If you are visiting Vietnam, at some point in your trip you are likely to spend some time in Ho Chi Minh City, also commonly known as Saigon. This is a massive city surrounding the Saigon River and located in the southeast of Vietnam. While not the capital of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the main economic and financial centre. It has many historical and cultural landmarks. Here are my top nine things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.
1) Shop at Ben Thanh Market
Located in District 1, spending time in Ben Thanh Market was undeniably one of my favourite experiences during Ho Chi Minh City stay. It is one of the earliest structures built in Saigon and attracts locals and visitors alike every day. Open every day from 7:00am to 8:00pm, how many of the 1,500 booths will you hit? You’ll be able to purchase all your souvenirs and gifts here, and they have a great selection of clothes, Vietnamese coffee, and accessories.
2) Visit the War Remnants Museum
Located in District 3 at 28 Vo Van Tan, the War Remnants Museum chronicles the Vietnam War and the First Indochina War. It is one of the most famous war history museums in the world. I highly recommend you stop by here. The exhibits are fascinating, with original tanks and helicopters from the wars.
3) Explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
You will find this cathedral in downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Built by French colonists between 1863 and 1880, the cathedral stands 58 metres tall, boasting two bell towers. I think it’s one of the most beautiful sights in the city. The interior of the cathedral is well worth a look as it features beautiful stained glass windows.
4) Drop by Independence Palace
If you are like me and enjoy learning about the history of the places you are visiting, take my advice and check out the Independence Palace. It is one of the landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City and was the home of the President of South Vietnam during the war. You’ll want to spend at least an hour here, and you should make it a priority on your first day’s itinerary.
5) Pop into Ho Chi Minh City Post Office
I wasn’t sure what to expect before arriving here, but this just isn’t your usual post office! Designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame) the building was constructed in 1886 and is one of the must-sees in the city. Don’t just view it from the outside — head inside to see the domed ceiling and decorated walls.
6) Take a Bonsai River Cruise
If all the sightseeing has worn you out, I’d recommend having a relaxing evening on the water with a Bonsai Cruise. There’s an option to enjoy a floating dinner, and recreate the elegant voyages of the past. Try to sail on a traditional dragon boat for a more authentic experience.
7) Head out to Củ Chi Tunnels
In my opinion, this is the number one must-do for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Located about an hour outside Saigon, it’s best to take an organised tour here. The tunnels of Củ Chi are part of an extensive network located underground. Soldiers originally used them during the Vietnam War as a hiding spot, as well as living quarters and as underground passages. I’d recommend getting a guide for your visit here as it will help you understand the true significance of this landmark. You will even get to enter one of the tunnels through the tiniest of holes in the ground! In addition, ensure you book in advance so you don’t miss out on an unforgettable day there.
8) Pay Your Respects at Jade Emperor Pagoda
Also known as the Tortoise Pagoda, this is one of the most important and visited shrines in Ho Chi Minh City. It represents the Mahayanist brand of Buddhism, which is practised by many in Vietnam. It was quite crowded during my visit here, but it’s well worth stopping at. The Pagoda is stunning, and I loved spotting the turtles outside on my way out!
9) Go Up in the World at Bitexco Tower and Sky Deck
If you are looking to discover the city’s modern side, head to Bitexco Tower. At 262 metres tall, it’s the highest building in Vietnam. As you can imagine, the views from the sky deck are incredible! After that, I also highly recommend the sky bar, Alto, where you can enjoy a sunset cocktail and tapas.
There is so much to do in Ho Chi Minh City, and it’s the ideal place to use as a launchpad when traveling in Vietnam. Above all, I enjoyed immersing myself in Vietnamese history and culture during my time here. Flights to Ho Chi Minh City are available throughout the world, so this is the perfect destination to fly into before heading off to explore the country. I hope I’ve inspired you to embrace the history, cuisine, and culture of Ho Chi Minh City as much as I did on your next visit!
26 Comments. Leave new
I had no idea there was so much to do in Ho Chi Minh. I’ve seen some of the older architecture and the like online, but I didn’t know there was a cathedral there or the museum and some of these other spots!
What an amazing looking place Ho Chi Minh City seems like. The tunnels look fascinating and the Jade Emperor Pagoda, think I might have to do some googling into those!
I didn’t know that Ho Chi Minh city had this and more to share with the world. Vietnam is so rich in playing its part in the history of the world today
I have never left the US but I bet it is so beautiful there!
I have heard wonderful things about Vietnam and Saigon is on my list. Thanks for the inspiration.
I would love to visit Ho Chi Minh City. So much to see and do.
Vietnam is not exactly the place I would have considered for a possible trip, but I admit that there is so much to see and discover that you have intrigued me with this itinerary.
Oh wow. This article make me realize that Vietnam is a place to put on my your list. Maybe as soon as travel restrictions are lifted, I’m going to get on a plane and head to Vietnam
I miss traveling. We are going on a beach trip in a few weeks, but nothing like visiting another country.
I remember the old Ho Chi Minh City. This is the new and beautiful city. I love it.
I had no idea there was so much to do in Ho Chi Minh city. I mean the sheer vairety of things is so impressive.
I would love to take the family there one day! The river tour and the architecture are so impressive. I don’t think we’d ever forget it.
My Dad whent there and to Bien Hoa because of the war. And he says the place has change so much and is so stunning and impressive
That looks like a wonderful place to go. I would love to see it sometime. I’m loving all those beautiful photos.
Those holes in the ground look super tiny. I couldn’t imagine crawling through something that small but during war times, you do what you have to do.
I would love to visit one day.
Sounds like a really great place to explore. Got to add this on my bucket list.
Ho Chi Minh city sounds like a perfect destination for me to go, I will definitely add this on my bucket list and will visit this place once everything is in a good condition.
These are great tips! Didn’t know there was much to do in Saigon 🙂 Went to Vietnam a few years back but had to go straight to Hanoi for work.
Ho Chi Minh surely seems to be an awesome place to visit. The rich culture and history evident in its sights are inviting.
This oozes culture and fun for me. I’d simply love to be travelling down that river.
I would love to take a river tour and have dinner. But are there creatures in the water? Eek!
I wish I had read this last year. I love Ho Chi Minh City and only visited about half the places you mentioned in this article. I really would have enjoyed the Bonsai River Cruise.
Wonderful post. It takes me back to my time in Vietnam. Indeed, Ho Chi Minh City is a great base to for exploration around the country.
I have been to Vietnam but only on Hanoi and not yet in HCM. I hope I can visit Ho Chi Minh (HCM) soon. I have so many good reviews from friends. Thanks for the reco!
Wow! So many beautiful places to visit. I was hoping to visit Vietnam this past summer
Nnnniiiccceeeeee….I would love to step on and chill on the SkyDeck!! It reminds me of a particular hotel here in Uganda that has a deck exactly like that.