Masa & Mimi
Masa & Mimi
Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh
Must Visit Places
Bến Thành Market
Ben Thanh Market stands as the symbolic heart of Saigon, boasting over 1,500 booths offering everything from delectable foods to exquisite apparel. Explore its bustling aisles and discover unique souvenirs like embroidered wallets, lacquerware, and silk scarves.
Address: Ben Thanh ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city (click here for Google Maps)
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral (Đức Bà Church)
A stunning example of French colonial architecture, this iconic cathedral is a must-visit. Its striking red-brick façade and serene atmosphere make it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection.
Address: Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (click here for Google Maps)
Thien Hau Temple
Thien Hau Pagoda, nestled in Ho Chi Minh City's Cholon district (China Town), honors Mazu, the sea goddess. Built in the early 19th century by the Cantonese community, it boasts intricate Chinese architecture adorned with dragon motifs. Locals come here to seek blessings for safe travels and prosperity. The pagoda hosts lively festivals, celebrating Chinese traditions and culture.
Address: Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City (click here for Google Maps)
Independence Palace
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Independence Palace is not just a historic building — it’s where history was made. Once the command center of South Vietnam during the war, the palace witnessed the dramatic moment that marked the end of the conflict in 1975. Today, visitors can walk through its time-capsule interiors, explore secret war rooms beneath the ground, and stand on the very balcony where key decisions were made. A must-visit for anyone wanting to understand Vietnam’s resilient spirit and modern journey.
Address: Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Click here for Google Maps)
Cu Chi Tunnels
Just an hour from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer an unforgettable glimpse into Vietnam’s underground resistance during the war. This massive network of hand-dug tunnels once sheltered soldiers, hosted entire communities, and served as hidden escape routes. Explore the jungle paths, descend into the tunnels, and imagine life in the shadows of war. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about human endurance, Cu Chi is an experience that stays with you.
Address: Phuoc Thanh, Cu Chi Ho Chi Minh City (Click here for Google Maps)
Must Try Restaurants
Whether you're in the mood for a fine dining experience or eager to try authentic local flavors, Saigon has something for every palate. Below is a curated list of restaurants and street food spots that are highly rated and loved by locals — perfect for exploring the city’s diverse food scene during your stay.
Mặn Mòi Restaurant (click here for Google Map)
The Gangs (Click here for Google Map)
The Deck Saigon (Click here for Google Map)
Clay Saigon (click here for Google Map)
Sóno Grill & Bar (click here for Google Map)
Secret Garden (Click here for Google Map)
A By Tung (Click here for Google Map)
Cuu Long Quán (Click here for Google Map)
Hum Cafe & Restaurant (click here for Google Map)
Quán Bụi Original (click here for Google Map)
Madam Lam Restaurant (click here for Google Map)
Phở Minh (Click here for Google Map)
Hủ tiếu Nam Vang (Click here for Google Map)
Saigon Snail Kitchen (Bếp ốc Sài Gòn) (Click here for Google Map)
Crab Thick Noodle Soup (Bánh canh cua 87 Trần Khắc Chân) (Click here for Google Map)
Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền (Click here for Google Map)
Recommendation From Local Residence
Bars and Coffee Shops
Experience the pulsating nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, where shimmering skyscrapers and bustling streets come alive after dark. Whether you're strolling down Bui Vien Street, mingling with the crowd on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or unwinding at a local bar, the city's sleepless streets promise an unforgettable experience.
On the other hand, coffee is a favorite for everyone in Saigon, no matter their age or background. You'll be amazed by the variety of coffee shops all over the city, each with its unique style.
Here are some recommendations for bars & coffee shops in Saigon.
* Coco Saigon, operating from 6:00pm: Coco Saigon aims to make a cozy space where customers can feel at home. Warm golden lights and brown decor create a calm atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from busy city life.
* Ủ Bar, operating from 6:00pm: a hidden gem bar nestled in the Tan Dinh market area of Saigon. Its design style incorporates various details that evoke Vietnamese culture, particularly evident in its decor and staff uniforms.
* Mùa Craft Sake, operating from 11:00am: At Mùa Craft Sake, you'll get the full Japanese experience with locally sourced ingredients, both in the food and the aromatic sake.
* Rooster Beers Taproom (Bia Gà), operating from 12:00pm: Founded in 2015, Rooster has concentrated its strategy on being present in mid-market venues that attract Vietnamese drinkers. Situated in the bustling heart of Bui Vien, a vibrant nightlife district in District 1.
* Social Club Rooftop, operating from 3:00 pm: Sitting up above the rooftop of the Hôtel des Arts Saigon, Social Club Rooftop Bar is the ideal place to overlook the glittering skyline from above Saigon.
* Banana Mama Saigon, operating from 4:00 pm: Nestled in the lively heart of Saigon, Banana Mama's rooftop bar offers a relaxing escape with a beach club vibe, perfect for unwinding and having a good time.
* Slow cafe Huynh Tinh Cua (7:00 am to 7:00 pm): Nestled in a small side street of District 3, Cafe Slow welcomes you with its charming courtyard and cozy interior. As soon as you step inside, you're enveloped in its inviting atmosphere and treated to fantastic music.
* Alley 28 Thao Dien (Hem 28 Thao Dien): This is one beautiful community hub and green "oasis" in the heart of District 2, Saigon
* Sipply Coffee (8:00 am to 10:00 pm): Located near Tan Dinh Church, Sipply brings you an experience of a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and contemporary vibes in an ancient house of Saigon.
* Cà phê Vợt: A rare gem for coffee lovers chasing authenticity in the heart of the city.
* Pờ Cafe : serves a unique salted coffee from Hue, blending strong coffee with creamy salted milk foam for a distinct and savory taste. With a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to enjoy this special local drink.
* Thái Yên (7:30 am to 10:00 pm): Thái Yên Café is a Vietnamese “farm-to-cup” coffee brand, overseeing sourcing, roasting, and brewing for top-quality beans. With multiple locations in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, they offer paper-filter phin coffee, packaged beans, ready-to-drink bottles, and a selection of pastries.
* Okkio (7:30 am to 10:00 pm): is a boutique specialty coffee and brunch spot in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its small-batch roast beans and minimalist, cinema-inspired décor. Enjoy expertly brewed phin-filtered Vietnamese coffee, silky espresso drinks, or their signature iced coconut coffee, paired with a selection of light brunch dishes. With several cozy locations around the city, it’s the perfect place to relax and savor Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture.
* Phuc Long : Established in 1968, Phuc Long is a tea and coffee brand that is popular with young people and distinguished by drinks that combine bold and typical flavors with a trend-leading brewing method. With stores on nearly every corner of Ho Chi Minh City, it's an easy-to-find spot to relax and cool down.
Sai Gon River Sightseeing
Saigon Water Go’s Saigon River Sightseeing Tour offers a relaxing 45-minute cruise through Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic skyline. Departing from Bach Dang Pier, the tour features stunning views of landmarks like Landmark 81 and Bitexco Tower, with optional rooftop seating and live music onboard.
An unforgettable way to see Saigon — shimmering, vibrant, and full of charm
Street food by Motorbike
Jump on the back of a motorbike and dive into the world of Saigon street food after dark. This mouthwatering adventure takes you to the city’s best hidden food stalls and local-favorite eateries. From crispy bánh xèo and grilled seafood to sweet chè and sugarcane juice, you’ll eat like a true Saigonese. Each dish comes with its own cultural story — and a full stomach is guaranteed.
Spas
After a bustling day exploring the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, there's nothing quite like the anticipation of a calming massage to ease away the tiredness.
Sả Spa: A boutique spa at heart of Saigon since 2010
Cổ Phong hair wash & head massage
Xuan Spa at Park Hyatt Saigon