Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a major city in southern Vietnam with deep historical roots, especially related to the Vietnam War. The city is filled with French colonial buildings like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, built with materials brought from France, and the beautiful Central Post Office from the 19th century.
Street food is a big part of life here, especially around the lively Bến Thành Market, where visitors can enjoy local dishes and shop for souvenirs. For those interested in history, the War Remnants Museum, the Củ Chi Tunnels, and the Independence Palace offer a closer look at the city’s wartime past—especially the events of April 1975, when tanks from the north rolled through the palace gates.
Nature lovers can visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, which are home to animals like elephants and tigers, as well as rare flowers. The nearby Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve offers a peaceful escape with its mangrove forests and native wildlife.
For a more spiritual experience, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a must-see, filled with incense, statues, and a pond where turtles swim among lotus flowers.
Places to visit in Ho Chin Minh City
Củ Chi Tunnels
The Củ Chi Tunnels are a vast underground network in the Củ Chi District of Ho Chi Minh City. Used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, these tunnels served as hiding spots, communication routes, supply caches, hospitals, and living quarters.
Independence Palace
The Independence Palace, also called the Reunification Convention Hall, was built on the site of the old Norodom Palace. Designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, it was once the home and office of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a historic cathedral in downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Built between 1863 and 1880 by French colonists, it was originally named the Church of Saigon and is known for its impressive architecture.
Bến Thành Market
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Bến Thành Market is one of the oldest and most famous landmarks in the city. With nearly 1,500 booths, it offers everything from fresh produce to luxury goods and attracts both locals and tourists.
Suối Tiên Amusement Park
Suối Tiên Amusement Park in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City, features a variety of attractions based on Vietnam’s history and legends. Visitors can explore areas inspired by famous figures and events like Âu Cơ, Lạc Long Quân, and the Battle of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh.
Bitexco Financial Tower
The Bitexco Financial Tower is a skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City, standing 861 feet tall with 68 floors. It is the second tallest building in the city and includes office spaces, retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment areas.
Phạm Ngũ Lão Street
Phạm Ngũ Lão Street in District 1 is known as the backpacker district of Ho Chi Minh City. This lively area is filled with affordable markets, bars, cafes, and shops, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
Gia Long Palace
Gia Long Palace, now the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, is a historical site that showcases artifacts from Vietnam’s past, including currency, ceramics, and resistance items. The museum preserves thousands of objects across various collections.
VietNam Quoc Tu Pagoda
The VietNam Quoc Tu Pagoda, located in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, is a seven-story building known for its colorful statues of religious figures. Visitors can explore its upper floors during special times of the month.
Thien Hau Temple
The Thien Hau Temple, also called Ba Thien Hau Pagoda, is dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the sea, Mazu. Located in Ho Chi Minh City’s Cho Lon area, the temple is adorned with delicate porcelain figurines depicting scenes from Chinese legends.
Best Time To Visit Ho Chin Minh City
The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is between December and March when the weather is cooler, dry, and ideal for exploring the city.
