Do and Don't While You Are In Ho Chi Minh City

This tip sheet is a collection of insights from both local residents and international travelers regarding what to do and avoid while visiting Ho Chi Minh City in 2025.

DO

Visit theme parks in and around the city

Ho Chi Minh City remains a top destination for theme parks in Vietnam, although it is often overlooked by travelers. These parks are well-invested and uphold high standards, offering a wide range of services and activities suitable for all ages, from children to adults. Visiting these entertainment venues is a must for families and friends traveling together.

The most accessible and famous park is Dam Sen Cultural Park, one of Vietnam's most renowned entertainment centers, featuring a variety of attractions, including gaming zones, water parks, zoos, and cultural sites. If you're seeking something more expansive, consider Suoi Tien, Ky Hoa, Binh Quoi Resort, or Dai Nam Park. These locations combine traditional Vietnamese architectural elements with cutting-edge facilities, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Try street food

No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without indulging in its famed street food. If your dining experiences consist solely of breakfast buffets at your hotel and sit-down meals at nearby restaurants, you haven't truly explored the culinary landscape of the city. Street food is an essential aspect of the Ho Chi Minh City experience.

The city boasts numerous food streets where the aromas and flavors of delicious dishes blend with the bustling atmosphere. Travelers can explore vibrant locations such as Tran Hung Dao for snails, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai for grilled meats, and Nguyen Van Nghi Street for roasted chicken wings from evening until midnight.

Explore bars and nightclubs

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, offering a dynamic experience that is hard to find in other Vietnamese cities. In recent years, the number of bars and nightclubs has increased significantly, drawing in both locals and tourists. Popular venues include Acapolyse Now, QBar, and The Palace Club, where you can enjoy an engaging atmosphere complete with great music mixed by talented DJs. These locals are ideal for meeting new people, so singles should take advantage of the lively environment to socialize and perhaps ignite a new romance. Check out How to spend your evening in Ho Chi Minh City for additional options.

Relax at hair salons

Consider visiting one of the many high-quality hair salons in Ho Chi Minh City—a worthwhile experience for travelers, especially women. Stylists here are exceptionally skilled, rivaling those found in major cities like Toronto, New York, or Paris. In addition to excellent hair services, you can enjoy a friendly atmosphere that guarantees both a stylish new look and an enjoyable experience.

Many salons also offer additional services such as hair coloring and nail care at reasonable prices (approximately $5-10 for a haircut, $10-25 for coloring or perming). With great service and budget-friendly pricing, you might want to carve out some time for a salon visit.

Visit pagodas

A unique aspect of Ho Chi Minh City for visitors, particularly those interested in Buddhism, is its various pagodas. Many locals hail from diverse backgrounds, including Chinese, Khmer, and Japanese cultures where Buddhism is prevalent. It’s not surprising that the pagodas here showcase an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City tend to be more colorful than their northern counterparts.

On most days, these sacred spaces provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Anyone, regardless of their faith, is welcome to explore these serene environments, whether to pay their respects or simply to unwind.

DON'T

Avoid sketchy areas

Although Ho Chi Minh City is home to beautiful parks such as Le Van Tam, Tao Dan, and Hoang Van Thu, some areas can be risky for visitors, especially at night. Parks like Gia Dinh Park in Tan Binh District, 23rd September Park in District 1, and Le Thi Rieng Park in District 10 are known for higher instances of crime and should be approached with caution. Prostitution and drug-related activities can be prevalent in these areas. Travelers are advised to avoid these places after dark as they may be unsafe.

Skip outdated cinemas

While you can find modern multiplexes, some older cinemas still operate in Ho Chi Minh City. Despite low ticket prices, their facilities often do not meet contemporary standards, and the atmosphere can be disruptive. Young couples may frequent these venues more for conversation than for watching films. If you're looking for the latest releases and a comfortable viewing experience, it's best to avoid cinemas like Tan Son Nhat.

Steer clear of peak traffic hours

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City on a motorbike can be thrilling, yet it is essential to avoid busy hours (approximately 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) when traffic congestion peaks. Due to the city’s notorious traffic, unfamiliar drivers may find it challenging to navigate safely. Tourists wishing to experience this mode of transport should plan their trips carefully and choose less congested routes.

Don't visit polluted areas like the Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe Canal

While Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe Canal is a popular spot for locals, it is not an ideal eating or drinking destination due to the pollution and unpleasant odors. The area can also attract rowdy behavior, including drunken confrontations, particularly on weekends when street racing occurs. For a more pleasant experience, it is advisable to seek other dining or relaxation spots nearby.