vietnam tourist spots ho chi minh

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 Mar 25, 2020 and updated Jul 20, 2021.

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13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Still often referred to by its old name, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a clamorous, chaotic sensory feast. Motorbikes honk in a tidal wave across clogged intersections, locals crouch on street corners slurping steaming hot bowls of Pho (noodle soup); and the sultry air is thick with exhaust fumes and exotic spices.

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's commercial hub and largest city, and it's a place where old abuts new with striking contrast. Temples huddle amid skyscrapers and designer shops; locals cast bamboo fishing rods into the languorous Saigon River; and in places, the city feels almost European, with its elegant French colonial architecture and wide, tree-lined avenues.

Adding to the fascinating cultural jolt is a clutch of intriguing tourist attractions, from the poignant War Remnants Museum and captivating water puppet shows to colorful markets and the time warp of the Reunification Palace.

Not far from the city, the famous Cu Chi tunnels are a must-see attraction, and the lush waterscapes and small villages of the Mekong Delta provide a fascinating glimpse of rural life.

For more ideas on the best places to visit and the most rewarding things to do, read our list of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Cu Chi Tunnels

2. war remnants museum, 3. mekong delta, 4. golden dragon water puppet theatre, 5. thiên hau temple, chinatown, 6. notre dame cathedral basilica of saigon and the post office, 7. saigon opera house, 8. reunification palace, 9. ben thanh market & saigon square, 10. museum of vietnamese history, 11. jade emperor pagoda, 12. ho chi minh city museum, 13. fito museum, where to stay in ho chi minh city for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in ho chi minh city, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit ho chi minh city, what are other popular cities to visit in vietnam.

About 60 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see half-day trip and one of the top tours for visitors to the city. This vast 250-kilometer-plus network of tunnels served as the base for the Viet Cong's military operations during the Vietnam War. Soldiers used the excruciatingly cramped tunnels as hiding places, hospitals, communication bases, supply routes, and even living quarters.

A visit usually includes the chance to crawl through part of the tunnel network, an experience that enhances your appreciation for the stamina and adaptability of the soldiers who lived here. Even if you're not a fan of modern military history, the tunnels offer powerful insight into the conditions faced by troops during the conflict and the strategies that strengthened the VC's resistance against American forces.

To make the most of your visit, consider joining a Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day VIP Tour from Ho Chi Minh city . This 11-hour tour includes round-trip transfers by VIP limousine or air-conditioned bus, snacks and cold drinks during the trip, as well as a full Vietnamese lunch (with a vegetarian option available). You'll visit the Cu Chi tunnels, learn about the guerrilla welfare and the booby traps used in the tunnels, then step right into one of the tunnels.

After the tour, you'll head to a local restaurant to enjoy lunch before you continue on to the Mekong Delta. Here, you'll board a small boat to paddle along the coconut-fringed canals before you head to a farm to try local products, including honey tea and fruits grown there.

The War Remnants Museum is one of the most popular museums in Vietnam, with harrowing exhibits related to the horrors of war in this battle-worn nation. The museum primarily focuses on the Vietnam War , however, some exhibits relate to the first Indochina War with French colonialists.

It's a good idea to start on the top floor and work your way down, so you cap off your experience with the lighter exhibits on the ground floor.

Most of the displays are photographic images, and some of these are confronting - especially the graphic shots of child Agent Orange victims. Artifacts on display include a guillotine and the "tiger cages" used for Viet Cong prisoners.

Many argue that the museum's approach is biased; however, the exhibits poignantly portray the brutality of war. The museum also includes a fascinating display on the work of war photographers, from both sides, who lost their lives during the conflicts.

Period military vehicles and weapons are displayed in the museum's courtyard. After touring the countryside and the Cu Chi Tunnels , you'll find these exhibits even more moving, but note that some of the exhibits are not suitable for small children.

Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, HCMC

Official site: http://warremnantsmuseum.com/

Cruising through the lush labyrinth of palm-fringed channels, rivers, and islands of the Mekong Delta is a popular day trip that seems a world away from hectic Ho Chi Minh City. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the way of life of the people who depend on this fragile waterway for their survival.

Encompassing about 40,000 square kilometers, the delta produces more than half of the country's grain and 90 percent of its exports, and it's well-known for its floating markets, which usually take place during the early morning.

From Ho Chi Minh City, tours to the delta, usually involve a 70-kilometer drive to My Tho, a market town on the banks of the Mekong River; a cruise along the delta; and visits to local villages, farms, and factories. The Mekong Delta Discovery Small Group Adventure Tour offers these activities, as well as the chance to sample traditional dishes and tropical fruit from the region.

The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre is perfect for families with young children and anyone who enjoys light-hearted traditional entertainment. Water puppetry originated in rural villages in the Red River Delta and has been performed in Vietnam for more than 1,000 years.

The captivating 50-minute show provides a window into the country's culture. It's presented in Vietnamese, but the strength of the puppet characters, both people and animals, transcends the language barrier.

Live music enhances the experience; the talented musicians play traditional instruments such as bamboo flutes and two-stringed violins. The theater is air-conditioned, and if you're sitting in the front row, be prepared for some gentle splashes.

Address: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

The atmospheric 19th-century Thiên Hau Temple is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown (ChoLon) and one of the oldest Chinese temples in the city . Dedicated to the Lady of the Sea, Thiên Hau, this evocative temple is visited by local worshippers, as well as tourists, and many of the materials used in its construction were brought from China.

Clouds of incense billow in the air, candles flicker on altars, and shafts of sunlight pierce through the partial roof as you enter the green wrought-iron gates and stroll across the small courtyard. From here, you can see the altar, with statues of the goddess, and the intricate porcelain dioramas adorning the roof depicting scenes from 19th-century Chinese life.

According to legend, the goddess left two turtles to guard the temple in her absence. On the 23rd day of the third lunar month, a parade takes place in the neighborhood featuring a figure of Thiên Hau, who is believed to save seafarers stranded on the high seas. Entry to the temple is free.

While you're visiting China Town, it's also worth stopping by the hectic Binh Tay Market , which sells everything from fresh produce to Chinese trinkets. The area is also home to some beautiful examples of classical Chinese architecture.

Address: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City

A fine example of Neo-Romanesque architecture, the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral is a distinctive landmark in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Its twin square towers rise almost 60 meters above the city, capped by iron spires.

Built from 1877 to around 1883, the cathedral was intended to be a place for the colonial missions to worship and a symbol of the power of the French colony.

The exterior consists of red bricks from Marseille, and the clock between the two bell towers was built in Switzerland in 1887.

Notable features of the interior include 56 squares of stained glass by Lorin from Chartres, France; the 12 pillars representing the 12 apostles; and one of Vietnam's oldest organs. To see the interior, try visiting in the morning or attending a Sunday mass.

Across the street, the French colonial-style post office, completed in 1891, was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the French architect of the Eiffel Tower . Today, the post office is still in use and is a popular meeting place for locals.

Address: Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, Ben Nghé, tp. Ho Chí Minh, Ho Chi Minh;

Also known as The Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, the elegant Saigon Opera House, at the start of the famous tree-lined Le Loi Avenue, is eye-candy for architecture buffs - especially fans of the French colonial style. It was built as Opera de Saigon in 1897 by Eugene Ferret, a French architect, to entertain French colonists, and its striking facade echoes the style of the Petit Palais, which was built in the same year in Paris.

After 1956, the building was used as the home of the Lower House assembly of South Vietnam and again became a theater in 1975, after the fall of Saigon. The only way to see the theater's interior is to purchase a ticket to a show.

Both the Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera perform here, and tickets are available at the box office or local travel agents. In the area around the opera house are some of the city's new shopping malls and exclusive hotels. You can also combine a visit here with the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace .

Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

A visit to the Reunification Palace, once known as Independence Palace , is more about the historic events that took place here than any pomp and grandeur. In fact, this 1960s-style building, with its large, airy rooms and dated furnishings, seems frozen in time since April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese army tank crashed through the iron gates here, bringing an end to the Vietnam War. For locals, the palace represents this historic event and the reunification of the country.

Set on 44 acres of lush lawns and gardens, the palace also offers a fascinating glimpse at the lifestyle of privileged heads of state in 1960s Saigon. It was built on the site of the former Norodom Palace, which was bombed by fighter jets in 1962 in an unsuccessful assassination attempt on the South Vietnamese president Ngo Dinh Diem.

The current building was completed in 1966 and became the home and workplace of the successive president when Vietnam was split between the north and the south. Notable features include the president's living quarters, the war command room with large maps and antiquated communications equipment, and the maze of basement tunnels.

You'll also see military vehicles outside, including the fighter jet that destroyed the Norodom Palace, and tank 843, which rammed through the palace gate on that fateful day in April more than four decades ago. Guided tours in English are available.

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

For sightseers, the hot and hectic Ben Thanh Market is almost an obligatory stop, even if only to witness the crammed stalls and market chaos. The stalls are piled high with everything from local delicacies, fish, flowers, and tropical fruits to shoes, clothes, colorful candy, and souvenirs. The markets are also notorious for pickpockets, so make sure any valuables are secure and out of sight.

After soaking up all the ambiance, head to Saigon Square, about a three-minute stroll away, for a slightly less frenetic shopping experience with the added bonus of air conditioning. Here, you'll find fantastic deals on everything from clothing and backpacks to jewelry and shoes. Haggling is customary at both locations.

Address: 32-30, 36-34-32-30 Phan Boi Châu, Ben Thành, Ho Chí Minh City

Within the grounds of the botanic gardens, the Museum of Vietnamese History unveils the country's cultural evolution from the Bronze Age to the early 20th century. The exhibits are organized chronologically and include artifacts from Vietnam's former ethnic groups, including the Dong Son, Funan, Khmer, and Cham civilizations. Particularly interesting are the stone and bronze sculptures, Angkor Wat relics, and the well-preserved mummy.

For an extra fee, you can attend a water puppet show in the museum's small theater, with performances held every hour (except during lunch).

Almost as interesting as the museum exhibits is the building itself, which dates from 1929 and fuses French and Asian architectural styles. After viewing all the museum exhibits for an hour or so, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the botanic gardens.

Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiêm, Ben Nghé Ho Chí Minh City

Built in the early 20th century, the evocative Jade Emperor Pagoda (Chua Phuoc Hai) sits in an unassuming neighborhood a few blocks away from the Botanical Gardens. The temple was built in honor of the Taoist god, the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang, and within its dimly lit interior, you'll see many representations of both Buddhist and Taoist deities.

As you step inside, incense shrouds the many local worshippers, and candles illuminate altars brimming with offerings. Of special note are the intricately carved panels of woodwork and the many elaborate dragon and animal sculptures adorning the roof.

At the temple's entrance, masses of turtles swim in a pond, some with inscriptions on their shells, and for this reason, the temple is often called the tortoise pagoda. Locals come here frequently to worship, so it's important to be respectful when you visit.

Address: Ða Kao Quan 1 Vietnam, 73 Mai Thi Luu, Ða Kao, Ho Chí Minh

Near the Reunification Palace, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum occupies an impressive Neoclassical building, formerly known as Gia Long Palace, that was once home to the Cochinchina's governor. It's worth a stop for an overview of the city's history and a look at the grand architecture, which includes Oriental and European flourishes.

The museum traces the city's past with exhibits on the struggle for independence, nature and archaeology, trade, village handicrafts, currency, and the culture of Saigon. Interestingly, the building sits on a network of tunnels and bunkers, which served as escape routes for past dignitaries, though these are closed to the public.

Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Although it's a little challenging to find if you're traveling without a guide, the first Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (FITO) occupies a beautiful old five-story building framed by bamboo. It's worth a look for anyone who is interested in alternative medicine or wants to soak up some Vietnamese culture away from the main tourist trail.

The museum displays thousands of items relating to Vietnamese traditional medicine, from the Stone Age to the present day, including books, documents, herbs, and implements used in preparing the medicines. You can also try your hand at grinding up some of the ingredients. The presentation begins with a short film on the history of Vietnam's traditional medicine, and herbal cures are available for purchase before you leave.

Official site: http://www.fitomuseum.com.vn/

We recommend these great-value hotels in Ho Chi Minh City close to shops, restaurants, and attractions:

• The Reverie Saigon : This opulent luxury hotel features Haute Italian design, marble floors, spectacular city views, a luxe spa, and pillow menu.
• Sherwood Residence : For a mid-range hotel, this is a good choice. It offers serviced apartments, full kitchen, a games room, lovely pool, sauna, and a steam room.
• Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel : Offering affordable rates, a great location, illuminated rooftop pool, and contemporary design, this is a good hotel that won't break the budget.
• Cinnamon Hotel Saigon : This budget-friendly boutique hotel is centrally located and provides comfortable rooms.

While the northern half of Vietnam experiences a cool season between the months of December and March, the southern half of the country sees average temperatures in the 30s Celsius all year long. However, these are still the best months to visit Ho Chi Minh, as there's little rain, lots of blue skies, and the humidity actually drops just enough to make the weather more bearable.

December might even give you a few days here and there where the temperature drops just under 30 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, April is the hottest month, with temperatures in the upper 30s and high humidity.

As a general rule, the best time to visit Vietnam is always outside the rainy season, which runs between May and September and can cause flooding and make outdoor time a little uncomfortable. August and September are particularly rainy months in Ho Chi Minh - strong storms often hit the city during these months, causing power outages and forcing people to stay indoors.

Vietnam's capital should be on everybody's list - Hanoi is a frenzied, hectic city with lots of energy and a charming Old Town Quarter. Aside from walking the old winding streets and haggling at the local markets, visitors can also stop by other Hanoi attractions , like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and visit Hoa Lo Prison Memorial to get an insight into the history of the country. A walk around Hoàn Kiem Lake is a great way to end the day.

For a trip back in time, both Hoi An and Hue offer stunning architecture going back hundreds of years. Hue sits on the banks of the Perfume River and is home to the Thai Hoa Palace and the walled Imperial City.

Hoi An , a 15th-century trading port, is home to a number of beaches, including popular An Bang, the not-so-secret Hidden Beach, and Cua Dai Beach, which is becoming narrower and narrower due to erosion but is still beautiful and a great place to escape the crowds.

The small city of Nha Trang is best known for being the getaway to one of Vietnam's most famous stretches of shoreline. White sands, clear blue waters, and beautiful seaside promenades have earned the beaches here the nickname "the Riviera of the South China Sea." In town, the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers are well worth a visit, and so is the Alexandre Yersin Museum, dedicated to the French-Swiss bacteriologist who co-discovered the bacteria responsible for the bubonic plague.

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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

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

Robin Hill Cable Car in Da Lat

Da Lat City Day Tour

Da Lat Countryside Day Tour

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

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

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

Ta Cu Mountain Private Day Tour in Mui Ne

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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Top 10 Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Spots: Travel Guide 2023

WONDERING ABOUT THE TOP HO CHI MINH CITY TOURIST SPOTS?

We’ve been traveling to Vietnam since 2015, so rest assured, you’re in capable hands! 

On a recent trip last February 2023, I found myself sipping on a ca phe sua da (Vietnamese coffee) in a cozy nook, surrounded by walls that seemed to hum with historical narratives.

Just a few steps out, and I was swept into the city’s relentless rhythm. Ho Chi Minh City, with its serene pockets of history and buzzing urban energy, paints a picture of cultural richness that’s as compelling as it is diverse.

Saigon’s metamorphosis into the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh is a spectacle where the past and present perform in harmony. 

Imagine a leisurely walk down a shaded boulevard lined with echoes of French colonial architecture, only to look up and find a towering skyscraper winking at the sun. It’s a place where stories from different eras are etched into street corners, waiting to be discovered and heard.

Essential Tips for Navigating Ho Chi Minh City

Navigating Ho Chi Minh City is an adventure in itself. The city pulses with energy, and with a few tips, you can move through it with ease and truly enjoy the vibrancy it has to offer.

When to Visit:

• Dry Season: December to April is ideal, with less rain and more sunshine.
• Tet Festival: Usually in late January or early February, the city erupts in celebrations for the Lunar New Year.

Read also: Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Getting Around:

• Bus : An affordable way to travel. Grab a map, get a bus card, and you’re all set.
• Motorbike Taxi: It’s a thrilling way to get around. Agree on the fare before you ride.
• Grab : The Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber. It’s convenient, and you can choose between a car or a motorbike ride.

Safety Tips:

• Traffic: It can be overwhelming, so always be aware of your surroundings.
• Pedestrian: Cross streets with caution, and follow the locals if you’re unsure.

Local Help:

• Ask for Directions: Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Ho Chi Minh City is known for its hospitality. During our 2015 visit, an old lady approached us and helped us find our hotel accommodation!

Top 10 Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Spots

1. the war remnants museum: echoes of the past.

Located in District 3, merely 2km away from the heart of District 1, the War Remnants Museum stands as a poignant testament to Vietnam’s turbulent past. The exhibits here are as moving as they are educational, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

Essential details:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Entry Fees: Approximately 40,000 VND (~2 USD) for adults.
• Best Visiting Hours: Morning visits are quieter; aim to arrive early.
• Tour Options: Audio guides are available, and guided tours can be arranged.

2. Notre Dame Cathedral: Architectural Marvel

In the center of District 1, the Notre Dame Cathedral is a beacon of French colonial architecture and a historical cornerstone of Ho Chi Minh City.

Visitor tips:

• Mass Schedules: Open for tourists outside of mass times, which are typically held in the early morning and late afternoon on weekdays, with additional services on Sundays.
• Photography Etiquette: Photos are welcome, but no flash during services and maintain a respectful silence.

3. Ben Thanh Market: The Heartbeat of Local Commerce

Nestled in the heart of District 1, Ben Thanh Market stands as a bustling emblem of local commerce, pulsating with the daily rhythms of city trade by day and transforming into a lively night market as the sun sets. 

It’s not just a place to haggle over souvenirs but also a hub where practical services, like banks offering competitive exchange rates, are readily available to travelers.

Shopping tips:

• Opening Hours: The market is open from around 6 AM to 6 PM, with the Night Market operating from 6 PM until midnight.
• Bargaining Strategies: Negotiate with a smile.

4. Saigon Opera House: A Cultural Epitome

The Saigon Opera House in District 1 is a cornerstone of culture, offering a window into Vietnam’s artistic soul.

Attending a performance:

• Schedule : Check the official website or booking platforms for the latest performances and book in advance.
• Ticket Booking: Purchase tickets online or at the box office. Ticket prices vary greatly from 200,000 to 2,000,000 VND (~10-80 USD), which depends on the time, event, and seat class.
• Dress Code: Smart casual; think dress shirts and trousers, no shorts or flip-flops.

5. Saigon Skydeck: The City from Above

Perched on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, right in the heart of District 1, the Saigon Skydeck offers a panoramic spectacle of Ho Chi Minh City. The views here are unmatched, especially as dusk falls and the city lights begin their dance.

• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM daily
• Best Time for Photos: Just before sunset, catch the golden hour glow.
• Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online. Expect to pay around 200,000 VND (~10 USD) for adults.
• Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to the Bitexco Tower’s other offerings, like its upscale dining and shopping.
• Distance: It’s central, so just a quick walk or drive from most places in District 1.

6. Street Food Adventure: Taste the Local Flavors

Ho Chi Minh City’s street food is a delicious mosaic of flavors and traditions. From the sizzling banh xeo (crispy pancakes) to the sweet and savory goodness of banh mi, each dish tells a story of cultural fusion.

Where to go:

• Must-Try Dishes: Don’t miss the pho, banh mi, and if you’re adventurous, the snail dishes.
• Street Food Tours: To really dive in, join a street food tour. Companies like Saigon Street Eats offer guided tours that will take you to the best spots.
• Vendors: Check out the shops in Bui Vien Street (in District 1, around 1.2 km from Ben Thanh Market) for a start.

7. Reunification Palace: A Political Landmark

The Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace, stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s historical shifts. Located in District 1, this site has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in the country’s history.

Touring the Palace:

• Hours : Open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
• Guided Tours : Available and recommended to fully appreciate the site’s history.
• Special Exhibits: Don’t miss the war command room with original maps and equipment.
• Entry Fee: A nominal fee of around 40,000 VND (~2 USD) for adults.
• Distance : It’s centrally located, easily accessible on foot or by a short taxi ride within District 1.

8. Jade Emperor Pagoda: Spiritual Sanctuary

Tucked away in District 1, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is an oasis of calm, renowned for its stunning carvings and spiritual significance. It’s a place where incense clouds the air and prayers fill the space.

Visiting guidelines:

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM.
• Worship Practices : Observe local customs, offer incense, and make a wish.
• Quiet Hours: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.

9. Cu Chi Tunnels: Underground Warfare Labyrinth

About 45km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of guerrilla warfare during the Vietnam War.

Touring the tunnels:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 7 AM to 5 PM.
• What to Expect: Narrow, dark tunnels that tell a story of resilience and survival.
• Guided Tour Options: Available on-site, offering valuable insights into the tunnels’ history.
• Preparation Tips: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes; bring a flashlight if you wish to delve deeper.

10. Binh Quoi Village: The Countryside within the City

Located on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Quoi Tourist Village is a serene escape, offering a glimpse into the traditional Vietnamese way of life.

Activities and attractions:

• Opening Hours: Generally open throughout the day, but specific attractions may have their own schedules.
• Experience : Enjoy leisurely boat rides, watch cultural shows, and savor authentic local dishes.
• Distance : Approximately 10km from District 1, a short taxi or bus ride away.

Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Exploring beyond the urban sprawl of Ho Chi Minh City reveals the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Southern Vietnam. Two popular day trip destinations are the Mekong Delta and Vung Tau beach, each offering a unique experience.

Mekong River Delta: A Labyrinth of Waterways

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City : Approximately 100-120 km to the heart of the Delta.

How to Get There:

• Bus : Fares range from 70,000 to 200,000 VND, depending on the destination within the Delta. Bus operators include Mai Linh Express and The Sinh Tourists .
• Tour Packages: Many travel agencies in the Pham Ngu Lao area, also known as the backpacker district, offer day trips starting at around 400,000 VND. These packages typically include transportation, a guide, meals, and activities.

Organizing a Day Trip:

• Tour Packages: A convenient option for those who prefer a structured itinerary. You’ll get to explore the floating markets, ride a sampan along narrow canals, and enjoy local fruits and traditional music.
• Independent Travel : For a more personalized experience, you can rent a motorbike or take local buses. This option requires good planning and navigation skills but allows for a deeper exploration of the Delta.

Vung Tau Beach: Seaside Escape

Distance from Ho Chi Minh City : About 110 km.

• Bus : You can catch a bus to Vung Tau from the Mien Dong Bus Station and Nguyen Thai Binh. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs around 200,000 VND (~8 USD) one-way.
• Hydrofoil : A quicker and more scenic route is the hydrofoil from Bach Dang Terminal 2, taking about 1.5 hours and costing approximately 300,000 VND (~12 USD) one-way.
• Tour Packages: Available through travel agencies, especially those located around District 1. These tours streamline your visit to include popular attractions and are priced starting around 500,000 VND.
• Independent Travel : Renting a motorbike or taking a local bus allows for a flexible schedule. You can spend the day lounging on the beach, sampling fresh seafood, and visiting the iconic Jesus Christ statue.

Sustainable Tourism in Ho Chi Minh City

As Ho Chi Minh City thrives, so does the opportunity for sustainable travel. Responsible tourism not only enhances your travel experience but also ensures that the city’s charm is preserved for future visitors.

Traveling Responsibly:

• Support the Local Economy: Choose family-run eateries, local guides, and artisan markets. Your spending goes directly to those who make the city vibrant.
• Use Public Transport: The city’s bus network is extensive. By using it, you reduce your carbon footprint and get an authentic glimpse of daily life.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations and Activities:

• Stay Green: Look for hotels and hostels with recognized eco-certifications. These places often use energy-saving measures and local products.
• Activities: Participate in eco-tours that highlight the city’s green spaces, like the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, or join a cycling tour in the countryside.

Conclusion: Ho Chi Minh City Tourist Spots

Your journey through Ho Chi Minh City is bound to be unforgettable. From the historical echoes of the War Remnants Museum to the serene waters of the Mekong Delta, each spot tells a part of the city’s story.

Summarizing Top Spots:

• Cultural Richness: The Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Opera House are not to be missed for history buffs.
• Local Life: Ben Thanh Market and the street food tours offer a taste of the city’s bustling commerce and culinary delights.
• Historical Insights: The Reunification Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels provide a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past.

As you pack your bags, remember that the true essence of Ho Chi Minh City lies not just in its sights but in its spirit. Travel sustainably, engage with locals, and you’ll leave with stories far richer than those found in any guidebook.

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• Culture & Arts
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Attractions
• Phu Quoc Island
• Mekong Delta

What to Do in Ho Chi Minh

Famous, Must-see & Lesser-known Saigon Attractions

Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon, is one of the most booming cities in Vietnam where hosts a beguiling range of amazing attractions. The range includes historical sites such as Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple to modern buildings like Bitexco Financial Tower and Saigon Modern Architecture and Construction. 

Be ready to explore culture, art, nature, and science in this unique metropolis by checking out the list of best attractions given below. There seem to be endless things to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh Attraction Guide

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Thien Hau Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City

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Vietnam History Museum

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

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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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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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• 10 Tourist spots not to be missed in Ho Chi Minh City

Let’s explore 10 famous spots that visitors should not miss when coming to the metropolis of Vietnam.

Ao dai Museum

Ao dai Museum is one of the 10 interesting tourist spots in Ho Chi Minh City and the only museum of Vietnam where the stories of the Vietnamese Ao dai throughout history have been preserved and honoured. About a 30-minute drive from Ho Chi Minh City centre, the museum owns a peaceful, green space in the middle of bustling Ho Chi Minh City, covered in the green of nature and the nostalgia of ethnic architecture. Ao dai Museum is a unique project aiming to preserve documents and artefacts about Ao dai - the traditional costumes of the Vietnamese people, imbued with cultural values and the soul of Vietnamese women.

Address: 206/19/30 Long Thuan Street, Long Phuoc Ward, District 9

War Remnants Museum

History enthusiasts would love this place since the museum is a place in Vietnam to systematically study, collect, conserve and display exhibits on war crimes and consequences inflicted on the Vietnamese people by foreign aggressive forces.

The War Remnants Museum is a member of the International Network of Museums for Peace (INMP) and the International Council of Museums (ICOM). Visitors will have a chance to admire documents, images, and artefacts that portray the devastating consequences of the war in Vietnam. At the same time, the museum also conveys the message of the fighting spirit, the struggle to protect national independence and freedom and the preciousness of peace and friendship between peoples.

Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street , Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3

The History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Once the French building a century ago (in 1929) with typical "innovative Indochina" style, The History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City owns collections representing thousands of years of Vietnamese history and culture, learning about the cultural characteristics of the Southern region and some countries in the Asian region. Over 43,000 documents and artefacts, including 12 national treasures introduced in the galleries, will be invaluable gifts of historical and cultural knowledge which are displayed to the public.

Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street , Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts was established in 1987 and officially went into operation in 1991. It  has witnessed the ups and downs of history as well as the rise of Ho Chi Minh City. The museum is not only considered an interesting place to discover fine arts in the city, including its magnificent and somewhat beautiful appearance from the unique interference between the architectural beauty of the East and the West; but also the story behind it. At the beginning of its foundation, under the patronage of a contemporary art centre, The wife of a famous artist, rented a room in this museum and turned it into a platform of contemporary art, where various workshops, exhibitions, and performance events were held in the following years.

What to see in Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts? The answer is plenty of masterpieces. Ancient Bronze Sculptures in South Vietnam, Champa Ancient Sculptures, the Statues in Tay Nguyen Tombs, Vietnamese Ceramics (11th-20th century), Southern Fine Arts (18th-20th century) and Contemporary Art are displayed here.

Address: 97A Duc Chinh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1

Reunification Palace

Reunification  Palace is a special national monument of Vietnam. The place has been an important piece of historical evidence of Vietnam, where many major historical events took place and witnessed, directly affecting the historical process of Vietnam, especially the liberation of the South and reunification of the country on April 30, 1975. The building was designed in the retro style of the 1960s, showing the talent and ingenuity of architects as well as builders. It has more than 100 rooms decorated to suit each use, including the chamber, the room for referring credentials, strategic operations department room, the ballroom, the residence of the Presidential family, the movie room, the reading room and many more. The War Remnants Museum is behind the Palace.

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1

Landmark 81 SkyView

Landmark 81 is inspired by the image of a traditional bamboo bundle and is recognized as the tallest tower in Vietnam until now. With a height of 461.2 metres, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the city through a transparent glass system, capturing the whole view of the city from above.

Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ward 22, Binh Thanh District

Thieng Lieng community -based touris m destination

Thieng Lieng is a hamlet located deep in Thanh An island commune (Can Gio District) and is widely known as a community-based tourism destination with many unique features and exciting experiences to tourists. Visitors to the hamlet will enjoy a fresh atmosphere with no dust, no stress, no traffic jam. Places to explore Thieng Lieng Hamlet include Giong Chua mountain, the only rocky mountain in Ho Chi Minh City, vast, white salt fields…

Saigon Ranger Monument System

To visitors’ surprise, this place is one of the rare pieces of historical evidence in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, located on the alley connecting Nguyen Dinh Chieu and Vo Van Tan streets (District 3). This “red address” marks the victory of the Saigon rangers, consisting of a secret basement that once hid nearly 2 tons of weapons of the Saigon rangers to attack the Independence Palace during the 1968 Tet Offensive. The house is recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Monument.

Visitors can also visit the Saigon Ranger Monument System scattered around the city, including Museum of Intelligence-Saigon-Gia Dinh Rangers, Secret mailboxes and floating bunkers of the Saigon Rangers, Secret weapons bunkers of the Saigon Rangers...

Address: 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street , District 3

Cu Chi Tunnels

Located about 70 km from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City to the northwest, is a vast network of subterranean tunnels. This tunnel system will bring a completely different and equally adventurous experience of the South of Vietnam. It is a unique war-fighting wonder, dubbed the “underground maze” with about 250 km of tunnels spreading like spider webs in the ground: trenches, emplacements, fighting nests, bunkers for dining, sleeping, meetings, activities, military medicine, food storage warehouses, wells, kitchen... Travellers will get to know about real events that happened in this tunnel, the story of the wars from the ground between Vietnamese soldiers, compatriots and invaders during the period 1945 - 1975.

People with Claustrophobia should be in notice.

Address: Provincial Road 15 , Phu Hiep hamlet, Phu My Hung commune, Cu Chi D istrict

Notre Dame Cathedral - City Post Office

Notre Dame Cathedral (official name is the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception) is the largest and most unique church in Ho Chi Minh City - one of the unique architectural works with two 60m-high bell towers. Notre Dame Cathedral was built on 7th October 1877. This is one of the unique religious architectural works that attracts the most visitors in the city.

Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1

Next to the Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office is an old French building with a unique Gothic architectural style according to the design project of Architect Villedieu and his assistant Foulhoux. The building is ranked second in the list of 11 most beautiful post offices in the world voted by the American architectural magazine Architectural Digest . Although there are no longer as many services as other post offices, Sai Gon Post Office is still open daily to serve tourists and city residents with services such as timed numbered parcels, flowers, gifts, express delivery, souvenirs. In the centre of the post office's entrance stands a large clock with a classic design, and below it, the years of construction and inauguration of the post office are engraved. Right after entering the post office, there are two maps depicting the history of Sai Gon's communication system: the right map showcases Sai Gon and its adjacent regions in 1892, while the left map displays the telegraph lines of Vietnam and Cambodia in 1936... The interior of the post office hosts a variety of souvenir items and postage stamps depicting the country and its people, offering visitors the chance to explore and purchase meaningful souvenirs.

Address: 2 Cong Xa Paris, District 1

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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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10 Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and a bustling blend of the old and the new. For instance, visitors to this city will find both elegant shopping malls and old-fashioned markets crowded with stalls selling a dizzying array of local handicrafts and tantalizing street food.

Ho Chi Minh is also home to a large number of pagodas and temples, as well as to historical sites such as the Cu Chi tunnels (though located in a rural district far from the center and not listed here) that were used by the Viet Cong guerrillas to move around under the city during the Tet Offensive. An overview of other less famous but equally fascinating tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City:

10. Binh Tay Market [SEE MAP]

Like the Ben Thanh, the Binh Tay Market offers a lot of a little of everything, including fresh produce and local handicrafts. The Binh Tay Market is located in Saigon’s Chinatown area and is actually a distribution hub for many of Saigon’s clothing and food items, so visitors may discover that some of the items available in the hundreds of the market’s stalls may only be for sale to wholesalers. Visitors who arrive at the Binh Tay Market early in the morning may get a chance to peruse the fresh food items that are available in the outdoor “wet market,” including fish and produce. There is also a food court in the Binh Tay Market where visitors can sample local delicacies and street food.

9. Saigon Opera House [SEE MAP]

This elegant building, which is also known as the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, was completed in 1897 and designed by French architect Ferret Eugene. So it’s probably not surprising that the Saigon Opera House bears some resemblance to the Petit Palace in Paris, which was built during the same year. From the time it opened until 1955, this 800-seat structure provided entertainment for French colonists. But then in 1956, the Vietnam government began using the structure for its Lower House of Assembly. It wasn’t until 1975 that the beautiful building was once again used for its original purpose. Although the Saigon Opera House is not technically open to the public for visits, anyone who wants to see the interior of this stunning building can do so by purchasing a ticket to a performance.

8. Jade Emperor Pagoda [SEE MAP]

This small pagoda was built in 1909 by Vietnam’s Cantonese community and is one of the city’s most interesting sites. It is also known as the Tortoise Pagoda because there is a pond in the temple’s courtyard that is filled with turtles. The Jade Emperor Pagoda contains some fascinating items, including a statue of the Jade Emperor and an idol of the goddess of fertility, Kim Hua. Besides a popular tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City, this is also a working temple, so it is typically bustling with activity and its air filled with the scent of burning incense.

7. Bitexco Financial Tower [SEE MAP]

When the 68-story, 262-meter (859-foot) high Bitexco Financial Tower was completed in 2010, it became the highest building in Vietnam. Today, its Sky Deck, which is located on the 49th floor, is a popular tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City where visitors can enjoy amazing 360-degree views of the city and of the Saigon River. The Bitexco Financial Tower has two restaurants on the 50th and 51st floor that also provide amazing views of the surrounding area. In addition, this skyscraper is famous for being the site of the Bitexco Vertical Run in which competitors race from the lobby to the Sky Deck. Another unique feature? This tower’s helipad is not located on its roof like on most buildings. Instead its helipad cantilevers from the 52nd floor.

6. Dong Khoi Street [SEE MAP]

For those searching out the best shopping and dining experiences in Saigon, Dong Khoi Street is the place to go. This street is home to elegant old colonial buildings, high-end boutiques, famous brand-name stores, lovely cafes and restaurants and luxury hotels. Some of the more well-known buildings on this street are the Opera House, the Saigon Central Post Office, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. The well-known Givral Café, which had been a popular fixture in the area since the 1950s, can also be found on Dong Khoi Street, but it is not the original structure. That building, which had been a popular gathering spot for international journalists, photographers and writers during the Vietnam War, was demolished in 2010. Now a new Givral has opened up close to the original location.

5. Ben Thanh Market [SEE MAP]

The Ben Thanh Market is filled with a large number of stalls where visitors can pick up inexpensive souvenirs and local handicrafts. But this bustling market isn’t just for tourists. It is also where the locals shop for their daily needs, including produce, coffee and clothing. For the best deals, though, it is important that visitors compare prices and to also bargain with vendors before purchasing items. The Ben Thanh Market, which was built in 1870, is also an excellent place to enjoy Vietnam’s local street foods. At night, the indoor stalls in the Ben Thanh Market close, but the surrounding area livens up as restaurants and outdoor stalls selling various goods open for the evening crowd.

4. Saigon Central Post Office [SEE MAP]

The Saigon Central Post Office is not just a stunning building; it is also one of Ho Chi Minh’s oldest structures. Construction on this building, which was designed by Gustave Eiffel, began in 1886. This concourse of this grand building features several painted maps, and there is also a mosaic of the country’s former president, Ho Chi Minh, at the end of the large hall. This building, which features an elegant high vaulted ceiling, a beautiful tiled floor, and old-fashioned phone booths, is an actual working post office and is free to visit. There are also shops in the Saigon Central Post Office where visitors can purchase postcards and other souvenirs.

3. Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral [SEE MAP]

The Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, which is located in District 1, is arguably Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmark. And with its two tall bell towers, it is definitely one of its most visible. The cathedral was originally built between 1863 and 1880 and was constructed on a site where a Vietnamese pagoda once stood. All of the materials for the red brick Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral were imported from France. For many years, it was known as the Saigon Church, but then in 1962, the structure was elevated to a basilica. Its name was also changed to Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica at that time, and it also became the chief cathedral for the country.

2. Independence Palace [SEE MAP]

Designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, this property was once the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam. In 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the main gate, effectively bringing the controversial Vietnam War to an end. Today, Independence Palace, also sometimes called the Reunification Palace, is a historic landmark that appears almost frozen in time. In fact, two of the tanks that were involved in the original seizure of power still remain on the grounds and a replica helicopter can be found on the building’s roof. In addition, the rooms have been preserved in their late 1960s, 1970s style. There are also many interesting sights in this five-story building, including a bunker basement that features a warren of tunnels and a telecommunication center.

1. War Remnants Museum [SEE MAP]

This museum offers Westerners a different view of the Vietnam War than they are probably used to hearing and seeing. The War Remnants Museum, which opened around 1975, was originally called the Exhibition House for U.S. and Puppet Crimes. That name was changed to the Exhibition House for Crimes of War and Aggression in 1990 before finally being changed to its current moniker in 1995. Most of the exhibits in this museum are related to the Vietnam War, but there are also some dedicated to the first Indochina War. Outside are US armored vehicles, artillery pieces and infantry weapons on display.

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• Ho Chi Minh City Guide: What to do? Top Attractions & Restaurants

The destination that I would like to introduce today, which is also Vietnam’s economic center, is Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon . Saigon played a pivotal role during the tumultuous years of the Vietnam War and was also a historical witness to the country’s moments of independence.

Ho Chi Minh City is named after the President who brought independence to Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City is nearly 1,730km by road from Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Located at the international crossroads between the maritime routes from North to South, from East to West, Ho Chi Minh city is the focal point of Southeast Asia.

The North borders Binh Duong province, the Northwest borders Tay Ninh province, the East and Northeast borders Dong Nai province, the Southeast borders Ba Ria – Vung Tau province, the West and Southwest border Long An.

Ho Chi Minh City consists of 19 districts and 5 districts from Hoc Mon field to Can Gio district, from Thu Duc orchard to remote Binh Chanh district, it’s all part of Ho Chi Minh city.

As of July 2021, according to the World Population Review website, the population of Ho Chi Minh City reached 8,837,544 people.

Saigon’s Weather – When to go?

Ho Chi Minh City is located in the South, which is a tropical monsoon sub-equatorial region, so the temperature is consistently high throughout the year. The two seasons, rainy and dry, clearly have a profound impact on the city landscape.

• The rainy season lasts from April to September
• The dry season covers the rest of the year

Therefore, if you want to travel to Saigon, you should choose the sunny season. However, in the hot season, the temperature in Saigon is quite high with an average of about 28 degrees Celsius and the highest in April (30.5 degrees Celsius), the lowest, in December at about 26 degrees Celsius.

During the day, Saigon is bustling and hasty because everyone seems to be racing with the pace of life, Saigon at night is splendid and luxurious like a queen. Coming to Ho Chi Minh City, we cannot ignore the following places.

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City

As Vietnam’s largest city, Saigon possesses an extremely modern and developed transport network. There are many ways for visitors to come to this historic city.

Airplane (for international or domestic guests)

Tan Son Nhat Airport is 8km from the city center, very convenient for moving into the city. Currently, at this airport, dozens of planes take off or land daily from 3 domestic airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo… It’s also a busy international airport, with direct flights coming from the USA, Europe, Middle-East, and Asia.

For cheap flight tickets, you can refer to two airlines Vietjet and Jetstar with many preferential flight tickets ranging from 199,000VND to 900,000 VND for domestic flights.

There will be many flight schedules during the day so you can choose to move whenever you need.

Transportation to/from Tan Son Nhat Airpot

After landing at the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, private hire, bus or shuttle:

• For taxis, prices range from 200 000VND – 300 000VND from the airport to the inner city.
• Uber’s equivalent in Vietnam is Grab, prices range from 200 000VND – 300 000VND from the airport to the inner city.
• Bus number 152, bus 159, Shuttle Bus 49 with travel time from 30 to 65 minutes/time, ticket prices range from 6,000VND to 40,000 VND/pax/way.

If you have a lot of time and want to go enjoy the scenery, then do not hesitate to choose the train. Gently moving on the road, watching each rustic idyllic countryside slowly pass through the eyes, and having private space with friends to chat, will definitely make your Saigon tour more unforgettable.

If starting from Hanoi station, you should use the train connecting the North-South named Thong Nhat . The final destination is Saigon station in the District 3 area, quite close to the central area of District 1. Train ticket prices currently depend a lot on the class of seats, compartments, and the type of trains you choose. Normally, the train route from Hanoi to Saigon varies from 578,000VND to 2,200,000 VND/pax/ticket with a total travel time of 30 hours.

Shuttle Bus

If you are already in Vietnam, you can choose to travel by Shuttle Bus , this is a cheap and economical means of transportation.

The car companies you can choose from are Phuong Trang, Thanh Buoi, Tuan Tu… You can go directly to the bus companies’ website to book tickets online.

Ticket prices range from 200 000VND – 350 000VND, the price will be 100 000VND -200 000VND during high seasons.

Transportation within Ho Chi Minh City

If you don’t book a package tour, some of the popular means of transportation to tourist areas in Saigon are taxis, motorbike rentals, buses, cyclos, or Saigon water buses. Taking a taxi / Grab is suitable for groups of friends or families.

If you want to explore the streets, renting a motorbike or cyclo is the most convenient.

Motorbike rental price ranges from 80,000 – 200,000 VND/day.

Cyclo prices are calculated by the hour, with a cost of about 50,000 – 80,000 VND for 2 people and only circulate in the central area.

Top attractions

1. saigon notre-dame basilica.

Image’s source : Wikimedia.org Author Erwin Verbruggen

Notre Dame Cathedral has long become a symbol of this city. In the middle of a peaceful and modern place, Notre Dame Cathedral has a special nostalgic and peaceful feature.

This work is designed in the Roman and Gothic architectural styles of Europe, so it is boldly ancient and is considered one of the 19 most beautiful basilicas in the world.

2. Saigon Central Post Office

Image’s source : Wikimedia.org Author Skytel none

Located at 2, Paris Commune Square, District 1. This is a structure designed by architect Villedieu and erected by the Frenchs. The architecture is European style combined with Asian decoration.

3. Crescent Lake – Starlight Bridge

This location is located in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City. The initiative serves as a weekend or holiday destination for young people. Walking through Crescent Lake and Starlight Bridge, unlike other parks, gives you the sensation of being in a sophisticated and elegant city overseas.

4. Ben Thanh market

It is the oldest market in Saigon, both ancient and modern. Ben Thanh Market is a destination not to be missed if traveling to Ho Chi Minh. Operating from 7 am to 7 pm. This market is quite famous for selling all kinds of goods for domestic and foreign tourists. Also one of the symbols of Saigon.

5. The Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace is situated on a 15-hectare plot of land in the city’s centre. This is a one-of-a-kind architectural work that has been linked to numerous significant historical events in the country.

6. War Remnants Museum

This is the most accurate depiction of the brutal conflict that the Vietnamese people have lived through. In the Con Dao jail, artifacts like airplanes, guns, tanks, guillotines, and two compartments “tiger cages” were constructed to scale.

There is also a gallery dedicated to the conflict on the southern frontier, the war to protect the northern border, the problem of the Spratly archipelago, and the hostile forces’ plot….

7. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

For a long time, Nguyen Hue Street has been the central arterial road of Saigon. Put into use since 2015, Nguyen Hue pedestrian street is the most beautiful and modern square in Vietnam.

When the sun started to fade, the street became crowded again, becoming a gathering place for fun. Especially when it comes to the Lunar New Year, the flower exhibition held here attracts a lot of people’s attention.

8. Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels is a resistance base located deep in the ground from the time of the Indochina war. This relic has a system of tunnels between meeting rooms, infirmaries, residences, warehouses… with a length of up to 200km. When you come here to visit, you should bring sports shoes to make the movement more convenient.

9. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

Water puppetry is an ancient art form that originated in the North (Red River Delta) and has since expanded and spread around the world. This art form is frequently performed on religious and exceptional events such as holidays, village festivals, New Year’s Day, and so on…

10. Bach Dang Wharf (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City)

Bach Dang Wharf owns a beautiful position at address 2, Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. As one of the famous tourist attractions in Saigon related to important historical milestones of Vietnam, Bach Dang Wharf has attracted the attention of many foreign tourists.

With the charming beauty next to the Saigon River, from the late 1950s to the 1960s, Bach Dang Wharf was the ideal dating place for many lovers. At night, this place is shimmering and beautiful with a system of luxurious restaurant trains.

11. Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien is a place where you will have endless fun. Every restaurant, pub, bar is always crowded with customers from the evening until the next morning. This is a familiar gathering place for young people in the city and visitors every night.

In addition, there are many other places that are equally attractive, surely the following articles will describe in more detail for you each famous place in Saigon.

Best dishes & restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City

You should try some extremely attractive dishes in Saigon:

• Broken rice
• Mixed rice paper
• Bun Dau Mam Tom
• Beef Hot Pot
• Snails (if you dare trying this dish)

To be able to experience all the cuisines without having to spend too much time and move many places, you can refer to some of the following famous food streets:

1. A famous food street in District 1, Saigon – Co Giang

Here, there are many unique, attractive, and affordable dishes such as Dalat vermicelli noodles, Ms. Tuyen’s grilled meat vermicelli, Ms. Giang’s tea, etc. The location is in the center, so it is very convenient to move here to enjoy.

2. Snacking street along Lake Con Rua

Ho Con Rua food street for Saigon people seems to have become an unforgettable memory. Coming to this neighborhood, you will enjoy mixed rice paper, rolled rice paper, fried quail eggs with tamarind, … Just spend 10,000 – 15,000 VND

3. Phan Xich Long food street

At Phan Xich Long Street, there are also many other dishes, converging the culinary quintessence of the North – Central – South.

4. Alley 200 Xom Chieu

This place is very crowded and also has many delicious and attractive restaurants with extremely affordable prices.

5. Vinh Khanh snail street

Almost all kinds of snails are processed into many different dishes such as boiled snails, fried snails with tamarind, snails with cheese sauce, grilled snails, steamed snails with ginger discharge.

Where to stay ?

Shopping experience for tourists.

When you travel in Saigon, being quoted high prices is a standard procedure, so you should always bargain with the seller and suggest 50 000 VND to 100 000VND off. And if you find the price too expensive and unreasonable, then just pretend to leave and the sellers will immediately give you a discount.

You can browse through the following products: Shopping for handicrafts, paintings, silk clothes, silk scarves… and many more handmade items.

Saigon’s best markets

• Ben Thanh Market Quach Thi Trang Square, District 1 ( see on Google Map )
• Binh Tay Market 57A Thap Muoi, District 6 ( see on Google Map )
• Saigon Square Saigon Square 1, 77-89 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1 ( see on Google Map )
• Hanh Thong Tay Market Quang Trung Street, Ward 11, Go Vap District ( see on Google Map )
• Ba Chieu Market Bach Dang Street, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District ( see on Google Map )
• Tan Dinh Market Hai Ba Trung, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1 ( see on Google Map )
• An Dong Market No. 34 – 36 An Duong Vuong Street, Dist.5, Ho Chi Minh City ( see on Google Map )

Saigon’s insider tips

• Book flights early: Usually, you can book 1 month in advance or 15 days before the flight, prices will be cheaper.
• When coming to Vietnam, you should download Grab and Gojek apps to book a car or motorbike with chauffeur to go anywhere and save money.
• Avoid going to the street during rush hours: from 8am-9am and 17h-18h30 if you want to avoid traffic jams.
• Bring credit cards, cash, identification papers.
• Shoppers must bargain, all the time (except in supermarkets).
• Be careful with your wallet, identity papers, money and valuable items.
• Do not use the phone while walking in the inner city of Saigon to avoid theft.

Above are our tips for your journey in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Vietnam. In addition to the ancient architecture, unique street food, busy shopping markets, Saigon people are also very friendly. Hopefully, this article will help readers have a complete experience in their journey.

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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.

Top Hotels In Ho Chi Minh City

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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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Ultimate Southern Vietnam Guide — 13 Best Things to do in Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Phu Quoc, and Mui Ne

Race over sand dunes, stuff yourself with the best local street food and take on Asia’s longest coaster — this is our complete guide to Vietnam’s best experiences in the South!

During our last trip to Vietnam, we got to explore the central area (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang) and we loved it. This time, we headed to Southern Vietnam to delve deeper and get to know Vietnam even better.

After exploring Southern Vietnam, I understand why it’s such a popular destination. Each city had something unique to offer — it’s almost like packing several mini trips into one.

Here’s our ultimate Southern Vietnam Guide — the best experiences in Ho Chi Minh , Da Lat , Phu Quoc and Mui Ne !

Ho Chi Minh

First up on our Southern Vietnam guide is Ho Chi Minh (formerly Saigon till 1975), Vietnam’s bustling capital and largest city. Ho Chi Minh was previously colonised by the French and still retains much of its European architecture.

The city is bursting with delicious food and rich history, and it’s also a good base to explore the rest of Southern Vietnam!

1) Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels is a popular day trip from Ho Chi Minh city. I’d admit I didn’t know much about Vietnam’s history before the trip.

But our guide was very knowledgeable, and helped paint a clear picture of Vietnam’s milestones from her time as a French colony to the country’s independence!

The Cu Chi Tunnels is a 250km-long network of tunnels, used by Viet Cong troops (pro-communists in Southern Vietnam) during the Vietnam War to combat American soldiers! The Americans had more advanced technology, so the Vietnamese had to move underground to evade aerial bombing.

We walked through a small section of the tunnels and caught a glimpse of what it was like to be living in that era. Overall, the tour was really insightful — it’ll be useful to start your Vietnam adventure with this.

If you’d like to extend the day trip, consider the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta full day tour ! This includes a local lunch and a relaxing boat ride down a canal off the Mekong Delta.

Cost: ~S$31/pax for a half-day tour Tour timings: 7:30AM – 12:30PM, 1PM – 6:30PM (Tour operator will confirm pick up timing the night before) Meeting point: Pick up from hotel

2) Explore Local Markets

Markets are a way of life in Vietnam and the ones in Ho Chi Minh don’t disappoint. Ben Thanh Market is the city’s most well-known market, located centrally in the heart of district one. It’s a touristy spot, but still worth a visit if it’s your first time in Ho Chi Minh.

You’ll find all sorts of things here — clothes, spices, souvenirs, and my personal favourite, a section dedicated to local food.

There are several stores selling a variety of Vietnamese cuisine. We had barbecue pork noodles (60,000₫), beef vermicelli noodles (50,000₫) and fruit smoothies (30,000₫) — a satisfying meal for under S$10 total!

Ben Thanh Market Opening hours: 6AM – 8PM Address: Đ. Lê Lợi, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

200 Market in district four came highly recommended by our Vietnamese guide. We arrived at a chaotic intersection of street food stalls — motorcycles constantly weaving through the crowds, hawkers barking out orders.

Be warned — it’s not catered to tourists, so menus are only in Vietnamese. Despite this, 200 Market turned out to be one of our favourite street food experiences in Ho Chi Minh!

The language barrier turned into a game of “point at food and get surprised”, and we ended up loving every dish that came. Plus, eating on little red stools inches from the road is truly as local as it gets!

Dishes we tried include banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese shrimp omelette, 40,000₫), bahn mi (30,000₫), noodles (45,000₫), barbecue clams and snails (50,000₫/plate) — all pretty affordable.

*Pro-tip: Bring small change! The locals don’t enjoy having to break up large notes. Don’t use wet wipes if you don’t need them too — restaurants in Vietnam charge extra for it!

200 Market Opening hours: 5AM – 11PM Address: Nhà thờ, Xóm Chiếu, Phường 15, Quận 4, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Read also: Southern Vietnam Food Guide — 17 Best Places to Eat at Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc

3) Visit Saigon Skydeck

Fun fact: The design of Bitexcon Financial Tower was inspired by a lotus, Vietnam’s national flower!

For unobstructed views of Ho Chi Minh, head up to Saigon Skydeck. It’s located on the 49th floor of the Bitexcon Financial Tower and has informative touch screens where you can learn about the city’s landmarks like the Sai Gon Central Post Office.

Cost: ~S$11.90/pax Opening hours: 9:30AM – 9:30PM (Last entry 8:45PM) Address: 36 Đ. Hồ Tùng Mậu, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

4) Sightsee at Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is Ho Chi Minh’s main pedestrian street. It’s the heart of the city — both sides are lined with cafes and shops; at the end, there’s a lotus fountain centrepiece and the Ho Chi Minh government office.

We passed by both in the day and at night and the street really comes to life after dark. There are a few street performers and street food stalls too!

Along Nguyen Hue, one particular building stands out. That’s The Cafe Apartments — a refurbished apartment building now housing several cafes and shops.

We walked all nine floors in search of the most aesthetic cafe (they charge 3,000₫ to use the lift) and settled on Saigon Oi on the fifth floor.

This cafe has a minimalist interior and large windows with views of the walking street — great for people watching! Drinks start from 43,000₫.

*Pro-tip: Fork out the cash and pay to use the lift! We only found out after that most cafes reimburse the fee for customers.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 22 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Read also: Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City — A Less Touristy Guide of Vietnam’s Capital

Next up on our Southern Vietnam guide is Da Lat . It’s just an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh, but you’ll find completely different landscapes — mountains, lakes, and waterfalls!

Da Lat was once a summer getaway destination for the French, so a lot of the architecture here is European. Another reason to visit: Da Lat has a mild temperate climate, with average yearly temperatures of 20°C. Yes , we’d recommend packing a jacket.

Getting to Da Lat from Ho Chi Minh: 55min flight (from ~S$34 one-way)

5) Kayak at Tuyen Lam Lake

Da Lat’s Tuyen Lam Lake looks like something straight out of Jumanji . It’s vast and tranquil, with plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. We went on a sunrise kayaking tour , where we got to watch Da Lat come to life in the wee hours of the morning.

Waking up at 4AM was so worth it. After a quick lesson, our guide let us paddle out on our own for around 30 minutes to enjoy the sunrise. We had the entire lake to ourselves, apart from another couple on the tour — and it was an incredibly surreal experience.

Then, we kayaked down the lake to our breakfast spot. Breakfast was coffee and instant noodles — the perfect comfort food for the chilly Da Lat weather. We had our meal in a serene forest, before kayaking back to the starting point.

This tour was easily a highlight of our Southern Vietnam trip and in our opinion, one of the best things to do in Da Lat!

Cost: ~S$22.80 for a 3hr tour Tour timings: 5AM – 8AM, 8AM – 11AM, 2:30PM – 5:30PM Meeting point: Kayak Tuyen Lam Station (Hoa Cẩm Tú Cầu, Phường 3, Thành phố Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng 66115, Vietnam)

6) Take on Dalat’s Alpine Coaster and High Rope Course 

Conquer Da Lat’s high rope course adventure — seven areas of high elements obstacles! Visitors get a thorough safety briefing on how to attach the carabiners properly and navigate obstacles.

After that, it’s pretty much a do-it-yourself adventure. There were guides on standby, ready to assist when needed. Our favourite part of the course was the 200m-long zip line that goes through the forest!

After that, take on Asia’s longest coaster trail, stretching for 2.4km! This ride isn’t for the faint-hearted — you’ll speed through scenic pine forests and experience sharp turns. Don’t worry though, there’s a brake to slow down if needed.

Cost: ~S$27.10/pax Opening hours: 7AM – 5PM (New Alpine Coaster), 8AM – 4PM (High Rope Course) Address: Prenn Pass, Ward 3, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province

7) Go Cafe-hopping

Another must-do in Da Lat is to tick off Instagrammable cafes with a view of mountainous landscapes. Like Cabin in the Woods , a rustic cafe filled with wooden furniture and fun photo spots!

This cafe is a hidden gem — the road there is narrow and more suited to bikes than cars. But trust us, the cafe is really pretty and worth the journey.

There are both Western and Asian dishes — we got tom yum noodles (50,000₫), sausage and fries (70,000₫), and a variety of drinks!

Cabin in the Woods Cost: From 50,000₫ (~S$3) for a main dish Opening hours: 7AM – 8PM Address: Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng Province, Vietnam 670000

Tui Mo To is a well-known cafe in Da Lat. The interior looks like it’s made for photoshoots — lots of windows for natural light and aesthetic furniture.

They sell interesting desserts, like passionfruit cheesecake (55,000₫) and purple mousse (45,000₫) — which we enjoyed while taking in the views of the city.

Tui Mo To Cost: From 45,000₫ (~S$2.70) for a dessert Opening hours: 7:45AM – 9:45AM Address: Hẻm 31 Sào Nam, Phường 11, Thành phố Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng 66118, Vietnam

Read also: 3D2N Da Lat Itinerary — A Magical Alpine Adventure in Southern Vietnam

Step aside, Ha Long Bay , there’s another beautiful island paradise in Vietnam. This is Phu Quoc , Vietnam’s largest island — with a 150km-long coastline offering white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Getting to Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh: 1hr flight (from ~S$34 one-way)

8) Day trip to Phu Quoc’s Pristine Islands

There’s no way we could visit Phu Quoc without seeing the islands. Our full-day island-hopping tour included trips to Fingernail Island, Gam Ghi Island, and May Rut Island.

We went snorkelling at the first two, exploring reefs and a teeming marine life. Lunch was then served on board with seafood and hot soup, before setting off to the next island.

After expending our energy at the first two islands, May Rut Island was the chill respite we needed — we docked and spent around an hour exploring on our own.

There’s a gorgeous beach on the other side (accessible via a short hike!), with beach chairs for rent if you’d like a brief afternoon nap. Just note that the shore has some sharp rocks so thread into the waters carefully — someone lost their toenail here, just saying.

Cost: ~S$35.50 (incl. of lunch, snorkelling equipment) Tour timing: 8:30AM – 4:30PM Meeting point: Hotel pick up available

9) Take Photos at Sunset Sanato

Sunset Sanato isn’t just another beachfront resort. What makes it special is its collection of unique art structures, right by the ocean! It’s kinda like an outdoor museum, with art pieces designed by architect Nikita Marshunok.

It’s the perfect spot to capture photos!

Entrance fee: 70,000₫ (~S$4.20) Opening hours: 9AM – 9PM Address: Dương Tơ, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, Vietnam

10) Tick off Thrilling Rides at Sun World Phu Quoc

Here’s another way to cool off — a trip to Aquatopia Water Park within Sun World Phu Quoc . There are six themed zones, and our favourite ride was Tropical Twister, a water slide with lots of twists and turns!

Getting to Sun World Phu Quoc is an adventure in itself — a ride on the world’s longest non-stop cable car. It’s 7,899m long and is the only way to get to Sun World! Along the way, soak in views of the An Thoi Archipelago.

Entrance fee: ~S$30.70 (incl. of round trip cable car ticket) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM Address: Bãi Đất Đỏ, Phú Quốc, Kien Giang, Vietnam

Read also: 3D2N Phu Quoc Itinerary — A Pristine Beach Retreat in Southern Vietnam’s Hidden “Pearl Island” (Coming soon)

The last place on our Southern Vietnam guide is Mui Ne. Google Mui Ne and you might think you’re looking at photos of Dubai instead. It’s home to vast sand dunes — the perfect playground for adventure seekers.

Getting to Mui Ne from Ho Chi Minh: 5hr bus ride ( from S$11 one-way )

11) Explore Red and White Sand Dunes

Book a private jeep tour to visit Mui Ne’s stunning sand dunes. First stop, the Red Sand Dunes. They’re a bright reddish-orange shade, and snake along the coast. Here, you can rent a board (30,000₫) to surf the sand dunes!

After that, it’s a roughly 30-minute drive to the White Sand Dunes. They’re the main attraction — a lot bigger than the Red Sand Dunes and more impressive. It costs a bit more (~S$24.60/group) to visit the White Sand Dunes, but it’s worth it — select it as an add-on when booking the tour!

There’s the option to rent an ATV on the spot for 600,000₫ (~S$36) for 1 hour, which sits up to two guests! Unfortunately, there’s a staff member driving the ATV — but we got to steer it ourselves after giving a tip.

Cost: From ~S$31.70/jeep (up to 4 pax), incl. of round trip hotel transfer Tour timings: 4:30AM, 9AM, 1:30PM Meeting point: Hotel pick up available

12) Surf at Little Buddha Beach

This might come as a shock — in a town that’s mainly known for sand dunes, surfing is also one of the best things to do in Mui Ne! At Mui Ne Local Surf School , both beginners and intermediate surfers can sign up for surf lessons.

Lessons take place at Little Buddha Beach , where kitesurfing is also popular. There are private and group classes available, as well as board rental (without lessons) for experienced surfers.

Cost: ~S$35/hr for a group lesson, ~S$28/day for board rental Opening hours: 6AM – 6PM Address: 246/2B Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, khu phố 3 Phan Thiet, Bình Thuận Province, Vietnam 800000

13) Walk Along Fairy Stream

Walking along the Fairy Stream is another popular thing to do in Mui Ne. It’s essentially a shallow stream nestled between bright orange and red limestone rocks! Most people take off their shoes to walk in the water — we did as well.

At the end of the path, there’s a small waterfall. In total, the journey takes about an hour! There are also stalls along the way selling snacks and souvenirs.

Entrance fee: Free — but there’s a parking fee of 10,000₫ Opening hours: There aren’t any official opening hours, but we’d avoid going after 5:30PM when it starts to get dark Address: 40B Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Phường Hàm Tiến, Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận, Vietnam

Pre-trip Essentials and Tips for Your Southern Vietnam Adventure

Vietnam has many faces — the historian with a library full of stories to tell, the explorer seeking new adventures, the foodie on the hunt for the best street eats. 

They’re all very different, but each is definitely worth getting to know.

Before you go, here are some pre-trip essentials to note:

Flights: Direct flights from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh take ~2hrs

Travel insurance: Chubb’s travel insurance starts from ~S$4.80/day — not mandatory to enter Vietnam but always good to have!

Connectivity: 10-day SIM card with unlimited data ( ~S$11.20 ). Pick up from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh Getting around: Grab was our go-to mode of transport in Ho Chi Minh, Phu Quoc and Da Lat. Mui Ne doesn’t have Grab but there are local taxis — download the local taxi app Mai Linh or flag a cab

Check out our other Vietnam guides and itineraries: – 7-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary Under S$900 — Best Things to Do in Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh, Mui Ne, and Da Lat – 5-Day Central Vietnam Itinerary — Off The Beaten Path In Ba Na Hills, Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An – 2-Week Vietnam Guide — Heart-Pumping Experiences through Northern and Central Vietnam from Hanoi to Da Nang

Know of any hidden gems we should add to our Southern Vietnam guide? Share with us in the comments!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

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RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

7-Day Southern Vietnam Itinerary Under S$900 — Best Things to Do in Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh, Mui Ne, and Da Lat

Planning Your Vietnam Itinerary — Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

3D2N Phu Quoc Itinerary — A Pristine Beach Retreat in Southern Vietnam’s Hidden “Pearl Island”

Southern Vietnam Food Guide — 17 Best Places to Eat at Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Mui Ne, and Phu Quoc

3D2N Da Lat Itinerary — A Magical Alpine Adventure in Southern Vietnam

9 Best Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City — A Less Touristy HCM Guide

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Top tourist spots in Ho Chi Minh City for five-day holiday period

In ho chi minh city travelers have plenty of chance to explore many fascinating destinations during the five-day holiday period to mark national reunification day (april 30) and may day (may 1)..

• HCM City reduces Reunification Day firework displays
• Michelin-starred restaurant in HCM City among world's best
• HCM City: Second banh mi festival slated for May

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2024 ho chi minh vietnam travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, budget, tips and more.

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh Vietnam for the first time this 2024? Let this Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) travel guide blog for first-timers with sample DIY Ho Chi Minh itinerary, top things to do, tourist spots, and breakdown of expenses help you.

2024 first-timer's travel guide to ho chi minh, vietnam (updated), visa requirements for filipinos.

How To Get to Ho Chi Minh Vietnam?

Cheap flights to ho chi minh from the philippines, if you're traveling by land from cambodia or from hanoi, buses are available going to ho chi minh., airport to ho chi minh city center/saigon.

• Group of 3 - PHP 609.00 per car
• Group of 5 - PHP 710.00 per car
• Group of 12 - PHP 1,268 per car

How to Get Around Ho Chi Minh City?

When is the best time to visit ho chi minh, how many days to stay in ho chi minh.

How to Stay Connected?

• Validity: 10-30 days
• Internet speed: 4G
• Service type: Data only/Calls included
• Coverage area: The whole of Vietnam
• Data limit: 2GB per day, 10Gb or Unlimited Data
• SIM card size: Nano Micro Mini
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
• Local telecom operator: Vinaphone
• Upload/Download Speed: 50Mbps/150Mbps
• Max. No. of Connected Devices: 5 devices
• Battery Life: 16 hours
• Coverage area: Multiple Countries
• Traffic Flow Limit: 4G unlimited data, 1GB, 500MB, or 350MB per day

Where to exchange money?

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

Saigon backpackers hostel @ pham ngu lao.

• 1 Bed In 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room - PHP 299.38 per night
• 1 Bed In 4-Bed Female Dormitory Room - PHP 349.28 per night
• Private Double Room - 1,097.744 per night for 2 persons
• √ Check room rates and availability here

Ho Chi Minh Vietnam - Tourist Spots, Attractions and Things To Do and Experience

Looking for best things to do, tourist spots and attractions in ho chi minh (saigon), vietnam, 1. visit the independence palace (reunification palace).

2. Saigon Cathedral of Notre Dame

3. Visit the War Remnants Museum

4. Saigon Opera House

5. Watch a Water Puppet Show

6. Ride a Cyclo

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Jan 6, 2018 at 3:46am PST

7. Drop by Handicapped Handicrafts

8. Explore Cu Chi Tunnels

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 13, 2017 at 1:15am PST

OTHER OPTIONS:

• Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh
• Cu Chi Tunnels VIP Tour by Limousine

Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour

• Cu Chi Tunnels Day Tour with Lunch
• Cu Chi Tunnels Premium Speedboat Tour

9. Ho Chi Minh City Hall

10. enjoy ho chi minh's skyline, 11. dinner at saigon river cruise.

12. Shop at Ben Thanh Market

13. Enjoy a hot bowl of Phở

14. Snack on Bánh Mì

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 13, 2017 at 4:34pm PST

15. Indulge on Delicious Vietnamese Coffee

A post shared by Pinoy Adventurista (Mervz) 🇵🇭 (@pinoyadventurista) on Dec 11, 2017 at 10:09pm PST

Other Things To Do and Must-See Tourist Spots in Ho Chi Minh

• Cai Be Floating Market And Tan Phong Island
• Saigon Street Food By Night Tour
• Saigon City Tour by Motorbike
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour on a Cyclo
• Saigon Princess Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
• Can Gio Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh
• Street Food on Scooter Tour in Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Motorbike Adventures

• Indochina Junk Dinner Cruise on Saigon River

Full Day Excursion To Mekong Delta

Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Tour

Saigon Skydeck in Bitexco Financial Tower

Saigon Cultural Evening Tour with Water Puppet Show and Dinner River Cruise

Mekong Delta, Cai Be Floating Market, and Tan Phong Island Full Day Tour

Best food, must-eats and experiences in ho chi minh.

Saigon Foodie Half Day Tour

Saigon Street Food By Night

Saigon Vegan Foodie Adventure

Cooking Classes in Ho Chi Minh

• Cooking Class with Cu Chi Tunnels and Side Car Tour
• The Vietnamese Cooking Class
• Saigon Cooking Class by Hoa Tuc
• M.O.M Cooking Class in Saigon

Sample 3 Days and 2 Nights Ho Chi Minh DIY Itinerary

• Depart from Manila to Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam
• Arrival in Ho Chi Minh Airport
• Take a Grab Car to Pham Ngu Lao in District 1 (Saigon)
• Check-in or leave your bags at the hotel/hostel
• Breakfast (a hot bowl of Phở)
• Enjoy coffee at the street side coffee shops
• City Tour Part 1
• Reunification Palace
• Saigon Cathedral of Notre Dame
• Shop at Ben Thanh Market
• Walk around the streets
• Coffee again. Hahaha!
• Back at the hostel
• Breakfast at the hostel
• Travel to Chu Chi Tunnels - BOOK THIS TOUR HERE
• Chu Chi Tunnel Tour and Handicapped Handicrafts
• Back in Ho Chi Minh City Center
• Late lunch (Bánh Mì or at any local restaurant)
• Saigon Cultural Evening Tour - BOOK THIS TOUR HERE
• Water Puppet Show
• Dinner Cruise along Saigon River
• Have coffee
• City Tour Part 2 + Shopping
• War Remnants Museum
• Ho chi Minh City Hall
• Souvenir Shopping
• Check out at the hostel
• Travel back to Manila
• Or in our case, to Phnom Penh, Cambodia by bus

Ho Chi Minh Trip Budget and Expenses

List of basic expenses.

• Accommodation: PHP 300 - 5,000 per night
• Food: PHP 300 - 500 per day
• Transportation: PHP 100 - 200 per day
• Saigon Cultural Evening Tour with Water Puppet Show and Dinner River Cruise: PHP 2.028
• Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Tour:PHP 660
• War Remnants Museum Entrance Fee: PHP 89.00
• Pocket WiFi Rental: PHP 254 per day

Sample Expenses for 5,000 PHP Budget

• Grab Car to Ho Chi Minh - PHP 243.00 / 2 = PHP 121.00 each
• Hostel - PHP 300.00 (1st Night)
• Food Expenses (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) - PHP 500.00
• City Tour Transportation - Free (We just walked to the destinations)
• WiFi Rental (Day 1) - PHP 254.00 / 2 = PHP 127.00 each
• TOTAL - 1,048.00
• Hostel - PHP 300.00 (2nd Night)
• Breakfast at the Hostel - Free
• Chu Chi Tunnel Half day Tour - PHP 660.00
• Saigon Cultural Evening Tour with Water Puppet Show and Dinner River Cruise - PHP 2,028.00
• Food Expense (Lunch only) - PHP 150.00
• WiFi Rental (Day 2) - PHP 254.00 / 2 = PHP 127.00 each
• TOTAL - PHP 3,265.00
• War Remnants Museum Entrance Fee - PHP 89.00
• Food Expense (Lunch and Dinner) - PHP 300.00
• WiFi Rental (Day 2) - PHP 254.00 / 2 = 127.00 each
• Grab Car to Airport - PHP 243.00 / 2 = PHP 121.00 each
• TOTAL - PHP 637.00

Grand Total - PHP 4,950 ($ 100++ USD)

• Round trip airfare Manila-Ho Chi Minh-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Budget for pasalubong and tips
• Food expense for snacks

I hope this First-timer's Travel Guide to Ho Chi Minh Vietnam will help you in planning an awesome adventure! Enjoy and have fun!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 4 comments :.

Is it safe to travel to Saigon, is it safe to use selfie stick, and is it required to give a tip as it was in the Philippines? Thank You!

Hi. My family and I were planning to go to Hong Kong this December. We’ve already purchased the tickets months ago. However, with the events happening in HK now, we’re also looking for other options aside from HK. We a group of 20 including kids and senior. Is Vietnam a good substitute for HK? Or do you have any other suggestions? (Singapore and Taiwan is out of the list since we’ve already been there). Thanks in advance.

Hi, can,I ask something? How to book in grab for transportation? I can't book while in Philippines. I want to book early for my transpo. From ho chi minh airport to saigon. Thank you.

Hi, what are the requirements on Vitenam's immigration if you will be exiting through Cambodia? Because they might not know that you already left their country. 😅

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Why Ho Chi Minh City Is a Must-See Destination

L ovely Vietnam has too many visit-worthy destinations to count. But if you're in the mood for a large, modern city that pulsates with uncontainable energy, head to Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, this was once the capital of French Indochina, as well as South Vietnam. 

After the end of the Vietnam War, Hanoi became the capital, but Ho Chi Minh has remained the country's economic center. Spend your time here admiring the beautiful French colonial architecture while learning about its complex and difficult history. Visiting landmarks like the sobering War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnel and Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is a must. 

While you tour, take frequent breaks to enjoy the delicious and unique Vietnamese coffee styles that include spins like egg coffee and yogurt coffee — trust us, they are amazingly good. Of course, the food will not disappoint. It's difficult to have a bad meal in Vietnam. And though there are various fine dining establishments here, you  have  to try the street food. Think of us while you're sitting on a plastic stool eating the best soup you've ever had in your life.

Are you ready to jump on the bandwagon?

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh will be very affordable if you're from the U.S. or Europe. You'll be able to stay in luxury hotels for a great price. Of course, if you'd rather save money, there are also low-budget options that won't set you back too much. 

Best luxury hotel in Ho Chi Minh:  The Reverie Saigon

Best mid-tier hotel in Ho Chi Minh:  Anna House Hotel 

Best budget hotel in Ho Chi Minh:  Truong Thinh Hotel Saigon  

How to Get to Ho Chi Minh City

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the only aviation hub that services Ho Chi Minh City. It's also the largest airport in Vietnam.

When you  fly into Ho Chi Minh , you can take a bus from the airport to the city center. This service is very cheap. But if convenience is important, taxis are readily available.

Once in the city, you can move around by hailing tuk-tuks on the street. Or download Grab, a ride-sharing app similar to Uber.

Book a flight to Ho Chi Minh

Vietnam Alternative: Hanoi

After you visit Ho Chi Minh, hop to the north of the country to visit Hanoi. While still a modern city, the capital's large Old Quarter is large and charming. 

Best luxury hotel in Hanoi:  Capella Hanoi 

Best mid-tier hotel in Hanoi:  Acoustic Hotel & Spa 

Best budget hotel in Hanoi:  Hanoi Hotel Royal 

Book a flight to Hanoi

For more great destinations, check out Far & Wide.

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Is Ho Chi Minh City Safe for Tourists? Safe Travel Tips for First Timers

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Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists? Yes. Ranked 12th on the safety index among Southeast Asia's 20 tourist cities by the statistics site Numbeo, Ho Chi Minh City is considered safe for travelers. This is further supported by the U.S. Department of State (DOS), which does not recommend any restrictions for tourists visiting this destination. In the following article, we will provide evidence to reinforce the safety of Ho Chi Minh City and offer safe travel tips for first-time visitors.

05 Reasons Why Ho Chi Minh City is Safe for Tourists

Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can rest assured for several reasons. From low crime statistics to a visible presence of security forces, prompt incident responses, stringent disease prevention measures, and the welcoming nature of locals, every aspect ensures a secure and enjoyable trip for all. Here are 5 reasons why travelers can explore this dynamic city with confidence.

International Tourist Surge After COVID and Economic Downturn

Despite the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, the ongoing growth in tourist arrivals to Ho Chi Minh City provides a compelling reason to visit. According to preliminary statistics from the Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Department, approximately 65,000 international tourists visited during the 2023 Lunar New Year holiday. Tourists at various attractions, entertainment venues, and service points totaled around 1.7 million. 

Accommodation occupancy reached approximately 250,000 guests, with a room occupancy rate of 85%. Total revenue was estimated at around 6.3 trillion Vietnamese dong. This sustained influx of tourists underscores the enduring appeal of Ho Chi Minh City as a secure and hospitable destination.

Presence of Security Forces

Tourists exploring Ho Chi Minh City find reassurance in the visible presence of police and security forces. Throughout the city's major and minor streets, law enforcement officers are stationed and patrol public spaces. Regardless of the time of day, these forces rotate their activities to effectively deter potential wrongdoers. 

The Ho Chi Minh City police have conducted numerous high-profile crackdowns, emphasizing fundamental law enforcement tasks and enhancing preventive measures. 

Furthermore, the city government has invested significantly in advanced surveillance technologies, deploying extensive camera networks covering vital areas such as city centers, tourist districts, and transportation hubs to promptly respond to security incidents and ensure the safety of tourists and residents alike.

Prompt Response to Incidents

In Ho Chi Minh City, swift response to emergencies is a top priority for ensuring tourist safety. The city's ambulance system and fire brigade are highly organized and equipped to handle incidents efficiently.

Ambulance services operate round-the-clock, with quick dispatch and skilled medical personnel providing immediate care. Fire stations strategically located throughout the city enable rapid response to fires and accidents, minimizing risks to travelers.

This commitment to prompt intervention underscores Ho Chi Minh City's dedication to ensuring the well-being of tourists, offering reassurance that help is always close at hand in case of emergencies.

Disease Prevention Measures

In response to the pandemic, the Ho Chi Minh City government has ramped up efforts in medical safety and disease control to ensure a safe environment for tourists. The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health has formed a disease treatment expert group to enhance consultations for severe cases requiring referral or challenging cases with other units. 

Additionally, the City Center for Disease Control has intensified supervision of disease prevention and control, with most health stations fully implementing local disease prevention and control activities. 

The city has also stepped up communication efforts for disease prevention and control, developing and posting numerous communication materials on its website and distributing them to health units for implementation. 

This comprehensive healthcare infrastructure ensures that visitors have access to prompt and reliable medical assistance when needed, boosting confidence in the city's healthcare system and enhancing overall safety for tourists.

Friendliness of the Locals

Renowned for their warmth and hospitality, the people of Ho Chi Minh City contribute significantly to the safety and comfort of tourists. The amiable atmosphere fostered by the local community adds to the overall sense of security experienced by tourists, creating a welcoming environment where travelers can feel at ease exploring the city's vibrant culture and attractions. 

Local residents in Ho Chi Minh City are known for being hospitable and friendly towards tourists (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

Whether seeking directions, recommendations, or simply engaging in friendly conversation, visitors can rely on the kindness and hospitality of the locals, further enriching their experience in Ho Chi Minh City.

Safety Tips When Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City

When traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, visitors will be delighted by a captivating blend of culture, history, and modernity awaiting exploration. To enhance their experience and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey in this bustling metropolis, travelers can look forward to the following surprises and tips:

Understanding Climate Conditions

Ho Chi Minh City, situated in the southern region of Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by warm sunshine throughout the year. The temperatures typically range from 20-35°C, providing a pleasant environment for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a milder climate with less intense heat compared to other areas in Vietnam.

The city observes two distinct seasons: the rainy season, which spans from May to November, and the dry season, which lasts from December to April.  When planning your travel itinerary, it's essential to take these seasonal changes into account and adjust your plans accordingly. This is necessary because the weather can greatly affect your outdoor activities, transportation, and overall travel experiences.

In Ho Chi Minh City's rainy season, sudden thunderstorms are common. The weather may be sunny one moment and then unexpectedly pour rain, which can quickly subside. During these times, the air is relatively cool with lower temperatures, and high humidity, and the sunlight is not too intense.

Thus, when visiting Ho Chi Minh City during this season, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat at all times. If traveling by motorbike, ensure you have a raincoat stowed in the trunk. Additionally, it's essential to check the traffic routes before setting out, as rain often leads to road flooding and traffic congestion.

In contrast, the dry season offers sunny days and lower humidity levels, making it an ideal time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. Light, breathable clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in the warm weather, along with sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

By considering the seasonal weather patterns and packing appropriate attire, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the vibrant streets and attractions of Ho Chi Minh City.

Choosing Suitable Means of Transportation Options

When navigating Ho Chi Minh City, it's important to consider the various transportation options available to ensure a safe and convenient journey. Here are some recommended means of transportation:

Taxi from reputable companies

When traveling from the airport to the city center or getting around town, it's advisable to select a taxi provided by reputable companies. This choice guarantees your reliability and safety during the journey. To identify a reputable taxi company at the airport, you should keep an eye out for official taxi stands and refrain from engaging with unauthorized drivers who may approach you.

You have the option to embrace the local lifestyle by utilizing public buses. These vehicles typically charge less than $1 per ticket, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the city's culture and witness its daily life.

Double-decker bus (Hop On Hop Off bus) 

These Hop On Hop Off buses offer a comprehensive city tour, allowing travelers to explore Ho Chi Minh City's landmarks and attractions at their own pace.

This is a traditional mode of transportation, offers visitors distinctive perspectives of the city's streets and is ideal for short distances.

Technology motorbike taxi

For quick and efficient travel within the city, you should consider using technology-based motorbike taxi services. These services, accessible through mobile apps, offer convenient rides and are popular among locals and tourists alike.

When using taxis or cyclos, it's essential to exercise caution and prioritize safety. You should choose reputable taxi companies, ask them to use meters, and negotiate prices before the trip to avoid misunderstandings. Besides, you also need to always inquire about the fare in advance and clarify any additional costs to ensure a smooth and transparent journey.

Always be Alert and Take Care of Your Belongings

In any bustling metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City, the presence of pickpockets is a reality. Therefore, it's crucial to remain vigilant and safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded areas, markets, and public transportation. Here are some practical tips to protect your valuables:

• Keep your bags securely fastened and close to your body, preferably in front of you;
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash or displaying valuable items openly;
• Be cautious in crowded areas, where pickpockets may operate discreetly;
• Consider using anti-theft accessories such as money belts or slash-resistant bags;
• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if you sense any suspicious behavior.

Tips for Buying Air Tickets to Ho Chi Minh City at Good Prices

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City can be affordable if you plan ahead and take advantage of available promotions. Here are some tips to help you find good deals on air tickets:

• To maximize travel savings, it's advisable to check for available promotional programs on Vietnam Airlines’ official website or mobile app when booking tickets;
• Book your flight tickets early to secure preferential prices and have a wider selection of seats. Early booking often results in lower fares, especially during peak travel seasons;
• As an airline that always prioritizes customer benefits, we strive to offer attractive rewards to our passengers. Especially for those who register as Lotusmiles members, exclusive perks and special offers await. Lotusmiles members enjoy benefits like double bonus miles , which can be used for future flights or upgrades. In addition, when booking online, Lotusmiles members also receive a 5% discount on airfare, providing significant savings on your travel expenses.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and budget-friendly trip to Ho Chi Minh City, allowing you to enjoy all that this vibrant destination has to offer.

The Ho Chi Minh City government consistently prioritizes implementing measures to ensure the safety of tourists when visiting the city  (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

Travelers can rest assured that Ho Chi Minh City is a secure destination for tourists. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and welcoming locals, visitors can enjoy their time here without any concerns for their safety. 

To plan your trip and take advantage of the best deals, you can visit the Vietnam Airlines’ website for specific flight schedules and the latest attractive promotions. Whether you're drawn to the historical landmarks, the vibrant nightlife, or the delicious street food, Ho Chi Minh City offers a memorable experience in a safe environment.

Is it safe to walk in Ho Chi Minh City at night?

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe at night, but it's always important for you to remain vigilant and take precautions. You should stick to well-lit areas, avoid isolated streets, and keep an eye on your belongings. It's also advised to use trustworthy transportation options and stay aware of your surroundings.

Is it safe to travel alone in Ho Chi Minh City?

Yes, traveling alone in Ho Chi Minh City can be safe. However, you need to take necessary precautions, such as informing someone about your route, staying in well-reviewed accommodations, and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for female tourists?

While no place is completely risk-free, Ho Chi Minh City is generally considered a safe destination for female travelers. The city has a visible presence of security forces at all hours, and the locals are known for their friendliness towards visitors.

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