It was once called Saigon during French colonial rule in the 19th century, and you can still see the influence in its colonial buildings and street layout. After Vietnam’s reunification in 1975, it was renamed to honor leader Ho Chi Minh.
Today, the city is developed and growing fast. While not everyone speaks English, most tour guides can speak it well and are trained to help tourists. Sightseeing is easy and enjoyable with a guide (BANGKOK THAILAND TRAVEL).
Ben Thanh Market
Located on Le Loi Street in Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ben Thanh Market is one
of the oldest and most popular markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Inside, you'll find
a wide range of local Vietnamese products, from traditional outfits (ao dai)
and casual clothing to handmade slippers, souvenirs, and a variety of local
coffee, which Vietnam is well known for.
There are also food stalls serving local
dishes, offering an authentic and affordable eating experience. The market is
frequented by both tourists and locals shopping for daily items.
Tourists should note that prices are often negotiable, and bargaining is expected. It’s common for initial prices to be higher for foreigners, so don’t hesitate to negotiate. Most vendors prefer Vietnamese Dong (VND), and while some may accept USD, using local currency is recommended for better rates and smoother transactions (SHIMLA INDIA TOUR).
The Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh City is a well-known attraction, especially popular among tourists on group tours, many of whom are Westerners. Tickets are usually arranged in advance, and entry is straightforward, just walk in and take a seat on the benches in the theatre. Pamphlets in English are distributed before the show, but the performance is entirely in Vietnamese, which may limit understanding for non-speakers.
The show begins with promise, featuring traditional Vietnamese music and puppetry on water. However, after the first 15 minutes, the performance can feel repetitive. If you're not particularly interested in traditional puppet theatre, you may consider skipping it and saving your money.
Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, is a major historical landmark and one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was formerly the presidential residence of South Vietnam and famously marked (WHAT TO DO IN ITALY) the end of the Vietnam War when tanks crashed through its gates on April 30, 1975.
Once you enter through the main gate, the
first attractions are the war tanks and fighter planes on display, a common
photo stop for visitors before heading inside. The palace was once home to President
Nguyễn Văn Thiệu, who led South Vietnam from 1967 until he resigned and fled
shortly before the fall of Saigon. His successor, President Dương Văn Minh,
surrendered to North Vietnamese forces at the palace on April 30, 1975.
The building has five levels, from the basement to the rooftop, featuring preserved rooms, war command bunkers, artifacts, and furnishings related to the former presidents and the Vietnam War. Although the layout is clearly marked, the walk-through may feel repetitive at times, as some areas appear similar. When the palace isn’t crowded, it can feel a bit quiet and eerie. The rooftop opens up to city views and features the original helipad used during the war.
The War Remnants Museum focuses on the Vietnam War and its lasting impact on the local population. It can be emotionally difficult to walk through, with exhibits showing the effects of Agent Orange and other chemical warfare. Photographs, military equipment, and graphic displays document the human cost of the conflict.
After the indoor exhibits, visitors exit into an open-air section where torture chambers and further evidence of wartime cruelty are displayed. A visit here often leaves visitors with mixed emotions, shocked by the brutality, yet grateful for the peace in their own lives.
Across the main road, Saigon Post Office is a tourist attraction for its architecture. Built in the early 20th century by Gustave Eiffel during Vietnam’s time as part of French Indochina. Much has been retained as it was till this day. The vaulted roof, arched windows, and colonial-era phone booths, yet, repurposed as ATMs, which simply relates back to the Vietnam country history. There are stalls selling souvenirs, so you can pick up something to remember your visit by. It will take like 15 minutes unless you want linger longer.
Just across from the Saigon Central Post Office is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a smaller replica of the one in Paris. Built in 1880 during French colonial rule, it stands as another example of Vietnam’s colonial past. From across the road, the red brick façade and twin bell towers are visually striking.
If the church is open, you can step inside to view the stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings. All construction materials, including the red bricks, were imported from France. The cathedral is still used for Sunday Mass and remains an active place of worship.
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