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Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant metropolis in Vietnam. It blends rich history with modernity, and there are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. From places like Ben Thanh Market and War Remnants Museum to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, this place offers a rich cultural experience. It is an ideal destination for every type of traveller. With breathtaking vistas, delicious local cuisine, lively nightlife, and scenic boat rides, the city promises a memorable mix of tradition and contemporary life.
10 Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh
Are you wondering what to do in Ho Chi Minh? The best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City are listed below to make your experience even more exciting.
1. Explore The Cu Chi Tunnel
Photo: Aaron Burden / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a deep dive into the history of Ho Chi Minh City through an extensive underground network of passages. These tunnels played a crucial role during the American War. Visitors are often surprised by the intricate interconnections of the tunnels, providing a unique perspective on the city’s past. This tour offers a compelling and immersive historical glimpse, making it a worthwhile experience.
Location: Cu Chi Tunnel, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Entry Fee: 110,000 VND (₹370)
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
2. Visit The War Remnants Museum
Photo: Dannie Jing / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The War Remnants Museum documents the Vietnam War and is the perfect place for history enthusiasts. The museum features retired military vehicles such as the ‘Huey’ helicopter, attack bombers and the M48 Patton. Furthermore, the museum displays harrowing literature and photographs from the war, highlighting its dark history. As one of the city’s most renowned history museums, it provides visitors with an in-depth interpretation of the conflict, offering a poignant and educational experience.
Location: War Remnant Museum, Ho Chi Minh
Entry Fee: 12,000 VND (₹40)
Timings: 7.30 AM – 6 PM
3. Shop At Ben Thanh Market
Photo: Max Brown / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Ben Thanh Market is a hub of vibrant activity, mirroring the dynamic spirit of Ho Chi Minh City. It offers diverse goods and immerses visitors in the city’s bustling energy. The market comes alive at night with over 3,000 stalls, offering everything one might desire. As one of the top markets in Ho Chi Minh City, it beautifully blends ancient charm with modern elements, making it a must-visit destination. Exploring this market is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh.
Location: Ben Thanh Market
Timings: Opens at 7 AM
4. Pray At The Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
Photo: Anna Tarazevich / Pexels
The Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral was built by the French in the 1860s. Originally built as a French colonial-era church with towering twin bell towers, the Virgin Mary Statue was erected in 2005. It is reported that the statue sheds tears, making this place one of the most attractive things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Located downtown in the city, visiting the cathedral will touch visitors’ hearts and leave them in awe.
Location: Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, Downtown Ho Chi Minh
Timings: 8 AM – 11 AM
5. Enjoy The Water Puppet Show
Photo: Antreina Stone / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
A traditional water puppet show offers a captivating experience worth watching. This art form depicts folk stories from Vietnamese culture through intricately crafted puppets. Skilful performers gracefully manipulate the puppets using sticks and strings beneath the water, creating a mesmerising spectacle. Complemented by a traditional orchestra providing musical support, the show becomes even more enchanting. This unique cultural experience is one to savour.
Location: Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre
Entry Fee: 150,000 VND (₹500)
Timings: 5 PM – 8 PM
6. Boating At The Mekong River
Photo: Matthew Yong / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
When visiting the city, the Mekong River and Delta Boats tour in Ho Chi Minh is necessary. The ride on the motorboat takes visitors along the Mekong River, passing charming rural landscapes and lush green rice fields. You can take in the beauty of My Tho and Ben Tre Islands while sailing through the river, immersing themselves in nature throughout the journey. This boating experience offers a unique and thrilling adventure for tourists that should not be missed. It is the best thing to see in Ho Chi Minh City.
Location: Mekong River, Ho Chi Minh
Entry Fee: 504,000 VND (₹1700)
Timings: 8 AM
7. Witness The Saigon Opera House Show
Photo: Quentin Grignet / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Built in 1898 during French colonial rule, it showcases a blend of French Renaissance and Baroque styles, with intricate details and ornate decorations. It has a grand auditorium with beautiful chandeliers, plush seating, and a stage with elaborate carvings. The opera house hosts classical music concerts, ballet, and traditional Vietnamese arts and has witnessed significant historical events, including performances for French colonial officials and cultural activities during the Vietnam War.
Location: Saigon Opera House, Ho Chi Minh
Entry Fee: 700,000 VND (₹2400)
Timings: 1-hour show
8. Unwind At The Bitexco Saigon Skydeck
Photo: Red Nguyen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best way to have an enchanting view of the entire city is from an altogether different angle from the top of the Bitexco Saigon Skydeck. The Skydeck gives panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck building features stunning architecture and offers a thrilling experience with its fastest elevator, which ascends to a height of 262 metres in just 7 seconds. The breathtaking view from the top makes it a captivating attraction for tourists and visitors alike.
Location: Bitexco Saigon Skydeck, Ho Chi Minh
Entry Fee: 177,000 VND (₹600)
Timing: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
9. Marvel At The Suối Tiên Theme Park
Photo: Martin Lewison / Wikimedia Commons
Suoi Tien Theme Park is an amusement park that attracts many tourists and visitors. It has several entertainment areas, especially for kids. The landscapes and attractions here creatively display Vietnamese history. The park also features rollercoasters, space drop towers, and ferrite wheels. This theme park offers an experience like no other and is a thrilling adventure for every tourist in Vietnam. It is one of the quaint things to see in Ho Chi Minh.
Location: Suoi Tien Theme Park, Ho Chi Minh
Entry Fee: 113,000 VND (₹380)
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
10. Seek Blessings At The Thien Hau Temple
Photo: Vietnam Tri Duong Photographer / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Thien Hau Temple is an 18th-century old place of worship in the 5th district of Ho Chi Minh City. Dedicated to the worship of the Lady of Sea, Goddess Mazu of the Buddhist religion, the temple’s exteriors feature intricate carvings and special lanterns. In contrast, the temple’s interior is filled with vibrant dioramas depicting scenes from a Chinese city. The temple has three statues of Mazu. Tourists must visit this beautiful temple for a holistic and spiritual experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
Location: Thien Hau Temple, Ho Chi Minh
Timings: 6 AM – 11:30 AM and 1 PM – 4:30 PM
Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City is the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. This industrial and cultural city in the south is one of the largest commercial centres in the country. There are many things to do in Ho Chi Minh, so book a trip to this vibrant city with TripXL and have the best experience in this coastal heaven.
Cover Photo: Pham Truc / Unsplash
