Top 10 historical places in Ho Chi Minh City you must visit

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1. Nha Rong Wharf – one of the famous historical places in Ho Chi Minh City

• Address: 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, District 4

Nha Rong Wharf is among the most iconic historical places in Ho Chi Minh City. Now known as the Ho Chi Minh City branch of Ho Chi Minh Museum, this site was originally built in 1863 as the headquarters of Saigon Commercial Port under French rule. It was the point of departure for Nguyen Tat Thanh (later known as President Ho Chi Minh) on June 5, 1911, when he embarked on a 30-year journey to find the path to Vietnam’s independence. 

Here, visitors can explore seven exhibition rooms, four of which focus on his extraordinary life and revolutionary career. The other three are dedicated to themes such as his journey for national liberation and his profound connection with Southern Vietnam. The museum’s architecture harmoniously combines Western and Eastern designs. The iconic statue of Nguyen Tat Thanh overlooking the Saigon River is also a go-to spot for photography.

Nha Rong Wharf sits by the Saigon River (Source: Collected)

2. The Independence Palace – among the top historical landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City

• Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1

As one of the most famous historical places in Vietnam, the Independence Palace stands as a powerful symbol of the nation’s resilience. This iconic landmark witnessed pivotal moments, including the raising of the flag of the National Liberation Front in 1975 which marked Vietnam’s reunification. Recognized as a special national monument, the Independence Palace blends Eastern tradition with Western modernity in its grand design. Spanning 4,500 square meters with over 100 rooms, its interior showcases distinct designs, from presidential offices to banquet halls, adorned with intricate motifs.

The Independence Palace is one of the most famous historical places in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3. Cu Chi Tunnels – an icon of Vietnam’s past

• Address: Phu Hiep Hamlet, Phu My Hung Commune, Cu Chi District

Located about 70 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating network of underground passageways. Once a stronghold for Vietnamese soldiers during the resistance against foreign invaders, these tunnels stretch over 250 kilometers and include living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, and storage. A notable part of the complex is Ben Dinh War Tunnels, where visitors can crawl through narrow corridors and experience the ingenuity of wartime strategies. As one of the most unique tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels not only offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s military history but also provide a range of interactive activities like a shooting range.

Tourists can crawl through narrow corridors to experience wartime life in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

4. Sac Forest War Base Historical Relic

• Address: Rung Sac Road, Long Hoa Commune, Can Gio District

Located about a 2-hour drive away from downtown, Sac Forest War Base Historical Relic is one of the most significant historical places in Ho Chi Minh City. Once a base for the Southern Vietnamese army, this vast mangrove forest area of over 2,000 hectares was strategically situated among numerous rivers and creeks, which acted as natural defense barriers. The site, now a national monument, features models of wartime structures such as guardhouses surrounded by mines and traps. Visitors can explore well-preserved bunkers, field hospitals, and military workshops, experiencing the ingenuity that defined this crucial battleground.

Sac Forest War Base Historical Relic is now a national monument (Source: Collected)

5. The Weapons Bunker of the Saigon Special Forces

• Address: 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, District 3

The Weapons Bunker of the Saigon Special Forces is one of the most fascinating Vietnamese historical landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. This covert facility, built in 1965, housed over two tons of weapons hidden beneath a seemingly ordinary house. The bunker was expertly concealed under the floor, with a secret entrance hidden among the floor tiles. It could hold up to 15 people and was equipped with escape routes and ventilation systems. Today, the site serves as a powerful symbol of the resilience, creativity, and courage of the Vietnamese resistance.

The bunker was expertly concealed under the floor (Source: Collected)

Read more: 15 museums in Ho Chi Minh City to inspire your next visit

6. War Remnants Museum

• Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3

The War Remnants Museum, established in 1975, is one of the most important historical places in Ho Chi Minh City. It serves as a powerful reminder of the Second Indochina War and sheds light on the war crimes committed by invaders. The museum houses a vast collection of over 20,000 artifacts, documents, and photographs, divided into themes such as War Crimes, Vietnam’s Struggle, and Impact of Chemical Warfare. With remarkable displays including outdoor military vehicles and weapons, the museum has been globally recognized for its educational values.

The War Remnants Museum displays hundreds of weapons with detailed descriptions (Source: Collected)

7. Ho Chi Minh City Museum

• Address: 65 Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1

Ho Chi Minh City Museum, built between 1885 and 1890 by French architect Alfred Foulhoux, was originally established as the Museum of Revolution in 1978 before being renamed in 1999. The main building spans 1,700 square meters across two floors, with a symmetrical layout that blends European Renaissance architecture with traditional Asian elements. The facade features Greco-Roman reliefs while the roofline showcases distinct Asian designs. Visiting Ho Chi Minh City Museum provides an opportunity to explore both the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Notable photo spots include the grand entrance, the staircase, the terrace, and the corridor, all of which attract photography enthusiasts.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum is one of the key historical places in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

8. The People’s Committee Building in Ho Chi Minh City

• Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1

The People’s Committee Building is a testament to the French colonial influence in the city. Originally conceived as a lavish hotel, this architectural gem, designed by French architect Paul Gardes, was later transformed into a city hall in 1954. With its grand facade and a striking bell tower reminiscent of European town halls, the building perfectly blends French elegance with Vietnamese touches. Here, you can admire its Renaissance-inspired features or snap photos against the backdrop of nearby landmarks like Ho Chi Minh City Opera House and Notre Dame Cathedral. 

The People’s Committee Building is one of the must-visit historical places in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

9. Saigon Special Forces – Gia Dinh Museum

• Address: 145 Tran Quang Khai Street, District 1

Saigon Special Forces – Gia Dinh Museum was once the secret base of operations for the Saigon Special Forces led by Tran Van Lai. Built in 1963, the base was later divided into three parts. In recent years, the Lai family transformed the building into a museum. It now displays around 300 artifacts that showcase the history of the Saigon Special Forces, preserving the base’s original architecture. Visitors can explore exhibits on weapons, vehicles, and communication tools used by the special forces, as well as watch short films about their missions. The museum offers a fascinating look into the courage and strategy of Vietnam’s wartime heroes.

The museum was once the secret base of operations (Source: Collected)

Explore 20 places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City for your itinerary!

10. Ben Thanh Market – a living testament to Saigon’s history

• Address: Le Loi Street, District 1

Ben Thanh Market is the final recommendation on our list of historical places in Ho Chi Minh City. Originally founded before French colonization, the market was located along the Ben Nghe River, a key trading hub. After being destroyed by fire, the market was rebuilt in 1912 at its current location on what was once a swampy area. The new market, built in French colonial style, was completed in 1914 and has retained its original design through various renovations. Ben Thanh Market allows visitors to experience the local products, taste Saigonese cuisine, and dive into the city’s past.

Ben Thanh Market is a popular photo spot for tourists (Source: Collected)

Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, exploring these historical places in Ho Chi Minh City is a must. These sites not only highlight the city’s wartime history but also showcase its vibrant, ever-evolving present.

There are many other places to see in Ho Chi Minh City, such as the iconic Landmark 81, the bustling Nguyen Hue Street, the lively Bui Vien Street, and more. In particular, there is VinWonders Grand Park, an amusement park set to open in December 2024. Located in Thu Duc City, VinWonders Grand Park features the Tropical Island water park and the Dream Garden which offer fun for all ages. Nearby, the Park Avenue commercial street provides a riverfront shopping and dining experience with well-known brands. Meanwhile, the Lake Beach offers delicious food amidst great views.

VinWonders Grand Park is set to open in December 2024

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