Vietnam's largest and economically most important city (formerly Saigon), pulsing with dense scooter traffic, French colonial architecture and good connections to the Mekong Delta.
Ho Chi Minh City is best explored on foot, especially in the early morning or evening hours when it's a bit cooler.
I flew from Phu Quoc (about 1–1.5 hrs, from €80), the fastest option. If you have time and want to save money, you can instead combine the ferry to Ha Tien with a bus onward to Ho Chi Minh City (about 9 hrs total, from €26).
A bit outside the city center, a scooter or taxi is necessary to get around. €110 for 2 nights, reasonable value for money. Beautifully designed complex with a pleasant atmosphere, gym and swimming pool. Downside: dependent on scooters or taxis for every trip.
Verdict: The accommodation offers a lovely complex and good amenities, but it's a bit out of the way. Next time we'd prefer something more central.
A selection of Asian and Indian dishes, though heavily geared toward tourists, both in atmosphere and pricing. Unfortunately it didn't win us over on flavor. Daily 9am to midnight.
Verdict: Disappointing for us, both the quality and the value for money were off.
Breakfast and brunch, fresh smoothie bowls, coffee and tea specialties. A stylish spot with fresh, healthy food and beautifully arranged breakfast dishes, perfect for a relaxed start to the day. Daily 7am to 9pm.
Fresh baguettes with a Vietnamese twist, vegetarian and vegan options, homemade sauces. Delicious banh mi with fresh ingredients and crispy bread, a great spot for a quick but delicious snack. Daily 9am to 9pm.
Vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine. The food was fine but nothing special, and the service left something to be desired. Daily 9am to 10pm.
In the heart of the city, easily reached on foot or by taxi. A colorful temple from the late 19th century, dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, an important spiritual center for Vietnam's Tamil community. Ornate decorations, statues of Hindu deities, an elaborate facade.
Tip: Respect religious customs and wear appropriate clothing, the temple is especially peaceful in the morning or late afternoon.
In the western part of the city, Vietnam's largest Chinese quarter. A vibrant center of Chinese culture with traditional temples, bustling markets and authentic Chinese food. Historic buildings, small shops, street stalls selling everything from spices to handmade jewelry.
Tip: Visit the Binh Tay Market for local specialties and traditional goods, the atmosphere is most authentic in the morning.
In the heart of Chinatown, one of the city's largest and liveliest markets. Fresh food and exotic spices, traditional clothing and jewelry, souvenirs and everyday goods. Daily 5am to 7:30pm.
Verdict: An authentic market with a huge selection and a bustling atmosphere, perfect for discovering Vietnamese and Chinese specialties, and a bit of haggling pays off.
One of Ho Chi Minh City's best-known markets, fresh food, clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts, jewelry and electronics. It didn't win us over though, prices are often inflated and the shopping experience can be marred by pushy vendors. Daily 6am to 10pm. Unfortunately we can't recommend it.
An architectural highlight in the French colonial style and one of the city's best-known sights. Especially worth seeing are the high ceilings, stained-glass windows and the historic clock. Still actively in use, ideal for a quick visit during a city stroll.
Ho Chi Minh City is best explored on foot. Charming alleys, impressive colonial buildings, hidden cafés, street food stalls everywhere, markets and small shops. A stroll is a real experience, especially in the early morning or evening hours.