Take a free virtual walking tour through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam — home to 9,000,000 people and one of Asia's most remarkable cities. Nearaway streams immersive 4K street-level footage from Ho Chi Minh City, letting you explore its neighbourhoods, culture, and atmosphere from anywhere in the world — no passport, no flights, no account required.
Khmer fishermen called this Mekong Delta confluence Prey Nokor — forest city. Vietnamese settlers moved south in the late 17th century and in 1698 the Nguyễn lords formally established the settlement as Gia Định. The French made it the colonial capital of Cochinchina in 1859 and renamed it Saigon, building wide boulevards and neoclassical buildings still visible today. After April 30, 1975, the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City — though locals still call it Saigon.
Ho Chi Minh City has over 8 million registered motorbikes — roughly one per person. The best time to take a virtual walk through Ho Chi Minh City is dry season (december–april). Must-try local foods in Ho Chi Minh City include Phở, Bánh mì, Bún bò Huế. To cross the street, walk slowly and steadily — the motorbikes will flow around you. Never stop suddenly.
Local Greeting
Xin chào
How locals say hello in Ho Chi Minh City
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December–April)
Must Eat
Local Tip
To cross the street, walk slowly and steadily — the motorbikes will flow around you. Never stop suddenly.
Origin Story
ColonialKhmer fishermen called this Mekong Delta confluence Prey Nokor — forest city. Vietnamese settlers moved south in the late 17th century and in 1698 the Nguyễn lords formally established the settlement as Gia Định. The French made it the colonial capital of Cochinchina in 1859 and renamed it Saigon, building wide boulevards and neoclassical buildings still visible today. After April 30, 1975, the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City — though locals still call it Saigon.
Fun Fact
Ho Chi Minh City has over 8 million registered motorbikes — roughly one per person.
Cultural Dos
- ✓Bargain at markets (politely)
- ✓Remove shoes at temples
- ✓Try street-side plastic stool dining
Cultural Don'ts
- ✕Refer to it as Saigon to locals who prefer the official name
- ✕Leave tips at casual eateries
- ✕Rush the coffee ritual
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