Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest and most vibrant city in Vietnam. As the country’s business and financial hub, it boasts a rich history that spans centuries. The city is constantly buzzing with energy, offering a little bit of everything—charming shops, lively nightlife, fascinating museums, and mouthwatering cuisine. Discover all that this dynamic city has to offer in this Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.
5 compelling reasons to visit Ho Chi Minh City.
- Explore the history of the Vietnam War at the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels.
- Experience the vibrant energy of the city from a rooftop bar.
- Savor the finest local dishes at the vibrant restaurants and lively street stalls.
- Make the most of the city’s convenient location to explore the Mekong Delta.
- Discover the markets and hidden paths off the beaten track on a motorcycle.
What is in this Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
Practical information
Suggested duration of stay
The city offers vibrant nightlife and numerous attractions where you can explore the history of the Vietnam War. It’s perfect for a 2-3 day stay, but you can extend your visit if you choose to take a day trip to the Mekong Delta.
ATM’s & money exchange
Money exchangers and gold traders at Ben Thanh Market are the top choice for both locals and visitors when it comes to currency exchange.
Local events and holidays
- Tet New Year (first day of the first lunar month) – The city is partying or back to their home town. Road Nguyen Hue has a large flower exhibition.
- Saigon Cyclo Challenge (mid-March) – Both professional and amateur cyclists compete to determine who is the fastest, with the funds raised being donated to local charities that assist underprivileged children.
Best time to visit
- February: Hardly any rain, the least humidity and a city full of flowers for the Tet parties.
- March: Little rain and humidity.
- December: December is cooler than normal for HCMC and relatively dry.
10 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, bustling with energy and lined with French colonial architecture, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to temples, museums, markets, history, architecture, parks, or simply want to experience the vibrant pulse of Vietnam’s most economically dynamic city, you’ll find plenty to explore.
1. Cu Chi Tunnels
One of the top activities in Ho Chi Minh City is taking a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. As part of a war museum, these tunnels offer a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War. You can crawl through the narrow passageways to experience how the Viet Cong lived during the conflict. The site also showcases various traps they used, their underground living conditions, and abandoned military vehicles. Additionally, you can choose to test your aim at the shooting range with a variety of firearms.
2. War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is widely regarded as one of the most impactful and noteworthy museums in Vietnam, making it an essential stop. It offers a sobering and in-depth look at the horrors of the Vietnam War. Outside, you’ll find a collection of decommissioned military vehicles, including a tank, jet, helicopter, and rocket launchers. Inside, the museum showcases a range of war relics and stark, graphic photographs that depict the brutal realities of the conflict.
3. French colonial architecture
Similar to Hanoi and several other cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City boasts a wealth of architecture from the French colonial period. As the city center has evolved into a bustling modern metropolis, it creates a striking contrast to see centuries-old buildings standing alongside towering skyscrapers.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The historic Saigon Central Post Office is a must-see. It’s still operational, allowing you to send postcards to loved ones back home. Right across from it stands the stunning Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, built in 1863.
Saigon Central Post Office
The colonial-era Saigon Opera House remains an active venue, offering a unique experience for those who attend a performance there. Nearby, you’ll also find the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee building, which was once the town hall.
Saigon Opera House
4.Motorbike street food tour.
Food in Vietnam is considered sacred and is a source of immense pride for its people. On every street, you’ll encounter a place to eat, from upscale restaurants to humble street stalls with plastic stools. Due to the migration of people from all over the country to Saigon for economic opportunities, you can also find dishes from every region of Vietnam here.
The ultimate way to experience the city is through a street food tour. Much like in Hanoi, you’ll sample a variety of dishes, visit hidden spots in the city, and gain an authentic glimpse into local life. For an even more unforgettable adventure, consider taking the tour on the back of a motorbike with a local guide. It adds an exciting twist to an already amazing experience.
Riding on the back of a bike and enjoying meals at local stalls truly immerses you in the heart of the local culture—an unforgettable experience.
5. Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City offers the best nightlife in Vietnam. As the country’s largest city, it boasts the most vibrant and diverse entertainment options.
The most iconic spot for nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is Bui Vien Street, often referred to as the backpacker street of the city, or even of all of Vietnam. It’s comparable to Bangkok’s Khao San Road – but better. This lively street is lined with bars and clubs, and you can also enjoy a drink while sitting on one of the many plastic chairs set up along the sidewalk.
Bui Vien Street
If you’re seeking a spot with a bit more flair, head to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s rooftop bars for a cocktail. The city also boasts a variety of bars and clubs, offering something for every taste—whether you’re into jazz or EDM, you’re sure to find your vibe.
6. Reunification Palace
Reunification Palace
This palace served as the headquarters of the Vietnamese general until his death in 1963. It gained international fame in 1975 when a North Vietnamese tank drove through its main gate, marking the end of the Vietnam War. Today, the palace operates as a museum, offering a rare glimpse into its past, with many rooms still preserved as they were 40 years ago. Highlights include an air raid shelter and a communications room used to direct military operations.
7. Bitexco Financial Tower
Bitexco was once the tallest building in the city until Landmark 81 surpassed it in 2018, becoming not only the tallest in the city but also in Southeast Asia. Despite this, Bitexco remains the most beautiful skyscraper in the city, located in the heart of the downtown area. Its design resembles a lotus flower, and it features a helicopter landing pad on its side.
Bitexco Tower
At a height of 262 meters, you’ll find a sky deck offering stunning views of the city and river, which you can visit.
8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street
For one of the best spots in the city to experience social and dating life, make your way to Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Every evening, thousands of people gather here to enjoy the lively atmosphere and cool breeze in the heart of the city.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
The street is framed by stunning colonial-era architecture, including the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee building and the Opera House. Also nearby is the striking Cafe Apartments building, where each apartment hosts a unique café with its own distinctive decor—it’s a sight to behold from the street. Adding to the charm, these historic buildings are surrounded by modern skyscrapers, creating a blend of old and new.
9. Markets
Like other cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is home to a variety of markets. These markets offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. The farther you venture from the city center, the more authentic and traditional the markets become. While most markets sell everyday items like meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, household goods, and clothing, there are also specialized markets, such as those for motorbikes, flowers, and pets. Among the city’s most famous markets are Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market.
10. Saigon River
The Saigon River runs directly through the city. On the opposite side of the river from the city center, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the skyline. Additionally, there are several boat tours available to explore the river.
For instance, you can explore the Mekong Delta by speedboat, departing right from this river. It’s a faster, more scenic alternative to traveling by road. You can also enjoy a sunset tour by speedboat, complete with a cocktail at an upscale restaurant. For a more romantic or simply enjoyable experience, consider a Saigon River dinner cruise, offering delicious food paired with stunning views of the city skyline.
Best hotels & hostels in Ho Chi Minh City
Where to stay
District 1 -The city is vast, with a variety of neighborhoods, but it’s best to book your accommodation in District 1, the heart of the city. From here, you’ll be close to major attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. Additionally, most day tours offer convenient pick-up services from District 1. Due to its popularity, District 1 boasts a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious five-star hotels along the stylish Dong Khoi Street to more affordable hostels on Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien Streets.
Best hotels & hostels in Ho Chi Minh City
Budget hotels & hostels
- Hangout Hostel HCM
- The Hideout
- Vietnam Inn Saigon
- The Like Hostel & Cafe
- Long Hostel
Mid range hotel
- A&Em Art Hotel
- The Hammock Hotel Ben Thanh
- Triip Boutique Ben Thanh Hotel
- C Central Hotel
- Cititel Parkview Saigon Hote
High end hotel & resort
- Grand Hotel Saigon
- Sedona Suites Orchid Tower
- Muong Thanh Saigon Centre Hotel
- Rex Hotel Saigon
- Novotel Saigon Centre Hotel
Food & drinking
Restaurants
It might be a bold statement, but this city could easily be considered the culinary capital of Vietnam. It showcases the finest flavors from across the country, blending northern and central regional dishes, along with a vibrant street food culture and excellent international dining options. If you’re a food lover, this is undoubtedly one of the top cities in Asia.
Local restaurants
- Nha Hang Ngon
- Vo Roof Garden
- The Garlik De Tham Restaurant
- The Deck Saigon
- Hum Vegetarian, Lounge & Restaurant
Fine dining
- Bun Cha 145 Bui Vien
- Cyclo Resto
- Bep Me In
- Royal Saigon Restaurant Bui Vien
- 4Ps Pizza Saigon
Nightlife
This city offers the best nightlife in Vietnam, featuring trendy rooftop bars, stylish clubs, vibrant live music venues, traditional performances, and the unique local beer-drinking experience on casual plastic seats.
- Bui Vien Street
- Rooftop bars
- Food tour
- Pub Crawl
- Dinner cruise
- Clubbing
- Live music bars
- Ben Thanh Night Market
- Show in Opera House
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street
How to get there
Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam’s expanding network of domestic flights links Ho Chi Minh City to all other major cities, making it a great option for travelers with limited time. With affordable prices, flying to destinations like Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, and Da Lat offers significant time savings.
Buses to Ho Chi Minh City
The most affordable way to travel to and from Ho Chi Minh City to other cities in Vietnam is by bus. A bus to Dalat takes about 7 hours and costs between $11 and $15, while a trip to Nha Trang takes around 22 hours and costs between $10 and $20. Bus tickets are available at travel agencies throughout the city center or directly from your hotel or hostel. There are also buses to Mui Ne and the Mekong Delta, though joining a tour can often be a more convenient option for exploring the Mekong area.
Trains to Ho Chi Minh City
Trains to northern Vietnam start from Saigon Train Station. The train to Nha Trang takes around 6.5 hours ($ 14- $ 32).
How to get around
Walking – Most of the sights are in the center nearby. A great way to explore the city is on foot.
Car and motorbike – Check with almost every hotel, tourist café or travel agency to arrange car rental. Don’t forget that the rent also includes a driver, because it is illegal for foreigners to drive in Vietnam without a Vietnamese driver’s license.
Taxi – Taxi with meter drive through the streets. The price is around 12,000d for the first kilometer; expect to pay around 25,000d (US $ 1) from Dong Khoi to Pham Ngu Lao. Use Mai Linh Taxi and Vinasun Taxi. An even better alternative is Grab (similar to Uber).
Itinerary 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City
Day 1
Embark on a city tour to discover landmarks like Ben Thanh Market, the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, the Post Office, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a unique food tour riding on the back of a motorcycle.
Day 2
Start your day with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which can be paired with a visit to the Cao Dai Temple. In the afternoon, wander through Chinatown. In the evening, enjoy a river cruise with dinner, and end your day at a rooftop bar.
More tips for traveling in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is situated in southern Vietnam. From here, you have the option to take a day trip to the Mekong Delta or spend several days exploring the area. If you travel north, you can choose to follow the coastal route through Mui Ne and Nha Trang or take the inland route via Dalat in the central highlands.
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