With a combination of the beauty of nature, unique architecture, outstanding culture and diverse cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the top tourist destinations in Vietnam. Visitors will be able to enjoy unique experiences and discover new things in this city. Now, let's go through 20 famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City that tourists should visit, even just once.

1. Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is one of the attractive destinations that tourist must visit when you come to Ho Chi Minh City. With more than 3000 stalls, Ben Thanh market offers a rich variety of items from clothes, shoes, bags to souvenirs and specialty foods. You can find beautiful traditional ao dai or unique handmade items. In addition, Ben Thanh Market is also famous for street foods such as banh xeo, banh cuon, or Nam Vang noodle soup. This is a great place to explore the culture and cuisine of Saigon people.

- Address: Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

- Ticket price: Free

See more Explore Ben Thanh Market - An attractive destination for your trip to Ho Chi Minh city

2. Tao Dan Park

With a large area of 100.000m2 and more than 1000 trees, Tao Dan Park is the ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This park has many amenities such as children's playground, outdoor exercise area and jogging track around the fish pond. You can take a walk in the peaceful space of the park, enjoy the fresh air and the view . If you want to find a place to relax after stressful working days, Tao Dan Park is the perfect choice.

- Address: Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7am - 10pm

- Reference ticket price: Free

See more Tao Dan Park - An ideal place to relax in the crowded city

3. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the symbol of Ho Chi Minh City and one of the city's most famous architectural works. With its majestic architecture and beautiful artistic windows, this church is a destination that attracts many visitors every year. Inside, you can admire elaborate murals and wooden statues, creating a dignified religious space. Notre Dame Cathedral is also an important historical site, representing the cultural and religious cohesion of the city.

- Address: 01 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 5:30 am - 5:00 pm (You should avoid mass schedule to be able to visit the whole church.)

Reference ticket price: Free

4. Ho Chi Minh City Museum

With modern architecture and creativity in design, Ho Chi Minh City Museum is not only a place to display historical artifacts but also a space connecting generations, helping visitors to understand clearly. about the journey of struggle and development of the city and the people of Vietnam.

 Here, visitors have the opportunity to discover key moments in history, see unique works of art, and participate in exciting educational activities. Whether you are a local or an international visitor, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum is a great place to experience Vietnam's rich cultural and historical diversity.

- Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Business hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 8:00am - 12:00pm, 2:00pm - 4:30pm

Monday and Friday: 8am - 12pm

- Reference ticket price:

40,000 VND for international visitors

Vietnamese guests are free

5. Independence Palace

Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, was inaugurated on July 1, 1962, based on the design by architect Ngo Viet Thu. This site preserves significant milestones of the nation during the war to protect the country in the previous century, particularly the event marking the end of the war in the South and the reunification of the country on April 30, 1975. By 1976, Independence Palace was renamed the Reunification Hall.

Today, when visiting Independence Palace to delve into more intriguing historical details, tourists can explore the exhibition area showcasing information and materials about Norodom Palace (1868) first. Then, they can move on to the section providing information about the main building of Independence Palace (1966) for a more comprehensive journey. Inside the palace, there are souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes to cater to the needs of visitors.

• Independence Palace is located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Operating hours (Monday to Sunday): 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
• Website: www.dinhdoclap.gov.vn.

6. Park 30/4

30/4 Park is a large green space located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City. With an area of more than 50 hectares, this park is a favorite place for locals and tourists to come to enjoy the open space and relax. It is also considered the green "lungs" of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, there are many amenities such as children's play area, football field, walking path. This is also the place to organize music events, festivals and cultural activities that attract a large number of participants.

- Address: Le Duan Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day

- Reference ticket price: Free

7. Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden

 Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden is an interesting destination for those who love animals and wildlife. With an area of more than 20 hectares, this zoo contains hundreds of animals from all over the world. You can see many kind of birds, reptiles, insects and other mammals here. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden also features educational programs and special performances, giving visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the animals. In addition, the zoo also has green areas, lakes and children's play areas, creating a perfect relaxing space for the whole family.

- Address: No. 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:00am - 5:30pm

- Reference ticket price: 40,000 VND - 60,000 VND

8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the famous places of Ho Chi Minh City, attracting tourists and locals. With a large space, this pedestrian street is decorated with a series of trees, decorative lights and unique sculptures. This is where many fun activities, art performances and street art exhibitions take place. You can participate in outdoor activities, watch special performances and enjoy special dishes at street stalls and restaurants.

- Address: 75 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day

- Reference ticket price: Free

Explore more at Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Beauty, Cuisine, and Experience in Ho Chi Minh City

9. City Opera House

The City Opera House is a great and famous architectural work of Ho Chi Minh City. With grandiose and luxurious architecture, this theater is the place to host art performances, musicals and high-class opera. Visitors can enjoy famous plays, wonderful music and unique dance performances. It’s a wonderful place for those who love arts and culture of Vietnam.

- Address: 07 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Business hours:

• From Monday to Friday: 9am - 16h30
• Saturday, Sunday: 9am - 12pm

- Ticket price for the show: About 700,000 VND/ticket depending on the show

10. Bui Vien street

Bui Vien street is a very popular destination for young people as well as international tourists when coming to Ho Chi Minh City, which is considered the "best entertainment in Saigon for foreigner" street. This area is a hub for numerous bars, restaurants,  where visitors can enjoy new cuisine, participate in music performances, fun games, or relax. Visitors should come here to fully enjoy the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the City at night.

- Address: Bui Vien – Pham Ngu Lao – De Tham, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Saturday, Sunday: 19h - 2am the next day.

- Reference ticket price: Free

Explore more Saigon's Western Quarter - Lively with a street that never sleeps

11. Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels, located near Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, stand as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during the war years. These intricate underground networks served as a crucial lifeline for the Viet Cong fighters, providing shelter, communication routes, and supply pathways. Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a unique opportunity to delve into history and gain insight into the challenges and strategies employed during the Vietnam War. The tunnels remain a powerful reminder of the past, showcasing the determination and resourcefulness of those who once inhabited them.

 Visitors to Cu Chi tunnels will have the opportunity to experience unique activities related to life in the tunnels. Activities include exploring the tunnels, participating in army games, practicing shooting, experiencing wartime food with the people of Cu Chi.

- Address: Phu Hiep, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7am - 5pm

- Reference ticket price: 35,000 VND

Explore more at Explore Cu Chi Tunnels - "The Underground City" of Vietnam

12. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

Another place to visit for tourists when coming to Ho Chi Minh is Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts.  Established in 1975, this museum is not only a place to visit and learn, but also a source of inspiration for art lovers, from classical works to creative artistic ideas.

Entering the Museum of Fine Arts, you will be drawn into a diverse world of art, from traditional murals to sophisticated modern works. The exhibition here offers a comprehensive view of the development of Vietnamese and international art, along with unique trends and styles.

- Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 8am - 5pm

- Reference ticket price: 15,000 VND - 30,000 VND (Free: For children under 6 years old and people over 60 years old)

13. Crescent Lake

 Located in the center of the city, Crescent Lake is a large lake in Ho Chi Minh City. The special feature of this lake is the peaceful and airy space it brings. Visitors can enjoy the fresh lake scenery, enjoy the view and relax in the hustle and bustle of the city life. In addition, at Crescent Lake, there are many activities such as boating, fishing and walking around the lake.

- Address: Phu My Hung New Urban Area, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day

- Reference ticket price: Free

Explore more at Explore the Starlight Bridge Park - Crescent Moon Lake

14. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a famous religious architecture located in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the 1960s, this temple is an interesting destination to visit and learn about Buddhism. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is famous for its large and beautiful architecture, built in the traditional Vietnamese style. Visitors can visit the towers, shrines and Buddha statues at this temple to understand more about the history and Buddhism.

- Address: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7am - 9pm

- Reference ticket price: Free

Explore more at Vinh Nghiem Pagoda - Elegance and Spirituality in Ho Chi Minh City

15. Ho Chi Minh City Post Office

Ho Chi Minh City Post Office, also known as Saigon Central Post Office, is a famous architectural work and one of the symbols of the city. The architecture combines European style with Indochinese architectural elements, creating a unique and attractive appearance.

Inside, Ho Chi Minh City Post Office is luxuriously and beautifully designed. The corridor leading to the post office is decorated with beautiful paintings and sculptures. Alternatively, visitors can visit the Vietnam Post Office to learn more about Vietnam's postal and telecommunications history.

For stamp lovers, Ho Chi Minh City Post Office is a great destination to explore and shop. There are many special postage stamps and folding stamps that will bring you unique and interesting experiences.

- Address: 02 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

- Reference ticket price: Free

Explore more at A Guide to Sai Gon Central Post Office: History and Highlights

16. Van Thanh tourist park

Van Thanh tourist area is a large garden located in Binh Thanh district, HCMC. This is an ideal place to hang out and organize a weekend picnic. The garden has a green space, decorated with plants and lakes. Visitors can walk in the garden, participate in sports activities such as badminton, football, and enjoy snacks at the surrounding street stalls.

- Address: 48/10 Dien Bien Phu Street, Ward 22, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 10am - 10pm

- Reference ticket price: Free entrance (Visitors only pay for additional services)

See more at Van Thanh Tourist Area - A charming natural oasis in the heart of Saigon

17. Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church is a famous religious architecture located in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1876, this church is famous for its unique pink color, creating a special beauty. Visitors can take a tour inside the church to admire its historic architecture. This is also the place to organize important religious ceremonies every year, attracting a lot of tourists to visit and take pictures for free.

- Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00am - 11:30am, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

- Ticket price: Free

See more Tan Dinh Church - The “pink” church in the heart of Saigon

18. Suoi Tien tourist area

Suoi Tien tourist area is a large amusement park located in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City. It has interesting games and beautiful views, attracting a lot of visitors every year. Activities at Suoi Tien tourist area include boating, water skiing, walking around the landscape as well as seeing many lovely animals such as deer, elephants, zebras, hippos... Join adventure games. Visitors can enjoy fun and relaxing moments with family and friends here.

- Address: 120 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, City, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm

- Entrance ticket price: 80.00 VND - 150,000 VND

19. Little Tokyo 

The Japanese Quarter, also known as Little Tokyo, is an area with many Japanese restaurants, cafes and shops in Ho Chi Minh City. This is a destination that offers a special Japanese cultural space, where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese food, shop for Japanese products and costumes, and experience the unique culture of Japan right away. in Viet Nam.

- Address: alley No. 15B Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day

- Reference ticket price: Free (Visitors only pay when using the service)

Explore more at Little Japan Town - Beautiful Japanese Street 'Mesmerizing' Attracts the Youth

20. Starlight Bridge Park

Starlight Bridge Park is a park with a beautiful light bridge located in District 7, HCMC. Designed in a modern and romantic style, Starlight Bridge Park creates a relaxing and romantic space for residents and visitors. The highlight of this park is the bridge decorated with thousands of LED lights, creating a shimmering and fanciful light effect at night.

Visitors can take a walk on the bridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery under the lake bed in a very romantic atmosphere. There are many sitting spots and picnic areas around the park, allowing visitors to rest and enjoy the space.

In addition, Starlight Bridge Park also organizes entertainment activities such as music performances, art exhibitions and outdoor concerts. This is a popular location for weddings, photography, and important anniversaries.

- Address: Phu My Hung New Urban Area, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City

- Opening hours: Open all day (Visitors should arrive at 5:30pm is the best time)

- Reference ticket price: Free

See more at Explore the Starlight Bridge Park - Crescent Moon Lake

With the diversity and vibrancy of these locations, Ho Chi Minh City is always a hot spot suitable for everyone, ensuring memorable experiences for visitors.