Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City
This guide is tailored for cruise passenger visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
General Port Facts
Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant metropolis of Vietnam, invites you to explore its rich history, culture, and modern energy. Cruise passengers can make the most of their limited time in port by delving into the city's unique offerings.
Touristic Information
Discover the blend of French colonial architecture, bustling markets, and lively streets. Ho Chi Minh City offers a taste of both the traditional and the contemporary, providing a memorable experience for every visitor.
Transportation Options
Explore nearby attractions with these transportation options:
- Ben Thanh Market - Iconic market, 1 km (0.6 miles), approximately 10 minutes by taxi
- War Remnants Museum - Historical exhibits, 3 km (1.9 miles), approximately 15 minutes by taxi
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon - Architectural gem, 1.5 km (0.9 miles), approximately 10 minutes by taxi
- Bitexco Financial Tower - Sky deck with panoramic views, 2 km (1.2 miles), approximately 15 minutes by taxi
- Jade Emperor Pagoda - Tranquil Buddhist temple, 5 km (3.1 miles), approximately 20 minutes by taxi
Local Foods
Indulge in the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine by trying local specialties. Enjoy a bowl of pho, savor fresh spring rolls, and treat yourself to Vietnamese coffee. Street food stalls offer authentic tastes for those seeking a culinary adventure.
Top 5 Attractions
- Ben Thanh Market - Free admission, explore the vibrant market atmosphere
- War Remnants Museum - Entrance fee, gain insight into Vietnam's war history
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon - Free admission, admire the French colonial architecture
- Bitexco Financial Tower Sky Deck - Admission fee, panoramic views of the cityscape
- Jade Emperor Pagoda - Free admission, experience tranquility in a sacred space
Nice to Know Facts
- Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam.
- Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation, creating a unique and lively city atmosphere.
- The city's street food scene is renowned globally for its diverse and delicious offerings.
Local Customs
Embrace the Vietnamese tradition of greeting with a friendly "Xin chào" (hello). Modesty and respect are valued, and it's customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain establishments.
Fun Things for Children
- Up to 6 years old: Visit Le Van Tam Park for a family-friendly play area.
- 7-12 years old: Explore Dam Sen Water Park for a day of water fun.
- 13-18 years old: Take a cyclo ride through District 1 for a unique city experience.
Google Maps
Explore the location near the Phu My cruise port on Google Maps.
Explore the location near the Vung Tau cruise port on Google Maps.
Explore Ho Chi Min City on Google Maps.
Main Tourism Office Website
For additional information, visit the official Ho Chi Minh City Tourism website: Visit Ho Chi Minh City.
Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.