Top 10 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

A Fusion of Past and Present: Why Ho Chi Minh City Belongs on Your Bucket List

Ho Chi Minh City, a name that resonates with history, commerce, and a relentless energy, is a city that never fails to captivate. Still affectionately called Saigon by locals, this southern Vietnamese metropolis is a dizzying fusion of the old and the new. Here, ancient pagodas sit in the shadow of gleaming skyscrapers, and the scent of traditional pho from a street-side stall mingles with the buzz of a modern metropolis. Navigating the chaotic, scooter-filled streets is an adventure in itself, revealing a city that is as rich in culture and history as it is in flavor and excitement. For any traveler seeking an authentic, dynamic, and unforgettable urban experience, figuring out the bestthings to do in Ho Chi Minh Cityis the first step to an incredible journey.

This guide is designed to take you beyond the surface, offering a curated list of the top 10 experiences that define this incredible city. From confronting the poignant history of the Vietnam War to indulging in one of the world's greatest street food scenes, prepare to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Saigon.

1. Journey into History at the Cu Chi Tunnels

No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without understanding its recent past. The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a profound and eye-opening glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. This immense network of underground tunnels, stretching over 250 kilometers, served as a base for operations, supply routes, and living quarters. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully grasp the historical context. You'll learn how these narrow, subterranean passages were equipped with meeting rooms, kitchens, and even hospitals. The experience can be intense; visitors have the opportunity to crawl through a small, preserved section of the tunnels, a claustrophobic but unforgettable moment that highlights the harsh realities of war. Above ground, you can see booby traps, bomb craters, and even visit a firing range to shoot an AK-47, offering a visceral connection to the site's history.

Practical Tips for Visiting:

• Book a Guided Tour:A knowledgeable guide will bring the history to life, providing stories and context you wouldn't get otherwise.

• Wear Comfortable Clothing:Choose light, breathable clothes and sturdy shoes you don't mind getting dirty, especially if you plan to go into the tunnels.

• Stay Hydrated:The area is outdoors and can get very hot and humid. Bring plenty of water.

2. Confront the Past at the War Remnants Museum

While the Cu Chi Tunnels show the physical landscape of the war, the War Remnants Museum in the city center confronts its emotional and human toll. This powerful, and at times harrowing, museum is an essential visit for those looking to understand the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective. The exhibits are unflinching, displaying everything from captured American military hardware like tanks and jets in the courtyard to galleries filled with graphic photographs and personal accounts of the war's impact on civilians. The collection of international photojournalism, in particular, is deeply moving. It's a somber and sobering experience, but one that provides crucial context for the city and country you are visiting. It serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of war and a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

3. Admire the French Colonial Architecture in District 1

A walk through District 1 reveals a different side of Saigon's history: its time as the capital of French Indochina. The French left an indelible mark on the city's architecture, and many of these grand colonial buildings are still in use today. The most iconic landmarks include theSaigon Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning basilica built with materials imported entirely from France, and the magnificentCentral Post Office, often mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel but designed by Alfred Foulhoux. Its grand interior, with vaulted ceilings and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh, is a functioning post office and a major tourist attraction. Nearby, the elegant Saigon Opera House stands as a beautiful example of French colonial theatre. Wandering these wide, tree-lined boulevards feels like stepping back in time and offers a beautiful contrast to the city's more chaotic quarters.

4. Step Inside the Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace, formerly known as the Independence Palace, is a landmark frozen in time. This was the home and office of the President of South Vietnam during the war, and its capture by North Vietnamese tanks on April 30, 1975, marked the official end of the conflict. The building itself is a fascinating example of 1960s architecture. A tour takes you through grand reception halls, presidential offices, and private quarters, all left largely as they were in 1975. The most intriguing part for many is the basement, which houses a network of command bunkers complete with war rooms, maps, and old communication equipment. Visiting the Reunification Palace feels like walking onto a movie set, offering a unique and tangible link to one of the 20th century's most significant historical moments.

5. Get Lost in the Buzz of Ben Thanh Market

For a full-sensory immersion into local life, a visit to Ben Thanh Market is an absolute must. This bustling, historic market is one of the city's most famous landmarks and a hub of commercial activity. Inside, you'll find a maze of stalls selling everything imaginable: souvenirs, clothing, textiles, coffee, spices, and an incredible array of local handicrafts. Bargaining is expected, so approach it with a friendly attitude and be prepared to negotiate. The market is also a fantastic place to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The dedicated food section offers a huge variety of dishes, from steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh xeo. In the evening, the action spills onto the surrounding streets as the Ben Thanh Night Market comes to life, offering even more food and shopping opportunities under the stars.

6. Embark on a Culinary Adventure with a Street Food Tour

Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers, and the best cuisine is often found on the street. While you can explore on your own, joining a guided street food tour—often done on the back of a scooter—is one of the most exhilaratingthings to do in Ho Chi Minh City. A local guide will whisk you through hidden alleyways and bustling neighborhoods to spots you'd never find on your own, all while navigating the city's infamous traffic like a pro. You'll get to sample a wide range of iconic dishes, learning about their ingredients and cultural significance along the way. It's more than just a meal; it's a deep dive into the city's culture and a fantastic way to connect with local life.

Must-Try Street Foods in Saigon

7. Experience Vietnam's Unique Coffee Culture

Coffee is not just a drink in Vietnam; it's a way of life. Saigon is teeming with cafes, from modern, chic establishments to hidden gems tucked away in old apartment buildings. The local style is strong and bold, traditionally brewed using a small metal filter called a 'phin'. The most iconic drink isca phe sua da, a potent iced coffee sweetened with condensed milk that is perfect for the humid climate. For the more adventurous, there'sca phe trung(egg coffee), a creamy, tiramisu-like concoction from Hanoi that has found a loving home in the south. Take time to find a quirky, hidden cafe, order a coffee, and watch the world go by from a balcony. It's a fantastic way to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a truly local pastime.

8. See the City from a Rooftop Bar

After a day spent exploring the bustling streets, there's no better way to unwind than by heading skyward. Ho Chi Minh City's skyline is increasingly impressive, and a growing number of rooftop bars offer spectacular panoramic views. From these lofty perches, the chaotic traffic below transforms into mesmerizing rivers of light. It's a fantastic way to appreciate the sheer scale of the city. Many bars are located around the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower or on top of luxury hotels in District 1. Head up for sunset to watch the city transition from day to night as the lights begin to twinkle on. It provides a moment of tranquility and a completely different perspective on the energetic city below.

9. Find Serenity at the Jade Emperor Pagoda

Escape the urban frenzy with a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, also known as the Tortoise Pagoda. This atmospheric Taoist and Buddhist temple, built in the early 20th century, is a spiritual oasis. The air is thick with the smell of incense, and the dimly lit halls are filled with intricate and sometimes fearsome-looking statues of deities and heroes from mythology. The elaborate woodcarvings and detailed decorations are incredible to behold. It’s a functioning place of worship, so you’ll see locals coming to pray, make offerings, and release turtles into the pond in the courtyard for good luck. The pagoda offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual life of the city and is a wonderfully peaceful and photogenic spot.

10. Explore the Waterways of the Mekong Delta

While technically outside the city, a day trip to the Mekong Delta is a classic and highly recommended experience for any visitor to Ho Chi Minh City. Known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam, this vast region is a lush, tropical world of winding rivers, floating markets, and fertile orchards. A typical tour involves a boat trip along the mighty Mekong River, a visit to a coconut candy workshop, a tasting of fresh tropical fruits in an orchard, and a journey through smaller canals on a traditional sampan boat. It's a fantastic way to see the rural side of Southern Vietnam and understand the importance of the river to the local economy and way of life. Numerous tour operators in Ho Chi Minh City offer full-day trips, making it an easy and accessible escape from the urban environment.

Your Ho Chi Minh City Adventure Awaits

Ho Chi Minh City is a place of incredible contrasts and boundless energy. It's a city that honors its history while hurtling towards the future. Whether you're navigating the underground world of the Cu Chi Tunnels, savoring a world-class meal on a plastic stool, or sipping coffee in a hidden cafe, Saigon promises an adventure that will engage all your senses. This list is just the beginning, a starting point for exploring one of Southeast Asia's most compelling destinations.