10 Free Attractions to visit in Ho Chi Minh City

  • Source: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City | visithcmc.vn

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the largest and most developed cities in Vietnam. This place not only has a vibrant economy but also many free tourist attractions to attract visitors. This article will introduce you to the top 10 free tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, giving you interesting experiences exploring Ho Chi Minh city at no cost.

1. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous and oldest architectural works in Ho Chi Minh City. Designed in classical French architecture and located in a prime central location, this church attracts a large number of tourists to visit daily. You are free to visit and admire the beauty of the church about its rich history.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

2. Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is a destination that tourists should visit when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City. This is one of the biggest and most famous markets in the city, where you can experience the unique culture of the locals. Walking around the stalls at the market, you will be able to visit, shop for a variety of goods, enjoy specialty dishes and feel the bustle and hustle of the people.

Ben Thanh Market was established in 1914 with a total area of 13,056 m2 with four large doors in four directions, all with ceramic reliefs showing local products. The South Gate has the shape of rays, catfish, cows and fish and pigs. The North Gate is shaped like a banana and a goose. The East Gate is shaped like a cow and a pig. West gate shaped like rays, bananas. In addition to the four main doors, there are many side doors to enter and exit the market. Prominent on the roof of the market is a three-sided clock tower at the South gate, facing Quach Thi Trang construction site.

Chợ Bến Thành là một điểm đến không thể bỏ qua khi bạn đặt chân đến TPHCM

3. Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street

Nguyen Hue walking street is a route that residents and visitors often come to relax and enjoy public space. Located in a central location, Nguyen Hue walking street was built with wide sidewalks, beautiful green trees and flowers and interesting entertainment spots. On both sides of the road, there are many restaurants and coffee shops serving the needs of all everyone, so it's the perfect place to roam, sightsee and participate in free leisure activities.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is renowned for its stunning architecture, bustling atmosphere and delightful cafés with breathtaking views. From roof-top to street-side, the street is home to many cafés with stunning panoramas, perfect to unwind after a busy day exploring the city.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street

4. Bui Vien Pedestrian Street

Mentioned in the travel book “Lonely Planet” in recent years, the neighbourhood of De Tham – Bui Vien – Do Quang Dau – Pham Ngu Lao has been chosen by many international tourists as their destination when coming to Ho Chi Minh City. Bui Vien Pedestrian Street was officially launched and put into operation in 2017, this place is considered one of the busiest streets in Saigon.

Bui Vien street, serving as an entertainment hub for both tourists and locals, has risen to fame as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most vibrant quarters. Also known as “Pho Tay” (Western Street) or “International crossroad”, Bui Vien is most popular with foreign backpackers with numerous choices of hostels and accommodations. However, if you do not sort yourself as one of them, Bui Vien is still a must in your bucket list to experience the mind-blowing nightlife when traveling to Saigon. [vietnamonline.com]

Bui Vien Pedestrian Street, Photo by LIM ENG on Unsplash
Bui Vien Pedestrian Street, Photo by Georgios Domouchtsidis on Unsplash

5. Temple of the Jade Emperor

The Jade Emperor Pagoda, commonly known as the Jade Emperor Palace or Phuoc Hai Tu Pagoda, is a famous spiritual place that visitors should not miss when coming to Saigon. This temple is known as the ancient temple that hosted Former US President Barack Obama. Every day, a large number of Buddhists as well as domestic and foreign tourists come here to visit and worship. Because this place is said by many people to be very sacred, people often come here to pray for love, children and peace. 

This temple was built in the early 20th century with Chinese-style architecture, undergone many restorations, but Ngoc Hoang Pagoda still retains its ancient features and unique designs in the past.

If you want to feel the festive atmosphere, come here on the occasion of the Jade Emperor's event, which is usually held on the 9th day of the lunar calendar every year. On these days, tourists flock here to offer incense, pray for fortune, luck and peace for the coming year. Note that the number of visitors is very large, so the scene of jostling is inevitable. In addition, if you want to come here to admire the scenery and pray, you should come on weekdays because you will feel the idyllic and full beauty of nature here.

Chùa Ngọc Hoàng là tên thường gọi của Điện Ngọc Hoàng, tên chữ là Phước Hải Tự (người Pháp thì gọi là chùa Đa Kao); hiện tọa lạc tại số 73 đường Mai Thị Lựu, phường Đa Kaoquận 1Thành phố Hồ Chí MinhViệt Nam.

6. Saigon Central Post Office

City Post Office is one of the famous architectural works of Ho Chi Minh City. You can stop by the post office to admire the special architecture and take beautiful photos, the city post office is also chosen by many couples as a place to take wedding photos to keep happy moments. In addition, you can also come here to use services such as sending parcels or letters to friends and relatives easily.

The Saigon Central Post Office | Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn | Poste centrale de Saïgon

7. Turtle Lake

Located between District 1 and District 3, Turtle Lake, also known as Ho Con Rua in Vietnamese, is a prominent landmark and tranquil oasis nestled amidst the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Situated in the heart of District 3, this circular lake derives its name from a large stone turtle sculpture that graces its center. The lake is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, providing a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a common sight to see people sitting by the lake's edge, enjoying the gentle breeze and try many type of street food. Surrounded by lush greenery and shaded walkways, Turtle Lake exudes a peaceful ambiance, making it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll or a moment of reflection amidst the urban landscape.

Nguyên thủy ban đầu, tại vị trí Hồ Con Rùa hiện nay, vào năm 1790 là vị trí cổng thành Khảm Khuyết của thành Bát Quái (còn gọi là thành Quy). Vua Minh Mạng sau đổi tên thành cửa Vọng Khuyết.

8. Starlight Bridge

Starlight Bridge is one of the famous traffic construction in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City .Designed in a modern and romantic style, Starlight Bridge Park creates a relaxing and romantic space for residents and visitors.. With soft LED lighting scene, smooth curves highlight the beauty of modern architecture, bringing a dreamy and romantic feeling at night. This construction is not only an ordinary bridge, but also a unique work of art.

Cầu Ánh Sao, Phú Mỹ Hưng, quận 7, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

9. Tao Dan Park

Tao Đàn Park, also known as Tao Dan Park, is a popular and vibrant urban park located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. It holds significant cultural and recreational importance within the city and serves as a green oasis amidst the bustling urban environment. The park is named after a Vietnamese poet and intellectual, Nguyen Khoa Diem, who is also known by his pen name Tao Đàn.

Tao Dan Park, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

10. Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church, also known by the lovely name "pink church", is a famous religious building in Ho Chi Minh City. This church is an important destination for Catholics as well as tourists who love architecture and history.

Tan Dinh Church was built in the Gothic architectural style, with delicate and sophisticated lines combined with a unique pink color tone that is extremely impressive and rarely seen in other churches in Vietnam. Inside the church, you will see beautiful murals and sculptures, every detail in the church has a profound meaning, creating solemnity and solemnity for this space.

Nhà thờ Tân Định (Nhà thờ Thánh Tâm Chúa Giêsu, Tân Định) là một nhà thờ Công giáo tại Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, thuộc giáo xứ Tân Định.

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Source: Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City | visithcmc.vn

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