World Of Wanderlust

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City can feel like stepping back in time. This captivating Vietnamese city is filled with ancient pagodas, historic buildings, and bustling traditional markets that offer a glimpse into everyday life. But on the flip side, Ho Chi Minh City dazzles visitors with its modern skyscrapers and vibrant city lights. This fascinating mix of the old and new makes the city—also known as Saigon—truly unique. For these reasons, it’s one of the must-see destinations in Vietnam. To help you make the most of your visit, here’s a list of the 15 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Get ready for an exciting and memorable adventure in this historic city!

### What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City – The Best Ideas

**1. See the Jade Emperor Pagoda**
Discover Vietnam’s rich culture at the beautiful Jade Emperor Pagoda, a Taoist temple located in the city center. Built as a primary temple for the supreme Taoist god, the Jade Emperor, it features divine statues and fascinating carvings. The pagoda is always bustling with visitors burning incense and offering prayers. Be respectful and keep noise to a minimum during your visit to appreciate its stunning architecture.

**2. Marvel at the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral**
Standing proudly in the city center with its magnificent architecture, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is a sight to behold. Built by the French during their colonial period, it was designed to resemble the original Notre Dame Cathedral in France. The interior is equally impressive, featuring baroque-style arches and stained glass windows, making it a must-visit in Ho Chi Minh City.

**3. Experience the Locals’ Everyday Life at Ben Thanh Market**
Dive into the lively atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, the busiest market in Ho Chi Minh City. With over 200 stalls selling everything from agricultural products to handcrafted souvenirs, it’s the perfect place to experience local life. Don’t miss the chance to haggle for a bargain and enjoy the thrill of the marketplace.

**4. Wander Around the Chinatown District (Cholon)**
Explore Cholon, the vibrant Chinatown district filled with antique buildings, beautiful pagodas, and bustling markets. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Chinese culture and capture stunning photographs of the vintage buildings and temples. Be sure to try some delicious Chinese food while you’re there!

**5. Visit War Remnants Museum**
The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit to understand Vietnam’s tumultuous history. The museum houses old war instruments, photographs, and artifacts that tell the harrowing story of the Vietnam War. It’s a sobering experience but provides crucial insights into Vietnam’s past.

**6. Explore Vietnam History Museum**
Located within Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Vietnam History Museum showcases the country’s ancient artifacts and historical objects. The museum’s exterior boasts traditional Vietnamese architecture, while the interior houses treasures from various dynasties. It offers a refreshing look into Vietnam’s rich history.

**7. See the Reunification Palace**
Reunification Palace, a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, was built in the 1960s and served as the workplace for the President of the Republic of Vietnam. Now a museum, it offers a glimpse into significant historical events through rooms such as the president’s quarters and war rooms, available with multilingual information.

**8. Uncover the History of Cu Chi Tunnels**
The Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground maze used during the Vietnam War, provide a poignant look into the past. Visitors can crawl through the tiny tunnels and see command centers. You can also experience meals similar to those eaten by soldiers, adding depth to your visit.

**9. Travel Like a Local to Mekong Delta**
Explore the Mekong Delta, just a day trip away from Ho Chi Minh City. Sail through the dense vegetation, visit floating markets, and stop by local villages. A traditional canoe tour, complete with a Vietnamese straw hat, offers an unforgettable local experience.

**10. Start the Day at Tao Dan Park**
Begin your morning with a relaxing walk or a cup of coffee at Tao Dan Park. Located in District 1, the park is lively in the mornings with joggers, tai-chi practitioners, and coffee enthusiasts. The park also features beautiful monuments and pagodas.

**11. Indulge in Vietnam’s Coffee Culture**
Vietnam is renowned for its coffee, being one of the largest coffee producers globally. Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of coffee options, from traditional Vietnam drip coffee to crafted lattes. The city’s numerous coffee shops provide great spots to relax or work remotely.

**12. Spoil your Tastebuds with Vietnamese Cuisine**
Embark on a food tour to savor the bold flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. From pho to spring rolls, the food in Ho Chi Minh City is sure to delight your taste buds. Street food and local restaurants offer delicious dishes at affordable prices, making culinary exploration accessible to all.

**13. Try Out Snails on Vinh Khanh Street**
For a unique culinary experience, try snails on Vinh Khanh Street. Featured in Netflix’s “Street Food: Asia,” these delicacies are a highlight of Vietnamese cuisine. The street is packed with food stalls and restaurants offering a variety of snacks and seafood.

**14. Book a Cooking Class**
Take a cooking class to bring the flavors of Southern Vietnam into your kitchen. Many classes are available, even in hotels or restaurants, teaching traditional cooking methods with locally-sourced ingredients. It’s a fantastic activity for those interested in sustainable or community tourism.

**15. Enjoy the City View from Bitexco Financial Tower**
Cap off your day with a stunning view of Ho Chi Minh City from the Bitexco Financial Tower. The observation deck on the 49th floor offers a 360-degree view, and the EON Helibar on the 52nd floor provides delightful drinks with an incredible city view.

These best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City sound amazing, don’t they? So, are you planning to visit Ho Chi Minh City or other destinations in Vietnam and Southeast Asia? JoinMyTrip offers extraordinary trips to these spots, letting you travel with experienced travelers and find travel buddies. Don’t wait—book your trip with JoinMyTrip now!