Sai Gon

Ho Chi Minh City is also known by the familiar former name Sai Gon. This is one of the largest and most developed urban areas in Vietnam. With a heroic history, diverse culture and rapid economic development, the city is a great destination for you to experience and discover new things. Join Asia King Travel as we explore this magnificent city.

History of Ho Chi Minh City

The Vietnamese began settling in Prey Nokor and Kas Krobei (part of present-day Ho Chi Minh City) in the early 17th century. In 1698, under the order of the Nguyen Lord, General Nguyen Huu Canh established Gia Dinh prefecture, which is regarded as the founding milestone of the city.

To further their colonial exploitation, the French invaded Indochina, where they founded Sai Gon City, which grew rapidly to become one of Vietnam's two most significant cities alongside Hanoi. This city was dubbed the "Pearl of the Far East" by the French among their colonies. The destination was also the capital of the Indochina Federation from 1887-1901 (later France moved the capital of the Indochina Federation to Hanoi). 

Ho Chi Minh City was formerly known as the Pearl of the Far East

In 1949, this place became the capital of the State of Vietnam - a polity under the Indochina Federation and later the capital of the Republic of Vietnam. After the end of the Vietnam War on April 30th, 1975, the Vietnamese territory was completely unified. On July 2nd, 1976, the National Assembly of a unified Vietnam decided to change the name of Sai Gon to "Ho Chi Minh City", after the first President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Since 1975, Ho Chi Minh City has always been the largest city and the biggest economic hub in Vietnam. In 2025, the city was merged with Binh Duong Province to the north and Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province to the south. Although it lost its number-one position in terms of land area to Da Nang, thanks to the economic strength of the two newly merged provinces, Sai Gon has become a megacity, far surpassing other cities in the country

Read more: Sai Gon Tour 1 day: Sai Gon River Cruise

Location

Ho Chi Minh City is in the Southeast region, about 1,700 kilometers from the capital Hanoi. To the north, it borders Dong Nai and Lam Dong provinces. To the east, it borders the South China Sea. To the south, it borders Dong Thap Province. And to the west, it borders Tay Ninh Province. Including its maritime boundaries, the city is adjacent to almost all southern provinces except An Giang.

With its central location in Southeast Asia, Ho Chi Minh City is an important transportation hub for the region, covering road, waterway, and air routes. A Sai Gon travel guide will usually highlight how this location makes the city a perfect base for exploring southern Vietnam.

How to get to Ho Chi Minh City

By Air

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the primary airport serving the city and is the largest airport in Vietnam. It receives both domestic and international flights from many destinations around the world. Many major airlines operate flights to Ho Chi Minh City, making it easily accessible for travelers from different countries.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport serves an average of 30 million passengers per year

By Land

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City by road is also very convenient if you are already in Vietnam. Many national highways connect the city with other provinces, especially National Highway 1A, which runs along the length of the country. The Reunification Railway line is also a fast and exciting way to reach the city

Ho Chi Minh City has a highly developed road transportation system

By Sea

Arriving by sea is an experience in itself. More and more international cruise lines are including the city on their itineraries. Ho Chi Minh City welcomes cruise passengers at several ports. The most frequently used is Phu My Port, located about 70 kilometers from downtown. In addition, Nha Rong Port occasionally serves smaller ships and offers the most direct access to the city’s attractions.

Weather in Sai Gon

General Climate

Similar to other southern provinces, Ho Chi Minh City does not have four distinct seasons but instead two variations of summer: the rainy season and the dry season. Temperatures remain high throughout the year, averaging 27°C. The rainy season lasts from May to October, while the dry season runs from November to April of the following year.

Ho Chi Minh City's tropical climate means it remains relatively warm throughout the year

Wet Season (May to October)

The wet season typically lasts from May to October. During this period, the city experiences heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. July and August are the wettest months, with frequent afternoon showers. The temperatures during the wet season generally range from 25°C to 32°C.

Dry Season (November to April)

The dry season extends from November to April. This period is characterized by lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The weather is generally more pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. December and January are considered the coolest months, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 34°C. Many Vietnam travel guides recommend visiting during this time when the weather is most comfortable for sightseeing.

The City Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral... are architectural works with bold Western architecture

Famous Attractions

Independence Palace

Independence Palace is a must-visit attraction when exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the city center, it holds immense historical and cultural significance, serving as a testament to a period when the whole world had its eyes on Vietnam. Every year on April 30, various events are held here, drawing many history enthusiasts and tourists.

Independence Palace is a symbol of Saigon

Cu Chi Tunnels

About 70 kilometers from the city center, Cu Chi Tunnels are also a remarkable destination to learn about the Vietnam War. The North Vietnam Army built an intricate network of 250 kilometers of tunnels serving multiple purposes such as hospitals, kitchens, storage facilities, etc. When visiting, you can experience life underground and even try shooting real firearms.

Vietnamese soldiers lived and fought in very narrow tunnels

Vung Tau

The coastal city of Vung Tau has long been a famous resort destination for international visitors. The longest and most beautiful beach is Sau Beach in the southern part of the city, with endless stretches of smooth white sand. Besides swimming, Vung Tau also offers plenty of recreational spots and entertainment venues, promising you an exciting and relaxing getaway.

The sea at Sau Beach is beautiful and clear

Where to Stay in Saigon

Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs — from backpacker hostels in buzzing District 1 to luxurious 5-star hotels along the Saigon River. If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the action, District 1 is the best choice, placing you within walking distance of Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum, and vibrant nightlife. For a more peaceful and upscale experience, consider hotels in District 3 or near the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

These areas are known for tree-lined streets, colonial villas, and a more laid-back vibe — ideal for couples or families. Budget travelers will appreciate the abundance of affordable guesthouses and boutique hotels scattered throughout the city, offering comfort without compromising on location.

To find the best deals on hotels in Saigon, including local discounts and limited-time offers, check out Hotelsmotor — a trusted site that compares prices from various platforms and often features special rates from the hotels themselves.

What to eat in Sai Gon

Broken Rice

If you ask what the specialty dish of Ho Chi Minh City is, the answer is definitely com tam (broken rice). A plate of rice seems simple but can accompany locals in every meal, whether morning, lunch or dinner. The most special version is still broken rice with pork ribs, served with onion fat, pickles and a cup of sweet fish sauce.

From a cheap street food dish, com tam has become a specialty of Ho Chi Minh City

Hu Tieu

Hu tieu is a noodle soup originally influenced by Chinese and Cambodian cuisine but has since become a staple in Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Its main highlight is the thin, chewy rice noodles paired with a light yet flavorful pork bone broth.

The taste may seem a bit strange at first, but the more you eat, the more delicious it becomes

The signature feature of hu tieu lies in its broth. Simmered from pork bones along with dried shrimp, dried squid, or salted radish, the soup has a naturally light sweetness without being overpowering. With the first spoonful, you’ll immediately taste its delicate sweetness, and the more you eat, the richer and more flavorful it becomes.

Banh Mi

Banh mi is a very familiar and close dish to almost all Vietnamese. When walking on the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, you can easily see countless banh mi shops or banh mi carts. Because it is so familiar, few people think this dish is one of the specialties here.

Banh mi is considered one of the pinnacles of street food and has been listed of the best sandwiches in the world

The wonderful taste of banh mi is a combination of cold cuts, spring rolls, sausages, pate, pickles, onions, cilantro... and a very special sauce, all wrapped in a fragrant and crispy loaf of bread. Not only that, nowadays sandwiches are also combined with roast pork, meatballs and fish cakes,... each filling has a unique flavor but is delicious, nutritious, and cheap.

Conclusion

With dynamic, prosperous but equally poetic beauty, perhaps any traveler would like to travel to this tourist attraction once to fully explore this land full of love. Walking past skyscrapers, visiting ancient buildings, sitting next to street vendors and listening to stories of working people, you will see a luxurious but also friendly Ho Chi Minh City. Contact Asia King Travel to get an unforgettable memory in this land.

Read more: Ho Chi Minh Tour 2 hours: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City on foot