Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s most vibrant city, blending French colonial architecture, traditional Vietnamese culture, and the bustling scenes of a modern metropolis. In 2025, the city will welcome global visitors with a more convenient transportation network (such as the gradual opening of the metro system) and abundant tourism resources. Based on the latest travel information and traveler reviews, here are the top 10 attractions in Ho Chi Minh City for 2025, covering history, culture, cuisine, and modern landmarks, suitable for solo travelers, families, or culture enthusiasts.
1. Cu Chi Tunnels: Journey Through Vietnam War History
The Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 60 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, are an extensive underground network spanning over 250 km, used as a hideout by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. This subterranean village includes meeting rooms, medical facilities, and food storage, showcasing wartime survival ingenuity. Visitors can join half-day tours to experience the narrow tunnels and gain insight into the harsh conditions of the era. Guided tours often include historical explanations and a shooting range experience for a deeper understanding of this history.
- Opening Hours: Daily, specific times vary by tour
- Tickets: Included in tour fees
- Tips: Wear comfortable clothing; tunnels are narrow and humid
2. War Remnants Museum: Confronting the Reality of the Vietnam War
Located in District 3, the War Remnants Museum showcases the Vietnam War through artifacts, photographs, and documents. Exhibits include military aircraft, tanks, and records of chemical weapon impacts, serving as a stark reminder of the war’s devastation. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and suitable for families to educate children about peace. The outdoor plaza displays warplanes, while the indoor two-story exhibition space offers detailed insights.
- Opening Hours: Daily 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Tickets: 40,000 VND (~US$1.57)
- Tips: Allocate 2 hours for the visit; exhibits may evoke strong emotions
3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street: The Lively Heart of the City
Nguyen Hue Walking Street, an 800-meter pedestrian street, connects the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Hall to the Saigon Riverfront. A popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, it frequently hosts festivals and street performances. Surrounded by French-style architecture, luxury hotels, and the Bitexco Financial Tower, the street’s neon lights create a romantic atmosphere at night. It’s ideal for wedding photos or leisurely strolls.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Tickets: Free
- Tips: Visit at night for a vibrant atmosphere, great for families or couples
4. Ho Chi Minh City Opera House: A French Architectural Gem
Built in the late 19th century, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House features Gothic and French theater styles, making it a cultural landmark in the city center. While the interior requires performance tickets for entry, the exterior alone is a magnet for photographers. The venue often hosts *A O Show*, a Vietnamese traditional dance performance likened to Cirque du Soleil, blending bamboo props and ethnic music to depict rural Vietnamese life.
- Opening Hours: Varies by performance schedule
- Tickets: Performance tickets required
- Tips: Book *A O Show* tickets in advance to experience Vietnamese culture
5. The Cafe Apartments: Savoring Vietnamese Coffee Culture
Located on Nguyen Hue Street, The Cafe Apartments is a nine-story retro building housing numerous cafés, bars, and creative shops. A paradise for coffee lovers, each café offers a unique vibe, serving everything from traditional Vietnamese drip coffee to innovative drinks. At night, the brightly lit building is a globally recognized Instagram hotspot.
- Opening Hours: Varies by shop
- Tickets: Free (elevator fee refundable with purchase)
- Tips: Take the elevator to the top floor and explore downward on foot
6. Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: The Pink Landmark
Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, also known as the Red Church due to its pinkish hue, was built in the late 19th century using imported French red bricks, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles. In 2025, the church is undergoing renovations, expected to complete by late 2027, but its exterior remains a popular photo spot. The Virgin Mary statue in front adds a sacred ambiance.
- Opening Hours: Exterior only during renovations
- Tickets: Free
- Tips: Combine with a visit to the nearby post office and book street
7. Saigon Central Post Office: A Classic French Architectural Gem
The Saigon Central Post Office, a century-old French-style building next to the Notre-Dame Basilica, is famous for its goose-yellow facade and soaring arched ceilings. Still a functioning post office, visitors can purchase postcards to send home. Retro telephone booth-style ATMs and souvenir shops add charm, making it a must-visit on a city center day trip.
- Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday 7:30 AM–6:00 PM, Sunday 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Tickets: Free
- Tips: Send a postcard as a keepsake; delivery takes about two weeks
8. Ho Chi Minh City Book Street: A Tranquil Literary Haven
Ho Chi Minh City’s Book Street, located behind the Central Post Office, is considered Vietnam’s most cultured street. This pedestrian lane is lined with over 20 bookstores offering classic literature and rare antique books. Weekends feature book launches and cultural events, with a central reading café where visitors can sip coffee while enjoying a book.
- Opening Hours: Varies by shop
- Tickets: Free
- Tips: Take your time to soak in the literary atmosphere
9. Independence Palace: Symbol of Vietnam’s Reunification
Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, is a historic witness to the end of the Vietnam War. Now a museum, this opulent palace features over 100 rooms, including the presidential office and underground command center. Guides in traditional Vietnamese attire provide detailed explanations, offering insights into Vietnam’s turbulent 20th-century history.
- Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–3:30 PM
- Tickets: 65,000 VND (~US$2.55)
- Tips: Watch the 15-minute historical film for context
10. Ben Thanh Market: A Snapshot of Local Life
Located in District 1, Ben Thanh Market is Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic market. This indoor market houses over 1,600 stalls selling traditional clothing, souvenirs, and street food. A bustling morning market by day, it transforms into an outdoor night market after dark, attracting crowds. Its proximity to a bus terminal and future metro access will enhance convenience.
- Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Tickets: Free
- Tips: Watch your belongings and practice bargaining skills
Why Visit Ho Chi Minh City in 2025?
In 2025, Ho Chi Minh City is in a phase of rapid development, with the metro system’s gradual rollout enhancing city transportation. Upgraded tourism infrastructure and increasing internationalization make it a top Southeast Asian destination. Whether you seek historical depth, cultural experiences, or culinary adventures, this city has it all.
Travel Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate. The dry season (December–April) offers comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. The rainy season (May–November) brings showers but lower costs and fewer crowds, ideal for budget travelers.
Transportation
City transportation includes taxis, Grab, or motorbike rentals for quick travel. For long-distance trips like the Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta day tours, guided tours simplify logistics. Bicycle rentals are great for exploring city center alleys.
Accommodation Recommendations
Districts 1 and 3 are top choices for tourists, close to most attractions. Options range from budget hostels to five-star hotels. Recommended accommodations include luxury hotels near Nguyen Hue Street or affordable guesthouses in District 1.
Itinerary Planning
Here’s a suggested 3-day, 2-night itinerary:
- Day 1: Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office, Book Street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, The Cafe Apartments
- Day 2: Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City Opera House (watch a performance)
- Day 3: Cu Chi Tunnels half-day tour, Ben Thanh Market shopping
Other Worthwhile Attractions
Though not in the top 10, these sites are worth considering:
- Bitexco Financial Tower: A 68-story skyscraper with a 49th-floor observation deck offering Saigon River views, tickets ~US$9.45.
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: A traditional temple dedicated to the Jade Emperor, showcasing Vietnamese religious culture, free entry.
- Mekong Delta: A day tour by boat explores four islands and the lifestyle of river communities.
Cuisine and Nightlife
Ho Chi Minh City’s street food is a highlight; try phở (noodle soup), bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette), and drip coffee. Phạm Ngũ Lão and Bùi Viện streets are nightlife hubs, with bars and open-air restaurants creating a lively vibe, perfect for backpackers and young travelers.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic destination, and in 2025, its unique blend of history, culture, and modern allure will captivate global visitors. From exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels to shopping at Ben Thanh Market, these top 10 attractions promise an unforgettable journey. Don’t miss the local cuisine and alleyway strolls to feel the city’s pulse.
