MUST-DO IN SAI GON
Takashimaya
Fresh on the Saigon shopping scene, the Japanese-owned Takashimaya Shopping Centre has brought the ultimate in world-class shopping experiences to Vietnam. Located in the heart of the city and packed with top-notch European, Asian and American retail and F&B outlets, there’s plenty to excite in the Saigon’s premier shopping destination.
Ben Thanh Market
Saigon’s largest centrally located market is packed with handicrafts, souvenirs, and hawker-style cuisine and is a must-experience when visiting the city. Spend an hour or two wandering between the many aisles, haggle for a bargain, pick up a memento, or grab a bite at one of the many food stalls.
War Remnants Museum
The trauma of war has long haunted the people of Vietnam, and the War Remnants Museum gives visitors a poignant reminder of this. As well as a collection of military hardware and war photography, the museum houses an exhibition of posters and photos that highlight the international anti-war movement.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
Visited by Hollywood celebrity couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, this atmospheric and popular pagoda is a shrine to the supreme Taoist god, the King of Heaven. Built in 1909, the pagoda draws throngs of tourists and locals who still use the temple as their daily place of worship.
Vincom Dong Khoi
With more than 250 shops, Vincom Center is one of the Ho Chi Minh City’s biggest shopping mall. If you are looking for international products then this should be your first stop as this is where most international luxury brands have their flagship stores, right in the tourist heart of the city. There are also some convenient restaurants and cafes serving food from most regions including many international franchises.
Saigon Opera House
Locating charmingly at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City is the Saigon Opera House, which is also known as the Municipal Theater. The building represents one of the most unique destinations in Saigon, both night and day. Certified as a national relic in 2012, this magnificent building stays on top of the must-visit of Ho Chi Minh City.
Nguyen Hue Street
Nguyen Hue Pedestrian street is a broad walking promenade in the middle of Saigon. This pedestrian area is surrounded by some of the most iconic architectural wonders like the People’s Committee, the Rex Hotel, Bitexco Tower, etc. It wouldn't be hard to find an authentic restaurant or a local souvenir shop on the side and don't forget to take a quick look at the statue of Uncle Ho Chi Minh positioned right in front of the People's Committee.
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, built in the late 1880s, is one of the most vising places in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in Paris Square, the name Notre Dame was given after the installation of the statue ‘Peaceful Notre Dame’ in 1959. Aside from its status as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most prominent attractions, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral still serves as a religious institution for the local population.
Independence Palace
The historic building knows as both the Independence Palace and the Reunification Palace has witnessed some of Saigon’s most turbulent events, including a North Vietnamese Army tank that burst through its gates during the Fall of Saigon on 30 April 1975. The imposing building is a must-visit destination for tourists.
