Saigon is Vietnam’s largest city and it has a lot to offer tourists. From historical landmarks to delicious food, there is something for everyone in Saigon. Here are 13 things you should do if you find yourself in this vibrant city.
1. Take a Cruise on the Saigon River
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photo: Pew Nguyen
The Saigon River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Many different cruise companies offer a variety of tour options, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests. Whether you want to take a leisurely ride or go on an exciting adventure, there is a cruise for you.
2. Explore Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War as hiding spots and supply routes. Today, they are open to tourists who want to experience what life was like for those who lived in the tunnels. You can even crawl through them if you’re feeling brave!
3. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
This beautiful church was built in 1880 and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saigon. The church is considered one of the best examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a break from all the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect place to go.
4. Party on Bui Vien Street
photo: Georgios Domouchtsidis
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Bui Vien Street is the heart of Saigon’s nightlife scene. If you’re looking for a place to party, this is it. There are a variety of bars and clubs to choose from, so you can find the perfect place to dance the night away.
5. Take a walk on Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a pedestrian-only street that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The street is lined with trees and it’s a great place to people-watch. You’ll also find some of the best shopping in the city here.
6. Take photos at Bach Dang Wharf Park
Bach Dang Wharf Park is one of many beautiful green open spaces in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). In addition to being an important historical landmark, Bach Dang Wharf Park is a nice place to escape the chaos of urban Vietnam. You can grab lunch at the restaurant, enjoy the sandy shores, learn about the history of the wharf, walk on the newly added promenade, and much more.
7. Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a Taoist temple that was built in 1909. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saigon, and it’s easy to see why. The pagoda is incredibly ornate and it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens.
8. Try street food
Saigon is famous for its street food, and you’ll find some of the best in the city. From pho to banh mi, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to try a little bit of everything so you can experience the true flavor of Saigon.
9. Visit the Central Post Office
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The Central Post Office is one of the most iconic buildings in Saigon. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel, and it’s a great example of French Colonial architecture. The post office is still in use today, so you can send a postcard to your friends and family back home.
10. Explore Chinatown
Saigon’s Chinatown is a great place to explore. You’ll find a variety of Chinese temples, shops, and restaurants. Make sure to try some of the traditional Chinese food, and don’t forget to bargain with the shopkeepers!
11. Visit Saigon Opera House
The Saigon Opera House is a beautiful example of French Colonial architecture. It was built in 1900 and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The opera house is still in use today, so you might be able to catch a performance if you’re lucky.
12. Check out the view from Saigon Skydeck
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The Saigon Skydeck is the perfect place to get a bird’s eye view of the city. It’s located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, and it’s the highest observation deck in Southeast Asia. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the place for you.
13. Take a day trip to Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a boat ride through the murky waters, visit a floating market, and see how the locals live. Just make sure to avoid tourist traps and you’ll have a great time.
These are just some of the things you can do if you find yourself in Saigon. There is truly something for everyone in this vibrant city. So whether you’re interested in history or prefer to take it easy, be sure to add these 13 activities to your Saigon itinerary.
Embark on a captivating journey through the War Remnants Museum and witness the profound history and lasting impact of the Vietnam War. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can negotiate for unique souvenirs, taste fresh produce, and truly experience the rich culture of Saigon. Trust me, these experiences will leave an unforgettable mark on your heart and create memories that will endure for a lifetime.
I was captivated by the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) described in this article, and the suggested attractions and activities truly showcase the city’s rich history, culture, and delicious cuisine.
article. I mean, who wouldn’t want to spend their vacation exploring museums and eating street food? Sounds like a real thrill.
I’ve always been fascinated by the rich history and culture of Ho Chi Minh City, and this article has given me so many great ideas for places to visit and things to do during my next trip there!
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City is a must-do for any traveler looking for a unique and exciting experience in Vietnam, with its rich history, delicious street food, and beautiful attractions like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.
I apologize for not having visited Ho Chi Minh City yet, but your article has definitely convinced me to include it in my travel bucket list, and hearing about your experience with the delicious street food has made me eager to try it for myself.
I’ve always wanted to visit Ho Chi Minh City and this list of things to do has me even more excited to go! From exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels to trying the local street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I can’t wait to immerse myself in the vibrant culture and history of Saigon.
a unique experience, a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a must-see, with its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Eighthly, foodies can explore the city’s diverse cuisine, from pho to banh mi to fresh seafood. Ninthly, the city’s parks and green spaces, such as Tao Dan Park and the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tenthly, a visit to the Bitexco Financial Tower offers stunning views of the city skyline. Eleventhly, history buffs can explore the Reunification Palace, which played a significant role in the country’s history. Twelfthly, a trip to the Saigon Opera House offers a glimpse into the city’s cultural scene. Lastly, a visit to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum provides insight into the city’s past and present.
Oh great, just what I need, another list of things to do in a city that I’ll probably never visit. Thanks for the suggestions, I’ll be sure to add them to my imaginary travel itinerary.
@BiN22 Well, if you ever find yourself in Ho Chi Minh City, at least you’ll have a list of things to do. And who knows, maybe you’ll end up having the time of your life exploring the city’s diverse cuisine, peaceful parks, and stunning skyline views.
@BiN22 It’s always nice to read about the different attractions and activities a city has to offer, even if we may not have the chance to visit them all.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed learning about the captivating attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s always delightful to discover new places, even if we can’t visit them all. Let me know if you have any other favorite destinations! How about sharing some feedback on my enchanting suggestions?
@BiN22 Don’t let the thought of not being able to visit a city hold you back from exploring all the amazing things it has to offer. Keep an open mind and who knows, maybe one day you’ll find yourself experiencing the beauty and culture of Ho Chi Minh City firsthand.
hustle and bustle of the city, there are also plenty of green spaces to explore, such as the Tao Dan Park and the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. With so much to see and do, Ho Chi Minh City is definitely worth a visit. Have you been to Ho Chi Minh City before? What were your favorite things to do?
@caphezilla I heard that the traffic in Ho Chi Minh City is so crazy that it’s like playing a real-life game of Frogger!
I’m already drooling thinking about all the delicious street food I’m going to try in Saigon, but I’ll make sure to check out these other awesome recommendations too!
@MusicLoverVN Exploring the vibrant culture and history of Ho Chi Minh City sounds like an exciting adventure that I cannot wait to experience.
You’re going to dig it! The city is alive with history and culture. Make sure to visit the War Remnants Museum and take a stroll through the lively Ben Thanh Market. Did you know that Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon?
@MusicLoverVN I’m so excited to explore Saigon and try all the yummy street food, but these other suggestions sound pretty cool too! I can’t wait to see what else this vibrant city has to offer.
vibrant and exciting city full of history, culture, and delicious food, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam.
@FrostyPineapple85 Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, and there’s no shortage of things to explore and experience here.
scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.
8. Take a relaxing stroll through the Tao Dan Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.
9. Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower, the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City, for stunning views of the cityscape.
10. Explore the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, which showcases the city’s rich history and culture.
11. Take a river cruise along the Saigon River and enjoy views of the city from the water.
12. Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a beautiful and ornate temple dedicated to the Taoist god of the same name.
13. Enjoy some delicious street food, from banh mi sandwiches to pho noodle soup, at one of the city’s many food stalls. Ho Chi Minh City truly has something for everyone, and I highly recommend visiting this vibrant and exciting destination.
@StriveCupcake77 I heard that trying to cross the streets in Ho Chi Minh City is an adventure in itself, but I guess I’ll have to try it out after I finish stuffing my face with all the delicious street food!
@StriveCupcake77 Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect blend of history and modernity. From exploring the city’s rich history and culture at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum to taking in the stunning views of the cityscape at the Bitexco Financial Tower, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant destination.