9 Top Attractions to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City for the first time and unsure where to start?
With hundreds of attractions spread across Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city, choosing the right places can feel overwhelming.

This guide from Vietnamvisavisavoa.com highlights the must-see locations in Ho Chi Minh City, helping first-time visitors make the most of their time in this vibrant southern destination.

War Remnants Museum

Address: 28 Vo Van Tan | Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: 7:30AM–6PM

Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (about $1.60 USD)

The War Remnants Museum is one of the most powerful and thought-provoking attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, offering visitors a deep insight into Vietnam’s modern history. Unlike traditional museums, this site focuses on the human impact of war, making it a meaningful stop for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

War Remnants Museum

What do you see at the War Remnants Museum?

• Outdoor Military Exhibits – Tanks, helicopters, fighter jets, and heavy artillery are displayed in the open courtyard.

• Photographic Galleries – Award-winning photo collections documenting wartime realities and their aftermath.

• Agent Orange Exhibition – A dedicated section explaining the environmental and human consequences that persist today.

Ben Thanh Market

Address: Le Loi, Ben Thanh, District 1, HCMC

Opening hours: 6 PM –12 AM daily

Ben Thanh Market is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City and a must-visit destination for first-time travelers.

What can you buy & experience?

• Local Street Food – Enjoy Vietnamese classics like pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and sweet desserts.

• Souvenirs & Handicrafts – Traditional conical hats, lacquerware, coffee, spices, and textiles.

• Fashion & Accessories – Clothes, bags, and shoes.

Ben Thanh Market

Useful tips for visitors

• Bargaining to ⅓ of the original price is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate politely. In case you are not good at bargaining, skip this place for the supermarket and shopping malls.

• Visit in the morning for a more local vibe or in the evening for a lively, tourist-friendly atmosphere.

• Keep your belongings secure, as the market is crowded.

• Prepare cash in Vietnamese Dong to have the most convenient shopping.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options beyond Ben Thanh Market, check out our guide to inexpensive shopping places in Ho Chi Minh City for great local finds at better prices.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Address: TL15, Phu Hiep, HCM

Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entrance fee: 110,000 VND (about $4.20 USD)

Why visit the Cu Chi Tunnels?

• Unique Underground Experience – Explore a real tunnel system used by soldiers, unlike anything else in Vietnam.

• Historical Insight – Learn how people lived, worked, and survived underground for years.

• Easy Day Trip from the City – Located about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, ideal for a half-day tour.

What do you experience at Cu Chi Tunnel?

• Tunnel Exploration – Crawl through preserved sections of the underground tunnels (optional and shortened for visitors).

• Hidden Trap Demonstrations – See how cleverly designed traps were used for defense.

• Daily Life Exhibits – Underground kitchens, meeting rooms, and living spaces recreated to show wartime life.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Good to know before you go

• Not recommended for claustrophobic visitors, as some tunnel sections are narrow.

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, suitable for crawling and walking on uneven ground.

• Join a guided tour to better understand the history and context behind the site.

Reunification Palace

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street | District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Entrance fee: 40.000 VND/ per adult and 10.000 VND/ per child

Reunification Palace is one of the most historically significant landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, symbolizing the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of the country.

Reunification Palace

What do you see at the Reunification Palace?

• Presidential Rooms – Meeting halls, offices, and reception rooms used by former leaders.

• War Command Bunker – An underground area with original maps, communication tools, and war strategy rooms.

• Iconic Rooftop & Tanks – The rooftop helipad and historic tanks are displayed in the courtyard.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Address: 01 Cong xa Paris | Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is one of the most recognizable architectural landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its elegant French colonial design and peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the bustling city.

What to see & experience at Notre Dame Cathedral?

• Red Brick Façade – Naturally weather-resistant bricks that have never been repainted.

• Twin Bell Towers – Rising nearly 60 meters, offering a majestic skyline view from outside.

• Cathedral Square – A popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

Visitor tips

• Interior access may be limited due to restoration or religious services.

• Dress modestly if attending mass or entering the cathedral.

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and better photos.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Address:73 Mai Thi Luu Street | District 1, HCM

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most atmospheric and spiritually significant temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Filled with incense smoke, intricate carvings, and centuries-old statues, the pagoda offers a deeply immersive glimpse into Taoist beliefs and local religious life.

Why Jade Emperor Pagoda a worthy place?

• Spiritual Landmark – Dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Taoism.

• Rich Cultural Experience – A place where Taoism, Buddhism, and folk beliefs blend naturally.

• Authentic Local Atmosphere – Frequently visited by locals for prayers and offerings.

What do you see inside the Jade Emperor Pagoda?

• Elaborate Statues & Altars – Deities, guardians, and mythological figures in detailed wood carvings.

• Incense-Filled Courtyards – A mystical ambiance that feels worlds away from the busy city outside.

• Fertility & Family Shrines – Areas where visitors pray for children, health, and happiness.
  

Visitor tips

• Dress respectfully, as this is an active place of worship.

• Photography is allowed, but be discreet and respectful.

• Visit in the morning for a calmer, more spiritual experience.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien Walking Street is the most famous nightlife hub in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its nonstop energy, buzzing bars, and international crowd. Often called the “backpacker street of Saigon,” this area offers a bold contrast to the city’s historical attractions.

What can you experience at Bui Vien Walking Street?

• Bars & Clubs – Rooftop bars, beer streets, and dance clubs are packed every night.

• Street Performances – Fire shows, DJs, and pop-up entertainment along the street.

• Late-Night Food Stalls – From Vietnamese snacks to Western comfort food.

Notices before you go

• Best visited after 8 PM, when the street becomes fully pedestrian-only.

• Expect crowds and loud music, especially on weekends.

• Keep personal belongings secure in busy areas.

Bui Vien Walking Street

Nguyen Hue walking street

Address: In the middle of District 1

Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is the most vibrant pedestrian boulevard in Ho Chi Minh City, where modern city life, entertainment, and local culture come together. Especially lively in the evenings, this open public space is a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors.

Nguyen Hue walking street

What can you experience at Nguyen Hue walking street?

• Street Performances – Live music, dance crews, and spontaneous entertainment most nights.

• Café Apartments – A unique building filled with small cafés and boutiques overlooking the street.

• City Landmarks Nearby – Close to Saigon Opera House, Bitexco Tower, and the Saigon River.

Best time & tips

• Visit after sunset when the street comes alive with lights and energy.

• Weekends are the liveliest, but also the most crowded.

• Great for people-watching and photography, especially at night.

Sai Gon Central Post Office

Address: 125 Hai Ba Trung, District 1

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily

Saigon Central Post Office is a stunning French colonial landmark that continues to operate as a working post office today. Built in the late 19th century, it has become a lasting symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s historical and architectural heritage.

Designed by Gustave Eiffel - the architect behind the Eiffel Tower - the building showcases classic French colonial architecture in Vietnam, with elegant arches, high ceilings, and beautifully preserved decorative details.

What to do inside the Sai Gon Central Post Office?

• Admire the Interior Design – Vaulted ceilings, ornate details, and historic wall maps of Saigon and Vietnam.

• Send Postcards Home – Mail letters directly from one of the city’s most iconic buildings.

• Photo Opportunities – Take photos inside the hall or with the statue of Ho Chi Minh.

Visitor tips

• Free entrance, though some services may require a small fee.

• Visit during the day for the best lighting and photos.

• Souvenir stalls are available, but prices may be higher than those in nearby shops.

Sai Gon Central Post Office

To explore these top attractions, knowing how to get around Ho Chi Minh City will help you save time and move easily between destinations, especially if it’s your first visit.

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