Discover the 31 Best of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Top Attractions and Nightlife

Located in the South of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam. It was earlier known as “Saigon”. Ho Chi Minh City is popular because of its colonial past and despite that the vigour of moving forward to become one of the economic capitals of the country. Traditional, colonial and modern architecture and hospitality make this place a unique tourist spot. It seems that the future has arrived in this city but even history has not gone by. The city has surprises on every corner.

You can still reminisce about the war era and the horrors of the war in this city. It is full of different museums. Ho Chi Minh City is listed in the top five best cities in the world for its delicious street food and amazing nightlife. Saigon is the most populated city and is the financial centre of Vietnam. It has many cultural and scientific activities, busy streets, city life, street food, nightlife and historical landmarks and is also the commercial hub of Vietnam.

31 Best Places to Explore in Ho Chi Minh City

It is the most beautiful city in Vietnam and has an amazing nightlife. To explore the city and enjoy it to its fullest you must visit at least 10 best attractions out of 31. It is crazy, chaotic and also serene and energetic at the same time. Ho Chi Minh City is also called “The City That Barely Sleeps”. Let us go to the amazing places to visit when you’re in this city.

1. Cu Chi Tunnels

These are the iconic tunnels which cover almost the entire country. The tunnels were mostly used during the Vietnam War. This place marks the courage and smartness of the Vietnamese people to combat the wars. Exploring these tunnels is one of the best things to do in all over Vietnam.

Cu Chi Tunnels Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 7 a.m to 5 p.m every day.
• Entry fee : Ben Duoc – 110000 VND (₹383.35/$4.62) and Ben Dinh – 90000 VND (₹313.65/$3.78)

2. Saigon Central Post Office

This post office is a fine example of Vietnamese- French architecture. It was built in 1886-1891 when Vietnam was a part of the French Colony. It is now a very popular tourist attraction in this town in Vietnam.

Saigon Central Post Office Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 7 a.m to 7 p.m (Monday to Friday), 7 a.m to 6 p.m (Saturday), 8 a.m to 6 p.m (Sunday).
• Entry fee: Free.

3. Jade Emperor/Ngoc Hoang Pagoda

It is also called “Tortoise Pagoda“. It is dedicated to the Taoists. Barack Obama visited this Pagoda in the year of 2016.

Jade Emperor/Ngoc Hoang pagoda Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 7 a.m to 5:30 p.m every day.
• Entry fee: Free.

4. Thien Hau Temple

This is a Chinese temple dedicated to Sea Goddess, Mazu. It is officially known as the Tue Thanh Guildhall Temple. The temple was built in 1769 by the local Cantonese community.

Thien Hau Temple Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 6 a.m to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m to 4:30 p.m. every day.
• Entry fee: Free.

5. Independence Palace

It is also known as Reunification Convention Hall. This is the site where the Vietnam War ended. Inside the Palace, there is the Conference Hall, Minister’s Cabinet room, Meeting rooms, Dining Area, Library etc.

Independence Palace Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 8 a.m to 3:30 p.m every day.
• Entry fee: For adults – 40000 VND (₹139.08/$1.68), Students – 20000 VND (₹69.54/$0.84), Children – 10000 VND (₹34.77/$0.42)

6. Ben Thanh Market

This is an indoor market which is the most popular among tourists. The market starts from day to night. The day market transitions into a night market which can be enjoyed by tourists of all ages. Various things are available to shop here. From ceramics, cutlery, souvenirs, traditional Vietnamese clothes, western clothes, bags, shoes, coffee, dry fruits, local dishes, textiles, jewellery, garments, cosmetics etc.

Ben Thanh Market Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: Day market – 6 a.m to 6 p.m, Night Market – 6 p.m to 10 p.m every day.
• Entry fee: Free.

7. Saigon Zoo And Botanical Garden

Saigon Zoo is the largest zoo and Botanical Garden in Vietnam. It was opened to the public in 1869 and is one of the oldest zoos in the world. The zoo complex also houses the Museum of Vietnamese History.

Saigon Zoo And Botanical Garden Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 5 a.m to 6:30 p.m every day.
• Entry fee : Adults – 50000 VND (₹173.81/$2.10), Children – 30000 VND (₹104.27/$1.26)

8. Mariamman Temple

Built by Palaniappa Thevar in the 19th century, this temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman. Other Gods worshipped in the vicinity are Ganesha, Muruga, Lakshmi, Nataraja, Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Kali, Biramasakthi, Samundi, Thirumagal, Mageswari, Meenatchi, Valambigai, Andal, Kamatchiamman, Karumari-Amman, Sivagami and Parvati carrying her son Muruga on her lap.

Mariamman Temple Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: No specific time.
• Entry fee: Free.

9. Ao Dai Museum

Ao Dai is the traditional dress of Vietnam. This is a private museum opened in 2014 showcasing 150 Ao Dai’s from past to present. The evolution of Ao Dai through the ages can be seen here along with the cultural influences from various ages. You can even get to try an Ao Dai on and get your pictures clicked.

Ao Dai Museum Timings and Entry Fee:

• Timings: 8:30 a.m to 5:30 p.m every day.
• Entry fee: 100000 VND (₹347.68/$4.21)

10. South Vietnamese Women’s Museum

As the name suggests it is dedicated to the women of Vietnam. This museum is made to pay tribute to the brave women who contributed during the Vietnam War. The daily lives of these women along with their religious beliefs, a traditional costume with its evolution and other crafts and artefacts from their lives are on display.

South Vietnamese Women’s Museum Timings and Entree Fee:

• Timings: 7:30 a.m to 11:30 p.m and 1:30 p.m to 5 p.m every day.
• Entry fee: Free.

A few more places you might want to visit in Ho Chi Minh City are:

FAQ’S on Ho Chi Minh City  =》

Q1. Should I call it Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon?

Ans. Many locals and tourists often call it Saigon as Ho Chi Minh City is a very big name. Yes, you can call it by both names. Also, Ho Chi Minh City can be abbreviated as HCMC.

Q2. What is the name and code of Ho Chi Minh City Airport?

Ans. This City does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is the Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) which is 7.4 km away from Ho Chi Minh City.

Q3. Where to stay in Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City?

Ans. District 1 is the best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City. There are a lot of Hotels, hostels etc. based on your budget and convenience. Generally, hostels cost around ₹300 to ₹400.

Q4. What is the best time to visit?

Ans. November to March is considered to be the best time to travel to Ho Chi Minh City.

Q5. How many days are enough to explore Ho Chi Minh City?

Ans. It is generally advised to stay for 2-4 days in the City and explore the local as well as the nearby areas.

Q6. Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City at night.

Ans. The best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City at night are to hang around Turtle Lake and look at the fountain. You can go cafe hopping and shop around the famous marketplaces. You can also visit the Phu My Hung (starlight bridge) which creates an illusion of colourful water being poured down the bridge. There are some spots where lights fall and you can walk on along them. There are various clubs and pubs to enjoy the nightlife. Or you can just take a walk along the streets.

Q7. How to reach Ho Chi Minh City?

Ans. You can go by air, road and water. Regular flights are available from India to Vietnam. You also take a cruise from Singapore to Vietnam.

Q8. What to wear in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ans. As the weather is generally hot and humid all year round, you should carry loose-fitted clothing. Shorts, t-shirts, dresses etc can be worn. You should also carry some clothes for rain and even if it gets cold.

Conclusion:

Saigon is one of the best tourist attractions in Vietnam and the reason is these top locations that we just discussed. These amazing destinations in the city make it stand out. Especially the last 4 places are the least explored in the town but are the most important ones. After Cu Chi Tunnels, I would recommend visiting them when in Saigon.

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