12 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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This vibrant Vietnamese city has many exciting things to see and do, and was easily one of the highlights of my recent trip to Southeast Asia.
Also known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh city was renamed after the reunification of Vietnam in 1976 to honour leader of the communist party Ho Chi Minh. Although many of the local people still refer to the city as Saigon, you won’t find this on any of the official signage or documents.
Ho Chi Minh himself played a key role in the Vietnam war, leading the communist party in northern Vietnam as they fought against the American backed armies in the south. He passed away in 1969, and while there are a number of monuments that commemorate his life, the bronze statue in front of the City Hall in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most iconic.
This historical landmark is free to visit and located inside the peaceful Ho Chi Minh Square, set against the iconic backdrop of the French colonial City Hall building.
13 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
Where Is Ho Chi Minh City?
Located in the south of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is based along the Saigon River near the Mekong Delta. At only 80 miles away from the South China Sea, the city is easily accessible from the coast and is the country’s largest economic hub.
Visitors to the country can access Ho Chi Minh City directly by flying into its main airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The city is also easily accessibly by sea, with cruise ships regularly docking at Phu My Port.
The journey from the cruise terminal to Ho Chi Minh city is around a 1.5 - 2 hour drive away, and many cruise lines offer shuttle services for their passengers. It might sound like a long distance, but day trips from Phu My Port are definitely do-able.
All of these locations are viewable on the map above, which also shows a selection of local accommodation options.
Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting?
The answer to this is 100% yes! I spent two days exploring the city as part of a cruise around Southeast Asia with Viking Cruises and definitely want to return in the future.
There’s so much to see and do here - whether you want to spend time exploring the city itself, or use it as a base to go further afield. Lots of the main landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Saigon Opera House are even within walking distance of each other, with the Independence Palace and Ben Thanh Market not far away.
Book lovers will adore Ho Chi Minh City’s Book Street, which is lined with bookshops, stalls and cafes, located next to the cathedral. I didn’t realise this existed at first and was completely enthralled, spending many hours here browsing the shops and reading in one of the cafes.
To further immerse yourself in Vietnam’s history, consider booking a tour to see the infamous Chu Chi Tunnels which were used by the Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. Many of these tours leave from Ho Chi Minh City, making it the ideal starting point for further exploration.
I definitely plan to return to Vietnam one day to continue exploring Ho Chi Minh City, and also to travel up to the country’s capital, Hanoi.
What Is Ho Chi Minh Known For
Life in this bustling and vibrant city is fast paced, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to do.
Eclectic Architecture
As with many countries around the world, Vietnam’s architecture reflects its varied history and really is fascinating to see. Here you’ll encounter traditional pagodas alongside contemporary skyscrapers, which reflect the city’s rapid economic growth.
You’ll also find many beautiful colonial style buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, including the Saigon Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral. These date back to the French colonisation of Vietnam, which lasted nearly 1000 years, and ended after the First Indochina War.
Delicious Street Food
With an endless number of family run stalls and cafes to sample, you really could spend years tasting Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene. If you’re limited on time or simply want more guidance on the very best places to try, then it’s worth booking a street food tour with a local guide.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not join the locals by hopping on a motorbike tour? This popular food and sightseeing tour escorts guests through five districts and 7 - 12 tasting opportunities that include local delicacies such as BBQ beef with betel leaf, banana crackers and banh mi.
Vibrant Nightlife
A city that’s popular with travellers from all around the world, Ho Chi Minh City has a vibrant nightlife scene for all ages and budgets. Bui Vien Street is considered to be the heart of backpacker nightlife. Packed with hotels, bars and restaurants, this mile long street is incredibly popular and has a vibrant atmosphere.
For a more elevated experience, head to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s many rooftop bars to enjoy a cocktail or two. The Twilight Sky Bar offers incredible views of the Saigon skyline and has a classy, chilled out feel. Alternatively, the Social Club Rooftop Bar pairs buzzing DJ sets with signature cocktails for a more lively vibe.
Affordable prices
Vietnam is known to be an affordable location for many overseas visitors, with currencies like the US Dollar, British Pound and Euro going a long way once converted into Vietnamese Dong. This makes it the ideal country for travellers who are on a budget.
All of the essentials including food, transport and accommodation are available for a low cost. For example, a meal in a local restaurant will generally set you back between $2-3 USD, with higher prices for more gourmet options. Street food can sometimes cost even less, with a pint of beer typically setting you back less than $1 USD.
The hotels and hostels in Ho Chi Minh City are similarly well priced, with the most luxurious five star properties offering rooms for less than $200 USD per night. If you’re looking to keep spending low, then you can check into a hostel from just $10 USD per night.
How Many Days In Ho Chi Minh Is Enough?
While two days works well as part of a cruise holiday, and gives you enough time to see the local landmarks, I would definitely recommend spending a further two or three days in Ho Chi Minh City if you can. This will allow you the time to explore the city in a more leisurely way, while also having the chance to tour the Mekong Delta and the Chu Chi Tunnels.
Therefore, I would recommend allocating anywhere between two and five days in Ho Chi Minh City, depending on your itinerary and exploration style.
What To Do In Ho Chi Minh City
Here is my complete guide to some of the very best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, covering tours and classes, as well as a variety of free options.
Join a Tour of the City
Regardless of your exploration style, there are many Ho Chi Minh City tours to suit all preferences. If you want to sit back, relax and enjoy the sights, then this Panoramic City Bus Tour is for you. Lasting for 45 minutes and running throughout the day, this tour makes the perfect introduction to the city and will introduce you to all of the main landmarks.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, then this Five District Motorbike Tour might be more your style. Join a local guide for a private tour of the city, where you’ll explore hidden gems, local markets and learn about day-to-day life in Ho Chi Minh City.
Those who want to get their steps in should consider booking a walking tour instead. This top rated group tour lasts for three hours, featuring top locations such as the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office, before stopping for a Vietnamese coffee and ending on Book Street.
For a full list of the tours available, take a look at the Get Your Guide Website here.
Visit the Local Landmarks Independently
While joining an organised tour with a local guide can be a great way to learn about the city, taking the time to explore independently can also be educational and enjoyable. The main perk of exploring on your own means that you can spend as long as you like in each location, and adapt your route to suit your own personal interests.
Make sure you visit the Saigon Post Office, Notra-Dame Cathedral and Independence Palace, as well as the Saigon Opera House, War Museum and Book Street. All of these destinations are within walking distance of each other and easy to find. Just make sure to take care when crossing the road, which can sometimes be hazardous due to the sheer number of motorbikes!
Take a Cooking Class
Whether you’re a keen culinary expert or a complete beginner, joining a cooking class can be a fantastic and immersive way to get to know a city.
This fantastic class offers the opportunity to cook a delicious three course meal, with an optional excursion to a local food market. Vegetarian alternatives are available and all guests leave with a cookbook that features 25+ local recipes to try at home.
This class is the ideal way to learn about the flavours, spices and cooking techniques that span Vietnam's broad culinary heritage in a hands on way, led by a friendly local chef.
Book your space on this Immersive Cooking Class & Market Tour here.
Try the local street food
Sampling the street food is a must when visiting Ho Chi Minh City, and booking a tour will ensure that you don’t waste time and visit the best spots!
This private motorbike tour will whisk you across the city at nighttime to taste 9 different dishes and unlimited drinks at the best local food stalls. Your guide will escort you down bustling alleys and teach you about Vietnamese food culture and the stories behind the dishes. Some of the delicious foods include Vietnamese rice pancakes, coconut ice cream and grilled banana cakes.
If motorbikes aren’t your thing, then this walking tour might be more suitable for you. Not only does it cost less, but this three hour group tour includes 13 tastings that include fried bao buns, Vietnamese pizza and banh mi.
My mouth is absolutely watering while writing this!
Book a paper flower workshop
For a unique experience, book a place on this workshop and learn a traditional craft that originates from Thanh Tien village in Hue. Led by a skilled local artisan, this class involves using paper to create beautiful coloured flowers.
You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the wonderful pink Tan Dinh Church, as well as a Hue-inspired cafe for a Vietnamese coffee, leaving with a paper flower of your own to take home.
Book your space on the Get Your Guide website here.
Shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market
This self-led activity can cost as much or as little as you would like, as you spend time exploring the famous Ben Thanh Market.
Considered to be Ho Chi Minh City’s central market, here you’ll find more than 1,500 vendors selling everything you can imagine. Exploring the market itself is quite the experience, with tightly packed stalls and shopkeepers who call out to you as you pass.
Make sure to support the local people by picking up a few souvenirs, and don’t forget to haggle on the price, which is a core part of the experience. If you’re after a bite to eat, then stop by the extensive food court after perusing the stalls.
Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda
A must-visit cultural location in Ho Chi Minh City, the Jade Emperor Pagoda was built in 1909 in honour of the Vietnamese god of the same name.
The pagoda itself is fascinating, with Chinese inspired architecture and an interior filled with statues and wood carvings. Make sure to dress respectfully when visiting, which includes covering the shoulders and knees, as well as removing shoes, hats and sunglasses.
The Jade Emperor is free to enter, although donations are encouraged.
Tour Ho Chi Minh City’s Finest Museums
History buffs can spend hours exploring the variety of museums that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. This includes the well known Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, as well as the War Remnants Museum, which highlights the devastating impact of Agent Orange.
Other lesser known museums include the Ho Chi Minh City History Museum, the Southern Women’s Museum, and the Museum of Traditional Medicine.
You can visit some of these museums by booking a guided tour on the Get Your Guide website here.
Cruise Down the Saigon River
Cutting through Districts 1 and 2, where many of the major landmarks are located, the Saigon River has long been a central part of life in Ho Chi Minh City.
As well as being a modern day tourist attraction, the river has been used throughout history for transportation and trade. The Saigon River also connects Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, with its rice paddies and floating markets in southwestern Vietnam.
For a more formal experience, book this three hour Saigon River cruise which is accompanied by dinner and live music. This is a great way to experience Ho Chi Minh City at night, while sampling Vietnamese cuisine. One soft drink is included in the ticket price, as is pickup and drop off from your hotel.
Alternatively, try this one hour daytime river cruise which is accompanied by a knowledgable local tour guide. You’ll have the chance to view a number of the city’s landmarks, including Dragon Wharf and the Bitexco Financial Tower, on a roundtrip from Saigon Waterbus Station.
Book your ticket on the Get Your Guide website here.
Visit the nearby Chu Chi Tunnels
Ho Chi Minh City makes an excellent base for exploring southern Vietnam, where there’s lots of interesting things to see and do.
One tourist favourite is the historic Chu Chi Tunnels, which were used by the guerrilla fighters during the Vietnam War. You’ll have the opportunity to descend into the tunnels themselves and discover hidden kitchens, living quarters, and hospitals that were used by the fighters themselves. You’ll even have the opportunity to fire war-era guns - under close supervision of course!
This tour includes return transport from Ho Chi Minh City via an air conditioned vehicle, with an English speaking tour guide, tickets to the attraction and a bottle of water. Book your place here.
Explore the Mekong Delta
Continue down the Saigon River to explore the Mekong Delta, which is located to the south of Ho Chi Minh City.
This guided tour escorts guests by limousine to the Chi Chi Tunnels, and onwards to the Mekong Delta. Here you will enjoy a total of two river cruises, beginning with a row boat along coconut-lined canals, and onwards via a motorboat to Coconut Island.
The trip includes a home visit where you can try local delicacies including honey tea and tropical fruits.
Book your place on the Chu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta tour here.
Visit the Cao Dai Temple and Black Virgin Mountain
This day trip from Ho Chi Minh City includes a stop at the Chu Chi Tunnels, before travelling onwards to Cao Dai Temple, which is the central place of worship for Caodaism.
The last portion of the tour visits the foot of the Black Virgin Mountain, which is located on the outskirts of Tây Ninh City. Reaching heights of 986 meters/3,268 feet, visitors can ascend to the mountain’s peak via a cable car, which takes 20 minutes and soars over masses of tropical rainforest.
At the very top you’ll find a pagoda dedicated to Bà Đen, and is considered to be a site of religious pilgrimage.
Book your ticket on this incredible tour here.
Thank you for reading, and whatever you choose to do, I hope that you have an amazing time exploring Ho Chi Minh City!