Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide
Rather than being haunted by events of the past when known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City has fused its past with the present providing an exhilarating experience for both its inhabitants and those visiting the city. It’s a city where the scent of incense draws visitors to ancient temples, where the French have stamped (post office pun) their mark and where devoted shoppers have an abundance of retail boutiques, stalls, markets and trendy malls to pay their respects.
Ho Chi Minh City is a city of contrasts. You can dine in the most elegant of restaurants or scavenge for scrumptious street stall bites. Visitors can splash out on high fashion or invest in traditional Vietnamese attire. It’s a place where sole traders in the street stalls are as relevant as the businesses sitting high in Ho Chi Minh City’s towering skyscrapers.
Ho Chi Minh city is also the gateway to South Vietnam, with the Mekong River Delta and the Black Virgin Mountain wonderful additions to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.
Top booked hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
Rex Hotel
Rex Hotel Saigon is conveniently located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. The hotel offers a high standard of service and amenities to suit the individual needs of all travelers. Guestrooms are designed to provide an optimal level of comfort. For reliable service and professional staff, Rex Hotel Saigon caters to your needs.
Park Hyatt Saigon
Park Hyatt Saigon Hotel is located in the Ho Chi Minh City centre within 30 minutes of the airport. This French colonial-style hotel is in the vicinity of popular city attractions, including the Opera House and Municipal Theatre. Park Hyatt Saigon Hotel offers impeccable service and all the essential amenities to provide a comfortable stay for all travellers.
The Myst Dong Khoi
With classic contemporary interiors, The Myst Dong Khoi offers sophisticated accommodation and a central location in Ho Chi Minh City, steps from Saigon River and 15 minutes by foot from Saigon Square.
Lotte Legend Hotel Saigon
The Lotte Hotel Saigon has easy access to major tourist spots and business addresses for guests to explore the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh, laced with history and political intrigue. Featuring 5-star facilities, Lotte Hotel Saigon offers elegant rooms overlooking the scenic Saigon River. The 283 rooms blend good taste with comfort.
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What travellers say about Ho Chi Minh City
“Walking along boulevards dotted with cafes and passing by the Notre Dame Saigon Cathedral, it’s impossible not to see the French influence on Ho Chi Minh City.”
“While there’s so much to see and do across Vietnam, you’ll find the perfect blend of food, culture, history, shopping and fun in Ho Chi Minh City.”
With our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide below, you'll unearth Ho Chi Minh City's treasures and learn where to stay, what to do and what to eat in Ho Chi Minh City.
Reasons to go to Ho Chi Minh City
Historic Museums
One of most compelling reasons to visit Ho Chi Minh City is to learn about the devastating effect of decades of war but also to admire the spirit of the Vietnamese people; to appreciate what they endured and what these struggles meant at the time and how they have shaped Vietnam’s present and future. In Ho Chi Minh City the War Remnants Museum, the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Independence Palace offer incredible insights and experiences you will not forget.
French Colonial Architecture
As the former capital of the French Cochin-China, the architecture of Ho Chi Minh City is heavily inspired by the French with grandiose villas throughout the city, the stunning Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Ho Chi Minh City Post Office showcasing gothic and renaissance inspired architecture.
Food, glorious food
Treat your taste buds and your purse with some incredible street food in Ho Chi Minh City or if our palate and purse stretch to it, visit some of the fine dining restaurants in the city for a culinary adventure.
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Best cheap hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
Senses Central Hotel
Conveniently located in the city center, in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Senses Hotel (Cat Legend Hotel) provides rooms with free WiFi and a 3-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market and 6 minutes by foot from Pham Ngu Lao Backpacker Area. This hotel is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Saigon Square and 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Bui Vien Walking Street.
Eden Garden Hotel
A stay at Eden Garden Hotel places you in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, walking distance from September 23 Park and Zen Plaza. This family-friendly hotel is within close proximity of Ben Thanh Market, Reunification Palace, Military Museum. The hotel also offers a spa and features a daily buffet breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
The Nest Saigon Sparrow
Located in District 7, the Nest Saigon Sparrow is a perfect starting point from which to explore Ho Chi Minh City. The property offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. A welcoming atmosphere and excellent service are what you can expect during your stay at The Nest Saigon Sparrow.
Adora Hotel
Adora Hotel is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City, where guests can visit Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon Opera House and War Remnants Museum, Independent Palace, Ben Thanh Market. It is a 30-minute drive from Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Boasting a brilliant location, this hotel is suitable for all types of guests – whether its families, friends, or even business travelers.
Hotel recommendations in Ho Chi Minh City
Rex Hotel
Rex Hotel Saigon is conveniently located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. The hotel offers a high standard of service and amenities to suit the individual needs of all travelers. Guestrooms are designed to provide an optimal level of comfort. For reliable service and professional staff, Rex Hotel Saigon caters to your needs.
Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81
Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81 offers the ultimate luxury city retreat with 223 rooms and suites spectacularly located within an 81 storey glass skyscraper towering over this vibrant metropolis. It features luxury-branded interiors and is set within the “green miniature city” of Vinhomes Central Park.
Somerset Ho Chi Minh City
Set in a prime location of Ho Chi Minh City, Somerset Ho Chi Minh City Serviced Residence puts everything the city has to offer just outside your doorstep. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities and perks to ensure you have a great time. No matter what your reasons are for visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Somerset Ho Chi Minh City Serviced Residence will make you feel instantly at home.
Hotel Nikko Saigon
Hotel Nikko Saigon offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and Vietnamese charm, providing guests with a luxurious retreat in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. From stylish accommodations to impeccable service, guests can enjoy an immersive experience, complete with exquisite dining options and a range of amenities designed to exceed expectations.
FAQs about hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
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What people say about hotels in Ho Chi Minh City
“Excellent business hotel. Good for sightseeing and located near shopping areas.”
Rated 4.3/5 for Rex Hotel based on reviews from all travelers.
“Excellent wellness hotel. Close to Saigon River. Great location. Awesome vibe.”
Rated 4.4/5 for The Myst Dong Khoi, based on reviews from all travelers.
“Excellent romantic hotel. Good for sightseeing and located near shopping areas. Fantastic service. Great pool. Awesome vibe.”
Rated 4.7/5 for Park Hyatt Saigon, based on reviews from all travelers.
Top 5 things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum
With over half a million visitors each year, Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museum is one of the most popular museums in Vietnam and a must visit. It is both harrowing and insightful, providing a localised perspective on the Vietnam War and all of its horrors. The War Remnants Museum charts the impact of the war and the displays of images, testimonies and even the often barbaric weaponry used in this conflict will leave an indelible mark on our soul.
Cu Chi Tunnels
Continuing on the warpath, what lies in wait at the end of the one hour car journey from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City to the site of the Cu Chi Tunnels is an experience that is not for those that are claustrophobic, although some efforts have been made to accommodate larger visitors. The Cu Chi Tunnels are an immense network of underground tunnels and rooms used by Viet Cong to hide, store supplies and munitions and use as communication centres.
Reunification Palace
Also known as Independence Palace, this is the former palace of the President of South Vietnam. Captured by the North Vietnam army in 1975 with the iconic imagery of a tank crashing through the wrought iron gates itself captured by the world’s media, it now provides a glimpse back in time. Preserved as it was in the 1970’s, it is a fascinating and remarkable tour, not least for the communication centre and the private presidential nightclub. It is still used as a Government building, so make sure to check if access is available before visiting.
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon/Saigon Post Office
At opposite sides of the street lie two structures that illustrate beautifully the French influence on Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the late 19th century, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a replica of the Parisien Notre Dame and a bastion of Catholicism in a largely Buddhist nation. It is the backdrop for many wedding pictures with a beautiful exterior and interior that will transport you fleetingly to Europe.
Across the street is the fully functioning Saigon Post Office. Designed in the late 19th century, it encompasses Gothic and Renaissance design with stunning tiles and two beautiful maps of the region.
Bitexco Financial Tower
While we doubt that you will travel to Ho Chi Minh for financial advice, we do recommend taking a lift to the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower skydeck for stunning panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City. Entry costs 200,000 VND (about $9 USD) or you can take the lift to the bar on the 52nd floor and get the same views served with food and drinks.
Trip Inspiration
DAY TRIPS
24 hours in Ho Chi Minh City
If you have to restrict your visit to Ho Chi Minh for one day, you will want to read our quick guide to 24 hours in Ho Chi Minh City.
48 hours in Ho Chi Minh City
With an extra day in Ho Chi Minh City you will be able to immerse yourself in the city’s and the country’s history and culture.
MULTI-DAY TOURS
Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi
Travelling north to Hanoi is arguably one of the world’s great train journeys. Taking approximately 31 hours, you can opt for an overnight carriage or make stops along the way.
Ho Chi Minh City - Phnompenh
Take the train or the one hour flight to Cambodia’s capital city and walk along the riverside, visit the ornate Royal Palace and National Museum.
Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap
Cross the border into Cambodia to get to Siem Reap, the gateway to the iconic ruins of Angkor, once the seat of the Khmer kingdom.
Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc
If you are in need of some rest and relaxation, travel to the palm tree lined beaches of the idyllic island of Phu Quoc. Enjoy its mountains, tropical rainforests and pristine beaches.
Ho Chi Minh City - Nha Trang - Dalat
Combine the sophistication and excitement of Nha Trang with the serenity and charm of Dalat. Dive in the waters of Nha Trang and submerge yourself in the beauty of Dalat.
Everything you need to know about Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is located in the tropical south of Vietnam and the best time to travel to Ho Chi Minh City is between late December (to minimise the risk of typhoons) and March with temperatures in the low to mid twenties and with low precipitation.
Ho Chi Minh City airport (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) has a total capacity of 15-17 million passengers each year and is located four miles north of Ho Chi Minh City with a handy shuttle bus departing every thirty minutes. The largest carriers of passengers are aboard while many other international airlines all bring visitors from around the world to Ho Chi Minh City. When visiting, make sure to apply for the Vietnam Visa. Full details can be found on our Vietnam Visa page.
If traveling to Ho Chi Minh City from Hanoi and not wanting to fly, the alternatives are the bus and the train. While it takes over thirty hours longer than the plane, the bus is only $10 less expensive and you will spend much of this time sitting in extremely congested traffic or bouncing along poorly maintained roads.
Possibly the best way to travel around Vietnam is by train. Although not much faster than the bus, the Reunification Express from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi is air conditioned and follows a much more scenic route. You can also save on the cost of a hotel room by taking the overnight train and booking a soft berth on one of the four berth cabins for $90. Open tickets can be bought for both the bus and the train and these allow you to make multiple stops.
Within Ho Chi Minh City the main methods of transportation are motorbike, taxi or cyclo. Agree the cost before you set off and do not be afraid to haggle. However, possibly do be afraid to ride pillion on one of the Xe om motorbike taxis. Translated it means hug vehicle and it involves you literally hugging the driver as you weave along your route. A cyclo ride for two is a more sedate (but slower) way to commute and will cost you about $5 per hour. Taxis are cheap at around $2 for a five kilometre journey.
While the luxurious Vincom shopping mall provides the ultimate retail experience with 250 stores catering to your every need, one of the most famous shopping experiences in Ho Chi Minh City is the Ben Thanh Market. As one of the oldest structures still standing in Ho Chi Minh City, it has a special place in the hearts of all who visit it. In Ben Thanh Market, there are over 6,000 vendors and you can find almost anything you want and items you only just realised that you needed. The Day market is open from 6am to 6pm when the Night Market takes over until 10pm. Spend a few hours perusing the stalls and haggling with stall holders and make sure to sample some of the simply divine street food dishes on sale.
Whether you are looking for activities to do during the day or night, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis offering a range of activities that blend Western and Asian cultures. Ho Chi Minh City’s main entertainment zone is in District 1 where you will find the majority of the city’s bars, restaurants, clubs and its fancier hotels. However, it is also where you will discover the backpacker area of Bui Vien where you should have at least one beer before hitting some of Ho Chi Minh City’s trendier spots and sky-bars.
Ho Chi Minh City has cinemas showing films in English with Vietnamese subtitles and you’ll also find ten pin bowling alleys in the malls in Districts 1, 2 and 7 while the Vincom Mega Mall Thao Dien in District 2 even has an ice rink.
Ho Chi Minh City is a city that pulsates with raw energy. District1’s rooftop bars, providing stunning views of the city, and its stylish nightclubs with photogenic patrons provide an outlet for party animals until 3 am, while its live music venues operate until around midnight.
For those with less expensive tastes, the journey of a few kilometres to Ho Chi Minh City’s Pham Ngu Lao is worth it for its tumultuous street bars and pubs, live music, and a generally more relaxed and casual atmosphere.
Start your day with Banh Mi Op La for breakfast. A simple dish of sunny side up fried eggs and bread and usually sides of ham, cucumber and tomatoes. It is a filling and tasty dish with the best incarnations often found in backstreet cafes.
For lunch, Banh Mi is a dish whose origin is attributed to Ho Chi Minh City and is a baguette filled with a range of meats, pates and salads. If this is too much bread for you, opt instead for a delicious bowl of Bun Bo Hue noodle soup.
Another popular noodle dish is Bun Moc. Made with soft rice vermicelli noodles and accompanied with meat this is a hearty broth ideal for cooler evenings.