Ho Chi Minh City
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Ho Chi Minh City
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Vietnam's largest metropolis, where colonial architecture meets skyscrapers and street food becomes art.
Vietnam
Administrative Center
Gastronomy & History
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is the heart of Southern Vietnam, a city with a population of over 14 million, pulsing with energy 24/7. It is a place of contrasts where French colonial mansions, modern skyscrapers, and cozy traditional markets sit side by side on the same street. As the capital of the country's culinary tourism, Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique experience — from motorbike tours of bustling neighborhoods to exploring history in iconic museums.
Key Facts
- Population
14M+
- Founded
As Saigon in 1874
- Airport
Tan Son Nhat (SGN)
- Best Season
December — April
- Prices
Varied
- Climate
Subequatorial
- Are a foodie and love authentic street food
- Are interested in Vietnam War history
- Appreciate the dynamic rhythm of a metropolis
- Plan trips to the Mekong Delta
- Are looking for peace and solitude
- Are annoyed by traffic noise and motorbikes
- Are planning a relaxing, classic beach holiday
Dry season. December is considered the most comfortable month for walks and excursions with temperatures around 31–34 °C.
Top Highlights
From the historic center with its colonial-era architecture to the famous war tunnels — the city and its suburbs have everything for a packed itinerary.
Independence Palace
in the centerWar Remnants Museum
in the centerCu Chi Tunnels
from 35 kmBen Thanh Market
in the centerNotre Dame Cathedral
in the centerLocal Cuisine
Ho Chi Minh City is the gastronomic center of Vietnam. Explore the cuisine with the "Culinary Passport" project.
Bánh mì
Bánh xèo
Cơm tấm
Excursions
What to see in the surroundings without changing hotels:
- Cu Chi Tunnels
Guerrilla warfare history 35-70 km from the city.
- Mekong Delta
Tours along water canals and fruit orchards.
- Can Gio
A nature reserve with extensive mangrove forests 40 km away.
On Site
- Transport
Grab, taxis, buses, motorbikes
- Connectivity
4G is stable and available everywhere
- Money
ATMs available, cash preferred at markets
- Safety
High, exercise basic precautions
- Be sure to use sunscreen (UV index 10-12 all year round).
- Early morning is the best time for walks before it gets too hot.
- Download the Grab app for convenient transportation.
- Haggle at the markets, it's part of the culture.