12 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam: Top Attractions & Activities

Ho Chi Minh City is in Vietnam and is one of the busiest cities, Saigon City, which amalgamates modernity with deeply engraved history. From the busiest streets to rich cultural monuments, there’s an endless number of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that would steal the hearts of travelers. Be it for being a history enthusiast, foodie, or just one who wishes to soak in the culture of the Vietnamese, Saigon City contains something in its store for all. In this post, we take a deep dive into a few of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to help one make the most of this enamoring destination.

1. Discover the Historic Sites of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

One of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh is taking a look at every historical structure that reflects the multifaceted story of the city. To begin with, be sure to check out the famous War Remnants Museum – home to the stories, proofs, and heritages of the infamous Vietnam War.

From here, it’s a short walk to the Reunification Palace, formerly the Presidential Palace, where a tank burst through the gates in 30th April 1975, signaling the end of the Vietnam War, and the birth of Vietnam. Aside from this places, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office are probably the two most attractive French colonial structures in Saigon and among the top things to do in Saigon for visitors looking for a deeper look into the city’s colonial history.

Must-Visit Historic Sites:

• War Remnants Museum

• Reunification Palace

• Notre Dame Cathedral

• Saigon Central Post Office

2. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Located about an hour outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels give visitors a glimpse into the now-deadly part of Vietnam’s wartime. In essence, this is an extended underground network that was utilized during the time of the Vietnam War by the Viet Cong for manpower guerrilla tactics. Among the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh, tourists can go through some of the more expansive sections of the tunnels to learn just how these passages provided such an advantage in communication and supply routes. It was not only educating but rather a very humbling experience to imagine how resourceful those must have been who built and inhabited these tunnels during the war.

3. Visit the Bustling Ben Thanh Market

For shoppers and those who want to experience the culture of the locals, Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit. The market lies in District 1 and is considered one of the oldest and most famous markets in Saigon City. Among the things to do in Ho Chi Minh, exploring Ben Thanh offers a unique opportunity to buy everything from souvenirs to traditional Vietnamese garments, and even the freshest food in town—whatever it is, Ben Thanh has it. Remember, practice haggling to drive down the price as it will also be part of the experience.

Things to Buy at Ben Thanh Market:

• Handicrafts: Some crafts worth buying are lacquerware, bamboo and rattans products, wooden carvings and silk embroidery.
• Local food and spices: You can purchase the infamous Vietnamese coffee, tea, dried fruits and nuts, star anises, and if you are adventurous, some fish sauce or shrimp paste!
• Souvenirs and traditional clothing: Vietnam traditional Ao Dai and Non La are great souvenirs for foreigners.

4. Enjoy Saigon’s Street Food Scene

It is well known from seafood to street food; nowhere as apparent as it stands on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re looking for things to do in Ho Chi Minh, take a food tour around Saigon and sample some iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, Vietnamese sandwiches, or fresh spring rolls. Take a gastronomic walk through the local food markets and stalls and get your taste buds working on the best Ho Chi Minh City has to offer in street food culture. This is enjoyed as street food at the best places, which are Nguyen Hue Walking Street and Tao Dan Park Night Market where dining is accompanied by locals and tourists alike.

Popular Street Food Dishes:

• Pho: Vietnamese noodle soup, famous for its heartwarming and flavorful broth, usually eaten with beef or chicken.
• Banh mi: The Vietnamese version of sandwich, with a crispy baguette, pate, different types of protein, pickled vegetable and special sauces.
• Goi Cuon: Also called spring rolls, this dish is a fresh and healthy option, including vermicelly, vegetables, herbs and proteins wrapped in rice paper and dipped in fish sauce, perfect for a hot summer day!
• Com tam (broken rice): The iconic dish of the south, featuring a special type of rice with various toppings and a delicious sauce.

5. Take a Mekong Delta Tour

No tour to Ho Chi Minh City will be complete without exploring the things to do in Ho Chi Minh, including a tour of the Mekong Delta, also known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. Just a few hours away from Saigon City, a tour of the Mekong Delta offers a contrasting look at rural life in southern Vietnam. A day cruise usually winds through the waterways to floating markets and then on to visit of traditional villages that make everything from rice paper to coconut candy. The peaceful aspect of the delta offers a welcome relief to the hustle and bustle of the city.

6. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife of Saigon City

As evening falls, things to do in Ho Chi Minh City multiply, as the city becomes a party animal. From the trendy rooftop bars overlooking the panoramic view of the city’s skyline to the beating dance floors in nightclubs and pubs, there is an adequate supply of entertainment. One would find Bui Vien Street in District 1 as the epicenter of Saigon’s nightlife street packed with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Enjoy the view with a cocktail from a posh rooftop bar, or dance until dawn-each to his own taste.

Top Nightlife Spots in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Bui Vien Street: Bui Vien Street, often called the “Backpacker Street,” is the heart of Saigon’s nightlife. Lined with bars, pubs, clubs, and street vendors, this bustling street is always lively with neon lights, loud music, and performers entertaining the crowds. Whether you prefer sitting at a roadside bar with an affordable beer or dancing at a club, Bui Vien Street has options for all tastes.
• Chill Skybar: Located on the 26th floor of the AB Tower, this bar offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, making it a great spot for sunset drinks or late-night parties. The bar features a stylish, modern design, an extensive cocktail menu, and a dress code that adds a touch of exclusivity. The DJs play a mix of house, hip-hop, and electronic music, creating a lively but upscale atmosphere.
• Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar: With its colonial-style decor and cozy open-air terrace, this rooftop bar offers a more relaxed but equally stunning nightlife experience. The live music performances, combined with a great selection of drinks and a warm ambiance, make it a fantastic place to unwind. On the ninth floor of the Caravelle Hotel, guests can take in iconic city landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the bustling streets below.

7. Wander Through the Jade Emperor Pagoda

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is surely in the topmost position when considering things to do in Ho Chi Minh, as it is one of the city’s most famous temples, offering intricate architectural details combined with spiritual significance. This is a 1909-built Taoist temple meant for the King of all gods in both Vietnamese and Chinese mythology-the Jade Emperor. The halls of the pagoda smell of incense because they are filled with statues and carvings that create a charming atmosphere for all visitors seeking reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city’s streets.

8. Stroll Through Tao Dan Park

Tao Dan Park is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s larger parks, offering a quiet oasis right in the middle of the city. If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Ho Chi Minh, it’s a great place for jogging in the morning, afternoon strolls, or even picnicking. The park is equally famous for sculptures, gardens, and a small temple. If you will be here for the Tet Holiday, and Lunar New Year, you’ll also get to see vibrant flower displays and cultural performances within your time in the area.

9. Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

For the best possible views of things to do in Ho Chi Minh, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck. On the top floor of one of the tallest structures in Vietnam, the Skydeck provides a 360-degree view of the sprawling city below. This is a very good vantage point from which to obtain an overview of Saigon’s busy streets, its notable landmarks, and the river, too. In addition, the tower has a number of restaurants and a shopping center inside, making it an ideal stop for both sightseeing and leisure.

10. Take a Cyclo Ride Around District 1

For more traditional things to do in Ho Chi Minh City tour, take a ride in a cyclo – a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. This is a very fun and easy way to take in the city’s key sites, which include the Opera House, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Reunification Palace. Take a whirlwind tour around District 1 streets, observing close-up daily lives of locals lining the streets, and stopping for photos when you like.

11. Learn About Vietnamese Art at the Fine Arts Museum

The Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum is one of those places that no art and culture lover should ever miss. It houses its collection in a building that was originally from the times of French colonization and carries an excellent variety of exhibits on everything from lacquer paintings to sculptures, serving as great insight into the rich artistic heritage of the country. Moreover, visiting the museum is one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh, as it also organizes temporary exhibitions, allowing visitors to view works by modern Vietnamese artists on display.

12. Relax with a Traditional Vietnamese Spa Experience – Things to do in Ho Chi Minh

Spend days getting acquainted with the city and indulge in the ultimate relaxation at a spa. When considering the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh, treating yourself to a luxurious spa experience should be at the top of your list. Ho Chi Minh City is proud to boast a long list of high-end spas offering traditional Vietnamese treatments: hot stone massages, herbal baths, reflexology, and many more. Most such treatments feature natural ingredients like lemongrass, green tea, coconut, and others that give you that full-on organic restorative experience.

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