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All You Need to Know Before Travelling to the Binh Quoi Village in Ho Chi Minh City

Among Ho Chi Minh City’s big tourist attractions is Binh Quoi Village where visitors can paddle in a lake, go fishing, enjoy cultural events or simply drink a beer. Then there are the all-you-can-eat buffets where more than 50 southern specialties are on offer. All can be found in this beautiful expanse of green grasslands, small cottages and fish ponds shaded by coconut palms. About eight kilometres northeast from the city centre, this laidback rural-looking village feels a world away from the tourist droves. Stretching along Binh Quoi Street on Thanh Da Peninsula in the Saigon River, it is an elegant miniature of the Vietnam’s bygone Mekong Delta with a distinctively rural and pre-industrial ambiance. It all sounds like an amusement park, but the Binh Quoi village is a true charmer. Almost within the blink of an eye, the landscape changes from arid and clogged to green and spacious; the high-rise concrete buildings give way to lotus ponds, thatched cottages, a monkey bridge, bamboo waterwheels and vast tropical foliage.

To help navigate, the Binh Quoi Village has three different areas, numbered 1, 2 and 3. While Binh Quoi 1 is the most-visited with affordable options and a variety of activities available for everyone, Binh Quoi 2 is the go-to-place for sports enthusiasts, with its tennis course and swimming pool, and Binh Quoi 3 which defines itself with a more rustic and idyllic feel, is a good stop-off for a drink or a meal by the river.

Well worth a try in the village is the evening buffet dedicated to delectable Southern cuisine which you’ll find in the southern rural market settings: in the huts, on wooden food carts along the pond or in the garden. The Binh Quoi village is best described as a nature village and families, friends and working groups flock to it during weekends. The setting encourages everyone to get outdoors for fishing, boating and folk games – enough choice for anyone to do as much, or as little as they like. If you prefer a bit more comfort, Binh Quoi 2 with its lovely bungalows and resort-like services is a big step up from standard parks.

You can reach the village by motorbike, car or bus (No. 44 from Ben Thanh Market to Binh Quoi Station) within half an hour. The best time to visit is late afternoon during the weekends when there are opportunities for a tasty buffet, live music, and cultural performances. It may be overrun by visitors, but don’t let that put you off. There is always somewhere you can retreat to, and rest assured that the Binh Quoi Village will give you a healthy, balanced dose of nature and relaxation.

Binh Quoi Village, 48/10 Điện Biên Phủ, Ward 22, Bình Thạnh, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

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Binh Quoi Village – Bamboo Oasis in the City

Binh Quoi Village is one of the best-kept secrets in Ho Chi Minh City. It looks like a traditional bamboo village on the Mekong Delta – except it’s in the heart of the city.

This beautiful recreation offers thatched huts on the river, giant water lilies, monkey bridges, a towering bamboo waterwheel, and more. Binh Quoi Village is like a postcard come to life!

For us, it was love at first sight.

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City (aka Saigon) and seeking something offbeat and original, consider Binh Quoi Village. It offers beauty, relaxation, and the iconic Vietnamese scenes that visitors dream about. And entrance is FREE.

You could think of Binh Quoi Village as a sightseeing attraction/public park that features scenes from traditional Vietnam.

This visit is more about what you’ll see than what you’ll do , but there are a few interesting amusements. You can:

• Row a paddleboat down the “mini-Mekong” river
• Go fishing off a bamboo bridge
• Relax in a bamboo hut by the water
• Stroll the traditional village and the park/gardens
• Enjoy a meal at a floating restaurant
• Snap lots of pictures (the scenes are irresistibly photogenic)

There’s even a hotel  if you want to spend the night in a bamboo hut with all the modern luxuries.

Located just 20 minutes from downtown, Binh Quoi Village is a great way to spend some free time in Ho Chi Minh City. Here are some its highlights.

Binh Quoi Village Highlights:

The “mini-mekong” river.

  The largest body of water in the village is a mini recreation of the Mekong River. Actually, a large pond fed by the Saigon River, vintage scenes line the banks of the “Mini-Mekong.” A few of the best are:

The bamboo huts are beautiful, charming, and open to the public. They’re an ideal place to chill out.

This long, winding bridge spans the “Mini-Mekong” and connects the village area to the park.

Beware – this waterwheel is literally mesmerizing. The beauty of the bamboo, the flowing water, the rhythmic motion, and the soothing sounds melt away stress.

You can rent these boats for less than $2USD and paddle yourself around.

Giant Water Lily Pond

The Giant Water Lilies are an impressive surprise. Luckily, the monkey bridge lets you stand right over them for a closer look. They’re the biggest leaves we’ve ever seen in person. Some are 2 meters in diameter!

Sprawling Park

A lovely park lies at the center of Binh Quoi Village. It’s a huge green space loaded with flowers and fountains. Paved walkways make strolling easy and there are many shady spots to enjoy.

There’s even a big wooden swing set (great for the kids).

Floating Village

On the other side, a floating village sits on the water with several bamboo huts and multiple bridges. Much of this is restaurant seating but some are public gazebos. Eating at the restaurants is totally optional.

The whole site is owned by the Vietnamese government and was created for the purpose of tourism. However, enjoying some Vietnamese coffee, fresh fruit juice, or a meal is especially nice in the beautiful setting.

The restaurants are open everyday but there is a special buffet dinner on the weekend nights. It offers a wide variety of classic Vietnamese dishes and costs 290,000VND ($13USD).

Is Binh Quoi Village Worth Your Time?

Most visitors reach Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) at the beginning or end of their trip. At the beginning, you’ve just flown across the world and have a bit of jet lag. At the end, you’ve just had a couple weeks traveling south from Hanoi.

It was fantastic, but also fatiguing. Either way, Binh Quoi Village is a great way to relax, recharge, and still experience a wonderful side of Vietnam. And entrance is FREE. The only costs are food/drinks or boat rental. And those are really cheap.

Other Info and Tips:

Getting the right contact info for Binh Quoi is tough. Their website has not worked in several months, and the phone number posted on Google and TripAdvisor are wrong. Below is the correct address and phone number.

Binh Quoi Village 1147 Binh Quoi Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City 08 355 658 91

• Open 9am – 11 pm everyday.
• Weekdays mornings are the best time to visit. It’s whisper quiet, and you’ll have the place to yourself.
• A taxi from downtown should be around 100,000VND.
• Using the Grab App is the best way to get here. They have set fares and are cheaper/better than taxis or Uber in Vietnam.
• Binh Quoi Village is great for solo travelers, couples, and families.

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Binh Quoi Village

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Binh Quoi Tourist Village in Ho Chi Minh city

• ›  Caravelle Hotel Saigon (built 1959) in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
• ›  Tuy Loan Ancient Village in Danang city

Binh Quoi Tourist Village includes two main areas: Binh Quoi Tourist Area 1 and Binh Quoi Tourist Area 2, which are on the north for around ten kilometers from the downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Coming there, visitors can find themselves a beautiful view, lots of typical characteristics of the watery areas in South Vietnam, and enjoy some popular food of the local people.

Binh Quoi I

Located on the windy banks of the Saigon River, Binh Quoi Tourist Area 1 becomes an ideal destination for those who want to find a peaceful place where helps them relax and avoid the noisy life in the urban area of Ho Chi Minh City. It is known for its smooth green lawns and shade of coconut trees lining the banks of the So Nhat Canal.

Designed to truly reflect the peaceful life of the South Vietnam in the past which consists of imagines of gigs, a blue canal, dinghies, a rough monkey bridge and thatched cottages among lush water coconut trees, Binh Quoi Tourist Area 1 will be the right choice for those who return after a long time away from homeland.

Binh Quoi II

Located next to Binh Quoi 1, Binh Quoi 2 is about 400m away from the main area. This village is surrounded by the Saigon River with the area of 25,380sq.m.

Remind visitors with the picture of an ancient village’s traditional festival, this resort is fully decorated with lanterns, a small peaceful river and small boats.

Binh Quoi 2 becomes a right choice for families with a swimming pool, tennis yards, fishing ponds and guesthouses.

Some tourists like to cruise along the Sai Gon River on junks during their stay here. They can stop at the famous Lai Thieu Orchard, the Nha Rong Wharf with its revolutionary relics, the Ben Duoc Temple or the historic guerrilla underground tunnel.

Small boats loaded with fruits, vegetables and traditional cakes can be seen at the riverside, calling on visitors to taste and buy.

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Binh Quoi Village

Tourists may find numerous thatched cottages in the northern countryside, sitting by the riversides enjoying fresh coconut under the shade of coconut trees.

Reminiscence of the Mekong Delta

How to get there, useful information.

Located on Saigon riverside, Binh Quoi Tourist Village has two branches: 1 & 2. Number 1 is at 1147 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh District while number 2 is just a few kilometers away, at the very end of the road. Binh Quoi Tourist Village is just about 8 – 10 km from Ho Chi Minh City centre and can be a nice day trip from the crowded city centre.

In addition, there is the club named “Hoi Quan Hoi ngo”, where memories about the famous music composer Trinh Cong Son are reserved, with his painting, sculpturing and performances.

The villages are open daily from 9AM to 11PM. It just takes about 15-30 minutes to get here from the city centre by car or motorbike, depending on traffic.

• Location: Binh Quoi Village
• Best for: Family
• Entrance: Free
• Hours: 9AM - 11PM
• Distance to city center: 12.6km (7.8 mi)

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Binh Quoi Village

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Binh Quoi Village - All You MUST Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• DISCOVERING UNSEEN Parts Of Saigon Full Day (From AU$121.90)
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• Half Day - Saigon’s Last Mekong Countryside - Cycling Tour (From AU$60.79)
• SAIGON SHORE EXCURSION: Past and Present Tour from Cruise Port (From AU$172.67)
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• (0.96 km) Saigon Domaine Luxury Residences
• (2.56 km) Mia Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel
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• (2.94 km) Common Inn Thao Dien
• (0.50 km) Ho Cau Tom - Am Thuc San Vuon Thanh Da
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Binh Quoi 1

• Binh Quoi Tourist Village 2
• Binh Quoi Tourist Village 3
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Binh Quoi 1 "Your Own Place"

Address: 1147 Binh Quoi, Ward 28, Binh Thanh District, HCMC

Phone:  028 35565 891  –  0901 889 701

Email:  [email protected]

Tax code: 0300625210 – 030

Acreage: 34.635 m2

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Being adjacent to Saigon River to the northeast with aide area of over 3ha, fresh & natural scenery with coconut trees, orchards, lawns, ponds, Binh Quoi 1 tourist area is known as a favorite village to rest, relax and enjoy Southern style food and drinks and an ideal destination of Ho Chi Minh City tourism.

Types of business: – Meeting and conference rooms fully equipped – Services:

• Wedding photography & Videography:
• Cruises on the river

• Hoa Mua, Hoa Sim, Hoa Cau, Bong lua 1, Bong lua 2 Restaurant providing Vietnamese delicacies with a capacity of 100 to 300 guests for weddings, conferences.
•  Restaurants Thuy Ta 1 – 9 , Thuy Ta 10 serve traditional delicacies: Sauce Hotpot, Vegetable Hotpot, Five-color Salad, Roasted Chicken, Fried Rice
•  Garden with large lawns with a total area of 7000m2 , which is suitable for outdoor weddings, conferences, picnics, and other collective activities.
• The buffet with the theme “Break fresh ground in the South” includes a variety of food, and entertainment programs such as “Don ca tai tu”, lottery, folk games

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Binh Quoi Tourist Village – A Typical Southern Green Space Amidst Saigon

• Updated: September 7, 2023 Phuong Khanh in Vietnam , Ho Chi Minh City 0 comment.

Essential Information for Tourists

Location of binh quoi village.

Binh Quoi Tourist Village is located in Ward 28, Binh Thanh District of Thanh Da Peninsula, Ho Chi Minh City. This place is only about 10km away from the center of Saigon, thus you can travel to the village easily with several options of transportation. Calling a taxi or booking a car via Grab is the easiest way to get to Binh Quoi Village.

Moreover, there is a bus stop right in front of the entrance of the village. Therefore, you can hop on a bus if you want to experience public transportation in Vietnam. However, to avoid all unfortunate risks, you are suggested to rent a car with a private driver . The driver will be by your side throughout your whole trip, ensuring your safety and punctuality at every destination.

Beautiful Landscape of Binh Quoi Village

Opening Hours & Entrance Fee

Since Binh Quoi Village is a tourist resort, it does not have fixed opening hours. An entrance fee of 90,000 VND and 130,000 VND is applied for kids and adults, respectively, at the Binh Quoi 1 area. You can also join in a Ho Chi Minh City Tour to indulge in not only the green space of Binh Quoi Village but also other famous attractions of Saigon.

Best Time to Visit Binh Quoi Village

The ideal time to visit Binh Quoi Tourist Village is during the 3 days of the weekend. This is when the tourist village truly comes alive with its vibrant energy and excitement. During these days, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of engaging activities and captivating events, creating a unique atmosphere.

Throughout these three weekend days, Binh Quoi Village often hosts distinctive Southern-style buffet programs. This presents a wonderful chance for you to fully explore and savor delectable dishes imbued with the rich flavors of the South. Delicacies carefully crafted from locally sourced ingredients will undoubtedly enchant your taste buds.

A Corner of Binh Quoi Tourist Village

In addition to the culinary events, during festive occasions and holidays, Binh Quoi Tourist Village warmly welcomes you with a multitude of distinctive activities and festivals. Here, you can engage in traditional folk games and witness unique artistic performances. Beyond being a place to relish the natural beauty and serenity of a vast village, this place is also an immersive destination where you can discover and experience the dynamic and diverse culture of the South.

Special Spaces and Interesting Activities at Binh Quoi Village

Binh Quoi Village is a tourist complex, consisting of 3 different areas: Binh Quoi 1, Binh Quoi 2, and Binh Quoi 3. Each zone has its own charm, attracting every visitor to the place.

Binh Quoi 1 – Recreating the Southern Saigon River

Binh Quoi 1 is an ideal travel destination for those who cherish lush, tranquil surroundings close to nature. When you visit here, you’ll experience a beautiful garden space adorned with vibrant green lawns, swaying coconut palms, and small ponds that create the charming countryside ambiance of the Southern Mekong Delta.

A Corner of Binh Quoi 1 Zone

Moreover, this area offers an array of entertaining and enjoyable activities. You can join in several interesting games, from small feasts to fishing competitions. For a more peaceful and private experience, consider renting one of the small cottages to relish the serene landscape. Binh Quoi 1 also hosts various exciting events such as the Southern Land Festival, Christmas celebrations, and Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year).

Encompassing an extensive area of up to 34,635 m², Binh Quoi Tourist Village 1 is an ideal location for you to indulge in photography or outdoor excursions. Small families and large groups alike can find the perfect space for organizing gatherings and recreational activities. For these reasons, Binh Quoi 1 is a popular choice for weekend getaways among many people. However, please note that you will have to pay an amount of 90,000 VND (per kid) and 130,000 VND (per adult) to get into this area.

Binh Quoi 2 – Typical Southwest Landscape

Green Space in Binh Quoi 2

As for Binh Quoi 2, it is situated at the end of the road, not so far from Binh Quoi 1. This space covers a total area of up to 25 hectares. Different from the Southern countryside ambiance of the first zone, Binh Quoi 2 offers a tranquil setting reminiscent of the Southwest Vietnamese countryside. Here, you’ll find lush green lawns, rustic countryside-themed landscapes, and fully equipped bungalows for family relaxation and entertainment.

Binh Quoi 2 boasts a modern and specialized swimming pool area and tennis courts to cater to visitors from near and far. It regularly hosts unique traditional music and dance performances that you wouldn’t want to miss.

People Enjoying Southern Food Buffet

Moreover, the restaurants in Binh Quoi Tourist Village all offer stunning views overlooking the Saigon River. The standout culinary experience here is the “Delicious Dishes from Fishing Village” buffet program, held on Saturdays and Sundays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The buffet menu features over 70 dishes, all of which are signature dishes from the fishing villages along the Southern region. The ticket prices are 140,000 VND for children and 270,000 VND for adults. These dishes are seasoned with local flavors, guaranteed to leave a profound impression on you.

Binh Quoi 3 – A Tranquil Vintage Space

The space Binh Quoi 3 is also known as the Ancient Garden. It is one of the most captivating destinations in Ho Chi Minh City. Located along Binh Quoi Road, this tourist village holds its own charm compared to Binh Quoi 1 and Binh Quoi 2.

Binh Quoi 3 is designed in a traditional style, creating a sense of closeness and harmony with nature. The area is spacious, refreshing, and situated right by the Saigon River, making it an ideal spot for families with children to immerse themselves in a tranquil green environment. Here, you’ll find extensive lawns that allow children to explore a colorful world with activities like swings, seesaws, and sandcastles. Families can also organize outdoor recreational activities full of excitement here.

A Little of Binh Quoi 3

The culinary experience at Binh Quoi 3 is another special draw for tourists. This tourist village offers diversity with traditional dishes from the Mekong Delta region, as well as Western dishes from the à la carte dining service, prepared according to guests’ preferences. The flavors of the dishes are highly regarded and cater to various tastes.

Useful Tips for Your Best Trip

Since Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular city destinations in summer ( according to ForwardKeys ), you will never get bored traveling to this city. However, to make the most of your visit to Binh Quoi Village, IDC Travel prepared some useful tips for you:

• Wear light and comfortable clothing:  As the village is an open outdoor space, it requires you to move around often. Therefore, you should choose an outfit that is appropriate for outdoor activity.
• Bring extra clothes:  You can bring some clothes in case you get wet. Or you can bring some beautiful outfits if you want to capture beautiful photos here.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat or umbrella: Saigon’s weather is usually sunny and hot. Thus, you’d better prepare stuff to prevent you from the heatstroke.

Binh Quoi Village offers not only beautiful landscapes and exciting activities but also traditional specialties from the Southern region, catering to every culinary need of visitors. Therefore, it is considered one of the excellent destinations to spend your vacation in Ho Chi Minh City. Plan your trip today and don’t forget to add Binh Quoi Village to your must-visit place list. If you have any difficulty, feel free to reach out to us . It’s our pleasure to serve you the best service.

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Phuong Khanh

Hello, my name is Khanh, I'm a travel blogger at IDC Travel. After my adventures and what I've learned on my trips and from my research, I will help you with planning your trip to Vietnam & Southeast Asia and make your journey remarkable.

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Binh Quoi Village

It is a beautiful amusement park, about half an hour by taxi from our hotel in District 1, the park is by a river, and it is pleasant to be breezed there. We love taking pictures in the rustic environment of the park. We rented a seesaw to paddle in the small lake. Afterwards we walked to a local restaurant for lunch. Not long, fun afternoon outing.

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Recommendations near binh quoi village, binh quoi village reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

December.. It was a pity that the lotus was not lost.. There are many pretty photo spots everywhere..

Beautiful parks and gardens need to go by boat. This is a romantic place where you can see many beautiful plants and traditional opera performances. Various Vietnamese foods are worth trying.

Binh Quoi Village Photos: Trip Moments

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Binh Quoi Village

Binh Quoi Tourist Village is the common name of the Binh Quoi 1 tourist area, Binh Quoi 2 tourist area, Binh Quoi 3 tourist area sited close to each other on Thanh Da peninsula, in Binh Thanh district, about 8 kilometers away from Saigon, adjacent to the Saigon River to the Northeast.

Binh Quoi village has a landscape like a peaceful village with large green space, fragrant wind and a scent of grass and flowers, lanterns along the entrance, a lake with sparkling flowers and coconut trees leaning on the line of the Saigon poetic river. The village is also known as a familiar dinghy, a bumpy Monkey Bridge, ancient jars of water, mounds of straw, lovely fishing net and so on, which are harmoniously arranged with bold, homely countryside and become the ideal destination of Saigon tourism.

The Binh Quoi 1 is the most popular spot in the Binh Quoi Village with 300-seats restaurant, “Khan Hoang Nam Bo” Buffet with hundreds of delicious folk dishes, Don Ca Tai Tu, etc. Hoi Ngo’s Assembly Hall here serves a number of artistic activities such as painting, sculpting or introducing music programs for famous artists. Family motel is surrounded by green and grassy campus. Tourists are attracted by its garden area with beautiful landscapes, grass carpet of 7,000 square meters which are suitable for filming, taking photos, picnicking, organizing games, group activities, sailing, fishing and so on. In addition, Binh Quoi 1 is also the place organized many cultural activities such as My Rice Grain Festival, Discovering Vietnamese Folk Culture and Cuisine program, Christmas Gala Dinner, Southern Land Festival.

The Binh Quoi 2 has an area of ​​25,380 square meters with different types of services namely Buffet area provided more than 70 selected sea food dishes, riverfront restaurant with traditional delicacies, large conference rooms with full of modern equipment, 40-rooms bungalows with full amenities hidden in a quiet space with rows of coconut water around. Binh Quoi 2 also served tourists karaoke rooms, international standard tennis courts, large and beautiful swimming pool, children’s playground, canoe services and so on.

Binh Quoi Tourist Area 3 is known as Quan Xua Binh Quoi 3, designed with ancient space, a cool garden spreading along the river bank, which creates a gentle feeling during dinners for tourists when reuniting with family and relatives. It is also suitable for organizing festivals, birthdays, weddings, events and conferences. In particular, Binh Quoi 3 restaurant serves green dishes, processed from the clean and fresh vegetables grown on inside campus followed the scientific process and quality guarantee.

Entrance ticket to the Binh Quoi Tourist Village is free of charge. Binh Quoi Tourist village is ideal for family or a group of friends to escape the city bustling at the weekends.

Binh Quoi 1: buffet (2015) are 270,000VND for an adult and 150,000VND for a kid.

Friday & Saturday weekly opened at 17h – 20h.

Sunday & Holidays opened at 11h – 14h, and 17h – 20h.

Binh Quoi 2: buffet (2015) are 270,000VND for an adult and 140,000VND for a kid.

Only open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 17h – 20h.

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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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The Best 22 Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon up until 1976 (although it is still known as Saigon to some, including me), is the largest city in Vietnam. It used to be the capital of the French Protectorate of Conchinchina or the Southern region of Vietnam. After the Indochina War, Vietnam was divided into northern and southern zones. During the Vietnam War or the second Indochina War, northern Vietnamese troops captured Saigon bringing it under communist control and renaming the city as Ho Chi Minh.  It’s often the first stop for visitors to Vietnam, so here are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Today, Ho Chi Minh City stands as a bustling metropolis, featuring soaring skyscrapers offering a view of the landscape, an intriguing mood, and an exciting and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to explore no matter what your budget.  The French influence remains among the French-styled infrastructures and the overall atmosphere of the city. Plenty of old buildings also add charm to the city, offering both locals and travelers a glimpse into the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

#1 THING TO DO

Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels

Combine a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels with the Mekong Delta and explore the natural world of Ho Chi Minh as well as the historic.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit place in Vietnam with plenty of activities to do and places to visit. I saw places rather than attractions because some of the best things you can do in HCMC are to simply hang around.  Or go somewhere specifically for food.  You can head to museums and monuments to learn more about the past; you can also explore the streets of the city and find some amazing food here, and you can get stunning views of this amazingly vibrant city from the decks on the skyscrapers. 

Ho Chi Minh City is easy to get around – if you’re prepared to walk, or take local buses, but it can be a little confusing at first (and, to be fair, the traffic is pretty full on too!), so if you prefer to have a local to show you around there are a few options when it comes to taking a tour of the city.

Best Tours of Ho Chi Minh City

You have a variety of options when it comes to tours of the city. Normally when we visit a city, the first thing that we’ll do is take a free walking tour. In Ho Chi Minh, we didn’t, but there are a few free walking tours available and you can check the options here.

Best bus tour of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a pretty big city, and it can be tough getting around in the heat to see all the attractions that you want to see. Luckily now there’s a hop on hop off bus available that gets you to all the main sites. You can book (and prepay) a ticket on the Saigon hop on hop off bus here – and opt for either a 24 hour ticket or a 48 hour ticket. Reserve your ticket here.

Best motorbike tour of Ho Chi Minh City

There is no better way to see the sights of Saigon than on the back of a motorbike. Join the thousands of other bikes on the road, go down small alleys and see the bits that the bus can’t get you to on this fabulous Ho Chi Minh motorbike tour. Don’t worry about riding the bike, all you need to do is hang on, take photos and enjoy the sights, the sounds and the tastes of the city, as this tour also includes a bowl of Pho! It’s absolutely the best way to see Ho Chi Minh City. Check out available dates here! (helmets are provided!)

Best private tour of Ho Chi Minh City

If you prefer a less frantic paced tour and a little (ok, a lot) more comfort, then this private air-conditioned car tour of Ho Chi Minh City is for you. You’ll visit the key sites, and your English speaking guide will explain everything you are seeing and the importance of the locations to Vietnam. It’s an extremely comfortable and easy way to see Saigon’s main attractions. You can check available and reserve your dates here.

The 22 Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest Vietnamese city and at first glance, it can be somewhat bewildering (like as soon as you exit the airport!), but people are friendly here and there’s a great can-do attitude that makes it really easy to visit. Here’s the top things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Visit The War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City

A visit here will likely leave you shaken, and you’ll want to allow plenty of time to visit.  You’ll get to dive deeper into one of the most significant parts of Vietnam’s history with a visit to Saigon’s War Remnants Museum. The War Remnants Museum contains exhibition halls detailing the atrocities of the Vietnam War, providing awareness to both locals and travelers alike about Vietnam during the war.

The museum gets more than half a million visitors each year and is a must-go-to-place for visitors to Saigon. Inside, you’ll be able to find personal things owned by the victims of the war as well as photographs depicting the time of war.   I’ve covered more details about visiting Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museum as well as how to visit it here in my guide to the Vietnam War Sites.

• Address of War Remnants Museum: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of War Remnants Museum: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Entry Fees for War Remnants Museum: VND 15,000.

You can combine a visit to the War Remnants Museums AND the Cu Chi Tunnels in this day long tour that takes them both in. It’s a great options to maximise the time that you have and see both of these enthralling locations. Check availability here.

2. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s Reunification Palace

The iconic Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace was once home to a French governor, then to Japanese officials, and finally to the president of South Vietnam amid the Vietnam War.

This grand palace is now a museum where you can take a tour and learn more about the history and culture of Vietnam. The Reunification Palace also has a lovely garden with a great water fountain display.

• Address of the Reunification Palace: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of the Reunification Palace: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Reunification Palace: VND 40,000.

Visit the Reunification Palace on this combined tour that also visits the Cu Chi Tunnels and the War Remants Museum. It’s a full on day, but well worth the time. Reserve your place here.

3. Go to the Water Puppets Show (Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater)

Want to see a unique traditional Vietnamese art performance? Head to the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater and watch a water puppet performance. As its name suggests, a water puppet performance is wooden puppets in water usually telling mythical stories and legends. Usually, these performances are partnered with musical performances using traditional Vietnamese instruments. If you don’t want to get wet, I suggest not sitting near the front.  Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

• Address of the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Phuong Ben Thanh, Quan 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Entry Fees for the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: VND 300,000.

Lines to buy tickets to water puppet shows can be quite long since this performance can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Skip the line and buy a ticket in advance here.

4. Take a Cruise on the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City

Since Ho Chi Minh City is located on the Saigon River, you can also take a cruise to explore more of the city or see it from a different perspective.  Evening river city tours and dinner are a great option and allow you to stretch your visiting hours ( and this is a great choice here ).  Alternatively, combine a visit to the Mekong Delta and the Cu Chi Tunnels to see the city and its surrounds on both the Saigon River and the canals surrounding the area.  Take a look at this unique way to see the Mekong Delta and the Cu Chi Tunnels too.

5. Get the Best Views of the City from the Saigon Skydeck

To get the best landscape views of Ho Chi Minh City, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower’s 49 th floor and the Saigon Skydeck. At the Saigon Skydeck, you’ll not only get an amazing view of the city but also the best place to see the sunset in Ho Chi Minh City.  You can book access in advance and skip the line tickets , essential so you don’t miss the best sunset times.

• Address of Saigon Skydeck: 36, Ho Tung Mau Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Saigon Skydeck: 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Saigon Skydeck: VND 200,000 for adults and VND130,000 for children (4-12 years old), seniors (over 65 years old), and the disabled.

6. Take a Vietnamese Cooking Class in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a fabulous city for food, and once you’ve tried all the local specialties, go a step further and take a cooking class to learn how to make them yourself. Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of cooking classes available most of which also include a market tour so you can familiarize yourself with the local Vietnamese ingredients.  You’ll want to pick a small group lesson, they’re much more fun and you have more chances to select the dishes that you want to learn to cook. Check the menu options for cooking classes here.

7. See the Giac Lam Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City

Standing at almost 300 years old and the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City dating back to 1744, the Giac Lam Pagoda is a seven-tier tall pagoda, set amongst a lush, vibrant garden. You can walk around the garden and enjoy the architecture as well as the 113 statues scattered around the area. The design elements here also acknowledge and pay respects to Taoism, despite this HCMC temple being a Theravada Buddhist temple. You can also climb the seventh floor of the stupa and see the ancient relics that are held inside. Ho Chi Minh’s Giac Lam Pagoda also has a bronze bell which when rung, is believed to help the elderly as well as those who are suffering from an illness.

• Address of Giac Lam Pagoda: 118 Lac Long Quan Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Giac Lam Pagoda: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
• Entry Fees for Giac Lam Pagoda: Free

8. Explore the Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City

Visit one of Ho Chi Minh City’s prettiest pagodas and enjoy the burst of grand colors of red, yellow, green, and gold at the Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda. This stunning Ho Chi Minh City pagoda dates from 1902, and the Taoist temple houses brass ritual ornaments as well as weapons, and fine woodcarving on the altars, the columns, and the walls.  The temple is decorated with ceramic tiles which depict stories of local legends.  Hanging lanterns and incense combine to create a very atmospheric experience.  Outside there’s a life-size statue of the sacred horse, Quan Cong where you can leave offerings, stroke its mane, and ring the bell around its neck. The Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda is also a place where people who are going to embark on a journey often come to pray for prosperity or luck.

• Address of Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda: 184 Hung Vuong, Phuong 12, District 5, Than Pho, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda: Open from sunrise to sunset daily.
• Entry Fees for Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda: Free, but you can also offer donations.

9. Check Out Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City

Built between 1877 and 1883, Ho Chi Minh City’s Notre Dame Cathedral features spectacular Neo-Romanesque architecture.  All the red bricks used in the construction of Notre Dame in Vietnam were imported directly from France. The entrance of the cathedral is framed with two 40-meters tall bell towers.

There is also a garden where you can check out the white all-marble statue of the Virgin Mary sculpted by Italian artist, Ciocchetti in 1959. Notre Dame Cathedral is hard to miss and you should put it on your list of places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Address of Notre Dame Cathedral: 1 Cong Xa Paris Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Notre Dame Cathedral: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Notre Dame Cathedral: Free

You can reach the Notre Dame cathedral on the Hop on, Hop Off bus , on a motorbike tour of Ho Chi Minh, or in this private guided history tour.

10. See the Cha Tam Church, Ho Chi Minh City

Cha Tam Church is a historic bright caramel-colored church built in the 19 th century. Inside this famous Ho Chi Minh City church, you’ll find the spot where former Vietnamese president Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother Ngo Dinh Nhu were captured while there were attempting to escape from the presidential palace in 1963.  There’s a plaque that marks the spot.

• Address of Cha Tam Church: 25 Hic Lac, Ward 14, District 5, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Cha Tam Church: 7 a.m. to 12 noon., 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Cha Tam Church: Free

11. Go to the Tan Dinh Catholic Church, Ho Chi Minh City

The Tan Dinh Catholic Church in downtown Ho Chi Minh is a striking pink color and has a grandeur design. Aside from its social media-worthy exterior, Tan Dinh Catholic Church also has an impressive 53-meter tall bell tower and French design influences. The church is also considered one of the oldest churches in the city – it was constructed in 1870, and is, of course, called, ‘The Pink Church’.

• Address of Tan Dinh Catholic Church: 289 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Tan Dinh Catholic Church: 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday; and 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Sundays. The Tan Dinh Catholic Church is closed on Mondays.
• Entry Fees for Tan Dinh Catholic Church: Free

12. Explore Book Street in Ho Chi Minh City

For a traveling book lover, Ho Chi Minh City’s Book Street is the perfect place to visit! This street stretches from Notre Dame Cathedral to Hai Ba Trung Street and is a place for book lovers and book publishers alike. Book Street is where you’ll find book publishers from all over Vietnam promoting and sharing their new works.  It’s also a great place to chill out with your newly purchased book in a café.  There are stores offering new books, magazines, and second-hand books here.  Plus of course, cafes, where you can start reading straight away.

• Address of Book Street: Nguyen Van Binh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh 

13. See the Fine Arts Museum, Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City’s Fine Arts Museum houses a range of Vietnam’s finest artworks dating back to the Bronze era, as well as contemporary works. You’ll find pottery, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures, along with exhibitions of ancient weaponry. The Fine Arts Museum in Ho Chi Minh City’s façade is already a piece of art itself as it features a colonial-style mansion design and a charming yellow exterior.

• Address of Fine Arts Museum: 97A Duc Chinh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Fine Arts Museum: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Fine Arts Museum: VND 30,000 for adults and VND 15,000 for students with student cards.

14. Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s Vietnam History Museum

The Vietnam History Museum is located in a 1929 French colonial building and it contains pre-war relics of Vietnam; a collection of artifacts that showcase Vietnamese culture and its evolution from the Bronze Age, the Funan civilization, to the Cham, Khmer, and Vietnamese. You’ll find a collection of Buddha statues here as well as the perfectly preserved body of a woman who died in 1869.

• Address of Vietnam History Museum: 2, Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Vietnam History Museum: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Entry Fees for Vietnam History Museum: VND 30,000. You can also purchase a camera ticket if you want to take photos.

15. See the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

The best place to learn about the history and culture of the city itself is the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. First built in 1885, the museum was first named the Gia Long Palace, then the Revolutionary Museum, and then finally it became the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. The museum is known to be one of the grandest buildings in Ho Chi Minh City and houses collections of ceramics, ancient maps of the city, traditional clothes belonging to the various ethnic groups of Vietnam, and galleries of the history of the Vietnam War.

• Address of Ho Chi Minh City Museum: 65 Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Ho Chi Minh City Museum: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
• Entry Fees for Ho Chi Minh City Museum: VND 30,000.

16. Visit the Saigon Central Post Office

You might raise your eyebrows a little when I suggest that you should visit Ho Chi Minh City’s post office, but this post office is different and well worth the effort and a short time to visit it! The Saigon Central Post Office is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest buildings and was designed by Gustave Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel).

The post office in Ho Chi Minh City combines a fabulous mix of French, Renaissance, and Gothic designs, making for a magnificent exterior ideal for a perfect photo. Head inside to check out the grand walls and domed roof.

• Address of Saigon Central Post Office: 2 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Thanh Pho, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Saigon Central Post Office: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Sundays.
• Entry Fees for Saigon Central Post Office: Free.

17. Stop by the Binh Quoi Tourist Village, Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, without actually leaving the city, then you can head to the Binh Quoi Tourist Village, a quiet paradise at the heart of the city. The village was built to bring a piece of the Mekong Delta to the city.  It features blue canals, coconut trees, lily ponds, scenic walking paths, a bamboo monkey bridge, and quaint cottages.  If you want to experience “rural Vietnam” without actually going there, then you can try fishing, paddling in the lake, and wandering around the area.  There are three different areas of the village:  Binh Quoi 1 is the most popular and affordable area of the village where there are different music and food options; Binh Quoi 2, is the most famous area where you can go swimming, canoeing, play tennis, and folk games; and Binh Quoi 3, also knowns as Quan Xua, the more traditional and rustic looking area of the village where you can enjoy traditional cuisine down by the Saigon River.

• Address of Binh Quoi Tourist Village: 1147 Binh Quoi, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Binh Quoi Tourist Village: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Entry Fees for Binh Quoi Tourist Village: The entrance is free of charge, what you’ll need to pay for are the activities, the food, and transportation.

18. Don’t Miss Nguyen Hue Street, Ho Chi Minh City

Head to Nguyen Hue Street on a weekend, when this famous street becomes pedestrian-only.  This 650-meter-long road has plenty of boutiques, shops, as well as cafes, and restaurants. One of the most famous places to visit is Apartment 42, aka the Café Apartments, an old apartment that is now a café.  It’s great here on a night too, with a fabulous atmosphere and a water fountain show.

• Address of Nguyen Hue Street: Ben Nghe, District 1, Thanh Pho, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Nguyen Hue Street: Open on Saturdays and Sundays as vehicles will be prevented from driving through during these times.

19. Stop by Bui Vien “Walking Street” aka Western Street

Bui Vien Walking Street, also called Western Street, is Ho Chi Minh City’s center for cheap and fun nightlife.  During the day there are coffee shops, street food, and shops where you can buy just about anything from.

20. Explore a Floating Market, from Ho Chi Minh City

Floating markets are a great experience in South East Asia.  You’ll need an early start from Ho Chi Minh City, but this is a great Saigon 2- Day Trip that means you can be back in time for beers in Backpacker Street at the end of the second day.  While the markets start early, if you leave HCMC by 530am, you’ll arrive just in time to see the market at its height.  It’s a 3 hour drive to Cai Rang, but you can snooze away and arrive in time for a traditional Mekong Delta breakfast of vermicelli soup and then explore the market.  This tour also visits a rice mill to see how rice is processed.  Check it out and save by booking a place early!

21. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City

One of the places you definitely should not miss visiting is the Cu Chi Tunnels and they are one of the major Vietnam War Sites (I’ve written about the main sites here ). The Cu Chi Tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.  The tunnels stretch around 120 kilometers near Ho Chi Minh City. I wrote about how to get to the Cu Chi Tunnels here.

You can visit sections of the tunnels including the living areas, kitchen, storage facilities, armory, hospitals, and command centers, as well as trapdoors which you can only visit with a guide.  The Cu Chi Tunnels are considered one of the most well-known war memorials in Vietnam, and a must-visit when you’re in Saigon.

There are plenty of ways for you to get to Cu Chi Tunnels; you can head there by public bus, rent a motorbike or a scooter, or you can also go as part of a trip where you can combine it with a tour to other sites in the area.

• Here’s how to get from HCMC to Cu Chi Tunnels on a public bus
• Here’s how to get to the Cu Chi Tunnels on a small group tour
• Here’s how to go on a larger group tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

22. Visit the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City

One of the more popular day trips to take from Ho Chi Minh City is to go to the Mekong Delta. The Mekong Delta is known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl” since its responsible for providing more than half of Vietnam’s rice. 

The Mekong Delta is a 39,000-square-kilometer area composed of waterways which is why you’ll find plenty of floating markets, schools, and homes, and be able to try out delicacies that are specific to the Mekong Delta region. Whether you choose to float down the river on a traditional wooden canoe or take a more energetic approach, you have several options. You can check them out here.

Markets to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City

The markets in Ho Chi Minh City are amazing and a great place to go to experience local life, eat the food, and experience the atmosphere of the city.  Here are some of the best markets to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

Binh Tay Market, Ho Chi Minh City

The Binh Tay Market, in Ho Chi Minh’s Chinatown (aka the Cholon district), is a great place to go to fill up on a fabulous breakfast. It’s easy to spot the Binh Tay Market as it has a large clock tower and a vibrant exterior.

• Address of Binh Tay Market: 57A Thap Moui, Ward 2, District 6, Ho Chi Minh
• Opening Hours of Binh Tay Market: 5 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City

This is Ho Chi Minh City’s most popular and biggest market.  It’s located close to some of Ho Chi Minh’s popular attractions like the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), Saigon Opera House, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.   There are great options here, from food (staples to make your own AND some super food to eat there), clothing, handicrafts, and just about anything you can think of.

• Address of Ben Than Market: Le Loi, Phuong Ben Thanh, District 1, Thanh Pho, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Ben Thanh Market: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saigon Central Market, Ho Chi Minh City

The Saigon Central Market is a popular underground mall located right at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. There are more than 400 large and small traditional and modern stalls that sell pretty much everything. The mall also has a large food court which has nearly 100 stalls selling both local and foreign dishes like Japanese, Singaporean, and Indian. The Sen Hong stage on the ground floor is used for cultural performances held at weekends.

• Address of Saigon Central Market: Zone B, 23/9 Park, ham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Saigon Central Market: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.

The Russian Market, Ho Chi Minh City

The Russian Market, in the Central Garden building, true to its name sells goods that are from Russia or are produced in Vietnam to be exported to Russia. (there’s also a Russian market in Cambodia’s Phnom Penh , but it’s so named for a slightly different reason) The market consists of three floors with around 100 stores selling different products, but the market is mostly known for the variety of warm clothes such as overcoats and windbreakers. Since many of the vendors went to study and work in Russia, you’ll find some of them speaking in Russian and sharing their stories with customers.

• Address of Russian Market: 382 Vo Van Kiet, Co Giang Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Russian Market:  9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Saigon Square 1, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon Square in the center of District 1 is a  “shopping paradise”.  It’s where you’ll find fashionable stores and designer shops such as Zara, Mango, Gap, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Calvin Klein.

• Address of Saigon Square 1: 77-89 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1, Ho Chi Minh
• Opening Hours of Saigon Square 1: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Map of Things to do in Ho Chi Minh

You can also see the full map of best things to do in Ho Chi Minh here

What & Where to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is amazing for its food.  And so cheap too.  There are some great dishes that call Ho Chi Minh City home – and here’s what they are, what you must eat in Ho Chi Minh City, and where to find some of the best versions.

Eat Pho in Ho Chi Minh City

First and foremost, Pho! You most likely have heard this and have tried it already back home, but nothing beats trying it where it originated, with all of its original flavors intact. Pho is traditional rice noodles in a beef broth and topped with herbs. The Pho in Ho Chi Minh City has both its traditional flavor as well as a modern touch with its richer taste (and more herbs on top). You should definitely try them with a poached egg.

Head to Anan Saigon, considered one of the best restaurants in Vietnam if you want to taste the best Pho you can have. Anan Saigon is located at 89 Ton That Dam, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh. Its prices range from VND 50,000 to VND 250,000.

Want to see more of the food in Ho Chi Minh City?  And get further afield?  Join this private motorbike tour which takes you around Ho Chi Minh City on an evening to try out different Vietnamese specialties without having to worry about where to go.  

Go to Binh Tay Market for breakfast in Ho Chi Minh City

For a fabulous breakfast, head to Binh Tay Market, where there’s a food court at the back with plenty of food stores selling a variety of food.  We tend to head to the busiest stall as they are most likely the ones with the best food! But we’ve also never had a bad meal from a food court or a market in Vietnam, and you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, so don’t hesitate to try out as much as you can and fill yourself up before you go on exploring more of the city.

Eat Banh Xeo in Ho Chi Minh City

You definitely shouldn’t miss trying Banh Xeo, one of Vietnam’s most popular dishes. Banh Xeo is Vietnam’s version of pancakes, its batter is made from rice flour and coconut milk, and its filling is made with chopped pork belly, shrimp, bean sprouts, and jicama.  

If you want to try the best Banh Xeo, you can go to Banh Xeo An La Ghien located at 11A Tu Xuong, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh. Their prices range from VND 70,000 to VND 108,000.

Eat Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City

What’s a visit to Ho Chi Minh without trying out the famous and iconic Banh Mi? Definitely Incomplete! You’ve probably also heard of Banh Mi, a Vietnamese baguette stuffed with a combination of meat and vegetables. You can find Banh Mi in most streets that have food stalls in Ho Chi Minh City (which is a sign that you definitely should not miss out on trying this Vietnamese delight!). In a typical Banh Mi, you’ll find Vietnamese ham, mayo, pate (or paste), pickles, cucumber, spring onion, chili, soy sauce, and cilantro.  My mouth is watering just writing that. In Ho Chi Minh’s Banh Mi, you can also find some options that include grilled pork, fish cakes, sardines, and roasted pork.

One of the best places to try Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City is at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, located at 26 Le Thi Rieng, Phuong Phan Ngu Lao, District 1, Thanh Pho, Ho Chi Minh, and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It’s Banh Mi cost around VND 58,000.

Visit the Viet Cong Café – Ca Phe Do Phu

The Viet Cong Café or Ca Phe Do Phu isn’t just a normal café, it also played a significant role in Vietnam’s history. The Viet Cong Café was home to a Viet Cong supporter. Inside, you’ll be able to find plenty of secret passages which served as escape routes for the Viet Cong and trap doors. It’s a great place to eat with a difference. 

• Address of Viet Cong Café: 72 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Phuong 5, Ho Chi Minh.
• Opening Hours of Viet Cong Café:  7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Eat Snails & Seafood in Ho Chi Minh City

If you’ve heard about being invited for an “an oc” which literally means “eat snails,” don’t be alarmed (if the idea of snails alarms you), it just means eating seafood in general. Snails however may be on the menu Seafood at Ho Chi Minh is always fresh and is served in various ways, grilled, stir-fried, steamed, or boiled, you’ll most likely find a dish that will suit your taste.

Head to Ho Chi Minh’s Vinh Khanh Street, the city’s most popular seafood street, particularly oc and shellfish. Try Quan Oc Vu to try out some of the best traditional seafood (and snails). Quan Oc Vi is located at 37 Vinh Khanh, Phuong 8, District 4, Ho Chi Minh.

Pham Ngu Lao Street aka Backpacker Street

This is backpacker street.  But you don’t have to be a backpacker to enjoy it.  Sit on small plastic stools, drink cheap cold beer, and enjoy some great Vietnamese street food from kebabs to the best Banh Mi I’ve ever had.  Having a beer here is as important as experiencing pub culture when you go to the UK! Going to Pham Ngu Lao Street is a must as this will complete your Ho Chi Minh experience!

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

There are a host of places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City – here’s our pick of the luxury places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, mid-range places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, and budget accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. 

The Fusion Original Saigon Center:  This 5-star Ho Chi Minh Hotel in District 1 is in a great location and comes with all the facilities you’d expect.  There’s an outdoor pool with amazing city views, a fitness center, and a bar.  Rooms here come as standard with bathrobes, slippers, and private bathrooms.  This is fabulous luxury in a great location.  Check rates for this top Saigon hotel here.

The Cochin Sang Hotel is a glorious boutique hotel in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City.  A fabulous rooftop terrace and pool crown this super hotel, with dark wood furnishings and simple but sumptuous rooms.  There’s also both a dry and a wet sauna here and the rooms have some of the best mattresses and pillows that you will ever sleep on!  Reserve a great rate at this mid-range hotel in Ho Chi Minh City here.

The Woody House, Saigon Center is a fabulous budget option in the heart of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City.  There’s a communal rooftop terrace and each of the units here at this Ho Chi Minh aparthotel has a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a private bathroom with bidet and slippers. Rooms also have a fridge, a minibar, and a stovetop, as well as a kettle.  Home away from home.  It gets amazing reviews and the prices are incredible.  Book early!

How to Get Around Ho Chi Minh City

There are plenty of options to get around Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re going to travel at longer distances or you’re heading outside the city center or District 1 (which is also called the backpacker district), opt for taking a public bus. Bus fares range from VND 3,000 to VND 10,000 depending on the distance and you’ll pay cash directly to either the bus driver or the conductor, just watch what other people do. Public buses also usually stop at major attractions, so check if your bus will stop at one of the spots you want to go to. Ho Chi Minh City has 24 districts and getting around from district to district is easiest when taking the bus.

If you’re traveling short distances or prefer private transport, opt for a taxi. Getting around by taxi is easy as taxis are easily available. But be careful as some taxis charge travelers a way higher price. Check that the meter is on and that you’ve looked up an estimate as to what the cost will be, alternatively, there are also Grab Taxis available. (Note that Grab in Vietnam is charges a 4% foreign card fee, so you might want to opt for paying cash)

You can also get around by Xe Om or motorcycle taxi if you want to get around faster. Xe Om fares vary based on the distance (VND 10,00 to VND 15,000), but you can also pay by hourly booking (VND 25,000).

Take a cyclo for the ultimate eco-traveler experience! The cyclo is a three-wheeled cycle where you’ll sit at the front, while an experienced rider/driver will cycle you through the city. The cyclo is a dying mode of transportation and is mostly only used by foreign travelers. Cyclo fares range from VND 50,000 to VND 70,000.   Agree on upfront on what the cost is.

Where is Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is located in the south of Vietnam and is about 8 kilometers away from the Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Getting to Ho Chi Minh City from Tan Son Nhat Airport will take about half an hour by car.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re arriving at the international airport, then you’re pretty close to Ho Chi Minh City and there are a variety of ways to get into the city.  There are public buses, shuttle buses, and taxis. If you’re arriving in Ho Chi Minh City on a bus – then you’ll want to check with the specific bus company as to where their depot is in the city.

• Here’s how to go from Ho Chi Minh International Airport to the City
• Our guide to travel and transport in Vietnam is here
• Here are details on traveling from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel Tips for Exploring Vietnam

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Get online immediately with an eSIM for Vietnam
• Download a VPN BEFORE you travel to Vietnam > discount coupon here
• Read our guide to transportation in Vietnam here.
• Prearrange your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
• Book the best Vietnam tours and guides on Klook or Get Your Guide
• Book Buses in Vietnam with 12goAsia    
• Book accommodation in Vietnam with Booking

Final Words on The Best 22 Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

I love this city.  It’s filled with rich history, vibrant architecture, friendly locals, and buzzing nightlife. It’s got great food and a laidback style.  Arriving here and seeing the sea of motorbikes and other road users is amazing fun and it’s a great city to visit.  Immersing yourself within the culture and atmosphere in Saigon is pretty easy with the many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. From visiting important historical spots, and taking cooking classes, to having a cold cheap beer, Ho Chi Minh City is a welcoming place perfect for travelers looking for a great experience and I can’t wait to go back.

Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.

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Sarah Carter

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15 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Jul 20, 2021 • 12 min read

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

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

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

1. War Remnants Museum

Best museum in Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

2. Jade Emperor Pagoda 

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

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

3. Eat street food in District 4

Best for foodies 

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

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

4. Giac Lam Pagoda 

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

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

Read more:   Best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

5. Check out the craft beer scene

Best bars in Ho Chi Minh City

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

Heart of Darkness

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

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

Rogue Saigon

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

6. Architecture 

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

People’s Committee Building 

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

Central Post Office 

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

Municipal Theatre (Saigon Opera House)

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

7. Explore Dong Khoi Area

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

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

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

8. Notre Dame Cathedral

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

9. History Museum

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

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

10. Botanical Gardens

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

11. Cholon (Chinatown)

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

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

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

12. Fine Arts Museum

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

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

13. Reunification Palace

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

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

14. Rooftop bars

Best thing to do at night

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

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

15. Skyscraper observation towers

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

Bitexco Financial Tower

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

Landmark 81

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

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

This article was first published March 2020 and updated July 2021

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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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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.

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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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• Ho Chi Minh City

60 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

• 10 Pinterest

Once known as Saigon, today Ho Chi Minh City is renowned as the country’s metropolitan city, filled with skyscrapers, rooftop views, and urban-cool activities.

However, a trip to the south of Vietnam isn’t without its plethora of cultural things to do in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), and an entire day can fly past spent exploring its many churches, temples, pagodas and other worship grounds.

Not to mention, there are many museums to visit to suit everyone’s tastes, from the War Remnants Museum to more traditional museums exploring the arts and culture.

Take a street food tour, read a book and unwind at a trendy cafe or enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s parks.

If you’ve shopped all the day (and night) markets, and explored the various Walking Streets and city districts, there are dozens are fabulous day trips to enjoy just an hour or two from HCMC.

The most famous is a visit to the Mekong Delta or the Cu Chi Tunnels.

End your evenings off with a fine-dining experience, or grab a craft cocktail at a rooftop bar.

1 – Head up to Saigon Skydeck inside the 124th tallest building in the world

Designed in the shape of a blooming Lotus bud (Vietnam’s national flower), the Bitexco Financial Tower is the city’s highest skyscraper.

Located on the 49th floor is the tower’s observation station, the Saigon Skydeck, offering visitors unparalleled 360-degree views of Ho Chi Minh City below.

Boasting 68 floors in total, the 262-meter high building has become a hotspot for both tourists and locals who frequent the mall inside, Icon 68.

The shops sell high-end goods, there’s a cinema in the shopping center, as well as many food and dining options.

Found in the financial district, this skyrise also has its own helipad, the EON Helibar . Rides and transport via helicopter are available for booking.

• Saigon Sky Deck tickets

2 – Explore 20,000 documents, artifacts, photos and films at the War Remnants Museum

Whether you’re a history fiend or are simply interested to learn a bit about the past war in Vietnam, check out real artifacts from the wartime at the War Remnants Museum.

The war between Vietnam and the USA took place 47 years ago, and inside the museum see pieces from the past, as well as powerful photographic images throughout eight permanent exhibitions.

The Requiem Exhibition is especially compelling where famous war photographs are framed on display, including Nick Ut’s ‘Phan Thi Kim Phuc’.

The outside grounds host heavy military weapons like artillery tanks and fighter planes, and infantry weapons including missile launchers and bombs.

Weapons once considered “experimental secrets” are kept here, like a flechette (a bomb casing filled with thousands of minuscule darts).

However, it’s not only the war between the US and Vietnam that’s highlighted, but you can find artifacts from the time of the French colonization of the country and various Chinese invasions.

A section of the museum focuses on the Phu Quoc and Con Son islands prisons that were utilized by the French colonial empire.

• War Remnants Museum tickets

3 – Visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street on foot

Ho Chi Minh City is divided into different districts widespread from one another, and Nguyen Hue Street forms part of District 1.

This part of the city is considered the tourist hub and is filled with many things to do in Saigon and a buzzing nightlife scene.

The 670-meter-long road is very pretty, and boutique shops, restaurants, bars and tall buildings surround the street on either side.

In the evenings, there’s a water fountain that puts on a light show and many live street performances and festivals take place here.

The city’s beloved Ho Chi Minh statue is located within the road square, and the tallest statue of Uncle Ho in all of Vietnam has the spotlights placed on him — literally.

Find the famous Apartment 42 on Nguyen Hue Street dripping in mossy greens and filled with cool cafes.

During Tet time (Lunar New Year celebrations, also known as Chinese New Year) between January and February, the road turns into ‘Flower Street’.

Tons of blossoms line the pavements waiting to be sold, especially Sakura trees, also known as Cherry Blossoms.

Feeling peckish? Whilst you’ll find many dining options, check out the street food game along this road for all sorts of local delights.

• walking tours in Ho Chi Minh City

4 – Admire Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon’s European-inspired architecture

Built by the French from 1877 to 1883, the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon has a similar name to its Parisian counterpart, as well as design features.

Sporting Neo-Romanesque architecture, a typical style of the time period, the church’s box front frame has two tall bell towers on either side of the entrance, and all of the red bricks used to build the cathedral were imported directly from France.

Not only is the building a feast on the eyes, but there’s an immaculate garden that is home to the statue of the Virgin Mary.

Sculpted by an Italian artist, G. Ciocchetti in 1959, the 4.6-meter high statue is made completely from white marble.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is considered the mother church of the Catholic Archdiocese in Ho Chi Minh City.

5 – Imagine Vietnam 200 years ago along the Mekong Delta

The famous Mekong Delta River runs through both Vietnam and Cambodia, and it’s found in the history books because of its importance during the Vietnam War.

From Saigon, choose to visit different parts of the Mekong on a day trip, and depending on how much time you have to spare, travel from one hour up to 3.5-hours to reach the famed river.

To experience the Mekong Delta, you will need to organize a riverboat cruise, or you can opt for a kayaking expedition through the mangroves instead.

Hop onto a traditional wooden river canoe, put on your nón lá (a traditional Vietnamese cone-shaped bamboo hat used for sun protection), and float your way through the Delta’s tropical jungle.

During boat tours , stop off along the way to visit local villages, floating river markets and fruit orchards, and enjoy trying foods that are special to the Mekong Delta region.

• Mekong Delta day trips from Ho Chi Minh City

Hot tip: Explore the vibrant Mekong Delta with the best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City , where you can navigate through winding waterways and visit traditional floating markets.

6 – Don’t miss visiting Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most famous sites in the south

The Cu Chi Tunnels dug out and constructed during the Vietnam War, are probably the most famous war tunnels throughout history – one of your non-negotiable things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

During the war, southern Vietnam’s army, known as the Viet Cong, strategically started to add more underground tunnels to a few prior-existing tunnels in the Cu Chi region.

By the end of it all, there were more than 250 kilometers of tunnels that intersected all around the undergrounds of Cu Chi and its surrounding areas.

This is how the army operated during the Vietnam War and today you can step inside the hideouts and dugout trenches.

There are also various traps to discover, but you cannot enter these holes unassisted.

Try something exhilarating and take a 1.5-hour speedboat tour to the Cu Chi tunnels instead of driving there.

Leaving the city directly, cruise along the Saigon River, passing lush riverside landscapes and local villages along the way.

Some jet boat tours even pass through the Mekong and into the mangroves.

• Cu Chi Tunnels tours

7 – Get cultured at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

Not only is the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts one of Saigon’s biggest museums, but it’s another historical building that makes the list of must-visit attractions.

Unlike some of the older buildings, the museum was complete in 1929 and it celebrates an obvious fusion of Asian and Europe design aesthetics.

The building is super pretty both inside and out, sporting a light cream exterior, high ceilings, stain-glassed windows and spiral staircases.

(There are tons of photo opportunities around to fill your social media pages.)

Discover collections that host more than 22,000 pieces of art, from both ancient and modern periods.

It feels like you’re wandering the art galleries in Paris or London.

8 – Visit Cai Be Floating Market in Cái Bè District

Check out Vietnam’s floating town, Cái Bè, and explore the river-land town located along the banksides of the Mekong Delta River.

It’s one of the most authentic day trips to experience.

Get this … half of the town operates on water, where half the locals live, and the other half lives on land.

Take a guided boat tour around Cai Be, including its iconic market. Visit the Cai Be Floating Market and shop for souvenirs, snacks, fresh flowers, and delicacies all from floating boat stalls.

Hop on board floating restaurant boats and enjoy a local dining experience.

A cool way to experience the market is to go kayaking through. There are guided tours from Saigon that offer the option.

Visit the Cao Dai Temple, and stop by street sides to pick up a souvenir or two from the craft village!

• Cai Be Floating Market day trips

9 – Take photos of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

The striking Buddhist Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a well-photographed city attraction thanks to its seven-tiered stupa made from stone.

The architectural delight was built between 1964 and 1971 and Saigon’s tallest pagoda celebrates Vietnamese Buddhism.

As you arrive at the main hall, a statue of Guanyin greets you. In Chinese Buddhism, Guanyin is a Bodhisattva and is known for compassion and mercy.

Entering the main hall, find a gleaming statue of Buddha Gautama and two golden Bodhisattva on either side.

Visit the library on the ground level and check out the huge temple bell outside.

10 – Strike a pose at the pink Tan Dinh Church

Is it a Castle or church? Tan Dinh Catholic Church has got to be one of the most Instagram-worthy churches out there with its pink-colored exterior.

Boasting seriously eye-catching architecture, the bright pastel church isn’t the only interesting feature and Tan Dinh has an impressive tall bell tower.

One of the oldest churches in Ho Chi Minh City, the worship ground was built in 1870 when France colonized Vietnam, and you can see the French influences in its design.

It’s referred to as ‘The Pink Church’ for obvious reasons …

11 – For a bird’s eye view of the streets take a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Did you know that Ho Chi Minh City consists of 24 districts in total? There are 19 inner-city districts, and five districts on the city outskirts.

All spread wide apart, the large city can be confusing to navigate, and involves a lot of taxi rides.

Opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour around Saigon on a double-decker sightseeing bus!

The bus ticket is for the entire day, and you have the leisure of jumping off the bus at famous attractions, including Ben Thanh Market, the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.

Bus tickets last 24 hours.

• bus tours in Ho Chi Minh City

12 – Take an hour or two to check out (and photograph) Independence Palace

Once home to a French governor, then Japanese officials and finally the president of Southern Vietnam during the Vietnam War, the Independence Palace site now acts as an iconic city museum.

Also known as the Reunification Palace, wander through its grand halls and rooms, including the banquet hall and once-government offices.

An exciting feature is the underground tunnels used during the war, and you can navigate your way through the basement bunkers as well.

Take a stroll around the manicured gardens surrounding Independence Palace, and spot the water fountain as well as army tankers parked outside.

13 – Explore an entire street dedicated to books at Nguyen Van Binh Book Street

Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is also known as Ho Chi Minh City’s Book Street and the entire road is filled with tiny book stores.

It feels as if you’re walking down the streets of Camden in London.

Stop to browse through open bookshelves, and sift through piles of books.

Find both new and second-hand books and there’s a Book Bus initiative where you can borrow books to read instead of buying them.

Acting as a cultural hub too, there are often outside exhibitions put up displaying artworks, or hosting live musical performances.

You’ll also find a little market of other cool treasures to browse through, not only books.

14 – Snap a million photos inside Cao Dai Temple

The colorful Cao Dai Temple is stunning, and with an overflow of intricate artworks, statues and shrines, it makes it a feast for the eyes!

As soon as you enter the temple, look up! The curved high ceilings are painted with wispy clouds and giant pillars with swirling dragon statues descending to the floor.

Interestingly, the Cao Dai faith is a religion that comprises parts from different religions including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Confucianism and Taoism.

This amalgamation of religions is evident throughout the temple’s architecture and large worship hall.

Cao Dai Temple isn’t located inside the city center, and it takes 2.5 hours to reach via road only. It’s a great destination for a day trip outside of HCMC in southeastern Vietnam.

• Cao Dai Temple day trips

15 – Visit one of the most colorful temples, the Jade Emperor Pagoda

Taoism forms one of Vietnam’s top three religions, and if you’re unfamiliar, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a gorgeous example to explore.

Taoism believes in spiritual immortality as well as that humans and animals should live in harmony.

The pagoda is over 100 years old, and although it’s not massive, the building is filled with interesting statues that all have mythical stories behind them.

There are different rooms that all explore and depict scenes from the Taoist god, the Jade Emporer. The temple is dedicated to him, and he is considered one of the first gods in Taoism.

Look out for a four-meter-high figure of a general who battled and bested the Green Dragon, or enter the Court of Ten Hells where wood carvings, paintings and figurines depict tales of evil.

16 – Feel like a local with a scooter or motorbike tour

Want to join in the madness? One of the most popular activities to do in Ho Chi Minh City, make that the whole of Vietnam is taking a motorbike tour .

Choose to drive yourself if you’re experienced and try to maneuver the city streets, but for first-timers in Saigon, consider a guided scooter or motorbike tour.

Put your feet to the peddle and drive to must-see attractions, and choose if you’d prefer to drive a semi-automatic motorbike, or a scooter, including an old-school Vespa!

To feel more comfortable, sit back and relax on the back of a bike with an experienced tour driver as you take a city drive around Ho Chi Minh.

Opt for a morning drive, afternoon or evening tour and each offers a unique experience.

17 – Nearly 300 years old, visit Giác Lâm Pagoda

Also known as the Giac Lam Buddhist Temple, visit one of the most historical religious sites within the city.

It’s said that this pagoda is the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City, first erected in 1744!

Not to be confused with Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Giác Lâm Pagoda is also seven tiers tall but it’s not the same. (Vinh Nghiem is located 20-minutes from here.)

It is believed that ringing the pagoda’s bronze bell can help the elderly and those suffering from illness.

Although a Theravāda Buddhist temple (one of the oldest forms of Buddhism) find statues and design elements that pay respects to Taoism too. This is not uncommon in Vietnam.

You can climb to the seventh floor of the stupa as well where ancient relics are held.

18 – You simply can’t miss out on trying a food tour

The cool thing about Vietnam is that depending on the region you’re in, the food starts to vary. Often find dishes in one part of the country that you can’t in another.

You’ll notice Southern Vietnamese food is bold, strong in flavor, and naturally contains a lot of seafood.

Don’t just read about it to imagine it, a street food tour is such an epic way to experience Ho Chi Minh’s booming street food scene.

There are so many alleyways littered with tiny local vendors, side stalls and local restaurants, it can be overwhelming to make way of it all.

Opt for a foodie walking tour or take a food tour by motorbike and get to understand what you’re eating as dishes and ingredients are translated by your local guide.

Take a street food tour during the day or night, and evening time is very popular as the streets come alive with smells and sounds.

Some must-try iconic Saigon dishes and foods include Bánh canh cua (Vietnam’s version of a seafood Udon noodle soup), Bò kho (Vietnamese beef bourguignon served with a baguette), and Bánh xèo (a seafood omelet).

• food tours in Ho Chi Minh City

19 – Splash around Dam Sen Water Park

Looking for things to do in Ho Chi Minh City with kids? Dam Sen is a tropical theme park with many photo ops and offers the perfect opportunity to beat the southern heat.

The water park is great for all ages, and spend the day whizzing down water rides or try peddling a water boat.

There’s also a little village area with tons of cute backdrops, from hanging colorful umbrellas crossing over walkways, to perfectly manicured flower gardens.

Take a spin around the massive ferris wheel, and in the evening times, bridges light up and there’s a fireworks show! It’s quite romantic actually.

20 – Take a boat ride to the Phu Chau Floating Temple

Accessible by boat only, visit Phu Chau Floating Temple situated on a small island on the Vam Thuat River inside Ho Chi Minh’s District 5 neighborhood.

It’s also known as the Dragon Floating Temple because its arched temple rooftops are covered in dragon statues varying in size.

The story behind the temple is that a local fisherman found the body of a woman in the river, and so he built the temple in her honor on the waters.

From then onwards, his life changed for the better.

Throughout the years, locals kept the temple going, and it was later dedicated to the five natural elements: wood, water, fire, earth and metal.

This forms part of the Five Elements Theory which believes that the basis of all universal interactions involves the elements.

To reach Ph Chau Floating Temple, take a fast speedboat ride along the Saigon River, and take in the sights from the waters at the same time!

You can choose a jet boat tour at different times in the day, and a day trip is especially pretty in the afternoon as dusk starts to settle in on the ride back.

21 – Feel like you’re in Europe in the early 1900s inside the Saigon Central Post Office

There’s no need to travel to New York City to have your own “Grand Central” photograph taken.

Albeit a post office, the Saigon Central Post Office leaves the same awe-inspiring impact.

The building is a mix of French, Renaissance and Gothic architecture and it makes for an ideal picture-perfect moment!

Built between 1886 and 1891, it’s one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest buildings and is conveniently located close to the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.

Take photos outside the grand yellow building lined with green shutters, and inside wander through the halls with its curved rooftop.

There are also vintage telephone booths to take photos alongside.

22 – Get ready for a round of shopping at An Dong Market

Opening daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, visit one of the city’s largest indoor markets, the An Dong Market.

It’s a market that’s especially close to the locals’ hearts and has been in operation since 1951.

After it was destroyed, it was reconstructed in 1991 by the Vietnamese Chinese community in Saigon.

The building is a mix of local Vietnamese design, as well as being reminiscent of the architecture in Hong Kong during the 1980s to early 1990s.

Consisting of four levels, shop for anything and everything at An Dong for really affordable prices.

Find knock-off brands, accessories, make-up, phone jewels, nail art, fake flowers … you name it!

Considered a “wholesale” market, the shops each have their individual stalls house-in, just like Bangkok’s famous Chatuchak Market.

There are escalators to transport visitors between levels.

23 – Catch a fast boat to the mangroves in Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve

Traveling 90 minutes from HCMC, enjoy a refreshing day trip to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve and take a jet boat cruise through the mangrove forests!

Take some lovely photos among the trees, wildlife and wetlands, stopping off at the small, local Cần Giờ Market. Taste and try some delicious fresh seafood while here.

As you make your way through the dense mangroves, try spotting various plant species, fish, shellfish and invertebrates that live in the mangroves of this region only.

Located inside the Can Gio Reserve is the famous Monkey Island which gained its name because of the local inhabitants, monkeys, that call the island their home.

Go and say hello to the crocs at the Hoa Ca Crocodile Farm which is also inside this epic UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve.

Forming part of a coastal district, you can smell the ocean in the air.

• Can Gio Reserve day trips

24 – Cruise the Saigon River

Flowing for a total of 256 kilometers, 80 kilometers of the Saigon River runs directly through Ho Chi Minh City.

You can access the river from different parts of the city. The river in these districts is surrounded by buildings, restaurants and parks.

Take a stroll along the riverbanks in District 2 for example.

Apart from activities on land, try something on the water, such as stand-up paddleboarding, also known as SUPing .

Stand on a longboard on the Saigon River and paddle your way past famous city attractions. It’s an epic way to sightsee the city — and a way to cool off from the heat.

Cruises along the Saigon River, especially at sunset are extremely popular.

• boat tours in HCMC

25 – Built in 1862, stop by Nha Rong Port

Thanks to its geographic positioning, Ho Chi Minh City is also a trading port city and although it’s now the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Nha Rong Port was Saigon’s original commercial trading port.

The harbor was constructed during France’s rule over Vietnam, but Vietnam turned it into a museum in 1979.

The historical building is an interesting site to check out, and a fusion of French and Vietnam designs can be seen.

The original building is very French-inspired, whilst traditional elements like its curved dragon statue rooftop have been added on.

Today, its nickname is ‘Dragon Wharf’.

If you look at a photograph from 100 years ago, not much has changed from the outside except for the roof.

26 – Feel like you’re in a mini Japan at Little Tokyo

Did you know that among the hustle and bustle of District 1, there’s an entire area known as Little Tokyo?

Find a bunch of Japanese restaurants, including Japanese BBQ, pubs and shops around here, and the streets are aptly lined with lanterns and signs in Japanese too.

In the early 1990s, there was an influx of Japanese expats into Vietnam, and a large Japanese community still lives in this area.

Find amazing sushi, hit a whisky bar, or snap some epic street photos alongside artworks of graffiti or in front of Japanese shophouses.

The Japanese Quarter, as it’s sometimes called too, is near the corner of Thai Van Lung Street and Le Thanh Ton Street.

27 –  Go chasing waterfalls at Giang Dien Waterfall

Looking for an epic day adventure? Travel by taxi, private car, or rented bike and head to the massive Giang Dien Waterfall.

The waterfall has multiple falls, but they all run down from the same level, so Giang Dien is impressive in size.

It creates a massive natural pool, which is then separated by rocks to create a second large swimming area.

Around the waterfall’s lakes, there are shaded huts, and structures built for photo-ops, like a bird’s nest chair!

There are also some hiking trails around the area, as well as local restaurants to stop by.

It takes around one to 1.5 hours to reach Giang Dien Waterfall from Ho Chi Minh City.

28 – Chill out at the city’s best parks

One of the beauties of Ho Chi Minh City is that it’s filled with many great parks, from landscapes covered in trees, to more urban-suited green areas.

Home to over 1,000 trees Tao Dan Park is one of the city’s oldest parks and is conveniently located in District 1.

Gia Dinh Park has a great play area for children and different play zones are divided to suit varying ages, from 3 years old to 15 years old.

Made up of designated green patches, and with benches and tall trees lining pathways, September 23rd Park is an ideal picnic location.

Hoang Van Thu Park is a gorgeous urban park filled with colorful florals and is popular for exercise, as well as for those wanting to chill in nature for the day.

There are designated huts at this park providing shade from the sun.

29 – Get in your exercise and sightseeing at the same time with a bike tour

Biking is a popular mode of transport in Vietnam, and joining the locals, it’s a fantastic opportunity to see ho Chi Minh city like never before.

Taking to the streets and alleyways, explore the city by bicycle tour, stopping at iconic temples, famed museums, epic markets, boutique shops, as well as multiple dining, snacking and street food stops along the journey.

Enjoy learning about the Vietnamese culture and all the facts that come along with the ride from an English-speaking guide.

Cyclists or those looking for fun exercise, bicycle tour from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta where you’ll bike to the closest point of the river from the city.

• bike tours in Ho Chi Minh City

30 – Step back into time at the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Dating as far back as prehistoric times, visit the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City and learn about its culture, traditions, stories, events and ethnic groups that have shaped Vietnam as we know it today.

History buffs, enjoy at least two hours wandering through exhibitions of artifacts that are equipped with English-translated descriptions.

Find national treasures like ancient Buddha statues, as well as ones of Indian deities from the Funan period (this was the first largest recorded Southeast Asian civilization dating back between the 1st century and 7th century A.D).

Marvel in gorgeous brass, bronze and metal items from the first Nguyen dynasties including antiques like vases and even an ancient kettle.

31 – Let the little ones’ imaginations run wild at Vietopia

Vietopia is an indoor play and learning center that’s not only fun but stimulating for the minds of both young children and teens.

Inside is set up to replicate a mini modern-day society, and a small town has been recreated with factories, buildings and an airport.

Kids can explore the different roles and jobs that adults have, dressing up in characters themselves and trying out various occupations.

Pretend to be a firefighter, banker or teacher for the day … It’s exciting and educational.

You also have the chance to build your very own city, and Vietopia is suitable for children aged 4 to 15 years old.

32 – Go hopping around the best coffee shops and cafes

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its hip and trendy cafes … seriously, there are hundreds!

Just like the rest of the country, coffee culture reigns in HCMC (some say it’s due to the country’s European influence in the past).

Dripping in flowers and greens from the outside, Bonjour cafe the art is two levels with great balcony views. (Don’t miss their dessert menu.)

Padma de Fleur is not only a florist but a cafe inside too. As you can imagine, the entire setup is just dreamy surrounded by florals and fresh table bouquets.

Nestled at the end of the road, Oromia Coffee & Lounge has a Japanese feel and huge glass windows overlook their Koi pond.

Although in HCMC, visit Little Hanoi Egg Coffee cafe for the best cà phê trung (i.e. egg coffee), it’s delicious!

For a unique setting, visit DU MIÊN Garden Coffee built around a treehouse set-up with a sparkling aqua pool within the center of it all.

Offering one of the best cold brews in the city, coffee snobs visit The Hummingbird Café & Roastery .

Lastly, a visit to Teaspoon Coffee & Tearoom will transport you to England, or even Alice in Wonderland, tea cups and all.

33 – Make a full day trip visiting Tre Viet Tourist Village (Làng du lịch Tre Việt)

Also known as the Bamboo Village, the Tre Tiet Tourist Village is a great family outing.

15 kilometers out of the city center, this eco-tourism area has been designed to showcase the south’s countryside feels.

Located next to the river, there’s a lake area dotted with coconut trees where water activities take place, such as water biking, kayaking and SUPing.

Or, try your hand rowing a traditional rounded woven coracle boat.

After all the activity, grab something to eat at the Bamboo Country Market Buffet offering over 60 local and traditional dishes to try.

34 – Show the animals some love at Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden

If you’re traveling with family, especially younger kids, have a blast interacting with animals and exploring stunning green areas at the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Zoo .

In operation for more than 150 years, the zoo has been open since 1869 and it’s a gorgeous mix of not only wildlife but architecture too.

Walking through the tall green gates, enter one of the oldest standing buildings in all of Saigon.

The zoo was built to ‘ enhance culture and conservation activities ’ and with its botanical setting, it provides a great balanced environment.

Visit the Butterfly and Flamingo Garden, spot some rare animals, and there’s a petting zoo for little ones, the Children’s Garden.

Speaking of, there are craft workshops for kids and a water playground. Also inside the Botanical Garden are a bunch of fun rides for all ages including a ferris wheel.

Wander through an Orchid greenhouse, a cactus garden and a park filled with ancient and new trees and plant species.

Stop by the Animal and Plant Museum for an educational walk-through, and children will love to see life-size animal replicas on exhibit.

35 – Experience a live show performance unlike any before during an AO Show

How many times in your life can you say that you’ve watched a bamboo circus, let alone heard of one?

Get to witness (and experience) the local spectacle known as the AO Show , put on by Lune Productions – one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City at night.

It’s sort of similar to a Circus Soleil show where performers use their bodies to perform tricks.

Here, the immersive performers create some insane artworks with their bodies and bamboo at the same time.

Fun fact: Bamboo is one of Vietnam’s most-used materials and there are over 300 different species of Bamboo growing in the country.

36 – Try a different kind of museum at the Ao Dai Museum

If ever there’s an important event happening in Vietnam, from school concerts to weddings, the traditional áo dài is worn and has been for hundreds of years.

Heading to District 9 (a 1-hour drive via local public bus from District 1), visit the enthralling Ao Dai Museum.

Paying an ode to the traditional dress, discover hallways filled with 1,000 different kinds of áo dài once worn by royalty and celebrities.

The grounds around the small museum are really pretty, surrounded by tropical trees, a lotus pond and an herb garden.

Visiting this part of town, while it is still inside Ho Chi Minh City, has a ‘greener’ touch and a more rural sort of feel.

37 – Take a break at Turtle Lake (Hồ Con Rù)

Although Hồ Con Rùa is known as Turtle Lake, there is no lake nor turtle here.

Instead, at the intersection of three roads, an octagon-shaped water feature has been built, with a square of trees surrounding it.

Located across the way from the Independence Palace, it’s also called the Independence Square and is a popular spot to enjoy local street food, as well as relax in the peaceful setting.

There is a spiral pathway that crosses the man-made pond, and a tall water fountain feature protrudes upwards and lights up in the evenings.

Must-try street snacks include fried corn, baked rice paper rolls and fried squid!

38 – Treat yo’ self to one of Saigon’s spas

There’s no denying the fact that Saigon is a big city, and between the different districts, attractions and the surrounding areas outside of Ho Chi Minh City, there’s loads of exploring to be done.

Spend an afternoon, or the day, relaxing, unwinding and pampering yourself at a lush spa. Treat yourself to a massage , body treatment or a nail day.

Check into the artisanal boutique L’Apothiquaire Spa set in the most gorgeous French-inspired villa. They offer everything from wellness treatments to pilates classes.

Looking to spoil yourself? The award-winning Le Spa des Artistes Saigon is one of the city’s most luxurious spas.

Conveniently located in the heart of District 1, Temple Leaf Spa is award-winning and well known in Saigon. Choose between a range of different traditional treatments, from Vietnamese to Thai massages.

Select from an array of different techniques from countries like Sweden, India, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand which are then combined with traditional medicinal Vietnamese therapies at Moc Huong Spa .

Conveniently, Golden Lotus spa has numerous branches around HCMC, and they focus on Korean treatments, and beauty and wellness packages.

If you’ve been missing your weekly practice, there are yoga classes in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as meditation sessions if you feel like you need to recenter in the busy city.

• spas in Ho Chi Minh City

39 – Visit the most famous architectural Buddhist temple in the South of Vietnam, Chùa Vĩnh Tràng

Thanks to the sheer size of the grounds at Chùa Vĩnh Tràng, or Vinh Trang Pagoda, it’s a striking feature and a must-visit.

While it’s not situated directly in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s a 1.5-hour drive from HCMC and en route to the Mekong River.

This makes it a convenient location if traveling here, or a great day trip option.

Discover multiple different Buddha statues around, including a ginormous laughing Buddha and a lying down Buddha.

Other than the larger-than-life-sized statues, the gardens are magical to walk through, and the unique temple architecture will grab your attention, screaming for a photo.

40 – Prepare yourself for a spectacle at the Saigon Opera House

Standing regal, the Saigon Opera House is an amazing excuse to put on your fancy clothes and spend an evening enjoying the arts and cultural side of things.

That is, when there is a live show happening! Today, it’s also known as the ‘Municipal Theatre’.

Some amazing shows include the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus and Contemporary Dance performances.

When there aren’t performances, or you’re not up for watching one, don’t miss exploring the beautiful building that is the opera house.

It was first constructed by a French architect in 1989, and the building’s architecture and interior design are evident of the times.

Walk across marbled floors and the grand staircase with its red carpet, while dripping chandeliers glisten from the rooftops.

• Saigon Opera House tickets

41 – Create your own fantastical illusions at Artinus 3D Art Museum

One of the most whimsical and enchanting 3D museums around, Artinus 3D Art Museum has over 300 different 3D picture walls to discover!

Have endless fun recreating your own magical moments inside the museum, where it takes on the illusion that you are part of the artworks and scenes.

The museum is divided into nine zones.

Pretend to be part of the deep sea inside the Aqua Zone or play with wildlife inside the Animal Zone.

The Master Piece Zone is epic and you feel as if you’re part of famous paintings.

The Vietnam Zone and Egypt Zone explore different time periods and regions, while the Fantasy Zone transports you to unknown worlds.

Pretend like you’re a genie flying above a magic carpet at the Strange House Zone and lastly, the Love Zone will leave you with all the cutesy feels and photo ops.

42 – After walking around in 50°c heat, take a dip in one of the Rooftop Pools

There may be no beaches found in Ho Chi Minh City, but a popular way to beat the heat is chilling at one of the city’s rooftop pools.

It’s not uncommon for hotels to open up their rooftop pools to outside visitors, and you will need to pay a daily entrance fee to use the pool.

Located on the 27th floor, enjoy a glass of champagne next to the infinity pool at LA VELA , followed by a dip with sweeping views.

There’s also a breathtaking infinity pool at Hôtel des Arts Saigon .

The spacious pool at Equatorial has a kiddies pool and features a sunken pool bar, or S Pool Bar on the 18th floor of the Sofitel is awesome for a group of friends or families.

43 – From instruments to ancient remedy books, discover the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine

Did you know that most of the country’s natural medicine practices have been influenced by Chinese philosophies and practices?

At the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine , check out 3,000 different items relating to traditional medicine used in Vietnam, some dating back to the Stone Ages!

Discover tools and instruments used in the preparation of ancient remedies such as pestle and mortars, pots and knives.

As it highlights the evolution of traditional medicine, the museum showcases objects from pharmacies throughout the years, including scales and paper advertisements.

There are 14 different rooms to visit, like the Medicinal Plants Shop, a room for Herbal Elixirs, the Fitô Pharmacy and more.

44 – Add something new to your cooking repertoire with cooking classes

The flavors in Southern Vietnam are herbaceous, bold and super fresh. Learn how to cook like a local pro and take a cooking class whilst you’re visiting Saigon.

Enjoy a farm-to-table cooking experience. Visit a local farm, including a medicine farm, and pick fresh ingredients to use in your meal.

Learn about different herbs and produce, as well as insightful information such as how to cultivate rice.

For something extra authentic, head into the jungle-y mangroves along the Mekong Delta and try a cooking class at a local village.

Here, visit a small floating market to buy your ingredients and cook up a storm using preparation techniques and flavors from these local parts of the south.

• cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City

45 – Learn about Chinese religion at Ba Thien Hau Pagoda

There are many temples, churches and worship grounds to visit around Ho Chi Minh City, and Ba Thien Hau Pagoda is an interesting one to check out.

Many temples and sanctuaries are Buddhist in Saigon, but Ba Thien Hau is a Chinese pagoda and has been since it was first built around 1760.

The sacred ancient ground was constructed by Chinese immigrants in Vietnam, and today it’s found right in the heart of Saigon’s Chinatown neighborhood.

The temple is dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the Sea, Mazu, or Thien Hau as she is known in Vietnamese.

There is a courtyard that connects four small houses, and inside the main hall is the altar dedicated to Thien Hau.

Discover some beautiful antiques inside the temple grounds too, including stone statues and embossed artworks.

46 – Shop at Ben Thanh Market, the most popular city market

Close to most of the major must-see attractions and things to do in Ho Chi Minh City like Independence Palace, Saigon Opera House and the Notre Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market is always busy.

Opening daily from 7 AM to 8 PM, shop for all sorts of typical market buys from as cheap as VND10,000!

The indoor market is housed inside a historical building and visitors work their way through the rows and stalls.

Shop across categories, from affordable clothing to local handicrafts and other accessories like backpacks to souvenirs.

Find some stores selling labels like NorthFace and Zara for cheap prices.

Ben Thanh is a famous street food hotspot, so make sure you arrive hungry and get involved in the tastes of the south!

47 – Put on your boots and go hiking right outside Ho Chi Minh City

Just outside of Saigon you will find unending green landscapes which make for incredible hiking adventures.

Head to a local favorite, Lady Black Mountain (officially called Núi Bà Đen), and the sacred mountain offers numerous hiking trails and temples to check out along the way.

(There’s also a gondola service that takes you to the peak of Ba Den and if you’re lucky grab views from above the floating clouds!)

Two hours outside of HCMC discover Chua Chan Mountain. Hike the 800-meter high trail and once you reach the top, locals are selling delicious snacks like bánh xèo (filled rice pancakes).

Go hunting waterfalls inside the Dinh Mountain range and this hike is a colorful one. Pass by pagodas, temples, streams, and Vũng Tàu beach is close by.

If looking for an overnight summit stay, travel to Lang Biang Mountain in Da Lat Province (a five-hour drive from HCMC).

Another great hiking day trip is to the Cat Tien National Park, and unlike some mountain ranges, the park is made up of tropical forestry.

• hiking in Ho Chi Minh City

48 – Arrive in HCMC ready to feast at the best restaurants

Saigon has a great dining scene, whether you’re hunting down local flavors, a night of fine dining or plates of food from other countries.

Built in a French-colonial building, Cục Gạch Quán celebrates local countryside dishes in the most ambient setting.

Dress up for the night at Xu Restaurant Lounge which highlights modern and traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Plates of food are plated beautifully.

Dine with a (skyline) view at Shri Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy a menu that fuses international and local ingredients and dishes.

Craving authentic Italian? Ciao Bella is renowned for offering some of Italy’s best dishes in Ho Chi Minh City.

Both locals and tourists love Secret Garden. It’s set in a traditional house and covered by lanterns, like a scene from Hoi An. Indulge in local Vietnamese dishes and flavors and the restaurant and teahouse has a fantastic all-round atmosphere.

For the freshest poke bowls in town, you can’t go wrong at Poke Saigon … Never an unsatisfied customer, they have great service too!

49 – Explore adventurously via jeep tours

Hop inside a cool retro army jeep and explore Ho Chi Minh City in a way that’s not mundane.

It’s not only epic to join the masses of motorbikes and cars on the roads, but riding the jeeps with an open roof adds a welcomed breeze.

Spend a full, or half-day venturing around the city and stopping at must-see attractions such as Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, and the War Remnants Museum, among many others.

There are different jeep tour options, and you can choose the best type of vehicle model that suits you, for example, some jeeps are more suitable for families.

If you’ve already discovered all there is to do in HCMC, then opt for a jeep tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels instead!

• jeep tours in Ho Chi Minh City

50 – Celebrate Hanoi’s cultural and spiritual history at Suoi Tien Theme Park

Aimed at being a cultural, spiritual and entertaining paradise for all ages, Suoi Tien Theme Park is filled with water features, slides and rides!

Themed around Vietnam’s myths and legends, as you wander around the amusement park spot larger-than-life statues of mythical gods and figurines all around.

Even the rides have magical names such as the Fairy Stream, Snow Castle and the Great Palace which features a gigantic Phoenix rooftop.

Not only rides, visit the Twelve-zodiac Spiritual Temple, the Three-fortune Imperial Palace and the Nine Streams Waterfall.

Check out its replica of Danang’s Marble Mountains, and there’s a forest to walk through too.

51 – Explore fruit orchards, coconut groves and rural riverside life at Ben Tre

Take in the pretty sights and learn something at the same time when you visit the “Coconut Capital of Vietnam”, Ben Tre Province located along the Mekong Delta.

Apart from the dozens and dozens of coconut trees around, they also make everything coco from wooden souvenirs and sculptures to yummy coconut candy!

Other than buying goods and watching the crafters in action,  the area itself is super pretty as it’s located along the Mekong Delta River.

Take a boat tour to Ben Tre village, and there are many temples and pagodas in the area too.

52 – Revel in the magnificence of Chua Van Phat

Whilst looks may be deceiving, this Buddhist temple gets its nickname ‘Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery’ for a reason, and just wait until you step inside Chua Van Phat …

Marvel at literally 10,000 Buddha statues that you will find inside the glistening hallways of the four-story Buddhist temple.

On the top level sits the main Buddha, a six-meter tall statue of Buddha and behind that, thousands of intricately designed smaller Buddha statues line the walls in individually boxed rows.

Located in Cholon (also locally known as Chinatown), it’s hidden down a small street, but this helps lend the grounds a super peaceful atmosphere.

53 – Adults and kids have fun exploring these sites, including an artificial sea at Đại Nam Văn Hiến

Filled with breathtaking cultural and historical sites, plus other fun activities, Dai Nam Van Hien is a tourism complex one hour outside of HCMC.

There are seven areas to explore, and you will want to dedicate a few hours here, making it an ideal half-day excursion.

There’s a farm, race track and an adventure park, but one standout feature is the Dai Nam Temple.

It was erected in 2003, and surrounding the grand temple grounds are mountains, rivers, waterways and a golden nine-story pagoda, Bao Thap.

Another thrilling attraction is the Dai Nam Amusement Park and the kids will have a blast running among the life-size dinosaur statues, or oversized cartoon characters!

There are adrenaline-inducing rides, as well as those suited for children.

Couples, enjoy a ride on the carousel for your own old-school romantic moment.

54 – Hit the streets of Chinatown, i.e. Cholon

Saigon’s Cholon district is also known as Ho Chi Minh Chinatown, home to a strong Chinese-Vietnamese local community since the end of the 1700s!

There’s so much to do and see in the area, you can easily spend two or three hours discovering what’s around.

Arrive with an empty stomach and try some of the most delicious foods in HCMC.

The dim sum game is strong, and try special dishes like Hu Tieu Sa Te Bo (beef satay noodle soup), or Mi Vit Tiem (a duck egg-noodle soup).

Shop for traditional medicines, produce, herbs and spices, as well as souvenirs and local handicrafts. Binh Tay Market is in Chinatown too.

The area has many pagodas, temples and worship grounds like Thien Hau Pagoda and Cholon Mosque.

Take photos of the unique architecture in this part of Saigon, that mixes Vietnamese and Chinese design.

55 – Take a dinner cruise on the river

Are you on the hunt for something extra romantic to do while in Saigon? Consider a dinner cruise on the Saigon River.

Dine under the stars, or opt for a sunset cruise with an earlier dinner and departure time instead.

Cruise along the river on a private wooden yacht, or luxury boat and watch the city’s lights dance on the waters.

During the evening, enjoy live performances on board which adds to the ambiance.

Some dinner cruises include sightseeing before you board the boat, or others have the option to end off the evening with a classic water puppet show – a favorite Saigon activity

Although it’s a lovely option for couples, dinner cruises are open to all ages.

• dinner cruises in Ho Chi Minh City

56 – Get ready for a night out on Bui Vien Walking Street

Also nicknamed “Western Street”, Bui Vien Walking Street is in District 1 and it’s known for its pumping nightlife scene.

Many backpacker-type travelers particularly love this part of the city, and its streets come alive with chats among travelers and locals, beer drinking and live street performances.

Join a pub crawl, go bar hopping or dance the night away at a nightclub along the popular walking street.

Apart from the nightlife, Bui Vien Street has many cute and interesting coffee shops and cafes to stop by.

You can also find an array of street food, with international classics like doner kebab, or bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwich).

57 – Save room in your suitcase for shopping at the best night markets

Apart from the daytime markets in HCMC, there are some great night markets to check out that are extra vibey when evening arrives.

Stock up on the latest trends at Hạnh Thông Tây Market and there’s a delightful mix of local and international street foods, from nem cuốn (Vietnamese spring rolls) to NYC-style Pizza slices to kimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls).

Put your bargaining skills to the test at Chợ Minh Phụng (locally known as Chợ Cây Gõ) and shop for clothing and cosmetics sold at wholesale prices — legit!

Around since 1942, make your way through the plethora of stalls spilling out onto the streets with vendors selling everything from local food to fashion at Ba Chieu Market.

Flowers are always a good idea, and even if not to buy any, as you meander through Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, take in the scents and different colors.

58 – Ever watched a puppet show in water? Don’t miss the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

Water puppet shows are famous in Vietnam and it’s a fantastic way to learn about the local culture.

To witness the traditional art form in live-action, visit the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater in Ho Chi Minh City.

Using wooden handcrafted puppets, the entire puppet show happens in the water on a stage in front of a small auditorium of chairs.

Using different characters, hear of mythical stories and legends as they’re re-enacted out in front of you.

For example, watch traditional boat races, witness the Fairy Dance or learn about the legendary Le Loi and the “Restored Sword” of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.

To top off the experience, some artists play traditional instruments and music to accompany the act. Expect to hear melodies created from rice drums or the Vietnamese two-chord fiddle.

• Water Puppet Shows tickets

59 – Get festive with a beer tasting tour

Just as coffee is a culture in Vietnam, so is beer drinking. A great way to get to know the local brewing scene is to take a beer tasting tour.

There are many local Vietnamese beers to try out, as well as a ton of pubs and restaurants that brew their own.

Craft connoisseurs will be happy to know there’s a major craft beer movement in HCMC.

Enjoy a beer tasting tour and find many bars and local drinking holes that sell some incredible craft beers — local and international.

When booking a beer tasting tour in Saigon, you can opt specifically for a craft beer tasting tour, or enjoy a regular beer tasting tour in HCMC, stopping by local bia hois (a large drinking hall that only sells beer and local snacks).

• beer tasting tours in Ho Chi Minh City

60 – Head on up to the best rooftop bars

Ho Chi Minh City is without a doubt, Vietnam’s metropolitan city, and with the number of tall buildings and skyscrapers around, take advantage and check out the best rooftop bars.

Find the highest infinity rooftop pool at the Social Club Saigon located inside the stunning Hôtel des Arts. Enjoy happy hour by the pool and you can drink in the city views until midnight.

Take in the 360-degree skyline views at super stylish AIR Saigon .

Check out trendy Glow SkyBar for signature cocktails and a vibey nightlife where fashionistas come to play.

Paying an ode to the past, step inside the elegant Gin on 8 rooftop speakeasy bar located on the riverside. The boutique bar transports you to classical time periods, and as the name suggests, their mixologists specialize in gin.

The vibes are more relaxed at Banana Mama , and with its mix of boho Southeast Asian meets European design, it’s the perfect spot for a group of friends.

Grab craft beers and burgers at Rogue Saigon and enjoy funky tunes playing in the background and live DJs to get you into the mood.

Where to stay?

Feel as if you’re on the edge of the world at the gorgeous LA VELA Saigon Hotel . Sporting lavish interiors, with hints of Middle Eastern influences, the guest infinity pool is the cherry on the cake.

Find yourself feeling so relaxed you’ll never want to leave your stay at Fusion Suites . Enjoy suites with big open windows surrounded by trees and soft light, and the floating bathtubs are everything!

You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the English countryside at the Au Lac Charner Hotel , including a rooftop garden.

Thanks to its clever design and architectural set-up you will feel all the zen vibes at the Japanese-inspired Cochin Zen Hotel .

For an artsy-inspired hotel, check into The Myst Dong Khoi , or the luxurious Hôtel des Arts Saigon – MGallery for a taste of the arts throughout the ages.

• best hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

Arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport, organize a private pick-up and transfer from the airport to your hotel in the city.

Final thoughts

From temples to night markets, cruises along the famous Mekong Delta River and visits to historical sites that remain pivotal parts of history … There are so many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that tickle everyone’s fancy.

Once you’re done with all of your city explorings, consider an epic weekend or 3-day trip to the surrounding southern areas and book a multi-day tour .

One of the most memorable is an overnight stay along the iconic Mekong Delta. Spend the night in a local traditional homestay and experience the most authentic Vietnamese vibes.

Without leaving the city, there are free walking tours in Saigon to take part in. Visit top city attractions on foot and learn from the local pros fun facts and tidbits about the city.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Ho Chi Minh City? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking to plan a longer trip in Vietnam? Check out the best things to do in Hanoi , Da Nang and Hoi An . For the ones looking for an island vacation, don’t miss Phu Quoc . Cambodia is also a fun destination; don’t miss a visit to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap .

Happy, safe and fun travels in Saigon!

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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!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

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Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#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.

Get insured for your trip to Ho Chi Minh!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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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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52 Awesome Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Recommended by a Local

What are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam? Whether you’re looking for good eats and coffee, history, architecture, museums, or nightlife , bucket list activities, there are tons of awesome places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Most visitors tend to brush off Ho Chi Minh City as just a “big city” and skip a visit here. While it’s true that 9 million people live in the city, you’ll miss out on some of the fun things to do here that make visiting Ho Chi Minh City memorable. 

As expats living in Ho Chi Minh City for over 3+ years, we want to share with you insider tips on where to go in Ho Chi Minh City. We want to show you how HCMC is a noteworthy place to visit in Vietnam and a fantastic spot in South Vietnam .  

Get ready for this massive Ho Chi Minh City bucket list where we’ve categorized 52 various things to do. Don’t worry. We’ve thrown in plenty of touristy and local spots in HCMC for you to explore and the admission cost in Vietnamese dong and U.S. dollars (if available). 

Click on the links to jump to a certain area of what to do in Ho Chi Minh:

• Touristy and Must Do Things to Do
• Cultural Things to Do
• Unique Things to Do
• Nature Spots 
• Food Adventures
• Day Excursions

Since you’re in the travel planning phase, check out other helpful Vietnam posts:

• Best Vietnam travel tips to know for your first visit
• Reasons to travel to Vietnam
• Top Vietnam travel apps to use 
• How to travel around Vietnam

In addition, It can be challenging to figure out how to organize a schedule, so we’ve put together a few itineraries on how to spend your time in Ho Chi Minh City. Check them out below:

• One day in Ho Chi Minh City
• Three days in Ho Chi Minh City
• Five or more days in Ho Chi Minh City
• Weekend getaway destinations from HCMC

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, we receive a small commission. There is no additional cost to you. Appreciate the support.

Touristy & Must Do Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City For Your First Visit

Here are the top things to do when visiting Ho Chi Minh City during your first visit. These are the popular, touristy attractions, yet oh so fun to explore. 

1. Visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame.

The Cathedral of Notre Dame ( Nhà thờ Đức Bà Sài Gòn) is one of the popular and must do things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a famous landmark in Ho Chi Minh City due to the architecture and size. During operation, it’s one of the largest churches in the city. The architect, Jules Bourard, designed the Cathedral and the French-built it between 1863-1880. It’s been used for service since 1959. 

Currently in renovation so you can only take photos from the outside. It’s expected to reopen in 2023. 

Since the road is built around the cathedral, please watch out for motorbikes and vehicles when crossing the street . 

Address: 1 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, District 1

Notre Dame Cathedral is a top place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

2. Visit the Central Post Office.

Central Post Office ( Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn) is a bright yellow French architecture building with a portrait of Ho Chi Minh , an important person in Vietnam history and proponent of Communism. The post office still operates so you can send mail here. 

Buy postcards at one of the souvenir shops inside and send them from here. Expect your postcard to arrive at your next destination in two weeks. 

Address:  2 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, District 1

3. Browse through Book Street. 

The Book Street ( Đường Sách Thành Phố Hồ Chí Minh ) is a great place to relax under the trees, enjoy a cup of coffee at the outdoor cafe, and browse through the bookstores for books (English books are sold), souvenirs, and gifts. It’s an adorable street to hang out and visit in the middle of the afternoon. 

Address: Đường Nguyễn Văn Bình, Bến Nghé, District 1

Book Street is a hidden gem when you explore Ho Chi Minh City.

4. Go Shopping at Ben Thanh Market.

Visit Ben Thanh Market ( Chợ Bến Thành ) for souvenir shopping . It’s the largest market in Ho Chi Minh City. Wander through endless aisles of clothes, ceramics, souvenir items (coffee and snacks), and more. 

Don’t forget to bargain if you want to purchase somethin g as the prices tend to be tourist prices. (Compared to the local markets, the cost of fruits and vegetables is much higher here.) If you do not want to bargain, the outer perimeter has fixed pricing. 

Insider Tip: The market does not have air condoning so it’s very hot throughout the day. It’s best to visit this place early in the morning. 

In the evenings, both sides of Ben Thanh Market change to a Night Market. The items for sale are the same as what is sold inside the market during the day. There is a kiosk grilling seafood if you’re interested. (At the time of publishing, the Night Market has been closed until further notice.)

Address : Đ. Lê Lợi, Phường Bến Thành, District 1

5. Visit the Independence Palace. 

The Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace and Dinh Thống Nhất ) is the location where the former South Vietnam president worked in the 1970 s. It’s one of the must-visit attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. You can’t miss this iconic white building in District 1. 

The building has four levels and rooms have been preserved in pristine conditions. You can’t walk into the rooms but can peer into them through the open doors. 

You can see the living arrangements on how the former president and the family lived and the working space. It’s cool to see the cinema room, entertainment room with a bar, and helipad. The basement level is a bunker so you can see old communication equipment. 

There is also a special exhibit that requires an additional entrance fee. 

Outside of the palace are some old tanks collected from the Vietnam War. In addition, there is a Highlands Coffee where you can enjoy drinks in a shaded garden area. 

Address: 135 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường Bến Thành, District 1

Admission: 

• 40,000 VND ($1.70) for adults and 10,000 VND ($.40) for children for the Palace entrance
• 65,000 VND ($2.80) for Adults or 15,000 VND ($.65) for children for Palace and Exhibit entrance

Independence Palace is a popular attraction to visit in Ho Chi Minh.

6. Learn about the Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum. 

The War Remnants Museum ( Bảo Tàng Chứng Tích Chiến Tranh ) is a good opportunity to learn about the Vietnam War (American War according to the Vietnamese) from the Vietnamese perspective and also the tragedies entailed. 

Have a tissue in hand when you visit the Agent Orange section. Reading the stories about the victims exposed to the Agent Orange toxin will be emotional.

Outside of the museum, there are helicopters, tanks, and other old relics from the war. You can also learn about the tiger cages used during the war. (Other places to learn about tiger cages in Vietnam are in Con Dao Islands and Phu Quoc Islands ). 

Address: 28 Võ Văn Tần, Phường 6, District 3

Admission Cost: 15,000 VND ($.65)

7. Walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street in the evenings.  

Nguyen Hue Walking Street ( Nguyễn Huệ ) is must visit in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s located in District 1 and it’s a 900 meters (.55 miles) pedestrian-friendly walkway and perfect for people watching. 

While you can visit this place at any time of the day, you’ll see more people and action in the evenings. Many vendors hang out along the walking street selling cold drinks , LED toys, and grilled rice paper with toppings ( bánh tráng nướng ). People also dress up in costumes to pose with visitors. Expect to pay a tip (at least 20,000 VND/$.88) to take a photo with them. 

While you’re here, take a photo with the Ho Chi Minh Statue with the gorgeous City Hall (People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City) building in the backdrop. 

On the weekends, the street is closed to cars and motorbikes so you can walk around with ease. Depending on your time of visit, the walking street may have a festival or event. 

During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet holiday), there is a gorgeous flower display that stretches the entire walkway. The theme is based on the Lunar zodiac animals . It’s a pretty time of year to take photos.   

Address: Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, District 1

Visit the Ho Chi Minh statue along the Nguyen Hue Walking Street. during the evenings

8. Stop by the iconic Cafe Apartments .

Located above the Fahasa Bookstore along Nguyen Hue Walking Street is the famous Cafe Apartments. The building itself is a bit run down, yet each floor has boutique stores, cafes, and/or restaurants . You can easily go cafe hopping and try the various coffee and cold beverages here. 

One of the coolest reasons to visit this place is that you’ll get an awesome aerial view of Nguyen Hue Walk Street from any of the cafes. 

If you want to exercise, take the stairs up to each floor, or pay a small fee to use the elevator. 

Address: 42 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, District 1

Related: What to do in Ho Chi Minh City in the rainy season

9. take a photo of the pink tan dinh church ..

Located in District 3, Tan Dinh Church ( Nhà thờ Tân Định ) is the popular bubble-gum pink Roman Catholic church with white trimmings . It’s an Instagram-worthy spot for a photoshoot. It’s considered the second largest church in the city while the largest church is the Cathedral of Notre Dame in District 1. 

Address: 289 Hai Bà Trưng, Phường 8, District 3

10. Walk or run along the Saigon River. 

When you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, you can’t miss the views of the Saigon River. It is 225 kilometers (140 miles) long and flows through much of the city . During your visit, you can walk or run by the riverside. Just watch where you’re going as the walking path may be disrupted by construction or motorbikes on the sidewalk. 

While the river itself is polluted and has tons of hyacinth weeds floating in the water, it’s an important way to travel in the city. You’ll see water boats and sunset cruise boats utilizing the riverway. 

11. Get a massage. 

After walking around the city for a few days, you deserve to treat yourself to a massage . You’re in the right city for massages since there are massage places everywhere. You can find either a full-body massage place or those focusing on specifically the head and feet. What is awesome about these massage places is that they’re affordable which may tempt you to get a massage every day. 

We prefer to go to more clean and upscale massage places that offer full-body massages with lay-down beds. Even then, a 90-minute full-body massage will set you back only 520,000 VND ($22.50). Expect to pay between 430,000-520,000 VND for a massage.  

Our recommendation is to visit Miu Miu Spa (Either #1 or #2 is our preference). We love getting the Shiatsu and Thai massages here. 

Other choices include Golden Lotus Massage , Leelawadee Thai Therapy (in District 2), Mộc Spa , and Cát Mộc Spa .

12. Party all night long on Bui Vien Street.

Experience the craziness of Bui Vien Street ( Bùi Viện) or “Backpacker’s Street” in the evenings . It’s Ho Chi Minh City’s version of Las Vegas. With flashing lights, deaf-defying blasting music, affordable food and drinks, and large crowds, the area is quite the party scene for foreigners and backpackers . Even if this isn’t your scene, it’s good to experience this road at least once. 

Some of the highlights of the area include smelling the dried squid from pushcarts, seeing people spit fire from their mouths, and eating seafood on the side of the road. 

You can also stay in this area for very cheap but it’s a bit far from the local attractions (about a 30-minute walk) so you’ll need to walk or take a taxi or Grab car/motorbike. 

Insider Tip : Watch out for purses, phones, and belongings as motorbikes are allowed to drive through here. Therefore, petty theft occurs. 

Address: Bùi Viện, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

13. Check out Ho Chi Minh City views from a rooftop bar or rooftop restaurant. 

What better way to see the city from above? Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants to enjoy food and drinks . You can even see the sunset from one of the buildings here. 

Here are recommended rooftop bars: Banana Mama , M-Gallery , and Chill Sky Bar .

Here are recommended rooftop restaurants: Chanh Bistro and Secret Garden . 

Check out the nighttime views from the rooftop bars or rooftop restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City.

14. Go cafe hopping. 

Who loves drinking coffee and tea? Ho Chi Minh City has thousands of cafes to choose from to grab drinks all day long. 

While the popular chain coffee shops (Trung Nguyên Legend, Highlands Coffee, Phúc Long and Tea, and Cộng Cà Phê) are consistent, you can easily walk around and find a coffee shop to sit in and relax. Or, you can sit on the sidewalk and watch people and vehicles pass by. (This is a very popular activity in the evenings.) 

We prefer to go to cafes that offer dessert options such as Miyama Cafe , Maison Marou , and Vagabond Patisserie .

Cultural Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

During your visit to Ho Chi Minh City, check out some of these cultural activities to learn more about the Vietnamese culture. 

15. See a show at the Opera House. 

The Opera House is one of the prettiest buildings in Ho Chi Minh City. It was built in 1897 and is still in operation. If you love watching shows, then check one out at the Opera House. Depending on the time of year, they have the popular AO Show and Nutcracker. Check out more information here or here . 

There is a small park in front of the Opera House and the Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a block over. You can hang out in the area before or after the show. 

Address: 07 Công Trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, District 1

The Saigon Opera House is a fantastic spot to see a show when you’re in Ho Chi Minh City.

16. Watch a water puppet show. 

When you’re in Vietnam, one of the cultural activities to do is to watch a water puppet show. The show has wooden puppets to tell a story about Vietnamese folklore and stories . It’s a fun show to watch in the evenings and learn more about Vietnamese culture and hear the music. 

Purchase discounted tickets for the water puppet show in advance and save money ! Buy show tickets with dinner cruise here.

17. See gorgeous Ao Dai, traditional Vietnamese dresses, on display. 

Ao dai ( áo dài) is an important Vietnamese clothing used for everyday or formal celebrations. It’s a long dress with split sides and worn over pants. 

There are two exhibits where you can see exquisite ao dai on displays . In District 1, along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, there is a small exhibit with a few dozen ao dais on display. The ao dai’s bright colors and embroideries are gorgeous! The downside is that this place is tiny so you can go through this in a few minutes. 

In District 9, there is a small museum and you can rent an ao dai to take photos around the premises. It’s more worth it to visit this place since there will be more to see here. More information about this place is here . 

Ao Dai Exhibition Address : Second floor, 77 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, District 1

Ao Dai Museum Address : 206/19, 30 Long Thuận, Long Phước, District 9

18. Rent an Ao Dai and go on a photo shoot. 

If you’re not able to visit the Ao Dai Museum, consider renting an ao dai and go on a photoshoot throughout the city center’s attractions. 

• Click here for the ao dai photo shoot. 
• If you want a private ao dai photo shoot, click here. 

19. Visit Suoi Tien Theme Park. 

Suoi Tien Amusement Park ( Công viên văn hóa Suối Tiên ) is an interesting place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s an unusual theme park where there are Buddhist influences and statues of Vietnamese folklore stories everywhere. Some things are a bit quirky to see as there isn’t any signage describing the statue. 

This place has plenty of games and theme park attractions such as go-karting and Ferris wheels, yet these require an additional admission cost. Depending on when you visit Suoi Tien, you can catch the seasonal parade. 

There is also a waterpark here which is an ideal spot to cool off from the heat. 

Address: 120 Xa lộ Hà Nội, Phường Tân Phú, District 9

Admission:  120,000 VND ($5.20) adults and 60,000 VND ($2.60) children (1-1.4 meters in height); games and waterpark is extra 

This Nine Golden Unicorn Square is one of the main attractions at Suoi Tien Theme Park.

Bucket List Worthy & Unique Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Depending on the amount of time you have in Ho Chi Minh City, consider adding a few of these bucket list attractions to your HCMC itinerary. 

20. Visit the Landmark 81 and Vinhomes Central Park. 

Located in Binh Thanh District, Landmark 81 is the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City . You can’t miss it when you’re in the city. During the evenings, the 81-floored building lights up in different colors so you can easily see this building from the airport and city center. 

While you’re here, wander through the Vincom shopping mall, visit the observatory deck (for an additional fee), try one of the restaurants on the upper floors, and/or take a stroll through the gorgeous Vinhomes Central Park. 

Vinhomes Central Park is a 43.91 hectares (108 acres) park that has two playground areas for children, two overlook areas, a Japanese garden, a large lawn area, a BBQ area, sports courts, and a nice walking path along the riverfront. It’s one of the greenest places that you’ll visit in Ho Chi Minh City! 

Depending on your time of visit, check out the sunset to see the purple and orange skies. Or, fly your kite on the lawn area. 

Note: We live in Vinhomes Central Park so we absolutely love this park!

Address: 772 Điện Biên Phủ, Phường 1, Bình Thạnh

21. Check out the city views from Saigon Skydeck’s observation deck. 

We mentioned above how you can visit Landmark 81 to see the views of the city. Another good place to see the city is from Saigon Skydeck’s observation deck in the Bitexco Financial Building in District 1. It’s within walking distance from Nguyen Hue Walking Street. 

The best time to visit the observation deck is early in the morning with fewer crowds or late in the afternoon to see the sunset. 

Read this Saigon Skydeck visitor guide for more information about this place. 

Book your ticket to skip the lines at the Saigon Skydeck.  

22. Pose with fun, interactive artwork at Artinus 3D Art Museum (CLOSED)

* *This attraction is permanently closed. We will be on the lookout in case it reopens in the future.

One of the unique things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to take photos with 3D interactive artwork at Artinus 3D Art Museum. Pose with ocean creatures, King Kong, animals, dinosaurs, Vietnam landscapes, and more 3D artwork. It’s a fun place for children and adults to enjoy for a few hours. 

Tip: You can ask the workers to help take photos of you. It’s recommended to visit on a weekday with fewer crowds. 

Read more about our experiences at Artinus 3D Art Museum here. 

Address:  2 Đường số 9, Khu đô thị Him Lam, District 7

Artinus 3D Art Museum is a fun place to visit if you have extra time in Ho Chi Minh City.

23. Visit the Starlight Crescent Bridge (Rainbow Bridge) at night. 

Did you know that there is a rainbow-colored bridge that lights up at night ? When visiting District 7’s Crescent Mall, check out the Starlight Crescent Bridge. The bridge lights up from 5:30pm-10:00pm on Thursdays to Sundays. 

Address: 101 Tôn Dật Tiên, Tân Phú, District 7 (to Crescent Mall)

24. Visit the Fine Arts Museum.

The Fine Arts Museum is a gorgeous building to wander through and take photos . Three main buildings have artwork, pottery, sculptures, and paintings. The exhibits change often so you can find something new to see on every visit. This place isn’t crowded so you can observe the artwork in peace (although, there won’t be much description of the artwork.)  

Address: 97A Phó Đức Chính, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, District 1

Admission: 30,000 VND ($1.30)

The Fine Arts Museum has many photo spots to take photos.

25. Learn about the gems at the Geology Museum. 

We found out about the Geology Museum while reading this article from the Saigoneer. It’s a small place along the corner of Nguyen Binh Kiem and Nguyen Huu Canh, where you can look at a variety of gems and stones . You can visit this place if you have time or are in the area. It’s located on the same street as the Saigon Zoo. 

Address: 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, District 1

26. Visit the Southern Women’s History Museum. 

Southern Women’s History Museum is one of the hidden gems of Ho Chi Minh City. Located in District 3, it’s where you can learn about important women and their contributions during Vietnam’s history . There are a couple of levels where you can see photos of these women, read about their efforts (although, it’s in Vietnamese), and see artifacts and some clothing. It’s a good stopping point if you have the time. 

Address:  202 Võ Thị Sáu, Phường 7, District 3

Admission: Free. You need to wear a visitor’s badge when visiting the museum.

27. Explore Chinatown in District 5. 

One of the unique areas to explore is Chinatown ( Chợ Lớn) in District 5. There are lots of temples and pagodas to explore such as Thien Hau Temple and Quan Am Pagoda .

Or, you can visit the popular Hao Si Phuong apartment alleyway where many Chinese people live. It’s a colorful complex to take photos. You used to be able to take a photo on the second level but the crowds disrupted the residents’ lifestyle. Now it’s been restricted to the lower level.   

If you’re craving authentic Chinese or Cantonese-style foods, then you can easily find them here. Dim sum and noodle shops are plentiful in this area. Two recommended dim sum places are Baoz Dim Sum and Kowloon Bingsutt . 

During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet holiday), the area is festive with red lanterns and New Year decorations. Street vendors sell these decorations. 

28. Throw axes at Big Daddy’s.

Need to destress from your vacation? Consider throwing axes into a wooden block at Big Daddy’s . It’s one of the local’s favorite things to do in Ho Chi Minh City and is highly recommended in the Female Expat Facebook group. Besides ax throwing, you can do air hockey and shuffleboard.

Address: 15 street 12, Khu Phố 5, District 2

29. Stroll through the beautiful Buu Long Pagoda.

Buu Long Pagoda is a bucket list attraction to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in District 9, this gorgeous Buddhist temple is a fantastic excursion from Ho Chi Minh’s city center. Take the time to admire the white and gold temple and the architecture. 

Address: 81 Nguyễn Xiển, Long Bình, District 9

30. Take a haunted motorbike tour.

Want to visit abandoned areas and hear ghost stories? Sign up for a haunted motorbike tour where you get to see these abandoned houses and buildings and other spooky areas. 

Click here to reserve a tour. 

31. See the sunset from a river cruise. 

Another cool way to see Ho Chi Minh City is by taking a river cruise to see the sunset . The late afternoon is a fantastic time to see the colorful skies of orange, purples, and pink colors with the high-rise buildings. Some of the cruises offer dinner as well. 

We’ve seen Saigon Princess along the river or you can consider taking this option which includes dinner.  

32. Cool off at the Dam Sen Waterpark.

Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid all year round, so head to the Dam Sen Waterpark to cool off from the heat. There are tons of waterslides and pools to swim in. It’s a popular weekend spot for families and children, so you may consider visiting on a weekday. 

Address: Số 3 Hòa Bình, Phường 3, District 11

• Hoa Binh Gate: 190,000 VND ($8.20) for adults and 150,000 VND ($6.50) for children (.80-1.4 meters/32 inch-55 inch) (if entry before 4:00pm); 150,000 VND ($6.50) for adults and 110,000 VND ($4.80) for children (if entry after 4:00pm)
• International Gate: 150,000 VND ($6.50) for adults and 130,000 VND ($5.60) for children (if entry before 4:00pm)

33. Play indoor mini-golf at Ballers.

Did you know that you can play mini-golf indoors? Spend a few hours and check out the fun options at Ballers . You can also order drinks, craft beer, and food here. 

Address: 236/29/2H, Điện Biên Phủ, Phường 17, Binh Thanh District

Nature Areas in Ho Chi Minh City

One of the popular topics that appear in the HCMC Expat Facebook groups is where to find green areas in Ho Chi Minh City. The city is growing rapidly and has more high-rises than before. If you need some greenery and nature spots in Ho Chi Minh City, check out the following spots.

34. Enjoy the greenery at Binh Quoi Tourist Village. 

If you’re seeking some greenery and green areas in Ho Chi Minh City , head to Binh Quoi Tourist Village in Binh Thanh District. It’s a quiet oasis away from the city center. 

Visit in the early afternoon to wander through the monkey bridges (a popular walkway in the Mekong Delta), see giant lotus leaves, go fishing or rowing, or swimming. 

Stay in this area for dinner as the food served at the dinner buffet is delicious . The buffet is available on the weekends and holidays at Binh Quoi 1, 2, and 3 locations. You get to choose from a variety of Vietnamese cuisines such as grilled seafood and meat, salad, Vietnamese sizzling pancakes ( bánh xèo ), dessert, and more. Feel free to try a few things and go back for seconds or thirds! (As a heads up, there are a lot of mosquitoes here in the evenings so bring insect spray). 

The buffet price is between 290,000-320,000 VND ($12.60-$14) for adults and 170,000-190,000 VND ($7.40-$8.30) for children. 

It’s best to have your own transportation here such as a motorbike or hire a Grab car or motorbike to return to your accommodation. 

Address: Bình Quới, Phường 28, Bình Thạnh District

35. Relax at Van Thanh Park. 

If you’re missing a pool or some greenery, head to Van Thanh Park in Binh Thanh District. There is a large pool to cool off from the mid-afternoon heat . 

Although, this place does get very crowded on the weekends. While you’re here, you can also enjoy a meal next to the lake or walk around the park area for some fresh air. 

Address: 10 Điện Biên Phủ, Vinhomes Tân Cảng, Binh Thanh District

36. Visit the Tao Dan Park.

Nearby Ben Thanh Market is the Tao Dan Park ( Công Viên Tao Đàn ). It’s another green place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City . You’ll often see groups of people congregating here for team-building activities, practicing dance moves, doing tai chi, running, or just hanging out. 

As you walk through the park, there are a variety of sculptures and the most notable one is the mini Cham Tower (similar to the Po Nagar Cham Tower in Nha Trang , Banh It Towers in Quy Nhon , and Po Shanu Cham Tower nearby Mui Ne ).  

During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet holiday), check out this park and see many vendors selling flowers and plants. 

Address : Trương Định, Phường Bến Thành, District 1

Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of stores and malls to satisfy your shopping needs. Don’t forget to bargain if prices aren’t marked or if you’re visiting a local market area. 

37. Wander around the streets for the local boutique shops.

Ho Chi Minh City has small, boutique shops everywhere. You can buy plenty of souvenirs and unique gifts at any of these places. If you’re in District 1, you can find shops along Le Loi Street such as Ginkgo T-Shirts (where there are awesome Vietnamese-designed shirts). 

38. Find bargains at the Russian Market.

Shop until you drop at the Russian Market. Located in District 1, this shopping center is known to have bargain prices and have larger size clothes for Westerners . They also have jackets and long pants available for outdoor activities or if you’re visiting a colder area of Vietnam such as Northern Vietnam (ie: Sapa ) in wintertime or Dalat in the Central Highlands . 

Address: 328 Võ Văn Kiệt, Phường Cô Giang, District 1

39. Stop by the shopping malls for more shopping. 

Check out the large shopping malls with department stores and popular brands . In District 1, head to Saigon Centre/Takashimaya, Vincom Mall, and Parkson Mall. You can also stop by if you need a place for air-conditioning in the middle of the day. It gets hot and humid walking around. 

Another place for air-conditioning shopping centers is Saigon Square , which is across from the Saigon Centre. It has similar stuff to Ben Thanh Market but the sellers aren’t as aggressive. 

Foodie Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

40. try as many restaurants and street food as possible..

Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place for foodies. Eat as much as you can here. 

You can choose from a variety of delicious foods from Vietnamese street food to international cuisine. There are also tons of vegetarian and vegan spots . (The entire country is vegetarian and vegan-friendly.)

Most of the foods that you’ve eaten at home are available in Ho Chi Minh City. So yes, you can get your pizzas and burgers here if you need Western food. Read our post on the top burgers spots to try here. 

Plus, there are so many incredible desserts to try. Check out our recommendations of the best dessert places to visit here. 

Our HCMC restaurant guide is still in the works, yet we recommend Japanese food here. You’ll get authentic Japanese food and flavors here as there is a high population of Japanese expats living in HCMC. There are 3 Japanese areas in HCMC – Le Thanh Ton in District 1, Pham Viet Chanh in Binh Thanh District, and several streets in District 2.  Check out our affordable Japanese restaurant guide here for more details. 

There are so many good food options in Ho Chi Minh City!

41. Have a meal in the dark at Noir. 

What is it like eating a meal in the dark? Try it at Noir Restaurant . This restaurant hires deaf and blind people to work at the Noir Restaurant and neighboring spa and vegetarian restaurant. Visit this restaurant either for lunch or dinner. We visited for lunch on a weekend and had the dining area to ourselves. 

This is a memorable experience as you get to eat a 10+ course meal (appetizer, main entrees, and dessert) completely in the dark. You have to use your other senses to figure out what you’re eating. It’s harder than it looks to determine what you’re eating. Guessing is part of the fun! 

One of the challenges that we had is that we dropped a lot of food on our clothes and napkins. 

Tip: Hold the bowls up to your mouth to scoop the food. Trying to eat properly won’t work. 

Once you finish your meal, the waiter will review what you’ve eaten so you can see whether you’ve guessed correctly. 

Click here to get a discount for Noir Restaurant.  

Address: 180D Hai Bà Trưng, Đa Kao, District 1

42. Eat your way through the Cambodia Market. 

Interested in eating Cambodian food in Ho Chi Minh City? Check out the Cambodia Market (Chợ Lê Hồng Phong), located in District 10. It’s a small alley where Vietnamese Cambodian vendors sell street food here . Try Cambodian foods such as hủ tiếu Nam Vang (a noodle soup that originated from Cambodia) and chè (sweet desserts). 

While you’re in the area, you can also buy fresh flowers at Ho Thi Ky Market. 

Address: Alley 374/51, Lê Hồng Phong, Phường 1, District 10

43. Learn how to cook Vietnamese food. 

One of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to take a cooking class . After eating your way through the city, add a cooking class to your itinerary. You’ll have a memorable experience bringing the taste of Vietnam back home. 

Many of the cooking classes have a market tour and then you get hands-on experience in making your favorite Vietnamese dishes. If you’re a vegetarian, notify the cooking center and they can alter the recipes for a vegetarian version. Afterward, you get to eat your creation (you won’t leave hungry.) 

Here is a recommended cooking class to take: 

• Farm to table cooking class

44. Learn how to brew Vietnamese tea and coffee. 

Did you know that Vietnamese people love drinking coffee and tea? If you’re interested in learning about how to brew tea and coffee using the phin to perfection, sign up for this class and get insider tips from an expert!

45. Go on a food tour. 

If you have an evening or two, consider going on a food tour by motorbike or walking . You’ll meet your local guide at your accommodation or specific meeting spot and eat your way through the night. You get the chance to try the hottest spots where the locals eat street food. Plus, it’s an opportunity to chat with a local and hear his/her experience living in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Check out these food tours here: 

• Street food tour via motorbike
• Private food tour

Day Excursions from Ho Chi Minh City

After spending a few days in Ho Chi Minh City, consider taking a day trip from the city. Whether you want to visit a beach, see wildlife, or go hiking , there are plenty of activities to experience. 

Click here for the full list of day trip options that you can take from Ho Chi Minh.  

46. explore the mekong delta and see life along the delta.  .

The closest city along the Mekong Delta is Ben Tre, but you can also visit Can Tho and An Giang . (Although, these areas will be a very LONG day trip and you’ll need to leave in the middle of the night.

On a Ben Tre day tour , you visit a coconut candy factory, ride a sampan along the Mekong River, listen to traditional Vietnamese music, and may have a chance to catch fish for your lunch. It’s touristy, yet a fun day to see Ben Tre and the surrounding area. 

Ben Tre is a special place to visit to experience life along the Mekong Delta.

47. Explore Tan Lap Floating Village in Long An.

One of the pretty places to visit outside of Ho Chi Minh City is Tan Lap Floating Village ( Làng Nổi Tân Lập ) in Long An. It’s an ecotourism nature site along the Mekong Delta .

You get the chance to ride a sampan along the river and pass through the Melaleuca Forest, walk through the cajuput forests and mangroves area, and enjoy the peace and quiet. You can also walk across monkey bridges, which are famous in the Mekong Delta, to cross over the rivers.

Check out our Tan Lap Floating Village guide here. 

48. visit vung tau to spend the day on the beach or go hiking. .

Vung Tau is only two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City, so it’s easy to visit as a day trip (or longer if you have more time). 

While most people hang out at the beaches or the resorts, you can easily spend your day hiking . There are some incredible mountains to conquer in the area. We recommend hiking Dinh Mountain , Big Mountain , or Minh Dam Mountain . Check out our guides to learn more about these hikes.

49. Learn about the Caodaism religion at the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh. 

The Cao Dai Temple is a bucket list place to visit in South Vietnam. Inside the building has gorgeous sculptures and mosaic work. Plus, you can see the prayers occurring several times a day. 

Although it’s in Tay Ninh Province, you can combine a visit with hiking Black Virgin Mountain and/or visiting Cu Chi Tunnels. 

Click here for a Black Virgin Mountain, Cu Chi, and Cao Dai tour.

Address: Phạm Hộ Pháp, Phường Long Hoa, Thị xã, Hoà Thành, Tây Ninh

50. Climb the highest summit in South Vietnam, Black Virgin Mountain. 

If you’re a hiker and need some nature during your extended stay in Ho Chi Minh City, hike Black Virgin Mountain ( Núi Bà Đen ). It’s the highest mountain in South Vietnam and is located in Tay Ninh Province. You’ll need at least 4-6 hours to hike Black Virgin Mountain as it’s tough to climb up to 986 meters (3,235 feet). 

Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the Sun World Ba Den theme park and see the gorgeous flower topiary. Don’t forget to take the photo with the triangle summit sign!

Tip: Take the cable car if you do not want to climb up. Buy discounted tickets here .

It’s worth the hike up to see Lady Buddha at the Ba Den summit.

51. Spend the day with the monkeys at Can Gio Island. 

Want to see wild monkeys roaming around? Head to Can Gio Island, also referred to as Monkey Island. Can Gio is a biosphere reserve and  UNESCO recognized area. 

When you first enter Can Gio Island, you’ll see hundreds of wild monkeys everywhere . Watch out for your belongings since they’ll take anything – hats, water bottles, sunglasses, and phones. 

You can also walk further into the reserve to see the mangrove trees, statues of soldiers during the Vietnam War time frame as this area was used as a base, or take a speedboat through the waters. 

Read more about visiting Can Gio Island here. 

52. learn how the viet cong soldiers lived in the cu chi tunnels. .

Visiting Cu Chi Tunnels is one of the best day trips to take from Ho Chi Minh City. You get the opportunity to learn about the Viet Cong Soldiers and how they utilized over 250 kilometers (155 miles) of underground tunnels to fight in the Vietnam War. 

There are two tunnels to visit – Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc. Most tours head to Ben Dinh since the tunnels are wider for foreigners. If you want to visit an original tunnel, head to Ben Duoc. 

The best part about this trip is crawling into the underground Cu Chi Tunnels that were used during the Vietnam War . The space is very tight and can be claustrophobic. Bats also fly around in the tunnels.

If you’re renting a motorbike, you can visit Cu Chi Tunnels yourself or schedule a day tour. You can choose one of these day tours:

• Half-Day Cu Chi Tunnels tour
• Cu Chi Tunnel & Mekong Delta Tour by Limo

Final Thoughts about Ho Chi Minh City’s Top Things to Do

Which of these Ho Chi Minh City attractions do you want to visit? Since this list is HUGE, you can easily spend an extended amount of time exploring the best of Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon. Feel free to ask a question in the comment section below for any clarification on any of these attractions.  

To continue your travels from Ho Chi Minh City, explore more Vietnam posts here: 

• Best Vietnam islands to visit 
• What to do in Central Vietnam
• Vietnam’s Off the Beaten Track Places to visit
• Vietnam’s UNESCO sites

Like this post? Save it to your Vietnam Pinterest board.

I'm Jackie - world explorer, hiker, and wanderer. I love planning things whether it is a trip or an upcoming event, exploring nature, hiking up mountains, and seeing new places. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times.

29 Unique & Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam (+ Tips from a Local)

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