Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is one of the most vibrant and bustling cities in Southeast Asia. With its rich history, unique culture, and fascinating blend of traditional and modern elements, this city is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, there are countless attractions and things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. In this post, we’ll be highlighting some of the very best that this incredible city has to offer, so you can make the most of your time here.
The 21 Best Things You Must Do In Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City Free Tours With Local Youth
- Saigon Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike
- Ho Chi Minh City and More Realistic and Less Touristy Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels 1day
- Half Day Private Scooter Tour Including Light Meal
- Saigon Morning and Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike
- Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Vip Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh Sightseeing and Local Street Food Tour by Scooter
- Cu Chi Tunnels Less Touristy Tour to Ben Duoc
- Mekong Delta at My Tho Ben Tre and Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour
- Vip Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
- Ho Chi Minh Jeep Tour Saigon by Night After Dinner
- Sights and Scooters
- Cu Chi Tunnels Luxury Speed Boat Half Day Tour
- Mekong Eyes Cruises 2day 1 Night
- Mekong Delta Small Group Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
- Day Trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctury from Madurai
- Full Day Cao Dai Temple and Black Lady Mountain from Ho Chi Minh
- Mekong Delta River Day Trip and Cu Chi Tunnels Including Lunch
- Ho Chi Minh City Half Day Tour
- Full Day Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion With Cu Chi Tunnels from Saigon Port
- Private Tour Ho Chi Minh City Half Day Sightseeing
The 21 Best Things You Must Do In Ho Chi Minh City
1. Ho Chi Minh City Free Tours With Local Youth
Discover the best of Ho Chi Minh City on a budget with a private walking tour led by local university students. Explore the unique districts and back streets while learning about the city’s history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. Customize your itinerary and go at your own pace during this private experience. The tour includes coffee and/or tea, entrance fees, and private transportation. Your guide can even pick you up from your hotel. The tour covers District 1 and Chinatown (Cho Lon) and lasts for three hours. Book in advance and confirm the start time with the local provider. Make the most out of your Vietnam trip without breaking the bank.
2. Saigon Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike
Uncover the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City’s buildings and streets with the Saigon Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike. Explore the city’s wartime monuments and colonial landmarks with your own private guide, who will answer all your questions. Visit the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and the Jade Emperor Pagoda. See the sights of the city’s French Quarter, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, and walk around the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City’s pedestrianized Nguyen Hue Street. Avoid traffic jams and stuffy bus cabins by zipping around the city on a motorbike. Meet your driver at your hotel, and enjoy free pick-up and drop-off for hotels located in the center. Your tour includes a high-quality open-faced helmet, motorbike fuel, and a rain poncho (if needed). Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the best attractions and things to do in Ho Chi Minh City’s historical sites.
3. Ho Chi Minh City and More Realistic and Less Touristy Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels 1day
Explore the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and discover the authentic Cu Chi Ben Duoc Tunnels with this one-day tour. Get picked up from your hotel via air-conditioned transportation and head to the meeting point at HANA TOURIST.
From there, embark on a five-hour city tour and marvel at famous landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace. Learn about the city’s rich history from your local guide.
Afterwards, journey to the less touristy Ben Duoc Memorial Temple and uncover the traditional Cu Chi Tunnels. Enjoy a Vietnamese and Asian food lunch before exploring the tunnels with a guide, gaining insight into the Vietnam War-era guerrilla tactics.
All entrance fees for the city and the tunnels are included, as well as travel insurance. Tips and additional food and drinks are at your own expense.
Choose to either request pickup or head directly to the meeting point. The activity ends back at the meeting point.
The guides and van will be at your hotel lobby between 07:30 am and 08:00 am for a hassle-free pickup. Please note that the pick-up order will be arranged to ensure the most convenient route and timing for all guests.
4. Half Day Private Scooter Tour Including Light Meal
Half Day Private Scooter Tour Including Light Meal:
This private scooter tour is a great way to explore the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh without the hassle of navigating the busy streets yourself. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, you’ll be driven around by a local guide and get to see attractions such as the Independence Palace, Bitexco Tower, and Ben Thanh market. You’ll also get to explore vibrant Chinatown and the Binh Tay Ho Thi Ky market before visiting the riverside District 8. In addition to the sightseeing, a light meal with Vietnamese bread or steam sticky rice will be offered at one of the top Banh Mi stalls in Saigon, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste Vietnamese coffee at an 80-year-old cafe. Departure times are flexible and the tour can be customized to suit your interests. Free hotel pick-up and drop off is included for District 1, 3, 5, and 10.
5. Saigon Morning and Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike
Discover Ho Chi Minh City like a local on this Saigon Morning and Afternoon City Historical Tour by Motorbike. Join your private driver who will pick you up from your central Saigon hotel and take you to visit some of the city’s most fascinating sights, including Independence Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and Jade Emperor Pagoda. With this tour, you can see the city in a much faster and more exciting way than traveling by car or minibus. The history-centered tour covers colonial architecture, the war, and more. The tour includes a high-quality open-faced helmet, rain poncho if needed, and accident insurance. Pickup and drop-off at hotels in districts 1, 3, 4, 5, and 10 are included. Experience Saigon from the back of a motorbike and discover the city’s history like never before.
6. Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Vip Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Explore two of southern Vietnam’s most iconic attractions on this full-day tour that takes you to the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. Ideal for those who are short on time, this tour allows you to discover the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels and the natural beauty of the Mekong Delta in just one day. You will learn about the role of the Cu Chi Tunnels during wartime and discover their various uses as a hospital, living quarters, and storage facility. Following your visit to the tunnels, you will take a cruise along the canals of the Mekong Delta on a motorboat and rowboat, and visit a local village. The tour includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch and offers a choice of two group sizes to suit your preferences. Additionally, round-trip transportation is provided for your convenience, with multiple pickup points available. Come and join this VIP tour for a day full of history, culture, and stunning scenery.
7. Ho Chi Minh Sightseeing and Local Street Food Tour by Scooter
Discover the hidden side-street stalls and mouthwatering cafes of Ho Chi Minh City with a private food tour by scooter. This tour combines sightseeing with a gastronomic adventure, as you visit the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Independence Palace, and other landmarks. Enjoy the flexibility to customize your itinerary according to your culinary and itinerary requests. With a private guide, you’ll have a more personalized experience as you navigate the lesser-known side streets of the city.
Included in this tour are hotel transportation, motorbike and helmet rental, and all food and drinks. Sample local favorites like banana in sticky rice, Vietnamese pancakes, and other street foods while enjoying the social atmosphere of the top street stalls. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are available in Districts 1, 3, 5, and 10.
8. Cu Chi Tunnels Less Touristy Tour to Ben Duoc
This half day tour takes you to the less crowded Ben Duoc tunnel of Cu Chi Tunnels where you can learn more about the significance of the tunnels during the Vietnam War. The small-group tour allows for a personalized experience, and you’ll get the chance to try your hand at the shooting range with an AK-47. Choose from a morning or afternoon tour to suit your schedule. The tour starts with a pickup from central hotels in District 1 or a meeting point in Ho Chi Minh city. After a 90-minute car ride (approximately), you’ll arrive at the scenic countryside where you can see rice paddies, ducks, and water buffalo swimming in rivers. Watch a short documentary film that takes you on a journey through the past with an introduction to Cu Chi Tunnels, then explore the Ben Duoc tunnel with your knowledgeable guide.
9. Mekong Delta at My Tho Ben Tre and Cu Chi Tunnels Full Day Tour
Combine two of southern Vietnam’s top attractions without advanced planning on a full-day private tour to the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels from Ho Chi Minh City. This tour is perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in Vietnam. You’ll enjoy hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and transportation in a new air-conditioned vehicle, as well as the undivided attention of an English or French speaking guide. In the morning, you’ll explore My Tho and take a private boat trip through the Mekong. After lunch, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about Vietnam’s fascinating history. Book your tour for an unforgettable experience!
10. Vip Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta
Experience the historical significance of Vietnam with the Vip Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta tour. In a small group limited to seven people, travel in style with round-trip transfers by air-conditioned limousine. Enjoy complimentary beer, soft drinks, and snacks on board. Follow an English-speaking guide through the Cu Chi Tunnels for an enhanced experience. Explore the Mekong Delta on a rowing boat and then take a motorboat to Coconut Island. Discover rural life and tick off two of Vietnam’s top attractions on this unforgettable tour. Personal costs and an optional tip are not included. The tour starts at 7:30AM and ends at 6:50PM. You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup.
11. Ho Chi Minh Jeep Tour Saigon by Night After Dinner
Enjoy a 3-hour after-dinner tour of Saigon by jeep. See magnificent French colonial monuments including the Opera House, City Hall, Notre Dame, and Post Office. Take in the local night market and visit streets that come alive after dark. Ride to the city’s suburbs and see another side of Saigon with a chance to take in some fresh air. End the night at a rooftop bar admiring views of the city while you enjoy a free drink. The timing of the tour is flexible, and if you’d like to customize the tour, be sure to let the local operator know in advance. The tour includes jeep transportation with a drink, a tour guide/driver, a free drink at the rooftop bar, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all entry fees. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a tour of Saigon at night on this one-of-a-kind experience.
12. Sights and Scooters
With 5 million mopeds in Ho Chi Minh City, there’s no denying that it’s a popular mode of transportation. Explore the capital of Vietnam like a local with a private scooter tour. Not only do you get to avoid traffic jams, but you can also customize your itinerary to fit your preferences. Your private guide will take you to all the top attractions and lesser-known landmarks, giving you an insider’s perspective of the city. The tour includes a high-quality helmet, motorbike fuel, and the undivided attention of your guide. You can meet directly at the designated meeting point or request pickup.
13. Cu Chi Tunnels Luxury Speed Boat Half Day Tour
Discover the historic Cu Chi tunnels on a half-day luxury speedboat tour along the Saigon River. Enjoy the scenic views en route and a brief propaganda video upon arrival. Explore the intricate network of tunnels, including trap doors, weapons factories, and field hospitals. Take time to crawl through one of the tunnels and fire an M16 rifle for a surcharge. Savor traditional wartime food at Cu Chi tunnels, including cassava. Choose to return by speedboat or air-conditioned bus and be dropped off at the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, or your hotel in Districts 1, 3, or 4. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a mineral water bottle, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a set menu lunch.
14. Mekong Eyes Cruises 2day 1 Night
Experience the natural beauty of southern Vietnam on a two-day Mekong Delta cruise. Board the beautifully crafted Delta Eyes vessel and enjoy activities such as visiting the Cai Be floating market, strolling through orchards, marveling at panoramic views, and cycling along the Mekong’s back roads. You will stay in cosy double or twin bedded cabins and enjoy delicious complimentary meals. Pickup from select hotels is available. Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at Delta Eyes’ distinctive craftsmanship and explore the best attractions of southern Vietnam.
15. Mekong Delta Small Group Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Discover the stunning scenery of the Mekong Delta on a small group tour from Ho Chi Minh City. After being picked up from your hotel in the center of district 1, you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned bus to the Tien River. From there, board a motorboat and cruise around the islands. Admire the unique architectural styles of Vinh Trang Pagoda and take in the serene beauty of the river canals on a sampan boat ride. You’ll have the chance to cycle or walk through the villages and observe the daily activities of the locals. Be sure to indulge in a local lunch in the midst of an orchard. The tour ends with some sweet treats such as tropical fruits, honey tea, and coconut candy. Entrance fees, bicycle rental, and English-speaking tour guide are all included, ensuring a seamless experience. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery along the way. Tips are optional.
16. Day Trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctury from Madurai
Explore the wildlife sanctuary of Periyar on a self-guided audio tour from Madurai. With direct access to an audio guide in one playlist, you can create a personalized itinerary map for each attraction. The tour includes entry fees where required and is valid for six days, allowing for flexibility in your schedule. Choose your starting and ending point and discover top attractions such as Đối Diện Trụ Sở Kp3 Nguyễn Phúc Nguyên and The Venerable Thich Quang Duc Monument. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and please note that the quality of the voice used for the audio guide is universal. Public transportation is located near the attractions, but please note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
17. Full Day Cao Dai Temple and Black Lady Mountain from Ho Chi Minh
Depart for Tay Ninh province on this full-day tour and visit Black Lady Mountain, located near the Cambodian border. Your expert guide will take you up to the summit of Nui Ba Den via aerial cable car, where you’ll experience 360-degree panoramic views. Learn about the unique Cao Dai sect at the Cao Dai Holy Temple. Enjoy a delicious lunch and relax while we take care of your round-trip hotel transport. Your package includes bottled drinking water, and an English-speaking guide, with other languages available upon request for an additional charge. Personal expenses, such as shopping, telephone, and beverages, are not included. Guests can be picked up and dropped off at their accommodations in HCMC Center (District 1, 3, 5, 10, Phu Nhuan). Admission ticket to Cao Dai Temple is included. Come along and explore this wonderful area of Vietnam.
18. Mekong Delta River Day Trip and Cu Chi Tunnels Including Lunch
Combine tours of the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels into one day with this trip from Ho Chi Minh: ideal if you’re short on time. Learn about the Viet Cong tunnels used during the Vietnam War, their living conditions and facilities. After lunch, explore the Mekong’s fruit farms and islands, visit a coconut candy workshop and ride a rowboat along the canals. The tour includes traditional Mekong lunch food tastings and entrance fees. Air-conditioned transport with hotel pickup and drop-off is also included.
19. Ho Chi Minh City Half Day Tour
Discover the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City on this half-day tour that’s perfect for first-time visitors and those with limited time. You’ll be transported in a new air-conditioned vehicle and have an English-speaking guide to show you around. The tour includes visits to top attractions such as Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica. With pickup and drop-off from your hotel, you don’t need to worry about finding a meeting point. The tour also includes two bottles of mineral water per person. Beverages and tips are not included. Book now for a hassle-free and comprehensive introduction to this incredible city.
20. Full Day Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion With Cu Chi Tunnels from Saigon Port
Experience the best of Ho Chi Minh City and the Cu Chi Tunnels on a 12.5-hour shore excursion. Perfect for travelers with limited time in Vietnam, this tour includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as a traditional Vietnamese lunch and dinner. Crawl through the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and discover where the Viet Kong hid from air raids. Then, tick off top attractions including Reunification Palace and the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica on a panoramic tour. English speaking guides are included and other languages are available upon request with a surcharge. Quench your thirst with bottled drinking water throughout the day. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable excursion.
21. Private Tour Ho Chi Minh City Half Day Sightseeing
Discover the cultural delights and historical highlights of Ho Chi Minh City on a half-day private sightseeing tour of the largest city in Vietnam. Tailor the itinerary and commentary to suit your interests then set out to explore the sights with a private guide; immerse yourself in the colonial beauty of the French Quarter; see the cosmopolitan charisma of Chinatown (Cholon); and gain insight into the country’s rich history with visits to intriguing museums. Enjoy private round-trip transportation from your hotel and appease your appetite with authentic Vietnamese meals during your tour. The 4-hour private Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing tour will take you to visit Chinatown’s Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple plus the War Remnants Museum (morning tour). You’ll also discover Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Central Post Office in the French Quarter (afternoon tour). The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotel) by air-conditioned vehicle, as well as Vietnamese traditional cuisine for lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious food. However, before visiting this vibrant city, tourists often have many questions that need answering. In this article, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about Ho Chi Minh City to help visitors prepare for their trip.
1. What is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is from December to April when the weather is dry and temperatures are mild. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting from May to November during the rainy season. The weather is hot and humid during this time, but you can also enjoy lower prices and fewer tourists.
2. What should I wear in Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City is a modern city, and tourists are free to wear whatever they feel comfortable in. However, when visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. It is also recommended to wear lightweight clothing as the weather can be hot and humid, especially during the summer.
3. What is the currency in Ho Chi Minh City?
The currency in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Some places may also accept US dollars, but it is best to stick with the local currency for transactions. You can exchange your currency at banks or authorized exchange centers throughout the city. ATMs are also widely available.
4. Do I need a visa to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Most tourists need a visa to visit Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City. However, there are a few exceptions. Citizens of some countries, including Thailand, the Philippines, and several European countries, can enter Vietnam visa-free for a certain period. To apply for a visa, you can do so online or at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. Make sure to check the latest visa requirements and regulations before your trip.
5. What should I see and do in Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City has many attractions for visitors to explore. Some popular sights include:
- The War Remnants Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
- The Reunification Palace
- Ben Thanh Market
- The Saigon Opera House
- The Cu Chi Tunnels
In addition to these attractions, Ho Chi Minh City is also known for its delicious food. Make sure to try some of the local dishes such as pho, banh mi, and com tam.
6. Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists?
Ho Chi Minh City is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any large city, it is important to take precautions to avoid theft and scams. Keep your belongings close to you in crowded areas and avoid walking alone at night. Be wary of anyone who approaches you with unsolicited assistance or offers.
7. How do I get around Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City has a variety of transportation options for tourists. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available. You can also rent a motorbike or scooter if you are comfortable driving in the city’s chaotic traffic. Another option is to take the public bus or use the city’s modern metro system. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s many sights and attractions.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the bustling economic and cultural center of Vietnam. The city has a rich history and a vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for tourists. If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist.1. Visit the Historical Landmarks
Ho Chi Minh City has a rich history and there are many historical landmarks that are worth visiting. The most famous landmark is the Independence Palace, which was once the residence of the President of South Vietnam. You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and see the rooms where important meetings were held.Other historical landmarks worth visiting include the War Remnants Museum, which exhibits the artifacts of the Vietnam War, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a red brick church that was built in the 19th century.2. Try the Local Street Food
Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its street food, and Ho Chi Minh City has some of the best street food in Vietnam. Walk around the city and try some of the local specialties, such as banh mi, pho, and com tam.For adventurous eaters, try some of the city’s more exotic street food, such as balut (a fertilized duck egg) or durian (a fruit with a pungent odor).3. Explore the Markets
Ho Chi Minh City has a variety of markets that are worth exploring. The most famous market is the Ben Thanh Market, which is known for its souvenir shops and food stalls. Other popular markets include the Binh Tay Market, which has a wide range of wholesale products, and the Pham Van Hai Market, which is a great place to buy fresh produce.4. Experience the Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and lounges. The most popular area for nightlife is the Bui Vien Street, which is lined with bars and restaurants. Other popular areas include the Pham Ngu Lao Street and the Dong Khoi Street.If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, try some of the rooftop bars in the city. These bars offer stunning views of the city, along with a luxurious atmosphere.5. Take a Day Trip
If you have some extra time, consider taking a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City. Some popular day trips include the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War, and the Mekong Delta, a region known for its floating markets and scenic landscapes.Book Your Tour Now
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting destination for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nightlife, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. Be sure to plan ahead and make the most of your time in Ho Chi Minh City by visiting the historical landmarks, trying the local street food, exploring the markets, experiencing the nightlife, and taking a day trip.
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