Ho Chi Minh City travel guide

Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Ranked by how often travelers include them in TravBuddy itineraries and 97,247+ traveler ratings.

1. 1.Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

   4.4
   Landmark28,272 reviews~20011:30 AM

   Visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, a beautiful architectural marvel with a rich history. While not a shopping spot, it's a significant landmark nearby.

   Tip: The cathedral is an active place of worship; dress respectfully.

2. 2.Statue of Ho Chi Minh

   4.6
   Landmark5,065 reviews~20011:30 AM

   Visit the Statue of Ho Chi Minh, a prominent landmark in front of the People's Committee Building. It's a significant historical site and offers a great photo opportunity in the city center.

   Tip: This is a great spot for photos and observing local life.

3. 3.Vincom Center

   4.4
   Shopping Mall12,437 reviews~10010:30 AM

   Stroll down Dong Khoi Street, a historic and upscale shopping area known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops housed in beautiful colonial buildings. Discover unique fashion and gifts.

   Tip: Look out for traditional Vietnamese silk products and custom-tailored clothing.

4. 4.Fine Arts Museum (ai_suggested)

   4.4
   Museum940 reviews~210:30 AM

   Visit the Fine Arts Museum, housed in a magnificent colonial-era building that was once a wealthy merchant's mansion. The museum showcases Vietnamese art from ancient times to contemporary pieces, offering cultural context.

   Tip: Pay attention to the building's architecture itself, as it's a beautiful example of French colonial design. Give yourselves about 2 hours.

5. 5.Saigon Opera House

   4.6
   Landmark17,205 reviews~20012:00 PM

   Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of the Saigon Opera House. While not always open for tours, its exterior is a beautiful photo opportunity.

   Tip: Even if you don't attend a show, take time to appreciate the architectural details from the outside. Great photo opportunity.

6. 6.Saigon Square

   4.0
   Market8,985 reviews~5011:30 AM

   Visit Saigon Square for some last-minute souvenir shopping. This indoor market is popular for affordable clothing, accessories, and knock-off brands. It's an excellent spot for gifts.

   Tip: Bargaining is essential here, and be mindful of product quality.

7. 7.Saigon Central Post Office

   4.4
   Landmark5,333 reviews~20010:45 AM

   Step inside the historic Saigon Central Post Office, another stunning example of French colonial design. It's a functioning post office, but also a popular tourist attraction with beautiful architecture.

   Tip: Send a postcard home from here as a unique souvenir. Take time to admire the grand interior.

8. 8.An Dong Market

   4.1
   Market10,420 reviews~6010:00 AM

   Explore An Dong Market, a less touristy but equally vibrant market known for wholesale goods, especially textiles, clothing, and dried foods. It's a great place to find unique fabrics and tailor-made clothing.

   Tip: This market is excellent for purchasing fabric in bulk or getting custom clothing made.

9. 9.Souvenir Shopping (Last Minute)

   5.0
   Shopping6,056 reviews~2012:30 PM

   Do some last-minute souvenir shopping around the area near your hotel or at Saigon Centre. Look for local crafts, coffee, or silk products to take home.

   Tip: Focus on smaller, easily transportable items.

10. 10.Street Vendor Shopping in District 1

    4.1
    Street Market2,534 reviews~4002:00 PM

    Explore the myriad of street vendors and small shops scattered throughout District 1. This is where you can find unique and affordable fashion, accessories, and souvenirs, often with a more local flair.

    Tip: Be prepared to haggle and carry smaller denominations of Vietnamese Dong.

Where to eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Food spots that keep showing up in real trip plans.

1. 1.Hai’s Restaurant

   4.9
   Restaurant5,957 reviews~3012:30 PM

   Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Hai’s Restaurant. This highly-rated spot offers a range of traditional dishes in a welcoming setting.

   Tip: Try their fresh spring rolls and a traditional noodle soup for a true taste of Vietnam.

2. 2.Vị Sài Gòn Restaurant & Café

   4.9
   Cafe1,969 reviews~2512:30 PM

   Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Vị Sài Gòn Restaurant & Café. This highly-rated spot offers excellent local breakfast options and great coffee, perfect for fueling up.

   Tip: Try their traditional Vietnamese pho for a truly local experience.

3. 3.L'Usine Saigon Centre

   4.8
   Cafe1,826 reviews~3512:30 PM

   Start your day with a delightful breakfast or coffee at L'Usine Saigon Centre, a stylish café and concept store offering a curated selection of fashion, home goods, and souvenirs.

   Tip: Try their Vietnamese coffee or a fresh juice. It's a good spot for people-watching.

4. 4.Vo Roof

   4.6
   Cafe1,538 reviews~4012:00 PM

   Have a light afternoon snack or early dinner at Vo Roof, a popular spot with a rooftop setting offering pleasant views and delicious food.

   Tip: Try a traditional Banh Mi or Pho for your last authentic taste of the city.

5. 5.Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

   4.1
   Street Food7,145 reviews~509:00 AM

   Start your day with a legendary banh mi from Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, one of the most famous banh mi stalls in the city. Their generously filled sandwiches are a must-try for any food lover.

   Tip: Expect a queue, but it moves quickly. This is a takeaway spot, so find a nearby bench or cafe to enjoy your breakfast.

6. 6.Hum Vegetarian, Cafe & Restaurant

   4.6
   Restaurant4,970 reviews~3001:00 PM

   Enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch at Hum Vegetarian, Cafe & Restaurant. Known for its tranquil ambiance and beautifully presented vegetarian dishes, it offers a refreshing culinary experience.

   Tip: Even if you're not vegetarian, the creative and flavorful dishes are worth trying. Reservations are recommended during peak lunch hours.

Hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City

Highly rated, but not on every tourist checklist yet.

1. 1.Ho Chi Minh City Book Street

   4.6
   Book Street12,009 reviews~50009:30 AM

   Wander through the charming Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, an outdoor pedestrian area lined with bookstalls and cafes. It's a wonderful spot to find local literature, art books, and unique souvenirs.

   Tip: This is a great spot to find unique souvenirs and relax with a coffee.

2. 2.Street Photography Walk in District 1

   4.3
   Street25,832 reviews~1,00011:00 AM

   Visit Bui Vien Walking Street, which transforms into a vibrant hub of activity in the evenings, but during the day it's a good place to see the local life and find budget-friendly food options.

   Tip: While known for its nightlife, explore it during the day for a different, less chaotic atmosphere and grab some street snacks.

Ho Chi Minh City nightlife

1. 1.Chill Skybar & Dining

   4.4
   Bar5,684 reviews~5009:30 PM

   Enjoy evening drinks and dinner with a panoramic view of Ho Chi Minh City from Chill Skybar. This provides a modern perspective of the city that has grown from its historical roots.

   Tip: Make a reservation if you plan to dine. Enjoy the DJ sets.

2. 2.Lush Nightclub

   3.9
   Club825 reviews~3511:00 PM

   Continue your night at Lush Nightclub, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most popular and fashionable clubs. It offers a sophisticated setting with a mix of international and local DJs.

   Tip: Dress to impress. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are best for getting there and back late at night.

3. 3.Bar 22 Girl Bar Ho Chi Minh City

   4.9
   Bar416 reviews~2501:00 PM

   For a unique and lively daytime experience, check out Bar 22. It's a popular spot in the daytime and offers a different perspective on the city's bar scene.

   Tip: It's a popular spot for expats and tourists, offering a friendly atmosphere.

4. 4.Apocalypse Now

   4.4
   Bar266 reviews~3009:00 PM

   Dive into the legendary nightlife at Apocalypse Now. This long-standing club is famous for its energetic atmosphere, dance music, and late-night revelry.

   Tip: It gets very busy, so be prepared for a crowd and loud music.

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Stays travelers actually picked in their TravBuddy plans.

Destinations near Ho Chi Minh City