Formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam’s largest metropolis is often described as busy and chaotic. But Ho Chi Minh City‘s disarming French colonial charm and wide gastronomic choices make it a worthy cosmopolitan destination in its own right and an excellent starting point for countryside excursions.
Ho Chi Minh city is the most populous city in Vietnam with a population of 8.4 million (13 million in the metropolitan area) as of 2017.
A major air travel gateway to Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the country’s second most visited city (18th in Asia Pacific), with 4.1 million overnight international visitors in 2018
Top Must Do’s 
Dong Khoi Street
A walk from Notre Dame Cathedral down to the south bank of the Saigon River passes by colonial-era structures, including the much-photographed People’s Committee Building.
A photographer’s heaven and a lovely stroll for sightseers, it’s a guaranteed tourist’s delight!
Reunification Palace
Now a museum, the former South Vietnam President’s residence was where the Vietnam War ended in 1975.
Replicas of the tanks that stormed through the palace gates during the Fall of Saigon are on display at the palace grounds.
Cu Chi Tunnels
An hour away from the city, the tunnel complex was used by the Viet Cong as a hideout-cum-attack base.
Today, there are dioramas, booby traps and a firing range for history buffs and warriors at heart.
Cao Dai Temple
The mix of architectural styles is symbolic of Cao Dai beliefs, rooted in various world religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, Hinduism, Confucianism and Islam.
Also known as the Great Temple or Holy See, it is a popular day trip destination.
Ben Thanh Market
Come early to bargain hard at this sprawling market for ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress), local handicrafts and souvenirs.
The large downtown marketplace and its surrounding streets make for one of the city’s liveliest areas.
Quick facts about Ho Chi Minh City
Transportation to and from Airport| Transportation | To | Duration | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (7am-7pm) | Ben Thanh Market / Pham Ngu Lao | 60-90 mins | VND 4000 + VND 3000 for large luggage |
| Taxi | City centre | 30 mins or longer, depending on the location | Between USD4 to USD7. Stick to reliable companies such as Mailinh and VinaSun, or pay extra for coupon taxis from SATSCO and Saigon Car Rental. |
Quick Facts| Currency | Vietnamese Dong (VND) |
| Electricity | 220V 50Hz    |
| Language | Vietnamese, French, Chinese |
| Time zone | UTC +7 |
| Telephone code | +84 8 |
| Religion | Buddhism, Christianity, indigenous religions |
WeatherDEC – APR, Dry Season
22°C to 32°C
Warm throughout the year, with December as the coolest month and April as the hottest.
MAY – NOV, Monsoon Season
23°C to 33°C
Humid and rainy, with short heavy bursts of rain. Bargain hunters can get great deals during this season.
Need a visa to visit Vietnam? Check out Vietnam Visa On Arrival official website.
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