https://uk.trip.com/travel-guide/destination/ho-chi-minh-city-434
Ho Chi Minh City
Sai Gon Central Post Office
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Hop On Hop Off Vietnam
Bitexco Financial Tower
Photos
Ho Chi Minh City

2025 Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Weather, Transportation, Popular Attractions, and Everything You Need (Updated 2025 3)

About Ho Chi Minh City

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Current Weather Conditions

26°C

Ho Chi Minh City Local Experiences Map

View Local Experiences on Map

Ho Chi Minh City Local Travel Guide 2025

View More

Ho Chi Minh City Brief Guide

Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon. It is one of Vietnam's liveliest cities and a hub for commerce and culture. This place has all kinds of classically elegant French buildings. You will feel almost as if you are in Paris. Apart from the sightseeing tours of places like the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, the Ho Chi Minh City Hall, and the Saigon Opera House, you can witness more grand French-style architecture off the beaten path by visiting the Central Post Office and mail a postcard. At the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum, you can learn about Vietnam's more recent history, take a boat trip along the Mekong River, or enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee in an old French-style café. Phạm Ngũ Lão Street is very quiet and peaceful during daylight hours. Once night falls, however, this place comes alive. Not only an excellent place to enjoy the city's nightlife, it is also a favorite place for backpackers to stay.

Ho Chi Minh City Must-try Local Experiences

1. Delve into Ho Chi Minh City's Historical Landmarks Visit the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, and Central Post Office to admire the French-style architecture, plus don't miss the War Remnants Museum for a more in-depth look at Vietnam's past. 2. Experience the Bustling Ben Thanh Market Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can haggle for souvenirs, clothing, and enjoy delicious street food. 3. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels Discover the extensive network of Cu Chi Tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Crawl through the tunnels and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics. 4. Attend a Traditional Water Puppet Show Enjoy a captivating Vietnamese water puppet performance featuring colorful puppets, live music, and enchanting storytelling. 5. Visit the Ao Dai Museum Learn about the history and cultural significance of the Ao Dai, Vietnam's traditional dress, through exhibits at this dedicated museum. 6. Experience Vietnamese food and coffee culture Sample iconic dishes such as rice noodles, French bread sandwiches and fresh spring rolls at local restaurants and street food stalls. Vietnam is also famous for its coffee, so take in the rich flavour of Vietnamese coffee and try the local speciality, egg coffee. 7. Visit Dong Khoi Street in Cholon Explore Dong Khoi Street for high-end boutiques, local handicrafts and traditional Vietnamese clothing. 8. Capture the City's Skyline from a Rooftop Bar Ascend to a rooftop bar for panoramic views of the cityscape and capture stunning photos as the sun sets. 9. Photograph the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck Get panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the Skydeck of the Bitexco Financial Tower, ideal for capturing the city's skyline. 10. Experience the City on a Scooter Tour Embrace the local way of life with an exhilarating scooter tour, exploring bustling streets and hidden alleys. 11. Enjoy a Relaxing River Cruise Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a tranquil river cruise along the Saigon River, enjoying the skyline and a delicious meal. 12. Take a Cyclo Ride Experience the city from a traditional cyclo, a leisurely way to explore the streets and take in the sights and sounds.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Tips

1.Dress Modestly for Temples: When visiting religious sites like Jade Emperor Pagoda, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. Remove your shoes before entering the main hall and avoid pointing feet towards Buddha statues. 2.Beware of Pickpockets and Bag Snatchers: Petty theft can be an issue in crowded areas like Ben Thanh Market. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid wearing valuable jewelry and using your phone in public. Use anti-theft bags and keep them in front of you. Be cautious of distraction techniques and crowded places to avoid becoming a target for pickpockets and bag snatchers.. 3. Motorbike Helmet Law: If you rent a motorbike or ride as a passenger, wearing a helmet is mandatory by law. Ensure you have a proper helmet to avoid fines and for your safety. Helmets must meet specific standards and be worn correctly. Violations can result in fines.

Ho Chi Minh City Must-see Attractions

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis rich in history and culture, featuring landmarks like the architecturally stunning Saigon Central Post Office, the backpacker-friendly Pham Ngu Lao area, the historically significant Reunification Palace, the modern Bitexco Financial Tower with panoramic views, and the traditional Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, all of which offer visitors a diverse and immersive experience of Vietnam's largest city.

Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife Highlights

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis that blends historical charm with modern vitality, offering illuminated French architecture, the towering Bitexco Financial Tower, the historic People's Committee Building, and the lively Nguyen Hue Walking Street, all of which provide a dynamic and picturesque experience of Vietnam's rich culture and bustling nightlife.

Ho Chi Minh City Where to Stay

Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic metropolis that offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers. The city's hotels are spread across various districts, each with its own unique characteristics, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect place to stay that caters to their preferences and needs.

Ho Chi Minh City Food Guide

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant culinary hub where traditional dishes like Vietnamese spring rolls, bánh xèo, and bánh mì reflect its rich cultural tapestry, and its coffee culture offers unique brews, all contributing to the city's reputation as a gastronomic delight.

Ho Chi Minh City Useful Guide

Ho Chi Minh City's transportation infrastructure is integral to its status as a bustling metropolis, with Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Saigon Railway Station being key hubs for travelers. Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the largest in Vietnam, is a major gateway for international and domestic flights. Located just 6 km north of the city center, it comprises two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights. To reach the city from the airport, visitors can take taxis, buses, or ride-hailing apps, with the journey to District 1 taking approximately 15 minutes. Saigon Railway Station, situated in District 3, is the southern terminus of Vietnam's North-South Railway Line. The station is about 1 km from the city center, making it easily accessible. Travelers can take a taxi or bus to reach District 1.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

What to Do

Looking for things to do in Ho Chi Minh City? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
View More
Sai Gon Central Post Office

Sai Gon Central Post Office

4.5/51,332 Reviews
"Historic buildings"
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

4.5/5284 Reviews
"Performances"
Hop On Hop Off Vietnam

Hop On Hop Off Vietnam

4.3/5101 Reviews
"Sightseeing bus"
"Night view"
Bitexco Financial Tower

Bitexco Financial Tower

4.5/5246 Reviews
"Night view"
Pham Ngu Lao

Pham Ngu Lao

4.4/5785 Reviews
Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church

4.5/5173 Reviews
Independence Palace

Independence Palace

4.3/5276 Reviews
"Historic buildings"
Landmark 81 SkyView

Landmark 81 SkyView

4.5/568 Reviews
War Remnants Museum

War Remnants Museum

4.5/5224 Reviews
"Museums"
Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market

4.1/5146 Reviews
Cu Chi Tunnel

Cu Chi Tunnel

4.6/587 Reviews
"Historic buildings"
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

4.4/5115 Reviews
"Performances"

Where to Stay

Discover the most popular places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
View More

What to Eat

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Ho Chi Minh City dishes and foodie spots.
View More
Square One

Square One

4.6/519 Reviews
Avg. GBP55/person
"Western-style"
"Brunch"
Anan Saigon

Anan Saigon

4.6/512 Reviews
Avg. GBP91/person
"Southeast Asian"
EL GAUCHO | HAI BA TRUNG, D1 | HCMC

EL GAUCHO | HAI BA TRUNG, D1 | HCMC

4.0/55 Reviews
Avg. GBP76/person
"Western-style"
Hoa Túc

Hoa Túc

4.4/521 Reviews
Avg. GBP18/person
"Southeast Asian"
Hong Hai Restaurant

Hong Hai Restaurant

3.0/53 Reviews
Avg. GBP27/person
"Seafood"
Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro

Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro

4.3/59 Reviews
Avg. GBP14/person
"Southeast Asian"
Quán Ngon 138

Quán Ngon 138

4.0/562 Reviews
Avg. GBP12/person
"Southeast Asian"
Trung Nguyên Legend Café – 07 Nguyễn Văn Chiêm

Trung Nguyên Legend Café – 07 Nguyễn Văn Chiêm

4.6/527 Reviews
Avg. GBP2/person
"Coffee Shops"
"Afternoon Tea"
Ngon Restaurant

Ngon Restaurant

4.5/536 Reviews
Avg. GBP14/person
"Southeast Asian"
"Courtyard"
BEPMEIN 1 - LE THANH TON

BEPMEIN 1 - LE THANH TON

4.5/520 Reviews
Avg. GBP6/person
"Southeast Asian"
PHO 2000

PHO 2000

4.7/5123 Reviews
Avg. GBP5/person
"Southeast Asian"
Cyclo Resto

Cyclo Resto

4.4/57 Reviews
Avg. GBP4/person
"Southeast Asian"

Ho Chi Minh City Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

Post
#Recommended
#vietnamtrip
#vietnam
#hochiminhcity
The first metro ever in Saigon🤩
holidayseason

The first metro ever in Saigon🤩

KatzyQiu
KatzyQiu
285
8-Day Vietnam Tour: Don't Miss These Popular Attractions!

8-Day Vietnam Tour: Don't Miss These Popular Attractions!

atticusrainier88
atticusrainier88
123
Vintage shop in Ho Chi Minh City 🇻🇳
newyearnewtrip

Vintage shop in Ho Chi Minh City 🇻🇳

kennababe_
kennababe_
20
Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City.

ByteBender
ByteBender
65
How to spend 5 days in Ho Chi Minh City
vietnamtrip

How to spend 5 days in Ho Chi Minh City

Joeyyyyyyy
Joeyyyyyyy
6
6-Day Trip to Vietnam: Don't Miss the Spring Outing During the Qingming Festival

6-Day Trip to Vietnam: Don't Miss the Spring Outing During the Qingming Festival

Elijah.Simmons^92
Elijah.Simmons^92
Day Trip Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City

Day Trip Itinerary for Ho Chi Minh City

jackday98
jackday98
18
Preparation for entry to Ho Chi Minh City

Preparation for entry to Ho Chi Minh City

VictoriaCarter
VictoriaCarter
2
View More

Best of Ho Chi Minh City

Top 10 Instagrammable Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Top 4 Gourmet Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Top 20 Premium Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Top 20 4-star Select Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Luxury Hotels Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Best Things to Do Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Family Hotels Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Scenic Hotels Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Hotels with Villas Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Popular Premium Hotels Near Ho Chi Minh City

View More

Other Recommended Cities

Nha Trang

Nha Trang

Da Nang

Da Nang

Hanoi

Hanoi

Hoi An

Hoi An