Must-Visit Spots When You Travel to Ho Chi Minh City 🇻🇳

🌆 1. Bui Vien Street – Saigon’s Backpacker Street

  • Famous for nightlife, bars, cafes, and street food.
  • Ideal for tourists wanting to experience the vibrant night scene and “backpacker culture.”
  • Plenty of international restaurants and Western-style bars.

 


🛍️ 2. Ben Thanh Market

  • A historic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Shop for souvenirs, local specialties, and handicrafts.
  • Best visited in the morning for a lively market experience or in the evening for street food.

 

hinh anh cho ben thanh

🏛️ 3. Independence Palace (Dinh Doc Lap)

  • A key historical landmark and symbol of Vietnam’s reunification.
  • Great for tourists interested in culture and history.
  • English-guided tours are available.
dinh độc lập

⛪ 4. Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

  • Stunning French colonial architecture, perfect for photography.
  • Close to cafes and Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

 


🌿 5. Tao Dan Park

  • A peaceful green space in the city center.
  • Visitors can walk, jog, or relax after a day of sightseeing.


🌉 6. Bach Dang Wharf & Saigon River

  • Ideal for a riverside walk, sunset views, or river cruises.
  • Many cafes and restaurants with scenic river views.

 


📚 7. Nguyen Van Binh Book Street

  • A quiet, relaxing area with cafes and bookshops.
  • Many books in English and cultural souvenirs.


🐒 8. Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

  • One of the oldest zoos in Southeast Asia.
  • Suitable for tourists with family or anyone interested in animals and nature.


🎨 9. Saigon Japan Town & International Food Street

  • A charming little street featuring many Japanese, Korean, and Italian restaurants.
  • Perfect for visitors who want to experience international cuisine without traveling far from the city center.


💡 Tips for foreign tourists:

  • Visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street – Bui Vien Street at night for the full city vibe.
  • Use Grab or reputable taxis for safe transport within District 1.
  • Keep an offline map or Google Maps handy; District 1 streets can be crowded and narrow.