Explore Ben Thanh Market
Set in the very heart of District 1, Ben Thanh is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest markets. It started out as a local wet market, but Ben Thanh has been renovated and consistently updated. Here you’ll find all sorts of products from spices to sunglasses. Get there early to witness the market at its most authentic, also -- to get the best, and freshest dishes from its vendors.
Photo courtesy of daihocsi
Admire national treasures in the Fine Arts Museum
Located conveniently near the iconic Ben Thanh Market is the Fine Arts Museum. Its grand colonial exterior, ornate Vietnamese cement tiled floors and impressive stairways make it an architectural gem as well as a museum. Unique works fill the three floors ranging from the 7th to the 20th century, all works drawing from distinctly Vietnamese motifs and themes.
Photo courtesy of morrisfrance
Shop Apartment 42
Residing on the Nguyen Hue walking street is Apartment Block 42, this stacked residential building doesn’t house Ho Chi Minh City’s patrons anymore but instead shops. Trendy boutiques, artisan cafes, and stylish eateries fill the rooms now. Pick up local goods or feast on sushi bowls, either way, you can’t go wrong!
Photo courtesy of omarfarookafifi
Dine at Spice Viet Restaurant
Fresh, healthy and authentic are the adjectives which come to mind when eating at Spice Viet. Their farm-to-table concept ensures that the dishes served are of the highest quality -- with most of the ingredients bought within 30km of the restaurant. The stylish Vietnamese interior mirrors the contemporary city in which it’s built.
Pictured: Caramelized pork, served with steamed veggies and "burnt rice"
Visit the Saigon Central Post Office
Built in the late 1800s this grand structure still serves as a working post office in the city. Admire the colonial architecture and intricately painted maps on the ceiling. These illustrate telegraph lines which were used at its construction. While you are there make sure to send a postcard back home.
TIP: After admiring the Central Post Office, take a stroll across the road to witness the impressive Notre-Dame Cathedral! Currently, it’s under construction but some parts are still visible.
Photo courtesy of americanandthebrit
Admire Nhà thờ Tân Định
Nhà thờ Tân Định, also known as The Pink Church is a bright attraction in District 3. Built with a gothic style, and was first opened in 1876. It used to be an orphanage run by French missionaries but now is used as a church in the traditional sense. Make sure to check it out on your next visit.
Photo courtesy of valentina1veleng
Tour the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum offers a deeper look into the conflicts and wars which have taken place in Vietnam. Here wartime relics, planes, and large photo galleries are held. Visiting this museum is a must for anyone looking to learn more about the wars and their effects on Vietnam.
Photo courtesy of __erikane
Stay at ÊMM Hotel
The centrally located ÊMM Hotel is the perfect spot to base your city exploration. From it’s bright, clean rooms to the fresh contemporary vibe, everything about this hotel matches the pace of this modern city. Boasting excellent customer service and a tasty onsite restaurant ÊMM Hotel is packed with quality at an affordable price.
Spotted: Superior room at ÊMM Hotel Saigon
Day trip to the Mekong Delta
Located a convenient two hours from the city, touring the Mekong offers an alternative experience for travellers seeking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Quietly float through the mangrove forests, tour traditional brick-making factories and sample sweet local coconut desserts.
Photo courtesy of les_yeux_du_voyage
Grab brunch or cafe hop
Ho Chi Minh City is absolutely packed with fun brunch spots and creative coffee shops. Check out the Vintage Emporium or the Bunker Bed and Breakfast for a flavourful morning spread. If you’re in need of a coffee head to trendy favourites like The Workshop or Old Compass Cafe for an atmospheric and quality brew.
Photo courtesy of megan.418
Check out City Hall + The Opera House
Located in the heart of District 1, are these two landmarks: the City Hall and Opera House. They both are impressive architectural sights and integral pieces to the city. Both make great photo opts too -- don’t forget your camera!
Photo courtesy of 10-travelraysg
Grab a drink at Saigon Social Club
End your day with a sundowner at Saigon Social Club. This speakeasy-esque bar boasts incredible views of the city below and serves up classic and artisan cocktails (It’s a perfect stop just before dinner at Spice Viet!).
Photo courtesy of socialclubsaigon
Stay up late on Bui Vien Walking Street
Set in a popular ‘backpacker’ area of the city, Bui Vien Street is commonly compared to Bangkok’s Khao San Road. It’s a lively atmosphere and cheap street food options make it appealing to budget travellers. All along the road are various bars and late-night food spots.
Photo courtesy of Hoang Tan
Wander Cho Lon
Cho Lon is a neighbourhood which spreads through most of District 5, and some of 6 and 11. Commonly known by residents in Ho Chi Minh City, as Chinatown because of its historically large Chinese population. Cho Lon is home to vibrant markets, colourful temples. Make sure to check out the Thien Hau Pagoda and Chaozhou Assembly Hall.
Photo courtesy of synergymediaspecialists
Adventure through the Cu Chi Tunnels
These narrow and complex tunnel systems around Ho Chi Minh City were used by the Viet Cong during the American-Vietnam war. Witness what life was like for the soldiers who lived in the tunnels and even try to squeeze down the small passageways yourself!
Photo courtesy of fcho04
With a seemingly endless amount of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City it will be easy to fill our time! When you are ready to move on to your next destination, Ho Chi Minh City’s airport is full of direct flights to all of Vietnam. Witness the charming Hoi An to the north or venture further south to the quiet beaches of Con Dao. Regardless, you are in for a treat!