Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
Discover vibrant Saigon: where French colonial charm meets bustling Vietnamese energy
About Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, still affectionately known as Saigon, pulses with an infectious energy that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. This sprawling metropolis seamlessly blends French colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers, whilst motorbikes weave through streets lined with street food stalls serving some of Vietnam's most delicious pho and banh mi.
From the historic War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels to the bustling Ben Thanh Market and elegant Notre-Dame Cathedral, the city offers an extraordinary mix of poignant history and vibrant culture. The Mekong Delta's floating markets lie just a day trip away, whilst the city's rooftop bars and French-influenced restaurants provide perfect respites from the tropical heat.
With excellent value for money, warm hospitality, and an incredible culinary scene that ranges from Michelin-starred establishments to legendary street food vendors, Ho Chi Minh City delivers an unforgettable Southeast Asian adventure that's easily accessible from London.
Airlines Flying to Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Hanoi
£629
return
Turkish Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Istanbul
£549
return
Qatar Airways
1 stop · Daily via Doha
£589
return
Emirates
1 stop · Daily via Dubai
£659
return
Thai Airways
1 stop · Daily via Bangkok
£599
return
Singapore Airlines
1 stop · Daily via Singapore
£699
return
Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum
cultureMoving museum documenting the Vietnam War with powerful exhibits including military equipment, photographs, and personal accounts from the conflict.
Cu Chi Tunnels
cultureExtensive underground tunnel network used by Viet Cong soldiers, offering crawling experiences through narrow passages and historical insights.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
landmarkStunning French colonial cathedral built with materials imported from France, featuring distinctive red-brick facade and twin bell towers.
Ben Thanh Market
shoppingIconic covered market perfect for bargaining over textiles, souvenirs, and sampling authentic Vietnamese street food under one bustling roof.
Reunification Palace
landmarkHistoric presidential palace where the Vietnam War officially ended in 1975, preserved exactly as it was with original 1960s furnishings and war rooms.
Jade Emperor Pagoda
religiousAtmospheric Taoist temple filled with incense smoke, intricate woodcarvings, and statues dedicated to the Jade Emperor and various deities.
Mekong Delta Day Trip
natureExcursion to the 'rice bowl of Vietnam' featuring floating markets, coconut candy factories, and traditional sampan boat rides through narrow canals.
Saigon Central Post Office
landmarkMagnificent French colonial post office designed by Gustave Eiffel, featuring gorgeous interior maps, ornate architecture, and still functioning postal services.
Street Food Tours in District 1
foodGuided culinary adventures through narrow alleyways discovering authentic pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese specialties from legendary local vendors.
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City
Park Hyatt Saigon
Prestigious hotel opposite the Opera House offering refined luxury with impeccable French colonial architecture and world-class amenities.
Hotel des Arts Saigon MGallery
Stylish boutique hotel showcasing contemporary Vietnamese art with sophisticated rooms and excellent dining options in the heart of District 1.
Caravelle Saigon
Legendary hotel with rich history as war correspondents' headquarters, featuring panoramic city views and prime location near major attractions.
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
Contemporary hotel perfectly positioned for exploring local markets and attractions, offering comfortable accommodations with great facilities.
Hotel Continental Saigon
Historic colonial hotel dating from 1880, featured in Graham Greene's novels, maintaining old-world charm with modern comforts.
Rex Hotel
Iconic hotel with legendary rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, steeped in Vietnam War history and perfectly located for sightseeing.
The Alcove Library Hotel
Charming boutique hotel with extensive library and literary theme, providing intimate atmosphere with personalised service in central location.
Local Tips for Ho Chi Minh City
- Download Grab app for reliable motorbike taxis and cars - much safer than flagging down random xe om drivers on the street.
- Always carry small Vietnamese dong notes (20,000-50,000 VND) for street food vendors who rarely accept large denominations or cards.
- Traffic lights are suggestions rather than rules - wait for locals before crossing busy streets and stick with the crowd for safety.
- Bargain at markets but not in shopping centres or restaurants with fixed prices. Start at 50% of the asking price at Ben Thanh Market.
- Avoid ice in drinks from street vendors unless it's tube-shaped ice from reputable suppliers. Stick to bottled water for brushing teeth.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and a light rain jacket. The humidity is intense year-round, especially during monsoon season.
- Book Cu Chi Tunnels tours through your hotel rather than street touts - you'll get better guides and avoid tourist traps.
- Tip 5-10% at restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff 20,000-50,000 VND.
- Learn basic Vietnamese phrases like 'xin chào' (hello) and 'cảm ơn' (thank you) - locals appreciate the effort enormously.
- Visit War Remnants Museum early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense midday heat, especially December to April.
Frequently Asked Questions
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