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Ho Chi Minh City, located in central southern Vietnam, is the country's largest and most dynamic metropolis. Renamed after the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh in 1976, this city was formerly known as Saigon - Gia Dinh. Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Far East”, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for any tourist during their Vietnam tourism.
So, many things are awaiting you to discover in this rich historical and modern city, let’s accompany Incredible Asia Journeys to find the best time to visit, Ho Chi Minh tourist attractions as well as some insider tips for your upcoming Ho Chi Minh Tours and Excursions.
When people think of Vietnam, the first city that often comes to mind is Ho Chi Minh City. Although it is not the capital of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City stands out as the country's largest and most dynamic metropolis. Moreover, strategically located in southern Vietnam, it serves as a gateway to the Mekong Delta and other southern provinces.
With a population of approximately 9 million people and an area of 2,095 square kilometers, it is a hub of activity and innovation. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and bustling economy, Ho Chi Minh offers a blend of French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers.
The city is well-connected to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, thus, tourists can be easily accessible from major cities around the world. Therefore, Ho Chi Minh City is often the first place for many tourists on any Southern Vietnam tour, let’s scroll down to explore useful information about Ho Chi Minh City.
Coming to Ho Chi Minh City, it’s recommended that you should consider Ho Chi Minh City weather because Ho Chi Minh City experiences two seasons: dry and rainy.
The dry season in Ho Chi Minh City from December to April is characterized by hot and dry conditions, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C marked by clear skies and less rainfall, making it the best time to travel to Ho Chi Minh City for outdoor activities. The pleasant weather during the dry season in Ho Chi Minh City is perfect for exploring the city's many attractions.
Outdoor activities such as Ho Chi Minh walking tours, street food exploration, and river cruises along the Saigon River are highly recommended. The Tet Festival, Vietnam's Lunar New Year, often falls within this season, offering visitors a chance to experience vibrant cultural celebrations, traditional performances, and festive markets.
The rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City from May to November brings warm and humid conditions, with frequent afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms. Despite the rain, temperatures remain relatively high, typically between 25°C to 30°C.
While the rainy season might seem less ideal for tourism, it offers its own unique advantages. Indoor activities such as museum visits, including the War Remnants Museum and the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, become more appealing. Additionally, this season is a great time to explore the vibrant cafe culture in Ho Chi Minh City, with numerous hidden cafes offering cozy atmospheres and excellent Vietnamese coffee.
While classic attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market are must-visits, there are several new and trending spots that offer a fresh perspective on Ho Chi Minh City. Now, we will provide you best Ho Chi Minh tourist attractions you should add to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.
Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Under restoration)
This iconic cathedral, constructed by French colonists between 1863 and 1880, is known for its stunning neo-Romanesque architecture. It features twin bell towers and beautiful stained glass windows. However, it is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Visitors head there can still admire the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon and learn about its history.
Address: 2 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
From Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, take a short walk to Saigon Central Post Office, which is located right next to it. Designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel, the Central Post Office is a grand example of French colonial architecture. The building’s interior features beautiful vaulted ceilings and historic maps. It’s still a functioning post office, so visitors can send postcards home or buy unique stamps. The Saigon Central Post Office building also houses souvenir shops and an old-fashioned phone booth area.
Address: Le Loi, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily (Night market from 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
If you are looking for a place to shop in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Ben Thanh Market! Ben Thanh Market is a bustling hub for shopping and dining. Here, you can find everything from local handicrafts and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique items such as Non La, Ao Dai, and custom T-shirts,... Ben Thanh Market's food court offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes, from Pho, Hu Tieu, and Bun Cha to Banh Mi, providing a true taste of local cuisine for your Ho Chi Minh City food tour.
Address: 28 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM daily
Ticket Price: Approximately 40,000 VND (~ $2)
As one of the oldest museum in Vietnam, War Remnants Museum exhibits include photographs, military equipment, and personal accounts that illustrate the war's devastating effects. It's a must-visit for those interested in Vietnam history and wanting to understand more about Vietnam's past.
Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM daily
Ticket Price: 65,000 VND/adult (~ $3)
Independence, also known as Reunification Convention Hall, this historic site was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the preserved meeting rooms, the president's living quarters, and the command bunker.
Address: TL15, Phu Hiep, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Ticket Price: Approximately 90,000 VND (~ $4)
Cu Chi Tunnels were a remarkable network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Coming here, visitors can experience the authentic life of previous soldiers by crawling through the tunnels and learning about the ingenious strategies and living conditions of the soldiers. The site also features exhibits of war relics and booby traps, providing a fascinating and immersive historical experience.
Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM daily
Ticket Price: Approximately 60,000 VND (~ $3) for adults, 40,000 VND ($1.5) for children
One of the oldest zoos in the world, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to a wide variety of animals and a beautiful array of flora. It’s a great place for families and nature lovers to spend a day exploring the lush gardens and learning about the diverse wildlife. The zoo also features a small amusement park and a museum dedicated to Vietnam's flora and fauna.
Address: Nguyen Hue, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
This pedestrian street is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It features wide sidewalks, fountains, and benches, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Nguyen Hue Walking Street frequently hosts a variety of cultural events, concerts, and public performances. From traditional Vietnamese music and dance to modern pop concerts, there is always something happening to entertain visitors. During holidays and special occasions, the Nguyen Hue Walking Street is adorned with festive decorations and lights, making it a hub of activity and celebration.
Address: 36 Ho Tung Mau, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM daily
Ticket Price: Approximately 200,000 VND (~$9 USD)
Located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, the Saigon Skydeck offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the bustling streets and iconic landmarks, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. The Skydeck also provides informative displays about the city’s history and key landmarks.
Address: Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
Known as the backpacker street, Bui Vien Street comes alive at night with bars, restaurants, and clubs. It's a great place for nightlife enthusiasts to experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City. At night, young people often head there to enjoy street performances and live music with some drinks.
Now, that you all know some great places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, let’s explore the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, linked to the city’s iconic landmarks and areas.
Begin your Ho Chi Minh City Day Tour with a guided walking tour that includes the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Learn about the French colonial architecture and the historical significance of these landmarks. Don't forget to take some beautiful photos of the cathedral's exterior, even if the interior is closed for renovation.
Then, inside the Central Post Office, you can buy unique Vietnamese stamps and send a postcard to friends and family back home. This is an interesting gift for your friend marking your unforgettable Ho Chi Minh City trip.
Ben Thanh Market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties. The shoppers here know basic English and other foreign languages, thus, bargaining is a common practice here, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
Ben Thanh Market is also famous for its diverse street food stalls. Hop on a Ho Chi Minh City tour by trying local delicacies like Pho, Banh Mi, and fresh spring rolls. The night market around Ben Thanh also offers an excellent opportunity to taste different Vietnamese dishes.
Take a guided tour of the Reunification Palace to explore its preserved meeting rooms, presidential quarters, and underground bunker. The Reunification Palace played an important role in Vietnam history, especially during the fall of Saigon in 1975. After your tour, take a leisurely stroll in the palace’s beautiful gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Spend a day with your family exploring the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. The zoo houses a variety of animals such as monkeys, tigers, and horses... and the botanical gardens offer a serene environment with lush greenery and beautiful plants. Visit the small museum within the zoo to learn about Vietnam's flora and fauna.
Taking a Vespa tour to experience Ho Chi Minh City in different way. These tours offer a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to weave through bustling Ho Chi Minh City streets and discover the local life pace. Then, stop at some restaurant to enjoy delicious street food, visit trendy bars, and see the city lights from a different viewpoint.
Experience the charm of Ho Chi Minh City from the water with an evening dinner cruise on the Saigon River. These cruises often include a delicious meal, live music, and stunning views of the city’s skyline. Daytime cruises offer a different perspective of the city, allowing you to see bustling river activity and scenic spots along the riverbanks. These cruises can provide a relaxing escape from the city's busy streets.
For a more exclusive experience, consider booking a luxury or private charter. These options provide personalized service and often include extras like champagne, gourmet dining, and customized itineraries.
Taking a 2-deck bus tour offers a convenient and flexible way to explore Ho Chi Minh City. These tours allow you to hop on and off at various key attractions, making it easy to see multiple sites in one day. It’s a great way to take in the city's vibrant streets and architectural landmarks from an elevated perspective. Many 2-deck bus tours provide informative audio commentary in multiple languages, giving you insights into the history and culture of Ho Chi Minh City as you travel.
Ho Chi Minh City is a major travel hub in Vietnam, thus, tourists can take various transportation options for getting there and moving around the city.
Ho Chi Minh City is well-connected to other major cities in Vietnam by air, road, and rail.
- By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the primary gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. It receives domestic flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, and other cities, as well as international flights from major destinations worldwide. If you wonder how to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh, we recommend taking flights from Hanoi taking around 2.5 hours from 2,500,000-5,000,000 VND ($100-$200)
- By Road: Travelers can also reach Ho Chi Minh City by long-distance buses from cities like Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Can Tho. The journey duration varies depending on the distance, typically ranging from 6 to 12 hours.
- By Train: Although less common, Ho Chi Minh City is accessible by train from northern and central Vietnam. Trains from Hanoi take approximately 30 hours to reach the city.
Once in Ho Chi Minh City, choose your means of transportation to explore the city in your style.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Make sure to choose reputable companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh, and insist on using the meter to avoid overcharging.
- Private Car: Renting a private car with a driver is a comfortable option for exploring the city at your own pace. Many hotels and travel agencies offer this service, often with English-speaking drivers.
- Ride-Hailing Services: Grab, Be and XanhSM are popular ride-hailing apps in Ho Chi Minh City. They provide convenient and affordable transportation options with upfront pricing. You can book cars or motorcycles (GrabBike) depending on your preference and the traffic situation.
- Public Bus: Ho Chi Minh City has an extensive public bus network, with routes covering most parts of the city. Bus fares are inexpensive just about 7,000 VND ($0.3), but routes and schedules may be challenging for non-Vietnamese speakers to navigate.
- Walking and Cycling: Exploring on foot or by bicycle is a great way to experience the city's vibrant street life and narrow alleys. Many areas, especially around District 1 and along the riverside, are pedestrian-friendly.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling streets, Ho Chi Minh City offers travelers a memorable experience. By staying informed and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding visit to this dynamic Ho Chi Minh City.
These Ho Chi Minh travel tips will help you navigate Ho Chi Minh City confidently, ensuring your focus remains on exploring its attractions and enjoying its unique charm. Don’t hesitate to contact Incredible Asia Journeys to get free consultations and authentic local advice for your Vietnam trips hassle-free.
