Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, still widely known as Saigon, is Vietnam's fast-beating commercial heart. Skyscrapers rise above French-colonial boulevards, motorbikes surge through the streets in their millions, and the aromas of street food fill every corner. It is a city of relentless energy and profound history.

Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Crawl through the remarkable Cu Chi Tunnels, the vast underground network of the Vietnam War, on a half-day tour. In the city, the powerful War Remnants Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the bustling Ben Thanh Market are essential stops.

The most popular day trip is to the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta, with its floating markets, fruit orchards and sampan boat rides.

Tours Worth Booking

• Cu Chi Tunnels half-day tours
• Mekong Delta day trips with boat rides
• Saigon street food motorbike and walking tours
• City history and architecture walking tours

Best Time to Visit

The dry season from December to April brings the most comfortable conditions, with sunny skies and lower humidity. The May–November wet season sees short, heavy afternoon downpours. The city is hot year-round, so light clothing is essential.

Getting Around

Ride-hailing apps (Grab), by car or motorbike, are the cheapest and easiest way around the sprawling city. The compact central District 1 is walkable, and Cu Chi and Mekong Delta tours include transfers.