25 Unmissable Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City 2025/26: The Ultimate Travel Guide

25 Unmissable Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City in 2025-2026 | Full Guide

Diving into Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culture? Discover our handpicked selection of 25 extraordinary experiences for 2025-2026, from hidden coffee gems to adrenaline-pumping adventures. This comprehensive guide takes you beyond typical tourist spots with real-time insights, exact locations, and insider tips that guarantee an authentic Vietnamese experience.

The Beating Heart of Southern Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City Unveiled

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) stands as Vietnam’s most dynamic metropolis, where French colonial elegance meets modern Asian ambition. As we move into 2025-2026, the city continues its remarkable transformation while preserving its rich historical tapestry. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more deeply, this metropolis of 9 million people offers endless discoveries.

With new attractions opening and traditional sites being revitalized, 2025-2026 presents the perfect opportunity to experience this sensory wonderland. From the aromatic street food corridors to the contemplative war memorials, every corner tells a story of resilience and reinvention.

What Makes Ho Chi Minh City Special in 2025-2026

The city has undergone significant transformations for 2025, with improved infrastructure, enhanced English signage, and expanded tourism facilities. Recent developments include the newly completed Metro Line 1 connecting key districts, making navigation simpler than ever before. Additionally, many historical sites have completed their restoration projects, offering visitors more authentic and comprehensive experiences.

Let’s dive into the 25 most extraordinary things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in 2025-2026, with detailed insights to help you plan your perfect adventure.

1. Uncover the Secrets of Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace isn’t just another historical building—it’s a perfectly preserved time capsule of 1960s design and pivotal Vietnamese history. Located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street in District 1, this 120,000-square-meter complex served as the command center and presidential residence during the Vietnam War.

What Makes This Palace Special

When you step inside, you’ll find everything exactly as it was on April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese tanks crashed through the main gates, effectively ending the Vietnam War. The original telecommunications equipment, war command rooms, and even the president’s living quarters remain untouched.

Visitor Information for 2025-2026

• Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM
• Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (~$1.65 USD) for adults, 20,000 VND for students
• Tour options: Self-guided tours are available, but for 200,000 VND (~$8.20 USD), you can hire an English-speaking guide who will reveal fascinating details often missed by regular visitors
• Best time to visit: Early morning (8:00-9:30 AM) to avoid the tour groups

Don’t miss the war command bunker in the basement—it’s where crucial military decisions were made during the conflict.

2. Confront History at the War Remnants Museum

For a powerful and sobering experience, the War Remnants Museum at 28 Vo Van Tan Street delivers an unflinching look at the Vietnam War through Vietnamese eyes. This isn’t your typical museum—it’s a deeply moving collection that draws over 500,000 visitors annually.

The Exhibits You Can’t Miss

The museum spans 10,000 square meters with both indoor and outdoor exhibitions. The exterior courtyard displays captured American military equipment including a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter, an F-5A fighter, and a 6,800 kg M48 Patton tank.

Inside, eight themed rooms house over 20,000 documents, photographs, and artifacts. The “Requiem” exhibition features work by 134 international photojournalists who died during the conflict.

Practical Information

• Hours: Open daily 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
• Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (~$1.65 USD)
• Average visit duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with elevators to all floors

Pro tip: The “Agent Orange” room contains particularly disturbing imagery that may not be suitable for children or sensitive visitors. The museum offers a balanced perspective in 2025, with newly translated explanations in multiple languages.

3. Marvel at Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica

Standing proudly in Paris Square at 01 Công xã Paris, District 1, the Notre-Dame Cathedral represents French colonial influence at its grandest. Built between 1863 and 1880 using materials imported directly from France, this neo-Romanesque masterpiece features two 58-meter bell towers topped with iron spires.

Cathedral Architecture and Significance

The entire structure was built with red bricks specially ordered from Marseille, giving it its distinctive appearance. These bricks have maintained their vibrant color without any paint or coating for over 140 years, defying Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical climate.

The cathedral’s 12 stained glass windows, crafted by the famous Lorin workshop in Chartres, France, depict biblical scenes with stunning artistry. The original pipe organ, installed in 1885, has been meticulously maintained.

Visitor Information for 2025-2026

• Viewing hours: Exterior can be viewed anytime
• Mass schedule: Sunday masses at 9:30 AM (English) and 10:30 AM (Vietnamese)
• Restoration status: Interior renovations will continue through 2027, but the exterior is fully visible
• Photography: Exterior photography permitted anytime; interior photography allowed outside of mass times

While waiting for interior access, don’t miss the adjacent Central Post Office designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), which features a stunning 6,800-square-meter interior with arched ceilings and colonial maps.

4. Experience the Sensory Overload of Ben Thanh Market

If you want to understand Vietnamese daily life, Ben Thanh Market is your immersive classroom. Located in the heart of District 1, this 13,000-square-meter market has been the commercial hub of Saigon since 1914. With over 3,000 vendors and approximately 10,000 daily visitors, it’s a microcosm of Vietnamese commerce.

What to Buy and Try

The market is divided into specific sections:

• Eastern wing: Textiles, clothing, and Vietnamese silk (where you can find traditional áo dài fabric starting at 150,000 VND per meter)
• Western section: Fresh produce, meat, and seafood (fascinating to visit but not for the squeamish)
• Southern area: Vietnamese coffee, tea, and spices (including premium Buon Ma Thuot coffee for around 100,000 VND per 250g)
• Central hall: Souvenirs, handicrafts, and lacquerware

Food Experience and Timing

The food court in the market’s center offers 20+ stalls serving authentic Vietnamese dishes. Try bánh xèo (Vietnamese crispy pancake) for 70,000 VND or a bowl of bún thịt nướng (vermicelli with grilled pork) for 65,000 VND.

• Daytime market: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Night market: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM (surrounding streets)
• Best time for photos: Early morning (6:00-7:30 AM)
• Best time for bargaining: Late afternoon (4:30-6:00 PM)

Bargaining tip: Start at 40-50% of the initial asking price and settle for around 60-70%. Always keep a friendly demeanor—smiles go further than aggressive haggling!

5. Cruise the Saigon River at Golden Hour

The Saigon River offers a completely different perspective on the city—one where you can escape the traffic and noise while watching the impressive 2025 skyline unfold before you. The river spans 256 kilometers, with several cruise options available in the 8-kilometer stretch that passes through central Ho Chi Minh City.

Cruise Options for Every Budget

• Budget-friendly: Saigon Water Bus (40,000 VND, ~$1.65 USD) operates like public transportation but offers great views of both modern skyscrapers and traditional riverside communities
• Mid-range: Les Rives Speedboat (950,000 VND, ~$39 USD) combines river cruising with Cu Chi Tunnels visits
• Luxury experience: Bonsai Legacy Cruise (1,500,000 VND, ~$62 USD) offers a 2-hour dinner cruise on a traditional wooden boat with live music and a 5-course Vietnamese dinner

Best Times and What You’ll See

The ideal cruising time is during sunset (5:30-7:00 PM), when the city lights begin to twinkle and the sun casts a golden glow over the skyline. From the water, you’ll witness:

• The 68-story Bitexco Financial Tower with its distinctive helipad
• Thu Thiem 2 Bridge, completed in 2022 with its 113-meter main span
• Traditional riverside communities that remain unchanged for decades
• Cargo vessels and sampan boats that showcase the river’s continuing commercial importance

Photography tip: Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to reduce glare from the water and enhance the sunset colors reflecting off the glass skyscrapers.

6. Crawl Through the Cu Chi Tunnels Network

Located 55 kilometers northwest of central Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels represent one of the most ingenious defense systems in military history. This 250-kilometer network of underground passages served as living quarters, hospitals, and supply routes for Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

What Makes This Experience Unique

The tunnels have been partially enlarged to accommodate visitors (the originals were only 80cm x 120cm), but still provide an authentic sense of the cramped conditions. The complex spans 40 square kilometers and features:

• Multiple tunnel levels reaching depths of 10 meters
• Booby trap displays showing bamboo-spike pits and swinging traps
• Underground conference rooms where military strategies were planned
• Firing ranges where visitors can shoot AK-47s and M16s (additional fee)

Planning Your Visit in 2025-2026

Two sites are open to visitors:

• Ben Dinh: More commercialized and closer to Ho Chi Minh City (70-minute drive)
• Ben Duoc: More authentic and less crowded (90-minute drive)
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: 110,000 VND (~$4.50 USD)
• Tour options:

• Half-day tour: 600,000 VND (~$25 USD)
• Speedboat + tunnels combination: 1,350,000 VND (~$55 USD)

• What to bring: Comfortable clothes that can get dirty, mosquito repellent, water

Insider tip: If you’re claustrophobic, you can still experience most of the site without entering the tunnels. The first 20-meter tunnel section is wider and has exit points.

Experiencing this remarkable feat of engineering provides profound insight into the determination and resourcefulness that shaped Vietnam’s history. For those interested in exploring more of Vietnam’s historical landmarks, consider the comprehensive 8-day Vietnam tour that takes you through multiple regions with expert guides.

7. Enjoy Panoramic Views from Iconic Rooftop Bars

Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline has evolved dramatically, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than from one of the sophisticated rooftop bars that have become signature experiences. In 2025, the rooftop scene offers everything from luxurious cocktail lounges to casual beer gardens in the sky.

Top Rooftop Experiences

• Chill Skybar (AB Tower, 76A Le Lai Street): Perched on the 26th floor with a 360° view spanning 12 kilometers on clear days. Their signature “Saigon Sundown” cocktail (230,000 VND, ~$9.50 USD) blends local ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and Mekong rum.
• Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar (Caravelle Hotel, 19-23 Lam Son Square): A historic venue where foreign correspondents gathered during the Vietnam War. The 10th-floor terrace offers views of the Opera House and features live jazz from 8:00 PM.
• Social Club Rooftop Bar (Hotel des Arts, 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai): Located on the 23rd floor with an infinity pool extending 12 meters beyond the building edge. Their molecular cocktails use techniques like liquid nitrogen and edible perfumes.

Best Times and What to Expect

• Golden hour: 5:30-7:00 PM for sunset views
• Peak atmosphere: 9:00-11:00 PM for nightlife
• Dress code: Smart casual (no shorts or flip-flops)
• Reservations: Recommended for weekend evenings
• Average cocktail price: 200,000-350,000 VND (~$8-14 USD)

Photography opportunity: The EON Heli Bar in Bitexco Tower faces west, making it ideal for sunset silhouette shots of the city.

8. Embark on a Street Food Adventure

Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene is legendary, with over 12,000 street vendors creating a massive open-air kitchen across the city. In 2025, the street food culture remains vibrant while adapting to improved hygiene standards and innovative fusion concepts.

Must-Try Street Foods and Where to Find Them

• Bánh Mì: Try Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa (26 Le Thi Rieng) where they use 12 different cold cuts and pâtés in each sandwich, serving over 1,500 sandwiches daily (50,000 VND)
• Cơm Tấm (broken rice): Visit Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền (84 Dang Van Ngu) operating since 1976 with their special grilled pork marinated in a secret blend of 12 spices (65,000 VND)
• Bún Thịt Nướng (vermicelli with grilled pork): Try Bún Thịt Nướng Chị Tuyền (195 Co Giang Street), where they grill 50kg of marinated pork daily over charcoal (60,000 VND)
• Phở: Experience Phở Phượng (25 Hoang Sa) in District 1, which simmers its broth for 20 hours using 15kg of beef bones (80,000 VND)

Guided Food Tours Worth Booking

• Back of the Bike Tours: Explore District 4’s seafood scene on the back of a motorbike (1,400,000 VND, ~$58 USD for 4 hours)
• Saigon Street Eats: Their “Pho Trail” morning tour includes 4 different regional phở styles (900,000 VND, ~$37 USD)
• XO Foodie Tour: Women drivers take you to 5-6 local spots including a secret café inside an apartment building (1,200,000 VND, ~$49 USD)

Food safety tip: Look for busy stalls with high turnover and where locals are eating. Vendors with clear food preparation areas tend to maintain better hygiene standards.

9. Wander Through Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a 670-meter-long, 64-meter-wide pedestrian boulevard that serves as the city’s communal living room. Completely vehicle-free, this urban promenade connects the People’s Committee Building to the Saigon River and has become the civic heart of modern Ho Chi Minh City.

Highlights Along the Promenade

• Ho Chi Minh Statue Garden: A 2,300-square-meter space with a 7.2-meter bronze statue surrounded by 12 cascading fountains
• The Cafe Apartment Building: Located at 42 Nguyen Hue, this 9-story former residential building now houses 30+ boutique cafés, each with unique themes ranging from Japanese minimalism to French colonial nostalgia
• Nguyen Hue Flower Street: During Tet (Vietnamese New Year), the boulevard transforms with elaborate floral displays spanning 720 meters and featuring 130,000+ flowers

Best Times to Visit

• Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Watch locals practicing tai chi and calisthenics
• Late afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM): Ideal for people-watching and photography as the lighting is soft
• Evening (7:00-10:00 PM): Experience the LED light shows from the underground fountains with choreographed water displays every 30 minutes

Insider tip: Visit the hidden Anan Saigon restaurant (89 Ton That Dam) just off Nguyen Hue for chef Peter Cuong Franklin’s elevated street food, including the famous bánh mì burger that appeared on Netflix’s “Street Food Asia.”

10. Ascend the Bitexco Financial Tower

Dominating Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline, the Bitexco Financial Tower stands 262 meters tall with 68 floors and has become an iconic symbol of modern Vietnam. Its distinctive helipad extends 22 meters from the 52nd floor, resembling a lotus bud—Vietnam’s national flower.

Viewing Options and Experiences

• Saigon Skydeck (49th floor): Offers 360° views through floor-to-ceiling windows with interactive touchscreens identifying landmarks. The observatory features telescopes and information about the city’s development.
• EON Heli Bar (52nd floor): Enjoy cocktails at the same height as the helipad with minimum consumption of 300,000 VND (~$12.30 USD) instead of paying the Skydeck entrance fee
• EON51 Fine Dining (51st floor): Experience Vietnamese-European fusion cuisine at 200+ meters above ground

Visitor Information

• Skydeck hours: 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily
• Entrance fee: 200,000 VND (~$8.20 USD) for adults
• Fast facts: The building has 39 elevators traveling at 7 meters per second, taking just 45 seconds from ground to the 49th floor
• Best times to visit: Sunset (5:30-6:30 PM) or night (after 8:00 PM) for city lights

Photography tip: Visit during the “blue hour” (15-30 minutes after sunset) when the sky retains deep blue tones while city lights begin to twinkle for dramatic photography.

11. Dive into Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Vietnamese coffee culture transcends mere caffeine consumption—it’s a way of life in Ho Chi Minh City. With Vietnam being the world’s second-largest coffee producer (1.83 million tons annually), the city offers an unparalleled coffee journey from traditional to third-wave cafés.

Must-Visit Coffee Experiences

• Traditional Sidewalk Cafés: Try Café Vợt (330 Phan Dinh Phung), where coffee is brewed using a cloth filter method dating back to the 1870s. A cup costs just 20,000 VND (~$0.82 USD).
• Hidden Cafés: Explore Café Apartment at 42 Nguyen Hue, where each unit in this 9-story building has been converted into a unique café. Highlight spots include Thinker & Dreamer (floor 5) and The Letter Café (floor 6).
• Specialty Coffee Labs: Visit The Workshop (27 Ngo Duc Ke, 3rd floor) where they roast small-batch single-origin beans from Vietnam’s Central Highlands and brew using six different methods including siphon and AeroPress.
• Innovative Coffee: Try Saigon’s newest trend at Katinat Café (26 Ly Tu Trong): salt coffee (cà phê muối) featuring a whipped layer of salted cream that creates a sweet-savory balance (55,000 VND, ~$2.25 USD).

Vietnamese Coffee Styles to Try

• Cà phê sữa đá: Coffee with condensed milk over ice
• Cà phê trứng: Egg coffee with whipped egg yolk and condensed milk
• Bạc xỉu: “White coffee” with extra condensed milk (1:1 ratio)
• Cà phê dừa: Coconut coffee with coconut cream and condensed milk

Coffee souvenir tip: Purchase fresh beans from K’Ho Coffee, owned by ethnic minority farmers from Lam Dong province, available at The Workshop for 220,000 VND (~$9 USD) per 250g bag.

12. Find Serenity at Jade Emperor Pagoda

Tucked away at 73 Mai Thi Luu Street in District 1, the Jade Emperor Pagoda (Chùa Ngọc Hoàng) offers a spiritual haven amid the urban chaos. Built in 1909 by Cantonese immigrants, this 1,600-square-meter complex is considered one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City.

Architectural and Spiritual Highlights

The pagoda contains over 300 intricately carved statues and figurines representing Taoist and Buddhist deities. Notable features include:

• The King of Hell Hall: Features 10 judges who determine the fate of souls, with carved wooden panels depicting the various punishments of the underworld
• Hall of the Ten Hells: Contains graphic dioramas of karmic punishments, each showcasing specific consequences for earthly misdeeds
• Jade Emperor Shrine: Houses a 4-meter-high statue of the supreme Taoist deity seated on a throne, flanked by his celestial ministers
• Tortoise Pond: The courtyard contains a pond with dozens of live tortoises (releasing a tortoise is considered good fortune)

Visitor Information

• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance: Free (donations appreciated)
• Incense: Available for purchase (20,000 VND, ~$0.82 USD)
• Photography: Permitted in most areas except during ceremonies
• Dress code: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees

Cultural note: When entering the main shrine, walk through the right door and exit through the left according to Vietnamese tradition. Avoid pointing your feet toward any altar or Buddha image.

This pagoda was visited by then-President Barack Obama during his 2016 Vietnam visit, bringing international attention to this historical gem.

13. Explore Cholon (Saigon’s Chinatown)

Spanning 5 square kilometers in District 5 and parts of Districts 6 and 11, Cholon (“big market”) is home to Vietnam’s largest Chinese community. Established in the late 18th century, this district offers an immersive experience into Chinese-Vietnamese culture with its distinctive architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Must-See Landmarks and Experiences

• Binh Tay Market: The central 25,000-square-meter market features a distinctive Chinese clock tower and houses over 2,500 vendors selling everything from dragon-embroidered fabrics to medicinal herbs. The recently restored central courtyard showcases Sino-Vietnamese architecture.
• Thien Hau Temple: Dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu, this temple on Nguyen Trai Street dates from 1760 and features remarkable porcelain dioramas on its roof depicting scenes from Chinese history across a 30-meter façade.
• Ha Chuong Hoi Quan Pagoda: Famous for its intricate ceramic roof sculptures spanning 10 meters, depicting scenes from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
• Traditional Medicine Street: Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street features dozens of shops selling over 400 varieties of traditional herbs, roots, and animal-derived remedies used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 150 years.

Culinary Highlights

• Try the Cantonese-style dim sum at Ding Feng Restaurant (52 Hung Vuong)
• Sample hu tieu (Chinese-influenced noodle soup) at Hu Tieu Ong Tac (220 Chau Van Liem)
• Experience traditional mooncakes at Dong Khanh Bakery (57-59 Ho Thi Ky)

Getting around: Explore Cholon via cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) for around 200,000 VND (~$8.20 USD) per hour. Drivers can wait while you explore each site.

14. Be Enchanted by a Water Puppet Performance

Water puppetry (múa rối nước) originated in the Red River Delta of northern Vietnam over 1,000 years ago when rice farmers entertained each other in flooded paddies. Today, this unique art form continues at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater at 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street.

What Makes Water Puppetry Special

The puppets perform on a 40-square-meter water surface, with puppeteers standing waist-deep behind a bamboo screen manipulating the wooden figures using underwater mechanisms. The puppets weigh 1-5 kg each and are controlled using bamboo rods up to 3 meters long.

Show Highlights and Details

• Performance content: Traditional folktales, rural life scenes, and Vietnamese legends told through 18 different vignettes
• Musical accompaniment: Live traditional orchestra using instruments like the đàn bầu (monochord) and đàn tranh (16-string zither)
• Show duration: 50 minutes
• Theater capacity: 250 seats
• Languages: Brief English introductions before each scene

Practical Information

• Schedule: Shows at 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM daily, with additional 5:00 PM weekend performances
• Tickets: 200,000-240,000 VND (~$8.20-9.85 USD) depending on seating
• Booking: Reserve online or through your hotel (shows often sell out 1-2 days in advance)
• Photography: Permitted without flash

Cultural insight: Keep an eye out for the technical mastery in scenes like dragon dancing and farming, where multiple puppeteers must coordinate perfectly to create fluid movements across the water surface.

15. Delve into the Museum of Vietnamese History

Housed in a stunning Sino-French building from 1929, the Museum of Vietnamese History at 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street in District 1 showcases 4,000 years of Vietnamese civilization. The 2,000-square-meter exhibition space contains over 40,000 artifacts, though only about 4,000 are displayed at any time.

Exhibition Highlights

The museum is organized chronologically across 8 main galleries:

• Prehistoric Vietnam: Features stone tools from the Son Vi culture (20,000-12,000 BCE) and bronze Dong Son drums (700 BCE-100 CE) with intricate engravings depicting ancient Vietnamese daily life
• Oc Eo Civilization: Artifacts from this 1st-7th century Mekong Delta kingdom, including gold jewelry showing Indian influences
• Champa Kingdom Gallery: Houses the largest collection of Cham sculptures in Vietnam, including the impressive 1.8-meter-high Tra Kieu altar from the 10th century
• Nguyen Dynasty: Royal artifacts including Emperor Khai Dinh’s 9-dragon throne and clothing worn by the last Vietnamese emperors

Visitor Information

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
• Entrance fee: 30,000 VND (~$1.23 USD)
• Audio guide: Available in 7 languages for 40,000 VND (~$1.65 USD)
• Cultural performances: Traditional music shows in the central courtyard at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekends

History enthusiast tip: The museum’s library contains rare historical texts and can be accessed by researchers with advance permission.

16. Photograph the Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church)

Tan Dinh Church, with its striking pink façade, has become one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most photographed landmarks. Located at 289 Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, this Roman Catholic church was built in 1876 and features a unique blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance architectural elements.

Architectural Details and Photo Spots

• Exterior: The church’s walls are painted in a vibrant pink hue that provides a perfect backdrop for photography. The façade features twin bell towers standing 52 meters high, topped with white crosses.
• Interior: The 37.5-meter-long central nave is decorated with 40 stained glass windows created in France. The ceiling features intricate floral motifs in pink and white.
• Bell Tower: Contains a 5.5-ton bell cast in 1887 in France
• Statue Garden: The church grounds include a Marian grotto and statues of various saints

Visitor Information and Photography Tips

• Church hours: Open daily 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Mass times: Weekdays at 5:30 AM and 5:30 PM; Sundays at 5:30 AM, 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM
• Photography: Exterior photography permitted anytime; interior photography allowed outside of mass times
• Best time for photos: Early morning (7:00-9:00 AM) for softer light and fewer crowds
• Best angles: From the small park across the street for full façade shots

Local tip: After visiting the church, walk 300 meters to Tan Dinh Market, one of the city’s oldest and most colorful markets, famous for its fabric section with over 500 different textiles.

17. Visit Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Established in 1864, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is among the oldest functioning zoos in the world and covers an impressive 20 hectares in the heart of District 1. The complex houses over 1,100 animals representing 125 species and more than 2,500 plant species in its botanical collection.

Zoo Highlights and Conservation Efforts

• Tiger Kingdom: Home to endangered Indochinese tigers with a 900-square-meter enclosure
• Elephant House: Features a family of Asian elephants in a 1,200-square-meter habitat
• Reptile House: Houses over 40 species including the rare Siamese crocodile
• Primate Conservation Center: Dedicated to endangered primates like the golden-cheeked gibbon

The zoo participates in international breeding programs for 17 endangered species native to Vietnam, including the Cat Ba langur and Vietnamese pond turtle.

Botanical Garden Features

• Orchid Garden: Displays 1,800+ orchid specimens with 60+ native Vietnamese species
• Cycad Collection: One of Asia’s largest with specimens over 100 years old
• Historic Trees: Several trees planted during the colonial era, including a 150-year-old Dipterocarpus alatus
• Fern House: Contains 80 species of rare ferns in a specialized humidity-controlled environment

Visitor Information

• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: 50,000 VND (~$2.05 USD) for adults, 10,000 VND for children under 12
• Animal feeding times: Published daily at the entrance
• Electric cars: Available for touring the zoo (100,000 VND for 30 minutes)

Family tip: Visit the children’s playground and paddleboat lake in the center of the park for a break between animal viewing.

18. Rejuvenate with a Traditional Vietnamese Spa Treatment

After days of urban exploration, treat yourself to Vietnam’s centuries-old wellness traditions at one of Ho Chi Minh City’s premium spas. Vietnamese spa treatments blend Chinese medicine, French influences, and indigenous herbal knowledge into unique therapeutic experiences.

Top Spa Experiences

• Traditional Vietnamese Massage (Xoa Bóp): Unlike Thai or Swedish techniques, Vietnamese massage focuses on pressure points and circulation without stretching. Try Temple Leaf Spa (18 Thi Sach Street) where therapists train for 500+ hours in traditional techniques (600,000 VND, ~$24.60 USD for 90 minutes).
• Herbal Compression Therapy: Experience Mia Saigon’s signature treatment (52-54 Nguyen Cuu Van) using hot compresses filled with 12 medicinal herbs including lemongrass, ginger, and turmeric (1,200,000 VND, ~$49.20 USD).
• Vietnamese Coffee Scrub: L’Apothiquaire Spa (64A Truong Dinh) offers an invigorating body treatment using Vietnamese robusta coffee grounds mixed with coconut oil to exfoliate and firm skin (900,000 VND, ~$37 USD).
• Four-Hands Synchronized Massage: At Kosi Spa (34 Hai Ba Trung), two therapists work in perfect harmony using techniques developed for Vietnamese emperors (1,500,000 VND, ~$61.50 USD for 90 minutes).

Spa Etiquette and Tips

• Arrive 15-20 minutes before your appointment for check-in procedures
• Most spas provide all necessary amenities including robes and slippers
• Tipping is appreciated but not required (10-15% is standard if you’re satisfied)
• Book 2-3 days in advance for premium spas, especially on weekends

Wellness tip: Many traditional Vietnamese spa treatments are designed to balance “hot” and “cold” energies in the body—inform your therapist if you have any health conditions so they can adjust the treatment accordingly.

19. Discover Contemporary Vietnamese Art

Ho Chi Minh City has emerged as Southeast Asia’s most dynamic contemporary art hub, with galleries showcasing works that explore Vietnam’s complex history, rapid modernization, and cultural identity. The art scene provides fascinating insights into how young Vietnamese artists interpret their changing society.

Must-Visit Art Spaces

• The Factory Contemporary Arts Centre: Vietnam’s first purpose-built contemporary art space spanning 1,000 square meters in District 2. The industrial-style building hosts rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops. Entrance fee: 70,000 VND (~$2.85 USD).
• Galerie Quynh: A pioneer in Vietnam’s contemporary art scene located at 118 Nguyen Van Thu Street. The 600-square-meter gallery represents established and emerging Vietnamese artists with international recognition. Free entrance.
• Saigon Outcast: An alternative creative space in District 2 combining art, music, and food in a 2,500-square-meter outdoor venue built from recycled containers. Hosts regular art markets and mural painting events.
• Vin Gallery: Specializing in contemporary Southeast Asian art with a focus on textile-based works and sustainable art practices. Located in a renovated French villa at 6 Le Van Mien, District 2.

Art Districts to Explore

• District 1: Traditional galleries around Dong Khoi Street
• District 2 (Thao Dien): Expatriate area with experimental spaces
• District 3: Emerging artist studios in converted French villas

Art shopping tip: For affordable pieces by up-and-coming artists, visit the monthly Saigon Artbook events where limited-edition prints are available from 500,000-1,500,000 VND (~$20-60 USD).

20. Master Vietnamese Cuisine in a Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class in Ho Chi Minh City offers more than recipes—it provides cultural insights, market exploration, and hands-on experience with Vietnam’s complex flavor profiles. In 2025, cooking schools have evolved to offer specialized classes focusing on regional cuisines, street food secrets, and even plant-based Vietnamese cooking.

Top Cooking Class Experiences

• Saigon Cooking Class by Hoa Tuc: Located in a former opium refinery at 74 Hai Ba Trung, this school offers market tours plus hands-on cooking in a professional kitchen. Their signature class teaches 5 dishes including beef pho from scratch and Vietnamese coffee egg cream. Price: 1,200,000 VND (~$49.20 USD) for 4.5 hours.
• Mai Home: The Culinary Art Center: Learn from chef Mai, who comes from a family with 300 years of culinary history. Located at 11 Cach Mang Thang Tam, her classes focus on family recipes and secret techniques. The premium class includes 7 dishes and wine pairing. Price: 1,500,000 VND (~$61.50 USD).
• Vietnam Cookery Center: The city’s oldest cooking school (since 1999) at 26 Ly Tu Trong Street offers the most comprehensive program with 300+ recipes in their curriculum. Their intensive half-day class covers regional variations of classic dishes. Price: 1,100,000 VND (~$45 USD).

What You’ll Learn

Most classes include:

• Guided wet market tours explaining Vietnamese ingredients
• Knife skills and vegetable carving techniques
• Balance of the five fundamental taste elements in Vietnamese cuisine
• Proper use of herbs and aromatics
• Recipe booklets to take home

Foodie tip: For an extraordinary experience, book the “Ancient Menu” class at Vietnam Cookery Center, which resurrects royal dishes from the Nguyen Dynasty using historical recipes from the 19th century.

For those interested in exploring Vietnam’s diverse regional cuisines beyond Ho Chi Minh City, consider a comprehensive Northern Vietnam tour that includes cooking classes in different provinces.

21. Experience Saigon’s Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun sets, Ho Chi Minh City transforms into one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting nightlife destinations. From sophisticated cocktail bars to energetic dance clubs and traditional entertainment, the city offers diverse after-dark experiences that cater to every preference.

Best Nightlife Districts and Venues

• Bui Vien Walking Street: The backpacker area spans 850 meters in District 1 with 250+ establishments ranging from hole-in-the-wall bars to large clubs. Try Crazy Buffalo Rooftop Bar for panoramic views of the bustling street below.
• Dong Khoi Area: For upscale nightlife, this district offers sophisticated venues like the recently opened Firkin Bar (20 Ho Huan Nghiep), specializing in rare whiskeys with over 300 varieties from around the world.
• Binh Thanh District: The city’s newest nightlife hotspot features microbreweries and live music venues. Visit Heart of Darkness Brewery (31D Ly Tu Trong) crafting 20+ different beers with adventurous flavor profiles.

Unique Night Experiences

• Craft Beer Exploration: Vietnam’s craft beer scene has exploded, with Ho Chi Minh City leading the revolution. Take a “Craft Beer Crawl” with Vespa Adventures (1,500,000 VND, ~$61.50 USD) visiting 4 microbreweries in one evening.
• Live Music: Sax n’ Art Jazz Club (28 Le Loi) features Vietnam’s top jazz musicians performing nightly from 9:00 PM in an intimate 120-seat venue with excellent acoustics.
• Night Food Markets: Visit Ben Thanh Night Market (6:00 PM-midnight) where 150+ food stalls offer everything from seafood to desserts in a lively atmosphere.

Safety tip: While Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe at night, use reputable ride-hailing apps like Grab rather than hailing street taxis after midnight. Keep belongings secure in crowded areas.

22. Stroll Through the Atmospheric Tao Dan Park

Tao Dan Park provides a 10-hectare green oasis in the heart of District 1, offering respite from the city’s intensity. Established in the 1890s during the French colonial period, this park combines manicured gardens with cultural attractions that showcase everyday Vietnamese life.

Park Highlights and Activities

• Bird Café Culture: Visit the northeastern corner before 9:00 AM to witness the unique “bird café” where up to 100 bird enthusiasts gather daily, bringing ornate cages with prized songbirds for informal competitions.
• Sculpture Garden: Features 24 contemporary works by Vietnamese artists spread throughout the park, including the famous “Family” sculpture representing three generations.
• Fitness Culture: Join locals for morning tai chi (5:00-7:00 AM) or use the public exercise equipment installed throughout the park.
• Heritage Trees: The park contains 1,000+ trees, including several century-old specimens and a Hopea odorata (traditional Vietnamese sacred tree) estimated to be 175 years old.

Practical Information

• Opening hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily
• Entrance: Free
• Facilities: Clean public restrooms, food vendors, and seating areas
• Cultural center: Hosts regular traditional music performances on weekends
• Best times to visit: Early morning for exercise culture or late afternoon for family atmosphere

Local insight: Look for the small Taoist shrine in the park’s center—it’s dedicated to the grandfather of Vietnamese traditional medicine and locals still leave offerings for health and wellness.

23. Shop for Authentic Vietnamese Souvenirs

Beyond typical tourist trinkets, Ho Chi Minh City offers sophisticated shopping for high-quality Vietnamese crafts, designer goods, and unique souvenirs that truly represent the country’s heritage and contemporary creativity.

Best Places for Authentic Vietnamese Products

• Lam Boutique (37 Dong Khoi): Sources handcrafted items from 25 ethnic minority villages across Vietnam, ensuring fair trade practices. Their indigo-dyed textiles from the Hmong people are particularly special.
• Maisonette (29 Thai Van Lung): A concept store featuring products from 40+ Vietnamese designers, including contemporary áo dài (traditional dress) that can be worn internationally.
• Saigon Kitsch (43 Ton That Thiep): Offers nostalgic items with retro Vietnamese advertising designs, including reproduction propaganda posters (250,000-500,000 VND, ~$10-20 USD).
• L’Usine (151 Dong Khoi): A lifestyle emporium in a restored colonial building selling curated Vietnamese designs, artisanal foods, and contemporary housewares.

What to Buy and Price Ranges

• Vietnamese Coffee: Purchase premium beans from the Central Highlands (120,000-250,000 VND, ~$5-10 USD per 250g) and a traditional phin filter (80,000-150,000 VND, ~$3-6 USD).
• Lacquerware: From small trinket boxes (200,000 VND, ~$8.20 USD) to museum-quality art pieces (5,000,000+ VND, ~$205+ USD).
• Silk Products: Scarves from Van Phuc silk village (300,000-700,000 VND, ~$12-29 USD) or custom-tailored silk clothing.
• Spices and Teas: Vietnamese cinnamon from Trai Mat (considered among the world’s finest) and lotus tea gift sets (200,000-400,000 VND, ~$8-16 USD).

Shopping tip: For fixed-price, high-quality handicrafts with transparent sourcing, visit Artisan Saigon (31 Thai Van Lung) where each product includes information about the craftsperson and their region.

24. Take a Day Trip to the Verdant Mekong Delta

Just 1.5-3 hours from Ho Chi Minh City lies the Mekong Delta—Vietnam’s “rice bowl” and a completely different world from the urban metropolis. Covering 40,000 square kilometers with a network of 9 major rivers, this fertile region offers insight into Vietnam’s agricultural heartland and riverside life.

Best Mekong Delta Day Trip Options

• Cai Be Floating Market: Located 87 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City (2-hour drive), this traditional market operates from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Vendors announce their goods by hanging samples on tall bamboo poles. Tours typically include sampan boat rides through narrow canals and visits to traditional craft villages.
• Ben Tre Province: Famous for its coconut industry with 200,000+ acres of coconut trees. Visit family workshops producing coconut candy, coconut wine, and coconut-fiber crafts. The region features peaceful waterways navigable only by small boats, offering a more authentic experience away from mass tourism.
• Can Tho (Overnight Option): Though requiring an overnight stay, Can Tho (169 kilometers from HCMC) offers the most impressive floating market experience at Cai Rang, where hundreds of boats gather from 5:00 AM daily. The 40-hectare Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary nearby hosts thousands of resident birds.

Tour Information and Tips

• Day tour costs: 850,000-1,500,000 VND (~$35-62 USD) including transportation, boat rides, lunch, and guide
• Private tours: 2,000,000-3,000,000 VND (~$82-123 USD) for a more customized experience
• DIY option: Take a bus to My Tho (150,000 VND, ~$6.15 USD) and arrange local boats on arrival
• What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and camera with waterproof protection

Insider tip: For photographers, request a tour that visits smaller canals during midday when light filters through the water coconut palms creating stunning natural light tunnels.

If you’re intrigued by Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and want to experience more than just a day trip, consider a comprehensive Vietnam tour package that takes you through multiple regions including the Mekong Delta, central Vietnam, and the northern mountains.

25. Join a Vespa Adventure Through Secret Saigon

Experience Ho Chi Minh City like a local—from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter! These guided motorbike tours take you to hidden spots inaccessible to tour buses and reveal local secrets that most tourists never discover.

Top Vespa Experiences and Routes

• Saigon After Dark Tour: Explore the city’s nightlife scene visiting 4-5 local establishments including a Vietnamese-style live music venue, hidden cocktail bars, and authentic street food spots. Price: 1,900,000 VND (~$78 USD) including all food, drinks, and experienced drivers.
• Insider’s Saigon Tour: Discover hidden temples, secret Chinese medicine streets, and local markets in District 3, 5, and 10—areas rarely visited by tourists. The tour includes stops at a traditional Chinese herbal medicine shop and a hidden rooftop café inside an apartment building. Price: 1,700,000 VND (~$70 USD).
• Saigon Street Food by Night: Sample 8+ different dishes across multiple districts, eating where locals eat rather than at tourist restaurants. All food safety is guaranteed. Price: 2,100,000 VND (~$86 USD).

What Makes These Tours Special

• All drivers are licensed professionals with excellent safety records
• Vintage Vespa scooters are beautifully maintained 1960s-1980s models
• Helmets with Bluetooth communication systems allow guides to share information while riding
• Tours operate with 2-6 guests maximum for a personalized experience
• Routes avoid main roads when possible, showing hidden residential areas

Safety note: All tours include comprehensive insurance, and drivers undergo regular safety training. Tours run rain or shine (ponchos provided during wet weather).

Plan Your Visit to Ho Chi Minh City in 2025

As Vietnam continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, Ho Chi Minh City in 2025 offers improved accessibility, enhanced English signage, and better facilities while maintaining its authentic charm and cultural richness.

When to Visit

• December to April (Dry Season): Ideal weather with temperatures of 25-32°C (77-90°F) and minimal rainfall. Peak tourist season is December-January.
• May to November (Rainy Season): Brief but intense afternoon showers with high humidity. Fewer tourists and lower prices, but outdoor activities may be affected.
• Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year): Usually falls in January-February. The city is beautifully decorated, but many businesses close for 1-2 weeks, and domestic tourism peaks.

Practical Travel Tips

• Transportation: Use the new Metro Line 1 connecting the airport to central districts. For short trips, the Grab app offers motorbike taxis (xe ôm) for about 50% of car prices.
• Accommodation: District 1 remains the most convenient base, but consider District 3 for a more local experience with excellent boutique hotels.
• Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport (Viettel or Mobifone offer the best coverage, 200,000 VND, ~$8.20 USD for 30GB data).
• Money: While more businesses accept cards in 2025, cash is still preferred. ATMs are plentiful but limit withdrawals to 2-3 million VND per transaction.
• Safety: Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe, but be vigilant about bag-snatching in crowded areas and on motorbikes.

Sample Itineraries

• 48 Hours: War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, rooftop bar, and a street food tour.
• 4 Days: Add Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta day trip, Cholon exploration, and cooking class.
• 1 Week: Include all major attractions plus day trips, cooking class, spa day, and specialized tours like Vespa adventures.

Final Thoughts: Why Ho Chi Minh City Deserves Your Visit in 2025

Ho Chi Minh City represents the perfect blend of Vietnam’s storied past and its dynamic future. Unlike other Southeast Asian metropolises that have lost some authenticity to development, HCMC maintains its distinct character while embracing modernization on its own terms.

The city rewards curious travelers willing to look beyond the obvious attractions. Between the grand colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers lie hidden coffee shops, family-run eateries passed down through generations, and artisan workshops continuing centuries-old crafts.

What makes Ho Chi Minh City truly special is its resilient spirit and warm hospitality. Despite its turbulent history, the city looks forward with optimism while honoring its complex heritage. Visitors in 2025 will find a metropolis in fascinating transition—where traditional cyclo drivers share streets with Bentleys, where incense-filled temples stand in the shadows of gleaming office towers, and where the future of Vietnam is being written daily.

For those looking to explore more of Vietnam beyond Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Marvel Travel offers expertly curated itineraries that combine urban experiences with Vietnam’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural treasures.

Whether you come for the food, history, shopping, or simply to experience one of Asia’s most energetic cities, Ho Chi Minh City promises memories that will stay with you long after your visit.

Contact Information

Website: vietnammarveltravel.com
Email: vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
Phone: +84.978.358.422
WhatsApp: +84 978.358.422

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