1. The Pink Church - Tan Dinh Church
While Saigon’s Notre-Dame Cathedral draws the crowds, Tan Dinh Church quietly stands out with its bright bubblegum-pink façade. Built in the 1870s, it’s one of the oldest and most unique French colonial buildings in the city.
Tan Dinh Church
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Location: Hai Bà Trưng Street, District 3
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Best time to visit: Early morning to beat the sun and crowds
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Don’t miss: The colorful interior and Gothic-Romanesque mix of architecture
2. Cafe Apartment on Nguyen Hue street
At first glance, it’s just an old apartment block. But step inside and discover a vertical maze of indie coffee shops, fashion boutiques, and creative studios stacked floor by floor.
Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City
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Location: 42 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1
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What to try: Cong Caphe (military-themed café), Thinker & Dreamer (minimalist vibes)
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Tip: Climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator for a full experience
3. Cho Lon - Saigon’s Chinatown
Most travelers skip Cho Lon, but it’s one of the city’s most culturally rich districts. Walk through Binh Tay Market, visit centuries-old temples like Thien Hau Pagoda, and try authentic Chinese-Vietnamese dishes.
Binh Tay Market in Saigon’s Chinatown
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Must-see: Thien Hau Temple, Nghia An Assembly Hall
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What to eat: Hu Tieu (clear noodle soup), dim sum stalls
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Hidden photo spots: Lantern-lit alleys near Luong Nhu Hoc Street
4. Ba Son Bridge & The Secret Park Below
Connecting District 1 and Thu Duc City, Ba Son Bridge offers panoramic views of the skyline. But few know there’s a small, green riverside park just beneath it - perfect for a quiet sunset walk.
Secret park under Ba Son bridge
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Location: End of Ton Duc Thang Street
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Visit at: Sunset for skyline photos
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Local tip: Bring some snacks and sit along the river for people-watching
5. Ao Dai Museum - A Fashion Time Capsule
Dedicated to Vietnam’s iconic traditional dress, the Ao Dai Museum is located in Thu Duc City. It’s a peaceful escape with lush gardens, heritage-style houses, and a fascinating exhibit of Ao Dai through the centuries.
Ao Dai Museum
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Address: 206/19/30 Long Thuan, Long Phuoc Ward
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Entry: 50,000vnd/ticket
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Best for: Culture lovers and those looking for non-touristy experiences
6. Saigon - Gia Dinh Museum
Steeped in revolutionary history, the Saigon - Gia Dinh Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the covert operations of the Saigon Rangers during the Vietnam War. Housed in what was once a secret base, the museum displays an array of artifacts, documents, and weaponry, detailing the ingenious methods and daring feats of these urban guerrillas.
Saigon - Gia Dinh Museum
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Location: 147 Đ. Trần Quang Khải, Phường Tân Định, Quận 1
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Entrance: 35,000vnd/ticket
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Best for: Those interested in military history and untold stories of the Vietnam War
7. Do Phu - A Café with a Story
More than just a retro coffee shop, Do Phu cafe is also a historic relic house that once served as a secret base for Vietnamese soldiers. Enjoy your cup surrounded by memorabilia, propaganda posters, and tales of resistance.
Do Phu Cafe
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Address: 113A Dang Dung, District 1
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What to order: Vietnamese egg coffee or iced coconut coffee
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Extra: Ask for a mini tour of the secret tunnels under the house
8. Ho Thi Ky Street Food
Tucked away in District 10, Ho Thi Ky Market becomes a lively street food paradise after dark. As night falls, the narrow alleys fill with sizzling grills, aromatic steam, and the chatter of hungry locals. From grilled skewers and crispy pancakes to sweet soups and iced milk teas, this is where true foodies come to play.
Ho Thi Ky Street Food
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Must-try dishes: Butter-fried quail, grilled rice paper, sticky rice with mango
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Location: Ho Thi Ky Street, District 10
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Best time to go: After 6 PM when the food stalls come alive
Final Tips to Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s Hidden Gems
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Use Grab or motorbike taxis to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
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Start in District 1, 3, and 10 where many hidden gems are close by.
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Ask locals - you’ll be surprised how many gems aren’t even on Google Maps.
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Time your visits around sunset or early evening for best photos and vibes.
There’s more to this city than high-rises and busy traffic. These hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City reveal charm, creativity, and culture in the most unexpected corners.
Ready to explore Ho Chi Minh City like a local? Let New Asia Tours help you uncover authentic experiences with a custom-made itinerary just for you.
