Fun Affordable Activities Whilst in Ho Chi Minh City
Are you in or planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City otherwise known as Saigon, if so here’s a few ideas of things to do, some of which I completed on my last trip. Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city with a huge population, buzzing streets and a rich history to explore.
1. Take a Walk down Bui Vien Walking Street
Bui Vien Walking Street can be accessed day or night, however if you’re wanting to capture the bright lights and vibrant nightlife then the best time to go is in the evening after dark. The street can be very busy and chaotic so its ideal to always keep your wits about you and be aware of your surroundings and possibly bring a friend or partner. Located in the heart of District 1, along the street are an abundance of popular bars, clubs, shops, street food and entertainment. The street is shut off to vehicles between the hours or 19:00-02:00am due to the busy nature, creating a safer and more favourable environment.
2. Visit the Apartment Cafes
This nine-storey apartment block is located at 42 Nguyen Hue Street full of small cafes that each have their own unique personality and culinary delights. Visitors can use the central staircase to access any of the cafes or opt to use the lift, however there is a fee of 3,000 VND per person – some cafes will refund you the fee when you pay the bill if you show them your ticket.
3. Lunch at Oasis Cafe
Open for breakfast lunch and dinner, this stunning cafes unique attraction offers you the chance to be surrounded by Koi Carp that peacefully swim next to or between your tables. You will find this cafe a little out the way and down a street but it can be found at 176/1B Le Van Sy Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District. If you’re not feeling hungry then you can even pop in for a drink or two and just chill.
4. A Trip to Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church has become a must visit landmark for many travellers due to its iconic eye-catching shade of pink. Whether you are visiting this landmark for the colourful picturesque nature or for the history and culture, it still remains an active place of worship. To find this church, go to 289 Hai Ba Trung Street in district 3.
5. Send a Post Card in Saigon Central Post Office
Send a Post Card back home to a friend, loved one or to retrieve as a memento when you return home. This historical landmark still functions as a working post office so is a major must see when visiting Ho Chi Minh City, whether you want to browse the many souvenir shops, send mail or admire the stunning architecture, add this to your list of things to see when in the city. Open daily, you can find it in Paris Commune Square in District 1, located near is the Notre Dame Cathedral and Book Street so is an ideal little trip to tie in together.
6. Cu Chi Tunnels
Ideal for history enthusiasts or tourists looking to delve into the culture and background of Saigon, wanting to learn something new, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network which served as a place to house troops, store supplies, launch surprise attacks and remain undetected by enemy troops. Get Your Guide provides many good choices of guided tours offering transportation between the city and the tunnels. Many of these provide opportunities where you can crawl through the tunnels and see for yourself how cramped, dark and uncomfortable these spaces would have been. In addition to this there are activities such as the shooting ranges which comes as an extra cost.
7. Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral
Situated in District 1, you can find the beautiful Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon, which still remains a significant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. Due to the central location, visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral can easily be tied in with the Central Post Office, and wandering through book street. However please note that as of 2026, the cathedral is still undergoing construction and renovations to preserve its structure and enhance facilities so the inside is closed for tourists and parts of the exterior have limited viewing.
8. Shopping Trips all over the City
Ho Chi Minh has a diverse range of shopping experiences extending throughout the city from local traditional markets to modern shopping centres and malls. A popular traditional market is the Ben Thanh Market, located in central district 1, offering authentic cultural cuisines, traditional crafts and a bustling atmosphere. On the other hand, featuring a more modern and luxury approach, you can visit Saigon centre, containing some top domestic brands such as Gucci and Dior.
9. Delve Deeper into The History at The War Remnants Museum
Take a guided tour or visit The War Remnants Museum which showcases historical artefacts, photographs and military equipment depicting the harsh truths and suffering faced by Vietnam during the Vietnam War. If you want to do things in your own time and leisure then you can make your own way to 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3 and pay the entrance fees, or purchase a guided tour including transportation and potentially the fees on places such as Get Your Guide. Due to the amount of time I spent in Ho Chi Minh, I did not get to experience this museum in person but would add it if I was to go again.
10. Ascend up the Saigon Skydeck
Unfortunately I missed this on my trip, however if you are looking for a panoramic picturesque lookout of the city then this would be the place to go. Located on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Finacial Tower in district 1, it offers a high rise view of the city.
