Wonders of Ho Chi Minh City: An In-Depth Travel Guide

Traveling to the capital of South Vietnam can be an interesting experience as some call the big city "Ho Chi Minh City", while others call it "Saigon". Even the airport code is SGN, but the signs on the way to the city center proudly welcome you to Ho Chi Minh City. Why does this city have two names and what is the story behind each of them? Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City: which is correct?

Discover the intriguing history of this fascinating city and learn which name is most commonly used to refer to it today.

Written by Thu Giang (Local Expert) Updated on 05-11-2024

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1. Where is Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City, located in southern Vietnam, stretches along the banks of the Saigon River. It is 1,100 kilometers from the capital Hanoi and about 930 kilometers from Da Nang, the capital of the central region of Vietnam. This metropolis also borders the Mekong Delta. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City now occupies the role of economic capital of the country.

This cosmopolitan city truly embodies a melting pot of Vietnamese, Chinese and Western cultures, a diversity that is fully expressed through its sumptuous and highly symbolic architecture.

2. What does Ho Chi Minh City look like?

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's most dynamic and developed metropolis, showcases a skyline of sleek skyscrapers that rivals Asia's most modern urban landscapes. Yet beneath its contemporary exterior lies a rich history, intricately linked to the French colonial era.

Originally named Saigon, the city emerged as the "Pearl of the Far East" during French Indochina, becoming a center of regional influence and French urban design. The European-inspired architecture from this era remains woven into the city’s fabric, adding charm to its bustling streets.

Visitors can experience this captivating blend of past and present by exploring French colonial landmarks alongside modern towers, making Ho Chi Minh City a fascinating and unique destination.

 History and the present mix in this city, but the current rhythm is modern and dynamic. It is totally different from Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam, which has an older and more traditional atmosphere.

From the perspective of humanity, the people of Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as the "Saigonese", stand out for their always warm welcome and friendly nature. This particularity distinguishes them from the inhabitants of the north and center, where discreet charm and deep-rooted traditions add a unique richness to Vietnamese diversity.

3. When are the best times to visit Ho Chi Minh City?

A visit to Ho Chi Minh City is possible throughout the year, thanks to the sunny and warm weather that predominates in this region of southern Vietnam. However, to fully optimize your stay in this magnificent part of the country, it is important to note that the year is punctuated by two distinct seasons:

• The dry season, from December to the end of April, which is characterized by beautiful sunny days and very rare precipitation.
• The wet season, from May to the end of November, which is characterized by strong heat and intense but brief, rather refreshing rains.

▶️Find out more about: When to go to Vietnam?

4. How to get to Ho Chi Minh City?

If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, travelers from the US, UK, and Australia often book flights with airlines like Vietnam Airlines and British Airways, which offer direct or codeshare flights from major hubs. Other popular options include Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines, though these flights usually involve a stopover in cities like Doha, Dubai, or Singapore.

For those traveling from the US or Canada, Japan Airlines and China Airlines are common choices, with stopovers in Tokyo or Taipei.

5. How to get around Ho Chi Minh City?

Local buses are the cheapest choice, though the routes and timetables may be tricky if you don’t speak Vietnamese. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience but can be pricier, and it's wise to stay alert to avoid scams.

For a hassle-free experience, consider using popular transportation apps like Grab, Gojek, and Be, which offer clear pricing and reliable options for both motorbikes and cars. Just make sure your phone is unlocked for a Vietnamese SIM card, which you can buy at most mobile stores around the city, and keep a steady internet connection. For more tips, check out: How To Get Around Vietnam

6. What to see and do in Ho Chi Minh City?

• Ben Thanh market

Ben Thanh Market, a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, is the largest historic covered market, built by the French in 1912. Its early 20th-century architecture is evident, especially at the main entrance, crowned by a tower with a large clock.

A visit offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and present. Strolling through its bustling stalls, you can shop for Vietnam souvenirs, food, and clothes while enjoying local dishes like "Com tam," "Pho," "Banh mi," or other specialties.

• French colonial heritage and historical remains

Ho Chi Minh City’s streets reflect its French colonial legacy, especially on Nguyen Hue Avenue, where the iconic City Hall, now the People’s Committee headquarters, stands with classic French architecture and a charming early 20th-century garden.

Nearby on Dong Khoi Street (formerly Catinat Street), the Saigon Opera House showcases French and Italian Renaissance styles. Built in 1897, it was once a cultural hub for French settlers and, after careful restoration, now hosts performances by Vietnamese and international artists.

The Continental Hotel, opened in 1878, is a notable French colonial-era building also located on Dong Khoi Street in Ho Chi Minh City. It was once a popular meeting place for French settlers and travelers international. The hotel has hosted many famous people such as French writer Andre Malraux and Graham Greene, the author of the famous novel "The Quiet American", as well as political figures such as Jacques Chirac, former mayor of Paris and president of France.

The famous Continental Hotel in Saigon became even more famous thanks to its appearance in several key scenes of the film "Indochine" directed by Régi Wargnier. This film was shown worldwide in 1992 and won two major film awards: the Oscar and the Golden Globe. In 2002, the timeless beauty of the Saigon Continental Hotel shone once again in the film "The Quiet American" directed by Phillip Noyce.

Next, visit Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the late 19th century, it showcases neo-Romanesque architecture and features a bell tower with six bells crafted by the renowned Bollée foundry, the same makers of the bells for the Sacré-Cœur in Paris. However, the cathedral is currently under renovation, with extensive scaffolding limiting a complete view of the structure.

Finally, very close to the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon, we discover the imposing historic central post office of Saigon , whose metal frame was built according to the plans of Gustave Eiffel. Built from 1886 to 1891, it is one of the oldest buildings in Ho Chi Minh city. It is architecturally unique with its European-Asian style and impressive old giant clock at the main entrance

• Cho Lon Chinatown

Chinatown, or Cho Lon, is a vibrant, historic hub in Ho Chi Minh City, spanning districts 5, 6, and 11. Established by Chinese immigrants in the 17th century, it has evolved from opium dens of colonial lore - famously depicted in The Lover by Marguerite Duras - to a bustling commercial center. You definitely should explore lively markets, traditional stalls adorned with Chinese characters, and beautiful temples like Thien Hau, Tam Son Hoi Quan, and Quan Am. A must-visit for its unique cultural blend!

In the heart of this atypical district, you will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Thien Hau pagoda drowned in the smoke of continually burning incense. This Chinese-style temple is dedicated to worshiping the Chinese sea goddess. It is the oldest temple in Saigon having been originally built by Chinese immigrants from Guangzhou in 1760.

Another Cantonese pagoda in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is undoubtedly an unusual place not to be missed. Inside is a maze of rooms, each with its own array of intricate woodwork and statues, depicting scenes from Taoist and Buddhist myths. True to its name, the temple is decorated with green ceramic tiles in every corner.

• The Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City

Also called the Independence Palace, discovering the Reunification Palace of Ho Chi Minh City is one of the must-see attractions during your stay in Ho Chi Minh City. This prestigious building steeped in history is both a museum retracing the living environment of former Vietnamese leaders pro-United States and the former presidential palace of South Vietnam. 

This building was famous for having been the heart of a historic event which was covered by the international media in 1975: the forceful entry of a North Vietnamese tank, symbolizing the end of the conflict with the United States and the independence of Vietnam.

• The museums of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City offers history enthusiasts a captivating journey through time, especially at the War Remnants Museum. This must-see destination provides profound insights into Vietnam’s modern history, focusing on the turbulent war years.

The museum features over 1,500 archival documents, artifacts, photographs, and videos, along with displays of tanks, planes, and other wartime equipment. Exhibits highlight the atrocities of the French colonial period and the American War, offering a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict.

The War Remnants Museum goes beyond showcasing artifacts; it delves into the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people throughout their history. It's a place to reflect, learn, and pay tribute to those who endured the hardships of war.

Another museum to also discover is the Fito museum - museum of Traditional Medicine of Vietnam. A collection of more than 3,000 objects linked to traditional Vietnamese medicine from the Stone Age to the present day is presented there: recipes for natural medicinal remedies, exhibitions of plants and medicinal alcohols.

>>> Don't miss our selection of the 6 must-see museums in Ho Chi Minh City

• Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street

Nguyen Hue Street is a wide promenade in downtown District 1, surrounded by French colonial landmarks like the People's Committee, the Rex Hotel, and a luxury mall.

Be sure to explore apartment-cafe 42, an iconic Vietnamese-style building filled with artistic boutiques, fashion shops, and cafes. Many cafes here also offer panoramic city views. End your day by watching the sunset from Bach Dang Pier at the other end of Nguyen Hue Street, where you’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the Saigon River.

• Sai Gon Water Bus

If you want to explore Ho Chi Minh city in an original way, we recommend taking the “Sai Gon water bus”. This river shuttle service allows you to experience the city from a different perspective, navigating the Sai Gon River. In addition, the price is very affordable, with a fare of only 15,000 VND for a one-way ticket or 30,000 VND for a round trip, or around $1.5.

The departure pier is conveniently located downtown, near the Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel and Nguyen Hue Walking Street, making it easily accessible for travelers. The 'Sai Gon water bus' offers stunning views of the city's historic buildings and modern skyscrapers, along with a glimpse into the daily life of locals along the river. This unique experience allows you to discover the city from a new perspective while enjoying a relaxing, tranquil journey on the water.

• Turtle Lake

Tortue Lake, located in the 3rd district of Saigon, is a popular place for local young people to meet, chat and have a good time with friends in the evenings and weekends. This visit will allow you to discover the daily life of local youth and learn more about their culture. The lake is surrounded by trees and offers a cool and pleasant atmosphere, ideal for a short walk even if you are in downtown Saigon.

Turtle Lake is located near two popular tourist sites in Saigon: Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and The War Remnants Museum. This makes it a great place to visit for a fun-filled day, where you can explore the city's history and culture, then relax in a peaceful setting surrounded by trees.

• Dinner cruise on the Saigon River

A dinner cruise on the Saigon River is an unforgettable experience in Ho Chi Minh City. You can admire the city lit up at night while enjoying delicious local dishes. The boats are tastefully decorated and offer a romantic and peaceful ambiance. This activity is ideal for couples on their honeymoon or for a special evening with friends or family.

Be sure to book in advance to guarantee your place on board. You can opt for Saigon Princess Cruise, Bonsai Cruise, Indochina Junk (The Pearl of the Orient), Indochina Queen Cruise.

• Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for offering the best nightlife in Vietnam. Party people and fans of music scenes will be delighted. Here, the choice is vast!

• Bui Vien pedestrian street (or Bui Vien beer street)

It's the street of beer bars, cocktail bars, trendy nightclubs, renowned jazz clubs and eclectic music scenes. This street that never sleeps is perfect for those who love a bustling nightlife with loud music.

•  Ben Nghe Street Food Market 

Just 180m (1 min walk) from the iconic Independence Palace is the Ben Nghe food market, a new place popular with foreigners. In the evening, it transforms into a lively and unmissable place for all passers-by. This food market features over 30 stalls offering a wide variety of food and drinks, ranging from traditional Vietnamese to Western cuisine. It's definitely a place not to be missed for those who love evening entertainment, ideal for tasting food and having a drink! 

• The Cu Chi Tunnels

You also need to know how to get away from the city to discover certain places of interest which have made Ho Chi Minh City's tourist reputation. The amazing Cu Chi Tunnels , located an hour's drive from the city center, is one such exciting site to discover and an integral part of the city's history. They were dug by communist independence guerrillas to fight against the French and then the Americans.

These consist of more than 200 kilometers of cramped tunnels, which in some cases do not exceed 60-70 centimeters in width and 80-90 centimeters in height. During a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, you can discover the dormitories, kitchens, meeting rooms and dispensaries where Viet Cong fighters and their families lived.

• The pagodas and temples of Ho Chi Minh city

Ho Chi Minh City is full of numerous architecturally magnificent Buddhist temples and pagodas, some of which date back centuries. Located in the heart of the city center in District 3, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is one of the most impressive pagodas with its harmonious design between Vietnamese and Japanese architecture. It serves as a center for Buddhist beliefs and practices, while also being one of the finest spiritual attractions for tourists to visit and explore in Saigon.

Located in District 9 on a hill near the Dong Nai River, Buu Long Temple is also a religious center not to be missed. Blending architectural styles from India, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand and of course Vietnam, this temple is mesmerizing with its stupa masterpiece, Gotama Cetiya. Being one of the largest stupas in Vietnam, it consists of 5 towers of different shapes and sizes as well as a 7-story main tower in the center.

The detailed map of the must-see sites in Ho Chi Minh City

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility

7. What culinary specialties should you absolutely try in Ho Chi Minh City?

Explore Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant culinary scene, which captures the essence of southern Vietnam. Among the iconic dishes that will take you to the heart of this dynamic metropolis, don't miss the opportunity to savor the delicious Com tam Saigon, a flavorful grilled rice garnished with succulent meats. Also immerse yourself in the unique experience of Hu tieu, a soup that embodies the soul of southern Vietnam.

Banh mi, a perfect fusion of French baguette and local flavors, will make you melt with pleasure with every bite. But the gastronomic adventure doesn't stop there! Don't miss other culinary treasures, such as Goi cuon, delicious fresh and light spring rolls, as well as sweet desserts often enhanced with a touch of coconut milk characteristic of southern cuisine.

Whether you're looking for authentic street delights or more refined experiences, Ho Chi Minh City offers an endless variety of choices, from affordable culinary pleasures to the most luxurious experiences.

>>> Let's break down some of the best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City that will tantalize your taste buds!!

8. What sites can be combined with a visit to Ho Chi Minh City?

• Cao Dai Temple

Going back towards the Cambodian border, we reach the Cao Dai temple in the town of Tay Ninh, located approximately 95 km west of Ho Chi Minh City. It takes about 2 hours to get there by car or motorbike.

This city is the seat of Caodaism, a religion bringing together the main ancestral spiritualities from the Far East to the West. Its cathedral is a fascinating mix of pagoda and Catholic church, like this community inspired by Buddhism and Christianity. It was born barely a century ago and has the particularity of having designated the great Victor Hugo as one of its apostles.

• The Mekong Delta

During your stay in southern Vietnam, consider traveling to the Mekong Delta region from Ho Chi Minh City. This is the perfect excursion to combine a nature stay with a visit to the southern metropolis. On the program: boat trip through the maze of arroyos and countless canals, bike ride through green rice fields, majestic nature where coconut trees reign, visit to workshops manufacturing coconut products, discovery of traditional villages of the Cham and Khmer ethnic groups, and exploration of the floating markets of the Mekong Delta.

• Phu Quoc Island

Just 1 hour away by plane from Ho Chi Minh City are the tropical beaches of Phu Quoc Island. This island is like a postcard with its heavenly beaches of fine white sand under the coconut trees, its blue waters teeming with fish, its small huts and beach bars... The island is full of activities: masks and snorkels, boat trips offshore, visit authentic fishing villages by bike, water sports, hiking in the national park, visit pepper plantations, an artisanal Vietnamese Nuoc Mam sauce factory... there's never a dull moment in Phu Quoc!

Our last words,

Ho Chi Minh City: a must-see destination during your trip to Vietnam. We hope that this comprehensive guide to Ho Chi Minh City will help you plan your stay optimally. Another fascinating fact about this metropolis is linked to its dual names, Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon. But why are these two names and what stories are hidden behind each of them? If this arouses your interest, we invite you to discover all the details in our following article: Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City?

>>> Also read: 

• Da Nang: 7 questions before visiting the most pleasant city in Vietnam
• What to Do in Mekong Delta? Your Complete Guide in 2024
• New Train Tours proffer Breathtaking Views of Lang Co Bay 
• Vietnam map, the most COMPLETE version: tourist & geographical