Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Things to do in {geoName}

The city formerly known as Saigon is fast, full-on, and full of stories. If you’re looking for things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, start with this: come hungry, stay curious, and keep your camera close.

The city’s a mix of old-school charm and fast-paced life. Expect historic landmarks, tiny alleyway cafes, colourful markets, and rooftop views that go on forever. It’s the kind of place where the best experiences happen when you slow down and explore on foot...or by scooter if you’re game. We’ve pulled together a mix of must-sees, hidden gems, and easy day trips, whether you're in town for a while or just here for the weekend.

Unique {geoName} things you can’t do anywhere else

• Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels: Step into the past in this wartime tunnel network. Learn how locals lived underground, then relax with cassava tea or test your aim at the shooting range.
• Cruise through the Mekong Delta: Hop on a wooden boat through coconut groves and rice fields. Try local fruits, watch candy-making, and enjoy traditional music in a peaceful, village-style setting.
• Watch a water puppet show: This quirky folk art brings stories to life with puppets performing on water. Expect colourful sets, live music, and a peek into Vietnamese culture and traditions.
• Speedboat to Can Gio Monkey Island: Escape the city for mangrove forests, monkeys, and crocodiles. Enjoy river views, climb Tang Bong Tower, and learn about local life and conservation efforts.
• Take a walk through history: See Vietnam’s modern history up close at the War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace. These two landmarks offer powerful stories, preserved war relics, and insight into the country's fight for independence.

Best {geoName} attractions to see

• Indochina Queen dinner cruise: Dine on the Saigon River as the city lights sparkle. It’s a relaxed way to see the skyline, share a meal, and enjoy live music onboard.
• Ben Thanh Market cooking class: Ride a cyclo to the market, shop for ingredients, then cook Vietnamese dishes with a local chef. You get to eat what you’ve created and learn the stories behind it.
• Vincom Landmark 81 SkyView: Head up Vietnam’s tallest tower for sky-high views. Snap photos on the SkyTouch Bridge, play VR games, or grab a coffee with a view at 370 metres.
• The Amazing Bay Water Park: Cool down with wave pools, epic slides, and splash zones for kids. Add in street food and nearby theme parks for a full day of fun.
• FRV Go-kart Racing: Jump into a go-kart and race your mates on a pro track. Safe, fast, and seriously fun with no experience needed, just a bit of courage.

Best {geoName} day trips and tours

• City highlights in one day: Tick off Saigon’s top sights, from Notre Dame Cathedral to Chinatown. Ride a cyclo, snack at markets, and get a feel for the city’s local rhythm.
• Chinatown hidden gems: Wander historic Cho Lon, visit a Chinese temple, and try handmade dumplings. It’s packed with colour, culture, and flavours you won’t find in the tourist zones.
• Nightlife hopping tour: Start in Japanese Town, end on Backpacker Street. Hit up izakayas, food stalls, and live music spots. It’s chaotic, colourful, and pure Saigon energy.
• Street food by scooter: Ride pillion through traffic and stop at hidden local joints. Try dishes like banh xeo and hot pot. Perfect for adventurous eaters who want the real thing.
• Hidden Saigon tour: Explore old apartments, quiet temples, and flower markets. Sip Vietnamese coffee, chat with locals, and see the quieter side of the city’s daily life.

Budgeting for things to do in {geoName}

Ho Chi Minh City can be done on a shoestring or in style. Local eats go for as little as AU$2, and major attractions start from around AU$5. Street food tours, cooking classes, and day trips range from AU$30 to AU$70, while speedboat adventures or private experiences might stretch to AU$100+. A dinner cruise or go-kart session can also be a splurge at AU$60–90, but worth it for something special. 

Pro tip: cafés and rooftop bars often offer great views with no entry fee, just the price of a drink.

Free things to do in {geoName}

• Stroll Nguyen Hue Walking Street: On weekend nights, it’s packed with locals, live music, and street performers. Check out the Café Apartment at No. 42 for coffee and balcony views.
• Cool off at Vivo Playground: Head to the rooftop of SC VivoCity Mall. Kids love the water jets and mini splash zone. It’s free, fun, and perfect for hot afternoons.
• Visit Notre Dame Cathedral: Admire French colonial architecture and colourful stained glass. It’s a peaceful break from the buzz, and you can join an English service on Sunday.
• Explore Cao Dai Temple: This rainbow-hued temple blends religions under one roof. It’s free to visit, and the noon prayer service is a must-see.
• Pop into Ton Duc Thang Museum: Learn about Vietnam’s post-war leader and life in the 60s and 70s. It’s a short walk from other big sights, and totally free to check out.