10 Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City For First Time Travelers

1. Visit the Reunification Palace

This is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Vietnam War – the place where the president of South Vietnam lived and worked. An air and light rail tour of the building offers a look at war relics and the history of the fall of Saigon when the North Vietnamese tanks overran the palace gates in 1975. It’s a real estate in Saigon that used to be an office of the US Department of State, and its different rooms such as parlors, bedrooms, war rooms, and basement tunnels represent Vietnam’s history.

2. Visit Ben Thanh Market.

Ben Thanh Market – this is one of the most famous markets and, at the same time, one of the busiest ones in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a market that has more than 3000 stalls selling local crafts, branded clothing, and the best of the many food stalls. Always negotiate with the sellers for fake bags, shoes, clothes, and other trinkets and items to be sold at better prices. To cool off, if you feel like having a sip, you can ascend to the food court to have an aerial view.

3. Take a Food Tour

Not to mention, Ho Chi Minh City is the food paradise of Vietnam; one would be remiss to not indulge in the city’s culinary wonders. Try authentic Vietnamese food during your tour with street food in the daytime or evening with friends and family such as Banh Mi Sandwiches, Vietnamese Egg Coffee, Pho noodle soup, and many more scrumptious dishes. The Vietnamese cuisine tour will involve visits to various markets and local eateries where you’ll taste various foods together with a local expert.

4. Cruise the Mekong Delta

A visit to the Mekong Delta is another must-visit tour during your stay in Ho Chi Minh City. Spend one day driving to the outskirts of the city and travel a few hours to visit the “rice granary” of Vietnam. Take a boat ride to navigate through the Delta as the area is characterized by palm-lined water channels and waterways; on board the boat, there will be organized visits to fruit-growing farms as well as cottage industries.

5. Go for the Cu Chi Tunnels.

One of many interesting places to visit is the Cu Chi tunnels, a fairly large tunnel system that spreads more than 120 km and was used by the Viet Cong during the war. Watch how people were living in small tunnels in poor conditions all wanting to be unseen by others. Some parts can be expanded to house people and you can get inside some of the enlarged portions of the tunnel for a glimpse of what it could have been like.

6. Visit the Museum of American War Crimes

Get a different perspective on the Vietnam War and its effects internationally by visiting this sad museum. Originally known as the “Museum of American War Crimes” showing the brutality of war through weapons, photography, and tanks from the Vietnamese perspective. Although sometimes the pictures shown in the articles can be shocking, it is an inspiring trip for every traveler.

7. Go Drink Alcoholic at a Rooftop Bar

At night, the city lights dominate and if there is one thing that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer it is a host of the best rooftop bars in the world. Visit roof terraces such as Chill Skybar Rex Hotel Rooftop Bar, or Eon Heli Bar to just chill as you sip on some happy hour cocktails with a view of the city lights. It is possibly the best way of ‘ winding down’ after a very tiring day of touring.

8. A walking tour embraces the city.

One of the most effective ways to explore most of the contemporary attractions and cultural sites in Ho Chi Minh City is by walking. Consider joining a half-day walking tour: of Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum, etc escorted by a professional guide. You will also take photo-worthy stops and view French colonial architecture, and locals going about their business in markets among other places.

9. Ramble through Night Markets

As soon as the sun sets, there are tens of visually captivating night markets for visitors in Taipei. Walk around shops offering clothes, shoes, accessories, handicrafts, and Vietnamese souvenirs while taking bites of the delicious Vietnamese street food. The Ben Thanh and Bui Vien are probably two of the most happening and famous night markets in this city. Always carry money with you and be ready to bargain with the owners of the sites.

10. Take a rest at a Coffee Shop

It may come as no surprise to know that the locals in Ho Chi Minh City are big patrons of cafes due to their French colonial influences. Head to Café Zoom, The Workshop, or L’Usine for a cup of Vietnamese coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed juice or smoothie. It is a place to get some rest and make important decisions in the absence of noisy streets and everyday noise. Take a cup of coffee, and a sandwich, and spend the evening observing the activities in and around the place.

Many first-time visitors to Ho Chi Minh City are guaranteed to be enthralled by the formative exotic markets, timeless historical attractions, active streets, and delicious foods. Here is your preparation for a tourist’s city checklist: The top 10 activities that you can do in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you are planning to spend a few days or a week in the fabulous city, these tips will ensure that you get the best of your holiday!

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