Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering if Ho Chi Minh City is worth a visit? We’ve got you covered! Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a vibrant destination with a lot to offer. In this article, we’ll explore the best 15 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Visit the War Remnants Museum
When you visit the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll get to explore the Vietnam War’s history. You’ll see powerful pictures and real things used during the war. It helps you understand how Vietnam went through difficult times but eventually found a way to peace.
2. Don’t miss visiting Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels, constructed during the Vietnam War, stand as one of history’s most renowned war tunnel systems—an absolute must-visit in Ho Chi Minh City.
Throughout the war, the Viet Cong, the southern Vietnam army, expanded the existing Cu Chi tunnels strategically. When the conflict concluded, there was an intricate network spanning over 250 kilometres beneath Cu Chi and its surroundings.
These tunnels show how the army operated during the Vietnam War, allowing you to explore their hideouts and underground trenches today.
We suggest exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels with a knowledgeable tour guide. These tours allow you to venture underground and discover the tunnel system while taking a forest walk to gain insights into the region.
Keep in mind that the tunnels are quite tight, so if you have claustrophobia, this may not be suitable for you!
3. Enjoy Coffee Culture
Vietnamese coffee is renowned worldwide, and in Ho Chi Minh City, you can sip coffee at cozy and charming coffee shops scattered throughout the city. It’s a delightful way to experience the local culture.
And don’t forget to give a chance to the famous Vietnamese egg coffee!
Egg coffee is actually a Northern Vietnamese specialty, however, you can still find excellent egg coffee in the South, including in Ho Chi Minh City. Here you can find some great local spots for this frothy delight.
4. Take a Cruise at the Saigon River
Cruising on the Saigon River lets you discover the people who live and work by this busy waterway. You’ll see everything from small boats to big restaurant ships full of tourists.
You can choose across different options, between dinner, lunch or breakfast, or just to enjoy the sunset!
5. Eat as Local: Try the Vietnamese Noodle Soup (Pho)
Your trip will only be complete with savouring a bowl of pho, the famous Vietnamese soup filled with noodles, herbs, and meat.
It’s a relatively recent creation, dating back over a hundred years. Pho originated in the northern part of the country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was influenced by Chinese traders and the French colonisers who introduced beef consumption.
The love for pho travelled to the southern regions in the 1950s when the country was divided, and many northern Vietnamese migrated south, bringing their cherished soup recipe with them.
You can savour Pho all across Vietnam, and we suggest trying it in each city during your trip. Each city puts its unique twist on this dish, adding distinct flavours to the experience.
6. Visit the Reunification Palace (or Independence Palace)
When you visit the Reunification Palace, it’s like taking a trip back in time!
The Reunification Palace was where South Vietnam’s leader lived during the American War. When visitors come here, they can feel like they’re in the past, before Saigon changed in 1975. The fancy rooms upstairs and the secret bunkers below have stayed just as they were.
This building used to be where the leader of South Vietnam lived during the American War. Even today, when you go inside, you can see the fancy rooms on the top floor, and if you go down to the basement, you’ll find the military bunkers. These places haven’t changed, so it’s like a window to the past. It’s a cool place to explore if you want to learn more about the history of Saigon and Vietnam.
7. Admire The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Yes, you are reading correctly! There is a Notre Dame Cathedral in Vietnam. And not only shares its name with the famous cathedral in Paris and borrows some design elements.
The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is the main church of Ho Chi Minh, and it was constructed by the French from 1877 to 1883.
The cathedral boasts Neo-Romanesque architecture, a popular style of that era. Its facade features two tall bell towers on either side of the entrance, and all the red bricks used in its construction were brought directly from France.
But it’s not just a sight to behold on the outside; there’s also a beautiful garden housing the statue of the Virgin Mary. Crafted by Italian artist G. Ciocchetti in 1959, this 4.6-meter tall statue is entirely white marble.
8. Embark on a Boat Tour in the Mekong Delta
The famous Mekong Delta River stretches through Vietnam and Cambodia, known for its role in the Vietnam War. Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, from one to 3.5 hours to reach the river.
To explore the Mekong, arrange a riverboat cruise or kayak through the mangroves. Hop on a traditional wooden canoe, don a nón lá (a bamboo sun hat), and float through the Delta’s lush jungle.
During boat tours, stop to visit local villages, floating markets, and orchards and savour unique Mekong Delta cuisine.
9. Visit the Cai Be Floating Market in the Cai Ba District
If you want to experience the way locals live, don’t miss Cai Be. It’s a cute town that sits by the Mekong Delta River.
Here’s the deal: half of the town is in the water, where lots of people live, and the other half is on the ground.
You can join a tour with a guide to see Cai Be. You can buy cool stuff, yummy snacks, pretty flowers, and tasty things from boats at the Cai Be Floating Market.
Try something fun: eat on a floating restaurant boat.
Tip: If you’re up for an adventure, you can paddle in a kayak through the market.
10. Visit the Buddhist Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a famous spot in the city with a beautiful seven-tiered stone structure. It was built between 1964 and 1971, and it’s the tallest pagoda in Saigon, dedicated to Vietnamese Buddhism.
When you enter the main hall, you’ll see a statue of Guanyin, known for compassion and mercy in Chinese Buddhism. Inside, there’s a shiny Buddha Gautama statue with golden Bodhisattvas on each side.
Remember to check out the library and the impressive temple bell outside. It’s a must-visit spot for some great photos!
11. Explore the Biggest Flower Market in Southern Vietnam
In District 10, you’ll find Ho Thi Ky, the biggest flower market in southern Vietnam. Here, you can buy flowers from both the Mekong Delta and the Central Highlands, whether you need them in bulk or just a few.
But don’t picture a typical market with a large building; instead, envision a charming network of narrow lanes where stalls are tucked around neighbourhood houses.
It’s a unique and vibrant place to explore while you soak in the fragrant beauty of the floral offerings!
12. Don’t miss out on the biggest market at Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh’s Ben Thanh Market is a busy hub where something is always happening!
In the morning, locals come to buy food, tourists shop during the day, and food lovers enjoy street snacks at night. It’s a place that’s always buzzing with activity, providing a unique experience for everyone.
13. Eat like a King in Ho Chi Minh City Chinatown
For an affordable and tasting lunch, visit Binh Tay Market in Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling Chinatown. It’s the city’s largest wholesale market and an excellent spot for budget-friendly souvenirs. Try the local food stalls after shopping for lacquered wood items, colourful fabrics, and quirky trinkets.
To escape the market’s hustle and bustle, visit Thien Hau Pagoda. This temple, honouring the goddess of the ocean, was built by Chinese traders who arrived by sea. For a small fee, you can light incense and watch your prayers ascend in fragrant smoke. It’s a peaceful moment amidst the lively surroundings.
14. Watch a traditional water puppet performance
When you’re in Vietnam, check out a traditional water puppet show. Even if you don’t speak Vietnamese, you’ll still be amazed by the beautifully painted wooden puppets and their clever performances.
The shows last around 50 minutes, with several performances every evening. It’s a unique cultural experience you shouldn’t miss while exploring Vietnam.
15. Visit the Botanical Gardens
Do you love plants? So do we! We recommend taking a breath from the city’s hustle and bustle at the Botanical Gardens, located at the eastern end of Le Duan.
There, life slows down, and you’ll find couples and strollers enjoying the serene atmosphere. The gardens house an impressive tropical plant collection, including various orchids.
Next to the Botanical Gardens is the History Museum, featuring fifteen galleries depicting Vietnam’s history from ancient times to the end of French colonial rule with diverse artifacts and images. It’s a peaceful escape with a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
