5 Must-Not-Miss Things When Visiting Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant and captivating destination in Vietnam. It serves as the economic, cultural, and entertainment hub of the country, blending modernity with tradition. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been here many times, Saigon always has something new to discover. Below are 5 things you must not miss when visiting Ho Chi Minh City that AVS wants to introduce to you.
1. Explore Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is an indispensable icon of Saigon. It’s the largest and most famous market located right in the heart of District 1. Ben Thanh Market is not only a shopping destination but also a place showcasing the local culture and daily life of Saigonese.
Highlights:
- Shopping: You can find all kinds of goods from clothing, shoes, handicrafts to specialty foods and spices.
- Cuisine: Ben Thanh Market is also a culinary paradise with countless tempting street foods like banh xeo, pho, grilled meat vermicelli, and traditional desserts.
- Cultural exploration: It’s also an ideal place to learn about the culture and customs of the local people through products and interactions with vendors.
2. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and Central Post Office
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Central Post Office are two prominent architectural landmarks with deep historical significance in Saigon. They are located close to each other in District 1, creating an unmissable sightseeing area.
Highlights:
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica: Built from 1877 to 1880 by the French, the cathedral with its Romanesque architecture and two 58-meter bell towers has become a symbol of Saigon. You can enter inside to visit and admire the serene, solemn space.
Central Post Office: Located opposite Notre-Dame Cathedral, the post office was designed by the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel. Inside the post office is a spacious area with high vaulted ceilings and exquisite decorations. It’s an ideal place to send postcards home or purchase unique souvenirs.
3. Indulge in Street Food
Saigon is renowned for its rich and diverse culinary scene, especially its street food. Enjoying street food is not only a culinary experience but also a fantastic way to explore the culture and life of the local people
Highlights:
- Banh mi: A combination of crispy bread, grilled meat, pate, pickles, and herbs. You can find banh mi everywhere in the city.
- Pho: The traditional pho with flavorful broth, soft noodles, beef or chicken, and fresh herbs.
- Bun thit nuong: Fresh vermicelli served with fragrant grilled meat, spring rolls, fresh vegetables, and sweet-sour fish sauce.
- Hu tieu: A dish originated from China, with clear, light broth, soft and chewy noodles, and pork, shrimp, or crab.
4. Visit the War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is a must-visit destination if you want to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history and the hardships it endured during the war. The museum houses many artifacts, images, and documents related to the Vietnam War.
Highlights:
- Artifacts: The museum displays various war artifacts such as planes, tanks, landmines, and weapons.
- Documents and images: Documents, images, and documentary films at the museum help you understand more about the losses and sufferings of the Vietnamese people during the war.
- Special exhibitions: The museum also organizes special exhibitions on human rights issues, the impact of war on civilians, and the post-war reconciliation and development process.
5. Stroll around Bui Vien Street in the Western Quarter
Bui Vien Street in the Western Quarter is the liveliest nightlife hub in Saigon, attracting many tourists from both home and abroad. It’s where you can experience the colorful and bustling nightlife of the city.
Highlights:
- Bars and restaurants: This area is filled with numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes with diverse styles, serving dishes and drinks from all over the world.
- Music and entertainment: You can enjoy live music, DJs, and lively street performances.
- Shopping and entertainment: Additionally, Bui Vien Street also has many souvenir shops, clothing stores, and entertainment services such as karaoke and massage.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic tourist destination with a harmonious combination of modernity and tradition, history, and culture. Experiences in Saigon will bring you unforgettable memories and deep insights into the country and people of Vietnam.
Plan your trip today and explore Ho Chi Minh City with AVS! We are committed to providing you with the best services and wonderful travel experiences.
