Ho Chi Minh City at a glance

Named after the hero of the Viet Minh Independence movement, Ho Chi Minh City is a city of unbridled energy and romantic fervour. It is a city thriving with culture and commerce that has driven Vietnam towards social and economic development. Ho Chi Minh City possesses an infectious vitality that lures travellers into spending a considerable amount of time here. A city of contrasts, it harbours tradition and modernity: on one hand the city is dotted with places of cultural, religious and historical importance, pagodas and museums, while at the same time, its tryst with modernity is manifested in stylish and sleek designer malls. Fascinating, chaotic and effervescent, this city is sure to take your breath away.

Also known as Reunification Palace, the Independence Palace represents the core of the city’s identity. The palace was the residence and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War (1955-75). This sturdy and stately structure bore witness to the fall of Saigon in 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank bulldozed through the main gate. Now, this magnificent palace is open for public viewing and the visitors can witness the lifestyle of the Presidents during and before the Vietnam War. The architecture of this place is a blend of traditionalism and contemporariness, but what appeals to visitors the most is the history of this place and events that moulded the political and social history of entire Vietnam.

Also known as Saigon Opera House, the Municipal Theatre is a fine example of French Colonial architecture in Vietnam. Designed by French architect Eugene Ferret, this building was the home of Lower House Assembly of South Vietnam from 1956 to 1975. After 1975 it was converted into a theatre. The elaborate structure and the flamboyant French design of the theatre mesmerize visitors and locals alike.

This cathedral is another fine example of French architecture in Vietnam. It is a building built in the neo-Romanesque style, featuring two bell towers that reach a height of approximately 58 meters. The Notre Dame Cathedral is named after Virgin Mary, and its walls are bedecked by paintings dedicated to her.

Dedicated to the supreme Taoist God— the Jade Emperor or ‘King of Heaven’— this temple has an aromatic ambience fuelled by the numerous incense sticks lit by devotees every day. One of the most important spiritual centres in Vietnam, the ornate temple is adorned with exquisite paintings and papier-mâché statues depicting characters from Buddhist and Taoist mythology.

Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this Post Office is yet another example of typical French neo-classical architecture. This building was constructed in the early 20th century when Vietnam was colonised under French Indochina. It has fantastic maps of South Vietnam, Saigon and Cholon painted on its walls, and also features a mosaic dedicated to the national hero, Ho Chi Minh, at the end of its hall.

This museum, once known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes, is a one-of-its-kind in the world because it depicts the brutality of war. This museum narrates the tales of victims of war crimes via heart-wrenching photographs including that of the infamous My Lai massacre.

With its serene, tranquil setting, the Giac Lam Pagoda is arguably the oldest temple in the Ho Chi Minh City. It is representative of both—Buddhist and Confucian traditions and rituals. Within the pagoda lies the famous bronze bell, which according to believers, sends prayers to the heavens when it’s rung.

At first glance, they seem like a normal labyrinth of tunnels leading nowhere, but these tunnels are representative of Vietnamese courage and valour shown in abundance during the Vietnam War. The Cu Chi tunnels bore witness to several military campaigns during the war, and most war-strategy was formulated inside their cavernous insides.

A great place to unwind and relax after an eventful day, the Ben Thanh market is a large marketplace situated in the centre of the Ho Chi Minh City. An excellent place to browse for traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and souvenirs, it also has some of the best restaurants in the city.

Vietnam’s largest zoo and botanical garden—the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden—was established in 1865 by the French. It is arguably one of the finest gardens in Asia, and a great place to spend some quality time in the vicinity of nature.

Ideal for people of all age groups, this amusement park features the history and legends of Vietnam through its adventurous rides.

Made from rice, noodles and meat, Pho is a delicious and popular Vietnamese dish. It is a rage among the locals, which can be corroborated from the fact that it is the most popular street food there, and is a must have delicacy for the tourists.