Ho Chi Minh City: Layers of History, Art & Modern Luxury

Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately called Saigon by many locals, is often travelers' first introduction to Vietnam. The city immediately captivates visitors with its fast pace, endless stream of motorbikes and mix of old and new. French colonial landmarks sit alongside sleek high-rise developments, while traditional markets continue to thrive just steps away from luxury shopping centers and contemporary restaurants.

After days spent exploring the city's vibrant streets, I returned each evening to The Reverie Saigon, an ultra-luxury retreat perched high above District 1 in the landmark Times Square building. Arriving here after a long flight felt like stepping into an iridescent dream; the property is an unapologetic masterpiece of Italian design, featuring mosaic-tiled walls, custom plush silks, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that look down over the winding Saigon River. Booking this property for clients unlocks incredible Fora and Virtuoso perks, including customized welcome amenities, complimentary daily breakfast for two at their stunning café, and automated room upgrades when available. The sheer opulence offers an incredible, restorative juxtaposition to the gritty, raw street life waiting just outside the lobby doors.

The historic Saigon Central Post Office is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its stunning French colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

For travelers interested in history, Ho Chi Minh City offers some of Vietnam’s most significant cultural and historical sites. The War Remnants Museum provides important context for understanding Vietnam’s modern history, while Independence Palace offers a glimpse into the events that shaped the country’s future. Walking through these landmarks helps visitors appreciate the resilience of the Vietnamese people and the remarkable transformation the city has undergone in recent decades.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Ho Chi Minh City offers countless opportunities to connect with Vietnam’s artistic and intellectual culture. One of the most fascinating experiences was learning about the country’s centuries-old tradition of lacquer art. Originally developed as a practical technique to protect wood and decorative objects, lacquerware evolved into one of Vietnam’s most celebrated art forms. Visiting workshops and galleries provided a glimpse into the painstaking process, where artisans apply multiple layers of lacquer, pigments, eggshell , andgold leaf before meticulously sanding and polishing each piece. The result is artwork that feels both timeless and distinctly Vietnamese, making lacquer pieces one of the most meaningful souvenirs travelers can bring home.

Vietnamese lacquer art is one of the country's most celebrated artistic traditions, showcasing intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and centuries of cultural heritage. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

Inside Ben Thanh Market, visitors can browse local goods, souvenirs, street food, and handcrafted products in one of Ho Chi Minh City's most famous attractions. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

The Café Apartments in Ho Chi Minh City come alive at night, with illuminated cafés, boutiques, and creative spaces making this iconic landmark a favorite destination in District 1. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

Just a short walk from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, affectionately known as Book Street. Shaded by mature trees and lined with independent bookstores, cafés, and reading spaces, it offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s nonstop energy. Families, students, and visitors gather here to browse books, admire public art displays, and enjoy a slower pace of life. With views of the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral and a calendar of literary and cultural events throughout the year, Book Street provides a charming reminder that Ho Chi Minh City is not only a commercial powerhouse but also a city that values creativity, learning and community.

Food is one of the city’s greatest highlights. From steaming bowls of pho and crispy bánh mì to modern tasting menus and rooftop cocktail lounges, Ho Chi Minh City is a destination where every meal can become a memorable experience. I recommend balancing street food adventures with visits to contemporary restaurants that showcase Vietnam’s evolving culinary scene. Coffee culture is equally impressive, with countless cafés ranging from hidden alleyway gems to stylish multi-level spaces overlooking the city.

The peaceful lily pond at Bình Quới Village offers a scenic escape from the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, with lush gardens, tropical landscapes, and traditional Vietnamese charm. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

An outdoor art exhibit on Nguyen Van Binh Book Street highlights Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant creative scene, combining local culture, literature, and contemporary Vietnamese art. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

One of my favorite aspects of Ho Chi Minh City is how accessible luxury feels. Travelers can enjoy exceptional hotels, world-class spas, private tours and fine dining experiences at a value that is difficult to find in many other major cities. Whether planning a luxury getaway, a cultural journey through Vietnam, or a stopover before exploring other regions of the country, the city offers something for nearly every travel style.

For first-time visitors, I recommend spending at least three to four nights in the city. This allows enough time to explore major attractions, experience the food scene, enjoy the nightlife, and take a day trip to either the Mekong Delta or the Cu Chi Tunnels. While many travelers view Ho Chi Minh City as simply a starting point for a Vietnam itinerary, it is a destination worthy of exploration in its own right.

One of the charming bookshops on Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, a popular cultural destination in Ho Chi Minh City known for its bookstores, cafés, and community events. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can enjoy authentic Vietnamese egg coffee, a unique drink that has become a favorite among travelers and locals alike. Photo credit: Sadie Hanson

• The city is extremely walkable in some districts, but crossing streets can be intimidating for first-time visitors due to the volume of motorbike traffic. The golden rule is to walk at a slow, predictable, and steady pace. Do not stop, hesitate, or suddenly run; the wave of motorbikes will naturally calculate your trajectory and seamlessly flow right around you like water around a stone.

• Do not be intimidated by the low stools lining the sidewalks. This is where the best food and conversation in the city happen. When pulling up to a street stall, simply point to what looks good or observe what others are eating. The turnover is incredibly fast, the ingredients are remarkably fresh, and the hospitality is effortlessly warm.

• The dry season, generally from December through April, offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, though the city remains warm year-round.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Ho Chi Minh City page.