7 Best Fun Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City for First-Time Visitors

July 22, 2026

If it’s your first time in Ho Chi Minh City, get ready because this place is electric. From rooftop cocktails to historic landmarks and buzzing street life, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. But if you’re looking for fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that feel a little more elevated (and a lot more memorable), you’re in the right place.

At Saigon Boat Company, we spend our days showing guests the city from its most beautiful angle: the river. So we’ve put together our favorite mix of experiences that combine luxury, culture, and just pure fun.

1. Cruise the Saigon River with Saigon Boat Company

If you’re searching for truly fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, start where the city feels its most magical, which is on the water. A cruise along the Saigon River offers a completely different perspective of Saigon. While the streets below are energetic and fast-paced, the river provides a calm, breezy escape where you can actually slow down and enjoy the view.

Why Start Your Trip on the River?

First-time visitors are often surprised by how much more they can see and feel from the river. As you glide past the skyline, you’ll notice architectural contrasts such as modern skyscrapers and historic buildings, while hearing stories that bring the city to life.

Even better, it’s one of the few experiences where you can:

Relax comfortably without navigating traffic
Take uninterrupted skyline photos (especially stunning at sunset)
Enjoy a social, intimate setting with drinks in hand

In other words, it’s sightseeing but elevated.

What to Expect on the 60-Minute Guided Cruise

Our signature experience is designed to be easy, enjoyable, and memorable from start to finish. Once you arrive at Bach Dang Pier in District 1, our host will welcome you aboard and get you settled.

From there, everything flows effortlessly:

You’ll cruise through the heart of the city with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories and insights
Drinks are available from our onboard bar, so you can sip while you sail
The boat’s sliding roof keeps you comfortable rain or shine

Key highlights include:

Panoramic views of District 1’s skyline
A peaceful break from the city’s hustle
Unique photo opportunities you simply can’t get on land

Pro tip: Book a late afternoon or sunset cruise for golden lighting and cooler temperatures, it’s a guest favorite for a reason.

The Boat Experience: Small, Stylish, and Social

Unlike crowded tour boats, we keep things personal. With a maximum of 20 guests, the atmosphere is relaxed and social without ever feeling overwhelming.

Here’s what makes the experience stand out:

Boutique wooden interior for a warm, stylish feel
Open seating design so everyone gets a great view
Full-service crew including a captain, host, and bartender
Onboard amenities like a toilet and shaded roof

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the setting naturally encourages conversation and connection.

Want Something More Exclusive? Try a Private Charter

If you’re celebrating something special, or simply want a more personalized experience, our private charter option takes things to the next level.

Instead of joining a group, you’ll have the entire boat to yourself and your guests. This creates the perfect setting for:

Birthday parties
Wedding celebrations
Corporate events or networking gatherings
Private sunset dinners with friends and family

Charter details at a glance:

Capacity: up to 23 guests
Minimum rental: 2 hours
Catering options: snacks, full meals, or even BBQ with a chef onboard
Fully stocked bar with beer, wine, and soft drinks

Imagine cruising past the illuminated skyline at night, music playing, drinks flowing, and your group enjoying a completely private floating venue, it’s easily one of the most unique experiences in the city.

How to Book & Practical Tips

Getting started is simple, and we recommend booking in advance, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons.

You can book our Saigon River cruise either by:

Calling us directly +84 909 844 813
Or placing a reservation through our form. You can also visit our website to check availability of boat tours

Here’s how to plan your cruise:

Location: Bach Dang Pier (Saigon Water Bus Station), District 1
Duration: 60 minutes for standard tours
Price: Starting from $12.50 USD per person
Group size: Max 20 guests (shared tour)

Helpful tips for first-time visitors:

Arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in smoothly
Bring a camera or phone, you’ll want plenty of photos
Dress comfortably but feel free to elevate your look for sunset or evening cruises
Stay hydrated (or you can enjoy a cocktail on our stacked bar)

2. Explore the Historic Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

Right in the heart of District 1, this striking red-brick cathedral feels like a slice of Europe tucked into Saigon. Built in the late 1800s using materials imported from France, it’s one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and an easy stop to add between other activities.

As you approach, you’ll notice the twin bell towers rising above the busy streets, creating a dramatic contrast with the motorbikes rushing by. While interior access may occasionally be limited due to restoration, the exterior alone is worth the visit.

To make the most of your stop:

Visit in the early morning when it’s quieter and cooler
Pair it with a walk to the nearby Central Post Office (just across the street)
Grab a Vietnamese iced coffee at a nearby café and enjoy some relaxed people-watching

It’s not just about the architecture, it’s about soaking in that uniquely Saigon blend of old-world charm and modern energy.

3. Visit the War Remnants Museum

For a deeper, more meaningful experience, the War Remnants Museum offers powerful insight into Vietnam’s history. While it’s not “fun” in the traditional sense, it’s one of the most impactful places you can visit and it often becomes a highlight for travelers seeking understanding beyond the surface.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits featuring photography, artifacts, and firsthand accounts that tell the story of the Vietnam War from a local perspective. The outdoor display of military vehicles adds another layer of context.

A few tips to approach your visit:

Go in the morning when it’s less crowded and easier to move through exhibits
Take your time, this isn’t a place to rush
Plan something lighter afterward (like a café stop or river cruise) to balance the emotional weight

It’s a sobering but important experience that gives you a deeper appreciation of the country you’re exploring.

4. Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar like Chill Skybar

After a day of exploring, it’s time to elevate your evening, literally. Ho Chi Minh City’s rooftop bars are where the city’s energy meets a more refined, glamorous vibe, and Chill Skybar is one of the best places to experience it.

As the sun sets, the skyline begins to glow, and the atmosphere shifts. Music picks up, the crowd gets livelier, and the city stretches out beneath you in every direction.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

Arrive just before sunset to enjoy both daylight and nighttime views
Dress smart-casual (many rooftop venues have a dress code)
Try a signature cocktail or a premium spirit, it’s part of the experience

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just enjoying your trip, it’s one of the most stylish and fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City at night.

5. Wander Through Ben Thanh Market

If you want to dive straight into the city’s vibrant, fast-paced culture, Ben Thanh Market is the place to be. It’s busy, colorful, and full of life, exactly what many first-time visitors imagine when they think of Vietnam.

Inside, you’ll find everything from souvenirs and handicrafts to local snacks and street food. It’s a great spot to pick up gifts or simply explore and take it all in.

To navigate like a pro:

Bring cash (Vietnamese dong) for easier transactions
Don’t be shy about negotiating prices, it’s expected and part of the fun
Visit during the day for shopping, or come back at night when the surrounding street food stalls come alive

It’s a bit chaotic, but in the best way possible.

6. Take a Food Tour Through District 1

No list of fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without mentioning the food. This city is a culinary playground, and the best way to experience it, especially for first-timers, is through a guided food tour.

Instead of guessing where to go, you’ll be led by locals who know exactly where to find the hidden gems. You’ll move from spot to spot, tasting dishes that define Vietnamese cuisine.

Expect to try:

Crispy, flavorful bánh mì sandwiches
Steaming bowls of pho packed with herbs and spices
Sweet and strong Vietnamese iced coffee

Many tours are done by walking, scooter, or even jeep, adding an extra layer of fun and adventure.

Insider tip: Come hungry and pace yourself, there’s usually more food than you expect!

7. Stroll Along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

When the sun goes down, Nguyen Hue Walking Street becomes one of the liveliest social hubs in the city. This wide pedestrian boulevard is where locals and visitors alike come to unwind, hang out, and enjoy the atmosphere.

As you walk along, you’ll find:

Street performers and live music
Groups of friends gathering and playing games
Pop-up events and cultural performances

It’s casual, open, and full of energy, perfect for an easygoing evening after a more structured activity.

To enhance your visit:

Grab a drink or dessert from a nearby café
Take a slow walk and just enjoy the vibe
Visit on weekends for the most lively atmosphere

It’s simple, fun, and a great way to feel connected to the city’s everyday life.

Ready to Experience the Best of Saigon? Come Cruise With Us

By now, you’ve got a taste of the many fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. But if there’s one experience that truly brings it all together, it’s seeing the city from the water.

At Saigon Boat Company, we offer not just a boat ride but also moments you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

Your Saigon experience deserves something special and it doesn’t get better than this.

Spots fill up quickly, especially for sunset cruises, so we recommend booking in advance.

Get in touch with us to book the cruise of your life!

Phone number: +84 909 844 813
Email: info@saigonboatcompany.com