Vibrating with energy, innovation and traffic – lots of traffic – Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic heart of Vietnam and the main hub of the southern region. A freewheeling, cosmopolitan metropolis, HCMC’s dynamic cityscape draws together old and new Vietnam in the most compact of spaces, representing the city’s past as well as its future. Ho Chi Minh City Travel introduces lot of information about the war, from the War Remnants Museum to the Cu Chi Tunnels. There’s a great historical museum here, though the English translation leaves a lot to be desired. The city has a lot to offer: great shops, fantastic nightlife, and delicious food…

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and an economic and cultural hub in the country. It is located in the southern part of Vietnam, near the Mekong Delta region, and has well-defined boundaries. Here is an overview of the location and boundaries of Ho Chi Minh City:

Location:

• Geographic Coordinates: Ho Chi Minh City is situated at approximately 10.7769° N latitude and 106.7009° E longitude, making it a coastal city on the eastern side of southern Vietnam.
• Proximity to the South China Sea: HCMC is located near the coastline of the South China Sea, providing access to the sea for trade and transportation.

Boundaries: Ho Chi Minh City shares its borders with several provinces and districts. The city’s boundaries are as follows:

1. Binh Duong Province to the North: HCMC is bounded by Binh Duong Province to the north, an area known for its industrial development and proximity to the city.
2. Dong Nai Province to the Northeast: The city’s northeastern boundary is shared with Dong Nai Province, a region known for its industrial zones and manufacturing.
3. Binh Phuoc Province to the Northwest: HCMC shares its northwestern border with Binh Phuoc Province, which is primarily known for its agriculture and forestry.
4. Long An Province to the Southwest: The southwestern boundary of the city adjoins Long An Province, an area with a mix of agriculture, industry, and border crossings into Cambodia.
5. Tay Ninh Province to the West: The western border of HCMC is shared with Tay Ninh Province, which is known for its historical significance and religious sites.
6. Binh Tan District, Binh Chanh District, and Cu Chi District to the West and Northwest: These districts within HCMC are located to the west and northwest, and they are known for a mix of residential areas, industry, and agriculture.
7. Thi Vai River and the South China Sea to the East: The eastern boundary of the city is marked by the Thi Vai River and the South China Sea, which provides access to maritime trade routes.

The specific districts within HCMC, including District 1 (the city center) and others, are located within these geographical boundaries. Ho Chi Minh City’s strategic location near the southern coast of Vietnam and its well-defined boundaries have played a crucial role in its economic development, trade, and cultural significance. It is a dynamic and rapidly growing metropolis in Southeast Asia.

See more: The international airports in Viet Nam

Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Map 1888×1200

Some of the key districts and areas within Ho Chi Minh City

1. District 1 of HCMC: City Center

• District 1 is the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House.
• It is the central business and commercial district with numerous luxury hotels, upscale shopping centers, and a bustling nightlife scene.
• District 1 is characterized by its mix of modern skyscrapers and well-preserved colonial-era architecture.

Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon District 1 1564×1200

2. District 3 of HCMC: Cultural and Residential Hub

• District 3 is known for its traditional Vietnamese culture and local neighborhoods. It’s home to the War Remnants Museum, Tao Dan Park, and various pagodas.
• The district offers a mix of residential areas, local markets, and quieter streets in contrast to the busy downtown areas.

3. District 5 of HCMC: Chinatown

• District 5, also known as Cholon, is the city’s historic Chinatown and is famous for its vibrant markets, temples, and traditional Chinese culture.
• The district is home to bustling markets like Binh Tay Market and Cha Tam Church, a prominent Catholic church.

4. District 7 of HCMC: Phu My Hung Urban Area

• District 7 is a more modern and planned district, featuring the Phu My Hung urban area with clean streets, parks, and modern amenities.
• It is known for its expat-friendly communities, international schools, and upscale living options.

5. District 10 of HCMC: Diverse and Bustling

• District 10 is known for its diverse population and local markets. It is home to many educational institutions, cultural sites, and commercial areas.

6. Binh Thanh District of HCMC: Riverside Living

• Binh Thanh District is located along the Saigon River and offers a mix of residential and industrial areas.
• It’s characterized by its riverside living and green spaces like Vinhomes Central Park.

7. Thu Duc City: Technological Hub

• Thu Duc City is an emerging technological and industrial hub with numerous educational institutions and research facilities.
• It’s known for its focus on science and technology, making it an important part of Ho Chi Minh City’s development.

8. Tan Binh District of HCMC: Transport Hub

• Tan Binh District is home to the Tan Son Nhat International Airport, making it a crucial transportation hub.
• It’s a mix of residential communities, educational institutions, and commercial areas.

9. Cu Chi District of HCMC: Historical Significance

• Cu Chi District is famous for the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
• Visitors can explore the tunnels and learn about the district’s historical significance.

These are just a few of the many districts within Ho Chi Minh City, each with its own unique character and contribution to the city’s overall landscape. Ho Chi Minh City’s districts showcase a rich tapestry of culture, history, economic development, and diverse communities, making it one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in Southeast Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City guide by Expedia

Top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Walk down Đồng Khởi street to acquaint yourself with the Notre Dame Cathedral, the city’s Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House. On a more local level, Bến Thành Market and the Jade Emperor Pagoda are worth a visit.

Ascend the Saigon Skydeck

For a 360 degree panorama of the city, you can head to the Saigon Skydeck tower. The observation deck is on the 49th floor and entrance costs 200,000 VND.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Skyline From The Bitexco Tower

Shop small boutiques

Around District 1, a host of old apartments and former office buildings have been repurposed as shopping centres. Decades-old buildings such as 22 Lý Tự Trọng and 42 Nguyễn Huệ are brimming with all kinds of fascinating stores.

Explore the Chinese Quarter

The Chinese neighbourhood known as Chợ Lớn is great for exploring on foot. Head for Bình Tây Market, a colossal wholesale trading centre, and Thiên Hậu Pagoda, an atmospheric temple that pays homage to the goddess of the sea. Chinatown is a hive of activity; it is a maze of temples, restaurants, jade ornaments, and medicine shops. Aside from the sprawling Binh Tay market, you’ll find some fascinating temples in the area including the Chinese Chua Quan Am Temple and Cha Tam, which is a Catholic cathedral.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Chinatown District 5

Hop on a motorcycle

Do as the locals do and hop on the back of a motorbike to see the city on street level and feel its energetic pulse. Motorbike tours set off in the evening, when the city is at its most romantic and the sidewalk vendors are out in force.

Take a Saigon River Cruise

If you want to take in the city from the vantage point of the water, then head for a Saigon River Cruise. Here you will get the chance to join a boat ride that includes dinner on elegant cruise and takes you back to the river bank. The boat is actually a traditional dragon boat that dates from the 19th century and they serve a buffet dinner complete with live music.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Saigon River Cruise

Eat street food

Ho Chi Minh City locals love to gather around dented metal tables across the city for incredible roadside feasts. Don’t miss highlights such as bánh mì, southern-style savoury pancakes (bánh xèo) and broken rice (cơm tấm).

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Food And Cuisine

Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

Crawl through the extensive network of nearly 500 km of tunnels utilized by the Viet Cong in the 1960s to fight American soldiers. Tours involve a description and tour of the tunnels.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Cu Chi Tunnels

See more: All information about Cu Chi Tunnels

Visit the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

Not to be confused with the “Ho Chi Minh Museum”, at one point or another, the city museum has been a Governor’s Palace, committee building and Revolutionary Museum. Nowadays, its picturesque grounds attract newlyweds posing for photographs. You’ll find a collection of weaponry and memorabilia from the country’s revolutionary struggle as well as captured U.S fighter planes and tanks.

Check out the Vietnam History Museum

he History Museum is a great place to learn about the colorful events of Vietnam’s past. The museum houses a fantastic collection of ceramics, weaponry and cannons. There are photographs, clothes and household objects dating back as far as the 1700s. The English translations leave a lot to be desired though.

See more: All information about Vietnam History Museum in Ho Chi Minh city

See the Emperor Jade pagoda

Emperor Jade is one of the most impressive pagodas in Vietnam. The intricate carvings and depictions of deities including the Emperor Jade himself.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Jade Emperor Pagoda

See more: All information about Emperor Jade pagoda

Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an imposing red brick building built between 1877 and 1883. The two towers that front the cathedral tower over visitors at nearly 200 feet tall while the neon-lit statue of the Virgin Mary is also an arresting site.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Notre Dame Cathedral

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Visit the War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum is a must-see for anyone with an interest in Vietnam’s history of combat with both the French and the Americans. Inside you’ll find informative exhibits focusing on biological warfare, weaponry and in-depth statistics of Vietnam’s armies during the conflicts. The museum’s best exhibit is the collection of bombs, tanks, planes and war machinery which can be found in the courtyard. The museum has a very pro-communist, down with the capitalist pigs bent to it and it’s interesting to see. It’s as much propaganda as it is history.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon War Remnants Museum

See more: All information about War Remnants Museum

Escape to Can Gio Biosphere Reserve (Monkey Island) in Ho Chi Minh City

The Can Gio island is popular with tourists and Ho Chi Minh locals as a way to escape the chaos of the city. The beaches here aren’t mind blowing like they are in Thailand but it’s a great place to relax and one of Vietnam’s better islands. The island’s monkey sanctuary and mangroves are great for wildlife fans.

Gia Phu Car Rental Stransfer Services Ho Chi Minh City Hcmc Sai Gon Can Gio Island

See more: All information about Can Gio Biosphere Reserve

Shop at the Ben Thanh Market

Though the market is crowded and rife with pickpockets, it is the ideal place to pick up a bargain or try some traditional (and inexpensive) Vietnamese food. It’s an ideal shopping place.

Gia Phu Car Rental Ho Chi Minh City Guide Ben Thanh Market Chobenthanh2

See more: All information about Ben Thanh Market

Typical Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms cost around 80,000 – 200,000 VND, while private rooms are around 200,000 – 700,000 VND for a double room.

Budget hotel prices – A night in a budget hotels starts at 150,000 VND, but 250,000 – 650,000 VND is the norm.

Average cost of food – Eat the local food and you can get a meal for around 25,000 VND. Sit down restaurants are also inexpensive at around 80,000 VND. A western burger might cost around 35,000 VND.

Transportation costs – Public buses around the city cost 5.000-10.000 VND. Taxis are more expensive at 13,000 VND for the first kilometer and ~10,000 VND per kilometer thereafter.

Money Saving Tips

Taxis – Taxi drivers will rip you off so agree to a price ahead of time. Or better yet, skip them and walk. Or rent a bike and try to navigate the chaos of the city.

Markets – When shopping in any of the city’s markets you may feel like a wallet on legs as the traders call out to you. Be firm and be ready to walk away.

Eat street food – Street food in Ho Chi Minh City is inexpensive and delicious. Be sure to try a banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich popular in the south.

Enjoy Happy Hour – The bars in the Pham Ngu Lao area have plenty of Happy Hour drink specials, from half-price drinks to dollar cocktails.

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