What are the best places in Ho Chi Minh City to visit?

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its many architectural landmarks that bear a strong historical significance, as well as the city's significant development.

War Remnants Museum

  • Address: Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 5: 30 PM.

  • Ticket price: $1.57/person.

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum has become an unmissable attraction for international visitors on their journey to the city. Established on September 4, 1975, initially known as the Exhibition House for the US and their Puppets Crimes, the museum officially adopted its current name in 1995. 

War Remnants Museum in hcmc

The War Remnants Museum is a place that preserves numerous Vietnam War documents 

Over nearly 50 years of operation, the museum has become a repository of important memories and artifacts related to war and peace. By visiting this place, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's struggle for independence and freedom but also grasp the value of peace.

Independence Palace 

  • Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 8 AM - 3:30 PM.

  • Ticket price: $2.55/person.

The Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, served as the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It was also the site of many significant events in history, including the conclusion of the war on April 30, 1975.

The Independence Palace in hcmc

The Independence Palace features a blend of modern and traditional architecture

Constructed between 1962 and 1966, the Independence Palace was designed by Vietnamese architect Ngo Viet Thu. It beautifully combines modern and traditional architecture, with surrounding gardens and fountains. Inside the palace, you will find a museum featuring exhibitions on the history and culture of Vietnam.

The interior of the Independence Palace in hcmc

The interior of the Independence Palace

One of the most interesting displays is the collection of war-related items, including the President's working rooms, weapons, uniforms, and documents. These artifacts provide a comprehensive insight into Vietnam's modern historical conflict and help you understand the complex relationship between Vietnam and the United States.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral 

  • Address: Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 5:30 AM - 5:30 PM

  • Ticket price: Free

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral stands majestically with its ancient French architecture.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is located in the heart of the city

The cathedral is one of the unique architectural landmarks of Saigon, having witnessed the changes of this land since its early days. Therefore, it is often at the top of the list for tourists to visit when they first set foot in the city.

Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral attracts visitors with its distinctive architectural features, including the structure of the cathedral, two bell towers, the marble altar, the statue of the Virgin Mary made of white marble, and the surrounding church grounds.

Saigon Opera House

  • Address: 07 Lam Son, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 9 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Ticket price: $27.5/person (based on the performance)

Saigon Opera House is the oldest theater in the city. It was built by the French colonial government in 1898 and inaugurated in 1900, located in the central part of the city with its facade facing Dong Khoi Street. The theater was initially constructed to entertain French officials and dignitaries in Indochina at that time.

Saigon Opera House

Saigon Opera House was constructed to entertain French officials

In 1964, the building was transformed back into a theater and renamed the House of Culture. Two years later, it became the seat of the parliament under the government at that time. After 1975, the opera house was restored to its original function of hosting artistic performances, concerts, and cultural events.

Saigon Opera House interior

Today, the opera house hosts numerous cultural and artistic programs to serve tourists

Ben Thanh Market

  • Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 5 AM - 7 PM.

  • Ticket price: Free.

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is a destination that every traveler should visit

Ben Thanh Market is one of the famous tourist destinations in Ho Chi Minh City. Throughout its history, it has always been a bustling commercial hub and an ideal place to experience the unique local culture.

The market is not only a place for shopping but also an opportunity to explore the distinctive characteristics of Saigon's culture. Built in 1912 and undergoing several renovations, Ben Thanh Market still retains its ancient charm and the essence of old Saigon.

Landmark 81

  • Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Road, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 11 PM.

  • Skyview ticket price: $31.83/person.

Landmark 81 - tallest building in hcmc

Landmark 81 is a symbol of Saigon's strong development

Landmark 81 is considered an iconic landmark of Ho Chi Minh City in the modern era. The building was honored as one of the top 10 tallest buildings in the world in 2018, featuring a unique architecture inspired by bamboo.

Inside the building, there is a wide range of high-class and luxurious services and amenities that cater to the dining, entertainment, and relaxation needs of tourists. The most recommended experience when visiting Landmark 81 is to enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the Skyview on the 81st floor.

Landmark 81 view

Admire the panoramic view of the city from the 81st floor

Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Address: Phu Hiep Ward, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Opening hours: 7 AM - 5 PM.

  • Ticket price: $2.75/person.

Cu Chi Tunnels are located approximately 70km northwest of the city center of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a historical tourist destination with two main areas to explore: the Ben Dinh Tunnels and the Ben Duoc Tunnels. This site is a unique wonder underground, serving as an impressive defensive system created by Vietnamese soldiers during the war.

Cu Chi Tunnels

A traveler on his way to explore the tunnels

Using rudimentary tools and without any mechanized equipment, the people and soldiers of Cu Chi constructed a network of 250km of underground tunnels. This complex system included water wells, the Hoang Cam kitchen, meeting rooms, bomb shelters, fighting areas, traps, medical facilities, and more.

Cu Chi Tunnels

The incredible underground space

Mekong Delta

It is very convenient to embark on a journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, known for its stunning natural beauty and the fascinating riverine life of its people. 

This region is rich in natural beauty, with a dense network of rivers. It offers a variety of plants and animals, as well as a vibrant cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.

Mekong Delta boat ride

Explore the cultural life in the Mekong Delta

Our Best Ho Chi Minh Itinerary 5 Days Suggestions

Option 1

Day 1: Explore the city center

  • Arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport

  • Explore Vietnam’s history at the iconic Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum.

  • Marvel at the Gothic beauty of the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the charming allure of the Central Post Office.

  • Take a stroll on Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and Ho Chi Minh Nightlife

  • Take a half-day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.

  • Return to the heart of the city in the afternoon.

  • Visit Cho Lon, Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling Chinatown.

  • Shopping at Binh Tay Market.

  • Experience the vibrant night on Bui Vien Street.

Day 3: Mekong Delta - Ben Tre

  • Exploring the coconut forests of Ben Tre.

  • Enjoying fresh local fruits.

  • Listen to traditional folk music from the Southern region.

  • Visit a coconut candy workshop in Ben Tre.

Day 4: Mekong Delta - Can Tho

  • Explore the vibrant Cai Rang floating market.

  • Embark on a journey to the peaceful Bang Lang Stork Garden.

  • Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House.

Day 5: City Highlights and Departure

  • Admire panoramic views of the city at Landmark 81 Skyview.

  • Shopping for unique souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market.

  • End the journey. 
 

Binh Tay Market in hcmc

Binh Tay Market

Option 2

Day 1: City Highlights and Street Food Delights

  • Arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport.

  • Visit the War Remnants Museum.

  • Explore the Independence Palace.

  • Embark on a cruise tour on the Saigon River.

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and Local Cuisine

  • Experience as a Viet Cong Soldier at Cu Chi Tunnels.

  • Enjoy local food.

  • Visit Cao Dai Temple.

  • Take a food tour by motorbike around Saigon at night. 

Day 3: Mekong Delta Discovery

  • Explore the lifestyle of local people on the Mekong River.

  • Take a boat to admire the Ben Tre coconut forests.

  • Visit the vibrant Cai Rang floating market. 

  • Listen to Southern folk music.

Day 4: Cultural Shows and Hidden Gems

  • Visit the lesser-known sites of the city such as Jade Emperor Pagoda, and the Museum Of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine.

  • Watch A O Show at Saigon Opera House.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

  • Enjoy special "Vot" Coffee in Saigon.

  • Pick up souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market. 

  • End the journey. 
 

coffee of Saigon

Indulge in the specialty "vot" coffee of Saigon

Tips

We suggest the necessary information to make your Ho Chi Minh itinerary 5 days perfect:

  • Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City: You can visit during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. This is when the weather is most stable for tourist activities.

  • Pack light and wear light: The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is quite hot, so you only need to prepare lightweight and breathable clothing.

  • Choose appropriate attire: Many historical sites and temples require you to dress respectfully. Avoid wearing excessively short skirts or shoulder-baring tops. 

  • Feel free to bargain when shopping: You should research prices or be prepared to haggle to avoid overcharging.

  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and keep your wallet secure to prevent pickpocketing or snatch theft.

For a deeper dive, check out our article about travel guide to Vietnam!

Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic destination for exploring the historical and cultural heritage of Southern Vietnam and having vibrant experiences. From here, you can also easily venture into the Mekong Delta to make the most of your Ho Chi Minh itinerary 5 days. So why wait? Contact New Asia Tours to receive tailor-made tours and start your unforgettable journey.