7 Things to See and Do in Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
In the last few years, as Ho Chi Minh City has grown and evolved, there is no doubt that some of its culture has been lost along the way. Where generation-old Pho shops once sat, Western fast food joints now loom large. Colorful facades of store fronts and homes have given way to towering skyscrapers. The transition has been both natural and forced—the government has established grand long-term plans for the look and feel of the city. However, unbeknownst to many tourists, there is more to Ho Chi Minh City than the downtown area. If you take a short ride to neighboring Binh Thanh, you’ll get the best of both worlds—the opportunity to witness incredible change, while being able to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of old Saigon.
Get Lost
Pick an alley, any alley. Bisected by a few large highways, Binh Thanh is a district of narrow zig-zagging alleyways just waiting to be explored. Cross any of the bridges from District 1, and you’ll soon find yourself face to face with a much more real, authentic Vietnam. To understand what brings this city to life, meander deeper and deeper into the intricate nests of Binh Thanh’s neighborhoods. From screaming children to cockfights and home brewed beer, these labyrinths are full of activity.
1. Explore Thi Nghe Market
Market
2. Eat Street Food on Phan Văn Hân
Phan Văn Hân is a foodies’ delight. With dozens of competing carts—and the aromas to match—it offers some of the best street food in Ho Chi Minh City. From crispy Bột chiên to mouthwatering Mì Quảng, you could easily spend an afternoon sampling the dishes on this half-mile stretch. Head over the bridge from the Saigon Zoo, and turn left on Phan Văn Hân to enjoy incredible local cuisine.
3. Hit the Links
As Ho Cho Minh has blossomed into a global metropolis, there’s been a growing need to fill the void of Western sport. The Him Lam Golf Driving Range, located just outside District 1, has done just this. With three floors to tee off from and spectacular views of the downtown skyline, this is a great way to spend the afternoon and watch the sun melt behind the endless sea of Saigon’s cranes.
Him Lam Bo Son Golf Driving Range, 234 Ngo Tat To, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, +84 83 518 0193
4. Relax at Van Thanh Park
Park
Find Nature on Thanh Da Island
Yes, nature. Feeling overwhelmed by the madness? If the pool won’t cure you, Binh Thanh’s got one more secret calling your name. An oasis of vegetation, Thanh Da Island (technically a peninsula) juts out from the north side of Binh Thanh into the Saigon River. While it’s only 10 kilometers from the city center, the rice paddies and fishing ponds make this destination seem worlds away.
Watch the Sun Set over Ho Chi Minh
Connecting Binh Thanh and the undeveloped portion of District 2, Thủ Thiêm Bridge offers unparalleled views of downtown Saigon. Take a right off Nguyen Huu Cahn, just past the driving range, and find a spot along the railing to watch the light show in the sky.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.