Landmark 81

discover Landmark 81, Việt Nam - Complete Travel Guide

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis and economic powerhouse, is a vibrant blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and modern urban development. The city's skyline is dramatically punctuated by discover Landmark 81, travel to Southeast Asia's tallest building and the world's 15th tallest skyscraper, standing as a symbol of Vietnam's rapid economic growth and modernization. This 81-story architectural marvel houses luxury shopping, fine dining, offices, and the prestigious Vinpearl Luxury hotel, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling city below. Beyond its iconic tower, Ho Chi Minh City pulses with energy from dawn to dusk, where motorbikes weave through bustling streets lined with street food vendors, colonial-era buildings, and gleaming shopping centers. The city serves as Vietnam's cultural and economic hub, where visitors can explore historic landmarks like the things to do in Reunification Palace and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, dive into the sobering history at the guide to War Remnants Museum, and experience the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in both upscale restaurants and humble street-side eateries.

Top Landmark 81

SkyBar at Landmark 81

Visit the observation deck and sky the city on the 81st floor for unparalleled 360-degree views of Ho Chi Minh City. The experience includes access to premium lounges, cocktail service, and photo opportunities with the city's sprawling urban landscape stretching to the horizon. Time your visit for sunset to witness the city transform from daylight bustle to a glittering metropolis of lights.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around $15-25 USD and can be purchased online or at the tower. Visit during weekday afternoons or just before sunset for fewer crowds and optimal lighting. Book in advance during holidays and weekends as it's a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

Historic District Walking Tour

Explore visit District 1's colonial architecture, including the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office designed by Gustave Eiffel, and the ornate the city. Walk through the bustling this destination and discover hidden alleyways filled with local life, street art, and traditional shops. The tour provides insight into the city's French colonial past and its transformation into modern Vietnam.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours are available daily starting around $10-15 USD for tips-based tours, while private guided tours range from $30-60 USD. Morning tours (8-10 AM) offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Look for guides with good English skills and historical knowledge.

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi in hands-on cooking classes led by local chefs. Most classes include market visits to select fresh ingredients, teaching you about Vietnamese herbs, spices, and cooking techniques. You'll enjoy the fruits of your labor in a communal dining experience with fellow participants.

Booking Tip: Classes range from $25-50 USD per person and typically last 3-4 hours including market tour and meal. Book morning classes for the freshest market experience. Choose operators that include recipe cards and offer vegetarian options if needed.

Cu Chi Tunnels Day Trip

Venture outside the city to explore the famous visit Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War. Crawl through the narrow tunnels, learn about the ingenious survival techniques of Vietnamese soldiers, and witness demonstrations of booby traps and tunnel construction. The experience provides profound historical context about the conflict and Vietnamese resilience.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost $15-35 USD including transportation and guide. Half-day tours are also available for $10-20 USD. Book with reputable operators that provide comfortable transportation and knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dirty.

Mekong Delta River Cruise

Take a day trip to the the city to experience rural Vietnamese life along the mighty river system. Cruise through narrow waterways, visit floating markets, traditional villages, and fruit orchards while sampling tropical fruits and local delicacies. The journey offers a peaceful contrast to the city's hustle and showcases Vietnam's agricultural heritage and river culture.

Booking Tip: Day trips range from $20-45 USD depending on group size and inclusions. Choose tours that include boat transfers, lunch, and visits to local workshops. Book during dry season (December-April) for best weather conditions and avoid overly crowded weekend departures.

Getting There

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves as the main gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, located about 7 kilometers from the city center. The airport connects to major cities worldwide and offers domestic flights throughout Vietnam. From the airport, travelers can take official taxis (30-45 minutes, $8-12 USD), ride-sharing services like Grab, or the public bus route 109 for budget-friendly transport. The city is also accessible by bus from other Vietnamese cities, with modern sleeper buses connecting to the country, Da Nang, and other destinations, though the journey can take 12-18 hours depending on the destination.

Getting Around

Ho Chi Minh City's transportation network includes taxis, ride-sharing apps (Grab is most popular), motorbike taxis (xe om), and public buses. The most authentic way to explore is by motorbike, either as a passenger on a xe om or by renting your own, though traffic can be overwhelming for inexperienced riders. Walking is feasible in visit District 1's central areas, but be prepared for busy streets and limited pedestrian infrastructure. The city's first metro line opened recently, providing clean and efficient transport along select routes, with expansion planned for the coming years.

Where to Stay

visit District 1 (City Center)

District 3 (Local Neighborhood)

District 7 (Modern/Expat Area)

Binh Thanh District

District 2 (Thu Duc)

District 10 (Budget-Friendly)

Food & Dining

Ho Chi Minh City's food scene ranges from world-class fine dining establishments in luxury hotels and rooftop restaurants to incredible street food found on nearly every corner. The city is famous for its pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and com tam (broken rice dishes), best experienced at local street stalls and family-run restaurants. visit District 1 offers upscale dining and international cuisine, while Districts 3 and 10 provide authentic local experiences. Don't miss the vibrant food courts, night markets, and the famous the city for evening dining. For the adventurous, street food tours reveal hidden gems and local favorites that might otherwise be missed.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is during the dry season from December to April, when temperatures are more comfortable (75-85°F) and rainfall is minimal. The wet season (May-November) brings high humidity, frequent afternoon downpours, and temperatures reaching 90°F+, though rain usually comes in short, intense bursts rather than all-day precipitation. Avoid the Tet holiday period (late January/early February) when many businesses close and prices increase significantly. The shoulder months of November and May offer fewer crowds and reasonable weather, making them excellent alternatives for budget-conscious travelers.

Insider Tips

Download the Grab app for reliable and safe transportation - it's widely used and eliminates language barriers and haggling

Carry small denominations of Vietnamese dong as many street vendors and small establishments don't accept large bills or credit cards

Visit discover Landmark 81's observation deck on clear days and check weather conditions beforehand, as haze and pollution can significantly impact visibility and photo quality