
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city with a population of over 9 million. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience the culture, history, and food of Vietnam. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
- 3 Day Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City
- 5 Day Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City
- 7 Day Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the City
Here are some of the must-visit places in Ho Chi Minh City:
Nguyen Hue Walking Street

It is a lively area that features a variety of restaurants, cafes, shops, and street performers. It also has a beautiful fountain area and plenty of greenery, making it a pleasant place to relax and take a stroll. It is especially popular in the evenings when the area is lit up with colorful lights and the atmosphere is buzzing with energy, street vendors and street performers.
- The Cafe Apartments (42 Nguyen Hue Street) This was an abondoned condo building that got converted to cafes and shops. Take the elevator to the top and walk down all the levels while exploring the various shops and cafes!
War Remnants Museum

This museum showcases the brutal reality of the Vietnam War from the perspective of the North Vietnamese people. It was opened in 1975, shortly after the war ended, and was initially called the Exhibition House for US and Puppet Crimes.
Some of the most notable exhibits at the museum include a collection of weapons used during the war, a replica of the infamous tiger cages used by the South Vietnamese government to imprison political prisoners, and a section dedicated to the use of Agent Orange, a herbicide that was sprayed by the US military during the war and caused significant health problems for Vietnamese civilians and US soldiers alike.
Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is a famous market located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a large and bustling market that has been in operation since the 17th century and is considered one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in the city. It is a vibrant and lively place that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional way of life.
The market is divided into several sections, each specializing in different goods, such as clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and food. Visitors can find a wide variety of goods, including silk clothing, lacquerware, handcrafted ceramics, and traditional Vietnamese goods. The market is also a great place to try traditional Vietnamese food, including pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood.
Saigon Central Post Office

The post office was designed by the French architect Gustave Eiffel, who is also known for designing the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The Saigon Central Post Office still operates as a post office today, and visitors can send postcards and letters from there.
I highly recommend sending a postcard to your friends and family at home! Or send one to yourself as a souvenir~
Notre-Dame Cathedral

Located across the street from the Saigon Central Post Office, the cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880 by the French colonial government, and its architecture is heavily influenced by the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The cathedral is made of red bricks, which were imported from France, and its two bell towers stand at a height of 58 meters (190 feet) each. The interior of the cathedral is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, which depict scenes from the Bible. It can accommodate up to 1,200 people for a single mass. During the Vietnam War, the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral was severely damaged by bombs, but it was later restored in the 1980s. Today, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City and is still used as a place of worship by the local Catholic community.
Reunification Palace

Also known as Independence Palace, it was originally built as the residence of the French Governor of Indochina in the late 19th century, but it later became the home and workplace of the South Vietnamese President during the Vietnam War.
The palace is an iconic example of 1960s architecture and features a blend of traditional Vietnamese and modernist styles. It has 95 rooms, including a conference hall, a banquet hall, and a theater, and it is decorated with elegant furnishings and works of art.
In 1975, the Reunification Palace became famous when a tank belonging to the North Vietnamese Army crashed through its gates, symbolically ending the Vietnam War. Today, the palace is a museum that showcases the history of Vietnam and the country’s struggle for independence. Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms, which have been preserved to look as they did during the 1960s and 1970s, and they can learn about the palace’s history through exhibits and artifacts.
Where to Stay
District 1 is a popular area for tourists visiting Ho Chi Minh City, as it is located in the heart of the city and is home to many of the major tourist attractions. There are plenty of accommodation options in District 1, ranging from budget hostels to 5-star luxury hotels. If your budget allows, I highly recommend staying at a 5 start hotel because you will get tremendous value for your money. 5 star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City are in around 100 USD depending on the season. Here are some of the best hotels in District 1:
Hotel des Arts Saigon
Hotel des Arts Saigon is a 5-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 3, just a few minutes away from the bustling center of District 1. The hotel is known for its French colonial architecture and stylish design, which combines contemporary and classic elements.
Hotel des Arts Saigon has several dining options, including the Social Club Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, which serves a variety of international and Vietnamese dishes, and the Cafe des Beaux-Arts, which offers a selection of pastries and light meals. The hotel also has a rooftop pool and bar, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the city views.
One of the highlights of Hotel des Arts Saigon is its art collection, which features a mix of contemporary and traditional Vietnamese art. The hotel also hosts regular art exhibitions and events, which add to its cultural appeal.
The Myst Dong Khoi
The Myst Dong Khoi is a 5-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. The hotel is known for its modern and chic design, which blends traditional Vietnamese elements with contemporary style. Some of the rooms also feature balconies with city views.
The Myst Dong Khoi has several dining options, including the Sakura rooftop restaurant, which serves Japanese cuisine with a Vietnamese twist, and the The Nest Lounge, which offers a selection of cocktails and light bites. The hotel also has a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool, which is surrounded by lush greenery and a waterfall feature.
One of the highlights of the Myst Dong Khoi is its location. The hotel is situated in the heart of District 1, just a few minutes away from popular attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Opera House, and the Ben Thanh Market. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to some of the city’s key destinations.
Try the Local Food
Ho Chi Minh City is known for its delicious street food. Some of the must-try dishes include:
Vietnamese restaurants to try while in Vietnam
Vietnamese Street Food to try while in Vietnam
Banh Mi
Banh mi is a fusion food that reflects Vietnam’s history and cultural influences. The bread is said to have been introduced by the French during their colonial period in Vietnam, while the filling and condiments are typically Vietnamese. The combination of flavors and textures makes banh mi a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is enjoyed by many people around the world.
It consists of a baguette that is typically made with a combination of wheat and rice flour, and has a light, crispy crust and a soft interior. The bread is then filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat (such as pork, chicken, or beef), pate, vegetables (such as cucumber, carrot, and cilantro), and sometimes sauces like mayonnaise or chili sauce.
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: This is one of the most famous banh mi stalls in Saigon, located at 26 Le Thi Rieng Street in District 1. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the filling is packed with meat, pate, vegetables, and sauce.
Pho
Pho is a Vietnamese soup that is typically made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of meat and vegetable toppings. The broth is usually simmered for hours with bones, spices, and herbs such as star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, giving it a rich, flavorful base.
The noodles used in pho are typically thin, flat rice noodles that are soft and chewy when cooked. The toppings can vary, but commonly include sliced beef or chicken, beef or chicken meatballs, bean sprouts, basil, lime, and chili peppers.
Pho is a popular dish in Vietnam and around the world, and is often eaten for breakfast or as a light meal. It is a comforting and nourishing dish that is enjoyed by many people, and is often thought of as a symbol of Vietnamese cuisine.
Pho Hoa Pasteur: This is one of the most famous pho restaurants in Saigon, located at 260C Pasteur Street in District 3. They have been serving pho for over 50 years and are known for their flavorful broth and generous portions of meat and noodles.
Pho Le: This is another popular pho restaurant, located at 413-415 Nguyen Trai Street in District 5. They serve a variety of pho options, including beef and chicken, and are known for their high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors.
Take a Day Trip
There are many interesting day trip options available from the city that can give you a chance to explore the surrounding areas and learn more about the country. Here are some of the best day trip options from Ho Chi Minh City:
- Cu Chi Tunnels: This network of tunnels was used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about the history of the war.
- Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is a vast area of wetlands and waterways that is home to many small villages and floating markets. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the area and learn about the local way of life.
- Vung Tau Beach: Vung Tau is a popular beach town located just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and enjoy fresh seafood.
- Cai Be Floating Market: This market is located in the heart of the Mekong Delta and is a great place to experience the local culture. Visitors can take a boat tour to the market and see the vendors selling their goods from their boats.
- Can Gio Mangrove Forest: This forest is located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and crocodiles. Visitors can take a boat tour through the mangrove forest and explore the area.
Click here for more details on the best Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City
Experience the Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City has a lively nightlife scene. Some of the best places to visit include:
- Bui Vien Street: This street is known for its bars and clubs. It’s a great place to party with locals and other travelers.
- Here are some things to do at Bui Vien
- Rooftop Bars: There are many rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh City that offer stunning views of the city. Some of the best ones include Chill Sky Bar and Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar.
- Here’s a list of the best rooftop bars in Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Vietnam. It’s a city that is full of energy, history, and culture. So, put on your walking shoes, grab a bowl of pho, and start exploring!

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