Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a bustling hub of culture, energy, and history in southern Vietnam. From chaotic markets and motorbike-clogged streets to serene temples and stylish cafés, this dynamic city has something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or returning for another round of adventure, here’s a complete guide to the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, where to eat, and where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
The Reverie Saigon Arguably the most luxurious hotel in Vietnam, The Reverie is an opulent dream filled with chandeliers, ornate furnishings, and richly layered textures. Even if you’re not staying here, take time to explore its stunning lobby and common areas. The design is extravagant, elegant, and entirely unforgettable.
Rex Hotel This historic hotel played a significant role during the Vietnam War and now serves as a welcoming oasis in the heart of the city. We loved the greenery-filled open-air spaces and the rooftop garden bar with panoramic views. It’s a fantastic base for exploring District 1.
Caravelle Hotel Originally home to the Australian and New Zealand embassies, the Caravelle is a storied hotel that has appeared in many Vietnamese novels and wartime accounts. Its central location and historical significance make it a great choice for travelers interested in the city’s past.
Where to Eat & Drink in Ho Chi Minh City
Cafe Gian Giao Translating to “Scaffolding Café,” this industrial-inspired spot is one of the most visually unique cafés in Saigon. Think traditional fishing boats filled with plants, concrete beams, and artistic grit. It’s a must-visit for coffee lovers and design enthusiasts alike.
The Loft Café Located above an art gallery, The Loft is known for its airy interiors, white-brick walls, and marble tables. It’s a peaceful place to sip Vietnamese iced coffee and escape the city noise for a bit. A hidden gem in District 1.
Coffee Shops in Ho Chi Minh City
The Workshop Located in a loft-style space with big windows and industrial-chic design, The Workshop is known for its high-quality coffee and slow brew options. A favorite among creatives and digital nomads.
Okkio Caffe Instagram-famous and beautifully designed with vintage Vietnamese aesthetics, Okkio serves excellent Vietnamese coffee in a photogenic setting. Try their egg coffee or coconut coffee.
Cafe Marcel Bright, airy, and Parisian-inspired, Café Marcel serves strong coffee, French pastries, and brunch favorites. It’s also a great spot to work or people-watch in District 1.
96B Experiment A hidden gem with minimal interiors and serious coffee craft. The baristas focus on specialty brewing techniques and offer a calm, quiet environment for true coffee lovers.
Bosgaurus Coffee Roasters Sleek and modern with a riverside view, Bosgaurus is a top-tier specialty coffee spot. They roast their own beans and serve some of the best flat whites in the city.
Great Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
Anan Saigon Award-winning and located in a former wet market, Anan is a modern Vietnamese restaurant that reinvents traditional street food. Try the pho tacos or wagyu banh mi.
Pizza 4P’s A cult favorite for both locals and expats, Pizza 4P’s offers gourmet pizza with homemade cheese and Japanese-Italian fusion flavors. Don’t miss the burrata.
Cuc Gach Quan Set in a restored colonial villa, this restaurant feels like dining in an elegant home. They serve traditional Vietnamese dishes made with organic ingredients.
Quan Bui Consistently praised for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and beautifully decorated space. Ideal for travelers who want a classic meal in a stylish setting.
Best Cocktail Bars in Ho Chi Minh City
Drinking & Healing Tucked away in an old French colonial building, this speakeasy-style bar is known for its inventive cocktails and cool, low-lit atmosphere.
Rabbit Hole An underground bar with jazz-age vibes, plush velvet seating, and a focus on classic cocktails with a twist. It’s intimate, moody, and expertly run.
The Gin House A must for gin lovers—this cozy bar offers a wide variety of gin-based drinks, alongside craft tonics and house-infused botanicals.
Firkin Bar A whisky-focused cocktail bar with a speakeasy entrance and dark, masculine interiors. Their cocktails are strong, balanced, and served with flair.
Summer Experiment Bright, innovative, and sustainable—Summer Experiment takes mixology to a new level using locally sourced ingredients and a garden-to-glass concept. A favorite among creatives.
What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the Streets of Saigon Wander the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and take in the nonstop action—motorbikes, food vendors, flower stalls, and vibrant facades. Sometimes the best experiences come from simply observing the rhythm of daily life.
Cu Chi Tunnels A short drive from the city, this complex underground network offers a sobering glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the Vietnamese during the war. Crawl through narrow tunnels, see cleverly hidden trapdoors, and learn about the guerrilla tactics that defined this chapter of history.
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace) Explore the preserved rooms, secret command bunkers, and war relics in this iconic government building. The site of historic events during the fall of Saigon, the palace is essential for understanding Vietnam’s modern history.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon A beautiful French-colonial church in the heart of District 1, this cathedral was built with materials imported entirely from France. It’s a peaceful spot and a prime example of Saigon’s colonial architectural legacy.
Saigon Central Post Office Right next to the cathedral, the Central Post Office is an architectural gem featuring a high vaulted ceiling, vintage details, and a portrait of Ho Chi Minh. It’s still a functioning post office, perfect for sending a postcard home.
Saigon Opera House (Municipal Theatre) This French-colonial building is one of the city’s most elegant landmarks. Even if you’re not a fan of opera, check the schedule—many performances are accessible, engaging, and affordable.
People’s Committee Building (City Hall) While you can’t go inside this government building, its ornate colonial-style exterior makes it one of the most photographed sites in the city. Visit in the early morning or evening for the best light.
Thien Hau Temple Located in District 5 (Cholon), this Chinese temple is dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess. Watch locals light incense and pray at intricately adorned altars—this is one of the most culturally rich religious sites in Ho Chi Minh City.
Whether you’re here for a few days or a full week, Ho Chi Minh City is a city of contrasts—where old-world charm meets modern energy. From historic landmarks to world-class coffee and elegant hotels, it’s a destination full of unexpected beauty and rich stories waiting to be discovered.
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