Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest metropolis — a fast-paced blend of modern skyscrapers, French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and buzzing street life. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or urban explorer, this dynamic city has something for everyone.

Here are the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that you shouldn’t miss:

1. 🕍 Visit the War Remnants Museum

Gain powerful insights into Vietnam’s history through emotional exhibits and wartime photography. A must-visit for those who want to understand the country beyond the tourist layer.

⏱️ Time needed: 1–2 hours
📍 Location: District 3

2. 🏛️ Explore the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)

Step back in time at the iconic site where the Vietnam War ended. The vintage architecture and preserved meeting rooms feel like a time capsule of the 1970s.

🎫 Tip: Buy a combo ticket with a local guide for deeper context.

3. 🛍️ Wander Around Ben Thanh Market

A colorful and bustling local market in the heart of District 1. Shop for souvenirs, fabrics, dried fruits, and try street food like pho, bun thit nuong, and fresh spring rolls.

🍜 Heera Travel recommends a guided street food tour here.

4. 🏙️ Admire the View from Bitexco Skydeck

Go up to the 49th floor of this iconic tower and enjoy 360-degree views of Saigon’s skyline — especially magical at sunset.

5. 🕯️ Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda

An atmospheric Taoist temple filled with incense, ancient statues, and colorful carvings. A peaceful break from the busy streets.

6. 🛵 Take a Motorbike Street Food Tour

Saigon by motorbike is the real way to experience the city like a local. Sample hidden food stalls, back alley BBQs, and local drinks with a trusted guide.

✅ Book Heera Travel’s Night Saigon Street Food Tour – safe, tasty & fun!

7. 🚤 Cruise the Saigon River

Escape the traffic and enjoy views of the skyline from the water. Opt for a sunset dinner cruise or an early morning ride with coffee and city stories.

8. 🎨 Explore Contemporary Art & Cafés in District 3 & Thao Dien

Discover creative spaces, indie galleries, and bohemian cafés that show the artistic side of modern Saigon.

9. 🕌 Visit Saigon Central Post Office & Notre Dame Cathedral

These two French colonial landmarks sit side by side in District 1. The Post Office is still functional and beautifully preserved.

📸 Great photo spots, especially in the early morning before crowds.

10. 🕳️ Take a Day Trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

Just 1.5 hours away, this network of underground tunnels offers a fascinating glimpse into guerrilla warfare during the Vietnam War. You can even crawl through part of the tunnel system.

🚌 Join Heera Travel’s Half-Day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour from Saigon.

✅ Plan Your Ho Chi Minh City Trip with Heera Travel

Heera Travel offers custom itineraries, including:

• Guided city tours with licensed English-speaking guides

• Food tours, river cruises & motorbike adventures

• Day trips to Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta

• Hotel booking, airport pickup & FREE eSIM

🌐 Explore more Vietnam tours

📞 Need Help Planning?

Hotline: +84379569490
Line ID: @heeratravel