Welcome to Saigon
I lived in Ho Chi Minh City for a full year back in 2017-2018, and I’ve returned several times since. This isn’t just another Ho Chi Minh travel guide filled with generic tourist advice. This is the real deal, a guide crafted from months of living like a local in District 7, exploring every corner from the bustling streets of District 1 to the tranquil riverside neighborhoods of District 2.
What makes HCMC special? It’s the energy. Imagine millions of motorbikes weaving through streets lined with French colonial architecture, where you can sip world-class Vietnamese coffee for under a dollar while planning your next adventure. The city is Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, but it hasn’t lost its soul. Street food vendors still serve pho at dawn, families gather for evening walks along the Saigon River, and hidden cafes tucked down narrow alleyways serve some of the best food you’ll ever taste.
This Ho Chi Minh travel guide is designed for smart travelers who want authentic experiences, smart budget tips, and insider knowledge you won’t find elsewhere. I’ve stayed in nearly every district, eaten at hundreds of local spots, and navigated this chaotic, beautiful city during both the tourist season and the quiet months when locals reclaim their streets.
Whether you’re a backpacker on a shoestring budget, a digital nomad looking for your next base, or a luxury traveler seeking the finest experiences Vietnam has to offer, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Ho Chi Minh City.
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Essential Planning Information
Quick Facts You Need to Know
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (₫). As of January 2026, approximately 24,000₫ = $1 USD. Most places accept cash, with card acceptance growing in tourist areas.
Language: Vietnamese is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, but learn basic phrases for markets and local eateries.
Time Zone: GMT+7 (Indochina Time)
Visa Requirements: Many nationalities receive visa exemptions for stays up to 90 days (increased from 30 days in 2023). Check current requirements for your country, as policies update frequently.
Safety: HCMC is generally safe for tourists. Common issues include pickpocketing in crowded areas and bag snatching from motorbikes. Keep valuables secure, especially when sitting at street-side cafes.
When to Visit Ho Chi Minh City
HCMC has two main seasons, and timing your visit correctly makes a huge difference in your experience.
Dry Season (December – April): This is peak season and the best time for most travelers. Temperatures hover around 28-35°C (82-95°F) with minimal rainfall. December and January offer the most pleasant weather with lower humidity. Expect higher prices and more tourists during this period.
Wet Season (May – November): Don’t let the name scare you. Rain typically comes in short, heavy afternoon downpours that last 30-60 minutes. Mornings are usually clear and perfect for sightseeing. Advantages include fewer tourists, better hotel deals, and lush, green surroundings. July through September sees the heaviest rainfall.
Festival Calendar: Tet (Vietnamese New Year) falls in late January or early February. The city empties as locals return to their hometowns. Many businesses close for a week, but it’s a fascinating cultural experience if you don’t mind limited services.
How Many Days Do You Need?
Minimum (2-3 days): Hit the main highlights like the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Ben Thanh Market. Squeeze in one food tour and a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.
Recommended (4-5 days): Comfortable pace to explore districts properly, take a Mekong Delta tour, enjoy the food scene, and have time for shopping and relaxation. This is the sweet spot for most visitors.
Extended (7+ days): Perfect for digital nomads or those wanting to truly understand the city. Explore residential neighborhoods, take cooking classes, visit multiple markets, and take your time experiencing local life. I lived here for a year and still discovered new favorites.
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for your Ho Chi Minh travel guide experience. Each district has its own personality, and where you stay dramatically impacts your trip. After living in District 7 and staying in nearly every area, here’s my honest breakdown:
Best Neighborhoods Overview
District 1 (City Center)
Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife lovers
Vibe: Tourist central with colonial architecture, high-end shopping, and endless dining options
Pros: Walking distance to major attractions, tons of restaurants, easy to navigate
Cons: Noisy, expensive, touristy, traffic congestion
District 2 (Thao Dien)
Best for: Expats, families, digital nomads
Vibe: Trendy, green, international community with cafes and river views
Pros: Peaceful, excellent cafes, riverside location, expat amenities
Cons: Far from main attractions, requires Grab for most trips, more expensive
District 7 (Phu My Hung)
Best for: Longer stays, families, those seeking local life
Vibe: Modern, planned community with large Korean population, parks, and malls
Pros: Clean, safe, great Korean food, parks, less chaotic, affordable
Cons: 30 minutes from District 1, limited nightlife
District 3 (Quiet Center)
Best for: Those wanting central location minus the chaos
Vibe: Residential feel with proximity to District 1
Pros: Quieter than D1, authentic local restaurants, affordable, still central
Cons: Fewer luxury hotels, less English spoken
Hotel Recommendations by Budget
Luxury Hotels ($150-400/night)
Located on Lam Son Square in District 1, this is HCMC’s most iconic luxury hotel. The colonial-inspired architecture, impeccable service, and location steps from the Opera House make it worth the splurge. The Square One restaurant serves an excellent breakfast, and the Xuan Spa is a sanctuary from the city chaos.
Premium riverfront location with stunning city views. The rooftop infinity pool and bar offer phenomenal sunset views over the Saigon River. Club level rooms include lounge access with evening cocktails and canapés, making it excellent value in the luxury category.
Located in Vietnam’s tallest building in the Vinhomes Central Park complex. Spectacular high-floor views, modern luxury, and unique experience staying in a skyscraper. The infinity pool on the 49th floor is Instagram-worthy, and the location in Binh Thanh District offers a different perspective of the city.
Boutique luxury hotel with artistic flair and rooftop pool. Each room is uniquely designed, and the central District 1 location puts you walking distance to major attractions. The rooftop Social Club bar is one of the city’s best sunset spots.
Mid-Range Hotels ($50-150/night)
Excellent value for a international brand hotel. Located near Ben Thanh Market with modern rooms, rooftop pool, and consistently good service. The breakfast buffet is comprehensive, and the location makes exploring on foot easy.
Riverside boutique hotel in District 2 offering a peaceful retreat. The villa-style accommodations, riverside pool, and complimentary boat shuttle to District 1 provide a unique experience. Perfect for those wanting to experience Thao Dien’s trendy cafe scene while still having easy city access.
Boutique retreat in District 2 with peaceful gardens and riverside location. Feels like you’re outside the city while being only 20 minutes from the center. The on-site restaurant serves excellent Vietnamese cuisine, and the spa treatments are top-notch.
Budget Hotels & Hostels ($10-50/night)
HCMC offers excellent value in the budget category. Expect clean rooms with air conditioning, WiFi, and often breakfast included. Many budget hotels in District 1 are family-run and offer authentic hospitality.
Numerous small hotels along Bui Vien Street and surrounding areas offer great value. Look for places with recent renovations, rooftop terraces, and included breakfast. Book directly or through TripAdvisor for best rates.
Pham Ngu Lao area (backpacker district) has dozens of hostels with dorm beds and private rooms. Most include breakfast, organize tours, and offer social common areas perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
This section covers must-see attractions, hidden gems, and authentic experiences based on my year living here and multiple return visits. I’ve organized recommendations by priority to help you make the most of your time.
Tier 1: Absolute Must-See Attractions
War Remnants Museum
Without question, this is the most important museum visit in Vietnam. The War Remnants Museum provides a sobering, Vietnamese perspective on the American War (as it’s known here). Exhibits include military equipment, photographs, and documentation of the war’s impact on Vietnamese civilians. The Agent Orange section is particularly moving. Give yourself 2-3 hours here.
Practical Info: Open daily 7:30am-6pm. Admission: 40,000₫ ($1.70). Located on Vo Van Tan Street in District 3. Best visited in the morning to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.
Ben Thanh Market
The city’s most famous market is a sensory overload in the best way. Four sections cover food, souvenirs, clothing, and household goods. While touristy, it’s worth experiencing. The real magic happens at the night market that sets up outside from 6pm onwards, with amazing street food stalls.
Insider Tips: Expect to haggle aggressively, starting at 30-40% of the asking price. Visit the food hall at lunchtime for authentic Vietnamese meals at local prices (around 50,000₫). The market opens at 6am, and early morning shopping offers the best atmosphere before tourist crowds arrive.
Cu Chi Tunnels Day Trip
This extensive tunnel network 70km northwest of HCMC played a crucial role during the war. The half-day tour includes crawling through sections of the tunnels, seeing booby traps, and learning about the ingenious underground system that housed thousands of soldiers. Choose between Ben Dinh (touristy but easier) or Ben Duoc (more authentic, less crowded).
What to Expect: Tours run 8am-2pm or 1pm-6pm. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. The tunnels are tight and can be claustrophobic. Some tours include shooting AK-47s for an additional fee.
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
One of the absolute best ways to experience Ho Chi Minh City is through its incredible food scene. These guided food tours take you to authentic local spots you’d never find on your own, with expert guides explaining Vietnamese cuisine and culture along the way.
Best Food Tours in HCMC
This is my top recommendation for experiencing HCMC’s food scene. Ride on the back of a scooter through different neighborhoods, stopping at 11 different food stalls and restaurants. You’ll try everything from pho to banh xeo to fresh seafood, all while experiencing the thrill of navigating Saigon traffic. Tours run in the evening when the city truly comes alive with street food vendors.
Prefer to explore on foot? This private walking tour takes you through bustling food districts in District 1 and District 3. Sample everything from banh mi to fresh spring rolls to local desserts. Private tours allow customization based on your dietary restrictions and preferences. Perfect for families or those who want a more relaxed pace.
This tour combines sightseeing with food stops, showing you illuminated landmarks between delicious tastings. The unique feature? You can choose to have female riders wearing traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai costumes as your drivers, adding a cultural element to the experience. You’ll see the city lit up at night while sampling the best street food spots.
Smaller group walking tour (max 12 people) exploring District 1 and District 3 on foot. Perfect for those who want to take their time and really observe street life. Your guide will explain Vietnamese food culture, teach you how to order like a local, and ensure you try the best dishes at each stop. More interaction with your guide and flexibility in pace compared to larger tours.
Specialty Food Experiences
Learn about Vietnam’s unique coffee culture on this specialized tour. Visit different styles of cafes from traditional to modern third-wave roasters, and understand the French colonial influence on Vietnamese coffee. You’ll taste ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk), ca phe trung (egg coffee), and learn the art of slow drip brewing. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts who want to go deeper than just ordering at Starbucks.
Yes, you can eat vegan in Vietnam’s meat-loving culture! This specialized private tour showcases Buddhist vegetarian restaurants, vegan street food, and plant-based Vietnamese cuisine you’d never find on your own. Your guide will explain how Buddhism influences vegetarian cooking in Vietnam and take you to hidden vegan gems. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans worried about dining options in HCMC.
Vietnam’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years. This tour combines local breweries with complementary street food pairings. You’ll visit 3-4 breweries and food spots, learning about Vietnamese craft beer culture while riding through the city on scooters. Sample everything from traditional Vietnamese lagers to experimental IPAs and sours, paired with perfect food matches.
Start at a local wet market learning to select fresh ingredients alongside your chef instructor, then prepare 4-5 traditional Vietnamese dishes in a professional kitchen. You’ll learn techniques like how to make perfect pho broth, roll fresh spring rolls, and create the ideal fish sauce dipping sauce. The class includes a recipe book so you can recreate the meals at home. Hands-on experience that’s more valuable than just eating at restaurants.
Unique Tours & Experiences
Beyond food tours, HCMC offers unique experiences that showcase different aspects of the city’s culture, history, and modern life. These tours provide perspectives you won’t get from standard sightseeing.
Adventure & Cultural Experiences
Tour the city in a vintage open-air jeep, stopping at street food stalls and landmarks. The unique transportation creates memorable photo opportunities and a fun way to cover ground quickly. You’ll feel like you’re in a movie as you cruise through Saigon’s neon-lit streets, stopping at the best local food spots. The combination of sightseeing and eating makes this perfect for those short on time.
This walking tour focuses not just on the food, but on the stories of the vendors who make it. You’ll meet local families who’ve been running food stalls for generations, learning about their lives and the history of each dish. Ends with a sweet finish at a local dessert spot. More intimate and story-focused than typical food tours, perfect for those who love connecting with people.
Mekong Delta Day Trips
The Mekong Delta is one of the most popular day trips from HCMC, offering a completely different Vietnam experience. The labyrinth of rivers, swamps, and islands shows you rural Vietnamese life, floating markets, and lush tropical landscapes.
Best Mekong Delta Tours
Full-day tour to My Tho and Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. Includes boat rides through narrow canals lined with coconut trees, visits to local farms and workshops (honey farm, coconut candy factory), traditional music performances, and lunch at a local home. This is the most popular and affordable Mekong Delta tour option. Expect to spend 2-3 hours traveling each way from HCMC, but the journey is part of the experience as you watch the landscape transform from urban sprawl to lush countryside.
Can’t decide between Cu Chi and Mekong Delta? This VIP full-day tour combines both in a small group setting (maximum 12 people). Visit the tunnels in the morning, then cruise through Mekong waterways in the afternoon. Includes all entrance fees, lunch, and expert guide. It’s a long day (7am-6pm), but maximizes your limited time and ticks off two major experiences in one go. Small group size means more personalized attention and flexibility.
Getting to and from Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s main international gateway and well-connected to other Vietnamese cities. Here’s how to get there and move around the country.
International Flights to HCMC
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is Vietnam’s busiest airport, with direct flights from major cities across Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America. Airlines serving HCMC include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and many more.
Domestic Travel within Vietnam
HCMC is perfectly positioned for exploring the rest of Vietnam. Here are the best ways to travel between major cities:
Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
By Air: 2 hours, flights every hour. Most convenient option.
By Train: 30-35 hours on the Reunification Express. Scenic but very long. Book a sleeper cabin for overnight journeys.
By Bus: 36-40 hours. Cheapest option but exhausting. Sleeper buses available.
Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City
By Air: 1 hour 20 minutes. Multiple daily flights on Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, and Bamboo Airways.
By Train: 17-20 hours. Overnight sleeper trains available with comfortable cabins.
By Bus: 22-24 hours. Sleeper buses run overnight.
Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island
By Air: 1 hour. Multiple daily flights. Book in advance during peak season (December-March).
By Bus + Ferry: 8-10 hours total. Overnight buses to Ha Tien or Rach Gia, then morning ferry to Phu Quoc.
Airport Transfer to City Center
Tan Son Nhat Airport is only 8km from District 1, making transfers quick and affordable:
- Grab: $5-8, 20-30 minutes (depends on traffic). Download the app before arrival.
- Official Taxis: $7-10. Use Vinasun or Mai Linh only. Avoid touts approaching you inside the terminal.
- Airport Bus: Route 109 to Ben Thanh Market, 40,000₫ ($1.70), runs 6am-6pm every 20 minutes.
- Private Transfer: Pre-book for $12-15, driver meets you at arrivals with name sign.
Essential Packing Guide for Ho Chi Minh City
After living in HCMC for a year and visiting multiple times, I’ve refined my packing list to include only essentials that make a real difference. Here’s what actually matters for your Ho Chi Minh travel guide adventure.
The Essentials You Can’t Skip
A quality travel backpack is worth every penny. I personally own and love the Osprey Farpoint 55 – it’s been with me through dozens of countries including my year in HCMC. The detachable daypack is perfect for daily sightseeing while your main bag stays at the hotel. For shorter trips or minimalist packers, the smaller 40L version works perfectly.
Essential for HCMC. Pickpocketing and bag snatching from motorbikes are the #1 tourist complaints. A hidden money sling worn under your shirt keeps your passport, credit cards, and cash completely secure. I wear mine every day when exploring busy areas like Ben Thanh Market or Bui Vien Street. RFID-blocking versions protect against card skimming too.
Your phone is essential in HCMC for Grab, Google Maps, translation apps, and restaurant recommendations. A high-capacity power bank ensures you never get stranded with a dead phone. The heat drains batteries faster than you expect, and you’ll be using your phone constantly. Look for 20,000mAh minimum to get multiple full charges.
Vietnam uses Type A, C, and D outlets (same as most of Europe and Asia). A universal adapter with multiple USB ports lets you charge phone, camera, power bank, and laptop simultaneously. Get one with surge protection to protect your electronics from HCMC’s sometimes-unreliable power grid.
Comfort & Health Items
HCMC hotels often have light-blocking curtains, but budget accommodations don’t. Street lights, neon signs, and early sunrise can disrupt sleep. A contoured eye mask that doesn’t press on your eyes makes all the difference for quality rest, especially if you’re jet-lagged or staying in hostels.
After eating all that street food (sticky rice, meat on skewers, sugar cane juice), dental hygiene becomes more important. A portable water flosser is much more effective than regular floss and takes minimal space. Your dentist will thank you when you return home.
HCMC is sensory overload in the best way. A travel journal helps you process experiences, record restaurant recommendations, and preserve memories that photos can’t capture. Years later, you’ll treasure reading about your first bánh mì or navigating chaotic Ben Thanh Market.
Tech & Connectivity
eSIM for Vietnam: Skip the hassle of buying a local SIM card at the airport. With GlobalYo, you can install your Vietnam eSIM before you leave home and have mobile data as soon as you land. It is fast, affordable, and works perfectly for using Grab, Google Maps, ride apps, and staying connected without relying on public Wi-Fi. A simple and stress-free way to stay online while traveling Vietnam.
VPN for Vietnam: Public Wi-Fi in Vietnam is everywhere, but it is not always secure. Installing NordVPN before you leave home keeps your connection private the moment you land. It protects your data on hotel and café Wi-Fi, helps you access sites and apps you use every day, and keeps things running smoothly while using Grab, Google Maps, and messaging apps. A simple must-have for traveling Vietnam safely and stress-free.
More Must-See Attractions & Experiences
Cultural & Historical Sites
This stunning French colonial building dating from 1897 is one of HCMC’s most photographed landmarks. While you can admire the exterior for free, attending a performance (traditional Vietnamese water puppetry or AO Show) inside is a memorable experience. The neo-baroque architecture is beautifully lit at night.
Located in My Tho (Mekong Delta), this is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful Buddhist temples. The architecture blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer styles with ornate gardens, impressive Buddha statues, and peaceful courtyards. Usually included in Mekong Delta day tours, but worth a special visit if you have extra time.
Browse All Tours & Activities
Can’t decide which tours to book? Browse TripAdvisor’s complete list of Ho Chi Minh City experiences with verified reviews from real travelers. Filter by price, duration, and rating to find the perfect activities for your trip.
🗓️ Sample Itineraries
Choose your trip length to see a customized day-by-day itinerary:
3-Day Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
Day 1: Colonial Saigon & Street Food
Final Tips & Recommendations
Money Transfer & Financial Services
Need to transfer money internationally or exchange currency? Xe Money Transfer offers better exchange rates than banks and lower fees than Western Union. I use them for international transfers – they’re fast, secure, and transparent about fees.
Staying Connected in HCMC
Beyond getting a local SIM or eSIM, here are essential apps for living and traveling in Ho Chi Minh City:
Transportation & Food Delivery
- Grab: Essential for rides and food delivery. Widely accepted throughout HCMC.
- Xanh SM & Be: Alternative ride apps with competitive pricing. Both require a Vietnamese phone number to register, so get these after arriving.
- Shopee.vn: Vietnam’s Amazon equivalent. Order products for delivery to your hotel (electronics, snacks, toiletries). Great for longer stays.
Download Grab before you arrive. Once you have a local number, you can explore Xanh SM and Be for potentially cheaper rides during non-peak hours.
Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Visit
Cross streets carefully: Traffic looks chaotic but follows its own logic. Walk at a steady, predictable pace—don’t stop or run back. Motorbikes will flow around you. Make eye contact with drivers when crossing.
Negotiate everything at markets: Initial prices at Ben Thanh Market can be 3-4x the real price. Start at 30-40% and work up. Walking away often brings vendors to your price.
Coffee culture is serious business: Don’t rush Vietnamese coffee. The slow drip process is intentional. Sit, relax, and people-watch. This is how locals spend hours socializing.
Have you made your decisions yet?
Check out the links below for special offers for accomodation and experiences in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam now:
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know for your Ho Chi Minh City adventure, answered by someone who’s lived there. This best Ho Chi Minh travel guide FAQ section covers the most common questions travelers ask.
It depends on your nationality. As of 2026, many countries enjoy visa exemptions for stays up to 45 days, including citizens from the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and several others. However, most visitors will need either an e-visa or visa on arrival.
E-visa: Available online for stays up to 30-90 days (single or multiple entry). Processing takes 3 working days and costs $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entry). You can enter through major airports including Tan Son Nhat International Airport in HCMC.
Visa on Arrival: Only available for air travelers arriving at international airports. You’ll need a pre-approved visa letter before boarding your flight, then pay stamping fees at the airport ($25-$50 depending on visa type).
Yes! HCMC is generally very safe for tourists and is ranked 12th on the safety index among Southeast Asia’s 20 tourist cities. Vietnam is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for travelers. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare.
Main Safety Concerns:
- Motorbike snatching: The #1 complaint. Keep phones and bags away from the street side and hold belongings securely.
- Pickpocketing: Common in crowded areas like Ben Thanh Market and Bui Vien Street.
- Traffic: Cross streets slowly and steadily – don’t run or stop suddenly. Motorbikes will flow around you.
Pro Tips: Carry bags cross-body on the side away from traffic, don’t display expensive electronics openly, and use reputable taxi services like Grab or official companies (Vinasun, Mai Linh).
Your daily budget depends entirely on your travel style. This best Ho Chi Minh travel guide breaks down realistic budgets for 2026:
Budget Travel ($30-50/day):
- Accommodation: $10-20 (hostels, budget guesthouses)
- Food: $8-15 (street food, local restaurants)
- Activities: $5-10 (free attractions, one paid museum)
- Transport: $5-10 (Grab bikes, local buses)
Mid-Range ($50-100/day):
- Accommodation: $40-80 (3-4 star hotels)
- Food: $20-30 (mix of local and international restaurants)
- Activities: $10-20 (tours, entrance fees)
- Transport: $10-15 (Grab cars, occasional taxis)
Luxury ($150+/day):
- Accommodation: $150-400 (5-star hotels like Park Hyatt or InterContinental)
- Food: $50-100 (fine dining, rooftop bars)
- Activities: $30-50 (private tours, spa treatments)
- Transport: $20-30 (private cars, premium Grab)
Grab is your best friend! Download it before you arrive. Grab replaced Uber in Vietnam in 2018 and is now the dominant ride-hailing app. It’s safe, affordable, and available 24/7 in HCMC.
Grab Services:
- GrabBike: Motorbike taxi – fastest and cheapest ($1-3 for most rides). Helmets provided.
- GrabCar: Private car – comfortable for 1-4 passengers ($3-8 for typical rides).
- GrabFood: Food delivery from thousands of restaurants.
Alternative Options:
- Official Taxis: Vinasun and Mai Linh are reputable metered taxi companies. Avoid unmarked taxis.
- Walking: District 1’s main attractions are walkable, though traffic is intense.
- Motorbike Rental: For experienced riders only. Traffic is chaotic and rental scams exist.
From Airport to City: Grab costs $5-8 to District 1 (20-30 minutes). Official taxis cost slightly more but are convenient if you have lots of luggage.
Best Overall: December to April (Dry Season)
This is peak season with temperatures around 28-35°C (82-95°F) and minimal rainfall. December and January offer the most pleasant weather with lower humidity. Expect higher hotel prices and more tourists during this period.
Good Value: May to November (Wet Season)
Don’t let “wet season” scare you! Rain typically comes in short, heavy afternoon downpours lasting 30-60 minutes. Mornings are usually perfect for sightseeing. Benefits include fewer tourists, better hotel deals (20-40% cheaper), and lush, green surroundings. July-September sees the heaviest rainfall.
Avoid: Late January/Early February (Tet Holiday)
Tet (Vietnamese New Year) sees many businesses close for a week as locals return to hometowns. While it’s a fascinating cultural experience, services are limited and many restaurants close.
Minimum: 2-3 days – Hit the main highlights: War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, and a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels.
Recommended: 4-5 days – This is the sweet spot for most visitors using this best Ho Chi Minh travel guide. You’ll have time to explore districts properly, take a Mekong Delta tour, enjoy the food scene, shop, and relax without feeling rushed.
Extended: 7+ days – Perfect for digital nomads or those wanting to truly understand the city. Explore residential neighborhoods like Thao Dien, take cooking classes, visit multiple markets, and experience local life beyond the tourist areas.
My Recommendation: Spend at least 4 days. This allows for 2 days exploring the city, 1 day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, and 1 day for Mekong Delta or relaxing.
District 1 (City Center) – Best for First-Time Visitors
Walking distance to major attractions, endless dining options, and nightlife. Downsides: noisy, expensive, very touristy. Perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action.
District 2 (Thao Dien) – Best for Expats & Digital Nomads
Trendy riverside neighborhood with incredible cafes, international restaurants, and a relaxed vibe. Peaceful escape from the chaos but requires Grab for most trips. Great for longer stays.
District 7 (Phu My Hung) – Best for Local Experience
Modern, planned community with parks, malls, and excellent Korean BBQ. Clean, safe, affordable, but 30-45 minutes from main attractions. I lived here for a year and loved it.
District 3 – Best Value
Quieter than District 1 but still central. Authentic local restaurants, more affordable, but fewer luxury hotels.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Saigon ($250+), InterContinental Saigon ($180+)
- Mid-Range: Le Méridien Saigon ($120+), Villa Song Saigon ($140+)
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in District 1 ($10-40)
Yes, absolutely! Street food is one of the best parts of visiting HCMC, and it’s generally very safe when you follow basic rules.
The Golden Rules:
- “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it” – Stick to foods cooked fresh and hot
- Look for crowds – If locals are eating there, it’s usually safe. High turnover means fresh food
- Watch the preparation – Eat at stalls where you can see food being cooked
- Avoid raw vegetables at very basic stalls unless washed properly
- Ice is generally safe – Most restaurants use machine-made tubular ice, which is hygienic
Must-Try Street Foods:
- Phở (noodle soup) – Best for breakfast
- Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich) – Try Banh Mi Huynh Hoa
- Cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork)
- Bánh xèo (sizzling rice pancakes)
- Fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn)
Important: Never drink tap water. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
Primarily cash, but cards are increasingly accepted.
Where Cash is King:
- Street food vendors and local restaurants
- Markets (Ben Thanh, Binh Tay)
- Small shops and convenience stores
- Taxis and Grab (though Grab accepts cards in-app)
- Temples and attraction entrance fees
Where Cards Work:
- Hotels (3-star and above)
- International restaurants and chains
- Shopping malls and department stores
- Tours booked through agencies
Money Tips:
- ATMs: Widely available. Withdraw at official bank ATMs (HSBC, Vietcombank, Techcombank) to avoid scams
- Exchange Rate: Approximately 24,000 VND = $1 USD (January 2026)
- Denominations: Vietnamese notes look similar – check carefully! Common denominations: 10,000₫, 20,000₫, 50,000₫, 100,000₫, 200,000₫, 500,000₫
- Haggling: Expected at markets. Start at 40-50% of the asking price
Pro Tip: Carry small bills (20,000₫ and 50,000₫) for street food and taxis. Vendors often don’t have change for 500,000₫ notes.
Top 5 Absolute Must-See Attractions:
- War Remnants Museum – Most important museum in Vietnam. Sobering but essential. 2-3 hours minimum. (40,000₫ admission)
- Cu Chi Tunnels – Incredible underground network from the war. Half-day tour essential. Choose Ben Duoc for fewer tourists.
- Ben Thanh Market – Iconic central market. Go early morning for atmosphere, stay for night market street food.
- Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Beautiful French colonial architecture. Quick visits, great photos. Both walkable in 1 hour.
- Saigon River Evening Walk – Stroll along the waterfront, watch locals exercise, enjoy the city vibe at sunset.
Best Day Trips:
- Mekong Delta – Full day tour through floating markets, local villages, and river cruises
- Cu Chi Tunnels – Half day (morning or afternoon tours available)
Hidden Gems:
- Thao Dien neighborhood cafes (District 2)
- Cho Lon (Chinatown) – Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple
- Rooftop bars in District 1 (Chill Skybar, Social Club at Hotel des Arts)
- Starlight Bridge in District 7 (evening walks)
