ho chi minh tourist area

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

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

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

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

1. Ho Chi Minh City Hall

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

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

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

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

See prices & book online

Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour

Saigon Half Day Private Tour

Saigon City Half Day Join-in Tour

Ho Chi Minh Travel Essentials:

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

Ho Chi Minh Tours & Discounts

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

Ho Chi Minh Private City Transfers for Surrounding Areas

Ho Chi Minh Private Car Charter

Vietnam WIFI/SIM Card

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

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

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2. Saigon Skydeck

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

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

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

Saigon Skydeck (Bitexco Financial Tower)

3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

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

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

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

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

4. Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

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

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

5. Saigon Central Post Office

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

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

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

6. The Lunch Lady (Nguyen Thi Thanh)

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

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

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

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

7. Jade Emperor Pagoda

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

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

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

8. Ho Chi Minh shopping

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

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

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

9. Ho Chi Minh nightlife

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

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

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

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

12. War Remnants Museum

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

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

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

Where to go near Ho Chi Minh

13. Mekong River Delta

Location : Southern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

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

Mekong River Delta Travel Essentials

Tours + discounts

Full Day Mekong Delta Excursion from Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City-Mekong Delta River Cruise

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

14. Chu Chi Tunnels

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

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

Chu Chi Tunnel Travel Essentials

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

Beyond Ho Chi Minh

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

Da Lat Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

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

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

Top discounts

Da Lat City Day Tour

Da Lat Countryside Day Tour

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

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

Mui Ne Travel Essentials

Mui Ne Private Jeep Tour

Ta Cu Mountain Private Day Tour in Mui Ne

Location : Central Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Da Nang Travel Essentials

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge Day Tour

Cham Islands Day Tour from Da Nang

Da Nang Airport (DAD) Private Transfers for Da Nang, Ba Na Hills & more

Location : Northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi Travel Essentials

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

Hanoi Private Car Charter

Private City Transfers for Hanoi City and Surrounding Areas

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Location : Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Phnom Penh Travel Essentials

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

Phnom Penh half-day join-in city tour

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

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

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap Travel Essentials

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

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

Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh

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

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

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

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

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

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

Cinnamon Boutique Hotel

Splurge / Le Thi Rieng, District 1

See discounts

Tripwriter Hotel

Splurge / Pham Ngu Lao, District 1

Hotel Nikko Saigon

Splurge / Nguyen Van Cu Street, District 1

Liberty Central Saigon

Splurge / Pasteur Street, District 1

Caravelle Saigon Hotel

Splurge / Lam Son Square, District 1

Hotel Majestic Saigon

Splurge / Dong Khoi Street, District 1

Rex Hotel Saigon

Splurge / Nguyen Hue, District 1

Nguyen Shack Saigon

Mid-Range / Ben Thanh , District 1

Phan Anh Backpackers

Budget / Pham Ngu Lao, District 1

Son Tung Hotel

Budget / De Tham Street, District 1

Phuc Khanh Hotel

Budget / Yersin, District 1

La Hostel Saigon

Budget / Nguyen Thai Hoc, District 1

Where to book

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

Agoda Airbnb Booking.com

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

Ho Chi Minh Essentials & Top Discounts

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

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

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Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

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

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Saigon Cooking Class

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13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: http://warremnantsmuseum.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Try a bowl of pho

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Visit the Giac Lam Pagoda

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

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

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

3. Tour the War Remnants Museum

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

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

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

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

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

4. Take a Bonsai River Cruise

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

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

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

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

5. Visit the Central Office

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

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

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

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

6. Tour Reunification Palace

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

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

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

7. Have a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street

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

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

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

8. Grab a coffee in Tao Dan Park

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

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

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

9. Tour the History Museum

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

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

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

10. Take a cooking class

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

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

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

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

11. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

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

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

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

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

12. Travel to the Mekong Delta

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

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

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

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

13. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

14. Admire the Cao Dai Temple

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

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

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

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

15. Have breakfast at Binh Tay Market

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

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

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

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

16. Scale the Bitexco Financial Tower

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

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

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

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

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

17. Eat at Banh Xeo 46A

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

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

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

18. Admire the Phoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda

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

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

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

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

19. Tour the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

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

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

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

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

20. Browse in Ben Thanh Market

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

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

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

Available tour : Ben Thanh Market Tour and Cooking Class

21. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda

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

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

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

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

22. Grab a sandwich at Banh Mi Huynh Hao

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

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

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

23. Admire Cha Tam Church

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

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

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

24. Giac Vien Pagoda

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

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

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

25. Explore the Fine Arts Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Shutterstock / Sean Hsu

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is Vietnam at its most dizzying: a high-octane city of commerce and culture that has driven the country forward with its pulsating energy. A chaotic whirl, the city breathes life and vitality into all who settle here, and visitors cannot help but be hauled along for the ride.

Best Things to Do

Leave the planning to a local expert.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

War Remnants Museum

To understand the US invasion of Vietnam, and contextualize its devastating impact on the country's civilians, this remarkable and deeply moving museum is…

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…

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…

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…

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…

HCMC Museum

A grand neoclassical structure built in 1885 and once known as Gia Long Palace (and later the Revolutionary Museum), HCMC’s city museum is a singularly…

Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda

Delightfully fronted by greenery and opening to an interior blaze of red, gold, green and yellow, this is one of the most beautifully ornamented temples…

Binh Tay Market

Cholon’s main market has a great clock tower and a central courtyard with gardens. Much of the business here is wholesale but it’s popular with tour…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 best things to do in ho chi minh city.

A very simple snail restaurant on a back alley where a feast of a meal will set you back 100,000d or so. Little or no English is spoken and there are only…

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…

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…

Botanic 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…

Municipal Theatre

The landmark French-era Opera House is home to the HCMC Ballet and the Ballet & Symphony Orchestra (www.hbso.org.vn), and hosts performances by visiting…

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…

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…

Bitexco Financial Tower

This elegant 68-storey, 262m-high Carlos Zapata–designed skyscraper dwarfs all around it. It's reportedly shaped like a lotus bulb, but it also resembles…

For fine seafood and snails in District 4 look no further. Specials include oc len (snails cooked in coconut milk) and grilled clams with fish sauce and…

Caravelle Hotel

One of the first luxury hotels to reopen its doors in postwar Saigon, the five-star Caravelle remains a classic operation. Rooms in the modern 24-floor…

Shri Restaurant & Lounge

Atop an office block, romantic Shri has some of the best views in town. Book ahead for a terrace table or settle for the industrial-chic dining room. Look…

Saigon Saigon Bar

For excellent views in the city centre, stop by Saigon Saigon for a drink around dusk. This fancy bar has live music, cool breezes and a casually upscale…

20 free things to do in Ho Chi Minh City: experience Saigon for nothing

Chantaransey Pagoda

Founded in 1946, this Theravada Buddhist pagoda serves the Khmer community in HCMC. The peaceful grounds include living quarters for about 30 monks, a…

Southern Women's Museum

This museum is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of Vietnamese women. The first floor is the most accessible to foreign visitors, with…

Saigon Cao Dai Temple

The largest Cao Dai temple in HCMC, this fabulously colourful three-storey structure celebrates Vietnam’s home-grown religion of Cao Daism. Use separate…

A glitzy promenade of eating and shopping along a scooped-out section of canal in Saigon's upmarket District 7.

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…

Ton Duc Thang Museum

This small patriotic museum is dedicated to Ton Duc Thang, Ho Chi Minh’s successor as president of Vietnam. Born in 1888 in Long Xuyen in the Mekong Delta…

Thien Hau Pagoda

This gorgeous 19th-century temple is dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau, and always attracts a mix of worshippers and visitors, who mingle beneath the…

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh and its surrounding streets comprise one of HCMC's liveliest areas. Everything that’s commonly eaten, worn or used by the Saigonese is piled…

Tao Dan Park

One of the city's most attractive green spaces is 10-hectare Tao Dan Park, its bench-lined walks shaded with avenues of towering tropical trees, including…

Planning Tools

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Free Things to Do

Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southeast Asia’s top budget destinations. From temples to local sports, here are the best free things to do in Saigon.

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Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon, though all the locals still call it that) is the largest (and most chaotic city) in Vietnam . Motorbikes, bicycles, cars, and rickshaws go wherever they please, and lots of street stands and markets spill into the traffic lanes. It’s a city with a billion things happening at once.

It’s also one of the most popular destinations in the country and has recently evolved into a hotspot for digital nomads thanks to its cheap cost of living.

The city has a lot to offer: wonderful shops, fantastic nightlife, delicious food, and plenty of historic sites. Additionally, you’ll find some interesting (and propaganda-heavy) museums like the War Remnants Museum as well as the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, secret tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. It’s my second favorite city in Vietnam (after Hoi An) and worth spending a few days visiting.

This travel guide to Ho Chi Minh can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this hectic metropolis!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ho Chi Minh

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an imposing red brick building built between 1877 and 1883 by the French. At nearly 58 meters (190 feet), the two towers in the front of the cathedral rise above visitors and the neon-lit statue of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral still functions as a religious site and a major tourist destination, especially after gaining international recognition for a supposed sighting of a teardrop falling from the Virgin Mary statue in 2005. ( Note : The Notre Dame Cathedral is temporarily closed for renovations until 2023.

2. See the Cao Dai Holy See Temple

The Cao Dai religion (known as Caodaism) is relatively new (it’s less than 100 years old). It combines the teachings of several religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. This Cao Dai temple is the main temple for the religion and is hugely ornate and colorful, with a giant globe behind the main altar displaying the religion’s “divine eye” symbol. Entrance is free but there are a few rules to follow when visiting. You will need to enter through the side door instead of the main door and be sure to keep your shoes outside. Men will need to use the door on the right side and women on the left. Most people combine a trip to the temple with the Cu Chi Tunnels excursion.

3. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

Here you can crawl through the extensive network of narrow tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s to fight American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Tours involve a walk-through of the tunnels (over 100 meters of tunnels are open to visitors) which give you a sense of how the Vietnamese were able to defend their country for so long against a stronger force. It’s a sobering experience and not one for anyone claustrophobic. Tours cost around 350,000 VND.

4. Ascend the Saigon Skydeck

For a 360-degree panorama of the city, head to the Saigon Skydeck, one of the tallest buildings in the country. The observation deck is on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower and offers amazing views. Admission costs 200,000 VND and includes a bottle of water. Just check the weather forecast ahead of time. You can also go at night to see the city lit up. Open daily from 9:30am-9:30pm.

5. Take a food tour

Other things to see and do in ho chi minh city, 1. get lost in chinatown.

Chinatown is a hive of activity and a maze of temples, restaurants, jade ornaments, and medicine shops. Aside from the sprawling Binh Tay Market, you’ll find some fascinating temples in the area including the Chinese Chua Quan Am Temple and Cha Tam, a Catholic cathedral. It’s the biggest Chinatown in the country (there are around 500,000 Chinese people living in the city alone).

2. Visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

At one point or another, this city museum has been a Governor’s Palace, a committee building, and a Revolutionary Museum. Today, you’ll find a collection of weaponry and memorabilia from the country’s revolutionary struggle as well as captured U.S. fighter planes and tanks from the Vietnam War. Located in the former Gia Long Palace, there are some permanent exhibitions along with special exhibitions that rotate on a regular basis (check the website for details; it has an English version). Admission costs 30,000 VND plus 20,000 VND if you want to take photos.

3. See the Emperor Jade Pagoda

This temple was built in 1909 to honor the supreme Taoist god, Emperor Jade. It’s one of the most impressive pagodas in Vietnam. It’s also referred to as the Tortoise Pagoda and the pond on site is filled with turtles. The building is filled with intricate woodcarvings and statues of divinities and heroes, including Emperor Jade himself. The roof is also covered in detailed tile work showing characters from Buddhist and Taoist legends.

4. Shop at the Ben Thanh Market

Though this market in District 1 is crowded and rife with pickpockets, it is the ideal place to pick up some handicrafts, bargain souvenirs, and try some traditional (and inexpensive) Vietnamese food. It’s the largest market in Vietnam, so get lost in the chaos and enjoy it all. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price since you will be given the “tourist price” on items here. Just keep your wallet secure and out of reach as you wander.

5. Escape to Can Gio Island

Also known as Monkey Island, Can Gio Island is popular with tourists and locals looking to escape the chaos of the city. The beaches here aren’t mind-blowing like they are in Thailand, but it’s a cool place to relax and is one of Vietnam’s better islands. The Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve (which is where the island is located) is a recognized UNESCO site and the island’s monkey sanctuary and mangroves are perfect for wildlife fans. It’s about a two-hour drive to get here and you can take the #75 bus from 23/9 Park. If you don’t feel like navigating the island by yourself, there are tours available for purchase in District 1 that provide transportation. Prices range from 590,000-1,170,000 VND for full-day tours.

6. Unwind in Twenty-Three September Park

Formerly the location of the Saigon Railway Station, this park was built in its place after the station was demolished. In the early morning and just after the work day is done, this park is packed with people exercising and playing games. Watch a Tai Chi class, play a game of badminton, or chat with one of the many students who hang out in the area. There is a large underground entertainment complex just below the park and plenty to do nearby. Bring a book and a snack and enjoy the local pace of life.

7. Visit Ba Thien Hau Temple

Located in Chinatown, the Ba Thien Hau Temple is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1706 for the Chinese sea goddess, Mazu. It’s believed she flies around on a cloud or a mat, rescuing people at sea. The outside of the temple doesn’t look like much but the inside is filled with porcelain figures and the roof is covered in colorful dioramas. On March 23rd of the lunar calendar, you can expect to see celebrations in the form of parades and dancing honoring Lady Thien Hau’s birthday (Mazu).

8. Tour the War Remnants Museum

This museum has a very “pro-communist, down-with-the-capitalists” bend to it but is nevertheless very interesting. Focused on the Vietnam War, which killed between 1,500,000-3,500,000 people, the museum’s best exhibit is the collection of bombs, tanks, planes, and war machinery, including an American F-5A fighter jet at the front entrance. The entrance fee is 40,000 VND.

9. Take a cooking class

For the best souvenir, take a cooking class. It’s a great way to learn new skills, try new dishes, and explore the country’s food culture and history. You can usually combine your cooking class with a market tour as well, allowing you to shop for your own, fresh ingredients before you cook. Tours vary but a quality tour with a local chef usually starts around 800,000 VND.

10. Catch a show at the Opera House

The Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best-preserved examples of French colonial architecture in the country (Vietnam was annexed by France and under French control for the better part of a century). It was built in 1897 for the opera but now hosts lots of different performances, including ballet, a bamboo circus performance, and Vietnamese traditional dances and plays. Check the website or stop by the front gate to see what’s on during your visit.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start from 90,000 VND for a room with 8-10 people and 140,000 VND for a bed in a smaller dorm with 4-6 beds. Most hostels offer free Wi-Fi and free breakfast. Private rooms start at around 375,000 VND for a double room, but they average closer to 470,000 VND.

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotel starts at around 170,000 VND, but for something a little nicer and less bare bones, 300,000-650,000 VND per night is the average. Expect standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, AC, and TV.

Airbnb is also available, with private rooms starting from about 350,000 VND. An entire home/apartment starts at around 800,000 VND. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early.

Food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and uses a lot of herbs and vegetables. Rice and noodle dishes are common, as are various soups such as the iconic pho (a beef noodle soup). Wonton soup, meat curry, fresh French bread (known as bahn me , and grilled fish are also really popular.

If you’re looking to eat at the delicious street stalls (and you should because it’s the best), expect to pay between 25,000-40,000 VND for a meal, with bahn mi’s on the lower ends and noodles and soups on the higher end.

Sit-down restaurants serving Vietnamese food cost around 70,000 VND per meal.

For fast food, expect to pay around 100,000 VND for a combo meal while a large pizza is around 150,000-200,000 VND. If you want Western food, expect to spend 200,000 VBD minimum.

If you want to splash out and have a nice meal (think semi-fine dining), a three-course meal with a drink costs around 400,000 VND.

Beer costs around 24,000 VND (60,000 VND if you want a craft beer) while a latte or cappuccino is 50,000 VND. Bottled water is around 7,000 VND. Coffee with milk (ca phe sua da) from a street vendor will cost 20,000 VND. Wine and cocktails start at 150,000 VND.

I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss. It really won’t be much cheaper either.

Backpacking Ho Chi Minh City Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 515,000 VND per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat street food for all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly cheap activities like museum visits. If you plan on drinking, add another 25,000-50,000 VND to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,125,000 VND per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at some restaurants, drink more, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 VND or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, hire a private guide or driver, drink as much as you want, and do whatever tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in VND.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

You don’t need to do much to save money in Ho Chi Minh City as it’s super inexpensive to visit. If you stick to local cuisine, cheap guesthouses, and public transportation, you’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money. Nevertheless, here are some additional ways you can cut down your costs:

• Only take metered taxis – Make sure the taxi drivers turn on their meters, otherwise, drivers can rip you off. Better yet, skip them and walk or take the bus as taxi prices add up fast!
• Ask your hostel staff – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should you pay to have a custom dress or suit made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines so you don’t get ripped off.
• Eat street food – Street food in Ho Chi Minh City is inexpensive and delicious. Be sure to try a banh mi , a Vietnamese sandwich popular in the south. You can find many different kinds of noodle soup at small street stalls for just a couple bucks a day.
• Enjoy happy hour – The bars in the Pham Ngu Lao area have plenty of Happy Hours, including half-price drinks, cheap cocktails, and buy one get two free!
• Save money on rideshares – Grab is the Uber equivalent in Asia and is way cheaper than taxis. It’s the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are one of the best ways to get oriented in a new city. I recommend Saigon Free Day Tours. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

The city has a ton of hostels and cheap guesthouses.There’s lots of accommodation to choose from. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• The Hideout
• Hangout Hostel HCM
• The Like Hostel & Cafe
• City Backpackers Hostel

How to Get Around Ho Chi Minh City

Public transportation – Ho Chi Minh City has over 100 different bus routes, and you can reach all major tourist destinations this way. They’re safe and affordable, costing between 3,500-10,000 VND depending on the distance. You’ll pay the driver in cash as you get on the bus. However, if you’re going a short distance, this isn’t the most practical way to travel, as traffic is really bad here so it’s slow to get around.

Bicycle – A common way to get around the city is by bicycle, which you can ride easily since the city is so flat. You can rent a bike for about 130,000 VND per day. Some good companies to rent from include:

• Mr. Biker Saigon
• Saigon Bike Shop
• The Bike Coffee Cafe

Just a note of caution: traffic in Ho Chi Minh can be intense, so if you’re not an experienced cyclist, you may want to skip this option.

Taxis – Taxis start at around 12,000 VND for the first kilometer and 10,000 VND per kilometer thereafter. Grabbing a taxi from the airport to the center of the city should take about 30-minutes and costs about 200,000-330,000 VND. Do not take unmetered taxis!

You can also catch rides from motorcycle taxis for about 10,000 VND per kilometer or about 30,000 VND per short ride. Remember to set the price beforehand and always wear a helmet. Motorcycle taxis get you places the quickest, as they’re able to weave in and out of heavy traffic.

Cyclo – Cyclos are like tuk-tuks, except they run completely on man-power. Because cyclos are slow-moving and often a nuisance in traffic, many roads in Ho Chi Minh City are entirely closed off to them. If you choose to go this route, your driver may have to navigate around prohibited roads and may not be able to drop you off right at your address. Because of this, I do not recommend cyclos.

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber. It works the same way: you hire a local to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi too. Most rides cost around 40,000 VND.

When to Go to Ho Chi Minh City

The driest months in Ho Chi Minh City are from December to March, making it one of the most popular times to visit. The temperatures are warm during this time, ranging between 21-34°C (70-93°F). If you can, come during the Tet Festival (Vietnamese New Year) around the end of January or the beginning of February to enjoy the colorful celebrations. Prices are jacked up during this time, however, the city is lively and there are tons of parties and activities.

April and May are the hottest months of the year with highs reaching 37°C (99°F). The humidity can make it feel a lot hotter, though.

The rainy season lasts from May to September, but as in other parts of Southeast Asia, the downpour doesn’t tend to last long. The days are sunny and warm otherwise.

Another thing to note about the monsoon season: there are several public holidays during this time that may affect your visit. The most important ones are Vietnam Reunification Day on April 30th, May Day on May 1st, and Vietnam National Day on September 2nd. Shops and restaurants may be closed and public transit is unreliable.

How to Stay Safe in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a very busy city, but it’s a safe place to visit. Violent crime against travelers is very rare, but petty crime and theft are not. In crowded places, keep your purse/wallet close and be mindful of the activity around you. Don’t keep your cell phone or money in your hand as you’re walking around. Additionally, don’t leave your bags unattended when eating out. Always secure them so someone can’t grab them and run.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. The standard precautions apply as they do everywhere. For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that go into more detail.

Traffic can be hard to navigate here. Motorbikes are everywhere, and as a pedestrian, crossing the street can be scary. Wait for a break in the traffic before crossing the road, but then don’t slow down or adjust your gait. Just make a beeline to the other side so the drivers can weave around you.

Be on the alert for scams. Most are really just cheap attempts to try to nickel and dime you so you’ll need to be vigilant. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Vietnam travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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

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

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

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

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

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips

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

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

The Myst Dong Khoi

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

Check Prices on Booking.com

Cochin Zen Hotel

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

The Hammock Hotel

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

The 15 Best Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. visit the independence palace.

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

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

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

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

2. See the War Remnants Museum

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

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

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

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

3. Send a letter at the Post Office

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

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

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

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

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

4. Shop Til You Drop!

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Embrace Saigon’s Coffee Culture

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

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

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

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

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

6. See the Skyline from the Bitexco Tower

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

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

7. Sample Saigon’s Craft Beer

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

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

8. Eat Seafood on Vinh Khanh Street

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

9. Stroll along the Pedestrian Mall

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

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

10. Party on Bui Vien Street

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

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

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

11. Check out the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

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

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

12. Listen to Live Music

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

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

13. Dine on Dumplings in Chinatown

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

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

14. Take a Trip to the Mekong Delta

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

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

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

15. Climb Through the Cu Chi Tunnels

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

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

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

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

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About the Author:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eon Heli Bar closed two years ago. Just checked.

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Overview of Ho Chi Minh city

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

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

Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh city

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

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

Transportation to Ho Chi Minh city

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

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

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

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

Best Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city

Independence palace.

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

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

Ben Thanh Market

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

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

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

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

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

Saigon Central Post Office

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

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

Landmark 81

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

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

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

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

Bui Vien Street

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

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

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

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

Dragon House Wharf

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

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

Museums in Ho Chi Minh City

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

Saigon River

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

Cu Chi Tunnels

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

Can Gio Ecotourism Area

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

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

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

Ho Chi Minh city Cuisine

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

Broken Rice

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

Some delicious broken rice restaurants in Saigon include:

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

Banh mi (Vietnamese bread)

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

Here are some delicious banh mi places in Saigon:

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

Snail dishes

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

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

Rice noodle

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

Read more: 4 Restaurants in Vietnam Awarded Michelin Star

Notes When Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

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

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Download the Ho Chi Minh City tourist map

Ho chi minh city travel guide.

Top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

• War Remnants Museum
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Jade Emperor Pagoda
• Independence Palace
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Saigon Central Post Office
• Ben Thanh Market
• The Opera House

Learn more about Saigon attractions >

Top food in Ho Chi Minh City

• Bun Dau Mam Tom

Learn more about Saigon food >

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• Map of Vietnam

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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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Here is the best places to visit in ho chi minh city:, cu chi tunnels.

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Notre Dame Cathedral

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Reunification Palace

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Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre

Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve

Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a gem of Ho Chi Minh City and a globally recognised biosphere reserve by UNESCO. This forest is a top tourist attraction as well as a research centre for scientists to study the wide range of flora and fauna.

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• 7 must-see attractions in HCMC

The Notre Dame Cathedral in District 1

While modernity has swept Vietnam's southern capital, it's not hard to find pockets here and there that celebrate its complex history. The architectural imprints of colonial rule still stand, alongside relics of the city's commercial and oriental roots. If you're a fan of history, here are seven top Ho Chi Minh City attractions in easy walking distance from the centre.

War remnants museum .

The War Remnants Museum is a three-story museum holding countless artefacts and graphic photographs, including photographer Nick Ut’s Pulitzer Prize-winning shot, “The Terror of War.” Out-of-commission planes, tanks, bombs and helicopters decorate the courtyard. It is a sombre experience but one that leaves a lasting impression. Admission: 15,000 VND Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3

Notre Dame Cathedral 

The twin-spired Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception sits at the head of Dong Khoi Street, a peaceful oasis in the busy downtown area. Built entirely from materials imported from France, the construction of the cathedral lasted nearly two decades, from 1863 to 1880.

FUN FACT: The alabaster statue of the Virgin Mary perched in the centre of the square is said to have wept tears on a single occasion in 2005, witnessed by crowds there at the time.  

Admission: 15,000 VND Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1

Saigon Central Post Office

Opposite the cathedral is Saigon’s charming general post office. Take a stroll inside, where you'll find a massive foyer flanked by rows of Victorian era wooden phone booths, historic maps on the walls, and a huge portrait of Ho Chi Minh. The architect of the building is sometimes incorrectly credited as Gustave Eiffel, however the design of the complex was based off his blueprints.  Admission: Free Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: 2 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1

My HCMC from Vietnam Tourism Board on Vimeo .

The Reunification Palace 

On the site of the former Norodom Palace sits the Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace. Designed by architect, Ngô Viết Thụ, the palatial estate was the residential and administrative quarters of the President of South Vietnam. These days, visitors can walk the halls and meeting rooms, upholstered in red carpet. 

TIP: Don't miss the former command centre and war rooms in the basement.

Admission: 15,000 VND Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh, District 1

Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall

Expansive Nguyen Hue St. has become the new stomping ground for pedestrian activity in Ho Chi Minh City. Skirting the perimeter are dozens of high rises, upscale restaurants, commercial arcades and luxury boutiques. Spanning from City Hall to the Bach Dang Wharf, this walking street is perfect for an afternoon stroll and is at its liveliest at sundown. At the northernmost end of Nguyen Hue sits City Hall, the administrative post of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee.  Admission: City Hall is not open to the public Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market in the centre of the city is a timeless marketplace built atop a reclaimed plot of land which was formerly known as Bo Ret Pond. Today, the indoor market faces Quach Thi Trang Square. Inside, a matrix of aisles sells everything from fresh produce to conical hats, weasel coffee to lacquerware. Toward the end of the hall is a maze of food stalls selling sizzling bánh xèo and freshly assembled bánh mì. Admission: Free Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: 32-30 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh, District 1

Cu Chi Tunnels

Tunnel your way back in time during your visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Located on the northwestern fringes of greater Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi District is home to a network of over 250 kilometers used by the Viet Cong to evade American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. Enter the tunnels at either one of two entrances, Ben Dinh, which is 35 kilometers away, and Ben Duoc, which is 70 kilometers away. Getting dirty is part of the package, so dress accordingly. Admission: 15,000 VND Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:30 - 5 p.m. every day including holidays Address: Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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10 Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

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

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

10. Binh Tay Market [SEE MAP]

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

9. Saigon Opera House [SEE MAP]

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

8. Jade Emperor Pagoda [SEE MAP]

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

7. Bitexco Financial Tower [SEE MAP]

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

6. Dong Khoi Street [SEE MAP]

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

5. Ben Thanh Market [SEE MAP]

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

4. Saigon Central Post Office [SEE MAP]

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

3. Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral [SEE MAP]

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

2. Independence Palace [SEE MAP]

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

1. War Remnants Museum [SEE MAP]

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

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Reader interactions.

April 18, 2018 at 1:57 am

Both my cheaper and most expensive meals we’ve had in Vietnam were in Ho Chi Minh. The same range of prices can be found in hotels and shops. My impression is that if you want to travel on a shoestring budget, Ho Chi Minh City offers the best opportunity just because it has a larger offer. 🙂

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Home » Southeast Asia » Vietnam » Ho Chi Minh

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh (Best Places in 2024)

If you’re looking to experience the iconic hustle and bustle of a Vietnamese City; let me introduce you to Ho Chi Minh City. 

Just a generation ago, Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC, formerly Saigon) was in turmoil after it fell to North Vietnam in the Vietnam War. Today, it’s a vibrant city; rich with culture that you to dive headfirst into.

With a population of over 8 million people, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and is overflowing with art, history, mouth-watering cuisine, and nightlife. You won’t be short of things to do in this edgy city. 

However, due to its vast size, figuring out where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City can be a daunting task. The best area to stay will completely depend on YOU, your travel desires for your time in the city and of course, your budget. 

But never fear! I’m here to help. I’ve created this guide on the best areas to stay in Ho Chi Minh City – you’ll find they are categorised by interest/ budget and I’ve let you in on the best places to stay and things to do in each. You’ll be an expert on the areas of Ho Chi Minh City in no time.

So, lets get into it.

Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho chi minh city neighbourhood guide – best places to stay in ho chi minh city, ho chi minh city’s four best neighbourhoods to stay in, faqs about finding a place to stay in ho chi minh, what to pack for ho chi minh city, don’t forget travel insurance for ho chi minh city, final thoughts on where to stay in ho chi minh city.

Backpacking Ho Chi Minh City is always an epic adventure – this bustling city has so much to offer. Each area in Ho Chi Minh City offers a slightly different type of magic. Deciding which area is best suited for you and where to stay within it is our mission today!

Not too fussed about which area you stay in? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

The Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel offers great value for money. They have a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy a free drink at happy hour.

They also offer free laundry service and a Vietnamese foot soak! The staff are all very friendly and go out of their way to make sure guests are taken care of by offering recommendations for whatever you’re looking for. It’s the perfect option for where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel | Best Hostel in Ho Chi Minh City

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel is not only one of the cheapest hostels in the city, it’s one of the best hostels in Ho Chi Minh City. At only $4 a night, this place comes with some crazy value for money. It’s not super close to Dong Khoi Street, but it is within walking distance of the Ben Thanh Market and other tourist attractions.

Creative Courtyard 3 Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Ho Chi Minh City

Equipped with a kitchen and a living room to chill out in, this Airbnb is the perfect home away from home in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s ideal for families or long-term stayers who are after that extra sense of homely comforts that you don’t get in a hotel.

You’ll be in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City on Pasteur St and is the place to be if you want to enjoy Saigon, local style. However, you’ll have all the comforts of your own home in the apartment.

Dong Khoi Street

Ho Chi Minh Distric 1 is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City, and Dong Khoi Street is the main historical area that has seen the biggest changes throughout the city’s past.

Pham Ngu Lao

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

District 5 is more commonly known as Cholon and it’s Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Cholon literally means “big market” and it’s obvious why as soon as visitors arrive at Binh Tay Market, which is the largest market in the country.

In the past, District 2 was one of the poorest areas in Ho Chi Minh City because the Saigon River separated it from District 1, but nowadays things are much different.

Ho Chi Minh City is a vast and eclectic city and is one of the best spots to visit when backpacking Vietnam . It’s got a huge variety of neighbourhoods, so make sure to pick the one that’s best for you.

Ho Chi Minh District 1 is the heart of HCMC. Established by the French Government in 1859 as the centre for government office buildings, this is the central commercial, cultural, and business hub.

You’ll find beautiful French architecture, busy markets, tree-lined boulevards, and cuisine from all around the world. With so many places to visit in Ho Chi Minh , this is a great area to base yourself on your first visit.

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City on a budget or looking for a lively nightlife scene, then Pham Ngu Lao is the place to go. This area of Ho Chi Minh District 1 has been well-known in backpacker circles for years and is great for solo travellers in Vietnam .

Bordering the south end of District 1 is Ho Chi Minh District 5 . Home to a massive Chinatown (known locally as “Cholon”), this area is a great way to escape colonial architecture and Western fast-food restaurants and truly feel like you’re in Asia.

Finally, District 2 is the best place to stay if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City with your family. It’s a mostly residential area and is also popular among expats.

Now, let’s check out each of these areas in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Dong Khoi Street – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City for Your First Visit

District 1 is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City, and Dong Khoi Street is the main historical area. There is a PLETHORA of amazing things to do in Ho Chi Minh City all condensed into one small area, District 1.

During French colonial times, the street called Rue Catinat was a glamorous area. Then during the Vietnam War, it was called Tu Do which means “Freedom Street.” When Saigon fell to the North at the end of the War the street was renamed again to Dong Khoi which means “Total Revolution.”

Now, this street is the heart of the commercial life of Ho Chi Minh City and the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors to Vietnam. Here, you can admire the old colonial buildings, grab a coffee in a stylish cafe, shop for international brands and local boutiques, and dine in world-class restaurants.

Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers | Best Hotel in Dong Khoi Street Area

Sheraton Hotel & Towers is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s best luxury hotels. It’s equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, spa and fitness centre, and a whole lot more.

Sheraton boasts a great location; it’s close to the Ben Thanh Market and within walking distance of some popular tourist attractions like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Dong Khoi Street itself. If you’re looking for luxury, you’ll find it here, trust me. It’s easily one of the best hotels in the city.

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel | Best Hostel in Dong Khoi Street Area

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel is not only one of the best value hostels in the city, it’s one of the best hostels in Vietnam (value-wise). At only $4 a night, this place comes with some crazy value for money. It’s not super close to Dong Khoi Street, but it is within walking distance of the Ben Thanh Market and other tourist attractions.

Creative Courtyard 3 Bedroom Apartment | Best Airbnb in Dong Khoi Street Area

This funky little three-bedroom apartment is the ideal place for you to stay in the Dong Khoi Street Area. Equipped with a kitchen and a living room to chill out in, it’s the perfect home away from home in Ho Chi Minh City. Ideal for families or long-term stayers.

You’ll be in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City on Pasteur St – it’s the place to be if you want to enjoy Saigon, local style. However, you’ll have all the comforts of your own home in the apartment.

Things to See and Do in Dong Khoi Street Area

• Send a letter or souvenir to friends and family from the iconic Saigon Central Post Office.
• Take an Insta-worthy photo of the incredible architecture of the City Hall building, formerly the Hotel de Ville.
• Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral’s stunning facade made from imported materials from France.
• Casually stroll through the 30-4 Park which takes its name from Vietnam’s Liberation Day, April 30th.
• Visit the Reunification Palace – a place frozen in time following the Vietnam War.
• See a different perspective of the War at the War Remnants Museum.
• Wander through the Ben Than Market trying cheap, delicious food and browsing the endless amount of things for sale.
• Head to the Bitexco Financial Tower to enjoy the sweeping views of the city centre from the Saigon Skydeck.
• Experience the perfect mix of local culture and theatre entertainment at the A O Show Bamboo Circus Show at Saigon Opera House

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2. Pham Ngu Lao – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City on a Budget & for Nightlife

Known as the “backpacker district,” Pham Ngu Lao is an area in Ho Chi Minh District 1. It attracts budget travellers thanks to the low prices for everything from food and drinks to accommodation.

Pham Nhu Lao is a street that runs parallel to another street called Bui Vien. Between the two are a handful of small connecting alleyways full of spas, delicious restaurants, and plenty of hostels. It’s very reminiscent of Khao San Road in Bangkok.

This district of Ho Chi Minh City has a wide range of backpacker accommodation, and prices are quite competitive so it’s easy to negotiate a pretty good deal.

Pham Ngu Lao is also the best area of Ho Chi Minh City to visit for a lively nightlife scene. There are bars all along the street as well as restaurants with cuisine from all over the world. You’ll also find a high concentration of street food carts here. It’s the best area to stay in if you want to party and not spend a ton of money.

Chill Suites | Best Hotel in Pham Ngu Lao

The Chill Suites offer clean and comfortable rooms complete with a desk and a TV. Each room also has a fridge and a sitting area.

The hotel is located in a popular area close to multiple restaurants and tourist sites. It’s one of the best hotels for those on a budget looking at where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Pham Ngu Lao #2

The Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel offers great value for money. They boast a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy a free drink at happy hour, as well as a Vietnamese foot soak. Rooms are elegantly decorated and free wifi is available throughout.

Bui Vien Street Hostel | Best Hostel in Pham Ngu Lao

This hostel’s central location is what makes it so great. It’s right in the city centre, and close to the backpacker haven of Bui Vien Walking Street. Boasting a rooftop bar, free breakfast and super comfy dorm beds for as little as $7, this place is a steal.

Tropical Hideout Bathtub | Best Airbnb in Pham Ngu Lao

This is a super unique Airbnb in a stunning central location, just off Pham Ngu Lao Street. What’s unique about this place is the 100-inch projector with Spotify, Netflix and everything else you need. This Airbnb sleeps up to three guests and is perfect for couples or small families.

Things to See and Do in Pham Ngu Lao

• Indulge in amazing yet cheap spa treatments like massages and pedicures.
• Grab an inexpensive Bia Hoi at one of the many bars lining the street.
• Delight your taste buds with the best bowl of Pho you’ve ever had at Pho 2000 .
• Book your onward travel at one of the many budget travel agents.
• Join a Vintage Vespa Tour and explore Saigon on two wheels.
• Take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn how the village protected itself during the War.
• Learn about Saigon’s troubled past at the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City.

3. Cholon (District 5) – Coolest Place to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

District 5 is more commonly known as Cholon and it’s Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Cholon literally means “big market” – which is pretty apt as it’s home to Binh Tay Market, the largest market in the country.

Ethnic Chinese people have been settling in this area of Vietnam since 1778, and it has become a commercial centre for both locals and tourists since. They began selling Chinese products here, which is what led to the big market area it is today. During the war, it was a black market for American troops selling American Army issue supplies.

The Chinese influence in Cholon is very apparent in the many charming temples and pagodas scattered throughout the district.

The best part about this area is all the delicious Chinese food. You can find all kinds of Chinese and Vietnamese dishes at the food court inside the Binh Tay Market as well as outside. There are food vendors everywhere!

There aren’t very many hostels in District 5, I would recommend anyone looking to stay in a hostel to go elsewhere.

Windsor Plaza Hotel | Best Hotel in District 5

The Windsor Plaza Hotel offers a luxurious stay at an affordable price. It’s located in the heart of Cholon District (Chinatown) and each room has large windows with incredible views of the city centre.

Guests can relax with a massage at the spa, work out at the fitness centre, or arrange a day trip at the tour desk.

Airy Apartment | Best Airbnb in District 5

Located nicely in the heart of Cholon is super host Happy’s Airy Apartment. I would recommend this Airbnb for its consistently good reviews, which I agree with.

Happy was such a nice host, he really made sure I was comfortable during my stay. The only downside is I was sharing the property with other guests, but if you’re lucky you could get it to yourself!

Things to See and Do in District 5

• Wander through Binh Tay Market admiring all the things for sale.
• Visit Cha Tam Church to see where the first president of Vietnam – Ngo Dinh Diem – was arrested.
• Shop for fabrics, clothing, homewares, craft goods, handmade jewellery, and hand-carved woodwork at An Dong Market.
• Admire the ornate decorations on the walls of the Phuoc An Hoi Quan, a Chinese Taoist Temple.
• Take a street food evening walking tour .
• Light a stick of incense and admire the shrines at the Thien Hau Temple.
• Pray to the Goddess of Fertility at the Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda – a Buddhist temple.
• Take a traditional cyclo ride around the district to give your feet a rest.
• Slide down the waterslides at Dai The Gioi Waterpark.
• Reflect on life while enjoying the reflections in the pond at Quan Am Pagoda.

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4. Thao Dien – Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City with a Family

In the past, District 2 was one of the poorest areas in Ho Chi Minh City because the Saigon River separated it from District 1. Nowadays, things are much different.

Thao Dien in District 2 is a thriving area with high-rise apartment buildings and cute restaurants and cafes. It’s also a very popular area among expats.

Despite the cost of living in Vietnam being extremely cheap, this is NOT the cheapest area of the city. This is mainly because sadly, they’re aren’t many hostels in this area, so if you’re looking to stay in a hostel, check out another area.

Boasting the largest amount of healthy eateries in the entire city, visitors can also find plenty of health and fitness classes like yoga and pilates.

With the recent opening of the metro station in 2019, it’s also easier than ever to explore Ho Chi Minh City using District 2 as a base.

Villa Song Saigon | Best Hotel in District 2

Stay classy in the city at Villa Song Saigon. Located on the Saigon River, all the rooms at this boutique-style hotel come with a view of the river, pool, or garden.

Breakfast is included and guests can easily get downtown thanks to the complimentary two-way shuttle by speed boat to the city centre. This is an ideal hotel for those wondering where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.

Luxury Apartment with Front Balcony | Best Airbnb in District 2

Although it’s definitely not the cheapest place to stay in Vietnam, this luxury Airbnb is simply stunning. Featuring a balcony, and 53 other useful amenities such as a free washing machine and workspace, this place really has EVERYTHING. Located in the heart of District 2, if you can afford this place, it’s a no-brainer.

Things to See and Do in Thao Dien:

• Sip a tasty cocktail or two along the banks of the Saigon River at one of these establishments: The Deck, Villa Song, or BoatHouse.
• Take a boat and dinner cruise down the Saigon River.
• Take in the impressive exhibitions on light, poetry, and philosophical questions at The Factory Contemporary Arts Centre.
• Improve your upper body strength by rock climbing at Saigon Outcast .
• Practice your dunking skills at Jump Arena Trampoline Park.
• Indulge in a spa treatment at Thao Dien Spa.
• Forget you’re in sweltering Southeast Asia by ice skating at Vincom Mega Mall.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Ho Chi Minh and where to stay.

What is the overall best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh?

The best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh is Cholon (District 5) – the city’s version of Chinatown. It is jam-packed with amazing food spots. It’s not super backpacker-friendly though and lacks hostels. However, if you want an Airbnb or hotel, this is the place to be.

Where do tourists stay in Ho Chi Minh?

Pham Ngu Lao (District 1) is known as the ‘backpacker district’ and is the best place to stay for tourists. It is also one of the best budget areas in Ho Chi Minh. Most of the backpacker activity can be found on Bui Vien Walking Street, so head there in the evenings.

Where is the safest place in Ho Chi Minh for tourists?

All of Ho Chi Minh is safe for tourists, in fact, most of Vietnam is safe for tourists. Although it is better to stay aware and keep your belongings close. Popular tourist areas such as the Bui Vien Walking Street are known pickpocket spots though, so watch out.

How many days do you need in Ho Chi Minh?

In 3 days you can explore a lot of Ho Chi Minh and get a good insight into Vietnam. I would recommend at least this amount of time, especially if you want to visit the war remnants museum and all the central tourist hotspots such as the Notre Dame Cathedral.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

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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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Ho Chi Minh City can be overwhelming – in a good or a not-so-good way, depending on what you’re into. This is a massive metropolis and has enough to keep you entertained for months.

You just need to find your little nook in the city that you want to call home during your stay (which hopefully I’ve helped you figure out).

If you’re still not sure where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, I recommend checking out Dong Khoi. It’s got a bit of everything and offers a great insight into what this destination has to offer.

Vy Da Backpacker Hostel is my top pick for the best budget accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City. It features cosy furnishings that you absolutely cannot beat for the price. Located close to Ben Thanh Market and the Independence Palace, I’ll be in a great spot to explore.

For something more upmarket, the Chez Mimosa Boutique Hotel provides excellent accommodation with superb amenities. This boutique hotel will give you the sprinkle of luxury you didn’t know you needed in your life.

Have you been to Ho Chi Minh City and think I’ve missed something? Let us know in the comments below!

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Ho Chi Minh .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Ho Chi Minh .
• Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh to plan your trip.
• Planning out an itinerary for Ho Chi Minh is a great way to maximise your time.
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
• Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

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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Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that your review on where to stay in Ho Chi Minh city is extremely informative and helpful. It’s honest, sincere and tells me everything I need to know prior to visiting a city I’ve never visited before. Thank you!!

Thanks Gina! Have an awesome trip:)

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Dai Nam Wonderland: a beautiful tourist area near Ho Chi Minh

Located about 40km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, Dai Nam Wonderland is a large tourist destination suitable for people on weekends who want to escape Saigon.

Dai Nam Wonderland is a tourist area located in Thu Dau Mot city, Binh Duong province, Vietnam, which was started construction in 1999 and officially opened to welcome guests in 2008.

This place has many records, such as the largest tourist area in Vietnam, the longest wall, the largest temple, the highest artificial mountain, the largest artificial sea, and the first opening-designed garden in Vietnam.

Dai Nam Tourist Area

Dai Nam Wonderland is in Thu Dau Mot town, Binh Duong City, 40km north of Ho Chi Minh city. With an area of ​​more than 450 hectares, the Dai Nam tourist area is one of the largest tourist destinations in Vietnam, with an investment of about 6,000 billion VND. The scene of Dai Nam Van Hien has a sea, lake, river, mountain, hotel, and entertainment area. A wall implying the endless beauty of Vietnam surrounds this place.

• Address : Highway 13, Hiep An, City. Thu Dau Mot, Binh Duong
• Opening hours : 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Phone : 02743 845 878, or 02743 845 845
• Website : http://khudulichdainam.vn (just in Vietnamese)

Entrance fare to visit Dai Nam Wonderland :

Note : The above is a reference price list. To know the exact price, you can see the map available at the ticket booth to select the area you like to choose tickets matching up with each zone.

What is in Dai Nam Wonderland?

1. temple area.

This temple is the largest one in Vietnam, built in the ancient architecture of the Ly Dynasty (1009 – 1225) with a round-square motif (symbol of Yin-Yang). In the temple area, there are many unique architectural works, but the highlight is two buildings: Thanh Van Gate and Kim Dien Gate.

>> Please check a temple tour from Ho Chi Minh City that you can visit the temples in Dai Nam.

a. Thanh Van Gate (Three-door Gate of Green Cloud)

Thanh Van Gate locates in front of Dai Nam Quoc Tu. Above the gate are parallel sentences praising the Vietnamese river by author Huynh Ngu Cong.

The architecture of Thanh Van Gate is made of wood. In front of the gate are a tram station and an ancient-style communal house on both sides covered with green tiles. Behind the doors is a series of corridors depicting 54 Vietnamese peoples.

From the main entrance, you will cross the Ngoc Bich bridge and Ngoc Bich lake. After crossing these ones, you will reach the gate of Dai Nam Quoc pagoda.

The temple campus is wide of 5,000m², and the stairs go up with 9 levels. To get to Dai Tu (major temple) on the high position, you have to climb these steps. Luckily, behind the temple is an elevator for the disabled and the elderly.

The hallway surrounding the pagoda is paved with large size stone imported from Spain. Besides, 28 sets of doors are made of precious wood. On the doors are engraved with the images of the 28 founding periods of Vietnam. All the above carvings are inlaid with the real gold. In the gilded area, visitors can not touch the artifacts which are preserved.

In front of the main hall is a large lake with 54 water sprays, presenting 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam. The large part of the lake in front has a water music system, used for festivals and important shows.

b. Kim Dien (Golden Temple)

Kim Dien is designed as an ancient Vietnamese architecture with an area of ​​5,000 square meters, with the main materials of wood, stone, and gold.

The three-storey main temple dedicates to the Buddha, King Hung, and King Tran Nhan Tong.

The two sides are statues of President Ho Chi Minh, General Tran Hung Dao, and Mother Au Co, all gilded. Below is a table of 54 ethnic groups and more than 2,000 Vietnamese families. Also, the temple doors are carved with historical and folk tales of the country.

The two sides outside the temple are statues of Thanh Giong and the famous general Ly Thuong Kiet riding the gilded horse. To enter the temple, tourists must wear socks without shoes.

2. Racecourse

The racetrack area in the Dai Nam tourist area is the first complex project in the sports field in Vietnam. The racecourse has a combination of 5 types: horse racing, motorcycle racing, go-kart, jet-ski, and fly-board performance.

All the infrastructure of the racetrack is built according to safety standards. Typically, go-kart is the basic step to participate in professional F1 racing, which the first appeared in Vietnam. This place attracts a lot of tourists to see it because of its unique and novel.

Although Thao Cam Vien in Saigon is the first site to feed the animals in Vietnam, Dai Nam Zoo is the first opening zoo. Here the animals are not locked in barns but freely released in the captive grounds, separated from tourists by streams and trees.

The spacious zoo of 12.5 hectares has about 100 species of animals, including White Lion, White Rhino, White Tiger, White Peacock, Zebra, Turtle, Giraffe, Hippo, Indochina Tiger, South- American Monkey, Fire Panther, Deer, and Sword-Horned Antelope. However, the small animal gardens are locked and separated by glass panels.

4. Artificial sea

Dai Nam Wonderland also owns a really impressive artificial beach, attracting a large number of families. Their children come here to have fun and immerse themselves in the clear blue water on holidays.

This sea is the largest man-made one in Vietnam with an area of ​​nearly 2.3 hectares, a total water surface area of ​​20,000 square meters, the length of the coast is 1.4km. The waveform systems can create waves up to 1.6m high, giving visitors the most genuine feeling like in the natural sea.

In addition to the sea area, there are also castles surrounded by water and small islands.

5. Amusement park

At the Dai Nam tourist area, you can spend time at the amusement park area with more than 40 games at many different levels, such as super-speed roaster, crash boats, snow world, cable swinging, five-lion palace, Phoenix palace, and 4D movie. All meet the fun needs of all ages.

The large gaming area and its various game types here promise to bring you the best moments when coming to Dai Nam Wonderland.

What to eat in the Dai Nam tourist area?

In Dai Nam Wonderland, you can choose to eat by yourself (bring food) or eat at the restaurant system. 

Here, serving nearly 100 different dishes that are very diverse and attractive, from simple fast food, such as grilled sausages, fried fish balls, and fried beef balls to specialties and high-quality seafood.

Revealing a little experience for you, if you do not want to eat at restaurants inside the wonderland, you can choose to explore delicious local dishes in Binh Duong nearby.

In Binh Duong Province, you can enjoy famous specialties, such as Banh Beo Bi, puffy sticky rice with chicken, grilled-on-tile beef, shrimp vermicelli, mangosteen salad, and beef dipped in fish sauce.

When is the best time to travel to Dai Nam in Binh Duong?

Because Dai Nam in Binh Duong is very large, traveling and sightseeing will take you a lot of energy in the hot weather. Therefore, the best time to travel to Dai Nam is from September to the end of the year.

Besides, you should avoid going on public holidays, such as 30 April (Reunification Day), 1 May (International labor day), and 2 September (Independence Day). It is the time when people all over the country are off so that this place is very crowded. Sometimes leading to overload make your fun less enjoyable.

>> You may want to check the daily city tour in Ho Chi Minh City .

The terrain of Dai Nam Wonderland is huge and monumental, so it is not good to move from one area to another by walking. You can rent bicycles, electric bikes, or use a train to be less tired and more convenient.

And finally, you can move from the center of Ho Chi Minh City to the Dai Nam Van Hien Tourist area by many different means. Rent a private in Saigon to travel to there is much easier and more comfortable for international guests.

Now, you know what to play in Dai Nam Wonderland in Binh Duong. Then, range time to travel with all members of your family to this tourist area.

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What was the Ho Chi Minh Trail?

The winding paths and walkways known as the Ho Chi Minh Trail have existed for centuries. The route was once one of Southeast Asia’s most formidable hikes, spanning 3 countries, and traversing treacherous mountains, deep jungles, dense tropical rainforests, and stretching nearly 12,000 miles.

The winding mountain trail might now be a popular tourist destination, but starting in 1955, its steady expansion helped the Viet Minh , and later Viet Cong, pull off the David vs Goliath defeat of the Western advance.

Why was the Ho Chi Minh Trail made?

The elaborate series of paths – dubbed the Ho Chi Minh trail by the communist leader of Northern Vietnam by the US – was once several different trails allowing for trade between Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. “Indochina” as the French called the area, was hotly contested. After colonizing the area in the late 1800s, France felt ownership of the territory, while the locals wanted the right to self-govern – and the U.S. backed whichever side fought against communism.

During the 50s, McCarthyism was at its peak in America. Communism was the dirty word of the decade, and the Red Scare was a daily fear. Ho Chi Minh, the president of Southern Vietnam and a well-known communist, represented that fear. His alliance with Joseph Stalin and the Soviet Union, who had backed the Vietnamese leader in the years after WWII, was the embodiment of the “rapid” spread of communism and Western leaders felt it was necessary to protect the fledgling democracy they installed in Southern Vietnam after the World War II.

It quickly became clear that France, backed by its WWII Allies, had no intention of relinquishing control of either Laos, Northern or Southern Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh requested a secret route from his territory to the southern half of the country. The French hold on central Vietnam prevented Viet Minh movement in the open and prevented the group’s attempts to unify the country under one national banner.

The Truong Son Road, an ancient set of footpaths used for trade between Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam through the Anamite Mountain range was the perfect starting place. The People’s Army of Vietnam (PAVN) and Pathet Lao (the communist Laos People’s Liberation Army) began working on the trail, which started just south of Hanoi, in 1959.

What was the Ho Chi Minh Trail used for?

The secret trail was meant to create a seamless supply line from Northern Vietnam to Southern Vietnam. Laotian communists also provided support for the Viet Minh troops, and helped to establish the paths. The trail was lined with communications outposts, which handled logistical concerns like food, medical care, or simply guides for the next leg of the journey, which were roughly a day’s march from one another.

At first, supplies were transported by hand or bicycle, as the paths were far too narrow to accommodate vehicles. Traveling by foot exposed trekkers to a myriad of dangers. Landslides, snakes, t igers, bears , and aerial bombardments were just a few of the ways that one could die during the 12,000-mile journey – which took 6 months to complete.

Scattered along the route were barracks, hospitals, command centers, and supply bunkers, all hidden from an aerial view with elaborate camouflage composed of man-made netting and natural tree canopies. By the end of construction, these canopies covered the entire trail, save for water crossings which were typically hidden under the water’s surface for camouflage.

Soldiers recalled the journey as nightmarish . While outposts offered a bowl of rice and a cigarette as a day’s ration, soldiers supplemented their meals by scavenging for plantains or root vegetables and hunting monkeys and boars. Doctors and nurses, some as young as 15, traveled the paths offering medical services. Volunteer brigades made up of mostly young women, buried corpses and filled in bomb craters to keep the narrow paths functioning.

As the Viet Cong movement grew, the demand for supplies increased. Soon the roads were expanded to accommodate soviet trucks, but they never grew more than 18 feet wide.

How did the Ho Chi Minh Trail help the Viet Cong win?

By 1965, the same year the U.S. entered the Vietnam War, the trail could transport up to 30 tonnes of supplies daily, triple what PAVN had been moving over the prior 5 years. Supply chains can make or break a military operation, and the U.S. moved to dismantle the trail through direct airstrikes almost immediately. Operation “Barrel Roll” increased aerial assault on the trial from 20 to 1000 attacks per month, over the war more than 1.7 million tonnes of bombs were dropped, but the thick camouflage made the trail difficult to spot and the aerial bombardment was all but useless.

Little headway was made before the thick fog and heavy rains of monsoon season arrived. When combined with slash-and-burn growing tactics used by local farmers, it made for dangerous flight conditions, and the U.S. military couldn’t rely on planes or helicopters to safely hit targets. It switched tactics, opting for cloud seeding, which would artificially increase the amount of rain in any target area. By overlaying this with a chemical concoction meant to destabilize soil, it hoped to erode the trail beyond use.

This too failed, and the U.S. switched tactics yet again, this time focusing on deforestation by using the controversial herbicides Agent Blue and Agent Orange. The toxins were used at 20x concentration and deforested millions of acres of farmland and rainforest. Soldiers were assured that Agent Orange was safe to be near, but after the war, it was linked to an increase in cancer rates, life-threatening health complications, and birth defects. The effects of Agent Orange can still be o bserved in Vietnam today.

Despite U.S. attempts to prevent the trail from being used, by 1975, much of the route was wide enough for trucks to traverse, and convoys could make the trek in a week. Along with supply and medical stations, fuel stops and mechanic pit stops were strategically placed, allowing for quick repairs and ensuring no vehicle ever ran out of gas.

The US officially withdrew from Vietnam in 1973 after American citizens, mostly college-aged youths, mounted anti-war protests. The Paris Peace Accords were signed in January of 1973, and by March, the final US troops were pulled out of combat zones.

Viet Cong forces reclaimed Southern Vietnam by 1975. The Ho Chi Minh Trail was one of the key factors behind the group’s success. The infrastructure laid down by the Viet Cong eventually grew into a 2 lane highway, The Ho Chi Minh Highway, which is still maintained today.