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Ho Chi Minh Metropolis (previously known as Saigon, but all residents still call it that) is Vietnam's largest (and most chaotic) city. Motorbikes, bicycles, vehicles, and rickshaws roam freely, while several street kiosks and marketplaces flow onto the traffic lanes. It's a metropolis where a million things are occurring at once.
It is also one of the most popular tourist locations in the country and has lately become a favorite destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living.
The city has a lot to offer, including unique stores, spectacular nightlife, delicious food, and several historic landmarks. There are also several intriguing (and propaganda-heavy) museums to visit, such as the War Remnants Museum and the famed Cu Chi Tunnels, which the Viet Cong utilized during the Vietnam War. It's my second favorite city in Vietnam (after Hoi An) and worth exploring for a few days
The driest months in Ho Chi Minh City are from December through March, making it one of the most popular periods to visit. Temperatures range from 21 to 34°C (70 to 93°F) over this period.
The warmest months of the year are April and May, with highs reaching 37°C (99°F). The humidity, on the other hand, might make it feel much hotter.
The rainy season is from end of May to September. If you love rains and would like to have leisurely holiday, these period time is the best.
Some first-time visitors to Vietnam may wonder if they should stay in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. These are the two largest cities in Vietnam, located at opposite extremities of the nation.
Though we favor Hanoi, we believe Saigon is the most fascinating city with the greatest street cuisine in the country. It's the more westernized and cosmopolitan of the two, with gleaming retail complexes, posh rooftop bars, and a vibrant nightlife.
Ho Chi Minh City may be too huge and fast-paced for us, but we always look forward to going because of all the delicious cuisine. Dining in this city never disappoints, from basic street food booths to fancy restaurants serving upgraded interpretations of Vietnamese cuisine.
So if you're a first-time visitor seeking for the finest things to do in Ho Chi Minh City and the tastiest food, you've come to the perfect spot.
Vietnamese people have practiced Confucianism and Buddhism carried over from nearby China for millennia. Christianity, introduced to Vietnam by Western missionaries in the 16th century, was added to these Eastern traditions. As a result of this diversity of beliefs, Saigon is home to beautiful Confucian and Buddhist temples, as well as Catholic churches (Ho Chi Minh City). Several of these houses of worship are magnificent works of architecture with a rich history. This self-guided walking tour brings you to some of Ho Chi Minh City's most prominent religious attractions.
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a massive red brick structure erected by the French between 1877 and 1883. The two towers in front of the cathedral soar about 58 meters (190 feet) above tourists and a neon-lit figure of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral is still used as a religious institution and a popular tourist destination, especially after earning international attention in 2005 for a rumored sighting of a teardrop falling from the Virgin Mary statue. (Note: The Notre Dame Cathedral is presently closed for restoration until 2023.
The Cao Dai religion (also known as Caodaism) is relatively new (less than 100 years old). It blends the teachings of numerous religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. This Cao Dai temple is the religion's primary temple, and it is immensely beautiful and colorful, with a massive globe behind the main altar exhibiting the religion's "god eye" emblem. Admission is free, however, there are a few guidelines to observe when visiting. You must enter by the side entrance rather than the main door, and you must leave your shoes outside. Men should enter through the right entrance and ladies through the left. Most guests combine a visit to the temple with a tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
This temple was established in 1909 to commemorate Emperor Jade, the highest Taoist divinity. It's one of Vietnam's most stunning pagodas. It's also known as the Tortoise Pagoda, as the pond on site is teeming with turtles. The structure is richly decorated with elaborate woodcarvings and sculptures of divinities and heroes, including Emperor Jade himself. The roof is additionally adorned with intricate tilework depicting characters from Buddhist and Taoist mythology.
The Ba Thien Hau Temple is a Buddhist temple in Chinatown that was erected in 1706 for the Chinese sea goddess, Mazu. She is said to float around on a cloud or a mat, saving people at sea. The temple's outside is unremarkable, but within are porcelain figurines and vivid dioramas. On March 23rd, the lunar calendar, expect parades and dancing to commemorate Lady Thien Hau's birthday (Mazu).
Ho Chi Minh City is a clamorous, disorderly visual feast that is still known as Saigon. Motorbikes roar across congested junctions in a tidal wave, locals huddle on street corners slurping scalding hot bowls of Pho (noodle soup), and the sultry air is dense with exhaust emissions and exotic seasonings.
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's commercial and largest metropolis, and it is a place where old and modern coexist in stark contrast. Temples cluster among towers and luxury stores; locals throw bamboo fishing poles into the lazy Saigon River; and the city feels almost European in parts, with its exquisite French imperial architecture and broad, tree-lined streets.
Visit the Saigon Skydeck, one of the country's highest skyscrapers, for a 360-degree view of the city. The Bitexco Financial Tower's observation deck, located on the 49th level, provides breathtaking views. Just make sure to check the weather prediction ahead of time. You may also visit at night to view the city illuminated. Every day from 9:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m.
Take a culinary tour of Ho Chi Minh City's greatest gastronomic areas to discover more about the local cuisine. You may enjoy a variety of street foods, like rice vermicelli with BBQ pork, coconut juice, and Vietnamese coffee (among others). There are also vegan and vegetarian culinary excursions. The majority of the excursions are done by motorcycle, however, there are a few walking trips mentioned on their website. Just remember to bring your hunger!
Chinatown is a bustle of activity and a tangle of temples, eateries, jade jewelry, and medicine shops. Aside from the vast Binh Tay Market, the region is home to various noteworthy temples, including the Chinese Chua Quan Am Temple and Cha Tam, a Catholic church. It has the largest Chinatown in the country (there are around 500,000 Chinese people living in the city alone).
Though congested and riddled with pickpockets, this District 1 market is perfect for picking up handicrafts, discount gifts, and sampling traditional (and inexpensive) Vietnamese cuisine. It's Vietnam's largest market, so get lost in the commotion and enjoy it all. Because you will be given the "tourist pricing" on products here, don't be afraid to bargain. Just keep your wallet secure and out of reach while you're out and about.
Can Gio Island, also known as Monkey Island, is popular with both visitors and locals seeking to escape the city's turmoil. The beaches here aren't as spectacular as those in Thailand, but it's a pleasant location to unwind and one of Vietnam's best islands. The Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve (where the island is located) is a UNESCO site, and the island's monkey sanctuary and mangroves are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. It's roughly a two-hour trip here, or you can catch the #75 bus from 23/9 Park. If you don't want to navigate the island on your own, there are excursions available for purchase in District 1 that provide transportation.
This magnificent 68-story, 262-meter-high skyscraper built by Carlos Zapata dwarfs anything around it. It's said to be fashioned like a lotus bulb, although it also looks like a CD rack with a tambourine stuffed inside. That tambourine is the 49th-floor Saigon Skydeck, with a helipad on its roof. Given the crowds and expense, the Skydeck is not a terrific tourist experience; instead, try a drink at the EON Heli Bar on the 52nd level or a visit to the nearby Sedona Suites tower.
Landmark 81 Vietnam is a skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City. It is now Vietnam's tallest structural work, Southeast Asia's second tallest structure, and the world's 17th tallest skyscraper. This mixed-use structure has offices, luxury residences, a 5-star hotel, and a multi-story observation deck. Climbing the Landmark 81 Vietnam is unquestionably a must-do adventure in Saigon.
Until recently, Landmark 81 Vietnam was the highest building in the nation. With a total floor area of 141,000 square meters, this spectacular complex contains hotels, serviced apartments, official commercial apartments, shopping malls, bars, restaurants, observation decks, and other services.
Nguyen Hue Street is in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City's most affluent and luxury downtown district. You may get here by driving straight ahead on one-way Le Thanh Ton Street and turning left at the Ho Chi Minh People's Committee, or by driving on Ton Duc Thang Street along Bach Dang Wharf and turning right on Nguyen Hue Street. Though it is called a pedestrian street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street is held on Saturday and Sunday evenings, and only pedestrians are permitted to pass through.
Vietnam is a must-see for any history buff. Ancient pagodas, caves, jail complexes, and statues speak eloquently about the country's rich and turbulent past, and remains of Chinese and French settlements can be found throughout the country. Check out our optimal schedule designed for visitors who want to see all of Vietnam's historical sites in a single trip.
Crawl through the huge network of small tunnels used by the Viet Cong to combat American forces during the Vietnam War in the 1960s. Tours include a trip inside the tunnels (about 100 meters of tunnels are exposed to guests), which provide insight into how the Vietnamese were able to defend their nation for so long against a larger army. It's a humbling encounter that's not for the faint of heart.
This municipal museum has served as a Governor's Palace, a committee building, and a Revolutionary Museum at various times. Today, the museum houses a collection of weapons and relics from the country's revolutionary war, as well as captured US fighter jets and tanks from the Vietnam War. There are some permanent displays as well as temporary exhibitions that cycle on a regular basis in the old Gia Long Palace (check the website for details; it has an English version)
This museum has a strong "pro-communist, anti-capitalist" bent to it, but it is still extremely intriguing. The museum's greatest exhibit, focusing on the Vietnam War, which killed between 1,500,000 and 3,500,000 people, is a collection of bombs, tanks, planes, and war technology, including an American F-5A fighter jet at the front door. The admission price is 40,000 VND.
While dining in restaurants and cafés has become the norm, taking part in an exhilarating dinner cruise on the Saigon River will be the highlight of your vacation to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This dinner experience provided us with a fantastic opportunity to escape the city's hustle and bustle and immerse ourselves in nature. Taking in the fresh air and taking in a panoramic vista of the Saigon skyline. The Saigon River gleamed with lights at night, like a silk strip running across this dynamic metropolis.
Dining is one of the most enjoyable aspects of traveling, and there is no better place to experience the delicious flavors of Vietnamese food than right here in Ho Chi Minh City. Because Ho Chi Minh City attracts inhabitants from all across Vietnam, it is the perfect spot to sample the remarkable regional variations in Vietnamese cuisine found in the north, center, and south.
One of Asia's best-kept culinary secrets is Ho Chi Minh City. The fresh flavors of the local food complement the warm environment perfectly. And street food is one of the most well-known aspects of culture not just in Ho Chi Minh City but also across Vietnam.
People are eating and preparing food everywhere you look, no matter what time of day it is. In the streets, along alleyways, and at every other "hole in the wall", something food related is occurring.
Wandering through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City will drive you to seek out those wonderful scents and enjoy some of the authentic Ho Chi Minh City cuisine scene.
Several notable foods and drinks to try in Ho Chi Minh City include: hu tieu, bun thit nuong, com tam, banh cuon, snail (c), ca phe sua da, and others.
Most visitors to Vietnam are astounded by the abundance of rice and rice-related meals. Several of the primary foods and snacks described above are created from rice, including boiling rice in daily meals, rice porridge, steamed rice, sticky rice cake, and an endless number of rice-based cuisines from every area of Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is a city that never sleeps. The city is lovely and bustling during the day, but it takes on a whole other level at night.
Rooftop bars are the key go-to for nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City, offering as the ideal hangouts for a fashionable and glittery night out. These rooftop pubs provide a stunning perspective of the city at night. The rooftop bars draw an elite audience that includes expats, tourists, and locals, and it is not uncommon to see a star or two. The people who visit these clubs are usually dressed to impress, and most rooftop bars have a rigorous dress code, so flip-flops are out. They are on the pricey side, but the great service and classy atmosphere more than makeup for it. These rooftop pubs are not simply great places to socialize.
This journey will take you through communities and farms, allowing you to see the features and surroundings of a farmer's life firsthand. We will ride over two Mekong Delta regions, hitting many backroads and a few offroad parts to witness typical Mekong scenery.
The Mekong Delta is a river system that runs along Vietnam's southern coast. Because of its fertility and ability to cultivate enough crops and paddy fields to supply the nation, it is known as Indochina's rice basket. As highways on land are insufficient to reach the country, we will use multiple bridges and ferries throughout our tour.
We will taste the local cuisine that is not accessible in other parts of the nation. The cuisine offered will include Mekong-style meals such as salty river fish cooked with local spices, vegetables, and pork buns with fish sauce, a variety of veggies, and, of course, seasonal fruit platters.
Here are some examples:
Can Tho, commonly known as Tay Do land, has rice paddy farms and floating fruit trees. Particularly notable are a network of interconnecting canals and dwellings with distinctive antique architecture. Except from the friendliness of the locals. "Vietnam trips to Can Tho, the region offers numerous flowers and fruits," it is reported. Let's visit to Can Tho with Originvietnam.com to get the complete experience.
Chau Doc province is located in South Vietnam's Mekong Delta. Situated along the banks of the Hau Giang River (Bassac River), Chau Doc receives a large number of visitors cruising on the river that connects Cambodia and Vietnam. It is mostly the Cham and Khmer people's homeland. As a result of the multiplicity of civilizations in Chau Doc, tourists may view mosques, temples, and churches. The term "celebration" refers to the act of celebrating a noteworthy occasion. A boat ride down the river to visit Cham settlements and adjacent sights is one of Chau Doc's highlights.
The term "celebration" refers to the act of bringing together a group of people to celebrate a special event, such as the birth of a child or the death of a loved one. This rich region is where the huge Mekong River approaches the sea and divides into nine extremely large branches, which subsequently connect to a network of hundreds of tributaries. It's known as "Cuu Long" or "Nine Dragon's River Delta.
We dig deep into the Mekong Delta. Traveling back roads, usually through towns, away from the tourist trail, and learning about the true lives of the people who live by this wonderful river. We take quiet laneways and dirt paths weaving in and out of villages and fields, waving to kids whizzing by on their way to school, greeting women pedaling gracefully in their traditional "ao dai" dresses, and hopping onto small ferries to cross the tributaries alongside elderly vendors carrying groceries on their bikes.
Ride by several intriguing sights, such as an old-style brick kiln, before arriving at a coconut processing workshop, where you will discover step-by-step how the natives use every part of the coconut tree to make a range of goods, handicrafts, and confectionery. Then bike through pathways beneath the green canopy of coconut plantation before stopping for a nice meal of local delicacies, including exquisite "Elephant Ear fish".
Instead of driving the monotonous highways 1 and 20, we take the countryside roads to Dalat, passing through farmlands, plantations, reservoir lakes, forests, and mountain passes to offer you a glimpse of Vietnam's natural splendor.
Enjoy the ride on the way to Central Highland while you take in all the fabulous scenery.
Take a stop at a picturesque mountain pass restaurant and have some wonderful traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Learn about the history of this portion of Vietnam during the war by visiting the Agent Orange area. Spend some time trekking into the bush to unwind and take in the stunning scenery of the Central Highlands. Visit the chopstick factory to see how the natives produce bamboo chopsticks. Ride over the enormous rice fields and watch the rice agriculture of the Central Highlands' M'nong ethnic minority people.
Most people are unaware that the finest coastal driving in Vietnam takes place between Mui Ne and Nha Trang, going via Phan Rang and Cam Ranh. Riding in this area will let you to visit the picturesque Dalat mountains, the party city of Nha Trang, and the tourist attractions in and around Mui Ne. We'll look at the finest and worst coastal motorbike routes, as well as landmarks along the way.
The QL1A road runs roughly from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi along the coast. The entire trip does not consist of lovely beaches and breathtaking scenery. In fact, the south is more inviting than the north and we can recommend the top stops to see and skip.
Vietnam and Cambodia share a number of border crossings. The primary Vietnam-Cambodia border crossing is Moc Bai-Bavet, and the bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Pen is only 6 hours (including immigration). Of fact, there are several more land border crossings into Cambodia from Vietnam, and most of them offer visas on arrival. The Mekong River, which runs from the north to the south of Cambodia before ending in Vietnam, is another sort of border crossing from Vietnam to Cambodia. From Vietnam to Cambodia, the quickest water crossing is from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh.
Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis, yet it is a safe location to visit. Although violent crime against tourists is uncommon, petty crime and theft are commonplace. Keep your purse/wallet nearby and be aware of the behavior around you in busy situations. Don't go around with your mobile phone or money in your hand. Additionally, when dining out, do not leave your baggage unattended. Always keep them safe so that no one may grab them and flee.
Here, traffic can be difficult to navigate. Motorbikes are omnipresent, and crossing the street as a pedestrian may be frightening. Wait for a traffic break before crossing the street, but don't slow down or change your pace. Just make a beeline for the opposite side so the traffic may swirl around you.
The most crucial piece of safety advice I can provide is to have decent travel insurance. Travel insurance will cover you against illness, accident, theft, and cancellations. It provides full protection in the event that something goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it because I've had to use it so many times in the past.
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