Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Many of the city's highlights are in or near District 1, the historic centre, with fascinating excursions beyond.

• War Remnants Museum — A powerful museum documenting the impact of the Vietnam War.
• Independence Palace — The former presidential palace, preserved much as it was in 1975.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office — Landmark French colonial buildings facing each other in the centre.
• Ben Thanh Market — A busy central market for food, souvenirs and local snacks.
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street — A wide pedestrian boulevard that comes alive in the evenings.
• Cu Chi Tunnels — An extensive underground network outside the city, visited on half-day tours.
• Mekong Delta — Boat trips through rivers, canals, orchards and floating markets, a popular day trip.

Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate that is warm all year. The dry season, from about December to April, is the most comfortable time to visit, with sunny days and little rain; March and April can be very hot.

The rainy season runs from around May to November, bringing heavy but often short afternoon downpours, so plan sightseeing for mornings. Tet, the Lunar New Year in late January or February, is spectacular, with flower displays on Nguyen Hue, although many businesses close for several days.

Getting from the airport

Tan Son Nhat International Airport lies within the city, only a few kilometres north-west of District 1. The drive usually takes around 20 to 45 minutes, although traffic can be heavy at peak times.

Metered taxis from reputable companies wait outside arrivals, and ride-hailing apps are widely used, so you can see the fare before you go. Public buses run from the airport to the centre, including stops near Ben Thanh Market. Many hotels offer airport pick-ups on request.

Where to stay

The city is divided into districts, and most visitors stay in or close to the central ones.

• District 1 — The historic centre, near the main sights, restaurants and nightlife, ideal for first-time visitors.
• Pham Ngu Lao area — Busy and budget-friendly, popular with backpackers.
• District 3 — Leafy and a little calmer, with local cafés and easy access to the centre.
• Thao Dien — A relaxed riverside area with boutique stays, popular with expatriates.

Travel tips

• Money: Cash in dong is widely used for street food and markets; cards work in hotels, malls and larger restaurants.
• Getting around: Ride-hailing cars and motorbike taxis are convenient; the city's first metro line is also useful for some routes.
• Crossing the road: Walk slowly and steadily so that motorbikes can flow around you.
• Safety: Keep phones and bags secure on busy streets, as bag snatching from motorbikes can happen.
• Health: Drink bottled water, stay hydrated and use insect repellent, especially in the rainy season.