Ho Chi Minh city is not the capital one but it plays an important role in the country and the busiest city of Vietnam. It is a vibrant mix of old and new city with the well preservation of colonial structures. Therefore, visitors can see French colonial constructions around the city.
Moreover, it is the economic city of the country; therefore, you can see most of people all round the country as well as international living and working here. It is a great for immersing in the local culture mixing here. There are a lot of ornate pagodas and Buddhist temples to visit and discover as well. Being one of the main destinations for tourism in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is also fitted with a wide array of accommodation. There are different options of varying price range and styles for travelers to choose. Ho Chi Minh city welcome millions of tourist come to Vietnam each year and most domestic and international airlines have flight in and out Ho Chi Minh.
Factually, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and charming city. It converges all the conveniences of a modern metropolis. Ho Chi Minh City becomes the economic, cultural, scientific, and technological hub of the country thanks to the rising economy and modern facilities as well as location.
What make Ho Chi Minh special?
Ho Chi Minh City is the busiest one in Vietnam. Therefore, it has the name the un-sleep city. That is always correct because all activities last throughout night. This makes the city special of the country. Travel to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy as well as experience the nightlife is the highlights and special of this city. Here are some special night in this city.
History
The Khmers originally settled the region, with the Vietnamese taking over in the 17th century. In 1859, the French conquered Saigon. Then it made the capital of Cochin China in 1862. As a result, there is much elegant architecture and broad boulevards still remain today. In 1969, the city had 4.5 million citizens who were all evacuated when Saigon and the rest of the South fell to North Vietnam in 1975. After 30 years recovered, the city has the current population at over 7 million. The name Ho Chi Minh City was called after the spiritual leader of Vietnamese Communism. However, the old name Saigon still well-known from residents as well as people in the country.
Tops 10 attractions in Ho Chi Minh city
Travel to Hoi Chi Minh City nowadays is much easier than. But where is the most highlights of the city. After years experiences in travel line we would like to suggest top 10 place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City.
1: War Museum
It has the name the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes formerly. The War Remnants Museum is popular with Western Tourists The museum attracts a large number of visitors to present authentic, vivid, real-life material, images of Vietnam’s wars of aggression.
Located on the grounds of the former USSR administration building, the War Remnants Museum displays material, artifacts and images that highlight the aftermath of the wars that the invading forces have caused out for the people of Vietnam. The museum opened only a few months after the peace day, with the original name of the US-Wei exhibition. Although there are a number of topics on the war against the United States, the main objective of the museum is to emphasize the cruelty of war.
2: Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace was designed by Ngo Viet Thu and completed in 1966. From 1967 to 1975 Independence Hall was the home and headquarters of General Nguyen Van Thieu of the National Leadership Committee. In 1975 a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the palace gates and leading to the Fall of Saigon and the end of the Vietnam War. Vietnam got the freedom completely. Nowadays, it is one of the most attractions for tourists in Ho Chi Minh city.
3: Ben Thanh Market
The Ben Thanh Traditional Market (Cho Ben Thanh) is the symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. It is the most famous shopping destination in the city. It has a good reputation, a central location and a history although it is not the cheapest market in the city. Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 is a great place to buy local handicrafts, branded goods, Vietnamese art and other souvenirs. Visitors can find eating stalls inside the market as well as taste Vietnamese cuisines. When the night falls, restaurants around the market open their doors which create a vibrant street side scene. Ben Thanh offers a great atmosphere that is absolutely authentically Vietnamese.
4: Notre Dame Cathedral
Ho Chi Minh City has quite a large Catholic community who worship at this historic cathedral. It was built between 1863 and 1880 under the French colonists. They used only building materials imported from France. It has a red brick exterior which came from Marseilles.
Notre Dame Cathedral is a cathedral of the archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City. It is one of the unique architectural works of Saigon.
5: Central Post Office
The Central Post Office has become a tourist attraction because of its beautiful architecture and history. It is the largest post office in Vietnam and should not miss once visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1891 when Vietnam war a part of French Indochina.
It features by wooden shutters, arched windows, a marble floor, old fashioned phone boxes and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh. Once reaching the post office visitor can see the large clock hanging above the entrance. It was there since first open and still works now. It is opposite Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral which makes the most impressive. The post office now still the post office for sending letter, buy stamps and phone call.
6: Bitexco Financial Tower – Saigon Sky deck
Bitexco Tower is 262 meters high with 68 floors and the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City. Designed by American architect Carlos Zapata; this construction began in 2007 and was completed in 2010. It has the unique design by the distinctive helipad perched on the edge of the roof. In addition, it is more unique for the 6,000 glass panels forming the exterior curtain wall in each floor.
There are six floors for stores. Furthermore, there is a cinema complex, and restaurants from the 50th to 51st floors. It offers the amazing views, a food court and the Helio Bar on the 52nd floor. The Saigon SkyDeck is an observation deck on the 49th floor.
There are English speaking guides at the Sky deck. They interactive touch screen fact boxes and maps to explain the sites you see below. From here visitor can have 360° views of the city and Saigon River. Usually it has art exhibitions on the Sky deck.
7: Saigon Opera House
The Opera House is also called the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City. The theatre can hold 500 audiences.
The only way to see inside is by attending a show. The building was designed by Eugene Ferret and built in 1898 in the French colonial style.
The Opera House is currently home to the AO Show Saigon; an extravaganza which combines traditional Vietnamese music and dance with Cirque du Soleil style performances.
Address: 7 Cong Truong Lam Son Square, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: AO Show Tues-Fri 6pm; Sat-Mon 8pm
8: Emperor Jade Pagoda
Emperor Jade Pagoda, also knows as Tortoise Pagoda. It is one of the five most important shrines in Ho Chi Minh City. A community of Cantonese who migrated from Guangzhou province in Southwest China built in 1909. This pagoda is a fine representation of Mahayanist branch of Buddhism widely in Vietnam. The temple is still in use and visited by followers of the Taoist faith.
9: Cu Chi Tunnels
Cu Chi tunnel is about 40km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. During the Vietnam War of the 1960s to American, the local people lived in the tunnels, conducting their normal everyday lives underground. In 1968 the tunnels acted as the Viet Cong base during the Tet Offensive, a major military campaign.
During that time the Viet Cong used the tunnels to store weapons and food, as a hospital and as a hiding place and living quarters for Viet Cong soldiers.
There are two parts of the tunnels where visitors can enter from Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc. The tunnels have been widened and lit. Once coming tour to Cu Chi tunnel, there is an introductory film and on display are war era booby traps, the underground conference room. Even there is a place where you can try the tapioca Viet Cong would have eaten here.
10: Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (Fito Museum)
The Fito Museum in Saigon is the first museum of traditional Vietnamese medicine. On the display at this museum are nearly 3,000 items since Stone Age. The exhibits have tools for prepare medicine, knives, mortars and pestles, documents and objects from a traditional pharmacy. It usually has a screen for documentary about this medicine’s history.
Visit The Fito Museum visitor can see many documents and books. All of them are on display that deals with traditional Vietnamese medicine.
In addition, the museum is an interesting building for combine both modern and traditional architecture.
When is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City is in South Vietnam, therefore, it has a pleasant climate all year round.
And it has two distinct seasons. December to April is the Dry Season –with hot, dry, and low humidity
While March to May, the temperatures are at their hottest, reaching as high as 39°C (102°F)
And May to November is the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh. Rainy has on few hours and then stop. It doesn’t last long as in North Vietnam for many days. There’s still sunshine
Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh
Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh means that there are different things for you to enjoy when you are in any area in the city. The main District 1 is known as the western places because most of foreign tourists stay here. There are rooftop bars, high rolling casinos as well as jazz bands for entertainment in this area.
Moreover, travel few kilometers to District 3 and the backpacker street in Pham Ngu Lao street, there are many street bars, cheap restaurants which is enjoyable place for nigh falls.
Dinner Cruise down the Saigon River
A dinner cruise tour along Saigon River is the perfect time for escaping the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City. It will give the impressive of nightlight along river bank and harmony for the scenery on the cruise while dining with local food.
Where to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City: A Foodie’s Guide
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting destination for food lovers. With its diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Vietnamese to international flavors, there is something to suit every palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, here is a guide to the best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City.
For traditional Vietnamese cuisine, head to Quan An Ngon. This popular restaurant serves up a variety of dishes, from pho to banh mi, in a lively atmosphere. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian options.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, try Cuc Gach Quan. This restaurant serves up traditional Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a range of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes, as well as a selection of wines.
For a taste of international flavors, head to Hum Vegetarian. This restaurant serves up a range of vegetarian dishes, from Indian curries to Italian pastas. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegan and gluten-free options.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, head to Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai. This popular street food spot serves up delicious banh mi sandwiches, as well as other Vietnamese snacks.
For a unique dining experience, try the Secret Garden. This restaurant is located in a hidden courtyard and serves up a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The menu features a range of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes, as well as a selection of wines.
Finally, for a taste of the local nightlife, head to the rooftop bar at the Rex Hotel. This bar offers stunning views of the city, as well as a range of cocktails and snacks.
No matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, Ho Chi Minh City has something to offer. With its diverse range of restaurants, there is something to suit every taste. Bon appetit!
Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City: A Guide to the Best Markets
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, and it is home to some of the best markets in the world. From bustling street markets to upscale shopping malls, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, clothing, or electronics, Ho Chi Minh City has it all. Here is a guide to the best markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
1 Ben Thanh Market:
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is one of the oldest and most popular markets in the city. It is a great place to find souvenirs, clothing, and electronics. The market is open from early morning until late at night, and it is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. An Dong Market:
An Dong Market is one of the largest markets in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a great place to find clothing, jewelry, and other items at great prices. The market is open from early morning until late at night, and it is a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
3. Saigon Square:
Saigon Square is a modern shopping mall located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a great place to find designer clothing, jewelry, and other items at great prices. The mall is open from early morning until late at night, and it is a great place to experience the modern side of the city.
4. Binh Tay Market:
Binh Tay Market is one of the oldest markets in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a great place to find souvenirs, clothing, and electronics at great prices. The market is open from early morning until late at night, and it is a great place to experience the traditional side of the city.
These are just a few of the best markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, clothing, or electronics, Ho Chi Minh City has it all. With its vibrant atmosphere and great prices, it is no wonder that Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best places to shop in the world.
How to travel to Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh is the biggest city in Vietnam. Most of domestic and international flights land on this city. Furthermore, there are many transportations have in this city for traveler to choose.
1: By plane:
There are a lot of flights in and out Ho Chi Minh city from early morning till end of the date. So there are much choice for airlines to reach this city and travel in Vietnam. All flights has schedule to Vietnam land on Tan Son Nhat airport in Ho Chi Minh City.
Because it is the biggest airport in Vietnam and Indochina, so there are two separate airports: domestic and international one with distance 1km by car. However, it has the hallway to connect between two airports for walking now. When traveling to Ho Chi Minh, visitor should take note this so that avoids reaching the wrong airport area.
2: By Sea cruise
There are some seacruise to reach Vung Tau port so visitor can move from Vung Tau to reach Ho Chi Minh City for visiting. There are two choices to reach from Ho Chi Minh from Vung Tau is by car or speed boat along the river.
3: By bus
Most public bus or open bus companies for tourists have office in Ho Chi Minh City. As a result, visitors have many choices to travel in and out the city. And the bus always stop in main cities along the country.
Bus companies: Hanh Cafe, The SinhTourist, Phuong Trang (Futabus), Kumho Samco, Mekong Express, etc.
Some bus company has schedule for overland from Cambodia through Tay Ninh border.
4: By train
Play the main point in Vietnam Railway. Most trains in and out from Ho Chi Minh city. There are many trains daily in and leave Ho Chi Minh city for choice.
Trains from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi
| Departs | Arrives | Train No |
| 19:30 | 04:50 | Reunification Express Train SE2 |
| 22:00 | 05:30 | Reunification Express Train SE4 |
| 09:00 | 19:58 | Reunification Express Train SE6 |
| 06:00 | 15:33 | Reunification Express Train SE8 |
Train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
| Departs | Arrives | Train No |
| 19:30 | 04:39 | Reunification Express Train SE1 |
| 22:00 | 05:20 | Reunification Express Train SE3 |
| 09:00 | 20:03 | Reunification Express Train SE5 |
| 06:00 | 16:04 | Reunification Express Train SE7 |
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From its bustling markets and street food to its stunning architecture and cultural attractions, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Ho Chi Minh City has something for everyone.
