As an American expat who actually lives here in Vietnam, I have spent literal years pounding the pavement to get to know this magnificent, exhausting metropolis.
Right now? My current home base is tucked away in the Phu Nhuan District. But my history with Ho Chi Minh City’s wildly varied neighborhoods runs seriously deep. Before this, I called District 8 my home. That is a deeply authentic, raw local area where tourists almost never step foot. Like, zero English signs. I also spent time living down in District 7, which still holds up as one of my absolute favorite spots in the entire country – especially if you hang around the northern canal where you can just stare out over the water into District 4. Oh, and I did the whole bougie expat thing too, living in District 2’s Thao Dien. It’s a crazy sought – after enclave that international families and foreign workers absolutely flock to.
Ever since I first dragged my suitcases to Vietnam back in 2018, I’ve kept long – term motorbike rentals going just to fuel my massive obsession with exploring this city. Navigating these chaotic, jam – packed streets on two wheels has let me visit almost every single point of interest you could possibly imagine. Ho Chi Minh City is officially split up into 24 distinct districts. But here is the raw truth. They are definitely not all equally livable. Or convenient. Or even slightly appealing to visitors. Today, the city is bursting with a staggering population of over 9 million people. It’s easily one of Southeast Asia’s most rapidly expanding urban centers. It is a mesmerizing, dizzying, sweat – inducing landscape where these massive contemporary high – rises sit in sharp, beautiful contrast right next to historic French colonial architecture.
Because I actively explore and actually live here, I’ve got my finger firmly on the pulse when it comes to the absolute best neighborhoods to book your stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you want to maximize your trip and not go crazy, you really need to familiarize yourself with getting around HCMC and figure out the optimal times to fly over. The region basically has two primary seasons. You have the universally loved dry season stretching from December through April. Then there is the rainy season lasting from May to November, defined by these intense, daily afternoon downpours that will soak you to the bone. In this article, you will also find guidance on transiting from the HCMC airport directly into District 1. Should you need more help, just drop a question into my complimentary Ho Chi Minh City travel planning Facebook group.
If you are expanding your Vietnamese itinerary, be sure to check out my dedicated Where to Stay guides for Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hanoi.
District 1
For people stepping foot in Ho Chi Minh City for the very first time, District 1 is unequivocally the absolute best place to set up camp. District 1 and the immediately adjacent District 3 harbor the vast majority of Saigon’s premier tourist attractions. If your itinerary only gives you a week or just a few short days, sticking yourself right in D1 or D3 is the smartest strategic move to easily get your bearings in Vietnam.
Whenever I spend the night in Saigon proper, I consistently choose District 1 as my launching pad to view apartments or roam the city. It is famously recognized as the commercial and administrative heart of the city dating all the way back to the French colonial epoch. This creates a brilliant, vibrant intersection where deep historical roots just slam into hyper – speed modernization. At the bare minimum, staying here offers unparalleled convenience for combating severe jet lag. Every single hotel featured on my list above sits in a phenomenal District 1 location. (I’ll rant more about District 3 a bit later).
Best Things to Do in District 1
The Ho Chi Minh Statue commands the very head of Nguyen Hue Street. Heading in literally any direction from this central crossroads for 10 to 15 minutes will reveal magnificent sights. Seriously, just pick a random path and start walking. You will be amazed at the sheer volume of things to admire.
The Ho Chi Minh Statue and People’s Committee Building, District 1
While the following list of attractions is far from exhaustive, all of these landmarks are comfortably walkable from the Ho Chi Minh Statue. For more detailed itineraries spanning one or three days, you can reference my comprehensive guide to HCMC attractions.
People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City. Situated directly behind the iconic Ho Chi Minh Statue, this striking yellow French colonial structure presently operates as city hall. They originally threw this up between 1902 and 1908 to serve as the Hôtel de Ville. Today it provides a flawless, highly photogenic backdrop for the statue in front of it.
The Ho Chi Minh Statue and the People’s Committee Building (Visit during the day!)
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House. Located just east of the statue. The Opera House sits alone on its own distinct traffic island. Crafted way back in 1897 by the gifted French architect Ferret Eugene, its breathtaking facade pays heavy homage to the flamboyant architectural aesthetic of the French Third Republic. Booking a short stay around this ultra – convenient location places you right in the middle of the city’s finest accommodations. The Caravelle Saigon, the Hotel Continental, and the Park Hyatt Saigon all surround the Opera House. It renders this a truly unbeatable spot.
Japan Town. Merely a 10 – minute stroll from both the Opera House and the statue. This compact little enclave features a dense concentration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most phenomenal Japanese ramen joints.
Japan Town in District 1
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden. This lush green sanctuary borders the Binh Thanh District and runs parallel to the river.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon. During your trip – planning phase, I guarantee you’ve seen countless images of this highly photographed monument. All of its original building materials – spanning from the exquisite stained glass all the way down to the red bricks – were shipped directly from France during its construction between 1863 and 1880. Just a heads up… the structure is currently swathed in heavy scaffolding due to an ongoing renovation project. Current projections indicate the repair work will last until at least 2027.
The Notre Dame Cathedral (under repair – left) and the Saigon Central Post Office (right)
Saigon Central Post Office. Situated immediately adjacent to the cathedral. This architectural gem was erected between 1886 and 1891. Imagined by the legendary architect Gustave Eiffel. Walking into its massive, cavernous interior evokes the feeling of a majestic European railway depot. I’ve penned a separate article specifically detailing how to best visit the Saigon Central Post Office.
Inside the Saigon Central Post Office
Ho Chi Minh City Book Street. Directly beside the post office and cathedral lies this delightful, heavily shaded avenue flanked by quaint bookshops. Meandering through this street should definitely be woven into your downtown walking tour. You can read my full guide on exploring HCMC Book Street here.
Walking on Ho Chi Minh City Book Street
Independence Palace. Often referred to as the Reunification Palace. This profound historical site was designed in 1966 by architect Ngo Viet Thu. It is a modernist triumph that beautifully merges Western structural techniques with Eastern philosophical elements. It rests southwest of the post office and cathedral. That is the perfect direction from which to approach it so you can fully appreciate the grand lead – up. This site bore witness to a monumental moment in history: on April 30, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its iron gates, officially marking the end of the Vietnam War. I have a dedicated guide to visiting the palace here.
Inside the courtyard of the Independence Palace in District 1
April 30th Park. Splitting the space right between the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Independence Palace, this expansive green park is intersected by three separate roads. I frequently pull my motorbike over here, grab a cheap beverage at a nearby coffee shop, and just sit back to enjoy the people – watching.
Tao Dan Park. Cyclo tours frequently pedal through this massive, leafy oasis situated right in the heart of downtown District 1. It provides an incredible escape into nature amidst the suffocating urban sprawl. The boutique La Siesta Premium hotel is situated in a stellar location near Ben Thanh Market, just around the corner from this park.
Cutting through Tao Dan Park in District 1
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. Located just across the street from Ben Thanh Market. This incredibly relaxed and popular museum costs a mere 30,000 VND to enter. You can read about more HCMC museums I’ve covered here.
One of three buildings to check out at the Museum of Fine Arts
The Saigon Skydeck. To secure a towering view over downtown District 1, head up to the observation deck perched on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower. Here is my guide for checking out the Skydeck.
3 Best Areas and Hotels in District 1
Depending entirely on your personal travel style, District 1 is roughly segmented into three distinct mini – neighborhoods. The Ben Thanh market area and the Nguyen Hue/Dong Khoi Street zone are superb for universally all types of travelers. As a highly central location boasting a diverse array of hotel tiers, this is exactly where I personally choose to stay.
On the flip side, the Bui Vien area is notorious for its raucous, messy party atmosphere and is predominantly packed with budget accommodations and hostels. Let’s break these down further.
1. Nguyen Hue & Dong Khoi Street
People’s Committee Building at the head of Nguyen Hue Street in District 1
Securing lodging in the immediate vicinity of Dong Khoi Street or Nguyen Hue Street offers effortless, idiot – proof access to all the tourist hotspots mentioned above. Both streets act as the vital, beating heart of District 1’s tourism scene.
Dong Khoi itself operates as a living timeline reflecting Saigon’s dramatic evolution, having cycled through several names. Under French colonial rule, it was celebrated as Rue Catinat – an avenue so dripping with prestige and luxury that people dubbed it “the Canebiere of Southeast Asia.” Following the nation’s independence, it was rebranded as Tu Do (Freedom) Street. It famously served as the atmospheric setting for Graham Greene’s seminal novel, The Quiet American. Finally, the communist government renamed the avenue Dong Khoi, which translates to “Total Revolution,” back in 1975.
Nguyen Hue Street is famously split right down the middle by a remarkably wide pedestrian plaza. It makes slow – paced wandering and scene – admiring incredibly easy. One of the absolute coolest sights here is The Cafe Apartments (which pairs wonderfully with a mid – afternoon coffee stop). Originally erected in the 1950s and 60s as a nine – story residential block for high – ranking government officials and American military officers, the aging building saw a crazy renaissance in the 2010s. Savvy local entrepreneurs transformed the units into a towering, vertical labyrinth packed with indie coffee shops, art galleries, and fashion boutiques.
The Cafe Apartments on Nguyen Hue Street, District 1
During the daytime, strolling down Dong Khoi and the neighboring Nguyen Hue is a genuine delight. Once the sun sets? The district transforms into a bustling, chaotic hub overflowing with tourists and locals alike. Portions of Nguyen Hue are frequently barricaded from vehicle traffic to host live shows or performances. The various side alleys branching off Nguyen Hue – including Ho Tung Mau on the opposite side and Dong Khoi – are teeming with endless accommodation options, coffee shops, bars, and eateries.
Walking on the pedestrian path in the middle of Nguyen Hue Street
Right on Nguyen Hue Street itself sits the Oscar Saigon Hotel. A budget – friendly option that lays claim to one of the most enviable locations in the entire city.
The Running Bean. Boasting two downtown District 1 locations, the branch I’ve linked here stands as one of the ultimate cafes in Saigon for remote workers. It features an abundance of generously sized tables perfect for accommodating groups or buckling down for solo tasks.
The Workshop Coffee. Due to its fantastic location, this downtown coffee haven can occasionally draw massive crowds. Still a great place to get some work done.
Layla Eatery & Bar. A highly acclaimed downtown watering hole that plates up excellent food alongside remarkably fairly priced beverages.
Vietnam House. Found directly on Dong Khoi Street. This spectacular Vietnamese dining establishment features an exterior that doubles as a highly popular photography backdrop.
Standing in the Nguyen Hue Street Pedestrian Plaza on a Monday evening. Notice the Cafe Apartments and the People’s Committee Building glowing in the distance.
As I said before, grounding yourself in the Dong Khoi or Nguyen Hue area is a strategic masterstroke. A massive cluster of Ho Chi Minh City’s finest hotels resides exactly here. Offering a dizzying array of places to sleep.
Depending on your specific travel dates, you can sometimes snag a room at a luxurious five – star hotel in Ho Chi Minh City for right around $100 USD a night. Crazy, right?
The Park Hyatt Saigon, the Caravelle Saigon, and the Hotel Continental Saigon surround the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, arguably the city’s most central location
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House in front of the Caravelle Saigon Hotel
Positioned precisely on Nguyen Hue Street is The Reverie Saigon. An establishment that completely defines over – the – top, palatial extravagance. It easily ranks as one of the most upscale hotels in the city. Tucked just behind it is The Myst Dong Khoi, another five – star property that shares this world – class location but offers slightly more digestible nightly rates.
This brings us over to the picturesque Saigon River, an area boasting roughly six distinct hotels. Though situated about a 12 – minute walk from the central Opera House zone (as it sits further down the riverbank), the five – star Lotte Hotel Saigon features jaw – dropping facilities. Including a massive outdoor swimming pool.
If proximity is your main priority, the Hotel Majestic Saigon is likely the most strategically located riverside property. Or the Riverside Hotel serves as a phenomenal budget option right on the water’s edge.
Every single one of these properties is incredibly convenient. I’ve merely curated the best options across varying budget spectrums so you don’t have to guess.
2. Ben Thanh
Outside Ben Thanh Market in District 1
Ben Thanh Market clearly stands as a major tourist attraction in its own right. But the sprawling neighborhood surrounding it is a highly strategic, affordable place to book your stay. It operates somewhat independently of the Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue zones but remains incredibly well – connected.
If your shopping list includes any type of knockoff goods, sunglasses, souvenir tees, or cheap trinkets, the market’s interior and immediate exterior will absolutely provide. Initially erected in 1912, the market’s architecture is undeniably iconic. Once dusk falls, the perimeter gives way to a vibrant night market where you can feast on sizzling street food. Note that the vast majority of vendor prices are entirely negotiable. You must be ready to haggle. Seriously. If you prefer buying souvenirs without the stress of negotiating, the Saigon Central Post Office offers extremely fair, fixed prices on items like cool postcards.
Right outside Ben Thanh Market sits Ha Tam Jewelers. An institution that stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s premier money exchangers. Whenever I need to swap out currency for Vietnamese Dong, I invariably head straight here. For further insight, you can review my thoughts on money and ATMs in Vietnam here, as well as general HCMC travel tips here.
I frequently patronize Little HaNoi Egg Coffee. It is home to what is undeniably some of the greatest egg coffee in the city. Beyond their legendary beverages, they dish out an impressive brunch menu. They operate one location up in Hoi An and four across HCMC. You can view their exact locations here.
Eggs Benedict, a chicken pesto sandwich, and hot egg coffee from Little HaNoi
For travelers looking to maintain their fitness routines, this neighborhood is home to two very capable gyms. My top personal recommendation is CLB Fitness T&V (mapped here). They offer single day passes for just 90,000 VND. The alternative is C’Gym (mapped here), which sells weekly access for 300,000 VND and day passes for 80,000 VND. You can find my comprehensive breakdown of HCMC gyms right here.
3. Bui Vien Walking Street
The entrance to Bui Vien Walking Street. Can you hear the music?
Bui Vien Walking Street, alongside its chaotic immediate perimeter, draws massive tourist numbers. Situated in District 1, reaching this area requires a roughly 20 – minute walk from Nguyen Hue Street and the Ho Chi Minh Statue. You’ll be navigating and crossing several highly congested roads – though it is entirely doable. Rather than anchoring themselves near Nguyen Hue, a vast swathe of tourists opt to stay right in the sweaty heart of Bui Vien.
Bui Vien’s reputation is built entirely on its wild nightlife. It boasts an insanely high density of nightclubs and bars. Making it a famous magnet for backpackers and hostel – dwellers. After dark, the primary avenue and its splintering alleys erupt into a frenzy of blaring music, street performers, fire breathers, flashing neon lights, and massive crowds overflowing from small plastic chairs directly into the street.
Personally? I think the area devolves into a really seedy environment at night. It serves as a rather poor reflection of what is otherwise an immensely charming city. Unless you actively desire to immerse yourself in the hardcore party scene, I strongly advise against booking your accommodation here.
Just witnessing the colorful, deafening, and chaotic spectacle of Bui Vien at night is something every visitor should probably experience at least once. The smartest approach is to stay in a completely different neighborhood and simply walk or hail a ride via the Grab app when you wish to visit.
If you plan on taking guided tours, note that many operators run their businesses directly out of this vicinity. Particularly lining Pham Ngu Lao Street. So even if you don’t sleep here, you might find yourself navigating the area early in the morning just to meet a tour group.
Because I regularly ride my motorbike past the Bui Vien sector, I can confirm it is perpetually packed to the brim with tourgoers, backpackers, and general tourists. Because of this, you will find an endless array of dining options, highly – rated budget and mid – range hotels, popular hostels, and convenient minimarts like FamilyMart and 7 – Eleven.
For a fast bite, Paper Plate Pizza is situated less than a 10 – minute walk from Bui Vien and dishes out fantastic individual slices.
Craving an Italian sub? A surprisingly lovely rarity to stumble upon in Vietnam. Head to the second floor of Big Boss Bistro. This sandwich haven makes stellar subs and is located almost exactly halfway between Ben Thanh Market and Bui Vien.
District 3
In the courtyard of the War Remnants Museum in District 3
District 3 effectively hugs the border of District 1. The boundary between the two is so seamless that you might accidentally walk from one into the other without even realizing it. Positioning yourself here allows for completely manageable walks to the premier attractions situated in both D3 and D1.
If I had to choose, I personally favor District 3 over District 1. The general vibe is tangibly less chaotic. The vehicular traffic moves at a slightly slower pace. The roads themselves are narrower and heavily shaded by beautiful old trees. The sidewalks just beckon for slow exploration, concealing countless little nooks bursting with amazing food and coffee. Compared to the sun – drenched, relentless intensity of District 1, District 3’s tree – canopied pathways feel significantly cozier. As you wander, you will also notice a surplus of breathtaking, albeit occasionally crumbling, French colonial villas hidden behind ancient greenery and towering privacy walls.
Best Things to Do in District 3
War Remnants Museum. Serving as one of Saigon’s most heavily visited destinations, this deeply moving museum is highly accessible from both District 1 and District 3. The grounds feature expansive outdoor displays of heavy military hardware. The interior houses intensely powerful photo journalism exhibits. The entry fee is a modest 40,000 VND. For more details, consult my specific guide to visiting the War Remnants Museum. Just a brief three – minute walk away lies the Victory Hotel Saigon, an incredibly well – located budget accommodation.
Inside the War Remnants Museum in District 3
Turtle Lake. You are almost guaranteed to pass by this fascinating architectural oddity if you spend any time wandering around D3. Centered within a busy roundabout and surrounded by numerous cafes and street food stalls, Turtle Lake is deeply anchored in local 1960s Saigon feng shui lore. Legend dictates that a prominent feng shui master alerted President Nguyen Van Thieu that his nearby Independence Palace rested directly atop the head of a mighty, slumbering dragon vein. And its restless tail was thrashing exactly at this intersection. To forcefully “pin down” the beast’s tail and guarantee political continuity, an octagonal lake resembling a protective Bagua diagram was constructed. Featuring a towering sword – like monument plunging into the center.
Tan Dinh Church. This highly photographed coral – pink church was initially finalized in 1876 under French colonial rule. Fascinatingly, the structure sported a neutral cream palette for its first 80 years of existence. It was not until a massive 1957 renovation that the local Catholic community chose to paint it its now – legendary pink. A deliberate stylistic choice meant to project joy, hope, and warmth across Saigon.
Tan Dinh Church in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Le Van Tam Park. Situated close to Tan Dinh Church. This park is a beloved local exercise hub. Because native Vietnamese strongly prefer working out when temperatures dip, the park sees its heaviest foot traffic during the cool early mornings and late evenings/nights.
Southern Women’s Museum. Dedicated exclusively to honoring the historical impact of Vietnamese women. This museum is completely free to enter. It features extensive exhibits detailing their vital roles during times of war, alongside historical fashion showcases. There is an entire section dedicated exclusively to the elegant áo dài.
The Southern Women’s Museum in District 3
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. Nestled toward the rear of District 3. This sprawling Buddhist temple grants free admission. Out of respect, visitors may be required to cover their shoulders and exposed legs prior to entering the sanctuary.
Best Places to Stay in District 3
The Mai House Saigon in District 3
It is important to note that lodging in specific pockets of District 3 allows you to comfortably walk to all of the previously discussed District 1 hotspots. Including Ben Thanh Market, Dong Khoi, and Nguyen Hue. While the stroll may take a highly enjoyable 15 to 20 minutes, it is completely feasible. For an expanded breakdown, peruse my dedicated guide to hotels in District 3.
Every hotel listed below commands a strategic, top – tier location within District 3. For instance, the Au Lac Legend sits perfectly on the exact dividing line between District 1 and District 3, making it an exceptionally solid choice. The luxurious Mai House Saigon (photographed above) is a mere five minutes away from the War Remnants Museum. The budget – conscious Victory Hotel is just three minutes from the same museum.
If you are hunting for value among Ho Chi Minh City’s luxury tiers, the La Vela Saigon is vastly more cost – effective than its five – star peers. Celebrated for offering rooftop vistas that remain unrivaled in the vicinity. This highly popular hotel sits deeper into the back of District 3. It will take you roughly 20 minutes to walk to the War Remnants Museum from there. Though you are only 10 minutes from Tan Dinh Church.
Both the Orchids Saigon Hotel and the Hôtel des Arts Saigon sit less than 10 minutes by foot from the War Remnants Museum. District 3 is inherently walkable and visually delightful. Selecting an accommodation here just boils down to which specific property aligns with your personal taste.
Should you need a place to train, Gym One operates in District 3. Be aware that they do not offer a weekly pass, and their single day pass sits at a slightly steeper 200,000 VND compared to the gym options over in District 1.
District 2 (Thao Dien)
Having coffee inside Bonjour Cafe The Art in Thao Dien, District 2
Although District 2 encompasses a fairly large geographic footprint, its global reputation is almost entirely driven by a highly concentrated, cosmopolitan pocket known as Thao Dien. Time Out magazine recently crowned Thao Dien as the 16th coolest neighborhood on the planet, solidifying its prestige as a vibrant urban oasis. I personally resided in Thao Dien for a few months.
It physically forms a peninsula encircled on three sides by a massive loop of the Saigon River. This means Thao Dien is geographically insulated from the chaotic rush of downtown. Thanks to a dense concentration of prestigious international academic institutions – such as the British International School – the neighborhood fundamentally caters to an affluent demographic of international travelers, resident expats, and their families. Subsequently, the area overflows with spectacular bars, chic cafes, and phenomenal international and local dining venues.
The main thoroughfares dictating the flow of the neighborhood are Xuan Thuy and Thao Dien roads. Xuan Thuy functions as a seemingly endless corridor of fine dining, bistros, and nightlife.
Navigating Thao Dien by foot is incredibly easy. You could easily base your entire vacation here and never require a motorbike. If you do need a lift, summoning a Grab is wildly affordable and convenient. Short GrabBike trips constrained strictly within Thao Dien’s borders rarely exceed 25,000 VND (which is less than $1 USD).
Despite residing in Ho Chi Minh City for years, I have barely scratched the surface of the culinary scene here. This relatively tiny peninsula easily contains hundreds of cafes and restaurants.
Where to Eat in Thao Dien
Here is a curated snapshot of my absolute favorite establishments to grab food or coffee in Thao Dien:
Bep Vo Kitchen. I have dined at this specific eatery easily close to 100 times. Offering both a breezy outdoor patio and an air – conditioned interior, the atmosphere is refreshingly laid back. Most importantly, the cuisine is exceptionally healthy, phenomenally tasty, and wonderfully well – priced for the otherwise expensive neighborhood. (I highly recommend the chicken with broccoli and the avocado salad).
Avocado salad and chicken with broccoli at Bep Vo Kitchen
Eddie’s Diner. You might scoff at the idea of visiting an American – style diner while in Vietnam. But occasionally, a perfectly cooked, hearty comfort meal is exactly what the doctor ordered. Operating locations in District 7, District 1, and Thao Dien, Eddie’s serves up massive portions of flawless food. You can read my complete review of eating at Eddie’s here.
My breakfast burrito from Eddie’s Diner
365° Napoli Pizza. This artisanal joint crafts their very own dough and mozzarella cheese from scratch. If you visit on a Tuesday, be prepared for massive crowds, as they offer a staggering 50% discount on all their pizzas. For a broader look at the city’s pie scene, check out my article covering other pizza places in HCMC here.
Whatever Cafe. Tucked quietly down a secluded dead – end alleyway, this intimate spot brews an incredible homemade cold – brew coffee.
Cold brew coffee with an orange slice at Whatever Cafe (Thao Dien)
Simple Place. When I need a rapid – fire burrito or a fast quesadilla, this highly popular Mexican joint in Thao Dien is my go – to.
Bonjour Cafe The Art. The visual aesthetic of this particular coffee shop is so profoundly unique that I have never encountered anything quite like it elsewhere. It is entirely worth a visit simply to admire the interior design.
Bonjour Cafe The Art in Thao Dien (District 2)
If you find yourself requiring a trim during your stay, book an appointment at ĐẬM – Men’s Hair Studio located in Thao Dien. This establishment ranks among the elite barbershops in Ho Chi Minh City. Several of the specialists speak perfect, fluent English. Each barber possesses their own unique cutting specialty. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Grocery Stores in Thao Dien
Whether you are staying for a quick weekend or signing a long – term lease, the following supermarkets are exceptional. While I frequent the Mega Market the most, I have personally pushed shopping carts through all three of these venues countless times.
Mega Market An Phu. Technically situated just across the highway just outside Thao Dien’s borders. I had to include this colossal warehouse. Functioning similarly to a Metro, Sam’s Club, or Costco, it ranks as one of my all – time favorite supersized markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
Mega Market in District 2
An Phu Supermarket. Sitting squarely inside Thao Dien. This is one of my personal favorite grocery stops. It avoids being the largest or boasting the most exhaustive inventory, but it is undeniably the absolute quietest. I can always weave in and out of the aisles with zero friction.
Tops Market. Also positioned directly inside Thao Dien. This serves as a highly reliable, full – service grocery outlet.
Gyms in Thao Dien
Thao Dien hosts a robust collection of traditional gyms and boutique fitness studios:
CrossFit Thao Dien. If you are just passing through, they happily accommodate drop – ins alongside a variety of different class – based packages.
BODY SHAPE. This facility operates as a more standardized, traditional gym environment rather than a class – centric CrossFit box.
California Fitness & Yoga. For travelers settling down for a long – term stay, this facility – alongside Elite Fitness mentioned below – offers vastly superior pricing structures for extended contracts.
Elite Fitness. Much like California Fitness, extending your stay unlocks better pricing. These two specific gyms provide significantly more high – end amenities than the smaller local facilities.
Best Places to Stay in Thao Dien
Whether you plan to rent an apartment for the long haul or simply drop in for a brief vacation, Thao Dien is a magnificent, self – contained choice. Its singular drawback is its geographic distance from the primary tourist hotspots. Reaching the heart of District 1 or District 3 will demand a 15 to 20 – minute drive.
District 7 (Phu My Hung)
At Crescent Lake Park in Phu My Hung (District 7)
As I hinted at the beginning, District 7 holds a very special place in my heart. Years ago, I resided along its northernmost boundary on Tran Xuan Soan. Directly fronting the canal that looks across into District 4.
Admittedly, District 7 functions better as a long – term residential base rather than a hub for a fleeting, short – term visit. Yet, make no mistake. If you are eager to escape the relentless hustle of the inner city and witness an entirely different flavor of Saigon, District 7 is packed with exceptional parks, varied activities, and sensational dining. I actually strongly encourage visitors to venture down here just to take it all in.
My profound affection for this massive, self – sustaining district stems from my time living here. For extended stays, I genuinely prefer District 7 over District 2’s Thao Dien simply due to the sheer scale. Thao Dien’s small size can occasionally start to feel restrictive after a prolonged period.
Without question, the crown jewel of District 7 is Phu My Hung, situated entirely in the southern sector. Back in the early 1990s, this entire expanse was virtually nothing more than a wild maze of crisscrossing canals and desolate wetlands. Under the guidance of Taiwanese developer CT&D (spearheaded by Lawrence S. Ting) working in tandem with the municipal government, the neighborhood was master – planned and built completely from scratch. Thanks to a massive influx of Korean tourists, expats, and corresponding businesses and eateries, it frequently earns the moniker “Korea Town.”
Phu My Hung – which literally translates to “Wealth, Beauty and Prosperity” – absolutely lives up to its grandiose name. It represents an environment vastly divergent from anywhere else in Ho Chi Minh City. Anchored by the sprawling 10 – lane Nguyen Van Linh Parkway, the avenues here are tremendously wide. The atmosphere is tangibly quieter. The pace of daily life slows down comfortably. The air quality feels notably cleaner. And the architectural spacing is brilliantly open compared to the suffocating density of D1 and D3.
Moreover, it provides every conceivable amenity necessary for a deeply comfortable existence:
Lotte Mart. In my opinion, this is the paramount supermarket in all of Ho Chi Minh City. It functions as an enormous hybrid complex that stocks absolutely everything required for either a quick vacation or permanent residency. Beyond the expansive grocery level, the second floor is packed wall – to – wall with non – food necessities.
Lotte Mart in District 7
Saigon Sports Club. Though positioned just slightly outside the direct borders of Phu My Hung, SSC reigns as one of the most elite, beautiful gyms in Ho Chi Minh City. Be warned: the membership fees are steep, but the facilities are unimaginably pristine.
Advance Fitness & Gym. Operating as a fantastic, far more wallet – friendly alternative, this gym provides great equipment. Even if it lacks the ultra – shiny luxury perks of the Saigon Sports Club.
Crescent Mall. Spotless and spanning several expansive floors, this stands as one of the finest retail malls in the city. The exterior perimeter is wonderfully peaceful and serves as a lovely contrast to the chaos of D1 and D3. It is a joy to casually explore.
Inside Crescent Mall in District 7
SC VivoCity. Located just up the avenue from Crescent Mall. This secondary shopping center certainly fulfills your retail needs, though it doesn’t quite match the premium elegance of Crescent Mall.
Nam Vien Park. When the hectic vibrations of the city center become too much, fleeing down to this incredibly serene, quiet park to catch the gentle breeze is magnificent. The surrounding blocks are equally peppered with superb dining establishments.
Alongside Nam Vien Park in Phu My Hung, District 7
Where to Eat in Phu My Hung
Much like the culinary explosions found in Binh Thanh (specifically Ward 19) and Thao Dien, the options here are effectively limitless. These represent just a fraction of the finest establishments in and around Phu My Hung.
Jimmy’s New York Pizza. Situated immediately adjacent to Nam Vien Park. This pizzeria slings truly excellent pies. You can read my full breakdown of Jimmy’s over on Google Maps.
Buffalo chicken pizza from Jimmy’s in District 7
Eddie’s Diner. Operating under the exact same premise as their Thao Dien and D1 branches. This outpost guarantees colossal portions of fantastic food. Because I adore the overarching Phu My Hung neighborhood, I find myself eating at this specific location quite frequently.
Back’s Burger. If you are on the hunt for mouthwatering, Korean – style hamburgers, look no further.
Ms. Barun. A stellar Korean eatery located within spitting distance of Nam Vien Park.
Pork kimbap at Ms. Barun in Phu My Hung, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
Pho Dinh 3. Widely recognized as one of the absolute top – tier pho restaurants operating in Ho Chi Minh City.
Best Places to Stay in Phu My Hung
Because the neighborhood caters heavily to Korean food lovers and expats, Phu My Hung boasts a superb lineup of serviced apartments and boutique hotels. The nightly rates are incredibly budget – friendly when stacked against the city’s more central districts.
I hold a deep personal bias for this area simply because it allows me to step entirely outside the frenetic pace of District 3 and District 1. Revealing a remarkably different facet of Saigon life.
Best Hotel/Apartment in Phu My Hung
Oakwood Residence Saigon
Best Boutique Hotels and Apartments
Golden Tree Hotel & Apartment • Orchid Boutique Hotel & Apartment • La Bonita Hotel & Apartments • Golden Star Apartment
Binh Thanh District
The Landmark 81 skyscraper from Vinhomes Central Park
Binh Thanh District draws the vast majority of its fame from two massive landmarks. Vinhomes Central Park and the towering Landmark 81 skyscraper. Which proudly holds the title of the tallest building in Vietnam. Delving into specific wards within this district yields a highly authentic, localized flavor that sharply contrasts the heavy tourist trappings of Districts 1 or 3.
Ward 22 specifically claims ownership of both the Landmark 81 tower and Vinhomes Central Park. I frequently utilize this park for my evening runs. I consider it the absolute greatest public park in all of Ho Chi Minh City.
Vinhomes Central Park in Binh Thanh District
Soaring to a jaw – dropping height of 461.5 meters, Landmark 81 boasts an observation deck spread across floors 79, 80, and 81. The architectural silhouette gracefully tapers as it rises. A design deeply influenced by the traditional Vietnamese bamboo bundle – a potent cultural symbol representing resilience, unity, and unwavering strength. The lower levels of the structure house an extensive mall equipped with a movie theater and food court. The upper tiers transition into luxury residential apartments and a premium hotel.
Ward 19 stands as one of my absolute favorite hidden corners of the city. Thanks to its phenomenal cluster of Japanese dining establishments, local residents affectionately refer to this rapidly booming expat enclave as “Little Tokyo.” Fusing distinctly local atmospheres with brilliant spots to meander and dine. I find myself traveling here constantly for meals. Whether you seek a short – term holiday base or a long – term lease, this would be an incredibly stylish place to settle.
Both Ward 19 and the adjacent Ward 17 are remarkably walkable. Over the years, I have toured several condos in this vicinity. Should I ever uncover the perfect unit, I would eagerly relocate to Ward 22 near Vinhomes, Ward 19, or Ward 17.
Be aware that Binh Thanh operates as a highly self – contained bubble. It is physically impossible to walk from here to the tourist hubs of District 3 and District 1. If sightseeing is on your agenda, you will need to summon a regular taxi or secure a moto – taxi via the Grab app. A typical ride into the dead center of District 1 will consume approximately 15 minutes.
On the flip side, bedding down in Binh Thanh dramatically reduces the distance to District 2’s Thao Dien. Making quick visits over there far more manageable.
Where to Eat in Binh Thanh
Sushi Nhi. When you desire highly economical sushi – or, more accurately, fantastic budget sushi – this is the undisputed champion.
Oliver’s Pizza. This joint executes an incredible lunch combo centered around authentic, Sicilian – style pizza.
Oliver’s Pizza in Binh Thanh
Pickles Eatery. A profoundly impressive culinary venue featuring an array of highly inventive, unique dishes.
Gringos Tacos y Cantina. Situated in Ward 19. This Mexican restaurant draws a highly dedicated crowd.
I cherish specific sectors of Binh Thanh precisely because they offer a slight variation in pace. They suffer from far less congestion than District 1. The micro – neighborhood encircling Vinhomes Central Park is particularly pristine. The solitary caveat is the geographic gap separating it from the core attractions of D1 and D3. Catching a taxi or a GrabBike is completely effortless. Making it entirely possible to base yourself by Vinhomes and commute inwards for your sightseeing.
Landmark 81, Vinhomes, and Vinhomes Central Park in Binh Thanh District
Best Places to Stay in Binh Thanh
The sheer volume of hotels in Binh Thanh is somewhat limited. But the few that exist are absolute treasures. Looking beyond the monumental, luxury – tier Vinpearl Landmark 81, you will discover a handful of stunning boutique properties nestled into the quieter stretches of the district. The immediate surroundings are incredibly walkable. You will have effortless access to an abundance of spectacular coffee and dining options.