Solo Travel / Solo Travel in Vietnam/ Ho Chi Minh City

Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City – Month By Month

TLDR: This guide is for solo travelers keen to discover the fast-paced and energetic Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s largest metropolis, known for its French colonial landmarks, bustling markets, and diverse food scene. From exploring the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels and War Remnants Museum to experiencing the lively street food culture, this guide will take you through the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City throughout the year. We’ll also recommend the best time to visit based on the city’s tropical climate and provide practical travel information.

Highlight

A must-see in Ho Chi Minh City is the Ben Thanh Market, a major marketplace in District 1 where you can shop for local goods, souvenirs, and traditional Vietnamese food. Whether you’re bargaining for handicrafts or sampling pho, the market offers a great window into local life and commerce. It’s an essential stop to soak in the atmosphere and try the city’s culinary delights.

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About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), located in southern Vietnam, is the country’s economic hub. Known for its historical landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Office, the city is a mix of modern skyscrapers and remnants of its colonial past. The city’s iconic motorbike-filled streets and dynamic pace make it one of the most exciting places to visit in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City is divided into several districts, with District 1 being the central hub for most tourists. This area is home to museums, the bustling Ben Thanh Market, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. The city is also famous for its food scene, with street food stalls lining almost every corner, offering everything from banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) to goi cuon (spring rolls).

The weather in Ho Chi Minh City is tropical, with two main seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). Despite the rain, the city remains an exciting destination year-round, with many indoor attractions, markets, and festivals to keep visitors engaged.

Getting to Ho Chi Minh City

The main airport serving Ho Chi Minh City is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), located about 6 kilometers from the city center. The airport offers domestic flights as well as international connections from Asia, Europe, and beyond.

Connections:

From Tan Son Nhat Airport to Ho Chi Minh City Center: Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, Grab (ride-hailing), or airport shuttle to reach your accommodation in District 1 or nearby areas. The journey takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Alternative Route via Train: If you are traveling from other parts of Vietnam, you can take a train to Saigon Railway Station, located about 3 kilometers from District 1. This is a convenient option if you’re arriving from central or northern Vietnam.

What Else To Know When Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Accommodation Tips

Solo Friendly: Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of accommodations for solo travelers, from budget hostels in District 1 to mid-range hotels and luxury stays. District 1 is the best option for first-time visitors, offering close proximity to major attractions, restaurants, and cafes. Solo travelers who prefer quieter areas can stay in District 3 or District 5.

Food and Drink

Dining Solo: Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene is one of the best in Southeast Asia, with many food stalls and small eateries offering delicious meals at affordable prices. You can find classic dishes like pho, banh mi, and com tam (broken rice) throughout the city. Local coffee shops are also great places to try Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da).

Ho Chi Minh City Safety

Staying Safe: The city is generally safe for solo travelers, but petty theft like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be mindful of your belongings when walking around, especially in markets and tourist hotspots. Ho Chi Minh City’s streets can also be chaotic with motorbike traffic, so exercise caution when crossing roads.

Language and Culture

Language Basics: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) can go a long way in building rapport with locals.

Getting Around

Transportation: Getting around Ho Chi Minh City is easy with plenty of transportation options, including motorbike taxis, Grab (similar to Uber), and regular taxis. For solo travelers, walking around District 1 or renting a motorbike (if experienced) is convenient. The city’s bus system is also affordable and useful for getting to areas like Chinatown (Cholon).

Meeting Fellow Travelers

Social Hotspots: The backpacker street of Bui Vien in District 1 is a popular spot to meet fellow travelers, with its vibrant bars, cafes, and hostels. There are also many social events, walking tours, and cooking classes where you can meet like-minded travelers.

Budgeting

Cost-Saving Tips: Ho Chi Minh City is affordable even for budget travelers. Eat at local street food stalls, stay in hostels or budget guesthouses, and use public transport or walk when possible. Most museums and cultural sites have low entry fees, making it easy to explore the city on a budget.

What’s On In Ho Chi Minh City Month By Month

Ho Chi Minh City is lively all year round, with a variety of activities to suit all types of travelers. Whether you’re visiting historical sites, trying local food, or experiencing festivals, this guide will help you discover the best things to do each month.

January: Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

January is the start of the dry season, offering perfect weather for exploring outdoor landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Saigon Central Post Office. Both landmarks are located in District 1 and are beautiful examples of French colonial architecture.

In January, Ho Chi Minh City sees a steady flow of tourists due to the comfortable weather. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the city’s historical sites on foot or by bike. Tourists can also enjoy evening strolls around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, which is beautifully lit up at night.

Weather: Cool and dry, with temperatures averaging 22-30°C (72-86°F).
Location: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Cost/Budget: Free to explore; small entrance fees for some attractions.

February: Tet Celebrations (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)

February marks the Tet (Lunar New Year) celebration, the most important festival in Vietnam. During Tet, Ho Chi Minh City transforms into a festive hub, with colorful decorations, flower markets, and traditional performances taking place across the city. The main flower street on Nguyen Hue Boulevard is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.

This is the busiest time of year for tourism in Ho Chi Minh City, as locals and tourists flock to the streets to enjoy the Tet festivities. Travelers can observe traditional rituals, visit temples, and enjoy festive dishes like banh chung (sticky rice cake). While some businesses close during the holiday, the city remains vibrant with activities.

Weather: Mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 23-32°C (73-90°F).
Location: Nguyen Hue Boulevard, District 1, and various temples
Cost/Budget: Free to participate in public celebrations; personal expenses for food and Tet-related activities.

March: Visit the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace

In March, the weather is still comfortable, making it a great time to dive into the city’s historical attractions. The War Remnants Museum offers a sobering look at the effects of the Vietnam War, while the Reunification Palace provides insight into the country’s political history.

Tourism in March is steady, with visitors seeking cultural and historical tours of the city. As the temperatures rise, many tourists choose to visit museums and indoor attractions during the midday heat, while the cooler mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor exploration.

Weather: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 24-33°C (75-91°F).
Location: War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace
Cost/Budget: Small entry fees for museums and historical sites.

April: Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

April is an excellent time to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, located just outside Ho Chi Minh City. These underground tunnels, used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, are a fascinating historical site. Tours provide an immersive experience into life during the war, allowing visitors to crawl through the tunnels and learn about the guerrilla tactics used.

April sees an increase in tourism as travelers come to learn about the country’s wartime history. Many visitors combine a trip to Cu Chi with a visit to the Mekong Delta, where they can experience life on the river and explore local markets.

Weather: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F).
Location: Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta (day trips)
Cost/Budget: Entry fees and guided tour costs vary.

May: Ben Thanh Market and Local Cuisine

May brings the start of the rainy season, but it’s still a good time to visit indoor attractions like Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local goods, souvenirs, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese food. The market is a cultural hub where tourists can interact with local vendors and sample dishes like pho and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).

With rain showers becoming more frequent, tourists in May often explore the city’s cafes, indoor markets, and museums. The rain doesn’t typically last all day, so visitors can still enjoy walking tours in the morning and late afternoon.

Weather: Hot with occasional rain, temperatures between 26-35°C (79-95°F).
Location: Ben Thanh Market
Cost/Budget: Free to enter; costs for shopping and dining vary.

June: Day Trip to the Mekong Delta

June is the peak of the rainy season, but it’s also an excellent time to explore the lush surroundings of the Mekong Delta. On a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can take a boat ride through the delta’s canals, visit floating markets, and sample fresh tropical fruits.

Tourism in June is less crowded, but adventurous travelers still enjoy trips to the Mekong Delta. The rain brings life to the fields and waterways, offering a unique perspective of the region’s agriculture and trade.

Weather: Hot and rainy, with temperatures around 27-35°C (81-95°F).
Location: Mekong Delta
Cost/Budget: Costs for guided day tours vary.

July: Explore the Saigon Opera House and Jade Emperor Pagoda

Despite the frequent rain, July is a good time to explore the city’s cultural landmarks like the Saigon Opera House and Jade Emperor Pagoda. The Opera House often hosts performances, while the Jade Emperor Pagoda offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.

Tourism in July slows due to the rainy season, making it a great time for travelers looking for fewer crowds. Many indoor cultural attractions remain popular, and tourists often time their visits between rain showers.

Weather: Hot and wet, with temperatures between 26-34°C (79-93°F).
Location: Saigon Opera House, Jade Emperor Pagoda
Cost/Budget: Entrance to the pagoda is free; performance tickets vary at the Opera House.

August: Visit Museums and Take Cooking Classes

August continues the rainy season, making it a great time for indoor activities like visiting the Vietnamese History Museum or taking Vietnamese cooking classes. Learning to cook dishes like bun thit nuong (grilled pork with noodles) or cha gio (fried spring rolls) provides insight into the city’s culinary culture.

As the rain intensifies, travelers focus on immersive experiences like cooking classes, which are highly popular in Ho Chi Minh City. These classes not only teach cooking techniques but also include market visits to source fresh ingredients.

Weather: Warm and rainy, with temperatures between 25-33°C (77-91°F).
Location: Cooking schools, Vietnamese History Museum
Cost/Budget: Cooking classes and museum entry fees vary.

September: Visit Chinatown (Cholon)

September is an ideal time to visit Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. This area is home to vibrant markets, ancient temples like Thien Hau Pagoda, and some of the best Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine in the city.

With the rainy season starting to wind down, September offers a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Tourists can explore Chinatown’s bustling streets, visit temples, and enjoy street food while dodging the occasional rain shower.

Weather: Wet but cooler, with temperatures between 24-32°C (75-90°F).
Location: Cholon (Chinatown), Thien Hau Pagoda
Cost/Budget: Free to explore; personal expenses for food and shopping.

October: Take a Stroll Around Turtle Lake

As the rainy season ends, Turtle Lake becomes a pleasant place to visit. Located in District 3, this park is a local hangout spot where you can relax, people-watch, and try local snacks sold by street vendors.

Tourism picks up again in October as the rain subsides and cooler weather returns. The post-rain atmosphere makes the parks and lakes around Ho Chi Minh City particularly beautiful. Many tourists take advantage of the outdoor spaces after months of heavy rain.

Weather: Cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 24-31°C (75-88°F).
Location: Turtle Lake, District 3
Cost/Budget: Free to visit; personal expenses for snacks.

November: Visit the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

November is a great time to visit the Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck, which offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline. The cool weather and clear skies provide perfect conditions for sightseeing.

November is one of the best months to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as the weather is cooler and the city’s outdoor attractions are easily accessible. Tourists can enjoy a combination of cultural activities, shopping, and dining.

Weather: Cool and dry, with temperatures between 23-30°C (73-86°F).
Location: Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Cost/Budget: Small entrance fee for the Skydeck.

December: Christmas and New Year Celebrations

Ho Chi Minh City’s Christmas decorations are a highlight in December. The city’s malls, streets, and churches light up for the holiday season, especially in District 1. Visitors can enjoy festive markets, decorations, and year-end parties across the city.

December is one of the busiest months for tourism, with both locals and tourists enjoying the holiday atmosphere. Many international travelers come to experience Christmas in Vietnam, and the cooler weather makes it perfect for exploring the city.

Weather: Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 21-28°C (70-82°F).
Location: District 1, shopping malls, major churches
Cost/Budget: Free to explore; personal expenses for food and events.

Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The festive period around Christmas and Tet (Lunar New Year) is particularly lively, offering visitors a unique cultural experience. The cooler months are perfect for exploring the city’s historical landmarks, shopping, and enjoying its diverse food scene.

Heading Back

That concludes our month-by-month guide to Ho Chi Minh City. From exploring its historical sites and sampling street food to experiencing cultural festivals and modern attractions, Ho Chi Minh City is a city that never sleeps. With activities to suit every traveler, this vibrant metropolis offers endless experiences for those ready to dive into its rich culture and history.