Ho Chi Minh City Hotels

Pagodas

Ho Chi Minh City is home to some of the most spectacular temples and pagodas in Vietnam. Jade Emperor Pagoda is a Taoist and Buddhist temple that features a gallery of intricate woodcarvings of various deities and spirits. Dedicated to the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, the temple has carvings and statues of figures including the Chief of Hell, the Green Dragon and the Jade Emperor. You could easily spend a good part of the day encountering the temple's many grotesque heroes and villains.

Another beautifully intricate temple is Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda. Dating from 1902 the pagoda features a number of brass ritual weapons and is well worth a visit. The Xa Loi Pagoda is impressive to behold and has a dramatic history – in August 1963 the temple was ransacked when 400 monks and nuns were arrested for opposing the Diem regime. The oldest temple in the city is the Giac Lam Pagoda, dating from 1744 and combine elements of Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism.

Museums

The History Museum was built in 1929 by the Société des Études Indochinoises and currently holds a series of fascinating exhibitions describing the heritage of Vietnam, covering the Bronze Age Dong Son civilisation through to modern-day Vietnam. If you're interested in learning about the larger history of the area this museum is a fascinating place to spend a day. Highlights include a preserved mummy of a local woman from 1869 and a collection of Buddha statues.

For a glimpse into the brutality and atrocities of the Vietnam War, the War Remnants Museum is a sobering place to visit. The Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the conflict, still exists and two sections are open to the public, and the HCMC Museum, which focuses on the history of Ho Chi Minh City, is another museum well worth exploring if you have the time.

Markets

To get a real sense of life in Ho Chi Minh City you have to head to the buzzling marketplaces. Nha Hang Ngon is packed with locals and foreigners all jostling between street food stalls and shops selling trinkets and Ben Thanh Market is likewise a vibrant hub of stalls selling everything from fruit and jewellery to scorpions dipped in alcohol. Keep one eye on your belongings, dive into the crowd and don't be afraid to try new things.

When it comes to food and drink there's a heady mix on offer in Ho Chi Minh City, from traditional Vietnamese dishes at Cuc Gach Quan to Chinese cuisine at Ocean Palace close to the city's Botanical Gardens or Indian food at Baba's Kitchen on Bui Vien.

Further afield

Head northwest from Ho Chi Minh and you'll find Tay Ninh, capital of Tay Ninh Province and home to the astonishing Cao Dai Great Temple. Cross over the border from Vietnam to Cambodia and a train journey will take you to the iconic Angkor Wat.

Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City

District 1: The heart of Ho Chi Minh City

District 1 is the buzzing epicentre of Ho Chi Minh City, where modern skyscrapers rub shoulders with colonial-era buildings. It's where all the action happens, offering a cocktail of culture, history, and vibrant city life.

• Types of hotels available: From posh, high-rise hotels with rooftop pools to budget-friendly hostels, District 1 has it all. It's the go-to for those who want to be smack dab in the city's hustle and bustle.

• Proximity to attractions: A stone's throw from iconic spots like Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Opera House, this district is perfect for sightseeing enthusiasts.

• Dining and nightlife options: Fancy a night out? District 1 is teeming with eateries ranging from street food stalls to chic restaurants and lively bars.

District 3: Cultural and historical hub

For a taste of Vietnam's rich history and culture, District 3 is your spot. Known for its French colonial architecture and leafy avenues, it's a charming mix of old and new.

• Types of hotels available: Expect a blend of quaint boutique hotels and mid-range accommodations, each offering a unique local flavour.

• Access to cultural sites: Close to the War Remnants Museum and Tao Dan Park, it's ideal for history buffs and culture vultures.

• Local dining experiences: Enjoy a meal at one of the many local eateries serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

District 5: Authentic experiences in Cholon (Chinatown)

District 5, also known as Cholon, is the city's bustling Chinatown, offering a slice of authentic Vietnamese-Chinese culture.

• Types of hotels available: Find affordable guesthouses and charming hotels that reflect the district's cultural heritage.

• Cultural highlights: Visit the Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple for a glimpse of traditional life and spirituality.

• Traditional markets and local eateries: Dive into the vibrant markets and savour dishes from some of the best street food stalls in the city.

District 7: Modern and luxurious stay

For those seeking a modern touch, District 7 is like stepping into a different world. It's the city's sleek, upscale district with a hint of South Korean influence.

• Types of hotels available: Luxury is the name of the game here, with high-end hotels that cater to travellers looking for comfort and style.

• Shopping and entertainment: Home to Crescent Mall and SC VivoCity, it's a shopper's paradise.

• Family-friendly options: With parks and recreational areas, District 7 is great for families travelling with kids.

District 2: Peaceful and upscale accommodation

District 2 offers an escape from the city's hustle, with its peaceful, upscale environment and riverside charm.

• Types of hotels available: Upscale villas and boutique hotels dominate the scene, offering a serene retreat.

• Riverside attractions: Stroll along the Saigon River, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride for a different perspective of the city.

• Dining with a view: Savour a meal with a view at one of the district's many riverside restaurants.

Near Tan Son Nhat International Airport

For those who prefer convenience, staying near Tan Son Nhat International Airport might be the way to go.

• Types of hotels available: A mix of business hotels and budget-friendly options cater to travellers looking for a quick stopover.

• Convenience for travellers: Perfect for those with early flights or layovers, offering easy access to the airport.

• Nearby amenities and services: With plenty of dining options and shopping centres nearby, there's no shortage of things to do.

Hotel options near Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit, and staying nearby means you're in the heart of one of the city's most iconic areas.

• Types of hotels available: From chic boutique hotels to budget inns, there's something for every traveller.

• Shopping and dining: With the market on your doorstep, indulge in shopping and sample delicious Vietnamese street food.

• Accessibility and transport links: Well-connected by public transport, it's easy to explore further afield from here.