Things to know about Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. Ho Chi Minh City is home to a diverse population, including Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, and Cham people. This diversity is reflected in the city’s cuisine, architecture, and religious beliefs.
Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is located in the tropical monsoon climate zone. The weather is generally hot and humid throughout the year, with two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season lasts from May to November. During this time, the city experiences frequent rain showers, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in October and November. The average temperature during the wet season is around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit).
The dry season lasts from December to April. During this time, the city experiences little rainfall and plenty of sunshine. The average temperature during the dry season is around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit).
Although Ho Chi Minh City is located in a tropical climate zone, the weather is not as harsh as in other parts of Southeast Asia. The city rarely experiences temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The humidity is also relatively low, making the weather feel more comfortable.
Overall, Ho Chi Minh City has a pleasant climate that is suitable for visiting year-round. However, if you are planning to visit during the wet season, it is a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat.
How to get to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam and is a major transportation hub. There are many ways to get to Ho Chi Minh City, including by plane, train, bus, and car.
By plane: The most common way to get to Ho Chi Minh City is by plane. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the largest airport in Vietnam and is located about 8 kilometers from the city center. Many domestic and international airlines fly to Tan Son Nhat Airport.
By train: Many trains travel to Ho Chi Minh City from other parts of Vietnam. The Reunification Express is the fastest train and takes about 30 hours to travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.
By bus: Many buses travel to Ho Chi Minh City from other parts of Vietnam. The bus journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 36 hours.
By car: Ho Chi Minh City is also accessible by car. The National Highway 1A is the main highway that connects Ho Chi Minh City to other parts of Vietnam.
What to do in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting city with a wide range of activities and experiences to offer visitors. From exploring the city’s history and culture to enjoying its delicious food and vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in Ho Chi Minh City.
Explore History and Culture
Independence Palace: Explore this iconic landmark now is a museum today showcasing exhibits on the war and the city’s history.
Cu Chi Tunnels: Delve into this network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
War Remnants Museum: Learn about the Vietnam War through exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and war machinery. (subject to change, verify)
Museum of Fine Arts: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Shopping and Entertainment
Day tour around HCM showcasing the city’s best including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and War Remnants Museum. Then, delve into the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network crucial in the Vietnam War. Explore the city, navigate the intricate tunnels, discover wartime tactics, and savor a delicious Vietnamese lunch before returning to the city for a comprehensive and unforgettable day. Book HERE
Enjoy The À Ố Show: A vibrant and contemporary circus performance that celebrates the unique culture of Vietnam. Combining traditional Vietnamese music and dance with modern acrobatics and theater, the show creates a captivating and unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. The show’s title, “À Ố,” is an onomatopoeia that evokes the sounds of everyday life in Vietnam. From the bustling markets and street vendors to the peaceful countryside, the show captures the essence of Vietnam through its music, movement, and visuals. It is a unique and exhilarating performance that showcases the best of Vietnamese culture. Book HERE
Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour: A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a convenient way to see the city’s highlights at your own pace. These buses stop at major tourist attractions, such as the Saigon Zoo, the War Remnants Museum, and the Ben Thanh Market. Book HERE
Exploring Landmark 81: Landmark 81, piercing the Ho Chi Minh City skyline, holds the title of the tallest building in Vietnam. Here, at nearly 400 meters above ground, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking panorama of Ho Chi Minh City. Every street, corner, and the winding Saigon River unfolds before your eyes, a captivating tapestry of urban life. Book HERE
Try a food tour around Ho Chi Minh: Perfect for foodies who want to experience the real taste of Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll get to try a variety of dishes, from savory street food to hearty noodle soups, and learn about the local food culture. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with the locals, making this a truly immersive experience. Book HERE
Take a river cruise: A river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and take in some of its most iconic landmarks, such as the Ben Nha Rong Wharf, the Saigon Port, and the Phu My Bridge. River cruises depart daily from multiple locations throughout the city. Book HERE
Cyclo tour around Sai Gon: start your adventure before lunch or dinner and pass by some of the city’s most famous landmarks: the grand facade of the Notre Dame Cathedral, the majestic architecture of the Reunification Palace, and more. Book HERE
Enjoy the nightlife: Ho Chi Minh City has a vibrant nightlife scene, with something to offer everyone. From rooftop bars to live music venues, there are plenty of places to enjoy a night out in the city. You can enjoy the nightlife at Bui Vien Street, or Nguyen Hue Street
Ben Thanh Market: Experience the local culture at this bustling market, a great place to find souvenirs, clothes, and delicious food.
Water Puppet Shows – Immerse yourself in a traditional Vietnamese art form (cultural experience)
Must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh
Notre Dame Cathedral: Admire the stunning French-style architecture of this iconic cathedral.
Central Post Office: Marvel at the beautiful colonial-era architecture of this functioning post office.
Bitexco Financial Tower: Ascend to the top of this tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City for breathtaking city views.
Landmark 81: Capture panoramic views of the city from the top of the tallest building in Vietnam.
Water Bus: Enjoy a scenic journey along the Saigon River and see the city skyline from a different perspective. (Consider timing for sunset views)
Nóc hầm Thủ Thiêm (Thu Thiem Tunnel Roof): Enjoy scenic river views and a trendy atmosphere at this rooftop spot.
Temples & Pagodas
Jade Emperor Pagoda (Ngoc Hoang Pagoda): This ornate Taoist temple is one of the most important religious sites in Ho Chi Minh City. It features statues of deities and intricate carvings.
Miếu Bà Thiên Hậu (Thien Hau Pagoda): Explore this historic and colorful temple dedicated to the Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess. It’s a significant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown.
Giac Lam Pagoda: The oldest pagoda in Saigon, offering a peaceful atmosphere and traditional Buddhist architecture.
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: Known for its spacious grounds, colorful decorations, and the tallest stone tower in Vietnam.
Xa Loi Pagoda: Boasts the second-highest bell tower in Vietnam and offers stunning city views.
Mariamman Hindu Temple – The only Hindu temple in Ho Chi Minh City, this place of worship is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman. It was built in the late 19th century by Indian immigrants and features a distinctive South Indian architectural style.
What to eat in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. From traditional Vietnamese dishes to international fare, there is something for everyone in Ho Chi Minh City.
Here are some of the must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City:
Com tam: A broken rice dish that is typically served with grilled pork, fried eggs, and pickled vegetables.
Address: 74 Nguyễn Văn Cừ Street, Nguyễn Cư Trinh Ward, District 1
Hu tieu: A noodle soup that is made with pork, chicken, or seafood.
Address: 74 Nguyễn Văn Cừ Street, Nguyễn Cư Trinh Ward, District 1
Phở, a steaming bowl of rice noodles in a deeply flavorful broth. Traditionally made with beef bones simmered for hours with aromatics like star anise and cloves, the rich broth boasts a complex and savory taste. Thin slices of beef, often added rare, melt in your mouth, and the rice noodles provide a delightful textural contrast.
Phở Phú Vương| Address: 339 Le Van Sy Street, Ward 1, Tan Binh District
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City has a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget guesthouses and homestays to luxury hotels and resorts. There is something to suit every budget and taste.
Here is my curated list: Hotel Nikko Saigon, Fusion Suites Saigon, Eastin Grand Hotel Saigon, LA PAIX SAIGON BOUTIQUE HOTEL
More affordable choices: M Village Cuu Long, Cozrum Lux Hotel, Amory Apartment