Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City: A Complete Travel Guide

Introduction

Ho Chi Minh City, still fondly called Saigon by locals, is the beating heart of southern Vietnam. With a population of over 10 million people, it’s a city that never sleeps — buzzing motorbikes, colorful street markets, French colonial architecture, and a food scene that rivals anywhere in Asia.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or planning a return trip, this Ho Chi Minh City travel guide will help you discover the best attractions, food, and experiences in Vietnam’s largest metropolis.

1. Visit Ben Thanh Market

No Ho Chi Minh City travel guide is complete without mentioning Ben Thanh Market, the most famous market in Saigon. Dating back to the early 17th century, it remains a bustling hub for both locals and tourists.

Here you’ll find:

• Traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Clothes, shoes, and accessories at bargain prices.
• Food stalls selling Vietnamese favorites like bánh xèo (crispy pancake) and chè (sweet dessert soup).

👉 Tip: Visit in the morning for fresh produce, or in the evening when the night market comes alive.

2. Explore the War Remnants Museum

For travelers interested in history, the War Remnants Museum offers a sobering but important look into Vietnam’s past. With exhibitions on the Vietnam War, it provides context for the country’s struggles and resilience.

Highlights include:

• Powerful photography exhibits.
• U.S. military vehicles and weapons on display.
• Stories of how the war affected civilians.

👉 Tip: Allow at least 2 hours to explore. It’s emotional, but deeply educational.

3. Admire French Colonial Architecture

Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline is a fascinating mix of old and new. Amidst modern skyscrapers, you’ll find elegant French colonial buildings that reflect the city’s past.

Must-see landmarks:

• Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon – built in the 1880s with red bricks imported from France.
• Saigon Central Post Office – designed by Gustave Eiffel, featuring beautiful arched ceilings and tiled floors.
• City Hall – now the People’s Committee Building, a stunning piece of French architecture.

👉 Tip: These landmarks are all located in District 1, making it easy to explore on foot.

4. Wander Through Independence Palace

Also known as the Reunification Palace, this historic site was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1975, tanks stormed the palace gates, marking the end of the war.

Today, it’s preserved as a museum, with vintage furniture, meeting rooms, and even a basement war bunker. It’s a must-visit for history lovers.

5. Enjoy Ho Chi Minh City’s Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Saigon lights up. From lively backpacker streets to sophisticated rooftop bars, the nightlife here caters to all tastes.

• Bui Vien Street (District 1) → buzzing nightlife with cheap drinks, street food, and live music.
• Rooftop bars → Sky Deck at Bitexco Tower or Chill Skybar for panoramic city views.
• Hidden speakeasies → cozy cocktail bars tucked away in old apartments.

👉 Tip: Start with dinner at a street food stall, then head up for a rooftop cocktail.

6. Taste Ho Chi Minh City’s Street Food

Food is at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s culture. From quick snacks to hearty bowls of noodles, you’ll find something delicious on every corner.

Must-try dishes:

• Pho → Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup.
• Bánh mì → crispy baguette sandwich with meats, pickles, and herbs.
• Cơm tấm → broken rice with grilled pork chop.
• Gỏi cuốn → fresh spring rolls with shrimp and herbs.
• Bún thịt nướng → vermicelli noodles with grilled pork and fish sauce.

👉 Tip: Don’t be afraid of street stalls — they often serve the most authentic flavors.

7. Visit the Saigon Opera House

Also known as the Municipal Theatre, this French colonial building is one of the city’s cultural gems. You can admire it from the outside, or buy tickets for traditional dance, opera, or the famous AO Show — a modern performance blending acrobatics and Vietnamese culture.

8. Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City

If you have extra time, consider these easy day trips:

• Cu Chi Tunnels → explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War.
• Mekong Delta → cruise along the river, visit floating markets, and enjoy tropical fruit.
• Vung Tau → a beach town just two hours away.

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Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate, meaning it’s hot and humid all year round.

• Dry season (Dec – Apr) → sunny skies, best time for travel.
• Rainy season (May – Nov) → heavy showers, but usually in the afternoon.

👉 Tip: If you visit during Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), expect festive decorations but also many shops closing.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

• District 1 → Best for first-time visitors; close to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

• District 3 → Quieter, more local vibe, still central.

• District 2 (Thao Dien) → Trendy area with expats, international cafes, and riverside views.

Getting Around

• Motorbike taxis (Grab or Gojek apps) → cheap and fast.

• Taxi → safer with reputable companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh.

• Walking → great for exploring District 1 but watch out for traffic.

Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City is a city of contrasts: old meets new, tradition blends with modernity, and every street has a story to tell. From exploring bustling markets and historic landmarks to tasting world-class street food and enjoying rooftop views, this city offers something for every traveler.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure to put Ho Chi Minh City at the top of your list — it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

👉 Ready to explore Saigon? Start planning your adventure today and dive into the vibrant heart of southern Vietnam!

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