Best 20 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, where the traffic is as chaotic as an unchoreographed ballet! When in this vibrant Vietnamese city, be sure to embark on a motorbike adventure, because walking is so overrated. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's tumultuous past (and to subtly brag about your newfound history knowledge). Finally, don't leave without trying the mouthwatering local cuisine, but be warned, you might end up rolling down the street instead of walking after all those delicious Banh Mi sandwiches!

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1. Ho Chi Minh Statue

4.6 (2871)

110 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Chi Minh Statue is a popular halt for history enthusiasts and selfie connoisseurs alike. Towering above the chaotic embrace of traffic, this monumental statue of Uncle Ho impeccably captures his dreamy gaze, seemingly ready to lecture the passersby on the art of revolution. Prepare for an awe-inspiring encounter, as you embark on a whimsical pilgrimage to witness this bronze colossus, standing firm to remind you that patience is indeed a virtue, especially when there's a moped coming directly towards you.

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2. Giac Lam Pagoda

4.6 (3022)

565 Lạc Long Quân, Phường 10, Tân Bình, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Welcome to Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, where ancient serenity and quirky charm collide like a clumsy tourist trying to ride a motorbike! Built in 1744, this iconic attraction features stunning red brick architecture that has withstood the test of time, just like those questionable neon-colored cocktails at the nearby backpacker district. Stepping inside, you'll be serenaded by the soothing chants of Buddhist monks, who probably have a better sense of direction than most of us navigating the labyrinthine streets outside.

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3. Museum of Vietnamese History

4.4 (2646)

2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Tucked away amidst the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City lies the Museum of Vietnamese History, a treasure trove of past wonders waiting to be unraveled. Brace yourself to embark on a whimsical journey through Vietnam's rich and vibrant history – think of it as a time machine with air conditioning. Prepare to be dazzled by intricate artifacts, from ancient pottery that could give your granny's collection a run for its money, to statues that will make you question whether you've stumbled upon a secret superhero hideout.

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4. Ho Chi Minh City Hall

4.5 (1648)

Số 86 Đ. Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City Hall, a stunning architectural masterpiece that stands proudly in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This grand building, also known as the People's Committee Building, has a knack for making visitors feel like insignificant ants amidst its towering presence. Its stunning facade, reminiscent of a Disney castle on steroids, will surely leave you wondering if the city's politicians secretly moonlight as fairy godmothers. Just be cautious during your visit - this enchanted castle does not come with a happily-ever-after parking lot.

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5. Mariamman Hindu Temple

4.7 (123)

45 Trương Định, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mariamman Hindu Temple serves as a vibrant pink oasis, challenging all conventional notions of a temple. The temple's architecture flaunts a flamboyant mix of Indian and Vietnamese elements, leaving visitors reminiscent of a Bollywood set colliding with a Saigon street. So, ready your cameras and prepare to be "temp-holed" by this unique marvel, offering spiritual solace in a sea of concrete chaos.

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6. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

4.4 (20186)

01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Welcome to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a splendid church that somehow hitchhiked its way from Paris to Ho Chi Minh City! Marvel at its exquisite beauty as you stand before its red-brick facade, which looks like a giant wedding cake frosted with intricate details. Inside, you'll find a tranquil sanctuary, perfect for a quick confession or a discreet nap while admiring the colorful stained-glass windows that put modern kaleidoscopes to shame.

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7. Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

4.2 (26332)

2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Welcome to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where Mother Nature meets the wild world of eccentric animals in a fusion that will make you question Darwin's theories. Stroll through this enchanting sanctuary, where the flora and fauna mingle like a scene from Noah's Ark's wilder cousin. Be prepared for the unexpected as you encounter everything from mighty elephants parading like kings to mischievous monkeys putting on acrobatic shows that would make the Cirque du Soleil envious.

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8. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

4.3 (1282)

55B Đ. Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Step into the world of Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater in Ho Chi Minh City and get ready to be flabbergasted by the underwater acrobatics of puppets that'll make Michael Phelps green with envy. This place will leave you wondering if Houdini himself took up puppetry in his spare time. Prepare to be submerged in a delightful spectacle as these puppets gracefully glide across the water like figure skaters on steroids.

www.goldendragonwaterpuppet.vn

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9. Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

4.4 (9367)

36 Đ. Hồ Tùng Mậu, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Welcome to the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck, where you can embark on a vertical voyage that will make you feel like the king of the concrete jungle! Rise above the clamor of Ho Chi Minh City and witness panoramic views that will give your awe glands a solid workout. Marvel at the seemingly endless sea of motorbikes below as you ponder whether honking is actually a second language in this city.

www.saigonskydeck.com

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10. Jade Emperor Pagoda

4.4 (18)

QMRX+Q79, Đ. Mai Thị Lựu, Đa Kao, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Welcome to the Jade Emperor Pagoda in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City! Known locally as Chua Ngoc Hoang, this exquisite temple is an absolute must-visit. Brace yourself for a unique spiritual escapade where you can witness mesmerizing incense clouds, admire intricate wood carvings that immortalize mythical creatures, and perhaps even share a friendly wink with the resident monkeys who seem to take their spiritual duties incredibly seriously – just be sure to keep your snacks hidden! As you enter the pagoda, be prepared to be greeted by statues of deities where bending the rules of gravity seems to be the norm. Marvel at the sight of the otherworldly Jade Emperor, who, quite aptly, appears to be levitating on a mystical cloud while effortlessly juggling celestial objects like a part-time circus performer. Don't be surprised if you find yourself wondering whether it's just an artistic interpretation or if the emperor himself dabbles in some gravity-defying hobbies. If you're seeking a little tranquility amidst the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City, head to the pagoda's back garden – a hidden oasis of serenity. Here, you can soak in the zen ambiance and find respite from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Be warned, though, that while enlightenment might be found in these peaceful surroundings, enlightenment also seems to attract the mischievous temple cats who will not hesitate to demand your undivided attention and treats, as they believe humans exist solely to serve their divine whims.

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11. Saigon Central Post Office

4.4 (3123)

02 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Welcome to the Saigon Central Post Office, a charming blend of history and mail magic! This iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City will transport you back to a time when letters were king and stamps ruled the world. Marvel at its imposing facade, where architectural grandeur meets a slightly bossy undertone, whispering, "Mail your postcards, or face the wrath of the postmaster!" Step inside, and you'll be greeted by the post office's grand hall, which feels like a mini marketplace of letter-loving enthusiasts. Observe the hustle and bustle of travelers tapping furiously on qwerty keyboards as they type heartfelt messages and feel the palpable excitement of those who have forgotten to buy stamps and are sprinting towards the counter, fueled by caffeine and an unforeseen race against time. Before leaving this postal paradise, make sure to snap a selfie with Uncle Ho (Ho Chi Minh himself) and his omnipresent gaze over the central hall. Feel the inexplicable joy of posing with a larger-than-life statue of a man who knew the importance of a perfectly punctuated sentence and the thrill of opening a handwritten letter from a loved one. Just remember, if you're tempted to mail yourself home, seek professional help, or at least a stamp, for such unique desires.

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12. Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum

4.3 (6644)

97A P. Đức Chính, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Welcome, art enthusiasts and accidental wanderers, to the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, where history comes alive on canvas and sculptures secretly whisper tales of the past. Nestled amidst the buzzing chaos and motorbike symphony of this vibrant city, the museum is a hidden treasure trove that promises to tickle your artistic fancies and leave you pondering profound questions like, "Why does that statue resemble a teapot?" Marvel at the fascinating collection of Vietnamese art spanning centuries, showcasing a delightful mix of traditional masterpieces, contemporary creations, and the occasional piece that makes you contemplate if it's art or an artist's very persistent cat. So gather your quirkiest beret, don your magnifying monocle, and immerse yourself in the bewildering world of the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum.

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13. Ben Thanh Market

3.9 (44041)

Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Welcome to Ben Thanh Market, the bustling maze of delights in Ho Chi Minh City where you can go from "waiting for a bargain" to "feeling like a bargain" in 0.5 seconds! Stroll through this lively beehive and let the aroma of street food tug at your nostrils until you find yourself happily surrendering to the persuasive powers of a banh mi sandwich. Remember, if the shopkeeper looks at your bargaining skills with disappointment, you can always resort to a dramatic exit while muttering, "I'm walking away, but my heart will never leave this five-dollar dream!"

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14. Pham Ngu Lao Street

Đ. Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Welcome to Pham Ngu Lao Street, a bustling hub in Ho Chi Minh City where excitement and quirkiness collide! As you stroll along the lively lanes, prepare yourself for a cacophony of beeping motorbikes and vendors enticing you with everything from fragrant street food to trendy knockoff sunglasses. This vibrant neighborhood is the ultimate hotspot for curious wanderers seeking cheap thrills, local charm, and the chance to test their negotiation skills with persistent street hawkers.

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15. Ho Chi Minh City Museum

4.2 (843)

65 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City lies the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, a delightful treasure trove of quirky exhibits and historical oddities. As you step inside, you'll find yourself immersed in a fascinating journey through time, with crammed displays showcasing everything from ancient artifacts to vintage posters. Keep an eye out for the museum's "hall of bizarre souvenirs," where you may just stumble upon a coconut singing hymns or a sneaky squirrel that can moonwalk!

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16. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

4.6 (4659)

339 Đ. Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường 7, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Located in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is not your average spiritual spot. It's like the Buddha himself decided to throw a lively party and invited every color in the world to join. Marvel at the pagoda's vibrant dragon-scale roof, intricately adorned with artwork that could probably give any Bollywood film set a run for its money!

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17. Saigon Opera House

4.5 (11671)

07 Công Trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Welcome to the Saigon Opera House, where you can experience a perfect blend of culture, history, and a smidge of dramatic flair. Step inside this charming architectural gem and prepare to be enthralled by its grandeur, reminding you that humans basically built a palace for entertainment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and don't be surprised if you find yourself secretly practicing your best opera voice – just make sure you stay outside the theater.

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18. War Remnants Museum

4.5 (28482)

Phường 6, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Welcome to the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, where history and humor intertwine in a slightly quirky cocktail. Explore the museum's somber halls adorned with captivating exhibits that will transport you to the Vietnam War era faster than a soldier on a caffeine high. Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster, where sadness and laughter vie for your attention as you marvel at the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people and their ability to turn tragedy into triumph.

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19. Independence Palace

4.4 (29820)

Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Welcome to the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City, where you'll witness a delightful blend of history and architectural wonders. This grand abode was once occupied by Vietnamese presidents and carries more stories than an overly chatty auntie on a Sunday brunch. Step into its lush courtyards, adorned with fountains and exotic plants, and you might just feel like a local celebrity attending a garden party.

www.dinhdoclap.gov.vn

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20. Cu Chi Tunnels

4.5 (10196)

Phú Hiệp, Củ Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Welcome to the not-so-ordinary Cu Chi Tunnels in the buzzing city of Ho Chi Minh! Brace yourself for an underground adventure that will leave you amazed, claustrophobic, and questioning your gym membership. Get ready to dive into a network of tunnels so narrow, you'll be convinced they doubled as a secret initiation rite for contortionists.

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to reach Ho Chi Minh City by plane is to fly to Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which is the largest airport in Vietnam and located just north of the city center.

Car

If you are already in Vietnam, then hiring a car or taking a taxi is a good way to reach Ho Chi Minh City. The drive from Da Nang city takes approximately 17 hours via the AH1 highway.

Train

Although there are some train services within Vietnam, there is no direct train to Ho Chi Minh City. Therefore, it is not recommended to use the train as a means of transportation.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Ho Chi Minh City, but it is possible to take a cruise along the Mekong River from Cambodia. The journey takes around four days and terminates in the city center.

Bus

The most popular way to reach Ho Chi Minh City by bus is to travel from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The journey takes around six hours and terminates at Mien Dong Bus Station in the city center.

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