Suggested Historical Sites to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City During the April 30 & May 1 Holidays - 2025

Top Must-Visit Historical Sites in Ho Chi Minh City During the April 30 & May 1 Holidays

Independence Palace

Independence Palace is a must-visit destination in Ho Chi Minh City, closely tied to the historic moment of April 30, 1975.

Recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site in 1976, the palace was later designated as one of Vietnam’s first 10 Special National Monuments in 2009.

Beyond its historical significance, Independence Palace is an architectural masterpiece. Construction began on July 1, 1962, and was completed on October 31, 1966. The design harmoniously blends modernist architecture with traditional Eastern elements.

The palace is open for visitors daily, including weekends and public holidays.

Nha Rong Wharf

Nha Rong Wharf has witnessed numerous pivotal events in Vietnam’s history. It once served as a major trading hub, welcoming international merchant ships for commercial exchanges.

More importantly, this site marked the beginning of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey, as it was where President Ho Chi Minh departed to seek a path for national salvation.

Following the country’s reunification, Nha Rong Wharf was preserved as a memorial site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh.

In addition to its historical value, Nha Rong Wharf features a distinctive architectural style that blends European and Southeast Asian influences, making it a unique cultural heritage site in Ho Chi Minh City.

Saigon-Gia Dinh Special Forces Museum

Located at 145 Tran Quang Khai Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, this is the only museum in Vietnam dedicated to the Saigon-Gia Dinh Special Forces. Uniquely, the museum itself is part of a historical site.

The museum houses seven valuable artifact collections related to the Special Forces, including:

• Secret underground weapon storage bunkers

• Vehicles used by Special Forces soldiers

• Weapons and combat gear

• Everyday items used during their operations

• Equipment of Hero Trần Văn Lai (Mai Hồng Quế), who operated under the disguise of a contractor at Independence Palace

• Communication devices and intelligence equipment

Secret Mailbox and Weapon Bunker of the Saigon Special Forces

Located at 287/70 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, District 3, this hidden bunker stands as a testament to the bravery and resilience of the Saigon Special Forces during the resistance war against the U.S.

The bunker once stored over two tons of weapons used in the attack on Independence Palace during the Tet Offensive in 1968.

Constructed in just seven months, the bunker is over 10 meters long and 2.5 meters high, with thick cement walls for waterproofing. It features four escape tunnels connected to the drainage system, allowing soldiers to evacuate when needed.

In 1988, the Ministry of Culture recognized this site as a National Historical and Cultural Site. Opened to the public in 2018, it now showcases many artifacts related to Vietnam’s revolutionary history.

Can Gio Mangrove Forest

Located about 50 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Can Gio Mangrove Forest is a pristine wetland reserve, ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking an eco-friendly retreat. Visitors can take a day trip to enjoy the fresh air and lush scenery.

Beyond its natural beauty, Can Gio is known for its rich history and the heroic stories of the Saigon Special Forces who operated in the area during the war.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Situated about 70 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels represent a remarkable underground network, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of Vietnamese soldiers. This vast tunnel system played a crucial role in the nation’s prolonged struggle for independence.

The Cu Chi Tunnels have become a globally recognized symbol of Vietnam’s heroic resistance in the 20th century. This unparalleled military marvel spans approximately 250 km, resembling an underground labyrinth. The interconnected system includes trenches, bunkers, sleeping quarters, command centers, field hospitals, food storage facilities, wells, and the famous Hoang Cam smokeless kitchens.

Visitors to Cu Chi can experience crawling through the tunnels and even try shooting at the National Defense Sports Shooting Range. Here, guests can use historical firearms under professional guidance.

Additionally, Cu Chi offers a paintball shooting game, combining sports and military tactics. This interactive activity not only provides entertainment but also hones teamwork and strategic thinking skills.

At the end of the tour, visitors can browse the souvenir area, which sells wartime memorabilia crafted from spent bullet casings, such as oil lamps, lighters, pens, keychains, and iconic tire-sandal replicas. You can also find high-quality lacquerware and handicrafts made from bamboo and palm leaves.

For group visits, you may arrange lunch in advance at Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc restaurants.

On your way back to the city, don’t miss the chance to try sugarcane juice with durian flavor and boiled cassava with coconut milk. Cu Chi is also famous for its tender veal dishes, a must-try local specialty.