11 aesthetic and cultural things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

After traveling through northern and central Vietnam, the regions that are rich in history and traditional culture, I arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, and I could feel the whole vibe shift right away. The moment I stepped out of the airport in Ho Chi Minh City, the first thing I saw was KFC, Starbucks, McDonald’s, neon lights, and lots of high-rise buildings, which felt like I was back to the commercial, modern city. Nevertheless, there are still special aesthetic, cultural things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. In this article, I will share some of the highlights I think are worth checking out, whether you are interested in Vietnamese history and culture, artistic vibes, or photogenic places, you will find Ho Chi Minh City attractions that suit you here.

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How to get to other cities in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City?

If you are looking for trains and buses to travel to other cities (Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An and more) from Ho Chi Minh City, I highly recommend you to 🔗book from this reliable platform which I always use for traveling in South East Asia.

Best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

As most of the attractions and popular places to go in Ho Chi Minh City are located in 🔗District 1, I’d suggest you 🔗book your hotel in this area, so it will be easy for you to visit below places and save some time.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 1: Visit 2 cafe apartments for photos & coffees

There are two cafe apartments in Ho Chi Minh City. Although they are just a 10-minute walk from each other, each building has its own unique character and vibe, and they are in very different environments.

Located on the bright, modern street, the most famous one is called The Cafe Apartment, which is literally a whole building full of cafes.

From the outside, each cafe looks evenly separated, with every balcony displaying its unique signage and vibes. Some are with a retro vibe, some are with modern style. Altogether, it looks really aesthetic and perfect for photos! Which is the reason why so many travelers who love taking photos visit this cafe apartment, I personally love it too.

When it comes to choosing a cafe inside The Cafe Apartment, I’d recommend checking Google Maps reviews before heading in. Some places are photogenic but don’t serve the best coffee. For example, we went to Meraki Cafe, the vibe was good, but the coffee was a letdown. In any case, % Arabica is a safe bet for a great cup of coffee, and it has a branch in this building.

• Google Maps location for The Cafe Apartment: 🔗click here

The second cafe apartment in Ho Chi Minh City is called 14 Ton That Dam. It’s more like a hidden gem, located on a traditional street with old-style buildings instead of modern high-rises. The building itself looks a bit like a ruined building but it has a unique aesthetic vibe and character, and the cafés here are decorated in a distinctive style.

We went to a cafe called Whisfee Cafe at 14 Ton That Dam. The interior design of this cafe is artistic, vintage, and filled with lush greenery that creates an inspiring atmosphere. Even the coffee is presented aesthetically, and it’s slightly cheaper than cafes at The Cafe Apartment.

As I walked around the building, I also came across another cafe with a ruined, vintage vibe, and strong personality. And there are more cool cafes here.

• Google Maps location for 14 Ton That Da: 🔗click here

Overall, both cafe apartments are worth checking out. Personally, I prefer 14 Ton That Dam over The Cafe Apartment, and I recommend visiting it if you can only pick one.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 2: Visit War Remnants Museum to understand The Vietnam War

The War Remnants Museum is one of the most powerful and must go places in Ho Chi Minh City. It documents Vietnam’s history from the French colonial period to an independent nation, the division into North and South, the outbreak of the Vietnam War, and the involvement of the United States in its military campaign against the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The museum exhibits powerful photographs taken by war correspondents on the front lines. It also displays a wide range of U.S. military hardwares used during the Vietnam War, as well as related news. The entire history is presented with depth and clarity. In my opinion, out of all the museums I’ve visited, War Remnants Museum stands out as the most impactful, emotional and very well organised.

The most unforgettable, intense and must see part of the museum is the photography gallery. It showcases haunting images captured by war correspondents who risked their lives to document the Vietnam War. These photos offer a look at the brutal realities of war and the devastating impact on the civilians. It’s the kind of place that leaves you in tears, and deeply wishing for a peaceful world.

If you want to understand the Vietnam War, I highly recommend a visit to the War Remnants Museum. It offers more than just a history lesson, it reveals the immense cost of war, not only for civilians but also for the land itself. The experience is a powerful reminder of the human cost of the war, urging us to question whether war is ever truly necessary. It stands as a warning for us all, and honestly, I think every modern world leader should also visit here.

Google Maps location for War Remnants Museum: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 3: Join a day tour to Mekong Delta

The Mekong River, which flows through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, is one of the most important rivers in Southeast Asia. At every part of the Mekong River, you will find diverse local cultures and their unique ways of living.

If you are interested in going to the Mekong Delta, I recommend you 🔗go with this day tour which offers a variety of cultural activities, and is a great way to experience the region. The activities include, cruising down the river in a traditional wooden boat, getting a glimpse of locals’ lives along the river, taking a peaceful sampan ride through a coconut forest, plus tuk tuk and bicycle rides through remote villages. Along the way, you will get to sample tropical fruits and take part in a few more authentic activities.

My friend and I had a great time on this tour, it’s well worth the price, and super convenient with hotel pick-up and drop-off from Ho Chi Minh City. Plus, having a local tour guide was really helpful. I can confirm that visiting the Mekong Delta is truly a cultural thing to do in Ho Chi Minh City.🔗 You can read my full review of the Mekong Delta tour here.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 4: Visit and take photos of the pink church- Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church is one of the most iconic French colonial buildings in Vietnam and one of the rare pink churches in the world. It’s a popular spot in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for those drawn to eye-catching, aesthetic places.

Seeing photos of Tan Dinh Church online, I was already impressed by its vibrant pink colour, yet nothing quite matches the experience of standing in front of it. What amazed me even more was how well-preserved it is, especially for a building that’s been around for so long. The dreamy pink colour looks freshly painted, with barely a stain in sight. Set against the backdrop of Ho Chi Minh City’s energetic, busy streets, the church stands out effortlessly, it’s just visually stunning.

Google Maps location for Tan Dinh Church: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 5: Visit the red church- Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Besides the iconic pink church, Ho Chi Minh City has another stunning French colonial landmark, the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, built from beautiful red bricks.

The cathedral has a peaceful and serene atmosphere despite its location in the bustling city centre. If you like the view of Western-style churches blend into the Asian street, this is definitely another must-see spot to add to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.

Google Maps location for Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 6: Send postcards to friends and family from Saigon Central Post Office

Built during the French colonial era, Saigon Central Post Office is Vietnam’s first post office. With its stunning European-style architectural design and details, it’s one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most photogenic landmarks.

Although it’s a popular tourist attraction, this old post office is still open and running. So, if you want to send postcards to friends and family, doing it here makes the experience feel even more special and authentic.

Google Maps location for Saigon Central Post Office: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 7: Walk around and buy books and creative souvenirs at Nguyen Van Binh Book Street

Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is located between the Saigon Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon.

It’s a charming street filled with bookstores, creative stalls, and a relaxed, artsy atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a walk, checking books or searching for unique souvenirs.

Most of the books are in Vietnamese, but you will still find a small selection in English. I personally love wandering through this street to slow down and take a few photos.

Google Maps location for Nguyen Van Binh Book Street: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 8: Take a walk and experience night life in Ho Chi Minh City at Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien Walking Street is the most vibrant and lively nightlife hub in Ho Chi Minh City. There are many bars, nightclubs, restaurants, massage places, and nail studios. It comes alive after dark with neon lights, loud music, and street performances. Its wild, energetic atmosphere draws in both tourists and young locals looking for a fun night out.

We ended up here randomly when looking for food late at night, and this was the only place still open. Even though we weren’t looking for nightlife or planning to drink, it was still fun to experience the vibe.

Just a heads up, this area gets pretty packed with both tourists and locals trying to get your attention and promoting their businesses. Keep your belongings secure, and avoid taking drinks from strangers.

Google Maps location for Bui Vien Walking Street: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 9: Taste Vietnamese food banh xeo and banh khot

Both Banh xeo and banh khot are the kind of savory pancakes, and are the must try food according to the locals in Ho Chi Minh City.

The differences between banh xeo and banh khot is that, banh xeo is bigger, and crispy, it usually stuffed with a mix of bean sprouts, pork, and shrimp. While banh khot is smaller and thicker, and filled with shrimp and spring onion. Both are tasty, definitely give them a try!

🔗Banh xeo rau rung Pho Thanh is the eatery locals recommended to us for authentic and good banh xeo & banh khot. The food is good, and the people are hospitable. I’d recommend it to you too!

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 10: Walk and shop at Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City is also a historic market dating back to the French colonial period and is still in operation today. If you are looking to buy souvenirs, clothing, or fresh fruits and vegetables and Vietnamese food, you can find it here.

Google Maps location for Ben Thanh Market: 🔗click here

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City 11: Watch the famous A O Show at Saigon Opera House

If you enjoy watching shows and circus, it’s recommended that you watch the famous bamboo circus “A O Show” at Saigon Opera House, it is a top-tier show and often referred to as the Cirque du Soleil of Vietnam. The entire show tells the story and culture of Vietnam through a combination of dance and bamboo acrobatics.

It’s a popular show, so make sure to pre-book your tickets early!

Google Maps location for Saigon Opera House: 🔗click here

Even if you don’t go for the show, it is still worth having a look at the impressive and graceful French colonial architecture- Saigon Opera House. Especially at night when the lights are up.

Wish whoever enjoys arts, culture and history will enjoy these cultural & aesthetic things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Have a great and safe trip!