Ho Chi Minh City Holidays

2026, 2027 & 2028

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Overview

Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic destination where past and present intertwine, offering a high-energy mix of French colonial history, intense street life, and modern skyscrapers. This vibrant southern hub delivers an exciting contrast of historic landmarks and contemporary living, making it a compelling stop on any Vietnam itinerary. History-lovers will especially love Ho Chi Minh City holidays, with cultural highlights such as the War Remnants Museum and the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon providing fascinating insight into the country’s complex past.

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We've handpicked the best 9 Ho Chi Minh City Holidays for you

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Pottery Workshop

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Essential Information

When to Visit

Peak season

December - April

The dry season offers lower humidity and pleasant temperatures, making it the most comfortable time for outdoor exploration.

Off-season

May - November

The wet season brings sudden heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings often remain bright and travel costs are lower.

HI / Lo°C Rainfall Sunshine
Jan Jan weather icon 32° / 21° 5-15 mm 7 Hours
Feb Feb weather icon 33° / 22° 2-10 mm 8 Hours
Mar Mar weather icon 34° / 23° 10-20 mm 8 Hours
Apr Apr weather icon 35° / 24° 40-60 mm 7 Hours
May May weather icon 34° / 25° 150-220 mm 6 Hours
Jun Jun weather icon 32° / 24° 250-330 mm 5 Hours
Jul Jul weather icon 31° / 24° 240-310 mm 5 Hours
Aug Aug weather icon 31° / 24° 230-290 mm 5 Hours
Sep Sep weather icon 31° / 24° 280-360 mm 5 Hours
Oct Oct weather icon 31° / 23° 220-290 mm 5 Hours
Nov Nov weather icon 31° / 22° 80-140 mm 6 Hours
Dec Dec weather icon 31° / 21° 20-50 mm 6 Hours

Ho Chi Minh City Map

Expand

Flight Time from London

Indirect or single-stop standard flight

12h 30m

Currency

Vietnamese Dong

VND

Time Zone

GMT +7

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh

Main Airport

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

SGN

Languages

Visa Summary

UK citizens exempt for up to 45 days

E-Visa or Exemption

Population

Largest city in Vietnam

9.3 million

Famous For

Visa Information

UK citizens can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. If planning to stay longer, apply for a visa before you travel.

Passport Validity Check

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Travellers with less than 6 months' validity will be denied entry.

Things to Do

Ho Chi Minh City brings together history, culture, food, and modern life. French colonial charm meets bustling markets. It's a vibrant destination packed with memorable experiences for every traveller.

Adventures

For travellers seeking excitement, Ho Chi Minh City offers thrilling adventure options nearby. From adrenaline-packed excursions to unique outdoor experiences, the surrounding region promises memorable, action-filled moments beyond typical sightseeing.

History

This vibrant city holds deep historical roots, shaped by colonial rule, wartime struggle, and resilience. Travellers seeking a meaningful connection to the past will find plenty of significant landmarks and stories to uncover.

Event

Beyond its cultural landmarks, this dynamic city offers a range of modern events and entertainment, from lively nightlife to sporting events, giving travellers plenty of ways to unwind and have fun.

Culture

Steeped in heritage, this lively city celebrates its culture through a range of events throughout the year. Festivals, traditions, and community gatherings offer travellers a genuine taste of local life, food, and history.

Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

From colonial-era landmarks to bustling modern hubs, Ho Chi Minh City's top attractions capture the city's layered character. Travellers can dive into its rich heritage, vibrant streets, and iconic sights, all offering a memorable glimpse into local life.

What to Eat

Food lovers will find plenty to savour in Ho Chi Minh City, where regional flavours and street food traditions come together. Bustling markets and local eateries serve up dishes that capture the true taste of Vietnam.

Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang

Beloved noodle soup blending Vietnamese and Cambodian influences, Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang features clear pork broth, thin rice noodles, shrimp, minced pork, and quail eggs, garnished with fresh herbs and crispy fried garlic for added depth.

Bún Bò Huế

Hailing from central Vietnam, this bold noodle soup pairs thick rice noodles with tender beef and pork in a spicy, lemongrass-infused broth. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime round out the layers of flavour in every fiery bowl.

Bánh Canh Cua

Bánh Canh Cua is a popular Vietnamese crab noodle soup. It has thick, chewy noodles. The broth is rich and savoury. Fresh crab adds sweetness. Herbs and spices complete this comforting dish.

Cơm Tấm

Cơm tấm is a beloved Vietnamese dish of broken rice topped with grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, egg meatloaf, and pickled vegetables, served with fish sauce. Originally a peasant food, it's now a Saigon street-food staple.

Bánh Xèo

Bánh xèo is a crispy Vietnamese savoury pancake made from rice flour batter tinted yellow with turmeric, filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Pan-fried until crackling, it's eaten wrapped in lettuce and herbs, dipped in sweet-tangy fish sauce.

Banh Xeo (Bánh Xèo)

Bánh xèo is a crispy Vietnamese savoury pancake made from rice flour batter tinted yellow with turmeric, filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Pan-fried until crackling, it's eaten wrapped in lettuce and herbs, dipped in sweet-tangy fish sauce.

Bánh Khọt

A mini Vietnamese savoury pancake from Vũng Tàu, made from rice flour batter cooked in a special dimpled pan, topped with shrimp. Crispy-edged and soft-centred, it's served with lettuce, herbs, and sweet fish sauce for dipping.

Bún Thịt Nướng

A refreshing Vietnamese noodle dish combining grilled, marinated pork, thin vermicelli noodles, and crisp lettuce, herbs, bean sprouts, and pickled carrots and daikon. Topped with crushed peanuts and fried shallots, it's drizzled with sweet-tangy fish sauce for a light meal.

Bò Lá Lốt

A fragrant Vietnamese grilled dish featuring seasoned minced beef wrapped in aromatic betel leaves, then charred over an open flame. The leaves impart a peppery, herbal note while the beef stays juicy inside. Served with rice noodles, herbs, and fish sauce for dipping.

Bánh Tráng Nướng

Popular Vietnamese street snack often called "Vietnamese pizza," made from grilled rice paper topped with egg, dried shrimp, scallions, and sometimes pork floss or sausage. Cooked over charcoal until crispy and slightly charred, it's a favourite among students in Đà Lạt.

Gỏi Cuốn

Light and healthy Vietnamese fresh spring roll made by wrapping rice paper around shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and herbs like mint and perilla. Served uncooked and refreshing, it's typically dipped in peanut hoisin sauce or fish sauce for extra flavour.

Facts about Ho Chi Minh City

  • Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as Saigon and was renamed in 1976 after the Vietnamese revolutionary leader, following the reunification of Vietnam.

  • The city sits along the Saigon River in southern Vietnam and serves as the country's main economic and financial hub.

  • The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, built during French colonial rule in the 19th century, remains one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.

  • District 1 is the historic and commercial centre, home to major attractions, hotels, and government buildings.

  • Motorbikes vastly outnumber cars, with millions weaving through the streets and forming an iconic part of daily life.

  • The Cu Chi Tunnels, located on the city's outskirts, offer a glimpse into the underground network used during the Vietnam War.

  • Ben Thanh Market has operated since the early 20th century and remains a major hub for local goods, food, and souvenirs.

  • The city has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, staying warm and humid most of the year.

What to Pack

Pack light, breathable clothes for heat and humidity. Bring an umbrella for sudden rain, comfy walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray. Add modest attire for temple visits and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Travel Advice & Safety

Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City typically find it a safe, friendly destination with a strong tourism network. Simple precautions, watching your belongings in busy areas and booking rides through Grab, help make your trip trouble-free and enjoyable.

Emergency numbers

Police
113
Fire Department
114
Ambulance
115
  • Vietnam's currency is the Dong, so it's a good idea to notify your bank ahead of time and bring a card with favourable exchange rates.

  • UK travellers can usually visit for short stays without a visa, but it's worth confirming the latest entry requirements before you fly.

  • Outside the main tourist areas, English can be limited, so a translation app is genuinely useful for day-to-day conversations.

  • Getting around is easiest with Grab or metered taxis, which take the stress out of dealing with the city's heavy traffic.

  • Tipping isn't mandatory, but leaving a little extra for attentive service at restaurants or with tour guides goes down well.

  • The city stays warm throughout the year, though the rainy season can bring sudden, heavy showers, so a quick weather check before heading out is handy.

  • When visiting temples or pagodas, cover your shoulders and knees as a mark of respect for local traditions.

  • Tap water isn't recommended for drinking, so stick to bottled or filtered water to keep your stomach happy.

  • With motorbikes everywhere, crossing the street takes a calm, steady pace and constant awareness of your surroundings.

  • Bargaining is part of everyday shopping, particularly around markets like Bến Thành, and a friendly haggle can often save you money.

Is it Safe to Travel to Ho Chi Minh City?

Yes, Ho Chi Minh City is very safe for travellers. Locals are warm and welcoming, tourist infrastructure is well-developed, and violent crime is rare. As with any big city, staying mindful of your belongings in crowded spots keeps your trip smooth and worry-free.

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