Ho Chi Minh City
There’s no better place to get a feel for urban Vietnam than the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This is Vietnam's largest city and one of the country's most free-spirited destinations. Still referred to as ‘Saigon’ by locals, it is known for hordes of motorbikes, mouthwatering food, and hip coffee shops.
Set along the languorous Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City is composed of 19 inner districts and five suburban districts. Most of the action takes place in a relatively small, walkable area within and around District 1. The Saigon Opera House in Lam Son Square is the colonial heart of the city. Nearby Ben Thanh Market and Notre Dame Cathedral are two equally iconic landmarks. For those who want to go beyond the central districts, the streets of Chinatown in District 5 and the riverside community in District 2 are both worth exploring.
Ho Chi Minh City is sometimes compared to Hanoi as the capital’s younger sister: A little less traditional, a little more rebellious, and a lot more eager to embrace ideas, fashion, and commerce from the outside world. Historically, the Saigon River brought trade, culture, and religion from abroad directly to the city’s doorstep. French colonists left their mark in the form of grand villas, schools, and cathedrals that can still be found sprinkled around Districts 1 and 3.
The areas just outside Ho Chi Minh City were the scene of some of the most brutal fighting in the Vietnamese-American War. Today, visitors can review the losses on both sides at the War Remnants Museum, glimpse the ingenuity of the Viet Cong in the Cu Chi Tunnels just outside the city, or visit storied bars that served as haunts for war correspondents.
Despite its turbulent years, the mood in Ho Chi Minh City is buoyant. A huge percentage of the population is under 30, and Vietnam’s youth are embracing the future. Old Saigon is an atmospheric backdrop for a kind of Vietnamese chic: a blend of French aesthetics and Vietnamese sensibilities, timeless tradition and bright-eyed consumerism. And though there are spanking new malls popping up all over, daily life in Ho Chi Minh City plays out in small ‘hems’ and alleys. Duck down any alley, and you’re likely to encounter a charming café, a sidewalk noodle stall, and a gallery within a few steps of each other. Some of the best discoveries in the city are found down an alley and up a flight of stairs.
Ho Chi Minh City lures foodies from around the world. Delicate flavors, fresh herbs, and delightful textures are the hallmarks of Vietnamese cooking. In Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can choose from hundreds of enticing local eateries as well as a wide array of authentic international restaurants. After dark, the city offers up cool lounges, artsy hangouts, and craft beer bars. No visit is complete without at least one motorcycle hop — past the parks, along the river, and through the ever-changing streets.
Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City
Explore hand-picked Ho Chi Minh City tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi Tunnels half day tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon by Night & Food Tour by Vespa
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh to My Tho / Mekong Day Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh to Can Tho / Mekong Day 1
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta 1 Day Group Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Z - Ho Chi Chi Minh City Group Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Jeep Tour Saigon by Night: Foodie & City tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Z - Saigon Heritage Ride
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Ho Chi Minh City
Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh / Mekong Delta Day 2
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh Half-Day City Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon After Dark by Scooter
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Ho Chi Minh City
City Highlight and Unseen By Motorbike
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Ho Chi Minh City
Cat Tien National Park Tour
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Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh Visit Cu Chi Tunnels
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Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Ho Chi Minh City accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel des Arts
Hotel des Arts is a boutique hotel in downtown Saigon. This luxurious hotel has its own interesting collection of antiques and art.
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
Get more out of your stay in Ho Chi Minh City when you choose this chic, urban hotel. From an in-house cinema for an impromptu movie night to exploring a bustling city right outside your door, you’ll enjoy elegance and and excitement when you choose Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint.
LA VELA SAIGON HOTEL
Experience the pinnacle of 5-star luxury and personalized service at La Vela Saigon. Combining modern design with classic royal elegance, our hotel offers an extraordinary experience for passionate travelers. Awaken your spirit and elevate your lifestyle with our exceptional services, from the comfort of our luxurious rooms to indulgent culinary delights.
Acnos Hotel
Acnos Hotel is a cozy retreat situated in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, offering travelers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling streets of this vibrant metropolis. Located on a quiet alleyway in District 1, the hotel provides easy access to the city's main attractions, while still maintaining a sense of serenity and seclusion.
Eden Star Saigon Hotel
The Eden Star Saigon Hotel is a welcoming retreat in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Strategically located in the vibrant District 1, the hotel places guests in close proximity to the city's main attractions, while also offering a tranquil escape from the bustling streets.
The Odys Boutique Hotel
The Odys Boutique Hotel is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, offering a relaxing retreat from the vibrant streets of this bustling metropolis. Located in District 1, the hotel is just a short stroll from the city's iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and trendy neighborhoods.
Harmony Saigon Hotel and Spa
Harmony Saigon Hotel & Spa is located in District 1, a neighbourhood in Ho Chi Minh City, and is in the entertainment district and near the airport. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre, while those who have shopping on the agenda may want to visit Pham Ngu Lao Backpacker Area and Bui Vien Walking Street. Pham Ngu Lao Street and Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including outlet shopping.
Grand Hotel Sai Gon
Hotel Grand Saigon is a colonial-styled hotel built in 1930 and was completely restored in 1997. The hotel is ideally located in the heart of Saigon, overlooking historical streets and Saigon River.
Ho Chi Minh City itineraries
Explore hand-picked Ho Chi Minh City itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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This itinerary was designed by our experts to showcase the range of experiences we can cater to in Vietnam and Cambodia trip. All services are 100% customizable to fit your travel dates, budget, and preferences. Do you need to find different hotels, alternative lodging or other activities? Our experts in Southeast Asia can assist you with your requests. Send us an email to book your personal trip to Vietnam and Cambodia.
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This itinerary is the starting point for a great trip to Vietnam & Cambodia. All services can be customized to suit your travel needs, dates, and budget. You may be looking for hotels or other options, such as alternative lodging. Our local experts will help you in Southeast Asia. Get in touch to plan your trip to Vietnam, Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries.
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7 days · Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Siem Reap
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This itinerary will help you plan a trip to Vietnam or Cambodia. All services can be customized to meet your travel preferences, dates and budget. Are you looking for alternative lodging, activities or hotels? You can count on the expertise of our local experts in Southeast Asia to meet your needs. For a personalized trip to Vietnam or Cambodia, get in touch with us today.
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