Discover the top attractions and activities in the most vibrant city in Vietnam with this comprehensive guide to the best 10+ things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, read on to discover the best that this city has to offer!
1. Cu Chi Tunnels
2. War Remnants Museum
3. French colonial buildings
Just like Hanoi and a number of other cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City has a lot of architecture dating back to the French colonial era. Since the center has now developed into a modern metropolis, it is a unique sight to see centuries-old buildings between towering skyscrapers.
The old Saigon Central Post office is definitely worth a visit. The building is still in use, so you can send a postcard to your friends and family at home from here. Opposite this building is the impressive Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral from 1863.
The colonial building Saigon Opera House is also still in use. It is a unique experience to attend a show here. Close to this you will also find the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, the former town hall.
4. Street food tour on the back of a motorbike
The food in Vietnam is sacred and their proudest possession to the people. In every street you will find a place to eat, whether it is a luxury restaurant or a simple street stall with some plastic stools. Because people from all over the country have migrated to Saigon for economic reasons, you will also find dishes here from every hat in the country.
The best way is with a street food tour. Just like a street food tour in Hanoi, here you will try different dishes, see places in the city that you would otherwise never see and you get a truly unique insight into local life. If you dare, go on a street food tour on the back of a motorbike of a local guide. This gives an extra unique experience to the already cool activity.
By sitting on the back of the bike and eating at local stalls, you really become a part of the local culture. It is an experience you will never forget.
5. Nightlife
The best nightlife in Vietnam can be found in Ho Chi Minh City. It is the largest city in the country with the most entertainment and the most diverse.
The most famous place to find nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is Bui Vien Street the backpacker street of Ho Chi Minh City or perhaps the backpacker street of Vietnam. It’s the equalevant of Khao San Road in Bangkok – but better. This street is full of bars and clubs. You can also have a drink on one of the many plastic chairs on the street.
If you are looking for a place with a few more classes, come and have a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh City. You will also find many different bars and clubs spread throughout the city; whether you like jazz or EDM, there is something for everyone.
6. Reunification Palace
This palace was the Vietnamese general’s base until his death in 1963. It became world famous in 1975 when a North Vietnamese army tank passed through the main gate, ending the Vietnam War. Nowadays you can visit this palace in the form of a museum. It is quite unique to see that everything still looks as it was 40 years ago, including an air raid shelter and a communication room from which troops were directed.
7. Bitexco Financial Tower
Bitexco used to be the tallest building in the city until Landmark 81 was built in 2018, which is now also the tallest building in Southeast Asia. Yet Bitexco is still the most beautiful skyscraper in the city, right in the center. It is in the shape of a lotus flower and has a helicopter platform on the side.
At 262 meters high you will find a sky deck that you can visit with a great view over the city and river.
8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street
For one of the best spots in the city for the social and dating life in the city, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Thousands of people mingle here every night and enjoy a cool evening in the center. It is surrounded by impressive architecture of the colonial building such as Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and the Opera House and you find the beautiful Cafe Apartments building here, where each apartment is a different cafe with unique decor. It looks great from the outside on the street. In addition, these old buildings are surrounded by the newest skyscrapers.
9. Markets
Just like any other city in Vietnam, you will find many different markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Here you can observe the daily life of the local inhabitants. The further from the center, the more local and authentic the markets are. Most markets sell everyday products such as meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, household products and clothing. But there are also specialized markets, such as a motorbike market, flower market and pet market. The two best-known markets are Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market.
10. Saigon River
The Saigon River flows right through the city. When you are on the other side of the river opposite the center you have a great view of the city skyline. There are also several boat trips that you can do on the river.
For example, you can visit the Mekong Delta by Speedboat starting from this river. It takes you quickly to the delta, but above all it is a much nicer way than by road. You can also watch the sunset by speedboat tour, where you will also drink a cocktail at a luxury restaurant. For more romance or just fun, you can take a Saigon River dinner cruise. Delicious food while overlooking the beautiful city skyline.
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 HCM and relatively dry.
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 Grap, Xanh SM (similar to Uber).
