Should You Visit Ho Chi Minh City?

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this city for three to four days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Ho Chi Minh City in 2013, we fell in love with its vibrant energy and incredible Vietnamese eateries. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Ho Chi Minh City is a mix of old and new, modern and historic, and it fills your senses with colors, sounds, scents, and tastes. The city has many museums that reflect the country's war torn past, but there are also peaceful parks and beautiful art. The food scene is second-to-none and the people are friendly and welcoming. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Tripadvisor's Best Places to Visit in 2023.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Reasons to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Museums
It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.

Food
This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).

Nightlife
The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.

Shopping
The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Theatre Productions
Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.

The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Ho Chi Minh City might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Ho Chi Minh City here or see if Ho Chi Minh City is expensive here.

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the low season for travel in Ho Chi Minh City. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.

The activities of the city are numerous, and this is a great time of year to explore all of them. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways, as well as budget-friendly things to do, there's something for everyone. Famous landmarks, museums, tours, and more are all available. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse through museums, discover the big city activities, and grab some drinks at a bar.

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Ho Chi Minh City. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums and the big city activities.

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in the Winter?

The peak season for travel is winter in Ho Chi Minh City, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is quite touristy, so in the high season it's busier than usual. You'll see larger crowds and longer lines, as well as higher prices. On the other hand, there's plenty to see and do at this time of year because everything is open.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums, spend an evening at the theatre, and taste delicious cuisine. Also, you can check out the nightlife and the big city activities.

Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Ho Chi Minh City. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

Related

What is Ho Chi Minh City most famous for?

Ho Chi Minh City is most famous for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. People visit this impressive city for its great museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Many people love the theatre productions, too. It is often described as chaotic, vibrant, colorful, busy, diverse, and cultural.

What is the most famous sight in Ho Chi Minh City?

The most popular sight in Ho Chi Minh City is the War Remnants Museum. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Ho Chi Minh City on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the War Remnants Museum and other attractions here.

How touristy is Ho Chi Minh City? Is it a popular city to visit?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular city for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Street Food And City Tour By Motorbike with local student: $27
• Saigon Unseen City Tour on Scooters - Explore Hidden Gems: $35
• Private Tour To Mekong Delta 1 day from Ho Chi Minh City: $119
• Ho Chi Minh City Private Tour With A Local Expert: $125
• Tra Ang excursion 1 day tour: $89
• Private Scooter 4-hour Non-touristy Hidden City Tour In Ho Chi Minh: $39
• Private Sunrise Photography Tour - Down in Chinatown: $69
• Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta - Private Tour: $110

How long should I spend in Ho Chi Minh City?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Ho Chi Minh City is three to four days. Since Ho Chi Minh City has a variety of activities such as shopping, museums, dining, and nightlife, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Ho Chi Minh City? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Ho Chi Minh City?.