Ho Chi Minh City is the most populated city in Vietnam. It was formerly known as Prey Nokor and Saigon in previous centuries, and the latter name is a remnant of its French colonial past. Ho Chi Minh City is the country’s commercial hub and whose skyline is a continuous mix of historical monuments and temples, and several modern-day skyscrapers. The city exudes the look and feel of a typical South Asian city but with a distinct tinge of French taste in its colonial architecture and lifestyle. Some popular attractions in Ho Chi Minh City are War Remnants Museum, Thien Hau Temple and Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh tells a sad tale of how continuous wars had depleted this beautiful city and country, and how their psychological and economic effects continue to haunt the masses even today. The museum is focused on the Vietnam War and the First Indochina War that happened during last century. The War Remnants Museum is full of photographs that depict the cruel face of the adversaries. The graphic shots of Agent Orange (a poisonous gas) victims is especially disconcerting.

Thien Hau Temple

Built in 19^th century, the Thien Hau Temple is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Ho Chi Minh City. It is dedicated to the Chinese goddess called Lady of the Sea or Thien Hau, and it was built using materials sourced from China. The holy temple has an air of traditional Chinese worshipping style and devotees will also find several ornately designed porcelain dioramas here.

Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is a late-19^th century cathedral built as a place of wordship for the French colonial missions in Vietnam. It is a remarkable example of Neo-Romanesque architecture and is flaunts a red-brick exterior. The cathedral’s twin square towers rise about 60 meters into the city’s skyline and they flaunt a clock between the two late 19 ^th century bell towers.

Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

The months from November to April are is the best time to book your flights from Tampa to Ho Chi Minh City. During these months the weather is good, and city celebrates lots of festivals. Book Ho Chi Minh City flights in advance to avoid paying more at the last minute.