Are you a foodie, a history buff, or simply a curious backpacker type of traveler? No matter what type of holidaymaker you are, Ho Chi Minh City’s got something special for you to discover and enjoy. It’s one of those urban destinations that’s full of character and unique experiences, shaped by its history and culture.
Like most cities in Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City is incredibly affordable. That’s one of the reasons why so many travelers choose to stay here for a long time. See just how much value for money traveling to this city can be by checking out the combo airline ticket and hotel packages offered by travel websites like Traveloka: https://www.traveloka.com/vi-vn/packages/vietnam/region/ho-chi-minh-city-10009794
As for your itinerary, you can narrow down your list of destinations by considering what type of traveler you are. Find places to visit that will cater to your interests with these examples.
The History Buff
If you’re a history lover, there are plenty of places in the city you can visit to learn about the Vietnam War and other important points in Vietnam’s history.
- War Remnants Museum – There are actually many museums in Ho Chi Minh City, but the most popular is the War Remnants Museum. Aside from housing artifacts from the Vietnam War—the war that shaped that country the most—it also has an exhibit featuring the First Indochina War, which was fought with the French colonialists.
- Củ Chi Tunnels – Experience, first-hand, the hard life of a Viet-Cong soldier during the war. This network of tunnels is one of the most iconic tours in the city. However, the 100-metre crawl through these tunnels may not be suitable forvisitors who have breathing difficulties and claustrophobia.
The Foodie
One of Vietnam’s best exports is their food, and in Saigon, you can have your fill of authentic Phở and other delectable street food in these locations.
- Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa – According to locals, Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is the place to go for some of the best bánh mì in the city. The place is located at 26 Lê Thị Riêng, Ben Thanh inDistrict 1 and is open from 3:30 PM until midnight.
- Phở 2000 – There are actually so many places in the city to get a great bowl of Phở with the freshest herbs on the side. The famed Phở 2000 is one of them and is conveniently located next to the Ben Thanh Market.
- Districts 1 to 5 and 7 – You will be spoiled for choice in the city with so many districts serving their best heirloom recipes. In each of these districts, foodies will find delicious cuisines ranging from the tame to the more exotic.
The Shopper
Fashionistas would be happy to know that Ho Chi Minh City has a shopping scene that can rival that of Bangkok. As the country manufactures goods for global brands such as Marks & Spencer, H&M, Gap, and so on, you can be sure that the Vietnamese have the skills to produce high-quality clothes and accessories.
- Ben Thanh Market – Sure, the city has world-class air-conditioned malls and fashion boutiques, but if you want a more exciting shopping experience, better come and experience the Ben Thanh Market at night. The market has everything you could ever want—clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food as well.
- Saigon Square – Bargain hunters flock to this 2-storey building right in front of the more luxurious Saigon Centre mall. Here, you can find clothes, electronics, souvenirs, and yummy food stalls.
The Partygoer
Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is just as vibrant as in any other global city in the world. The city features some of the best rooftop bars, clubs, and bars for partygoers.
- Apocalypse Now – This nightclub in District 1 is as legendary as the movie it’s named after. While it attracts the young, hip crowd, this club offers surprisingly affordable cocktails with a wide-open dance floor to show-off your moves.
- Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar – Located at the 9thfloor of the 5-star Caravelle Hotel, this rooftop bar has a stunning view of the Saigon River. It actually has a notable past as the watering hole of journalists during the war. Today, it’s a romantic and sophisticated spot to relax, share some drinks, and listen to live bands performing lounge music.
The Culturati
Ho Chi Minh City is a beautiful city that showcases European as well as Asian influences in its architecture and art scene. Visit the different art museums and buildings across the many districts of the city and get a deeper insight into the heart and soul of the people that live there.
- Saigon Opera House – The Opera House at Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé is a magnificent example of French colonial architecture. It hosts live performances including classical ballet, traditional Vietnamese plays, and dances, as well as musicals and concerts. Nearby, you could also visit the famed Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office to appreciate the distinct architectural legacy left by the French.
- Sàn Art Laboratory – The city also has a thriving modern art scene, and you can see the works of the up-and-coming artists at the San Art Laboratory in Mê Linh at the Bình Thạnh District of the city.
Travel to Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City and learn more about its urban landscape, beyond the legacy of the Vietnam War. Whatever type of traveler you might be, the city will have surprises that will definitely hook you into coming back.
