Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City – A whirlwind of neon lights, history, and street food.
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately called Saigon by locals, is the beating heart of southern Vietnam. Here, the legacy of French colonial times meets rapid progress and glittering skyscrapers. The city is a sensory overload: the endless sea of motorbikes, the aroma of fresh cilantro and coffee, and the blend of historic war museums with hyper-modern rooftop bars make Saigon a fascinating urban adventure. It is a city that never stops and immediately draws visitors into its chaotic yet charming rhythm.
Compare hotels, apartments and holiday rentals — curated for your trip.
Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City
Find your stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Compare hotels, apartments and holiday rentals — curated for your trip.
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Dancenter Phuong Nam Hospital Formerly Nam Phuong Hoang Hau -
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Collection O Nam Phuong -
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Belvilla Near Lotte Mart Formerly Nam Phuong Hoang Hau -
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Hotel Phương Linh 360 phạm hùng -
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Trang Thu 2 Hotel -
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Beautiful balcony window Studio-A paradise of food, shopping and beauty care services -
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Hoang Yen Nhi Hotel -
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StayX House
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Highlights & sights
- ✓ War Remnants Museum
- ✓ Independence Palace
- ✓ Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
- ✓ Central Post Office
- ✓ Ben Thanh Market
- ✓ Bitexco Financial Tower
- ✓ Bui Vien Street
- ✓ Nguyen Hue Walking Street
- ✓ Jade Emperor Pagoda
- ✓ Pink Church (Tan Dinh)
How to get there
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the largest in Vietnam, located about 7 km from the city center. The ride into town takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the notorious traffic. Within the city, Grab (car or bike) is the most efficient and affordable way to get around while the metro system is still under construction.
Tips & info
Insider Tips
- Have a drink at a rooftop bar (e.g., Chill Skybar) for a spectacular view of the city’s sea of lights.
- Try "Banh Mi Huynh Hoa" – widely considered by locals as the best sandwich in the city.
- Discover "The Cafe Apartments" on Nguyen Hue – an old apartment block filled with hip cafes and boutiques.
- Visit the War Remnants Museum early in the morning to experience the moving exhibits before the crowds.
- Explore District 3 to see local life and beautiful villas away from the main tourist hubs.
Saigon & Surroundings
Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect base for exploring the historic and natural wonders of the south.
Nearby highlights:
- Cu Chi Tunnels (War history)
- Mekong Delta (River landscapes)
- Vung Tau (Seaside city)
- Cao Dai Temple
- Can Gio Mangrove Forest
Best Day Trips
Cu Chi Tunnels
An impressive underground tunnel system from the Vietnam War, about 1.5 hours away.
Mekong Delta (My Tho / Ben Tre)
Experience river life, floating markets, and fruit orchards in the "rice bowl of Vietnam".
Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO biosphere reserve featuring monkey islands and crocodile farms for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit
- December to March: The best time – dry season with temperatures at their most pleasant (28-32°C).
- April to May: Very hot and humid just before the monsoon starts.
- June to September: Rainy season – often short, heavy afternoon downpours; the city looks fresh and vibrant afterwards.
- Tet Festival (January/February): The biggest holiday; many shops close, but the city is beautifully decorated with flowers.