Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as the locals still lovingly call it, is a whirlwind of energy, history, and flavour. This sprawling metropolis in southern Vietnam blends colonial charm, modern hustle, and a food scene that will leave you hungry for more. Whether you are weaving through chaotic streets on a scooter or sipping coffee in a hidden café, this city has a way of stealing your heart. Here’s a handpicked list of the 10 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Wander Through the Historic Ben Thanh Market
Dive into the soul of Saigon at Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub where vendors hawk everything from fresh tropical fruits to handmade crafts. The market’s vibrant chaos is a sensory overload—think piles of colourful spices, the aroma of phở, and vendors calling out deals. Bargain for souvenirs like conical hats or lacquerware, and don’t miss the food stalls for a quick banh mi or fresh spring rolls.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for the freshest produce and fewer crowds.
2. Step Back in Time at the War Remnants Museum
For a sobering yet essential experience, head to the War Remnants Museum. This powerful museum chronicles the Vietnam War through photographs, artefacts, and stories that don’t shy away from the conflict’s brutality. Exhibits like the Agent Orange display are heart-wrenching but offer a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s resilience. It’s a must-visit to grasp the country’s past—just bring tissues and an open mind.
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3. Savour Street Food on a Night Food Tour
Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene is legendary, and a guided night food tour is the best way to dive in. From steaming bowls of phở to crispy banh xeo (savoury pancakes), you will taste flavours that define Vietnamese cuisine. Many tours take you on a scooter, zipping through neon-lit streets to hidden gems where locals eat. Try the bun thit nuong (grilled pork with noodles) and wash it down with a sugary Vietnamese iced coffee. Your taste buds will thank you.
4. Marvel at Notre-Dame Basilica and Saigon Central Post Office
Step into a slice of French colonial history at the Notre-Dame Basilica and the Saigon Central Post Office. The basilica, built in the 1880s, stands proudly in District 1 with its twin spires and serene interior. Across the street, the post office, designed by Gustave Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel), is a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Pro Tip: Snap a photo under the arched ceilings and send a postcard home for old-school charm.
5. Cruise the Mekong Delta
Just a day trip from the city, the Mekong Delta is a maze of lush waterways, floating markets, and rural life. Hop on a boat to explore Cai Be or Cai Rang, where vendors sell pineapples and mangoes right from their boats. Visit a rice noodle workshop or sip coconut water fresh from the husk. It’s a refreshing escape from the urban buzz and a glimpse into Vietnam’s agricultural heart.
Pro Tip: Book a guided tour for a hassle-free adventure.
6. Get Lost in the Cu Chi Tunnels
History buffs and adventure seekers will love the Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war. Crawl through the narrow (and safe) sections of the tunnels to feel the claustrophobic reality of wartime life. Above ground, you can see booby traps, bomb craters, and even try firing an AK-47 at the shooting range (if that’s your thing). It’s a fascinating, if intense, look at Vietnam’s ingenuity and survival.
7. Sip Coffee in a Quirky Café
Ho Chi Minh City is obsessed with coffee, and its café scene is as diverse as it gets. Check out The Café Apartment in District 1, a retro building packed with quirky coffee shops, each with its own vibe—think rooftop views or vintage vinyl records. Or visit L’Usine for a chic, industrial-style spot serving silky cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk). Pair it with a pastry and soak in the city’s creative pulse.
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8. Explore Chinatown in Cholon
Head to Cholon, Saigon’s vibrant Chinatown, for a mix of culture, history, and chaos. The star here is the Binh Tay Market, a sprawling maze of stalls selling spices, fabrics, and street food. Nearby, visit the Thien Hau Pagoda, a 19th-century temple dedicated to the sea goddess, where incense spirals hang from the ceiling, filling the air with a mystical haze. It’s a colourful, less touristy side of the city that’s perfect for explorers.
9. Catch a Show at the Saigon Opera House
For a dose of elegance, book a ticket to a performance at the Saigon Opera House. This stunning French colonial building hosts everything from ballet to traditional Vietnamese music shows like the A O Show, a dazzling blend of acrobatics and cultural storytelling. Even if you just stop by to admire the ornate architecture, it’s a reminder of Saigon’s sophisticated side amidst its frenetic energy.
10. Ride a Scooter Through the City
No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without experiencing its scooter-filled streets. If you are brave, rent a scooter and join the swarm (just watch out for the traffic!). For a safer option, book a scooter tour with a local driver who will whisk you through backstreets, past glowing temples, and to hidden eateries. It’s the ultimate way to feel the city’s pulse—wind in your hair, neon lights blurring by, and the hum of Saigon all around you.
Final Words: Why Ho Chi Minh City Steals Your Heart
Ho Chi Minh City is a beautiful mess of old and new, where history whispers through every alley and modernity roars on every corner. From slurping noodles at a street stall to marvelling at colonial landmarks, these 10 experiences capture the city’s spirit. So pack your curiosity, bring comfy shoes, and get ready to fall in love with Saigon’s vibrant chaos.
Have a favourite spot or dish in Ho Chi Minh City? Share it in the comments below!
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