Top Attractions to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City: A Journey Through Saigon’s Heart

A Blend of History and Modernity
Ho Chi Minh City, affectionately called Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling metropolis, attracting ~60% of the country’s international visitors with its vibrant mix of historical landmarks and modern marvels. From the sacred Thien Hau Pagoda in Ward 5 to the towering Landmark 81 in Binh Thanh Ward, the city’s attractions reflect its journey from a colonial past to a dynamic future in a 6,772 km² megacity. Sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi Ward and Can Gio Mangrove Forest in Can Gio Ward showcase Saigon’s historical and natural depth. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, offer sustainable exploration of these iconic spots, supporting local communities. Uncover Saigon’s soul—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, forming a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including District 1 now Ward 1 and District 5 now Ward 5. This reorganization expands Saigon’s tourism scope, integrating sites like Vung Tau’s Christ Statue and enhancing connectivity with Metro Line 1, electric buses, and cycling paths, linking Ward 1’s urban core to Cu Chi and Can Gio wards. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a leading Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by local experts sharing Saigon’s rich history and culture. Supporting communities in Ward 1, Ward 5, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Located ~1,730 km south of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City thrives in a tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). As Vietnam’s largest tourism hub, Saigon welcomed ~60% of international visitors through Tan Son Nhat International Airport, handling 40 million passengers annually. The city’s 168 wards, from urban Ward 1 to suburban Can Gio, offer a tapestry of attractions, including colonial-era landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and natural reserves. With Metro Line 1 and a robust bus network, Saigon’s sites, like Independence Palace in Ward 1 and Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi Ward, are easily accessible, making it a must-visit destination).

1. Thien Hau Pagoda, Ward 5

This 1760 Chinese temple at 710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 5, honors the sea goddess Thien Hau, featuring a triple-gate entrance, ceramic figurines, and yin-yang tile roofs. A Cantonese cultural hub, it’s a serene retreat in Cholon’s Chinatown.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Visit during Tet for lion dances; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Independence Palace, Ward 1

At 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ward 1, this 1966 modernist palace marks Vietnam’s reunification on April 30, 1975. Explore its historic rooms, bunker, and lush grounds, a symbol of Saigon’s resilience.

• Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: See the rooftop tank display; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. War Remnants Museum, Ward 3

Located at 28 Vo Van Tan, Ward 3, this museum chronicles Vietnam’s war history with poignant exhibits, including U.S. military artifacts and photo galleries, drawing global visitors.

• Cost: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Allow 2 hours for exhibits; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

4. Cu Chi Tunnels, Cu Chi Ward

In Cu Chi Ward, ~70 km from Ward 1, this 250-km underground network, built 1946–1968, was a Viet Cong stronghold. Crawl restored tunnels and view wartime exhibits at Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc.

• Cost: $5 (116,000 VND) adults; $2.50 (58,000 VND) children.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Opt for Ben Duoc for fewer crowds; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

5. Landmark 81, Binh Thanh Ward

At Vinhomes Central Park, Binh Thanh Ward, this 461m skyscraper, Vietnam’s tallest, offers an 81st-floor observation deck with panoramic city views, plus shopping and dining.

• Cost: Observation deck $3.45 (80,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM–10:00 PM.

• Tip: Visit at sunset; included in our Saigon City Tour ($50–$70).

6. Can Gio Mangrove Forest, Can Gio Ward

A UNESCO biosphere reserve in Can Gio Ward, ~50 km from Ward 1, this mangrove forest features boat tours, wildlife spotting, and eco-trails, showcasing Saigon’s natural beauty.

• Cost: $1.30 (30,000 VND) entry; boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Spot monkeys at Monkey Island; included in our Saigon Eco Tour ($60–$80).

7. Nha Rong Wharf (Ho Chi Minh Museum), Ward 4

At 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ward 4, this 1863 French-built wharf marks Ho Chi Minh’s 1911 departure to save Vietnam. Now a museum, it displays artifacts of his journey.

• Cost: $1.30 (30,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: View the dragon-shaped roof; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

8. Christ of Vung Tau, Vung Tau Ward

In Vung Tau Ward, ~95 km from Ward 1, this 36m Christ statue atop Small Mountain offers sweeping coastal views after an 800-step climb, a serene retreat from urban Saigon.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Visit via ferry from Ward 4; included in our Saigon Coastal Escape ($100–$150).

Ho Chi Minh City’s attractions span from Ward 1’s urban core to suburban Cu Chi and Can Gio wards:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Ward 1 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #109 to Ward 1: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting Around:

• Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (Ward 1), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), connects to Ward 5 and Binh Thanh.

• Bus #109: Links Ward 1 to Ward 5, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1; $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) to Cu Chi.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Ward 1 or Ward 5.

• Ferry to Vung Tau: From Ward 4, $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND), 1.5 hours (web:20).

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon City Tour ($50–$70) for guided transport.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for exploring outdoor sites like Can Gio Mangrove Forest or Christ of Vung Tau. Tet (January–February) brings festive decorations but crowded attractions. The rainy season (May–November) features cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with indoor sites like War Remnants Museum perfect during showers. Morning visits (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) ensure quieter exploration, while April 30th (Reunification Day) offers special events but higher crowds.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit mornings for fewer visitors. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Modest attire (covered shoulders, long pants) for pagodas.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for outdoor sites.

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, Grab app, portable charger, camera for photos (non-flash in museums).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for tickets; bring a notebook for historical notes.

Attraction Costs

• Thien Hau Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Independence Palace: $3.45 (80,000 VND) adults.

• War Remnants Museum: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Cu Chi Tunnels: $5 (116,000 VND) adults.

• Landmark 81: $3.45 (80,000 VND) observation deck.

• Can Gio Mangrove Forest: $1.30 (30,000 VND) entry; boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Nha Rong Wharf: $1.30 (30,000 VND).

• Christ of Vung Tau: Free.

Transportation

• Metro Line 1: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Bus #109: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1; $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) to Cu Chi.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Ferry to Vung Tau: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby)

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Ward 1 or Ward 5)

• Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes entry, metro, street food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are widespread in Ward 1 and Ward 5.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for Tet or April 30th.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Use sunscreen; explore outdoor sites early.

  • Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); visit indoor museums.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Ben Thanh Market (4 Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1) as a landmark.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded markets; secure valuables.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles; support local vendors for souvenirs.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at pagodas; maintain silence in museums; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent in Can Gio.

Our sustainable tours showcase Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions:

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Thien Hau Pagoda, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70/person): Cu Chi Tunnels, Nha Rong Wharf, War Remnants Museum. Includes eco-transfers, guide, snacks.

• Saigon City Tour ($50–$70/person): Landmark 81, Ben Thanh Market, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Eco Escape ($100–$150/person): Can Gio Mangrove Forest, Vung Tau’s Christ Statue. Includes ferry, guide, meals.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, from the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to the serene Thien Hau Pagoda, offer a captivating journey through Saigon’s past and present. Explore the underground legacy of the Cu Chi Tunnels or find peace amidst the incense-filled halls of Thien Hau Pagoda in Cholon, all while immersing in the city’s vibrant heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through these iconic sites, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves the environment. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly Saigon adventure today!
Ready to discover Saigon’s heart? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s cultural treasures!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Ho Chi Minh City Attractions Information: vietnam.travel, scootersaigontour.com, viator.com