Exploring Ho Chi Minh: Best Citywalk Routes & Hidden Gems in Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling heart of Vietnam, was renamed in 1975 to honor Ho Chi Minh, the revered founder of the Vietnamese Communist Party. Previously known as “Saigon,” this vibrant metropolis is a fascinating blend of history and modernity.
⭐Recommended Attractions
【Pink Church】(Tan Dinh Church), officially the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, has become an Instagram sensation with its striking pink facade and intricate architecture, creating a dreamy and romantic ambiance.
【Reunification Palace】(Dinh Doc Lap) stands majestically in the city center, a silent witness to the tumultuous Vietnam War and the hard-fought peace that followed.
Originally the presidential palace of French Indochina, it now welcomes visitors who can explore its historic halls by purchasing a ticket.
【Central Post Office】(Buu Dien Sai Gon), built in 1886 and designed by Gustave Eiffel, the genius behind the Eiffel Tower, offers a charming glimpse into the past.
Visitors can send a postcard or simply admire the grandeur of its interior.
【City Hall】(Ho Chi Minh City Hall) serves as the headquarters for the Ho Chi Minh City Committee. The imposing statue of President Ho Chi Minh in front of it symbolizes the deep respect and admiration of the Vietnamese people.
【Opera House】(Nhat Hat Thanh Pho) is a beautifully crafted building in the French style. You can purchase tickets to enjoy performances, and the ornate interiors and detailed reliefs are a feast for the eyes.
【Notre Dame Cathedral】(Nha Tho Duc Ba), also known as the Red Church, is a significant landmark of Catholicism in Vietnam.
It has witnessed the transformation of Ho Chi Minh City from Saigon to a modern metropolis. A statue of the Virgin Mary, a gift from the Vatican in 1959, stands in the square, symbolizing peace and hope. Currently undergoing renovation, it will reopen in 2026.
The architectural and cultural tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City is a rich blend of Eastern and Western influences.
Due to its historical ties with French colonization, the city exudes a strong French flair, earning it the nickname “Little Paris of the East.”
Tips❗️
1. The city enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by warmth and humidity throughout the year. The rainy season runs from May to November, while the dry season is from December to April. The annual average temperature hovers around 28°C.
2. Home to Vietnam’s largest international airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport, it serves as a major gateway to the country, offering numerous flights.
3. Essential apps
🗺️ Map: Google Maps
📜 Translation: Youdao Translator
🚗 Ride-hailing: Grab (perfect for car rides, motorcycle rides, and food delivery)
4. Itinerary suggestion:
A recommended walking route: Pink Church – Reunification Palace – Red Church – Central Post Office – Opera House – City Hall – Cafe Apartment – Bui Vien Street
5.
Recommended ways to tour: In addition to exploring on foot, you can also take a double-decker sightseeing bus (hop-on-hop-off at attractions) or use Grab for convenient transportation (similar to Didi in China).
6. The attractions in Ho Chi Minh City are relatively close together, making it possible to see the highlights in just 1-2 days.
