How to Explore Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City: Your Ultimate Guide

After an exhilarating 3-day, 2-night stay in Ho Chi Minh City, I’ve crafted a one-day itinerary that ensures you hit all the major highlights without any unnecessary detours, and helps you avoid common tourist scams! I’ve also included personal photography tips to help you capture the best angles!

1. **Tan Dinh Church (Figure 2)**: This charming pink church is a favorite among young visitors for its picturesque facade. Many ladies come here for photo sessions. Be mindful of the wall of cremated remains behind the statue of the Virgin Mary, and show respect while taking photos.

2. **Tan Dinh Market (Figure 3)**: Just a 3-minute walk from Tan Dinh Church, this bustling local market offers a vibrant atmosphere. While it’s a great place to wander around, be cautious of inflated prices, especially if you’re a tourist. It’s more about the experience than the shopping.

3. **War Remnants Museum (Figures 4-5)**: This museum provides a powerful and moving account of Vietnam’s resistance against American aggression during the Vietnam War. With a vast collection of realistic images and American military equipment, the museum is compact but impactful. A visit typically takes between 20 minutes to an hour.

4. **Reunification Palace/Independence Palace (Figure 6)**: Originally the presidential palace during French colonial rule, this historic site allows you to step inside and explore its grand interiors. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

5. **Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral (Red Church) (Figure 7)**: Known for its striking red brick exterior, this iconic cathedral is currently undergoing renovation. Despite the ongoing work, it remains a significant landmark worth seeing.

6. **Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office (Figures 8-9)**: More than just a post office, this cultural hub is filled with official postcards, stickers, and fridge magnets at reasonable prices. The central store offers better deals compared to the side shops, which can be quite pricey. Take your time to explore the unique blend of history and modernity.

7. **Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee (Figures 1 & 10-11)**: Located in the heart of the city, this impressive building features a statue of Vietnam’s founding father, Ho Chi Minh, making it a key landmark and a great spot for photos.

8. **Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theatre (Figures 12-13)**: This stunning French-style building is a treat for architecture lovers. You can purchase tickets to enjoy performances, and the interior decorations and reliefs are equally captivating.

9. **The Cafe Apartment (Figure 14)**: A unique commercial attraction converted from an old apartment building, this place is a haven for coffee lovers and shoppers. The 4th floor is home to the popular canvas bag studio, “the eye,” which is a must-visit.

10. **Bitexco Financial Tower (Figure 15)**: Often compared to the “Avengers Tower” in real life, this skyscraper boasts the highest observation deck in Ho Chi Minh City on the 49th floor. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline.

11. **Mariamman Hindu Temple (Figure 16)**: One of the two Hindu temples in Ho Chi Minh City, Mariamman is a colorful and culturally rich site. The other temple is less photogenic and not as recommended.

12. **Ho Chi Minh Arsenal (Figures 17-18)**: Also known as the “Secret Weapon Bunker in Saigon,” this hidden gem is tucked away in an alley. Use Google Maps to find it, and follow the prompts carefully to discover this fascinating piece of history.

Nestled at the entrance, where an antique car stands as a charming landmark, you’ll find a quaint, privately-owned coffee shop. This cozy spot is tucked away in a basement and, while it doesn’t house any weapons, it does come with an additional charge. Right next door, however, is a government-managed attraction that’s completely free!

Be sure to stay alert and avoid any unnecessary expenses. The friendly staff will offer you a complimentary guided tour, leading you through the fascinating underground arsenal. Best of all, this hidden gem is often uncrowded, and there’s no need to book in advance!

Here’s your meticulously planned route to ensure a seamless and delightful experience in Ho Chi Minh City. May your journey be filled with safety, joy, and unforgettable moments!