Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the commercial capital city of Vietnam. It is located in the south of the country and one of the top entry points into the country alongside Hanoi, the capital in north Vietnam and Da Nang in central Vietnam.
This Sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh city thread is specifically to share information, locations and ideas around what to see, where to go, what to do in Ho Chi Minh city by both travellers who have recently visited the city and those who are planning to make a future visit.
Here is a list of a few popular places in Ho Chi Minh city that are worth visiting:
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Historical Landmarks:
- Reunification Palace (Independence Palace): A symbol of the end of the Vietnam War that previously split the country into two halves.
- War Remnants Museum: A museum filled with a detailed insight into one of the worst wars in East Asia and probably one of the few America lost in.
- Notre Dame Cathedral: A beautiful French colonial cathedral at the centre of the city.
- Central Post Office: A stunning example of French architecture situated amongst other colonial buildings.
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Markets & Shopping:
- Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market for souvenirs, clothing, and local produce.
- Binh Tay Market: A wholesale market in Chinatown, great for bargain hunting.
- Saigon Square: A popular spot for clothing and accessories.
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Cultural Experiences:
- Water Puppet Show: A unique Vietnamese art form showcasing traditional tales.
- Cu Chi Tunnels: Explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War.
- Mekong Delta Day Trip: Experience the vibrant river life and floating markets.
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Modern Marvels:
- Bitexco Financial Tower: Enjoy panoramic views from the Skydeck.
- Landmark 81: Vietnam’s tallest building, offering stunning city views.
- Riverfront: There are many beautiful and calm spots where you can just sit by the mighty Saigon River that empties into the Mekong Delta further south.
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Hidden Gems:
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: A beautiful Taoist temple with intricate carvings and statues.
- Fine Arts Museum: A collection of Vietnamese art from various periods.
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Nearby excursions:
- Cu Chi Tunnels: A must-visit if you are interested to see how Vietnamese Guerrilla warfare took place in the dense tropical rainforests of the country against the western forces.
- Mekong Delta boating: This is where the mighty Mekong river, also known as a lifeline of Asia, empties into the South Sea. It is an amazing place to experience nature, unique wildlife, traditional Vietnamese culture and much more!
Share your latest experiences in exploring these sites and/or other new points of interest in Ho Chi Minh city as responses/comments on this thread. This will be very helpful to fellow travellers and members of this travel community who are planning a trip to Vietnam.
