In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, where motorbikes hum and skyscrapers tower, there’s a lush green oasis waiting to surprise you at Tao Dan Park.
Take a moment to escape the bustle of the city streets, and you’ll find yourself wrapped in a world of whispering trees, chirping birds, and winding stone paths that leave the chaos of the city behind. Covering over 10 hectares in District 1, Tao Dan Park is more than just a natural escape, it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s soul.
Whether you’re a traveller craving a break from sightseeing or just someone who loves discovering the everyday magic of a city, Tao Dan Park invites you to slow down, look around, and immerse yourself in the authentic energy of Saigon’s streets. Sometimes, it’s not the monuments or museums that stay with us, but the gentle pulse of a city simply being still!
The History of Tao Dan Park
The formation of Tao Dan Park dates back to the 1800s, during the early days of French colonial influence in Saigon. Its origins lie in the colonial administration’s vision to incorporate European-style urban planning into the city, creating orderly, green public spaces. With wide walkways, centuries-old tamarind trees, shaded trails, and well-tended gardens, Tao Dan Park was designed not only as a recreational garden but also as a refined retreat where residents could find shade and calm amidst the tropical climate.
Today, Tao Dan Park stands as one of the most iconic green parks in Saigon, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Though it has evolved over the decades, its essence as a place of rest and reflection remains beautifully preserved.
Interestingly, hidden within Tao Dan Park’s tranquil space lies an air of mystery that few visitors, including locals, are aware of. In 2021, the renowned American travel magazine Travel + Leisure ranked Tao Dan Park among the 35 most haunted destinations in the world. As of their latest update in September 2023, the park holds the 17th position on this list, highlighting Tao Dan Park’s uncanny ability to blend beauty and stillness with whispers of the supernatural; a duality that continues to intrigue tourists and thrill seekers alike.
Regarding the name of the park, “Tao Dan” itself carries poetic roots and cultural depth in Vietnamese history. Traditionally, “Tao Dan” refers to a gathering of poets, scholars and intellectuals who would meet to share their work, exchange ideas and celebrate artistic creativity. Back in the days of the Le and Nguyen dynasties, these gatherings weren’t just social events, they were moments where poets, scholars, and thinkers came together, sharing ideas over tea, reciting verses, and celebrating the spirit of Vietnamese culture. It was an era when intellect, elegance, and national pride were intertwined in everyday conversation.
In today’s rapidly growing Ho Chi Minh City, where high-rises and motorbikes dominate the skyline and soundscape, Tao Dan Park continues to play a crucial role. It represents one of the few remaining symbols of sustainable urban planning, a place where heritage, greenery, and public life coexist.
Uncovering the Secrets of Tao Dan Park
Before you go, here are some fascinating facts that show why Tao Dan Park is such a treasured part of Saigon’s past and present.
- With more than 1,000 trees (some more than a century old), Tao Dan Park is affectionately known as the city’s “green lung.
- Once part of the 19th-century “Vuon Ong Thuong” on Governor Le Van Duyet’s estate, this lush garden became a public park under the French in 1869, named Jardin de la Ville (later Parc Maurice Long).
- Tao Dan Park spans over 90,000 m²; making it Ho Chi Minh City’s equivalent of Central Park.
- In the early 20th century, the area even featured sports facilities (a tennis court, football field, and pool) accessible to the public.
- Tao Dan Park regularly hosts flower fairs, art exhibitions, and the city’s annual Tet flower festival.
Where is Tao Dan Park and how to get there?
Nestled in the bustling heart of District 1, Tao Dan Park stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most convenient and inviting green escapes. Here’s what you need to know before visiting this lovely oasis:
- Address: 55C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai (or broader: Truong Dinh Street area), about a 5–10 minute walk from Ben Thanh Market
- Opening hours: 7AM – 10PM (open daily)
- Admission fee: Free on regular days. During festivals or special events, a small fee (≤ VND 20,000) may apply
You can easily reach Tao Dan Park in District 1 by several means. If you’re staying near Ben Thanh Market, it’s just a short 5–10 minute walk from Nguyen Du or Truong Dinh Street. For public transport users, you can hop on buses like 05, 06, 12, 14, or 150 stops nearby.
For those who love cycling, Tao Dan Park makes a perfect stop along the way. It’s a calm pause in the middle of the city, and if you’re joining a local bike tour like Jackfruit Adventure’s Tour de Saigon, chances are you’ll pass right through other Saigon’s peaceful green corners.
Best time to visit Tao Dan Park?
Whether you’re an early riser or someone who prefers a sunset stroll, Tao Dan Park offers a different charm depending on the time of day. Let’s find the best time for your visit!
- Early morning (5:30–7 AM): Watch elderly locals practice tai chi beneath ancient tamarind trees, sip strong drip coffee at nearby bird cafés and enjoy a quiet stroll along winding stone paths.
- Late afternoon (4–6 PM): Feel the temperature drop as a golden glow bathes the park; kids play badminton under the shade, joggers circle the lotus pond, and families gather on benches to chat.
- Evening (before 8 PM): The park remains open until 10 PM, but it’s best to head out by 8 PM, when the lighting is still good.
Why is Tao Dan Park in Ho Chi Minh City a Green Oasis?
If there ever comes a day when you’re craving a moment of peace, away from the noise, drama, or daily hustle, Tao Dan Park is the quiet sanctuary your soul might be seeking. Just imagine: once you step inside Tao Dan Park, you’ll quickly forget all the sorrow as the buzz of scooters fades into the background, replaced by rustling leaves, birdsong, the children’s laughter and the joyful atmosphere of a shuttlecock game.
In the early hours, while the streets are still sleepy, the park has awakened in its own way. One lovely scene you might catch is a group of elderly men gathering at the bird cafés, sipping coffee while staring at cages of singing birds. Nearby, you’ll see groups of retirees practice Tai Chi routines gracefully. As the day progresses, Tao Dan Park becomes a haven for students, families, and workers on their lunch breaks, who simply stretch or lie on the grass for a quick rest.
On special occasions like Tet, Tao Dan Park transforms into a festive stage, hosting flower exhibitions, cultural shows, and traditional performances that draw locals and visitors alike. When you come to Tao Dan Park during this time, you’ll witness a vibrant reflection of Saigon’s cultural soul — laughter fills the air, lanterns shimmer overhead, and music swirls through the trees.
What to See and Do in Tao Dan Park?
Start your morning with Tai Chi or stretching sessions
There’s something magical about Tao Dan Park in the early hours. Just after sunrise, the park comes alive with graceful motion as dozens of locals gather under the shade of century-old trees to practice Tai Chi or morning aerobics. It’s one of those unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that truly lets you live like a local, peaceful, communal, and deeply connected to the daily rhythms that tourists often miss.
It’s a beautiful, almost meditative sight: graceful motions in sync with birdsong and the breeze. Visitors are welcome to observe or participate in the event. It’s an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Saigon’s residents and a peaceful way to start your own journey through the city.
Visit the Bird Café area
Wander a little further and you’ll find one of the park’s most endearing traditions; the Bird Café area. Here, early in the morning, locals bring their cherished songbirds in handcrafted cages and hang them from tree branches while sipping coffee and exchanging stories with their friends.
The canopy comes alive with an enchanting medley of birdsong, both surreal and soothing. The best experience is to pull up a stool at a nearby stall, order a Vietnamese iced black coffee, and let the bright chirping of birds wrap around you fully. In this quiet corner of Tao Dan Park, time seems to pause.
Stroll through tree-lined paths
As the day warms up, you can take a slow stroll beneath the park’s sky-reaching tropical trees, many of which are over a century old. The air at Tao Dan Park feels noticeably cooler, and the layered canopy creates a natural shield from the sun—a rare gift in the midst of Saigon’s tropical heat.
As you walk the winding paths, you’ll pass trimmed hedges, flowering bushes, and little stone benches tucked into quiet nooks. It’s the kind of place where you can take your time, slow your steps, and simply listen to the birds, the breeze, and your own thoughts. Hence, the gentle pace of life in Tao Dan Park is infectious, inviting you to slow down and take it all in.
Check out the Hung Kings Temple
At the spiritual heart of the park lies the Temple of the Hung Kings, a sacred monument dedicated to Vietnam’s mythical founding rulers. The construction of Hung Kings Temple began in 1992. The temple holds deep historical resonance, linking modern Vietnam to its ancient roots.
With its curved tiled roofs, dragon carvings, and incense offerings, Hung King Temple is a peaceful spot to pause, reflect, or say a quiet prayer. Even if you’re not familiar with the legend of the Hung Kings, the beauty and reverence of the space speak for themselves. Visiting this hidden gem within Tao Dan Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for those seeking a quiet cultural moment amid the city’s lively pace.
Visitors often leave quiet offerings or light a stick of incense here. Even if you’re not familiar with the legend of the Hung Kings, the beauty and reverence of the space speak for themselves.
Admire the sculptures and monuments
As you wander the shaded paths of Tao Dan Park, don’t forget to slow down and take in the sculptures and monuments quietly nestled among the greenery. These artworks are subtle, thoughtful pieces that reflect Vietnam’s cultural depth and creative spirit.
You might come across a solemn figure paying homage to fallen heroes, or a stylised sculpture tucked behind a tree, catching the morning light just right. Some are bold, others weathered with time, but together they turn the park into an open-air gallery that you cannot find anywhere else. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the heart of the city, art and history walk hand in hand.
Have a picnic right at the park
One of the simplest pleasures you can enjoy in Tao Dan Park is lying out on a picnic under the soothing shade of its towering trees. With over 10 hectares of greenery, the park offers countless quiet nooks where you can escape the city’s hustle. Locals often bring Banh Mi, fresh fruit, or iced tea, while travellers might grab takeout from nearby eateries or markets.
As you dine, the rustling leaves, birdsong, and occasional laughter of children playing in the distance create a peaceful, almost nostalgic atmosphere. It’s a moment of pause, where you can soak in the charm of Saigon while recharging in nature.
Use it as a cycling rest stop
For those exploring the city by bike, Tao Dan Park is a fantastic place to take a breather. It’s centrally located and shaded enough to escape the sun during a hot ride. Whether you’re doing a casual loop around the city or on a full-day cycling tour, the park is a favourite rest stop for anyone cycling in Ho Chi Minh City to stretch, sip some sugarcane juice and cool down.
There’s no pressure to move fast here. Just park your bike, find a cool spot, and enjoy the sense of calm—a welcome contrast to the city’s often-chaotic streets.
Where to Eat and Drink After a Relaxing Stroll at Tao Dan Park
Just finished soaking in the calm of Tao Dan Park? Whether it’s a tasty bite or a coffee break you’re after, these nearby gems have just what you need to refuel and recharge:
A Taste Of Saigon Kitchen
Just a short stroll or quick ride from Tao Dan Park, A Taste Of Saigon Kitchen is a cosy restaurant that serves authentic Vietnamese dishes in the heart of District 1. Located at 272 De Tham, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, this restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere and authentic Vietnamese home-style meals, from savoury Com Tam, Bun Bo, Bun Rieu Cua, Banh Xeo to flavorful fish hotpots, braised chicken and refreshing vegetarian options.
For travellers eager to experience authentic Saigon flavours in a lively setting, this hidden gem is worth the list.
- Address: 272 De Tham, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM
SOLOBOX Saigon
Tucked just a few minutes’ walk from serene Tao Dan Park, SOLOBOX Saigon on Ly Tu Trong is a place that blends modern convenience with surprising comfort in Saigon’s bustling centre.
SOLOBOX Saigon is renowned among locals for allowing orders to be placed via touchscreen kiosks. Within minutes, the meal is delivered to customers through a small hatch — a fast, futuristic, and convenient method. Plus, this modern eatery delivers Western-style fusion in every dish, such as Ribeye Steak, Beef Pasta, Triple Burger or French duck confit. Hence, SOLOBOX is an ideal choice if you’re craving Western comfort food.
- Address: 252 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Hai’s Restaurant – Vietnamese Cuisine & Vegan Food
Just steps from the tranquil paths of Tao Dan Park, Hai’s Restaurant- Vietnamese Cuisine & Vegan Food on Ly Tu Trong Street offers a peaceful retreat after your stroll. This stylish, peaceful restaurant serves up both traditional Vietnamese comfort dishes and a thoughtfully crafted vegan menu, making it perfect for visitors seeking authentic tastes with plant-based options. Its reputation as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City makes it a must-visit for food lovers looking to explore local flavours through a healthier, more sustainable lens.
Here, you’ll find everything from a steaming bowl of vegan Pho with rich mushroom broth to fragrant lemongrass tofu, fresh spring rolls, and colourful vegetable stir-fries. It’s the kind of place where each meal feels like a heartfelt embrace.
- Address: 257 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Bun Rieu Ganh (Ben Thanh Market)
If you want to recharge your energy after spending time at Tao Dan Park, Bun Rieu Ganh, a local eatery near Bến Thành Market, is a perfect spot to pause and refuel. Their signature Bun Rieu Cua (crab paste noodle soup) features a rich and tangy tomato-based broth, infused with freshly made crab paste, tender tofu, congealed duck blood, and a fluffy crab meatball.
Each bowl is topped with fresh herbs, shredded banana blossoms, and crunchy bean sprouts, bringing both texture and fragrance to the dish. This flavorful speciality easily earns its place among the Best Vietnamese Noodle Dishes you must try while in Saigon. Although located near the bustling Bến Thành Market, the eatery offers a calm, air-conditioned dining space, making it a comfortable stop after a morning stroll through Tao Dan Park.
- Address: 163 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
L’Usine Cafe Restaurant
Perched at Le Loi Street, just a short walk from the leafy calm of Tao Dan Park, L’Usine Café & Restaurant offers a stylish retreat from Saigon’s busy streets. For any Saigon youngsters, this chic restaurant combines elegant Indochine-inspired decor with a diverse menu of brunch classics, drinks, sandwiches, salads and desserts.
L’Usine draws a well-travelled café crowd by serving popular brunch dishes, including the signature eggs Benedict, avocado toast, smoked salmon bagel, spaghetti with meatballs, crispy butter-milk fried chicken, or the refreshing Buddha bowl. These dishes are acclaimed for marrying aesthetics with authentic taste.
- Address: 34 Le Loi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Tonkin Garden Egg Coffee and Eatery
Right around the corner from Tao Dan Park, Tonkin Garden Cafe is an ideal place for you to unwind after a morning walk or a cycling break. According to the locals, Tonkin Cafe has earned a reputation as one of Saigon’s top spots for egg coffee, Vietnamese speciality drinks, and light refreshments in a garden‑style setting.
One thing you need to know is this café takes Vietnam’s iconic Egg Coffee to the next level, using carefully selected, finest Robusta beans from Dak Nong and whipping egg yolks into a smooth, velvety foam often compared by reviewers to “liquid tiramisu.” Their dedication to crafting unique coffee blends makes each cup a memorable experience. All in all, I highly recommend this coffee shop for anyone wanting to enjoy Vietnamese coffee culture or treat themselves to a creative twist on classic drinks, just minutes from Tao Dan Park.
- Address: 135/50 Tran Hung Dao, Cau Ong Lao Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
The Workshop Cafe
The Workshop Café prides itself on a rotating selection of expertly sourced beans and brewing methods, ranging from Chemex and V60 to espresso and cold brew. Just a short ride from Tao Dan Park, this marvellous café is tucked on the 2nd floor of the 27 Ngo Duc Ke building-a stylish hidden gem in the heart of Saigon.
Step inside and you’re immediately drawn into a loft-style room with soaring ceilings, exposed brick walls, and a dramatic central island where expert baristas craft specialty coffee. In this cafe, you’ll find a menu of international dishes like creamy risotto, toast and spreads, and corn fritters.
Additionally, you can try sipping some standout coffee creations that this cafe offers, such as a cold brew latte, salted iced coffee, or the iconic V60/Chemex Single-Origin Brew.
- Address: 2nd floor of 27 Ngo Duc Ke Building, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 20:30 PM
Practical Tips for Visiting Tao Dan Park
Before you take a stroll at Tao Dan Park, here are a few handy tips can help you make the most of your visit:
- If visiting Tao Dan Park at dusk, stick to well-lit areas and avoid wandering into hidden trails alone.
- Remember to bring a hat and a water bottle to stay cool and hydrated, especially during the midday hours.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Use crosswalks and sidewalks carefully when entering/exiting the park, as District 1 traffic can be hectic.
- Avoid bringing valuables or flashy accessories.
- Lastly, be respectful, as Tao Dan Park is a quiet space for many locals, so keep noise low and avoid disturbing group activities.
Combine Your Visit to Tao Dan Park with Nearby Attractions
Located in the very heart of District 1, Tao Dan Park makes a perfect starting point for exploring some of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks. A morning walk through Tao Dan Park can easily lead you to plenty of little surprises waiting just around the corner. Here are some top attractions you can easily combine with your visit to Tao Dan Park:
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
As you step out from Tao Dan Park’s Northern gate, you’ll spot the striking facade of Reunification Palace. This 1960s landmark once served as the presidential headquarters of South Vietnam, and it’s also the exact spot where the Vietnam War came to a close.
Inside, you’ll find a labyrinth of elegant halls, official meeting rooms, and preserved private chambers. However, the real highlight lies underground: the wartime bunker, which houses other communication equipment and strategy maps, offering a profound glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past.
War Remnants Museum
Just a short 7-minute walk from Tao Dan Park, the War Remnants Museum stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most visited and thought-provoking landmarks. After enjoying the calm greenery and traditional activities at Tao Dan, a visit to this museum offers a powerful shift in perspective.
Inside, you’ll find gripping photographic exhibitions that document the Vietnam War through the eyes of journalists, survivors, and international observers. The museum also features preserved tanks, helicopters, and fighter planes in its courtyard, reminders of a turbulent past now resting in peace.
Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Head north for around 10 minutes on foot after leaving Tao Dan Park, and you’ll arrive at the grand Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon. Constructed by the French in the late 19th century using bricks shipped from Marseille, this towering red-brick structure stands as one of the most iconic remnants of colonial Saigon.
Framed by its twin bell towers and a quiet square just outside, the cathedral invites moments of reflection, photo-taking, and simple appreciation for its striking architecture.
Saigon Central Post Office
Just a short stroll from Tao Dan Park, the Saigon Central Post Office is one of the city’s most iconic colonial-era buildings. When you reach this place, you’ll be instantly greeted by arched ceilings, antique telephone booths, and hand-painted maps of old Indochina.
Step inside, and you’ll be transported back in time. From its arched ceilings to its vintage telephone booths, everything feels beautifully preserved. On top of that, you’ll find various souvenir shops lining the walls with stamps, art prints, and handmade crafts — a great spot if you’re looking to go shopping in Ho Chi Minh City for meaningful, handcrafted local souvenirs.
Ben Thanh Market
Ready to grab a snack? Just a 12–15-minute walk from Tao Dan Park, Ben Thanh Market is where the energy picks up. This bustling open-air market is bursting with colourful stalls selling everything from local spices and coffee beans to textiles, lacquerware, and fresh produce.
For the best experience, you should visit Ben Thanh Market before noon while the market is not overly hot. This is also a great spot to sample local flavors—for instance, stop at a food counter for Bun Cha, a Banh Mi, or a cold coconut. It’s also one of the best spots to have a Ho Chi Minh City street food tour under one roof.
Bui Vien Walking Street
When the sun goes down, Bui Vien Walking Street comes alive. Located a short ride or a long walk from Tao Dan Park, this lively walking street is packed with bars, pubs, street food vendors, hostels, and music echoing from every direction.
As night falls, Bui Vien offers a different side of the city: the colourful chaos of lights, laughter, and clinking glasses. A hotspot for Saigon nightlife, Bui Vien Walking Street buzzes with energy; lined with budget-friendly spas, tattoo parlours, bars, and vibrant street performers. It’s a fun and chaotic contrast to the serene charm of Tao Dan Park, making it a perfect way to experience two very different vibes of the city in one day.
See Saigon Beyond Tao Dan Park with Jackfruit Adventure!
After spending a slow, meaningful moment in Tao Dan Park, you might find yourself craving to see more of Saigon—not just the landmarks, but the hidden alleyways, the smells of street food curling through the night air, and the everyday rhythm of local life. And that’s where Jackfruit Adventure comes in. Our thoughtfully designed cycling tours in Ho Chi Minh City offer a refreshing spin on experiencing the city on two wheels, at your own pace, with stories, smiles, and scenery you won’t catch from a car window.
On our night tours, especially the Saigon Foodie Ride, we’ll take you through the real layers of the city we call home. We stop at hidden, locally-acclaimed food stalls, share stories with each other while continuing to pedal between neighbourhoods, and let you see how Saigon truly comes alive after dark.
So why not hop on a bike, follow your curiosity, and let Jackfruit Adventure show you the kind of Saigon that doesn’t always make it into guidebooks—but always stays in your memory!
