Ho Chi Minh City, with its vibrant street life and rich history, is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam. The city combines the country's past and present in the smallest places, from French colonial architecture to bustling markets filling its streets. So whether you want to learn more about Vietnam's history, explore its culture, or enjoy its delicious cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City will surely captivate you.

Highlights:

Cu Chi Tunnels:

If you're interested in learning about the history of the Vietnam War, a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels is a must. These underground tunnels, located about 60 km outside Ho Chi Minh City, were used by the Viet Cong during the war. Today, you can explore a small section of the tunnels, which have been preserved as a museum. You'll get a sense of what life was like for the soldiers who fought - and lived - in these cramped and dark quarters and see the clever traps they used to defend their positions. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to crawl through some tight spaces.

Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful world of Vietnamese puppetry at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City. This traditional art form has been passed down for over 1000 years, and the theatre is one of the best places to see it in action. The 50-minute show features beautifully crafted puppets dancing and performing on water, accompanied by bamboo flutes, two-stringed violins and narration. Despite being presented in Vietnamese, the strong characters and beautiful performance overcomes language boundaries. The theatre is conveniently located in the heart of the city and offers a great way to spend an evening after a busy day of sightseeing.

Thiên Hau Temple:

Thiên Hau Temple is located in Ho Chi Minh City's Chinatown district. Built in the mid-19th century by the Cantonese community, it is dedicated to the Chinese goddess Mazu (Thiên Hau in Vietnamese), believed to protect seafarers and travelers. The temple's elaborate architecture features dragon motifs and intricate woodcarvings, and its smoky interior is filled with the heady scent of incense. Don't miss the colorful dragon dance performances during major festivals like Tet and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Ben Thanh Market:

If you're looking for an authentic Vietnamese shopping experience, head to Ben Thanh Market. This bustling historic marketplace is filled with vendors selling everything from textiles to spices and handicrafts. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home and sample some of the city's delicious street food. Try local specialties, like freshly squeezed sugarcane juice or a steaming bowl of pho. Be prepared to haggle for the best prices, and be bold and walk away if the vendor won't budge - there are plenty of other stalls to choose from.

Mekong Delta:

The Mekong Delta is a maze of rivers and rice paddies that stretches across southwestern Vietnam. A day trip from Ho Chi Minh City will take you through lush landscapes and charming villages, where you can learn about the local way of life and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. Highlights include a boat ride along the Mekong River, where you can see floating markets and traditional fishing techniques in action. The trip to My Tho, a market town on the banks of the Mekong River, where the boat ride usually starts, is about a 70-kilometer drive from Ho Chi Minh City. You can also visit coconut candy factories and rice paper-making workshops and try the region's delicious tropical fruits. A visit to the Mekong Delta offers a chance to experience the more traditional side of Vietnam.