Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
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Bellevue Bar
Among the best places in Saigon for a sundowner, the Majestic's top-floor Bellevue Bar has exquisite views of the river among old-world opulence. If the heights make you feel too woozy or blasé, head down to the ground-level Cyclo Bar, with ringside views of motorcycle mayhem.
reviewed
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Language Class: Utopia Café
If you are looking for more of an informal setting for language study than the Teacher Training University or the University of Social Sciences & Humanities then go no further than Utopia Café. One-on-one instruction is available and Utopia can also arrange visa extensions.
reviewed
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Restaurant 31
This popular outdoor eatery in the city centre serves tasty Vietnamese barbecue. The house speciality is tender marinated beef that you grill over charcoal right at your table. It's served with salad. There are also good seafood dishes on the menu and the cheerful staff speak English.
reviewed
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Quan Am Pagoda
One of Cholon’s most active pagodas, Quan Am Pagoda was founded by the Fujian Congregation in the early 19th century and displays obvious Chinese influences. It’s named for the Goddess of Mercy, Quan The Am Bo Tat whose statue lies hidden behind a remarkably ornate exterior.
reviewed
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Q Bar
The mother of all trendy nightspots in HCMC, Q Bar seems to have been around almost as long as the Opera House. An enduring and endearing spot, it pulls the beautiful people thanks to hip music and sophisticated decor. It’s on the side of the Municipal Theatre, across from the Caravelle Hotel.
reviewed
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Private Tour: Ho Chi Minh City Full-Day Tour
by Viator
See the best of Ho Chi Minh City on this private full-day tour. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, followed by the…Not LP reviewed
from USD$53.33 -
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Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda
The Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda was built by the Fujian Congregation in the 19th century, and retains much of its original rich ornamentation. The pagoda is dedicated to Me Sanh, the Goddess of Fertility and is particularly popular with local women who come here to pray for children.
reviewed
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Pacharan
Spread over three floors in one of the most desirable locations in town, Pacharan bites include succulent chorizo, marinated anchovies and chillied gambas, plus some more substantial mains like an authentic paella for two. The rooftop terrace is a great place to sample some Spanish wine.
reviewed
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Vasco's Bar
Vasco's Bar shares a lovely villa with the exquisite French restaurant Camargue. The expat crowd converges here on weekend nights when there's live music; drinks don't come cheap but the in crowd don't care. There are several pool tables indoors and out, and inviting tables in the villa courtyard.
reviewed
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Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre
Although 'Water Puppets' originate in the north, the art has migrated to HCMC in the last decade – in part because of its popularity with tourists. The main venue to see this art form is the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. Shows start at 6.30pm and 8pm and last about 50 minutes.
reviewed
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Tran Hung Dao Temple
This small temple is dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a national hero who in 1287 vanquished Mongol emperor Kublai Khan’s invasion force, said to have numbered 300,000 men. The temple is one block north-east of the telecommunication dishes that are between Ð Dien Bien Phu and Ð Vo Thi Sau.
reviewed
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Vietnam Family Explorer
13 days (Ho Chi Minh City)
An all encompassing panoramic journey through the heart of Vietnam.
Not LP reviewed
from USD$2,190 -
Timeless Vietnam
13 days (Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City)
by G Adventures
For those who want the complete experience but prefer a more comfortable option, this adventure explores the best of Vietnam’s history, culture and cuisine.…Not LP reviewed
from USD$1,899 -
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Vasco’s
One area that is particularly easy to browse is the courtyard off 74 Hai Ba Trung, where there are several lively spots, including the newly located Vasco’s. Long one of the hippest places in town, the recipe remains the same with great drinks, pool tables and bar food, plus DJs and events.
reviewed
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Saigon Race Track
When South Vietnam was liberated in 1975, one of the Hanoi government’s policies was to ban debauched, capitalistic pastimes such as gambling. Horse-racing tracks – mostly found in the Saigon area – were shut down. However, the government’s need for hard cash caused a rethink and the track re-opened in 1989.
reviewed
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Sésame
A hospitality training school for disadvantaged children, Sésame was originally set up by the French NGO Triangle Génération Humanitaire. The menu is Franco-Vietnamese, prepared with fresh local ingredients, and dishes are beautifully presented. It is worth the trek out here to experience the attentive service.
reviewed
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Ha Chuong Hoi Quan Pagoda
This typical Fujian pagoda is dedicated to Thien Hau, who was born in Fujian. The four carved stone pillars, wrapped in painted dragons, were made in China and brought to Vietnam by boat. There are interesting murals to each side of the main altar and impressive ceramic relief scenes on the roof.
reviewed
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Chez Guido
The city’s markets and street stalls are a great place to assemble a fresh meal. If you don’t feel like going anywhere, Chez Guido is the tour de force of take outs. The menu offers a mind-boggling cornucopia of international cuisine but specialises in Italian food. Download a menu online.
reviewed
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Saigon Scooter Centre
This scooter centre is a reliable source for restored classic Vespa and Lambretta scooters, which are also rented out by the day. Daily rates start from US$10 and discounts are offered for long-term rentals. For an extra fee it is possible to arrange a one-way service, with a pick-up of the bikes anywhere in Vietnam.
reviewed
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Ho Chi Minh City Discovery Small Group Adventure Tour
8 hours (Departs Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
by Viator
Explore bustling Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) on this small group adventure tour.The Ho Chi Minh City tour will give you an insight into the…Not LP reviewed
from USD$47.00 Advertisement
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Private Tour: Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai Temple Full-Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
by Viator
The private tour to Cu Chi Tunnels and Cao Dai is a great day trip from Ho Chi Minh. Visit Tay Ninh, home of the unique Cao Dai sect which is a mix of Buddhism,…Not LP reviewed
from USD$56.00 -
Mekong Explorer River Cruise
8 days (Ho Chi Minh City)
A cruise on the Mekong River that takes you to the heart of Indochina in comfort and style.
Not LP reviewed
from USD$0 -
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An Quang Pagoda
This pagoda gained some notoriety during the American War as the home of Thich Tri Quang, a powerful monk who led protests against the South Vietnamese government in 1963 and 1966. When the war ended he was held under house arrest and later placed in solitary confinement for 16 months until his eventual release.
reviewed
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Highlights of Vietnam
15 days (Ho Chi Minh City)
Uncover the varied landscapes and cultural highlights of Vietnam.
Not LP reviewed
from USD$2,190 -
Rach Chiec Driving Range
This is a good place to practise your swing; clubs, shoes and instructors can be hired. It's a 20-minute drive north from central HCMC.
If you're serious about golf, there are top-notch courses in both Phan Thiet and Dalat. Visit www.vietnamgolfresorts.com for more information on the courses and reasonably priced golf package tours.
reviewed