Welcome to a guide to the best activities to do in the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City. I hope that, like me, you will love exploring the city’s historical landmarks, diverse food options and vibrant streets. So, without saying too much, let’s get started:
- Eat at the Café Apartments
- Visit the War Remnants Museum
- Explore the Ben Thanh Market
- Visit the Reunification Palace
- Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Walk in Union Square
- Explore Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Eat at the Café Apartments
Located in the city’s heart, the Café Apartments are a unique blend of commercial spaces. Each floor has a variety of cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. This place is trendy among tourists and locals for a reason: the vibrant and charming atmosphere makes it a must-stop in the city.
I had the best poke bowl of my life at Poke Saigon for not even 10$ CAD. I went there 3 times in a row, and I would go back in a heartbeat. If you love poke bowls as much as I do, you need to check out this restaurant.
Visit the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a poignant and sobering way to learn more about Vietnam’s past. Locally known as the American War, the museum offers an insight into the conflict’s impact on Vietnam and its aftermath. Photographs, artifacts, and military equipment are displayed during the visit.
Honestly, this isn’t a fun and joyful museum. The photographs of the lasting effects of Agent Orange and other chemical weapons used during the war are difficult to look at. However, I consider this museum one of the most important activities to do in the city. It will help you understand this hard period in Vietnamese history.
The entrance fee is 40,000 VND (2.20$ CAD).
Explore the Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture while shopping, bargaining and eating street food. Located in District 1, this bustling market is filled with clothing, textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, souvenirs, and electronics. It’s also a great place to try some local food like phô, banh mi, fresh fruits, etc.
Bargaining is common, so be prepared to haggle for the best prices. Locals as well as tourists always try to find the best deals. The trick is to ask a couple of shops for their price and find the best one. They know you will negotiate, so they will tell you a ridiculous price for everything. The best way to react is to laugh (with them, not of them) and tell them a way smaller price. You will together find a price in the middle of it all.
Visit the Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace is an iconic symbol of the country’s history. It gained international fame when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates on April 30, 1975, marking the end of the war and the reunification of Vietnam. It’s possible to visit its grand halls, reception rooms, presidential offices, and underground bunkers. The rooftop terrace also provides panoramic views of the city.
This popular tourist attraction costs 65,000 VND (3.50$ CAD) for adults and 15,000 VDN (0.80$ CAD) for children.
Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a historic temple. The entrance is free. One of the highlights of this activity is its interior with intricate woodwork and statues from Taoist mythology. Outside the temple, there is a courtyard filled with bonsai trees, stone statues, and small ponds. The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a popular attraction, because of its religious and cultural heritage.
Walk in Union Square
Union Square is a public square located in District 1. Hotels, restaurants, and shops surround it. It’s a great and popular stop to see in Ho-Chi-Minh-City. It’s a great place for gathering with friends and enjoying the city’s atmosphere, especially at night.
Explore Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens
The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest in the world. The zoo has over 1,000 animals including elephants, tigers, giraffes, etc. The Saigon Zoo also features botanical gardens with various plant species, including rare and exotic tropical plants.
What I think of this activity: Honestly, as much as the gardens were nice because they offered some peace in the busy city, I didn’t appreciate seeing the animals in such poor states. Their spaces looked dirty and not very well maintained. As someone who always tries to discourage abusive animal activities, I cannot recommend this zoo.
