Ho Chi Minh City, in southern Vietnam, is the country's largest city and its main economic centre. It is also known by its older name, Saigon, and by the abbreviation HCMC, and locals still use both names in everyday conversation. For many visitors it is the first stop on a trip through Vietnam, and it sets the tone for the rest of the journey.
What the city offers
The city is known for its busy markets and its street food. Much of daily life happens on the pavement: small stalls, plastic stools, and the steady pace of people shopping, eating and getting around. Wandering through the markets is one of the most rewarding ways to spend a day here, and sampling food at roadside stalls is a central part of the experience.
- Markets: crowded, lively and full of local goods, a good place to see how the city shops and eats.
- Street food: casual stalls and small eateries where you can try a wide range of Vietnamese dishes.
- Business district: as the economic heart of the country, the city has a modern side alongside its older streets.
Planning a visit
Ho Chi Minh City suits travellers who enjoy energy, noise and food-led exploration. Days tend to be busy, so it helps to take breaks and plan your route between markets and districts. Because the city is large and spread out, choosing a few areas to focus on will make the visit more manageable than trying to see everything at once.
