Top Activities to Do in Ho Chi Minh City – A Travey Club Guide
Ho Chi Minh City, still lovingly called Saigon by many locals, is one of those places that grabs your attention the moment you arrive. The constant buzz of motorbikes, the smell of street food on every corner, and the mix of French colonial buildings with modern skyscrapers create a city that feels alive at all hours.
At Travey Club, we recently explored this vibrant Vietnamese metropolis and put together a list of experiences that truly capture the spirit of the city. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just passing through Southeast Asia, here are some of the top activities we recommend in Ho Chi Minh City.
Step Back in Time at the War Remnants Museum
One of the most impactful places to visit in the city is the War Remnants Museum. It’s not a light experience, but it’s an important one. The exhibits tell the story of the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, with photographs, artifacts, and historical documents that leave a lasting impression.
Walking through the museum, you gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history and resilience. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
Travey Tip: Go in the morning when it’s quieter and easier to explore the exhibits thoughtfully.
Wander Through the Beautiful Saigon Central Post Office
Right in the heart of the city stands one of Saigon’s most recognizable landmarks — the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed during the French colonial period, the building feels like a step back in time with its yellow façade, high arched ceilings, and old telephone booths lining the walls.
Even today, locals still come here to send mail and buy stamps. It’s a quick stop but definitely worth visiting, especially since it sits right next to another iconic landmark.
Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Just across the street from the post office is the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral is made entirely of red bricks imported from France.
Although renovations sometimes limit access inside, the area around the cathedral is lively and perfect for photos, street snacks, and people-watching.
Dive Into Local Life at Ben Thanh Market
If you want to experience the energy of Saigon in one place, Ben Thanh Market is it.
Inside, you’ll find everything from Vietnamese souvenirs and textiles to spices and street food stalls. The market can be busy, but that’s part of the charm.
This is also a great place to try local bites like:
- Banh Mi
- Fresh spring rolls
- Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá)
Travey Tip: Bargaining is common here, so don’t be shy to negotiate a little.
Explore Nguyen Hue Walking Street at Night
As the sun sets, Nguyen Hue Walking Street becomes one of the most vibrant places in the city. Families, couples, and groups of friends gather here to stroll, watch street performers, and enjoy the cool evening air.
The street is lined with cafés, restaurants, and modern buildings, making it a perfect spot to experience Saigon’s nightlife in a relaxed way.
Grab a drink, find a bench, and soak in the atmosphere.
Take a Day Trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels
About an hour outside the city lies one of Vietnam’s most fascinating historical sites — the Cu Chi Tunnels.
These underground tunnels were used extensively during the Vietnam War and stretch for hundreds of kilometers. Visiting them gives you a glimpse into the ingenuity and survival tactics used during wartime.
Some sections have been widened so visitors can crawl through them, which makes the experience surprisingly immersive.
Eat Your Way Through Saigon’s Street Food Scene
If there’s one thing Ho Chi Minh City does exceptionally well, it’s food.
Some of the best meals in Saigon don’t come from fancy restaurants but from tiny street stalls. A simple plastic stool, a sizzling pan, and a bowl of noodles can turn into an unforgettable meal.
A few must-try dishes include:
- Pho
- Bun Thit Nuong
- Banh Xeo
- Vietnamese iced coffee
Joining a street food tour is one of the best ways to discover hidden local spots you might otherwise miss.
Final Thoughts from Travey Club
Ho Chi Minh City is a destination that blends history, culture, and modern energy in a way that feels uniquely Vietnamese. One moment you’re exploring colonial architecture, and the next you’re sitting on a street corner enjoying the best bowl of noodles you’ve ever had.
For travelers visiting Vietnam, Saigon often becomes more than just a stopover — it becomes a place filled with stories, flavors, and experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends.
If you’re planning your journey through Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City deserves a spot on your itinerary.
And as always, Travey Club will keep sharing the places and experiences that make travel unforgettable.
Travey Club is your personal travel planning partner, dedicated to crafting truly bespoke itineraries shaped around how you travel. We believe every journey is unique—no single template, and no purely AI-generated plan, can fit all travel needs. Rather than booking flights or hotels, we focus on thoughtful, human-led planning for our members, working alongside trusted travel agents who manage reservations. Our itineraries highlight key experiences, while Travey Club brings them together through personalized insight, expertise, and attention to detail—ensuring every trip feels intentional, seamless, and distinctly yours.
Look at our three days Ho Chi Minh Itinerary : Travey Club
