Get to know Ho Chi Minh City

Get to know Ho Chi Minh City (still affectionately called Saigon by locals) and experience the energy of Vietnam’s largest and busiest metropolis. Step into the heart of the city and embrace a whirlwind of color, sound, and scent. The streets pulse with life as motorbikes weave through traffic carrying everything from fresh fruit to furniture, street vendors shout out their offerings, and the aroma of sizzling street food fills the air. Amid the chaos, you’ll find peaceful temples scented with incense, fascinating museums that reveal the city’s complex history, and stunning remnants of French colonial architecture. With so much to take in, figuring out what to do in Ho Chi Minh City can be overwhelming, so we’ve rounded up the city’s highlights to help guide your adventure.

1. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

One of the most significant historical sites to explore when considering what to do in Ho Chi Minh City is the Cu Chi Tunnels. Deeply tied to the Vietnam War, often cited as a textbook example of a Cold War-era proxy conflict, these tunnels reveal the remarkable resilience and strategy of the Vietnamese fighters. Used extensively by the Viet Cong and the North Vietnamese Army to combat the better-equipped American forces, this vast underground network served as hiding spots, supply routes, living quarters, and even makeshift hospitals. The entrances are incredibly narrow, reflecting the smaller stature of Vietnamese soldiers compared to their Western counterparts, and the tunnels themselves are tight and winding. As you crawl through these subterranean pathways, it’s easy to marvel at the sheer ingenuity and determination that went into their construction and use.

2. Relax with a cup of coffee

If you’re a coffee lover with a taste for something a little different, don’t miss the chance to try Vietnamese coffee, it’s truly something special. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, black or with milk, you’ll find this bold brew served in nearly every café and restaurant across the city. For a real treat, we highly recommend trying it with sweetened condensed milk. The thick, sugary richness perfectly balances the deep, intense flavor of Vietnamese coffee beans, creating a smooth and unforgettable pick-me-up.

3. Experience spectacular theatrics

It’s always exciting to uncover something truly unique, and few experiences are as delightfully unexpected as the water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. A cherished tradition in Vietnamese culture, this performance features intricately carved wooden puppets that glide, dive, and dance across a shimmering water stage. Accompanied by live music and storytelling, it’s a captivating blend of art, history, and entertainment that offers a memorable glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Read more: How to plan the ultimate Vietnamese odyssey

4. Visit Notre Dame

Yes, you read that right, one of the most surprising things on the list of what to do in Ho Chi Minh City is visiting a French cathedral. Built in the 19th century by French colonialists, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon was designed to bring a touch of Europe to Southeast Asia. The striking Romanesque bell towers and red bricks, imported directly from France, make this a truly impressive landmark. If you’re fascinated by the colonial era, don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding District 3, where you’ll find elegant French villas and wide, tree-lined boulevards that echo the city’s past.

5. Grab street food at the Ben Thanh Market

If you’re wondering what to do in Ho Chi Minh City for a fun, local shopping experience, head to Ben Thanh Market in District 1. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs like colorful scarves, handmade chopsticks, traditional Vietnamese lanterns, and those iconic waving “lucky” cats. As you browse the stalls, grab a bite of Vietnamese street food, but be sure to choose a busy vendor to ensure freshness and flavor.

For a different vibe, visit after dark when the night market comes alive. Around 20 small eateries line the perimeter, offering everything from vegetarian noodles and crispy rice pancakes to fresh seafood and steamed cakes. The bustling, authentic atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for locals unwinding after work, and an ideal place to soak in the spirit of the city.

6. Take in amazing views

For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, make your way to the Bitexco Financial Tower. Instead of paying for access to the Skydeck, head up to the 50th floor where you’ll find a stylish bar. There, you can enjoy a drink, ideally timed with sunset, as the city skyline glows in the fading light, all for roughly the same price as a ticket to the observation deck.

7. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda

One of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, this temple offers an unforgettable experience. As you wander past a tranquil pond, dotted with small turtles adorned in auspicious symbols, you’ll enter the intricate 1909 structure. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of papier mâché sculptures depicting characters from both Taoist and Buddhist traditions. Standing guard at the entrance are two towering, four-meter-high generals, each standing triumphantly over their respective conquests, a white tiger and a green dragon. In the main sanctuary, the Jade Emperor presides, flanked by his Four Big Diamonds, guardians named for their strength and resilience. While it’s tempting to stay and admire the emperor, be sure to explore the other rooms, including the Hall of the Ten Hells, where you can encounter Thanh Hoang, the Chief of Hell, and his striking red horse.

8. Head to the War Remnants Museum

Last, but by no means least, a visit to the War Remnants Museum is a must. This powerful museum showcases photography that reveals the devastating impact of the US’s chemical arsenal, alongside military vehicles and a wide range of weapons. It’s an incredibly thought-provoking and, at times, shocking experience. The collection, uncensored and raw, provides an authentic portrayal of the horrors of war, making it a rare and essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the full scope of history.

Read more: 10 must-visit places in Vietnam

Make it happen

If you’re looking to explore Ho Chi Minh City, get in touch with our local experts in Vietnam. They’ve crafted an inspiring itinerary that covers the essentials of Vietnam and would be thrilled to design a tailor-made tour just for you, guiding you through the wonders of Saigon. All you have to do is ask, and they’ll help you experience the best that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer.