1. Discover the Historic Sites of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Among the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh is to take a look at every single historical structure that reflects the diverse and multifaceted story of the city. To begin with, be sure to check out the famous War Remnants Museum-home to many somber but enlightening views on the implications of the 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 1975, signaling the end of the war. 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.
Cu Chi Tunnels
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.
Ben Thanh Market
Things to Buy at Ben Thanh Market:
- Handicrafts
- Local food and spices
- Souvenirs and traditional clothing
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
- Banh mi
- Goi Cuon
- Com tam (broken rice)
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.
Mekong Delta
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.
Ho Chi Minh City
Top Nightlife Spots in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Bui Vien Street
- Chill Skybar
- Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar
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.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
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.
Tao Dan Park
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.
Cyclo Ride – Things to do in Ho Chi Minh
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.Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is interestingly blended with history, culture, and modern vibrancy, housing a whole lot of experiences that any kind of traveler can ask for. From historic site visits, such as the War Remnants Museum to street food and dynamic nightlight, there’s an endless list of things to do in Ho Chi Minh. Walking casually around ancient pagodas or taking serene tours around the Mekong Delta, this city has just the right mixture of tradition and cosmopolitan charm.
Is this the point in time when you want to explore Ho Chi Minh City and create unforgettable moments? Then plan an adventure today into the heart of Vietnam’s most energetic metropolis!