Introduction to Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to our comprehensive Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide. As Vietnam’s largest metropolis, where motorbikes hum, French colonial buildings stand beside sleek skyscrapers, and every street corner serves up a taste of Southern Vietnam. Locals still lovingly call it Saigon, a name that carries deep history.
👉 Curious about the story behind the two names? Read our dedicated post on Why Ho Chi Minh City is Also Called Saigon.
This Ho Chi Minh City travel guide brings you into Vietnam’s largest and most electric metropolis, where French-era boulevards, modern skylines, and the nonstop rhythm of street life blend into an energy that is bold, vibrant, and unmistakably alive. Whether you’re here for the street food, the heritage sites, or just to soak in the urban buzz, Ho Chi Minh City is a place that lingers in your memory.
Quick Facts about Ho Chi Minh City
Before diving into details, here’s a quick snapshot to help you understand what makes Ho Chi Minh City such a worth experiencing destination.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is about 1–2 hours by flight from most major cities in Vietnam |
| Airport | Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), Ho Chi Minh city. Located ~7 km from City center (20–30 minutes by car, depending on traffic) |
| Best known | Vietnam’s largest city, known for vibrant street life, a dynamic food scene, and its role as the country’s modern economic hub. |
| Popular destinations | Ho Chi Minh City highlights include: Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Old Post Office, Saigon Opera House, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck Bitexco, Chinatown (Cholon in District 5) |
| Travel style | Short trips, Family trips, Culture & History Explore, Urban Exploration, Food tour |
| Climate | Tropical; hot and humid year-round. Dry season: Dec–May. Rainy season: Jun–Oct |
| Ideal stay | 2–4 days in Ho Chi Minh City |
| Best time to visit | December to May for drier weather and easier city exploration |
What makes Ho Chi Minh City Special?
- French Colonial Architecture in Saigon: From the red bricks of Notre Dame Cathedral to the iron arches of the Central Post Office, these Indochine-era landmarks reveal Saigon’s layered past — best explored on foot in the early morning with our Saigon Authentic Tour.
- War History Museums in Ho Chi Minh City: The War Remnants Museum and nearby sites provide powerful insights into Vietnam’s modern history.
- Saigon Nightlife & Rooftop Bars: When the sun sets, District 1 comes alive with sky-high lounges and casual open-air bars.
- Street Food & Markets: Taste iconic dishes like Banh Mi, Com Tam, and Hu Tieu at local stalls, or head to Ben Thanh Market for a classic experience.
- Day Trips from Saigon: Within a few hours, explore Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangrove Forest, or the Mekong Delta.
👉 Ho Chi Minh City is often the starting point for longer journeys across Vietnam. Many travelers choose to explore the country on a 14-day Across Vietnam journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Northern Vietnam, combining city life with natural and cultural highlights.
How to plan a trip to Ho Chi Minh City
How long to stay
- 1–2 days – Explore iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and enjoy a night on Bui Vien Walking Street.
- 3–4 days – Add Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta for deeper history and cultural insights.
Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City
The city has two distinct seasons. Determining the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City depends on your tolerance for heat and rain.
| 🌦️ Season | ⛅️ Weather | ⛱️ Best for | 📌 Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| December – March | Cool, dry, comfortable | Walking tours, rooftop bars, day trips, festivals | Peak season, Tet holiday, book in advance |
| April – May | Hot and Dry, Fewer Crowds | Museums, spa retreats, early-morning exploring | Warm days, lighter crowds |
| June – October | Green and Rainy Season | Fewer tourists, great photos | Afternoon showers, bring umbrella |
Money & Connectivity
- Cash is needed for food stalls and markets.
- Cards widely accepted in hotels and restaurants.
- SIM cards from Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone are cheap and reliable.
- Free Wi-Fi is everywhere — from cafés to malls.
Local etiquette
Vietnamese culture is warm and welcoming, and a little cultural awareness goes a long way. Here are a few tips to help you travel respectfully
- Smile often – It’s the universal language here and opens doors everywhere.
- Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites (shoulders and knees covered is best).
- Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects — it’s considered impolite.
- Tipping isn’t mandatory, but a small gesture (5–10%) is always appreciated at restaurants, cafés, and by guides or drivers.
- Use both hands when giving or receiving something, especially to elders — it shows respect.
- Take your shoes off when entering someone’s home or certain traditional spaces.
- When in doubt, follow the locals — and don’t be afraid to ask. Vietnamese people are happy to share their customs if you show interest.
Getting to Ho Chi Minh City
Getting to Ho Chi Minh City is easy, with multiple transport options connecting it to the rest of Vietnam and Southeast Asia:
- By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is Vietnam’s busiest airport, just 7 km from the city center. It serves domestic and international flights daily. From the airport, you can hop in a taxi, use Grab, or pre-arrange a private transfer for a smooth arrival.
Planning ahead? Many travelers require a visa to enter Vietnam. Check our Vietnam Visa Guide here to see if your country is on the visa-required list and how to apply quickly.
- By Train: The Reunification Express connects Saigon to major cities like Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. It’s a scenic (and slow) ride for those who want to see the countryside unfold along the way.
- Getting Around: Taxis, Grab (ride-hailing), and cyclos are common. Walking is best in District 1, though traffic can be overwhelming.
Local festivals & events
🌸 Tet (Lunar New Year) – January/February
The most important celebration in Vietnam. Expect streets draped in red and gold, flower markets in full bloom, and vibrant decorations everywhere. While many shops and restaurants may close for a few days, the atmosphere is magical — especially along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, transformed into a dazzling flower street. Fireworks light up the sky, and families gather in temples for good fortune.
🎑 Mid-Autumn Festival – September
A time for lanterns, mooncakes, and family joy. The best place to soak in the festivities is Chinatown (District 5), where vibrant lantern displays and lion dances fill the streets, especially in the run-up to the full moon.
🇻🇳 Reunification Day – April 30
A national holiday marking the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. You’ll see Vietnamese flags waving everywhere, military parades, and celebratory events across the city. It’s a time of national pride, and the streets come alive with music and color.
Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
From colonial landmarks to vibrant alleys bursting with life, Ho Chi Minh City is a place to explore with all your senses. Here are our top experiences
1. Explore Ben Thanh Market
Located in the heart of District 1, Ben Thanh Market is where Saigon’s daily life unfolds. Inside, you’ll find street food stalls, fabric counters, souvenirs, and narrow aisles buzzing from morning to night. Early mornings are best for breakfast; evenings are livelier and more social.
2. Visit War Remnant Museums
Scattered across central Saigon, the city’s war museums document Vietnam’s modern history through photographs, military equipment, and personal stories. These spaces are quiet, confronting, and essential for understanding the country beyond headlines.
3. Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels
About 70 km from the city, Cu Chi is a vast underground network once used as living quarters, supply routes, and shelters during the war. Visitors can crawl through preserved tunnels, see hidden trapdoors, and learn how life functioned entirely below ground.
4. Cruise the Saigon River at Night
Flowing past District 1, the Saigon River offers a different perspective of the city after dark. Dinner cruises glide past illuminated landmarks while the skyline reflects on the water, creating a slower, more atmospheric way to experience Saigon.
5. Walk Nguyen Hue Boulevard & Bui Vien Street
Nguyen Hue is a wide pedestrian avenue lined with colonial buildings, fountains, and cafés, especially lively in the evenings. Just a short distance away, Bui Vien tells another story — narrow streets packed with bars, street food, and nightlife that runs late.
6. Enjoy Saigon’s Rooftop Bars
High above District 1, rooftop bars turn city lights into a backdrop for evening drinks. From heritage hotels to modern towers, these spaces are ideal for sunset views and watching the city wind down — or speed up.
7. Visit the Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Tower
Located on the 49th floor of Bitexco Financial Tower, the Skydeck offers a sweeping view over the Saigon River and the city’s dense urban sprawl. On clear days, the contrast between old districts and new developments is especially striking.
8. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda
Hidden behind leafy gates, this Taoist temple is filled with incense smoke, carved deities, and symbolic altars. It’s one of the most atmospheric pagodas in the city and offers insight into Chinese-Vietnamese spiritual traditions.
9. Explore Chinatown (Cho Lon)
Centered around District 5, Cho Lon is home to Chinese temples, herbal medicine streets, and traditional markets. Walking here feels slower and more local, revealing a side of Saigon shaped by centuries of Chinese settlement.
Want to experience it with expert guidance? Join our Ho Chi Minh Full-day Tour — comfortable transport, insightful stories, and everything arranged for a meaningful visit.
What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City
If Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, then Saigon is the main course. From curbside stalls to bustling night markets, the city’s flavors are bold, diverse, and deeply rooted in Southern tradition. Here’s what to taste first
Street Food Must-Try:
You haven’t truly visited Vietnam until you’ve eaten on a plastic stool. If you are wondering what to eat in Saigon, start with the “Holy Trinity”: banh mi, com tam (broken rice), and hu tieu.
- Banh mi – A crispy, golden baguette filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, pâté, and chili sauce. A fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors in every bite.
- Com Tam (broken rice with grilled pork): Broken rice served with grilled pork chop, fried egg, pickles, and a spoonful of sweet-savory fish sauce. Simple and soul-satisfying.
- Bun Bo (spicy beef noodle soup): Vietnamese rice noodle dish with sliced beef, cha lua (Vietnamese pork roll), and sometimes pork knuckles.
- Hu tieu (southern-style noodle soup): A southern-style noodle soup, lighter than phở, with a clear broth and a mix of pork, shrimp, and sometimes squid. Best enjoyed in a tucked-away alley shop.
- Pho (Vietnamese Pho): Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup. In the south, it’s sweeter and heavier on the herbs — perfect for breakfast or a rainy day.
- Banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese Pizza / Vietnamese Grilled Rice paper): Often called “Vietnamese pizza”, this grilled rice paper snack is topped with egg, sausage, dried shrimp, and scallions. Crispy, smoky, and addictive.
- Oc (Snail): – A Saigon favorite! Choose from a wide variety of sea snails and shellfish, stir-fried with tamarind, garlic, chili, or coconut milk. Enjoy with a cold beer and good company.
👉 Want to taste these safely? Join our Taste of Saigon Tour for a guided tasting of the city's hidden gems.
Tips for a smooth trip
To help you make the most of this Ho Chi Minh City travel guide, here are a few insider tips for a smooth journey
- Avoid rush hours (7:30–9 AM, 5–7 PM) if possible – traffic can be wild.
- Learn a few local phrases: “Xin chào” (hello) “Cảm ơn” (thank you) goes a long way!
👉 If you want a no-worries tour, check out our [South Vietnam Unfold] — 8 days from Saigon’s buzzing streets to the slow-moving waters of the Mekong and the island charm of Phu Quoc
Discover history, food, and hidden corners with us
Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
From boutique stays with character to luxury hotels in Ho Chi Minh City with skyline views, the city offers something for every traveler — whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a bit of both.
COMFORT OPTION
- Alagon D’Antique Hotel & Spa – Central location, elegant style, and good value.
- Bach Suite Saigon – A hidden gem with minimalist design and Vietnamese character.
DELUXE OPTION
- Silverland Hotel & Spa – French colonial charm, rooftop jacuzzi, and a short walk to Nguyen Hue.
- Fusion Suites Saigon – Stylish wellness-focused stay with in-room massages and green design.
HIGH-END OPTION
- The Reverie Saigon – Opulent design and panoramic river views in the heart of District 1.
- Park Hyatt Saigon – Classic French colonial architecture, a peaceful pool, and world-class dining.
- Sofitel Saigon Plaza – Elegant, international comfort with a rooftop pool and skyline views.
- Hotel des Arts Saigon – MGallery – A boutique gem blending Indochine art with modern luxuries.
Where to Go Next? Ho Chi Minh City as Your Launchpad
Ho Chi Minh City isn’t just a destination — it’s a perfect starting point to discover the diverse beauty of Southern Vietnam and beyond. If you found our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide helpful, you can easily extend your journey to these nearby destinations from Saigon.
- Cu Chi Tunnels – 1.5 hrs – historical underground maze
- Can Gio – 2 hrs – eco escape with mangroves & monkeys
- Mekong Delta tours from Saigon – 2 hrs – river journeys with floating markets & village life
- Island escape to Phu Quoc – 1 hrs by plane – Sun, sand, and tropical relaxation
- Con Dao’s history & beaches – 45 mins by plane – Travel & Leisure’s Top 10 Islands in Southeast Asia.
- Central Vietnam tours (Hue, Hoi An, Phong Nha) – More than 1 hrs by plane – Heritage towns, Royal relics & Caves
👉 Need an escape from the urban buzz? History buffs should prioritize a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels from Saigon, a vast underground network used during the war. For nature lovers, the Mekong Delta offers a slower pace of life just a few hours away.
Not sure where to go next? Let us help you customize your Vietnam Journey
Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
Check out our curated experiences:
Glimpse of Vietnam
10-day journey start from Ho Chi Minh, to the North through the Mekong Delta, Central Heritage towns, and iconic Northern landscapes.
Southern Vietnam Highlight
An 7-day Southern Vietnam journey blending food, culture, and relaxation — from Saigon
HCM City Historical Discovery
From iconic landmarks to Chinatown’s hidden gems — Saigon in one day.