Discovering District 1 in Saigon: The Heartbeat of Ho Chi Minh City

The History of District 1 in Saigon

If Saigon were a story, District 1 would be the opening chapter, setting the stage for the city’s colorful story.

Began as a small settlement along the Saigon River, District 1 grew into a bustling trading hub under the Nguyen Lords. During the French colonial era (mid-19th to mid-20th century), the district was transformed with wide boulevards, grand colonial buildings, and European-style architecture, many of which still stand today. In the Vietnam War era, District 1 became the political and military center of South Vietnam, home to the Independence Palace, U.S. Embassy, and countless wartime operations. Today, it remains the cultural, financial, and tourist heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

What makes District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City so fascinating is its dual personality. On one side, you’ll see neon lights, modern skyscrapers, and busy intersections full of motorbikes. On the other, you’ll find traditional wet markets, Buddhist temples, and French villas standing quietly. I really enjoy walking through District 1 as it sometimes feels like stepping back in time while still living in the present. Imagine elegant 19th-century French villas standing proudly next to modern skyscrapers.

This balance between old and new, local and global is what defines the characteristics of District 1. It’s where Vietnam’s fast-paced growth meets its timeless culture. Tourists might first come here for the attractions, but what keeps them hooked are the contrasts that make every street corner feel like a story waiting to be told.

Interesting Things to Do in District 1

I mean, when talking about District 1, most visitors know about the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, or the Reunification Palace, but District 1 offers much more than the typical tourist stops. For example, behind small alleyways you’ll find hidden cafés in Saigon, tucked inside old apartment blocks, the perfect escape for a quiet coffee.

Love shopping? Head to Tan Dinh Market, famous for its vibrant fabric stalls, or dive into local art galleries and boutique stores hidden around Dong Khoi Street. Pro-tip: Our See Saigon tour will give you a perfect balance of seeing Saigon’s beautiful sites and exploring the less-touristy spots, plus visiting a bustling local market, so you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibe.

Feeling tired after a full day of exploring, why don’t you try out a foot massage, or better, a full-body massage to get rejuvenated? For a more refined experience, places like Temple Leaf Spa and Golden Lotus Spa (Korean sauna experience Jjimjilbang) are highly recommended for their professional service and relaxing atmosphere. Travelers looking for something casual and budget-friendly can explore smaller parlors around Bui Vien or Ben Thanh, though it’s best to check reviews and make sure you agree on a fixed price for your service beforehand to ensure quality and comfort.

This mix of mainstream tourist attractions and hidden gems in District 1 makes the area exciting for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Hidden Gems in District 1

While many consider District 1 the “tourist district,” those who dig deeper will find it brimming with hidden gems. Think secret cocktail bars tucked behind bookshelves, street food stalls that only locals know, and serene pagodas where the noise of the city melts away.

For an authentic experience, visit the Antique Street (Le Cong Kieu Street), lined with shops selling vintage coins, ceramics, and rare collectibles, and especially, you will get to interact with the locals there on our unique puzzle solving tour. Or head to Dakao neighborhood, where you will see the authentic side of District 1, with green spaces (Le Van Tam Park), the locals’ favorite restaurants and eateries, the “Obama temple”, sidewalk cafes and bars.

These hidden corners prove that District 1 is more than just Bui Vien backpacker street. It’s a district where you can find authenticity right under the tourist spotlight.

What to Eat in District 1

If there’s one thing you can’t miss, it’s the food in District 1 Saigon. From early morning banh mi at the famous Banh Mi Huynh Hoa to late-night burgers in District 1, this district is a paradise for food lovers.

The fastest and easiest way is to visit the street food stalls inside Ben Thanh Market, where you can enjoy sizzling bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes), sweet chè (desserts), and grilled seafood at night, or walk a block around and you can easily find the Ben Nghe Street Food filled with many options, from local Vietnamese food to even tasty tacos.

Many high-end restaurants in District 1 serve international cuisine that you can find with just a search away from your fingertips. But the real MVPs are the small eateries that are filled with locals. That’s the universal sign in Vietnam if the place serves good food. See a place like that? Trust your gut and that might be the tastiest meal you have here.

For a truly local experience, wander through the small alleys in District 1 and be adventurous. Some of the best street food in District 1 is hidden here, away from tourist crowds.

District 1 Nightlife

When the sun sets, District 1 nightlife comes alive. That’s where we have the saying in Vietnamese: “Eat in 5, Sleep in 3 and Party in 1”. Whether you’re looking for lively backpacker vibes on Bui Vien Street, sophisticated rooftop bars overlooking Saigon’s skyline, or live music lounges tucked in old villas, this district has it all.

Most tourists might have thought the nightlife in Saigon only revolves around the backpackers area Bui Vien - De Tham - Pham Ngu Lao streets, but the real locals actually don’t go there. From lively rooftop bars with panoramic views to hidden speakeasies in Saigon that require a secret knock, District 1 has a lot to offer than just the overly loud bars that are full of scams in the backpacker area. It’s this mix of mainstream and secret spots that makes nightlife in District 1 so unique.

Pro-tip: We might be biased but according to our guests, our Bia & Bites tour has taken them to some of the coolest craft beer breweries and bars in District 1, away from the mainstream tourist area. Wondering if we live up to the hype? Why not find out for yourself?

Is District 1 Worth Visiting?

Many travelers wonder: Is District 1 the best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City? The short answer is yes.

Yes, because it’s the most central, with easy access to landmarks, shopping, and things to do in District 1. But also, the real magic comes when you move beyond the tourist trail and discover non-touristy experiences in District 1, like hidden cafes, quiet pagodas, and local food stalls where Saigon’s heartbeat truly lies.

So if you’re planning your Saigon itinerary, make sure you explore both the highlights and the hidden treasures that make District 1 unforgettable.

Saigon Travel