The Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon (often just called Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral) is another iconic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City and one of the most stunning examples of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Construction of the cathedral began in 1877 and was completed in 1880, during the French colonial period. The cathedral was built by the French to serve the growing Catholic population of Saigon at the time. Neo-Romanesque Style: The cathedral is a masterpiece of Neo-Romanesque architecture, featuring red brick walls (imported from France), two tall bell towers that reach about 58 metres (190 feet) high, and a green-tiled roof. Statue of the Virgin Mary: There’s also a prominent statue of the Virgin Mary in front of the cathedral, which has attracted numerous pilgrims and visitors over the years. It's a popular spot for people to pray or take photos.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street (also known as Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street) is one of the most vibrant and bustling public spaces in Ho Chi Minh City. It's located in District 1, right in the heart of the city, and has become a hub for both locals and tourists to gather, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. It's a great place to experience the energy and modern vibe of the city. The Street: Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a wide, tree-lined pedestrian avenue, stretching from Le Loi Street to the Saigon River. It's a popular spot to stroll, people-watch, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. It's open to pedestrians, so cars are restricted, making it a safe and peaceful area to wander around, especially in the evenings.

The Saigon Opera House (officially known as the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City or Teater Municipal Saigon) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. This beautifully preserved building combines stunning French colonial architecture with a touch of Vietnamese style, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Here’s a closer look at the Saigon Opera House: 1. Historical Background: Built: The Saigon Opera House was constructed between 1897 and 1900, during the French colonial period. It was designed by the French architect Félix Olivier and built by the French administration as part of their efforts to develop Saigon as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Purpose: Originally intended as a venue for French-style opera, it has evolved over the years into a place for various cultural performances, including ballet, concerts, and theatrical shows. Today, it still serves as the city’s main performance venue.

The Independence Palace (also known as Reunification Palace or Dinh Độc Lập) is one of the most important historical landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City and a symbol of Vietnam’s turbulent history during the Vietnam War. It stands as a testament to the country’s struggle for independence and reunification. The Independence Palace was the site where the Vietnam War essentially came to an end on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank famously crashed through the gates of the palace, signaling the fall of Saigon and the reunification of Vietnam under communist rule. It was originally the home and office of the President of South Vietnam, Ngô Đình Diệm, and later, the final president of South Vietnam, Nguyễn Văn Thiệu, before the fall of Saigon. The event of the tank crashing through the gates is commemorated in Vietnamese history and often marked as the day the country was reunited after years of conflict.

Bach Dang Wharf (Bến Bạch Đằng) is a historic waterfront location in Ho Chi Minh City and one of the most scenic spots in District 1. It has long been associated with the city's maritime history and is a key part of Saigon’s riverfront landscape. Today, it's a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the city’s past as well as a relaxing spot to enjoy the views of the Saigon Bach Dang Wharf has been around since the French colonial period in the late 19th century. It was once an important port and docking area for ships, connecting Saigon to other ports and trade routes around Southeast Asia. Key Historical Events: The area is historically significant as it was the site of the Battle of Bach Dang in 1954, which played a role in the Vietnam War. The wharf itself was also part of the broader efforts to modernise Saigon’s harbour. During the colonial era, it was a lively and bustling port, as Saigon was an important trading hub for French Indochina.

Saigon City Hall, officially known as the People's Committee Building (or Uỷ Ban Nhân Dân Thành Phố Hồ Chí Minh), is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. This grand French colonial building, located in the heart of District 1, is an architectural marvel and an important symbol of the city's past and present. French Colonial Architecture: The Saigon City Hall was built in the French colonial style between 1902 and 1908. It’s a prime example of the grandeur of colonial-era buildings in Vietnam. The design features a blend of Baroque, Rococo, and neo-Renaissance influences, with ornate facades and intricate detailing. The building was designed by Félix Théodore Auguste and built under the direction of the French colonial administration. It was originally constructed as the Saigon City Hall and later became the People's Committee Building after the reunification of Vietnam.

Bùi Viện Walking Street is a vibrant, bustling street located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. Often referred to as "Backpacker Street" by locals and tourists alike, Bùi Viện is the city's main entertainment district, popular with both locals and international visitors. It has become a hub for nightlife, food, drinks, music, and cultural exchange, especially for younger crowds and those seeking a lively atmosphere. Bars, Clubs, and Pubs: Bùi Viện is known for its energetic nightlife. The street is lined with bars, pubs, and nightclubs, making it the go-to place for partying. Whether you’re into dance clubs, live music venues, or casual bars with cold beer, you’ll find something to suit your style here. Street Performances: As night falls, the street comes alive with street performers, musicians, and live bands. You can hear everything from traditional Vietnamese music to Western pop songs. It creates a lively and vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends.

The Ho Thi Kỷ Flower Market in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is one of the largest and most vibrant flower markets in Vietnam. It's located in the District 10 area and is famous for its lively atmosphere and wide variety of flowers. The market offers a massive selection of both local and imported flowers. You can find everything from roses, lilies, orchids, chrysanthemums, and carnations to exotic flowers. The market is particularly busy during festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year), when flower sales peak. People come here to buy flowers for decoration or as gifts. Ho Thi Kỷ serves as a wholesale market where flower vendors buy in bulk and then sell to smaller retailers or directly to consumers.It’s a great place if you're looking for a large quantity of flowers or unique varieties not commonly found in retail stores. Walking through the market, you'll be greeted by vibrant colours, pleasant floral scents, and the hustle and bustle of vendors and customers.

Saigon Chinatown, also known as Chợ Lớn (which means Big Market in Vietnamese), is a vibrant and culturally rich area located in the western part of District 5 in Ho Chi Minh City. As the largest Chinatown in Vietnam, Chợ Lớn is a fascinating blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. It is the heart of the Chinese community in Saigon and a place where history, culture, food, and commerce intersect. Chợ Lớn has been a part of Ho Chi Minh City for centuries and was originally established by Chinese immigrants who arrived in Vietnam starting in the 17th century. These immigrants, primarily from the Teochew, Hakka, and Cantonese groups, brought with them their unique cultures, traditions, and businesses. Over time, Chợ Lớn grew to become the focal point of the Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City, with Chinese temples, markets, and shops lining the streets.

Thiên Hậu Temple (also known as Chùa Thiên Hậu) is a historic and culturally significant Chinese temple located in Chợ Lớn, the Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City. The temple is dedicated to Thiên Hậu, the Goddess of the Sea, who is worshipped by many Chinese communities, especially those with roots in maritime trades. Thiên Hậu is believed to protect sailors, fishermen, and travellers from harm, and the temple serves as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark in the city. Dedicated to Thiên Hậu: The temple is dedicated to Thiên Hậu, who is considered one of the most revered deities in Chinese folk religion, especially among the Chinese-Vietnamese community. Thiên Hậu is believed to provide protection to those who travel by sea, making the temple an important place for sailors, fishermen, and people who work in maritime-related industries.

The Thích Quảng Đức Monument is a significant and poignant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, dedicated to Thích Quảng Đức, a Buddhist monk who became an iconic symbol of protest against the South Vietnamese government's persecution of Buddhists during the early 1960s. Key Highlights of the Thích Quảng Đức Monument: 1. The Story of Thích Quảng Đức: Thích Quảng Đức was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk who became internationally renowned after his self-immolation on June 11, 1963 in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City). His act of self-immolation was a protest against the oppressive policies of the Ngô Đình Diệm government, which was seen as favouring Catholics over the Buddhist majority. The government had imposed restrictions on Buddhist practices, such as banning the display of Buddhist flags, which further enraged the Buddhist community. Thích Quảng Đức's self-immolation was a dramatic and powerful protest to draw attention to the government’s policies and the religious inequality faced by Buddhists.