Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. It’s a massive, bustling, and sometimes chaotic metropolis. Finding information about the more unique and less-touristy Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh can be a challenge, leading many travelers to stick to the well-trodden path or leave after only a few days.
Having lived here for four years, I can confidently say that Saigon is a city worth exploring in depth. Beyond the main attractions like the War Remnants Museum or Bui Vien Street, there are countless hidden gems offering unique experiences. From secret cafes and speakeasies to incredible food and serene temples, there are endless Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh that truly immerse you in the local culture. This guide shares some of my favorite insider tips and less-known spots I recommend to friends and family visiting the city. While the famous landmarks are worth seeing, my focus is on the vibrant layers of Saigon that aren’t always immediately obvious.
Explore the Hidden Shops and Cafes at 14 Ton That Dam
I have a soft spot for old, architecturally unique buildings, and Ho Chi Minh City is full of them. The apartment complex at 14 Ton That Dam is one of my favorite finds, stumbled upon while wandering District 1. It feels a bit like stepping into an M.C. Escher drawing or a film set, initially appearing somewhat abandoned but full of life inside.
It might feel slightly odd walking into a residential building, but this beautifully aged complex is home to a fascinating collection of hidden boutiques, cafes, and bars tucked away in former apartments. The trick to finding these spots is to head up the dark, somewhat hidden staircase to your right as you enter. Exploring this maze-like building is a genuinely unique experience and one of the more unexpected Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh. Just remember to be respectful of the residents who still call this place home.
14-ton-that-dam
Enjoy a Fun River Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is situated on a network of rivers, and while the industrial nature of the area might not immediately suggest a scenic cruise, it turned out to be a fantastic experience. A river tour offers a completely different perspective of the city, allowing you to escape the intensity of District 1 and see various districts, from undeveloped areas to more upscale neighborhoods.
Cruising along the river provides insights into the city’s rapid development and its diverse landscapes. For me, there’s also something inherently enjoyable about being on a boat. Many tours offer added perks, making it a relaxing and insightful activity. The Saigon River Boutique Cruise is highly recommended for its educational value and opportunity to see beyond the central tourist bubble, offering a unique angle on Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
saigon-river-cruise
Capture Memories at the Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church)
Tan Dinh Church stands out as perhaps the most vibrant and festive church you’ll ever encounter, making a visit here one of the most unique Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh, especially for photographers. Its striking pink facade makes it an incredibly Instagrammable landmark. Located in District 3, it’s about a 15-minute drive from District 1, and the short journey is definitely worthwhile if you appreciate quirky and colorful architecture.
Stepping inside the church reveals an interior that’s even more colorful than the exterior, adding to its charm. Originally built in the 1870s, the church received its distinctive pink makeover during renovations in 1957. While the exact reason for the vibrant color choice isn’t widely documented, it certainly gives the church a memorable and cheerful appearance that attracts visitors from far and wide.
tan-dinh-pink-church-ho-chi-minh-city
Discover Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh: Seek Out Hidden Cocktail Bars
Ho Chi Minh City boasts an exciting and sophisticated cocktail scene, but many of the best bars are tucked away and not always easy for visitors to find. My experience exploring these hidden gems has largely been thanks to local friends who know the city’s secret spots. These bars often offer classic cocktails alongside incredibly creative concoctions using unique, sometimes surprising, local ingredients.
I’ve tried everything from drinks featuring peanut butter and spicy peppers to more unusual combinations with dill or coconut water. The inventive spirit is palpable, and many experimental drinks are surprisingly delicious. Beyond the drinks, the atmosphere in these hidden bars is consistently cool and inviting, ranging from cozy speakeasies to stylish lounges. Popular choices include The ATM Cocktail Bar & Kitchen, Layla, and Snuffbox, each offering a distinct vibe.
For a truly immersive experience in discovering Saigon’s best-kept secrets in the nightlife scene, a guided tour specifically focused on hidden cocktail bars is an excellent option. These tours are designed to take you to places you would likely never find on your own, ensuring you get to sample the city’s most innovative drinks in its coolest hidden venues. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city after dark.
hidden-bars-saigon
Explore the Vibrant Cholon (Saigon’s Chinatown)
Did you know that Ho Chi Minh City is home to Vietnam’s largest Chinatown, known as Cholon? Having previously lived in Beijing, I was excited to discover this area upon moving to HCMC. Spending a day wandering through Cholon felt wonderfully familiar, with its abundance of red lanterns, ornate temples, and tempting dim sum stalls.
Cholon is vast and impossible to fully absorb in a single visit, but it offers a rich cultural experience distinct from other parts of the city. Exploring its bustling streets, markets, and temples provides a glimpse into the lives of the city’s large Chinese-Vietnamese community. It’s an immersive dive into a different facet of Saigon’s identity and undeniably one of the more unique Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
cholon-chinatown-saigon
Get High for Amazing Views: Rooftop Bars & Sky Decks
Many first-time visitors head straight to the Saigon Sky Deck on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower for panoramic views, and as someone who appreciates a good skyline, I highly recommend it. However, HCMC offers numerous other fantastic vantage points to take in the sprawling cityscape, adding another dimension to the Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
One popular way to enjoy the views is from the city’s many excellent rooftop bars. Places like Chill Skybar offer a high-end experience with a dress code, while Shri Bar provides equally stunning panoramic views in a more relaxed setting. Sipping a cocktail while watching the city lights twinkle below is a memorable evening activity.
For the absolute highest view, consider visiting the Skyview Observation Deck at Landmark 81, the tallest building in HCMC. The vistas of the city and the river from this height are truly spectacular and easily justify the ticket price. Whether from a bar or an observation deck, getting a bird’s-eye view provides scale to this immense city.
saigon-skyline
Find Serenity at Ho Chi Minh City’s Incense-Filled Temples
As mentioned when discussing Chinatown, Cholon (District 5) is particularly known for its beautiful and historic Buddhist temples. Taking a taxi ride from District 1 to explore these temples alone is well worth the trip. These places offer a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, immersing you in local spirituality and architecture.
I’ve visited notable temples such as Thien Hau Temple, Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda, and Ong Bon Pagoda, all of which are highly recommended for their intricate designs and peaceful atmosphere. However, there are many more temples scattered throughout Cholon and even in other districts like District 1, each with its own history and unique features waiting to be discovered. Stepping into these incense-filled sanctuaries is a deeply cultural experience.
thien-hau-temple-ho-chi-minh-city
Experience The Fun Cafe Apartment (42 Nguyen Hue)
No guide to unique Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh would be complete without mentioning “The Cafe Apartment,” located at 42 Nguyen Hue. While not a secret to returning visitors, it’s a must-see for anyone stopping in the city for the first time. This nine-story decaying building has a fascinating history, having housed American military officers during the Vietnam War.
Today, the former apartment units have been transformed into dozens of quirky boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Exploring the corridors and stepping into the various shops and eateries is a truly enjoyable experience. The views from the upper floors are also quite impressive, overlooking the pedestrian-only Nguyen Hue Walking Street below. The building’s unique concept and photogenic facade make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in town for good reason.
apartment-cafe-saigon
Indulge in the Fun Flavors of Ho Chi Minh City’s Cuisine
While Vietnam is globally renowned for its pho, Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene extends far beyond this iconic noodle soup. There is a staggering variety of delicious dishes and noodle soups to try, representing the diverse flavors of Southern Vietnamese cuisine and influences from across the country. Exploring the local food scene is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
Must-try dishes include Banh Xeo (crispy savory crepes), Bun Bo Hue (a spicy and citrusy beef noodle soup originating from Central Vietnam but popular here), the ubiquitous and diverse Banh Mi sandwiches, and Com Tam (a broken rice dish often served with grilled pork and other accompaniments). Each dish tells a story about the region’s ingredients, history, and culinary traditions.
Taking a food tour is highly recommended in any Vietnamese city, as the cuisine varies significantly from North to Central to South. A street food tour by motorbike is a particularly exciting way to experience HCMC’s food scene. It allows you to zip through different districts, sampling a wide array of regional favorites while experiencing the city’s dynamic energy from the back of a motorbike. Many tours offer customizable options to try various dishes and drinks.
vegetarian-food-vietnam
Sip Local Brews: Ho Chi Minh City’s Craft Beer Scene
Ho Chi Minh City has a rapidly growing and innovative craft beer scene that’s a delight for beer enthusiasts. New breweries and taprooms seem to pop up regularly, each offering unique brews often incorporating local Vietnamese ingredients. Discovering these local flavors through beer is a fun and increasingly popular activity.
One notable spot is the original Pasteur Street Brewing Company taproom, which has a great rooftop terrace. Pasteur Street Brewing is known for using ingredients sourced from different regions of Vietnam in their beers, such as pepper from Phu Quoc Island or Marou chocolate from Tien Giang. Their Passionfruit Wheat Ale is a particularly popular and refreshing choice, often found canned in local stores. Exploring these craft breweries offers a taste of local innovation.
craft-beer-saigon
Catch the A O Show: A Fun Cultural Experience
For those interested in arts and culture, seeing the A O Show Bamboo Circus at the Saigon Opera House is a highly recommended activity. The Opera House itself is an iconic historical building, completed in 1898 during the French colonial era, and is architecturally impressive. However, the show within is the main draw, presenting a captivating blend of acrobatics, contemporary dance, visual effects, and traditional Vietnamese music.
The A O Show uses bamboo props and simple tools to tell stories about Vietnamese life and culture, transitioning from rural scenes to urban modernity. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally resonant performance that showcases the skill of Vietnamese artists. Attending this show is a sophisticated and engaging way to experience Vietnamese culture in a beautiful historical setting, providing a memorable evening out as part of the Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
Discover the Best – Where to Go on Vacation in Florida
Your Ultimate Guide – what to eat in destin florida
Discover Fun Things to Do in LA Today
saigon-opera-house-2
Relax and Recharge at Ho Chi Minh City’s Fantastic Cafes
Vietnam is famous for its coffee culture, and Ho Chi Minh City takes this to another level with an incredible variety of cafes. The cafe scene here is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from traditional Vietnamese coffee joints to modern, stylish spaces perfect for relaxing or working remotely. The sheer number and quality of cafes make exploring them one of the delightful Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
As someone who works remotely, having so many different and inspiring places to grab a coffee and open a laptop is a huge plus. Places like Vietnam Coffee Republic and The Workshop are popular choices, known for their quality brews and comfortable atmospheres. You’ll also find many hidden cafes tucked away in old buildings, adding an element of discovery to your coffee hunt.
Chain cafes like Cong Cafe, with their signature coconut coffee and nostalgic decor, are also reliable options found across the city and country. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to read, a lively spot to people-watch, or just a quick caffeine fix, HCMC’s cafe culture has something to offer everyone.
saigon-cafes
Enjoy a Relaxing Stroll Along the Saigon River
Ho Chi Minh City is known for its intense energy and noise, but there are pockets of tranquility to be found. The pedestrian pathway lining the Saigon River is one such place, conveniently located downtown. It offers a peaceful escape and a different pace compared to the surrounding streets.
This walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or simply watching the boats on the river and observing daily life. In the evenings, especially as the heat subsides, many older Vietnamese people use the exercise machines available along the path. Taking a walk here provides a quieter perspective on the city and life along its main waterway, offering a simple yet rewarding experience among the many Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
saigon-river-walk
Snap Photos at the Colorful Mong Bridge
The Mong Bridge, often called the Rainbow Bridge due to its colorful paint job, is a historic pedestrian bridge built by Gustave Eiffel (yes, of Eiffel Tower fame) in 1882. While it once carried vehicles, it is now exclusively for pedestrians, connecting District 1 with District 4 across the river.
Located conveniently downtown, not far from the Bitexco Tower, the bridge has become a popular spot for photographs, from wedding shoots to casual selfies. Its distinctive appearance and historical significance make it a charming landmark to visit. It also serves as a great starting point for accessing the Saigon River pedestrian pathway mentioned earlier, combining two pleasant activities.
rainbow-bridge-saigon
Feast at Ben Nghe Street Food Market
The Ben Nghe Street Food Market (formerly Ben Thanh Street Food Market) is a lively and trendy dining destination. It houses dozens of food stalls offering a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from traditional Vietnamese street food and local specialties to international options like Mexican and even vegan dishes.
While Ho Chi Minh City is packed with dining choices, this market stands out as a cool and convenient spot to sample many different flavors in one place. It’s a perfect venue if you’re with a group with varying tastes or if you simply want to graze and try a little bit of everything. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse food offerings make it one of the most popular and Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh for food lovers.
benthanh-street-food-market
Admire the Iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City has a surprising number of beautiful churches, reflecting its history. While the pink Tan Dinh Church is perhaps the most visually unique, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica is the most iconic and historically significant. Completed in 1880 by French colonists, it stands as a prominent landmark in the city center.
Built entirely with materials imported from France, its architecture is a striking reminder of the colonial era. An interesting local rumor from 2005 claimed the statue of the Virgin Mary in front of the church shed tears, which drew large crowds. Regardless of the legends, the cathedral remains an impressive structure and a key stop for anyone exploring the historical Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh. It’s located conveniently close to other central attractions.
notre-dame-cathedral-basilica-saigon
Send a Postcard from the Historic Central Post Office
Right across from the Notre-Dame Cathedral is another major historical landmark and a very touristy spot: the Saigon Central Post Office. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1891, the building’s grand architecture, featuring vaulted ceilings and historical maps, makes it well worth a visit.
Despite being a popular tourist attraction, the Central Post Office is a fully functioning post office. It’s quite amusing to see tourists busily taking photos while locals conduct their postal business. It’s known for being an efficient place to mail items, whether it’s souvenirs or postcards. My friend shipped a propaganda poster back to California, and while it took time, it arrived safely and affordably. Sending a postcard from here is a charming way to connect with loved ones back home and a classic item on any list of Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh‘s historical center.
saigon-central-post-office
Browse Books and Cafes on Book Street
Just a short walk from the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, you’ll find Nguyen Van Binh Street, affectionately known as “Book Street.” This pedestrian-only alley is a delightful place for a relaxed stroll and a quiet counterpoint to the city’s busy streets.
The street is lined with bookshops and vendors selling books, stationery, and cute trinkets. It’s a haven for book lovers and those looking for a peaceful spot. Several cafes are also dotted along the street, offering a chance to take a break from sightseeing, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps dive into a new purchase. It’s a pleasant, low-key activity that adds to the diverse range of Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh.
things-to-do-in-ho-chi-minh-city
Take a Fun Day Trip to the Mekong Delta
If you have extra time and want to see beyond the city limits, a day trip to the Mekong Delta is highly recommended and offers a different kind of experience among the Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh. Located south of the city, the delta is a vast network of rivers and swamps, home to unique rural life, floating markets, fruit orchards, and small villages.
A day trip allows you to glimpse life along the delta waterways, sample local foods, interact with residents, and gain a better understanding of the region’s culture and traditions amidst beautiful scenery. Small-group tours often cover key highlights like boat rides along canals, visiting islands to see local cottage industries (like candy making), biking through villages, and enjoying traditional meals. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the urban environment and offers a taste of the Vietnamese countryside.
mekong-delta
Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic and multi-layered city with much more to offer than meets the eye. Beyond the well-known tourist sites, exploring its hidden cafes, unique buildings, diverse culinary scene, and cultural gems reveals the true spirit of Saigon. From historical landmarks to modern nightlife and peaceful escapes, the Fun Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh cater to every interest, promising an enriching and unforgettable travel experience.