SAIGON
Best Things to Do in Saigon
Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a bustling metropolis that is rich in culture and charm. Both locals and tourists are drawn to the city for its vibrant street scenes, rich history, and delectable food. If you’re planning to visit this amazing city, then you’re in for a treat. There are so many things to do in Saigon, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices. To help you narrow your options down, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Saigon. Read on to discover the best activities and experiences on offer! Saigon is truly a city like no other, with a unique vibrancy that is not found anywhere else. Whether you're seeking historical and cultural immersion or simply want to indulge in some of the most verdant, fresh cuisine available, there is something for everyone. From the authentic and delicious street food to the impressive history and local customs, this city has an endless list of adventures that are sure to captivate. We hope our guide to the best things to do when you visit Saigon will help you enjoy your trip to this amazing Southeast Asian metropolis.
The Best Things To Do in Saigon
meganthetravelingwriter.com
1. War Remnants Museum
One of the must-see attractions in Saigon is the War Remnants Museum. The museum is dedicated to the Vietnam War and the aftermath of the conflict. The museum houses a collection of photographs, artifacts, and stories from the war, and it’s an educational and emotional experience. You’ll get an insight into the horrors of the war and how it affected the people of Vietnam. The museum has English captions, making it easy for foreigners to understand the exhibits. The War Remnants Museum is another must-visit destination in Saigon. It houses a vast collection of war-related exhibits, collections, and artifacts. Although it is an emotionally charged experience, the museum gives you an opportunity to learn about the impact of the Vietnam War and its aftermath. From war photography to military equipment and weaponry, you will witness many firsthand accounts that demonstrate the harsh realities of war.
.png)
Tickets:
$5 per adult and $3 for the audio guide
Make sure to buy the audio guide.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
Of the 12,000 to 20,000 prisoners of S-21 prison, only 12 survived. Some of those survivors sell their autobiographies at the museum. These books provide firsthand accounts of the horrors of what life was like for prisoners at S-21. By sharing their stories, these brave survivors have helped shed light on darkest period in Cambodia's history and keep the memories of the victims alive.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
2. Try local food
Saigon is a foodie’s paradise, and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options. From street food vendors to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone. Some of the must-try dishes include pho, banh mi, and bun rieu. The street food scene in Saigon is particularly exciting, with vendors serving up fresh and flavorful dishes. Do as the locals do and pull up a plastic stool on the sidewalk for a delicious meal. The city is a paradise for foodies. From street food to high-end restaurants, Saigon has an array of delicious food options. You can explore Pho, Vietnam's signature noodle soup, Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, Bahn Xeo, the pancakes filled with bean sprouts, pork and other tasty ingredients, and bubble tea, among other delicacies. We recommend taking a food tour or trying the various street vendors to get a true and genuine taste of Saigon.
Tickets:
$6 per person including the audio guide
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
3. The Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a network of underground tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. The tunnels are located about 40 km northwest of Saigon and are a fascinating and eerie attraction. You’ll get an insight into the guerrilla tactics used by the Viet Cong and how they survived underground. You can crawl through the narrow tunnels and see what life was like for the soldiers during the war. The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most important historical landmarks in Saigon. These tunnels took almost two decades to create and were used during the Vietnam War for communication and transportation purposes. The tunnels extend for almost 250km and are open to the public for exploration. You can explore the tunnels, get a first-hand experience of how soldiers used to live underground, and see the various booby traps used to defend their territory. This is an experience that will leave you in awe and give you a glimpse into history.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
4. Notre Dame Cathedral
Saigon has a rich architectural history, with buildings that date back to the French colonial era. Some of the most impressive structures include the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. These buildings are great examples of French colonial architecture and are a pleasure to admire. The Notre Dame Cathedral is particularly iconic, with its red brick facade and distinctive spires.
Tickets:
10 USD for entrance
Hire a guide at The Royal Palace to provide context.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
5. Day trip to the Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta is a fantastic day trip from Saigon. The Mekong River is the heartbeat of Vietnam, and it is the ideal place to escape the bustling city and relax. You take a boat ride where you can observe the locals' daily routines and visit local markets. You will also have the opportunity to try Vietnamese snake wine, visit various temples, and explore the floating markets.
Tickets:
10 USD for entrance
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
6. Ben Thanh Market
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Send a letter at the post office
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Brew mindfulness
This is one of the most unique things you can do in Saigon.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Send a letter at the post office
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Brew mindfulness
This is one of the most unique things you can do in Saigon.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Vietnamese Coffee
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Vietnamese Coffee
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Vietnamese Coffee
The Ben Thanh Market is the most famous market in Saigon. It is a popular place for locals and tourists. The market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it is a good place to do some shopping. You can purchase traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, textiles, silk products, delicious food, and other local goods. Haggling is part of the market culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices. The Ben Thanh Market is a bustling market in District 1 that's known for its lively atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shopping. It's a one-stop-shop for all your needs, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The best part? It's open from early morning until late at night, so you can explore at your own pace.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Shop like a local
Across the street from F3, is Phnom Penh's best hole-in-the-wall restaurant, David's Restaurant Homemade Noodles. It's a small, unassuming restaurant that serves some of the best noodles in Phnom Penh. The noodles are fresh, chewy, full of flavor, and made right in front of you. It may not look like much from the outside, but once you try their noodles, you'll be coming back for more.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
7. Independence Palace
Across the street from F3, is Phnom Penh's best hole-in-the-wall restaurant, David's Restaurant Homemade Noodles. It's a small, unassuming restaurant that serves some of the best noodles in Phnom Penh. The noodles are fresh, chewy, full of flavor, and made right in front of you. It may not look like much from the outside, but once you try their noodles, you'll be coming back for more.
meganthetravelingwriter.com
meganthetravelingwriter.com
Did you know that . . .
When you purchase something through my links I earn a small commission. However, you still pay the same. Win-win!
.png){kind=small}
Blog Comments
Want more help planning your trip? Plan a chat with me now for personalized travel advice.