Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is an ancient city that if you have ever set foot in once, you will definitely want to come again. Perhaps because this place is so special, a place that has witnessed a series of famous historical events, a place that has endured so much loss but still developed until now, a place where the people of Vietnam were born and raised, we preserve, conserve and develop the cultural heritage that our ancestors have left with immense pride.
Therefore, even though many years have passed, the historical sites and rich traditional culture of Vietnam are still sustained until now. When you come here, have you ever wondered: “What are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City?” or “Is there a guide list to not miss any worthwhile experiences in Ho Chi Minh City?” If so, then this article is for you. Let’s explore the 21 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City to turn your days in Vietnam into the most unforgettable memories!
Note That You Can Experience the Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City.
Visa and immigration procedures
- Check if your country requires a visa to enter Vietnam.
- If you do not have a visa, you can apply for an e-visa up to 30 days in advance.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
Language
- The main language is Vietnamese, and English is also quite popular in Vietnam.
- You can learn some basic phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello), “Cảm ơn” (Thank you), and “Tạm biệt” (Goodbye). This will help you become more familiar with the local people.
Currency
- The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). For convenience, you should exchange money for Vietnamese currency at the airport or banks in Vietnam.
Weather
- Due to the tropical monsoon climate, Vietnam has two distinct seasons: the rainy and dry seasons. Therefore, you need to check the weather before going to avoid prolonged rainy seasons or intense heat waves that can affect your health.
- The ideal time with a pleasant climate usually starts from November to April.
Transportation
- In a big city like Ho Chi Minh, traffic can be quite congested, so you need to prepare in advance the skill of crossing the road to ensure safety.
- If you have a driver’s license, you can rent a motorbike to commute, and don’t worry if you don’t have a license yet, you can rent a bicycle to explore every corner of the city.
Electricity
- In Vietnam, the voltage is usually used with socket types C, and F. If your socket is not compatible, bring an adapter.
- Always have a portable charger ready to avoid running out of battery and missing the chance to take beautiful photos!
Respect the culture
- You can learn about customs and traditions in the place you want to visit beforehand.
- When visiting places like temples, shrines, or churches, please pay attention to wearing appropriate and modest clothing.
Now you have packed your luggage, pick up your suitcase and let’s go to the following places!
Let’s Explore the 21 Best Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City
Stroll through Ben Thanh Market
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
When it comes to the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, it is impossible not to mention the morning at Ben Thanh market. The market was built by the French in the 1870s and has become a long-standing symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.
One special thing here is that locals rarely go to Ben Thanh market every day. For middle-aged and older people, they often go to the “Wet market” to buy fresh ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, and even live animals. They believe that here they can buy clean vegetables, clean meat, and freshly slaughtered meat. On the other hand, younger generations tend to focus on supermarkets or convenience stores to buy fast food.
However, the Ben Thanh market is still worth a visit. The market has four gates in the East, West, South, and North directions, where various types of clothes, souvenirs, handmade items, and food stalls for tourists. If you don’t know Vietnamese, don’t worry, the sellers here can speak multiple languages to communicate with customers. When negotiating a purchase, you can comfortably bargain if you find the price too high to save costs.
- Hours: 4 AM – 6 PM
- Address: 6 Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Read more: Ben Thanh Street Food Market: Explore The Unique Food Town Hall
Walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a gathering place for young people in Ho Chi Minh City, especially during festivals, art exhibitions, or music events. You can come here in the evening to enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city. Moreover, during peak seasons such as when Vietnam participates in football tournaments in the semi-finals or finals, a stage and LED screen will be set up here for people to gather and cheer for the team. Regardless of the result, after each match, the people will “go to storm” the city together.
- Address: Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the Landmark 81 and Bitexco Financial Tower
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
If you continue straight from Nguyen Hue Walking Street, you will be able to see both famous buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, Landmark 81 (the tallest building in Vietnam), and Bitexco. The Landmark building is inspired by the design of bamboo representing the character and spirit of the Vietnamese people, and bamboo also has always been the foundation of Vietnam’s diplomacy. The nearby Bitexco building is also motivated by the design of a young bamboo shoot, representing the ever-growing younger generation of Vietnam.
You can visit these buildings for a walk, shopping, or dining as you like. Next to the Landmark building, there is a very spacious park where people often gather with friends or take their dogs out in the cool afternoon.
- Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Address: Landmark 81: 280 Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City | Bitexco Financial Tower: 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Take a Water Bus on the Saigon River
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Walking tired feet at the above locations, then you can choose to relax on the water bus on the Saigon River. This is a unique public transportation and is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Starting from Bach Dang pier, you will pass through Binh An, Thanh Da, and Hiep Binh Chanh piers to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and rare peaceful atmosphere.
- Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM (Monday to Friday) | 7 AM – 11 PM (Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays)
- Address: Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Discover Saigon Off-the-Beaten-Path on Bicycle
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
What do you think about a day immersing yourself in the lives of local people? No dust, no crowded urban areas, you will feel like a true local, as you can pick lotus flowers, wade through rivers, and later cook a meal while chatting with the locals. Exploring Saigon off-the-beaten-path on bicycle will take you to floating markets and lotus house, ancient lands, peaceful lotus fields, and simple hidden people deep within a bustling city like Ho Chi Minh City.
- Hours: 7:30 AM or 1:30 PM
- Address: TK46/28 Hem Ben Chuong Duong, Cau Kho Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Opera House
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Opera House was built in the late 19th century, the theater showcases the Frech architectural style and is the venue for many major cultural and artistic events such as concerts, operas, pellets, historical commemoration events, or important holidays of Vietnam. Usually, there are outdoor shows on Saturday and Sunday mornings. On beautiful days, you can see many couples taking wedding photos or see young girls wearing ao dai walking gracefully on the street.
In front of the house, there used to be a small park with fountains. However, it was later removed to build the first metro project in Ho Chi Minh City. Standing here, you can see The Caravelle Hotel is closely associated with many historical stories. In the past, there was a famous event where former General Nguyen Cao Ky used his helicopter to land on the hotel’s rooftop to propose to fight attendant Dang Tuyen Mai, and then took her to have dinner in Singapore and breakfast in Da Lat.
- Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Admire the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The first stone was laid in 1877 and it took almost three years to build. Until now, the church is still being renovated due to the original design has been lost. At the beginning time, the church did not have the two bell towers, but they were added later to make it distinct from the churches in France.
When coming here, do you remember the clock at Ben Thanh market, and do you know why these buildings have clocks on them like that? Because during the time these buildings were constructed, clocks were considered valuable and expensive, and most people didn’t have access to them. So, installing clocks in these public places allows everyone to check the time easily.
- Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Address: 1 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Try the Street-side Coffee
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The sidewalk cafes may already be familiar to you, but have you ever tried sitting on the ground to drink coffee? This culture is often jokingly referred to as “Cà phê bệt”, every morning, people sit on the ground to enjoy iced coffee and lotus leaf-wrapped sticky rice together. They comfortably chat all over the place to welcome the sunrise in Saigon. This is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that you must try!
However, you should choose places that organize sidewalk coffee legally such as 30/4 Park, Tao Dan Park, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or by the Saigon River.
- Hours: 6 AM – 10 AM|4 PM – 10 PM
Visit the Saigon Central Post Office
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon Central Post Office was constructed from 1886-1891 and depicts classic elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial design. When getting closer to the columns of the post office, you will find the names of the architects of France. Inside the post office, there are many souvenirs for sale here, from jewelry, postcards, and especially the postal service is still operational.
This was also the workplace of Mr. Duong Van Ngo (1930 – 2023). Since starting work at the post office in 1952, he has helped write letters for illiterate people and translated letters into English and French to send abroad. To date, he has written millions of letters and sent them all over the world. Many visitors here are touched when they hear that there was once a hired letter writer who worked the longest in Vietnam and was a “witness to wartime letters.”
- Hours: 7 AM – 7 PM (Monday to Saturday) | 8 AM – 6 PM (Sunday)
- Address: 2 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Book Street
If you step out of the Saigon Post Office, you’ll see Book Street right next to it with a unique design featuring buses filled with books. It is likened to a ship carrying knowledge to humanity. Here, there are many classic books available for sale, ranging from philosophy, history, science, to literature. It is also a place where book launch events of many Vietnamese authors are frequently organized. In April last year, Book Street also had an event to introduce a book named “Wartime Letters” written by a veteran.
- Hours: Book Street: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Address: Book Street: Nguyen Van Binh, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the Independence Palace
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The Independence Palace is often mentioned as the most notable name in Saigon and is one of the important historical symbols of Vietnam. It once served as the residence of the Governor of the Republic of Vietnam, and this regime was overthrown by the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign on April 30, 1975, when the liberation army, led by a tank, crashed through the main gate to enter the palace, bringing down the flag of the Republic of Vietnam and raising the flag of the National Front for the Liberation of Vietnam to fly atop the palace. This marked the end of the war against the United States in Vietnam.
The architecture of the Independence Palace is unique and has up to 19 different rooms. This is also the residence of Mr. Nguyen Cao Ky mentioned above, he is extremely fond of his helicopter, sometimes even landing the helicopter on the top of the palace, damaging all the flowers of Mrs. Mai Anh (wife of President Nguyen Van Thieu), causing her to speak out in reproach. Besides, there are still many stories about the Independence Palace preserved here. Definitely, this is the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City!
Nowadays, besides being open for people to visit, this mansion is also used to welcome heads of state and high-ranking officials on official visits to Vietnam.
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 5 PM (Take a break at 12 PM and reopen at 1 PM)
- Price: Adults: 40.000 VND|Vietnamese Uni Students: 20.000 VND|Child: 10.000 VND
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Visit the War Remnants Museum
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
True to its name, the War Remnants Museum is a place that preserves and reflects the atrocities of the brutal war that the United States inflicted upon Vietnam. The museum has a total of six exhibition rooms, like a slow-rewind film, where you will witness each stage of the resistance, from massacre events, the consequences of Agent Orange, memories, historical truths to the harsh prison regimes and wreckages of planes that once crashed in Vietnam.
The paintings and names remain, but they heroically sacrificed themselves for the country and the homeland. Many foreign visitors have shed tears when visiting the museum, as they could not imagine the horrifying extent of the war. Some even uttered ‘Sorry’ for what their governments had done in the past.
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 6 PM
- Price: Adults: 40.000 VND|Vietnamese Uni Students: 20.000 VND
- Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Discover the Fine Arts Museum
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The Fine Arts Museum is the cradle that preserves many works of Vietnam’s fine arts. The artworks span from the feudal era to modern times, especially classic pieces such as Dong Ho paintings, Young Woman with Lilies, Champa sculpture, or works from the Indochina period.
In addition to admiring the artworks, you can also take photos and check in here, as the ancient architecture blends Vietnamese culture with French colonial influences. This place used to be the residence of Hua Bon Hoa, who had a beautiful daughter who tragically passed away from a severe illness. Because of this, there are still many chilling legends about ‘The Ghost of the Hứa Family.’ When visiting, it’s recommended to go during the day (and leave before 4 PM) to avoid any unwanted spiritual issues.
- Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Monday)
- Price: Adults: 30.000 VND|Vietnamese Uni Students: 15.000 VND
- Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Relax at Tao Dan Park
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Tao Đan Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Ho Chi Minh City. The park has rows of green trees stretching along many paths, creating a cool atmosphere even on sunny days. Because of this, it has become a favorite spot for people of all ages, with various recreational activities organized here. You can freely relax, listen to the birds chirping, exercise, or take a nap. The peaceful feeling will help you refresh your energy for a new day.
- Address: 55 Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy the Cafe Apartment
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
What could be more enticing than an apartment complex filled entirely with cafes? Located right on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the cafe apartment quickly attracts a large crowd, not just locals but also foreign tourists. What makes it special is that these cafés are decorated with a variety of vibrant colors and designs, offering a strong ‘local’ vibe, from the food to the drinks.
There was even a craze called ‘drinking coffee at Nguyen Hue apartment’ that stirred up a lot of curiosity, drawing many to experience it. Some even imagine this place as a unique Rubik’s cube right in the heart of Saigon.
- Hours: 7 AM – 10 PM
- Address: Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thao Cam Vien)
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Currently, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to more than 100 different animal species, including many rare animals native to Vietnam and other countries. While visiting the zoo, you’ll be delighted by the many adorable animals here and their amusing stories.
One notable example is the story of a monkey couple at the zoo. Both parents are clearly black-furred, yet they gave birth to a golden-furred baby. Although the staff clarified that the baby monkey’s fur would change as it grows, they still haven’t fully cleared the ‘love affair scandal’ surrounding the mother. Visitors to the zoo are amused and often record videos, as the monkey couple frequently ‘argue’ about their baby with the different fur color.
- Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Price: Adults: 60.000 VND|Child: 40.000 VND
- Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Kiem Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Read more: 25 Unusual Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the Chinatown (Cho Lon)
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
In the past, Cho Lon was a vast area in Saigon where the Chinese population outnumbered the Vietnamese, dominating many key sectors of the economy. To address this issue, former General Secretary Le Duan launched a campaign to suppress the ‘Hoa Kiều’ (Chinese immigrants), aiming to increase control over Vietnam’s economy. As a result, the Chinese community significantly diminished and is now primarily concentrated in District 5.
In Chinatown, besides the Chinese food shops, you can explore Thien Hau Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lady Thiên Hau (Mazu), the sea goddess who helps fishermen and those in peril at sea. The statues and architecture here hold special meanings. Inside, you can burn incense and write wishes for your peace.
Additionally, you can visit Cha Tam Church, which incorporates both Buddhist and Catholic architectural styles. In the past, when Cha Tam was trying to encourage the local Chinese to convert to Catholicism but saw little success, he made a bold move. He met with a Buddhist abbot and reasoned that since Buddhism had already gained a strong foothold, it was time to help the Catholic faith grow. After receiving approval, Cha Tam began constructing the church, which remains regularly maintained and in use today.
Hours:
- Thien Hau Temple: 6 AM – 5:30 PM
- Cha Tam Church: 5 AM – 7 PM
Address:
- Thien Mau Temple: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Cha Tam Church: 25 Hong Lac Street, Ward 14, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Read more: 26 Highlights in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown: A Journey Through Cholon Saigon
Explore the Jade Emperor Pagoda
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Jade Emperor Pagoda has long been famous for its sacredness. You can come here to pray for health, peace, or love for yourself and your family. Additionally, the temple worships Kim Hoa Thanh Mau and the 12 midwives who oversee childbirth, making prayers for children particularly effective. The pagoda also venerates many other deities, who are highly respected by the local people.
- Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
- Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Da Kao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Immerse Yourself in the Bustling Nightlife of Bui Vien Street
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re someone who enjoys a lively and bustling atmosphere, don’t miss Bui Vien Street, also known as ‘Backpacker Street’ due to the large number of foreign tourists who come here to explore and enjoy the nightlife. The vibrant atmosphere, diverse cuisine, and entertainment activities like dancing and live music performances at bars and restaurants will help you understand what the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City are.
- Hours: 7 AM – 2 AM
- Address: Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi Tunnels is a famous tunnel system located in Cu Chi district, about 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. This is one of the important historical sites of Vietnam, demonstrating the resilience and creativity of the people in the resistance war against the United States. When you come here, you will be amazed and admire the soldiers of the past because the terrain here is very narrow as it is deep underground.
Saigon Foodie Night Rice
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
As the sun sets over Ho Chi Minh City, the streets and entertainment activities become livelier than ever. Unlike in rural areas, nighttime is when the city truly comes alive, with the aroma of food wafting through the air from all corners. From large restaurants to small eateries, they all offer the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Some late-night dishes you can try include cơm tấm (broken rice), fried rice, grilled pork noodles, bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes), grilled rice paper, dim sum, snails, grilled fish, bubble tea, sweet soups, or street food from places like Ho Thi Ky Market (District 1), Ba Chieu Market (Binh Thanh District), and Xom Chieu Market (District 4).
As the night deepens, the streets become quieter, but you can still find many food stalls lit up, serving late-night meals like hủ tiếu (noodle soup) or rice. You’ll find these night eateries tucked away in small alleys or on sidewalks in District 1, District 3, or Bình Thạnh. Late-night dining is a common habit among the youth in Ho Chi Minh City, and these meals are not just to satisfy hunger but also a way to end a busy day.
Hint: Book Saigon Foodie Night Ride at Jackfruit Adventure today and let your journey begin!
Read more: 20 Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City At Night
Are you ready for Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh?
Whether you manage to experience all 21 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City or not, you are sure to create unforgettable memories while exploring this S-shaped land. From exploring vibrant markets and historical landmarks to savoring street food amidst the lively atmosphere and the warmth of the friendly local people, every moment will quietly plant seeds in your soul. And one day, when you look back, you will remember Vietnam like you would a dear friend who has been far away.
Best Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam
At Jackfruit Adventure, we organize Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour and Team Building Ho Chi Minh. With a deep knowledge of Saigon City and local connections, we believe we can give you an awesome bonding time together. Contact us today if you have any requests or questions to prepare a trip for your team to bond in Ho Chi Minh – Vietnam.
