Dec - 19 - 2025
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City range from exploring poignant wartime history and colonial architecture to sipping cocktails on a skyscraper and savoring world-renowned street food. This vibrant, high-energy metropolis, still affectionately called Saigon by locals, is a city of contrasts where ancient pagodas stand in the shadow of modern towers. At GTrip, we've crafted the ultimate guide to ensure you experience every facet of this incredible destination. We’ll cover everything from must-see historical sites and immersive cultural experiences to tantalizing food tours and relaxing day trips. This comprehensive resource is designed to answer all your questions, making it the only guide you'll need to plan your perfect Saigon adventure.
1. Visit Landmark 81 and stroll around Vinhome Central Park
For the best panoramic view of the city, a visit to Landmark 81 is a must. As the tallest building in Vietnam, its Skydeck on the upper floors offers breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the sprawling metropolis and the winding Saigon River below. The experience provides a stunning perspective on the city's rapid development. After soaking in the views, take a relaxing stroll through the adjacent Vinhome Central Park. This beautifully landscaped green space is an oasis of calm amidst the urban hustle, inspired by New York's Central Park. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, people-watch, and enjoy the modern face of Ho Chi Minh City.
Enjoy stunning 360° city views from Vietnam’s tallest tower, Landmark 81, then relax at the serene Vinhome Central Park below
2. Explore Reunification Palace, a historic landmark symbolizing Vietnam’s Liberation
Step back in time at the Reunification Palace, a site of immense historical importance. This was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The palace is most famous for the iconic image of a North Vietnamese army tank crashing through its gates on April 30, 1975, marking the end of the war. Today, it’s preserved as a time capsule, with war command rooms, grand reception halls, and original 1960s furnishings. Visiting the palace offers a powerful and direct insight into a pivotal moment that shaped modern Vietnam.
3. Admire Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a timeless masterpiece of French architecture
A striking centerpiece in the heart of former District 1, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a beautiful relic of French colonial rule. Constructed entirely with materials imported from France, its neo-Romanesque architecture, twin bell towers, and stained-glass windows stand in elegant contrast to the surrounding city. While the cathedral itself is a peaceful sanctuary, the area outside offers a unique local experience. Join young Saigonese for sidewalk coffee, where you can sit on newspapers, sip on a coffee or snack, and enjoy an unparalleled view of the historic church.
4. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels - A historic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City
No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without a journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This immense network of underground tunnels was a critical base of operations for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. A guided Cu Chi Tunnels tour allows you to understand the ingenuity and resilience of the soldiers who lived and fought in these confined spaces. Visitors can learn about the booby traps, hidden entrances, and underground living quarters. For the adventurous, there's an opportunity to crawl through a small, widened section of the tunnels to get a real sense of the conditions. It's a sobering and unforgettable historical experience.
5. Visit museums in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is home to a rich collection of museums that preserve Vietnam’s history, culture, and artistic heritage. For those interested in storytelling through artifacts and design, the museum scene here promises an enriching journey.
- War Remnants Museum: A striking look into Vietnam’s wartime history, featuring impactful exhibits and preserved military artefacts. A must-visit for anyone who wants to understand the resilience and courage of the Vietnamese people.
- Ho Chi Minh City Museum: Showcasing the city’s cultural evolution through architecture, historical displays, and local traditions. Its beautiful French-style building itself is a highlight for architecture lovers.
- Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts: A celebration of traditional and modern Vietnamese art inside a charming French colonial building. Each exhibition space feels like stepping into a different chapter of Vietnam’s creative identity.
- Ao Dai Museum: Dedicated to the iconic Vietnamese long dress, preserving its history, beauty, and cultural identity. A serene and inspiring space to explore the elegance of Vietnam’s national pride.
Explore HCMC’s vibrant museum scene, where powerful wartime stories, rich cultural heritage, artistic expression, and the iconic Ao Dai come together beautifully
6. Enjoy Ho Chi Minh’s local food
Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers, where vibrant street stalls and bustling local eateries serve some of Vietnam’s most iconic flavors. The cuisine is known for its freshness, balance of sweet, salty, sour and spicy, and incredible variety. From noodle soups to crispy baguettes and bold regional specialties, every bite tells a story of culture and tradition. There are must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City
- Pho: A flavorful bowl of broth, rice noodles, and tender beef or chicken, topped with herbs. A comforting classic you can enjoy any time of day.
- Com tam: A beloved Saigon specialty featuring broken rice served with grilled pork, fish sauce, pickles, and a fried egg, simple, satisfying, and full of local character.
- Banh mi: Crispy bread filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, pate, and special sauces. A perfect grab-and-go treat packed with flavor.
- Bun bo: Rich, fragrant, and bold with lemongrass and chili. Ideal for those who love intense flavors and a bit of heat.
- Dim sum: Small, beautifully crafted bites like dumplings and buns, ideal for sharing, a delicious fusion of Chinese culinary influence found throughout the city.
7. Enjoy Vietnamese coffee
Vietnam's coffee culture is legendary, and Saigon is its epicenter. Coffee is more than just a drink here, it’s a social ritual. Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant cafe scene ranges widely, offering both nostalgic local favorites and innovative new spaces. For a truly unique experience, visit the famous Cafe Apartment building at 42 Nguyen Hue. This old apartment block has been converted into a vertical maze of quirky, independent cafes and boutiques, each with its own style and charm. Find a spot on a balcony, order a classic ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk), and watch the world go by on the walking street below.
Discover the heart of Vietnam’s legendary coffee culture in Saigon, where every cafe visit is a social experience and iconic spots
8. Get lost in the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh Markets
If you want to experience the rhythm of everyday life in Ho Chi Minh City, there’s no better place than its vibrant local markets. These lively hubs are filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors that define the city, colorful fabric stalls, fresh tropical fruits, sizzling street-food corners and unique souvenirs you can’t find anywhere else. If you’re shopping, snacking, or simply observing the energy around you, visiting the markets is an essential part of discovering Saigon’s spirit.
- Ben Thanh Market: A must-see destination offering souvenirs, fashion items, fresh produce, and delicious local food, perfect for first-time visitors.
- Binh Tay Market: A historic market in Chinatown with bustling wholesale activity, where you can explore vibrant cultural vibes and discover affordable goods in bulk.
- An Dong Market: A paradise for bargain hunters, known for its wide selection of clothing, fabrics, and accessories with great wholesale prices.
- Kim Bien Market: Known for specialized industrial goods like chemicals, tools, and electronics. The market is ideal for those looking for niche supplies at competitive prices.
- Tan Dinh Market: Located next to the famous pink church, this market offers excellent fabrics and household goods within a nostalgic, local atmosphere.
9. A cultural journey through Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh
Saigon’s Chinatown, widely known as Cholon, is a vibrant cultural enclave that blends Vietnamese and Chinese heritage. This historic district bursts with energy buzzing markets, ornate temples, traditional medicine shops, and some of the best food in the city. Wandering through its narrow streets offers a unique glimpse into local life, long-standing traditions, and lively commerce. Top places to visit in Cholon:
- Thien Hau Pagoda: A stunning 18th-century temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea, filled with hanging incense coils and intricate carvings.
- Quan Am Pagoda: One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Saigon, featuring elaborate statues and peaceful courtyards.
- Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street: The heart of traditional medicine shops, filled with herbs and remedies used for generations.
Discover Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s lively Chinatown, full of markets, temples, and authentic street food
10. Join a hands-on Vietnamese cooking experience
After tasting all the delicious Vietnamese food, why not learn to make it yourself? Taking a Vietnamese cooking class is a fun, hands-on experience that provides insight into the country's culture and culinary traditions. Many classes begin with a guided tour of a local market to select fresh ingredients like herbs, vegetables, and spices. Under the guidance of an expert chef, you'll learn to prepare several classic dishes. It’s a wonderful skill to take home and a delicious way to spend an afternoon.
11. Ride a hop on - hop off bus to see Saigon
One of the most enjoyable ways to see the city's highlights is by taking a ride on a double-decker sightseeing bus, especially at night. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with millions of glittering lights. The open-top bus offers an unobstructed view of illuminated landmarks, including the Saigon Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Reunification Palace. It's a relaxing and efficient way to get your bearings and capture beautiful photos of the city's sparkling nighttime facade.
See Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic landmarks aglow at night with a scenic ride on a double-decker sightseeing bus
12. Listen to melodious music on a Saigon River sightseeing trip
Experience Ho Chi Minh City from a refreshing new angle with a relaxing cruise along the Saigon River. Glide past illuminated skyscrapers, riverside neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks while enjoying the cool evening breeze. What makes this journey even more memorable is the live saxophone performance on board, soothing jazz melodies filling the air as the city lights shimmer across the water. A perfect blend of romance, relaxation, and skyline views, this river experience offers an unforgettable night in Saigon.
13. Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show
For a delightful and uniquely Vietnamese cultural experience, attend a traditional water puppet show. This ancient art form originated in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta and has been entertaining audiences for centuries. The puppets, controlled by skilled puppeteers hidden behind a screen, appear to dance on the water's surface, acting out traditional folk tales and legends to the accompaniment of a live orchestra. It's a charming, colourful, and lighthearted show perfect for all ages.
Experience Vietnam’s rich heritage with a captivating traditional water puppet show, where colorful puppets dance on water to lively live music
14. Discover peace at Ho Chi Minh City’s most beautiful pagodas
Amid the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, its sacred pagodas offer a serene escape into Vietnam’s spiritual heart. These religious sites reflect centuries of Buddhist traditions, stunning craftsmanship, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection. If you're interested in cultural heritage, architecture, or simply seeking a quiet moment away from the busy streets, the city’s pagodas are must-visit stops on your journey. Top pagodas to visit in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: One of the most famous temples in the city, known for its intricate statues and atmospherically lit worship halls. A meaningful spiritual landmark once visited by President Barack Obama.
- Giac Lam Pagoda: Among the oldest pagodas in Saigon, featuring traditional architecture, ancient Buddhist relics, and a tranquil garden that invites quiet contemplation.
- Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: A large, impressive complex with tall pagoda towers and modern Buddhist features, serving as an important religious center for locals.
- Xa Loi Pagoda: Once a historical center of Buddhist movements, known for its striking architecture and peaceful worship spaces.
- Thien Hau Pagoda: Located in Chinatown (Cholon), this temple is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Its smoky incense coils and beautifully carved roof make it a photographer’s favorite.
16. Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar with city views
Ho Chi Minh City's skyline is best appreciated from above with a cocktail in hand. The city has some of the best rooftop bars in Saigon, offering everything from chic, sophisticated lounges to more casual, relaxed vibes. As dusk falls, these bars provide a spectacular front-row seat to the sunset and the city's transformation into a sea of twinkling lights. It's the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind after a day of sightseeing, offering a glamorous perspective on the vibrant city below.
Enjoy breathtaking city views and sunset cocktails at Ho Chi Minh City’s rooftop bars, where chic lounges and relaxed spots offer a glamorous perspective of the skyline
17. Experience nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City
When the sun sets, Ho Chi Minh City shifts into an entirely new rhythm, vibrant, energetic, and full of life. The nightlife scene here is incredibly diverse, offering everything from lively bars and rooftop lounges with dazzling skyline views to bustling night markets and cultural performances. If you want to dance the night away, enjoy a relaxing drink by the river, or simply explore the illuminated city streets, Saigon at night promises unforgettable memories for every kind of traveler. Top night experiences in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Saigon night city tour by motorbike: Join a local guide and glide through the glowing streets, lively neighborhoods, and food hotspots. It’s one of the most thrilling ways to soak in the nighttime atmosphere like a true Saigonese.
- Night markets & street food adventures: Wander through the bustling alleys where sizzling dishes and late-night snacks create a true feast for the senses. A fun and delicious way to dive into local culture.
- Rooftop bars: Sip cocktails high above the city while admiring panoramic skyline views. A classy choice for a chill night out.
- Saigon river night cruise with live music: Drift peacefully along the river while enjoying live saxophone melodies and beautiful night views of the city’s skyline, a romantic and mesmerizing experience.
18. Sunset dinner cruise on the Saigon River
For a truly romantic and memorable evening, a sunset dinner cruise on the Saigon River is an unparalleled experience. As you glide along the water, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city skyline as it lights up for the night. Most cruises feature a delicious multi-course dinner of Vietnamese and international cuisine, often accompanied by live music. It’s a peaceful, elegant escape from the city streets and a wonderful way to see landmarks like Landmark 81 and the bustling ports from a unique water-level perspective.
Experience romance and elegance on a Saigon River sunset dinner cruise, enjoying city skyline views, multi-course cuisine, and live music
19. Culture and fun at Ho Chi Minh City's cultural parks
For a day of family-friendly fun and a dose of Vietnamese culture, visit one of the city's sprawling cultural theme parks. Dam Sen Cultural Park offers a mix of attractions, including botanical gardens, a bird sanctuary, water rides, and a variety of amusement park games. Alternatively, Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park is a unique "Buddhist-themed" park, featuring giant, colorful sculptures of dragons, phoenixes, and deities alongside a thrilling water park and roller coasters. Both parks provide a fun-filled escape from the city center.
20. Explore Can Gio Mangrove Forest - A UNESCO biosphere reserve
Just a short trip from the city, the Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a stunning eco-tourism destination and a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known as the "green lungs" of Ho Chi Minh City, this vast protected area is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can take a boat trip through the serene waterways to explore the dense mangroves, visit a crocodile farm, and see troupes of wild long-tailed monkeys. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers seeking a break from the urban environment.
Discover the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offering boat tours, wildlife spotting, and a serene escape from Ho Chi Minh City
21. Pottery making experience at Binh Duong Pottery Village
Unleash your creative side with a trip to the nearby Binh Duong Pottery Village. This region has been a center for traditional pottery and ceramics for centuries. On a visit, you can tour the workshops to see skilled artisans at work, using traditional techniques to craft beautiful vases, bowls, and decorative items. Many workshops offer hands-on experiences, allowing you to try shaping clay on a potter's wheel yourself. It’s a rewarding cultural activity, and you get to create your own unique souvenir to take home.
22. Relax by the stream at Thuy Chau Tourist Area
When the city heat becomes too much, locals flock to the Thuy Chau Tourist Area in former Binh Duong Provine for a refreshing escape. This man-made ecological park cleverly recreates a natural landscape, complete with a large bathing stream, waterfalls, and plenty of green space. You can swim in the cool, clean water, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, and simply relax in a naturalistic setting. It’s a popular weekend getaway that offers a fun and affordable way to cool off and unwind.
Escape the city heat at Thuy Chau Tourist Area a man-made ecological park with swimming streams, waterfalls, and lush green spaces for relaxation and picnics
23. Beaches and Seafood in Vung Tau
For a classic coastal getaway, a day trip or weekend in Vung Tau is a perennial favorite. This seaside city, just a couple of hours from HCMC, offers sandy beaches, a refreshing ocean breeze, and a laid-back atmosphere. You can relax on Front Beach (Bai Truoc) or Back Beach (Bai Sau), hike up to the giant Christ the King statue for panoramic views, and, most importantly, indulge in a feast of incredibly fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants.
24. Enjoy a fresh seafood feast at Phuoc Hai Fishing Village
For an even more authentic coastal experience, venture to Phuoc Hai Fishing Village. Less commercialized than Vung Tau, this traditional village offers a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen. The main draw here is the seafood, which is brought in fresh from the boats each morning. You can buy directly from the fishermen at the morning market and have it cooked for you on the spot by local vendors. It’s a rustic, delicious, and unforgettable seafood experience.
Experience authentic coastal life at Phuoc Hai Fishing Village, where fresh seafood from local fishermen can be enjoyed straight from the morning market
25. Hot Springs and Mud Baths in Binh Chau
For ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation, take a trip to the Binh Chau Hot Springs. This resort complex is famous for its natural hot mineral springs and therapeutic mud baths. Visitors can soak in pools of warm mineral water, said to have healing properties, or indulge in a fun and skin-softening mud bath. The resort also offers unique experiences like boiling eggs in the 82°C natural hot water wells. It’s a perfect activity for soothing tired muscles after days of travel.
26. Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta
A Mekong Delta day trip from HCMC is an essential experience for any visitor. This lush, fertile region, known as Vietnam's "rice bowl," offers a stark contrast to the urban chaos of Saigon. On a typical tour, you'll cruise along the river's winding canals in a traditional sampan boat, shaded by coconut palms. You’ll get to visit local villages to see how regional specialties are made, such as trying handmade coconut candy. Other highlights include listening to Don Ca Tai Tu, a UNESCO-recognized form of Southern Vietnamese folk music, and drinking fresh, cool coconut water straight from the source.
Discover the Mekong Delta on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, cruising serene canals, visiting local villages, sampling coconut candy, and enjoying traditional folk music
How to get to Ho Chi Minh City
Reaching Ho Chi Minh City is convenient and straightforward, with multiple transport options connecting it to both international destinations and major cities across Vietnam.
Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves as the primary gateway to Ho Chi Minh City and is the busiest airport in Vietnam. It welcomes numerous international and domestic airlines, offering convenient connections to major destinations across Asia, Europe, and North America. Upon arrival, travelers can easily reach the city center by taxi, ride-hailing services, or public buses, making air travel the fastest and most convenient option for getting to Ho Chi Minh City.
Buses to Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southern Vietnam’s primary transportation hubs, especially for long-distance bus travel. Major terminals such as Mien Dong Bus Station and Mien Tay Bus Station provide extensive connections to provinces throughout the country. The city also serves as a popular overland entry point from Cambodia, with numerous bus operators offering direct routes from Phnom Penh and other major destinations.
Trains to Ho Chi Minh City
The historic Reunification Express train line terminates at Saigon Railway Station in former District 3. This iconic route links Ho Chi Minh City with Hanoi in the north, passing through major coastal destinations such as Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hue along the way. Train travel offers a comfortable and scenic way to experience Vietnam’s landscapes and local life, though it is generally slower than flying.
Ho Chi Minh City is easily accessible via air, bus, or train, offering convenient connections both internationally and across Vietnam for travelers
How to get around to experience activities in Ho Chi Minh City
Navigating Ho Chi Minh City is an adventure in itself. Here are the most popular ways to get around:
- Ride-hailing apps (Grab/XanhSM/Be): The most convenient and affordable way to travel. You can book a car or a motorbike (for the brave!) with a fixed price upfront.
- Taxis: Reputable companies like Vinasun and Mai Linh are reliable options. Always ensure the meter is running.
- Metro: Ho Chi Minh City's first metro line is set to revolutionize public transport, connecting key areas of the city.
- Cyclo rides: A classic, slow-paced way to see the sights in the central districts. Agree on a price and route before you start.
- Xe om (Motorbike taxi): A fast way to weave through traffic for solo travelers. Best used for shorter distances.
- Public bus: The cheapest way to travel, with an extensive network covering the city. It can be challenging to navigate for first-time visitors, but offers a truly local experience.
Ho Chi Minh City offers transport options from ride-hailing and taxis to cyclos, motorbike taxis, and buses
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Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City go far beyond sightseeing, this city is a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Ho Chi Minh City blends history, modern marvels, and flavorful street food into an unforgettable urban adventure. This GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency guide has armed you with the 26 best things to do, ensuring you can dive deep into the culture, history, and flavors of this dynamic Vietnamese metropolis. Whether you have three days or a full week, you now have everything you need to build an unforgettable itinerary.
