Key Takeaways:
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Ho Chi Minh City blends modern energy with deep historical roots, offering visitors an exciting mix of museums, street life, and vibrant nightlife.
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From rooftop cafes to war history landmarks and bustling markets, every season offers a new way to experience the city’s charm.
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The city is a cultural hub for art, music, street food, and festivals, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and interests.
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and its buzzing economic and cultural heart. From its French colonial architecture to its roaring motorbike-packed streets, the city pulses with energy day and night. Once the capital of South Vietnam, HCMC is now a dynamic metropolis where historic landmarks coexist with modern skyscrapers, rooftop lounges, and hipster cafés. Visitors are drawn to its diverse neighborhoods, thriving art scene, warm hospitality, and of course—its incredible street food. Whether you’re into museums, markets, or live music, Ho Chi Minh City offers vibrant, year-round experiences full of character and flavor.
Table of contents
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Tour the War Remnants Museum
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Cruise the Saigon River by Night
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Discover Local Art at Factory Contemporary Arts Centre
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Take a Foodie Walk Through Ben Thanh Market
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Enjoy a Rooftop Sunset at Landmark 81 Skyview
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Stroll Nguyen Hue Walking Street
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Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
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Attend the Tet Festival Celebrations
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Escape to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
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Catch Live Music and Theater at Saigon Opera House
1. Tour the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is one of the most powerful and moving places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers an unfiltered look into the Vietnam War through photographs, military equipment, and personal stories that paint a vivid picture of the conflict’s impact. Exhibits include U.S. helicopters, tanks, and fighter planes, along with harrowing photography and prisoner-of-war reconstructions. While some of the imagery is intense, it provides essential context for understanding modern Vietnam.
Visitors can walk through multiple themed rooms that cover everything from war journalism to global protest movements. The museum’s central courtyard, where heavy machinery and weapons are on display, is especially popular with photographers. Audio guides are available, and most displays include English translations for international visitors. It’s an emotionally intense but profoundly educational stop that adds depth to any visit.
2. Cruise the Saigon River by Night
One of the most memorable ways to experience Ho Chi Minh City is from the water, with a night cruise along the Saigon River. As the sun sets and the skyline lights up, you’ll glide past glowing skyscrapers, riverside temples, and floating restaurants. Many cruise options are available, from budget-friendly ferry rides to luxurious dinner cruises with live traditional music and multi-course Vietnamese meals. The gentle river breeze and illuminated views make for a romantic and relaxing outing.
Booking a cruise is easy and can be done on the same day from District 1’s Bach Dang Wharf. Some boats include cultural performances and dance, adding an extra layer of entertainment. For budget travelers, the public ferry to District 2 also offers stunning views for just a few dollars. Whether you’re traveling solo or with someone special, this river journey is a perfect way to unwind after a long day exploring.
3. Discover Local Art at Factory Contemporary Arts Centre
Tucked away in District 2, the Factory Contemporary Arts Centre is Vietnam’s first purpose-built space dedicated solely to contemporary art. With rotating exhibitions featuring both emerging and established Vietnamese artists, it’s a hub for creativity and innovation. The industrial-chic venue includes gallery space, a concept bookstore, and a stylish café where visitors can relax and reflect. The center often hosts talks, workshops, and screenings, making it a great place to plug into the local art scene.
Beyond just admiring paintings and sculptures, the Factory challenges visitors to engage with thought-provoking social themes through interactive installations. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, often guiding you through the context of the work on display. It’s a refreshing break from tourist crowds and a glimpse into Saigon’s growing creative community. Art lovers and culturally curious travelers will find this a truly inspiring destination.
4. Take a Foodie Walk Through Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is one of the oldest and most iconic spots in Ho Chi Minh City, bustling with stalls selling local crafts, textiles, souvenirs, and above all—delicious street food. Dive into a culinary maze of steaming pho, fresh spring rolls, sizzling banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and strong Vietnamese iced coffee. Whether you’re dining at the food court or grabbing bites from walking vendors, it’s a feast for all the senses. The market comes alive even more at night when surrounding streets turn into a vibrant night market.
Don’t forget to haggle—it’s part of the experience—and take your time browsing both food and handicrafts. Local guides often run food tours that start here, giving deeper insight into Vietnam’s complex flavors and culinary techniques. It’s a great spot to interact with locals, practice your Vietnamese, and try unique specialties in a casual setting. Just come hungry and bring small bills.
5. Enjoy a Rooftop Sunset at Landmark 81 Skyview
Landmark 81 is the tallest building in Vietnam and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city from its Skyview deck. Located in the high-end Vinhomes Central Park development, this skyscraper towers above the Saigon River and provides an unforgettable vantage point, especially during sunset. The ride up in the elevator alone is impressive, shooting you up 81 floors in under a minute. Once at the top, visitors can gaze out at the ever-expanding skyline, meandering rivers, and distant mountains.
The rooftop also includes luxury dining options, coffee lounges, and photo-op spots perfect for Instagram-worthy memories. It’s a popular date night destination, but also works great for families or solo travelers wanting a bird’s-eye perspective of the city. Time your visit for late afternoon to catch golden hour and watch the city slowly light up. Landmark 81 adds a sleek, modern thrill to your cultural adventures in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Stroll Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a lively pedestrian boulevard located in the heart of District 1, stretching from the People’s Committee Building down to the Saigon River. By day, it’s a clean and scenic avenue ideal for a leisurely walk, while at night it transforms into a vibrant gathering space filled with music, performers, and street vendors. Families, couples, and tourists mingle as kids play with light-up toys and food trucks roll in to offer snacks and drinks. It’s an exciting place to experience the social energy of the city.
Along the street, you’ll find historic buildings, fountains, and trendy cafes, including the famous Cafe Apartment building, filled with quirky art spaces and coffee shops. It’s also a hotspot during national holidays and Tet (Vietnamese New Year), when it’s decorated with lights and flowers. Nguyen Hue is ideal for casual evenings and people-watching, offering both photo-worthy sights and a real slice of local life. It’s free, open every night, and always buzzing.
7. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
The Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 90 minutes from central Ho Chi Minh City, offer a fascinating look into the underground life of Vietnamese soldiers during the war. This vast network of tunnels stretches over 120 kilometers and includes bunkers, kitchens, command centers, and escape routes. Visitors can crawl through sections of the tunnels (expanded slightly for tourists), try their hand at shooting ranges, and see firsthand the ingenuity of Viet Cong survival tactics. The site is both educational and interactive, providing deep insight into wartime strategy and resilience.
Tours typically include transportation, guides, and a short documentary film before you begin your walk through the forested grounds. It’s a must-see for history buffs or anyone wanting to understand Vietnam’s conflict from a different perspective. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, especially if you plan to enter the narrower tunnels. The Cu Chi Tunnels are a half-day adventure that combines learning with a bit of physical exploration.
8. Attend the Tet Festival Celebrations
If you’re lucky enough to be in Ho Chi Minh City during Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, you’ll witness the city at its most colorful and celebratory. Tet usually falls between late January and mid-February and is marked by fireworks, floral displays, parades, and temple visits. Families gather to clean homes, prepare food, and decorate with red and gold symbols of luck and prosperity. Nguyen Hue Street becomes the epicenter of festivities, covered in thousands of flowers and lanterns.
Visitors can enjoy lion dances, street performances, and public concerts held across the city’s parks and plazas. Food markets offer special Tet treats like bánh tét (sticky rice with pork), candied fruits, and herbal teas. It’s a joyful, family-oriented celebration with deep cultural meaning. While some businesses may close for the holiday, public spaces come alive with activity, making Tet a truly special time to experience Ho Chi Minh City.
9. Escape to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
Just 40 km from the city, Can Gio Biosphere Reserve offers a serene getaway filled with mangrove forests, wildlife, and eco-tours. Recognized by UNESCO, this protected area is home to monkeys, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Guided boat rides take you deep into the mangroves, and elevated walkways allow you to explore the forest without disrupting the ecosystem. It’s a unique combination of nature, education, and relaxation all rolled into one.
You can also visit the Vam Sat Ecological Park and enjoy canoe rides or walk across the swaying Monkey Bridge for a little thrill. Day trips can be booked through local tour operators or arranged independently with public transport or motorbike rental. The air here is fresh, the environment peaceful, and the vibe completely different from the city’s rush. If you’re craving nature during your stay in Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio offers a great escape.
10. Catch Live Music and Theater at Saigon Opera House
The Saigon Opera House, or Municipal Theatre, is a French colonial masterpiece and one of the city’s most elegant venues for live entertainment. Built in 1897, the building features ornate architecture, grand staircases, and a central location that makes it easy to include in any evening plan. Throughout the year, the Opera House hosts ballet, classical concerts, Vietnamese folk performances, and modern cultural shows like A O Show—a Cirque du Soleil-style blend of acrobatics, dance, and traditional instruments. It’s a refined way to enjoy local talent and artistic excellence.
Tickets are affordable by Western standards, and the performances are accessible for all audiences, often with minimal or no language barrier. The venue itself is worth visiting even without a show, especially at night when it’s lit up beautifully. Many people pair the experience with a rooftop dinner nearby or a walk along Dong Khoi Street. If you’re looking for a classy night out in the city, the Opera House is a perfect pick.
What to do if you have kids?
Ho Chi Minh City is filled with family-friendly attractions that make traveling with kids enjoyable and easy. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens offer animals, playgrounds, and shaded spots for rest. The Artinus 3D Art Museum is a hit with children, filled with optical illusions and fun photo ops. Kids will also enjoy boat rides on the Saigon River, interactive food tours, and visits to kid-friendly cafés and play areas like Vietopia. With manageable distances, affordable transport, and welcoming locals, the city makes a great destination for families looking to mix culture with fun.
Where can I find free events in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam taking place this weekend?
To discover free events happening this weekend in Ho Chi Minh City—from music shows and art fairs to yoga in the park and community festivals—head to https://planmyweekend.ai. This real-time platform highlights the city’s best free and low-cost happenings, making it easy to find something exciting to do at a moment’s notice. Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time resident, Plan My Weekend helps you experience more without overspending. From culture to food to music, you’ll find something for every interest.
Final thoughts
Ho Chi Minh City is a sensory adventure—a place where every turn offers something new, whether it’s a hidden alley café, a live street performance, or a bite of something delicious sizzling at a market stall. Its blend of French colonial charm, bustling energy, and deep-rooted Vietnamese culture makes it a fascinating city to explore all year long. With endless attractions, warm locals, and a growing arts scene, HCMC rewards travelers who dive in with curiosity and an open heart. Use tools like Plan My Weekend to find hidden gems, and let the city surprise you every step of the way.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
