Ho Chi Minh City, often referred to as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends the old and the new. Renowned for its dynamic street life, French colonial architecture, and vibrant food scene, this city offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam's rich history and rapid modernization. From its historic landmarks and museums to its lively markets and chic cafes, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination during your Vietnam trip for those seeking an energetic urban experience mixed with cultural depth
Ho Chi Minh City is easily accessible by flights, being a 1.5-hour flight from Hanoi, a 1.5-hour flight from Da Nang, and 17h drive from Da Nang which can be very exhausting (we took a direct flight from Da Nang for around 50$)
Hanoï
Hoi An
Hué
Ha Long
Ninh Binh
Sapa
Phong Nha
Hoh Chi Minh
Mui Né
10 Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
1. War Remnants Museum
Explore the impactful exhibits detailing the Vietnam War's history, with a focus on the war's effects on the Vietnamese population. The museum features military equipment, photographs, and personal stories.
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Duration: 1-2 hours
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Price: Around 40,000 VN
2. Cu Chi Tunnels
Discover the extensive underground tunnel system used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Visitors can crawl through some of the tunnels and see living quarters, command centers, and booby traps.
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Duration: Half-day trip
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Price: Around 110,000 VND
3. Ben Thanh Market
Experience the bustling atmosphere of one of Ho Chi Minh City's oldest and busiest markets. Shop for souvenirs, local handicrafts, clothing, and enjoy a variety of street food.
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Duration: 1-2 hours
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Price: Free entry (shopping costs vary)
4. Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
Visit this iconic cathedral built by French colonists in the late 19th century. It's a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture and features beautiful stained glass windows
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Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
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Price: Free entry
5. Saigon Central Post Office
Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of this historic post office. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it's a functional post office and a popular tourist attraction, you can try to send postal card to your relatives
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Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
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Price: Free entry
6. Reunification Palace
Explore the historic site where the Vietnam War ended in 1975 when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates. The palace remains as it was in the 1970s, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's history
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Duration: 1-2 hours
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Price: Around 40,000 VND
7. Bui Vien Street
Experience the vibrant nightlife on this bustling street, known for its bars, clubs, restaurants, and street food vendors. It's a great place to socialize and enjoy the local nightlife.
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Duration: Varies (evening recommended)
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Price: Free entry (food and drinks cost varies)
8. Jade Emperor Pagoda
Visit this beautiful Taoist temple, known for its intricate carvings, statues, and serene atmosphere. It's one of the most important religious sites in the city.
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Duration: 30 minutes - 1 hour
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Price: Free entry
9. Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the observation deck of this iconic skyscraper. It's the perfect place to get a bird's-eye view of the city's landscape.
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Duration: 1 hour
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Price: Around 200,000 VND
10. Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Street)
Stroll through Book Street, a charming area dedicated to literature and reading. This unique spot features numerous bookstores and quaint cafés, making it an ideal place to browse for books, enjoy a coffee, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. You can find new and second-hand books, as well as literary-themed gifts.
Duration: 1-2 hours (depending on your interest)
Price: Free to browse; costs for books and café purchases vary
Where to stay ?
We carefully selected accommodations that offered comfort and convenience. Our chosen stays enhanced our exploration and provided moments of relaxation throughout our adventure.
Hoh Chi Minh : Jan Hostel Central point ($$), Friday Saigon centre homestay ($$) , Silverland Ben Thanh ($$$)
Explore Hoh Chi Minh safely and efficienctly
By Plane:
Tan Son Nhat International Airport serves Ho Chi Minh City and is located about 6 kilometers from the city center. Upon arrival, you can reach downtown Ho Chi Minh City within a 20-minute drive. Taxis, airport shuttles, and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available outside the terminal, providing convenient options to continue your journey into the city.
By Train:
Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City by train offers a scenic long journey. From Hanoi, the train ride takes approximately 32 hours, while from Da Nang, it takes around 12 hours. Saigon Railway Station is centrally located, making it easy for travelers to access the city's attractions. You can book train tickets online through Vietnam Railways' official website or third-party platforms like Baolau or 12go.asia. Tickets are also available for purchase at Saigon Railway Station and through local travel agencies.
By Car:
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings by car allows for flexibility and independence in your travels. Car rentals are available in the city, providing options to explore nearby attractions such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta at your own pace. While traffic in Ho Chi Minh City can be quite congested, having a car gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems in the region.
By Bus:
Local buses are a cost-effective and practical means of transportation within Ho Chi Minh City and its neighboring areas. The city has a well-developed bus network, offering routes to nearby towns and attractions. Tickets can be purchased directly from bus stations or through mobile apps like 12Go.
For long-distance travel, buses may not be the best option if you're coming from Hanoi or Da Nang, with around 36 hours from Hanoi, and approximately 18 hours from Da Nang, the costs range from 25$ to 40$
Discover Hoh Chi Minh cuisine and restaurants
Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant culinary scene offers a diverse range of flavors and dining experiences. Here are some must-try spots:
($$) Ben Thanh Street Food Market: Ideal for food lovers looking to sample a variety of local dishes, Ben Thanh Street Food Market offers a bustling atmosphere where you can enjoy favorites like pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and goi cuon (spring rolls). It's a great place to experience the local food culture in a lively setting.
($$) Pho 2000: Famous for its delicious pho, Pho 2000 is a popular spot where you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a variety of beef and chicken options. The restaurant's casual ambiance and high-quality ingredients make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
($$) Café Apartment: Located in the heart of District 1, Café Apartment is a unique spot where you can explore various cafés and find your ideal place to relax. The building, a converted apartment complex, houses several charming coffee shops, each offering a different ambiance and specialty. Inside, you might discover favorites such as The Vintage Emporium for a classic coffee experience, The Snap Cafe for a cozy, artistic atmosphere, or The Loft Café for a modern twist. It's a great place to enjoy a leisurely coffee and soak up the local vibe.
($) Street Food Stalls: Explore Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant street food scene with options like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), com tam (broken rice), and goi ga (chicken salad). Street food stalls offer an affordable and authentic taste of the city’s culinary delights.
($$) Quán Ăn Ngon: This restaurant provides a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a setting that reflects the country's culinary heritage. Enjoy classics such as banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), cha gio (fried spring rolls), and various regional specialties.
($$$) The Deck Saigon: For a more upscale dining experience, The Deck Saigon offers a refined menu featuring international cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy stunning views of the Saigon River as you dine on dishes like seafood platters and gourmet salads.
($$) Hum Vegetarian: A top choice for vegetarians, Hum Vegetarian offers a wide selection of plant-based dishes that highlight the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant's serene ambiance and creative menu make it a great spot for a healthy and satisfying meal.
($) Bui Vien Street: Known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food options, Bui Vien Street is a must-visit for those looking to experience Ho Chi Minh City's bustling street food scene and lively atmosphere.
These dining options in Ho Chi Minh City promise to provide a delicious and memorable culinary journey through the flavors of southern Vietnam.
