1 Day in Ho Chi Minh City; Listing The Best Things to See in The City

Ho Chi Minh City is often visited by tourists when they’re passing through to other parts of Vietnam. And although this wasn’t my favourite city in Vietnam, it’s worth spending at least 1 day in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh was formally known as Saigon (a name a lot of people still use today) and is the most populated city in Vietnam. The city is divided into districts and each one has its own distinct feel.

I found the public transport system in Ho Chi Minh City to be fantastic, and very cheap and the buses go everywhere. The schedule was easy to find just by using google. Although for any long trips, I’d recommend using Grab (uber of SE Asia), it’s so cheap and will save heaps of time.

This city is full of life and history; whether you’re spending 1, 2 or 3 days in Ho Chi Minh, I have you covered. Here’s a quick list of the best places to see in Ho Chi Minh City, many of which are free & will keep you busy during your time in HCM. 

1 Day in Ho Chi Minh City – What Are The Best Places to See?

Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien walking street is a wide street that targets tourists, particularly backpackers and has some of the best nightlife in Ho Chi Minh. This walking street comes alive a night and is perfect for anyone wanting delicious local food and cheap beer (or any drink you can imagine).

The whole street is one big party, such a fun atmosphere with, neon lights, loud music, tempting drink deals & street food.

Be careful though ~ Bui Vien walking street can get very very busy, with thousands of people walking the street. During my short time there I saw two fights and a police raid, and I have a feeling pickpocketing would be a common occurrence.

I’m not trying to turn you off, Bui Vien walking street is heaps of fun but just be careful, keep your belongings close and watch out for your friends.  

Ben Thanh Market

This central market is massive with around 1,500 booths, selling wholesale & retail clothing, luggage, cosmetics and food. 

Ben Thanh Market is the oldest surviving market in Ho Chi Minh City so it’s worth visiting to experience its history. My husband and I both bought a piece of luggage and they’re such great quality. I’ve checked mine in on a few flights and it’s still in really good condition. 

The market opens every day from 6 am.  

War Remnants Museum

This museum has exhibits on the Indochina War & the Vietnam/American War. There’s a lot of confronting Information and images throughout each room in the museums, plus stories that will bring you to tears.

It’s not necessarily a fun thing to do on your holiday but I do believe learning about a country’s history is important. Both of these wars have had a dramatic effect on Vietnam and its culture so as a tourist it’s a good way to begin to understand what the local people have gone through.

The War Remnants Museum is located in District 3. The entrance fee is 40,000 VND and to hire an audio guide it’s an additional 80,000.

I would recommend allowing at least two hours for your visit to the museum, there’s definitely a lot of information to digest.

Tân Định Church / “Pink Church in Ho Chi Minh City”

This is the second-largest church in Ho Chi Minh and is located in District 3.

It’s absolutely beautiful from the outside, the bright pink colours, the bell tower and all the fine details make it look like it’s out of a Disney movie.

Although often it’s only the front you’ll see as the Pink Church in Ho Chi Minh City is regularly closed to tourists, even the front gate is locked.

But if you’re in the area it’s worth wondering past as it is stunning. Plus the streets around the church have heaps of really good (and popular brand) retail stores.