“The world makes way for the man who knows where he is going.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

That being said, exploring Vietnam is much easier only if you know where you have to go and what you want to experience. For us, it was Ho Chi Minh, or as it is known locally, Saigon that welcomed us in the country. Ho Chi Minh attractions do not just consist of the places inside the city but also on its outskirts.

The best part of a journey is itself, and the scooties/ two wheelers on the roads of Ho Chi Minh stand as an evidence to that. There are two ways of exploring the city; either by a cab or scooty. Both of which can be booked via Grab Taxi App (Vietnam’s Uber). (PRO TIP: The ride will be available within a few minutes so make sure you are ready to hit the road before you book one.)

Now, let us get started with Ho Chi Minh tourist spots for you to mark your maps.

 

Must-see places in Saigon/ Ho Chi Minh

Saigon Central Post Office

Starting from the oldest post of Vietnam that still works. Yes! You can send unique postcards to your loved ones and even buy souvenirs for them. But this is not all about one of the top attractions in HCMC. Saigon Central Post Office was designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel (the French civil engineer on whom the Eiffel Tower was named). In the past, this post office was the only place from where calls could be made to different parts of the world. The lines are no longer functional but you can still see the phone booths dedicated to different countries.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Next is the iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh that lies just a stone’s throw away from the post office (across the road); Notre Dame Cathedral. You can see Mother Mary’s statue outside the cathedral while it itself is a beauty with striking Neo-Romanesque architecture. Built with materials imported from France, including red bricks from Marseille, this cathedral’s twin bell towers and intricate interior make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts alike. Another reason why you must add it in your Saigon sightseeing guide. (PRO TIP: It only opens on Sunday for service and is currently under renovation.)

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Another of the must-see places in Saigon is this beautiful Taoist Temple, providing serenity amidst the chaos of the city. It is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, adorned with colorful statues and intricate wood carvings. The temple is popular among the locals as a place for couples seeking blessings for fertility and prosperity. Other than that, many young individuals can also be seen here praying for career and educational growth. So, be prepared to encounter various young individuals at one of the gems in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Independence Palace/Reunification Palace

Open to the public as a museum, this palace was originally the former presidential residence. Hence, it is considered as one of the best places to visit in Saigon for the value it has.It is known for its 1960s architecture shown in the luxurious rooms including presidential office, banquet halls, and telecommunication center. This Ho Chi Minh City attraction provides a glimpse of Vietnam’s modern history. It is a symbol of national unity and reconciliation between South and North Vietnam.

War Remnants Museum

For us Indians who fought a long battle with invaders as well as got colonized by the British who came disguised as traders, this place stood out. It became truly one of the best places in Saigon. The museum provides insight into Vietnam’s turbulent past through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts from the Vietnam-America war(1955-1975). Some exhibits can be disturbing as they give you clear and gruesome facts, memoirs, confessions, and so on. However, it also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and reconciliation in a world scarred by conflict.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Did you know that the Cu Chi Tunnels are not just a historical site but also an underground city with a network of tunnels stretching over 250 kilometers? These tunnels served as a crucial lifeline for the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, providing shelter, supply routes, and communication channels.

You can experience firsthand the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese people. There is a maze of underground passages, hidden traps, and camouflaged entrances. From crawling through narrow tunnels to witnessing demonstrations of trap-making techniques, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a gripping glimpse into the realities of guerrilla warfare.

Mekong Delta

Ho Chi Minh attractions go to the outskirts and consists of the Mekong Delta. It is often referred to as the “Rice Bowl” of Vietnam due to its rich agricultural abundance and fertile soil. It is a vast and vibrant ecosystem where floating markets, lush rice paddies, and traditional villages. From cruising along winding waterways on traditional sampan boats to sampling exotic fruits at bustling floating markets, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this enchanting region. (PRO TIP: Try the coconut candies, honey tea, snake wine, and so much more that you won’t be getting anywhere else.)

 

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh attractions do not end with just the places mentioned above. Let us give you some tidbits on the vibrant spots of Ho Chi Minh city.

• Ben Thanh Market: Indulge into Vietnamese flavors, art, and vibrance and bargain as much as you can to get hefty discounts. 

Fun Fact: Ben Thanh Market has been a bustling hub of activity for over a century. It got its name from the Ben Thanh River, the market has grown into one of the Ho Chi Minh attractions.

• Saigon Central Market: Another market that is vibrant and bustling with energy. Saigon Central Market is a treasure trove of culinary delights. Don’t forget to try the famous local specialties like pho and banh mi!

Fun Fact: Also known as Cho Bến Thành, it is not only one of the oldest markets in Ho Chi Minh City but also one of the largest and most diverse. It has been a central trading hub since the 17th century, bustling with activity day and night.

• Bui Vien Walking Street: Let us head towards the most happening attraction of Ho Chi Minh city, situated in the heart of the city’s backpacker district; Bui Vien Walking Street. Whether you’re dancing the night away or sampling exotic cocktails, Bui Vien has something for everyone.

Fun Fact: Bui Vien Walking Street comes alive after dark, transforming into a neon-lit playground for locals and tourists alike. 

 

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips

For Vegetarians/Vegans:

If you are vegetarian just like my mom, you can have the best and exotic vegetarian delights at:

• Hum Vegetarian
• Pi Vegetarian Bistro
• Loving Hut Hoa Dang
• Shamballa Vegetarian Restaurant & Tea house

To Book Vietnam City Tours or Packages:

Download Grab Taxi app. It can be used for booking a ride or ordering food delivery.

Download Klook app. It can be used for book Ho Chi Minh city tour, Da Nang city tour, Hoi an day tour, and Hanoi city tour. In fact other explorations and experiences can also be booked directly via this app. The rates are reasonable and much cheaper than booking through an agent.

Also, check out our perfectly designed 10-day itinerary for your Vietnam trip for a full-fledged exploration of the country.