Ho Chi Minh City is the vibrant and dynamic economic hub of Vietnam. It’s very international and modern compared to its sister cities, however plenty of old colonial structures remain, adding a beautiful contrast to the every day life of its residents. Let’s exploce The Most Instagrammable Spots in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam below.
Contents
The Most Instagrammable Spots in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ben Thanh Market
If you want to capture the bustling lifestyle of Saigon in just one photo, do it in Ben Thanh Market. Although the market has become more touristy over the years, it’s still worth a visit as you can get some iconic photos here. Apart from being the single most notable Ho Chi Minh City icon, the market is an Instagram worthy place thanks to its architecture. Ben Thanh Market inherits the typical French Architecture that you can find sprinkled all over Vietnam.
Outside of Ben Thanh market, there are four main entrances called East, West, South and North. The South entrance, which is ornate with a clock above the door, is one of the most recognized icons of the market. You may have already seen it on Instagram.
Bui Vien Street
No trip in Saigon is complete without a visit to Bui Vien Street. This is where you can capture the energy of the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City. Started out as a small alley where foreigners can easily find a hostel room, Bui Vien has now turned into a famous party destination. It’s filled with pubs, bars, massage parlors, restaurants, hostels, and street food. All these things are squeezed into a crowded space, making the whole street insanely chaotic and thrilling.
The typical Instagram shot on Bui Vien will show the large crowd of people on the streets with the bright lights in the background. It’s an experience you just have to capture.
Notre Dame Cathedral
Materials were imported exclusively from France to build this cathedral, modeled to look like the Notre Dame in Paris. It was completed in the late 19th century. Standing out front is a statue of the Virgin Mary that became a sensation in 2005, when eyewitnesses claimed to have seen tears being shed from her eyes. More than a religious destination, Tan Dinh Church attracts both Vietnamese and foreign visitors due to its charming pink color. This is why it’s also known as ‘The Pink Church’. Tan Dinh Church is the second oldest cathedral in Saigon and you’ll be amazed at the architecture.
This is a Roman style cathedral with Gothic vibes was built in 1870 under the French colonization in Vietnam. Since then it has been reconstructed many times. In 1957, during the fourth reconstruction it was painted its current lovely color pink. Although it’s a bit disappointing, tourists are not allowed inside the church. The good news is, the best photos of Tan Dinh Church are usually taken from outside anyway. The best time to visit is the early morning when the surrounding streets are vacant.
City Hall
Ho Chi Minh City Hall in Ho Chi Minh City aka Saigon, South Vietnam. The City Hall is an architectural masterpiece completed in 1908 and still functions as a government office, so you cannot go inside.
Yet you can appreciate the beauty of the structure from the outside as it looms at the north end of the pedestrian street, Nguyen Hue. The cream and yellow structure gets lit up with floodlights come nighttime and is a spectacular sight.
Thien Hau Temple
Another iconic Instagram worthy destination that can’t be missed is Thien Hau Temple. Built in the 19th century, the temple represents important religious traditions for the Chinese community living in the South of Vietnam. Thien Hau Temple is a Taoist temple dedicated to Mazu Goddess, the “Lady of the Sea” in Taoism.
The temple displays the famous ancient Chinese architecture with the traditional curvy roof, well carved pillars, and sculpted holy animals. Having survived for over 2 centuries, the temple and its interior decorations are still in good condition. Don’t forget to pray for health and good fortune as this temple as it’s very famous for its spiritual power. Then it’s time to capture every single corner of this photogenic temple. And remember to dress appropriately or you could be refused entry.
