Welcome to the ultimate guide to discovering the best of Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city, Ho Chi Minh City. From its rich historical landmarks to its thriving food scene and bustling streets, this vibrant metropolis offers something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top things to do in this captivating destination!
- Eat at the Café Apartments
- Discover the War Remnants Museum
- Wander Through Ben Thanh Market
- Explore the Reunification Palace
- Admire the Jade Emperor Pagoda
- Stroll Through Union Square
- Uncover Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
1
Eat at the Café Apartments
Located in the heart of the city, the Café Apartments are a unique mix of cafés, restaurants, and boutiques stacked vertically in a repurposed apartment building. Each floor offers a different experience, making it a fun place to explore. The vibrant atmosphere, local flavor, and variety of spaces have made it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.
I had the best poke bowl of my life at Poke Saigon for less than 10$ CAD. I loved it so much that I went back three times in a row! If you’re a fan of poke bowls, this is a restaurant you shouldn’t miss.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a relaxed coffee or early evening for dinner.
Opening Hours: Varies by café and restaurant, but most are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Price Range: 100,000 – 300,000 VND (5 – 15$ CAD) per meal.
Tip: Don’t forget to explore the different floors! You can also take the elevator for a small fee, but it’s worth walking to experience each level.
2
Discover the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum provides a deeply moving look into Vietnam’s past, focusing on the Vietnam War (referred to locally as the American War). The museum showcases photographs, artifacts, and military equipment from the war, including sobering images of the effects of Agent Orange and other chemical weapons. While it’s not an easy visit, it’s essential for anyone seeking to understand the impact of the war on Vietnam’s history.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM daily.
Price: 40,000 VND (2.20$ CAD).
Note: Prepare for an emotional experience—some exhibits are graphic.
Time to Visit: At least 2 hours to fully explore the museum.
3
Wander Through Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is a bustling marketplace located in District 1, where you can find everything from clothing and textiles to handicrafts, jewelry, electronics, and street food. This is a great spot to dive into the local culture, try traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho or banh mi, and practice your bargaining skills.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a quieter experience, or in the late afternoon when it’s busiest.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily. The night market (outside) opens from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Tip: When bargaining, start at about half the asking price and work your way to a fair middle ground. Be polite, laugh, and enjoy the process—vendors expect it!
4
Explore the Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, is an iconic symbol of Vietnam’s history. It was the site where the Vietnam War officially ended on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates. Visitors can tour the grand halls, reception rooms, presidential offices, and underground bunkers. The rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of the city.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to avoid the afternoon heat.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM daily.
Price: 65,000 VND (3.50$ CAD) for adults and 15,000 VND (1$ CAD) for children.
Tips: Don’t miss the underground bunker where strategic war decisions were made. A guided tour (available at an additional cost) can provide a deeper understanding of the building’s history.
5
Admire the Jade Emperor Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most significant and historic temples in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s known for its intricate woodwork, Taoist mythology statues, and peaceful courtyard, which is filled with bonsai trees, stone statues, and small ponds. It’s a beautiful and serene place to escape the hustle of the city.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily.
Price: Free entry.
Note: Be respectful of worshippers, and remember to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees).
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6
Stroll Through Union Square
Union Square, located in District 1, is a public square surrounded by luxury hotels, high-end shops, and restaurants. It’s an excellent spot to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the city’s atmosphere. At night, Union Square lights up and becomes a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists.
Opening Hours: Accessible at all hours, though the shops and restaurants operate on their own schedules.
Tips: Take a walk through Union Square at night to experience its full charm, and visit nearby landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh City Hall.
7
Uncover Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens is one of the oldest zoos in the world, established in 1864. It houses over 1,000 animals, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes. The zoo is also home to beautiful botanical gardens featuring rare and exotic tropical plants.
However, while the gardens provide a peaceful retreat, I personally found the condition of the animals concerning. The enclosures were not well maintained, and I wouldn’t recommend this activity for those who care about animal welfare.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily.
Price: 50,000 VND (2.75$ CAD) for adults, 30,000 VND (1.60$ CAD) for children.
Note: If you decide to visit, focus more on the botanical gardens. Alternatively, consider visiting a different green space, such as Tao Dan Park, if you want a peaceful retreat without the zoo.
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