Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a whirlwind of scooters, street food and surprises at every turn.
Buzzing scooters, iced coffee on every corner, historic streets, and a food scene that’s world-famous—Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is full of life, colour, and culture. If you’re heading to Vietnam soon, these five experiences, from Mekong Delta Cruise to crawling through Cu Chi Tunnels, should be on your list to get the best mix of history, food, and fun.
Walk Through History At The War Remnants Museum
A must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese history, the War Remnants Museum offers a sobering but important look at the Vietnam War from the country’s perspective. The exhibits include photos, weapons, aircraft, and eye-opening displays that tell real stories of survival and resilience. We recommend going early in the day to avoid crowds and take your time through the exhibitions.
Dive Into History At The Cu Chi Tunnels
Probably the most impressive and unnerving experience for any traveller is a visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used during the Vietnam War. Just outside the city, this site offers a fascinating (and slightly claustrophobic) glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people. You can even try squeezing through the original tunnels—if you dare. But if you have claustrophobia, do not even try.
Take A Vespa Food Tour Through The City
Tour buses are surely one way to explore Ho Chi Minh’s food scene but the best way is to hop on the back of a vintage Vespa and zip through District 1 and 3 while sampling local street food. These guided food tours are a delicious way to explore Ho Chi Minh’s street eats, from bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes) to goi cuon (spring rolls) and local beer. The best time to do these tours is evening, when the streets are abuzz with hawkers and neon lights. If you’re on foot, we recommend heading to Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a lively pedestrian boulevard packed with street performers, food vendors, and neon-lit energy.
Cruise The Mekong Delta On A Day Trip
You’ll read about this experience on every guide to Vietnam and for good reason. A short drive from the city, a Mekong Delta tour is perfect if you want a taste of rural Vietnam. You’ll cruise down coconut-lined canals, visit local markets, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch by the river and maybe pick up a local phrase or two while you interact with people.
Shop (And Bargain) At Ben Thanh Market
No trip to Ho Chi Minh is complete without a stop at the bustling Ben Thanh Market. It’s the place to buy everything from souvenirs and spices to clothes and local coffee. Be ready to haggle which is a quintessential Asian experience! Prices are often higher for tourists, so start your offer at half the quoted price.
