10 ways to savor Ho Chi Minh’s Vibrant New Spirit

Ho Chi Minh City—a name that once echoed with the weight of colonial legacy, wartime history, and cultural collisions—is now buzzing with a newfound rhythm. Once called Saigon, this southern Vietnamese city has always been dynamic, but during my recent revisit, I was taken aback (in the best way possible) by just how much has changed. The rapid development is undeniable. Skyscrapers now glisten beside French-colonial architecture, hip cafés line the leafy boulevards, and creative spaces pop up where you’d least expect. It’s as if the city has found a new groove—one that’s modern, bold, and full of personality, without losing sight of its past.

Many travelers come to Ho Chi Minh with a checklist of historical landmarks—the Cu Chi Tunnels, the War Remnants Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon—and yes, they remain essential for first-timers (though I personally had to skip the tunnels, cave phobia is real!). But what if I told you that beyond these well-trodden paths lies a side of Ho Chi Minh that’s stylish, artistic, and effortlessly cool? From indie art galleries to rooftop bars, design-forward boutiques to experimental cuisine, the city is rewriting its story.

This guide is crafted to help you see Saigon—err, Ho Chi Minh City—with fresh eyes. Whether it’s your first visit or your third, you’ll find inspiration to discover its pulse in new and surprising ways. Expect a blend of city classics and fresh finds, perfect for the curious traveler who wants to savor the city’s new spirit, not just see it.

Already been to Ho Chi Minh? Or planning to go soon? Let us know what surprised you the most, or what you’re most excited to try! We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

If you are planning your visit to Hanoi, I have also compiled the Top 10 Wonderful Things to See and Do in Hanoi, and understand the best things to do in Hanoi! Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm Lake, water puppet show, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, historic monuments, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and more!

Hop-On Hop-Off in Ho Chi Minh City – A Glimpse into Modern Saigon

Experience the city’s fast-changing skyline, iconic streets, and new developments with ease from the top of a double-decker bus.

As my plane descended into Ho Chi Minh City, the skyline greeted me with a striking vision: Landmark 81, a 461.2-meter-tall skyscraper, piercing the clouds and signaling the city’s rapid transformation. Situated on the western banks of the Saigon River in Bình Thạnh District, this 81-story building now dominates the cityscape, standing as a testament to Vietnam’s ambitious urban development.

Upon arrival, I checked into the Sofitel Saigon Plaza and was pleasantly surprised with an upgrade to the executive lounge floor. The rooftop pool and exclusive lounge offered a serene vantage point to contemplate the city’s evolving landscape. The next morning, over a tranquil breakfast, I pondered the best way to immerse myself in this dynamic metropolis. Opting for the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, I anticipated a touristy experience but was rewarded with a refreshing breeze and a comprehensive overview of the city’s modern marvels.

To experience the modern side of HCM City, take a walk across the Ba Son Bridge, a cable-stayed structure inaugurated in April 2022. Spanning 885.7 meters, it connects District 1 to the burgeoning Thu Thiem urban area in Thu Duc City. Named after the historic Ba Son Shipyard, the bridge not only facilitates traffic but also symbolizes Ho Chi Minh City’s rapid modernization. At night, its newly installed lighting system illuminates the Saigon River, creating a picturesque scene that’s become a favorite among photographers and locals alike.

Crossing into Thu Thiem, I was introduced to a district poised to become the city’s new central business hub. Covering approximately 657 hectares, the Thu Thiem New Urban Area is envisioned as a sustainable, mixed-use development featuring residential zones, commercial centers, and green spaces. The master plan, developed by Sasaki Associates, emphasizes a balance between urban living and environmental consciousness.

For travelers, Thu Thiem offers a glimpse into the future of Ho Chi Minh City. Strolling through its wide boulevards, one can witness the fusion of contemporary architecture with thoughtfully designed public spaces. The area is home to emerging attractions like the Metropole Thu Thiem, a luxury mixed-use development that redefines urban living. Additionally, the Thu Thiem Tunnel, Southeast Asia’s most modern underwater tunnel, connects this district to the city’s core, enhancing accessibility and showcasing engineering prowess.

Embarking on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour not only provided a comfortable way to navigate the city’s tropical climate but also offered an insightful journey through Ho Chi Minh City’s evolving identity. From the towering Landmark 81 to the innovative developments in Thu Thiem, the city invites travelers to witness its vibrant transformation firsthand.

Sky-High Perspectives – Saigon Skydeck at Bitexco Tower

Take in stunning panoramic views and appreciate Ho Chi Minh City’s urban sprawl from above.

Towering above the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Bitexco Financial Tower is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks—and not just for its height. What truly makes it stand out is the dramatic helipad that juts out from the 52nd floor like a futuristic sculpture suspended in mid-air. Completed in 2010, the 262-meter-tall tower was once the tallest building in Vietnam and remains a symbol of the city’s financial ambitions and sleek modern identity.

Inside, the tower hosts a mix of offices, high-end retail, and dining options—but for visitors, the real highlight is the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor. Open to the public daily, the Skydeck offers a sweeping 360-degree view of the city through floor-to-ceiling glass panels. Tickets are affordable, and the experience is surprisingly uncrowded. When I visited on a clear afternoon, the space felt wide, calm, and wonderfully relaxed—there was time to stroll around, take photos, and simply take in the view without jostling for a spot.

From this lofty vantage point, Ho Chi Minh City unfolds like a living map. The Saigon River snakes its way through the cityscape, the bustling Nguyen Hue Walking Street lies just below, and Landmark 81 gleams in the distance. You’ll also notice just how flat the city is—and how far you can see across its expanse. What surprised me most was the abundance of green: parks, tree-lined streets, and gardens interwoven with high-rises and colonial buildings—an interesting balance between nature and urban life.

Bitexco Tower isn’t just about height—it’s about perspective. And the Skydeck offers one of the most serene and revealing views of Ho Chi Minh City’s evolution.

Bến Thành Market – A Century-Old Icon and Its Evolving Neighborhood

Beyond souvenirs and street food, explore what surrounds this central landmark and how it’s transforming.

No visit to Ho Chi Minh City feels complete without stepping into the vibrant whirlwind that is Bến Thành Market. Established in 1914, this historic market has served as a central meeting point and trading hub for more than a century. Located in the heart of District 1, it remains one of the most iconic symbols of the city—not just for its colonial clock tower facade, but for its role as a living piece of Saigon’s past and present.

Spanning approximately 13,000 square meters and housing over 6,000 stalls, Bến Thành is one of the largest and oldest surviving markets in Vietnam. It’s where tradition meets commerce: rows of stalls packed with colorful textiles, embroidered goods, handcrafted souvenirs, lacquerware, and local art. You’ll also find an abundance of coffee beans, dried fruits, lotus tea, and spices, making it a fun place to pick up gifts or sample the local flavors.

Of course, no market experience is complete without tasting the street food. From fragrant bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) to crispy bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes) and strong iced Vietnamese coffee, this is where you’ll eat like a local and enjoy dishes that are as authentic as they come.

After 6 PM, the market undergoes a transformation—out come the neon lights, pop-up stalls, and food vendors, giving rise to the Bến Thành Night Market. This evening extension spills onto the surrounding streets, offering everything from souvenirs to street eats, often at more negotiable prices and with a cooler atmosphere.

While Bến Thành may be a well-trodden tourist site, it remains a must-visit for first-timers—not just for shopping, but for immersing yourself in the sounds, sights, and flavors that still define Saigon’s bustling soul.

Museum of Fine Arts – A Hidden Cultural Gem Amid the Bustle

Step into a colonial-era mansion filled with Vietnam’s artistic legacy and unexpected treasures.

Just a short stroll from the lively Bến Thành Market—across the usual hum of Saigon traffic—sits a building that might surprise many first-time visitors: the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. Tucked away in District 1, this elegant structure often goes unnoticed by the average traveler. But those who take a detour inside will discover not only a collection of Vietnamese art that spans centuries, but also one of the city’s most graceful colonial-era buildings.

The museum’s main building, designed by French architect Rivera between 1929 and 1934, was originally built as a private villa for the wealthy Hua family—a prominent Chinese-Vietnamese lineage known for their patronage and influence during French colonial times. Converted into a museum in 1987, the property retains much of its original charm: elegant balconies, art deco tiles, colorful stained-glass windows, and airy staircases that make the space both photogenic and refreshingly cool to walk through.

The museum spans three interconnected buildings, each three floors high. Its collections showcase a wide range of Vietnamese visual art—oil paintings, lacquer works, silk paintings, sculpture, and more. There’s a fascinating blend of modern and traditional styles, including Hàng Trống, Đông Hồ, and Kim Hoàng woodcut prints, and sections devoted to ceramics, Buddhist art, and archaeological finds from the Champa and Óc Eo civilizations.

While the museum may not feature world-renowned artists, it gives voice to Vietnamese creators, many of whom offer unique perspectives and styles. One artist whose work caught my eye was Lê Thị Lựu—one of Vietnam’s pioneering female painters. Known for her gentle brushwork and poetic portrayal of women and girls, her paintings exude a tender femininity. I was particularly drawn to her soft, flowing lines and the way she used muted colors and elegant composition to depict everyday life with emotional depth. Her art feels intimate and timeless, and seeing her work in person was a quiet highlight of my visit.

The galleries are organized thematically and by artist, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Better still, it’s rarely crowded, offering a calm and contemplative atmosphere that contrasts with the city’s busy streets. Whether you’re a casual art appreciator or simply want to escape the heat, the Museum of Fine Arts is a charming and culturally rich stop that adds depth to any visit to Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam’s Story of Struggle and Strength – War Remnants, Independence Palace & Cu Chi Tunnels

Visit the most impactful historical sites to understand Vietnam’s past, wartime resilience, and path to peace.

For first-time visitors to Ho Chi Minh City, exploring its historical landmarks is essential to understanding modern Vietnam. The city’s past is deeply intertwined with decades of colonial rule, conflict, and the eventual struggle for independence, and some key sites offer profound insight into this transformative journey.

One of the most iconic is the Independence Palace—also known as the Reunification Palace. This striking 1960s-era building was once the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. It played a pivotal role in history: on April 30, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates, symbolizing the end of the war and the beginning of reunification. Today, visitors can join a guided tour of the palace, peering into preserved meeting rooms, war bunkers, and the president’s living quarters. The retro-futuristic architecture, intact furnishings, and military command center in the basement bring the Cold War atmosphere to life.

Nearby, the War Remnants Museum offers another perspective. It’s not a grand museum—small, raw, and emotionally heavy—but it holds an unflinching look at the devastating impacts of the Vietnam War (known locally as the American War). Opened in 1975, the museum showcases photographs, war artifacts, and accounts from both Vietnamese civilians and international journalists. The outdoor display includes captured tanks, helicopters, and planes, while inside, the powerful photo exhibitions and the Agent Orange Room are particularly moving. Personally, while the space feels humble, when seen through the lens of history, it becomes a compelling and sobering stop that lingers long after your visit.

To extend the journey into Vietnam’s wartime past, a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is highly recommended. Located about 60 km northwest of the city, this vast underground network once stretched over 250 kilometers and served as a strategic base for the Viet Cong during the war. Visitors can explore a small portion of the tunnels—some widened for safety—and learn about the ingenious traps, kitchens, living spaces, and guerrilla tactics used. It’s one of the most popular excursions from Ho Chi Minh City, offering a tactile and immersive experience that brings history into sharp focus.

Together, these three sites—Independence Palace, , and Cu Chi Tunnels—form a powerful narrative thread. They offer not just historical facts, but emotional context and personal stories that deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s resilience, the cost of conflict, and the enduring pursuit of peace.

Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street – Saigon’s Showcase of Heritage and Change

A lively boulevard where historic architecture meets modern flair, flanked by iconic buildings and luxury makeovers.

Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street is the beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic core—an energetic, open boulevard where the old and new collide in vivid harmony. Flanked by colonial-era buildings, modern towers, and high-end hotels, the promenade stretches from the Saigon River to the iconic City Hall. It’s a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, especially at night when it’s lively with music, street performers, and neon reflections.

Start your walk from the Saigon Central Post Office, one of the city’s most cherished architectural landmarks. Built between 1886 and 1891 and designed by Alfred Foulhoux (often mistakenly credited to Gustave Eiffel), the building is a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French influences. Step inside to see the majestic arched ceiling and old-fashioned phone booths. At the center of the hall, a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh presides, and large painted maps on the walls depict colonial-era Saigon. And yes, it’s still a functioning post office—visitors can buy postcards and stamps and even mail them on the spot!

Just across the street stands the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, built between 1863 and 1880 entirely from French-imported materials. It remains a symbol of Vietnam’s colonial past and religious history. While the red-brick façade and twin bell towers are typically a postcard staple, the cathedral is currently undergoing long-term restoration. When I revisited, the entire structure was wrapped up in scaffolding—so while tourists might not see the architecture in full, it’s undeniably a one-of-a-kind photo moment! (For more about the original Notre-dame in Paris, click here.)

Further along the walking street is the elegant Saigon Opera House, or Municipal Theatre, completed in 1900 in flamboyant French colonial style. While it may be closed off for rehearsals or events, its ornate exterior is worth admiring, especially when illuminated in the evening. Just a few steps away, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Building, also known as City Hall, is another standout—though not open to the public, its cream-colored façade and Beaux-Arts design make it a photogenic favorite.

What’s striking is how much Nguyễn Huệ is evolving. Historic buildings sit alongside sleek modern additions, and a wave of transformation is reshaping the area. New luxury hotels like Park Hyatt Saigon, Caravelle Saigon, Mai House Saigon, and The Reverie Saigon are establishing a sophisticated presence, while international brands and stylish restaurants are moving in.

Nguyễn Huệ isn’t just a walking street—it’s a timeline of Saigon’s past, present, and fast-moving future.

The Café Apartments – Nine Floors of Coffee, Views, and Vibes

A repurposed 1960s apartment building turned Instagram-worthy vertical café hub—perfect for café lovers and explorers.

Right along the buzzing Đường Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street stands one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most delightfully quirky landmarks: The Cafe Apartments. If you’ve strolled down this pedestrian street, you’ve probably already noticed it—an aging mid-century façade, its balconies adorned with colorful signage, trailing plants, and cozy lighting. But don’t be fooled by the modest exterior. This nine-story building, once a 1960s residential complex, has been cleverly transformed into a vertical haven for coffee lovers, foodies, and curious wanderers.

As a devoted coffee fan, I had this place pinned high—very high—on my must-do list. And yes, it absolutely delivered. From well-known international brands like % Arabica to homegrown Vietnamese coffee spots, the variety is staggering. The best part? Each unit has its own distinct vibe, layout, and decor.

Many feature balcony seating with views over Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street, making it a perfect perch to sip, relax, and watch the city’s rhythm from above.

But it’s not just about the caffeine buzz. This building has become an Instagram favorite thanks to its charming mismatched balconies, artistic signage, and photogenic angles both inside and out. The eclectic mix of retro architecture and modern design has turned The Cafe Apartments into a place where every corner is camera-ready.

Beyond coffee, there’s plenty to explore. If you’re not into caffeine (gasp!), fear not—there are noodle shops, juice bars, boutiques, bookshops, dessert cafés, and even cheap eateries where locals pop in for a bowl of pho or rice dishes. And of course, don’t miss trying the signature coconut coffee—a frosty, creamy delight that perfectly suits Saigon’s heat.

Whether you’re in it for the brews, the views, or the vibe, The Cafe Apartments offers a refreshing, vertical slice of modern Saigon that’s buzzing with charm and character. And trust me—one visit won’t be enough.