Fascinating Historical Landmarks
Saigon is a city that captivates you with its amazing historical landmarks. It has many places that show the culture and history of the Vietnamese people, and make you feel different emotions. That's why it's the first reason that answers the question, "Is Saigon worth visiting?".
Cu Chi Tunnels
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Open hours: 7 AM - 5 PM
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Ticket price: $2.87 per foreign guest
Located approximately 70km from the city center, the Cu Chi Tunnels rank among Southeast Asia's top 7 most peculiar destinations and are a world-renowned man-made marvel. The Cu Chi Tunnels represent the strong determination and courage of the Vietnamese people in defending the country. If you find yourself in Ho Chi Minh City, don't miss out on this fascinating site.
Experience life as a soldier in the Cu Chi Tunnels
The tunnels reach depths of up to 12 meters and consist of a complex system with underground chambers, hiding places, and ventilation systems. Additionally, they have excellent defensive mechanisms including escape routes and traps. Soldiers lived in these tunnels, conducting meetings, cooking, and providing medical care. When you visit, you will have the opportunity to experience navigating through narrow passages inside the tunnels, just like a real soldier.
You can experience shooting games in Cu Chi Tunnels
In addition, you can experience shooting games here. The shooting area provides military-style firearms and paintball guns for visitors who want to participate. The military-style firearms used are rifles. You will receive dedicated instructions from the staff when engaging in this sport. You do not have to pay for gun rental, but you will spend approximately $1.64 to $2.46 per bullet.
War Remnants Museum
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Open hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Ticket price: $1.64 per one
The War Remnants Museum stands as a powerful testament to the impact of war in Vietnam. With its collection of documents, it offers a vivid and emotional portrayal of the country's tumultuous history. It provides a unique opportunity to comprehend the profound suffering and resilience of the Vietnamese people during those dark times.
The interior space of the museum
The museum consists of three floors, with the ground floor showcasing visual materials depicting the various protests in support of Vietnam's resistance against the United States. Additionally, there are 1:1 scale models of prisons built by the United States and their puppet regime to detain communist prisoners. The upper floors of the museum display and recreate materials related to war crimes and the consequences of Agent Orange.
Independence Palace
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Open hours: 8 AM - 4:30 PM
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Ticket price: $1.64 - $2.67 per adult
The Independence Palace holds immense historical significance and is classified as a special national monument. It is most famous for being the site of the historic event on April 30, 1975, when South Vietnam was liberated, leading to the reunification of the country. This iconic building served as the working place of the former Saigon government.
The Independence Palace holds immense historical significance
In addition to the various rooms for activities and work, the interior of the Palace also houses exhibitions showcasing important historical events of the city. The Independence Palace boasts a spacious area, allowing you to explore the underground levels or take a stroll in the lush green surroundings. During your visit, you can easily explore the history of this place by using the self-guided audio devices available here.
Unique Architectural Structures
Another reason to visit Ho Chi Minh City is its stunning architecture. The city has many old buildings that are famous for their design and history. You will be amazed by the beauty and charm of these landmarks.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone stepping foot in this city for the first time. Situated at the heart of the city, with its magnificent four facades, it's impossible to take your eyes off the cathedral's grandeur.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is located in the heart of the city
Designed by a talented French architect and completed in 1880, this architectural gem seamlessly fuses Romanesque and Gothic styles. The cathedral's front features a statue of the Virgin Mary, carved in Rome. The cathedral was constructed using pink bricks and blue stones. As a result, the cathedral has maintained its vibrant and captivating pink hue over the years.
Bitexco Tower
The Bitexco Tower, often referred to as a symbol of Saigon's development, was designed by American architect Zapata and was inaugurated in 2010. The building boasts a unique architecture inspired by the image of a lotus bud reaching towards the sky, and it even features a helipad. If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, this is a location not to be missed.
Bitexco Tower stands as a symbol of Saigon's development
The Saigon Skydeck, located on the 49th floor of the tower, offers a mesmerizing experience for many tourists. The ticket price for adults is $8.21 per person, and for children and seniors is $5.33 per person. Here, you can admire landmarks such as Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral Saigon, and the Saigon River, all from a bird's-eye perspective.
Saigon Opera House
Another remarkable architectural gem in Ho Chi Minh City is the Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre. Its construction began in 1898 under the French colonial government, to provide entertainment for French officials and soldiers stationed in Saigon.
Saigon Opera House features architecture in the flamboyant Gothic style
Drawing inspiration from Opera Garnier in Paris, this majestic theater showcases the Gothic architectural style of the 19th century. Every corner of the Opera House is adorned with intricate bas-reliefs and statues, creating a captivating ambiance. As you approach the entrance, your gaze will be captivated by the two statues of the Goddess of Art, welcoming you into this cultural haven.
Street Food Paradise
Another compelling reason to answer the question "Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?" is its enticing street food. As a melting pot of diverse cultures and regions, Saigon offers a captivating street food scene that keeps visitors hooked. When you come here, you absolutely must try these delicious local specialties below.
A Saigon bread stall with a wide array of enticing ingredients
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Com Tam: It consists of broken rice, cooked from broken grains of rice, served with various common dishes like grilled pork ribs, sour soup, tofu, and more.
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Hu Tieu Nam Vang: It features a flavorful broth made with minced meat, accompanied by various seafood toppings.
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Pha Lau: This dish is prepared using various organs of the pig, cooked in a spicy and flavorful coconut-based sauce.
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Saigon's bread: Crispy baguettes filled with a variety of ingredients. Such as shredded pork, sausages, pate, grilled meat, eggs, and shredded chicken.
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Fresh spring roll: This simple yet enticing dish has made it to the 30th spot on CNN's list of the 50 most delicious foods in the world.
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Kumquat-coconut juice: This refreshing drink combines the sweet and refreshing flavor of coconut water with a tangy twist from freshly squeezed kumquat juice.
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Street coffee: It is meticulously brewed using a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter (phin) or a coffee sock.
The 25-year-old phin coffee stall in Saigon
There are so many mouth-watering street foods that we can't even begin to mention them all. Going on a food tour around the city is an absolute delight. This culinary haven is guaranteed to leave you full and feeling satisfied.
Vibrant Nightlife on Bui Vien Street
One thing that captivates tourists when they visit Saigon is the vibrant nightlife at Bui Vien Street. This lively atmosphere serves as a convincing answer to the question "Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?". Here, there are bustling outdoor eateries and the energetic sounds of bars. Street art performances are also frequently held here.
Bui Vien Street is considered the epitome of nightlife in Saigon
This appealing destination provides a top-notch nightlife experience. You'll find many options, including restaurants, massage parlors, karaoke bars, and cafes. Everything is lively and bustling, making it an ideal place to socialize and make new friends.
Shopping Hub - Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous spots in Ho Chi Minh City. It's not just a place to shop, it's a gateway to understanding the vibrant culture of Saigon. As you wander through the market, you'll find countless stalls selling all kinds of souvenirs like hats, clothes, bags, fabrics, and even dried goods and packaged local specialties. It's the perfect spot to pick up some unique gifts for your family and friends back home.
The souvenir section within Ben Thanh Market
Want to explore further? Check out our post about Vietnam travel guide!
Certainly, the 5 reasons that New Asia Tours has just mentioned in the article are enough to convince you that the answer to "Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?" is yes. This vibrant city offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you enchanted and wanting to explore more. So, if you're considering a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, rest assured that you'll find a wealth of compelling reasons to make it a part of your travel itinerary. And don't hesitate to reach out to us for the best Vietnam experience!
