While modernity has swept Vietnam’s southern capital, Ho Chi Minh City, there are still pockets that celebrate its complex history. The architectural imprints of colonial rule and the city’s oriental roots can be found throughout. If you’re a fan of history and exploring unique attractions, here are seven must-see places that are within easy walking distance from the city center.
War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is a three-story museum that houses countless artifacts and graphic photographs, including Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Nick Ut’s iconic shot, “The Terror of War.” Out-of-commission planes, tanks, bombs, and helicopters decorate the museum’s courtyard. It is a somber experience but one that leaves a lasting impression.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3
Notre Dame Cathedral
The twin-spired Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception sits at the head of Dong Khoi Street, providing a peaceful oasis in the bustling downtown area. Built over nearly two decades from 1863 to 1880, the cathedral is made entirely from materials imported from France.
Fun Fact: The alabaster statue of the Virgin Mary perched in the center of the square is said to have wept tears on a single occasion in 2005, witnessed by crowds there at the time.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1
Saigon Central Post Office
Opposite the cathedral is Saigon’s charming general post office. Step inside to find a massive foyer flanked by rows of Victorian-era wooden phone booths, historic maps on the walls, and a huge portrait of Ho Chi Minh. The architect of the building is sometimes incorrectly credited as Gustave Eiffel, but the design of the complex was based on his blueprints.
Admission: Free
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: 2 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1
The Reunification Palace
On the site of the former Norodom Palace sits the Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace. Designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, this palatial estate served as the residential and administrative quarters of the President of South Vietnam. Visitors can now walk the halls and meeting rooms, upholstered in red carpet.
Tip: Don’t miss the former command center and war rooms in the basement.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh, District 1
Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall
Expansive Nguyen Hue Street has become the new stomping ground for pedestrian activity in Ho Chi Minh City. The street is lined with high rises, upscale restaurants, commercial arcades, and luxury boutiques. City Hall, the administrative post of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, is located at the northernmost end of Nguyen Hue Street. It is a perfect place for an afternoon stroll and comes alive at sundown.
Admission: City Hall is not open to the public
Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is a timeless marketplace situated in the heart of the city. Built on reclaimed land that was formerly known as Bo Ret Pond, the market offers a variety of goods, from fresh produce to conical hats, weasel coffee to lacquerware. Towards the end of the hall, you’ll find a maze of food stalls selling sizzling bánh xèo and freshly assembled bánh mì.
Admission: Free
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: 32-30 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh, District 1
Cu Chi Tunnels
Located on the northwestern fringes of greater Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi District is home to the Cu Chi Tunnels. These tunnels were used by the Viet Cong to evade American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. Visitors can enter the tunnels at either the Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc entrances. Be prepared to get dirty, as crawling through the tunnels is part of the experience.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. every day including holidays
Address: Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City by visiting these must-see attractions. Each place offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and present. Enjoy your trip to this fascinating destination!
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