25 Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City as a First-Time Visitor

This French-colonial cathedral stands proudly in the center of District 1, framed by gardens and passing scooters that create a distinctly Saigon vibe. Its red bricks were imported from Marseille, and the towers glow beautifully in the afternoon light. You can capture stunning wide shots from the roundabout or get closer for detailed architectural portraits. Early mornings are peaceful here — perfect for soft, natural photos.

Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the post office features vaulted ceilings, pastel walls, and elegant old-world charm. Inside, the arches and tiled floors create leading lines ideal for dramatic portrait composition. Step outside to photograph the green shutters and vintage telephone booths. It’s a great stop rain or shine because the interior always has dreamy light.

This modernist building played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s history, and today its wide-open gardens make beautiful backdrops. Take your time exploring the rooftop, hidden corridors, and vintage war rooms. Outside, the fountain area is perfect for full-body portraits framed by lush green symmetry. It’s a spacious spot that never feels overcrowded for photos.

With sweeping staircases and an ornate façade, the Opera House looks like it was made for romantic travel photography. The columns and curves catch golden light beautifully in late afternoon. Visit when a show is about to start to capture the building buzzing with energy. This is one of the most elegant places in the city for a classic portrait-style photoshoot.

Capture your Ho Chi Minh City memories with a professional Localgrapher photographer who knows the best light, quiet corners, and local angles. Whether you’re wandering through colonial streets, exploring vibrant markets, or chasing golden hour on a rooftop, your photographer can guide you to beautiful, natural-looking shots without any stress or posing pressure. It’s a relaxed way to get stunning travel photos while discovering the city through local eyes. The result is a gallery full of authentic moments you’ll treasure long after your trip ends.

Couple photoshoot by Phuc, Localgrapher in Ho Chi Minh City

One of the most atmospheric temples in the city, this pagoda is dimly lit with incense smoke weaving through wooden carvings. The intricate statues and candlelit corners set a mystical mood for travel photos. It’s a place where every detail — from turtles in the courtyard pool to hand-sculpted figures — tells a story. Visit early to enjoy its quiet spiritual ambiance.

Famous for its spiraling incense coils hanging from the ceiling, this temple feels sacred and cinematic. As sunlight filters through the courtyard, it creates soft beams perfect for portrait photography. The vivid altars and handcrafted ceramic dioramas make the space incredibly photogenic. Locals often come to pray, adding authenticity and warmth to the scene.

One of the largest pagodas in the city, Vinh Nghiem combines traditional architecture with wide steps and a beautiful bell tower. The contrast between its white structures and the blue sky looks stunning in photos. Wander the grounds to find quieter corners with prayer flags and stone details. It’s a great place to capture both sweeping angles and intimate close-ups.

This lesser-known museum is a hidden gem filled with carved wooden interiors, herbal tools, and old medicine cabinets. The warm tones inside create a cozy, storytelling feel for photos. You’ll find narrow staircases, balconies, and peaceful courtyards that look like scenes from another era. It’s ideal for travelers who love cultural depth and rustic aesthetics.

Photo by FITO Musem

Surrounded by gardens and ponds, this museum celebrates Vietnam’s most iconic traditional dress. Walk through displays of beautifully crafted ao dai in every color and pattern imaginable. Outside, bamboo bridges and shaded walkways make charming, nature-filled backdrops. It’s a must for anyone who loves culture, fashion, and artistic photoshoots.

Start your morning with a bowl of steaming pho served street-side, where you can watch locals begin their day. The fragrant broth, herbs, and noodles photograph beautifully from above. Grab a stool, enjoy the simplicity, and soak in the rhythm of the morning rush. It’s one of the most comforting introductions to Ho Chi Minh City food.

The city is full of delicious banh mi stalls, each with its own secret recipe. Try a few vendors for different fillings, from grilled pork to pâté and pickled vegetables. The vibrant layers inside the baguette make for colorful flat-lay shots. And don’t forget to capture the lively cart scene before you take your first bite.

Wander between vendors grilling meats, steaming noodles, and brewing sweet desserts. Even better in the evening, when crowds create a dynamic backdrop for candid lifestyle photography. One of the best places to feel the city’s nighttime energy.

Couple photoshoot by Phuc, Localgrapher in Ho Chi Minh City

If you love grilled seafood, this outdoor alley is paradise. Smoky grills sizzle with prawns, scallops, squid, and snails in spicy chili butter. Capture the neon signs, sizzling plates, and lively atmosphere in your photos. Pull up a plastic chair and enjoy a feast like a true local.

Vietnamese coffee culture is strong, and Ho Chi Minh City offers endless cozy spots to enjoy it. Try iced milk coffee or egg coffee on a breezy rooftop overlooking city life. Cafés range from retro hideaways to sleek modern lounges — each perfect for lifestyle shots. Sit back, sip slowly, and enjoy a moment of calm.

Inside this bustling indoor market, you’ll find fabrics, spices, dried fruits, handmade crafts, and local snacks. Vendors call out prices as you wander through colorful aisles. The dynamic lighting and textured displays make excellent backgrounds for travel photos. It’s busy but full of authentic local character.

This circular park has a relaxed, community vibe where locals gather in the evenings. You can enjoy street snacks, people-watch, or photograph reflections in the fountain. The playful lighting after sunset gives your photos a warm, friendly glow. It’s a great window into Saigon’s youth culture.

Photo by VinWonders

Shaded by tall tropical trees, this park offers a peaceful escape from city traffic. Joggers, families, and students all share the space, creating uplifting daily-life scenes. The greenery is perfect for natural portraits or morning photoshoots. It’s calm, refreshing, and full of local charm.

Photo by Acnos Hotel

A pedestrian street lined with bookshops, creative cafés, and colorful outdoor displays. It’s one of the most aesthetic spots for relaxed lifestyle photos. Grab a drink, browse the shelves, and settle in for a quiet moment. It feels like a miniature creative neighborhood tucked into the busy city.

This wide, modern pedestrian street becomes a hub of activity each evening. Kids skateboard, couples take photos, and music fills the air. With skyscrapers on one side and the historic City Hall on the other, it offers striking perspectives for portraits. It’s one of the city’s most photogenic public spaces.

Sip cocktails high above the city while watching the skyline glow beneath you. Rooftop bars offer incredible panoramic views that look magical at sunset or night. The softly lit seating areas make stylish backdrops for travel portraits. It’s a classy way to enjoy Ho Chi Minh City nightlife.

Photo by Forever Vacation

Loud, colorful, chaotic — Bui Vien is nightlife at its liveliest. Neon lights flicker across the bars as travelers and locals gather in the street. Every corner offers fun, candid photo opportunities. It’s not for quiet nights, but the energy is unforgettable.

Photo by Vietnam Discovery

Glide along the river while skyscrapers and bridges illuminate the water. Evening cruises are romantic, peaceful, and perfect for long-exposure photos. You’ll see the city from a whole new angle, away from the busy streets. It’s an ideal night activity for couples and families alike.

The newly developing metro system is clean, modern, and easy to navigate. As more lines open, the Ho Chi Minh City metro map will become even more visitor-friendly. The stations are bright and spacious, ideal for contemporary urban shots. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore key landmarks.

Hop on the back of a scooter and explore the city like a local. It’s thrilling but surprisingly smooth once you get used to the rhythm of the traffic. Drivers know the best shortcuts, hidden alleys, and perfect food stops. It’s also one of the most dynamic ways to capture action photos.

Download Grab, Gojek, or Be to make getting around fast and predictable. You can book scooters or cars with transparent pricing and minimal waiting time. It’s one of the easiest ways to travel safely and conveniently. Perfect for hot days when walking feels too long.

Family photoshoot by Duong Le, Localgrapher in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City weather can change suddenly from sunshine to heavy tropical rain. Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella and keep your electronics protected. Rainy scenes can actually make for beautiful reflective photos. Flexibility is key in this vibrant, tropical city.