What to See and Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the largest city in Vietnam, offering an abundance of attractions, activities, and opportunity for exploration. With its dynamic culture and cuisines, it’s little wonder that the nation’s largest city is now one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world.

The sprawling metropolis has something for everyone – whether you are looking for an exhilarating surfing adventure, Vietnamese street food, or simply a chance to explore fascinating ancient monuments. Visiting this unique corner of the world is like being swallowed in a vortex of energy and excitement–there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore the Iconic War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit if you are exploring Ho Chi Minh City. The museum was created in 1975 and is located in a former US Army base. It collects and exhibits artifacts, documents, films, and numerous other material related to the Vietnam War. The museum aims to promote peace and understanding about the war and its aftermath.

Artifacts on display include photographs, artillery pieces, bomb remnants, fighter jets and more. One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is an impressive collection of tanks captured from various forces during the war, including those from the US military. The museum also features interactive exhibits such as a recreated prison cell, guerilla tunnels, and more.

Visit Cao Dai Temple & Cu Chi Tunnels

Cao Dai Temple is a large temple with impressive architecture. It is dedicated to the Cao Dai religion, a mix of Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Confucianism which has its origins in Vietnam. The temple is a popular attraction for both Vietnamese locals and tourists alike. The main attractions here include a grand entrance with a grand palace surrounded by giant statues of elephant heads and the main garden with a path of dragon iconography.

The Cu Chi tunnels are an impressive and unique attraction near Ho Chi Minh City. The tunnels were built by the Viet Cong during the war as part of their underground network. Today, it is one of the best-preserved historical sites in Vietnam, offering visitors an insight into the ingenious construction methods of the Viet Cong during the war.

Visiting the Cu Chi tunnels is an unforgettable experience in Ho Chi Minh City. You will learn about the war and its devastating effects on Vietnam through educational displays, which share stories of bravery, hardships, and resolution. You will also have the chance to walk through a few of the tunnels and witness how life must have been like for those who lived in them during the war.

Spend Time at Saigon Central Post Office

Another fascinating attraction in Ho Chi Minh City is Saigon Central Post Office. This beautiful building was designed by Gustave Eiffel (the designer of the Eiffel tower) and completed in 1891. It is an iconic representation of French influence in Vietnam during the late 19th century. Inside this beautiful building, travelers can buy stamps or postcards, or even sit down for a cup of coffee at one of its two cafes inside. The post office also offers souvenirs and unique items for purchase — all at incredibly reasonable prices.

Enjoy Local Cuisine & Shopping on Nguyen Hue Walking Street

If you’re looking for some great local cuisine, then you should head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street — an iconic street filled with restaurants offering various dishes from all over Vietnam. This lively street offers not only delicious food but also shopping experiences for tourists or locals looking for unique souvenirs to take home. You can also find unique street food stalls offering up tasty treats such as bun cha (Vietnamese grilled pork), pho (noodle soup with beef), banh xeo (Vietnamese crepes), and many more mouth-watering dishes.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street also features boutique stores that stock vintage clothing items, handmade jewelry, and more! You can easily spend hours admiring all that the street has to offer — from its vibrant atmosphere to its many great eateries — this is certainly one of the top destinations to experience in Ho Chi Min

An Insider’s Guide to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it’s still known to many locals, is a city bursting with energy and life. From the historic landmarks to the vibrant alleys, the city never fails to impress. For those looking for something different than the usual tourist spots, here are a few insider tips that will make your trip to Ho Chi Minh City unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While you won’t want to miss iconic sights like the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Independence Palace, there are lesser-known attractions that shouldn’t be missed. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a beautiful temple tucked away in District 1 that’s dedicated to various Taoist gods. For some local shopping, check out Ba Chieu Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

For a truly unique experience, head to the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market. Open 24 hours a day, this market offers a glimpse into the city’s bustling night life, with the aroma of fresh flowers filling the air.

Dining Spots

Vietnamese cuisine is world-renowned, and no trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without sampling some of the local dishes. Start with the famous banh mi, a sandwich filled with meat, pickled vegetables, and herbs.

For street vendors that have been around for decades, head to Nguyen Van Cu or Ban Co food streets in District 5, where you’ll find an array of flavors. Be sure to try com tam (broken rice served with grilled pork), bun mam (noodle soup with fermented fish), and hu tieu (a noodle soup with seafood).

Cultural Experiences

Ho Chi Minh City has a rich cultural heritage that should be explored. Visit the War Remnants Museum to understand the city’s history during the Vietnam War. The Saigon Opera House, built in 1900, boasts a stunning French colonial architecture that is worth seeing.

To experience a traditional art form, attend a water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. Traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances can be seen at the Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera house.

Local History

Delve into the city’s past by learning about lesser-known stories. Visit the Saigon Central Post Office, where the famous Vietnam war-era photograph of a grieving peasant woman was snapped by Malcolm Browne.

The Reunification Palace was the site of the end of the Vietnam War, and visitors can still see the tanks that crashed through the gates in 1975. A more solemn experience is a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, where Vietnamese soldiers hid and fought during the war.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a trip to the Mekong Delta. You can book a day trip from the city and experience the lush countryside, floating markets, and delicious food of the region.

For a touch of nature, visit the Can Gio Biosphere Reserve, just an hour from the city. You’ll find a mix of protected mangroves and wildlife, as well as beaches and seafood restaurants along the coast.

With this Insider’s Guide to Ho Chi Minh City, you’re ready to create your own adventure in this vibrant city. Embrace your sense of curiosity, try new foods, and explore off the beaten path for the experience of a lifetime.