Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide 2025: Energy, History & Modern Charm

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Ho Chi Minh City, still known locally as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic metropolis. It blends French colonial architecture, bustling markets, historic landmarks, and a vibrant street food scene. The city is divided into districts, each with its own character—from historic District 1 to the hip cafes of District 3 and the street food havens of District 4.

Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

The city has a tropical climate with two main seasons.

• December to April: Dry season, sunny days, and lower humidity—ideal for sightseeing.
• May to November: Wet season with afternoon showers but still plenty of things to do indoors.
  Temperatures stay warm year-round, averaging 27–34°C.

Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Historical & Cultural Sites

• War Remnants Museum – A powerful look at the Vietnam War.
• Independence Palace – Former presidential residence and historic site.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – French colonial architecture in the heart of the city.
• Saigon Central Post Office – Iconic 19th-century building designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Markets & Shopping

• Ben Thanh Market – Souvenirs, clothes, and street food under one roof.
• Binh Tay Market – Wholesale market in Chinatown (District 5).
• Nguyen Trai Street – Fashion boutiques and local brands.

Modern Landmarks

• Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck – Panoramic city views.
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street – Evening strolls and street performances.

Day Trips

• Cu Chi Tunnels – Historic underground network from the war era.
• Mekong Delta – Boat trips, floating markets, and lush scenery.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Luxury

• The Reverie Saigon – Opulent design, river views, and world-class service.
• Park Hyatt Saigon – Elegant rooms, central location, and excellent dining.

Mid-Range

• Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel – Comfortable rooms with river views.
• Silverland Yen Hotel – Boutique style with rooftop pool and spa.

Budget

• The Common Room Project – Stylish hostel with a social atmosphere.
• Vy Khanh Guesthouse – Affordable, friendly stay in District 1.

Where to Eat & Drink

Local Specialties

• Pho – Vietnam’s famous noodle soup.
• Banh Mi – Crispy baguette with various fillings.
• Com Tam – Broken rice with grilled pork and egg.
• Hu Tieu – Southern-style noodle soup.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

• Hum Vegetarian – Elegant setting with creative plant-based menu.
• The Organik House – Vegan-friendly cafe with organic ingredients.
• Pi Vegetarian Bistro – Vietnamese and fusion vegetarian dishes.

Nightlife

• Bui Vien Street – Backpacker hub with bars, live music, and street eats.
• Rooftop Bars – Chill Skybar, Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar for views and cocktails.
• Acoustic Live Music Cafes – Popular with locals for a more relaxed night.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

• Explore District 1: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Independence Palace.
• Visit Ben Thanh Market in the afternoon.
• Dinner and drinks on Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Day 2

• Morning trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Afternoon shopping or museum visits.
• Rooftop bar for sunset.

Day 3

• Mekong Delta day trip or explore Chinatown (District 5).
• Evening at a live music cafe.

How to Get to Ho Chi Minh City

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport serves domestic and international flights, 7 km from the city center.
• By Train: Reunification Express from Hanoi and other major cities.
• By Bus: Connections to nearby provinces and Cambodia.

Travel Tips for Ho Chi Minh City

• Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for safe, affordable transport.
• Be cautious when crossing streets—move steadily so motorbikes can navigate around you.
• Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded markets.
• Dress lightly but modestly when visiting temples.

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