amenities, including accommodations, shopping centers, cinemas, and dining options. This building houses a hotel, a commercial center, a cinema, and a dining area. Moreover, if you visit the SkyView observation deck on floors 79 to 81 at a height of 461.3 meters, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City.

Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Similar to Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake walking street, one of Saigon’s most crowded spots during the evening is Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This 670-meter-long street is exclusively for pedestrians, lined with eateries, cafes, and entertainment centers that are popular among young people. It’s also a hub for street art performances and other captivating activities.

Bui Vien Street

Bui Vien is a short street located in District 1, the central district of Ho Chi Minh City, but it comes alive during the evenings. This place bears some resemblance to Hanoi’s Ta Hien Street. Here, you can savor a variety of street food and engage in nightlife activities that last until the early hours. Along both sides of the street, you’ll find a wide range of establishments, from fast-food joints and cafes to bars and pubs. Bui Vien also offers free public amenities such as restrooms, Wi-Fi, and a tourist information station. It’s particularly popular among young people and international tourists.

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

If you’re looking for a tourist destination in Saigon with professional artistic performances such as drama, Cairojess, and opera, then the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is considered the top ideal place. It’s also one of the most unique architectural landmarks in Vietnam today. This opera house has an area of up to 2,016 square meters and was designed by architects Eugène Feret and Ernest Guichard, completed in 1900. The building not only showcases grandeur and elegance on the outside but also represents architectural innovation in interior design and modern sound and lighting systems. When you visit, you can preview the theater’s performance schedule. With a seating capacity of around 1,800 people, you can enjoy professional performances by Vietnamese and international art groups with your family.

Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday) and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Saturday and Sunday).

Dragon House Wharf

A Saigon tourist destination that preserves many memories and the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh is the Dragon House Wharf. This structure bears witness to the historical struggles of the Vietnamese people against the French and the Americans. Today, when you visit this tourist attraction, you can observe numerous artifacts and documents related to the life of President Ho Chi Minh. It is also one of the tourist spots in Ho Chi Minh City that helps you better understand the history of Vietnam.

Address: 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City.

Museums in Ho Chi Minh City

Visiting museums is an essential activity when you come to Ho Chi Minh City. With a rich history of fighting against foreign invaders, there are many historically significant museums waiting for you to explore, such as the Ho Chi Minh City History Museum, the Southern Women’s Museum, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, and the War Remnants Museum. To find out more details about the museums in Ho Chi Minh City, please visit: 7 Museums in Ho Chi Minh city You Should Visit

Saigon River

The Saigon River, with a length of up to 230 kilometers, runs through Ho Chi Minh City. You can buy tickets to start your journey exploring Ho Chi Minh City along this river with a very exciting experience. In addition to admiring the architectural structures on both sides of the river, you can enjoy drinks and meals right on the boat.

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a famous historical site located in the suburbs of Ho Chi Minh City, attracting a large number of visitors every day. Located about 70 kilometers from the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels consist of a system of tunnels stretching about 250 kilometers underground, formerly used as a defense system and a base for the Vietnamese military during the war. Today, the Cu Chi Tunnels are used for tourism, and they still preserve many historical relics, artifacts, and structures associated with a heroic period in the history of Vietnam. To explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, you can consider this tour: Saigon – Cu Chi Tunnels – Cao Dai Temple

Can Gio Ecotourism Area

Can Gio Ecotourism Area is located about 50 kilometers from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. It features a mangrove forest and an ecosystem that includes a diverse range of terrestrial and aquatic species. Since 2000, Can Gio has been officially recognized by UNESCO as the world’s most outstanding biosphere reserve, and it is also the first biosphere reserve in Vietnam.

Here, you can explore the forest by canoe, visit the revolutionary base of Rung Sac, historical sites, and learn about the lives, battles, and achievements of the special forces soldiers during the war, as well as participate in many other exciting activities.

Read more: 9 Top Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh city Cuisine

Many experienced travelers to Saigon believe that there are countless delicious dishes for you to enjoy. The cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City is very diverse, a combination of dishes from various regions across Vietnam. Some of the must-try dishes when visiting Ho Chi Minh City include:

Broken Rice

If you were to ask what the “specialty” dish of Saigon is, the definite answer would be broken rice (com tam). This is the main meal for Saigonese people during lunch or dinner. The most distinctive version of broken rice is still broken rice with grilled pork, shredded pork skin, served with scallion oil, pickles, and a little fish sauce.

Some delicious broken rice restaurants in Saigon include:

• Ba Cuong Broken Rice Address: 263 Tran Quang Khai Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Nguyen Van Cu Broken Rice Address: 74 Nguyen Van Cu Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Phuc Loc Tho Broken Rice Address: 236 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, and many other branches.

Banh mi (Vietnamese bread)

Banh mi in Vietnam , both in general and in Saigon specifically, has been highly praised by international travelers. Saigon’s banh mi includes some famous types such as: banh mi with meat fillings, banh mi with fish cake, banh mi with roast pork, banh mi xiu mai (pork meatball sandwich), and more.

Here are some delicious banh mi places in Saigon:

• Nhu Lan Sandwich Address: 50 Ham Nghi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
• Huynh Hoa Sandwich Address: 26 Le Thi Rieng Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Breadtalk Sandwich Address: Breadtalk – 3rd Floor, Vincom Center, 72 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Snail dishes

Despite not being a coastal city, the people of Saigon have a particular fondness for snails. It’s a suitable dish for people to sit together for a while after a day of work. Many snail restaurants have sprung up in Saigon, and here are some good and affordable options for you to consider:

• Loan Snail shop – 166/1 Ly Thai To, Ward 1, District 3.
• Dao Snail shop – 212B/C79 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1.
• Khanh Snail shop – 25/5 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
• To Snail shop – C128 Xom Chieu, Ward 15, District 4.

Rice noodle

This is a popular dish in Saigon, often sold by street vendors on sidewalks to upscale restaurants. While the ingredients and flavors may vary slightly from place to place, there is a common recipe for creating various Rice noodle dishes, such as beef stew rice noodle, Nam Vang rice noodle,  squid rice noodle,…

Read more: 4 Restaurants in Vietnam Awarded Michelin Star

Notes When Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

• Take proactive measures to safeguard your personal belongings when in crowded areas and while navigating the streets, as incidents of theft can occur in this city.
• Avoid going out during rush hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, as the city often experiences traffic congestion.
• Check your route on a map to avoid one-way streets and car lanes if you’re traveling by motorbike, especially in the city center.
• Ho Chi Minh City has many interconnected narrow alleyways. It’s advisable not to enter these alleys unless you are familiar with the area and the route.

Another city near Ho Chi Minh City located in the Mekong Delta region is also very interesting: Can Tho, Vietnam: 13 Places to Visit & Things to Know

With its rich potential in history, culture, cuisine, and tourism, Ho Chi Minh city is a fascinating place to explore and a must-visit when you come to Vietnam. We hope that with the information we’ve provided, you will have a memorable visit to Ho Chi Minh city. We also offer day tours in Ho Chi Minh city , please contact our travel advisors if you have any requests.

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• Ho Chi Minh City

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Vibrating with energy, innovation and traffic – lots of traffic – Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region. A freewheeling, cosmopolitan metropolis, HCMC's dynamic cityscape draws together old and new Vietnam in the most compact of spaces, representing the city’s past as well as its future. This city has many well-known attractions, including the War Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, and Ben Thanh Market.

Let's dive into this guide and discover what to explore in this city to make your ho chi minh city tour the most valuable, click the image below for a 360-degree tour of hcmc.

Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

See the top landmarks

Walk down Đồng Khởi street to acquaint yourself with the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city's Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. On a more local level, Bến Thành Market and the Jade Emperor Pagoda are worth a visit.

Shop small boutiques

Around District 1, a host of old apartments and former office buildings have been repurposed as shopping centres. Decades-old buildings such as 22 Lý Tự Trọng and 42 Nguyễn Huệ are brimming with all kinds of fascinating stores.

Explore the Chinese Quarter

The Chinese neighbourhood known as Chợ Lớn is great for exploring on foot. Head for Bình Tây Market, a colossal wholesale trading centre, and Thiên Hậu Pagoda, an atmospheric temple that pays homage to the goddess of the sea. 

Hop on a motorcycle

Do as the locals do and hop on the back of a motorbike to see the city on street level and feel its energetic pulse. Motorbike tours set off in the evening, when the city is at its most romantic and the sidewalk vendors are out in force.

Eat street food

Ho Chi Minh City locals love to gather around dented metal tables across the city for incredible roadside feasts. Don't miss highlights such as bánh mì, southern-style savoury pancakes (bánh xèo) and broken rice (cơm tấm) .

Ho Chi Minh City Weather

Ho Chi Minh City has consistent temperatures year-round, and the weather is generally warm. Heatwaves hit the city from April to May, welcoming the rainy season from May to November. Slightly cooler temperatures emerge in December and January.

Ho Chi Minh City Transport

Travellers can arrive in Ho Chi Minh City by bus, train or plane. Tan Son Nhat international airport welcomes foreign and domestic arrivals daily, while various bus companies operate shuttles from Phnom Penh and destinations across Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City also sees a steady stream of train travellers. Taxis are everywhere, but those with a Vietnamese SIM card can use ride-hailing apps like Grab. Local buses cover a good portion of the city. Travellers can also take a boat along the river, for a day trip to Củ Chi Tunnels or the Mekong Delta.

In this article:

New World Saigon

Caravelle hotel saigon, sofitel saigon plaza, renaisance riverside hotel saigon, lotte legend saigon, park hyatt saigon, sheraton saigon hotel & towers, the hotel majestic, the rex hotel, intercontinental asiana saigon, nikko saigon, pullman saigon centre, grand hotel saigon, the reverie saigon, le meridien saigon, hotel des arts saigon mgallery collection, hotel equatorial ho chi minh city, windsor plaza hotel, tan son nhat saigon, eastin grand hotel saigon.

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Unmissable things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• unmissable-things-to-do-in-ho-chi-minh-city-vietnam

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 24.05.2023

The northern city of Hanoi may be the official capital of Vietnam, but it’s Ho Chi Minh City that draws the highest number of annual international visitors and no wonder, as Vietnam , among other advantages , is one of the most budget-friendly destinations . From exploring its past to marvelling at its new-found modernity, read our best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Start the day with a Vietnamese coffee

2. admire french colonial architecture, 3. step back in time at reunification palace, 4. raise your spirits at the bitexco tower, 5. brave the war remnants museum, 6. explore cho lon, ho chi minh’s chinatown, 7. watch a traditional water puppet performance, 8. shop in ben thanh market, 9. try local street food, 10. marvel at cao dai temple, 11. walk along pham ngu lao street, 12. visit botanical gardens, 13. discover the museum of fine arts, 14. cruising the saigon river - one of the best things to do in ho chi minh city, 15. exploring cu chi tunnels.

The information in this article is inspired by the Rough Guide to Vietnam , your essential guide for visiting Vietnam .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Vietnam, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2150 USD

Vietnam Culinary Discovery

Vietnamese cuisine can be divided into three categories, each pertaining to a specific region, namely the North, Centre and South. You will visit all of these on this culinary tour of Vietnam. Awaken all of your senses to the wonderful sights sounds and aromas of this fascinating country.

16 days  / from 2150 USD

Very Vietnam

Vietnam is full of surprises, seamlessly mixing both ancient and modern. See rice paddies, traditional villages, markets, temples and pagodas. Discover romantic cities, cruise around mystical Halong Bay, laze on pristine beaches and get out and about in exuberant Ho Chi Minh City.

4 days  / from 550 USD

Cultural Saigon

Southern Vietnam is home to modern Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant southern capital full of historic attraction and old Saigonese charm. Soak up some café culture, enjoy authentic street food, and get a taste of the city’s thriving markets.

Tailor-made trips for   Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh is full of energy and you’ll want to be too if you’re going to tackle all it has to offer. Start with a Vietnamese coffee and you’ll be fully charged for the day ahead. The secret is a thick layer of condensed milk.

Stir it up through the strong, drip-filtered coffee to sweeten it to your taste. Introduced to the country by the French, cafés serving good brews are ubiquitous throughout the city. Grab a cup to take away from a stall near Tan Tao Park and stroll along as you people watch for a gentle awakening.

Southern Vietnam is home to modern Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant southern capital full of historic attractions and old Saigonese charm. On this tailor-made trip to Cultural Saigon , you will soak up some café culture, enjoy authentic street food, and get a taste of the city’s thriving markets.

Strong but sweet Vietnamese coffee © Tongchana Hongcharoen / Shutterstock

Next on your list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City? A visit to District One, the city’s historic French area. Its wide tree-lined boulevards were planned in meticulous detail in the 19th century. Wander past chic boutiques and cafés then make your way to the magnificent Central Post Office. Inside its yellow exterior, the walls are adorned with hand-painted maps of the city as it was in colonial times.

Next, head to the nearby Saigon Opera House. If you’d like to experience more than a peek into its opulent interior, book tickets to see the A O show . This popular performance tells the tale of urbanisation through dancing, traditional music and acrobatics. Finish up with a look at Notre Dame Cathedral, created in the 1800s to emulate the Parisian icon.

Ho Chi Minh's historic French area © Prasit Rodphan / Shutterstock

Preserved almost exactly as it was in 1966, Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace) was the official residence of the president of South Vietnam during the war. On the morning of the 30th of April 1975, the North Vietnamese forces drove their tanks through the palace’s gates and forced Saigon's surrender.

Reunification Palace is also located in District One so see if you can squeeze it in before 4 p.m. when the gates close. You’ll need an hour at the very least to explore the opulent state rooms at your leisure. Alternatively, opt for one of the free guided tours that run every 15 minutes.

Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh © Shutterstock

No doubt at this stage you’ll be keen to get off your feet. The antidote? Take a load off by spending some time with your head in the clouds at the Bitexco Financial Tower. Bypass the Skydeck viewing platform on the 49th floor and make your way straight to the EON Helibar on the 52nd. Entry to the Skydeck will cost you roughly the same as a drink at the bar above so it really is a no-brainer.

Luxury cocktail in hand, admire sunset views over the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. Stay until after dark and you'll see why we're listing it as one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City – the neighbouring skyscrapers put on quite the light display.

Taking in the whole city from the top of the Bitexco Tower is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City © Efired / Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

The War Remnants Museum deserves a few hours and a fresh head, so schedule a visit for the following morning. This vast exhibition is a harrowing account of the brutal war. Originally named 'The Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes', it's not exactly an objective display. Nor does it pull any punches.

Notorious 'tiger cage' prison cells, bamboo torture instruments and graphic photos of chemical weapon victims are laid out over several floors. It's definitely hard going, but it's one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City if you want to understand the terrible suffering of the Vietnamese. Save the lower level for last and let the global anti-war movement display help you leave on a brighter note.

War Museum, Ho Chi Minh © Shutterstock

For lunch head to Binh Tay Market in Cho Lon , Ho Chi Minh City’s sprawling Chinatown. Binh Tay is the city’s largest wholesale market and it's easily your best bet for a cheap souvenir or two. After browsing through crafted lacquered wood, brightly embroidered fabrics and plastic kitsch of all varieties, make your way to the food stalls.

Once you’ve sated your appetite, grab a moment of peace away from the raucous market at Thien Hau Pagoda. Built to worship the goddess of the ocean, the temple was built by a community of Chinese traders who arrived by sea. For a small fee, light incense and watch as your prayer sails up to the rafters on fragrant smoke.

Street vendor, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam © Shutterstock

After a full day of sightseeing, among the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to rest your weary feet at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre . The action takes place on a water-based stage and is narrated by singers and musicians seated at each side of the stage.

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In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Unless you speak Vietnamese, you won’t understand much. But the beautifully painted wooden puppets and their ingenious choreography will entertain nonetheless. Shows last for about 50 minutes and there are multiple performances each evening.

A traditional water puppet performance © Avigator Thailand / Shutterstock

Sitting under a pillbox-style clock tower, Ben Thanh Market has been the city’s busiest and most important market for almost a century. Inside the main body of the market, a tight grid of aisles demarcated according to produce, teems with shoppers. If it’s souvenirs you’re after, a reconnaissance here will reveal conical hats, basket ware, bags, shoes, lacquerware, Da Lat coffee and Good Morning Vietnam T-shirts.

Walk through to the wet market along the back of the complex, and you’ll find buckets of eels, clutches of live frogs tied together at the legs, heaps of pigs’ ears and snouts and baskets wedged full of hens, among other gruesome sights. In the evenings, food stalls specializing in seafood set up along the sides of the market, attracting a mixed crowd of locals and tourists.

Ben Thanh market, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Eating on the street may not be to everyone’s taste, but for those willing to take the plunge it's among the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. The food is often better than that found in restaurants, it’s much cheaper and a whole lot more fun. It’s worth using a bit of judicious selection, however – look for places with a fast turnover, where the ingredients are obviously fresh.

The food scene in Ho Chi Minh City is thriving and if you can muster the courage, join a motorbike street food tour and take a whistle-stop tour of the city’s best street food, from Bánh mì to bánh xèo. The bulk of travellers eat in two main areas: the city centre, with its profusion of quality establishments; and the budget area, concentrated around De Tham, Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien.

Embark on this tailor-made Vietnamese culinary adventure , taking cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Get cultural in the imperial city of Hue with a visit to some royal tombs, cruise around stunning Halong Bay a final stay in nostalgic Hanoi before your return home.

Banh Xeo - Vietnamese food © Shutterstock

A few kilometres off Highway 22, in the town of Long Hoa, sits the enigmatic Cao Dai Great Temple, or Cathedral, of the Holy See of Tay Ninh. A grand gateway marks the entrance to the grounds of the structure. At first sight, the temple seems to be subsiding but your initial impressions are more likely to be dominated by what Graham Greene described as a “Walt Disney fantasia of the East, dragons and snakes in Technicolor”.

Despite its Day-Glo hues and rococo clutter, this gaudy construction somehow manages to bypass tackiness. Two square, pagoda-style towers bookend the front facade, whose central portico is topped by a bowed, first-floor balcony and a Divine Eye. The most recurrent motif in the temple, the eye is surrounded by a triangle, as it is on the American one-dollar bill.

Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh province, near ho chi minh city, Vietnam © Indochina studio/Shutterstock

Referred to by most backpackers as “the backpacker area”, the atmospheric jumble of streets around Pham Ngu Lao (also the name of one of its most important thoroughfares) does indeed contain the overwhelming majority of the city’s budget accommodation options. There are pricier places here too.

The same goes for the area’s many places to eat – everything from trendy restaurants serving foreign nosh to streetside shacks whipping up exactly what you see in and on their various tubs and shelves. If you’ve been to Bangkok’s Khaosan Road, you may remark on a certain similarity – it’s most evident during the evening when Bui Vien finds itself crammed with locals and not-so-locals drinking cheap beer on tiny chairs.

Further north, the park fronting Pham Ngu Lao (this time the road) is a pleasant place by day, and a bit of a pick-up spot by night, particularly for elements of the city’s gay community.

Pham Ngu Lao, Vietnam © Pixabay

The pace of life slows down considerably – and the odours of cut grass and frangipani blooms replace the smell of exhaust fumes – when you duck into the city’s Botanical Gardens, accessed by a gate at the far eastern end of Le Duan. The gardens’ social function has remained unchanged for decades, and their tree-shaded paths still attract many courting couples and promenaders.

In its day, the gardens harboured an impressive collection of tropical flora, including many species of orchid. A pleasing, pagoda-style roof crowns the city’s History Museum, next to the Botanical Gardens. It houses fifteen galleries illuminating Vietnam’s past from primitive times to the end of French rule by means of a decent if an astonishing array of artefacts and pictures.

Botanical Gardens © Shutterstock

Set in a grand colonial mansion, Ho Chi Minh City’s Museum of Fine Arts is worth a visit to view some of the country’s best relics from Cham and Oc Eo. The first floor hosts temporary exhibitions, while the courtyard out back is given over to artworks for sale.

Revolutionary art dominates the second floor, relying heavily on hackneyed images of soldiers, war zones and Uncle Ho, though a few offerings capture the anguish and turmoil of the conflicts. Things get better on the third floor, where there’s an impressive collection of Oc Eo and Cham statues, gilt Buddhas and other antiquities.

Fine Arts Museum building entrance in the Ben Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City © Shutterstock

Cruising along the river is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, offering scenic views of the city skyline and the bustling activity along the riverbanks. Cruises on the Saigon River, range from short day trips to longer evening dinner cruises. Among the main popular highlights of the river are Saigon Harbour, Nha Rong Wharf and Thu Thiem Bridge.

Go on a short sightseeing tour by Cyclo or scooter before getting transferred to the Saigon River. There you will board a small vessel for a romantic dinner cruise , which highlights the beauty of Saigon at night.

Ready to explore beyond Ho Chi Mihn City? See our guide to the best cities in Vietnam.

Saigon River and Ho Chi Minh downtown © Pixabay

During the American War, the villages around the district of Cu Chi supported a substantial Viet Cong (VC) presence. Faced with American attempts to neutralize them, they quite literally dug themselves out of harm’s way, and the legendary Cu Chi tunnels were the result.

Today, tourists can visit a short stretch of the tunnels, drop to their hands and knees and squeeze underground for an insight into life as a tunnel-dwelling resistance fighter. Some sections of the tunnels have been widened to allow passage for the fuller frame of Westerners, but it’s still a dark, sweaty, claustrophobic experience, and not one you should rush into unless you’re confident you won’t suffer a subterranean freak-out.

There are two sites where the tunnels can be seen – Ben Dinh and, 15km beyond, Ben Duoc, though most foreigners get taken to Ben Dinh.

Cu Chi tunnels, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• For price and quality: HOME Hotel
• For location: Silverland Yen Hotel
• For modern stays: Calista Sai Gon Hotel
• For boutique stays: Maison De Camille Boutique Hotel
• For luxury: La Vela Saigon Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Ready for a trip to Vietnam ? Check out the snapshot Rough Guide to Vietnam .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Vietnam without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Ho Chi Minh City skyline at dusk © Tonkinphotography / Shutterstock

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Home » Travel Guides » Vietnam » 25 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

25 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

Ho Chi Minh City used to be known as Saigon although this was officially changed after Ho Chi Minh unified Vietnam following the Vietnam War. As such, Ho Chi Minh City is a place that is steeped in some of the most important modern history in the world, and you will find references to this on every street corner. If you want to learn more about the period of reunification in Vietnam, then you can visit monuments, museums and spots used during the Vietnam War like the Cu Chi Tunnels, but you will also find a vibrant modern side to the city at the same time.

Despite its historic and cultural significance, Ho Chi Minh City is also one of the most dynamic spots in Vietnam, and you can see this through the cutting edge buildings and the exciting nightlife on offer here. If you want to sample some of the local delights, then the street food scene in the city is also one of the best in the country, and you can happily spend your days eating your way around Ho Chi Minh City, or join a dedicated food tour.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City …

1. Try a bowl of pho

You can’t come to Ho Chi Minh City and not try pho which is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.

The soup is made with stock to which the noodles are then added and you can choose from a variety of toppings to customize the dish.

You can also choose from a number of different meats to add to your soup such as beef or pork.

If you want to try some of the best pho on the city then your best bet is to stop at one the many street food stalls that abound here.

If you are not sure where to start however, then you can try popular chains such as Pho 24 and Pho 2000.

Recommended food tour : Ho Chi Minh City Food by Night: Private Motorbike Tour

2. Visit the Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda has the claim to fame of being the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City and dates from 1744. T

he pagoda is set in a pretty garden and the name of the temple actually means ‘Feel the Woods Temple’. At the entrance of the temple you will find a graceful Bodhi tree which is sacred in Buddhism and was actually a present from a visiting monk from Sri Lanka in 1953.

You can walk around the grounds and admire the picturesque architecture here and take in the serene atmosphere at the same time.

3. Tour the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is one of the most moving sights in Ho Chi Minh City and is dedicated to educating visitors about the atrocities of the Vietnam War.

This is one of the most popular museums in all of Vietnam and more than half a million visitors come here every year.

Some of the items on display include old military vehicles like Huey helicopters as well as attack bombers and M48 Patton tanks.

Inside you will also find personal memorabilia of victims of the war as well as old photographs.

Suggested tour : VIP City Highlights: War Remnants Museum & Ben Thanh Market

4. Take a Bonsai River Cruise

If you want to take in the city from the vantage point of the water, then head for a Bonsai River Cruise.

Here you will get the chance to join a boat ride that includes dinner and takes you back to the days of elegant cruise dining.

The boat is actually a traditional dragon boat that dates from the 19th century and they serve a buffet dinner complete with live music.

Book online : Bonsai Cruise: 2-Hour Dinner Cruise on the Saigon River

5. Visit the Central Office

A post office may not sound very exciting but the one in Ho Chi Minh City was designed by Gustave Eiffel, of Eiffel Tower fame.

The building is designed in the Gothic style and dates from 1886 and is still one of the most famous monuments in the city.

Make sure that you go inside, as you will find a huge domed roof and grand walls which are adorned with maps from the colonial period.

There is also a requisite portrait of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam.

6. Tour Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace was the former home of the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

The building is also steeped in history as this is also the spot where the North Vietnamese invaded in 1975 and Ho Chi Minh City surrendered.

The building looks much as it would have done in 1966 and you can take a free guided tour here which will fill you in on the cultural and historical significance of this monument to the Vietnam War.

7. Have a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street

If you are looking for some nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City then you need to head for Pham Ngu Lao Street.

This is the central bar and cafe hub of the city and you will find a huge range of watering holes here if you fancy a cold drink at the end of a long day’s sightseeing.

Three of the most famous hotels in Ho Chi Minh City are located here in the form of the Rex, the Majestic and the Caravelle, and they all have rooftop bars with amazing vistas over the glittering city.

8. Grab a coffee in Tao Dan Park

Vietnam is known for its delicious coffee so it stands to reason that it has a strong cafe culture.

The signature brew here is known as ca phe sua da which is an iced coffee made of a dark roast which is mixed with condensed milk and served over ice.

One of the best places to try this is at Tan Tao Park and if you get there in the morning you can go for a walk and pick up a cup from a street stall.

9. Tour the History Museum

The History Museum is located in a beautiful botanical garden and dates from 1929. The museum would have started off as a French colonial villa which has now been turned into a museum and you will find artifacts here which date back 4,000 years.

Many of the pieces originate from the Bronze Age and there are also items from the Cham and Khmer kingdoms.

These include collections of weaponry as well as art pieces and gifts that would have been offered to Ho Chi Minh by visiting dignitaries.

10. Take a cooking class

Vietnam is famous for its delicious food and Ho Chi Minh City is no exception.

With that in mind, you can spend your time eating your way around the city, but if you want to know how to make some of the dishes yourself then you can also sign up for a cooking class.

You will find classes all over town, and many of these include a market tour so that you can learn all about the local ingredients used in Vietnamese cuisine.

Available class : 4-Course Hands-On Vietnamese Cooking Lesson in Small Group

11. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral was built from 1877 and 1883 and sits in the heart of the city.

The cathedral is designed in the neo-Romanesque style and you can check out the towers here which soar to a height of 40 meters and are topped with impressive iron spires.

The cathedral got its name from the Virgin Mary and the inside is covered in devotional tablets and pretty stained glass windows.

Staff are on hand during the week to explain all the history of the cathedral to visitors.

12. Travel to the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is made up of 39,000 square kilometers of waterways and this is also one of the most densely populated parts of Vietnam.

The center of the Mekong Delta is around four hours away from Ho Chi Minh City, and many visitors choose to visit as part of an organized tour.

Here you will find floating markets as well as schools and homes and this is one of the most unique sights in all of Vietnam.

Suggested tour : Mekong Delta Small Group W/ Vinh Trang Pagoda & Rowing Boat

13. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

The main draw in Ho Chi Minh City is the Cu Chi Tunnels which would have been used by the Vietcong guerillas at the time of the Tet Offensive in 1968. The tunnels are made up of a series of underground chambers which stretch for 30 kilometers out of the city and you can now visit sections of the tunnels and crawl through the small spaces to experience the conditions of the Vietcong during the Vietnam War.

Note that this is not an ideal place to visit if you suffer from claustrophobia as the tunnels are very small indeed.

Recommended tour : Cu Chi Tunnels: Half-Day in Small Group

14. Admire the Cao Dai Temple

There are a number of Cao Dai temples in Vietnam although the one in Ho Chi Minh is said to be the most beautiful of its kind.

The temple took some 20 years to build and was finally completed in 1956. Inside you will find some ornate carved dragons but the real draw is the mix of religious statues here.

These include effigies of Christ, Brahman and Buddha, which reflect a range of faiths in one building.

Combo tour : Black Virgin Mountain, Cao Dai Temple & Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

15. Have breakfast at Binh Tay Market

Binh Tay Market is located in the Cholon district of Ho Chi Minh City and you will find a large clock tower here as well as a central courtyard.

The market was built in the 1880s during the colonial period and you can go for a walk and try out the food stalls here.

These include local dishes like noodle soups or you can just stop by for a coffee.

If possible, try to come early in the morning to take in the bustling atmosphere.

16. Scale the Bitexco Financial Tower

The Bitexco Financial Tower was designed by Carlos Zapata and is made up of 68 storeys.

The building soars to a height of 262 meters and is meant to have been designed to resemble a lotus bulb.

On the 48th floor you will find the Saigon Skydeck and you can come here around sunset to take in the stunning vistas over the city.

There is also a rooftop bar if you want to relax with a drink as you take in the scenery below you.

Book online : Bitexco Saigon Skydeck +The Heineken Experience Combo Ticket

17. Eat at Banh Xeo 46A

If you want to try banh xeo when you are in Ho Chi Minh City then you need to head to Banh Xeo 46A. Here you will find a local dish named banh xeo which consists of Vietnamese rice flour pancakes which have been stuffed with a mixture of pork, prawns and bean sprouts.

You can also get vegetarian versions if you prefer, or you can also try some of the other local specialties on the menu.

If you are feeling hungry, make sure not to miss the goi cuon which are summer rolls stuffed with pork and prawns.

18. Admire the Phoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda

One of the prettiest pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City is the Phoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda which is a riot of color and comes in a range of red, gold, yellow and gold hues.

The temple dates from 1902 and is covered in brass ritual ornaments as well as antique weapons.

Also make sure that you check out the intricate woodcarvings around the altars, walls and columns, as well as the large and aromatic incense coils.

You will also find colorful hanging lanterns here and the walls are lined with ceramic tiles that tell the stories of local legends.

19. Tour the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

The Ho Chi Minh Museum was built in 1885, although at this time it would have been known as Gia Long Palace, and then as the Revolutionary Museum.

This is widely said to be the grandest building in the city and this is the place to come to learn all about the culture and history of Ho Chi Minh City.

Just some of the collections on show include ceramics, ancient maps of the city, and marriage costumes that belong to the various ethnic groups in Vietnam.

As you would expect, there are also galleries dedicated to the history of the Vietnam War.

20. Browse in Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City and is a great place to come to shop and eat.

On a visit to the market you will find a range of street food vendors selling local snacks, as well as a dry area where you can pick up some souvenirs.

You can also shop for items like local textiles and ceramics although bear in mind that haggling is expected so don’t be afraid to bargain hard.

Available tour : Ben Thanh Market Tour and Cooking Class

21. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is dedicated to the Taoist god known as the King of Heaven or Ngoc Hoang.

As you would expect from the name, this is one of the fanciest temples in Ho Chi Minh City and you will find statues of deities here as well as large coils of smoking incense.

The walls are lined with elaborate woodcarvings and the roof is also a work of art in its own right.

If you look up, you will find rooftop statues which show scenes from Buddhist and Taoist legends.

22. Grab a sandwich at Banh Mi Huynh Hao

Banh mi is probably the most famous of all of Vietnam’s foodstuff as well as being one of the best loved sandwiches in the world.

Banh mi is made from crusty baguette which is then slicked with pate and then topped with chilies and coriander.

This hole in the wall joint is nothing fancy and there are no tables and chairs, but you will recognize it before you see it thanks to the long line of patrons queuing up for one of the best sandwiches in the city.

23. Admire Cha Tam Church

Cha Tam Church was built in the 19th century and is painted a beautiful caramel color on the outside.

If you venture into the church itself, you will find a plaque that marks the place where President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu were seized in 1963 as they tried to flee from the presidential palace.

With that in mind, the church is stepped in Vietnamese history and is well worth a visit if you are in the area.

24. Giac Vien Pagoda

Giac Vien Pagoda is not the best known temple in Ho Chi Minh City, but it has also not been restored in the way that many others in the city have been, which means that it retains a lot of its traditional charm.

The temple is located near to the Dam Sen Lake and was founded in the 1700s.

Local legend claims that the Emperor Gia Long who died in 1819 used to worship here and this is a great place to get a glimpse of the Vietnam of old.

25. Explore the Fine Arts Museum

Located in a colonial style mansion, the Fine Arts Museum is a great place to come for anyone who is an art lover.

This charming museum features a range of Vietnamese art work that dates from the Bronze era all the way to the present day.

Just some of the galleries that you can enjoy here include pottery, ceramics, sculpture, and paintings, and you will even find an exhibition that is dedicated to displays of ancient weaponry.

25 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam):

• Try a bowl of pho
• Visit the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Tour the War Remnants Museum
• Take a Bonsai River Cruise
• Visit the Central Office
• Tour Reunification Palace
• Have a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Grab a coffee in Tao Dan Park
• Tour the History Museum
• Take a cooking class
• Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Admire the Cao Dai Temple
• Have breakfast at Binh Tay Market
• Scale the Bitexco Financial Tower
• Eat at Banh Xeo 46A
• Admire the Phoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda
• Tour the Ho Chi Minh City Museum
• Browse in Ben Thanh Market
• Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda
• Grab a sandwich at Banh Mi Huynh Hao
• Admire Cha Tam Church
• Giac Vien Pagoda
• Explore the Fine Arts Museum

10+ Best Places To Visit In Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City , formerly Saigon, is a tourist hub in Southern Vietnam . The city is famous for its vibrant life and impressive French architecture from the colony’s era.

In this travel guide, I share the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh, how to get there, things not to miss, and more.

1. Tan Dinh Church

Known as one of the most beautiful churches, Tan Dinh Church is a great place to visit Ho Chi Minh.

With vibrant pink facades, outstanding architecture, and sculptured patterns, this church wins visitors’ hearts from first sight.

Tan Dinh church was built in the 1880s and underwent several restorations and repairs. However, its architecture and construction remain the origin of Roman and Gothic styles.

• Opening hours: 8 am-11 am or 5 pm to 7 pm from Monday to Friday.
• Address:  289 Hai Bà Trưng, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh city.

Tips: If you get lost, ask people about the “Pink church.” After visiting Tan Dinh church, don’t forget to visit Tan Dinh market and Le Van Tam park nearby.

2. Hao Si Phuong

Located in District 5, Hao Si Phuong has more than 100 years of history.

Hao Si Phuong is the alley at 206 Tran Hung Dao B, District 5. It is not too difficult to find this alley, but many visitors still glide through it without realizing it. 

The unique architecture makes this alley an excellent location for photography. 

The alley is divided into two separate areas. Houses with ancient architecture mixed with modern and eye-catching colors are the main highlight of this place.

3. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts is located in the heart of Saigon.

Not only famous for the paintings and sculptures, but the museum also attracts its visitors with outstanding architecture.

It was built in 1934 with a combination of Asian and European architecture, designed by French architect Rivera.

This museum is used to be the residence of a Chinese businessman named Hua Bon Hoa, one of Saigon’s wealthiest and most famous people. He also owned many other notable works, such as the Majestic Hotel or Tu Du Hospital.

Address : 97 Pho Duc Chinh, District 1

4. War Remnants Museum

Located in District 3, the War Remnants Museum is a must-go place to learn Vietnamese history. It has heartbreaking exhibitions related to Vietnam War involving the French and American colonialists.

The museum was opened in 1975 as “The House for Displaying War Crimes of American Imperialism and the Puppet Government,” but then got its name changed in 1993 after going under changes and renovations.

It has traumatizing pictures of Agent Orange, napalm, phosphorus bombs, the My Lai massacre, etc. The exhibition is haunting and shocking, so you should prepare mentally before visiting this museum.

• Address:  28 Vo Van Tan, in District 3, Ho Chi Minh city
• Opening hours : 7 am to 6:30 pm
• Ticket price : 40,000 VND/ person

5. Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace , or also known as Independence Palace, was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

The palace is a witness of Vietnamese history with different Presidents and a place to mark the end of the Vietnam War. The first President in this Palace was Ngo Dinh Diem.

As the palace is now transformed into a museum, you can observe the F5E fighter plane that bombed the palace on April 8, 1975, and tank number 843, which led the final assault through the palace gate at 11.30 am April 30, 1975.

You can book a Saigon half-day private tour to explore the most famous places in Ho Chi Minh with a tour guide.

• Address: 135 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Bến Thành Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city.
• Opening hours: 7.30am – 11.00am and 1.00pm – 4.00pm daily.
• Ticket price: 40,000 VND/person.

6. Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Located in the heart of Saigon, Notre Dame Cathedral attracts many domestic and foreign tourists daily with its beauty.

The church has an antique look with a little modern, and young people are very fond of coming here to take pictures and keep the beautiful moments.

Note:  

On the morning of July 4, 2018, the Notre Dame Cathedral began to set up barriers and restrict visitors to service restoration, which will last for two years. 

The Masses are typically held weekly during the construction period, but guests are not allowed to visit.

Address:  01 Cong Xa Paris ,  Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 , Ho Chi Minh City.

7. Central Post Office

Located opposite Notre Dame, Central Post Office is an iconic building built during the French colonial period. As it still operates as a post office, you can send the customary postcard from here.

A couple of souvenir stores have unique souvenirs that you cannot find at other places, so you should buy some gifts if you’d like to.

Opening hours : 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

8. Book street

Located near Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office in District 1, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is the must-visit destination for book lovers.

I love the feeling of wandering around, buying some books, and reading them at the coffee shops on a Sunday morning.

Nguyen Van Binh book street is the first book complex in Vietnam built with open space, allowing visitors to visit and enjoy the reading culture of the Saigon.

Although the street is not long, it is divided into different areas, such as the bookstore area, coffee book area, bookselling area, and cultural items.

There is also a playground for children, an exhibition area, and an old bus for book exchange.

You can find books in Vietnamese and English, so don’t hesitate to visit and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.

Address:  Nguyễn Văn Bình, Bến Nghé, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

9. Nguyen Hue Walking street

Located in the heart of the city, Nguyen Hue Walking Street has become a great attraction in Ho Chi Minh city. 

This street attracts hundreds of visitors walking, singing, or playing outdoor games in the evening. Most of the visitors are young people or families with children and tourists.

Surrounding Nguyen Hue walking street, there are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants. One of the must-visit places is Cafe Apartment.

10. Saigon City Hall

If you’re around Nguyen Hue walking street, don’t forget to stop by People Committee Head Office (Saigon City Hall).

Saigon City Hall is one of the most beautiful French colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. The place was first used in 1909 as a hotel named Hotel de Ville.

11. Jade Emperor Pagoda (Ngoc Hoang Pagoda)

One of the most popular religions in Vietnam is Buddhism, and you can find many pagodas and temples in Vietnam or Saigon in particular.

Generally, Vietnamese visit pagodas to wish for luck and peace and show respect to the religion.

One of the famous pagodas in Ho Chi Minh city is Jade Emperor Pagoda or Ngoc Hoang Pagoda. This place is also known as Dakao pagoda during the French period.

Jade Emperor Pagoda is located on Mai Thi Luu Street, District 1, for more than a century and has been recognized as a national architectural heritage.

The architecture of the Jade Emperor Pagoda is brightly decorated with Chinese style.

Once entering, you will be amazed by the impressive three-pointed gate with the water-bending curves of the two dragons in the posture.

Tips: When visiting the pagoda, you must wear appropriate clothes covering your shoulder and knees.

Address:  73 Mai Thị Lựu, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city.

12. Ben Thanh market

If Dong Xuan Market is the symbol of Hanoi, Ben Thanh Market is one of the iconic buildings of Saigon.

It will be a great regret if you visit Saigon and miss Ben Thanh market.

The market has a history dating from the early 17th century. It was located near the Saigon River and was famous for small traders.

During the French war, the Ben Thanh market was located on the banks of the Ben Nghe River and was used to serve visitors and soldiers in the city. Therefore, the market gained its name as Ben Thanh Market.

These days, Ben Thanh market is a famous place for travelers to experience the old architecture of the building or to try some Vietnamese food.

Note : You should negotiate before purchasing souvenirs in this market.

Tips: At night, you should visit Ben Thanh Street food market, located at 26 Thu Khoa Huan, District 1 (opposite Ben Thanh market).

13. Turtle Lake

Officially known as International Square, Ho Con Rua (Turtle Lake) is the name of the traffic circle with fountains connecting three streets: Vo Van Tan, Pham Ngoc Thach, and Tran Cao Van in Saigon.

The Turtle Lake area is now one of the most active dining areas from morning to night, with many restaurants and bars around.

Especially at night, you can find many Vietnamese meeting friends and eating street food around the corner.

Not only attracts visitors as a lovely dining area, but Turtle lake is also a unique combination between Eastern and Western architecture built before 1975.

Designed with massive concrete pillars plugged into the lake bowl, Turtle Lake is associated with the anecdote related to Feng Shui of the President of the Republic of Vietnam, Nguyen Van Thieu.

Address:  Vo Van Tan and Tran Cao Van Streets, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

14. Tao Dan Park

One thing I love about Ho Chi Minh city is its parks.

There are many parks in Saigon, and most of them have a medium size. A large and central one is Tao Dan Park.

In the past, this park was located on the premises of the French Governorate.

Until 1975, this place became the official park of the city and was built more sites such as the Temple of the Hung King and Cham towers.

Many events are happening here frequently, such as the spring flower exhibition.

Address: Trương Định, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city.

15. Dam Sen Park

Dam Sen Park is built and designed with various styles, from nostalgic to modern.

Along with beautiful gardens, a zoo, and an aquarium, Dam Sen Park also has several thrilling games for children and adults.

On a sunny day, visitors can enjoy a fun time at Dam Sen Water Park. It has 36 modern water game equipment and a 3000 square meters wave lake.

• Address: 3 Hòa Bình, Ward 3, District 11, Ho Chi Minh city.
• 8 am – 6 pm from Monday to Friday
• 8 am – 8 pm on the weekends

16. Can Gio

Located quite close to the city center, Can Gio mangrove forest is an excellent destination for those seeking nature.

You can visit the eco-tourism area to visit the monkeys and paddling along the mangrove forest. Also, stopping by Can Gio market and sampling fresh seafood dishes are great ideas!

I highly recommend taking a Can Gio tour to visit this area.

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City

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1. War Remnants Museum

8 km from city center 1 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Opened to the public in 1975, the War Remnant Museum documents the atrocities of the Vietnam War and is visited by millions of people every year. The museum has over 20,000 artifacts and items on display, documenting Vietnam's grueling, painful, heroic struggle for independence, including the french guillotine, the 'tiger cages' where prisoners were kept, and photographs of 'Agent Orange', a chemical spray that led to widespread genetic defects.

2. Shop & Eat at Ben Thanh Market

9 km from city center 2 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market is the food and shopping Mecca of Ho Chi Minh, located in District 1. It is housed in a historical building and is one of the oldest structures in Saigon. You can find everything from cheap clothes, textiles, souvenirs, electronics, accessories, and more at its 1500 stalls. It is also a street food hotspot and remains open every day.

3. Visit Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Financial Tower

10 km from city center 3 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Bitexco Financial Tower is the famous skyscraper of Ho Chi Minh City and the fourth tallest building in the country. The 262-meter structure is inspired by the shape of a lotus. Visit the observation deck on the 49th floor for a spectacular 360-degree view of the city. The sky tower also houses Icon 68 Mall and EON Helibar.

4. Explore Cu Chi Tunnels

40 km from city center 4 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Cu Chi Tunnels were a part of the extensive underground network that the Vietnamese Congress used as a hideaway during the war. You can now go through some of the safer parts of the tunnel to experience the conditions of the Vietcong during the war. Avoid visiting if you are claustrophobic. A popular day trip from Ho Chi Minh, it can be reached by a 1.5-hour speedboat, apart from driving. Morning and afternoon tours are available that last around 6 hours.

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Luxury vietnam honeymoon - candlelight dinner, 5. send a potscard at central post office.

9 km from city center 5 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Saigon Central Post Office is a spectacular remnant of French Colonial history. Built in the late 19th century during French colonialism, it has distinct Renaissance and Gothic architecture with looping arches and elaborate marble flooring. Sending a postcard from the still-functional post office is an absolute must. You can also take photos outside the yellow building or wander inside through its grand hall.

6. Tour Reunification Palace

9 km from city center 6 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, was once the home to the president of Southern Vietnam during the Vietnam War and the site of the end of the Vietnam War. Originally called Norodom Palace, it is now an iconic museum in Ho Chi Minh City. You can wander the grand halls and explore the underground tunnels and bunkers used during the war. A free guided tour is available.

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7. Bui Vien Walking Street

9 km from city center 7 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The nightlife of Vietnam thrives in Bui Vien street in Ho Chi Minh. The street is full of cheap hotels, hostels, pubs, bars, restaurants, massage parlours as well as a few clothing and souvenir stores here and there. The area comes alive at midnight, with dance music buzzing out of the clubs and backpackers seated at various restaurants with a glass of beer.

8. Enjoy Street Food

8 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is filled to the brim with a cross-section of delicious, cheap, and authentic meals conveniently located all close together. It is one of the best cities in the world for street food. Local dishes to try here include Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Xeo, Cao Lau, Che Khuc Bach, and Vietnamese coffee, among other things. You can head to one of the local markets to enjoy authentic flavors.

9. Explore Coffee Culture

0 km from city center 9 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Compared to Hanoi’s luxury and branded coffee culture, Ho Chi Minh City is more laid-back and street-friendly. The most authentic version of coffee here is Ca Phe Bet or Flat Coffee which is served by mobile coffee sellers on motorbikes. Turtle Lake and Notre Dame Cathedral are where you will find them at large.

10. Cho Lon (Chinatown)

9 km from city center 10 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Cho Lon is the Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City and the largest one across Vietnam. It is situated on the west bank of the Saigon River and spread over Districts 5 & 6. Cho Lon is renowned for its bustling markets, including Binh Tay Market, temples like Thien Hau Temple and Quan Am Pagoda, and street food stalls, local eateries, and restaurants serving authentic Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine.

11. Nguyen Van Binh

9 km from city center 11 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

A paradise for book lovers, Nguyen Van Binh or Book Street is a 100m stretch of book shops, kiosks, stalls and cafes that are perfect for a literary getaway. Shady trees line the street where many publishing houses seek to promote their books. Fiction, Non-Fiction, Travelogues, Children's literature - all genres can be found here. Some of the shops even sell postcards and second-hand books at throwaway prices.

12. Enjoy Nightlife

12 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Downtown in District 1, rooftop bars, casinos, and swanky restaurants are some of Saigon's top nightlife entertainment options. The rooftop bars stand out as the primary go-to for nightlife in Ho Chi Minh, offering a breathtaking view of the city lit up at night. If you are not a big fan of partying, you can enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, shop at Ben Thanh Night Market, or enjoy a show at the Saigon Opera House.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Art & Culture

Museums in Ho Chi Minh

Water Parks in Saigon

Food & Drink

Street Food in Ho Chi Minh City

7 Best Places For Street Food in Ho Chi Minh

Shopping In Ho Chi Minh - The Complete Guide

Day Trips From Saigon

13. Notre Dame Cathedral

9 km from city center 13 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The most famous religious landmark in Ho Chi Minh, the Notre Dame Cathedral, was constructed by French colonists between 1863 and 1880 and resembles the one in Paris. The cathedral features Romanesque architectural features, a distinct red-brick aspect, stained glass windows, and twin bell towers measuring 58 meters. It is currently under renovation, and you can't explore most of it from the inside.

14. Enjoy A River Cruise

0 km from city center 14 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

There are multiple river cruises in Ho Chi Minh City to choose from. The exotic sunset and dinner cruises are the most popular, which include large cruise boats hosting guests with delectable food, live music, and more. In addition, private romantic leisure cruises or even speedboat cruises are offered. For more sightseeing enthusiasts, daytime cruises along the Mekong river and floating market canal cruises are available.

15. Tan Dinh Church

8 km from city center 15 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Dinh Church, popularly known in the neighborhood as 'The Pink Church,' is one of the ancient Roman Catholic Churches in Ho Chi Minh City. Located at the busy Hai Ba Trung, it portrays astounding architecture. Tan Dinh Church is well known for its Sunday Mass. You can also drop by Tan Dinh Market if you love to shop and explore food choices.

16. Jade Emperor Pagoda

8 km from city center 16 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Jade Emperor Pagoda is a spectacular Taoist shrine in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1909 by a migrant Cantonese community, the primary deity here is the 'King of Heaven' Chua Ngoc Hoang, who regulates the entry of souls into the afterlife. Also known as Tortoise Pagoda, it is over 100 years old and is filled with mythical statues.

17. Watch a Show at Saigon Opera House

10 km from city center 17 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Opera House is a gorgeous venue to enjoy some of the best creative performances in the country. Also known as Municipal theatre, the building is a great example of French Colonial architecture and looks especially alluring in the evenings when bathed in soft lights. Ballet, classical music, concerts and traditional plays are all performed here.

18. Walk Around Nguyen Hue Street

10 km from city center 18 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Nguyen Hue Street is a beautiful pedestrian-only promenade in District 1. A major tourist hub, the street has a buzzing nightlife. It is a perfect place to stroll, lined with quaint cafes and trendy shops. There is also a large statue of Ho Chi Minh with a fountain show and live street performance every evening.

19. Trip to Mekong Delta

141 km from city center 19 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Taking a trip to Mekong Delta is one of the best things to do around Ho Chi Minh. Known as the 'rice bowl of Vietnam', it has lush rice paddy fields, colorful fruit orchids, enchanting villages, and floating markets. You can explore Mekong Delta on a riverboat cruise or go kayaking through the mangroves.

20. Dinner Cruise on Saigon River

44 km from city center 20 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The most iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon River offers a glimpse into the various facets of Vietnam like no place else. A cruise or boat ride on the soothing river will take you around the village life, underground military tunnels, stunning skyscrapers, and local life in the Mekong Delta. Most popular are dinner cruise, sunset cruise, and Bonsai cruise on a 19th-century dragon boat.

21. Watch A O Show

10 km from city center 21 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The AO Show is Vietnam’s own Cirque de Soleil, where intriguing performances bring alive the culture and traditions of the country. The storytelling weaves together the charm of the Vietnamese countryside and the racing pace of the nation’s urban landscape. The Ho Chi Minh City show takes place at the historic Saigon Opera House and runs for an hour.

22. Benthanh Street Food Market

9 km from city center 22 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

For food-lovers visiting Ho Chi Minh, Ben Thanh Street Food Market is a must-visit. The stylish food hall features 20-25 vendors selling Vietnamese street food, while foodies savour the snacks at the benches while listening to the latest hits. Pop art murals decorate the walls, and and the food hall is both a visual as well as a gastronomical delight.

23. Museum of Vietnamese History

9 km from city center 23 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Specializing in Vietnamese history and Southeast Asian history before the colonial era, the Museum of Vietnamese History provides a beginner’s guide to understanding Vietnam. It is located inside Ho Chi Minh City's botanic gardens and zoo in District 1. It includes exhibits like wooden coffins, royal jewelry, and even a mummified body spread across 19 permanent exhibitions.

24. Thien Hau Pagoda

8 km from city center 24 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Located in District 5, Thien Hau Pagoda is a 19th-century Buddhist temple dedicated to the Lady of the Sea, Goddess Mazu. The temple features intricate carvings and lanterns on the outer courtyard, while inside are vibrant dioramas that depict scenes from a Chinese city. You can wander inside for free.

25. Stroll Around Dong Khoi Street

10 km from city center 25 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Dong Khoi street combines the best of both worlds- french colonial architecture stands next to posh skyscrapers with international brands. Begin walking from the banks of Saigon River and you will cross the Central Post Office, the Opera House and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Interspersed between them are trendy boutiques, quaint cafes, and high-end restaurants.

26. Can Gio Mangrove Forest Tour

43 km from city center 26 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Often called the 'green lungs of the city,' Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a wetland biosphere featuring more than 150 species of flora and fauna. The Can Gio tour highlights a visit to Monkey Island, which has a large population of macaques, a cruise to the mangrove forest, and a visit to the crocodile farm. Must-visit attractions are the former military base from the times of the Vietnam war, Rung Sac, and Sat Salt-Marsh Forest Ecological Tourist Center, and enjoying a sumptuous Vietnamese meal at the Phuong Nam restaurant.

27. Visit Bia Hoi Bars at Pham Ngu Lao Street

9 km from city center 27 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Known as the backpacker's district of Vietnam, Pham Ngu Lao street is a famous nightlife spot where you can enjoy cheap beers at Vietnam's famous 'Bia Hoi' bars. These serve homemade watery lager beer. It is famous for its culture of sitting on plastic chairs together and chatting away the whole night. The cost of beers is also very minimal, at 50 cents a glass. The street is also filled with tiny, shack-like shops selling authentic Vietnamese food like ban xeo, bun bo hue, and pho.

28. Suoi Tien Theme Park

19 km from city center 28 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Suoi Tien Theme Park can be described as the Disneyland of Vietnam. Located in district 9, the amusement park features the usual rides, restaurants, and experience zones, but with a Buddhist touch. The decor consists of dragons, Buddha, and Vietnamese gods. One House of Horror takes you through the various levels of Buddhist Hell, while a waterslide emerges from the beards of Buddhist sages.

29. Watch Golden Dragon Water Puppet Show

9 km from city center 29 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Golden Dragon Water Puppet theatre is one of the best places to witness the magic of Vietnamese water puppetry. The shows offer a fascinating insight into Vietnamese culture and tradition. Puppets perform local folktales on a 'stage' of water, with live musicians playing traditional instruments on the side. Dragons, fairies, and all kinds of mystical characters grace the stage.

30. Spend a Day at Binh Quoi Village

11 km from city center 30 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Bin Quoi is a tourist village and a popular destination for families. Reminiscent of the Mekong Delta, it consists of green lawns, walking paths, fishing ponds, open-air cottages, floating restaurants, and bamboo bridges. Traditional music and dance entertainment shows are held in the evening.

31. Shopping at Binh Tay Market

9 km from city center 31 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Binh Tay Market, called Cho Lon Moi or New Market is one of the main local markets across Ho Chi Minh City. Known predominantly for its fresh supplies, it serves the local Vietnamese population, unlike Ben Thanh Market. It is a crowded place with more than 2000 shops divided into distinct sections, with lacquered goods, electronic equipment, plastic toys, kitchen basics, cosmetics, ethnic clothing, headgear, flip-flops and sandals, and leather goods being available in plenty. It is also one of the top breakfast spots in Vietnam.

32. Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

9 km from city center 32 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Being the 8th oldest zoo in the world, Thao Cam Vien, or Botanical Gardens, is considered the largest zoo in Vietnam. You will find animals from every continent, like white tigers, lions, monkeys, crocodiles, and rare animals. In addition to the plethora of plants and ferns, it houses Butterfly and Flamingo Garden, Children's Garden, Orchid Greenhouse, Cactus Garden, and Animal and Plant Museum. There are also a bunch of rides, including a Ferris Wheel.

33. Fine Arts Museum

10 km from city center 33 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Located near Ben Thanh Market, Fine Arts Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam's largest fine arts centers. The museum building formerly belonged to Mr. Hoa, a wealthy Chinese man during colonial times. The yellow-and-white building combining French and Chinese elements is a masterpiece and houses a variety of paintings and sculptures. Oil, lacquer, silk, and ceramic works are found next to ancient Champa relics.

34. Artinus 3D Art Museum

11 km from city center 34 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Artinus 3D Art Museum is an interactive 3D art gallery located in District 7 in Ho Chi Minh City. Making use of light effects and painting techniques, the artworks create an optical illusion that allow you to step inside a cave, dangle on a bridge above the sea or even fight a T-Rex while you're there.

35. Dam Sen Water Park

6 km from city center 35 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Dam Sen Water Park in District 11 offers a refreshing and fun break from the scorching summers of Vietnam. With a wide array of water slides and a wave pool, this water park is truly an oasis in this vast city spread over three hectares with enthralling rides such as Wandering River, Massage Pool, Aqua Dance, Wave Pool, and many more. It features over 30 rides and equipment that cater to everyone, from the romantic couple to the thrill seekers to children.

36. San Art

7 km from city center 36 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

San Art is a non-profit contemporary arts organization in Ho Chi Minh city. Comprising of a gallery and an open-source reading room, it aims to provide a platform to exhibit art and spread awareness about it. Workshops, Lectures and Residency Programs are also held for budding artists, and there is a range of textual material on contemporary art available for reading. A must-visit for art lovers.

37. Ho Chi Minh Museum

9 km from city center 37 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Ho Chi Minh Museum was once a customs house for the French, famously named the Dragon House, which is now a museum dedicated to the erstwhile prime minister as well president of (then, Northern) Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. It documents Ho Chi Minh's life through mementos, photographs, and official letters, providing a glimpse into the fascinating life of the founder of modern Vietnam.

38. Relax at Tao Dan Park

9 km from city center 38 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The perfect getaway from traffic noise, Tao Dan Park features 10 hectares of beautiful Sao Den trees and walkaways to revitalize you. The park is filled with locals exercising, and also houses a sporting club that draws children to it. A well-known bird cafe inside Tao Dan attracts numerous bird owners to relax with their pets.

39. Giac Lam Pagoda

5 km from city center 39 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Gia Lam Pagoda is a beautiful religious attraction situated in Phu Tho Hoa region of Ho Chi Minh. Established in 1744, the temple is set amidst a lush garden, where a tall bodhi tree shades a statue of a bodhisattva. The main shrine is surrounded by precious wood pillars coated with gold inscriptions, and houses an imposing statue of Amitabha Buddha.

40. Trip to Long Hai

81 km from city center 40 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Hugging the eastern coast of Vietnam is the charming and lively seaside town of Long Hai. A 2-hour, nearly 100 km journey from the capital Ho Chi Minh City, this beach town is a favorite haunt for locals and tourists who want to frolic in its sandy beaches. It is also a popular weekend getaway destination as residents of the capital pack into buses to enjoy a little sunshine.

41. Mariamman Hindu Temple

9 km from city center 41 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Mariamman Hindu Temple is a small slice of South Indian tradition located in Ho Chi Minh, dedicated to Hindu goddess Mariamman. The temple features colouful carvings of Parvati, Ganesh, Vishnu and Brahma. The 12-m tall Rajagopuram houses the main statue of Mariammen flanked by her two protectors. Built by Tamil traders in the 19th century, the temple attracts a number of Vietnamese and is a must-visit.

42. Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine and Pharmacy

7 km from city center 42 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Modernity and tradition come together at the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine and Pharmacy. Located in District 10 of Ho Chi Minh, the museum features more than 3,000 exhibits that date all the way back to the stone age. Herbal concoctions, vessels, wines, shops, scales, cabinets-all find a place in the 16 floors here

43. Ao Dai Museum

24 km from city center 43 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Located at a distance from the city centre in District 9, Ao Dai museum celebrates the national dress of Vietnam in a picturesque landscape. Surrounded by coconut trees and canals, the museum traces the evolution of the Ao Dai through the years. On display are several beautiful pieces owned by royals and celebrities, and you can even try one on and get a photo clicked.

44. Venerable Thich Quang Duc Memorial

10 km from city center 44 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Venerable Thich Quang Duc Monument in Ho Chi Minh City is a memorial that honours the Buddhist monk's final act of courage in the face of religious discrimination. He self-immolated in the middle of a busy road to protest the killings of Buddhists by then-president Ngo Dinh Diem. The act has been immortalized by a memorial that shows him wreathed in flames in front of a bas-relief.

45. Ho Chi Minh City Hall

9 km from city center 45 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City Hall or People's Committee Building in District 1 is both an iconic landmark as well as an administrative institution. The structure was designed by French architect Gardes, and features embossed statues of women and children and bas-reliefs on the outside. During evenings, the building lights up with LED lights and provides a great photo-op. However, the hall isn't open to the public as it is used for government purposes.

46. Xa Loi Pagoda

8 km from city center 46 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The biggest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh, Xa Loi Pagoda is as famous for it dramatic history as it is for its beautiful statues, towers and intricately carved panels. Once the centre of Buddhism, the complex was home to renowned Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc. It was raided by Army officials in 1963 for being a site of dissent against the Roman Catholic president Ngo Dinh Diem.

47. Vinh Ngiem Pagoda

7 km from city center 47 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Located in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is the largest Mahayana pagoda in the city and the first one to incorporate traditional Vietnamese elements in a concrete structure. The temple is dedicated to Gautama Buddha and two bodhisattvas, and features a large Buddha statue surrounded by wooden carvings of the sacred animals - dragon, unicorn, tortoise and phoenix.

48. Ben Dinh Tunnels

28 km from city center 48 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

A popular section of the larger Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Dinh Tunnels are a historical attraction located at the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City. These were used extensively by the Vietnamese Congress during the Tet Offensive of 1968. Replica bobby traps, barracks and sleeping quarters give you a taste of what life was back in the days of the war.

49. Quan Am Pagoda

8 km from city center 49 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Quan Am Pagoda is a beautiful 19th-century Buddhist temple dedicated to Quan Am, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. Situated in Cholon in District 5, the temple complex is divided into three areas, with altars dedicated to Sea Goddess Mazu, the Jade Emperor and Quan Am. A courtyard with a small pond leads into the temple, where colourful motifs and sculptures welcome visitors.

50. HCMC Museum

9 km from city center 50 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum documents the city's growth through various artefacts, photographs, ceramics, and war materials. Built in 1885, the museum features impressive neoclassical architecture with unique motifs and a lovely flower garden. There is also a network of tunnels underneath the building, used by President Diem in the coup of 63.

51. Saigon Central Mosque

10 km from city center 51 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Mosque is a beuatiful and serene place of worship in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. Built by Indian Muslims in 1935, the mosque features well-maintained white and lime green walls and a shaded veranda. Surrounded by four minarets, there are several Halal stalls close to the mosque that sell tid-bits to devotees.

52. Southern Women's Museum

8 km from city center 52 out of 84 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Southern WomenÍs Museum in Ho Chi Minh is a wonderful tribute to the achievements of Vietnamese women. The museum's first floor showcases the evolution of the Ao Dai , VietnamÍes traditional dress for women. On the second floor are photographs and artefacts in honour of women who played a vital role during and after the war, and have contributed to their nation meaningfully.

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25 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN HO CHI MINH CITY [VIETNAM]

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON) IN VIETNAM?

In this ultimate guide, we listed all you need to know to prepare for your visit to Ho Chi Minh City .

Ho Chi Minh City is an incredible city in South East Asia. A must-see if you are in Vietnam , which very different from Hanoi , Vietnam’s Capital. Ho Chi Minh City is the economic powerhouse of Vietnam.

This young and dynamic city has a lot to offer.

Ho Chi Minh City, which everyone here continues to call Saigon (its name before 1975), has known 95 years of French influence, supported the Americans, & resisted the bureaucracy of the North. So there is a lot of history attached to Ho Chi Minh City.

In A Nutshell:

– Ho Chi Minh City was once known as Saigon , although this name was officially changed after the reunification of Vietnam. – If you want to know more about Vietnam’s reunification period, you can visit monuments, museums, and sites used during the Vietnam War, which we invite you to discover in this post. – Of course, another great thing about Ho Chi Minh City is the food! Well, like anywhere else in Vietnam , the food is delicious. We listed some of our favorite restaurants in this post, which you should check out during your visit to Ho Chi Minh City. – You can also immerse yourself in a bustling nightlife, one of the best in South East Asia! Rooftop bars, speak-easy, clubs, there are so many places to explore.

SOME IMPRESSIONS OF HO CHI MINH CITY

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. start by enjoying a pho in ho chi minh city, vietnam’s most famous dish.

You’ve probably heard of phở – Vietnam’s national dish . It is included in the list of the 100 best dishes in the world . If this is the first time traveling to Vietnam, you can’t leave Vietnam without trying a phở.

The soup is prepared from a broth to which the noodles are then added. You can choose from a variety of toppings to customize the dish. Most of the time, a Pho is served with Beef or Pork. But no worries, if you are vegetarian, they sometimes serve a version with veggies only. Phở is served in so many places around Ho Chi Minh City .

There are many places serving Pho, even from small stalls on the street, however here is our top 3 recommendations:

• Pho Hung : this is probably the most famous place in Ho Chi Minh City. Many tourists would travel to the city simply to eat their pho. It’s delicious, fresh, with plenty of herbs and the taste is out of this world. The interior is not something to write home about, in this place it’s all about the food and the food only ( location )
• Pho Quynh : the competition for the best Pho is hard. Pho Quynh and Pho Hung are totally up there on top of the list. Hard to say which one is better, you just gotta try them both! hehe. ( location )
• Pho Le : our last recommendation, which also makes it on the podium of the best Pho in Ho Chi Minh city. Another amazing noodle soup to make you feel amazing in Ho Chi Minh City ( location )

2. Visit Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda, which dates back to 1744, is known to be the oldest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City. the pagoda is located in a lovely garden and the name of the pagoda actually means “Forest Feeling Pagoda”.

At the entrance of the pagoda, you will find a graceful Bodhi tree, sacred in Buddhism, which was donated by a monk from Sri Lanka in 1953. You can walk through it and admire the picturesque architecture of the pagoda while enjoying its serene atmosphere.

Location: here

3. Discover the War Remnants Museum

This is one of the most visited museum in Ho Chi Minh City and one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City. Initially, it was called the “American War Crimes Museum”… Then its name was changed so as not to offend American tourists.

The visit begins in the courtyard, in the open air: deadly hardware used during the war, Bell UH-1 Huey helicopter, a Chinook helicopter (the largest), an M48 tank of 48 t, combat flights, including the F5A Jet Fighter, 175 mm artillery pieces, a 40 t D7 bulldozer, a flame thrower, as well as several types of bombs.

Inside the museum, it’s much more informative with lots of photos and information about the Vietnam War. Be aware that the visit to this museum can be quite disturbing and emotional. It’s never nice to see memories of the war. However, it’s a must-see in Ho Chi Minh City to fully understand the history of Vietnam .

• Opening hours : 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Entrance fee : 40,000 VND

4. Join a cruise on the Saigon River

If you want to admire the city from a different angle, we highly suggest a beautiful cruise at night on the Saigon River . A boat tour of Ho Chi Minh City on the Saigon River allows you to observe the different ways of life that surround this bustling metropolis. The Saigon River flows from Cambodia into southern Vietnam before emptying into the East Sea near the Mekong Delta.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the river is also joined by the Dong Nai River and the Ben Cat River. Along the banks, there are villages, underground passages dating from the Vietnam War, skyscrapers, and old houses.

The Saigon River is still very active and it is the only way to experience sights such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, Hidden Canals, and the Mekong Delta. There are a number of tour operators offering cruises that can be booked as private charters or as part of a group trip.

Some offer dinner cruises on the Saigon River and fire dancing on board, private tour during sunset , and others offer day trips to discover some of the historical and cultural highlights only accessible by boat on the Saigon River.

5. Visit the central post office

The post office is one of the most beautiful French colonial architecture in Saigon . It actually looks like a train station!

Built from 1886 to 1891, it is supported by a huge metal frame, the work of Gustave Eiffel. The colors of the walls, the space, everything inside is retro. It is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 7am-6pm, Sun 8am-6pm.

6. Visit the Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City

This historical monument entered history on April 30, 1975, at 10:45 a.m., when tanks 843 and 390 of the 203rd brigade of the North Vietnamese army broke through the heavy iron gates of the park. This world famous image marked the fall of Saigon, the end of South Vietnam and the end of 30 years of ruthless war.

A small green soldier then climbed the facade of the presidential palace, tore down the South Vietnamese flag and replaced it with the blue and red flag of the GRP (Provisional Revolutionary Government).

It was first called the Independence Palace and then the Presidential Palace. Presidents Diem and Thieu remained there. It occupies the site of the former residence of the Governor General of Indochina, a beautiful and large colonial building from 1868 which was bombed in February 1962 during an attempted coup.

• Opening hours : 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

7. Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao street

If you are looking for nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City, you must go to Pham Ngu Lao Street.

There you will find plenty of bars, cafes, restaurants etc. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink after a full day of sightseeing!

Three of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous hotels are located here: the Rex , the Majestic and the Caravelle . They all have rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.

8. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at Tao Dan Park

You may not know it but Vietnam is one of the largest coffee producers in the world . Its cultivation dates back to the early 1800s, when French settlers brought the first coffee trees.

Today, most of the country produces robusta, a type of very strong coffee different from what we are used to in the west (arabica). So don’t be surprised by the difference in taste.

Vietnam’s signature coffee is known as “ca phe sua da”, an iced coffee made with a dark roast, mixed with condensed milk and served over ice.

One of the best places to taste it is Tao Dan Park . If you go there in the morning, you can walk around and buy a cup from a street stall.

9. Visit of Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is located at the end of Dong Khoi Street (where the central post office is located).

The Cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments in Saigon. The Cathedral was built from 1877 to 1880 in a neo-Romanesque style, topped with two square bell towers and spires 40 m high that can be seen from all the rooftops of the city.

The stone and red brick facade were brought from Toulouse & Marseille in France ! The Cathedral is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Opening hours : Mon-Sat 8am-11am, 3pm-4pm.
• Masses : Mon-Sat at 5:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.; Sun at 5:30 a.m., 6:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. (in English), 4 p.m., 5:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
• Location : here

10. Visit the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

The history museum is located in a beautiful botanical garden and dates from 1929. It was initially a French colonial villa which was transformed into a museum. You will find objects dating back 4,000 years .

Many pieces date from the Bronze Age, but there are also objects from the Cham and Khmer kingdoms.

These include collections of weapons, pieces of art and gifts said to have been given to Ho Chi Minh by visiting dignitaries.

• Opening hours : Mon-Sat 8am-11:30am, 1pm-5pm. (closed on Monday)
• Website: here
• Entrance fee : 30,000 VND

11. Explore the Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta is made up of 39,000 square kilometers of waterways. This is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Mekong Delta is the most important agricultural and fishing region in Vietnam . It is also one of the most popular destination for tourists in Vietnam. Here you can cruise on a boats, try fishing, visit fishing market, taste tropical food and see the daily activities of people living in this remote part of Vietnam.

Visiting the Mekong Delta during a trip to Ho Chi Minh City is simply a must. In full honesty, this is one of the best things we did while visiting Vietnam. There are many tour which propose day trips including lunch and other great activities. > CHECK IT OUT HERE <

12. Discover the Cu Chi tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City’s main attraction is the Cu Chi Tunnels ! Those tunnels have been used by the Vietcong guerrillas at the time of the Tet Offensive in 1968. The tunnels are made up of a series of underground chambers that extend 30 kilometers outside the city. It is a vast maze of underground tunnels that stretch all the way to the Cambodian border.

You can now visit sections of the tunnels and crawl through the small spaces to experience the living conditions of the Vietcong during the Vietnam War.

If you want to better understand the history of Vietnam, visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is a must. This is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

To visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, you need to join a tour group or a private tour. > CHECK IT OUT HERE <

13. Admire Cao Dai Temple

There are a number of Cao Dai temples in Vietnam, but the one in Ho Chi Minh is considered the finest of its kind.

The construction of the temple took 20 years and was completed in 1956. Inside you will find carved and ornate dragons, but the real attraction is the mix of religious statues.

They include effigies of Christ, Brahman and Buddha, which reflect a range of beliefs in one building.

The temple is located 96 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, in the city of Tay Ninh. Caodaism is a new religion invented by a Cochin Chinese official. in the 1920s, as an attempt at a synthesis between the great religious philosophies of the West and the Far East.

This extraordinary assemblage of such different spiritualities and doctrines is perfectly illustrated by this temple.

14. Check out Binh Tay and Cho Lon market

Binh Tay Market is located in the Cholon district of Ho Chi Minh City. You will find a large clock tower and a central courtyard.

The market was built in the 1880s, during the colonial period. It is nice to walk around and try different food. Here you will find local dishes like noodle soups or you can simply stop for a coffee. If possible, try to come early in the morning to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

In the past, there were dark places known for opium dens, brothels, gambling dens of all kinds, shady and smoky shops, so many places controlled by the Chinese.

It is only nice to visit the market in the morning. Afterwards the area becomes very empty, without much interest…

15. Visit one of the tallest towers in Ho Chi Minh City and its skydeck

At the bottom of Nguyen Hue Avenue, on the right before arriving at the river, the small Ngo Duc Ke street leads to the Bitexco tower, one of the tallest tower in Vietnam.

You can go up to the Sky Deck, located on the 49th floor, to admire the 360 degree view of the city. However, we recommend going to Eon café instead which is free where, for a little less than the right of access to the Sky Deck, you will be entitled to a drink!

16. Admire the Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda

One of the prettiest temples in Ho Chi Minh City is the Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda, which is very colorful with an explosion of red, gold, and yellow.

The pagoda dates from 1902 and is covered with ritual brass ornaments as well as ancient weapons.

Don’t forget to take a look at the intricate wooden carvings around the altars, walls and columns, as well as the large aromatic incense coils.

You will also find colorful hanging lanterns here and the walls are lined with ceramic tiles that tell the stories of local legends.

17. Visit Ben Thanh Market, the oldest market in Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City. The market is located on a large square formed by the intersection of Le Loi Boulevard, Ham Nghi Boulevard, Le Lai Street and Tran Hung Dao Boulevard. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. After 6pm, stalls are installed on the main square for a night market.

This is the oldest, largest, liveliest market in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1914, when the French knew this place as the Central Halls. It is topped with a framed roof and the main entrance stands out thanks to its belfry. Inside, you can find everything: meat, fish, vegetables, spices, dried fruits, flowers, clothes, fabrics, hardware…

The market is a great place to buy souvenir. Also there are many small counters where you can eat and drink at a very cheap price, in an authentic Saigon atmosphere.

18. Visit Ho Chi Minh Museum

The Ho Chi Minh Museum was built in 1885, although at that time it was known as the Gia Long Palace and then the Museum of the Revolution.

It is generally said to be the tallest historical building in the city. Here you can learn all about the culture and history of Ho Chi Minh City.

Among the collections on display are ceramics, old maps of the city and wedding costumes belonging to the different ethnic groups of Vietnam.

As you might expect, there are also galleries devoted to the history of the Vietnam War.

• Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM every day
• Admission fee: 30,000 VND

19. Eat a delicious Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City

Banh Mi is probably the most famous of all Vietnamese food besides Pho. A Banh Mi is made from a crispy baguette which is then covered in pâté and garnished with chili peppers and cilantro.

However, many restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City offers many variations of the Banh Mi with vegetarian options as well. There are 2 awesome Banh Mi restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City:

• My Banh Mi: this is our favorite one. They have so many great choices and also offers amazing fresh juices. ( location )
• Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa : expect a long line before you get your hands on one of the best Banh Mi in town. This place is very famous and recommended by most guide books. Indeed, their Banh Mi is absolutely delicious ( location )

20. Admire the Cha Tam Church

Cha Tam Church. also called St. Francis Xavier Church, was built in the 19th century and is painted a beautiful caramel color on the outside.

If you venture into the church itself, you’ll find a plaque that marks the spot where President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu were seized in 1963 as they tried to flee the presidential palace.

In this context, the church is an integral part of Vietnam’s history and worth visiting if you are in the area.

21. Visit the Fine Arts Museum in Ho Chi Minh City

Housed in a remarkable colonial building, the former home of a wealthy Chinese merchant (the very one who built the great market of Cholon), the museum exhibits beautiful sculptures, paintings and various traditional Vietnamese objects.

The 1st and 2nd floors are dedicated to contemporary paintings and pictorial works. The main theme being the Vietnamese struggle against the invaders in diverse art forms: paintings, drawings, etchings, woodcuts, watercolours, various posters, some of which reveal real talents and beautiful pencil strokes! Some sculptures too, old pottery and engraved lacquers.

The 3rd floor presents several remarkable fine arts such as stone sculptures from the Champa kingdom, Buddhist and Hindu sculptures from the Mekong Delta, Oc Eo and post-Oc Eo art. Then, continuing through a dozen rooms, Vietnamese ceramics dating from the 14th to the 20th century, statues dedicated to popular worship, Khmer statues from South Vietnam, objects decorative wooden furniture, including a magnificent chest of drawers adorned with floral motifs.

• Admission fee : 30,000 VND

22. Walk around Nguyen Hue Avenue

The “Champs-Élysées” of Saigon! This is the main avenue in the city and is worth visiting!

In the upper part, around the town hall and the intersection with Boulevard Le Loi, there is the new Union Square shopping center. There are many bars and restaurants along the avenue too. Make sure to check it out when you are in Ho Chi Minh City.

23. Have a drink on one of the many rooftops

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Muse – Cocktail & Tapas Bar (@themuse.miasaigon)

In any city in Vietnam, you will find amazing rooftops. For the best view of the city, make sure to check at least one during your trip.

Here is our recommendations of the best rooftops in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Social Club Rooftop Bars ( location )
• Gin on 8 ( location )
• AIR Saigon ( location )

24. Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is located on Lam Son Street, at the intersection of Dong Khoi Street and Le Loi Boulevard. This is one of the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

It was inaugurated in 1900, with an architecture similar to the Petit Palais in Paris. The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is stunning, especially at when its illuminated at night! It served as an Opera until 1955 and then housed the National Assembly until 1975. Today it has regained its original vocation as an Opera.

25. Walk around Dong Khoi Street

In colonial times this road was called rue Catinat, the name of the flagship of the French fleet which docked there in the 19th century (the boat had been baptized after Catinat, the name of a marshal of Louis XIV).

At that time It was already an upscale street, lined with beautiful boutiques, hotels and cafés with terraces such as La Rotonde and La Taverne Alsacienne (on the site of the Majestic Hotel).

After the partition between the north and the south of the country, in 1954 it became rue Tu Do, “rue de la Liberté”. Then it was the Vietnam War and the American presence which was embodied in a series of bars such as California, Mimi’s Bar, Uncle Sam, Play Boy…

After the fall of Saigon in April 1975, it was renamed Đường Đồng Khởi, meaning “General Uprising Street”. Today, the artery is lined with many chic souvenir shops (lacquers, silks). Going up from the river, there are some well-preserved vestiges of the “time of the French”: the Majestic hotel, at no. 1, the Opera, the Caravelle hotel and the InterContinental hotel, three venerable buildings gathered around the crossroads formed by Dong Khoi Street and Le Loi Boulevard.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN HO CHI MINH CITY/ WHERE TO EAT IN SAIGON?

• Ngon Restaurant (Quan An Ngon in Vietnamese) : This restaurant is located in one of the best locations in Saigon, right next to the Reunification Palace. But it is above all its wealth of Vietnamese recipes and original ways of presenting dishes that attract many customers: fresh spring rolls, noodles from Hue, crabs with black peppers…
• The Deck Saigon restaurant : located by the riverside of Saigon, a 15-minute walk from the city center, this restaurant is a must-try in Ho Chi Minh City. The food is outstanding and the view of the river is exceptional.
• Vietnam House Restaurant Well located and highly recommended, this restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese menus. During your dinner, you will be accompanied by traditional music played by Vietnamese musicians.
• Bun Chả 145 : here you will be served exclusively bun cha (fresh noodles with rolls stuffed with seafood). This is one of our favorite dishes in Vietnam. Here the most authentic and exotic Vietnamese atmosphere awaits you.

Best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City ? Where to stay in Saigon?

The best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City can be found mainly in the city center, surrounded by cultural sites and popular attractions. The unique blend of French colonial architecture and the more oriental style of Vietnam has resulted in some truly magnificent buildings to stay in.

Here is a list of our recommended hotels in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hôtel des Arts Saigon – MGallery – $$$$

This is our favorite hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. We love the overall design and vibe of the hotel. The rooms are super comfortable and the food for breakfast is delicious. Combining Indochina French Style with 21st-century comforts and French-style luxury, this hotel is superb!

On top of that the hotel has its own rooftop with an unbeatable view of the city!

Hotel Caravelle – $$$$

Hotel Caravelle is in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, with an exceptional restaurant, shopping, nightlife, and attractions within walking distance (Saigon Opera House is just opposite the hotel). Opened in 1959 and combining French and Vietnamese architecture, as well as colonial and modern styles, Hotel Caravelle is the first five-star hotel in Saigon.

The Bloom Pham Viet Chanh – $$

For an affordable hotel downtown Ho Chi Minh City and one of the best value for money in the area, we recommend The Bloom Hotel. The location is great, the rooms are really spacious, and breakfast absolutely delicious. This is one of the best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City for this price range!

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City/ How to get around the city?

If you are traveling from Da Nang or from Hanoi, then we highly recommend flying to Ho Chi Minh City. From Da Nang you also have the option of taking a bus or train, however the journey is 16 to 18 hours, whereas with a flight the journey lasts 1.5h. Besides flight prices are really affordable, you can compare the best prices here .

To get around in Ho Chi Minh City, you can simply take a taxi (or GRAB). Also if you stay in the City Center, most sights can be visited on foot.

READ: 16 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN DA NANG

How long to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

3 full days including a day trip to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels would be the ideal time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. If you do not include any day trips then Ho Chi Minh City can be visited in 2 days.

When is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City? Is there a rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City?

December to early May are the best months to visit Ho Chi Minh City as the chances of rain are very low. It is also high season, so hotel prices are higher.

The rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City is from August to November. During the Monsoon period the rain can be quite intense!

In conclusion about the best things to see in Ho Chi Minh City

With its modern buildings, department stores, bustling rooftops, and upscale cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City is far from the typical Southeast Asian metropolis you’d expect.

The “capital” of southern Vietnam, formerly called Saigon, is a good starting point to get a first glimpse of Vietnamese culture. We visited Ho Chi Minh City many times over the years and we are always amazed by the energy of this young and dynamic city. However, if you are visiting Ho Chi Minh City as part of a trip to Vietnam, then count 2-3 days to visit the main sights.

However, Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to visit in Southeast Asia.

For more posts about Vietnam, click here .

Enjoy your time in this wonderful place and this wonderful country!

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15 Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City That You Shouldn’t Miss

Backpacking Ho Chi Minh city is an experience difficult to put into words. This modern southern Vietnamese city is also one of its most popular tourist destinations. Often seen as chaotic, Ho Chi Minh is just a lively, vibrant city that travelers eventually fall in love with.

The city is usually the starting or finishing point for those traversing the length of the country. It can take weeks to explore the gems of southern Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh city makes for a good base.

Trip to sites like Hoi An and Mekong Delta warrants at least a few days of stay. To get to Hoi An, take the short flight to Da Nang, and then go from Da Nang airport to Hoi An by bus .

While the Mekong delta is easily reached by a direct bus in a few hours. 

Ho Chi Minh city offers its visitors a diverse array of attractions – from historical sites to iconic pagodas, and from busy marketplaces to unique cafes. The backpacker crowd is centered around Bui Vien, where budget accommodation and food are found.  

For those of you staying longer, there are interesting excursions to take under 2-3 hours. Three days in Ho Chi Minh city is ideal to see the highlights together with a day trip of your choice.

To help you figure out your Vietnam itinerary , here is a list of top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City and some Vietnam travel tips : 

Table of Contents

Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace is a landmark structure located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh city. During the turbulent years of North and South Vietnam, the palace was occupied by the President of South Vietnam. The fateful day of 30 April 1975 marked the fall of South when a tank of North crashed through its wrought iron gates.

The exterior looks rather plain but the interiors are decorated beautifully as you’d expect from a presidential palace.

Spread over its two floors are parts of the presidential office, such as reception space and meeting rooms decorated in 1960s style. While at the top, you will find entertainment venues such as a nightclub and a theater.

But it’s the basement that excites the visitors the most. There are tunnels connecting various rooms, a bomb shelter, and a large hall housing telecom equipment.

Notre Dame Cathedral 

This beautiful red brick building consisting of two bell towers on either side is designed in a new neo-Romanesque architectural style.

Inside the grand pipe organ, though not operational, steals the show. Also, do not miss to admire the richly painted stained glass windows.

Just opposite the main entrance, you will come across a fine marble statue, it is of Mary. In 2005, the statue was in the news worldwide when people believed that Mary started shedding tears.

The Saigon central post office is right next to the cathedral, and you can combine your visit to include the two.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Ho Chi Minh is dotted with many religious structures, but Jade Emperor Pagoda is the most important of them all. It is a perfect place for those looking for peace and a spiritual experience. 

Though primarily a Taoist temple you will be surprised to see the traces of Buddhism mixed in. As you enter, the smoke of incense in the air adds to the already mystic atmosphere. Inside keep a watchful eye on the intricate décor – the woodwork, and the carvings all are fine examples of skillful craftsmanship. At the center of the altar is the figure of the Jade Emperor, surrounded by numerous other statues from Taoist folklore.

War Remnants Museum

A museum in central Ho Chi Minh, the War remnants museum is one of the most visited attractions of the city. Interestingly, the museum is located in what used to be a US information service building. The museum displays a collection of documents and artifacts related to the Vietnam War, pursuing you to change your perspective.

The exhibitions are spread over two floors, with a collection of anti-war protests and peaceful rallies against the war which took place all over the world.  

Through photographs, military items, and personal memorabilia of war remnants, the museum documents the horror of the Vietnam War and the sufferings that people of the country had to go through. Some of these photographs can be very gruesome and not meant for someone with a faint heart. One of the most horrific of them all is the items depicting the horror of Agent Orange.

Outside on the grounds, you will find a number of military equipment, armored vehicles, tanks, and jets that were used in the war, mainly by the US.

Saigon Opera House  

If you are someone with an interest in local culture, visit Saigon Opera House for an evening full of skillful performances. 

Admire the plush interiors, decorated ceilings, and fabulous acoustics as you enjoy the evening’s performance in this venue of more than five hundred seats.

Enjoy a classical music concert or a ballet performance as you get up close to the artistic side of the city.

But before you visit do check the schedule online at the venue’s website, you can even book your ticket online.

Also, this beautiful french colonial architecture gets brilliantly lit at night, so worth a second look.

Central Post Office  

Who would have thought a place as simple as a post office could be one of the top tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City or for that matter anywhere in the world.

A 19th-century marvel, the Saigon Central Post office stands as a testimony of French Gothic architecture from colonial times. The highlights include a patterned marble floor, grand arches, and an impressive facade.

Not only that but the post office is also richly decorated from the inside, with its display of old paintings and antiques. The post office is still functional and you can even send a postcard back home.

Fine Arts Museum 

Dating back to 1929 and located in a sublime French colonial building is the Museum of Fine Arts.

Spread over three floors the museum collects several Historical artifacts which when put together form a quintessential part of Vietnamese Culture.

The immersive collection of art on the second floor depicts a past that is as recent as fifty years. Here you will find an array of paintings by Vietnamese artists making for a great introduction to Vietnamese art.

On the third floor, you will find a collection of artifacts from numerous archeological sites in Vietnam such as Champa from the 7th century.

Thao Dan Park 

Get away from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh and relax in the green surroundings of Thao Dan Park.

The park is quite well maintained and is often frequented by the locals. Look out for the neat hedges which are meticulously cut into interesting shapes.

Thao dan park gives you the much-needed break from the city’s crowd and heat, merging you with nature filled with chirping birds, fresh cool breeze, and a moment of peace.

Treat Yourself With Delicious Pho  

Pho is the unofficial national dish of Vietnam, available at every nook and corner food joint. Pho is essentially rice noodles with a clear soup, and other ingredients such as various fresh veggies, herbs, and meat are added as per the customer’s choice.

Also, Pho makes for a quick lunch or a great snack in between your long sightseeing walks in Ho Chi Minh city.

If you are concerned with hygiene and do not want to take a chance at one of the street food joints, you can also try four in a well-established restaurant or a fast food chain.  

Ben Thanh Market  

Located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh city is the forever busy market called Ben Thanh. The best part of the market is its authenticity as it is not geared toward the tourists but is a haunt of locals looking for everything from daily essentials to fast fashion to gift items.

While there don’t forget to take your camera along as opportunities to take photos exist aplenty.   

Exploring this enclosed market closely packed with hundreds of stalls will easily take hours away from your day, so be watchful of the time if you also have other plans for the day.

Near the Ben Thanh market is the Ben Thanh street food market, a good place to try authentic Vietnamese dishes while sitting shoulder to shoulder with the locals.  

Relax at a Vietnamese Café  

You will be surprised to know that Vietnam is one of the major producers of coffee, and it also consumes coffee in big quantities. Naturally, the city is dotted with numerous coffee shops. 

Say hello to a trendy cafe of your choice or just sit in a street-side cafe and enjoy a cup of delicious Java. The coffee that you must try includes egg coffee, coconut coffee, and plain vanilla cold coffee. The ubiquitous cold coffee, though simple, taste great. It’s served with condensed milk and cubes of ice.  

Visiting a cafe apartment is a unique Ho Chi Minh experience that would linger on with you for a long. Tastefully designed from the inside these are located in old apartment blocks and provide an interesting twist to the whole cafe experience.

Tracing your way through these apartment blocks and hopping from one cafe to another is a fun experience that you can only have in Ho Chi Minh.

Cu Chi Tunnels  

Located just outside the bounds of the city is an underground maze of narrow tunnels known as Cu Chi tunnels. They played an important role during the Vietnam War when they were used by the rebels to quickly get from one place to another and to hide when attacked.

Strictly not for the people who suffer from claustrophobia, fear of closed spaces. As a traveler, it is possible to see them from the inside and even crawl from one point to another. These passages are so narrow that you would be left wondering how the Vietnamese got used to using these. Needless to say, try not to get lost, you have been warned.

Bitexco Financial Tower  

Bitexco financial tower is one of the tallest buildings in Vietnam. It mainly houses private offices but a few floors are also open to the public. For sweeping views of the city get to the Saigon Skydeck located on the 49th floor of the building. 

At the top, enjoying the views of the city’s skyline, the high-rise buildings, and the numerous boats floating on the meandering xxx river is quite a sight. 

Pham Ngu Lao Street 

A hub of backpackers who throng here for budget stays, cheap food, and a party atmosphere that never ends. Even if you are not staying here it is rewarding just to see what the fuss is all about.

If you want to experience the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh , this place is a must visit!

Come late evening to enjoy the eclectic atmosphere, but be watchful of the drunk people though they are usually harmless, things might take a turn for the worse.

Chinatown  

Every large city has one and so does Ho Chi Minh. Though a smaller version of what you see in any other major Southeast Asian city, it is still an interesting place to visit for a first-timer. 

The neighborhood presents a great opportunity to get up close to the Chinese culture – visit pagodas, shop for unique souvenirs and eat in one of the authentic Chinese restaurants. The best time to visit Chinatown is of course during the Chinese lunar year celebration when the whole area is beautifully decorated.

About the Author

An otherwise regular lad, Vidyut suffers from an advanced staged OCT – ‘obsessive compulsive traveling’. At one corner of his home office, you can always spot a packed backpack, which often gets picked inadvertently and disappears with its owner. He is also the writer of the book  The Himalayan Tsunami  and shares his escapades through his blog  triplyzer.com

Travel Blog:  https://triplyzer.com IG:  https://www.instagram.com/triplyzer/ Pinterest:  https://pinterest.com/vidyutrautela/ FB:  https://www.facebook.com/triplyzer/

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• 10 Best Places To Visit In Ho Chi Minh City For An Impeccable Vietnamese Trip

23 Mar 2023

Ho Chi Minh is the largest city by population in Vietnam. This city was first known as Saigon and prior to annexation by Vietnam it was known as Prey Nokor. This city is a home to 12 million people which make this metropolitan city the most populated city in Vietnam. This city is hot and dynamic and has a lot of history and cultural attractions for your entertainment. The classic and elegant French architecture and sleek skyscrapers along with great French and Chinese cuisine make this place a perfect getaway destination. So, while you’re there, it is utmost important that you tick off all the places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

10 Best Places To Visit In Ho Chi Minh City

These 10 attractions in Ho Chi Minh are a must-visit on your next trip to Vietnam. Don’t believe us? Take  alook at find out what awaits you at each of these places.

• Independence Palace
• Dong Khoi Street
• Cao Dai Temple
• Bitexco Financial Tower
• Saigon Opera House
• Museum of Ho Chi Minh City
• Ho Chi Minh City Zoo
• Con Dao Island
• Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
• Jade Emperor Pagoda

1. Independence Palace

Image Source This place is a paradise for all the history buffs and people who are interested in knowing more about the Vietnam War. Some of the governments meetings and conferences are still held in this palace though this palace is not used that often now- a -day. During the Vietnam War this palace was a home for the president of South Vietnam. As you walk around the palace you can notice the original furniture is still intact and the dragon carpet adds to the royalty of this palace.

Location: Ben Than Quan, Ho Chi Minh City

Suggested Read: 10 Homestays In Vietnam That Redefine Affordable Luxury

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2. Dong Khoi Street

Image Source This place is an area of Saigon which is a combination of France and Vietnam. There are many designer shops and malls like Vincon which makes this street a good place to shop and walk around but this street is also a blend of traditional, new and modern architecture and that is a reason why this street stands out in this city. This street was known as Freedom Street during the Vietnam War and the name Dong Khoi means Total revolution and was named in 1970’s. This street is filled with French colonial buildings and is the heart of city’s commercial life.

Location: Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

3. Cao Dai Temple

Image Source This temple is to the northwest of Ho Chi Minh City just 60 miles away in Tay Ninh and is one of the top places to go in Ho Chi Minh City. This spectacular temple is also known as a great temple or Holy See. This temple includes aspects from Buddhism, Catholicism, Taoism and Confucianism. The structure of the temple depicts the various religions and traditions in a unique architectural way.

Suggested Read: The Upright Vietnam Golden Bridge Is Leaving Its Travelers In Downright Awe

4. Bitexco Financial Tower

Image Source This financial tower which looks like a lotus bulb is the tallest skyscraper of this city. This tower is swamped by offices and the attraction of this tower is the height and the modern architecture of this skyscraper. This 262m high building also looks like a CD rack with a tambourine added to it and the tambourine here is the Saigon Sky deck which is the perfect place to view the city in this tower. This 68 storey tower is situated in the heart of the city’s financial center and is known for its innovation and design

Location: 36 Ho Tung Mau

5. Saigon Opera House

Image Source This popular destination was built in 1897 and is also known as municipal theatre as several performances and shows take place in this theatre. This place has a French essence added to it as there are many dance performances, ballet dances and acrobatics that are performed here. The traditional Vietnamese dance using the bamboo is also performed here and the AO show is the most popular one. Large numbers of people attend these events as they are a part of the Vietnam culture.

Location: 7 Lam Sons Sq., Ho Chi Minh City

Suggested Read: 14 Festivals In Vietnam

6. Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Image Source Built in 1863, this museum is also known as the Dragon House, and is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam . This former custom house was built by French authorities and has some of the Ho Chi Minh’s personal belongings stored in this museum like his clothing, sandals, and spectacles. It is also home to a great collection of miniatures and artifacts which they have collected nationally and internationally. The description of various artifacts is also written in English and France so that visitors can easily understand the history behind every monument.

Location: 65 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

7. Ho Chi Minh City Zoo

Image Source This is the 8th oldest zoo and the largest zoo & garden in Vietnam. This zoo is also home to more than 100 mammals, reptiles, and birds. Apart from this, the botanical garden has some rare ornamental plants and orchids which are so beautiful, you’d want to keep capturing them. This place undoubtedly reflects a great history and culture of Vietnam. It also has a monument of WW II for the visitors to see.

Location: 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Suggested Read: 7 Temples In Vietnam That Are An Epitome Of Art & Architecture!

8. Con Dao Island

This island is in the southeast region of Vietnam. This island is the most beautiful island around this city and the least developed place. Surrounded by all stunning natural aspects that make this place even more beautiful this island also has some ancient French colonial buildings on the seafront. Usual island activities like hiking, swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, surfing and more are available here and the future of this island is a tropical paradise.

9. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Image Source This pagoda ranges about 6000 square meters and is definitely a place every tourist should visit. Inherited by the Vietnamese engineering with cement this is a main pagoda in Vietnam. This Buddhist focus was fabricated by two Vietnamese ministers in South Vietnam. This structure was built in order to spread Buddhism in this area and the architecture of this pagoda is magnificent.

Location: 339 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường 14, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Suggested Read: Vietnam Shopping: 21 Places For Shopaholics Fancying An Astounding Experience

10. Jade Emperor Pagoda

Image Source This pagoda was built in the name of a great God of Taoist – Jade Emperor or the king of heaven. This temple has the most amazing atmospheric vibe and it was built in 1909. The statues on the temple are from both Buddhist and Taoist lore and the interior of the temple consists of some exquisite wood carvings. Inside the temple there are two great statues of warriors that defeated the green dragon and one that defeated the white tiger. There is a small pond outside the temples which has tiny turtles whose shells are inscribed with inscriptions.

Location: 73 Đường Mai Thị Lựu VN, 73 Đường Mai Thị Lựu, Quận 1, Vietnam

Further Read: Exciting Things To Do On A 6 Days Family Trip To Vietnam

These are some important and beautiful things to see in Ho Chi Minh City which are worth your visit and will make your trip to Vietnam even more memorable! Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City

What are the top attractions to visit in Ho Chi Minh City?

If you are planning to visit Ho Chi Minh City, some of the recommended attractions are: the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Bitexco Financial Tower, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, and the Independence Palace.

What are the most popular things to do in Ho Chi Minh City with children?

If you are planning to explore Ho Chi Minh City with your children, some of the places we recommend visiting are Water Puppet Theatres in Ho Chi Minh, Artinus 3D Art Museum Saigon, Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens and the Suoi Tien Cultural Amusement Park.

What are the top sightseeing places in Ho Chi Minh city?

If you are planning a sightseeing tour of Ho Chi Minh City, some of the places we recommend are War Remnants Museum, Jade Emperor Pagoda, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

How many days should you spend in Ho Chi Minh?

With a plethora of interesting attractions and adventures, if you are planning a short trip you can explore the entire city in 3-4 days or 6-7 for a long, more immersive experience.

How much money do I need for 3 weeks in Vietnam?

If you are planning a 3-week trip, on average it will cost you somewhere around INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000 for the entire journey including food, stay and visa.

What is the best month to visit Ho Chi Minh?

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City will be between December and March as the temperatures are ideal and the heat of the summer hasn’t kicked into effect until April.

How long is the train ride from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi?

The train ride can take somewhere from 30 to 32 hours and will cost you INR 3,000.

What is special about Ho Chi Minh City?

Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the commercial and cultural centre of Vietnam brimming with art, people, and an impeccable food scene to give you a glimpse of the country.

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Top 20+ famous places in Ho Chi Minh City to visit for 2023

Trang Bạn Tìm Kiếm Không Tồn Tại Có thể URL bị hỏng hoặc Admin đã xoá bỏ

• See & Do

With a combination of the beauty of nature, unique architecture, outstanding culture and diverse cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam. Visitors will be able to enjoy unique experiences and discover new things in this city. Now, let's go through 20 famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City that tourists should visit, even just once.

1. Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is one of the attractive destinations that tourist must visit when you come to Ho Chi Minh City. With more than 3000 stalls, Ben Thanh market offers a rich variety of items from clothes, shoes, bags to souvenirs and specialty foods. You can find beautiful traditional ao dai or unique handmade items. In addition, Ben Thanh Market is also famous for street foods such as banh xeo, banh cuon, or Nam Vang noodle soup. This is a great place to explore the culture and cuisine of Saigon people.

- Address: Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

- Ticket price: Free

See more Explore Ben Thanh Market - An attractive destination for your trip to Ho Chi Minh city

2. Tao Dan Park

With a large area of 100.000m2 and more than 1000 trees, Tao Dan Park is the ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This park has many amenities such as children's playground, outdoor exercise area and jogging track around the fish pond. You can take a walk in the peaceful space of the park, enjoy the fresh air and the view . If you want to find a place to relax after stressful working days, Tao Dan Park is the perfect choice.

- Opening hours: 7am - 10pm

- Reference ticket price: Free

See more Tao Dan Park - An ideal place to relax in the crowded city

3. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the symbol of Ho Chi Minh City and one of the city's most famous architectural works. With its majestic architecture and beautiful artistic windows, this church is a destination that attracts many visitors every year. Inside, you can admire elaborate murals and wooden statues, creating a dignified religious space. Notre Dame Cathedral is also an important historical site, representing the cultural and religious cohesion of the city.

- Address: 01 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 5:30 am - 5:00 pm (You should avoid mass schedule to be able to visit the whole church.)

Reference ticket price: Free

4. Ho Chi Minh City Museum

With modern architecture and creativity in design, Ho Chi Minh City Museum is not only a place to display historical artifacts but also a space connecting generations, helping visitors to understand clearly. about the journey of struggle and development of the city and the people of Vietnam.

 Here, visitors have the opportunity to discover key moments in history, see unique works of art, and participate in exciting educational activities. Whether you are a local or an international visitor, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum is a great place to experience Vietnam's rich cultural and historical diversity.

- Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Business hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 8:00am - 12:00pm, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Monday and Friday: 8am - 12pm

- Reference ticket price:

40,000 VND for international visitors

Vietnamese guests are free

5. Independence Palace

Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, was inaugurated on July 1, 1962, based on the design by architect Ngo Viet Thu. This site preserves significant milestones of the nation during the war to protect the country in the previous century, particularly the event marking the end of the war in the South and the reunification of the country on April 30, 1975. By 1976, Independence Palace was renamed the Reunification Hall.

Today, when visiting Independence Palace to delve into more intriguing historical details, tourists can explore the exhibition area showcasing information and materials about Norodom Palace (1868) first. Then, they can move on to the section providing information about the main building of Independence Palace (1966) for a more comprehensive journey. Inside the palace, there are souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes to cater to the needs of visitors.

• Independence Palace is located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Operating hours (Monday to Sunday): 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
• Website: www.dinhdoclap.gov.vn.

6. Park 30/4

30/4 Park is a large green space located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. With an area of more than 50 hectares, this park is a favorite place for locals and tourists to come to enjoy the open space and relax. It is also considered the green "lungs" of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, there are many amenities such as children's play area, football field, walking path. This is also the place to organize music events, festivals and cultural activities that attract a large number of participants.

- Address: Le Duan Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day

7. Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden

 Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden is an interesting destination for those who love animals and wildlife. With an area of more than 20 hectares, this zoo contains hundreds of animals from all over the world. You can see many kind of birds, reptiles, insects and other mammals here. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden also features educational programs and special performances, giving visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the animals. In addition, the zoo also has green areas, lakes and children's play areas, creating a perfect relaxing space for the whole family.

- Address: No. 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:00am - 5:30pm

- Reference ticket price: 40,000 VND - 60,000 VND

8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the famous places of Ho Chi Minh City, attracting tourists and locals. With a large space, this pedestrian street is decorated with a series of trees, decorative lights and unique sculptures. This is where many fun activities, art performances and street art exhibitions take place. You can participate in outdoor activities, watch special performances and enjoy special dishes at street stalls and restaurants.

- Address: 75 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Explore more at Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Beauty, Cuisine, and Experience in Ho Chi Minh City

9. City Opera House

The City Opera House is a great and famous architectural work of Ho Chi Minh City. With grandiose and luxurious architecture, this theater is the place to host art performances, musicals and high-class opera. Visitors can enjoy famous plays, wonderful music and unique dance performances. It’s a wonderful place for those who love arts and culture of Vietnam.

- Address: 07 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

• From Monday to Friday: 9am - 16h30
• Saturday, Sunday: 9am - 12pm

- Ticket price for the show: About 700,000 VND/ticket depending on the show

10. Bui Vien street

Bui Vien street is a very popular destination for young people as well as international tourists when coming to Ho Chi Minh City, which is considered the "best entertainment in Saigon for foreigner" street. This area is a hub for numerous bars, restaurants,  where visitors can enjoy new cuisine, participate in music performances, fun games, or relax. Visitors should come here to fully enjoy the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the City at night.

- Address: Bui Vien – Pham Ngu Lao – De Tham, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Saturday, Sunday: 19h - 2am the next day.

Explore more Saigon's Western Quarter - Lively with a street that never sleeps

11. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels, located near Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, stand as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the war years. These intricate underground networks served as a crucial lifeline for the Viet Cong fighters, providing shelter, communication routes, and supply pathways. Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a unique opportunity to delve into history and gain insight into the challenges and strategies employed during the Vietnam War. The tunnels remain a powerful reminder of the past, showcasing the determination and resourcefulness of those who once inhabited them.

 Visitors to Cu Chi tunnels will have the opportunity to experience unique activities related to life in the tunnels. Activities include exploring the tunnels, participating in army games, practicing shooting, experiencing wartime food with the people of Cu Chi.

- Address: Phu Hiep, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7am - 5pm

- Reference ticket price: 35,000 VND

Explore more at Explore Cu Chi Tunnels - "The Underground City" of Vietnam

12. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

Another place to visit for tourists when coming to Ho Chi Minh is Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts.  Established in 1975, this museum is not only a place to visit and learn, but also a source of inspiration for art lovers, from classical works to creative artistic ideas.

Entering the Museum of Fine Arts, you will be drawn into a diverse world of art, from traditional murals to sophisticated modern works. The exhibition here offers a comprehensive view of the development of Vietnamese and international art, along with unique trends and styles.

- Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 8am - 5pm

- Reference ticket price: 15,000 VND - 30,000 VND (Free: For children under 6 years old and people over 60 years old)

13. Crescent Lake

 Located in the center of the city, Crescent Lake is a large lake in Ho Chi Minh City. The special feature of this lake is the peaceful and airy space it brings. Visitors can enjoy the fresh lake scenery, enjoy the view and relax in the hustle and bustle of the city life. In addition, at Crescent Lake, there are many activities such as boating, fishing and walking around the lake.

- Address: Phu My Hung New Urban Area, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City

Explore more at Explore the Starlight Bridge Park - Crescent Moon Lake

14. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a famous religious architecture located in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the 1960s, this temple is an interesting destination to visit and learn about Buddhism. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is famous for its large and beautiful architecture, built in the traditional Vietnamese style. Visitors can visit the towers, shrines and Buddha statues at this temple to understand more about the history and Buddhism.

- Address: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7am - 9pm

Explore more at Vinh Nghiem Pagoda - Elegance and Spirituality in Ho Chi Minh City

15. Ho Chi Minh City Post Office

Ho Chi Minh City Post Office, also known as Saigon Central Post Office, is a famous architectural work and one of the symbols of the city. The architecture combines European style with Indochinese architectural elements, creating a unique and attractive appearance.

Inside, Ho Chi Minh City Post Office is luxuriously and beautifully designed. The corridor leading to the post office is decorated with beautiful paintings and sculptures. Alternatively, visitors can visit the Vietnam Post Office to learn more about Vietnam's postal and telecommunications history.

For stamp lovers, Ho Chi Minh City Post Office is a great destination to explore and shop. There are many special postage stamps and folding stamps that will bring you unique and interesting experiences.

- Address: 02 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Explore more at A Guide to Sai Gon Central Post Office: History and Highlights

16. Van Thanh tourist park

Van Thanh tourist area is a large garden located in Binh Thanh district, HCMC. This is an ideal place to hang out and organize a weekend picnic. The garden has a green space, decorated with plants and lakes. Visitors can walk in the garden, participate in sports activities such as badminton, football, and enjoy snacks at the surrounding street stalls.

- Address: 48/10 Dien Bien Phu Street, Ward 22, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 10am - 10pm

- Reference ticket price: Free entrance (Visitors only pay for additional services)

See more at Van Thanh Tourist Area - A charming natural oasis in the heart of Saigon

17. Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church is a famous religious architecture located in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1876, this church is famous for its unique pink color, creating a special beauty. Visitors can take a tour inside the church to admire its historic architecture. This is also the place to organize important religious ceremonies every year, attracting a lot of tourists to visit and take pictures for free.

- Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00am - 11:30am, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

See more Tan Dinh Church - The “pink” church in the heart of Saigon

18. Suoi Tien tourist area

Suoi Tien tourist area is a large amusement park located in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City. It has interesting games and beautiful views, attracting a lot of visitors every year. Activities at Suoi Tien tourist area include boating, water skiing, walking around the landscape as well as seeing many lovely animals such as deer, elephants, zebras, hippos... Join adventure games. Visitors can enjoy fun and relaxing moments with family and friends here.

- Address: 120 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, City, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

- Entrance ticket price: 80.00 VND - 150,000 VND

19. Little Tokyo 

The Japanese Quarter, also known as Little Tokyo, is an area with many Japanese restaurants, cafes and shops in Ho Chi Minh City. This is a destination that offers a special Japanese cultural space, where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese food, shop for Japanese products and costumes, and experience the unique culture of Japan right away. in Viet Nam.

- Address: alley No. 15B Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Reference ticket price: Free (Visitors only pay when using the service)

Explore more at Little Japan Town - Beautiful Japanese Street 'Mesmerizing' Attracts the Youth

20. Starlight Bridge Park

Starlight Bridge Park is a park with a beautiful light bridge located in District 7, HCMC. Designed in a modern and romantic style, Starlight Bridge Park creates a relaxing and romantic space for residents and visitors. The highlight of this park is the bridge decorated with thousands of LED lights, creating a shimmering and fanciful light effect at night.

Visitors can take a walk on the bridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery under the lake bed in a very romantic atmosphere. There are many sitting spots and picnic areas around the park, allowing visitors to rest and enjoy the space.

In addition, Starlight Bridge Park also organizes entertainment activities such as music performances, art exhibitions and outdoor concerts. This is a popular location for weddings, photography, and important anniversaries.

- Opening hours: Open all day (Visitors should arrive at 5:30pm is the best time)

See more at Explore the Starlight Bridge Park - Crescent Moon Lake

With the diversity and vibrancy of these locations, Ho Chi Minh City is always a hot spot suitable for everyone, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors.

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Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh

• Ho Chi Minh
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places in Ho Chi Minh City

Here is the best places to visit in ho chi minh city:, cu chi tunnels.

Top Experiences To Do in Cu Chi Tunnels

Ben Thanh Market

War Remnants Museum

Notre Dame Cathedral

Saigon Central Post Office

Bitexco Financial Tower

Suối Tiên Theme Park

Hồ Chí Minh City Museum

Thien Hau Temple

Reunification Palace

Vietnam History Museum

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Dong Khoi Street

Giac Lam Pagoda

Pham Ngu Lao Street

Saigon River

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Mariamman Hindu Temple

Saigon Zoo And Botanical Gardens

Museum Of Fine Arts

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Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a gem of Ho Chi Minh City and a globally recognised biosphere reserve by UNESCO. This forest is a top tourist attraction as well as a research centre for scientists to study the wide range of flora and fauna.

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15 Incredible Weekend Getaways from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon and HCMC) is a vibrant destination to visit for a day or 3 days . As the most populated city in South Vietnam , you can’t go wrong with exploring the variety of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City from restaurants, cafes, nightlife activities , and fun attractions to visit . If you stay in Ho Chi Minh for 5+ days or even live here, it’s refreshing to leave the city for a weekend trip. 

With the convenient transportation options and within a few hours, you could be relaxing on the beach, enjoying paradise on an island , exploring nature and waterfalls , hiking , or wandering through an off-the-beaten-path destination . 

Here are the top 15 places to visit for weekend getaways from Ho Chi Minh City. The list is organized by distance with the starting location in Ben Thanh Market in District 1. We’ve visited most of these destinations as we’ve lived here for over 3 years so you’ll get insider tips on what to do at these locations and how to get there . Some destinations require a short plane ride. 

It’s recommended to stay a minimum of 3+ days at each of these destinations to explore the location’s attractions, yet you can also stay for 2 days if pressed for time. 

If you don’t have the time to spend the weekend in another area of Vietnam, check out some of these Ho Chi Minh City day trips instead. You can still have a new experience with a mini escape from the city. 

Now, let’s start planning a short Ho Chi Minh City weekend break!

Click on the links to jump to certain areas of this post:

• Tips on Planning a Weekend Trip from HCMC
• Map of the Places to Visit

Weekend Destinations to South Vietnam

Weekend destinations to central vietnam, weekend destinations to north vietnam, read more: top reasons to visit vietnam .

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

How to Plan Weekend Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

A weekend is going to fly by quickly! Here are some tips on things to consider when planning your weekend break and how to maximize your weekend. 

• Think about how you’ll travel to your destination. Your mode of transportation will determine when you’ll need to leave HCMC. If you’re visiting other areas of Vietnam such as North or Central Vietnam, then you’ll need to take a short domestic flight. Otherwise, you can consider hiring a driver or taking an overnight train or bus, so you can potentially sleep in the middle of the night. Check out our Vietnam transportation guide here. 
• Take a paid time off day (PTO) on Monday or Friday. Then, you can have a full 3-days for travels and sightseeing. 
• Or, leave late Friday or early Saturday. If you can’t take an extra day off and only have two days for the trip, an option could be to leave Ho Chi Minh City around 11:00pm on Friday or after midnight on Saturday. This would be helpful for the overnight bus and trains. 
• Determine the transportation once you arrive at your destination . You’ll most likely use a combination of Grab ride-hailing (if available), taxis, or motorbikes. Don’t forget to download important Vietnam travel apps .
• Pre-plan the activities that you’ll do . We’re planners so we like to have some ideas on what to do once we arrive at the destination. This will lessen the stress levels. While you don’t need to have a full schedule planned, at least have 1-2 activities that you want to see per day. 
• Have travel insurance. You never know what may happen during your weekend trip, such as needing medical attention. Don’t forget to bring any documentation with you.
• Relax and have fun! Two or three days for a short weekend break from Ho Chi Minh City should be your time to destress and have new experiences. Enjoy your time away!

Map of Places to Visit on Weekends from Ho Chi Minh

Click on the map to see a larger view of the places to visit for a weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City. Credit: Map data: Google

South Vietnam has some of the best places to visit for 2-3 days and some places aren’t too far from Ho Chi Minh. Whether you’re looking for the beaches or the mountains, feel free to choose any of these short getaways.

1. Vung Tau

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 86-102 kilometers (53-63 miles)

Vung Tau ( Vũng Tàu in Vietnamese) is a popular weekend getaway from Ho Chi Minh City. It’s the closest place to relax on the beaches for days. Some of the popular beaches include Bai Sau Beach (Back Beach) and Bai Dau Beach (Mulberry Beach). Feel free to go beach hopping by renting a motorbike .

Other attractions to visit are the Big and Little Mountain. Big Mountain is the iconic mountain that you’ll see while riding the ferry from Ho Chi Minh. You can go on an adventurous hike up Big Mountain . Also, you can take the cable car to the peak of the mountain which has the Ho May Park theme park and hotel . There are some incredible views of Vung Tau from the summit.

The Little Mountain has several attractions to visit such as the Statue of Christ. It’s a slightly shorter version of the Rio de Janeiro version. There is also a lighthouse on Little Mountain which requires a short hike from the statue. 

You can also take a slight detour and hike Dinh Mountain in Ba Ria-Vung Tau area.

If you prefer a tour option for this Vung Tau 2-day trip, check out this option with departure from HCMC.

How to Get to Vung Tau from HCMC: The most convenient way is to hire a driver or take a limousine van to go from Ho Chi Minh to Vung Tau. You can also ride a motorbike there from Ho Chi Minh. Expect to take 2-2.5 hours one-way. 

Vung Tau is a fantastic weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City to explore sights and beaches. Photo credit: AlexGukBO via Depositphotos.com

2. Ho Tram 

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 108 kilometers (67 miles)

Want to experience a gorgeous beach area that is only a couple of hours away from Ho Chi Minh City? Head to Ho Tram ( Hồ Tràm )! This area is an hour away from Vung Tau, so you could combine both places for a weekend trip. 

This small beach town is popular as a weekend getaway due to the numerous beautiful resorts and boutique accommodations along the oceanfront . You can hang out along the beach and just relax for a few days. 

Popular resorts include Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort , Ho Tram Beach Boutique Resort , and Carmelina Beach Resort . Minera Hot Springs is nearby these resort places and is recommended to relax at the hot springs. 

How to Get to Ho Tram from HCMC: Many of the boutique resorts offer transportation. Otherwise, you can hire a limousine van or ride a motorbike to get there. Expect to take 2 hours one-way to get there. 

3. Mekong Delta 

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City:  85 kilometers (53 miles) to Ben Tre, 200-220 kilometers (124-137 miles) to Can Tho

The Mekong Delta is the perfect weekend travel destination from Ho Chi Minh City. Since the Mekong Delta stretches over 15,600 square miles, there are many areas to choose from. Head to Ben Tre, Long An, Soc Trang, Can Tho, My Tho, An Giang , and other provinces. It’s an opportunity to see a different lifestyle while many locals rely on the Mekong River for transportation and water for making products. 

Book a fun multi-day Mekong Delta tours here:

3 Days Tour of Mekong Delta

Visit My Tho, Can Tho, and Ben Tre in 2 Days

Cycle through Mekong Delta in 2 Days

Overnight trip to Ben Tre

While Ben Tre is a popular day trip from HCMC, we recommend Can Tho for a long weekend trip . As the third-largest city in Vietnam, it doesn’t feel as crowded or frenetic as Ho Chi Minh City. 

Can Tho ( Cần Thơ ) is famous for the Cai Rang Floating Market where you get the chance to ride a sampan boat to see fruits and vegetables sold on boats . During the tour, you stop by a rice noodle factory and coconut candy shop and may eat a hot bowl of hu tieu ( hủ tiếu ) noodle soup on the boat! 

On Can Tho mainland, there are also many temples and pagodas to visit and night markets to try street food. We love the grilled rice paper ( bánh tráng nướng ) snack.

Check out our Can Tho guide on helpful travel tips. 

While you can visit Can Tho on your own (which is what we did and highly recommend), you may consider taking one of these Can Tho tours.

2 Days Mekong Delta and Can Tho Tour

Private Cai Rang Floating Market Tour

Private Can Tho Motorbike Countryside Tour

How to Get to Can Tho from HCMC: Take a 3-4 hour sleeper bus to Can Tho and take a taxi to the main Can Tho area. Motorbiking is also another way to get there but it’ll be a long ride. 

Visit the active Cai Rang Floating Market when visiting Can Tho on a weekend.

4. Cat Tien National Park

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City : 150-180 kilometers (93-112 miles)

Want to go on nature hikes and spend some time outdoors ? Cat Tien National Park ( Vườn Quốc Gia Cát Tiên ) is the best place for you! It’s an opportunity to explore the outdoors with short hikes, hug a tree, see wildlife, and enjoy the greenery and trees. You’ll love the fresh air here!

Top attractions include wandering around the forest area to see the tall Tung Trees and the Uncle Dong Tree, walking through the Botanic Garden, and seeing animals roaming around during the night safari. A unique way to experience the park is to stay overnight at the park’s campgrounds. 

If you want to go on any special tours such as seeing wild gibbons at sunrise, hiking to Crocodile Lake, or visiting the Ta Lai ethnic village by boat, ask your accommodations to arrange. 

Check out what to do in Cat Tien National Park in 2 days here. 

Otherwise, consider taking this 2 days National Park tour which includes round-trip transportation to/from Ho Chi Minh.  

How to Get to Cat Tien National Park from HCMC: Take a 5+ hour small bus from Mien Dong Bus Station in Binh Thanh District to Cat Tien National Park. You can also take a sleeper bus from Futa Bus or Thanh Buoi to a stopping point in Dong Nai and then take a taxi to the National Park. You can also drive a motorbike but it’ll be a long ride. 

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 200 kilometers (124 miles)

Bao Loc ( Bảo Lộc ) is not on the typical weekend excursion from Ho Chi Minh City, yet it’s a small city in the Central Highlands. This hidden gem of an area is well-known for the tea so the iced tea that you recently drank is most likely from here. It’s a pretty area since the hillside is covered with tea plantations. 

Bao Loc’s local attractions are outside of the city center so you’ll need to have some form of transportation to travel. Some fun things to do in Bao Loc include visiting Dambri Tourist Area to see Dambri Waterfalls, hang out at Dambri’s theme park, and visit the Linh Quy Phap Ap Pagoda to see the sunrise. 

If you have extra time, visit the neighboring city, Dalat. More information is below. Or you can do a quick detour to Bao Loc on your way back from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh.

How to Get to Bao Loc from HCMC: It’s recommended to hire a driver since it can take 4+ hours one-way to get to Bao Loc. Sleeper buses and limousine buses are also available and stop by Bao Loc. 

Visit Dambri Waterfall during your weekend excursion to Bao Loc.

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 206 kilometers (128 miles)

Visiting Mui Ne ( Mũi Né ) is an easy escape from Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the city of Phan Thiet ( Phan Thiết ), Mui Ne is a small beach town where you can relax or go on adventures . There are tons of resorts along the oceanside to hang out at the private beaches and get some sunshine. Or, you can learn how to kitesurf as the winds are consistent here. 

The popular and touristy thing to do in Mui Ne is to take a Jeep tour and visit the sand dunes. Head to the white dunes and red dunes where you can see the sunrise or sunset, walk through a “fairy stream” and see a small waterfall, and see the hustle and bustle of a fishing village (It’s active in the morning).  Book a Jeep Tour here.

Since Mui Ne receives seafood every day, head to one of the seafood restaurants along the oceanside and enjoy the daily catch of fish and shellfish. 

If you want to escape Mui Ne to go on a hike, check out Ta Cu Mountain . It’s only one hour away from Mui Ne. Plus, you can see the largest reclining Buddha statue in Southeast Asia!

How to Get to Mui Ne from HCMC: Take either a train ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet and then take a 30-minute taxi to Mui Ne, or a 5-hour sleeper bus.  

7. Con Dao Islands

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 236 kilometers (147 miles)

Con Dao Islands ( Côn Đảo ) is our little secret as a weekend destination away from Ho Chi Minh. The largest island is Con Son and is surrounded by 15 smaller islands along the archipelago. Con Son is super quiet and not touristy compared to the big sister island, Phu Quoc. 

One of the best things to do in Con Dao is to visit the clean beaches and relax. After visiting beaches and various islands in Vietnam, this island has the best beaches that we’ve seen . The sands are clean and the ocean water is bright turquoise. A splurging experience is to stay overnight at the fancy resort, Six Senses , and enjoy the private clean beaches and spa amenities. 

A unique experience is to learn about the history of the island as it was a former prison for 113 years. Explore the prison sites, see the “tiger cases” for yourself, and visit the museum for more details. It’s a humbling experience to see the sites yet provides more learnings about what the country went through during the dark times.

How to Get to Con Dao Islands from HCMC: The fastest way is to take a 1-hour domestic flight to Con Dao Airport on Con Son Island (airport code: VCS). Otherwise, you can take a 4+ hour one-way ferry from Vung Tau . 

Con Dao has dreamy beaches to explore on your next visit.

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 300-370 kilometers (186-230 miles)

Dalat ( Đà Lạt ), located in the Central Highlands, is one of our favorite places to visit in Vietnam. Some people may say that the city is boring, yet we love the vibe. 

With the cooler weather and tons of outdoor adventures, this area is great for adventurer travelers . Head to some of the most beautiful waterfalls to visit in Asia , such as Elephant Waterfall, Prenn Waterfall, Pongour Waterfall, Tam Tham Waterfa l l , and more. Check out this waterfall tour option . You can even go canyoning from Datanla Waterfall !

Hikers will enjoy the challenge of cycling and hiking Langbiang Mountain . An easier way is to take the Jeep up to the summit.

Dalat is known to produce fresh fruits and vegetables so stop by the Night Market area to buy some or go on a gardens day tour . Also, you can go cafe hopping to try as many coffee shops here.

You can also wander around to see the French-inspired architecture. Or visit the quirky Crazy House for an avant-garde look. 

Read our Dalat 3 days itinerary for more travel tips .

How to Get to Dalat from HCMC: The fastest way is to take a 1-hour domestic flight to Dalat Airport (airport code: DLI) and take a bus or private car to Dalat City. The cheaper option is to take a 6-hour overnight sleeper bus. 

9. Phu Quoc Island

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 400 kilometers (249 miles)

Two to three days on Phu Quoc Island ( Phú Quốc ) is a good amount of time for those who want to hang out on the beaches or resorts and do some sightseeing . 

Some of the unique places to visit on Phu Quoc Island include visiting a pepper farm, see how fish sauce is made, go snorkeling off several islands, and take Vietnam’s longest cable car to Hon Thom Island. Phu Quoc has a museum that describes the island’s prison history during the 1950s. 

The main city area has a night market to try crepes, rolled ice cream, snacks, and street food. Otherwise, you can eat fresh seafood and hot noodle soup with thicker noodles ( bánh canh ) on the island. 

Read how to spend 2 days on Phu Quoc Island here. 

How to Get to Phu Quoc from HCMC: Take a 1-hour domestic flight to Phu Quoc International Airport (airport code: PQC) and take a taxi to your accommodation. 

Phu Quoc has some incredible snorkeling adventures to do on your weekend trip here.

10. Nha Trang

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 420-460 kilometers (261-285 miles)

Nha Trang is one place that we’ve been to a few times for weekend trips. It’s a beach town with over 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) of beaches and a popular spot for Chinese and Russian tourists. If you just want to hang out at the beach for the day, rent a lawn chair and veg out at the easy to access and most popular beach, Nha Trang Beach. 

Or, head to the Hon Tam Island for a more private-island vibe and also has beaches and water activities. It’s a short boat ride away from the mainland. 

For more relaxation activities, visit a mud bath . Nha Trang is popular for mud baths and hot mineral springs. The popular choices are – 100 Egg , Thap Ba Hot Spring , and I-Resort. We suggest I-Resort as it’s a beautiful place. If you can splurge, get a private bungalow so you can enjoy privacy. Your skin will be super soft and silky after the experience! 

If you want to visit a theme park, head to VinWonders Nha Trang . It’s a fun place for children and families to see animals, go on children-friendly rides, wander through gorgeous gardens, and also swim in the water park (included in admission). 

Check out our 3 days Nha Trang itinerary here. 

How to Get to Nha Trang from HCMC: Take a 9-hour overnight train to Nha Trang or a 1 hour 15 minutes flight to Cam Ranh Airport (airport code: CXR) and take a bus or taxi to Nha Trang City.

Central Vietnam is an ideal spot to spend a couple of days exploring the landscape, historical landmarks, and beaches. 

11. Quy Nhon

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 630 kilometers (391 miles)

Quy Nhon ( Quy Nhơn/Qui Nhơn) is another coastal town that is often overlooked on a Vietnam itinerary. This city has plenty of exciting attractions to visit and explore for a few days. 

A trip to Quy Nhon would not be complete without visiting the accessible Quy Nhon Beach. Head there early morning to see the sunrise and watch locals exercise or in the afternoon and see everyone play in the ocean. 

A cleaner beach area is Ky Co which you can get to by motorbike or go on a day tour which also includes a snorkeling session. The waters are so blue and clear here!

One of the coolest things to do in Quy Nhon is to check out the historic Cham towers . These towers were built by the Cham people in the 2nd to 15th century. The architecture is similar to what you would see in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat . Twin Towers is in the center of town while the Banh It Tower requires a motorbike ride outside of the main city. 

Quy Nhon also has some cute cafes and shops to hang out and reprieve yourself from the humidity. 

How to Get to Quy Nhon from HCMC: Take a 1 hour 10 minutes domestic flight to Phu Cat Airport (airport code: UIH) and take a 1-hour taxi to go to the main Quy Nhon area. 

Check out the Twin Towers when visiting Quy Nhon.

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 950 kilometers (590 miles)

Danang ( Đà Nẵng ) is worth the visit for a weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh City. As a popular destination in Central Vietnam and the fifth-largest city in the country, visitors and locals head to this city to relax on the beaches and soak in the sunshine . Danang has an impressive 35 kilometers (11.2 miles) of beaches so head to either My Khe or Non Nuoc to start your relaxation.  

For those who prefer the mountains, there are plenty of beautiful mountain ranges . See the incredible views from Son Tra Peninsula’s Linh Ung Pagoda. Or walk up Marble Mountain to see a panoramic view of the area and also the other four mountains. Each of the mountains is named after the elements – water, metal, earth, fire, and wood. 

A fun escape is to check out the theme parks such as Ba Na Hills to see the photogenic Golden Hands Bridge or Danang Wonders for thrill rides. They’re children-friendly too!

If you have extra time, spend the day or half-day at Hoi An ( Hội An ). It’s only 30-40 minutes south of Danang. Recognized as one of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage sites , it’s a popular getaway spot to explore the Ancient Old Town, wander through the cobblestone roads, and see the lanterns light up in the evenings. 

Read what to do in Danang in 3 days here. 

How to Get to Danang from HCMC: Take a 1 hour 20 minutes domestic flight to Danang (airport code: DAD). It’ll be the fastest way to get there. 

13. Phong Nha

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 1,250 kilometers (777 miles)

Need to go on an outdoor adventure? Head to Phong Nha right now! It’s home to the Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park which has over 500+ limestone caves to explore . 

The two must-visit caves are Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave as they’re impressive in size and have cool stalactites and stalagmites. Phong Nha Cave is easy to get to as you take a boat ride from the center of town. Paradise Cave is located in the National Park loop so a motorbike or a tour is required to get here. 

A unique opportunity is to spend half a day to a full day cycling or motorbiking through the rural area of Bong Lai Valley . It’s a quiet area and has mostly farmlands, yet, stop by the original Pub with Cold Beer for some delicious food (with really large portions!) and drinks. 

If you have more time, you can extend a trip to visit Hang En Cave , the third-largest cave in the world. Or go big and see the Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave. You’ll want to return to Phong Nha to go on more adventures!

Check out this Phong Nha itinerary for more ideas. 

How to Get to Phong Nha from HCMC: Take a 1-hour 35 minutes flight to Dong Hoi (airport code: VDH) and then take a 30-50 minute taxi ride to Phong Nha Town.  

Phong Nha Cave is a major highlight during your weekend in Phong Nha.

14. Ly Son Island

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 573 kilometers 

Ly Son Island ( Đảo Lý Sơn ) is a gorgeous place in Vietnam that hasn’t been overpopulated by foreign tourists yet. It’s a quiet and small island and is known for growing garlic and onions. The garlic and onions are smaller and have a milder flavor than the conventional ones as they’re grown in volcanic sand.   

Rent a motorbike and visit sites such as Mount Thoi Loi to see the beautiful cliffside ocean view, go snorkeling around Cau Cave and An Binh/Be Island, and visit the natural lava arch, To Vo Gate, at sunset. 

Don’t forget to try the fresh seafood when you’re here. You can have the daily catch prepared any way you’d like. 

This Ly Son Island guide has everything you need to know about your visit.

How to Get to Ly Son Island from HCMC: Take a domestic 1 hour 25 minutes flight to Chu Lai International Airport (airport code: VCL). Afterward, hire a taxi or driver to go to Sa Ky Port and then take a speedboat to the island. 

You will need to have the speedboat tickets purchased ahead of time as the boat only goes to the island several times a day. It’s recommended to have a local or a friend who knows Vietnamese to help book the tickets. 

North Vietnam is a fantastic spot to explore for a few days. You can easily spend the time in the capital, Hanoi ( Hà Nội ), or go to beautiful areas such as Ninh Binh ( Ninh B ình ). It’s been a few years since we’ve visited these two areas thoroughly so we’ll add to this post at a later time. 

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City: 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles)

Once a sleeper town, Sapa ( Sa Pa ) is now a bustling area where tourists go trekking , visit ethnic villages, and awe at the stunning landscape of the rice terraces . The town itself is pretty small with restaurants and cafes, so you’ll need to take day trips. 

Sapa has so many treks to the nearby ethnic villages of Cat Cat, Lao Chai, for a day trip or overnight stay. It’s a fun and healthy way to meet locals and also get to wander through the various ethnic villages. You’ll need to have hiking boots since the rice fields are muddy. More information is in our Sapa trekking tips here .

Another cool place to visit is the Fansipan summit , the highest point in Vietnam at 3,143 meters (10,312 feet). Take the cable car from Sapa Town to reach the summit in 20 minutes. 

If you prefer to get some rest, visit one of these amazing resorts that overlook the rice terraces and mountains. These places are highly recommended by Expats: Topas Ecolodge , Topas Riverside Lodge , and Sapa Clay House .

Read what to do in Sapa in 3 days here. 

How to Get to Sapa from HCMC: Take a 2-hour flight to Hanoi International Airport (airport code: HAN) and then take a limousine van to Sapa. You can request a pick-up from the airport. Or, you can stay overnight in Hanoi and then depart the next morning between 6:30-7:00am by bus or limousine van. It’ll be a tight schedule as the transportation from Hanoi to Sapa is 5-6 hours one way.

Sapa is a gorgeous place to visit during an extended weekend trip from Ho Chi Minh.

Whew! There are a lot of destinations to visit in Vietnam for a short trip! Since you have so many places to choose from, you can easily go on short trips from Ho Chi Minh City every week. Don’t forget to add in some relaxation time so you don’t get burned out from traveling.  

Which of these places do you want to visit? If you have further questions, ask a question in the comment section below.

Refer to this post later and save it to your Vietnam Pinterest board.

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

9 Delicious Burgers Places in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam + Vegetarian & Vegan Options

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LIST: 10 places to visit in Vietnam if you're a first-time visitor

By Saihjee Galang Published Apr 13, 2024 5:35 pm

Are you curious to know why tourists love going back to Vietnam?

For one, a visa is not required for Filipino citizens. Getting there by plane is easy and convenient, too, as the flight does not take more than four hours. Vietnam Airlines also announced that it will be opening direct flights from Manila to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh this June.

The Southeast Asian country boasts breathtaking scenery—from picture-perfect beaches to dramatic mountains. Add in the vibrant culture, with delicious cuisine and bustling markets overflowing with local treasures. History buffs will be captivated by Vietnam's ancient cities and heritage sites, while those seeking a beach escape can unwind on pristine islands or discover hidden coastal gems.

They call it the "Switzerland of Asia" for a reason—Vietnam boasts stunning landscapes, a rich culture, and friendly locals.

Ahead, check out some destinations you should add to your itinerary when heading to Vietnam.

Located in the northern eastern of the country, Halong Bay, translated to “descending dragon,” is the largest limestone island ecosystem in Asia as it consists of 1,969 islands and islets. 

Exploring the Bay would require at least an overnight tour as a day tour will surely be not enough to witness the caves, lakes, the formation of limestones, and the jungle vegetation of the different islands.

Hang Sung Sot or the “Cave of Surprises,” Trinh Nu or the “Virgin Cave,” and Thien Cahn Son Cave have three caverns with unique formations of stalactites and stalagmites are some of the alluring caves to visit along Halong Bay.  

Con Dao Island

If you want to seek serenity and peace of mind with the sound of the waves of the ocean, the small archipelago consisting of 16 islands located on the southern coast of Vietnam would be the perfect haven for you. Down southeast is the archipelago of Con Dao.

Con Dao island's dry season usually occurs from December to May wherein the weather is warm, and the skies are clear, making it an ideal time to conduct water activities and explore the beauty of the island under the vibrant sun.  

Meanwhile, the rainy season usually begins from May to November wherein rains and strong winds can be felt. The turtle hatching season occurs during rainy seasons around mid-March to late-October.

Aside from relaxation by the beach, there are plenty of activities that you could try such as diving, island hopping, trekking in the national park, learning about the island's history by visiting the old Con Dao Prisons and museums, and turtle-watching.

Con Dao is indeed a paradise to explore and experience!

My Khe Beach

The 10-kilometer-long coastline of My Khe Beach and its clear blue water, gentle waves, peaceful ambiance, and scenic views of the sunset and sunrise all year long surely wouldn’t miss a spot on your travel list.

The alluring My Khe beach was tagged as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. It also gained lots of recognition as Forbes Magazine called it “one of the most attractive beaches on the planet.”

My Khe Beach’s wide seashore and waves make it an ideal place to conduct beach and water sports including surfing, beach volleyball, windsurfing, parasailing, and many more. 

The coastline of My Khe Beach belongs to the 30-kilometer coastline of Da Nang that extends from north to south.  

Cham islands

Located in Hoi An City, the protected area of Cham Islands enabled nature to flourish, giving tourists and visitors a wonderful nature experience.

The island has several tourist spots that exhibit Vietnam’s rich culture and religions including The Ancient Well of the Cham People, wherein it is believed that people who consume water from the well would be favored in terms of love and childbirth.

Hai Tang Temple wherein people pray to survive the challenges of life, Tan Hiep Market which offers fresh seafood, and The Temple of the Nest Craftsman which pays tribute to artisans of crafting nests.

Cham Island indeed has a lot to offer in terms of destinations and experience.

Bac Ha Market

Have a very interesting Sunday at Bac Ha Market! Every Sunday, the locals from the highland of Bac Ha in Lao Cai province sell artistically made ethnic clothes, woven dresses and coats, rattan products, and silver jewelry.

They also offer cropped goods such as corn and potatoes and produce their own wine, honey, and teas.

More than that, you could also have a taste of their delectable dishes as you visit Bac Ha Market.

Temple of Literature in Hanoi

This temple in Dong Da District in Hanoi is dedicated to the great philosopher Confucius and pays tribute to the excellent scholars of Vietnam.

The temple was established in the 11th century and displays traditional Vietnamese architecture, which also houses Vietnam’s first university. Students usually come to the temple to pray for good grades. Various spots of this house of worship, including the garden and courtyards, are used for graduation photos.

Marble Mountains

A group of five summits in the South of Da Nang that are named after the five elements of the earth, water, air, wood, and fire.  

Several caves can be found in the mountains, with some serving as sanctuaries and shrines for Confucians and Buddhists. Beautiful stone sculptures that hold stories can also be found within the mountains making it one of the tourist attractions in the area.

Ho Chi Minh City

For city explorers, you will surely enjoy wandering around Ho Chi Mihn City!

The economic center of Vietnam, previously called Saigon, fuses old and modern elements of Vietnam. Some of the tourist attraction includes the Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House, and Jade Emperor Pagoda.  

Food lovers would also definitely have a great time as streets are usually flocked with stalls and dining places varying from various cuisines including French, Mexican, and Vietnamese.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

If you are the type of person who seeks thrilling adventures as you explore new places, the National Park of Phong Nha-Ke has a variety of activities waiting for you to try – from land to aquatic activities, they have it all!

Majestic caves could be explored such as Son Doong, the largest cave that has London’s Big Ben-sized stalagmites; Tu Lan cave system which has an endless network of tunnels; and Hang Va and Nuoc Nut which have rock pools.

If you are down for a jungle-like adventure, you will surely enjoy walking and hiking in Phong’s lush landscape.

Visiting Hoi An is like walking in the streets of Vietnam back in centuries as it exhibits historic architecture that holds various stories. It was also named by UNESCO as Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination.

Hoi An’s architectural facade has been preserved for decades—it has merchant houses that date back to the trading era in the 15th century. The old town was also tagged as “Venice of Vietnam” as canals and rivers are still used for trade and tourism up until this day.

The Yellow City was also known for silk, where numerous clothing stalls offered myriad fabrics and clothes in different colors and styles.

TAGS: travel Vietnam vacation

Saihjee Galang

Saihjee is an journalism undergraduate who loves anything pop culture, music, P-pop, and fashion.

Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

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