🌏 Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide

🏙️ City Introduction

Ho Chi Minh City, located in southern Vietnam, is the country's largest and most prosperous city, known as the "Economic Heart of Vietnam." Its blend of French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and bustling night markets creates a more modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere than Hanoi. Explore historical sites by day and enjoy the vibrant nightlife at night—the pace is truly intense!

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📍 Must-visit tourist hotspots

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

• A Gothic red brick church built during the French colonial period.
• Together with the Central Post Office next door, it is a classic check-in duo.

2. Saigon Central Post Office

• A masterpiece of French architecture, the interior is still in operation.
• Taking photos, checking in and sending a postcard home is such a ritual.

3. Independence Palace

• The historic site where the Vietnam War ended.
• The building is well preserved and you can visit the presidential office and the bunker.

4. War Remnants Museum

• The exhibition displays the history of the Vietnam War and related relics, with shocking content.
• Suitable for travelers interested in history.

5. Ben Thanh Market

• The busiest traditional market in Ho Chi Minh City.
• You can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and eat authentic snacks.

6. Bui Viện Street

• Ho Chi Minh City's "Backpacker Street".
• It's very lively at night, with bars, restaurants and music performances.

7. Day Trip to the Mekong Delta

• Depart from Ho Chi Minh City and take a river cruise, visiting fruit orchards and floating markets.
• It is very suitable for experiencing the natural scenery of southern Vietnam.

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🍜 Must-try food in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Beef Noodles (Phở Bò)

• Southern pho has a richer broth and is topped with fresh herbs.
• It is recommended to go to a local shop in the morning to eat a bowl.

2. French Baguette (Bánh Mì)

• Ho Chi Minh City is a battleground for Vietnamese bread, with so many options to choose from.
• Recommended shop: Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa (very popular).

3. Broken Rice (Cơm Tấm)

• Ho Chi Minh specialty! Grilled pork chop + broken rice + pickled vegetables + egg.
• Affordable and delicious, it is called "Vietnamese bento".

4. Rice Noodles with Fish Sauce (Bún Thịt Nướng)

• The barbecued meat is paired with dry rice noodles and topped with fish sauce, which is refreshing and appetizing.

5. Vietnamese Drip Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

• A classic southern drink, espresso + condensed milk + ice cubes.
• A must-drink in summer, super refreshing!

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🚖 Ho Chi Minh City Transportation Guide

1. From the airport to the city

• Taxi/Grab : The most convenient, about 30 minutes to the city center.
• Airport bus (Route 109 or 152) : Cheap and worth considering if you don’t have much luggage.

2. City transportation

• Grab App : The most popular way to hail a car or motorcycle.
• Walking : The main attractions in the city center are concentrated and can be reached on foot.
• Bus : Cheap but complex routes, suitable for familiar travelers.
• Motorcycle rental : Flexible, but traffic is chaotic, so novice drivers are advised to be cautious.

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🌟 A friendly reminder from the editor

• Road crossing tips : If there is heavy traffic, walk slowly, stay steady, and let the cars go around you.
• Weather : Ho Chi Minh City is hot all year round, so it is recommended to wear light clothing and bring sunscreen.
• Bargaining culture : Remember to bargain when buying things in traditional markets, but do so with a smile.
• Nightlife : If you like lively scenes, don’t miss Peiyuan Street; if you prefer quiet scenes, you can go to Rooftop Bar to enjoy the night view.

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✨ Summary:
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, blending history and modernity . During the day, you can experience colonial architecture and Vietnam War history, while at night you can enjoy the food and nightlife. You can also arrange a Mekong River cruise to experience the natural beauty and people of southern Vietnam.