Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest and most energetic metropolis. From French colonial landmarks and bustling street markets to world-class dining and dynamic nightlife, there’s no shortage of reasons why millions of travelers fall in love with this city every year.
This Ho Chi Minh City travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable journey in 2025—whether you’re here for a quick city break or a week-long adventure.
1. 🏛️ Must-See Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
📍1.1 War Remnants Museum
A moving and powerful museum documenting the Vietnam War, featuring photographs, tanks, and personal stories. A must-visit for history lovers.
📍1.2 Cu Chi Tunnels
Located just outside the city, this underground network played a vital role in the war. Tours are available daily, offering insight into Vietnam’s resilience.
📍1.3 Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Built by French colonists in the 19th century, this red-brick cathedral is an iconic landmark and a symbol of Saigon’s colonial past.
📍1.4 Ben Thanh Market
A lively and chaotic market where you can shop for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and sample authentic Vietnamese street food.
📍1.5 Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
The former presidential palace that witnessed the fall of Saigon in 1975. The architecture and history here are both fascinating.
🧭 Tip: Use a local guide or audio tour for deeper context when visiting historic landmarks.
2. 🍜 What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is a food lover’s dream. Whether dining in a sleek rooftop restaurant or grabbing a bánh mì on the street, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Pho Saigon – Southern-style pho with herbs and lime
- Bánh Mì – French-Vietnamese fusion sandwich
- Com Tam (Broken Rice) – A savory plate of grilled pork, egg, and rice
- Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls) – Light and refreshing, often served with peanut sauce
- Hu Tieu – A sweet-savory noodle soup native to the South
🍽️ Foodie Tip: Join a street food tour for a safe and fun way to explore local eats!
3. 🛌 Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Choosing the right neighborhood is key to a great trip. Here’s a breakdown:
🏨 District 1 (D1) – Best for First-Time Visitors
Central, lively, and close to major attractions like Ben Thanh Market and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
🏨 District 3 – Cultural & Authentic
More local flavor with great cafes, parks, and colonial villas.
🏨 District 5 (Chinatown) – Historical and Underrated
Known as Cholon, it offers vibrant markets and temples.
🏨 District 7 – Quiet & Modern
Ideal for families and long-term travelers, with upscale vibes and green spaces.
Hotel Picks:
- Luxury: The Reverie Saigon, Park Hyatt
- Mid-Range: Fusion Suites, Silverland Yen
- Budget: Lela Homestay, City Backpackers Hostel
4. 🛵 How to Get Around in Ho Chi Minh City
Traffic in Ho Chi Minh City is famously chaotic but manageable with the right tools.
Transport Options:
- Grab App – Easy rideshare for cars and bikes
- Taxis – Use trusted companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh
- Public Buses – Cheapest way to travel; bus routes cover most of the city
- Walking – Best for exploring District 1 and street food areas
🚦 Safety Tip: Always cross the street slowly and steadily—motorbikes will flow around you.
5. 🧳 Travel Tips for 2025
- Best Time to Visit: December to March – dry and cooler season
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); cards are accepted at hotels and malls, but cash is king
- Wi-Fi & SIM Cards: Affordable data with Viettel or Mobifone
- Power Outlets: Type A, C, and D (220V)
6. 🛍️ Where to Shop in Ho Chi Minh City
🛒 Markets:
- Ben Thanh Market – Best for souvenirs
- Binh Tay Market – Local experience in Chinatown
- An Dong Market – Fabrics and fashion
🏢 Malls:
- Vincom Center
- Takashimaya Vietnam
- Saigon Centre
🧥 Bargaining Tip: In markets, start at 50% and settle around 70%.
7. 🌇 Nightlife and Entertainment
From rooftop bars to live music cafés, the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is as diverse as its cuisine.
Nightlife Hotspots:
- Bui Vien Street – Backpacker nightlife with bars, clubs, and late-night eats
- Rooftop Bars – Chill at Chill Skybar or Saigon Saigon Rooftop
- Live Music & Jazz – Acoustic Bar, Sax n’ Art Jazz Club
🍻 Tip: Drinks are affordable, but always check for happy hour deals!
8. 🌿 Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City
Want to escape the hustle for a day? Here are your best options:
- Mekong Delta – River cruises, floating markets, and village life
- Vung Tau – A coastal city just 2 hours away
- Can Gio Biosphere Reserve – Mangroves and monkeys
- Tay Ninh & Cao Dai Temple – Spiritual day out with mountain cable car
9. 🎯 Hidden Gems in Ho Chi Minh City
Avoid the crowds and discover the local soul of the city:
- The Cafe Apartments – Retro building turned hip café complex
- Thich Quang Duc Memorial – Tribute to the monk’s sacrifice
- Le Van Tam Park – Peaceful morning strolls
- Saigon Outcast – Art, skateboarding, beer garden vibe
10. ✅ Sample Itinerary (3 Days)
Day 1: War Remnants Museum → Ben Thanh Market → Bui Vien Street
Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels → Street Food Tour → Skybar
Day 3: Notre-Dame Cathedral → Shopping → Sunset cruise on Saigon River
