14 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

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.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.

3. 3.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.

4. 4.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.

5. 5.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.

6. 6.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.

7. 7.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.

8. 8.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.

9. 9.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.

10. 10.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.

11. 11.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.

12. 12.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.

13. 13.Traditional Water Puppet Show

    4.4
    Performance2,176 reviews~1005:00 PM

    Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, an ancient art form that tells folk tales and historical legends. It's a captivating and unique cultural performance.

    Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as shows can sell out.

14. 14.Jade Emperor Pagoda

    4.7
    Temple1,867 reviews~20009:30 AM

    Explore the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a stunning Taoist pagoda built in 1909. It's an atmospheric temple filled with intricate carvings, statues of deities, and incense smoke, offering a glimpse into local spiritual practices and beliefs.

    Tip: Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and be mindful of worshippers.

Ranked from 14 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to Ho Chi Minh City and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.