Ho Chi Minh city guide

Ho Chi Minh City is a place where every street tells a story and every meal leaves a memory. From ancient temples and French colonial buildings to hidden alleyway eateries and bustling night markets, the city offers an exciting mix of places to explore and dishes to savor.

Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or the atmosphere, this guide will show you where to go and what to eat to truly experience the spirit of Vietnam’s most energetic city.

Top must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a destination rich in history and timeless architecture – a stop truly worth adding to your journey through Vietnam.

Ben Thanh market

Located in the heart of District 1, Ben Thanh Market is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for first-time travelers. The market is a vibrant hub of local life, where you can find everything from souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and accessories to fresh produce and street food. Its bustling aisles, colorful stalls, and the mix of aromas from dozens of food vendors offer an immersive introduction to Saigon’s energy and culture.

Travel Tips

• Located on Le Loi Street, District 1 — easy to reach on foot from most central hotels.
• Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; the surrounding night market continues after 7:00 PM.
• Bargaining is common, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially during peak hours.
• The food court inside offers a great chance to sample local dishes at affordable prices.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – Nha Tho Duc Ba

Built between 1877 and 1880 by French colonists, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic architectural landmarks. With its distinctive red-brick façade and twin bell towers rising 58 meters high, the cathedral stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past and religious heritage. It’s a peaceful spot in the middle of busy District 1, attracting both worshippers and visitors seeking history, photography, or quiet reflection.

Travel Tips

• Located in Paris Square, District 1, right next to the Central Post Office.
• The church is currently under renovation, so check in advance if you want to visit inside.
• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture beautiful light for photos.
• Respect the religious nature of the site – dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Central Post Office or Book Street.

Saigon Central Post Office

Located right next to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office is a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1891, the building features a beautifully vaulted ceiling, intricate ironwork, and large wall maps of old Indochina. It’s still a functioning post office, and visitors can send postcards, browse souvenirs, or simply admire the architecture.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located in District 1, next to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and close to Book Street.
• Open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Admission is free, and photography is allowed inside.
• Go early in the day to avoid large tour groups.
• Look out for the vintage wooden phone booths and historical details.

Saigon Opera House (Municipal Theater)

Built in 1898 in French colonial style, the Saigon Opera House is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most elegant architectural gems. Located on Dong Khoi Street, this historic venue hosts a range of performances including traditional music, contemporary dance, and the famous A O Show – a modern take on Vietnamese culture through acrobatics and storytelling. Even if you don’t attend a show, the façade alone is worth a visit.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located in District 1, close to Nguyen Hue Walking Street and luxury shopping malls.
• The theater is not open for casual walk-ins; entry is only allowed during scheduled performances.
• Tickets for shows like the A O Show or Teh Dar can be booked online or at the box office.
• Arrive early to enjoy the view of the building lit up at night and take photos.
• Dress smart-casual if attending a performance.

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Established in 1865, the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest zoos in the world and a green oasis in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Spanning over 20 hectares, it is home to hundreds of animal species and a diverse collection of tropical plants and century-old trees. The zoo offers a relaxing space for families, couples, and anyone looking for a peaceful break from the city’s fast pace.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located at 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1, next to the Museum of History.
• Open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Weekends can be crowded, so try to visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
• Wear comfortable shoes – the park is large and involves a lot of walking.
• Entry tickets are affordable and can be purchased at the gate.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History

Located near the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History offers a fascinating journey through Vietnam’s past. Housed in a beautiful 1920s building, the museum displays a wide range of artifacts from prehistoric times to the Nguyen Dynasty, including Cham sculptures, ancient ceramics, and royal relics. It’s an ideal stop for travelers interested in the deep cultural roots of the country.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located at 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1.
• Open daily (except Mondays) from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
• Entry ticket is affordable and includes access to all exhibition rooms.
• English descriptions are limited, so consider hiring a guide or using a translation app.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Saigon Zoo or Jade Emperor Pagoda.

Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)

A powerful symbol of modern Vietnamese history, the Independence Palace — also known as Reunification Palace – was the former residence of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank famously crashed through its gates, marking the end of the war and the reunification of the country. Today, the palace is preserved as a museum, with its original architecture, war rooms, and vintage furnishings still intact.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, just a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
• Entry requires a ticket, which includes access to most interior rooms and exhibits.
• A self-guided audio tour is available in multiple languages.
• The rooftop helipad and war command bunker are highlights not to miss.

Nha Rong Wharf (Ho Chi Minh Museum)

Nha Rong Wharf is a historic landmark where President Ho Chi Minh first departed Vietnam in 1911 on his journey to seek national salvation. Today, the building houses the Ho Chi Minh Museum, dedicated to his life and revolutionary career. The architecture blends French colonial design with Vietnamese motifs, and the riverside location offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and sightseeing.

Tips for Visitors:

• Located at 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4, near the Saigon River.
• Open daily except Mondays from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
• Modest clothing is recommended as this is a memorial site.
• Exhibits are primarily in Vietnamese, so consider going with a guide if you want detailed context.
• Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network built and used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. Located about 60 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this historical site offers a glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of wartime life. Visitors can explore parts of the tunnels, view hidden trapdoors, visit command centers, and learn how people lived, fought, and survived underground for years.

Tips for Visitors:

• Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Two main tunnel areas: Ben Dinh (closer, more tourist-friendly) and Ben Duoc (larger, more authentic).
• The site is about 1.5–2 hours from central Ho Chi Minh City – book a tour or arrange private transport in advance.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the tour involves walking and crawling in tight spaces.
• Not recommended for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.

Top must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers, offering a delicious blend of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and rich culinary traditions.

Com tam

Cơm tấm (broken rice) is a beloved Saigon classic, typically served with grilled pork, a fried egg, shredded pork skin, and pickled vegetables. Its smoky aroma, rich flavors, and unique texture make it a go-to comfort food for locals — especially for breakfast or lunch.

Hu tieu

Hủ tiếu is a flavorful southern Vietnamese noodle soup, known for its clear, savory broth and variety of toppings like sliced pork, shrimp, quail eggs, and crispy shallots. Served either dry or with soup, it’s a local favorite for breakfast and late-night cravings alike — light, yet deeply satisfying.

Pha lau

Pha lau is a unique and flavorful dish made from braised pork or beef offal, slow-cooked in a rich, spiced coconut milk broth. With its creamy texture and bold, aromatic taste, it’s a popular street food in Ho Chi Minh City — often enjoyed with a crispy baguette or noodles.

Bun mam

Bún mắm is a bold and flavorful noodle soup from southern Vietnam, made with fermented fish broth and packed with ingredients like shrimp, squid, roasted pork, and eggplant. Known for its deep umami flavor and fragrant aroma, this dish is a must-try for adventurous food lovers seeking authentic local taste.

Banh trang

Bánh tráng (Vietnamese rice paper snacks) comes in many fun and flavorful forms, from bánh tráng trộn (rice paper salad) to bánh tráng nướng (grilled rice paper, often called “Vietnamese pizza”). Loaded with dried shrimp, quail eggs, herbs, and tangy sauces, it’s a spicy, crunchy street snack that’s especially loved by local students and young foodies.

Ho Chi Minh City offers more than just a glimpse into Vietnam’s past – it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old landmarks or savoring the bold flavors of local street food, the city promises experiences that linger long after your trip ends.

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