Why Visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Still known to many locals as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City moves at a faster pace than Hanoi — a modern skyline and rooftop bar scene layered over French colonial landmarks and confronting reminders of the Vietnam War.
District 1 packs most sights within walking distance, and the Cu Chi Tunnels make for a powerful half-day trip outside the city.
Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City
Grab (car or motorbike) is the easiest way to get around and very inexpensive. District 1 is walkable for sightseeing, though the scooter traffic takes some getting used to — a new metro line has started easing congestion on a few key routes.
Cross streets the same way as in Hanoi: walk slowly and steadily, and let the traffic flow around you rather than stopping or running.
Top Attractions
Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office
Two of the city's best-known French colonial landmarks, sitting right across from each other in District 1.
Cu Chi Tunnels
A vast underground tunnel network used during the Vietnam War, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from the city center.
Ben Thanh Market
A bustling covered market for street food, souvenirs, and clothing in the heart of District 1.
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
| Area | Best For | Avg. Price/Night |
|---|---|---|
| District 1 | Central, most sights, upscale-mid | $40–$120 |
| Bui Vien / Pham Ngu Lao | Backpacker area, budget, nightlife | $10–$35 |
| District 3 | Quieter, local residential feel | $25–$60 |
| District 7 / Phu My Hung | Modern, expat area, further out | $35–$90 |
What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City
Banh Mi
A crusty baguette sandwich filled with pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Avg. 20,000–35,000 VND.
Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Grilled pork chop, egg, and pickles over broken rice — a Saigon lunchtime classic. Avg. 30,000–50,000 VND.
Ca Phe Sua Da
Strong Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk. Avg. 20,000–35,000 VND.
Sidewalk com tam and pho stalls cost a fraction of hotel restaurant prices — look for ones packed with local office workers at lunchtime.
Travel Budget
| Travel Style | Daily Budget | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | $20–$35 | Hostel, Grab rides, street food, free walking tours |
| Mid-Range | $50–$100 | District 1 hotel, restaurant meals, paid tours |
| Luxury | $200+ | Rooftop-view hotel, fine dining, private guides |
Book the Cu Chi Tunnels as a shared group tour rather than a private car — it costs a fraction as much and still includes round-trip transport.
