Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is Vietnam at its most dizzying: a high-octane city of commerce and culture that has driven the country forward with its pulsating energy. A chaotic whirl, the city breathes life and vitality into all who settle here, and visitors cannot help but be hauled along for the ride.

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM — March 2025 Views of Landmark 81 and Ba Son Bridge

Adrien Jean for Lonely Planet

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The Best of Vibrant Vietnam: City, Coastal, and Countryside Traditions
12 days / 11 nights

The Best of Vibrant Vietnam: City, Coastal, and Countryside Traditions

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The Best of Vibrant Vietnam: City, Coastal, and Countryside Traditions

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  1. 1 Hopping on a vintage vespa to taste the best bites of Saigon on a bustling street food tour
  2. 2 Cruising — and sleeping! — aboard a luxury boat on the magnificent Halong Bay
  3. 3 Island-hopping along the Mekong Delta to visit an artisan workshop and dine with a farming family
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Top places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City

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Ho Chi Minh City travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

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Best Time to Visit

With two main seasons – dry and wet – Ho Chi Minh City is a culturally rich destination year-round, but timing affects some of its top activities.

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Things to Know

Use these tips and tricks to make the most out of your time in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

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Free Things to Do

Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southeast Asia’s top budget destinations. From temples to local sports, here are the best free things to do in Saigon.

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Best Neighborhoods

Explore Ho Chi Minh City one neighborhood at a time with our guide to the best districts.

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Day Trips

Ho Chi Minh City is fast-paced and fabulous, but brilliant day trips await nearby in the Mekong Delta. Here are our top day trips from Ho Chi Minh City.

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