Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as many still call it, is a popular first taste of Vietnam for travelers. Beyond the well-trodden paths of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and Ben Thanh Market, lies a wealth of undiscovered charm. Did you know Saigon harbors hidden gems just waiting to be explored?
Hey there! I’m stoked to give you the lowdown on some seriously cool stuff you absolutely have to check out when you’re in Saigon, whether you’re a local or just passing through. Trust me, these aren’t your run-of-the-mill tourist traps. I’m talking about experiences that’ll really stick with you, the kind that give you a real feel for the people, the vibe, and the traditions of Vietnam. They’re gonna add a whole new level of awesome to your trip.
Come with me on this little adventure, and get ready for a bit of a rollercoaster of feelings, you know? I’m pretty sure the things I’m about to share will show you sides of Saigon you might already know and some that’ll be totally fresh. So, ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Discover Saigon Off-the-Beaten-Path on Two Wheels
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
You probably know Ho Chi Minh City for its modern skyscrapers and buzzing entertainment, but that’s not the whole story. Woven into the centuries of development are these incredible pockets of old Saigon, hidden gems most tourists miss. Step into these places, and you’ll instantly feel the nostalgic, peaceful vibe of the city’s past. Think tiny coffee shops tucked away in quiet alleys, where the owner still makes coffee the old-school way with a sock filter. Or ancient temples, their incense always burning, nestled beside busy streets. Then there are the old markets, where vendors chat with that classic, warm, and generous Saigon accent.
Honestly, the best way to truly soak this all in is on a bicycle, exploring Saigon’s off-the-beaten-path spots. You’ll pedal through lively markets, peaceful parks, and historical sites, experiencing the city like a local. These aren’t the flashy spots on tourist brochures, but they hold the true spirit of the city – that rich, simple Saigon character you won’t find anywhere else. If you really want to understand this city, step off the main roads, wander down the small lanes, listen to the stories of the locals, and feel the slower, more heartfelt rhythm of a Saigon you won’t soon forget.
Having Lunch in Xom Chieu Market
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Xom Chieu Market stands out among the list of unusual things. When people hear “Xom Chieu Market”, they might automatically think it’s similar to Ben Thanh Market. However, that assumption is incorrect, and you would be missing out on a wide variety of eateries selling authentic Vietnamese dishes at very affordable prices. These eateries are spread out from the North to the South, located inside a building with old glass architecture. The vendors are very friendly and welcoming, inviting you to try their delicious food.
- Address: Dinh Le Street, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 4 AM – 11 AM
Wander into the Lively Culture of City Alleyways
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is known as the “crazy traffic” city, so be cautious when moving around Saigon. Exploring the narrow alleys will give you a fresh perspective on the culture with the depth of stories hidden in each alley you visit. Pack your bags and discover the interesting things in the alleys, especially the food and the coffee shops that will make you exclaim, “Amazing” during your adventure, exploring the maze of many paths in Saigon.
Hint: With Jackfruit Adventure take you there!
Breathing Fresh Air in Saigon’s Countryside
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Have you ever thought that there would be a place for you to escape the bustling city but still not need to go far out of the city? Well, there is right here in Ho Chi Minh City – it’s Thanh Da Island. Just about a 20-minute drive from the center, Thanh Da feels like a “time-out oasis” right in the middle of bustling Saigon. No blaring horns, no skyscrapers popping up everywhere – just peaceful village roads, swaying coconut trees, happy dogs running around, and birds singing along with the cool breeze from the Saigon River.
When you get to Thanh Da, it’s like you’ve wandered into a quiet countryside spot in the Mekong Delta. Lush green vegetable fields, little houses by fish ponds, riverside eateries serving up delicious hot pot with snakehead fish or fresh spring rolls made with local ingredients – it all creates this simple, relaxed, and incredibly pleasant vibe. I bet that the moment you arrive, you’ll step into a whole different world, the complete opposite of the city’s atmosphere. It’s unhurried, it’s peaceful, a place where you can slow down, take a deep breath, and experience Saigon in a totally different way.
Step Back in Time with Vintage Coffee Beside the Train Tracks
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
“The space of time” is the phrase I had to exclaim when arriving at the cafe with a strong vintage vibe called “Nhỏ Cafe” (Small Cafe). This place is home to all kinds of old items like cameras, ceramics, clocks, postcards, money, v.v. Everything serves as a catalyst, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine and taking you back to the past. When you enter the cafe, not only can you admire the antiques placed all around, but you can also enjoy refreshing drinks. Occasionally, you might even hear the sound of trains passing by on the tracks outside, quite interesting, isn’t it? If you’re a fan of vintage things, don’t miss this charming vintage cafe!
- Address: 115/30 Le Van Sy, Ward 13, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 9 AM – 10:30 PM
- Drink suggestions: Milk coffee, Peach Lipton, Avocado smoothie
Catch Your Own Shrimp at the Restaurant
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Experience the thrill of catching your own meal at one of the shrimp fishing restaurants in Thanh Da, Binh Quoi. These unique eateries offer a fun and interactive dining experience where you can fish for shrimp in indoor ponds. Once you’ve made your catch, the restaurant will cook it to your liking. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood and have some fun with friends or family.
- Address: 428 Binh Quoi, Ward 28, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
Wander Through an Old Apartment Complex Surrounded by Countryside
Forget those cookie-cutter high-rises. Saigon’s still got these awesome old apartment blocks, built way back when, with a seriously nostalgic vibe and all sorts of cool quirks from the folks who live there – places like Thanh Da, Xa Tay, Nguyen Thien Thuat, and Ngo Gia Tu Apartment. Seriously, each of these old spots is like a living, breathing look back at Saigon life from way back. You’ll see how every apartment in the block is like its own little world, with window frames that have faded over the years and those classic spiral staircases where every step seems to tell a story.
But the best part? Every balcony’s got its own thing going on – orchids hanging, squash vines climbing, laundry flapping in the breeze, or a hammock gently swaying. It all adds up to this cozy, down-to-earth feeling, that whole “home is where you hang your hat” kind of thing.
Drinking Coconut Water at Mrs. Tư’s House.
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Not in a restaurant, nor at a street vendor’s stall, you can drink fresh coconut water right at a local’s home, hard to believe, right? But that’s part of the journey on the Escape to the Hidden Island Tour, where your stop will only have the cool, refreshing natural scenery of a rural area right in the heart of bustling Saigon, unforgettable experiences at the home of hospitable locals with cute dogs always wagging their tails when you arrive.
When you come to Mrs. Tư’s house, rest assured that you will do everything yourself, from chopping coconuts, drinking coconut water, leisurely petting dogs, or even cooking with her. I’m sure that the feeling of drinking coconut water here will be completely different from when you hastily buy a pre-chopped coconut and drink it. If you don’t believe me, try it, and you’ll feel even better than what I’ve shared.
Step Inside the Colorful Umbrella Market Apartment
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
The Umbrella Market Apartment, located in Ngo Gia Tu Apartment, is a hidden gem in Ho Chi Minh City. This market is distinguished by its vibrant, colorful umbrellas that hang overhead, creating a whimsical and photogenic atmosphere. Stroll through the market to discover a variety of local goods, street food, and unique souvenirs. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and snap some Instagram-worthy photos.
- Address: Ngo Gia Tu Apartment, Ward 2, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
Stop by the Oldest Coffee in Town
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Coffee culture is a significant part of Vietnamese life, and Ba Lu Racket Cafe in District 5 is the oldest coffee shop in Ho Chi Minh City. Established over 70 years ago, Ba Lu Racket Cafe offers a nostalgic atmosphere with its vintage decor and time-honored coffee-making techniques. Enjoy a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee while soaking in the history and charm of this iconic café.
- Address: 193 Phung Hung Street, Ward 14, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 2 AM – 5 PM
Connect with Local People at Ton That Dam Old Market
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Tucked away in the bustling heart of District 1, Ton That Dam Old Market is a true hidden gem for those seeking an authentic slice of local life in Ho Chi Minh City. This charming market, with its narrow alleys and retro charm, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Here, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, traditional snacks, and local delicacies, alongside stalls selling unique souvenirs and vintage items. Perfect for tourists who love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, Ton That Dam Old Market promises a memorable and immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich culture.
- Address: Ton That Dam Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (Mon to Fri); 9 AM – 4:30 PM (Sat and Sun)
Experience the Essence of Tradition in Incense Village
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Located in Le Minh Xuan Ward, Binh Chanh District, the Incense Village is a sensory delight. This village is dedicated to the art of incense making, and visitors can witness the intricate process firsthand. The vibrant colors of drying incense sticks create a beautiful scene, and the fragrant aroma fills the air. It’s a unique cultural experience that offers insight into traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.
- Address: Le Minh Xuan Commune, Binh Chanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 7 AM – 4 PM
Start Your Day with Early Morning Exercise
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
If you are a traveler who enjoys exercising in the morning and is looking for a space and activity to start your day, then Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect destination for you. In the early morning, when the city is still in a dreamy state, many Saigonese have already woken up and are exercising in the parks with various types of workouts such as running, badminton, yoga, and martial arts, catering to people of all ages. Join in and see yourself as a Saigonese while improving your health!
- Hint: Tao Dan Park, Hoang Van Thu Park, Le Van Tam Park, Gia Dinh Park,…
Follow the Scenic Path of Saigon’s Train Tracks
Alright, listen up! if you come to Saigon and skip the Saigon Railway Train Tracks Tour with Jackfruit, you’re missing out big time! I’m not even kidding, this trip totally flips your perspective on a city you thought you knew inside and out. You get to wander along train tracks that weave right through neighborhoods, where trains rumble past people’s front doors, and the locals live side-by-side with the rhythm of those heavy iron wheels.
Day in and day out, you’ll see folks crossing the tracks to get to work or school, planting veggies, setting up tea tables, and selling snacks – like the tracks aren’t a dividing line, but actually the thread connecting everyday life with a past that’s still right there.
Stroll Through the Aquarium Street
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
This street is home to numerous aquarium businesses, making it a vibrant trading hub and a popular tourist spot in District 5. If you love aquariums in Saigon, be sure to visit Aquarium Street, where the scenery, items for sale, and insights from shopkeepers will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the world of aquariums in Saigon.
- Address: Luu Xuan Tin Street, Ward 10, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 4 AM – 5 PM
Drinking Taste of Popular Herbal Tea in Cho Lon Chinatown
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
If you ever visit Chinatown, one thing you can’t miss is the herbal tea, a very popular drink not only in Vietnam, but also all over the world due to its many health benefits. So what makes the herbal tea at Chinatown special compared to other places? This has been confirmed by Jackfruit Adventure, a delicious drink with a warm welcome from friendly locals, who will guide, share, and sometimes even chat with you when you visit this Chinatown location.
- Address: Located at District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Dining Experiences with a View of the Saigon River
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Exploring Saigon by waterbus is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a fresh and captivating perspective of the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks. As the waterbus gently glides along the river, passing through various districts of Ho Chi Minh City, there’s a sense of peacefulness that contrasts beautifully with the city’s lively energy. The calm rhythm of the water, combined with the vibrant sights, makes it feel as though the city itself is revealing its hidden beauty.
And now, let’s think about after your city wanderings, what could elevate the experience more than an evening meal right on the Saigon River? Envision the urban illuminations twinkling around you, the gentle rocking of a vessel, and the delightful scents of local cuisine filling the air. It presents an entirely different ambiance, witnessing the cityscape sparkle after dark as you relish delectable fare. Whether you embark on a dedicated dinner cruise or discover a charming waterfront eatery, dining by the Saigon River adds an extra touch of enchantment to your urban discovery.
- Address: 1 Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM (Mon to Fri); 7 AM – 11 PM (Sat, Sun and Public Holidays)
“Hunting for Antiques” on Le Cong Kieu Street
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
When you take a stroll along Le Cong Kieu Street, you will come across numerous small shops selling a wide variety of treasures and decorative items, ranging from Asian to European styles. If you are a collector at heart, then this is the paradise for you, with affordable prices and a unique atmosphere filled with powerful artifacts. This is definitely a destination that you should not forget on your journey.
- Address: 28 Le Cong Kieu, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
Finding Serenity and Admiring the Beauty of the Pink Church
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
While most churches around here have that calm, classic look with softer colors, the Pink Church – you might hear it called Tan Dinh Church too – is like BAM! It’s this totally fairytale-like spot right in the middle of everything. I’m telling you, the whole thing’s painted this bright pink, inside and out, so it really pops. From the curvy entrance arch to the super tall bell towers with all those fancy little details, it’s just got this cool mix of old-school Gothic and Roman vibes, making it feel both ancient and kind of magical, you know?
Whether you’re a total architecture geek, obsessed with taking photos, or just need a chill break from the crazy city streets, the Pink Church is a must-see. Honestly, it’s rare to find a place this adorable, this one-of-a-kind, that still feels really respectful, especially in a city that’s always buzzing like Saigon.
And if you want to experience this spot (and a bunch of other hidden gems) without stressing over maps or missing cool backstories, let’s join Tour De Saigon with Jackfruit Adventure. It’s like having a fun local friend show you around—with all the juicy stories, photogenic corners, and chill stops you wouldn’t stumble on by yourself. Total game-changer if you want the real Saigon, not just the highlight reel.
Master the Art of Crossing the Road
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
I believe that when you first set foot in Saigon, your first misfortune is definitely “traffic jam”. It’s not surprising that you have to learn how to cross the road in the “crazy traffic” situation in Ho Chi Minh City like this. One interesting thing is that you have to learn how to imitate pedestrians, walk confidently but with a little observation to safely cross the road. Remember to learn it, because I also had to spend a few months in Saigon to be able to cross the road with many challenges and excitement.
- Hint: With Jackfruit Adventure show you how to cross the road by bike!
Have Your Haircut in the Open Air
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Have you ever tried the street haircut back home on the sidewalk, and looking for a place to get haircut in Ho Chi Minh City? With fresh air, funny barber at the Saigon, the hairdressers on the sidewalk, with their simple chairs and professional tools like scissors and razors, have created the brand “Street Haircut”. Will they make your hair more attractive? It’s an interesting experience worth trying when you come across them on the street. Hurry up and step in to get the hairstyle you like. It will be a fun experience at a very affordable price if you want to save money or simply change your appearance for the better with “Street Haircut” in Saigon.
Explore the Vibrant Culture of Cho Lon Chinatown
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
You know what’s super cool about Cho Lon, or Chinatown as we usually call it? It’s not just a crazy busy market area, but like, the actual heart of the Chinese folks who’ve been part of Saigon for ages and ages. Even though it’s in District 5, right next to the super happening District 1, it’s like you’ve suddenly walked into a totally different place, all Chinese vibes.
So you’re strolling through these little colorful alleys, right? And you’ll see these old-school Chinese medicine shops, some of the oldest temples in Saigon with that gentle smell of incense hanging in the air. Then you hear the vendors calling out their stuff in this accent you just know is Chinatown. And man, the food! You gotta try the dim sum and the wonton noodles, proper Chinese style.
Then sometimes, especially when they’ve got their traditional festivals, the whole place explodes with these awesome lion dances all over the streets. It’s like this burst of color and energy that really shows you what life, beliefs, and culture are like for the Chinese community here in Vietnam. It’s pretty awesome.
Support Local with Blind Message
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
This is an experience where you are supporting, helping visually blind people to earn extra income, spreading to the community as they make a living by their own efforts. At Blind Message, you will experience extremely dedicated, professional activities from visually blind individuals and bring you moments of relaxation, accompanied by support with this type of service!
- Address: Alley 335, Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Ward 5 , District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
Praying at the Floating Temple
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
You might overlook a hidden gem, still not widely known due to the hustle and bustle of Saigon. When you visit Phu Chau floating temple, you will discover the beauty that has existed for over 300 years, along with the remaining architecture and landscapes at this historical site. Unlike other temples in Ho Chi Minh city, this temple is located in a small oasis in Go Vap district. Just about 30 minutes to take the taxi ride there and buy a ticket for a short boat ride for an adventure morning to explore the hidden gems of this city.
- Address: 173/36/7B11 Quang Ham Street, Ward 5, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM
Immerse Yourself in the World of Traditional Medicine
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam is famous for its ancient traditional folk remedies of the Vietnamese people. At this museum, you will have the opportunity to explore a collection of artifacts related to traditional medicine from ancient times to the present, along with traditional medicine preparation tools. If you are an enthusiast who loves to learn about origins, then the Fito Museum is the ideal place for you.
- Address: 41 Hoang Du Khuong, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Explore the wonders of space, precious remedies, and ancient artifacts found in the museum to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese medicine in the past.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
Ho Chi Minh City is brimming with unusual and exciting activities for those willing to venture beyond the typical tourist spots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these activities are sure to enrich your stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam
At Jackfruit Adventure, we organize Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour and Team Building Ho Chi Minh. With a deep knowledge of Saigon city and local connections, we believe we can give you an awesome bonding time together. Contact us today if you have any requests or questions to prepare a trip for your team to bond in Ho Chi Minh – Vietnam.
