Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do

Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta - VIP Tour

Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta - VIP Tour

€29
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta - VIP Tour
Cu Chi Tunnels: Morning or Afternoon Guided Small-Group Tour

Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Tour from HCM City

€12
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Tour from HCM City
Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket

Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket

€9
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket
Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Excursion

Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Excursion

€23
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Excursion
Tan Son Nhat Airport - Ho Chi Minh City - Fast Track Service

Ho Chi Minh city: Arrival Fast track at Tan Son Nhat Inlt. Airport

€27
per traveller
74% of travellers recommend
Ho Chi Minh city: Arrival Fast track at Tan Son Nhat Inlt. Airport
Ho Chi Minh City Full Day Tours

Ho Chi Minh City Full Day Tours

€22
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Ho Chi Minh City Full Day Tours
Picture 8 for Activity Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour

Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour

€6
per adult
Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour
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Top places to visit

1. Ben Thanh Market

Bến Thành Market is the oldest surviving market in Ho Chi Minh City and one of Vietnam’s top destinations. It is a must-see for anyone visiting this 300-year-old city. Explore the colorful stalls and buy food, souvenirs and clothing from the local vendors.
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A building with the sign "CUA-TAY" above the entrance.

2. Dong Khoi Street

Spend a day on busy Dong Khoi Street and hunt for luxury items in grand department stores, eat in classy cafés and marvel at beautiful examples of 19th-century architecture.
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3. Pham Ngu Lao Street

For cheap meals, accommodation and markets in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than Pham Ngu Lao. It is known by Vietnamese locals as “khu tay ba lo”, which translates to “Backpacker’s area.” If you are a traveler on a budget, Pham Ngu Lao is the place to be.
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A busy street at night with a prominent building labeled "ALLEZ BOU".

4. Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden is Vietnam’s largest zoo and one of the oldest zoos in the world. The park is home to more than a hundred species of plants and animals. Visit the creatures that call this place home or enjoy a peaceful walk through the fragrant gardens.
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5. Vincom Center Shopping Mall

Shop in the flagship stores of brands such as Ralph Lauren, Armani and Hugo Boss at the Vincom Center Shopping Mall. Select a meal from the superb international cuisine offered at the large food court or taste delicious bread straight from the oven at the on-site bakery.
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A modern building with the sign "VINCOM CENTER" and "EXIMBANK" on its facade.

6. Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

Whether you are a cultural enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, the Saigon Opera House is a sight not to be missed. Also known as The Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, this gleaming white landmark is a visual reminder that Saigon was the capital of French Indochina at the turn of the 20th century.
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A grand building with ornate architecture and a blue roof, surrounded by trees and modern buildings.

7. Saigon River

See the iconic houses on stilts on the banks of the Saigon River and enjoy views of some of the city’s most famous buildings from a boat cruise. Explore the villages and canals of the Mekong Delta where migratory birds live among the thick mangroves.
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What to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Stay near popular Ho Chi Minh City attractions

A building with the sign "CUA-TAY" above the entrance.

Ben Thanh Market

7.8/10 (6,130 reviews)
This iconic 1914 marketplace showcases Vietnamese commerce with over 3,000 vendor stalls selling crafts and textiles. Visit the vibrant food court to sample authentic pho amid the sensory-rich atmosphere.
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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
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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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Binh Thanh

Binh Thanh is a destination travellers like for its river views, and you might hop aboard the metro at Van Thanh Park Station or Tan Cang Station to explore sights like Landmark 81.

A green boat on calm water with a rope and metal bollard in the foreground.
Photo by ThePetiteAdventurer
Open Photo by ThePetiteAdventurer

Can Gio

Travellers like the parks in Can Gio, and Can Gio Park is a top attraction you might want to visit.

A wooden sign in a forested area with text reading "HO BOM B52 B52 BOMB CRATER".
Photo by Natalie Robinson
Open Photo by Natalie Robinson

Củ Chi

You'll enjoy the museums and historical sites in Củ Chi. You might want to make time for a stop at Saigon River or Cu Chi Tunnel.

A large brick church with arched windows and a prominent clock tower.
Photo by iwander14
Open Photo by iwander14

Downtown Ho Chi Minh City

Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Check out top attractions like Ben Thanh Market and Benthanh Street Food Market, and jump on the metro at Ben Thanh Station or Opera House Station to see more of the city.

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 kilometres from central Ho Chi Minh City is District 1 and Ben Nghe is 0.48 kilometres 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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