Things to Know about Battambang in Cambodia

Everything you Need to Know about Battambang

Battambang, Cambodia

Battambang is somewhat of an ode to French colonialism. The city lies in the heart of the Northwest and until the war years it was the leading rice-producing province of the country. The 100,000-person town offers not only one of the best preserved examples of the French Colonial era, but also the small-town feel you expect to encounter in Cambodia as a rule. The true bonus however is the village life that is a mere stone’s throw away, be it by motorcycle, jeep or boat. The combined effect makes Battambang well worth the detour it requires to visit.

For centuries, Battambang was part of Siam and was used as its eastern commercial hub. The French have left a strong mark on the town's architecture, resulting in a pleasing colonial effect. The town is the gateway between Thailand and Phnom Penh but still retains a sleepy atmosphere not conducive to people looking for nightlife and fine dining.

Rather, people use the town as a base for visiting the nearby temples of Phnom Banon and Wat Ek Phnom. Some 293 kilometres from Phnom Penh, Battambang is in the heart of Cambodia's 'rice bowl' and even though it is Cambodia's second-largest city it has a marked rural feel to it.

Where to stay in Battambang, Cambodia

Battambang Hotels

Khemara Battambang I Hotel, Cambodia
From three-star resorts such as La Villa Battambang, to budget accommodation like Teo Hotel, you are sure to find the accommodation you are looking for in Battambang.

Battambang, praised as the beautifully made bowl of western Cambodia, is a relaxed little town by the river with several scenic attractions. Those include ancient Khmer ruins and mountain viewpoints. The temples of Angkor and the Tonle Sap Lake surrounded by beautiful French-style houses, lush trees, and lively, walking streets are unbelievably dreamy. Due to its close tie to Thailand, Battambang boasts many large-scale block markets. Cambodian handicrafts and souvenirs are among the famous treasures you can bring home.

Editor's Hotel Guide

An ideal trip to this town should cover a visit to the incredible sandstone carvings and sculptures from the Angkor period at the town’s museum and/or around old temples. Battambang is known as the rice bowl of Cambodia but for visitors this lovely provincial town has many more things to offer. An ideal trip to this town should cover a visit to the incredible sandstone carvings and sculptures from the Angkor period at the town’s museum and/or around old temples. Then there is the old colonial architecture to see as well as the one-of-a-kind local transportation, the norry or the bamboo train to ride on. Though Battambang is a rural town, it welcomed its first shopping mall in 2011 (The mall even has an escalator.). Look no further than our 'Editor's Guide' for where to stay in Battambang to ensure your holiday is a comfortable and economic one.

The Sanctuary Villa

The Sanctuary Villa in Battambang, Cambodia

• Charming Tropical Villas
• Salt Water Pool
• One Stop Guest Service
• Great Location
Located just 300m from central Battambang, the Sanctuary Villa is like a dream oasis in this rural provincial town. It has everything to offer to sophisticated travelers within the property grounds including seven modern villas decorated with beautiful Khmer art objects, a saltwater pool and a temple. This place provides guests with classic comfort and care such as its traditional Khmer massage service and experienced tour organizer. ‘Oh Yeah’, their on-site restaurant, is a popular eatery and serves Khmer, Thai and international cuisine while the high-quality staff members really make this property stand out.

Phka Villa Battambang

Phka Villa Battambang, Cambodia

• Stand Alone Bungalows
• Internet Access
• Hot and Cold Shower
• Swimming Pool
Small but charming, Phka Villa features a group of 10 spacious bungalows decorated in traditional Khmer style and all with en-suite bathrooms. This lovely property is known for its warm hospitality and helpful staff. The swimming pool and verdant gardens offer the opportunity to cool off during the heat of day and Phka Villa is definitely a good base for those who are travelling between Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

The Bungalow

The Bungalow in Battambang, Cambodia

Charming Small Property
• Hot & Cold Shower
• Hire Bicycles
• WiFi Access
The Bungalow is a family-run hotel located in a peaceful residential neighborhood of Battambang and just a stroll or a short tuk tuk ride to town. Visitors can choose to stay in one of their stand-alone bungalows or comfortable guestrooms. All have interesting and exotic carved wooden furniture and feature modern amenities such as TV, fridge and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy The Bungalow’s free shuttle service or hop on a motodup (moto-taxi) when wanting to go or come back from the town centre.

What to see, buy, eat, attractions in Battambang Cambodia

Battambang Activities

Battambang is somewhat of an ode to French Colonialism. The city lies in the heart of the Northwest and until the war years was the leading rice-producing province of the country.

Battambang is somewhat of an ode to French Colonialism. The city lies in the heart of the Northwest and until the war years was the leading rice-producing province of the country. The 100,000-person town offers not only one of the best preserved examples of the French Colonial era, but also the small-town feel you expect to encounter in Cambodia as a rule.

The true bonus however is the village life that is a mere stone’s throw away, be it by motorcycle, jeep or boat. The combined effect makes Battambang well worth the slight detour it requires to visit.

Battambang Museum

Battambang Museum in Cambodia

This museum displays artifacts from Battambang and nearby. Next door is a small display about local agricultural and fishing practices, and local legends and folk tales.

Circus Show

Circus Show

Good things sometimes come from bad times. One of these was the founding, in 1986 in a refugee camp on the Thai border, of Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS). This volunteer project used simple drawing workshops to help young refugees overcome the trauma of war through art and self-expression.

The children of PPS are now young adults who run a home at Anh Chanh village, near Battambang, where more than 100 students are able to enjoy free activities and support, and get an education. Among the activities are an animation centre, music classes and a circus, which now has a growing reputation.

• Tel: +855 (0) 53 730 535 or +855 (0) 53-952 424 for the circus performance schedule.

Cooking Courses

Cooking Courses in Battambang, Cambodia

The Smokin’ Pot restaurant offers courses to help you learn to cook traditional Khmer food at reasonable prices

Ride a Bamboo Train

Ride a Bamboo Train in Battambang, Cambodia

These trains, known as “norry” in Khmer, consist of a wooden frame, bamboo decking, an engine and wheels that come from a bust-up wartime tank. They chug up and down the railway line between Battambang and the outskirts of Phnom Penh.

Naturally, they are illegal, but tolerated because they are so useful – and in any case there is only one real train a week up and down the line. Bamboo trains are used for carrying people as well as freight.

A trip on one of these can be booked through most hotels, or you can arrange it through your local motorbike taxi or tuk-tuk driver.

Sightseeing by Motorbike Taxi

Motorbike Taxi in Battambang, Cambodia

A fun way to see the Cambodian countryside is on the back of a motorbike taxi. Puttering along the roads with the wind in your face, you’ll go past small villages, streams and farms. There are many places to stop and take a look around, such as Wat Sampeau which sits on top of a limestone hill 18 kilometers out of town. Another is Wat Banan, nicknamed “Mini-Angkor Wat”, which has a beautiful view once you’ve climbed the 359 steps to get to it.

Wat Baydamram is fascinating because of the large number of bats living in the trees inside the temple compound, and you should also visit Wat Ek Phnom, another “Mini-Angkor Wat”. Don’t expect to cover all these temples in one day. Take your time, take it slow and enjoy the scenery.

The Cultural Village of Watkor

Ox-cart - Village Tour in Battambang, Cambodia

Two kilometers south of the town, this village has half a dozen wooden houses dating from about 100 years ago, along with tools and other artifacts used in daily life at that time, such as a rice mill and an ox-cart.

The Naga for Peace and Development Monument

Battambang Museum in Cambodia

On the road heading south out of town, this 6.5-metre-high monument was created by four Cambodian artists and completed in September 2007. It was built from weapons surrendered by residents of Battambang province; due to the years of war at the end of last century, thousands of weapons had found their way into the hands of Cambodian civilians. Continuing efforts are being been made by the government, in conjunction with international bodies, to collect and destroy these weapons. The monument was sponsored by the Japanese government to mark Cambodia’s commitment to peace after the 30 years of conflict going back to the Vietnam War.

Battambang Restaurants

People are friendly and the town seems less commercial than other Cambodian cities. Perhaps as a result, the choice of restaurants is rather limited. But what there is, is interesting.

Battambang is regarded by many visitors as the best place in the country to see and enjoy the traditional rural Cambodian way of life.

People are friendly and the town seems less commercial than other Cambodian cities. As a result, the choice of restaurants is rather limited. But what there is, is interesting.

Bus Stop Guesthouse

Bus Stop Guesthouse, Battambang

Opened in July 2007 and extended and fully renovated in June 2008, the Bus Stop has Wi-Fi Internet, serves a real English breakfast and offers great value pub snacks, such as jumbo hotdog with cheese and bacon, pepperoni roll, and hot chips with gravy, until late at night.

• Address: 149 2nd Rd, next door to The White Rose.
• Tel: +855 (0)53 730 544

Smokin’ Pot

Smokin’ Pot in Battambang, Cambodia

A popular place among travelers, Smokin’ Pot serves up authentic Khmer and Thai food. They also run half-day Cambodian cooking courses.

• Address: 298 Group 8, 20 Ousephea Village, Syaypor Commune.
• Tel: +855 (0) 12 657 125.

Sunrise Coffeehouse

Sunrise Coffeehouse in Battambang, Cambodia

Sunrise has a variety of pastries, pizzas, pies and cookies, and serves Western breakfasts and a good selection of coffees and teas.

• Address: 630, Group 24, 20 Usaphea Village, Svay Pour, West of Psah Naht, past the Royal Hotel.

White Rose

White Rose is an favourite with local residents and expats. The place is not big – it’s just a small corner shop – but the menu is full of good Khmer and Thai food at very reasonable prices.

• Address: 102E8, 20 Usaphea Village, Group 8, Svay Por Commune.
• Tel: +855 (0) 53 952 862.

Battambang Nightlife

Night Life in Cambodia
To put it succinctly, there is no nightlife in Battambang unless you count sipping fruit drinks by the river, in which case you should head to the Riverside Balcony Bar.

Battambang Shopping

Shopping in Battambang, Cambodia
Battambang may not have a night life but it does boast interesting shopping opportunities. At the souvenir market you can buy woodcarvings from Battambang, marble sculptures from Pursat Province, and sapphires from Pailin.

Many of the hotels as well as the small souvenir/art/curios shops on Road 1 on the river in the centre of town offer a selection of wood and marble products. The art shops have a better selection than the hotels and a couple have very interesting collections of curios, old trinkets, coins, antiques and oddities; well worth a look.

Raw rubies and sapphires from near the Thai border are brought to Battambang to be cut and polished then graded so there are some bargains to be had but be careful as gem scams are extremely frequent when the dealer perceives inexperienced and wet-behind-the-ear buyers.

Tours in Cambodia

• Impressive Cambodia - 7 Days/ 6 Nights
• Charms of Cambodia - 5 Days/ 4 Nights
• Angkor Magnificence - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Highlights of Cambodia - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Cambodia Spotlights - 4 Days/ 3 Nights
• Siem Reap to Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Tour in Siem Reap & Angkor Wat - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Highlight Ancient City - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Classic tour in Phnom Penh - 3 Days/ 2 Nights
• Siem Reap & Angkor Wat tours - 2 days/ 1 night

Phan Thiet & Mui Ne - Tropical Paradise

Everything you Need to Know about Phan Thiet - Mui Ne, Vietnam

Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

Considered as Vietnam’s Hawaii, Mui Ne Beach is just three-hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Phan Thiet City and its beach at Mui Ne offer a great break from the hustle and hassles of the big city. The town itself retains some of its charm, and the colorful harbors, a popular sight with visitors. The fleet ensures that the restaurants and resorts in town and along Mui Ne beach are always able to offer some Vietnam's best seafood dishes. Indeed, dining is one of the many delights of a stay in Mui Ne.

Getting there & away

+ Flight: No flight.
+ Road:
• 200 km from Saigon
• 100 km to Da Lat
• 200 km to Nha Trang
+ Train: Daily train from Saigon takes 4 hours to Phan Thiet City, then drive 30 minutes to Mui Ne.

Where to stay

The Princess D’Annam Resort & Spa, top of the list, from USD 400: Designed by world-renowned architect Tan Hock Beng, the resort style mixes modernist sensibility and post-colonial ambience. With its 57 exclusive villas, 8 swimming pools, 2 restaurants, and a sumptuous 1,800 m2 spa complex, Princess d’Annam is an idyllic haven of calm and luxury. A international management team supported by well-trained Vietnamese staff offers personalized attention, including a 24-hour butler service, and elevates cuisine to an art-de–vivre. www.princessannam.com

Princess D’Annam Resort & Spa in Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

Victoria Mui Ne Resort, 4 stars, from USD 150: studded with coconut trees, romantic bungalows. The Resort houses 30 thatch roof bungalows, was built in the traditional style of a Vietnamese country. With its beautifully landscaped garden and its location right on the beach, the resort and services offered, have been carefully planned to allow guests to enjoy a unique nature experience and relax in a heavenly setting. www.victoriahotels-asia.com
Victoria Mui Ne Resort in Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

Sea Horse Resort, 4 stars, from USD 150: With forty uniquely styled villas nestled in the midst of a 3 ha coco garden, Seahorse Resort stretches along 200 meters of the pristine white sand coast of Mui Ne. The resort's natural spring gently streams along a rich landscape of flowers, palms, and tropical gardens. Its distinct Vietnamese charm offers a peaceful escape to city dwellers and travelers alike. www.seahorseresortvn.com
Sea Horse Resort in Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

Terracotta Resort, 4 stars, from USD 80: Nice resort, good location. www.terracottaresort.com


Terracotta Resort in Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

Sunny Beach Resort, 3 stars, from USD 70: Superbly located on the beach front, the resort lies in beautifully landscaped gardens with rooms set amongst tropical palm trees. The spacious bar area is open-air overlooking the beach, with a restaurant area located upstairs boasting stunning views of the South China Sea. The spacious pool area is an ideal place to relax with numerous sun loungers and umbrellas available. A children’s area is provided within the pool and the poolside bar serves drinks and snacks throughout the day and evening. With an international standard of service and food, Sunny Beach Resort is a superbly appointed property offering a wonderfully relaxed environment. www.sunnybeach.com.vn

Sunny Beach Resort in Phan Thiet - Mui Ne

What to see & do

• Sand Dunes: Do not miss a visit to one of the Sand Dunes in Mui Ne.


Sand Dunes in Mui Ne

• Phan Thiet Market: 25 km away from Mui Ne, right in the City of Phan Thiet, active & lively market.

Phan Thiet Market

What to eat:

Like other beach cities, Nha Trang is naturally a seafood haven. Besides, Nha Trang also has some specialties.

How to design your tours:

Muine is a beach city, it suits post tour, so the stay depends on your timing, two nights are at least.

Tour include Phan Thiet - Mui Ne recommended

• Vietnam Beach Tour (14 Days/ 13 Nights)

Best time to visit Vietnam

When to go, What to see, Weather... in Vietnam

If you are confusedly deciding a time for your trip to Vietnam, this article may help you a little in unravelling your hesitations.

It is not specified exactly whether it is a right time to visit Vietnam because you will see both sunshine and rain during a year in different regions of Vietnam – a country with 2000 + miles of coastline in Mekong Delta.

The climate of Vietnam varies considerably from the frosty winters and sudden snow in the northern mountainous area to heavy storms in the Central, sunny beaches and high temperature (up to 40°C) in the dry season of the South.


Vietnam’s weathe - Travel Blog

However, you can review some key points in Vietnam’s weather to plan your most wonderful trip to beautiful Vietnam.

Mountainous Far North : Sapa, Ha Giang, Bac Ha

Sapa Vietnam in Morning

Sapa and north-west regions of Vietnam has the two-season climate. From October to late March is the dry season. The wet season is from April to September. The weather can be incredibly cold in December and January with snow in some areas and valleys.

Dry season ( from October to April) is the best time to travel to the north-east (Ha Giang), you can enjoy the coldness and snow in December and January. However, travelling in rainy season( May to September) is not recommended because of many land erosion and landslides.

Sapa is a worthy-visit destinations in both wet and dry season. In spring (from February to April) is precious time for enjoy the colorful scenery of the blooming flowers valleys. However, if you visit Sapa in September and October, you will have the opportunities to contemplate the lush yellow terrace fields. Time from September to November and from March to May is suitable for trekking in Sapa and the northwest. Daytime temperatures runs from 15°C to 28°C, and temperatures at night falls by 5°C or 10°C.

Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Halong Bay, Cuc Phuong, Mai Chau & Ninh Binh

Thien Cung, Halong Bay

Hanoi and Northern area of Vietnam experience a obviously distinct winter and summer season. The northern winter lasts from November to April, the weather is rather cool and the humidity is low with average temperature of 17-22°C. The coldest months are January – March when people prepare to celebrate Tet holiday (Vietnam New Year holiday). The streets are clearer and more bustling and a lot of peach flowers markets are held. Many foreign tourists are interested in visiting Hanoi in this time although the prices at the end of year rise dramatically.

While Hanoi is year-round destination, you can spend your spring or autumn time in Halong Bay with clear skies and warm weather. The summer lasts from May to October with hot and humid weather. You will regularly meet summer rains in this season. You should avoid wet season because of occasional storms in the Bay.

Central Vietnam : Hoi An, Danang, Hue, Quy Nhon & Nha Trang

Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

Hoi An, Hue and Danang enjoy hot and dry weather from January to the end of August, with average temperature of the mid-30’s °C, therefore the best time to travel here is in spring and summer. In winter, the rainfall increases and sometimes there are typhoons.

Hue is often cooler than Hoi An. Quy Nhon is about 300 kilometers from the south of Hoi An and has a longer dry season. Nha Trang also enjoys a longer dry season (from January to September) with high temperatures. The rainy season runs from October to early December, therefore you should replace some other destinations in this time instead of Nha Trang.

Southern Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, The Mekong Delta, Dalat & Phu Quoc

Mekong Delta

Southern region of Vietnam experiences a nice sunny stable weather range year around and two simple seasons: dry and wet. The dry season starts in November till April or early May, the climate can be hotter and higher humidity in late February to May. Time from May to early November is wet season. The highest possibility to meet rain is from June to August. The yearly average temperatures range between 25 – 35°C.



Dalat - City of Eternal Spring

In the far south, The beaches here has a monsoon climate and you can visit in any time of the year, however, the best time to visit Phu Quoc is the dry season (November to July).



Phu Quoc Beach - Island

Dalat is always considered a suitable place to avoid the hot summer, however, there are continual rains in summer. The best time is visit Dalat is in July, August and September. You can travel to Dalat from October to December although the weather is rather cold but during this time, Dalat is colorfully beautiful with clusters of wild sunflowers in pavements and in front of houses. Moreover, at the end of December, you can participate flowers festival.


Vietnam Destinations - Travel Map

In conclusion, the best time to hold a through-Vietnam tour is Spring and Autumn. The temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is lighter. Going to Vietnam in March and April, you will enjoy the lowest rainfall and pleasant temperature across all destinations./.

Source: Vietnam Travel Guide

Tours in Vietnam

• Explore the Wonders of Sapa (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Enjoy the heaven on Halong Bay (2 days/ 1 night)
• Vietnam from excursion to highlight in style (15 Days/ 14 Nights)
• Vietnam in style (11 days/ 10 nights)
• Vietnam relaxing (10 days/ 9 nights)
• Discovery Vietnam in style (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam Tour (6 Days/ 5 Nights)
• The cuisine and culture at the South (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• The Heaven On The Sea - Halong Bay (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• Central Vietnam Explorer (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Ho Chi Minh City Tour (3 Days/ 2 Nights)
• Vietnam Beach Tour (14 Days/ 13 Nights)
• Northern Vietnam in Depth (13 Days/ 12 Nights)
• Exciting of South Vietnam (5 Days/ 4 Nights)
• Southern Escape (9 Days/ 8 Nights)
• Highlights of Mekong Delta (2 days/ 1 night)

Top 10 Best Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

The Best Places to Shop in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

Shopping in Ho Chi Minh is truly one of the highlights of this fascinating city. New shopping malls are springing up all over downtown Saigon, bringing with them international fashion brands to please the most demanding of fashion connoisseurs, but it is the variety of shopping experiences and one-off items that most excite us about shopping in Ho Chi Minh.

Boutique fashion is more prominent here than almost anywhere else in Southeast Asia, where bespoke items can be bought at a fraction of what they cost elsewhere. Markets in Ho Chi Minh are also highly recommended as they still play a central role in the daily lives of locals and visitors – truly a shopping experience you won’t forget quickly.

1. Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market, Saigon
Situated in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, bustling Ben Thanh Market in District 1 is a great place to buy local handicrafts, branded goods, Vietnamese art and other souvenirs.

Here, you’ll find eating stalls inside the market where you can get a taste of hawker-style Vietnamese cuisine or simply cool off with a cold drink when the bargaining becomes too much.

The market is big, difficult to navigate at times and certainly best avoided during the hottest part of the day but all the same its well worth a look. When night falls, restaurants around the perimeter of the market open their doors creating a vibrant street side scene filling the air with the scents of wok-fried noodles, barbecued fish and meats.

One of Saigon’s oldest landmarks, Ben Thanh offers a great atmosphere that is absolutely authentically Vietnamese.

Ben Thanh Market Highlights

Save your appetite and head to Ben Thanh Market in the evening where you can be served some real street style local food at one of the 20 or so eateries that surround the market building. Chefs will cook in front of you with an endless array of cuisine choices including vegetarian noodles, fresh seafood, crispy rice pancakes and steamed cakes. You will be in great local company as most of the places thrive with locals enjoying a bite to eat and a quick drink on their way home from work.

For shopping heaven head to the market preferably early morning to pick up some bargains including lacquer ware, bamboo goods, arts and crafts. Also on sale are clothes, textiles, luggage, watches and an assortment of electronic goods. Spices, nuts and local fruits heavily scent the air which is also filled with the chatter of tourists and locals haggling for bargains. Do note however that some items will be strictly fixed price.

Good to Know about Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is situated in District 1 in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City at the intersection of Le Loi, Ham Ngh, Tan Hung and Le Lai streets. Shops close late afternoon with shopping best done in the morning before the heat of the day hits.

The market is one of Ho Chi Minh’s most famous landmarks and is known by all taxi drivers, although if you are staying downtown check first to see if you can walk to it from your hotel as it’s very centrally located.

2. Vincom Center

Vincom Center in Saigon
The luxurious Vincom Center is Ho Chi Minh City’s largest shopping mall with over 250 shops spread out over two separate buildings. Vincom Center A is a charming, low rise colonial building housing many flagship stores for international fashion houses such as Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Hermes. Vincom Center B occupies the first four floors of a modern glass skyscraper just across the street from the original premises. Here you will find more high street brands, sporting apparel and homeware.

With more than 250 shops, Vincom Center is Ho Chi Minh City’s biggest shopping mall – so big in fact, that they have separated it into two separate buildings just across the street from each other. Vincom Center A is housed in a delightful French styled period building connected to The Continent Hotel, while Vincom Center B is just behind it, occupying the first five storeys of a modern, glass-fronted skyscraper. If you are looking for international products then this should be your first stop as this is where most international luxury brands have their flagship stores, right in the tourist heart of the city. There are also some convenient restaurants and cafes serving food from most regions including many international franchises.

Vincom Center A

Vincom Cenre A is the smaller and prettier one, with a beautiful, baroque styled facade and nothing but the top brands in world fashion pulling customers in with inventive window displays: think Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren and Hermes. As well as premium fashion, there are a limited number of electronics retailers and bespoke home decor shops on the higher floors. On the basement floor there is a children’s playpen called Kids Yard and just next door, an excellent Paris Baguette bakery that sells a wide range of goods and some of the most delicious baguettes in Ho Chi Minh.

Vincom Center B

Just a quick hop across Dong Khoi Street is Vincom Center B. From the exterior, it couldn’t look more different. Instead of ornate French arches, there is a sheer glass frontage stretching up 26 storeys. However, once inside the type of shopping is much the same, with Jimmy Choo, DKNY, Charles & Keith and a host of jewellery and perfume shops. This shopping mall is a little easier to navigate as it is built around a central bank of elevators so shoppers can see what is on the floors above and below. On the basement floor of Vincom B there is an excellent food court with Buds Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr burgers, Seoul Garden, and many other offerings from across the world.

• Vincom Center A: 171 Dong Khoi, District 1
• Vincom Center B: 72 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1
• Opening Hours: 09:00 – 22:00
• Tel: (+84 8) 3936 9999

3. Binh Tay Market (Cholon Chinatown Market)

Binh Tay Market (Cholon Chinatown Market)
Cholon is the name given to Vietnam’s largest Chinatown, located in District 5 in the south west of downtown Ho Chi Minh. Along with the interesting historical and cultural aspect of Cholon, the central market called Bin Tay is a fascinating assortment of handicrafts, lacquerware, textiles and fresh goods including many weird and wonderful exotic fruit. Overall, Binh Tay Market is chaotic, hot and a lot of fun.

Ho Chi Minh City’s Cholon is Vietnam’s largest Chinatown with roots dating back to 1778; it’s also a place of great historical and cultural importance. Chinese minorities hid here from the Tay Son and subsequently had to rebuild the area twice following attack with as many as 70% estimated to have died trying to escape on boats. Those who survived settled and began selling a variety of Chinese products. During the Vietnam War Cholon was a thriving black market for US soldiers trading in American Army issue supplies.

The area today is a popular site for those on the tourist trail and also attracts many Taiwanese and Chinese visitors. Cholon is an interesting place to see classical Chinese architecture reminiscent of years gone by with plenty of Chinese restaurants.

The Binh Tay market at the centre is busy, crowded and messy with small aisles selling all manner of goods. This market sometimes disappoints tourists when compared to other markets in Ho Chi Minh as the products are not that varied, but the main draw to Cholon is not to shop but to enjoy the authentic Chinese atmosphere that has existed here for hundreds of years. It’s a wonderful place to experience at night.

Cholon Attractions

The crowded Binh Tay Market is the major attraction in Chinatown and offers everything you can think of, from fresh produce to Vietnamese goods and especially items with a Chinese flavour.

Temples in this area include Thien Hau Temple on Nguyen Trai Street and Quan Am Temple, on Lao Tu Street. Both feature interesting Chinese-Buddhist style architecture and interiors with pagodas, courtyards, altars and paintings. Chinatown is also home to the Cholon Mosque on Nguyen Trai Street and Cha Tam, a small Catholic cathedral on Duong Hoc Lac Street.

Cholon Restaurants & Dining

Chinatown is full of authentic local restaurants as well as incredibly cheap street hawkers. Like many Chinatowns around the world you will know you have arrived once you see lots of roasted duck and pork hanging in front of the local eateries.

The noodles served in this district have more choices of Chinese style than the usual Vietnamese pho rice noodles while unusual herbs or exotic foods such as dried seahorse and ‘thousand year old eggs’ (aka salted duck eggs) can be spotted here and there.

Cholon Nightlife

Saigon’s Chinatown isn’t big on night entertainment. Luckily it is located not far from the city’s downtown where all the night action is. There, tourists will enjoy great choices of bars, pubs and cafés.

Some of them have interesting live music featuring local and international artists but the best part of all this is that beer and alcohol drinks in Vietnam are not expensive and if that’s not enough there are always happy hour promotions.

Cholon Shopping

You can easily combine exploring and shopping in HCMC’s Chinatown. Though it is a wholesale market, Binh Tay also sells retail goods.

Popular items range from Vietnamese silk to lacquerware and hand-embroidered clothes to skillfully woven textiles. You will enjoy discovering many exotic items including delicious tropical fruits. Enjoy shopping and eating.

Cholon Activities

This area has a unique atmosphere and should not be missed; it’s a small town in itself with its own character, very different from other areas of HCMC. Tour around Chinatown by foot or take a traditional cyclo ride to make an interesting day out.

Good shoes and light clothes will be needed to make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable, especially when visiting Binh Tay Market as it can be hot and very crowded most of the time.

Good to Know about Cholon

Cholon is located on the west bank of the Ho Chi Minh River, mainly over district five. There are plenty of tours available which will take you on a trip round Cholon including the more unusual bike tours which will whizz you round the area at night pointing out the sights and where to eat. Keep any bartering light hearted; expect to receive a discount of around 20% and remember to take time out to sample some of the local nuts, fruit and beer on sale.

4. Fashion Boutiques

Fashion Boutiques in Saigon

Anyone with an interest in fashion simply must spend some time hitting the boutique fashion stores in Ho Chi Minh, with something for almost any taste and budget. Dong Khoi Street in downtown District 1 is a great place to start, but really there are plenty of other fashion boutiques spread out across Saigon. Here is a list of 10 boutiques not to miss in Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh is truly a shopping paradise, whether you are looking for bespoke fashion, local silks or even handcrafted lacquerware. As the world becomes one big shopping mall of international brands, Ho Chi Minh retains its love of boutique fashion and one off collections – and all at a fraction of what you might pay for any of the European or Japanese brands. Here are our top 10 picks of the best fashion boutiques in the city:

1) Nguyen Cong Tri

A designer with worldwide fame for his cutting edge yet elegant women’s line (and one of the hottest names in world fashion following his critically acclaimed show at London Fashion Week), Vietnamese designer Nguyen Cong Tri makes stunning evening dresses at his boutique on Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street in District 3, a few blocks from Reunification Palace. Depending on how daring the customer is, they might bolster their wardrobe with an elegant floor length dress embellished with feathers, a silk blouse with three-dimensional flowers exploding out of the fabric or even a bodysuit designed to look like the human musculature. This is a boutique for standout items with real wow factor. They have several off the rack options and many bespoke creations available, although it can take up to 10 days and several fittings for the most technical pieces.

• Location: 194 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, District 3.
• Tel: (+84 8) 39306757.

2) Khaisilk

One of the real success stories of Vietnamese fashion, Khaisilk started in 1980 with one shop and has grown into a national brand of boutiques, restaurants and hotels. Despite their growth, Khaisilk still produce the same luscious silk scarves, ties, shirts and blouses, in both muted everyday tones and more flamboyant hues that has won them many fans throughout the world. On our last visit, standout items included a figure hugging Chinese style silk dress buttoned to the neck, cute his and hers silk robes, and a colourful range of leather handbags. Reputedly, this is where the Princess of Thailand shops for scarves, sheets and other luxury silk items so anyone heading down to their flagship, multi-level store on Dong Khoi Street is in prestigious company. Another reason we love Khaisilk is because off the hanger fashion can be tailored here at little or no extra cost.

• Location: 107 Dong Khoi Street, District 1.
• Tel: (+84 8) 38291146

3) Magonn

Magonn is a bohemian, start-up fashion boutique with a fantastic young women’s line. There are currently two branches open in Ho Chi Minh with a style that meanders between contemporary and retro, with cute nautical striped dresses for everyday and some sexy strapless dresses that are perfect for a night on the town. Magonn’s designs are sweet and playful with polka dots, 60s inspired floral swirls and a love of pastel shades. There is something at Magonn to suit most budgets and at their Le Thank Ton address they have a cafe on the second floor; however, we still recommend visiting their larger boutique on Hai Ba Trung Street first.

• Location: 41 Hai Bà Trưng, District 1.
• Tel: (+84 8) 38 220649

4) Massimo Ferrari

Renowned designer Luis Antonio Torres has worked for the biggest fashion houses in the world including Gucci and Armani so it was a real boon for Ho Chi Minh when he moved to the city in 2009 to open his own fashion boutique – Massimo Ferrari. Massimo Ferrari produces bespoke Italian menswear for select clients who know exactly what they want and expect to receive exactly what they order. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is equal to anything found on Saville Row in London but at seriously lower prices. The showroom is a well proportioned mix of classic European suit styles and men’s apparel, including suede loafers and smart leather workbags. There are also smaller items such as cufflinks and ties that would make a perfect souvenir for a discerning gentleman.

• Location: 42A1 Tran Quoc Thao, District 3.
• Tel: (+84 8) 3930 6212

5) L’usine

L‘usine stocks a unisex collection of contemporary fashion, combined with an art gallery and one of the coolest coffee shops in Ho Chi Minh on the second floor. The fashion range here is supplied by emerging Vietnamese labels as well as contributions from abroad so there is a nice range of everyday T-shirts from Cheap Monday, retro lace dresses from Boaime and handmade laquerware from Indochine. The interior design of brushed concrete floors and whitewashed brick at L’usine is hipster perfection and you could easily waste half a day shopping and snacking on macaroons.

• Location: 70B Le Loi Street, District 1

6) KIN Boutique by Cong Tri

If you are looking for a bespoke ball gown or something extra special, then this tailor close to Ben Thanh Market is the best place to go. KIN Boutique has garnered a reputation through word of mouth due to their impeccable work and jaw-dropping use of chiffon and satin to enhance evening gowns. It’s worth bearing in mind that dresses take over a week to make and may require several fittings, although they do offer worldwide shipping. There is also a ready-to-wear section, again with a focus on interesting materials, and on the second floor they have a range of wedding gowns.

• Address: 198 Lê Thánh Tôn, District 1.
• Tel: (+84 8) 3502 3090

7) My Way Deco

Using a combination of lacquer, leather and stainless steel, My Way Deco produces homeware that is both fashionable and functional: an arching, stainless steel egg cup that resembles a scroll, a range of asymmetrical ashtrays and a black lacquer and leather coffee table all took our fancy on our latest visit. There is a real mix of European and Vietnamese characteristics in the design of the pieces and it creates something totally unique. Mature yet funky – let the yellow and black bumble bee exterior be your guide to one of the best homeware boutiques in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Address: 13 Nguyen Thiep Street, District 1
• Tel: (+84 8) 3823 8532

8) Dogma

Dogma is part urban clothing shop, part art gallery, selling classic propaganda imagery from the Vietnamese War stamped onto T-shirts, hoodies, coffee mugs and plenty more besides. The clothes are made with all natural fibres and have the feel of premium quality. The art gallery is another intriguing space with many classic paintings from that divisive era – some of which show military imagery, and others promoting egalitarian ethics and encouraging everyone to work hard for the common cause. There are two tiers of paintings, reproductions and prints – obviously prints are much cheaper, but it’s nice that there is something for every budget. Dogma is on the second floor of a shophouse above a funky knickknack shop called Saigon Kitsch that sells diaries, pens and other colourful souvenir-type items. It is located on Pasteur Street, close to Le Loi.

• Address: 1st Floor, 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1
• Tel: (+84 8) 3821 8272

9) DMC by Do Manh Cuong

Vietnamese designer Do Manh Cuong is perhaps the standout designer of high end fashion in Vietnam and DMC is his personal chic boutique selling both men’s and women’s elegant fashion items. Stand out items include layered floor length dresses and formal men’s jackets. Bold use of colour is a trademark of Coung’s style – formerly black and white was synonymous with the DMC clothing, although now he is moving into a broader palette. There is a range of day wear and more formal night time apparel on offer. Do Manh Cuong had previously worked for Christian Dior before returning home to open this boutique so it is a great opportunity to pick up a unique luxury garment that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

• Address: 213 Lý Tự Trọng, District 1

10) Minh Hanh

Another widely acclaimed Vietnamese designer with awards and recognition, Minh Hanh has her flagship boutique in the Vietnam Designers House close to Turtle Lake roundabout in District 3, and also has a permanent display in Zen Plaza shopping mall in District 1. Her fashion is worn by celebrities and fashion icons throughout Vietnam so if you are looking for something fresh and unique, a visit to Minh Hanh has got to be on your itinerary. Bright colours and a fusion of classic Vietnamese culture with modern asymmetrical cuts are the trademarks of this fashion house.

• Address: Vietnam Designers House - 161A Hai Ba Trung, District 3
• Tel: (+84 8) 3521 0641

5. Saigon Square

Saigon Square
A wholesale market with some of the best prices in Ho Chi Minh, anyone looking for great bargains should make Saigon Square their first stop. Small stalls are densely packed into this warehouse like space, with products stacked high and sold cheap. T-shirts, shoes, swimwear, luggage, jewellery and textiles are all found in abundance here.

Anyone looking for bargains while in Saigon should head to Saigon Square on the corner of Nam Kỳ Khởi and Le Loi in District 1. This shopping arcade is packed with stalls on two levels selling fashion, accessories and jewellery – be aware of forgeries though, and remember the old adage that if it seems too good to be true it probably is. Even though it’s always bustling with shoppers, Saigon Square is air conditioned and under cover so it is far more pleasant than shopping in the nearby Ben Thanh Market and it’s generally accepted that prices are far better here.

Shops and stalls in Saigon Square are seemingly placed haphazardly around the mall so the best thing to do is just stroll along the aisles looking for something that takes your fancy. Bargaining is expected here and as it is so close to the tourist heart of Ho Chi Minh, prices are initially inflated. If there is something you have your eye on, shop around and enquire about prices as it is fairly easy to find different shops selling similar items. Just consider what you would be willing to pay for an item and bargain accordingly.

As well as the main branch on Le Loi Street, there is a second branch at Tôn Đức Thắng, close to the river. The setup is much the same here, although it is smaller and a little more dated. It must be said that male fashion is a little underrepresented at both Saigon Square Shopping Malls but for ladies discount fashion in Ho Chi Minh, Saigon Square should be your first destination.

Diamond Cinema shows all the major Hollywood blockbusters and although it only has six screens, it’s a very convenient location if you are looking for a cinema in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh. Movies are played in English with Vietnamese subtitles and prices are generally much lower than in most western countries. A single ticket will cost around 90,000 VND ($4 US).

• Location: Corner of Nam Kỳ Khởi and Le Loi in District 1.
• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:00

6. Diamond Plaza

Diamond Plaza in Saigon
Diamond Plaza is a department store in District 1 that is surrounded by many of Ho Chi Minh’s most popular attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral and April 30th Park. Housed in a converted period building, there are several floors of shopping separated into men’s and women’s fashion, homeware, and sports goods. Once you’ve finished shopping, there are multiple dining and entertainment venues to enjoy. In particular, family friendly activities located in Diamond Plaza include bowling and a cinema.

Diamond Plaza is a beautifully renovated department store in a Ho Chi Minh City surrounded by many of the city’s most attractive sites, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Post Office, and the April 30th Park – a charming open space with tall trees and greenery. The department store is housed in a charming colonial-looking building, with an attractive glass-fronted office block rising up into the sky just behind the shopping centre. There are many reasons to visit Diamond Plaza, not least for the world class shopping: cosmetics, perfumes, watches and jewellery occupy the first floor, both men’s and women’ wear on the second, including formal attire and most major sporting brands, and on the third floor there is a convenient collection of electronic products and mobile phones.

The other main reason for choosing to visit Diamond Plaza is the family entertainment options such as the large bowling alley and video arcade on the fourth floor, and the Diamond Cinema on the 13th floor.

Superbowl Vietnam is modern and colourful with all the flashing lights and loud clatter of pins common in bowling alleys across the world. The 32 lanes at Diamond Superbowl ensure there is almost always an alley available, but it might be worth booking on weekend evenings. Prices per hour of bowling range significantly from weekday mornings (200,000 VND) to weekends after 19:00 (375,000 VND).

Diamond Cinema shows all the major Hollywood blockbusters and although it only has six screens, it’s a very convenient location if you are looking for a cinema in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh. Movies are played in English with Vietnamese subtitles and prices are generally much lower than in most western countries. A single ticket will cost around 90,000 VND ($4 US).

• Opening Hours: 09:30 – 22:30 (Superbowl and Cinema open until 01:00)
• Address: 34 Le Duan Street, District 1
• Tel: (+84 8) 3825 7750

7. An Dong Market (Craft Market)

An Dong Market (Craft Market), Saigon
An Dong Market is mostly a fashion wholesalers for locals but on the top floor there are many crafts stalls, making this one of the best places in Ho Chi Minh to buy handicrafts from the skilled artisans who practice Vietnam’s proud heritage in lacquer and woodwork. Located outside the city centre, the Craft Market is in District 10, in the west of the city. However, it is easy to grab a taxi. It should take no more than 10 minutes from downtown Saigon. Opening Hours: 08:00 - 14:00 Location: An Duong Vuong Street, next door to Windsor Plaza Hotel, District 10.

8. Khaisilk

Khaisilk is a fashion and homeware boutique creating modern designs from Vietnam’s luscious silk fabrics. Starting with just one shop and growing to be a brand of international repute, Khaisilk is a true success story. Located on the fashionable Dong Khoi Street in District 1, come here to check out their dresses, handbags, scarves and bedsheets. Read More...

9. Art Galleries on Dong Khoi Street

Art Galleries on Dong Khoi Street
Art galleries in Ho Chi Minh range from rough, paint-by-numbers reproductions of famous paintings, up to some of the world’s leading modern art. Obviously the prices are drastically different too. If you are looking for a nice range of art galleries in Saigon, you should walk down Dong Khoi and take your time to look for galleries that have higher quality paintings. Le Xuan Art Gallery and Ben Thanh Art have some cheaper examples of Ho Chi Minh art, while Cua Hang Saigon Crafts and especially Apricot Gallery are higher end galleries with better quality work and prices to match.

Ho Chi Minh City is a fun place to shop for bargains. Some goods can be unique and fascinating – old propaganda posters, for example; we found one that exhorted people to plant garlic for export.

Clothing includes silks and hand-woven fabrics with a reputation for high quality. Vietnam is also famous for handicrafts including bamboo ware, ceramics and lacquer. There are, too, all the usual holiday souvenirs such as T-shirts and beaded handbags at prices that are hard to beat.

10. Parkson Plaza Department Store

Parkson Plaza Department Store, Saigon
Parkson Plaza is an international standard department store that is laid out in the tried and tested formula of cosmetics and perfumes on the ground floor, fashion for men and women on the second and third floors, with homeware and restaurants on the fourth. This is a compact shopping experience with mid- to high-range products such as Coach, Calvin Klein and Lacoste.

• Address: 45 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1.
• Opening Hours: 9:30 - 22:00.
• Tel: +84 (0) 8 3827 7636

Things to Do Tours in Ho Chi Minh City

• Ho Chi Minh City Tour
• Relaxing Tour in Saigon
• Saigon Shopping & Relaxing Tour
• Half Day City Tour
• Full Day City Tour

Top 10 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh

Saigon Must See Attractions

Saigon Attractions

Many of the best attractions in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) centre around the events of 20th century war and conquest. It sounds sombre, and in parts it is, but there are some truly fascinating historical activities suitable for all ages. From classic French architecture to perfectly maintained American war planes, walking around Ho Chi Minh is like seeing the past come to life with so many famous places of interest scattered throughout the city. Of course, as Vietnam’s biggest city and business capital, times are changing and modern skyscrapers are starting to punctuate the sky combining the new and old in a uniquely Vietnamese way.

With our guide to the Top 10 Best Attractions in Ho Chi Minh you can get all of the information you need to ensure you don’t miss anything this fascinating city has to offer.

1. War Remnants Museum

War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City

The War Remnants Museum once known as the ‘Museum of American War Crimes’ first opened to the public in 1975.

It’s a shocking reminder of the long and brutal Vietnam War with many graphic photographs and American military equipment on display, including a helicopter with rocket launchers, a tank, a fighter plane, a single-seater attack aircraft and a 6,800kg conventional bomb.

All these weapons were used by America against the Vietnamese at some point during the infamous war that lasted from 1945-1975.

History, Highlights and Features

One of the most talked-about exhibits are the ‘tiger cages’ in which the South Vietnamese government kept their political prisoners. These small cages are only 2.7m x 1.5m x 3m each and were sometimes used to keep up to 14 prisoners in. There is also a guillotine used by the French and the South Vietnamese to execute prisoners from opposing political groups. Brought to Vietnam by the French; the guillotine was last used in 1960.

Also featured are grisly photos that show the disfigured bodies of locals who had prenatal exposure to strong pesticide and chemical sprayed, best known by the name ‘Agent Orange’. Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs believed that there were 500,000 children born with birth defects while as many as 4.8 million people were exposed to it from 1961 to 1971.

The War Remnants Museum is in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City and is run by the government. It is open all year round from 07:30 to17:00. A visit to this war museum is a disturbing experience for most people and may not be suitable for children (though they are allowed to enter).

• Opening Hours: Daily from 07.30 - 12.00 and 13:30 - 17:00
• Location: 28 Vo Van Tan, in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

2. Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi Tunnels

This marvellous tourist attraction lets visitors experience what it must have been like for soldiers who used an extensive network of tunnels to move around undetected by their enemies. There is an informative movie to watch, followed by a guided tour of some mock recreations of daily life for the Viet Cong hiding in the jungle. Burnt out tanks make for a great photo prop and then everyone gets to crawl through a small section of the tunnels which has been widened and supported with concrete.

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels (70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City), an amazing complex of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam war.

There are more than 200 km of tunnels, comprising a main axis system with many branches connecting to underground hideouts, shelters and other tunnels.

3. Cao Dai Temple

Cao Dai Temple

Cao Dai Temple is the centre of the Cao Dai faith, a religion that has taken bits of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism and Confucianism. Tourists are welcome to visit the temple and learn more about this faith that is practiced by a few dedicated followers. Each Cao Dai practitioner wears a white robe to enter the temple with an additional sash to signify their previous religion. The temple itself is very bright and colourful with dragons flying up banisters and a cloud mural decorating the ceiling.

Cao Dai temple founded in Vietnam in the 1920's, Cao Daoism borrows elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Taoism and Confuscianism and blends them together in an effort to make the perfect religion. Cao Dai means "high place or abode".

4. Bitexco Tower and Sky Deck

Bitexco Tower and Sky Deck

Bitexco Tower is an ultra modern office tower in Ho Chi Minh, with a characteristic oval extension which acts as a helicopter landing pad. Standing at 262 metres tall, this 68 storey building is the highest in all of Vietnam with a sky deck offering 360 degree views of the city and surrounding area as well as a fantastic sky bar called Alto where you can see all of Ho Chi Minh while enjoying a cocktail and some tapas style international dishes. Head up here for sunset and don’t forget your camera!

Breathtaking views require a vantage point and Alto Heli Bar on the 52nd floor of the ultra-modern Bitexco Financial Tower is by far the highest spot in Saigon to sip on a cool drink and admire the cityscape.

Although not technically on the rooftop, Alto is more than twice the height of other rooftop bars in Saigon and offers endless views off to the curving horizon – it’s a seriously impressive vista that is matched by a sophisticated décor of modern lounge seats, sofas and plenty of bar stools. The whole bar is bathed in soft lighting so guests can fully appreciate the 360 degree views of Saigon as day gives way to night and the city lights begin to twinkle.

Frequented by a formally dressed after-work crowd, camera-happy tourists and hushed couples on a romantic date, Alto Heli rooftop bar manages to create enough separate areas with low-lighting and a range of seating options so the bar retains a sophisticated vibe in which to enjoy a range of signature cocktails, as well as several pages of wines, spirits and some tasty mocktails. All drinks are served with complimentary bar snacks and there are smoking and non smoking sections from which you are free to choose.

Considering the Bitexco skydeck on the 50th charges 200,000 VND just for the view, a drink at Alto Heli Bar is well worth the price, with cocktails costing 210,000 VND ($10) and beers from 90,000 VND. Bear in mind they also have a happy hour deal where select cocktails and wines by the glass sell for 145,000 VND between 17:00 and 20:00. A particular favourite is the Saigon Fizz, a heady sparkling wine concoction with Tanqueray gin, mint and lime juice. For something a little more masculine, try the whisky-based Le Loi, with Johnnie Walker Platinum stirred with an Angostura-soaked sugar cube, a dash of soda and garnished with flamed orange zest.

Noticeable from anywhere in Saigon, this skyscraper is more than twice the height of other buildings in the city and the bar is easy to spot as the helipad that juts out of the building is on the same floor, hence the name Alto Heli Lounge. You will spend the rest of your stay looking up at the towering structure thinking "I was there!" If you want to experience a bird’s eye view of Saigon, this is the place.

Alto Heli Lounge Bar

• Opening Hours: 10:00 - 22:00.
• Address: Bitexco Financial Tower, 52nd floor, 2 Hai Trieu, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Tel: +84 (0) 8 6291 8752.

5. Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most revered temples in Ho Chi Minh. Originally built in 1909 by Chinese immigrants this Taoist temple now welcomes Buddhist worshipping and is incredibly atmospheric with incense smoke hanging heavy in the air. Intricate architecture, carvings, statues of Gods and Goddesses and Chinese characters create an exotic and timeless ambiance.

Emperor Jade Pagoda, also known as Tortoise Pagoda, is one of the five most important shrines in Ho Chi Minh City.

Built at the turn of the 20th Century by a community of Cantonese who migrated from Guangzhou province in Southwest China, this pagoda is a fine representation of Mahayanist branch of Buddhism that is practiced widely in Vietnam.

Jade Emperor Pagoda Highlights

In the main hall, the Emperor Jade Chua Ngoc Hoang or the 'God of the Heavens' reigns supreme. Aided by two assistants, the Emperor decides who can enter this higher realm. Those who don't pass this gate will meet with the formidable 'God of Hell', on the left, who will send sinners to one of the 10 levels of hell. Life in purgatory is magnificently if somewhat gruesomely represented by the intricate carvings on the temple wall, depicting different kinds of punishments that await transgressors.

In a different hall, the goddess of fertility Kim Hua, surrounded by figures of women and small children, blesses childless couples who pray for an offspring here. The goddess of mercy Kuan Yin, who forms a very important part of any Taoist temple, has an altar in a room on the top floor.

Emperor Jade Pagoda is a living and working shrine very much in use by the locals who come here to prayer or make votive offerings of flowers, and light candles and joss sticks. With worshippers coming and going, the temple can get busy and feel a little cramped. Its dimly lit, the narrow passageways filled with smoke lend an atmospheric feel to the place, adding to its charm.

There is an overcrowded tortoise pond in front of the temple grounds and feeding the animals is considered part of the merit-making, temple-going rituals.

• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00.
• Location: 73 Mai Thi Luu, District 3.
• Remarks: There is no entrance fee but visitors can make donations.

6. Mariamman Hindu Temple

Mariamman Hindu Temple

Mariamman Hindu Temple is a beautiful example of the bright and vibrant architecture of Hindu places of worship. As the only active Hindu temple in Ho Chi Minh, it acts as a community base for the small community of Hindus living in the city. Open every day from 07:00 to 19:00, non Hindus are also welcome to visit, just remember to dress conservatively and take off your shoes before entering the inner temple.

Situated close to the Ben Thanh market, the Mariamman Hindu temple serves the small community of 100 or so Chinese and Vietnamese Tamil Hindus living in Ho Chi Minh City.

It is the only Hindu temple that is still open in the city and is considered sacred by Hindu and non-Hindu Vietnamese. The temple is rumoured to have miraculous powers giving luck and wealth to those who worship within its walls.

Built at the end of the 19th century in honour of Mariamman the Hindu Goddess of strength, the temple’s first purpose was as a place of worship for the Chettiar community.

Classically Hindu in style, the colourful temple features vibrant deity sculptures reminiscent of those usually found in Southern India, decorating external walls, roof tops, towers and the shrine inside. The temple was also once used as a factory in which joss sticks were produced.

Mariamman Hindu Temple Highlights

Merchants visiting Vietnam from Tamil Nadu first built the Mariamman Hindu Temple, bringing divine beings such as Ganesh, Amman and Murgua to the streets of Saigon. Sacred images dance on the external walls which feature a royal tower at the entrance that stands 12 metres high. Gods and Goddesses including Shiva, Kali, Brahma and Vishnu are prominently represented with Simha Vahanam sitting to the left of the entrance.

The centre piece at the altar in the heart of the temple is a statue of the Goddess Mariamman with two Hindu guardian deities next to her and two lingams in front. The shrine is usually surrounded by offerings including flowers and joss sticks. There are also two colourful towers on the roof adorned with more Hindu gods, goddesses and lions, simply follow the stairs up from the entrance to see these wonderful pillars.

The temple has a permanent caretaker who will gladly point out different areas and additionally hopes to secure a Hindu Priest from India to conduct regular worship.

Good to Know about Mariamman Hindu Temple

The Mariamman Hindu Temple is open every day from 07:00 until 19:00 and is located at 45 Truong Dinh Street in District 1, just three blocks to the west of Ben Thanh Market. Dress conservatively and remember to remove your shoes before you enter.

Always ask permission from the caretaker before you take any photographs and also expect to be asked to give money to the beggars inside the temple.

Remarks: There is a Mariamman Temple in Singapore.

7. Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace

The centre of the allied command and the place where the North Vietnamese claimed victory in the American War, Reunification Palace has played its part in some incredible scenes. This ageing palace has essentially been frozen in time since a North Vietnamese Army tank smashed through its gates in 1975. Visitors will get to discover secret rooms, grand reception halls and the command bunker where General Ngo Dinh Diem conducted his war strategies.

The iconic Reunification Palace made its name in global history when in 1975 a tank belonging to the North Vietnamese Army crashed through its main gate – thus signifying the end of the Vietnam War. This image is one of the most famous pictures depicting the Reunification Palace which has seen a rich and varied history and once served as the base of the US-backed Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem during the Vietnam War, until his assassination in 1963.

The palace is like a time capsule frozen in 1975 with two of the original tanks used in the capture of the palace parked in the grounds. Originally the site of the Nordom Palace also known as the Governor’s Palace its first role was as a home and workplace for the then French Governor of Cochinchina. The Reunification Palace is a landmark not to be missed by any tourist visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the palace hides secret rooms, antique furniture and a command bunker within its eerie corridors. The Reunification Palace is still in use to host occasions including APEC summits and national events of significant importance.

Reunification Palace Highlights

The Reunification Palace is a five-storey building with the basement housing a warren of tunnels, a war room and telecommunications centre. The war command room still has maps on its walls and period telecommunications equipment on display, whilst adjoining basement rooms feature war propaganda materials. Other areas of interest are the third floor featuring a card playing room, a fourth floor which once had a casino and was used for entertaining guests and a rooftop terrace with a heliport.

The Reunification Palace entered the world history books in 1975 when a Vietnamese Air Force pilot (who was also a communist spy) flew an aircraft over the palace with an attempt to bomb it. Although no real damage was caused this was a significant step towards the fall of Saigon and the ending of the Vietnamese War.

On 30th April in 1975 at 10:45 a North Vietnamese Army Tank rammed the main gates and entered the palace grounds before hanging its flag on the balcony to declare victory for the communist party and thus ending the Vietnam War. Meanwhile staff escaped from the rooftop minutes before the palace was overrun, known as Operation Frequent Wind this was part of history’s biggest ever helicopter evacuation and included the departure of General Thieu.

Good to Know about Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace is open from 07:30-12:00 then 13:00-16:00. Tickets are purchased at the main gate and visitors will be checked for security reasons. Free guided tours are available in English, French, Japanese and Chinese (invaluable as there are not many signboards inside).

The palace is situated on Man Ky Khoi Nghia Street close to the Ben Thanh Market with the main gate located on the east side of the palace gardens.

8. Ho Chi Minh City Zoo

Ho Chi Minh City Zoo

A great family friendly activity when all the heavy historical attractions get too much, Ho Chi Minh City Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from across Asia and the world. Elephants are some of the star attractions here along with monkeys, tigers, hippos and a wide variety of reptiles. Other than the animal exhibits, there is a large botanical garden and a small children’s play area which is a little outdated. Be advised that conditions at the zoo are not as good as similar attractions in Europe or America.

Founded more than 100 years ago, Ho Chi Minh City Zoo and Botanical Gardens (aka Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens) are listed as one of the oldest zoos in the world, opened in 1865 by French botanist JB Louis Pierre. There are currently more than 550 animals exhibited in the zoo and more than 1,830 trees and 260 plant species in the botanical gardens with some dating back over 100 years.

There are a number of different sections to explore including the animal conservation area, orchid garden and plant conservation centre and a children’s amusement area. Lakes brimming with tropical fish form part of the zoo and botanical gardens which is also home to a monument dedicated to Vietnamese killed in World War I. The Ho Chi Minh Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular place to while away an afternoon and is visited by locals and tourists who are often surprised by the fact that you can get up close and personal to some of the animals and feed them.

Ho Chi Minh City Zoo & Botanical Gardens Highlights

The Botanical Gardens has a vast array of flora and fauna including 20 different orchid types, 32 species of cactus and 34 species of bonsai in addition to trees, plants and ferns some of which are as old as the gardens.

The zoo exhibits a diverse range of animals including monkeys, tigers, hippos, lions, elephants; turtles and snakes. There are also rarer animals such as the white tiger that are being displayed for the first time ever in Vietnam. The zoo aims to help animal conservation of endangered species through a breeding-in-captivity program and recently bred the crested argus pheasant - being the only zoo in the world to do so.

The Botanical Gardens are striving to use the area as a knowledge centre where visitors can learn more about the species on display and how to protect them for the future.

In addition to creatures and plants, the zoo and botanical gardens also have the Saigon National Museum and the World War I monument within its vicinity. The museum covers the entire history of Vietnam and includes war weapons from the French colonial era and thousands of important documents within its walls.

Good to Know about Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Ho Chi Minh Zoo has in some parts seen better days and is certainly not on par with western zoos; however it is better than some zoos seen in other Asian countries. If you have any reservations regarding animals in captivity then this might not be the place for you.

The zoo is located close to Saigon District 1 and the easiest way to reach it is via taxi. The entrance fee allows you to visit both the zoo and gardens, although you will need to pay more if you wish the feed any animals. There are two main gates, one on Nguyen Binh Khiem and the other on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street.

9. Ho Chi Minh Central Post Office

Ho Chi Minh Central Post Office

The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh is a glorious example of French colonial architecture, perfectly preserved with as much style as when it first opened in 1891. The building still functions as the city’s main post office and sending a letter or postcard home is highly recommended for a taste of living history. Beautiful from any angle, this building was designed by Gustave Eiffel, who also designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh is a beautifully preserved remnant of French colonial times and perhaps the grandest post office in all of Southeast Asia. Located next door to Notre Dame Cathedral, the two cultural sites can be visited together and offers visitors a chance to imagine life in Vietnam during the times of the Indochinese Empire. The building was designed by Gustave Eiffel – the renowned engineer who also designed the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower – and features arched windows and wooden shutters, just as it would have in its heyday in the late 19th Century.

The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh was constructed between 1886 and 1891 and once inside, the looping arches, intricately designed marble floors and antiquated telephone boxes all serve as a reminder of the importance the post office played in days before email and mobile phones. Although the architecture is distinctly French, the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh hanging high above everyone at the far end of the building reminds everyone we are definitely in Vietnam. Painted onto walls overhead are two maps of the region; one of them showing the telegraph lines that crisscross Vietnam and Cambodia and the other displaying a map of the Saigon region in 1892.

Central Post Office

• Opening Hours: 7am to 8pm.
• Location: 2 Công xã Paris, District 1.

10. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral

Located next to the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral is another relic of French colonial times, but it is kept in perfect condition and is still holding masses every Sunday. Many of the building materials were imported from France and it has an unmistakable Gallic touch with two long spires measuring 60 metres tall. In front of the cathedral is a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary or "Notre Dame".

In a quiet corner of bustling downtown Ho Chi Minh City stands Notre Dame Cathedral, the one remaining stronghold of Catholicism in the largely Buddhist Vietnam.

Built in the late 1880s by French colonists, it was formerly called Saigon Church. The name Notre Dame was given after the installation of the statue "Peaceful Notre Dame" in 1959. In 1962, the Vatican conferred the Cathedral status as a basilica and gave it the official name of Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica.

In a quiet corner of bustling downtown Ho Chi Minh City stands Notre Dame Cathedral, the one remaining stronghold of Catholicism in the largely Buddhist Vietnam.

Built in the late 1880s by French colonists, it was formerly called Saigon Church. The name Notre Dame was given after the installation of the statue "Peaceful Notre Dame" in 1959. In 1962, the Vatican conferred the Cathedral status as a basilica and gave it the official name of Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica.

Notre Dame Cathedral Highlights

Made from red bricks imported from France, the neo-Romanesque structure is 60 metres tall and has two towers containing six bronze bells. In front of the Cathedral stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, made in Rome from Italian marble, which was reputed to have shed tears in 2005.

Notre Dame Cathedral is a working religious place where masses are held every Sunday.

• Opening Hours: Paris Square, District 1.
• Location: Paris Square, District 1.

Things to Do Tours in Ho Chi Minh City

• Ho Chi Minh City Tour
• Relaxing Tour in Saigon