Ho Chi Minh must visit places are not limited to the well-known tourist attractions like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market or the War Remnants Museum. For travelers seeking a more authentic experience, the city holds many hidden gems that are often overlooked.
In this local’s secret guide, Lux Travel DMC will take you off the beaten path and reveal some of the lesser-known spots that showcase the true charm of Ho Chi Minh City. From quiet alleys to vibrant markets, these hidden treasures will make your trip unforgettable.
Table of Contents
I. Hidden Ho Chi Minh must visit places
1. Turtle Lake (Hồ Con Rùa)
Though not as hidden to locals, Turtle Lake remains relatively unknown to tourists. This quirky, circular square located in District 3 is both a historical landmark and a favorite spot for young locals. At its center lies a small pond surrounded by strange architectural structures, making it an ideal spot to relax, enjoy street food, and take in the city’s atmosphere.
Try the local favorite snacks like fried rice paper (bánh tráng nướng) and Vietnamese milk tea from nearby stalls. Turtle Lake is the perfect mix of local vibes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Turtle Lake is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places
2. Café Apartment on Nguyen Hue Walking Street
This converted 9-story apartment building located at 42 Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the hidden Ho Chi Minh must visit places for coffee lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. Each floor is home to unique cafés, boutiques, and mini restaurants with eclectic styles and themes.
As you explore the different floors, you’ll find a mix of retro, minimalist, and artistic designs that offer great views over the bustling street below. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee or a trendy boba tea while soaking in the energy of downtown Saigon.
3. Binh Quoi Village
Looking for a peaceful escape from the city’s hectic pace? Binh Quoi Village is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places that serves as a hidden oasis.
Situated along the Saigon River, just 8 kilometers from the city center, this charming village beautifully recreates the Vietnamese countryside. With its thatched-roof houses, water coconut trees, and serene rivers, Binh Quoi offers a taste of rural life right within the city. Visitors can also indulge in traditional Southern Vietnamese cuisine at a buffet-style restaurant, providing an authentic experience of the Mekong Delta’s flavors.
Binh Quoi Village is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places that serves as a hidden oasis
4. Thich Quang Duc Memorial
In a quiet corner of District 3, far from the typical tourist paths, lies one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places: the Thich Quang Duc Memorial. This serene site honors the Vietnamese monk who famously immolated himself in 1963 to protest the persecution of Buddhists. The memorial features a poignant statue of the monk seated in the lotus position, surrounded by rising flames. Both peaceful and deeply moving, it offers visitors a reflective space to contemplate Vietnam’s complex history and the powerful act of sacrifice.
One of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places: the Thich Quang Duc Memorial
5. Saigon Central Post Office Back Alleys
Most visitors flock to the famous Saigon Central Post Office, but the surrounding back alleys of District 1 are one of the must visit places in Ho Chi Minh City that few take the time to explore. These winding alleys are a hidden treasure, offering a glimpse into the authentic, everyday life of the city.
You can find local eateries, small temples, and even an occasional art gallery hidden in these streets. Wandering through these alleyways offers an authentic view of local life, away from the polished main roads.
6. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
If you’re an early riser, Ho Thi Ky Flower Market is a must-visit. Located in District 10, this bustling market is where local vendors come to trade fresh flowers, ranging from lotus blossoms to exotic orchids. The best time to visit is early in the morning when the market is at its most vibrant.
The market also transforms into a food haven in the evening, offering everything from Vietnamese hot pot (lẩu) to street snacks. This colorful and aromatic corner of the city is one of the hidden Ho Chi Minh must visit places that few tourists discover.
Ho Thi Ky Flower Market – One of must visit places in ho chi minh city (source: Internet)
7. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
Among the lesser-known Ho Chi Minh must visit places, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda stands out as a tranquil and stunning Buddhist temple in District 3. Often overshadowed by the more famous Jade Emperor Pagoda, this seven-story structure is the largest pagoda in the city. Its peaceful atmosphere offers a perfect retreat for those seeking a spiritual experience. Visitors can light incense, observe local offerings, and admire the impressive architecture, which beautifully blends modern and traditional styles.
Among the lesser-known Ho Chi Minh must visit places, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda stands out as a tranquil and stunning Buddhist temple
8. Chinatown (Cho Lon)
Located in District 5, Cho Lon is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places that remains a hidden gem for many travelers. As the city’s historic Chinatown, it’s filled with vibrant markets, ancient temples, and traditional Chinese eateries, offering a completely different experience from the modern streets of downtown Ho Chi Minh.
Be sure to explore Binh Tay Market, the central hub for fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Don’t miss the iconic Thien Hau Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess, where you can admire its intricate architecture and the peaceful atmosphere of incense-filled halls.
9. Ba Chieu Market
For those seeking authentic local markets, Ba Chieu Market in Binh Thanh District is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places free from heavy tourist crowds. This bustling market is full of authentic street food, fresh produce, and local vendors selling everything from clothes to household goods. It’s an excellent spot to sample street food like grilled pork skewers (thịt nướng), Vietnamese pancakes (bánh xèo), and sugarcane juice. Ba Chieu Market gives visitors a true taste of daily life in Saigon.
Ba Chieu Market in Binh Thanh District is one of the Ho Chi Minh must visit places free from heavy tourist crowds
10. Phu My Hung Urban Area
Among the surprising Ho Chi Minh must visit places, Phu My Hung in District 7 offers a modern twist on the city’s charm. Though it may not fit the typical image of a hidden gem, this urban area provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling streets of downtown Saigon with its green spaces, upscale dining, and scenic waterfront views. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll along Crescent Lake, explore outdoor shopping malls, or enjoy a meal by the water—experiencing a side of Ho Chi Minh City that many tourists overlook.
II. The most famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
Here are the hidden gems in the list of Ho Chi Minh must-visit places. Lux Travel DMC will also suggest some of the most famous attractions that every traveler loves when visiting this vibrant city.
- Ben Thanh Market: A bustling symbol of the city, offering a variety of local products, souvenirs, and street food.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A stunning French colonial landmark, perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
- War Remnants Museum: An eye-opening experience, showcasing Vietnam’s wartime history through moving exhibits.
- Saigon Central Post Office: Another architectural gem, designed by Gustave Eiffel, blending old-world charm with historical significance.
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A lively pedestrian street with modern cafes, shopping centers, and a view of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Vietnam-Saigon Central Post Office
These are just a few of the must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, each offering a unique insight into the city’s rich culture and history.
Ho Chi Minh City is full of surprises, and beyond the popular tourist spots, there are plenty of hidden places that offer a more intimate, local experience. These hidden Ho Chi Minh must visit places provide an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of the city. So, venture beyond the usual stops and discover the secret corners of Saigon that only the locals know.
By exploring these hidden Ho Chi Minh must visit places, you’ll get a deeper, more meaningful experience of Vietnam’s most dynamic city.
