Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as locals still affectionately call it, is a city that pulses with life at every corner. Known for its vibrant street life, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering food scene, it’s no wonder that Ho Chi Minh City has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a taste of Vietnam’s dynamic urban culture. But beyond the popular spots like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market, there lies another side of the city—a world of hidden gems and quiet escapes waiting to be uncovered.
1. Cholon - Saigon’s Chinatown
Cholon, or Saigon's Chinatown, is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, dating back to the 18th century when Chinese immigrants settled here. Located in District 5, it offers a blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures, making it a fascinating area to explore with its temples, traditional shops, markets, and a diverse culinary scene.
What to Expect:
Cholon is packed with ancient temples, bustling markets, and traditional medicine shops. Wander through its lively streets to see incense-filled pagodas, rows of herbs, and unique architecture, all while soaking in a rich mix of Vietnamese and Chinese influences.
Highlights:
Thien Hau Temple: Dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, this 18th-century temple is one of Cholon’s most famous landmarks. It’s known for its intricate ceramic tilework and statues, as well as the huge incense coils hanging from the ceiling. Visitors come to seek blessings, particularly sailors and those who believe in Mazu's power for safe travels.
Binh Tay Market: Also known as Cholon Market, it’s a bustling marketplace offering everything from spices and produce to clothing and souvenirs. The market is less touristy than Ben Thanh Market, providing a more local experience and a fantastic place to try authentic Vietnamese and Chinese street foods.
Herbal Medicine Street: A must-visit for those interested in traditional remedies, this street is lined with shops selling medicinal herbs and teas, as well as other traditional treatments. The aromas here are as fascinating as the sight itself!
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat and see Cholon at its liveliest.
Don’t Miss: Sample the unique fusion of Chinese-Vietnamese dishes, like wonton noodles and dim sum, which are specialties in Cholon.
2. The Cafe Apartment on Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Located on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, The Cafe Apartment is an unassuming building from the outside. But step inside, and you’ll discover a vertical maze of cozy, quirky, and one-of-a-kind cafes that each offer something special.
What to Expect:
Originally a 1960s residential building, it’s now packed with independent cafes, boutique shops, and studios, each reflecting the unique style of its owner. Each level offers something fresh, from themed cafes that transport you to 1950s Saigon to modern minimalist spaces where you can catch up on some work while people-watching over Nguyen Hue Street.
Highlights:
Themed Cafes: Choose from retro-style cafes with vintage decor, spaces with lush greenery, or hipster spots that boast Instagram-worthy setups. Each floor has its own personality, allowing you to experience different atmospheres in one place.
View Over Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Many cafes have outdoor balconies with views over the buzzing Nguyen Hue Walking Street, making it an ideal spot for a coffee or tea with a view.
Unique Drinks & Snacks: Try a variety of unique drinks, from matcha smoothies and Vietnamese coffee to artisan desserts and fusion snacks. The menus are creative, reflecting both traditional Vietnamese flavors and modern twists.
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time: Late afternoon is ideal for a coffee break, allowing you to enjoy both daylight and nighttime views over Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Don’t Miss: Each café has its own entry fee or cover charge to access their space, which often includes the cost of your first drink.
For more details and tips on what to expect, you can read more tps:Discovering The Cafe Apartment: A Hidden Gem on Nguyen Hue Street in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
3. Binh Quoi Village
Just a 30-minute drive from the city center, Binh Quoi Village feels like a serene oasis worlds away from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Nestled along the banks of the Saigon River, this village is a collection of scenic parks, bamboo huts, and lush greenery that recreates the peaceful atmosphere of Vietnam’s countryside and the Mekong Delta region.
What to Expect:
Binh Quoi Village is designed to look like a traditional Vietnamese village, complete with thatched-roof huts, lily ponds, coconut palms, and bamboo walkways. It’s the perfect spot for travelers who want a taste of Vietnam’s rural beauty without leaving the city.
Highlights:
Traditional Vietnamese Architecture: Wander through the picturesque setting of bamboo huts, wooden footbridges, and rustic wooden boats docked along the riverbanks. This setup feels like a snapshot of life in rural Vietnam, ideal for those interested in the country's traditional aesthetics.
Fishing and Boating Activities: For a small fee, visitors can try their hand at fishing or take a boat ride through the peaceful water pathways. It's a fun way to experience a common Mekong Delta activity.
Weekend Buffet: Binh Quoi is known for its traditional Vietnamese buffet, offered on weekends. Featuring a variety of local dishes from different regions of Vietnam, the buffet includes everything from fresh spring rolls and noodle soups to grilled meats and seafood. Dining outdoors by the water adds to the ambiance.
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a relaxing stroll and stay for the evening buffet, as the cool breeze and sunset over the river make for a picturesque experience.
Bring a Camera: The lush scenery, river views, and traditional architecture provide endless photo opportunities for those looking to capture the essence of Vietnam’s countryside.
4. Saigon’s Secret Alleyways
The alleyways of Ho Chi Minh City, especially in Districts 1, 3, and 5, are packed with surprises. Often overlooked, these narrow lanes are home to hidden cafes, street food vendors, colorful murals, and small local businesses, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Saigon.
What to Expect:
The alleyways are a maze of narrow streets and hidden corners where locals live, work, and relax. Exploring these areas lets you discover intimate snapshots of Saigon life—clotheslines hanging between buildings, families enjoying meals on tiny stools, and colorful doorways that lead to secret cafes or vintage boutiques.
Highlights:
Unique Cafes and Art Galleries: Many alleyways host indie cafes with distinct vibes, art galleries, and tiny boutiques. A few cafes also double as art spaces with murals and wall art inspired by Vietnamese history and culture.
Street Food Gems: Known to locals and rarely mentioned in guidebooks, these alleys are home to beloved street food spots serving iconic dishes like banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong (grilled pork with rice noodles). These alleyway stalls often serve some of the city’s most authentic and affordable food.
Street Art: Saigon’s street art scene is growing, and alleyways in District 3, in particular, have become open canvases for local artists. Murals showcasing Vietnamese culture, landscapes, and history add a splash of color and character.
Tips for Visiting:
Best Time: Morning is ideal if you want to explore the alleys when food stalls are just opening and streets are lively but not crowded. Alternatively, visit in the early evening when locals gather for dinner, giving the alleys a warm, communal vibe.
What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths can be uneven, and bring some cash for street food since many stalls don’t accept cards. A camera is also a must to capture the unique sights, from colorful doors to captivating street art.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is often celebrated for its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and delicious street food, but these hidden gems show a quieter, more intimate side of the city. From the peaceful ambiance of Binh Quoi Village to the vibrant art-filled alleyways and historic charm of Cholon, each of these lesser-known spots offers something truly special and memorable.
Exploring beyond the well-trodden tourist paths not only deepens your appreciation for Saigon’s diverse culture but also allows you to connect with the city’s heart and soul in ways that typical sightseeing can’t. So, on your next trip to Ho Chi Minh City, take a step off the beaten path—you might just find that the most unforgettable parts of your journey are hidden in the city’s quiet corners and local neighborhoods. Safe travels, and happy exploring!
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