Ho Chi Minh City 2025 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Delve into Ho Chi Minh City's Historical Landmarks

Visit the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, and Central Post Office to admire the French-style architecture, plus don't miss the War Remnants Museum for a more in-depth look at Vietnam's past.

Experience the Bustling Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can haggle for souvenirs, clothing, and enjoy delicious street food.

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Discover the extensive network of Cu Chi Tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Crawl through the tunnels and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics.

Attend a Traditional Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a captivating Vietnamese water puppet performance featuring colorful puppets, live music, and enchanting storytelling.

Visit the Ao Dai Museum

Learn about the history and cultural significance of the Ao Dai, Vietnam's traditional dress, through exhibits at this dedicated museum.

Experience Vietnamese food and coffee culture

Sample iconic dishes such as rice noodles, French bread sandwiches and fresh spring rolls at local restaurants and street food stalls. Vietnam is also famous for its coffee, so take in the rich flavour of Vietnamese coffee and try the local speciality, egg coffee.

Visit Dong Khoi Street in Cholon

Explore Dong Khoi Street for high-end boutiques, local handicrafts and traditional Vietnamese clothing.

Capture the City's Skyline from a Rooftop Bar

Ascend to a rooftop bar for panoramic views of the cityscape and capture stunning photos as the sun sets.

Photograph the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

Get panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the Skydeck of the Bitexco Financial Tower, ideal for capturing the city's skyline.

Experience the City on a Scooter Tour

Embrace the local way of life with an exhilarating scooter tour, exploring bustling streets and hidden alleys.

Enjoy a Relaxing River Cruise

Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a tranquil river cruise along the Saigon River, enjoying the skyline and a delicious meal.

Take a Cyclo Ride

Experience the city from a traditional cyclo, a leisurely way to explore the streets and take in the sights and sounds.

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis rich in history and culture, featuring landmarks like the architecturally stunning Saigon Central Post Office, the backpacker-friendly Pham Ngu Lao area, the historically significant Reunification Palace, the modern Bitexco Financial Tower with panoramic views, and the traditional Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, all of which offer visitors a diverse and immersive experience of Vietnam's largest city.

The Sai Gon Central Post Office is an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the city's past. Designed by architects Alfred Foulhoux and Auguste Henri Vildieu, the building is often mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel. This grand edifice showcases a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French influences, with a facade that features yellow walls, arched doors and windows, and decorative reliefs. The interior is equally impressive, with a spacious hall adorned with arches, mosaic tiles, and a high ceiling, along with historical maps and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh.

Visitors to the Sai Gon Central Post Office can immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of a working post office while appreciating the historical and cultural significance of the building. They can send postcards and letters from this iconic location, making it a unique experience that combines tourism with the charm of traditional communication. The Central Post Office is located in District 1 makes it easily accessible and a perfect starting point for exploring other nearby landmarks, such as the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Pham Ngu Lao in Ho Chi Minh City, often likened to Bangkok's Khao San Road, is a bustling hub for backpackers and budget travelers. Known for its affordable accommodations, the area is a vibrant mix of cheap hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, with a lively atmosphere that extends into the night. The streets are lined with a variety of dining options, from local Vietnamese street food like pho and banh mi to Western fare, and the nightlife is active with bars and clubs that keep the area buzzing until the early hours. While it's a haven for those seeking budget-friendly options, Pham Ngu Lao's charm also lies in its proximity to major attractions such as the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

The Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, is a historical landmark in Ho Chi Minh City that embodies Vietnam's turbulent past and architectural elegance. Designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, the palace is a testament to 1960s modernist architecture, featuring a blend of European and Vietnamese styles. Visitors can explore the preserved living quarters, original art pieces, and the basement filled with 1960s military communications equipment, offering a glimpse into the life and work of the South Vietnamese presidents. The palace grounds are also home to beautifully landscaped gardens, a museum showcasing the history of the palace and the Vietnam War, and an observation deck with panoramic city views. The Reunification Palace stands as a symbol of the end of the Vietnam War, marked by the iconic image of North Vietnamese tanks crashing through its gates. It is a must-visit for those interested in the historical significance and architectural beauty of this iconic site.

Bitexco Financial Tower, a prominent skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City, is an architectural marvel inspired by the national flower of Vietnam, the lotus. Designed by Carlos Zapata, this 262-meter-tall building is a symbol of Vietnam's rapid economic growth and stands as the second-tallest structure in the city. The tower's most notable feature is the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor, which offers visitors panoramic views of the city and the Saigon River, making it a must-visit for a unique and memorable experience. Additionally, the tower boasts Vietnam's first non-rooftop helipad on the 52nd floor, which is a remarkable engineering feat, extending 22 meters from the main structure. Visitors can also enjoy the EON café-restaurant-bar located on floors 50 to 52 for stunning views while dining.

The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater in Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant cultural venue that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Vietnamese art of water puppetry. This unique form of entertainment features puppets that dance on water, controlled by skilled puppeteers using bamboo rods and strings from behind a screen. The performances are rich in Vietnamese folklore, with acts depicting rural life, historical legends, and classic folktales, all accompanied by live music from a traditional Vietnamese orchestra. The theater, with a seating capacity of 200 spectators, provides an immersive experience with its modern sound and lighting systems, enhancing the colorful and imaginative shows. Visitors can also engage with the puppeteers and learn more about this ancient art form after the show, adding an interactive element to the experience. Located in the heart of District 1, the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater is not only a must-visit for its cultural significance but also for the opportunity it offers to witness the creativity and tradition of Vietnamese performing arts.

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant culinary hub where traditional dishes like Vietnamese spring rolls, bánh xèo, and bánh mì reflect its rich cultural tapestry, and its coffee culture offers unique brews, all contributing to the city's reputation as a gastronomic delight.

A beloved dish in Ho Chi Minh City, known for their fresh ingredients and versatility. These rolls, locally referred to as Goi Cuon, are made with a combination of pork, prawn, vegetables, and rice vermicelli, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a variety of dipping sauces, they offer a refreshing and healthy option, embodying the yin-yang balance of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether enjoyed at a street stall or a high-end restaurant, Vietnamese spring rolls are a culinary staple not to be missed when visiting Vietnam.

A testament to Vietnam's rich coffee culture, where the traditional phin filter brewing method delivers a strong and flavorful cup. The city's coffee scene offers a variety of unique coffee-based drinks, including the renowned egg coffee, coconut coffee, and yogurt coffee, which are a must-try for visitors. Coffee shops in Ho Chi Minh City range from street-side stalls to trendy cafes, reflecting the social fabric of the city where coffee is enjoyed at any time of the day.

Bánh xèo, a crispy Vietnamese pancake, is a beloved street food in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its golden crepe filled with savory ingredients such as pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The dish's name, meaning "sizzling pancake," comes from the sound the batter makes when it hits the hot pan, and it is traditionally served with a variety of fresh herbs and a sweet and sour fish sauce for dipping. To enjoy bánh xèo like a local, it is recommended to wrap bite-sized pieces in rice paper or lettuce, add herbs, and dip into the flavorful sauce, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Mantis shrimp in Ho Chi Minh City offers a chewy flesh and rich sea flavor that makes them a top favorite among Vietnamese seafood. These crustaceans can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, such as steamed with lemongrass, roasted with garlic, or as part of a seafood hot pot, providing a delightful culinary experience. With their unique hunting methods and significant role in the local fishing economy, mantis shrimp are not only a gastronomic delight but also a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for fishermen in the region.

A celebrated Vietnamese sandwich that has become synonymous with the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, offering an eclectic mix of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. Known for its light, airy bread with a thin crust, it is generously filled with a variety of ingredients including cold cuts, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, making it a beloved choice for breakfast or a snack. Bánh mì has evolved into a cultural icon, often enjoyed at popular spots like Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa, and has been celebrated as the "King of Sandwiches in the World" by international media.

For visitors, getting to Ho Chi Minh City is most convenient via air, although train and bus services are also viable options for those traveling domestically or from neighboring countries.

By Air:

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the largest airport in Vietnam, located in Tan Binh District, about 7 km (4.3 miles) from District 1’s city center.

To City Center

- Airport buses: A budget-friendly way to reach the city center. 

Bus #109 (Yellow Bus): This tourist-friendly bus runs every 15–20 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.. It services both the international and domestic terminals and stops near Ben Thanh Market in District 1. 

Bus #152: A cheaper, local bus that runs from 5:15 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. It also stops near Ben Thanh Market. 

Bus #49 (Shuttle Bus): A dedicated shuttle bus service that runs every 20–30 minutes to Pham Ngu Lao Street, stopping at major hotels in District 1. 

Taxi: Official Vinasun and Mai Linh taxis are available at terminal ranks. They offer metered fares 24/7, accommodating up to 4 passengers with luggage included. Payments can be made in cash or by card. Use the Vinasun app for tracking your ride, which is safe for groups or late arrivals, and helps avoid unofficial taxis.

Ride-Shares: Grab or Be services are available from designated zones, guided by the app. Book after landing using data, with cashless or cash options available through the Grab app, making it convenient and tourist-friendly.

By Train:

Ho Chi Minh City is the final stop on the main North-South "Reunification Line" rail route.

Saigon Railway Station (Ga Sài Gòn): The city's main railway station is in District 3, approximately 3 km northwest of the city center. This is a major hub for long-distance trains from cities such as Hanoi, Hue, and Da Nang.

By Bus:

Ho Chi Minh City has several bus terminals serving different regions of Vietnam and beyond.

Mien Dong Bus Station (Eastern Bus Station): Located in Binh Thanh District, this station serves routes to the northern and central parts of Vietnam. 

Mien Tay Bus Station (Western Bus Station): Located in Binh Tan District, this is the main hub for buses traveling to the Mekong Delta region.

Ben Thanh Bus Station: Located in District 1, this station is a hub for many local city bus routes.

Ho Chi Minh City currently does not have a single, integrated public transportation card. Payment methods vary by service. 

City Buses (Xe Buýt): Ho Chi Minh City has an extensive bus network (over 100 routes) covering most parts of the city and connecting to suburban areas. Most routes operate from around 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, with frequencies varying from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the route and time of day. 

Wait at a designated bus stop. When the bus arrives, wave to signal it to stop. Board the bus, and a conductor will approach you to collect the fare. Tell them your destination (or show it on a map if there's a language barrier) so they can tell you the correct fare.

Metro (Đường sắt đô thị): Metro Line 1 (Bến Thành - Suối Tiên) operates from Bến Thành Market in District 1, passing through several districts to Long Bình Depot in Thủ Đức City. The metro runs daily, typically from early morning around 5:00 AM until late evening around 10:00 PM. Please note that specific hours and frequency may vary.

To use the metro, go to a station, purchase a single-journey ticket from a ticket machine or booth, and tap your ticket at the gate to enter. Remember to keep your ticket to tap again when exiting at your destination station.

Taxis (Xe Taxi): Widely available, especially in tourist areas and near hotels, airports, and stations. Choose reputable companies like Mai Linh (green cars) and Vinasun (white cars with red and green stripes). These use meters, have good service, and are less likely to overcharge. Avoid unbranded taxis or those that aggressively approach you. 

Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Be, Xanh SM): Offer both car rides (GrabCar, BeCar, Xanh SM Car) and motorbike rides (GrabBike, BeBike, Xanh SM Bike). Xanh SM operates electric vehicles. Download the app, register (possibly using an international number), and input pick-up and drop-off locations. The app will provide a fixed fare upfront. You can choose cash payment or link a credit/debit card. Extremely popular and generally reliable. Grab and Be are the most dominant.

Motorbike Taxis (Xe Ôm) (Traditional):  Drivers are found on street corners, often identifiable by their uniform (if part of a small company) or simply waiting with their motorbikes. Negotiate the fare before starting the trip. Agree on a price in Vietnamese Dong (VND) before getting on. Best for short distances, experiencing a traditional mode of transport, or navigating heavy traffic on a budget. 

Less recommended for tourists unfamiliar with local pricing or comfortable with direct negotiation, as overcharging can occur. Ride-hailing motorbike taxis (GrabBike/BeBike) are generally safer and more convenient due to fixed prices.

Cyclos (Xích Lô): Primarily found in tourist areas (e.g., around Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral) and typically target tourists. A driver pedals you around in a three-wheeled cart. Always negotiate the fare and the duration of the trip before getting in. Confirm whether the price is per person or per cyclo. Best for scenic, slow-paced sightseeing tours in specific tourist zones. 

Bike Sharing (Xe Đạp Công Cộng / TNGO): Ho Chi Minh City has a public bike-sharing system, primarily operated by TNGO. Stations are located in central districts, often near parks, metro stations, and popular attractions. Download the TNGO app, register (you may need a local phone number or Vietnamese payment method for full functionality, though some allow linking international cards), and unlock a bike using the app's QR code scanner. Fares are typically charged per minute or per hour. You return the bike to any designated station. 

It can be a fun way to explore specific areas, but navigating HCMC traffic by bicycle can be challenging and requires confidence.

Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic metropolis that offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers. The city's hotels are spread across various districts, each with its own unique characteristics, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect place to stay that caters to their preferences and needs.

Hotel Style and Amenities: District 1, the commercial and historic core of Ho Chi Minh City, features chic urban hotels and grand colonial venues. 

Proximity to Attractions: Adjacent to landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral, this district is ideal for exploring Saigon's historic and contemporary sights.

Vibrant Nightlife and Dining: Known for its dynamic nightlife and varied culinary offerings, District 1 presents upscale restaurants, bustling bars, and street food vendors. Visitors can savor local and international cuisine, shop in high-end boutiques, or delve into the night-time buzz of locales like Pham Ngu Lao.

Access and Convenience: Situated in District 7, the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) is a prime spot for business travelers attending events. The SECC's connectivity to the city ensures a convenient stay with easy venue access.

Accommodation Options: Nearby hotels serve business travelers with amenities like conference rooms, business centers, and cozy rooms for relaxation and preparation.

Proximity to Amenities: Lodgings close to the SECC are a brief walk or taxi ride from local attractions, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment spots, guaranteeing a pleasant visit.

Cultural Richness: District 5, also known as Cho Lon or Saigon's Chinatown, is an area steeped in cultural heritage and history. It is home to a large Chinese-Vietnamese community, with a plethora of temples, pagodas, and traditional markets.

Culinary Delights: The district is famous for its authentic Chinese cuisine and bustling street food scene. Travelers can explore local markets like Binh Tay and An Dong, savoring dishes such as dumplings and noodle soups.

Exploratory Walks: Visitors staying in District 5 can enjoy exploring the neighborhood on foot, discovering hidden gems and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the local community.

Ho Chi Minh City experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the wet season (May to November). 

Dry Season (December–April): Temperatures range from 22°C to 29°C (72°F to 84°F), offering sunny weather with low rainfall and long days. This season peaks from December to February, which coincides with holiday festivities. Tet, or the Lunar New Year, is a vibrant celebration during this time, but it can be crowded, and prices often increase by 20-30%. It’s advisable to book 3-4 months in advance for better deals on accommodations and activities.

Wet Season (May–November): Temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). This period is characterized by high humidity and heavy rain, typically in the form of short afternoon showers, with potential typhoons occurring in September and October. While prices drop by 20-50%, making it a budget-friendly choice, visitors should be flexible with their plans due to the weather.

1. Motorbike Helmet Law
If you rent a motorbike or ride as a passenger, wearing a helmet is mandatory by law. Ensure you have a proper helmet to avoid fines and for your safety. Helmets must meet specific standards and be worn correctly. Violations can result in fines.

Vietnamese is the primary language.

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and transport hubs in District 1; less in markets or suburbs—use translation apps.

Grab: The most popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam, offering car and motorbike taxi services with fixed, upfront pricing. 

Be: A strong local competitor to Grab, with similar services for cars and motorbikes.

Xanh SM: A newer, eco-friendly ride-hailing app that uses 100% electric cars and motorbikes from the VinFast company.

BusMap: A reliable app for navigating Ho Chi Minh City's public bus network. It offers real-time bus tracking, route searching, and estimated arrival times.

TNGO: This app is for Ho Chi Minh City's public bike-sharing service (need a local e-wallet to make payments).

Google Maps: A reliable tool for general navigation, finding points of interest, and checking traffic conditions.

Cốc Cốc Map: A local Vietnamese map app that is often praised for having more up-to-date information on smaller, hidden, local businesses like coffee shops and street food stalls.

Zalo: A very popular local messaging app, similar to WhatsApp or Messenger. Many local businesses, tour operators, and individuals use it for communication, and it may be beneficial for more extended stays.

eSIM: Airalo, Holafly, Viettel; tourist packages (7-30 days). Activate online or at airport kiosks; strong 4G/5G coverage in the city.

Physical SIM: You can find physical SIM cards from Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone at SGN (Tan Son Nhat Airport). To purchase a tourist package, a passport is required.

Pocket Wi-Fi: You can rent it at the airport or online. It offers reliable service in the city but tends to have weaker connectivity in the suburbs.

Free Wi-Fi is available at hotels, cafes, and malls, such as Starbucks. Public Wi-Fi in Ho Chi Minh City requires registration and is often slow; it is best for light tasks.

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND, ₫).

While the city is embracing digital payments, cash is still widely used, especially for small transactions and at local businesses.

Cash: Cash is essential for street food vendors, local markets, public transportation, small shops, and many independent taxis. The large denominations can be confusing, so it's important to be careful when counting and handling money. Some vendors may choose to simplify prices by mentioning just the first few digits (for example, saying "fifty" instead of 50,000 VND).

ATMs and exchange: ATMs are widely available in Ho Chi Minh City and accept most international cards, such as Visa and Mastercard. Local ATMs generally have low withdrawal limits, typically ranging from 2 to 5 million VND per transaction. However, international banks like Citibank or HSBC may offer higher limits. Please note that most ATMs charge a transaction fee, and your home bank may also impose foreign transaction fees.

You can exchange money at reputable gold and jewelry shops in District 1, banks (though rates are less favorable and processing times longer), or at the airport or hotel (which is convenient but generally offers unfavorable exchange rates).

Cards: For larger purchases, especially in modern establishments, using a credit or debit card is both convenient and secure. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards in Vietnam. Some international hotels and upscale stores may also accept American Express and JCB. However, be aware that some businesses, particularly smaller shops or tourist agencies, may add a surcharge of 3–4% for card payments.

Digital payments: Services like Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more widely accepted in Ho Chi Minh City. If you have linked an international card to these services, you can use them at merchants with a contactless payment terminal. The Grab app, a must-have for transportation in Ho Chi Minh City, allows you to pay for rides, food delivery, and other services by linking an international credit or debit card. This provides a cashless way to handle a significant portion of your spending.