While modernity has swept Vietnam’s southern capital, Ho Chi Minh City, it’s still possible to find pockets that celebrate the city’s complex history. From architectural imprints of colonial rule to relics of the city’s commercial and oriental roots, the city offers a blend of old and new attractions. If you have an affinity for history, here are seven top Ho Chi Minh City attractions that are within easy walking distance from the city center.
War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is a three-story museum that houses countless artifacts and graphic photographs, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning shot by photographer Nick Ut, “The Terror of War.” Out-of-commission planes, tanks, bombs, and helicopters decorate the museum’s courtyard. Visiting the museum is a somber experience that leaves a lasting impression.
- Admission: 15,000 VND
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3
Notre Dame Cathedral
The twin-spired Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is a peaceful oasis located at the head of Dong Khoi Street. Built from materials imported from France, the cathedral took nearly two decades to complete (1863-1880). An interesting fact is that the alabaster statue of the Virgin Mary in the square is said to have wept tears on a single occasion in 2005, witnessed by crowds there at the time.
- Admission: 15,000 VND
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1
Saigon Central Post Office
Opposite the Notre Dame Cathedral is Saigon’s charming general post office. Take a stroll inside, where you’ll find a massive foyer flanked by rows of Victorian-era wooden phone booths, historic maps on the walls, and a huge portrait of Ho Chi Minh. Although the architect of the building is sometimes incorrectly credited as Gustave Eiffel, the design of the complex was based on his blueprints.
- Admission: Free
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: 2 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1
The Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace, occupies the site of the former Norodom Palace. Designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ, this palatial estate served as the residential and administrative quarters of the President of South Vietnam. Visitors can walk through the halls and meeting rooms, which are upholstered in red carpet. Don’t miss the former command center and war rooms in the basement.
- Admission: 15,000 VND
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh, District 1
Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall
Nguyen Hue Street has become a popular pedestrian area in Ho Chi Minh City. It is surrounded by high-rises, upscale restaurants, commercial arcades, and luxury boutiques. Spanning from City Hall to the Bach Dang Wharf, this lively walking street is perfect for an afternoon stroll. At the northernmost end of Nguyen Hue, you’ll find City Hall, the administrative post of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee.
- Admission: City Hall is not open to the public
- Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is a timeless marketplace located in the city center. Built on a reclaimed plot of land, it offers a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to conical hats, weasel coffee to lacquerware. Towards the end of the hall, you’ll find a maze of food stalls selling sizzling bánh xèo and freshly assembled bánh mì.
- Admission: Free
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: 32-30 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh, District 1
Cu Chi Tunnels
Located on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi District is home to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This network of tunnels, stretching over 250 kilometers, was used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, experiencing firsthand the conditions faced by soldiers during the conflict. Remember to dress appropriately, as getting dirty is part of the adventure.
- Admission: 15,000 VND
- Hours of Operation: 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1:30 – 5 p.m. every day, including holidays
- Address: Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
To explore more of Ho Chi Minh City’s attractions, visit Travel Guide.