Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It is located in the southern part of the country – an area that was once part of the French Indochina Union. Ho Chi Minh City was the capital of the Republic of South Vietnam from 1955 to 1975 and is now the economic center of Vietnam. The city is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Far East” due to its vibrant city life and its rich history.

Top 7 Things to See in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling metropolis in which you can find many great attractions. Here are the top 7 things to see in the city:

  • The Reunification Palace: This palace was once the home of the president of the Republic of South Vietnam. Built in 1966, it is now a museum that showcases artifacts from the country’s past.
  • The War Remnants Museum: This museum was originally built in 1975 during the end of the Vietnam War. Today, it houses artifacts from the war, such as weapons and photos, as well as information on the effects of the war on the country.
  • The Central Post Office: Built in the late 19th century, the Central Post Office is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the interior of the building and take in its grandeur.
  • The Notre Dame Cathedral: The Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful example of French Gothic architecture. Inside, visitors can admire the stained-glass windows and the intricate wood carvings that adorn the walls.
  • The Saigon Opera House: Built in 1897, the Saigon Opera House is a stunning building that is home to many art performances, such as ballets, operas, and concerts.
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda: This pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple that has ornate carvings and statues of various gods and goddesses. It is a popular place of worship and visitors can witness traditional ceremonies during certain times of the year.
  • Ben Thanh Market: The Ben Thanh Market is a great place to explore and grab some souvenirs. You can find anything from traditional Vietnamese snacks to handmade items and crafts.

Food Culture of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its amazing cuisine. The city is renowned for its street food, which is often made with fresh ingredients and served quickly. A few popular dishes include banh mi (a type of sandwich made with a variety of fillings), pho (a noodle soup dish), and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls).

Many of the dishes in Ho Chi Minh City are served with a variety of condiments and sauces. Common condiments include nuoc mam (fish sauce), sate (a spicy peanut sauce), and hoisin sauce.

The city also has a vibrant cafe culture, with many cafes offering both traditional coffees and teas, as well as more modern drinks. Café lu (iced coffee with condensed milk) is a popular choice, as well as tra da (iced tea).

Unique Things About Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City is full of surprises. Here are a few unique things about the city that many people don’t know:

  • The city has over 2000 bridges: Ho Chi Minh City is crisscrossed by canals and rivers, making it a great place for bridges. There are over 2000 bridges in the city, making it one of the most bridge-dense cities in the world.
  • The city is home to the world’s oldest botanical garden: The Ho Chi Minh City Botanical Garden was built in 1864 and is the oldest botanical garden in the world. It is home to many native plants and species of animals, making it a great place to explore and learn about nature.
  • The city is home to many temples: Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to explore temples. The city has over 800 temples, some of which date back to the 18th century. Many of these temples are open to visitors, making it a great place to learn about the city’s culture and religion.

How To Get to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City is easily accessible from both domestic and international destinations. The city has two international airports – Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Phu Quoc International Airport – and many direct flights to and from other parts of the world.

The city is also well connected by train, bus, and boat. Regular train services depart from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and there are regular buses from other cities within the country. For travelers coming from other parts of Asia, there are regular boat services from Thailand and Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City.

In addition to Ho Chi Minh City, the province of Ho Chi Minh is home to many other popular tourist destinations. You can explore some of these destinations on Tripfany.

Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city, Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect destination.