Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City: Best Places To Visit

Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon is a vibrant and bustling metropolis in the south of Vietnam that promises an amazing family holiday experience. Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, with a rich history and a wide range of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

One of the reasons why Ho Chi Minh City is such an exciting destination for families is the sheer variety of things to see and do. From exploring the bustling markets of Ben Thanh and Cho Lon to learning about Vietnam’s history at the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace, there is something for everyone in this dynamic city.

But that’s not all – Ho Chi Minh City is also a gateway to other incredible destinations in the south of Vietnam, including the Mekong Delta and the beaches of Vung Tau and Phu Quoc. Families can take boat trips along the Mekong River, explore the floating markets, and learn about the local way of life.

As for the city’s name, Ho Chi Minh City was renamed in honor of the Vietnamese revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh after the fall of Saigon in 1975. However, many locals still refer to the city as Saigon, and both names are used interchangeably.

Overall, Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating destination for families looking for an unforgettable holiday. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, this city has something for everyone. Let us help you plan your trip to Ho Chi Minh City and discover all that this amazing city has to offer.

I have recently completely my 2 weeks trip to Vietnam. While I am working through the details of places to visit and things to see here is a quick summary of what I visited and other places that might interest you.

Ho Chin Minh City / Saigon

• Suoi Tien Theme Park OR Dam Sen Water Park (Half a day to 1 day)
• Saigon Zoo (Half a day)
• Cu Chi Tunnel (Half day tour)
• Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre
• Ben Thanh Market & Saigon Square
• The War Remnants Museum
• Mekong Delta River (1 day tour)
• Bui View Street (Nightlife and Partying)
• Giang Dien Waterfall
• Pink Church / Tan Dinh Church
• Saigon Post Office & Notre Dam Cathedral (next to each other) -> 1-2 hours
• Take a dinner cruise

Other Cities & Town to Visit In Vietnam

Da Nang

• The Golden Bridge (The Hands) & Bana Hills – Day trip
• Da Nang Cathedral (CBD)
• Beaches:: Pham Van Dong, My Khe, Bac My An, Son Tra, Non Nuoc Beaches name a few. Among these beaches, My Khe and Pham Van Dong are the most popular ones
• Take a Snorkelling Tour to Cham Island
• Dragon Bridge – CBD
• My Son Sanctuary ( 90 mins from Da Nang) 40 mins from Hoi An
• Monkey Mountain (Son Tra Mountain) & Lady Budha (Linh Ung Pagoda) – 30 mins North of Danang
• 3D museum -> 2-3 hours

Hoi An

• Must Visit: Hoi An Old Town
• Boat Ride at the river
• Walk by the river and experience the magic of countless lanterns
• Get some clothes made at the tailors (custom clothes within 24 hours delivered)
• Coconut Forest and Round Boat Ride (2 hours)
• Marble Mountains (30 mins to Da Nang) –  Half Day. Can be done either from Hoi An or Da Nang (slightly closer)