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Looking for the perfect getaway from the vibrant hustle of Ho Chi Minh City? Whether you’re seeking rich history, natural beauty or outdoor adventures, there are countless places to visit near Ho Chi Minh City. From underground war relics to tranquil islands and lush waterfalls, these destinations promise memorable day trips or weekend retreats. These nearby destinations offer a perfect mix of relaxation, culture and adventure for your travel itinerary.
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Ho Chi Minh City
Here are the top 10 places to visit near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, combining history, modernisation, and scenic beauty:
1. Cu Chi Tunnels
Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons
Ho Chi Minh City isn’t just modern, it’s also steeped in wartime history. Just 57 km away, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s struggle for independence. This intricate 220 km underground network served as a base for Vietnamese soldiers during the war. It housed everything from schools and hospitals to trap-filled bunkers. Visitors can explore the tunnels, fire weapons like AK47s, and taste wartime staples such as steamed tapioca and tea.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 57 km
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
2. Suoi Mo Park
Photo: goodluck / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nicknamed the “sea in the forest,” Suoi Mo Park is a natural oasis known for its clear waters and serene atmosphere. The park features a natural lake formed by streams cascading from cliffs, creating a picturesque setting. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s perfect for swimming, boating, camping, and BBQs. It is ideal for families and groups looking for nature-filled fun. The park also features a man-made beach and water slides, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 125 km
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
3. Monkey Island, Can Gio
Photo: Erik Cleves Kristensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A unique mangrove ecosystem awaits you at Monkey Island. It’s a part of Can Gio biosphere reserve, is home to over 1,000 playful monkeys. While the beach is muddy, the real highlight is the mangrove forest and the friendly monkeys you can feed and photograph. The area also includes a crocodile reserve and is ideal for eco-tourism lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Monkey Island is surrounded by mangrove forests, small canals with lovely bridges spanning for tourists to visit.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 52 km
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
4. Suoi Tien Cultural Amusement Park
Photo: Hans Olav Lien / Wikimedia Commons
Suoi Tien Park blends entertainment with Vietnamese history and mythology. It features both indoor and outdoor attractions including Tien Dong Beach, Magic Castle, and the Roller Coaster. The park is family-friendly and educational, making it ideal for children and tourists interested in Vietnamese culture and legends. Suoi Tien Park has both indoor and outdoor play areas suitable for all ages and interests. Some of the most famous attractions include Magic Castle, Rollercoaster, Aquarium, Tien Dong Beach, Treasure Cave, and Tien Ngu Palace.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 18 km
Timings: Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 5:30 PM, Saturday to Sunday, 8 AM – 6 PM
5. Tre Viet Tourism Village (Viet Bamboo Village)
Photo: Rin Mamori / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tre Viet is a peaceful retreat surrounded by bamboo forests and river views. Activities include kayaking, bamboo rafting, floating bikes, and swimming. It’s a great spot for group games, picnics, and trying local seafood. You can enjoy river life without straying far from the city. This village also offers traditional Vietnamese culinary classes and scenic cycling paths. Its natural surroundings make it an excellent backdrop for team-building events and weekend retreats.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 15 km
Timings: 24*7
6. Giang Dien Waterfall, Dong Nai
Photo: Chuhien / Wikimedia Commons
Giang Dien Waterfall is a scenic eco-tourism destination. Though not a towering cascade, it offers a beautiful setting with flowering trees and green landscapes. Popular activities include swimming, camping, and taking nature walks. It’s busiest during the dry season when the water is clearest and most inviting. There are cabins and tents available for rent if you wish to stay overnight. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, ziplining, and grilling local food by the riverside.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 40 km
Timings: 24*7
7. Thanh An Island
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
This peaceful island in Can Gio offers a rural vibe, making it perfect for travellers wanting to escape the city. Though it lacks sandy beaches, the island’s simplicity, fresh seafood, kayaking opportunities, and breathtaking sunsets are worth the visit. It’s a quiet place to recharge and connect with nature. The island also gives visitors a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen and salt farmers.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 70 km
Timings: 24*7
8. Tri An Lake
Photo: Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tri An Lake is a dream for outdoor lovers. You can camp, trek through Ma Da forest, enjoy BBQs, and stargaze by night. A peaceful destination, Tri An Lake is perfect for those seeking adventure and serenity in equal measure. The early morning lake views are truly magical. Here, visitors can experience floating on the lake at dawn, trekking through Ma Da forest, setting up a fire to hold a barbecue, and watching the starry night sky. These are exciting and worthwhile experiences. You can rent a tent or hammock near the lake and enjoy local delicacies cooked by nearby homestays.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 70 km
Timings: 24*7
9. Thuy Chau Tourist Area
Photo: Mộc Viên / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Only a short drive from the city, Thuy Chau is a lush, man-made eco-tourism park with waterfalls, streams, and nature trails. It’s a weekend favourite for families and couples looking to escape the urban heat. Whether swimming, picnicking, or just soaking up the greenery, Thuy Chau offers the perfect recharge. The man-made streams and waterfalls are filled with clean, filtered water, safe for swimming. The site also offers a BBQ area and food court with local Vietnamese dishes.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 45 km
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM (Weekends & Holidays)
10. Dau Tieng Lake
Photo: Tran Anh Khoa (zorrotran ) / Wikimedia Commons
Dau Tieng is the largest artificial lake in Vietnam. Popular with young travellers, it offers camping, canoeing, and fishing. The lakeside is perfect for relaxing or organizing outdoor picnics with friends. Besides, the local food like grilled fish and pork rolls adds to the charm. At the same time, the specialties here are equally attractive to mountain lizards: rice paper rolls with dew-dried pork or grilled fish with salt and chili. There are surrounding hills and pine forests where travelers can hike and take panoramic shots of the lake.
Distance From Ho Chi Minh City: 85 km
Timings: 24*7
From peaceful lakes to historical landmarks, there are countless places to visit near Ho Chi Minh City for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re after a day trip or a full weekend escape, these destinations promise natural beauty and rich experiences that showcase Vietnam’s diversity. With TripXL, your journey becomes seamless, let us help you plan the perfect getaway. Explore, unwind, and discover the very best of Southern Vietnam’s hidden gems just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city. Pack your bags and let your adventure with TripXL begin!
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
