Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon to many locals, is Vietnam's economic powerhouse and largest urban center. Unlike the ancient charm of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City captivates visitors with its dynamic energy, modern skyline, rich history, multicultural heritage, thriving food scene, and endless opportunities for exploration.
From French colonial landmarks and Buddhist temples to bustling markets and rooftop bars, the city offers an exciting mix of old and new. Every street corner reveals another layer of its fascinating identity, making it one of Southeast Asia's most rewarding destinations.
Whether you are interested in history, architecture, gastronomy, shopping, nightlife, or cultural experiences, this guide to the top 25 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City will help you discover the very best of Vietnam's southern capital.
1. Sip Vietnamese iced coffee at the workshop
No visit to Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without experiencing Vietnam's legendary coffee culture.
Among the countless cafés scattered throughout the city, the workshop stands out as one of the pioneers of specialty coffee in Vietnam.
Located inside a charming colonial-era apartment building overlooking Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the café combines industrial-style interiors with expertly sourced beans from Vietnam's Central highlands.
Visitors can enjoy Vietnamese iced coffee, hand-drip coffee, espresso-based drinks, cold brew specialties, locally sourced Arabica and Robusta beans.
The workshop provides a perfect introduction to Vietnam's position as one of the world's largest coffee producers.
2. Visit the Cu Chi tunnels
The Cu Chi tunnels rank among the most significant historical attractions near Ho Chi Minh City.
Stretching over 250 kilometers, this underground network was used extensively during the Vietnam War.
The tunnels contained living quarters, hospitals, kitchens, weapon storage areas, command centers.
Visitors can crawl through enlarged tunnel sections and learn how Vietnamese fighters survived underground for extended periods.
The site offers an extraordinary perspective on one of the most important chapters of Vietnam's modern history.
3. Take a boat ride on the Saigon River
While most visitors experience Ho Chi Minh City from the streets, exploring it from the Saigon River reveals an entirely different side of the metropolis.
River cruises showcase modern skyscrapers, colonial architecture, riverside communities, luxury developments, traditional fishing activities.
Sunset and evening cruises are especially popular as the city skyline illuminates after dark.
For travelers seeking a relaxing experience away from the city's traffic, a river cruise is highly recommended.
4. Explore the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam.
Its exhibitions document the devastating impact of war through photographs, military equipment, personal testimonies, and historical artifacts.
Highlights include fighter aircraft, tanks, military vehicles, historical photography exhibitions, international peace collections.
The museum provides valuable context for understanding Vietnam's recent history and the resilience of its people.
5. Wander through Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market has become one of the symbols of Ho Chi Minh City.
Established more than a century ago, the market attracts both locals and tourists seeking authentic shopping experiences.
Visitors can browse hundreds of stalls selling traditional handicrafts, Vietnamese coffee, lacquerware, textiles, clothing, souvenirs.
The market also offers excellent street food opportunities, making it one of the city's most vibrant destinations.
6. Marvel at Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office
Located in the heart of District 1, these two colonial landmarks represent some of the finest examples of French architecture in Vietnam.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral, built entirely with materials imported from France, remains one of the city's most recognizable buildings.
Just opposite stands the Central Post Office, a magnificent structure featuring vaulted ceilings elegant ironwork, historic maps, colonial design elements.
Together, they provide an excellent introduction to Saigon's colonial past.
7. Savor Vietnamese coffee at a local café
Beyond famous establishments, one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is simply sitting at a local café and observing everyday life.
Coffee culture is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese society.
Locals often spend hours chatting, reading newspapers, conducting business meetings, or simply watching the world go by.
Popular drinks include cà phê sữa đá, egg coffee, coconut coffee, salt coffee, black Vietnamese coffee.
Every neighborhood offers its own hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
8. Shop at Saigon Square
Saigon Square remains one of the city's most popular shopping venues.
The indoor market specializes in fashion, sportswear, travel accessories, handbags, footwear, souvenirs.
Compared to traditional markets, Saigon Square provides a more comfortable shopping environment while maintaining the excitement of bargaining.
Visitors looking for affordable gifts and clothing often spend several hours exploring its numerous stalls.
9. Visit Bitexco Financial Tower and Skydeck
The Bitexco Financial Tower helped redefine Ho Chi Minh City's skyline.
Inspired by Vietnam's national flower, the lotus, the tower stands as one of the country's most iconic modern buildings.
The Skydeck offers panoramic views over district 1, the Saigon River, Landmark 81, surrounding neighborhoods.
Photographers particularly appreciate the breathtaking views during sunset and twilight.
10. Hop on a sightseeing bus and explore the city with ease
For first-time visitors, sightseeing buses offer an excellent overview of Ho Chi Minh City.
Routes typically cover major attractions including Reunification Palace, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Bitexco Tower, Nguyen Hue Boulevard.
The flexibility of hop-on hop-off services allows travelers to explore at their own pace.
11. Step inside the Jade Emperor Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most atmospheric temples in the city.
Built by the Chinese community in the early twentieth century, the temple features a remarkable collection of statues, carvings, and altars.
Visitors are immediately struck by thick incense smoke, ornate decorations, traditional Chinese architecture, spiritual atmosphere.
The pagoda remains an active place of worship and offers insight into Vietnam's multicultural heritage.
12. Stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street at sunset
Nguyen Hue Walking Street serves as the social center of modern Ho Chi Minh City.
Every evening, thousands of residents gather here to exercise, meet friends, enjoy street performances, take photographs, relax after work.
The boulevard is lined with cafés, restaurants, and shopping centers, creating a lively atmosphere that reflects the city's youthful spirit.
13. Eat your way through a Ho Chi Minh City scooter food tour
Vietnam is internationally renowned for its cuisine, and Ho Chi Minh City is one of the country's greatest culinary destinations.
A scooter food tour allows visitors to sample local specialties while exploring neighborhoods rarely visited by tourists.
Typical dishes include Bánh Mì, Bánh Xèo, Bún Thịt Nướng, Hủ Tiếu, grilled seafood, Vietnamese desserts.
Beyond the food itself, riding through the city on a scooter provides an unforgettable adventure.
14. Experience the chaos and charm of Bui Vien Street nightlife
Bui Vien Street is the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's nightlife scene.
The area comes alive after sunset with live music venues, cocktail bars, street performances, international restaurants, nightclubs.
The energetic atmosphere attracts travelers from around the world and showcases Saigon's reputation as a city that never truly sleeps.
15. Unwind by the fountains at Turtle Lake
Despite its central location, Turtle Lake offers a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere.
Popular among students and young professionals, the area is known for street food vendors, casual cafés, evening gatherings, relaxing public spaces.
It provides a wonderful opportunity to observe local life away from major tourist attractions.
16. Watch a show at the Saigon Opera House
The Saigon Opera House remains one of the city's most elegant landmarks.
Built in 1898, it exemplifies French colonial architecture at its finest.
Visitors can attend ballet performances, classical concerts, contemporary productions, traditional Vietnamese cultural shows.
The famous A O Show, which combines acrobatics and Vietnamese storytelling, is particularly popular among international visitors.
17. Take in the riverside charm of Thao Dien
Thao Dien has emerged as one of Ho Chi Minh City's most fashionable neighborhoods.
Located along the Saigon River, it offers boutique cafés, art galleries, fine dining restaurants, riverside bars, trendy boutiques.
Its relaxed atmosphere provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling city center.
18. Explore Chinatown in district 5's Cho Lon Market
Cho Lon, the city's historic Chinatown, reflects centuries of Chinese influence on southern Vietnam.
Visitors can explore traditional temples, herbal medicine stores, local markets, Chinese restaurants, historic architecture.
The district offers a fascinating cultural experience distinct from central Saigon.
19. Visit Landmark 81
Standing at 461 meters, Landmark 81 is Vietnam's tallest building.
The skyscraper symbolizes the country's rapid economic growth and modern ambitions.
Inside visitors can find luxury shopping malls, observation decks, restaurants, entertainment facilities, luxury residences.
The panoramic views from the upper levels are among the best in Southeast Asia.
20. Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta
A visit to the Mekong Delta ranks among the most rewarding excursions from Ho Chi Minh City.
Known as Vietnam's "rice bowl," the region is famous for floating markets, fruit orchards, traditional villages, river canals, coconut plantations.
Popular destinations include Ben Tre, My Tho, Can Tho, Cai Be, and Vinh Long.
The delta offers a fascinating glimpse into rural life and traditional river culture.
21. Admire the Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace stands as one of Vietnam's most historically important buildings.
It was here that the Vietnam War officially ended on April 30, 1975.
Visitors can explore presidential offices, conference rooms, underground bunkers, communication centers, historic vehicles.
The palace remains remarkably preserved and offers an authentic look into twentieth-century Vietnamese history.
22. Visit Giac Lam pagoda
Founded in 1744, Giac Lam pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City.
The temple complex contains ancient statues, historic relics, peaceful gardens, traditional architecture.
Its tranquil atmosphere makes it one of the city's most important spiritual destinations.
23. Grab a coffee in Tao Dan park
Tao Dan park serves as one of the largest green spaces in central Ho Chi Minh City.
Early mornings are particularly lively as residents gather for Tai Chi, bird singing clubs, exercise, social activities.
Sitting beneath the shade of mature trees while enjoying a Vietnamese coffee provides a pleasant break from sightseeing.
24. Explore the Fine Arts museum
Housed in a magnificent colonial mansion, the Fine Arts Museum showcases the evolution of Vietnamese art.
The collection includes traditional lacquer paintings, contemporary artworks, sculptures, historical pieces.
The building itself is an architectural masterpiece and a favorite location for photographers.
25. Snap photos of the Bright Pink Tan Dinh church
Few landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City are as visually striking as Tan Dinh church.
Its vibrant pink façade has made it one of the city's most photographed attractions.
Built in 1876, the church combines gothic architecture, romanesque influences, elegant decorative details.
Whether viewed from the street or photographed from nearby cafés, Tan Dinh church offers one of the most memorable images of Ho Chi Minh City.
Conclusion
The top 25 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City reveal a destination where history, culture, gastronomy, and modern development blend seamlessly together. From exploring the Cu Chi tunnels and Reunification Palace to cruising along the Saigon River, discovering vibrant markets, enjoying world-class coffee culture, and experiencing the city's legendary nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City offers an extraordinary variety of experiences.
Whether you spend a few days or several weeks here, Vietnam's largest city continuously surprises visitors with its energy, diversity, and authenticity. Dynamic, welcoming, and endlessly fascinating, Ho Chi Minh City remains one of the most exciting urban destinations in Southeast Asia.
