Things to Know Before Exploring Ho Chi Minh City

• 05/06
• Robert
• 02 Bình Luận

Introduction to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is the most populous city and the business and financial hub of Vietnam. Located in the Southeast region of Vietnam, it is 1,760 km south of the capital, Hanoi. The city lies along the Saigon River, which serves as a major port.

The city has had various names throughout its history, reflecting the settlement of different ethnic, cultural, and political groups. Initially, it was a trading port of the Khmer Empire known as Prey Nokor. In the 17th century, the Vietnamese took over and renamed it Gia Định, which was later changed to Saigon following the French conquest in the 1860s.

After the fall of Saigon in 1975, it was renamed Ho Chi Minh City to honor the spiritual leader of Vietnamese communism. However, the former name Saigon is still used when referring to the city center (District 1 and nearby areas). The official name, Ho Chi Minh City, refers to the entire city, including both urban and rural districts.

Today, Saigon is a popular tourist destination with many diverse attractions. With 11 museums, Ho Chi Minh City has the highest number of museums in Vietnam. The largest and oldest museum is the Vietnam History Museum, housing 30,000 artifacts. The War Remnants Museum attracts many foreign visitors, while the Ho Chi Minh Museum is the most visited by domestic tourists.

Ho Chi Minh City is also a religious city, with over 1,000 temples and shrines built over various periods. Churches, mainly built in the 19th century in Roman and Gothic styles, include the largest and most famous, Notre-Dame Cathedral in District 1. The colonial era left the city with many significant architectural works, such as the People’s Committee Building, the Opera House, the Central Post Office, and Nha Rong Wharf...

Independence Palace and the General Science Library were built during the Republic of Vietnam era. The city features modern architectural landmarks such as high-rise buildings, hotels, and shopping centers like Diamond Plaza and Saigon Trade Center. Beyond the city center, important tourist destinations include the Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangrove Forest, and Thu Duc Stork Garden.

Ho Chi Minh City is also a shopping and entertainment paradise, home to rooftop bars, music lounges, nightclubs, and theaters. It boasts numerous amusement parks like Dam Sen Park, Suoi Tien, and Thao Cam Vien. Shopping centers such as Ben Thanh Market and Diamond Plaza, along with restaurants offering a mix of Vietnamese, French, and Chinese cuisine, are also highlights of the city’s tourism.

Climate of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical monsoon climate near the equator, characterized by hot conditions with an average humidity of 78-82%. It is influenced by monsoons, tropical latitudes, and proximity to the East Sea. The year is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November, with about 150 rainy days, and the dry season from December to April, which is the ideal time to visit. The temperature varies minimally throughout the year, with an average of 28°C. Daylight typically lasts from 12 to 13 hours with intense sunshine year-round. The hottest period is in April, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, while the coldest recorded day was in January at 13.8°C.

Sightseeing and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Walking or Scooter Tours 

These tours take you around the center of Saigon to explore its history, traditions, and culture. Stroll through timeless alleys, glittering temples, bustling markets, culinary restaurants, and architectural wonders. Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral, built entirely from materials imported from France, and visit the Central Post Office, constructed in the 19th century...

Scooter Tour in Hồ Chí Minh city

2. Cyclo Tour to Explore Chinatown

Visit Chinatown for an up-close look at an enchanting area seemingly frozen in time since the earliest Chinese immigrants arrived. On a three-wheeled cyclo, glide through lantern-lit alleys and charming streets around Cholon. Pass by colorful shops and elegant temples. Learn about the traditions of this vibrant community. A memorable experience and a great photo opportunity.

Cyclo Tour to Explore Chinatown

3. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels by Car or Jeep

Discover the underground tunnel network used by soldiers during the Vietnam War and learn how an extensive underground world was created. Watch a documentary about its use and have the opportunity to fire an AK-47 assault rifle.

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels by Car or Jeep

4. Mekong Delta Tour 

Sail past stilt houses and quaint riverside villages while savoring sweet coconut candies. Enjoy traditional folk music performances and a delicious lunch featuring Vietnamese specialties, along with many other exciting activities...

5. Saigon River Cruise View

Vietnam’s largest city from an exciting cruise. Enjoy your meal with Vietnamese dishes while being surrounded by beautiful greenery.

6. Cooking Class with Market Tour

Gain more knowledge about Vietnamese cuisine and the secrets of authentic Vietnamese cooking. Visit a market to learn about local ingredients and sample some street food. Learn to cook Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs.

Cooking Class

7. Explore the Floating Market

Weave through boats filled with rural vegetables and fruits. Talk to the merchants, buy things at very cheap prices, and enjoy food right on the boat.

8. Visit the Can Gio Mangrove Forest

Say goodbye to the busy city for a few hours to visit the Can Gio Mangrove Forest and the Rung Sac Guerrilla Base. Take a boat through the lush biosphere reserve and enjoy the serene countryside scenery.

Cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City

The best dishes in Ho Chi Minh City are often mentioned as nutritious, savory, and hearty. Besides high-end restaurants, the city also has many street food stalls and food trucks. Anyone who has been here and tasted the delicious flavors of the food will never forget it. You can enjoy it at any time of the day, and Saigon’s delicious dishes will satisfy your genuine cravings.

Here is a list of must-eat dishes in Saigon:

1. Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese dish that is almost everywhere in Ho Chi Minh City. The filling includes meat, pate, pickled vegetables, cilantro, chili, and spicy chili, with many types of meat fillings to choose from. You can opt for roasted pork belly, turmeric-fried fish with dill, sausage, chicken, fried eggs, etc.

Banh my

2. Pho - Hu Tieu - Bun

Pho is a flavorful soup with beef or chicken and bean sprouts. Accompaniments include lime, basil, mint, cilantro, onions, and chili sauce. Hu Tieu is a version of Pho, with a clear pork broth, flat noodles, and pork on top. If you’re not a fan of pork, you can enjoy Hu Tieu with shrimp, squid, or fish.

Pho

3. Banh Xeo

The outer shell of Banh Xeo is made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric. It is stuffed with shrimp, sliced pork, onions, bean sprouts, and button mushrooms. Saigon’s Banh Xeo is enjoyed with mint leaves, basil, and herbs, then wrapped in mustard leaves, betel leaves, or rice paper. The rolls are dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce.

Banh Xeo

4. Snails

Choose from various live snails, blood cockles, clams, scallops, shrimp, and crabs. Enjoy them cooked in different ways: grilled, pan-fried, curried, or steamed. Bestsellers include grilled mussels with scallion oil, tamarind sauce blood cockles, and lemongrass steamed clams. Snails are best enjoyed with rice wine or cold beer.

Snails

5. Broken Rice (Com Tam)

A plate of broken rice includes broken rice, fried eggs, diced scallions, and various meats such as grilled pork skin, shredded pork skin, steamed pork, and egg meatloaf. Accompaniments include pickled vegetables, shredded cucumber, and Vietnamese dipping sauce.

Broken Rice (Com Tam)

6. Fresh Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon)

Fresh spring rolls are made with rice paper wrapped around vermicelli, pork, shrimp, basil, and lettuce. The rolls are then dipped in a mixture of ground chili and hoisin sauce, topped with crushed peanuts.

7. Steamed Rice Rolls (Banh Cuon)

Steamed rice rolls are made from fermented rice flour filled with a mixture of minced pork, chopped wood ear mushrooms, and onions. They are best enjoyed with Vietnamese ham (cha lua), steamed beans, cucumber, shrimp floss, cilantro, and herbs. Each bite-sized piece is dipped in a sweet and sour sauce made from fish sauce, lime, and chili.

8. Grilled Pork Noodles (Bun Thit Nuong)

Grilled pork noodles are one of the hearty dishes in Ho Chi Minh City. It consists of rice noodles with tender grilled pork shoulder. Accompaniments include basil, shredded lettuce, peanuts, shredded cucumber, bean sprouts, pickled scallions, and carrots. You can also get a bowl of dipping sauce to mix into the noodles for a flavorful experience.

Grilled Pork Noodles (Bun Thit Nuong)

Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City

List of 10 good hotels to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

1. The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel

The Myst Dong Khoi is located right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, just a few steps from the Saigon River. The Myst offers a tranquil retreat, a welcoming oasis with modern amenities. The rooftop pool and treatments at KL Spa will help you relax after a long day exploring the city center. The boutique fitness center is ideal for those who want to stay active.

The Myst Đồng Khởi hotel

Price: From 1,695,632 VND

2. Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. The hotel has 170 beautifully designed rooms and suites with many recreational amenities. Enjoy your stay with an infinity pool next to the rooftop bar or an all-inclusive lounge with a private meeting room. 

Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Price: From 1,253,000 VND

3. Park Hyatt Saigon

Park Hyatt Saigon is a 5-star hotel located centrally at Lam Son Square in the heart of the city. The hotel is operated by the Hyatt International Group, ensuring international standard services. 

Price: From 6,300,000 VND

4. Lotte Legend Saigon Hotel

Lotte Legend Saigon Hotel is a 5-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City. With a vibrant Saigon River frontage, it is just a 5-minute walk to the famous Opera House. Lotte offers a wonderful resort setting, combining natural beauty with absolute luxury. Its architectural interior provides sophisticated travelers with a sense of luxury and tranquility. 

Price: From 1,924,710 VND

5. C Central Hotel

Located in the city center, C Central Hotel is just minutes away from the city’s attractions. The hotel offers 54 rooms in 2 buildings; each room is equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, a safe, and a minibar. The private bathroom comes with standard toiletries, a shower, or a bathtub. 

C Central Hotel

Price: From 735,041 VND

6. Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers

Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers offers guests 5-star accommodations and award-winning amenities. This luxurious hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Opera House, Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, and Reunification Palace. 

Price: From 3,300,000 VND

7. Rex Hotel

Rex is a luxurious 5-star heritage hotel located at the best spot in the center of Saigon. It offers 286 guest rooms, a meeting room, four indoor restaurants, a café, and a bar; all come with premium amenities.

Price: From 1,852,000 VND

8. Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel

Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint is a unique hotel with a fresh urban design. It includes 171 modern rooms and suites that combine convenience and comfort to provide maximum satisfaction. Liberty is also special for being the only hotel in Ho Chi Minh City with an indoor cinema.

Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint hotel

Price: From 1,253,000 VND

9. Nikko Saigon Hotel

Nikko Saigon Hotel offers spacious accommodations and excellent cuisine for business and leisure travelers. Representing the refined hospitality of Japan, Nikko provides maximum comfort and outstanding service from a dedicated team.

Price: From 2,118,000 VND

10. Little Saigon Boutique Hotel

Little Saigon Boutique Hotel is located right in the vibrant center of Saigon with 18 rooms designed in a RETRO style. Modern facilities and amenities provide guests with a relaxing and sophisticated environment.

Price: From 495,000 VND

Famous Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Banana Mama Rooftop & Kitchen

A wonderful European-style bar to relax and enjoy great food.

Opening hours: 17:00 - 02:00 from Tuesday to Friday, until 03:00 on Saturday, closed on Monday

Address: ABC, 102, Cống Quỳnh, Phạm Ngũ Lão Ward, District 1

2. Shamballa Vegetarian Restaurant & Tea House

Shamballa offers a healthy Vietnamese menu suitable for all ages. From popular dishes like Pho or avocado egg rolls to Mani lotus soup, fried rice… their impressive flavors will satisfy any diner.

Shamballa Vegetarian Restaurant & Tea House

Opening hours: 10:00 - 22:00

Address: 17-19 Trịnh Văn Cấn, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

3. Poke Saigon Lý Tự Trọng

A Japanese-American restaurant with fresh, Western-standard food, beautiful ambiance, and great background music…

Opening hours: 10:00 - 21:00

Address: 1st Floor, 42 Bis Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, District 1

4. Lush Burger

An American-style restaurant & bar with delicious food, friendly staff, and a stunning view of Ben Thanh Market.

Opening hours: 08:00 - 23:30

Address: 194 Le Thanh Ton, District 1

5. Li Bai Restaurant

When in Ho Chi Minh City, don’t forget to enjoy the rich Chinese menu or the Cantonese dim sum buffet at Li Bai Restaurant. It’s a great place to reunite with family, friends, and business partners.

Opening hours: 11:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 22:00 from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 22:00 on Sunday.

Address: Sheraton Saigon Hotel, 88 Dong Khoi, District 1

6. Bun Bo Nam Bo - Ba Ba

Một nhà hàng Việt Nam ấm cúng và giá cả phải chăng với những món ăn ngon và nhiều món chay.

Giờ mở cửa: 09:30 - 20:30

Địa chỉ: 76 Nguyễn Thái Bình, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1

7. Baba's Kitchen

A cozy and affordable Vietnamese restaurant with delicious food and many vegetarian options.

Opening hours: 09:30 - 20:30

Address: 76 Nguyen Thai Binh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1

8. Bollywood Indian Restaurant & Bar

Halal, gluten-free, North and South Indian dishes—all available at Bollywood Indian. Come and enjoy traditional Indian cuisine in an impressive setting right in the heart of Saigon.

Opening hours: 10:30 - 00:00

Address: 207 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1

9. Shanti Indian Cuisine

Shanti Indian Cuisine is grateful to serve authentic Indian dishes to visitors from around the world coming to Ho Chi Minh City.

Shanti Indian Cuisine

Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Address: 371C Pham Ngu Lao, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1

10. Ngon Villa Sài Gòn

Ngon Villa Saigon offers a creative all-you-can-eat style and a variety of à la carte dishes. Each dish is prepared with dedication, served fresh and naturally.

Opening hours: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Address: 193 Hai Ba Trung, District 3

Nightlife In Ho Chi Minh City

1. Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City

When night falls, it’s a perfect time to sip a cocktail and enjoy the stunning views of Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re looking for colonial charm, head to Saigon Saigon. For a modern vibe, Chill Skybar is the place for you. The collection of fantastic rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh City suits every mood.

Rooftop bars

2. Saigon Craft Beer

The drinking and craft beer scene in Ho Chi Minh City is legendary, especially on Pham Ngu Lao Street. Come to enjoy a night out in this hub for expats and locals alike. Drinking cheap beer on small plastic stools is a great way to spend a night like a local.

3. Live Music Bars

Ho Chi Minh City has a special collection of bars for live music fans, from smooth jazz to heavy rock. All offer great atmospheres and fantastic musicians, making for a wonderful night out.

4. Nightclubs

A night out in Saigon is a top nightlife spot for Saigon’s youth to show off. Each venue features a chic industrial style with dance floors and upstairs lounge areas. Music varies by night, from house to hip hop and a bit of mainstream party pop.

5. Dinner Cruises on the Saigon River

A relaxing cruise on the Saigon River is a special choice for a romantic night in Ho Chi Minh City. Along with dinner and enjoying the city’s night views, most cruises feature live jazz performances and traditional Vietnamese dancing for guests to enjoy.

6. Ben Thanh Night Market

Take a stroll around Ben Thanh Market at night to enjoy a variety of dishes from street vendors. Although it’s busiest during the day, Ben Thanh Market also plays a central role at night. Not only will you find street food vendors, but also many fashion and souvenir stalls. If you want to shop, bargaining is essential. The night market turns into a pedestrian street from 7:00 PM to midnight along Phan Boi Chau Street.

Ben Thanh Night Market