Ho Chi Minh City Tour: Top Attractions and Travel Guide

Planning a Ho Chi Minh City tour? From iconic historical landmarks and vibrant local markets to modern attractions, delicious food, and practical travel tips, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your visit to Ho Chi Minh city. Let’s gather essential travel tips to help you explore Vietnam’s largest city with ease.

About Ho Chi Minh City: Geographic Location, History and Background

Geographic Location

Ho Chi Minh City is located in the southeastern part of Vietnam, along the banks of the Saigon River and about 1,760 kilometers south of Hanoi. Covering more than 2,000 square kilometers, the city borders the provinces of Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Long An, and Tay Ninh, and connects easily to the Mekong Delta as well as the coastal town of Vung Tau.

Its main gateway is Tan Son Nhat International Airport, one of the busiest air hubs in Southeast Asia. This makes Ho Chi Minh City a natural entry point for international travelers exploring Vietnam and neighboring countries.

History and Background

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City has been shaped by centuries of trade, colonization, and conflict. It began as a small Khmer fishing settlement called Prey Nokor before growing into a major trading port under the Nguyen Dynasty in the 17th century.

French colonists took control in the mid-1800s and rebuilt the city with wide boulevards, elegant villas, and grand civic buildings, many of which still stand today. After the Vietnam War ended in 1975, Saigon was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City in honor of the country’s revolutionary leader – The Great President Ho Chi Minh.

Today, the city is home to more than nine million residents and stands as Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, blending French colonial charm, traditional Vietnamese culture, and modern urban energy into one dynamic destination.

More information: The historic behind Ho Chi Minh’s city historic name.

Tips for Travelers

Before starting your Ho Chi Minh City adventure, keep these practical tips in mind to make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable:

• Best time to visit: December through April brings dry, sunny weather that is ideal for sightseeing. The rainy season from May to November brings shorter but heavier showers, especially in the afternoons.
• Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Currency: The Vietnamese dong (VND) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger stores, but cash is preferred at markets and street stalls.
• Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes when entering temples, and greet locals with a friendly smile.
• Safety: Watch for petty theft in crowded areas and keep valuables close, especially when riding on the back of motorbikes.

Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Ho Chi Minh City offers an exciting blend of history, culture, entertainment, and hospitality. Explore the city’s must-see attractions, discover popular shopping spots, and choose from accommodations that suit every budget and travel style.

Historical Sites

Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)

Once the workplace and residence of the President of South Vietnam, Independence Palace is one of the most significant landmarks of the Vietnam War era. The site witnessed the fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates, marking the end of the war and the reunification of the country.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM-3:30 PM (Monday-Sunday). (The ticket office closes around 3:00 PM.)

What to visit:

• Preserved state rooms: Reception halls kept as they were in 1975, complete with original furniture and decor.
• Underground bunker: Vintage military communication equipment and command centers used during wartime.
• Rooftop helipad: Panoramic views of District 1 and a preserved helicopter on display.
• Central location: Situated in District 1, within walking distance of Notre Dame Cathedral.

More information: Independence Palace’s entrance ticket: Where to buy?

War Remnants Museum

For travelers who want to understand Vietnam’s turbulent past, the War Remnants Museum offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience. Exhibits document the human cost of the Vietnam War through photographs, personal accounts, and preserved military artifacts.

Opening hours: 7:30 AM-5:30 PM (Monday-Sunday).

What to visit:

• Outdoor military display: Tanks, helicopters, and fighter jets used during the war.
• Indoor galleries: Themed rooms covering chemical warfare, war crimes, and global anti-war movements.
• English translations: Captions and audio guides available for international visitors.
• Convenient location: About one kilometer from Independence Palace in District 3.

More information: The Exhibitions & Events of War Remnants Museum.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

This French colonial landmark, which stands side by side in the heart of District 1, is one of the most photographed sites in the city. Built in the late 19th century, Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh city showcases the elegant European architecture that defined Saigon during the colonial era.

Opening hours:

• Monday-Wednesday, Friday: 07:50 AM-19:00 PM
• Thursday: 07:50 AM-22:00 PM
• Saturday, Sunday: 08:15am-19:30PM

What to visit:

• Twin bell towers: Rising nearly 60 meters high, the cathedral’s distinctive towers are among the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
• French architectural design: Admire the red brick façade, stained glass windows, and Romanesque-Gothic architectural details that have been preserved for more than a century.
• Statue of Our Lady of Peace: Located in the square in front of the cathedral, this marble statue is a popular gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
• Prime location: Situated on Cong Xa Paris Square, the cathedral is within walking distance of many major attractions in District 1.

Noted: During the ongoing restoration period, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is closed to tourists. However, the cathedral remains open for the faithful to attend daily Mass. Visitors can still admire its iconic French colonial architecture from the outside and explore the surrounding Cong Xa Paris Square.

More information: Pastoral Care for Foreigners of Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.

Shopping and Entertainment

Beyond history, Ho Chi Minh City offers a lively mix of markets, malls, and amusement spots that cater to every kind of traveller.

Ben Thanh Market

No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without a stop at Ben Thanh, the city’s most iconic market. It has been trading since 1914 and remains a favorite spot for both locals and travelers to shop, eat, and soak up the atmosphere.

Opening hours: 6:00 AM-6:00 PM (daily). Ben Thanh Night Market: 7:00 PM-10:00 PM.

What to visit:

• Thousands of stalls: Clothing, handicrafts, souvenirs, coffee, dried fruits, and fresh produce.
• Bustling food court: Traditional Vietnamese dishes served throughout the day.
• Night market: Opens outside the main hall after 7 PM with additional food and shopping options.
• Bargaining culture: Starting at around half the asking price is common.

More information: Guide to visit Ben Thanh Market.

Saigon Centre

For a modern shopping experience, Saigon Centre is a premium mall anchored by Japanese department store Takashimaya. It sits at the heart of District 1 and appeals to travelers looking for international brands, quality dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

Opening hours: 9:30 AM-9:30 PM (daily).

What to visit:

• Six floors of retail: Fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and homeware from global and local brands.
• Diverse dining options: From Japanese sushi and Vietnamese hot pot to European cafes.
• Family features: Kids’ play zone and cinema on the upper levels.
• Easy access: Directly connected to Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

More information: All restaurants in Saigon Centre for your visit.

Dam Sen Cultural Park

Located in District 11, Dam Sen is one of the largest amusement parks in Vietnam and a great option for families or travelers looking for a fun day out beyond the city center.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM (Monday-Sunday). (Some rides and the water park may operate on different schedules.)

What to visit:

• Over 30 rides: Roller coasters, water rides, and interactive attractions for all ages.
• Adjacent water park: Dam Sen Water Park features pools, slides, and wave zones.
• Landscaped gardens: Themed gardens and lakes for a relaxed stroll between rides.

Cultural shows: Seasonal performances and festivals throughout the year.

More information: Ticket price for Individuals of Dam Sen Water Park.

Accommodations

Choosing the right place to stay makes a big difference to any trip. These three options represent solid choices at three different price points, all in central locations that put you close to the main attractions.

Budget Stay: A&Em Ben Thanh Hotel

For budget-conscious travelers who still want a central location and modern comforts, A&Em Ben Thanh Hotel is a reliable choice. Located in District 1, it offers clean rooms, friendly service, and walking access to Ben Thanh Market and other landmarks.

Check-in / Check-out: Check-in from 2:00 PM; check-out by 12:00 PM.

Room types:

• Premium Deluxe: View Here
• Executive Double: View Here
• Executive Twin: View Here
• Suite: View Here
• Premiere Suite: View Here
• Executive Suite: View Here
• VIP Suite: View Here
• VIP Family: View Here

What to expect:

• Cozy rooms: Air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms.
• Breakfast included: Complimentary breakfast in most room categories.
• 24-hour front desk: Airport transfer and tour booking on request.
• Walkable location: Close to major attractions and public transport.

More information: Official website of A&Em Hotels for booking and updates.

Mid-range Stay: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Sitting along the Saigon River, Liberty Central Saigon Riverside offers a stylish stay for travelers who want a touch of luxury without a five-star price tag. Its rooftop pool with river views is a favorite feature.

Check-in / Check-out: Check-in from 2:00 PM; check-out by 12:00 PM.

Room types:

• Deluxe: View Here.
• Premier River View: View Here.
• Executive: View Here.
• Liberty Central Suite: View Here.
• Signature River View: View Here.

What to expect:

• Rooftop pool: Open-air pool and bar overlooking the Saigon River.
• On-site dining: Restaurants serving Vietnamese and international cuisine.
• Wellness facilities: Fitness center, spa, and sauna.
• Central location: Walking distance to the Saigon Opera House and Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

More information: Official website of Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel for booking and updates.

Luxury Stay: Park Hyatt Saigon

For a truly indulgent stay, Park Hyatt Saigon delivers world-class service in one of the most desirable locations in the city. Overlooking Lam Son Square and just steps from the Saigon Opera House, it is a top choice for luxury travelers and business visitors.

Check-in / Check-out: Check-in from 3:00 PM; check-out by 12:00 PM.

Room Types: Explore a range of elegant accommodations designed for different travel needs, including:

• Park Room (King/ Twin)
• Park Room City View (King/ Twin)
• Park Room Garden View (King/ Twin)
• Park Deluxe Room
• Park Suite
• Lam Son Suite
• Park Deluxe Suite
• Park Executive Suite

What to expect:

• Elegant rooms and suites: Spacious interiors with French colonial design touches.
• Award-winning restaurants: Opera for Italian cuisine and Square One for Vietnamese fine dining.
• Full-service spa: Xuan Spa offers traditional Vietnamese and Asian-inspired treatments.
• Personalized service: Butler and concierge assistance for a seamless stay.

More information: Official website of Park Hyatt Saigon for booking and updates.

Plan Your Ho Chi Minh City Tour with Best Transportation Options

Ho Chi Minh City can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors, with millions of motorbikes filling wide boulevards and narrow alleys alike. Travelers typically choose from a few main options for getting around the city, each with its own strengths depending on budget, group size, and travel style.

Motorbike Rentals: Motorvina

Founded in 2010, Motorvina is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most established motorbike rental services, known for its city-focused fleet and free hotel delivery within central districts. The company operates its main shop in District 1 and rents a range of automatic scooters, semi-automatic bikes, and manual motorbikes suitable for both short-term and long-term travelers.

Best for:

• Confident riders exploring the city’s spread-out districts at their own pace.
• Solo travelers or couples with light luggage.
• Long-term visitors combining Ho Chi Minh City with trips to the Mekong Delta or Vung Tau.

Things to know:

• Free bike delivery available to hotels within central districts of Ho Chi Minh City.
• Rental fleet includes automatic scooters, semi-automatic bikes, and manual motorbikes for varying skill levels.
• Helmets, phone mounts, and locks are provided with each rental.
• An international driving permit recognized in Vietnam is technically required for legal riding.

Pricing: Scooter rentals typically start from around 1,000,000 – 2,000,000 VND per bike, with daily, weekly and monthly discounts available for long-term travelers.

Local Taxi Services: Vinasun Taxi

Established in 2003, Vinasun Taxi is Ho Chi Minh City’s largest and most recognizable taxi brand, operating one of the biggest metered taxi fleets in southern Vietnam. Its distinctive white vehicles are a common sight across District 1, Tan Son Nhat International Airport, and major hotels throughout the city.

Best for:

• Airport pickups at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
• Short in-city rides for travelers who prefer traditional metered taxis.
• Visitors moving between districts with luggage.

Things to know:

• Available at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, major hotels, and taxi stands citywide.
• Offers its own mobile app, although hailing taxis directly on the street remains common.
• Vehicle quality and waiting times can vary depending on time of day and location.
• Always confirm the meter is running at the start of the trip.

Pricing: Taxi fares typically start from 14,000-20,000 VND/km for standard 4-seat vehicles and 17,000-120,000 VND/km for 7-seat vehicles. Airport to District 1 rides usually range from 200,000-400,000 VND depending on the exact drop-off location.

Public Buses: Ho Chi Minh City Bus Network

Ho Chi Minh City’s public bus network, managed by the Ho Chi Minh City Public Transport Management Center, covers over 130 routes across the city and its outlying districts. For tourists, the most useful routes are those connecting Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the city center, including Bus Route No. 152 (Airport – Ben Thanh Market) and Bus Route No. 109 Express.

Best for:

• Backpackers experiencing local daily transportation.
• Solo travelers on a very tight budget.
• Visitors traveling between Tan Son Nhat Airport and District 1.
• Travelers with light luggage and flexible schedules.

Things to know:

• Route No. 152 runs from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Ben Thanh Market, operating from 5:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
• Route No. 109 Express offers a faster, more comfortable service between the airport and downtown, operating from 5:30 AM to 1:30 AM the next day.
• Departures run every 12-15 minutes for Route 152 and every 15-20 minutes for Route 109.
• The BusMap app provides real-time routes, schedules, and fare information in English.
• Buses drop off at central bus stops, not at specific hotel addresses.

More information: How to use BusMap App to travel around Vietnam.

Pricing: Standard tickets range from 7,000-12,000 VND for Route 152 and around 20,000 VND for the express Route 109. Student passes and multi-ride tickets are available at discounted rates.

Ride-Hailing Apps: Green SM Car

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City is more enjoyable when you have a reliable and convenient way to travel between attractions. Whether you’re heading to historical landmarks, shopping districts, restaurants, or your hotel, Green SM Car offers a comfortable and eco-friendly transportation option for every journey.

Key strengths of Green SM Car compared to other vehicles:

• 100% electric vehicles: Enjoy a quieter, cleaner, and zero-emission ride.
• Professional drivers: Trained drivers provide a safe and courteous travel experience.
• Transparent fares: View the estimated fare before confirming your booking with no hidden charges.
• Comfortable rides: Air-conditioned vehicles with spacious seating for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups.
• Wide coverage: Easily travel between popular attractions, shopping centers, hotels, restaurants, and Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
• 24/7 availability: Book a ride anytime, day or night.

How to book a Green SM Car:

Booking a Green SM Car takes just a few moments. Simply follow these two easy steps to enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free ride around Ho Chi Minh City:

Step 1. Download the Green SM app from the App Store or Google Play. Enter your destination then select Green SM Car as your preferred service.

Step 2. Review the fare estimate and confirm your booking. Track your driver’s arrival in real time and enjoy your ride.

More information: Download the Green SM app on the App Store or Google Play.

Getting Safety Travel Around Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine, and modern urban life, making it a destination worth exploring at any time of year. With careful planning and reliable transportation, visitors can easily experience the city’s top attractions and local highlights.

Have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip, and make the most of your Ho Chi Minh City tour!

FAQs

1. How many days are enough for a Ho Chi Minh City tour?

A 2-3 day itinerary is enough to visit Ho Chi Minh City’s major attractions, including historical landmarks, local markets, museums, and popular dining spots. Travelers with more time can also explore nearby destinations such as the Cu Chi Tunnels or the Mekong Delta.

2. What is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is from December to April, when the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season lasts from May to November, with short but heavy afternoon showers.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?

Some of the city’s top attractions include Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Centre, and Dam Sen Cultural Park.

4. What is the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh City?

Visitors can travel by public buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, or electric taxis. Green SM Car offers a convenient option with transparent fares, professional drivers, and all-electric vehicles for comfortable travel between attractions.

See more articles:

• Best Time To Visit Vietnam? Best Attractions and Travel Guide.
• Bui Vien Walking Street: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors.

Download the Green SM app on the App Store or Google Play, or call hotline 1555 for 24/7 support.