Ho Chi Minh Metropolis in Vietnam, also referred to as Saigon, is a metropolis that by no means sleeps. It’s a bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam that gives a novel mix of historical past, tradition, and modernity.
It’s a spot the place you may get misplaced within the maze of slim alleyways, discover the colonial structure, and eat your approach by the markets. There are various issues to do in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
On this information, I spotlight a number of the high points of interest and actions that you simply shouldn’t miss throughout your go to to Ho Chi Minh Metropolis. It’s best to be capable to get pleasure from all these actions in case you have 3 full days in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
Take a look at our itinerary for 14 days in Vietnam!
Right here is an outline:
Discover the historical past of Vietnam’s largest metropolis
Ho Chi Minh Metropolis has a wealthy historical past, that’s mirrored in its many museums and landmarks. It has been the capital of French Indochina, South Vietnam, and the scene of the Fall of Saigon that ended the Vietnam Warfare. It additionally has a colourful tradition.
Listed here are a number of the finest locations to go to to be taught concerning the historical past and tradition of this fascinating metropolis.
Go to the Independence Palace
Independence Palace was the previous residence of South Vietnam’s president throughout the conflict. It’s a image of the nation’s turbulent previous and serves as a reminder of the Vietnam Warfare, which lasted from 1954 to 1975. In the course of the Vietnam Warfare, the Independence Palace was the official residence of the South Vietnamese president.
The palace was initially inbuilt 1868 by the French colonial authorities, however was later destroyed throughout World Warfare II and rebuilt within the Nineteen Sixties.
Right this moment, the Independence Palace is a well-liked vacationer attraction. You’ll be able to have a glimpse into the lavish way of life of Vietnam’s former leaders there. The palace is superbly adorned with vintage furnishings, ornate chandeliers, and art work that dates again to the seventeenth century.
If you’re not likely into this type of museums—you’ll be able to simply benefit from the Palace’s lavish backyard, as I did. It gives a beautiful cooling reduction on this all the time scorching and humid metropolis.
Associated tour: Warfare Remnants Museum & Independence Palace Strolling Tour
Museum of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Museum of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is understood for its stunning structure and gardens.
The palace was inbuilt 1929 by French architect and was initially used as a customs home after which as a residence for the Governor of Cochinchina.
The palace has witnessed many historic occasions. It noticed the Japanese occupation, the Viet Minh rebellion, the assassination of President Ngo Dinh Diem, and the autumn of Saigon.
Museum of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis shows varied artefacts associated to the historical past and tradition of Vietnam. You’ll be able to see statues, ceramics, maps, vehicles, bikes, and private belongings of Ho Chi Minh there.
The palace was used because the short-term official residence of the Prime Minister (Ngô Đình Diệm). To arrange for the potential for a coup, Diệm oversaw the development of three intensive tunnels stretching from the palace to numerous elements of the town.
The tunnels have been constructed for Diệm and different officers to flee if vital. Throughout a 1963 coup, Diệm used one of many tunnels to flee the palace siege, however was later caught and executed. The palace was later rebuilt in 1966.
You will note some tanks and helicopters in entrance of the Museum of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis. They’re a part of the Warfare Remnants Museum, which I describe beneath.
You’ll be able to see there:
- UH-1 “Huey” helicopter
- F-5A fighter
- a M48 Patton tank
- an A-1 Skyraider assault bomber
The museum itself shouldn’t be giant, and there’s not that a lot to see. However the value shouldn’t be excessive both—40,000 Okay per individual (lower than $2).
Handle: 65 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Go to the Warfare Remnants Museum to be taught concerning the Vietnam Warfare
The Warfare Remnants Museum is an informative museum for anybody inquisitive about studying extra about historical past. Additionally it is a sobering reminder of the Vietnam Warfare and its impression on the nation and its individuals.
The Warfare Remnants Museum shows pictures, weapons, and private accounts that doc the conflict. These reveals showcase the conflict from the Vietnamese individuals’s standpoint.
Right here is the museum’s web site – Warfare Remnants Museum
This go to might be exhausting and sobering. I do know it was for me, a US citizen. It was additionally unusual to see some navy helicopters (outdated), which I’m used to cheering for on airshows, however they have been thought of being ‘the enemy’s’ gear.
However I discovered the show of navy gear deserted by the US forces attention-grabbing. They ooze historical past!
However it additionally made me very appreciative of the power of Vietnamese individuals to place the previous previously. They’re all smiles and friendliness towards the foreigners and use any probability to apply their English with you. And so they actually respect their French buildings!
Right here is hyperlink to the see the museum’s location and photos.
Nonetheless, if you happen to determine to go to the museum, perhaps go to one thing vivid and cheerful afterwards? You’ll be able to go to Central Publish Workplace—the enduring French constructing of Saigon.
Admire the French Structure of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
If you happen to’re inquisitive about colonial structure and historical past, take a stroll by District 1.
Ho Chi Minh Metropolis was the capital of French Indochina from 1887 to 1954. The French colonists constructed some spectacular buildings throughout that point. These buildings mirrored their type and affect. Two iconic landmarks, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Publish Workplace, have been each constructed throughout French colonization within the late nineteenth century.
Central Publish Workplace
The most effective locations to admire the French structure of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is the Central Publish Workplace. It was constructed between 1886 and 1891, and it was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the well-known engineer who additionally designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Inside, you’ll be able to see an unlimited portrait of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of recent Vietnam, in addition to outdated maps and telephones. The Central Publish Workplace remains to be functioning as a submit workplace as we speak, and you may ship letters and postcards from right here to anyplace on the planet.
The constructing is gorgeous each inside and outdoors, and it’s enjoyable to go to.
Go to the Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – one other iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is the Notre Dame Cathedral. It was constructed between 1863 and 1880 by the French colonists. The cathedral was named after Our Girl of the Immaculate Conception, and a statue of her stands in entrance of the primary entrance. It’s a place of worship for Catholics, in addition to a vacationer attraction for guests who wish to admire its magnificence and historical past.
The cathedral is at present beneath renovation and isn’t open to the general public, however you’ll be able to nonetheless see its exterior and take pictures from the skin.
Metropolis tour Ho Chi Minh
Taking a metropolis tour in Ho Chi Minh is enjoyable as a result of you’ll be able to see many historic cities and buildings and map the way in which on your self-guided stroll later.
A number of the locations you’ll be able to go to on a metropolis tour are:
- Ben Thanh Market, a bustling market the place you’ll find all the things from souvenirs to spices to native delicacies. Examine this market later on this submit.
- Bitexco Monetary Tower and Saigon Skydeck, a contemporary skyscraper that gives panoramic views of the town from its statement deck.
- Saigon River, a scenic waterway that runs by the town and gives boat cruises and water actions.
- Nguyen Hue Strolling Road, a pedestrian-only avenue that’s lined with retailers, cafes, eating places.
- HCMC Opera Home, a stupendous colonial-style constructing that hosts cultural performances and occasions.
- Rex Resort, a historic lodge that was a well-known assembly place for journalists and diplomats throughout the Vietnam Warfare.
- Ho Chi Minh Statue and Metropolis Corridor, a monument to the revered chief of Vietnam and an imposing French-style constructing that serves because the seat of the town authorities.
These are simply a number of the highlights of a metropolis tour in Ho Chi Minh. You’ll be able to e-book your journey on-line or by native operators. The Ho Chi Minh Hop On Hop Off tour can also be a good way to get round to all the massive sights.
Pattern native delicacies
Meals is a significant a part of any journey to Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is not any exception. With avenue meals on each nook and numerous eating places serving up conventional dishes, you’ll by no means go hungry right here.
Be certain to attempt a number of the native specialties corresponding to pho (a noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and spring rolls. If you happen to’re feeling adventurous, head to native markets, the place you’ll be able to attempt all the things from snails to grilled goat meat.
For these in search of a extra upscale eating expertise, Ho Chi Minh Metropolis has loads of choices as effectively. Take a look at The Deck Saigon for gorgeous river views and connoisseur Vietnamese delicacies or Cuc Gach Quan for a comfortable ambiance and farm-to-table dishes. Right here’s one other farm-to-table expertise – a cooking class!
Take a look at these wholesome dishes in Vietnam.
Getting misplaced in native markets
Certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is simply wander by its many markets. Not solely do these bustling hubs provide a number of the finest avenue meals round, however they’re additionally a terrific place to buy souvenirs, if you’re on trip.
They’re additionally nice sensible locations for a nomadic traveler to replenish its journey gear, and get, let’s say, a Nike backpack for $4!:). I don’t understand how a lot of an precise ‘Nike” is in my backpack, but it surely seems to be and feels good, and for $4 I wasn’t too choosy!:)
Folks watching can also be enjoyable.
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market in Chinatown is maybe the most well-liked market within the metropolis and gives all the things you’ll be able to consider, and even didn’t know existed! You will discover a colourful collection of gadgets on this bustling hub, from recent produce to clothes and souvenirs.
Ben Thanh Market is likely one of the oldest and most well-known markets within the metropolis. After you discover the market” limitless stalls, you may as well get pleasure from a wide range of avenue meals and drinks. You will discover pho, banh mi, spring rolls, espresso, and coconut juice and rather more right here.
Ben Thanh Market is open every day from 6 am to 7 pm. And after darkish it transforms right into a energetic night time market stuffed with further meals stalls and distributors lining the streets.
If you’re in search of an genuine cultural expertise, Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit vacation spot!
Bin Tay Market (Cholon Chinatown Market)
Bin Tay Market market is a vibrant market in Chinatown, the place you’ll be able to expertise the tradition and delicacies of the Chinese language group. You will discover a wide range of items, corresponding to materials, electronics, home goods, and Chinese language herbs and medicines.
Did you just like the meals on the markets? Perhaps it’s best to learn to cook dinner this meals?
Take a Vietnamese cooking class
This cooking class in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis features a trip on a standard Vietnamese cyclo to Ben Thanh Market. You’ll store for recent herbs and produce there after which learn to put together a wide range of typical Vietnamese dishes. You’ll be guided by knowledgeable chef.
So now you’ve already tasted Vietnamese meals, and discovered the historical past of Vietnam. You additionally explored French structure, so perhaps you wish to see the historic Vietnamese structure?
Cultural Vietnamese structure
Go to the Jade Emperor Pagoda
Jade Emperor Pagoda is a Taoist Temple.
Vietnam seldom practices Taoism in its pure type; nevertheless, the Vietnamese people faith has absorbed sure elements of it. You’ll be able to see Taoist temples right here and there in Vietnam.
Go to the Jade Emperor Pagoda if you happen to’re inquisitive about Taoist tradition and faith. The pagoda is a vital shrine in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis and was inbuilt 1909 by a Chinese language service provider named Liu Daoyuan.
It’s devoted to the Jade Emperor, who’s the supreme god of Taoism. You’ll discover statues, work, and woodcarvings inside, in addition to a pond with sacred turtles.
Admission is free, and you may be a part of the locals in burning incense and making choices to the gods. It’s a peaceable and non secular place that gives you a glimpse into Vietnam’s wealthy non secular traditions.
Benefit from the nightlife of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Ho Chi Minh Metropolis is a metropolis that by no means sleeps, with a energetic nightlife. While you stroll on a busy avenue at night time, it is extremely thrilling to see so many individuals outdoors, having fun with the cooler temperatures! I feel I loved this time of the day essentially the most.
You don’t must stroll removed from any fundamental avenue to eat if you’re hungry. There are such a lot of locations to eat all over the place, opened late!
And if you’re within the temper to membership, right here is the checklist of high nightclubs in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
Finest golf equipment round Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Bars in District 1
That is the guts of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis’s nightlife and among the many hottest areas for clubbing. That is the place most vacationers keep. You will discover many bars and golf equipment right here catering to numerous tastes and budgets.
Just a few of one of the best golf equipment in District 1 embody:
- Chill Sky bar:
That is one in every of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis’s most famed rooftop bars. It gives breathtaking views of the skyline with a classy ambiance. The music sometimes options EDM and hip hop, whereas the drinks might be dear however price it. On the identical ground, you may as well bask in high quality eating on the Chill Eating restaurant.
Handle: AB Tower, 76A Đ. Lê Lai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - Apocalypse Now Bar:
A legendary membership that has been round for over 20 years, drawing locals and foreigners alike. Apocalypse Now Bar has two flooring with a spacious dance ground, pool desk, and a stage for stay music on the bottom ground. The higher ground has a lounge space with sofas and a balcony. The DJ performs a mix of rock, pop, and dance, and the drinks are inexpensive.
Handle: 2F Nguyễn, Thi Sách, Bến Nghé, TP, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000 - Lush Membership:
A classy membership that draws a younger and trendy crowd. The membership spans two flooring, with a large dance ground, VIP space, and a bar on the bottom ground, Lush Membership additionally has a rooftop terrace with a pool and a bar on the higher ground. The music primarily options EDM and home, and the drinks are fairly priced.
Handle: 156/2 Lý Tự Trọng, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Bars in District 3
This can be a quieter and extra residential area in comparison with District 1, but it surely nonetheless gives some wonderful choices for clubbing. A number of the high golf equipment in District 3 are:
- Carmen Bar:
An intimate and comfortable bar that makes a speciality of stay music, particularly Latin and jazz. The bar boasts a country and stylish decor with picket furnishings, purple curtains, and candles. The music is carried out by proficient native and overseas musicians, and the drinks are fairly priced.
Handle: 8 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - Envy Membership:
An expensive and glamorous membership showcasing state-of-the-art sound and lighting programs. Envy Membership gives reveals with spectacular performances by dancers, singers, and DJs. The membership has a big dance ground surrounded by VIP cubicles and tables. The music primarily options EDM and hip hop, and the drinks are costly however high-quality.
Handle: 74-76 Đ. Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 11111 - Seventeen Saloon Saigon:
A western-style bar offering stay rock music each night time. Seventeen Saloon Saigon has a cowboy theme with picket barrels, leather-based sofas, and cowboy hats. The music options energetic bands taking part in basic rock hits from the 70s to the 90s. The drinks are low-cost and powerful.
Handle: 130A Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Bars in District 4
This can be a working-class district with a popularity for being tough and harmful, but it surely additionally gives some hidden gems for clubbing. A number of the high golf equipment in District 4 embody:
- TNR Saigon:
A pleasant and relaxed bar that gives low-cost drinks and wonderful music. The bar has a pool desk, and you may request your most well-liked music from the DJ. The group is usually expats and backpackers who come right here to socialize and have enjoyable.
Handle: 57 Đỗ Quang Đẩu, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000 - Ong Cao Craft Beer:
A craft beer bar providing a wide range of native and imported beers on faucet or in bottles. The bar has a contemporary and minimalistic decor with picket tables and stools. The workers are educated and useful, and the costs are cheap.
Handle: 240 Đ. Bùi Viện, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - Broma Not A Bar:
A rooftop bar offering splendid views of the streets beneath. The bar has a laid-back and informal vibe with picket furnishings, fairy lights, and crops. The music primarily options indie rock and different pop, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
Handle: 41 District, 41 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Be certain to style this beer in Vietnam!
HCMC has a purchasing scene that caters to all tastes and budgets.
Listed here are a number of the finest locations to get pleasure from purchasing in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
- Ben Thanh Market:
Extra particulars about this marker are above. - Vincom Heart:
This is likely one of the largest malls in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, with over 250 retailers, eating places, cinemas, and leisure services. You will discover worldwide manufacturers corresponding to Zara, Mango, Adidas, and Nike, in addition to native services and products. - Style boutiques:
If you happen to’re in search of a pleasant outfit by native designers, you’ll be able to try a number of the trend boutiques in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis. A number of the widespread ones are L’Usine, Nosbyn, Cashew, and Ren. You will discover stylish and distinctive clothes, equipment, and footwear at cheap costs.
Store for bargains and souvenirs at Saigon Sq.
Saigon Sq. is a wholesale trend mall in District 1, the place you’ll find a variety of low-cost clothes, footwear, luggage, and equipment. The standard might fluctuate, however you’ll be able to haggle for a lower cost. The mall is widespread amongst locals and foreigners alike.
Suoi Tien Theme Park
If you’re a touring with a household, go to Suoi Tien Theme Park, a Buddhist-Themed Amusement Park.
Suoi Tien Theme Park is an amusement park in District 9, Thu Duc Metropolis, Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, Vietnam. It’s the world’s first water park dedicated to Buddhism, particularly the SE Asian animistic type of Buddhism. The park consists of a number of leisure areas that illustrate Vietnam’s historical past and legends.
These areas are: Au Co and Lac Lengthy Quan, the Battle of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, and the 4 Noble Reality.
The park opened in 1995 and is likely one of the hottest vacationer locations in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
Some points of interest within the park
- Crocodile Kingdom:
A big pond with over 1,500 crocodiles that guests can feed with fishing rods. - Tien Dong Seashore:
A person-made seashore with a waterfall that has the face of an emperor sculpted into it. - Dinosaur Backyard:
A backyard with life-size fashions of dinosaurs and prehistoric animals. - Curler Coaster:
An exciting trip that goes by a dragon’s mouth and a large Buddha statue. - Unicorn Palace:
A palace with statues and work of unicorns, fairies, and angels.
The park additionally has a zoo, a cinema, a spa, a temple, and plenty of eating places and retailers.
Suoi Tien Theme Park park shall be served by Suoi Tien Park Station on the primary line of the Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, that’s at present beneath development. It’s open from 8:00 AM to five:00 PM day by day.
The admission payment is 90,000 VND (about 3.9 USD) for adults and 45,000 VND (about 1.9 USD) for kids.
You’ll be able to go to their official web site for extra info.
Day journeys from Ho Chi Minh Metropolis
Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a community of underground tunnels that have been utilized by the Viet Cong (VC) guerrillas throughout the Vietnam Warfare. The tunnels have been situated within the Cu Chi district of Ho Chi Minh Metropolis.
They stretched for about 250 kilometers, connecting totally different VC bases and hiding spots. The tunnels have been dug by hand, usually utilizing easy instruments corresponding to shovels and baskets.
The tunnels have been used for various functions, like:
- Hiding from American and South Vietnamese forces, who relied closely on aerial bombing and floor
patrols. - Transporting provides, weapons, and communications throughout the battlefield.
- Offering shelter, medical care, meals, and leisure for VC troopers and supporters.
The tunnels had traps to cease enemies, like explosives, spikes, scorpions, and snakes. To destroy them, the Individuals and South Vietnamese used bombs, chemical compounds, canines, and troopers referred to as tunnel rats who searched inside. However the tunnels have been sturdy and helped the VC resist the stronger enemy.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are actually a part of a conflict memorial park in Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, the place guests can be taught concerning the historical past and expertise of the tunnels. The tunnels have been widened and lit to accommodate vacationers, who can crawl by them and see varied reveals and shows.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a preferred attraction for locals and foreigners who wish to be taught concerning the Vietnam Warfare or like this sort of attraction. There are various day journeys to the tunnels from Ho Chi Minh Metropolis, together with this half-day tour and this full-day tour that additionally visits the Mekong Delta.
Mekong River tour
Expertise the integral a part of Vietnam’s historical past with a go to to the Cu Chi Tunnels, thought of being a must-see attraction.
Improve your go to to an expensive tour that features round-trip transport by a luxurious limousine and a leisurely cruise on the Mekong River. You should have a personalised expertise in a small group of seven with air-conditioned consolation whereas exploring the tunnels with a information.
Proceed the tour to Mekong River for an unforgettable expertise.
Discover the Mekong Delta on a rowboat and motorboat, and observe the agricultural lifetime of the locals.
There are other ways to e-book a metropolis tour in Ho Chi Minh, relying in your preferences, funds and time.
One of many choices is on-line reserving. You’ll be able to evaluate costs, evaluations, itineraries and availability of various excursions and select the one which fits you finest. A number of the web sites that provide on-line reserving for metropolis excursions in Ho Chi Minh are Get Your Information and Viator.
If you happen to plan to go to Vietnam, don’t miss Ho Chi Minh Metropolis!
You’ll get pleasure from this splendidly vibrant metropolis and all the highest points of interest it gives!
