Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest metropolis—fast-paced, energetic, and steeped in history. For Indian travelers, it offers a dynamic blend of colonial architecture, war museums, spiritual sites, and modern city life, all buzzing with vibrant street culture.
1. War Remnants Museum
Why visit: A powerful and moving insight into Vietnam’s wartime history.
Highlights: – Photojournalism and military exhibits – US aircraft and war machines – Educational and emotional experience
Timing: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry: ~40,000 VND
2. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Why visit: A striking French colonial church in the heart of the city.
Highlights: – Twin bell towers and red-brick exterior – Peaceful interior space for reflection – Opposite the Saigon Central Post Office
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM (under renovation—outside view recommended)
Entry: Free
3. Ben Thanh Market
Why visit: A bustling local market and landmark for shopping and food.
Highlights: – Souvenirs, textiles, handicrafts – Vietnamese coffee, pho, and snacks – Great place for bargain shopping
Timing: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry: Free
4. Cu Chi Tunnels
Why visit: An underground maze used by Viet Cong during the war.
Highlights: – Crawl through tunnels and see trap demonstrations – Watch documentary videos – Located 1.5 hours from city center
Timing: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry: ~110,000 VND
5. Saigon Central Post Office
Why visit: A beautifully preserved colonial post office designed by Gustave Eiffel.
Highlights: – Arched ceilings and mosaic flooring – Vintage phone booths and souvenir shops – Still in operation today
Timing: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry: Free
6. Bitexco Financial Tower & Sky Deck
Why visit: For panoramic views of the city skyline.
Highlights: – 49th-floor Sky Deck with telescopes – Rooftop café and bar – Sunset cityscape photography
Timing: 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Entry: ~200,000 VND
7. Jade Emperor Pagoda
Why visit: A vibrant Taoist temple with rich spiritual significance.
Highlights: – Incense-filled halls and wooden carvings – Statues of deities and guardians – Peaceful courtyard pond with turtles
Timing: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry: Free
8. Reunification Palace
Why visit: A historic site tied to the end of the Vietnam War.
Highlights: – Preserved 1960s architecture – War rooms and secret tunnels – Government meeting halls and vintage décor
Timing: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
Entry: ~40,000 VND
9. Saigon Opera House
Why visit: A grand colonial theater still hosting live performances.
Highlights: – Ornate façade and elegant interiors – A O Show and ballet performances – Beautifully lit at night
Timing: Performance hours (evenings)
Entry: From ~400,000 VND (show dependent)
10. Bui Vien Walking Street
Why visit: The nightlife hub of Ho Chi Minh for food, fun, and people-watching.
Highlights: – Bars, live music, and street performers – Indian restaurants and global cuisine – Energetic weekend vibe
Timing: Evening until late
Entry: Free
