Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it’s sometimes called, is a bustling metropolis with so many things that can enrich your travel experience.
From historic monuments to sprawling shopping malls, this city has something that can enrich you for every type of traveler.
Here are 10 of the most exciting things to see and do when visiting Ho Chi Minh City while traveling in South East Asia.
1. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame cathedral basilica of Saigon is a relic from French colonial rule, this Neo-Romanesque-style cathedral was built in 1880 and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s one of the top travel destinations in the city.
It still holds services today and visitors can take in the beautiful architecture and stained glass windows up close.
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. This towering 19th-century French Gothic church was built between 1863 and 1880, making it one of the oldest structures in the city.
The original design has remained largely unchanged, with its two large spires still standing tall over Saigon’s skyline. Inside, you can admire the beautiful stained glass windows, painted frescoes, and delicate stonework.
Notre Dame Cathedral provides a glimpse into the city’s most prominent religious building and a reminder of Vietnam’s colonial past. Be sure to visit this stunning piece of architecture during your trip to Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Take a tour of the War Remnants Museum
The Vietnam war remnants museum showcases the history of Vietnam during its wars with France and the United States.
The Vietnam war history timeline includes a wide range of artifacts from these wars, from weapons to vehicles to photographs.
This museum features a wide assortment of artifacts and photos from the Vietnam War, including weapons, documents, and photographs.
The museum also includes interactive displays that provide an educational and emotional insight into the war history of Vietnam. Visitors will gain a greater understanding of the human cost of the conflict by taking a tour through exhibits such as “The Personal Experiences Room” which showcases personal stories from victims, veterans, and survivors of the war.
Additionally, there is an outdoor display showcasing restored military hardware used during the Vietnam War such as tanks, artillery pieces, and helicopters. This is a must-see destination for anyone looking to learn more about this important period in Ho Chi Minh City’s history.
3. Explore Ben Thanh Market
This bustling market has been around for over 100 years and is a great place to pick up souvenirs such as traditional clothing, jewelry, and other arts and crafts.
The Ben Thanh market is located in District 1 and dates back to 1870 when it was established as a small trading post for local farmers and merchants.
It’s now a huge marketplace that has become famous among visitors from all over the world. Hundreds of stalls and vendors sell everything from traditional Vietnamese food, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs to everyday necessities like fruits, vegetables, and meats.
A visit to Ben Thanh Market gives you an opportunity to get great deals on authentic Vietnamese items while experiencing the hustle and bustle of daily life in Vietnam.
Don’t be afraid to bargain with friendly vendors- it’s always fun! After exploring the market, you can take a break at the food court located in the middle of the market.
There you will find some of Vietnam’s best-known dishes like Pho and Banh Mi. Enjoy trying local delicacies while soaking up all the sights, sounds, and smells that make this part of Ho Chi Minh City so unique.
4. Visit the Saigon Central Post Office
This historic post office was built in 1891 and still functions today. Inside you can find old-fashioned mailboxes, stamp collections, maps, and antique typewriters.
Although it looks like it has come straight out of the French colonial era, with its grandiose facade and vintage interiors, it was actually built only in 1891 and is still functional today.
It’s a great spot for tourists to go – not only because it’s an iconic cultural landmark but also because you can buy stamps, postcards, and souvenirs here. Inside the post office, there are several historical artifacts such as old photos and documents that give a glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past.
Make sure you check out the portrait of Ho Chi Minh on display inside too! If you’re looking for an interesting way to learn about the history of Vietnam, then this is definitely a must-see attraction in Ho Chi Minh City.
5. Unwind in Tao Dan Park
Located near downtown Ho Chi Minh City, this large park is full of trees and lush green spaces. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy a picnic, or people-watch.
The Tai Dan park was built by the French during its colonial rule over Vietnam. It has now been turned into a public park and provides an ideal environment for locals and tourists alike to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Spread across 10 hectares, Tao Dan Park features many lush green spaces with shady trees, a large pond where visitors can feed the fish, and plenty of benches for people to sit and enjoy nature.
Additionally, there are numerous cultural activities held here such as concerts, art exhibitions, and traditional festivals that showcase Vietnamese culture. The best time to visit Tao Dan Park is during the early morning when it is the most peaceful.
There are also food stalls located in the park, so visitors can enjoy a snack while taking in the sights and sounds of this tranquil oasis. All in all, Tao Dan Park is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Experience the Cu Chi Tunnels
Cu Chi Tunnels is a must-see in Ho Chi Minh City. Located about an hour outside of the city, these underground tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War as hideouts and secret passageways.
This historic complex offers an exciting insight into Vietnam’s wartime past. The tunnels are made from hundreds of interconnected passageways and rooms that were used by the Viet Cong during the war.
Visitors to Cu Chi Tunnels can explore these underground passages, learn about the history of the area, and even try out some shooting ranges! It’s definitely one of the 10 things to see in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you plan on visiting, make sure to bring comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking through the tunnels required. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture all those amazing memories! It’s an experience you won’t forget.
7. Check out Jade Emperor Pagoda
This Taoist temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City due to its intricate architecture and fascinating history.
The Jade Emperor or Ngoc Hoang. Built-in 1909, visitors can explore its vibrant atmosphere with colorful shrines and statues that depict different figures from Chinese mythology.
Be sure to check out the main hall where a large statue of The Jade Emperor sits surrounded by smaller deities. Other highlights include an altar for praying, a turtle pond, and a wishing tree. Make your visit even more special by joining one of the festive celebrations like the Lunar New Year or Mid-Autumn Festival.
Not only will you be able to experience traditional Vietnamese culture but also appreciate the extraordinary architecture of this pagoda. Its intricate and delicate sculptures are remarkable and it’s a great way to learn more about Chinese mythology. Make sure you take your camera with you as there will be plenty of opportunities to capture some stunning photos that you can share with friends back home.
8. Enjoy some street food
Street food is a major part of the culture in Ho Chi Minh City and you can find it just about everywhere. Try some traditional dishes such as banh mi sandwiches, pho noodles, spring rolls, and more.
If you’re feeling daring, take a stroll through the city’s narrow alleyways and sample the wide variety of dishes that are served up hot and fresh along the sides of the streets.
Popular street snacks include banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), pho (rice noodle soup), bun thang (vermicelli noodles with pork, shrimp, and egg topping), and cha gio (fried spring rolls). Wash it all down with a refreshing bia hoi – a light draft beer.
Street food is an essential part of Ho Chi Minh City culture so don’t miss out on this authentic experience during your visit.
9. Shop at the Saigon Square
Located in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, this shopping mall has everything from clothing and accessories to furniture and electronics.
Located on Le Loi Street, Saigon Square is a large shopping center catering to locals and tourists alike. This bustling market offers clothing, accessories, souvenirs, jewelry, and more at reasonable prices.
You can find everything from designer brands to bargain buys here – just make sure you haggle for the best deal.
With its bright neon lights and vibrant atmosphere, Saigon Square is an adventure not to be missed.
It’s also a great place to people-watch; you never know who or what you might come across as you wander through this unique shopping experience.
10. Relax at Tao Dan Cultural Park
This park is full of sculptures, statues, gardens, and a lake to explore. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic with friends.
It’s a great spot to take a stroll and enjoy the greenery. The park features ancient trees, lush gardens, and tranquil ponds surrounded by tall buildings.
You can also find fascinating sculptures depicting Vietnamese culture and traditional sports such as kite-flying and martial arts.
There are plenty of benches where you can relax and have some snacks while admiring the views of the city skyline.
If you’re looking for something more active, there is also an outdoor fitness center with a weightlifting area, yoga classes, Zumba sessions, and much more. Visitors can also find several food stalls serving delicious local snacks like banh mi sandwiches.
Tao Dan Cultural Park is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and relax.
Thoughts and Conclusion
From historic buildings to bustling markets and beautiful parks, Ho Chi Minh City offers you an abundance of experience if you’re planning on traveling around Asia.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just some time to relax, these 10 things should be on your list when visiting this exciting city.
You can also check out Best Places to Go in Vietnam and Most Popular Foods in Vietnam.
