Why to visit Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is also known as Saigon. It is the largest city in Vietnam and a vibrant hub of culture, commerce, and history. The city is a dynamic mix of French colonial architecture, bustling markets, ancient temples, and modern skyscrapers. Whether you’re exploring historical sites like the War Remnants Museum or enjoying the lively atmosphere of Bến Thành Market, HCMC offers an exciting urban experience that reflects both its past and its rapid development.
What’s special in Ho Chi Minh City
- Colonial Architecture: The city has some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in Southeast Asia, including the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office.
- War History: HCMC is home to several significant war-related sites, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels, which provide insight into Vietnam’s tumultuous history during the Vietnam War.
- Street Food: Known for its incredible street food, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and Com tam (broken rice).
- Cultural Blend: The city has a fascinating mix of traditional Vietnamese culture with influences from French, Chinese, and American cultures.
- Nightlife: The nightlife in this city includes rooftop bars, live music venues, and amazingly vibrant night markets.
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Visit the War Remnants Museum: Explore the exhibits on the Vietnam War, including photos, war machinery, and a historical overview of the conflict.
- Explore Bến Thành Market: A must-visit for shopping and tasting local snacks, this market is the heart of the city’s commerce.
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: A magnificent French-colonial cathedral built in the 19th century, located in the heart of the city.
- Saigon Central Post Office: Another fine example of French colonial architecture, this historic building is still in use and is a great place to experience the blend of history and modern-day life.
- Visit Cu Chi Tunnels: A 1.5-hour drive from the city, this historical site lets visitors explore the network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
- Take a Boat Ride on the Saigon River: A relaxing way to see the city’s skyline from a different perspective.
Unknown facts
- The Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral was made with bricks imported from France, and it took 13 years to build (1877-1890).
- Bến Thành Market was originally built in 1914 and is considered one of the oldest landmarks in the city.
- The War Remnants Museum was formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes before being renamed after the war ended.
- Saigon Skydeck offers the best panoramic views of the city from a height of 262 meters.
Entry fee
- War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND (Approx. $1.50)
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: Free entry
- Saigon Central Post Office: Free entry
- Cu Chi Tunnels: 90,000 VND (Approx. $4)
- Saigon Skydeck: 200,000 VND (Approx. $8)
Timings
- War Remnants Museum: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saigon Central Post Office: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Best visit between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saigon Skydeck: 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Average duration to explore
- War Remnants Museum: 1-2 hours
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: 30 minutes
- Saigon Central Post Office: 30 minutes
- Cu Chi Tunnels: 3-4 hours (including travel time)
- Saigon Skydeck: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Distance from key locations
- Ben Thanh Market: Central location, all main attractions are within a short walking distance.
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport: 6 km (15 minutes by car)
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral: 0.3 km from the market
- Cu Chi Tunnels: 50 km (1.5-hour drive)
Nearby tourist spots
- Bến Thành Market (0 km)
- Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral (0.5 km)
- War Remnants Museum (1.5 km)
- Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Financial Tower (1 km)
- Reunification Palace (1 km)
- Saigon Opera House (1 km)
- Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon (0.5 km)
