Things to do in Ho Chi Minh
If you’re considering making a trip down to Ho Chi Minh City, get ready for a wild ride. The city is a constant whirlwind of action, with plenty to see, do, and eat. So, stop settling for pho at your kopitiam and get the real deal in the heart of Vietnam.
Exploring a new place can be a little daunting, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a guide to things to do in Ho Chi Minh if you’re visiting the city for the first time.
The current exchange rate is VND10,000 = ~S$0.52 as of 17th March 2025.
Table of Contents [hide]
- Things to do in Ho Chi Minh
- How to get to Ho Chi Minh from the airport?
- Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh?
- – For the shopaholics –
- 1. Ben Thanh Market
- 2. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
- 3. 42 Ton That Thiep Building
- 4. The New Playground
- – Attractions & activities –
- 5. Dam Sen Park
- 6. Cu Chi Tunnels
- 7. Tan Dinh Church
- 8. Mekong Delta
- 9. Saigon Opera House
- – For the foodies –
- 10. Cafe Apartment Building
- 11. Cafe Sân Vườn Miền Thảo Mộc
- 12. Stir Saigon
- 13. Pho Hoa Pasteur
- 14. Oasis Cafe
How to get to Ho Chi Minh from the airport?
A direct flight from Changi Airport to Tan Son Nhat International Airport takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes, with numerous airlines servicing this route.
Getting to the city from the airport is fairly easy. For a more affordable option, catch the No. 152 public bus, which brings you to Ben Thanh Market. The ride will cost you around VND6,000, but note that you will have to pay extra if you’ve got luggage. The ride should take you around 15 minutes, depending on your stop.
Image credit: Vietjet Air
There’s also the No. 109 airport bus that brings you right into District 1, but this is a little pricier at VND20,000. The pickup location is at Column 12 of the international terminal. You can’t pre-book seats and can only pay in cash – tickets can be purchased on the bus or at the airport counters.
Grab is also a convenient ride option to get around the city. Head over to the designated pickup location at the airport – usually the car park opposite the arrival hall. Prices range from VND110,000 to VND250,000 depending on the traffic and demand.
If you’re in need of a local SIM card, grab 1 near the airport’s exit. Prices range from VND180,000-VND50,000.
Or, purchase a SIM card (from S$7.35) beforehand and pick it up at the airport.
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh?
Ho Chi Minh City is divided into 24 districts, comprising 19 inner city districts and 5 suburban areas. Districts are further divided into wards, which are basically neighbourhoods to better organise areas.
Most tourists stay in Districts 1 or 2, which are considered the commercial hubs and the heart of the city, so it’s easier to get to popular attractions.
Image credit: @itserikager via Instagram
If you’re visiting with your family, it may be wise to stay closer to attractions like Ben Thanh Market and avoid the walking streets, as they can get noisy at night. You could rent an Airbnb or stay in a hotel, depending on your budget.
Sazi Ben Thanh Hotel is located right down the street across Ben Thanh Market, making it an ideal location if convenience is a high priority. Prices start from S$83.21/night, with the most basic room being a Standard Studio, inclusive of 1 double bed and a small desk.
Akoya Saigon Central Hotel is a 3-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market if you’re looking to crash somewhere nearby after all that shopping. Rooms start from S$58.61/night and the price is inclusive of breakfast; definitely a fuss-free temporary home for your stay.
Winsuites Saigon Hotel is another option, located just 2 minutes away from Ben Thanh Market. Room rates start from S$121.08/night if you don’t mind splurging, and it includes a choice of 1 queen bed or 2 single beds, a free minibar, and a cosy fireplace.
– For the shopaholics –
1. Ben Thanh Market
Diverse local souvenirs & street food
Image credit: @Hiro_A via Flickr
Probably one of the most well-known markets in Ho Chi Minh, Ben Thanh Market is a shopper’s haven, selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, snacks, and more.
Originally located near Ben Nghe River, the market was moved to its current location in 1912 and still retains its original clock tower. It is the place to be to have a first taste of Vietnamese culture since it houses local businesses.
There’s no fixed pricing here, so come with your best bargaining game. For a gauge on prices, head to the East exit for fixed prices on clothes. And if all that browsing works up an appetite, fuel up with street food like bún mắm (VND10,000), chè (VND17,000), and even a selection of shellfish (VND20,000-VND50,000).
If you’re still up for another shopping marathon, take a 4-minute walk to Saigon Square, another market famous for its luxury knock-offs.
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2. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
Wide variety of fresh flowers at wholesale prices
Image credit: Tra Huynh via Google Maps
One of the biggest flower markets in the city, Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, is a must-visit for tourists. The market was established in 1987 and has remained a go-to spot for flowers thanks to its diverse offerings.
Prices (VND3,000-VND5,000) are more than reasonable since it’s a wholesale market, and you will find gardening tools and supplies on sale here as well.
If you find yourself a little peckish, there are over 100 street food stalls at the market for you to satisfy your cravings.
The market is a little way out of the city centre, but buses No. 27, 14, and 53 will get you there. Make sure you reach the market early to get the freshest picks.
3. 42 Ton That Thiep Building
Clothing shops with trendy styles
Image credit: @Thái An via Unsplash
Maybe you consider yourself above the mainstream and would rather avoid fighting the crowds at the Cafe Apartment Building. Enter 42 Ton That Thiep Building – while it only has 2 floors to explore, don’t count it out just yet.
The old apartment building is mainly occupied by clothing shops that are popular among Gen Zs due to the wide selection of vintage, street style, and gender-neutral designs. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice, but here are a few rapid-fire recommendations for shops to visit:
- Mama Virus: for coquette-style apparel
- Lider: for gender-neutral apparel
- Hebevintage: for curated second-hand clothing
4. The New Playground
Underground shopping paradise for clothes & accessories
Image credit: @thenewplayground_saigon via Instagram
The New Playground is an underground concept mall located in the heart of District 1, specialising in streetwear and Y2K apparel. It houses local businesses, so this is the place to #supportlocal.
Image credit: @thenewplayground_saigon via Instagram
Although the main stars are the stores selling apparel, the mall’s offerings also include trendy accessories like jewellery, hats, sunglasses, and bags. You’ll get to browse a variety of local brands, like 90 Vibes for handbags (from VND490,000) and Choker Club for jewellery (from VND150,000).
After an exhausting shopping spree, you deserve a pat on the back. But don’t forget to drop by the Life Four Cuts photobooth near the exit on your way out to take some commemorative shots.
– Attractions & activities –
5. Dam Sen Park
Water & amusement park for families
Image adapted from: Dam Sen Park via Facebook
Parents, it’s only a matter of time before you’re faced with the dreaded question from your kids, “What else is there to do?”. Luckily, there’s Dam Sen Park, an entertainment destination for families, located in District 11.
The park is split between 2 areas, the Dam Sen Cultural Park, which functions more as an amusement park, and the Dam Sen Water Park. There are separate entrances and tickets for both parks and a connecting gate linking the 2.
It’s fairly easy to reach the park – hop on buses No. 69 or 38, or book a Grab which should take about 30 minutes.
Tickets are available at 3 locations: the main gate, in the park, or at the water park gate for Water Park visitors who wish to explore the Cultural Park.
There are 3 types of tickets to the Cultural Park. Entrance tickets allow visitors to visit the monument attractions but exclude rides. The package ticket includes games and admission. If you get cold feet on rollercoasters, there are individual game tickets available (VND30,000-VND50,000).
Breakdown of tickets for Cultural Park
| Entrance Ticket | Package Ticket | |
| Children (Under 1.4m) | VND100,000 | VND220,000 |
| Adults (Over 1.4m) | VND160,000 | VND300,000 |
For more information about the pricing, check out Dam Sen Cultural Park’s information page.
Adult tickets for the Water Park are priced at VND220,000, while tickets for children are priced at VND180,000.
Phew – now that the logistics are out of the way, let’s break down the highlights of each park.
Dam Sen Water Park
Image credit: Công Viên Nước Đầm Sen via Facebook
Boasting over 31 aquatic equipment, Dam Sen Water Park is a surefire way to keep your family entertained all day long.
Some highlights include the Wandering River, a 400-metre long river that winds through lush greenery and caves; the Black Thunder Slide that spirals from a height of 11 metres with light and sound effects as you make your way down; and the Water Jet Massage, which includes 12 water jets to stimulate blood circulation.
Lockers are available for rent to store your valuables for a small fee (VND25,000). Food is prohibited within the premises, but there are restaurants within the park, most notably De Men for child-friendly dishes.
Dam Sen Cultural Park
Image credit: Nam Quốc via Google Maps
Maybe you’re not so keen on getting wet – don’t worry, head over to the Dam Sen Cultural Park for equally thrilling experiences while staying dry. The park features over 30 types of attractions, including a rollercoaster, a mini zoo, a snow house, and even an aquarium.
Image credit: Dam Sen Park via Facebook
Apart from its rides, the Cultural Park is also known for its iconic photo spots that feature a mix of East-West influence, such as the Romance Square which is inspired by the Classical Roman era and the Cuu Khuc Bridge that stretches across the scenic lake.
If you aren’t a fan of water parks, the Cultural Park is a great alternative while still guaranteeing a great time for the whole family.
6. Cu Chi Tunnels
Explore underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War
Image credit: Vinpearl
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-visit for anyone curious about Vietnam’s wartime history. The underground system served as a crucial strategy during the war for the Viet Minh Troops to travel discreetly and as living quarters.
Image credit: @Oliver Schoepgens via Flickr
Booking a guided tour is ideal if you prefer to explore without having to worry about transportation, especially since the site is located 70km away from Saigon.
Explore the tunnels and experience life during wartime, including hidden booby traps and even a shooting range for a small fee (VND60,000 per bullet). You’ll also get a taste of traditional wartime food like cassava, a root vegetable commonly used as a substitute for rice during the war.
Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, as your expedition may include some crawling.
Book a half-day guided tour of Cu Chi Tunnels (from S$21.29).
7. Tan Dinh Church
Church with a pretty pink facade
Image credit: Althea Tan via Google Maps
Situated in District 3, Tan Dinh Church is impossible to miss with its iconic bright pink facade. The church was completed in 1876 with Gothic-style influences and is the second biggest church in Ho Chi Minh after the Notre-Dame.
To get the best view of the church, head across the street to Cộng Coffee and grab a seat on their rooftop terrace for a bird’s eye view of the magnificent monument.
Only Catholics are permitted to enter the church, but visitors can still visit the front yard and admire the exterior. For the best shots, visit in the daytime to capture its pop of pink on your phone.
8. Mekong Delta
Guided river tour
Image credit: Klook
You probably learned about the Mekong Delta in Geography class, so here’s your chance to witness its natural beauty firsthand.
One of the longest rivers in the world, the river flows through 6 countries. The Mekong Delta is home to rice paddies, bustling fishing villages, and a thriving ecosystem of mangrove forests.
A guided tour is the best way to experience the Mekong Delta, as a local will bring you around to explore different parts of the region. Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around the fishing villages, a bike ride around Thoi Son island, and a visit to the Vinh Trang Pagoda.
Book a full-day guided tour of the Mekong Delta (from S$26.45).
9. Saigon Opera House
Cultural dance performances & shows
Image credit: @jessieling via Instagram
If you’re in the city, you have to catch a show at the historic Saigon Opera House. Located in District 1, the opera house is close to other iconic landmarks like the Central Post Office and the Notre-Dame.
Its magnificent architecture takes inspiration from the French Third Republic, and many original features are still preserved today, like the white stone statues at the entrance and its intricate chandeliers.
Seating is divided into 3 sections, the premium being “wow” seats, the middle-tier “ooh” seats, and the furthest seating as “aah” seats.
Here are 3 highly recommended shows for your next visit:
The A O Show is a visual masterpiece showcasing the contrast between the tranquillity of Vietnamese life in the countryside and the noise of urbanisation in the city. Featuring jaw-dropping acrobatic stunts and an interpretive dance using bamboo poles, the performance is a snapshot of Vietnamese lives in Saigon.
Book tickets to the A O Show (from S$30.39-S$91.65).
Hoi Ai: Teh Dar, where “Teh Dar” means “travelling the circle” in the K’HO tongue, is an apt title for the production’s overarching theme of the cyclical nature of life. The performance sees a combination of breathtaking acrobatics and contemporary dance with live tribal music.
Book tickets to Hoi Ai: Teh Dar (from S$26.95-S$88).
– For the foodies –
10. Cafe Apartment Building
Instagrammable cafes & boutiques
Image credit: @zp_hoult via Instagram
This picturesque 9-storey building is located along No. 42 Nguyen Hue Street and is instantly recognisable by its striking facade.
Built in the 1960s, the Cafe Apartment Building served as a former residence for American military officials during the Vietnam War. Today, the building functions as a complex for Instagram-worthy cafes and trendy boutiques.
Although easily spotted, getting in is a little tricky. Go through the entrance on the bottom left of the building next to the red Circle K sign, and go up the stairs. If you want to avoid paying the VND3,000 elevator fee, make sure to wear comfortable shoes to take the scenic route up the stairs.
It can be overwhelming on the first visit due to its myriad offerings, but here’s a starter pack of shops to visit.
Image credit: @sophiaveg via Instagram
Grab a seat at Madam Quyên on the 5th floor, a family-run restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese specialities. We recommend their spring roll (VND44,000) and Banh Mi Saigon (VND58,000).
Image adapted from: @pocafemuoi via Instagram
Pờ Coffee on the 8th floor is a great choice if you need a caffeine fix. They offer drinks inspired by a variety of cuisines, like their Salt-Milk Japanese Matcha (VND69,000) and Pineapple Ginseng Coffee (VND55,000). Be sure to try out Vietnam’s iconic Egg Coffee (VND55,000).
11. Cafe Sân Vườn Miền Thảo Mộc
Fantasy-like cafe with lanterns
Cafe Sân Vườn Miền Thảo Mộc is an open garden cafe featuring a mini waterfall, koi ponds, and colourful lanterns—a dream-like experience if you’re looking for food in the city.
This cafe’s main star is definitely its lush, nature-inspired design. Reviews mainly gush about the cafe’s enchanting atmosphere. For the best Instagram shots, go in the evening when the lanterns are lit up to feel like the main character.
Guests can choose between semi-open pavilions or shaded garden tables. The cafe even has a misting system to help customers beat the heat.
Prices range from VND45,000-VND70,000 for drinks and around VND58,000 for lunch dishes.
12. Stir Saigon
Speakeasy bar with local flavours
Image credit: Stir via Google Maps
Ranked 58th on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list in 2024, Stir Saigon is a force to be reckoned with in Ho Chi Minh’s bar scene. Don’t let its unassuming exterior fool you; its intimate atmosphere is the perfect spot to wind down after a day of exploring the city.
The bar is conveniently located right across from Ben Thanh Market. Its entrance may be tricky to find – simply head up the stairs and you’ll be at the right place.
Its doors are open to both beginners and self-proclaimed bar experts. Their latest menu – Vietnam Geography Cocktail – takes you through the various cuisines and subcultures of Vietnam, a side of culture to go with your concoction.
Their offerings see an infusion of Vietnamese flavours with French and Chinese styles, notably blending modern drinks with local flavours like their Nuoc Mia highball. Drinks start from an average price of VND250,000.
13. Pho Hoa Pasteur
Authentic pho recommended by the MICHELIN Guide
Image credit: @insasigram via Instagram
Of course, no trip to Vietnam is complete without a bowl of pho. Pho Hoa Pasteur is a pho paradise and is well-known among locals and tourists. This 2-storey restaurant found its humble beginnings as a street stall in 1968. Today, the stall is one of the recommended restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide.
Choose from its extensive menu offering pho with different cuts of meat, like flank, brisket, and tendon. There are also noodles without meat as a vegetarian option. Normal-sized bowls are priced at VND90,000, while big-sized bowls are priced at VND105,000.
14. Oasis Cafe
Koi pond cafe with unique interiors
Image credit: Oasis Cafe via Google Maps
Oasis Cafe looks like something out of a fantasy novel, with overhead bridges and a massive koi pond with sunken seating, accessed via a stone walkway. The cafe also has a second floor that houses a hanging “bird’s nest” which functions as a private dining area for guests. It’s no wonder that this unique cafe has gone viral.
For a fee of VND7,000, you’ll be able to feed the many koi fish swimming around your seating area as you wait for your food to arrive. Drinks are priced from VND50,000, while food items start at VND70,000.
The cafe also offers free wifi if you’re running low on data.
Add Ho Chi Minh to your travel bucket list
Whether you’re in the city to be immersed in the local culture or you’re simply on the hunt for your next wardrobe upgrade, Ho Chi Minh City is definitely a place that satisfies any kind of traveller.
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Cover image adapted from: @zp_hoult via Instagram, Althea Tan via Google Maps, Công Viên Nước Đầm Sen via Facebook
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