Things to do in Ho Chi Minh city

Known as the city that never sleeps, Ho Chi Minh City is bursting with energy, culture, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From vibrant street life and lively markets to historical landmarks and buzzing nightlife, every corner of the city has something to offer. So, what are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that you simply can’t miss? Let’s explore them together in this guide.

Explore Ho Chi Minh city by double-decker bus

One of the most relaxing and scenic ways to discover Ho Chi Minh City is aboard a double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off bus. With an open-air top deck, this experience offers panoramic views of the city’s bustling streets, colonial architecture, and iconic landmarks – all from a unique elevated perspective.

Passengers can listen to multilingual audio guides while cruising past highlights like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and more. Whether you take a quick loop or hop off to explore each stop at your own pace, the ride is a great way to get your bearings and soak up the city’s vibrant energy.

Ticket Options for the Double-Decker Bus in Ho Chi Minh City:

• 1h Trip Around Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): $7
• Midnight Tour on Double-Decker Bus in Ho Chi Minh City: $9
• Ho Chi Minh City Hop-On – Hop-Off Bus (Valid 24 hours): $22
• 2 Days Tour: Ho Chi Minh City + Cu Chi Tunnels: $47
• 3 Days Tour: Ho Chi Minh City + Mekong Delta + Cu Chi Tunnels: $81

Note: Tickets can be purchased at departure points or via the official website: https://hopon-hopoff.vn

Cruise the Saigon river by boat

Cruising along the Saigon River offers a refreshing way to experience Ho Chi Minh City. As the boat glides past historic buildings, modern skyscrapers, and tranquil neighborhoods, you’ll get a unique perspective of the city’s vibrant contrasts – especially magical at sunset or after dark when the skyline lights up.

There are many cruise options to choose from, ranging from simple sightseeing trips to luxurious dinner cruises with live music and fine dining. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle, the river is the perfect place to unwind.

Note: Ticket prices typically range from $16 to $80 (approximately 400,000 – 2,000,000 VND), depending on the cruise type and services included.

À Ố show

Step into the enchanting world of À Ố Show, where bamboo takes center stage and tradition meets innovation. Performed at the historic Saigon Opera House, this captivating spectacle blends acrobatics, contemporary dance, and live traditional music to tell the story of Vietnam’s journey from peaceful rural life to bustling urban modernity. Without a single spoken word, the performers convey powerful emotion, rhythm, and humor – offering both locals and travelers a visual feast that stirs the soul.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply looking for a truly memorable night out, À Ố Show is a rare gem that celebrates the essence of Vietnam with grace, artistry, and joy. It’s no surprise this show has toured internationally to standing ovations.

Show Details:

• Location: Saigon Opera House, 7 Lam Son Square, District 1
• Showtimes: Usually at 6:00 PM, occasionally 8:30 PM (check schedule in advance)
• Duration: ~60 minutes

Ticket prices:

– For Adult

• AAH! Zone ~800,000 VND
• OOH! Zone ~1,250,000 VND
• WOW! Zone ~1,750,000 VND

– For Children (ages 5–12):

• AAH! Zone ~560,000 VND
• OOH! Zone ~875,000 VND
• WOW! Zone ~1,225,000 VND

Note: Children under 5 are not allowed.

Tips:

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in and a welcome drink
• Booking in advance is highly recommended
• No photos, videos, or food/drinks allowed inside

Experience the nightlife buzz on Bui Vien

If you’re looking for where the city truly comes alive after dark, Bui Vien Walking Street in District 1 is the place to be. Known as the “backpacker district”, this vibrant street transforms every evening into a kaleidoscope of lights, music, and energy. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with friends, the buzzing atmosphere here promises a night to remember.

From street performers and live music to open-air bars, rooftop lounges, and affordable street food, Bui Vien has something for everyone. Sit on a plastic stool with a local beer in hand, dance to booming music, or explore quirky bars tucked into hidden corners – it’s loud, chaotic, and endlessly fun.

Tips for Visiting

• Best time to go: After 7:00 PM when the street becomes pedestrian-only and nightlife begins
• Expect crowds, loud music, and vibrant chaos – great for nightlife lovers, but not ideal for a quiet evening
• Keep an eye on your belongings; like any nightlife hotspot, petty theft can happen
• Some clubs may have a dress code or minimum age (18+)

Savoring ca phe sua da – Vietnam’s iconic iced coffee

No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without sipping a glass of cà phê sữa đá – strong Vietnamese coffee mixed with sweetened condensed milk and poured over ice. This humble drink is more than a caffeine fix; it’s a cultural ritual, often enjoyed slowly on tiny stools in the shade of bustling sidewalks.

Saigon’s version of iced coffee is bold, intense, and unapologetically sweet – a perfect reflection of the city itself. Whether you order it from a street vendor, a vintage-style cafe, or a modern roastery, each cup offers a unique taste of Vietnam’s deep coffee culture.

Saigon night markets – Where the city truly comes alive

When the sun sets, Saigon transforms into a lively maze of glowing stalls, sizzling street food, and buzzing energy. Night markets in Ho Chi Minh City aren’t just for shopping – they’re cultural experiences where you can mingle with locals, taste authentic Vietnamese snacks, and browse everything from clothes and souvenirs to handmade crafts.

Some of the most popular night markets include:

• Ben Thanh Night Market – right in the city center, famous for food and souvenirs
• Hanh Thong Tay Market – local vibe, cheap fashion, great for night strolls
• Ba Chieu Market – less touristy, packed with local street eats
• Ho Thi Ky Night Food Market – also known as the “snack paradise” in District 10

Tips for Visiting Night Markets:

• Bring cash (small bills are best), and don’t be afraid to bargain.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Go early evening (around 6:30–8:30 PM) for the best food selection.
• Don’t just shop – try the street food! Grilled seafood, fresh spring rolls, and sweet chè desserts are local favorites.

Experience traditional Vietnamese water puppetry

Water puppetry is a unique and time-honored art form of Vietnam, dating back nearly a thousand years. Performed in waist-deep water, the show brings wooden puppets to life through the skillful hands of hidden puppeteers, accompanied by live traditional music and storytelling rooted in rural folklore, legends, and everyday village life.

In Ho Chi Minh City, you can enjoy this cultural gem at two renowned venues:

• Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Southern Vietnam Art Theater (Nhà hát Nghệ thuật Phương Nam): 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, District 1

Each performance is a captivating blend of movement, music, and heritage – making it a must-see for both children and adults.

Tips:

• Check the show schedule in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
• Book tickets early to secure your seat.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes before showtime for the best viewing experience.
• Not all performances include English narration, so it’s a good idea to check with the venue beforehand.

Even if the performance is entirely in Vietnamese, the expressive puppet movements and lively traditional music make the experience easy to enjoy and understand – even for international visitors.

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis where old-world charm meets modern energy. From historic landmarks and cultural experiences to buzzing nightlife and local street food, the city offers a dynamic blend that promises something for every traveler. A trip to Ho Chi Minh is more than a visit – it’s an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, discovery, and authentic Vietnamese spirit.

If you’re planning to explore Vietnam, let Style Travel help you design the perfect journey. With years of experience in international tourism, we provide customizable tours that suit your interests, budget, and pace – ensuring a memorable and worry-free travel experience from start to finish.