District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City: A guide to the vibrant heart

Contents

1. Where is District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City?

District 1, known locally as Quan 1, is the central hub of Ho Chi Minh City, serving as the heart of its economic, financial, cultural, and social activities. Covering an area of 7.72 square kilometers, it is divided into 10 wards: Ben Thanh, Ben Nghe, Da Kao, Nguyen Cu Trinh, Nguyen Thai Binh, Tan Dinh, Co Giang, Cau Ong Lanh, Pham Ngu Lao, and Cau Kho.

This district is surrounded by six other inner-city districts. To the north, it borders Binh Thanh and Phu Nhuan, with the Thi Nghe canal acting as a natural boundary, as well as District 3, separated by Hai Ba Trung and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets. To the east lies District 2, with the Saigon River as the dividing line. On the west, District 5 is its neighbor, separated by Nguyen Van Cu Street. To the south, it meets District 4, with the Ben Nghe canal serving as the boundary.

District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is Saigon’s heart (Source: Collected)

Explore: Ho Chi Minh City map: A compass for first-time tourists

2. The top attractions in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City

2.1. Historical sites and museums

• Independence Palace: A significant landmark in Vietnamese history, the palace is known for its stunning architecture and historical importance as the site of the end of the Vietnam War.

• Museum of Ho Chi Minh City: This museum offers a comprehensive look into the history and development of Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage.

• History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City: Located in a beautiful building, this museum features a vast collection of artifacts that trace the history of Vietnam from ancient times to the present.

• Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts: Housed in a stunning colonial-era mansion, this museum exhibits an extensive collection of Vietnamese art, including contemporary and traditional pieces.

• Biet Dong Saigon Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the activities of the Special Forces during the Vietnam War, showcasing their heroic efforts and contributions to the liberation of the city.

Additionally, there are other notable historical sites and museums, such as the War Remnants Museum, Ton Duc Thang Museum, Thu Ngu Flagpole, and the Ho Chi Minh Statue. These sites provide further insight into the rich history and cultural significance of Ho Chi Minh City.

There are many museums in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

2.2. Architectural landmarks

• Notre Dame Cathedral: An iconic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, this stunning French colonial-era cathedral is known for its beautiful red brick facade and twin bell towers.
• Saigon Central Post Office: This grand building showcases beautiful French architecture. Nearby is the Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, a charming pedestrian street lined with bookstores and cafes.
• Ho Chi Minh City Opera House: Also known as the Municipal Theater, this attraction hosts a variety of cultural performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts.
• People’s Committee Building: This building was built back in 1889 and is now a notable landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. It is especially stunning when lit up at night.

2.3. Spiritual sites

• Jade Emperor Pagoda: One of the most important temples in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its intricate carvings, statues, and incense-filled atmosphere. It is dedicated to the Jade Emperor.

• Mariamman Hindu Temple: This colorful temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman and is a significant spiritual site for the local Hindu community. 

There are pagodas and temples across Saigon’s districts in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

2.4. Shopping places

• Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market and one of the oldest in the city, offering a wide range of goods from fresh fruits to souvenirs. It is also a great place to experience local culture.

• Tan Dinh Market: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of products, including clothing and delicious street food, this market is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

• Saigon Centre: A modern shopping mall featuring a mix of international and local brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
• Diamond Plaza: A luxury shopping center that offers high-end brands, a cinema, a bowling alley, and various dining options, all housed in a beautiful building.
• Vincom Center Dong Khoi: One of the largest shopping malls in the city, offering a wide range of international brands, gourmet restaurants, and entertainment options.

Additionally, other notable shopping malls in Ho Chi Minh District 1 include Saigon Garden, Union Square, and NOWZONE Fashion Mall. For more details, you can explore our guide on shopping in Ho Chi Minh City.

2.5. Sightseeing and entertainment places

• Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens: One of the oldest zoos in the world, this sprawling complex is home to a wide variety of animals and plants. Visitors can take a tram tour and partake in thrilling games too. 

• Nguyen Hue Street: A pedestrian street in the heart of the city, known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful buildings, and numerous shops and cafes. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially during special events.

• Bui Vien Street: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, this street is lined with a plethora of bars and clubs. Popular spots include The View Rooftop Bar, Ocean Sport Bar, Sahara Bar & Lounge, Sky Bar Corner, Lost in Saigon Bar, and Champion Sports Bar.

• September 23rd Park: A large park located in the city center, offering green spaces, walking paths, and playgrounds, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.

• Tao Dan Park: A serene and well-maintained park featuring lush greenery, sculptures, and a small temple. It is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.

Additionally, other notable parks in the city include Bach Dang Park, Bach Tung Diep Park, Me Linh Park, Chi Lang Park, etc. For more details, you can explore our guide on parks in Saigon.

Unwind in the parks in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

Read more: 20 places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City for your itinerary

3. Culinary map of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City

3.1. Must-eat food

Ho Chi Minh City offers a rich array of delicious Ho Chi Minh City food. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Com tam: Often referred to as “broken rice,” this dish features rice grains that are slightly broken, served with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a flavorful fish sauce.
• Banh mi: A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, offering a delicious mix of flavors and textures.
• Pho: A classic Vietnamese noodle soup with a fragrant broth, rice noodles, herbs, and typically beef or chicken, known for its aromatic and savory flavors.
• Banh xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts and usually served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
• Banh cuon: Steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and shallots, topped with crispy fried onions, and served with a side of dipping sauce.
• Bun bo Hue: A spicy beef noodle soup from Hue, featuring a rich broth with lemongrass, tender beef, and thick rice noodles, garnished with fresh herbs and lime.
• Bun dau mam tom: A flavorful dish consisting of vermicelli noodles, fried tofu, and pork, served with a fermented shrimp paste dipping sauce and fresh herbs.
• Hu tieu: A noodle soup with a clear, savory broth, often served with a variety of meats such as pork, shrimp, and fish, along with vegetables and herbs.

Indulge in delicacies in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

3.2. Best restaurants

Here are 29 top Michelin-starred restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City:

Dine at the best restaurants in District 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

4. List of festivals held in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City yearly

District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its vibrant and diverse festivals throughout the year. These events celebrate the city’s rich culture, history, and local traditions, offering both locals and visitors unique experiences. Here are some of the most prominent festivals held annually in District 1:

These festivals in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City highlight the dynamic cultural life of the city and offer a chance to immerse in its festive spirit, vibrant street scenes, and traditional celebrations.

5. The best tours in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City

5.1. “Saigon Special Forces” Tour

Experience a unique journey into the history of Ho Chi Minh City’s Special Forces with this in-depth tour. Here’s a detailed itinerary:

• 06:30: Gather at Vietluxtour’s office at 231 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. (For private groups, meeting points can be arranged in central Ho Chi Minh City.)
• 07:00: Depart with a briefing from the tour guide. Breakfast can be provided upon request.
• 07:15: Begin exploring the historical life and activities of the Biet Dong Saigon soldiers, including a visit to Nhan Huong Quan, which served as a key communication and coordination point for the Special Forces.
• 07:30: Visit the Biet Dong Saigon – Gia Dinh Museum. Experience unique exhibits, interactive displays, and valuable archival footage about the Biet Dong Saigon troops.
• 09:00: Head to the Do Phu Cafe. Discover the hidden bunker behind a seemingly ordinary house, used for storing weapons and documents.
• 10:30: Continue to Dai Han Restaurant to explore another hidden bunker and have lunch in the historical building recognized as a national heritage site.
• 11:45: Take a photo stop in front of the Reunification Palace. Visit the Biet Dong Saigon Memorial, which commemorates the Special Forces’ significant actions in 1968.
• 13:00: Tour the People’s Committee Building to learn about its architectural significance.
• 14:00: Return to the initial pick-up point. The tour concludes with a farewell from the guide.

The tour price for reference is 800,000 VND. 

Going on a tour is among the top things to do in District 1 Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

5.2. “District 1 – Colors of The Night” Tour

Experience nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City with this immersive evening tour. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• 17:00: Gather at Vietluxtour’s office at 231 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1.
• 17:30: Check-in and receive tickets for the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House, an architectural gem in Gothic style and a popular tourist destination.
• 18:00–19:00: Enjoy the A O Show by Lune Production, featuring acrobats in traditional costumes and bamboo props, bringing to life the rural Vietnamese lifestyle through a captivating performance.
• 19:00–19:45: Stroll along Dong Khoi Street, taking in the dazzling city lights, and savor a delicious dinner in the night market area of District 1.
• 19:45–20:15: Explore Nguyen Thiep and Nguyen Hue Streets, where you can see lively scenes of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Statue and the People’s Committee Building, a classic architectural marvel.
• 20:15–20:45: Head to Ben Thanh Market, a symbol of Saigon’s heritage. The market’s illuminated clock tower creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for souvenir shopping and experiencing local culture.
• 21:00–22:00: Unwind with a relaxing spa treatment at Quynh Nhu Spa on Ham Nghi Street, enjoying a soothing foot massage to alleviate stress and improve circulation.

Special notes: The tour also includes a visit to the People’s Committee Building on the last weekend of each month and a water puppet show on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The tour price for reference is 1,650,000 VND.

Explore: 21 bucket-list things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it an unmissable destination for any traveler. As you stroll through its bustling streets, you’ll find a perfect mix of the old and new, offering a glimpse into Saigon’s unique charm. Whether you are marveling at the architectural splendor of French colonial buildings, indulging in delicious street food, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife, District 1 promises an unforgettable journey. 

Once you have soaked in the essence of Ho Chi Minh City, explore a plethora of other remarkable Vietnam travel destinations: Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, etc. For an added layer of excitement and relaxation, consider visiting VinWonders and staying at the luxurious Vinpearl hotels and resorts. VinWonders offers thrilling rides, captivating shows, and themed attractions. Meanwhile, Vinpearl hotels and resorts are renowned for their exceptional service, elegant design, and top-notch amenities. 

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