Best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City in our Vietnam tour packages
The largest city in Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis filled with fascinating history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant street life. If you're planning a trip to this dynamic city, there are plenty of exciting places to visit and explore. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding area.
Best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum
- Location: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3
- Open: 07:30 am – 05:30 pm
- Open: 07:30 am – 05:30 pm
War Remnants Museum is the oldest museums in Ho Chi Minh City.
The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the Vietnam War. The museum features exhibitions showcasing the impact of the war on both Vietnam and the world. From graphic photographs and personal accounts to military equipment and weaponry, the War Remnants Museum provides a sobering and informative look into the history of the conflict.
The Reunification Palace
- Location: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1
- Open: 08:00 am – 03:30 pm
The Reunification Palace is an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its historical significance as the site of the end of the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the palace's ornate interiors, including meeting rooms, living quarters, and a rooftop helipad. The palace also features a museum showcasing the history of Vietnam's struggle for independence.
- Open: 08:00 am – 03:30 pm
The Reunification Palace is an iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its historical significance as the site of the end of the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the palace's ornate interiors, including meeting rooms, living quarters, and a rooftop helipad. The palace also features a museum showcasing the history of Vietnam's struggle for independence.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
- Location: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1
- Open: Mon - Sat 8:00 am - 11:00 am / 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Located in the heart of the city, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Completed in 1880, the cathedral features two bell towers and striking stained glass windows. While the exterior is currently undergoing restoration work, visitors can still appreciate the beauty of the cathedral's facade.
Ben Thanh Market
- Location: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
Ben Thanh Market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Ho Chi Minh City and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The market features a wide range of products, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It is open daily from early morning until late at night.
Cu Chi Tunnels
- Location: Phu Hiep TL15 Phu Hiep, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: Sun - Fri 7:00 am - 6:00 pm; Sat - Sat 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure seekers. The tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War and offer a glimpse into the tactics and conditions of the conflict. Visitors can crawl through sections of the narrow tunnels and learn about the ingenious methods used by the guerrilla fighters.
- Open: Sun - Fri 7:00 am - 6:00 pm; Sat - Sat 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating destination for history buffs and adventure seekers. The tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War and offer a glimpse into the tactics and conditions of the conflict. Visitors can crawl through sections of the narrow tunnels and learn about the ingenious methods used by the guerrilla fighters.
Bitexco Financial Tower
- Location: 2 Hai Trieu, Ben Nghe, district 1
- Open: 8 am - 11 pm
For a bird's-eye view of the city, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower. This towering skyscraper offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from its observation deck on the 49th floor. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the tower's restaurant or grab a drink at the rooftop bar.
- Open: 8 am - 11 pm
For a bird's-eye view of the city, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower. This towering skyscraper offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from its observation deck on the 49th floor. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the tower's restaurant or grab a drink at the rooftop bar.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Location: 73 Mai Thi Luu street, Dakao ward, District 1
- Open: 7 am - 5:30 pm
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Built in 1909, the pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, a Taoist deity. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and sculptures, including a statue of the Jade Emperor himself. The pagoda is also home to several resident turtles, considered sacred in Vietnamese culture.
- Open: 7 am - 5:30 pm
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Built in 1909, the pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, a Taoist deity. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and sculptures, including a statue of the Jade Emperor himself. The pagoda is also home to several resident turtles, considered sacred in Vietnamese culture.
Saigon Opera House
- Location: 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, Ben Nghe Ward, District 01
The Saigon Opera House is another iconic place in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its stunning French colonial architecture and world-class performances. The opera house hosts a variety of cultural events, including ballets, musicals, and classical concerts.
The Saigon Opera House is another iconic place in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its stunning French colonial architecture and world-class performances. The opera house hosts a variety of cultural events, including ballets, musicals, and classical concerts.
Museum of Fine Arts
- Location: 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street, District 1
- Open: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday – Sunday (closed on Monday)
Art lovers won't want to miss the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. The museum features a vast collection of Vietnamese art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, as well as attend workshops and exhibitions.
- Open: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday – Sunday (closed on Monday)
Art lovers won't want to miss the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. The museum features a vast collection of Vietnamese art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, as well as attend workshops and exhibitions.
The Ho Chi Minh City Post Office (Saigon Central Post Office)
- Location: 2 Cong Xa Paris Road, District 1
- Open: 7 am - 7 pm
The Ho Chi Minh City Post Office, or the Saigon Central Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture, and a popular spot for tourists to visit. It was built in the late 19th century and features a beautiful interior with high ceilings and intricate details. Visitors can also send postcards or letters from the post office, which makes for a unique souvenir.
- Open: 7 am - 7 pm
The Ho Chi Minh City Post Office, or the Saigon Central Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture, and a popular spot for tourists to visit. It was built in the late 19th century and features a beautiful interior with high ceilings and intricate details. Visitors can also send postcards or letters from the post office, which makes for a unique souvenir.
Cho Lon
Binh Tay market - part of the Cho Lon
Cho Lon is the city's Chinatown, and a fascinating area to explore. It is home to a large Chinese population, and features numerous temples, markets, and restaurants. It is a great place to try some delicious Chinese-Vietnamese fusion food, or to pick up some souvenirs and trinkets.
Pham Ngu Lao Street
Pham Ngu Lao Street is a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers in Ho Chi Minh City. The street is lined with affordable hostels, guesthouses, and restaurants, making it a great place to stay for those on a tight budget. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife and street food scene in the area.
Can Gio Mangrove Forest
The Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a protected biosphere reserve and a unique ecosystem located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City. The forest is home to various species of flora and fauna, including monkeys, crocodiles, and rare birds. You can take a boat tour to explore the mangroves, visit a crocodile farm, or relax on a secluded beach.
Landmark 81
- Location: 720A Dien Bien Phu, Ward 22, District Binh Thanh
- Open: 8:30 am - 11 pm
Landmark 81 is an iconic skyscraper located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This towering building stands at a height of 461.5 meters, making it the tallest building in Vietnam and the 14th tallest building in the world. Its impressive size and unique architecture make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
- Open: 8:30 am - 11 pm
Landmark 81 is an iconic skyscraper located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This towering building stands at a height of 461.5 meters, making it the tallest building in Vietnam and the 14th tallest building in the world. Its impressive size and unique architecture make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
The Landmark 81 at night
Visitors to Landmark 81 can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the observation deck on the 79th floor. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the city, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the skyline, the Saigon River, and the surrounding areas. The observation deck also features a bar and a cafe, where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the view.
Saigon River
One of the most notable features of the Sai Gon River is its role in the history of Ho Chi Minh City. The river has played an important part in the city's development, serving as a vital trading route and a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and poets throughout the years. For many visitors to the city, a boat ride along the river is a must-do activity, offering a unique perspective on the city's landmarks and culture.
Sai Gon River stretches over 230 km, beginning at the Cambodian border and flowing southward to the South China Sea.
A boat tour along the Sai Gon River is an excellent way to take in the sights of the city while escaping the hustle and bustle of the streets. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely cruise while taking in views of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the Saigon Opera House, the Bitexco Financial Tower, and the historic Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. Along the way, they can also observe the daily activities of locals who live and work along the river, including fishermen, cargo ships, and riverside vendors.
Apartment 42 Nguyen Hue
Saigon’s new Walking Street offers many historic, modern, and culinary attractions. But one place in particular: the old apartment block at N°42 Nguyen Hue. Built sometime in the middle of the 20th century*, the apartment has a history of housing government and military personnel: from US advisors in the 1950s and 1960s.
Apartment 42 Nguyen Hue - one of best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
Today, this characterful, crumbling, nine-storey apartment block is a veritable chocolate box of hip, independent cafes, fashion boutiques and co-working spaces. Wander from floor to floor – up the twisting stone staircase and along the tiled corridors – ducking into any coffee shop that takes your fancy. Local, trendy, and abuzz, this old Saigon edifice is reborn. It the Cafe Apartment.
Places to visit around
When it comes to exploring the surroundings of Ho Chi Minh City, there is no shortage of amazing places to visit. From historic landmarks to breathtaking natural scenery, the region offers a diverse range of attractions that will satisfy every type of traveler. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best places to visit around Ho Chi Minh City.
Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers and canals that stretch across southern Vietnam, including areas surrounding Ho Chi Minh City. The delta is known for its floating markets, fruit orchards, and traditional villages. You can take a boat tour, sample delicious local fruits, and experience the slower pace of life in rural Vietnam.
Ben Tre Province
Ben Tre Province is a peaceful area that is famous for its coconut plantations and traditional villages. Visitors can take a boat ride along the Ben Tre River and see some of the many coconut groves, fruit orchards, and rice paddies that dot the landscape. You can also visit some of the local handicraft workshops and learn about traditional crafts such as mat weaving and coconut candy making.
Vung Tau Beach
If you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Vung Tau is the perfect destination for you. This seaside town is located on a peninsula that juts out into the South China Sea, and it boasts some of the best beaches in the region. You can sunbathe, swim, and indulge in water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and jet skiing. You can also climb up to the lighthouse on Nui Nho Mountain for panoramic views of the coastline. Vung Tau is about 100 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, and you can get there by car, bus, or ferry.
Cat Tien National Park
Cat Tien National Park is a pristine wilderness area that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. This park is located about 150 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, and it offers a refreshing break from the city's hustle and bustle. You can go on a jungle trek, spot rare birds and animals, and learn about the park's conservation efforts. You can also stay overnight in one of the park's lodges and immerse yourself in nature. Cat Tien National Park can be accessed by car, bus, or motorcycle.
Ba Den Mountain
Ba Den Mountain Cable Car [Tay Ninh province]
Ba Den Mountain is the highest peak in southern Vietnam, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can take a cable car to the top, visit a temple complex, and enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views. The mountain is also known for its hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities.
Sa Dec Flower Village
Sa Dec Flower Village is a hidden gem located in the Mekong Delta, about three hours from Ho Chi Minh City. The village is famous for its colorful flower fields and traditional houses decorated with ornate carvings. You can stroll through the village, sample local delicacies, and admire the intricate flower arrangements.
Cao Dai Temple
Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh province
The Cao Dai Temple is a fascinating religious site that reflects the unique syncretism of Vietnam's spiritual traditions. Cao Dai is a monotheistic religion that combines elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam. The temple is adorned with colorful murals, intricate carvings, and symbolic statues, and it hosts daily prayer ceremonies that are open to visitors. The Cao Dai Temple is located about 60 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, and it can be visited as a day trip or as part of a Cu Chi Tunnels tour.
Ho Tram Beach
Ho Tram Beach is a secluded stretch of sand that is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Cai Be Floating Market
Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Cai Be Floating Market is a vibrant and colorful market that takes place on the water. Visitors can take a boat tour of the market and see locals selling everything from fruits and vegetables to crafts and souvenirs.
Dai Nam tourist area
A wonderful destination located just a short drive from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh. With its diverse range of attractions, this tourist area offers something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to history buffs to families with young children.
The Dai Nam tourist area is situated on a vast complex that covers over 450 hectares of land. The complex boasts an array of attractions, including amusement parks, water parks, museums, and shopping centers, making it the ideal destination for a day trip or a longer vacation.
The Dai Nam tourist area is situated on a vast complex that covers over 450 hectares of land. The complex boasts an array of attractions, including amusement parks, water parks, museums, and shopping centers, making it the ideal destination for a day trip or a longer vacation.
Dai Nam Wonderland: a beautiful tourist area near Ho Chi Minh
One of the main attractions at the Dai Nam tourist area is the Dai Nam Van Hien Wonderland, which features a variety of exciting rides and attractions. Visitors can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, water slides, and other adrenaline-pumping rides, as well as a range of more gentle attractions for younger children.
Ho Chi Minh City is just the beginning of the adventure in southern Vietnam. There are plenty of destinations worth exploring just outside the city, and we hope our guide has given you some inspiration. From the Cu Chi Tunnels to the Mekong Delta, Vung Tau to Ba Den Mountain, and Sa Dec Flower Village, there's something for everyone. Get out there and start exploring, there are plenty of amazing destinations to add to your Vietnam tour packages!