Things to Do in Hcmc

About Hcmc

Ho Chi Minh City pulses with an electric energy where the old and new Vietnam collide - ancient temples and colonial architecture stand proudly alongside gleaming skyscrapers, while the symphony of millions of motorbikes provides the city's unmistakable soundtrack. This sprawling metropolis, still lovingly called Saigon by locals, captivates visitors with its intoxicating blend of French elegance, traditional Asian soul, and unstoppable modern spirit.

Travel Tips

• Learn to cross the road gradually and steadily when dealing with HCMC's endless stream of motorbikes - don't stop or make sudden movements, as drivers are used to predicting pedestrians' paths and flowing around them.

• Use Grab bike (similar to Uber but for motorcycles) for quick and affordable transport around the city, but always confirm your driver matches the app profile and wear the provided helmet.

• Keep small denominations of Vietnamese Dong (especially 10,000 and 20,000 notes) for street food and local markets, as vendors often struggle with large bills and some may not accept them.

• Visit popular spots like Ben Thanh Market early in the morning (before 9 AM) to avoid both the intense heat and crowds, plus get better prices before tourist rushes.

When to Visit

Ho Chi Minh City is best visited during the dry season from December through April, when temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F) and rainfall is minimal, though late January or early February can see brief disruptions due to Tết (Lunar New Year) when many businesses close for 3-7 days and domestic flights become expensive and crowded—though the vibrant flower markets and festive atmosphere can be spectacular if you plan around the closures. March and April bring intense heat with temperatures often hitting 35-38°C (95-100°F) and humidity above 80%, making midday exploration exhausting, but these months offer the most reliable weather for day trips to the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels. The monsoon season from May through November sees afternoon downpours that typically last 1-2 hours (heaviest in June, September, and October with 250-300mm monthly rainfall), which can flood streets temporarily and disrupt outdoor plans, though morning activities are usually dry, hotel rates drop 30-40%, and the city feels authentically local without tourist crowds. Budget travelers should target June or September for the best combination of low prices and manageable rain, while those sensitive to heat and humidity should stick to December through February when evenings cool to a comfortable 20-23°C (68-73°F) and the city hosts events like the Ao Dai Festival in early March celebrating traditional Vietnamese dress.