Visit Vietnam's most popular attractions in 2025

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Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam, blending rich history with modern culture and attracting visitors from all over the world. Below is a detailed travel guide for Ho Chi Minh City, including the best time to visit, must-see attractions, transportation options, food recommendations, cultural activities and things to do.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

1. Ho Chi Minh City Travel Preparation

  1. Visa & Passport:

    • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and know the visa requirements in Vietnam, apply for a visa in advance or get an e-visa.
  2. Currency Preparation:

    • Prepare some Vietnamese Dong (VND) cash for easy spending at markets and stalls and know where the currency exchange is located.
  3. Travel insurance:

    • Purchase suitable travel insurance for unexpected illnesses or accidents to ensure a worry-free trip.
  4. Suitable clothing:

    • Choose lightweight and breathable clothing according to the local climate, pay attention to sun protection, and it is recommended to carry rain gear to cope with sudden rainfall.
  5. Mobile phone and Internet:

    • Consider purchasing a PhoneSIMGo travel eSIM to say goodbye to roaming charges and ensure that you can always access the internet and navigate.

      The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

  6. Itinerary Planning:

    • Make your itinerary in advance, including must-see attractions and local cuisine to ensure efficient use of time and avoid missing important sights.
  7. Health Preparation:

    • Prepare common medications and a first aid kit to ensure that you can cope with minor illnesses and pains during your trip, and consult a doctor for advice if necessary.
  8. Cultural understanding:

    • Learn some basic Vietnamese such as greetings and common phrases to help communicate with locals and enhance the traveling experience.
  9. Charging electronic devices:

    • Prepare adapters and rechargeable batteries to ensure that your cell phone, camera and other devices stay charged during your trip to capture beautiful moments.

2. Best time to visit

  • Dry season (December to April):
    • Convivial climate: moderate temperatures and low rainfall during this time make it suitable for outdoor activities.
    • Festivals: During the Lunar New Year, the city organizes grand celebrations and visitors can experience authentic Vietnamese culture.
    • Tourism peak: Due to the good weather and high number of tourists, it is recommended to book hotels and transportation in advance.
    • Active night market: The night market in the dry season is bustling with street food and handicrafts.
    • Great for photography: The dry weather is favorable for photographing cityscapes and nightscapes to preserve memories.
  • Rainy season (May to November):
    • Lots of rainfall : Although it sometimes rains, it is usually in short showers and the air is fresh afterward.
    • Favorable tourist prices: With relatively fewer tourists during this time, hotel and transportation prices may be more affordable.
    • Green scenery: The rainy season makes the city's vegetation more lush for nature-loving travelers.
    • Less crowded scenery: Many attractions are less crowded to visit during the rainy season and can be enjoyed in a more leisurely manner.
    • Culturally rich: The rainy season is also the peak season for some cultural events and festivals, which tourists can participate in more often.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

3. Must-see Attractions

3.1 War Remnants Museum

  • Historical exhibits: The museum shows the cruelty and history of the Vietnam War through photos and objects, deeply reflecting the impact of the war on people's lives.
  • Important exhibits: The museum contains many battle tanks, airplanes and real war relics that make visitors feel the heaviness of history.
  • Memorials: There is a special memorial area to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the war.
  • Guided Tour Service: Multi-language guided tours are provided to enable visitors to better understand the contents of the exhibition.
  • Educational value: suitable for visitors interested in history, especially the younger generation, to learn the lessons of war.

3.2 Independence Palace

  • Historical building: Independence Palace is the official residence of the President of South Vietnam with unique architectural style and an important symbol of Vietnam's modern history.
  • Interior tour: Inside the palace, there are several rooms and exhibitions showing the political history and culture of South Vietnam.
  • Commemorative events: Relevant exhibitions and events are held regularly to attract history lovers to visit.
  • Surroundings: Outside the palace, there are beautiful gardens and fountains, which are good places for taking photos.
  • Cultural activities: Concerts and cultural activities are sometimes held in the Palace to add interest to the visit.

3.3 Church of the Virgin Mary

  • Architecture: This church is a masterpiece of the French colonial period and is famous for its red-brick facade and fine glass windows.
  • Religious activities: Masses and religious activities are held regularly in the church, attracting many believers and tourists.
  • Cultural symbol: As one of the city's landmarks, it is a window to the culture of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Photography hotspot: The exterior and surroundings of the church are perfect for taking photos, especially at dusk.
  • Nearby Attractions: There are also several cafes and stores around the church, which tourists can visit in passing.

3.4 Hamachi Market

  • Shopper's Paradise: The market offers a wide range of goods, including handicrafts, clothing and local specialties for visitors who love shopping.
  • Food stalls: Tasting authentic Vietnamese snacks such as beef rice noodles and spring rolls is a highlight of the market.
  • Busy atmosphere: The market is crowded and full of life, and visitors can feel the local lifestyle.
  • Haggling: When shopping in the market, you can try to bargain with the vendors to increase the fun of the tour.
  • Cultural exchange: Communicate with local vendors to learn more stories about Vietnamese culture and life.

3.5 Saigon Opera House

  • Cultural Experience: As the city's cultural center, Saigon Opera House regularly holds concerts and stage plays to showcase Vietnam's art.
  • Architectural aesthetics: The architectural design of the Opera House is a blend of French style and Vietnamese elements, with a grand exterior that is worth seeing.
  • Ticket information: Visitors can purchase tickets online in advance to ensure that they can watch their favorite performances.
  • Art Education: Art lectures and workshops are also organized in the Opera House for art lovers.
  • Neighborhood Attractions: The Opera House is surrounded by many cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax before or after a performance.

4. Mode of transportation

4.1 Motorcycle rental

  • Flexible and convenient: Motorcycles are the most popular way to get around Ho Chi Minh City and are good for quickly traveling through the city.
  • Rental services: Many rental companies offer short and long term rental services at affordable prices.
  • Driving precautions: It is necessary to pay attention to local traffic rules to ensure safe driving and wear a safety helmet.
  • Navigation tools: Use a cell phone navigation app to ensure you find the best route.
  • Parking Issues: Know the parking regulations to avoid fines for illegal parking.

4.2 Taxi

  • Safe Choice: Choose well-known cab companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun to ensure safety and reliability.
  • Transparent pricing: Taxis usually charge according to the meter to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
  • Hailing service: Using taxi apps such as Grab is convenient and suitable for tourists who are not familiar with local routes.
  • Driver communication: Use simple English or translation software when communicating with the driver to ensure smooth arrival at your destination.
  • Tipping culture: When the cab service is good, you can tip appropriately to show your appreciation.

4.3 Public Transportation

  • Bus system: Ho Chi Minh City's bus system is gradually improving and is suitable for short trips.
  • Affordable fares: Bus fares are cheap, making it a good choice for budget travelers.
  • Metro construction: Metro lines are under construction and will provide a more convenient way to travel in the future.
  • Schedule Check: It is recommended to check bus schedules and routes in advance to avoid waiting.
  • Peak time is crowded: Buses may be crowded during peak hours, so it is more comfortable to choose off-peak hours to travel.

4.4 Walking

  • Suitable for city center tour: The downtown area of Ho Chi Minh City is suitable for walking, making it easy to explore the surrounding attractions.
  • Self-guided tour: Walking tours allow you to stop at any time to take photos or take a break, increasing the flexibility of the tour.
  • Street culture: During the walk, you can experience the street culture and living atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Watch out for traffic safety: you need to be careful when crossing the street to ensure traffic safety.
  • Great for night walks: the streets are brightly lit at night, making it suitable for strolling and enjoying the city at night.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

5. Food Recommendations

5.1 Vietnamese Rice Vermicelli (Pho)

  • Classic Cuisine: Vietnamese rice noodle is one of the most representative cuisines in Vietnam, with delicious soup base and smooth rice noodle.
  • Diversified choices: There are many choices such as beef rice noodles and chicken rice noodles to satisfy different tastes.
  • Local recommendations: many food stalls and restaurants offer authentic rice noodles, which visitors can choose based on recommendations from locals.
  • Homemade Seasoning: Rice noodles are richly seasoned, and visitors can add cilantro, chili peppers, etc. according to their personal taste.
  • Gastronomic culture: While dining at the restaurant, learn about the local food habits and enhance your understanding of Vietnamese culture.

5.2 Spring rolls (Gio Cuon)

  • Fresh taste: Spring rolls are made of fresh vegetables and seafood, with a refreshing taste for the hot weather.
  • Multiple fillings: You can choose from different fillings such as shrimp, pork or veggie, suitable for all types of diners.
  • Dipping Sauce Flavor: Usually served with peanut sauce or fish sauce to add flavor to the spring rolls.
  • Making experience: Many restaurants offer spring roll making classes where visitors can try it themselves.
  • Suitable for Sharing: Spring rolls are suitable for sharing with friends and are a popular choice for potlucks.

5.3 Baguette (Banh Mi)

  • Unique flavor: Vietnamese baguette combines French bread with Vietnamese special fillings with crispy texture and unique flavor.
  • Rich fillings: Common fillings include cured meat, sausage, vegetables and special sauces in rich layers.
  • Street food: Delicious baguettes can be easily found at street stalls at affordable prices.
  • Great for fast food: easy to carry around for a quick meal on the go.
  • Try innovative flavors: Some stores will offer creative baguettes that are worth trying.

5.4 Vietnamese Coffee

  • Unique preparation: Vietnamese coffee is famous for its unique way of making drip, with an unforgettable rich taste.
  • Variety of choices: You can choose black coffee, with milk or sugar to suit different taste preferences.
  • Coffee Culture: Experience the local coffee culture and social atmosphere at one of the city's cafes.
  • Try a Specialty: Some cafes offer specialty drinks such as egg coffee and coconut coffee, which are worth trying.
  • Relaxation Time: Take a break in a café and enjoy a leisurely time to feel the rhythm of the city.

5.5 Street food

  • Variety: Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide variety of street food, from fried spring rolls to kebabs.
  • Affordable: Street food is affordable and suitable for tourists on a budget.
  • Popular Stalls: Choosing stalls with high foot traffic usually results in tastier and more authentic snacks.
  • On-site production: Many snacks are made on-site and visitors can see the whole process, adding to the fun.
  • Try different flavors: Try as many different snacks as possible during your visit to enrich your taste bud experience.

6. Cultural activities

6.1 Water puppet theater

  • Traditional art: Water puppetry is a unique Vietnamese performing art that combines music, dance and storytelling.
  • Performance venues: It is performed regularly in the city's theaters and is suitable for families and friends to watch together.
  • Storytelling heritage: The performances are mostly Vietnamese folk stories, providing insight into the local culture.
  • Interactive experience: some performances invite the audience to participate, increasing interactivity.
  • For all ages: Both children and adults can enjoy the performance.

6.2 Night Market Exploration

  • Shopping and Food: Night Market is a special feature of Ho Chi Minh City where visitors can shop and enjoy food.
  • Busy atmosphere: The night market is crowded and lively, suitable for experiencing local life.
  • Handicrafts: Many stalls sell local handicrafts and are a good place to buy souvenirs.
  • Festivals: On certain festivals, the night market organizes special events and performances, attracting a large number of tourists.
  • Cultural exchanges: You can interact with local vendors and tourists to improve your understanding of Vietnamese culture.

6.3 Cultural festivals

  • Independence Day Celebration: Every year on September 2, Ho Chi Minh City holds a grand Independence Day Celebration to attract tourists.
  • Lunar New Year activities: During the Lunar New Year, celebrations are organized around the city to add to the festive atmosphere.
  • Folk festivals: such as the Mid-Autumn Festival and Dragon Boat Festival, tourists can participate in local traditional celebrations and experience authentic culture.
  • Art exhibitions: Ho Chi Minh City regularly organizes art exhibitions and cultural events showcasing the works of local artists.
  • Community activities: Many communities organize cultural and artistic activities that tourists can join to enhance neighborly relations.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

6.4 Art exhibitions

  • Works of local artists: Ho Chi Minh City has many galleries and art galleries showcasing works of local artists.
  • Platforms for cultural exchanges: Art exhibitions provide visitors with opportunities to learn about contemporary Vietnamese art.
  • Regular events: many art galleries regularly organize special exhibitions and art events to attract art lovers.
  • Interactive experience: some exhibitions have interactive sessions where visitors can participate in the art creation themselves.
  • Enhancement of art literacy: Through viewing exhibitions, visitors can enhance their understanding and appreciation of art.

6.5 Performing Events

  • Concerts and stage plays: Saigon Opera House and other venues regularly organize various kinds of concerts and stage plays, which are highly entertaining.
  • Diversified choices: from classical music to modern pop music for visitors with different preferences.
  • Ticketing channels: Visitors can purchase tickets online in advance to ensure that they can watch their favorite performances.
  • Art education: Performances are often accompanied by art lectures for visitors interested in the arts.
  • Socialization: Attending performances allows visitors to interact with other tourists and local residents.

7. Precautions

7.1 Safety

  • Watch out for thieves: Take care of your personal belongings in busy markets and attractions to avoid theft.
  • Traffic Safety: Strictly follow traffic rules and wear a safety helmet when riding a motorcycle.
  • Choose regular taxis: Use well-known cab companies and avoid taking unknown vehicles.
  • Nighttime Travel Attention: Try to travel with a companion when going out at night, and choose areas with high pedestrian traffic.
  • Emergency contact information: Know the local emergency contact numbers, such as hospital and police station numbers.

7.2 Cultural Respect

  • Respect local customs: Understand and respect Vietnamese culture and customs and avoid offending the locals.
  • Dress appropriately: When visiting religious sites, it is recommended to dress conservatively and avoid revealing clothing.
  • Polite language: Learn some simple greetings in Vietnamese to improve communication with locals.
  • Respect for religious places: Keep quiet in temples and churches and follow local etiquette.
  • Maintain humility when participating in activities: Respect traditions and show cultural understanding and appreciation when participating in local activities.

7.3 Health and Diet

  • Drink safe water: Try to drink bottled water and avoid tap water to ensure safe drinking.
  • Beware of food allergies: Inform restaurant staff in advance of any food allergies to ensure safety.
  • Be careful when trying new foods: When eating street food, choose stalls with large crowds to ensure hygiene.
  • Bring along commonly used medications: If you need to take medication for a long period of time, bring along relevant medications to ensure that they can be used in a timely manner when needed.
  • Maintain personal hygiene: Pay attention to washing hands while traveling, especially before eating, to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.

7.4 Travel Preparation

  • Choose suitable accommodation: Choose the right type of accommodation according to your budget and needs, from luxury hotels to budget hostels, to ensure a comfortable stay.
  • Know the local laws and regulations: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations in Ho Chi Minh City to avoid unnecessary trouble, such as regulations on smoking and drinking.
  • Prepare some cash: Although credit cards can be used in many places, vendors and markets usually only accept cash, so it is recommended to carry some VND with you.
  • Ensure that your cell phone network is open: Consider purchasing the Vietnam Travel esim service launched by PhoneSIMGo to ensure that you can access the internet at all times during your trip.
  • Interact with locals: Try to interact with local residents to learn about their lifestyle and culture and enrich your travel experience.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

8. Local cultural characteristics

8.1 Traditional festivals

  • Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán): the most important festival in Vietnam, usually celebrated during the Lunar New Year. Family reunions, ancestor worship and New Year celebrations are at the heart of the festival.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu): Also known as Children's Day, the festival is characterized by the appreciation of the moon and the eating of mooncakes, signifying reunion and happiness.

8.2 Music and Dance

  • Traditional music: Vietnam has rich forms of folk music, such as “Ca trù” and “Quan họ”, which reflect local characteristics and history.
  • Folk dances: such as the “Water Puppet Show”, which combines theater and dance to show the traditional stories of Vietnam.

8.3 Handicrafts

  • Traditional crafts: such as silk making, wood carving and pottery, these crafts show the art and culture of Vietnam.
  • Market culture: In the markets of Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can find many handicrafts as souvenirs of their trip.

8.4 Food Culture

  • Rice and Fresh Ingredients: Vietnamese food is based on rice with fresh vegetables and seafood, emphasizing on health and deliciousness.
  • Street food: Street food culture is prevalent with fresh, inexpensive food and an authentic lifestyle experience.

9. Local Vietnamese New Year activities

9.1 Preparation for Lunar New Year

  • Family reunion: On the eve of the Lunar New Year, families clean, buy New Year's goods and decorate their homes to welcome the New Year.
  • Ancestor Worship Ceremony: Many families will prepare offerings and worship their ancestors to show their respect for them.

9.2 Chinese New Year Celebrations

  • Flower Markets and Lantern Fairs: Flower markets are held around the city to sell various flowers and decorations, and lantern fairs also attract many visitors.
  • Dragon and Lion Dances: During the Chinese New Year, dragon and lion dances are often performed to ward off evil spirits and welcome the arrival of the New Year.

9.3 Culinary Feast

  • Preparation of New Year's dishes: Families prepare abundant New Year's dishes such as “Bánh Chưng” (square rice cake) and various sweets to symbolize a good harvest and reunion.
  • Family and friends gathering: During the Lunar New Year's Day, family and friends get together to share a sumptuous New Year's Eve dinner to enhance their relationship.

9.4 Festivals

  • Temple Fairs and Markets: Many places hold temple fairs with a variety of entertainment and snack stalls, which are bustling with activity.
  • Fireworks and Lanterns: During Chinese New Year, cities set off fireworks and hang lanterns to celebrate the arrival of the New Year and create a festive atmosphere.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

10. Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City

1. When is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is from December to April every year when the climate is dry and suitable for outdoor activities and city exploration.

2. How do I get to Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has an international airport (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) and visitors can arrive directly by flight. Transportation within the city can be by cab, motorcycle or public bus.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?

Must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh City include the War Museum, Central Post Office, Notre Dame and Binh Thanh Market, showcasing the rich history and culture.

4. How do I stay connected to the internet?

It is recommended to use the Vietnam Travel eSIM service from PhoneSIMGo to ensure a smooth internet connection while in Ho Chi Minh City. With eSIM, you can enjoy high-speed internet for easy navigation and video calls with your family.

The most comprehensive guide to Vietnam travel in 2025

There are a variety of accommodation options in Ho Chi Minh City, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Recommended accommodations include the Ritz-Carlton and budget hotels in the city center.

6. What are the transportation options in Ho Chi Minh City?

In Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can choose from motorcycle rentals, cabs, public buses and shared mobility services (such as Grab) to get around.

Ho Chi Minh City is famous for Vietnamese rice noodles (Pho), spring rolls, and specialty snacks such as Banh Mi. Visitors can try authentic food at street stalls and restaurants.

8. What is the weather like in Ho Chi Minh City?

The climate in Ho Chi Minh City is tropical and warm throughout the year, with the rainy season usually from May to November. It is advisable to check the weather forecast and organize your trip wisely.

9. What should I be aware of when traveling in Ho Chi Minh City?

Visitors should pay attention to the safety of their personal belongings and avoid letting their guard down in busy markets and on transportation to ensure safety.

10. What are the cultural activities in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has a wealth of cultural activities including traditional music performances, festive celebrations and handicraft markets, which are a great opportunity to experience the local culture.