Ho Chi Minh City

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Illuminated Ho Chi Minh City skyline with vibrant lights reflecting on the river at night.
Đào Minh Tự, Pexels

Ho Chi Minh City, often called Saigon, presents a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern dynamism. It serves as Vietnam's bustling economic and cultural center, attracting visitors with its rich history, diverse cuisine, and energetic atmosphere.

For those seeking to socialize, Bui Vien Walking Street in District 1 stands out as the prominent backpacker district. This area pulses with activity, especially at night, offering a vibrant scene filled with neon lights, loud music, bars, pubs, and various street food vendors, making it a lively hub for both tourists and locals.

Top 6 Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Activities in Ho Chi Minh City primarily involve exploring significant historical landmarks, engaging with local culture through bustling markets and diverse cuisine, and experiencing modern city views.

1. War Remnants Museum

Stepping into the War Remnants Museum offers a profound and sobering insight into the Vietnam War. The exhibits display powerful imagery, military hardware, and the devastating consequences of conflict, providing a crucial historical perspective. It is an emotionally impactful experience that deepens understanding of Vietnam's past.

Cost: Approximately 40,000 VND (about $1.60 USD).

Transport: Located in District 3, the museum is easily accessible. From central District 1, it is often within walking distance (around 15-20 minutes). Taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab are convenient, typically costing between $2-4 USD from District 1. Public bus routes 14, 28, or 06 also stop nearby.

2. Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)

Visiting the Independence Palace provides a glimpse into Vietnam's pivotal moments. This grand building served as the South Vietnamese presidential palace and was famously breached by a North Vietnamese tank in 1975, marking the end of the war. Exploring its preserved rooms, including the President's office, state rooms, and the underground command bunker, truly transports one back in time, revealing the architecture and political history of the era.

Cost: Approximately 40,000 VND (about $1.60 USD) for adults to access the palace, or 65,000 VND (about $2.60 USD) including the additional 'From Norodom Palace to Independence Palace 1868-1966' exhibition.

Transport: Situated in the heart of District 1, the palace is easily reachable on foot from many central hotels. Numerous public bus routes, such as 01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 18, 19, 30, 42, 103, and 109, have stops in the vicinity. Taxis and Grab services offer direct and convenient access.

3. Cu Chi Tunnels

Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels is an immersive journey into the underground world of Vietnamese guerrilla warfare. This extensive network of narrow tunnels allowed Viet Cong soldiers to live, communicate, and fight during the war. Visitors can crawl through sections of the tunnels, see booby traps, and learn about the ingenious methods used for survival, offering a tangible sense of the challenging conditions faced. It provides a deeper understanding of the conflict's complexities.

Cost: The entrance fee is around 125,000 VND (about $5 USD), which typically includes a local guide at the tunnels. Many visitors opt for organized tours, which can range from approximately 495,000 VND (about $20 USD) for a half-day bus tour. A private Grab taxi from the city center can cost around 750,000 VND (about $30 USD) one way.

Transport: The Cu Chi Tunnels are located about 1.5 to 2 hours outside Ho Chi Minh City. While many choose organized tours for convenience, it is possible to self-serve. Take public bus route 13 from Pham Ngu Lao Bus Station to Ben Xe Cu Chi, then transfer to bus route 79, which leads directly to the tunnels. The total bus fare is less than 15,000 VND (about $0.60 USD). Taxis and Grab are also available but are significantly more expensive.

4. Ben Thanh Market

Immersing oneself in Ben Thanh Market offers a quintessential Ho Chi Minh City experience, especially the vibrancy of Vietnamese daily life. During the day, the market is a bustling hub for souvenirs, clothing, and local goods. As evening falls, the surrounding streets transform into a lively night market, perfect for sampling an array of street food. Haggling is expected, providing an authentic interaction with local vendors.

Cost: Entry is free. Prices for goods vary greatly, and bargaining is common, with discounts of 30-50% often achievable. Street food prices are generally affordable.

Transport: Centrally located in District 1, the market is easily walkable from many downtown areas. Numerous city bus routes, including 04, 36, 39, 45, 72, and 93, stop nearby. Taxis and Grab are readily available.

5. Central Architecture and Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

Exploring the architectural gems of Ho Chi Minh City's center reveals its French colonial heritage and modern aspirations. The Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, situated side-by-side, showcase impressive French design and remain active landmarks, offering a serene contrast to the city's bustle. Nearby, Nguyen Hue Walking Street buzzes with life, particularly in the evenings, with street performances and modern vibrancy. Ascending to the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck provides a panoramic, 360-degree vista of the sprawling city and the Saigon River, offering a unique perspective on its urban landscape, especially striking at sunset.

Cost: Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office visits are free. Access to the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck costs approximately 200,000 VND (about $8-15 USD) for adults.

Transport: All these attractions are centrally located in District 1 and are easily explored on foot as they are close to each other. Taxis and Grab services are readily available. For the Central Post Office, public bus routes 03, 06, 19, and 45 stop nearby. The Bitexco Financial Tower is also a short walk or taxi ride from other central areas.

6. Street Food Tour

Embarking on a street food tour is an essential part of experiencing Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant culinary culture. Whether walking through hidden alleys or riding on the back of a motorbike, this activity allows for the discovery of authentic local eateries and a taste of diverse Vietnamese dishes, from savory pancakes to spicy soups and refreshing beverages. Knowledgeable local guides often share cultural insights alongside the delicious tastings, making it an immersive and flavorful adventure beyond typical tourist spots.

Cost: Costs for guided tours vary widely, typically ranging from $25 to $83 USD per person, depending on whether it's a walking or motorbike tour, and group size. Self-exploration is possible and cheaper per dish, but may lack the curated experience and local insights of a guided tour.

Transport: Many tours include hotel pickup or begin at a central meeting point in District 1. Tours are often conducted on foot or by motorbike, providing an authentic way to navigate the city's streets.

Check out our other pages on Ho Chi Minh City

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Vietnam

Central Highlands
North Central Coast
Northern Vietnam
South Central Coast & Southern Islands
Southern Vietnam