Start your journey to Vietnam by exploring Ho Chi Minh city, that once was known as Saigon.
By the way, some mistakenly believe that the capital of Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh city. It’s a delusion. In fact, the function of the main city of the country belongs to Hanoi.
This city is an excellent combination of respect for the past and constant development in accordance with the requirement of time. Essential part of tourist attractions and must-visit places is devoted to the war.
Keep reading our guide and learn about top things to do and see in Ho Chi Minh city in Vietnam for first timers, so you don’t miss any places of interest for tourists.
Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
War Remnants Museum
This museum is the first one on the list of places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city. The exhibition features a variety of exhibits. They date back to Vietnam War and the First Indochina War.
Photos, interviews and numbers of victims on display are always shocking. Seeing this information, there is great respect for the Vietnamese people. Vietnam has transformed itself in such a short period of time that it can be called a miracle.
Cu Chi Tunnels
These tunnels are a huge network of underground labyrinths, interconnected, used by the Viet Cong during war. Those who wish can take part in the tour and walk through the tunnels on their own. But if you are claustrophobic, it’s better to skip this activity.
In Ho Chi Minh City, in addition to the Cu Chi Tunnels, there are many places where you can also get acquainted with history without harming your mental health.
But if you still would like to join day tour to Cu Chi Tunnels, click here to make your reservation.
Independence Palace
Among other tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh city is the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. You can explore it by joining guided tour, which on average takes about 2-3 hours, but you will definitely not be disappointed.
When a North Vietnamese tank crashed into the gates of this palace, it meant the end of the war. The tank is still in plain sight, as are the secret rooms and command bunker used during the war.
Ben Thanh Market
It’s one of the must-visit places in Ho Chi Minh and the largest market in the city. This is one of the earliest surviving structures from old Saigon. Here you can buy a variety of goods: from textiles to souvenirs, as well as fresh and already prepared dishes. Prices are usually high; however, bargaining is perfectly acceptable.
See Ho Chi Minh City from a bird’s eye view
If you want to see the city from above, then you should go up to the observation deck, which is located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower.
From there you can enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City. The tower building itself is made in the shape of a lotus and was once one of the tallest in Saigon.
Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve
The Can Gio Mangrove Forest has the largest variety of plants typical for mangroves, as well as invertebrates, fish and shellfish types from the entire region also live there. This place is called the “lungs of the city”. Many come here for the weekend to take a break from the bustle of the city.
You can join day tour and visit Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island. Click here to make your reservation.
Sea and Beaches in Ho Chi Minh City
Part of the city has and access to the sea; however, Ho Chi Minh City cannot be called a beach resort. Ho Chi Minh coastline is suitable for a pleasant pastime in a cafe with a glass of wine than for swimming. Those who want to spend great time on the beach are advised to go to Vung Tau, on Phu Quoc island, or, for example, on Phan Thiet.
Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh has a tropical climate with only two distinct seasons: wet (May-November) and dry (December-April). Saigon is warm all year round with an average temperature of 28 degrees. The best time to visit it is from December to March. During this period, there is less precipitation, the sky is mostly cloudless, and the humidity is low.
From May to November, it’s a rainy season in Ho Chi Minh. It is characterized by high level of humidity and frequent tropical storms.
