Looking for the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City? From historic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum and vibrant Ben Thanh Market to unique experiences like NOTE – The Scent Lab, this guide takes you through 7 must-see spots that capture the city’s spirit – its culture, flavors, and unforgettable energy.
Discover perfume workshop in Ho Chi Minh City: NOTE – The Scent Lab’s perfume workshop
Table of Contents
1. Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market isn’t just one of the busiest markets in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s a cultural landmark where the city’s past and present meet. Let’s dive into the market’s rich history, transportation options, and unique experiences awaiting you!
Why Ben Thanh Market is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
As a traditional market and vital part of Saigon’s history and culture, Ben Thanh Market is a famous place to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. With its unique French Indochinese architecture and central location, this timeless landmark attracts millions of travelers every year.
Location
Ben Thanh Market is located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City in Ben Thanh Ward, it is right at the intersection of four streets. The main entrance is the southside on Le Loi Boulevard/Quach Thi Trang Square, the northside on Le Thanh Ton, the eastside on Phan Boi Chau and the westside on Phan Chau Trinh, makes it one of the most accessible spots in the city.
Its central spot makes it almost impossible to miss, you’ll often find it buzzing with both locals and tourists weaving through the area. The iconic clock tower at its southern gate has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, perfect for your “I was here” photo.
Opening hours
- Day market: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Night market: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ben Thanh Market never sleeps, it simply changes its outfit. By day, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, it’s a bustling maze of vendors selling everything from fresh lotus blossoms and aromatic spices to silk scarves and handmade crafts. If you’re hunting for the freshest produce or specialty goods, the morning and early afternoon are your golden hours, before many of the food and dry-goods stalls wind down.
Then comes the magic. As the sun dips, Ben Thanh undergoes a dazzling transformation into a night market (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM). The surrounding streets light up with sizzling food stalls, the air rich with the scent of grilled seafood and fragrant herbs. Souvenir shops, late-night cafés, and pop-up vendors take over, creating an atmosphere that’s less “shopping trip” and more “festival.”
Pro tip: For serious shopping, head there early. For a sensory feast (think neon lights, laughter, the clatter of chopsticks, and the irresistible pull of street food) make your way to Ben Thanh after sunset.
How to get to Ben Thanh Market
Just a short walk from Nguyen Hue Walking Street and other central attractions. You can also take a bus, taxi, or motorbike ride, every driver knows “Ben Thanh.”
You can choose one of the following transportation options:
- By taxi or ride-hailing service: For first-time visitors or anyone unfamiliar with Saigon’s maze-like streets, taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient and comfortable options. You can book a ride in just a few taps, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free trip right to the market’s entrance.
- By metro: With the new Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien), getting to Ben Thanh Market is easier than ever. The line has a station directly at the market, making it a quick and stress-free way to avoid rush hour traffic, perfect if you’re traveling in from suburban districts.
- Public bus: Several bus routes stop directly just a short walk from the market’s main entrance. The nearby Ben Thanh Bus Operation Station (also known as Saigon Bus Station) on Ham Nghi Street serves as the city’s main hub, connecting buses across Ho Chi Minh City and linking with the Ben Thanh Metro Station. For travelers, it’s one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to reach the market. Whether you’re heading straight to Ben Thanh or planning to travel onwards across the city, this spot makes getting around effortless.
- Walking: If you’re staying in the city center, a short walk to the market is a great option. From the Saigon Opera House, it’s about 10 minutes: follow Le Duan Street, turn onto Le Lai Street, and continue along Phan Chu Trinh Street until you reach the market. Along the way, you’ll get a taste of the city’s vibrant streetscape before stepping into the heart of its busiest market.
What’s on Sale
Ben Thanh Market is a treasure chest where every corner reveals something new. Wander through its aisles and you’ll find:
- Fresh produce & flowers: tropical fruits, herbs, and colorful blooms.
- Local spices & coffee: the soul of Vietnamese cuisine in compact, take-home form.
- Clothing & textiles: from traditional ao dai fabrics to casual streetwear.
- Handicrafts & souvenirs: lacquerware, bamboo goods, jewelry, and artisan keepsakes.
- Street food & snacks: steaming bowls of pho, crispy banh xeo, che, and endless small bites.
Pro tip: Bargaining is part of the fun. Smile, negotiate, and you’ll often walk away with both a good deal and a good story.
Local tips for visiting Ben Thanh Market
To make the most of your visit to Ben Thanh Market, here are a few insider tips from locals and frequent travelers:
- Bargain, but politely: Haggling is part of the culture here. Prices are often quoted higher for tourists, so don’t hesitate to negotiate, but always with a smile.
- Go early for shopping: If you’re looking for fresh produce, flowers, or local specialties, morning is the best time to catch the stalls at their fullest.
- Visit in the evening for food: After sunset, the market transforms into a lively night market, with street food stalls and outdoor vendors that draw both locals and tourists.
- Bring cash: While some shops may accept cards or e-wallets, many stalls still prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases.
- Stay aware of your belongings: Like in any crowded market, keep an eye on your wallet, phone, and bag to avoid pickpockets.
- Dress light: The market can get warm and busy during the day, so light, breathable clothing will keep you comfortable.
With these tips in mind, Ben Thanh Market can be more than just a shopping stop, it’s a cultural experience that captures the vibrant spirit of Ho Chi Minh City.
Discover Ben Thanh Market.
2. War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum is a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s past and a place of reflection. For travelers who want to truly understand Vietnam beyond its vibrant streets and food scene, this museum offers an unfiltered look at history, resilience, and the human spirit of Vietnamese people.
Why the War Remnants Museum is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
As one of the most visited museums in Vietnam, the War Remnants Museum gives tourists a deeper perspective on the Vietnam War (or the Resistance War against America, as it’s known here). Through photographs, artifacts, and preserved military equipment, the museum provides an important reminder of the impacts of war while honoring the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It’s not only a historical site but also a call for peace and reconciliation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ho Chi Minh City.
Location
The War Remnants Museum is located at 28 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, right in the city center. It’s within walking distance of other major attractions such as the Reunification Palace and Ben Thanh Market, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing around downtown Saigon.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fees
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily (including weekends and holidays)
The museum is open year-round, so you can plan your visit any day. To avoid larger crowds, mornings or late afternoons are ideal. Expect to spend at least 1-2 hours here, though history enthusiasts often stay longer to take in the detailed exhibitions.
Ticket price:
- General admission: 40,000 VND (approximately USD 1.7)
- Discounted rates available for students and veterans
- Free entry for children under 6 years old
How to get to the War Remnants Museum
The museum’s central location makes it very accessible for travelers:
- By taxi or ride-hailing service: The easiest option if you’re new to the city. Just enter “War Remnants Museum” in the app and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance.
- By bus: Several public bus routes stop nearby on Vo Van Tan Street or Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street.
- Walking: If you’re staying in District 1, the museum is just a 10-15 minute walk from attractions like the Reunification Palace and Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral.
Find War Remnants Museum on Google Maps.
Exhibits and Highlights
The museum’s collection has grown to include more than 20,000 documents, artifacts, and photographs, with many items donated by international journalists, veterans, and organizations, divided into several themed rooms and outdoor displays:
- Photographs: Powerful photojournalism documenting the war, including world-renowned images that shaped global awareness. Especially exhibitions displaying pictures that highlight the consequences of war, showing the devastating effects of chemical weapons, particularly Agent Orange.
- Artifacts and weapons: Military equipment, uniforms, and war remnants that provide tangible links to history.
- Prison reconstructions: Models of “tiger cages” once used in wartime prisons.
- Outdoor displays: A collection of tanks, helicopters, fighter planes, and unexploded ordnance.
- Peace exhibitions: Sections dedicated to international anti-war movements and Vietnam’s message of peace today.
Pro tip: The museum’s content is graphic and emotional, so it may not be suitable for very young children.
Visit War Remnants Museum website for more insightful info.
Historical Significance
First opened in 1975, shortly after the end of the war, it was housed in what was formerly the United States Information Agency building. Over the years, it has evolved to focus more on remembrance, reconciliation, and education. In 1998, it joined the International Network of Museums for Peace.
The War Remnants Museum plays an important role in Vietnam’s cultural memory, it tells not just the story of war, but also of endurance, healing, and the ongoing desire for peace. More than just a collection of photographs and artifacts, the War Remnants Museum is a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of war. Strolling through its exhibitions, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of history and to be confronted with the human cost of conflict: the destruction, displacement, and the scars that linger long after the war ends.
Local Tips for Visiting the War Remnants Museum
- Plan 1-2 hours: There’s a lot to take in, so don’t rush through.
- Prepare for graphic content: Some photos and exhibits are graphic, highlighting the devastating human cost of war.
- Go in the morning or late afternoon: These times are less crowded and more comfortable in Saigon’s heat.
- Combine with nearby sites: Pair your visit with the Reunification Palace or Central Post Office, all within walking distance.
- Bring water and dress comfortably: The museum is air-conditioned, but you’ll likely be walking around outside for the larger exhibits.
Read more about this significant museum: Behind War Remnants Museum: A must-visit museum in Ho Chi Minh
3. Cho Lon: The Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City
Once a city of its own before merging with Saigon, Cho Lon remains one of the most culturally rich and historically layered neighborhoods in Vietnam. With its bustling markets, ornate temples, and traditional shophouses, this is where the spirit of old Saigon still thrives, alive with the rhythm of trade, tradition, and time.
Why Cho Lon is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
Long before the skyscrapers and rooftop cafés, Cho Lon was the beating commercial heart of southern Vietnam, where Chinese merchants settled in the late 18th century and built a thriving community that shaped the city’s culture, architecture, and cuisine.
Today, Cho Lon remains one of the most atmospheric districts in Ho Chi Minh City. Its narrow lanes, ancient shophouses, and centuries-old temples tell stories of migration, resilience, and cross-cultural exchange. From bustling markets filled with herbs and fabrics to hidden teahouses and incense-filled pagodas, this neighborhood offers a rare glimpse into a living heritage that continues to evolve with the city.
Location
Cho Lon (Old District 5), Ho Chi Minh City. The neighborhood centers around Binh Tay Market and Tran Hung Dao Street, bordered by the Ben Nghe Canal to the south.
This vibrant location is easily recognizable by its traditional shophouses with tiled roofs and colorful Chinese characters adorning the storefronts. The Ong Bon Pagoda, Thien Hau Temple, and Nghia An Assembly Hall are must-visit landmarks that showcase the neighborhood’s architectural and spiritual depth.
Opening Hours
Unlike Ben Thanh Market, Cho Lon doesn’t operate as a single enclosed market but as an entire neighborhood filled with shops, stalls, and temples.
Most local businesses and markets open early, around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though some restaurants and teahouses stay open later into the night.
If you want to witness the neighborhood at its liveliest, visit in the morning when traders unload goods, people light incense, and the air fills with the sounds of bargaining and prayer; or late afternoon for golden light and evening street food.
How to get to Cho Lon
Cho Lon is about 6-7 kilometers west from the city center. Depending on your location, you can reach it in about 15-20 minutes.
- By taxi or ride-hailing service: The easiest way for first-time travelers. Simply enter “Cho Lon” or “Binh Tay Market” into your ride app, every local driver knows the way.
- By public bus: Buses 1, 7, 56, and 150 connect District 1 with Cho Lon Bus Station. This is one of the largest and oldest bus terminals in the city, and also a great entry point for exploring the area on foot.
- For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided walking or food tour, or rent a motorbike to explore at your own pace.
Top Highlights of Cho Lon
- Binh Tay Market: Built in the 1920s by a Chinese merchant, Binh Tay Market is the commercial heart of Cho Lon. Unlike Ben Thanh Market, which caters largely to tourists, Binh Tay is where locals come to shop for wholesale goods, from spices and tea to dried fruits and ceramics. Its architecture combines French colonial design with traditional Chinese roofing, creating a unique cultural fusion that mirrors the neighborhood itself.
- Lady Thien Hau Pagoda: Dedicated to the sea goddess who protects sailors, is one of the oldest and most important temples in the city. Its richly decorated ceramic reliefs depict scenes from Chinese folklore, while the central courtyard glows with suspended incense coils carrying the prayers of worshippers.
- Hao Si Phuong Alley: A hidden gem and one of the city’s most photogenic spots. This century-old alleyway, with its colorful balconies, hanging laundry, and red lanterns, offers a glimpse into the slower, communal rhythm of old Saigon.
- Lantern Street (Lương Nhữ Học Street): During the Mid-Autumn Festival, the street glows with thousands of handmade lanterns and paper masks. A visit in September or October reveals a magical atmosphere filled with light, color, and laughter.
- Cho Lon Mosque: Built in 1932 for the city’s Malaysian and Indonesian Muslim communities, this turquoise-hued mosque provides a peaceful sanctuary amid the district’s vibrant bustle – symbolizing Cho Lon’s cultural and religious diversity.
- Culinary Experiences: Cho Lon is a food lover’s paradise where Chinese, Vietnamese, and fusion cuisines meet. From dim sum, wonton noodles, and Teochew porridge to herbal duck soup and sweet mung bean desserts, every dish tells a story of heritage. Don’t miss Chau Van Liem Street for classic Chinese sweets, herbal teas, and grass jelly drinks, perfect after a day of exploration.
Local Tips for Exploring Cho Lon
- Explore beyond the main streets: Step into the narrow alleys of Cho Lon (Chinatown Ho Chi Minh City) to find hidden temples, family-run tea shops, and gold-leafed shrines that tell stories of the city’s Chinese heritage.
- Best time to visit: Come in the morning to catch the markets as they come alive, or return after dark when food stalls light up Nguyễn Trãi and Trần Hưng Đạo with sizzling Cantonese dishes and street food aromas.
- What to try: Don’t miss local favorites like wonton noodles, roasted duck, and herbal soups, they’re some of the best in Chinatown Saigon.
- Pro tip: Bring cash (most stalls don’t accept cards) and a hand fan, the charm of Chợ Lớn lies in its lively, bustling atmosphere.
Discover more about Cho Lon (many experiences await): Cho Lon: A Historic Chinatown Among the Top Places in Saigon to Visit
4. Nguyen Hue Walking Street & The Cafe Apartment
Nguyen Hue Walking Street isn’t just a pedestrian boulevard, it’s the cultural and social epicenter of Ho Chi Minh City. Lined with colonial era landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and buzzing cafés, this vibrant walking street brings together the city’s history and contemporary spirit. Whether you come to stroll in the evening breeze, watch street performers, or explore hidden gems like the famous Cafe Apartment, Nguyen Hue captures the rhythm of Saigon in one place.
Why Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
As the city’s central pedestrian street, Nguyen Hue is where locals and travelers converge. Opened in 2015, the 670-meter-long promenade stretches from the Saigon River up to the People’s Committee Building, making it a perfect stage for parades, festivals, and nightly gatherings. With its fountains, open spaces, and energy that flows late into the night, it’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to feel the pulse of modern Saigon.
Location
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is located right in Sai Gon Ward, the most central district of Ho Chi Minh City. At one end, you’ll find the stately People’s Committee Building, while at the other, the street opens to the Saigon River. Along the way, colonial buildings, luxury hotels, and glass-fronted malls create a unique architectural blend.
Because of its central location, it’s easily accessible by foot from landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, Ben Thanh Market, and Saigon Post Office. In fact, many travelers simply wander into Nguyen Hue while exploring the city center.
Opening Hours
As a public pedestrian street, Nguyen Hue is open 24/7. But it truly comes alive in the evenings, especially after 6:00 PM, when the lights flicker on, music fills the air, and both locals and tourists spill into the open space. Weekends are particularly lively, with street performances, skateboarding, and impromptu dance sessions.
Pro tip: Come at sunset to catch the best of both worlds, golden-hour photos with the People’s Committee Building as your backdrop, followed by the bustling night time energy.
How to get to Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Being in the heart of Saigon Ward (District 1), getting here is effortless:
- By taxi or ride-hailing app: Just type “Nguyen Hue Walking Street” and every driver will know it.
- By bus or metro: The Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien) will make stops nearby, and bus routes through District 1 also drop you within a few minutes’ walk.
- On foot: If you’re staying downtown, it’s a short walk from most hotels and attractions, perfect for pairing with a visit to the Saigon Opera House or Ben Thanh Market.
What to Do on Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Walking the promenade itself is already an experience, with fountains, performers, and people-watching galore. But what makes Nguyen Hue especially memorable are the unique spots hidden along its edges.
The Cafe Apartment
A historic nine-story building that has been reborn into one of the city’s most creative hubs, the Cafe Apartment is a must. Each floor hides cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, many spilling onto balconies that overlook the walking street below. Once a residential block, its worn facade belies the buzzing creative world inside, from family-run eateries to artisan coffee shops, local fashion labels, and intimate studios.
It’s not just a building, but a vertical village of Saigon’s new generation, where old-world charm meets modern creativity.
Explore Cafe Apartment: Unique Experience at the Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City.
NOTE - The Scent Lab Workshop Space
Tucked inside Gốm x Nicotin is one of the most unique experiences in Ho Chi Minh City: a perfume workshop with NOTE – The Scent Lab. The workshop here reflects the city’s vibrant pulse, just steps away from the bustling walking street, the space offers a focused yet calming atmosphere where guests can immerse themselves in scent creation, bottling both their fragrance and the rhythm of Saigon.
NOTE – The Scent Lab’s New Store
Right on the same floor, NOTE – The Scent Lab has also opened its newest perfume store, dedicated to showcasing its fragrances in a contemporary, boutique-style setting. Sleek, modern, and designed for browsing, this store complements the creative energy of the workshop. Together, they make the Cafe Apartment a must-stop for travelers seeking both cultural discovery and a truly personal experience in Saigon.
Find NOTE – The Scent Lab Nguyen Hue on Google Maps.
Local Tips for Visiting Nguyen Hue Walking Street
- Best time to visit: Evenings and weekends for the liveliest atmosphere.
- Pair it with Cafe Apartment: Set aside at least 2–3 hours to explore both the promenade and its hidden gems.
- Photo spots: The fountains at night, the People’s Committee Building, and balcony cafés at the Cafe Apartment all make for stunning backdrops.
- Stay flexible: Street performances and events often happen spontaneously, sometimes the best moments are unplanned.
5. Saigon River Cruise
Among the many best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh city, few capture the city’s rhythm and romance quite like the Saigon River Cruise. More than just a scenic ride, it’s a moving portrait of Saigon itself, where tradition meets modernity along the water’s edge. As you drift past colonial landmarks, skyscrapers, and quiet neighborhoods, you see the city from a new perspective: serene yet vibrant, historical yet alive.
Why Saigon River Cruise is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
The Saigon River has always been the lifeline of the city, once the vital artery for trade and travel, now a tranquil escape from the urban rush. Taking a cruise offers the rare chance to watch Ho Chi Minh City breathe and shimmer from afar. At sunset, the skyline blushes gold and pink; by night, the lights of Bitexco Tower and Landmark 81 flicker on the rippling surface like fireflies.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, the cruise delivers a cinematic glimpse into Saigon’s contrasts: the old and new, the quiet and the chaotic, all flowing together in motion.
Location and Departure Points
Most cruises depart from Bach Dang Wharf, right near Nguyen Hue Walking Street, making it one of the most convenient Ho Chi Minh attractions to add to your itinerary. From here, you can choose between various cruise options, from public ferries and short sunset rides to luxurious dinner cruises complete with live music and wine.
Other popular departure spots include Saigon Waterbus Station, Saigon Princess Cruise Terminal, and select hotel docks along the riverbank.
Schedule and Best Time to Go
Cruise schedules vary by operator, but in general:
- Daytime cruises: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunset & dinner cruises: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
For the most magical experience, go around sunset (5:30-6:30 PM), when the city lights begin to twinkle and the sky turns a dusky orange. It’s a photographer’s dream and a moment when the city feels both endless and intimate.
Pro tip: Evening dinner cruises often include live music, set menus, or traditional performances – ideal for couples, families, or anyone who wants to end the day on a memorable note.
How to get there
- By taxi or ride-hailing app: Simply set your destination to “Bach Dang Wharf” or your chosen cruise line. Most drivers are familiar with the location, and it’s only a few minutes from popular attractions.
- By walking: If you’re staying near Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Ben Thanh Market, it’s a pleasant 10-15 minute walk.
- By metro: With Metro Line 1, the nearest stop (Ba Son Station) will connect directly to the riverside area, making it even easier to reach the wharf.
Experience Highlights
Depending on the cruise type, here’s what you can expect:
- Saigon River Sunset Cruise: A relaxing 1-2 hour journey with panoramic skyline views.
- Dinner cruise: Enjoy a multi-course meal, live music, and a romantic ambiance under the city lights.
- Saigon Waterbus: A local favorite and affordable option for travelers who want to experience daily river life.
Along the way, you’ll glide past famous sights such as Bitexco Tower, Thu Thiem Bridge, Landmark 81, and the Nha Rong Wharf, each a chapter in the city’s evolving story.
Local Tips for Your Saigon River Cruise
- Book in advance if you plan to take a dinner or sunset cruise, especially on weekends.
- Arrive early, 15-20 minutes before departure, to secure the best seating.
- Bring a light jacket or scarf, as it can get breezy after dark.
- Keep your camera ready, the skyline reflections at dusk are some of the best photo moments in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Thao Dien Neighborhood
Thao Dien isn’t just a trendy neighborhood in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s where modern lifestyle blends seamlessly with local charm. Known for its riverside villas, green streets, and creative hubs, it’s a favorite destination for expats, artists, and travelers seeking something beyond the city’s bustling downtown. Let’s explore what makes Thao Dien one of the best places to experience Saigon’s contemporary spirit.
Why Thao Dien is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
As a vibrant riverside neighborhood formerly called District 2, now An Khanh Ward, Thao Dien has become a cultural hotspot where cosmopolitan living meets Vietnamese tradition. It’s filled with art galleries, chic cafés, boutique stores, wellness studios, and international dining; all while maintaining the slow, riverside charm that makes it feel like a village within the city.
Location
Thao Dien is located in An Khanh Ward (formerly known as District 2), northeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s center, bordered by the Saigon River. Despite being just 20-30 minutes from downtown, its quieter streets, lush greenery, and international community make it feel like a world apart.
Opening Hours
Unlike a single landmark, Thao Dien is a neighborhood that never truly closes. Cafés generally open from 8:00 AM, while restaurants, art hubs, and bars carry the energy into late evenings.
Highlight: NOTE – The Scent Lab workshops at R Space usually run between 09:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Here, you can sip coffee, slow down, and craft your own fragrance in a relaxed creative setting.
How to get to Thao Dien
Just across the Saigon River, Thao Dien is easily accessible:
- By taxi or ride-hailing service: The most convenient option, especially if you’re new to the city. A ride from District 1 takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- By metro: The Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien) has a stop at Thao Dien and An Phu station, making the neighborhood even more connected to the city’s center. Hop off at Thao Dien Station and take a short walk to NOTE – The Scent Lab, participate in a DIY perfume workshop combined with a half-day exploration in the walkable and peaceful neighborhood of Thao Dien.
- By river bus: The Saigon River Bus offers a scenic alternative, dropping you at Thanh Da pier just a short drive from Thao Dien.
Do you know: Thao Dien Metro Station is the best sunset hunting spot on Metro Line 1.
What to Explore
Thao Dien is more than a residential neighborhood, it’s a creative, cultural playground. Highlights include:
- Art & design hubs: Galleries, creative studios, and performance spaces.
- Boutique shopping: Independent fashion, home decor, and artisan goods.
- Cafés & brunch culture: Stylish spots that range from minimalist coffee houses to lush garden cafés.
- International dining: From authentic Italian trattorias to fusion Vietnamese restaurants.
- Wellness & lifestyle: Yoga, meditation, and spa retreats set in peaceful green corners.
- Riverside escapes: Quiet cafés and bars overlooking the Saigon River, perfect for sunset.
- NOTE – The Scent Lab perfume creation workshop: Unlike the workshop space in Nguyen Hue, this place feels like a serene retreat, offering a signature experience for travelers seeking creativity and sensory indulgence in a peaceful and calm showroom.
Local Tips for Visiting Thao Dien
- Best time to visit: Late mornings for brunch and boutique shopping, or evenings for riverside dining and bars.
- Take your time: Thao Dien isn’t about rushing, wander its serene streets and you’ll discover hidden gems.
- Blend in with the vibe: Light, casual wear works best (think laid-back chic).
- Weekends are lively: Visit the neighborhood’s craft and farmers markets for a mix of local produce, artisan crafts, and international flavors.
- Book ahead for NOTE – The Scent Lab: Workshops are best reserved in advance, especially if you want a relaxed, personalized session.
With these in mind, Thao Dien offers more than just a neighborhood stroll, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in Ho Chi Minh City’s evolving cultural identity, where global creativity and Vietnamese warmth live side by side.
7. NOTE - The Scent Lab
The final stop on our list of the best 7 places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City is also its most creative: NOTE – The Scent Lab.
Why NOTE - The Scent Lab is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City
It’s no surprise that NOTE – The Scent Lab has become a favorite last-day stop for tourists. With its central locations in the heart of the city, NOTE is easy to reach whether you’re staying downtown or passing through before the airport. Many visitors find themselves unsure how to spend their final day in Vietnam, therefore a personalized perfume workshop becomes the perfect, meaningful closure. Here, instead of simply buying a souvenir, you create one. A fragrance that holds the essence of your time in Vietnam – an experience that has delighted and surprised countless travelers who wanted something truly personal and unforgettable.
Because more than just a workshop, NOTE lets you capture your Saigon story in a bottle. After exploring the markets, museums, and rivers of Saigon, NOTE – The Scent Lab invites you to turn those experiences into something lasting. Here, you can bottle your favorite memories from the city: the aroma of Ben Thanh’s spices, the calm of a Saigon River sunset, the sweetness of Thao Dien’s cafés, or even the vibrant energy of Nguyen Hue. Each fragrance you create becomes a sensory diary of your journey, a blend of scents and stories that come alive. With each spray, you’ll relive those memories.
Location & Opening Hours
- Thao Dien Showroom (R Space):
34 Nguyen Duy Hieu, An Khanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 09:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Nguyen Hue Store (The Cafe Apartment, 2nd Floor):
42 Nguyen Hue, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
How to get to NOTE - The Scent Lab
- Thao Dien Location: Take a quick Grab or taxi across the Saigon Bridge, it’s about 20 minutes from the city center. Or you hop on the Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien), NOTE’s showroom is only 10 minutes walk from Thao Dien Station.
- Nguyen Hue Location: Located right on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, it’s easy to find between Ben Thanh Market and the Saigon River. If you take the Metro Line 1, hop off at Opera House Station and take a few walks.
Pro Tip: Book in advance to reserve your spot and make sure your experience is perfect.
Why NOTE – The Scent Lab is A Must-visit
Many of NOTE customers choose to visit us on their last day in Vietnam for 2 particular reasons:
A memory in a bottle: Instead of a typical souvenir, you take home a personalized perfume that carries your emotions and experiences in Saigon.
Two distinct experiences:
- Thao Dien Flagship (R Space): A spacious, relaxing showroom where you can sip coffee, unwind, and take your time crafting a scent that feels like you.
- Nguyen Hue (The Cafe Apartment, 2nd Floor): A new store in the city’s iconic apartment block. Here, you can join a personalized perfume workshop, explore ready-made fragrances, or pick up candles and diffusers from NOTE.
Perfect for gifting: Whether it’s a handcrafted perfume, home fragrance, or scented candle, NOTE’s creations make heartfelt, meaningful gifts for loved ones, each telling a personal Saigon story.
Local Tips: Make the Most of Your Visit
- Try our collection: If you’re short on time, browse NOTE’s exclusive line of perfumes and home fragrances, perfect as souvenirs or gifts with local touch.
- Book ahead: If you want to join the perfume-making workshop, reserve the spot ahead to make sure our staff can prepare and make everything perfect for you.
- Sip & scent: At both locations, you can enjoy a coffee or tea while you create, blending aroma and atmosphere.
Discover NOTE – The Scent Lab: A must-visit destination in Ho Chi Minh City
From the morning bustle of Ben Thanh Market to the tranquil glow of the Saigon River at dusk, from the nostalgic alleys of Cho Lon to the intimate scent-making experience at NOTE – The Scent Lab, each destination reveals a different heartbeat of the city. Together, they paint a portrait of Saigon that’s vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable. These are not just the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City; they are fragments of its soul. Wherever your journey takes you next, may the rhythm, colors, and scents of this city stay with you long after you’ve gone.
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