Although modernity has transformed Vietnam’s southern metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City still preserves many fascinating traces of its rich and complex past. Throughout the city, you’ll find elegant colonial-era architecture, historic landmarks, and cultural sites reflecting its commercial heritage and Eastern influences. If you’re interested in history and culture, here are seven of the best historical attractions in Ho Chi Minh City in 2026, all within easy walking distance of the city centre.
1.Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)
Built on the former site of Norodom Palace, the Reunification Palace—also known as the Independence Palace—is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most important historical landmarks. Designed by renowned Vietnamese architect Ngô Viết Thụ, the palace once served as the presidential residence and administrative headquarters of South Vietnam.
Today, visitors can explore its grand halls, reception rooms, meeting rooms, and historic offices, many of which retain their original 20th-century décor. The palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s modern history and is a must-visit for first-time travelers to Ho Chi Minh City.
TIP: Be sure to visit the basement, where you can see the former command center, war rooms, communication facilities, and other wartime areas.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m. daily, including holidays
Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
2.Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
The iconic twin-towered Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception stands at the top of Dong Khoi Street, offering a peaceful retreat amid the bustling heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Constructed entirely with materials imported from France, the cathedral took nearly two decades to complete, from 1863 to 1880. Today, it remains one of the city’s most recognizable colonial-era landmarks and a popular stop for visitors exploring District 1.
Fun Fact: A statue of the Virgin Mary stands in the center of the square in front of the cathedral. According to local accounts, the statue was believed to have shed tears on one occasion in 2005, attracting large crowds who came to witness the unusual event.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m. daily, including holidays
Address: No. 1 Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
3.War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is a three-story museum in Ho Chi Minh City featuring a powerful collection of war-related artefacts, historical documents, and graphic photographs. Among its most famous exhibits is Nick Ut’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph, “The Terror of War.” The museum’s courtyard is filled with decommissioned military aircraft, tanks, helicopters, bombs, and other military equipment.
Although the visit can be sombre and emotionally moving, the museum offers an important insight into Vietnam’s wartime history and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m., daily, including holidays
Address: No. 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
4.Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall
Sprawling Nguyen Hue Street is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most popular pedestrian destinations. Lined with modern high-rise buildings, upscale restaurants, shopping arcades, and luxury boutiques, the boulevard stretches from City Hall to Bach Dang Wharf. It is an ideal place for a leisurely afternoon walk, while the atmosphere becomes especially vibrant after sunset as locals and visitors gather to enjoy the lively surroundings.
At the northern end of Nguyen Hue Street stands City Hall, the headquarters of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and one of the city’s most recognizable colonial-era landmarks.
Admission: City Hall is not open to the public
Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton Street, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
5.Cu Chi Tunnels
Step back in time with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most fascinating historical attractions near Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the northwestern part of the city, the Cu Chi area is home to an extensive network of underground tunnels that once stretched for more than 250 kilometers and were used by the Viet Cong to hide, move supplies, and evade American and South Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War.
Visitors can explore the tunnels at two main sites: Ben Dinh, approximately 35 kilometers from central Ho Chi Minh City, and Ben Duoc, around 70 kilometers away. Be prepared to crawl through narrow passages and get a little dirty, so comfortable clothes and suitable footwear are highly recommended.
Admission: 15,000 VND
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m. daily, including holidays
Address: Phu Hiep Hamlet, An Nhon Tay Commune, Ho Chi Minh City
6.Ben Thanh Market
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is one of the city’s most iconic and historic landmarks. Built on a former reclaimed area once known as Bo Ret Pond, the market now stands opposite Quach Thi Trang Square and remains a lively hub for both locals and visitors.
Inside, a maze of narrow aisles is packed with an impressive variety of goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional conical hats, Vietnamese coffee, handicrafts, and lacquerware. At the back of the market, visitors can explore a bustling food section serving popular Vietnamese specialties such as sizzling bánh xèo, freshly made bánh mì, and many other local dishes.
Admission: Free
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m. daily, including holidays
Address: 32–30 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
7.Saigon Central Post Office-
Located directly opposite the cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most charming colonial landmarks. Step inside to admire its spacious grand hall, lined with elegant Victorian-style wooden phone booths, historic maps, and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh.
Although the building is sometimes mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel, he was not its architect. However, the structure is associated with the architectural designs and engineering influence of the era, contributing to its distinctive European character.
Admission: Free
Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:30–5:00 p.m., daily, including holidays
Address: No. 2 Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant destination where history, culture, cuisine, and modern life come together. From historic landmarks and fascinating museums to bustling markets and lively streets, these 7 must-see attractions offer a great introduction to the city’s unique character. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, exploring these highlights will help you experience the best of Ho Chi Minh City in 2026. Plan your itinerary, discover the city at your own pace, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in Vietnam’s dynamic southern metropolis.
Don’t forget to arrange your Vietnam visa before your trip. Contact VietnamVisaPro today to begin your application. As a trusted and reliable visa service provider, we are here to support you from the very first step and help make your Vietnam travel plans a smooth reality.
