What To Do In Saigon In November - Travel Tips By Carine

Q: What are the best things to do in Saigon in November?

In November, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) offers the perfect combination of great weather and vibrant culture, making it an ideal time to explore the city's top attractions. Some of the best things to do in Saigon in November include visiting historical landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace, strolling through colonial-era sites such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, and experiencing local spirituality at temples like Thien Hau Pagoda. November’s cooler evenings are perfect for enjoying street food tours, especially in bustling areas like Ben Thanh Market or Vinh Khanh Street. You can also relax at rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city or watch cultural performances like the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House. Thanks to the mild weather, it’s also a great month for day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels or a boat tour in the Mekong Delta. Whether you're into history, food, or local life, Saigon in November has something special for every traveler.

Q: What should I pack for Saigon in November?

When preparing for your trip to Saigon in November, it’s best to pack lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton T-shirts, shorts, and loose trousers to stay comfortable in the warm weather. Since November marks the start of the dry season, you won’t need heavy rain gear, but a compact umbrella or light rain jacket can be useful for the occasional afternoon shower. Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes or sandals, especially if you plan to explore the city on foot or take day trips to places like the Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta. Mosquito repellent is also recommended for evenings and excursions outside the city. And if you’re planning to visit temples, pack at least one outfit that covers your shoulders and knees to respect local dress codes.

Q: Is November a good time to visit Saigon?

Yes, November is one of the best times to visit Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). As the rainy season ends and the dry season begins, the city enjoys pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. This makes it an ideal time for sightseeing, food tours, and outdoor activities without the intense heat or frequent downpours of earlier months. Whether you're exploring temples, visiting the War Remnants Museum, or enjoying Saigon’s vibrant nightlife, November in Saigon offers a perfect balance of comfort and cultural discovery, making it a top choice for your Vietnam November travel itinerary.

Saigon (officially known as Ho Chi Minh City) becomes an inviting destination for travelers looking to explore vibrant street life, historical landmarks, and unique cultural experiences. When I booked my flight to Vietnam last fall, I honestly didn’t know what to expect from Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon. All I knew was that I wanted warm weather, great food, and a bit of cultural immersion. What I got, though, was much more than I imagined. Spending a week in Saigon in November turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made while traveling in Southeast Asia. In this post, I’m sharing everything I experienced from the weather, sights, and food to local tips and day trips. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Saigon in November, this guide will be your trusted companion.

I. Overview of my trip in Saigon in November
- 1. Why November is a great time to visit Saigon ?
- 2. Where I stayed in Saigon ?
III. What to do in Saigon in November - My favorite experiences
III. Practical travel tips for Saigon in November
- Seasonal highlights in November

I. Overview of my trip in Saigon in November

1. Why November is a great time to visit Saigon ?

Before arriving, I had done some quick research and learned that November marks the beginning of the dry season in southern Vietnam. I hoped the rainy season would be over, and luckily, it was!

🌤 Saigon weather in November

The weather was absolutely perfect: warm but not oppressive, humid but manageable, and only one short rain shower during my entire stay.

Average daytime temperature: 30–32°C (86–90°F)
Evening temperature: 23–25°C (73–77°F)
Rainfall: Light, mostly late afternoon or evening, and over quickly
Humidity: Lower than in the summer months, making it easier to explore on foot

I packed light clothes - shorts, T-shirts, a light rain jacket (which I barely used), and comfy sneakers. I was out from morning until night without ever feeling uncomfortable.

2. Where I stayed in Saigon ?

I booked a small boutique hotel in District 1, close to Ben Thanh Market. This turned out to be the perfect base because most of the major attractions, local restaurants, and nightlife spots were within walking distance or a short Grab ride away.

If you’re visiting Saigon in November, I highly recommend choosing accommodation near:

Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Ben Thanh Market
Bui Vien Street (if you want nightlife)
or Thao Dien (District 2) for something quieter and more upscale

III. What to do in Saigon in November - My favorite experiences

1. Discover history at the War Remnants Museum

One of the most powerful experiences of my trip was visiting the War Remnants Museum. I arrived early in the morning to beat the crowds and spent almost two hours there. The photo exhibitions, war artifacts, and personal stories offered a deep look into Vietnam’s history from the local perspective.

I walked out feeling emotional, informed, and with a new respect for the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It’s a must-visit, especially for first-timers in Vietnam.

2. Explore the Reunification Palace

A few blocks away was the Reunification Palace (also called Independence Palace). The preserved 1970s architecture, vintage furniture, and the underground command bunker took me right back to the end of the Vietnam War. November’s mild weather made strolling through the leafy grounds and gardens extra enjoyable.

3. Visit temples and colonial landmarks

Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh city

One sunny afternoon, I visited Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. Although the cathedral was under renovation, the red-brick façade still looked striking. The post office next door (designed by Gustave Eiffel) was beautiful inside - high ceilings, vintage clocks, and old telephone booths.

Later, I went to Thien Hau Temple in Chinatown (District 5). The scent of incense, the worshippers praying quietly, and the intricate wood carvings made this one of my favorite cultural stops in the city.

>>> Saigon Phnom Penh 3 days
>>> Saigon Siem Reap 7 days

4. Savor local food - My food adventures

What to do in Saigon in November? If there’s one thing you must do in Saigon, it’s eat. Seriously, Vietnamese street food in November is not just delicious, it’s safe, plentiful, and available day and night. The slightly cooler evenings in November made dining outdoors absolutely perfect.

Here are my personal favorites:

Pho: I had my first bowl at Pho Hoa on Pasteur Street. Light broth, tender beef, fresh herbs - I instantly fell in love.
Banh Mi: So many variations! My go-to was a classic mix of cold cuts, pate, pickled carrot, and spicy chili. Street vendors are everywhere.
Com Tam: A plate of broken rice with grilled pork, egg, and fish sauce. I had this at a tiny eatery recommended by a local Grab driver.
Banh Xeo: Vietnamese savory pancake. Big, crispy, and perfect when wrapped in lettuce and dipped in fish sauce.
Seafood and Ốc: One night I went to Vinh Khanh Street in District 4 and had grilled scallops with spring onion and peanuts. So tasty!

Tip: Book a motorbike street food tour
I joined a night food tour on the back of a motorbike - one of the best things I did in Ho Chi Minh in November. My guide took me through hidden alleys, wet markets, and family-run food stalls. I got to try frog legs, coconut ice cream, and even balut (fertilized duck egg - not for the faint of heart!).

5. Saigon nightlife in November

After the sun goes down, Saigon - one of the best places to visit in November, comes alive in a different way. November nights were warm and breezy - perfect for being out late.

Where I went:

Bui Vien Street: Known as the backpacker hub. Loud music, cheap beer, dancing on the street. Not my favorite vibe, but worth experiencing at least once.

Rooftop Bars: I loved the Social Club Rooftop. Fantastic cocktails and a killer view of the skyline. There’s also Chill Skybar and the iconic Saigon Saigon Bar.

A O Show at the Saigon Opera House: I bought a ticket on a whim - and was blown away. Acrobatics, live music, and a beautiful venue. It’s storytelling without words, and you don’t need to speak Vietnamese to enjoy it.

6. Take a day trip from Saigon

Thanks to the perfect weather in November, I was able to go on two incredible day trips without worrying about rain or extreme heat.

Cu Chi Tunnels: I took a half-day tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, about 1.5 hours from the city. Walking (and crawling) through the underground passages gave me a much deeper appreciation of how tough life was during the war. There’s also a chance to try shooting AK-47s if that’s your thing - I passed!
Mekong Delta: Another day, I did a full-day tour to Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta. We rode a boat through palm-lined canals, visited a coconut candy workshop, and ate lunch at a riverside restaurant. The scenery was lush and green - a totally different side of Vietnam.

III. Practical travel tips for Saigon in November

Seasonal highlights in November

Although there are no major public holidays in Vietnam during November, I still caught some special moments.

Thanksgiving in Saigon: I’m American, and I was surprised (and delighted) to find several restaurants offering turkey dinners! I went to a place in Thao Dien and met other travelers over pumpkin pie and wine.
Early Christmas Vibes: By late November, the malls and hotels had started decorating for Christmas. I wandered around Takashimaya Mall one evening and was surprised by how festive it felt - complete with lights, trees, and Christmas carols.

Here are some useful travel tip from my experience:

Start early: Many attractions open around 8 AM. Start your day early to enjoy cooler weather and avoid crowds.
Use apps like Grab: It’s the most convenient and affordable way to get around.
Stay hydrated: Even in the dry season, Saigon is warm. Carry a reusable water bottle.
Be cautious with traffic: Crossing the street can be daunting at first. Walk slowly and let vehicles flow around you - locals are used to the rhythm!

Visiting Saigon in November felt like hitting the travel jackpot. The combination of great weather, rich culture, friendly people, and unforgettable food made it one of the best travel experiences of my life. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. If you’re planning your Vietnam November travel, don’t overlook Saigon. It’s more than just a gateway to other destinations - it’s a thriving, dynamic city that deserves at least 4-5 full days of your itinerary.

If you're planning to visit Saigon in November, don’t hesitate to contact Autour Asia, Vietnam tour agency for fast, personalized travel planning tailored to your needs.

It is advisable to refer to:
> Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
> Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary 10 days
> Vietnam Cambodia itinerary
> Travel Ho Chi Minh city to Phnom Penh

5/5 - (1002 Vote)

Léa Chene

5.0 Excellent

What are the best things to do in Saigon in November?

In November, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) offers the perfect combination of great weather and vibrant culture, making it an ideal time to explore the city's top attractions. Some of the best things to do in Saigon in November include visiting historical landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace, strolling through colonial-era sites such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, and experiencing local spirituality at temples like Thien Hau Pagoda. November’s cooler evenings are perfect for enjoying street food tours, especially in bustling areas like Ben Thanh Market or Vinh Khanh Street. You can also relax at rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city or watch cultural performances like the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House. Thanks to the mild weather, it’s also a great month for day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels or a boat tour in the Mekong Delta. Whether you're into history, food, or local life, Saigon in November has something special for every traveler.

Daniel Andre

5.0 Excellent

What should I pack for Saigon in November?

When preparing for your trip to Saigon in November, it’s best to pack lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton T-shirts, shorts, and loose trousers to stay comfortable in the warm weather. Since November marks the start of the dry season, you won’t need heavy rain gear, but a compact umbrella or light rain jacket can be useful for the occasional afternoon shower. Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes or sandals, especially if you plan to explore the city on foot or take day trips to places like the Cu Chi Tunnels or Mekong Delta. Mosquito repellent is also recommended for evenings and excursions outside the city. And if you’re planning to visit temples, pack at least one outfit that covers your shoulders and knees to respect local dress codes.

Emily Spencer

5.0 Excellent

Is November a good time to visit Saigon?

Yes, November is one of the best times to visit Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). As the rainy season ends and the dry season begins, the city enjoys pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. This makes it an ideal time for sightseeing, food tours, and outdoor activities without the intense heat or frequent downpours of earlier months. Whether you're exploring temples, visiting the War Remnants Museum, or enjoying Saigon’s vibrant nightlife, November in Saigon offers a perfect balance of comfort and cultural discovery, making it a top choice for your Vietnam November travel itinerary.