Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Vietnam Travel Guide
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon — Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis and economic powerhouse. A city that never sleeps, Saigon pulses with energy, blending French colonial elegance, chaotic street life, and modern skyscrapers.
Famous for its incredible food scene, historic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City offers an exhilarating mix of history, culture, and contemporary Vietnamese life. From rooftop bars with glittering views to bustling alleys filled with the aroma of street food, Saigon delivers an unforgettable urban adventure.
Best Vietnam Itineraries
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Itineraries
Choose the perfect itinerary based on how much time you have
1 Day in Saigon
Quick VisitBest for: Short layovers and city highlights.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral & Saigon Central Post Office
- Ben Thanh Market & street food
- War Remnants Museum
- Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck (or rooftop bar)
- Evening walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Tip: Visit the War Remnants Museum early to avoid crowds and allow enough time to reflect on the exhibits.
3 Days in Saigon
RecommendedBest for: First-time visitors wanting energy + history.
- Historic District 1 exploration (Cathedral, Post Office, Opera House)
- Cu Chi Tunnels day trip
- Chinatown (Cho Lon) & Binh Tay Market
- Thao Dien or Pham Ngu Lao for cafes & nightlife
- Saigon River dinner cruise or rooftop bar experience
Tip: Stay in District 1 (near Ben Thanh Market) for the best walkability and access to attractions.
7 Days in Saigon
Deep DiveBest for: Slow travelers and Vietnam explorers.
- Thorough discovery of Saigon’s historic and modern sides
- Mekong Delta overnight or day trip
- Vung Tau or Mui Ne beach day trip
- Food tours, cooking classes & street food adventures
- Contemporary art scene, rooftop bars & hidden cafes
Tip: Use Saigon as your vibrant base — it has excellent connections to the Mekong Delta, beaches, and the rest of southern Vietnam.
Transport
How to Get to & Around Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Best ways to reach Saigon and explore the city
By Air
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
Hanoi → Saigon: ~2 hours
International hub with many direct flights
By Train
Hanoi → Saigon: 30–35 hours (Reunification Express)
Da Nang → Saigon: 15–18 hours
Scenic but long journey
By Bus
Hanoi → Saigon: 30–36 hours
Da Nang → Saigon: 12–14 hours
Many sleeper bus options
Local Transport
Grab (most popular & safe)
Motorbike taxi (xe ôm)
Metro & buses in city
Top Things To See & Experiences In Vietnam
Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
4 must-visit places that define Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis
War Remnants Museum
Powerful museum documenting the Vietnam War.
Must-See:
• Historic photographs & artifacts
• Military equipment outside
• Moving and educational
Reunification Palace
Iconic symbol of the end of the Vietnam War.
Must-See:
• Presidential offices & bunkers
• Historic tank on display
• Beautiful gardens
Ben Thanh Market
Iconic central market and shopping hub.
Must-See:
• Street food heaven
• Souvenirs & local products
• Vibrant atmosphere day & night
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Panoramic views from Saigon’s iconic skyscraper.
Must-See:
• 360° city views
• Best at sunset or night
• Modern Saigon skyline
