Saigon is one of the key cities in Vietnam, and it’s probably a place many people find the time to visit when they’re making the most of a Mekong River Cruise. It’s a city that’s brimming with life and excitement, and you certainly won’t be short of things to do and see while you’re there. Read on to find out more about Saigon and what the city has to offer.
Saigon City Hall
An Introduction to Saigon
Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is the largest city in Vietnam and is a major commercial centre for the country. It’s a busy and often overwhelming city, but it’s also a place with a lot to see, explore and experience. It has a population of over eight million people and a culture all of its own.
Saigon was only founded in the 18th century, which makes it quite young in the wider context of Asian cities. It’s also a place that has experienced all of the ups and downs of Vietnamese history since then. It was a logistical base for US operations and the capital of South Vietnam until the country was reunified in 1975, when it was renamed Ho Chi Minh City after the revolutionary leader of Vietnam.
Top Attractions and Things to See/Do in Saigon
If you’re going to be spending time in Saigon, there are some things that you’ll want to spend your time on. These are the top attractions and things to do and see while you’re in Saigon.
Binh Tay Market
When you’re looking for the authentic and real side of Saigon, you simply need to head to the vibrant and historical Binh Tay Market. There are plenty of great foods for sale here too.
War Remnants Museum
If you want to learn more about the Vietnam War from a Vietnames perspective, you should take the time to visit the War Remnants Museums. There are some fascinating things and you’ll learn a lot.
Cao Dai Temple
Cao Dai is a unique spiritual religion that mixes lots of elements from other faiths. Be sure to visit the temple because tourists are allowed inside. It’s a simply beautiful space.
Bitexco Tower and Sky Deck
If you’re looking to experience the best of what modern Saigon has to offer, simply head to the top of the Bitexco Tower and enjoy the view over the city from the Sky Deck.
Picturesque tourist jetty in Saigon
What Saigon is Most Famous For
Saigon is famous for a few things. Of course, the history of the country in relation to the Vietnam War is something people associate with it. But things are quite different today. It’s famous for being a bustling and lively city, as well as a growing commercial capital in Asia. It’s also famous for being home to some of the very best food Vietnam has to offer, particularly the pho and pork rolls you’ll find there.
If you’re looking to visit Saigon anytime soon, be sure to make the most of these top attractions and the other information outlined above. It’s an incredible part of the world with a unique culture you’ll have a great time delving into and learning more about. It’ll be the trip of a lifetime!
