Thursday, January 11, 2024

 


Indulging in gourmet while exploring the South East
2. Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Episode Part 2:District 1 
     Dining, Sightseeing and Shopping
                
             Wednesday, 2023/3/15



Windsor Plaza hotel Free Shuttle Bus

Windsor Plaza hotel offers a complimentary city shuttle service to many city landmarks and dining and entertainment precincts. I took this free hotel shuttle bus to District 1 and the major landmarks.

 

District 1 



District 1 (Quận 1, Quận Một, Quận Nhất or Quận Nhứt) is the central urban district of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the largest city in Vietnam.

Buzzing District 1 is home to the Independence Palace, a former presidential home offering tours of its war rooms, and the 19th-century Notre Dame Cathedral. The Hồ Chí Minh City Museum houses local maps and historical photos, and the Fine Arts Museum shows contemporary Vietnamese work. Food kiosks and handicraft stalls fill Ben Thanh Market, while Phạm Ngũ Lão Street is known for its backpacker bars and hostels.

Bui Vien Waking Street

District 1 Ho Chi Minh City is one of the places to be on any visit to the vibrant city. Experience the upbeat nightlife, diverse cuisine, and multiple forms of entertainment at this hotspot.

Overview of District 1 Ho Chi Minh City

District 1 Ho Chi Minh City is one of the central districts of the metropolis. It is referred to by some as the heart of the city and is home to many significant landmarks and cultural sites.

District 1 is in the central part of Ho Chi Minh City, surrounded by other districts such as District 3, District 4, District 5, and Phu Nhuan District. It is situated along the Saigon River, providing picturesque waterfront views.
The district is widely known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale shopping malls, renowned restaurants, and a mix of colonial and modern architecture, making it a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Ho Chi Minh City.

Sightseeing in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

While Ho Chi Minh City does not stand out in terms of natural beauty, this metropolis has many outstanding attractions with significant history and gorgeous architecture. These are the must-visit landmarks for sightseeing in the district:

Ben Thanh Market:
Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

As one of the oldest and most iconic markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is a bustling hub of local culture and commerce, offering a wide range of goods from traditional handicrafts to delectable street food.


▲  Ben Thanh Market

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House: 
07 Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam

A long-standing architectural achievement, the Opera House is a cultural gem where visitors can enjoy captivating performances and immerse themselves in the city's artistic heritage.


▲ Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

Saigon Central Post Office: 
02 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Designed by the famous architect Marie-Alfred Foulhoux, the Central Post Office is a beautiful blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial styles, offering a glimpse into the city's historical past.

The Sai Gon Central Post Office is a must-visit attraction in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Located in the heart of the city, this historical landmark is not just a functioning post office but also a beautiful architectural masterpiece. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same architect behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the post office showcases a blend of French colonial and Gothic architectural styles.

Stepping inside, you'll be greeted by a grand interior adorned with high ceilings, intricate details, and a sense of old-world charm. Take a moment to admire the stunning mosaic floor, the ornate ironwork, and the vintage telephone booths that still remain in use.

While visiting the Sai Gon Central Post Office, you can also explore the various activities available. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sending postcards to your loved ones from one of the oldest functioning post offices in Vietnam. Browse through the souvenir shops to find unique gifts and keepsakes. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the post office's exterior, which is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

Experience the rich history and architectural beauty of the Sai Gon Central Post Office during your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.


Saigon Central Post Office


Independence Palace: 
Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Once the residence of South Vietnam's president, this historic landmark offers a fascinating insight into the country's modern history and political significance.




     



▲ Independence Palace

Bitexco Financial Tower
2 Đ. Hải Triều, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam


Enjoy a panorama of the city from the Bitexco Tower Skydeck. An activity unique to District 1 Ho Chi Minh City is ascending to the Bitexco Tower Skydeck and enjoying the breathtaking view of the city.
As you step onto the observation deck, the panoramic vista unfolds before your eyes, revealing a mesmerizing blend of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the winding Saigon River.

▲ Bitexco Tower Skydeck

Notre Dame Cathedral
01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, officially Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception is a cathedral located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Established by French colonists who initially named it the Church of Saigon, the cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880.


Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Số 86 Đ. Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam


Ho Chi Minh City Hall, officially called the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Head Office (Trụ sở Ủy ban Nhân dân Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh), is the city hall of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The hall was built in 1902–1908 in a French colonial style by architect Paul Gardès. Since communist conquered Saigon in 1975, the building has housed the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, Ho Chi Minh City People's Council and Ho Chi Minh City People's Court, respectively.



Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
97A P. Đức Chính, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts is the major art museum of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and second in the country only to the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts in Hanoi.



Jade Emperor Pagoda
73 Đ. Mai Thị Lựu, Đa Kao, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

The Jade Emperor Pagoda also known as the Phước Hải Tự is a Taoist pagoda located at 73 Mai Thị Lựu Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was founded by a Chinese merchant named Liu Daoyuan a Cantonese migrant. It is also known from 1984 by the new Buddhist name Phước Hải Tự.

Jade Emperor Pagoda


Da Kao

Đa Kao is a ward (phường) of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Home to most of Saigon’s consulates and several elegant buildings dating from the French-colonial period, Da Kao’s historic streets also contain a bewilderingly high concentration of great restaurants and bars. From music and art events to craft beer and edgy restaurants such as Noir. Dining in the Dark, Da Kao has continued developing into one of the hottest places in town. Da Kao is on the north side of District 1, between Binh Thanh and District 3.
Jade Emperor Pagoda is in Da Kao.

Noir. Dining in the Dark 
180D Hai Bà Trưng, Street, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710000, Vietnam

This is the best restaurant in Ho Chi Minh. Enjoying your dinner in the dark.




Jade Emperor Pagoda in Da Kao


Thao Dien


What used to be one of our poorest areas due to its over-the-river location, Thao Dien has undergone a complete metamorphosis from a dirt road in the swamp to one of the most developed wards in the entire city. The streets of Xuan Thuy and Thao Dien make for two of the most international strips, chock full of bars, restaurants, galleries, schools, and spas. Thao Dien is synonymous with District 2, its best-known ward, and just a step off the Hanoi Highway.

Phu My Hung


Often referred to as ‘Little Seoul’ because of its large Korean population, Phu My Hung is home to many Korean and Japanese restaurants, upscale cafes, famous chain restaurants, and bars. The area now boasts world-class shopping malls like SC Vivo City and Crescent Mall.

Shopping in District 1 Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

District 1 boasts a wide range of shopping options, from high-end boutiques and international brands to local markets and street vendors.
Tourists can indulge in retail therapy at international shopping centers like Vincom Center, Takashimaya, and Diamond Plaza, or experience the local culture at Ben Thanh Market or the 42 Nguyen Hue apartment building.

Vincom Center
72 Đ. Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam






Takashimaya
92-94 Đ. Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Bến Nghé, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Airy, posh shopping center with designer boutiques, gourmet eateries & a glamorous vibe.



Diamond Plaza
34 Đ. Lê Duẩn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
 





Nightlife in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is in the “cities that never sleep” group, and district 1 plays a big part in that. The area is dotted with rooftop bars, nightclubs, live music venues, and charming cafés. Tourists can enjoy a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, savor delicious cocktails, and dance the night away.

Bui Vien Waking Street
Đ. Bùi Viện, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam


The famous Bui Vien Street, the backpacker’s heaven, is located in District 1, offering an exciting hub for locals and foreigners to socialize and meet fellow adventurers.
Bui Vien street, which comprises three main streets: Bui Vien, De Tham, and Pham Ngu Lao, is known as the "Backpacker District" by locals, which refers to the large number of backpackers who visit this area of Ho Chi Minh City. 


Nguyen Hue Street
Bến Nghé, District 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh


Not too far from there is Nguyen Hue Street, where people gather to enjoy street music performances, go for a walk, or visit the aforementioned apartment building. The street is also a frequent venue for events such as exhibitions, concerts, and live football watch parties.


Restaurants in District 1

As a well-known cultural melting pot, the district is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering an array of local and international cuisines to satisfy every palate. These are some of the most popular restaurants in District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City:
For authentic Vietnamese foods: Thien Ly Clay Pot Rice, Vo Roof, Secret Garden Restaurant, Propaganda Saigon Bistro Restaurant, and the recent Michelin Star recipient Anan Saigon
For foreign foods: Pizza 4P’s, New York Steakhouse Saigon, The LOG, Eon 51, L’olivier, etc.

Thien Ly Clay Pot Rice
16 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City


Steamed Shrimp with Black Pepper      Mackerel with fish sauce

 Rice and Chicken; Vegetable and Fried Tofu

Cục Gạch Quán
10 Đặng Tất, Phường Tân Định, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam






Crab Steamed with Beer

 Mixed Vegetables


Thit Kho Trung, the traditional braised pork and boiled egg dish 
served up at Tet (the Lunar New Year holiday).


Quán Bụi
19 Ngô Văn Năm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam




Spring Rolls


Steamed Prawns

Beef Soup

Secret Garden Restaurant
158 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam





Propaganda Saigon Bistro Restaurant
21 Hàn Thuyên, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam



Steak

Banh mi



Anan Saigon
89 Tôn Thất Đạm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam



▲ Crab

▲ Lamb Shank

New York Steakhouse Saigon
25 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Đa Kao, Quận 1,
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam





New York Steak


The LOG
Rooftop, Gem Center, 8 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Đa Kao, Quận 1, 
Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam




▲ Lobsters, Crabs, Oysters

    





Next:  Indulging in gourmet while exploring the South East
           Ho Chi Minh Episode Part 3
           District 2,3,4,7,10 , Phu Nhuan, Binh Thanh


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