Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is arguably the economic and cultural heart of Vietnam.
We were in Ho Chi Minh City for only a few days, but managed to try out quite a few memorable activities!
In this guide, I have compiled what I feel are some of the best things to do while visiting this vibrant city!
Explore Ben Thanh Market
Visiting the local market is one of my top to-dos in every city. From Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market in Jeju to Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, there’s always something a little different that says a lot about local culture & lifestyle!
As one of the most famous landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the local culture.
You can shop for souvenirs, try local street food, or bargain for handicrafts, clothes, and more. I personally highly recommend sampling their coffees – though you may want to reconsider buying them back due to the price point!
Visit the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is currently one of the most popular museums in Vietnam, attracting approximately half a million visitors every year.
As the name suggests, it is a sobering and educational place that provides an in-depth look at the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective. The exhibits include military equipment, photographs, and personal stories that offer insight into the country’s history.
From what I understand, the museum is pretty controversial among international visitors. Some have simply praised Vietnam, while others have harshly criticised the museum for its “propaganda” and “glorification of [their] victory”.
Definitely worth visiting if you want to learn more and form your own opinion of the Vietnam War!
Read more about my experience at the War Remnants Museum here.
Learn about history in Reunification Palace
Formerly known as Independence Palace, Reunification Palace was the residence of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
The historical site is best known for being the place where the Vietnam War ended when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates in 1975.
It consists of 100 rooms and chambers decorated with the finest modern Vietnamese arts and crafts, which I thought was highly fascinating. But it’s good to have some understanding or background of Vietnamese history to best appreciate this attraction!
Read more about my experience at the Reunification Palace here.
Send a postcard at Saigon Central Post Office
Designed by famous civil engineer Gustave Eiffel (the man behind the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty), the Saigon Central Post Office is a great example of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Inevitably, that also attracts hordes of curious tourists.
The post office still functions today and is a great spot to send postcards, while also admiring its impressive design.
Caveat: some have found this spot rather boring, especially if you’re not into architecture or simply don’t get behind the idea of paying to send yourself postcards.
Learn how to cook Vietnamese cuisine
This was one of the most memorable parts of my Ho Chi Minh trip!
I’m sure there are quite a few cooking classes offered, but the most famous is the one headed by Saigon Cooking Studio. It’s also hosted at (and by) Hoa Túc, a famous contemporary Vietnamese cuisine restaurant!
Considering how enjoyable the class was and how delicious the food turned out, I was very glad that we signed up for this.
Read more about my experience at the Hoa Túc Cooking Class here.
Go café-hopping for the best coffee
Ho Chi Minh City is best-known for its vibrant coffee culture, along with its delicious cuisine.
You can sample traditional Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá) at one of the many quaint coffee shops around the city. If it’s too rich or oily for your taste, you can also consider hopping among the various cafés to find your usual espressos and drip coffee.
Admire Vietnamese art at the Museum of Fine Arts
The Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum is where great important works of Vietnam’s fine arts – including 9 National Treasures – are gathered and are honoured.
Other than your usual artworks, the museum also displays religious statues and effigies.
While the works are undoubtedly fascinating, do note that much of it is not air-conditioned and can get very stifling in hotter weather!
Dine at Anan Saigon
Anan Saigon was a recommendation by a friend. You know it’s truly special when I’ve decided it’s worthy of a mention in best things to do in Ho Chi Minh.
We were initially a bit worried about the price because it made Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, but it ended up being much more affordable than we thought.
The food is a creative and modern take on Vietnamese cuisine, and super flavourful! We really liked this a lot and honestly wished we could be back again for more.
Related Posts:
- Ho Chi Minh Food Guide – Cafés, Restaurants, Bars etc.
- Best things to do in Melbourne 2024 – Museums, theatre, & more!
- Top 8 things to do in Jeju during winter (tried & tested!)
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