Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Introduction

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious street food, HCMC has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city’s must-visit places, activities, restaurants, accommodations, and essential tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Go

1. War Remnants Museum

  • Address: 28 Vo Van Tan St, District 3
  • Opening Hours: 7:30 am - 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Entrance Fee: VND 40,000 (~USD 2)

This museum showcases the brutal effects of war and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history.

2. Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Address: Cu Chi District, about 40 km northwest of HCMC
  • Opening Hours: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Entrance Fee: VND 110,000 (~USD 5)

Explore the network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War and get a glimpse into the lives of Vietnamese soldiers.

3. Independence Palace

  • Address: 135 Nguyen Van Binh St, District 1
  • Opening Hours: 7:30 am - 11:00 am, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Entrance Fee: VND 40,000 (~USD 2)

This historic palace was the site of the fall of Saigon in 1975 and is now a popular tourist attraction.

4. Ben Thanh Market

  • Address: Le Loi St, District 1
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 am - 6:00 pm

This bustling market offers a wide range of local goods, souvenirs, and street food.

5. Museum of Vietnamese History

  • Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem St, District 1
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 11:30 am, 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Entrance Fee: VND 20,000 (~USD 1)

Learn about Vietnam’s rich history and culture at this comprehensive museum.

6. Nguyen Hue Street

  • Address: Nguyen Hue St, District 1

This pedestrian street is perfect for a leisurely stroll, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.

7. Binh Tay Market

  • Address: 57A Binh Tay St, District 6
  • Opening Hours: 5:00 am - 6:00 pm

Experience the local way of life at this bustling market in Chinatown.

8. Saigon River

  • Address: Various points along the riverbank

Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the city views, or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding countryside.

Activities

1. Cooking Class

  • Learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh xeo, and spring rolls.
  • Cost: VND 800,000 - VND 1,200,000 (~USD 35-50)

2. Motorbike Tour

  • Explore the city and its surroundings on a motorbike, guided by a local expert.
  • Cost: VND 1,500,000 - VND 3,000,000 (~USD 65-130)

3. Cyclo Tour

  • Take a leisurely ride through the city’s streets in a traditional cyclo (pedicab).
  • Cost: VND 200,000 - VND 400,000 (~USD 9-18)

4. Street Food Tour

  • Sample the best of Vietnamese street food on a guided tour.
  • Cost: VND 800,000 - VND 1,200,000 (~USD 35-50)

5. Day Trip to Mekong Delta

  • Visit the Mekong Delta region and experience rural Vietnamese life.
  • Cost: VND 1,500,000 - VND 3,000,000 (~USD 65-130)

Where to Eat

1. Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai

  • Address: 37 Nguyen Trai St, District 1
  • Price Range: VND 20,000 - VND 50,000 (~USD 1-2.50)

Try the famous Vietnamese sandwich at this popular street food stall.

2. Pho 24

  • Address: 24 Le Loi St, District 1
  • Price Range: VND 30,000 - VND 60,000 (~USD 1.50-3)

Slurp down a delicious bowl of pho at this popular restaurant.

3. Cuc Gach Quan

  • Address: 10 Dinh Tien Hoang St, District 1
  • Price Range: VND 100,000 - VND 200,000 (~USD 4-9)

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a beautifully restored colonial villa.

4. Anan Saigon

  • Address: 180/24 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St, District 3
  • Price Range: VND 150,000 - VND 300,000 (~USD 6-13)

Savor modern Vietnamese dishes in a trendy setting.

Where to Stay

1. Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint

  • Address: 59 Pasteur St, District 1
  • Price Range: USD 30-60 per night

Enjoy luxurious accommodations in the heart of the city.

2. Hotel des Arts Saigon

  • Address: 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St, District 3
  • Price Range: USD 50-100 per night

Stay in a beautifully designed hotel with a rooftop pool and bar.

3. Vietnam Backpacker Hostels - Saigon

  • Address: 241/24 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St, District 3
  • Price Range: USD 10-20 per night

Meet fellow travelers at this social hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Things to Know

1. Traffic

  • Be prepared for chaotic traffic in HCMC.
  • Consider hiring a driver or taking a taxi if you’re not comfortable driving a motorbike.

2. Weather

  • HCMC has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F).
  • Bring light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.

3. Culture

  • Vietnamese culture values respect for elders and tradition.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending cultural events.

4. Language

  • While many locals speak some English, learning basic Vietnamese phrases will go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
  • Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help you communicate.

Transportation

1. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

  • Located about 7 km north of the city center.
  • Take a taxi, bus, or motorbike taxi to get to your accommodation.

2. Motorbike Rentals

  • Available at various shops around the city.
  • Cost: VND 100,000 - VND 200,000 (~USD 4-9) per day.

3. Taxi

  • Available at airports, bus stations, and tourist areas.
  • Cost: VND 10,000 - VND 20,000 (~USD 0.50-1) per km.

4. Bus

  • Available for intercity travel or shorter distances within the city.
  • Cost: VND 5,000 - VND 10,000 (~USD 0.25-0.50) per trip.

Tips and Essentials

1. Safety

  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use ATMs instead.

2. Health

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations before traveling to Vietnam.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

3. Money

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  • Exchange rates: USD 1 VND 23,000 (approximate)

4. Respect Local Customs

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or attending cultural events.
  • Remove your shoes when entering a Vietnamese home or temple.

5. Learn Some Vietnamese Phrases

  • “Xin chào” (hello)
  • “Cảm ơn” (thank you)
  • “Tạm biệt” (goodbye)

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Happy travels!