The 25 Places I Visited in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

What started as a casual joke among blogger friends during an event quickly turned into an adventure to remember. All 3 of us have not visited Vietnam yet. Our common desire to visit made us question: “What if we all just took a spontaneous trip to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam?” We all mused, half-serious, half-daydreaming. Little did we know, just a few months later, we’d be packing our bags, booking flights, and creating itineraries for what would be one of our most unforgettable journeys.

In this blog, I’ll take you through the 28 incredible places I visited over 6 days and 7 nights in the beautiful city of Ho Chi Minh. We visited bustling markets and serene parks, as well as the city’s rich history and lively culture, which offered undeniably a unique experience.

But first, let’s talk about how we got there and why Cebu Pacific should be your airline of choice when planning a trip to this Asian destination.

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Flying with Cebu Pacific

Our adventure began with Cebu Pacific Air, a budget-friendly yet incredibly reliable airline that made our trip to Ho Chi Minh City seamless and enjoyable. We booked connecting flights from Cebu to Manila, then Manila to Ho Chi Minh City, and the same route on our return.

One of the highlights of our flights was the in-flight meals. Often, airline food gets a bad rap, but Cebu Pacific proved that notion wrong with their delicious offerings. From hearty rice meals to light snacks, every bite made the journey more pleasant. I highly recommend trying their in-flight meals on your next trip. It’s definitely a taste of Filipino hospitality at 35,000 feet!

For those who haven’t experienced it, connecting flights can seem like a hassle, but with Cebu Pacific, it was a breeze. The layovers were just the right amount of time to stretch, grab a coffee, and prepare for the next leg of the journey. The flights were smooth, the staff was friendly, and the overall experience was great. Now, let’s start with my list!

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Day 1: A Taste of Saigon’s Charm

Phở Việt Nam
Our first stop was Phở Việt Nam, where we enjoyed steaming bowls of traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. This dish, known for its rich broth and aromatic herbs, is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant, located in the heart of the city, offers an authentic dining experience that sets the tone for the culinary journey ahead.

Mong Bridge
A short travel from Phở Việt Nam, Mong Bridge offers stunning views of the Saigon River. This historic bridge, dating back to the French colonial period, is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some great photo opportunities.

Saigon Opera House
Located just a few minutes away, the Saigon Opera House is an architectural marvel. Built in 1897, this French colonial building has been beautifully preserved and now hosts various cultural performances, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Union Square Vietnam
Right next door, Union Square is another retail haven, offering luxury brands and a glimpse into the city’s contemporary lifestyle. The area around Union Square is also home to several historical buildings, making it an interesting blend of old and new.

Saigon Princess Luxury Dining Cruise
To cap off the day, we booked a dinner on the Saigon Princess Luxury Dining Cruise through Klook. This enchanting cruise along the Saigon River provided breathtaking views of the city’s skyline while I enjoyed a sumptuous 5-course meal. Booking through Klook was easy and came with a discount, making it even more worthwhile.

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Day 2: Exploring Ho Chi Minh’s Cultural Heart

Little Hanoi Coffee Shop
I started my day with a cup of egg coffee at Little Hanoi Coffee Shop. The creamy concoction, made with egg yolk, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee, is a specialty of Northern Vietnam but has gained popularity in Ho Chi Minh City as well. This coffee shop is so cute as well offering different coffee and food varieties. No wonder many tourists visit here.

Ho Chi Minh City Book Street
A short ride from the coffee shop, we found myself at Ho Chi Minh City Book Street. This pedestrian street is lined with cutesy bookshops and cafés, making it a paradise for book lovers. It’s a great place to pick up Vietnamese literature or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Saigon Central Post Office
Next, we visited the Saigon Central Post Office, a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this iconic building remains a functioning post office and a popular tourist attraction.

Bến Thành Market
Just a short distance away, Bến Thành Market is one of the city’s oldest and most famous markets. It’s the perfect place to shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and street food. The vibrant atmosphere and endless array of goods make it a must-visit.

Tao Dan Park
To wind down, we strolled through Tao Dan Park, a large urban park located nearby. This green oasis in the middle of the city is a great spot to relax and people-watch, with locals practicing tai chi and enjoying the outdoors.

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Day 3: A Day of Local Flavors and History

Bánh Mì Chấm Hungtubes – Hai Bà Trưng
Day 3 began with a visit to Bánh Mì Chấm Hungtubes, a small but very colorful and well decorated eatery famous for its unique take on the traditional bánh mì. The bread is served with a dipping sauce, adding a new twist to this beloved Vietnamese sandwich.

Tân Định Church
Next, I explored Tân Định Church, a striking pink church that stands out in the city’s skyline. Built in the late 19th century, this church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is still in use today.

Cộng Cà Phê
Just across the pink church is the Cộng Cà Phê, a retro-themed café known for its coconut coffee. The nostalgic décor and relaxed vibe make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. You can also take nice photos on their balcony and make the pink church as your backdrop for that insta-worthy travel photo!

Le Van Tam Park
Just a short walk away, Le Van Tam Park is another green space where you can unwind and escape the city’s crowd and traffic. It’s a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.

Phở Hòa Pasteur
For lunch, we visited Phở Hòa Pasteur, one of the oldest and most renowned phở restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City. The rich broth and tender beef make it a must-try for any phở lover. This is a MICHELIN star rated restaurant.

Bui Vien Walking Street
In the evening, we explored Bui Vien Walking Street, the city’s most famous nightlife destination. Lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, it’s a lively area where you can experience the city’s vibrant and very busy nightlife.

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Day 4: A Blend of Culture and Modern Art

Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa
I started the day with a visit to Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa, often considered the best bánh mì in Ho Chi Minh City. The combination of crispy baguette, savory meats, and fresh vegetables makes it a breakfast of champions.

S’mores Saigon Caffè
After breakfast, I headed to S’mores Saigon Caffè, a cozy café known for its creative drinks and desserts. It’s a great spot to relax and recharge before continuing my day. I could see myself working here remotely for sure!

Ho Chi Minh City History Museum
Next, I delved into the city’s past at the Ho Chi Minh City History Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that trace Vietnam’s history from ancient times to the modern era.

Monet & Van Gogh Art Lighting Experience
In the afternoon, I visited the Monet & Van Gogh Art Lighting Experience, an immersive art exhibition that I booked through Klook. The exhibit brought the works of these iconic artists to life with stunning light projections, creating a mesmerizing experience.

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Day 5: Discovering the City’s Landmarks

The Museum of Ho Chi Minh City
Day 5 began with a visit to the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City, where I learned more about the city’s history and culture. The museum is housed in a beautiful French colonial building and offers a deep dive into the city’s past.

Secret Garden
For lunch, I dined at Secret Garden, a rooftop restaurant that offers traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a serene setting. The view of the city from above made the meal even more enjoyable. It is appropriately named “Secret Garden” because you wouldn’t realize that the building it sits atop has a little oasis on top!

Landmark 81
In the evening, I visited Landmark 81, Vietnam’s tallest building, and another activity booked through Klook. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of the city, and the building itself is a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s rapid development.

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Day 6: A Shopping Spree in the City

The Cafe Apartment
I started my final day in Ho Chi Minh City at The Cafe Apartment, a unique building where each level of apartments have been converted into a cozy café or boutique. It’s a great place to explore, shop, and enjoy a cup of coffee.

The New Playground
Next, I visited The New Playground, an underground shopping mall filled with trendy local brands. It’s the perfect spot for picking up unique clothing and accessories.

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Booking with Klook: A Smart Traveler’s Guide

One of the best decisions I made for this trip was booking several activities through Klook. Klook offers discounts on tours, attractions, and even dining experiences, making it a cost-effective option for travelers. The process is simple: download the app, browse through the available activities, and book in a few clicks.

Not only did I save money, but I also avoided the hassle of long lines and fully-booked attractions. For example, our Saigon Princess Luxury Dining Cruise and the Monet & Van Gogh Art Lighting Experience were booked through Klook, ensuring we had a guaranteed spot and a stress-free experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City—or anywhere, really—Klook is your best friend for planning and saving.

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Travel Tips: From the Philippines to Ho Chi Minh City

Of course, I have to give some travel tips! Traveling from the Philippines to Ho Chi Minh City is straightforward, but here are a few tips to make your journey even smoother:

• eTravel: Ensure you have completed your eTravel registration for a hassle-free arrival. Just download the eGovPH app and fill in your information.

• Transportation: Grab is the most convenient and affordable mode of transport in the city. It is very affordable too, compared to other Asian cities I have been to.

• ATMs: Avoid withdrawing money at the airport. Instead, look for TPBank ATMs in the city, where you can save on fees.

• Language: Most locals speak English, so communication won’t be an issue.

• Coffee: Vietnamese coffee is a must-try. Explore different cafes and enjoy the rich coffee culture and coffee varieties such as egg coffee, salt coffee, coconut coffee, and so much more.

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on street food; it’s a big part of the Vietnamese experience. Don’t just order pho and banh mi. Try more!

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Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City is a destination that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. My six-day adventure was packed with memorable experiences, from delicious food to stunning sights. This trip wouldn’t have been as smooth and enjoyable without the convenience of Cebu Pacific Air and the amazing deals on Klook. Whether you’re a Vietnam first-time visitor like me, Ho Chi Minh City has something for everyone. So pack your bags, book your flights and activities, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!