14 cosas que hacer en
Ciudad de Ho Chi Minh

Explorar los túneles de Cu Chi es una experiencia inolvidable que ofrece una inmersión profunda en el ingenio, la resiliencia y la determinación del pueblo vietnamita durante la Guerra de Vietnam. Ubicada a unos 70 kilómetros al noroeste de la ciudad de Ho Chi Minh, esta vasta red de túneles subterráneos sirvió como base estratégica para el Viet Cong, facilitando operaciones, incluidas rutas de suministro, líneas de comunicación, hospitales y viviendas, en medio del conflicto.

Los túneles, construidos originalmente en la década de 1940 durante la lucha contra los franceses, se ampliaron durante la guerra de Vietnam hasta cubrir unos 250 kilómetros. Permitieron al Viet Cong controlar una gran zona rural cerca de Saigón y desempeñaron un papel importante en sus estrategias bélicas.

Visitors to the Cu Chi Tunnels can explore sections that have been widened and reinforced to accommodate tourists, allowing you to experience the claustrophobic conditions in which soldiers lived and fought. The site features informative exhibits, including booby traps, hidden entrances, and a glimpse into the daily life of the soldiers and villagers who called these tunnels home. There’s also an opportunity to crawl through safer, modified sections of the tunnel system, providing a visceral sense of the underground life.

Además de la exploración física, el sitio a menudo incluye presentaciones sobre la historia de los túneles y los ingeniosos métodos que empleó el Viet Cong para pasar desapercibido y sostener sus esfuerzos. Algunos recorridos pueden ofrecer la oportunidad de probar comida típica de la guerrilla, sumergiendo aún más a los visitantes en la experiencia de la guerra.

The visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels is not only a physical adventure but also an educational journey, offering profound insights into the complexities of war and the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people. It’s a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of conflict and a testament to human endurance and adaptability.

Pasear por el Mercado Ben Thanh, en el corazón de Ciudad Ho Chi Minh, es como adentrarse en un vibrante microcosmos de la cultura vietnamita, ofreciendo una experiencia auténtica y sensorial. Siendo uno de los lugares más antiguos y emblemáticos de la ciudad, el mercado no es solo un lugar de comercio; es un centro neurálgico de la vida cotidiana, sabores locales e intercambios culturales.

La icónica torre del reloj del mercado da la bienvenida a los visitantes a un laberinto de puestos, cada uno repleto de colores, aromas y sonidos. En su interior, encontrará una amplia gama de productos, desde productos frescos y mariscos hasta artesanías, textiles, ropa y recuerdos. Es el lugar perfecto para adquirir artículos tradicionales vietnamitas como telas de seda, textiles bordados a mano, objetos lacados y especias aromáticas.

La gastronomía es una parte esencial de la experiencia en el Mercado Ben Thanh. El mercado es un paraíso para los amantes de la gastronomía, con una gran variedad de puestos de comida callejera y restaurantes donde podrá deleitarse con auténtica cocina vietnamita. Pruebe especialidades locales como el pho (sopa de fideos), el banh mi (sándwich vietnamita), rollitos de primavera frescos y una gran variedad de dulces. Es una excelente oportunidad para degustar una variedad de platos en un solo lugar, cada uno ofreciendo una visión de los sabores regionales de Vietnam.

Recorrer el mercado también es una oportunidad para interactuar con los amables vendedores, muchos de los cuales estarán encantados de compartir historias sobre sus productos o de ofrecer una lección sobre el arte del regateo, una práctica común en los mercados vietnamitas. El ambiente animado, con la charla de lugareños y turistas por igual, realza el encanto y la vitalidad del mercado.

Visitar el Mercado de Ben Thanh es más que una simple excursión de compras; es un viaje cultural inmersivo que ofrece una perspectiva del estilo de vida local, la artesanía tradicional y las delicias culinarias de Vietnam. Ya sea para comprar, comer o simplemente disfrutar del ambiente, el Mercado de Ben Thanh promete una experiencia memorable y típicamente saigonesa.

La calle peatonal Nguyen Hue, ubicada en el corazón de la ciudad de Ho Chi Minh, es un espacio público vibrante y moderno que encarna el espíritu dinámico de la ciudad. Este amplio bulevar peatonal, que se extiende desde el río Saigón hasta el histórico Ayuntamiento, es un lugar de reunión favorito tanto para los lugareños como para los turistas, y ofrece un ambiente animado y una visión de la vida urbana contemporánea en Vietnam.

La transformación de la calle Nguyen Hue en una zona exclusivamente peatonal la ha convertido en un oasis urbano, donde la gente viene a pasear, socializar y disfrutar del aire libre lejos del ajetreo y el bullicio del tráfico motorizado. La calle está llena de hermosos jardines, fuentes de agua y áreas para sentarse, lo que la convierte en un lugar perfecto para pasear y relajarse.

Por la noche, la calle peatonal Nguyen Hue cobra vida con un espectacular despliegue de luces, lo que contribuye al ambiente festivo. Los edificios circundantes, incluido el histórico Ayuntamiento y varias estructuras de la época colonial, están iluminados, resaltando su belleza arquitectónica. Los artistas callejeros, desde músicos hasta bailarines y artistas, se suman al vibrante tapiz cultural de la zona, brindando entretenimiento y una muestra del talento local.

La calle peatonal también está flanqueada por una variedad de tiendas, cafés y restaurantes, que ofrecen de todo, desde tiendas minoristas de alta gama hasta opciones gastronómicas informales. Los visitantes pueden disfrutar de una taza de café vietnamita en uno de los cafés al aire libre, probar comida callejera de los vendedores ambulantes o cenar en uno de los muchos restaurantes que ofrecen cocina local e internacional.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is more than just a place to walk; it’s a cultural and social hub that offers a window into the modern lifestyle of Ho Chi Minh City’s residents. It’s a place where the community comes together to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the urban environment, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant energy and contemporary culture of the city.

Exploring the vibrant heart of Vietnam, a Saigon tour bus offers an immersive journey through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. As the bus weaves through the city’s dynamic districts, passengers are treated to a panoramic view of its rich tapestry, where traditional pagodas stand in harmony with sleek skyscrapers. Each stop presents an opportunity to delve into the city’s eclectic blend of history and modernity, from the poignant War Remnants Museum to the bustling Ben Thanh Market, pulsating with the energy of local vendors and fragrant with the aromas of Vietnamese cuisine. As the sun sets, the tour bus glides along the Saigon River, offering a serene contrast to the day’s adventures, and giving passengers a glimpse of the city’s romantic side, with the twinkling city lights reflecting off the water. A Saigon tour bus journey is more than just a ride; it’s a gateway to experiencing the soul of this captivating city, where every turn reveals a new facet of its intriguing story.

Landmark 81 Sky View en Saigón es una atracción notable, que ofrece a los visitantes vistas panorámicas de la ciudad desde sus plataformas de observación en los pisos 79, 80 y 81. Este edificio más alto de Vietnam es parte de un complejo más grande que incluye hoteles, apartamentos con servicios, espacios comerciales y una variedad de instalaciones de ocio. Los visitantes pueden experimentar actividades únicas en cada piso de la plataforma de observación, desde disfrutar de un café en las sillas de nube en el piso 79 hasta participar en un emocionante juego de realidad virtual que simula un salto en paracaídas desde lo alto del edificio en el piso 80. El piso 81 cuenta con una terraza al aire libre, lo que permite una vista sin obstáculos de la ciudad de Ho Chi Minh desde arriba. Para una experiencia integral, Landmark 81 también alberga una variedad de opciones gastronómicas, centros comerciales y una pista de hielo, lo que lo convierte en un destino versátil que combina lujo, entretenimiento y espectaculares vistas de la ciudad.

Tet, or Tet Nguyen Dan, which translates to “Festival of the First Morning of the First Day,” is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. It marks the arrival of spring based on the Lunar calendar, a system used in many parts of Asia. The date of Tet varies from year to year but usually falls in late January or early February.

The festival is celebrated over several days, with the official holiday lasting for about a week. However, preparations and the festive atmosphere can start weeks before the actual date, and the celebrations can extend a week or two after. It’s a time of family reunions, ancestral worship, community festivities, and a lot of traditional customs aimed at welcoming the new year with good luck and prosperity.

For the specific date of Tet in any given year, it’s best to consult a current Lunar calendar or search for the date, as it shifts annually.

Bui Vien Walking Street, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant District 1, epitomizes the pulsating nightlife and cultural diversity of modern Vietnam. Known as the backpacker district of Saigon, this pedestrian-only street comes alive at night with a kaleidoscope of lights, music, and the buzzing energy of locals and travelers mingling together. Lined with an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and street food vendors, Bui Vien offers an endless array of dining and entertainment options, catering to all tastes and budgets.

The street’s atmosphere is a dynamic blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and international influences, reflecting the cosmopolitan character of the city. Visitors can enjoy live music ranging from local Vietnamese pop to international rock bands, taste local delicacies, or simply soak in the lively ambiance with a cold beer in hand. Bui Vien is also a place where one can find a variety of souvenir shops selling everything from handmade crafts to vibrant artworks, making it the perfect place to find a memento of your travels.

Bui Vien Walking Street not only serves as a hub for nightlife but also as a cultural melting pot where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and the essence of Saigon’s spirited character is on full display. Whether you’re looking to party into the early hours, enjoy a leisurely meal, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Bui Vien offers an authentic slice of life in Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’re in Saigon and craving authentic Mexican cuisine, District Federal Restaurant in Thao Dien is the place to be. This vibrant and colorful restaurant, established in 2017, brings the flavors of Mexico City to Ho Chi Minh City. With a commitment to authenticity, they make their tacos, chips, tostadas, salsas, and queso fresco fresh daily.

El restaurante cuenta con una animada sección al aire libre donde se puede ver a los chefs en acción y un área climatizada con una barra de siete metros que sirve fantásticos cócteles, incluidas las congeladas Margaritas Patrón. El ambiente es enérgico y divertido, perfecto para fotografías grupales, y el personal es amable y eficiente. Lo más destacado incluye su salsa de chorizo y queso, guacamole, nachos de pollo y una variedad de deliciosos tacos.

The overall experience is top-notch, making it the best Mexican food spot in Vietnam. Delivery is also available, making it convenient to enjoy their delightful dishes at home. If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, District Federal is a must-visit.

The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, is a stunning example of French Colonial architecture in Vietnam. Completed in 1900 and designed by French architects, including Félix Olivier, Ernest Guichard, and Eugène Ferret, the Opera House showcases the flamboyant style of the French Third Republic. Its façade, reminiscent of the Petit Palais in Paris, was restored in 1998 to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Saigon. Originally designed to accommodate up to 1,800 people, the Opera House now has a seating capacity of 500 after various renovations.

The Opera House hosts a variety of performances, with one of the most popular being the A O Show, which combines circus, live music, and bamboo to create a mesmerizing experience that explores the themes of Vietnam’s rural life and urbanization. The interior retains many original features, including stone verandas, white stone statues, and colorful granite tiled floors, alongside modern amenities like advanced lighting and sound systems.

Visiting the Saigon Opera House, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is a must for those interested in architecture, history, and the performing arts. Even if you’re not planning to watch a show, the building’s illuminated exterior at night is a sight to behold. For more information and to book tickets for a show, you can visit the official website of the show producer, Luneproduction.

Visiting the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is a powerful and sobering experience that provides profound insights into the Vietnam War’s brutal impact on the Vietnamese people and the lasting legacies of the conflict. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is one of the most visited sites in Vietnam, drawing visitors from around the world to reflect on the atrocities of war.

El museo alberga una extensa colección de artefactos, fotografías y películas documentales. Estas exhibiciones están divididas en varias salas temáticas, cada una de las cuales se centra en diferentes aspectos de la guerra y sus secuelas, incluidos los efectos del Agente Naranja, el uso de napalm y bombas de fósforo, y los movimientos internacionales contra la guerra que provocó el conflicto. Una de las exhibiciones más impactantes es la Exposición de Réquiem, que muestra fotografías de tiempos de guerra tomadas por periodistas extranjeros y vietnamitas, incluidos algunos que perdieron la vida en el conflicto.

Fuera del museo, los visitantes pueden ver una colección de equipo militar estadounidense, como tanques, aviones de combate y helicópteros, que sirven como duros recordatorios de la escala y la intensidad de las operaciones militares llevadas a cabo durante la guerra.

The War Remnants Museum does not shy away from depicting the war’s horrors and the suffering of the Vietnamese people, but it also carries a message of peace and the hope that such conflicts can be avoided in the future. The graphic content and poignant narratives can be emotional for visitors, but they also foster a deeper understanding of the war’s human cost and the importance of reconciliation.

A visit to the War Remnants Museum is essential for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of the Vietnam War and its enduring impact on Vietnam and its people. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the past and consider the profound effects of war on humanity and the spirit of resilience and recovery.

“Catfe Saigon” is a cat cafe located in Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Cat cafes are establishments where customers can enjoy food and beverages while interacting with resident cats. These cafes typically offer a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, allowing patrons to unwind and spend time with furry companions. Catfe Saigon provides a range of serve your own drinks and snacks for customers to enjoy while they pet, play with, or simply observe the cats in the cafe. This establishment try’s to prioritize the well-being of the cats, to ensuring they are properly cared for and have space to roam and relax. If you’re a cat lover visiting Saigon, Catfe Saigon could be a charming and enjoyable place to visit.

The Thich Quang Duc Monument in Saigon stands as a poignant tribute to the self-immolation of the Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc in 1963, a moment that resonated around the world as a powerful act of protest against the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government at the time. Located at the busy intersection in District 3 where the act took place, the monument captures the solemnity and the profound impact of Thich Quang Duc’s sacrifice. It features a statue of the monk in a meditative pose, surrounded by reliefs that depict his act of self-immolation and the subsequent international reaction. This site not only commemorates the monk’s ultimate demonstration of peaceful protest but also serves as a reminder of the struggle for religious freedom and human rights. Visitors to the monument are often moved by the stark representation of such a pivotal moment in history, making it a must-visit for those looking to understand the deeper layers of Vietnam’s complex past.

La pagoda Phap Vien Minh Dang Quang, ubicada en la bulliciosa ciudad de Saigón (Ciudad Ho Chi Minh), ofrece un sereno oasis en medio de la expansión urbana, brindando tanto a los lugareños como a los visitantes un espacio para la reflexión, la espiritualidad y la paz. Este templo budista, que se distingue por su sorprendente arquitectura y su ambiente tranquilo, forma parte del Instituto Budista Minh Dang Quang y desempeña un papel importante en la vida espiritual y la educación dentro de la comunidad budista en Vietnam.

The pagoda is renowned for its beautifully adorned halls, intricate carvings, and statues that depict various aspects of the Buddha’s life and teachings. The main hall is an architectural marvel, housing an impressive statue of the Buddha, and is a focal point for prayer and meditation. The surrounding gardens, with meticulously maintained bonsai trees and lotus ponds, add to the peaceful atmosphere, encouraging visitors to linger and soak in the tranquility.

Phap Vien Minh Dang Quang Pagoda is not just a place of worship; it’s also a center for cultural and educational activities related to Buddhism. It hosts meditation sessions, religious ceremonies, and festivals, which are open to both practitioners and those interested in learning about Buddhist traditions and practices. Visiting this temple offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of Vietnam, providing a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural heritage and the profound influence of Buddhism in the lives of its people.

Visiting a wet market in Vietnam is an enthralling experience that offers a vivid glimpse into the local lifestyle and the vibrant culinary culture of the country. These bustling markets are so named because the floors are often wet, a result of vendors washing their stalls and the fresh produce on offer. As you step into the lively atmosphere, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and a symphony of sounds, from the chatter of bargaining to the sizzle of street food being prepared on the spot.

The air is filled with the different scents and aromas of seafood and meats. Stalls are laden with a dazzling array of produce, from exotic fruits and vegetables to an impressive variety of seafood, often still alive and swimming in buckets. It’s a place to immerse yourself in the local culture, to learn about the ingredients that form the backbone of Vietnamese cuisine.

Beyond the sensory overload, a visit to a wet market in Vietnam is a lesson in the importance of fresh, seasonal produce in Vietnamese cooking. It’s a communal hub where food is not just sold but celebrated, providing a unique insight into the daily lives of the locals and the traditional practices that have shaped Vietnamese cuisine.