Top 7 destinations to explore in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a place where old-world charm meets modern life. As Vietnam’s largest metropolis, it offers a wide range of attractions—from historical landmarks and iconic architecture to buzzing markets and local flavors. Navigating the city can be overwhelming without a plan, especially for first-time visitors.

This list of the top 7 destinations to explore in Ho Chi Minh City will help you focus on the most worthwhile spots during your stay. Each location offers something distinct, giving you a deeper appreciation for the city’s dynamic character.

Plan your trip with Hanoi Voyages and let us guide you through the highlights of this city.

What makes Ho Chi Minh City a must-visit place for your trip?

Ho Chi Minh City is a fast-paced, energetic metropolis that offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveler. This southern Vietnamese city combines modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture and bustling markets. It’s a place where you can explore historical landmarks, enjoy flavorful food, and observe the rhythm of everyday life.

In this guide, you’ll find the top tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. From local street food to war museums and ancient temples, the city delivers a full experience that’s both eye-opening and engaging.

Where is Ho Chi Minh City located?

Ho Chi Minh City is located in the southern part of Vietnam, near the Mekong Delta. It is the country’s largest city and serves as a key center for finance, trade, and transportation. It sits about 1,700 km south of Hanoi and is easily accessible by air, train, and bus from many major cities in Asia.

Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, rainfall is minimal and the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it easier to explore both indoor and outdoor attractions.

The wet season starts around May and lasts until November. Though the city remains active during these months, heavy rain can occasionally disrupt travel plans.

Top 7 tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City you can’t miss

When planning your itinerary, make sure to include these highlights. Each of these places offers something different and contributes to the city's character.

The Independence Palace

Also known as Reunification Palace, this building is a symbol of Vietnam’s past and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This is where the Vietnam War officially ended on April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese tanks broke through the palace gates. With its well-preserved architecture and war exhibits, this landmark provides deep insight into Vietnam’s history. If you're visiting Ho Chi Minh City, this is a great place you can’t miss.

⏰ Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

💸 Entrance fee: 65,000 VND ($2.54) for adults, 15,000 VND ($0.58) for children

📍 Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1

The Notre-Dame cathedral

Built between 1863 and 1880, this iconic structure is located in the heart of District 1. The red bricks were imported from Marseille, and the architecture reflects the French influence during colonial times. It is not just a religious site, but also one of the most famous places in Ho Chi Minh City.

Although the interior is currently under renovation, the exterior remains a popular stop for photography and sightseeing.

⏰ Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 12 PM, 1:30 AM - 5 PM every day

💸 Entrance fee: Free - except for parking tickets outside the cathedral.

📍 Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

💡 FUN FACT: The alabaster statue of the Virgin Mary perched in the centre of the square is said to have wept tears on a single occasion in 2005, witnessed by crowds there at the time.

Central Post Office

Right next to Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office is another architectural masterpiece. This building looks like a 19th-century European train station with its grand archways, antique telephone booths, and stunning ceiling. Visitors can admire the elegant French design and send a postcard from one of the most beautiful post offices in the world.

Inside, you’ll find a massive portrait of Ho Chi Minh, vintage maps of Saigon, and souvenir stalls selling unique gifts like old Vietnamese stamps and postcards. A visit to this post office is a must for those interested in history and architecture during their Ho Chi Minh City travel.

⏰ Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Sunday)

💸 Entrance fee: Free

📍 Address: 2 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most remarkable historical sites in Vietnam. Located about 60 km from Ho Chi Minh City, this extensive underground network was used as hiding spots, supply routes, and even living quarters during the war. Visitors can crawl through a section of the tunnels to experience how soldiers lived, see booby traps, watch documentaries and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics.

⏰ Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

💸 Entrance fee:

• 70,000 VND (~$3) for adults

• 35,000 VND (~$1.5) for children

• Free for children under 7, people with disabilities, war veterans, and low-income households.

📍 Address: Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City

👉 For more details: How to visit Cu Chi tunnels: A complete travel guide

Ben Thanh market

One of the oldest markets in the city, Ben Thanh offers everything from souvenirs and textiles to local dishes like banh xeo and fresh fruit juices. The market is especially lively in the morning and late afternoon, when both locals and tourists fill the stalls.

For many travelers, this is the best place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City to get a sense of local flavors, bargaining culture, and daily life.

⏰ Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

📍 Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1

The War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum houses powerful exhibitions on the Vietnam War, including photographs, artifacts, and military equipment. Many of the exhibits focus on the impact of war on civilians, making it a sobering but essential stop.

It’s a place that encourages reflection, and it helps visitors understand the context of modern Vietnam.

⏰ Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily

💸 Entrance fee:

• Adults: 40,000 VND/person ($2 USD)

• Free for children under 6 years old, disabled people, poor households

• 50% discount for children from 6 to under 16 years old, students, people with revolutionary contributions, people in mountainous areas, remote areas, etc.

📍 Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3

Thien Hau Pagoda

Located in District 5, Thien Hau Pagoda is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. It is one of the oldest temples in the city, known for its traditional design and quiet atmosphere.

Inside, you’ll find spiral incense coils hanging from the ceiling and walls adorned with ceramic figures. This temple is an important part of the local community and provides insight into religious practices in southern Vietnam.

⏰ Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM

📍 Address: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 11, District 5

Must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is not only the economic hub of Vietnam but also a destination for food lovers. Influenced by southern Vietnamese flavors and the diversity of migrant communities, its cuisine reflects both traditional recipes and local adaptations. Street vendors, casual eateries, and restaurants all contribute to a lively and flavorful food scene. Some dishes you must try:

• Com tam (broken rice): A typical Saigon meal served with grilled pork, egg, shredded pork skin, and pickled vegetables.

• Banh mi: A French-inspired baguette filled with various meats, pickles, chili, and herbs - available almost everywhere.

• Hu tieu: A noodle soup that’s lighter than pho, made with a pork-based broth and various toppings like shrimp, pork slices, and quail eggs.

• Goi cuon: Rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, served with peanut or hoisin sauce.

• Banh xeo: A crispy pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, eaten with herbs and dipped in fish sauce.

• Bot chien: Fried rice flour cakes with egg and pickled vegetables - popular among local students and night owls.

• Sweet soups: A wide range of Vietnamese desserts made with beans, fruits, and coconut milk, served cold or hot.

🍽️ If you want to try more Southern Vietnamese cuisine, read this: Southern Vietnamese Cuisine: Top 10 Delicious Dishes Must Try

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for your trip?

Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of accommodations, from stylish hotels in the city center to places that provide convenient access to major tourist attractions. Here are some well-rated options across different budgets.

Liberty Central Saigon

Liberty Central Saigon is a modern hotel located near Ben Thanh Market, ideal for travelers who want easy access to shopping and dining spots. Rooms are equipped with soundproof windows, a work desk, and comfortable bedding. The hotel also features a rooftop pool and a fitness center.

• Address: 175-177-179 Le Thanh Ton, District 1

• Price range: From ~$75 per night

Fusion Original Saigon Centre

Fusion Original Saigon Centre offers a sleek, contemporary stay inside a multi-purpose complex with shops and restaurants. Each room is uniquely styled with modern decor and comes with access to wellness facilities. The location is convenient for both sightseeing and business.

• Address: 65 Le Loi, District 1

• Price range: ~$160 per night

Park Hyatt Saigon

Park Hyatt Saigon is a luxury hotel overlooking the Saigon Opera House. Known for its classic French architecture and elegant interiors, this is a good option for those seeking a high-end experience. Facilities include a spa, outdoor pool, and fine dining.

• Address: 2 Lam Son Square, District 1

• Price range: ~$250 per night

Nhat Ha L’Opera

Nhat Ha L’Opera is a mid-range hotel with a clean and polished design, located close to major sights in District 1. Rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities and the rooftop bar provides good city views. The staff is helpful and responsive.

• Address: 12-14-16 Cao Ba Quat, District 1

• Price range: ~$95 per night

Means of transportation for your Ho Chi Minh City trip

As the leading economic, cultural, and political center of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City has many means of transportation to be chosen for your trip.

Local transportation options in Ho Chi Minh City

• Motorbike taxis (xe om) are fast and cheap. Use Grab or Gojek apps for convenience.

• Public buses are very affordable but may be difficult to navigate for new visitors.

• Taxis are widely available - stick with Vinasun or Mai Linh for reliable service.

• Cyclo rides are mainly for short tourist trips and photo opportunities.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City ?

Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the main gateway for international and domestic flights. It’s located about 6 km from the city center. Taxis and ride-hailing apps offer transport into town in 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

You can also reach Ho Chi Minh City by train or long-distance bus from cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Nha Trang.

How long to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

With just 2 days in Ho Chi Minh City, you can experience the perfect mix of history, culture, and local flavors. Follow this itinerary to maximize your time and immerse yourself in the energy of Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 1: Explore the city’s cultural heritage

• Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office.

• Discover the Independence Palace, a key landmark in modern Vietnamese history.

• Explore the War Remnants Museum to understand the country’s past.

• Visit Thien Hau Pagoda , an example of Chinese-Vietnamese architecture.

• End the day at Ben Thanh Market, sampling local dishes like bánh mì, phở, or bánh xèo.

Day 2: Take a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City

• Cao Dai Temple (Tay Ninh): About 100 km away, this temple is the center of Caodaism, a religion mixing several beliefs.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: In the afternoon, explore underground passages used during the war, with hidden entrances and wartime displays.

Estimated budget for your trip to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a budget-friendly destination where you can travel comfortably without spending too much. However, your daily expenses will depend on your travel style. It costs around $50 per person. This includes transport, meals at local restaurants, entry fees to major attractions and staying at a mid-range hotel. You can adjust the budget depending on your accommodation choice and dining preferences.

💡 How to save money for your trip?

• Choose local food stalls over restaurants

• Use Grab or public transport instead of taxis

• Visit free sites like parks, markets, and temples

• Book accommodations early, especially in peak season

Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its diverse attractions and rich experiences, it’s a place that truly reflects the spirit of Vietnam. From visiting famous landmarks to savoring delicious local dishes, this city offers a wide range of experiences for all kinds of travelers.

Ready to explore Ho Chi Minh City? Let Hanoi Voyages help you plan your unforgettable trip with personalized itineraries!