10+ Unusual Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh City That Locals Keep Secret

If visitors want to experience this vibrant city beyond the tourist trail, these 10 unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City offer the perfect alternative. From the nostalgic charm of historical buildings to the sensory adventure of immersive art exhibitions, our curated list of 10 distinctive activities reveals the city's hidden dimensions.

1. Get Your Caffeine Fix at The Antique-style Market

Tucked away at the end of a small alley, this weekend antique market is a hidden gem for those who appreciate nostalgic spaces. Covering 1,000 square meters with around 100 stalls, this market is not just a trading spot but a living museum of historical relics.

From ceramics and war memorabilia to antique watches, rare documents, and vintage jewelry, the market showcases a diverse collection sourced from around the world. Recognized as one of Ho Chi Minh City's top 100 must-visit destinations by the Department of Tourism in December (voted by over 100,000 visitors), this place has become a cultural hub.

There are various interesting things you can do here:

• Sip coffee in a nostalgic atmosphere: A highlight of this market is the charming vintage-style cafés nestled among the stalls. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee while soaking in the old-world ambiance.

• Hunt for historical treasures: Whether you're a collector or just curious, this market offers countless fascinating items - from antique clocks to old maps bearing historical marks.

• Chat with passionate vendors: The sellers here are not just merchants; they are historians in their own right, sharing captivating stories behind each artifact.

Important notes for visitors:

• It is open with live music playing only on weekends, so plan accordingly.

• Prices are often negotiable, especially if you’re buying multiple items.

• Motorbikes or taxis are the best transportation options, as the alley is narrow with limited parking for cars.

This market offers countless fascinating items, from antique clocks to old maps bearing historical marks (Source: Internet)

The antique-style cafes in this market offer a nostalgic and cozy ambiance (Source: Internet)

2. Check out The Immersive Van Gogh Art Lighting Exhibition

If you want to explore art in a completely new way, the Art Lighting Exhibition Metashow is a must-visit. As one of the largest light art exhibitions in Vietnam, it blends modern technology with artistic expression to create a surreal space, transporting visitors into the vibrant world of Vincent Van Gogh.

The Art Lighting Exhibition Metashow is divided into two areas, offering diverse experiences based on ticket type:

• Basic Zone (Standard Ticket): Discover over 20 artistic themes, where Van Gogh’s masterpieces come to life through light and virtual reality technology.

• Advanced Zone (VIP Ticket): Expand your journey with more than 30 themes, delving deeper into art and emotions through unique visual effects.

Van Gogh’s famous paintings come to life through mesmerizing lights (Source: Internet)

Instead of viewing static paintings, visitors step into a dynamic world where light, color, and technology fuse to create an otherworldly, immersive experience. Step into Van Gogh’s world through virtual reality, where iconic paintings like The Starry Night, Sunflowers, and Wheatfield with Crows come to life with mesmerizing 3D effects and soothing music. As a bonus, Standard and VIP ticket holders will receive a mysterious "SECRET" letter — an exclusive envelope filled with intriguing insights into Van Gogh’s life and art.

Important notes for visitors:

• Book tickets in advance or visit on the weekdays to avoid overcrowding.

• Age restrictions: Some strong light effects may not be suitable for young children.

• Wearing white creates a stunning effect in photos as the lighting enhances bright colors.

The exhibition blends art and technology, offering a fully immersive experience (Source: Internet)

Immerse yourself in a cutting-edge artistic experience through light, sound, and virtual reality (Source: Internet)

3. Discover Rare Royal Artifacts from The Nguyen Dynasty

The Nguyen Dynasty Royal Palace Museum, part of the Do Hung Museum, has housed an extensive collection of antiques from Vietnam’s last imperial dynasty (1802 - 1945), showcasing the grandeur and legacy of the Nguyen emperors.

Do Hung Museum offers a fresh check-in spot for people with its unique design and vibrant display style (Source: Internet)

The museum’s interior is designed in the Hue royal architectural style, evoking the splendor of the imperial court. Visitors can admire antiques associated with emperors such as Gia Long, Minh Mang, Tu Duc, Thanh Thai, and Khai Dinh. Besides, this museum also presents themed exhibits on royal art, music, hobbies, and cuisine, offering a deeper understanding of the cultural richness of the Nguyen dynasty.

Beyond the royal artifacts, visitors can also explore The Jewelry Museum of 54 Ethnic Groups in Vietnam, located within the same establishment. This section exhibits a dazzling array of traditional jewelry representing the diverse ethnic cultures of Vietnam, and provides a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship and heritage of different communities across the country.

Important notes for visitors:

• Keep order, do not talk loudly or run around

• Do not smoke, eat, or chew gum in the exhibition area

• Cameras and video cameras are generally allowed, however there may be certain restrictions in some areas

Ivory products of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 - 1945) (Source: Internet)

Diverse collection of jewelry from different ethnic groups (Source: Internet)

4. Enjoy “Ca Phe Bet” at The Heart of The City

“Ca phe bet” (sidewalk coffee) is one of the most unique things to do in ho chi minh, and a unique cultural feature of Saigon, where people can enjoy coffee with friends right on the sidewalk, in the park, or anywhere with open, spacious space and soak in the rhythm of urban life. With just a newspaper or a small mat, any pavement becomes a ‘coffee table’ in the heart of the bustling city.

The sidewalk transforms into a gathering spot for coffee lovers and friendly chats (Source: Internet)

This experience offers an open, interactive space where strangers can strike up conversations, friendships are formed effortlessly, and social barriers fade away. There’s no structured seating or rigid café etiquette - just pure connection. Even better, the price is incredibly affordable, ranging from just 10,000 to 30,000 VND per cup, making it a go-to option for students and office workers alike.

Some of the best spots to experience ‘ca phe bet’ in Saigon include the area around Notre-Dame Cathedral, Turtle Lake, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Each location has its own charm, complemented by popular street snacks like “banh trang tron” (mixed rice paper), “bap xao” (stir-fried corn), or “ca vien chien” (grilled fish balls). If you're looking to immerse yourself in Saigon’s dynamic yet relaxing vibe, spend a morning at a “ca phe bet” spot, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the city's unique spirit.

The “Ca phe bet” culture creates a warm and lively atmosphere in the heart of the city (Source: Internet)

5. Embark on A Speed Water Bus Ride along The Saigon River

If you're used to seeing Saigon’s chaotic streets packed with motorbikes and cars, taking a water bus ride along the Saigon River offers an entirely different perspective. No traffic jams, no honking - just the gentle waves, the cool evening breeze, and a modern cityscape unfolding before your eyes.

Unique city views unfold at every bend of the river (Source: Internet)

Since its launch in 2017, the Saigon Water Bus has become a must-try experience, especially at night. As the boat glides along the river, you’ll witness iconic landmarks like Bitexco Financial Tower, Landmark 81, and the dazzling Vinhomes Central Park skyline. More than just a means of transportation, the Water Bus offers a romantic and refreshing way to admire the city’s nighttime beauty.

The water bus will stop by all six stations, including Bach Dang, Thu Thiem, Binh An, Thanh Da, Hiep Binh Chanh, and Linh Dong, with a round-trip journey taking around 2 - 3 hours. Some water bus trips even offer onboard dining, allowing you to enjoy a meal while drifting through Saigon’s enchanting river views.

Important notes for visitors:

• Prepare a jacket because it can be cold and windy when traveling on a boat at night.

• There’s no charge for children under 1 year-old; however, they don't serve baby seats.

The speed and refreshing breeze make for an exciting ride on the water (Source: Internet)

6. Get Your Creative Juices Flowing at DIY Workshops

DIY workshops are more than just a fun activity, they offer a creative and immersive experience, especially appealing to international visitors. These workshops allow you to craft unique handmade items, serving as both personal keepsakes and meaningful gifts.

In Saigon, you can find a wide variety of DIY experiences, from wood carving, mosaic art, and lantern-making to plush toy crafting, scented candle-making, cake decorating, and handmade soap workshops. Each activity showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of Vietnamese culture.

Self-made creations always hold a special and unique meaning (Source: Internet)

Some notable DIY workshops in Saigon:

• Heny Garden: Famous for its handmade scented candle workshops, Heny Garden is tucked away in a small alley in District 10, not too far from the city center. The workshops take place every Saturday, offering a cozy space for creativity and relaxation.

• Lanh Workshop: A well-known punch needle embroidery workshop where you can explore the vibrant world of this artistic craft. With expert instructors and a welcoming atmosphere, this workshop offers a hands-on experience to master essential techniques, use specialized tools, and create unique, personalized artworks.

Important notes for visitors:

• Prices may be high because they offer a more in-depth experience with direct guidance from experts, learning materials, hands-on practice, and sometimes a finished product to take home.

• Most workshops require advance booking to secure a spot and materials.

• Some workshops may require a waiting period of 1 to 7 days to receive the final product because some products require more time to be completed such as pottery or painted statues.

The colorful materials spark imagination and creativity in everyone (Source: Internet)

7. Dine in Complete Darkness

Noir Dining in the Dark, housed in a historic French villa in Ho Chi Minh City, offers a truly unique dining experience - eating in total darkness. By removing sight, your senses of taste, smell, and texture are heightened, turning every bite into a sensory adventure.

More than just a restaurant, Noir is a meaningful social enterprise, providing employment opportunities for the visually impaired. To fully immerse themselves in this sensory journey, guests are required to leave their smart devices, such as phones and tablets, outside before entering the dining area. This ensures complete focus on the experience, engaging all senses except sight.

The restaurant’s exterior may not stand out, but inside lies a truly unexpected experience (Source: Internet)

Noir Dining in the Dark offers a fusion menu blending Western and Asian flavors. Guests can choose from two dining options:

• Mystery Tasting Menu: A 14-course selection of surprise dishes designed to heighten your senses.

• Daily Set Menu: A luxurious yet affordable 11-course meal featuring appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.

After the meal, guests return to the lounge, where they are shown images of the dishes they just enjoyed. Many are surprised to discover how different their mental images were from the actual presentation, adding an exciting element of discovery.

Every detail, from the cutlery to the table setting, is carefully arranged to ensure the best dining experience (Source: Internet)

The flavors and textures of each dish become more pronounced without visual distractions (Source: Internet)

Eating in the dark clearly evokes all the senses (Source: Internet)

8. Delight Your Taste Buds at The Best Eat Streets

The variety of snacks is immense, and prices are incredibly affordable, making it accessible to everyone. From street vendors selling mixed rice paper, fried dough, and dumplings to roadside seafood restaurants and small eateries offering specialties like “banh mi”, “hu tieu”, and “com tam”, the city's food scene is vibrant and diverse.

Enjoying street food is the quickest way to feel the bustling atmosphere of Saigon. Narrow alleys packed with eateries, the lively chatter of people ordering food, and the aroma of delicious dishes create an energetic and authentic experience of the city.

Bustling streets lined with tempting food stalls welcome diners all day and night (Source: Internet)

For the best street food experience in Saigon, head to Ho Thi Ky Flower Market or explore Phan Xich Long Street with common must-try dishes including banh trang tron, bot chien, dumplings or Nam Vang noodles, which are iconic to Saigon's food scene. To quench your thirst, don’t miss out on trendy drinks like bubble tea or fresh milk with tapioca pearls, which are perfect for cooling off in the city's tropical heat.

For foreign visitors unfamiliar with riding motorbikes, booking local food tours is a great option. These tours provide a comprehensive and safe way to explore the city's culinary delights while learning about the history and culture behind each dish.

A fusion of cuisines paints a vibrant picture of street food culture (Source: Internet)

9. Stroll along The Nguyen Hue Boulevard

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is centrally located, making it easily accessible for visitors. First-time travelers can use ride-hailing services like cars or motorbikes. However, traffic during rush hours may cause delays due to the high density of office buildings in the area. You can use public transportation instead, such as bus routes stopping near Nguyen Hue Walking Street: 3, 4, 124, 152, 19, and 93.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy:

• Enjoying street music performances: Young artists gather to showcase their talents, creating an engaging and lively atmosphere. The raw energy and spontaneity of street performances make them a unique and memorable part of Saigon’s nightlife.

• Exploring 42 Nguyen Hue Apartment: A vintage 1960s building transformed into charming cafés, restaurants, and boutique stores, contrasting with the modern cityscape.

• Taking photos: Modern architecture, fountains, shopping malls, and unique cafes provide perfect backdrops.

Important notes for visitors:

• Bus stops are not located on Nguyen Hue Street, so a short walk is required.

• Visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street between January and February during Tet (Lunar New Year) to see the street beautifully transformed into a vibrant flower road.

Modern architecture blends with landmarks, creating a striking scene (Source: Internet)

The brightly lit boulevard offers the perfect place to unwind and soak in the city vibe (Source: Internet)

From street performances to street food, this place is always full of energy and excitement (Source: Internet)

10. Soak up The City Vibes on Rooftop Bars

One of the most popular activities among young Saigonese is enjoying the cityscape from rooftop bars. These venues offer spectacular panoramic views, making them ideal for check-ins and Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you want to admire the glittering skyline or enjoy the sunset over the Saigon River, rooftop bars provide the perfect setting.

With its panoramic city views and elegant lighting, Chill Skybar offers the perfect mix of luxury and comfort for a night out (Source: Internet)

While soaking in the breathtaking scenery, visitors can sip on creative cocktails, taste gourmet bites, and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. This combination of stunning views, great drinks, and lively energy makes it a must-try experience for both locals and tourists. Some recommended rooftop bars for you:

• Chill Skybar (AB Tower, 26th floor): One of the highest and most renowned rooftop bars in Saigon, offering a 360-degree view of the city. The luxurious space, highlighted by warm lighting and stylish décor, creates an upscale yet cozy vibe. The menu features an extensive selection of signature cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders.

• Twilight Sky Bar (Rex Hotel, 19th floor): A romantic rooftop spot overlooking Tao Đàn Park and the Saigon skyline. The serene ambiance, infinity pools, and soft background music make it perfect for a date or a relaxing evening. The best time to visit is during sunset when the sky transforms into shades of pink and orange.

Important notes for visitors:

• If you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages, avoid driving yourself. Instead, take a taxi to prevent accidents or fines from traffic police.

• To secure a good spot, consider arriving early or making a reservation in advance.

• Drinks at these venues can be more expensive than regular bars. Check the menu beforehand if you're on a budget.

As the sun sets over Saigon, Twilight Sky Bar becomes a dreamy escape with soft music and breathtaking skyline views (Source: Internet)

11. Forward Mementos to Loved Ones at The Saigon Central Post Office

The Saigon Central Post Office is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, near famous landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This building is a masterpiece of French architecture, designed by Gustave Eiffel’s team. With its high vaulted ceilings, large windows, and vintage phone booths, the post office is not only a functional postal service center but also a cultural icon that attracts numerous visitors for sightseeing and photography.

The vintage architecture of the post office evokes nostalgia for a bygone era (Source: Internet)

One of the most memorable experiences here is sending a letter or postcard to loved ones. In today’s digital age, writing a postcard by hand and mailing it from such an iconic location makes each message feel more meaningful. It’s not just a way to express heartfelt emotions but also a nostalgic reminder of the days when handwritten letters were the main form of communication. This is definitely one of the fun things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a unique and personal touch to your visit

Beyond postal services, the post office is an ideal place to find souvenirs that reflect Vietnamese culture. Inside, visitors can browse stalls selling a variety of stamps, postcards, handicrafts, and traditional items. These souvenirs are not only collectibles but also serve as cherished mementos of a trip to Saigon.

Inside, the historic ambiance and classic postal counters create a charming old-world charm (Source: Internet)

12. Delight in Freshly Tapped Beer

Across the bustling streets, you’ll find a variety of unique beer venues where both locals and visitors can savor a refreshing glass of beer while soaking in the city’s dynamic energy.

Fresh beer in Saigon goes beyond traditional varieties, it has evolved into a thriving craft beer scene, offering an exciting range of flavors and brewing styles. Local breweries and beer houses take pride in their quality, using premium ingredients and meticulous brewing techniques to deliver the freshest and most flavorful beer experience.

Saigon’s fresh beer scene has evolved into a vibrant craft culture, offering diverse flavors crafted with premium ingredients and expert techniques (Source: Internet)

If you’re looking for the best places to enjoy fresh beer in Saigon, these top-rated spots among locals offer an outstanding selection of drinks and an unforgettable atmosphere.

• East West Brewing Co. (District 1): Featuring 12 signature beers and 6-7 seasonal brews, East West Brewing Co. blends Western techniques with local ingredients for diverse flavors, from smooth and sweet to bold and strong (5% - 11% ABV). It's also one of the top-rated German-style beer spots in District 1.

• Heart of Darkness Craft Brewery (District 1): A must-visit for craft beer lovers, Heart of Darkness offers 30+ in-house brews with unique flavors, catering to both beginners and connoisseurs. Popular picks include Dream Alone Pale Ale, Loose Rivet IPA, and Kurtz’s Insane IPA.

Beyond just beer, the art of pairing fresh beer with delicious food is another highlight of Saigon’s vibrant drinking culture. From grilled meats and seafood to flavorful street food, every pairing enhances the tasting experience. More than just a drink, beer in Saigon is a social tradition – a chance to unwind, connect, and share joyful moments with friends and family.

East West Brewing combines Western brewing techniques with local ingredients, creating a diverse range of flavors (Source: Internet)

13. Suggested Self-Guided Travel Itineraries for Ho Chi Minh City

If you want to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace, check out these suggested self-guided itineraries. Whether you have one or two days, there are plenty of exciting destinations to experience, from historical landmarks to vibrant food hubs.

13.1 Ho Chi Minh Two-Night Itinerary

This itinerary allows you to make the most of two days in Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on key attractions like Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. You can also explore the modern Thao Dien area or indulge in the city's vibrant street food scene.

13.2. Ho Chi Minh One-Night Itinerary

Even with just one night in Ho Chi Minh City, you can still enjoy a memorable experience. Start your day with must-visit landmarks and end the night with a riverside dinner or nightlife activities in the bustling street.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone who wants to soak in the energy of Saigon, these activities will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. Dare to explore beyond the usual attractions and immerse yourself in a Ho Chi Minh City that is vibrant, colorful, and full of surprises. From secret speakeasies to unconventional museums, there’s no shortage of unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that will make your journey truly one-of-a-kind.

If you're looking for more exciting travel inspiration, unique destinations, and hidden gems, don’t forget to check out Vietnam Airlines’ official website. Find useful travel tips that will make your journey across Vietnam even more remarkable!