12 Enchanting Places in Ho Chi Minh City to Add to Your Bucket List

Ho Chi Minh City knocked me sideways. The moment I stepped out of my grab bike at Ben Thanh Market, the energy hit me like a wave—the buzz of a million motorbikes, the smell of fresh banh mi, and the stunning mix of French colonial buildings against modern skyscrapers. This city operates on a whole different frequency.

After exploring the most beautiful places in Ho Chi Minh City, I can tell you it’s pure sensory overload (in the best way). The Jade Emperor Pagoda, with its swirling incense smoke and intricate carvings, literally gave me chills. And watching the sunset from the Bitexco Tower’s observation deck while the city transforms into a sea of twinkling lights? Unreal. Ready to discover my 12 favorite spots that make Saigon absolutely unforgettable? Let’s go!

Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City? Spend the day admiring the skyline from the Bitexco Financial Tower, explore the spiritual beauty of the Cao Dai Temple, or take a trip to the stunning Con Dao Island. Stroll through the vibrant streets for shopping and dining, embark on a cultural tour, or plan an excursion to Da Nang for breathtaking coastal views. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or urban charm, Ho Chi Minh City has plenty to offer!

1. Bitexco Financial Tower

• 🏆 Best For: City view enthusiasts 🏙️, architecture lovers 🏢, luxury shoppers 🛍️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Sleek lotus-inspired design, breathtaking 360° views of Ho Chi Minh City, dramatic glass-enclosed observation deck
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Saigon Skydeck, enjoying sunset cocktails at EON Heli Bar, photographing the cityscape from multiple angles
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Reverie Saigon – Opulent five-star hotel in the heart of District 1 offering spectacular city views

Want the ultimate Instagram flex? Bitexco Financial Tower offers urban adventure that’ll make your friends back home jealous. This lotus-inspired skyscraper dominates Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline with its distinctive helipad jutting out like a futuristic platform.

I’ve never experienced views quite like those from the 49th-floor Saigon Skydeck, where the sprawling metropolis and winding Saigon River stretch to the horizon. For maximum impact, head to EON Heli Bar on the 52nd floor at sunset. Located in bustling District 1, this architectural marvel stands as Vietnam’s most recognizable modern landmark and offers the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s vibrant urban landscape.

2. Cao Dai Temple

• 🏆 Best For: Spiritual seekers 🙏, history buffs 📜, photography enthusiasts 📷
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Vibrant psychedelic color scheme, intricate dragon pillars, striking blend of Eastern and Western religious iconography
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the noon prayer ceremony, admiring the all-seeing Divine Eye symbol, exploring the temple’s ornate architecture
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Victoria Nui Sam Lodge – Peaceful retreat with views of the surrounding countryside

Step into a psychedelic spiritual wonderland that feels like Wes Anderson directed a religious epic. The Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh province is unlike any religious site you’ve ever experienced.

This kaleidoscopic temple dazzles with vibrant yellow, blue, and red pillars adorned with intricate dragon motifs. The most mind-blowing feature is the Divine Eye symbol representing the supreme being, which seems to follow you throughout the temple. When I attended the noon prayer ceremony, hundreds of worshippers in pristine white robes gathered beneath a star-painted ceiling, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Located about 60 miles northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this unique spiritual center blends elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Confucianism, and Taoism into a fascinating cultural experience.

3. Con Dao Island

• 🏆 Best For: Beach seekers 🏝️, nature lovers 🌿, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Pristine beaches with turquoise waters, lush national park wilderness, haunting historical sites
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, watching endangered sea turtles nest, exploring former prison complexes
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Six Senses Con Dao – Eco-luxury beachfront villas with uninterrupted ocean views

Paradise with a dark past awaits just an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Con Dao Archipelago offers that perfect blend of untouched beaches and fascinating history that’ll have you posting equal parts envy-inducing beach shots and thoughtful historical reflections.

Con Dao National Park covers 80% of these 16 islands, protecting rare species like the dugong and green sea turtles. Nothing beats diving into crystal-clear waters to explore colorful coral gardens teeming with marine life. For a powerful contrast, I toured the haunting Con Dao Prison Complex, where thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries were once held. Located off Vietnam’s southeastern coast, these islands offer both authentic wilderness adventure and meaningful historical perspective rarely found in Southeast Asian beach destinations.

4. Da Nang

• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, foodies 🍜, adventure seekers 🏔️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Stunning coastal location, dramatic Marble Mountains, architectural marvels including the Dragon Bridge
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on My Khe Beach, watching the Dragon Bridge breathe fire on weekends, exploring the Marble Mountains caves
• 🏨 Where to Stay: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort – Luxury hillside retreat designed by Bill Bensley with private beach access

Looking for that perfect mix of beach, food, and culture without the backpacker crowds? Da Nang hits the sweet spot between relaxation and adventure on Vietnam’s central coast.

The crescent-shaped My Khe Beach offers golden sands and perfect blue waters that Forbes once named among the world’s most beautiful. After dark, the city’s Dragon Bridge actually breathes fire on weekends—trust me, it’s an epic sight! Just south of the city center, the five Marble Mountains house impressive Buddhist sanctuaries within natural caves. Da Nang’s culinary scene has authentic Central Vietnamese specialties, including the city’s famous bánh mì sandwiches that put anything you’ve had at home to shame.

5. Dalat

• 🏆 Best For: Romantics 💑, flower enthusiasts 🌸, cool weather seekers 🌦️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: French colonial architecture, misty pine forests, vibrant flower gardens, temperate highland climate
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the whimsical Crazy House, boating on Xuan Huong Lake, visiting the Valley of Love
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ana Mandara Villas Dalat – Collection of restored French colonial villas set in fragrant pine gardens

Need a break from Vietnam’s tropical heat? Dalat offers cool mountain air and surreal charm at 1,500 meters above sea level in the Central Highlands.

This “City of Eternal Spring” was built by French colonists seeking escape from the lowland heat. The city’s dreamlike quality peaks at Hang Nga Crazy House, an architectural fantasy resembling a melting fairy-tale castle. I spent hours wandering through misty valleys filled with strawberry farms and flower fields that create a romantic atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Vietnam. Just outside the city center, take the cable car to Truc Lam Pagoda overlooking Tuyen Lam Lake for stunning mountain views and a moment of zen amid your adventures.

6. Dong Khoi Street

• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture admirers 🏢, luxury shoppers 🛍️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: French colonial grandeur, historic landmarks, blend of old-world elegance and modern luxury
• 📸 Top Experiences: Photographing the Opera House, shopping at upscale boutiques, sipping coffee at historic cafés
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Continental Saigon – Historic French colonial hotel where Graham Greene wrote “The Quiet American”

Channel your inner Graham Greene on Ho Chi Minh City‘s most stylish street. Dong Khoi Street captures Vietnam’s fascinating transition from colonial past to dynamic future in just a few elegant blocks.

This tree-lined boulevard showcases impressive colonial architecture, from the ornate Opera House to the striking red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral. During my afternoon tea at the historic Caravelle Hotel, I felt transported back to the city’s glamorous heyday. Located in District 1, the street was once known as Rue Catinat during French colonial times. Today, luxury boutiques and art galleries stand alongside colonial landmarks, creating a fascinating blend of past and present that perfectly captures Vietnam’s unique cultural evolution.

7. Ho Chi Minh City Zoo

• 🏆 Best For: Animal lovers 🦁, families with children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, nature enthusiasts 🌿
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Lush tropical gardens, diverse wildlife collection, historic French colonial architecture
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the elephant enclosure, exploring the reptile house, enjoying picnics in the botanical gardens
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rex Hotel – Historic downtown hotel with rooftop bar offering city views

Need a wild escape from Ho Chi Minh City’s urban jungle? This colonial-era zoo offers the perfect blend of nature and history just minutes from downtown. Founded in 1864, Saigon Zoo houses over 1,300 animals within its 33-acre grounds in District 1.

I never expected to find century-old trees providing such welcome shade from the Vietnamese heat. The zoo showcases rare Indochinese tigers alongside Asian elephants and orangutans. Its botanical gardens feature over 900 plant species in meticulously designed landscapes.

Don’t miss the ornate Hung Kings Temple within the grounds. Visit in the early morning when animals are most active and crowds are thin. 

8. Jade Emperor Pagoda

• 🏆 Best For: Culture seekers 🏮, photography enthusiasts 📷, spiritual travelers 🧘
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Intricate woodcarvings, atmospheric incense-filled halls, vivid Taoist deity sculptures
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing traditional prayer ceremonies, exploring the turtle pond, admiring the detailed roof dragons
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Des Arts Saigon – Elegant colonial-style hotel within walking distance

Step into a cloud of incense and find yourself transported to another realm at Ho Chi Minh City’s most mesmerizing temple. Built in 1909, the Jade Emperor Pagoda sits just east of downtown in District 1, offering a mystical escape from city chaos.

The temple’s main hall houses an impressive statue of the Jade Emperor himself. Intricate wooden carvings depict cosmic scenes that had me spellbound for nearly an hour. The attention to detail is astounding.

A small rear courtyard features a pond teeming with turtles—symbols of longevity in Vietnamese culture. Visit during lunar celebrations for authentic local experiences.

9. Mekong River Delta

• 🏆 Best For: Adventure travelers 🚣, foodies 🍜, rural culture enthusiasts 🌾
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Labyrinthine waterways, floating markets, lush tropical fruit orchards
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising narrow canals by sampan boat, visiting Cai Rang floating market, sampling exotic delta fruits
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mekong Riverside Boutique Resort – Traditional stilt houses overlooking the river

Craving authentic Vietnam beyond the tourist trail? The Mekong Delta, just a few hours southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, offers adventure on tap. This watery maze of channels, islands, and villages reveals daily life largely unchanged for centuries.

Early morning boat trips unveil the famous Cai Rang floating market. Vendors announce their goods by hanging samples from tall bamboo poles. My sunrise journey through narrow palm-fringed canals remains my most memorable Vietnam experience.

The delta’s fertile soil produces tropical fruits in astounding variety. Try mangosteen, rambutan, and the infamous durian. 

10. Mui Ne

• 🏆 Best For: Kitesurfers 🏄, desert enthusiasts 🏜️, seafood lovers 🦐
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Dramatic red and white sand dunes, pristine beaches, fishing village authenticity
• 📸 Top Experiences: Sunrise at the red sand dunes, kitesurfing in steady winds, exploring the unique Fairy Stream
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bamboo Village Beach Resort – Eco-friendly bungalows nestled among tropical gardens

Sahara-like dunes meet turquoise ocean in this surreal coastal playground four hours east of Ho Chi Minh City. Mui Ne defies expectations with its otherworldly landscape that feels nothing like typical Southeast Asia.

The Red Sand Dunes create a mini-desert where visitors try sandboarding at sunset. Early risers should head to the larger White Sand Dunes about 24km away. I’ve watched kitesurfers from around the globe flock here for consistent winds between November and April.

Don’t miss the enchanting Fairy Stream, a shallow red-tinted waterway flowing between white limestone cliffs. In the evenings, fresh seafood restaurants along the beach serve the day’s catch. 

11. Saigon Opera House

• 🏆 Best For: Architecture enthusiasts 🏛️, performing arts lovers 🎭, history buffs 📜
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Exquisite French colonial architecture, ornate interior detailing, grand façade illuminations
• 📸 Top Experiences: Attending the A O Show cultural performance, admiring the floodlit exterior at night, exploring nearby historic district
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Continental Saigon – Historic luxury hotel facing the Opera House

Transport yourself to Belle Époque Paris while standing in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City at this architectural masterpiece. The magnificent Saigon Opera House anchors downtown District 1, built in 1897 by French architect Eugène Ferret.

The 800-seat venue echoes the grandeur of Paris’s Petit Palais. Inside, gilded moldings and crystal chandeliers create an atmosphere of timeless elegance that I found utterly captivating. The venue hosts world-class performances, including the acclaimed A O Show.

Located at the head of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the Opera House is surrounded by historic landmarks and upscale shops. For the perfect photo, visit after sunset when dramatic lighting transforms the façade. 

12. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

• 🏆 Best For: Buddhist culture explorers 🛕, architecture admirers 🏯, peace seekers 🕊️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Blend of traditional Vietnamese and Japanese architectural styles, imposing seven-story tower, serene prayer halls
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing Buddhist ceremonies, climbing the pagoda tower, exploring the tranquil garden
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint – Modern hotel with rooftop pool offering views of the city skyline

Seeking spiritual connection in Vietnam’s busiest metropolis? This modernist Buddhist temple has unexpected tranquility in the bustling Binh Thanh District, just north of downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Completed in 1971, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda stands as the city’s largest Mahayana Buddhist temple.

The impressive seven-story tower houses sacred relics and offers panoramic city views. Inside the main sanctuary, a stunning 14-meter carved wooden altar showcases intricate craftsmanship. I found the wall paintings depicting Buddha’s life particularly moving.

Visit during Buddhist festivals like Vesak in May to witness colorful ceremonies. Even on ordinary days, the pagoda provides a peaceful retreat from urban chaos. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Ho Chi Minh City

Want to discover more about the most captivating spots in Ho Chi Minh City? Below are some questions that I commonly receive about the region’s must-visit attractions.

What is the best part of Ho Chi Minh City?

The best part of Ho Chi Minh City truly depends on what you’re looking to experience. For history buffs, the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels offer deep insights into Vietnam’s past. If you’re into shopping and nightlife, District 1 is the place to be with its plethora of shops, bars, and restaurants. For a more laid-back vibe, District 2 offers a quieter atmosphere with its cafes and river views. Ultimately, the best part of the city is its diversity, offering something for every type of traveler.

What is the No 1 tourist spot in Vietnam?

The No 1 tourist spot in Vietnam is arguably Ha Long Bay, known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular destination for cruises and boat tours. The bay is not only stunningly beautiful but also offers various activities like kayaking, hiking, and scuba diving. While it’s not in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s a must-visit if you’re touring Vietnam.

What are the pretty places in Ho Chi Minh City?

Pretty places in Ho Chi Minh City include the lush Le Van Tam Park, the historic Notre Dame Cathedral, and the vibrant Ben Thanh Market. Each offers a unique aesthetic appeal, from natural beauty to architectural grandeur. These spots provide excellent opportunities for photography and leisurely strolls.

Where can you experience Ho Chi Minh City scenery?

For the best Ho Chi Minh City scenery, head to the Bitexco Financial Tower’s SkyDeck. The panoramic views from this vantage point are unparalleled, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city’s skyline, rivers, and beyond. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

What are the Ho Chi Minh City destinations for food lovers?

The city offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from street food to high-end dining. Here are some destinations in Ho Chi Minh City that food enthusiasts should not miss:

Street Food Markets:

• Ben Thanh Market – A bustling marketplace where you can find traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.
• Bui Vien Street – Known for its vibrant street food scene, especially at night. Try the local beer and grilled seafood.

Local Restaurants:

• Cuc Gach Quan – A restaurant set in a restored colonial building, offering traditional Vietnamese dishes.
• Nha Hang Ngon – Offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes from different regions, all under one roof.

Seafood:

• Quan Oc Dao Nguyen Trai – Famous for its snails and other seafood dishes.
• Oc Dao Phan Xich Long – Another spot for seafood lovers, especially those who love snails.

Vegetarian/Vegan:

• Hum Vegetarian – A serene place offering a variety of plant-based dishes.
• Loving Hut – Offers a wide range of vegan dishes, including Vietnamese and Western options.

High-End Dining:

• The Deck Saigon – Situated along the Saigon River, this restaurant offers a mix of Vietnamese and Western cuisine.
• La Villa French Restaurant – For those looking for a fine dining experience, this French restaurant offers a luxurious setting and exquisite dishes.

Coffee Shops:

• The Workshop Coffee – Known for its specialty coffee and a variety of brewing methods.
• Cong Caphe – A trendy café with a retro Vietnamese war-era theme, famous for its coconut coffee.

Dessert Spots:

• Kem Bach Dang – Famous for its ice cream and a variety of Vietnamese desserts.
• Che Ky Dong – A popular spot for traditional Vietnamese sweet soups.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Vietnamese food, seafood, or international cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City has something to offer for every palate.

How can one enjoy visiting Ho Chi Minh City on a budget?

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City on a budget is quite feasible. Opt for local eateries over high-end restaurants, use public transportation, and explore free attractions like the various pagodas and markets. Street food is not only affordable but also delicious, offering a cost-effective way to experience local flavors.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a captivating blend of the old and the new, a place where tradition and modernity coexist in a fascinating dance. From the towering skyscrapers to the ancient pagodas, from the bustling markets to the tranquil riversides, the city offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or someone simply looking to unwind, you’ll find something to love in this vibrant Vietnamese metropolis.

This guide aims to highlight the most beautiful places in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a curated list of destinations that showcase the city’s multifaceted charm. Each location was chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for the unique experiences it offers, making them must-visit spots on any Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.

So, the next time when you book your ticket to Vietnam, don’t just stick to the well-trodden tourist paths. Venture out and explore the lesser-known gems, the places that make Ho Chi Minh City the fascinating destination that it is. After all, the best travel experiences often come when you step off the beaten track.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Ho Chi Minh City’s most beautiful spots. We hope this guide inspires you to explore, discover, and fall in love with this incredible city.