Things to Do in Hochiminh City

About Hochiminh City

Where the pulse of old Saigon beats beneath the gleaming surface of modern Vietnam's economic heart, Ho Chi Minh City unfolds as a symphony of contrasts that captivates every sense. Here, the gentle hum of morning prayers from centuries-old pagodas mingles with the urgent roar of millions of motorbikes weaving through streets lined with French colonial mansions and towering glass skyscrapers. Steam rises from sidewalk pho stalls as businesspeople in crisp suits pause alongside local workers, all united in their reverence for Vietnam's most beloved morning ritual. The city breathes with an infectious energy—where deals are struck over iced coffee, where history whispers from every street corner, and where the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality transforms strangers into friends. This is a place where tradition and ambition dance together, where the scars of the past have bloomed into stories of resilience, and where every sunset over the Saigon River promises that tomorrow will bring new discoveries in this endlessly fascinating metropolis.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download Grab app for reliable motorbike taxis (xe om) and cars. Always negotiate taxi fares upfront or insist on meters. Rent a motorbike only if experienced—traffic is chaotic but follows unspoken rules. Walking is viable in District 1's core areas.

Money: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is essential for street food and small vendors. Withdraw from ATMs (better rates than exchanges). Keep small denominations—many places can't break 500,000 VND notes. Credit cards accepted at upscale restaurants and hotels only.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering homes and temples. Dress modestly at religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Don't point feet toward altars or people. Learn basic Vietnamese greetings like 'Xin chào'—locals deeply appreciate the effort.

Food Safety: Choose busy street stalls with high turnover—locals know best spots. Drink bottled or boiled water only. Avoid raw vegetables unless at reputable restaurants. Pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls are generally safe street food options.

When to Visit

Ho Chi Minh City's tropical climate offers year-round warmth, but timing affects your experience dramatically. The dry season (December-April) brings sunshine, temperatures of 25-35°C, and minimal rainfall—perfect for sightseeing but expect peak pricing with hotels 40-60% more expensive and crowded attractions. January-February offers the most comfortable weather with cool evenings around 20°C. March-April becomes intensely hot and humid. The rainy season (May-November) sees daily afternoon downpours, 80-150mm monthly rainfall, but temperatures stay pleasant at 26-32°C. This period offers 30-50% savings on accommodation and fewer crowds, though flooding can disrupt plans. October-November provides the best value with lighter rains and post-monsoon freshness. Key festivals include Tet (Lunar New Year, January/February) when the city empties but prices soar, Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October) with beautiful lantern displays, and Liberation Day (April 30th) featuring parades and celebrations. Business travelers should avoid Tet week when everything closes. Budget travelers benefit most from June-September despite rains, while luxury seekers should target December-January for optimal weather and full service availability.