Well, you’re in for an exciting adventure! This city is full of life, delicious food, and fascinating history. To make your trip smoother, I’ve put together this casual guide covering everything from the best time to visit, where to stay, how to get around, must-see spots, and of course—where to eat!
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
- Dry Season (December–April): The best time to visit! The weather is warm but manageable, and you don’t have to worry about sudden downpours.
- Rainy Season (May–November): Expect some showers, but nothing too crazy. I visited in November, and although it rained occasionally, the sun was out most of the time.
- Avoid April—it’s the hottest month, with temperatures reaching 39°C (102°F). Unless you love sweating 24/7, it’s best to skip it!
Where to Stay?
Picking the right area to stay can make or break your trip. Here are three solid options:
- District 1 (Best for First-Timers)
This is where I stayed, and I totally recommend it! It’s the heart of the city, packed with top attractions, restaurants, and cafes. Plus, you can walk almost everywhere, which makes exploring super easy. - District 3 (Quieter & More Local)
If you want a more relaxed vibe, District 3 is a great alternative. It’s still close to the action but has fewer tourists and more colonial-style buildings. - Binh Thanh District (Modern & Scenic)
Home to Landmark 81 (the tallest building in Vietnam), this area has a cool mix of fancy apartments and local neighborhoods. It’s also by the river, so you can take the Saigon River Bus for a scenic ride.
Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City
Forget renting a bike—the traffic here is wild. Instead, use Grab (the local Uber) to book cheap car or motorbike rides. If you’re staying in District 1, you can walk most of the time.
For a fun experience, hop on a Grab Bike at night and zoom through the city lights—it’s an unforgettable ride! Or, if you prefer something more relaxed, try the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, which stops at all the major landmarks.
How to Pay?
Most malls and restaurants accept Visa & Mastercard, but if you’re shopping at local markets, you’ll need cash. ATMs are everywhere, and the best banks to withdraw money from are Vietcombank & Techcombank. Just keep in mind there’s a small withdrawal fee.
Must-Visit Places
Ho Chi Minh City is packed with history, culture, and cool spots to explore. Here are some highlights:
- War Remnants Museum – A powerful place to learn about the Vietnam War. Eye-opening and a must-visit.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Classic French colonial architecture. You can even send a postcard home!
- Ben Thanh Market – The perfect spot for souvenirs, snacks, and local vibes. Pro tip: Always bargain—the first price is usually way too high!
- Cafe Apartments – An old apartment building turned into a bunch of trendy cafes. Go at night for the best views of the city.
- Cu Chi Tunnels (Day Trip) – A must for history buffs. These underground tunnels were used during the war—super interesting!
Coffee & Food You Can’t Miss
Vietnamese food is next-level delicious, and you absolutely must try these:
- Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich) – The best one I had was at Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa. There’s always a line, but it’s worth it!
- Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – Try Phở Việt Nam or Phở Hoà Pasteur—both are legendary.
- Egg Coffee – Sounds weird, but it’s amazing! It’s like a mix of coffee and tiramisu. Go to Hanoi Egg Coffee to try it.
- Salted Caramel Coffee – Had it at L’usine Café, and wow—it was one of the best coffees I’ve ever had.
Extra Fun: Beauty & Shopping
If you love self-care, Vietnam is a paradise. I got my nails, lashes, and brows done at The Price Spa, and the quality was insane for the price.
Shopping is also amazing—tons of cute boutiques and local brands at really good prices. Definitely set aside a day for shopping and pampering!
Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting mix of history, culture, and modern city vibes. Whether you’re into food, sightseeing, or just wandering around soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. If you’re heading there soon, enjoy every moment—and don’t forget to try the egg coffee!