TOP THINGS TO DO in HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, a chaotic and massive city in Southern Vietnam, is worth a visit.

We have compiled a list of the top things to do and see in Ho Chi Minh City, from the most popular tourist attractions to vague, must-see ideas!

Although you may have heard of Ho Chi Minh City as Saigon in its former name, the name was changed after the Vietnam War to honor the leader of the communist party of the same name. Ho Chi Minh is now one of the most popular places in Southeast Asia.

Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s biggest city and most visited, is home to more than 8 million people. Ho Chi Minh City is home to a multitude of activities. It’s worth spending time in Saigon to see them all.

Take a walk down Bui Vien Street.

This Street is bustling during the day with tourists searching for places to eat, shop or recover from hangovers. Bui Vien Street is alive at night, with backpackers drinking in the many bars that line the Street. If you enjoy the nightlife, take at least one evening off to visit the bars along this street.

Although Bui Vien Street may be as iconic and thrilling as it sounds, it does not accurately represent Ho Chi Minh City. You should explore the rest of the city to discover the best restaurants and fully experience the city.

Explore the Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of French architecture. Its two bell towers rise 60m (196ft) above the ground. Notre Dame Cathedral, Basilica of Saigon, built between 1863-1880, was designed for French colonialists. It is still in use today.

These buildings are surrounded by functional Vietnamese apartment buildings and many mopeds whizzing by, contrasting them to everything else.

Visit the Saigon Central Post Office

The beautiful colonial architecture of the Saigon Central Post Office can be found right next to the Notre Dame Basilica. The original telephone booths still exist, and the post office is functional. We sent a package of clothes we had made in Vietnam to our home.

This building was built in 1886, just a few months after Notre Dame was finished. It is yet another fine example of French colonial design.

These buildings serve as a reminder of the country’s rich history and are worth a visit.

Visit Independence Palace

The Independence Palace is one of the most popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. This is where the American War-era president of South Vietnam lived. The reunification of North Vietnam and South Vietnam is symbolized by Ho Chi Minh City’s Independence Palace.

In 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through this gate, marking the end of the Vietnam War.

Apart from its historical importance, the architecture is impressive and exemplifies the war’s martial purpose.

You can purchase tickets to explore the grounds if you have the time. Although there is little to see, it is an important place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit The War Remnants museum.

Vietnam War was over 50 years ago. It continues to have a significant impact on the lives of many Vietnamese. It is still considered recent history. We found it fascinating that the Vietnam War was called the American War by the Vietnamese.

Visiting Vietnam is a good time to spend some time learning about Vietnam and thinking about its effects on its people.

One of the most important things you can do in Ho Chi Minh City is to visit the War Remnants Museum to remember those who died during the Vietnam War. This exhibition shows the causes and consequences of war in stark detail.

The museum will display powerful photographs and propaganda from war journalists. Many victims of Agent Orange volunteer their time to help raise funds and educate tourists about the museum. Although it is not the most inspiring attraction in Ho Chi Minh City, this will make your trip memorable.

Adventure in the Mekong Delta

Although technically, the Mekong delta is just outside Ho Chi Minh City. However, most people only visit it for a few days in the big city.

It is a top attraction in Vietnam. Book an overnight tour of Ho Chi Minh City to see its beauty.

The drive to the Mekong delta takes about three hours by bus. It is a beautiful way to discover Ho Chi Minh City’s size. Driving for up to two hours was possible without feeling like you were in a big city.

Eventually, you will make it out of the city, where everything quietens and becomes significantly less hectic.

An organized tour can also be booked, such as the one we took on our first trip to Vietnam. This is a great way to experience the best Mekong delta with a guide.

About the Mekong delta

You can experience Vietnamese people’s real, authentic life in the Mekong Delta. You can take a boat trip down the canals alongside the Mekong river, whether with a group or on your own.

You will come across floating markets that sell everything, from fruits and vegetables to fake clothing and conical hats.

Spending a night here is a great idea to make the most out of the long drive.

This area has no luxury hotels, so it’s a chance to stay in a homestay with locals.

• Book a full-day Mekong Delta Tour with Get Your Guide.
• You can cancel your booking for free and receive a full refund within 24hrs.

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

To hide from American, South Vietnamese, and French soldiers in the 20th century, the communists of North Vietnam (Viet Cong) built a network of tunnels that covered most of the country.

Tourists can now see the Vietnam War through the eyes of a section of the Cu Chi tunnels in the Cu Chi District of Ho Chi Minh City.

Cu Chi Tunnels Experience

You can walk around the Cu Chi tunnels and imagine what it was like being a Vietnamese soldier (or American soldier) during the Vietnam War.

A particularly fascinating display is of the Vietnamese traps. These traps were created to kill or mortally injure American soldiers.

To feel how claustrophobic tunnels can be, you can also crawl through them. This was one of the most memorable experiences in the tunnel. Make sure to do it!

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Built in 1909 by the Chinese Community of Ho Chi Minh City, the Jade Emperor Pagoda replicates the original Chinese Community. The Emperor Pagoda, one of the most important temples dedicated to the supreme Taoist God, is not to miss.

It is a peaceful sanctuary and one of the best places to escape from the chaos in Ho Chi Minh City.

Many halls are filled with intricate carvings, woodwork, and burning incense. The Hall of 10 Hells depicts the ten levels of hell.

Take a look at The Cafe Apartment.

This apartment complex was built during the Vietnam War. It was initially used as a headquarters by American military officers. Today, it houses a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. This is one of the most unusual things you can do in Ho Chi Minh City, and we highly recommend it.

The Cafe Apartment is a collection of shops and cafes on each floor. Although it has a natural abandoned feel, many exciting places exist.

The building can be accessed via an alleyway. This is because the best spots in Ho Chi Minh City are down alleyways. You will find a lift, stairs, and a guard at the elevator.

You can take the elevator for 3,000 VND. However, if you are fit, we recommend taking the stairs. You can then explore each level quickly. You can also take the lift up and then walk down.

This building was not intended to be a shopping center. The building is an apartment complex with various shops behind every door. You can easily spend hours in each store.