Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It retains the faded look of a European city. It has many western style architecture that dates back to the French colonial rule. Bars and restaurants that once thrived in Saigon are now closed. The old opera house that ran for 20 years is now converted to national theatre. Saigon University is now transformed into the University of Ho Chi Minh City.

TOP ATTRACTION IN HO CHI MINH CITY:

  • Try a bowl of Pho, it is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. It is made with a stock later in which noodles are added and you can choose from a wide variety and can get custom made Pho.
  • Giac Lam Pagoda is known to be the oldest temple of the city, dating back to 1744. It is set in a pretty garden and the temple is actually known as “ feel the woods temple”. The bodhi tree which is sacred in Buddhism was a present given by a visiting monk from Sri Lanka in 1953.
  • The War Remnants Museum in the city is one of the most visited sites and it is about letting the visitors know about the abomination of the Vietnam War.
  • Take the Bonsai River Cruise, if you want to witness the stance of the water. It is not any normal boat, but it is shaped in Dragon form and was built in the 19th century , in which they serve buffet and play music too.
  • The nightlife of Pham Ngu Lao Street is something you don't want to miss. It is the central bar and cafe hub of the city. Three of the popular hotels are in this street only.
  • Sitting in the heart of the city is the cathedral built in 1877 and 1883 is Notre Dame Cathedral. The Cathedral got its name from Virgin Mary and the interiors are covered in devotional tablets and tinted stained glass windows.

TOP PLACES TO STAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY:

  • LOTTE HOTEL SAIGON
  • Vinpearl Luxury Landmark 81
  • Caravelle Saigon
  • Mia Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel
  • Common Inn Thao Dien
  • Central Palace Hotel
  • The Reverie Saigon
  • The Myst Dong Khoi
  • Harmony Hotel
  • Silverland Yen Hotel