Ho Chi Minh City is not Vietnam's capital but the country's greatest and most populated capital city. The city is a fascinating blend of colonial architecture and contemporary development. As a result, the town's construction reflects the period of French colonial rule.

People from all over the country and the world choose to work and live in this city because of its importance to the economy. It is excellent for immersing yourself in the local culture. There are several ornate pagodas and Buddhist temples to visit and discover. Ho Chi Minh City has many hotels because it is one of Vietnam's most popular tourist spots.

You can pick from various options, each with its price tag and design aesthetic. Ho Chi Minh City serves as Vietnam's primary international gateway, receiving millions of visitors annually. We're providing you with some tips and information to help you plan your trip to Ho Chi Minh City travel guide (formerly known as Saigon). Here is a great of the article for all things you need to know before traveling to Ho Chi Minh 2024.

1. Why Is Ho Chi Minh different?

The largest city in Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City. This is why it is known as "the un-sleep city." Because everything happens at night, that is always true. Because of this, the city is unique in the entire nation. This city's most memorable highlight is traveling to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoying the nightlife. Here are some of the city's most memorable evenings.

 

2. Ho Chi Minh City’s History

The Khmer people were the first to colonize the area, but the Vietnamese eventually took control in the 17th century. The French took control of Saigon in 1859. In 1862, it was officially declared the capital of Cochin, China. This resulted in the preservation of many examples of ornate architecture and spacious boulevards. 

Saigon and the rest of South Vietnam succumbed to North Vietnam in 1975, forcing its 4.5 million residents to flee. After 30 years of revitalization, the city is home to more than 7 million people. Ho Chi Minh City was named after Vietnam's communist movement's spiritual leader. Saigon's original name is no longer officially used but is still well-known throughout the country.

 

3. Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City 

These days, visiting Ho Chi Minh City couldn't be simpler. We're curious, though, about where the city's most notable attractions may be. Based on our many years of experience in the tourism industry, we've compiled a list of the top 10 tourist attractions in Saigon.

Read more: Top 25 things to so in Ho Chi Minh 2024

The facts show that Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and attractive metropolis. A contemporary city's luxuries can be found in one central location. As a result of its burgeoning economy, sophisticated infrastructure, and strategic location, Ho Chi Minh City has emerged as the country's cultural, scientific, and technical epicenter.

3.1.War Remnant Museum

A previous name for this institution was the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes. The War Remnants Museum is a popular destination for Western tourists since it displays genuine artifacts and photographs from Vietnam's aggressive conflicts.

The War Remnants Museum, housed in a repurposed Soviet administration building, documents the devastation inflicted on Vietnam's native population due to foreign invasion. The museum, formerly the US-Wei Exhibition, opened its doors just a few months after Peace Day. The museum's primary focus is on the horrors of war, and while it does cover the fight against the United States, that is not its primary focus.

 

Address: 28 Vo Van tan street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 7:30 AM  - 6 PM

3.2.Independence Palace 

The Ngo Viet Thu-designed Reunification Palace was completed in 1966. General Nguyen Van Thieu of the National Leadership Committee called Independence Hall home and headquarters from 1967 to 1975. The Vietnam War ended when a North Vietnamese tank drove through the palace gates in 1975. Complete independence was granted to Vietnam. It is now one of the city's most popular tourist destinations.

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 7:30 - 12 AM  and 1 - 4 PM

3.3.Ben Thanh Market

Ho Chi Minh City's logo is the Ben Thanh Traditional Market (Cho Ben Thanh). It is the city's most well-known shopping district. Although it is not the cheapest market in town, this one comes highly recommended due to its excellent reputation, convenient location, and rich history.

District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City is home to the famous Ben Thanh Market, where you can find various souvenirs, including Vietnamese art, branded goods, and handmade goods. The market also features food stalls where guests may sample traditional Vietnamese fare. When nighttime rolls around, the restaurants in the area of the market open their doors, transforming the area into a bustling public space. Ben Thanh has a terrific ambiance that is entirely authentically Vietnamese.

Address: Le Loi street, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 6 AM  - 12 PM

3.4.Cathedral of Notre Dame

This ancient cathedral serves as a place of worship for the vast Catholic community in Ho Chi Minh City. Between the years of 1863 and 1880, French colonists built it. Only French-made materials were used in construction. Originally from Marseilles, the red bricks adorn the exterior.

The Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City uses Notre Dame Cathedral as its cathedral. It's one of Saigon's most interesting buildings.

Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 8 AM  - 4 PM

 

3.5.Saigon Central Post Office

The Central Post Office's historic significance and stunning design have made it a popular destination for sightseers. Ho Chi Minh City is home to Vietnam's largest post office, which you must see completed in 1891, back when Vietnam was still a part of French Indochina.

It has arched windows with wooden shutters, a marble floor, and a giant portrait of Ho Chi Minh. When you reach the post office, notice a big clock over the front door. It has been in operation since the store opened. Saigon is the home of Notre Dame. You can still send mail, buy stamps, and make phone calls at post offices today.

Address: 2 Cong Xa Paris, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 7 AM  - 6 PM

 

3.6.Bitexco Financial Tower Observation Deck in Saigon

Bitexco Tower is 262 meters high, 68 stories tall, and the tallest structure in Ho Chi Minh City. American architect Carlos Zapata started designing this structure in 2007 and finished it in 2010. It has an unusual design, with a distinctive helipad perched on the roof's edge. Six thousand glass panels make up the outside curtain wall on each story, making it even more one-of-a-kind.

Retail space spans six stories. In addition, on floors 50 and 51, you'll find a multiplex theater and dining options. The Helio Bar, located on the 52nd level, boasts spectacular views. On the 49th floor is a lookout point known as the Saigon skydeck.

The Sky Deck features English-speaking tour guides. Touch-screen informational panels and interactive maps provide context for the locations below. Views of the city and the Saigon River can be seen in every direction from here. The observation deck, or "Sky deck," frequently hosts art shows.

Address: 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

Hours: 10 AM  - 11 PM

 

3.7. The Saigon Opera House

The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is also known as the Municipal Theatre. The theater has a capacity of 500 people.

Seeing the inside requires attending a performance. The structure, built in 1898 in the French colonial style, was designed by Eugene Ferret.

The AO Show Saigon, an extravaganza that fuses traditional Vietnamese song and dance with Cirque du Soleil-style acts, is now playing at the Opera House.

 

Address: 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city

A.O. Show Times: Tuesday–Friday, 6pm; Saturday–Monday, 8 pm.

 

3.8.The Jade Pagoda of the Emperor

The Tortoise Pagoda, or the Emperor's Jade Pagoda It ranks among the city's top five most revered temples. Cantonese people settled there in 1909 after migrating from Guangdong province in southwest China. This pagoda is a beautiful example of the Mahayanist school of Buddhism, which is extensively practiced in Vietnam. Those who believe in the paraphrase still have much to learn from the original.

Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu street, Dakao ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hours: 8:00 Am - 6:00 PM

 

3.9.The Tunnels at Cu Chi

The Cu Chi Tunnel entrance is roughly 40 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. People from the area used the tunnels as their home throughout the American war in Vietnam in the 1960s. During the massive Tet Offensive in 1968, the Viet Cong used the tunnels as their base of operations.

The Viet Cong utilized the tunnels as a hospital, a location to store weapons and food, a place to hide, and a place to live during that time.

Visitors can enter two segments of the tunnels from Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc. There is now more light and space in the tunnels. The Cu Chi Tunnels Tour  by private car begins with an introductory film and displays of artifacts from the conflict, including booby traps and an underground conference room. The Viet Cong would have eaten at this restaurant because it serves tapioca.

Address: Phu Hiep Hamlet, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hours: 9:00 Am - 4:00 PM

 

3.10.Museum of Traditional Medicine in Vietnam

Traditional Vietnamese medicine has it’s first museum in Saigon's Fito Museum. This museum has almost 3,000 artifacts, some dating back to the Stone Age. Knives, mortars, pestles, and other artifacts and documentation from a classic pharmacy are displayed. Typically, a screen detailing the origins of this remedy is included.

Visitors to the Fito Museum can peruse a wealth of archival materials. Anything having to do with Vietnamese folk medicine is on show. The museum is also unique because it blends contemporary and classical design.

Address: 41 Hoang Du Khuong street, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City

Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5 PM

 

4. Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh city

Because of its location in southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a mild climate throughout the year. The dry season lasts from December to April, when temperatures are high and humidity is low.

The hottest months are March through May, when highs reach 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit).

Also, the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City is from May to November. A short period of rain is expected. It doesn't last as many days as it did in North Vietnam. The sun is still out.

Read more:  best time to visit Ho Chi Minh

5. Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Nightlife In Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City's diverse nightlife means there's always something fun to do, no matter where you are in the city. Most Westerners stay in District 1, hence the name. The bars are high, the music is smooth, and the casinos provide a welcome distraction.

In addition, if you drive a short distance to District 3 and Pham Ngu Lao Street, you'll find a backpacker area with plenty of fun nightlife options.

 

5.1.Saigon River Dinner Cruise

There is no time for a supper cruise along the Saigon River in the busy city of Saigon. The synergy between the local cuisine and the tranquil riverside scenery will be a memorable experience.

Please, update the menu and price 

 

5.2.Ho Chi Minh City Restaurants

A Foodie's Overview:

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and exciting destination for culinary enthusiasts. A wide variety of dishes are available, from the classic Vietnamese to those inspired by other cultures. Here is a list of the top restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, perfect for a quick nibble or a relaxing lunch.

Visit Quan An Ngon if you're craving authentic Vietnamese food. This bustling eatery is known for its tasty pho, banh mi, and eclectic menu. Vegetarians will find plenty of choices at this eatery.

Cuc Gach Quan is the place to go if you want to dine in style. A modern take on classic Vietnamese fare is what this eatery is known for. Paraphrase provides a vegetarian selection as well as a meat selection.

Hum Vegetarian is the place to go if you're craving a taste of the world. Vegetarians can choose from various options, including Indian curries and Italian portions of pasta, at this restaurant. Vegan and gluten-free alternatives are available at this eatery.

Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai is the place for a fast bite. Delicious banh mi sandwiches and traditional Vietnamese street fare can be found at this bustling eatery.

The Secret Garden offers a one-of-a-kind eating experience. Tucked away in a quiet courtyard, you'll find this restaurant serving up authentic Vietnamese fare. Paraphrase provides a vegetarian selection as well as a meat selection.

Last but not least, the rooftop bar of the Rex Hotel is the place to experience the local nightlife. In addition to a wide selection of drinks and nibbles, this bar provides breathtaking panoramas of the city below.

Ho Chi Minh City is home to restaurants serving every imaginable cuisine. With its varied choice of restaurants, there is something to suit every taste. Happy eating!

 

6. The 4 best Ho Chi Minh City Shopping: A Guide To The Best Markets

Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving and exciting metropolis with some of the world's finest markets. From crowded street markets to sophisticated shopping complexes, there is something for everyone in this colorful city. Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City is a breeze, whether you're after trinkets, threads, or gadgets. Here is a breakdown of the top Ho Chi Minh City markets.

 

6.1.Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is one of the oldest and busiest markets in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. You can buy cool trinkets, clothes, and gadgets here. The market is a terrific place to soak up the city's heated atmosphere at any time of day or night, as it is open for business around the clock.

6.2.An Dong Market:

One of Ho Chi Minh City's main markets is An Dong Market. Affordable apparel, jewelry, and other goods can be found here. The market is a fantastic spot to soak up the city's pulsating energy throughout the day, as it is open from dawn until well after dark.

6.3.Saigon Square Shopping Mall

Saigon Square, in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, is a sophisticated shopping complex. Find amazing deals on name-brand clothing, jewelry, and more here. The mall is a fantastic spot to see the city's cutting-edge culture at any hour of the day or night.

6.4.Binh Tay Market:

Binh Tay Market is one of Ho Chi Minh City's oldest markets. It is a terrific destination to get souvenirs, apparel, and electronics at low costs. You may visit the historic aspect of the city at the market, which is open from dawn until late the night.

Several of the finest markets in Ho Chi Minh City are included below. Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City is a breeze, whether you're after trinkets, threads, or gadgets. Unsurprisingly, Ho Chi Minh City is home to some of the world's best shopping because of its exciting culture and affordable costs.

 

7. What is the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh?

The city of Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam's most significant. This city serves as an international and domestic hub for many airlines. Additionally, the city offers a wide variety of transit options.

Read more: Car rental in Ho Chi Minh

7.1.Planes

When you wake up in the morning, you can see the sunrise over the city. So airlines have many choices to reach this place and travel in Vietnam. Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City is the destination for all scheduled flights to Vietnam.

Two domestic and one international airport are located within a mile of one another because this is the largest airport in Vietnam and Indochina. However, the walkway linking the two airports is now available. Ho Chi Minh City visitors should consider this to avoid leaving the wrong airport.

Read more: Taxi Ho Chi Minh airport to hotel

7.2.Sailing vacation

There are some sea cruises to reach Vung Tau port, so guests can go from Vung Tau to visit Ho Chi Minh City. You can take a car or a speed boat from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau along the river.

 

7.3.Buses 

Ho Chi Minh City is where you'll find the main offices of most public and open bus operators catering to tourists. This means that getting in and out of the city is convenient for tourists. The service also makes regular stops in major urban areas.

Hanh Cafe, The SinhTourist, Phuong Trang (Futa bus), Kumho Samco, Mekong Express, etc. are all bus companies that travel the country.

Some different companies service overland bus routes from Cambodia via the Tay Ninh border.

7.4.Trains

The Vietnam Railway is the focal point of your game. From and to Ho Chi Minh City, most trains run. Trains arrive and depart from Ho Chi Minh City frequently.

 

Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving metropolis with many attractions. I wish my content of all things you need to know before traveling to Ho Chi Minh 2024 from its successful markets and street food to its beautiful buildings and cultural landmarks. Ho Chi Minh City will leave a lasting impression on visitors because of its fascinating past, thriving culture, and delectable cuisine. Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic vacation destination since it caters to those seeking both tranquility and excitement.