What to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Activities, attractions and tours

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Ho Chi Minh City Attractions

Vietnam’s largest and most energetic metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City is home to everything from chic designer malls and glass skyscrapers to ancient temples, pagodas and local markets. Boasting a vibrant nightlife, unbeatable food scene and great shopping, the city has more than enough to keep you busy during your stay in Vietnam. Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s museums, monuments and religious sites, party the night away in one of bars or clubs on Pham Ngu Lao Street or jump on a bike and experience this dazzling city on two wheels.

Areas & Neighbourhoods in Ho Chi Minh City

District 1 – District 1 is the most central and action packed area of Ho Chi Minh City. Full of bars, clubs, restaurants and shopping areas, the district is the perfect destination for an unforgettable night out. Explore the evocative streets of the French Quarter, shop for bargains in Ben Thanh Market or learn about the country’s recent past at Reunification Palace.

Cholon – Located in District 5, Cholon is Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. Bursting with life and boasting a fantastic choice of authentic eateries, spend a day exploring the area’s traditional Chinese charm and sampling its many culinary delights.

District 3 – Young, vibrant and packed full of coffee shops, bars and independent shops, District three is popular with Ho Chi Minh City’s students and young professionals. Explore the district’s parks, people watch from one of the many cafes or shop for bargains in the area’s many fashion boutiques.

Cu Chi – The main reason to visit this outlying district of Ho Chi Minh City is the Cu Chi Tunnels. A vast network of underground chambers and passageways, the tunnels will give you a glimpse into what life was like in the city during the Vietnam War.

Things to See in Ho Chi Minh City

Most of Ho Chi Minh City’s sights and attractions are located in the centre of the city. In District 1 you’ll find the iconic Reunification Palace, the fascinating War Remnants Museum, the magnificent Saigon Post Office and the 19th century Notre Dame Cathedral. The atmospheric streets of the French Quarter are also well worth a few hours of your time during your stay in the city, while no trip to Vietnam’s capital would be complete without a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Whether you’re interested in history, food, nightlife or culture, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in Ho Chi Minh City. Join a street food tour to learn more about Vietnam’s cuisine, explore the restaurants markets and alleyways of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, meet locals and travellers in the bars around Pham Ngu Lao Street or learn about the country’s history and culture in one of Ho Chi Minh City many excellent museums and galleries. If you’re feeling especially brave, rent a bike or moped and explore this high octane city like a local.

You can also book top Ho Chi Minh hotels and great Ho Chi Minh package holidays right here on Expedia.co.uk.

Things to do


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What to do in Ho Chi Minh City


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Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

Find the best Ho Chi Minh City areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ho Chi Minh City
Learn more about Ho Chi Minh City

District 1

Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in District 1. Check out top attractions like Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market, and jump on the metro at Opera House Station or Ben Thanh Station to see more of the city.

District 3

District 3 is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to War Remnants Museum or The Most Holy Redeemer Saigon.

District 5

District 5 is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by An Dong Market and The Garden Mall while in the area.

District 7

District 7 is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like The Cresent Mall and Saigon River.

Phu Nhuan

Visitors to Phu Nhuan appreciate its restaurants. A visit to Tan Son Nhat Market and War Remnants Museum might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.


 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?
Offering a mix of shopping and nightlife, there's no shortage of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. While you're here, head to Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden, a key attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Ho Chi Minh City?
After you've visited leading attractions like Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden and Independence Palace, spend the rest of your day enjoying the food and retail options in Ho Chi Minh City.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City?
You can't go home without checking out Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden, ranked the top tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City.
Is three days enough to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?
You can easily tick off leading sights like Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden, Independence Palace and Dam Sen Water Park with a three-day stay in Ho Chi Minh City. On average, many travellers book four days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a bit longer and head to Tân Phong.
Is Ho Chi Minh City a walkable city?
Some top sights in Ho Chi Minh City, including Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden and Independence Palace, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.32 kms (0.20 miles) from central Ho Chi Minh City is District 1 and Ben Nghe is 0.48 kms (0.30 miles) away.
What are some activities to do in Ho Chi Minh City with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Ho Chi Minh City with kids.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh City for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City for adults including Bui Vien Walking Street and Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Are there free things to do in Ho Chi Minh City?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without opening your wallet. HCMC Museum is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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