Unveiling Ho Chi Minh City

A Must-See Guide for First-Time Visitors

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis where history meets modernity. Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a returning visitor, the city offers a fascinating blend of French colonial architecture, bustling streets, and rich cultural experiences. Today, we embark on a journey through some of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Get ready to explore, discover, and immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnam!

aerial view of city buildings during daytime

The Gallery

Travel like locals

woman in blue long sleeve shirt and brown straw hat holding red fruit

white and gray concrete building during daytime

man in black and white stripe polo shirt sitting on chair

Walking Itinerary

1. Saigon Central Post Office
Our journey begins at the Saigon Central Post Office, an architectural masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel. This beautifully preserved colonial building, with its vaulted ceilings and antique telephone booths, gives you a glimpse into Saigon’s past. Don’t forget to send a postcard home from this historic site!

2. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Just across the street stands the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, built entirely from materials imported from France. Its twin bell towers reach up to 58 meters, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. A perfect spot for stunning photos!

3. Hotel Continental Saigon
Step into the charm of old Saigon at the Hotel Continental, one of the city’s oldest hotels, which has hosted famous writers, journalists, and dignitaries. This historic hotel offers a nostalgic glimpse into the French colonial era.

4. Dong Khoi Street
Next, we take a stroll down Dong Khoi Street, the heart of Saigon’s shopping and entertainment district. This lively avenue is lined with luxury boutiques, trendy cafés, and historic buildings, making it a great place to soak in the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

5. Saigon Opera House
Standing proudly on Dong Khoi Street is the elegant Saigon Opera House. This 19th-century French colonial building is a hub for performing arts, hosting ballet, concerts, and traditional Vietnamese shows.

6. Hotel Majestic Saigon
Our next stop is the luxurious Majestic Hotel, overlooking the scenic Saigon River. Built in 1925, this hotel exudes timeless elegance and is a great spot for an afternoon tea with a view.

7. Saigon River
Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Saigon River, a key waterway that has shaped the city's development. For a memorable experience, consider taking a river cruise at sunset.

8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street
A short walk away is the vibrant Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where locals and tourists gather for cultural performances, street food, and city lights. It’s an ideal place to experience Saigon’s nightlife.

9. The Café Apartments
Hidden within an old apartment building, The Café Apartments is a unique destination featuring a collection of cozy coffee shops. Each floor offers a different vibe, making it a favorite spot for coffee lovers and Instagrammers alike.

10. Ho Chi Minh City Hall
We now arrive at City Hall, an impressive French colonial building that shines brightly at night. While the building itself is not open to the public, it remains one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

11. Lunch at Ben Nghe Street Food Market
Time for a delicious break! We stop at Ben Nghe Street Food Market, a haven for food lovers where you can try authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake), and fresh spring rolls.

12. Reunification Palace
After lunch, we visit the Reunification Palace, a significant historical site where the Vietnam War officially ended in 1975. Walk through its preserved rooms and underground bunkers for a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

13. War Remnants Museum
Our final stop is the War Remnants Museum, a sobering but important place that showcases the impact of the Vietnam War through photographs, artifacts, and military equipment.

Conclusion: That concludes our journey through Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks! We hope you enjoyed exploring the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and lively culture. Whether you continue your adventure in Vietnam or relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee, may your time here be unforgettable. Thank you for joining us, and we hope to see you again soon!

Enjoy your stay in Ho Chi Minh City!

brown and gray concrete church under cloudy sky during daytime

Gallery

A Journey to Remember! Check out the amazing moments from our tour. If you joined us, you might spot yourself in the gallery. Don’t forget to share your memories!

Important Information

Tour Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Dress Code: Comfortable outfit & walking shoes
Temple Etiquette: Bring a scarf or sarong to cover shoulders or knees if wearing shorts.
This is a Free Walking Tour, meaning there is no participation fee.
Guests only need to cover the cost of public transportation, approximately $1 USD for three bus rides.

Tips Are Welcome & Greatly Appreciated! Your Guide’s Passion, Your Generosity

If you enjoy the tour and appreciate the experience provided by our local guides, you are welcome to leave a small tip of $2-5 USD as a token of appreciation.

Guest Reviews

Absolutely loved this tour! Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and showed us hidden gems we would never have found on our own. Highly recommend!

Emily

Aloha Saigon Free Walking Tour was one of the highlights of my trip. The blend of history, local life, and delicious street food made it unforgettable!" – Sophie, France

Sophie, France

★★★★★

Highly recommended for budget travelers! The fact that it’s free, aside from the small bus fare, makes it unbeatable. Our guide was fantastic and made the experience very engaging!

★★★★

Laura, Germany