The El Camino Travel Guide to Ho Chi Minh City
Written by Katherine Hudson
Located in southeast Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in the country, with over 8 million residents and 24 unique districts. Still commonly referred to as Saigon, the city was renamed in 1976 by the communist government in honor of the Marxist-Leninist leader, Ho Chi Minh. Before the Fall of Saigon in 1975, it was the capital of French Indochina and then the capital of South Vietnam. The city’s complex history, including French colonization and the Vietnam War, referred to as the American War by the Vietnamese, draws in millions of tourists every year. You will find most attractions in District 1, including French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and the surrounding Saigon River.
“Sometimes people feel frustrated when they visit Saigon because they couldn’t get to know the feel of the city better,” explains Jonathan Morana, ECT Travel Expert for Vietnam. “That is why you need to take time to dig deeper. Spend time outside, getting lost, and talking to locals to start to understand this complex city.” We worked with Jonathan to curate a list of the best recommendations for getting to know the feel of the city at a deeper level.
If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City and want a more thoughtful approach, we can help.
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Stay
Retreat to the private urban sanctuary, Mia Saigon, a 5-star luxury boutique hotel in the Thu Duc District. “This hotel is interesting for travelers who have been in Asia for a while, as it sits outside of the more touristy area,” explains Jonathan. Located on the banks of the Saigon River, the hotel provides complimentary shuttle speedboat service to the bustling downtown for in-house guests. Enjoy an afternoon by the stunning outdoor pool, a unique culinary experience on the hotel’s floating dock, and views of the Saigon River from the spacious rooms and suites.
When we plan trips to Ho Chi Minh City, lodging often looks like:
A more affordable boutique hotel option with a gorgeous view
“The best service you can find in Vietnam” where you really get a sense of the local charm
A 5-star, art-focused boutique hotel that’s a favorite of our resident Vietnam expert
Image sourced from Anan Saigon
Drink
For a beautiful sunset, head to Social Club Saigon, a rooftop bar on top of the Hôtel des Arts in District 1. Take in the cityscape while you sip on a delicious cocktail or wine from their extensive wine list. Enjoy the skyline views as they cast a glittering reflection across the highest infinity pool in the city.
When we plan trips to Ho Chi Minh City, we often include spots like:
A hip bar and coffeehouse that regularly hosts live music and events
Incredible views complemented by a warm ambiance on a stunning rooftop bar
A cocktail menu like none other in a recently opened speakeasy bar
Image sourced from Mia Saigon
Eat
Anan Saigon is worth the hype, says Jonathan Morana. This acclaimed restaurant specializes in street-food inspired dishes created by the award-winning Chef Peter Cuong Franklin. Start with the truffle old fashioned, end with chocolates and caviar, and be impressed with every dish in between.
When it comes to dining in Ho Chi Minh City, we often plan around places like:
“It’s usually my first meal as I make my way to my hotel, or my last meal as I leave Vietnam.” A laidback restaurant located on the outskirts of District 1.
A 100-year-old building serving street food style, plant-based dishes
Mediterranean and produce-driven fare serving in a fine-dining setting
Image sourced from Social Club Saigon