Binh Thanh District: Saigon’s Perfect Mix of Old & New

Contents

Binh Thanh District in Ho Chi Minh City is a unique destination (Source: Collected)

1. Introduction to Binh Thanh District

1.1. Location

Binh Thanh is located in the northeastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, covering an area of 2,056 hectares. It serves as a key gateway to the city’s northeast and houses the Mien Dong Bus Station, the largest bus terminal in Vietnam. 

Binh Thanh is bordered by District 1 and District 4 to the south, separated by the Thi Nghe Canal. To the northeast, it shares borders with Thu Duc City, which includes the former District 2 and District 9. To the west, it neighbors Go Vap District and Phu Nhuan District. The eastern edge of the district runs alongside the scenic Saigon River.

From District 1, the heart of Saigon, traveling to Binh Thanh District is straightforward:

• By bus: Take routes 45 (University of Economics – Ben Thanh – Eastern Bus Station) or 56 (Cho Lon Bus Station – New Eastern Bus Station) for an affordable connection.
• By taxi: Xanh SM taxis provide a convenient and comfortable option for a faster journey. You can book a ride though the Xanh SM app or call their hotline. 

Reach Binh Thanh District easily by Xanh SM taxi

1.2. History

Binh Thanh has a deep historical significance tied to the development of Ho Chi Minh City. It was officially formed in June 1976 through the unification of two districts: Binh Hoa and Thanh My Tay. Prior to April 30, 1975, these areas were communes under Go Vap District in Gia Dinh Province. Following the liberation of Southern Vietnam, they were designated as Binh Hoa and Thanh My Tay Districts. 

Since its establishment, Binh Thanh has seen remarkable transformation. As the district focused on economic and infrastructure growth, it became a pioneer in urbanization efforts. Notably, it implemented a “land-for-infrastructure” strategy, using land assets to fund the construction of modern housing, bridges, and roads. These efforts have significantly modernized Binh Thanh’s landscape.

1.3. Highlights

Binh Thanh offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions, making it a destination worth exploring. In recent years, Binh Thanh has embraced sustainable tourism development. One of the standout destinations is Thanh Da Peninsula, which is known for its peaceful ambiance. It features scenic views, local eateries, and spots ideal for leisurely exploration, offering a contrast to the urban hustle. 

The district also has significant historical and cultural sites. The Le Van Duyet Mausoleum, for instance, honors the Nguyen Dynasty general and is a center for local activities. Visitors can witness annual ceremonies, including the Khai Ha festival, which reflects the rich traditions of the region.

Additionally, historic pagodas and temples, such as the Van Thanh Temple, showcase traditional Vietnamese architecture and serve as gathering hubs.

There are many attractions to explore in Binh Thanh District, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Explore: Map of Ho Chi Minh City’s districts & useful travel tips

2. Must-see attractions in Binh Thanh, Vietnam

2.1. Landmark 81

• Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ward 22, Binh Thanh District

Landmark 81 is a modern icon of Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam as a whole. Located within the Vinhomes Central Park complex, Landmark 81 offers a variety of experiences for visitors. 

The Landmark 81 SkyView, on the 79th to 81st floors, provides panoramic views of the city and the Saigon River. Shoppers can explore high-end brands and boutiques at the Vincom Center Landmark 81. And the surrounding Vinhomes Central Park offers green spaces for walking, picnicking, and cycling, adding a tranquil touch to Landmark 81.

Visit a modern icon in Binh Thanh District (Source: Collected)

2.2. Thanh Da Peninsula

• Address: Ward 28, Binh Thanh District

Thanh Da Peninsula, between the Saigon River and Thanh Da Canal, is an ideal destination for both locals and tourists. The lush area is home to the Binh Quoi Tourist Area, which has been a popular attraction since the 1980s. It features expansive gardens, tranquil lotus ponds, and traditional wooden houses connected by picturesque monkey bridges.

At Thanh Da, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which provides a unique way to take in the area’s scenic beauty. For those interested in local flavors, Thanh Da Road, a stretch over 200 meters, is lined with nearly 30 eateries serving local snacks and beverages. Popular dishes include seafood hot pots and snails. 

2.3. Truc Mai Music House

• Address: 104 Pham Viet Chanh Street, Ward 19, Binh Thanh District

Truc Mai Music House is a cherished destination for those who love traditional Vietnamese music, run by musician Tuyet Mai, her husband—bamboo flute artist Dinh Linh—and their two children. Together, they have created a space where the rich heritage of Vietnamese folk music is celebrated and preserved. Visitors can learn how to play the bamboo flute, monochord zither, stone lithophone, and more. 

Immerse in Vietnamese traditional music in Binh Thanh District (Source: Collected)

2.4. Gia Dinh Gate

• Address: RM2W+XH2, Ward 3, Binh Thanh District

This quaint, yellow-hued gate now forms part of the perimeter of Truong Cong Dinh Secondary School. Despite its modest size and simplicity, the gate serves as a tangible link to the city’s past. Visitors can appreciate the gate as part of a broader journey through Saigon’s history, combining it with nearby cultural landmarks for a richer understanding of the city’s transformation over time.

2.5. Hai Ba Trung Temple

• Address: 23 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ward 6, Binh Thanh District

The Hai Ba Trung Temple is a historical and spiritual site dedicated to the legendary Trung Sisters, celebrated heroes in Vietnam’s fight for independence. Each year, on the 6th day of the second lunar month, hundreds of worshippers from Ho Chi Minh City and nearby provinces gather at the temple to commemorate the death anniversary of the Trung Sisters. 

Hai Ba Trung Temple entices hundreds of worshippers (Source: Collected)

2.6. Tomb of Le Van Duyet

• Address: 1 Vu Tung Street, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District

The Tomb of Le Van Duyet is one of the must-visit places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. It honors Le Van Duyet, a celebrated military officer and governor during the Nguyen Dynasty, and was designated as a National Historic-Cultural Monument in November 1988. The tomb complex features a unique “Tam Quan” gate, built in 1949, which is a notable highlight, showcasing traditional Vietnamese architectural elements. 

2.7. Binh Thanh District’s Traditional House

• Address: 6B Phan Dang Luu, Ward 14, Binh Thanh District

The Binh Thanh Traditional House serves as an educational space for visitors to learn about the region’s rich history. It offers a detailed glimpse into the revolutionary efforts of the people from the Binh Hoa and Thanh My Tay communes. Visitors can explore how the district has transformed over the past 47 years, from 1976 to 2023. 

Tour Binh Thanh District’s Traditional House (Source: Collected)

2.8. Ba Chieu Night Market

• Address: Bach Dang Street, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District

Among the many vibrant night markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Chieu Night Market stands out for its culinary offerings. Operating from 5:00 PM until late, this market attracts locals and tourists alike. Popular items include chicken sticky rice, fermented pork salad, braised offal, as well as a variety of sweet soups and baked goods. These capture the essence of Saigon’s street food culture.

2.9. Antique Market

• Address: 311/27 No Trang Long Street, Ward 13, Binh Thanh District

Held every weekend in a small alley, this market has been a vibrant gathering place since its inception in 2013. It was originally created as a venue for antique collectors from Ho Chi Minh City and nearby areas to exchange and showcase their treasures. Today, the market features over 30 vendors selling items that are hundreds of years old, originating from various parts of the world. 

Shop at the Antique Market in Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

Read more: The 20 best unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

3. Must-visit food streets in Binh Thanh, Saigon

3.1. Le Quang Dinh Street

Le Quang Dinh Street is a food hub that draws locals and tourists alike with its diverse culinary offerings. Known as one of the busiest streets in the area, it features a wide range of eateries serving traditional Vietnamese dishes. Some places to stop by are:

• Bun Mam 444: 375 Le Quang Dinh Street, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District 
• Tre-Lau Tom: 251/51 Le Quang Dinh Street, Ward 7, Binh Thanh District 
• Com Tam 321: 333 Le Quang Dinh Street, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District 
• Mi Lam Ky: 411A Le Quang Dinh, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District 

3.2. Van Kiep Street

This is another popular destination for street food lovers, especially among the younger crowd. Renowned for its extensive selection, this bustling street is a haven for casual dining. Visitors should not miss out on:

• Banh Cuong Trung Van Kiep: 55/19 Van Kiep Street, Ward 3, Binh Thanh District 
• Com Chay Kho Quet: 105 Van Kiep Street, Ward 3, Binh Thanh District 
• Bun Bo Co Dung: 55/2 Van Kiep Street, Ward 3, Binh Thanh District 

Indulge in delicacies in Binh Thanh District, Saigon (Source: Collected)

3.3. Nguyen Gia Tri Street

Nguyen Gia Tri Street, formerly known as D2 Street, is one of Binh Thanh District’s trendiest culinary destinations, drawing a large number of young visitors. It is lined with a diverse array of establishments, offering everything from street foods in Ho Chi Minh City to regional specialties. Some of the noteworthy spots are: 

• Bun Dau Mam Tom Chi Pheo: 149 Nguyen Gia Tri, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District
• Rong Quan: 168/73 Nguyen Gia Tri Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District
• Ram Quang Ngon: 55 Alley 36 D2 Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District
• Hem Kitchen: 157/36 Nguyen Gia Tri Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District 
• O Bistro: 157/1A Nguyen Gia Tri Street, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District

*The details in this guide are for reference purposes only and may change over time. If you are planning to visit these dining establishments, it is recommended that you contact them for the most up-to-date information.

Check out: 25 of the best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

4. Key information about the Binh Thanh District tour

The Staycation Tour’s itinerary includes a visit to the Binh Thanh District Historical House, Gia Dinh Gate, Tomb of Le Van Duyet, Hai Ba Trung Temple, Vinhomes Central Park, and Truc Mai Music House. The price is VND 889,000 per person.

For those planning to spend one day in Ho Chi Minh City, this is an excellent choice to explore the cultural and historical richness of Binh Thanh District while enjoying a variety of immersive experiences.

Embark on a Binh Thanh District tour (Source: Collected)

Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or someone looking for a unique cultural experience, Binh Thanh District offers an unforgettable experience that reflects the best of both the past and present. The district’s unique blend, through attractions like the Tomb of Le Van Duyet, Hai Ba Trung Temple, and Thanh Da Peninsula, makes it one of the top destinations to visit in the city.

After exploring the attractions of Binh Thanh District, head to Grand Park Amusement Park in Vinhomes Central Park, Thu Duc City, for more adventures. This exciting theme park offers something for everyone. You wouldn’t want to miss the Tropical Island Water Park, the vibrant Park Avenue Commercial Street, and the Park-In-Mall Complex. For a more relaxing experience, you can unwind by the serene natural lake surrounded by lush greenery.

Have a splendid time at Grand Park Amusement Park

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