Which District to Choose? Ho Chi Minh City Tours by Area Pros & Cons

Top 7 Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City (Ranked)

District 1 – The Heart of the Action

Welcome to the electric core of Ho Chi Minh City! District 1 is where French colonial charm meets skyscrapers, where tradition blends with modernity—and where most tourists fall in love at first sight.

This city center district is home to iconic landmarks like Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the buzzing Nguyen Hue Street, a beloved walking street lined with modern cafés and evening light shows.

Rental tip: Expect to pay a premium. Short-term apartments in this area often range from $600–$1,200/month. But you’re paying for location, convenience, and that unbeatable energy.

Craving nightlife? Bui Vien is your late-night playground, packed with rooftop bars, street eats, and endless entertainment. Want to explore culture by day? Head to the War Remnants Museum or browse designer shops on Dong Khoi Street.

• Pros: Ultra-central, full of tourist attractions, walkable, historic, high concentration of services.
• Cons: Noisy, crowded, higher cost of living.
• Best for: First-time visitors, business travelers, nightlife lovers, city explorers.

War Remnants Museum (Source: vietnamplus)

District 3 – Quiet Charm Near Downtown

Just steps away from the buzz of District 1 lies a peaceful gem—District 3, one of the most livable and culturally rich areas in the city.

Known for leafy boulevards, heritage homes, and an old-school Saigon feel, this district offers a quieter experience while keeping you close to the action. Popular spots include Turtle Lake, the War Remnants Museum, and vintage alleyway cafés with some of the city’s best coffee shops.

Rental tip: Apartments here offer better value than District 1. You can find stylish 1-bedrooms for $400–$800/month, especially around Nguyen Dinh Chieu and Nam Ky Khoi Nghia.

It’s a fantastic place for long term living thanks to its friendly community vibe and rich history.

• Pros: Charming streets, lower prices, walkable, full of cultural landmarks.
• Cons: Not much nightlife, fewer luxury condos or towers.
• Best for: Locals, culture lovers, digital nomads, peaceful travelers.

Turtle Lake (Source: vinwonders)

Thao Dien (District 2) – Expat Enclave with Riverside Chic

Cross the Saigon River into Thao Dien, nestled in District 2, and you’ll feel the vibe shift immediately. Think boutique bakeries, organic markets, and expat-friendly gyms.

This area boasts a high concentration of international schools, English-speaking clinics, and stylish homes, making it a go-to for families and global nomads. You’ll also find riverside restaurants and venues like Soma Saigon Café—a hotbed for weekend art markets and indie events.

Rental tip: Expect $500–$1,200/month for serviced apartments or modern condos, with villas and penthouses reaching higher.

From vegan brunches to craft beer spots, Thao Dien is the perfect mix of Vietnamese lifestyle and Western comfort.

• Pros: Clean, modern, family-oriented, pet-friendly, great food scene.
• Cons: Further from city center, traffic can be intense during peak hours.
• Best for: Expats, families, creatives, digital workers, and those staying long term.
  

Saigon River (Source: silverlandhotels)

Phu My Hung (District 7) – Clean & Family-Friendly

Located in the south of the city, Phu My Hung in District 7 is a breath of fresh air—literally. This planned community is orderly, green, and peaceful, with wide roads, landscaped parks, and top-tier safety.

You’ll find major hubs like Crescent Mall, international schools, and medical centers—all within walking or biking distance. The area is also a food paradise for lovers of Korean cuisine, reflecting its strong Korean expat community.

Rental tip: One-bedroom apartments start around $500/month, with villas and high-end condos going beyond $1,200/month.

It’s less about hustle and more about balance—ideal for those who want comfort, calm, and convenience.

• Pros: Well-organized, clean air, great for kids, peaceful environment.
• Cons: Lacks the old Saigon chaos and character, feels more suburban.
• Best for: Families, retirees, long-term expats, remote workers.

Crescent Mall (Source: acnoshotel)

Binh Thanh – Vibrant & Affordable Urban Living

If you’re seeking that perfect blend of local energy and modern comfort, Binh Thanh District is your sweet spot! Just across the Saigon River from District 1, this neighborhood is buzzing with youthful energy and authentic daily life—all while being home to some of the city’s sleekest developments.

The shining star here? Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam, surrounded by the stunning Vinhomes Central Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. It’s one of the most photographed places in all of Ho Chi Minh City, and rightly so!

What makes Binh Thanh District stand out on the list of the Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City is how effortlessly it caters to both luxury and budget-conscious residents. Fancy a sky-high apartment with river views? It’s here. Prefer a cozy, affordable studio tucked near a bustling local market? Also here.

You’ll also find a high concentration of street food, local eateries, and coffee shops—making daily life both exciting and flavorful.

Rental tip: Expect to pay around $400–$900/month depending on the ward. Vinhomes and Pearl Plaza are great options for newcomers.

• Pros: Close to the city center, great views, affordable, lively.
• Cons: Traffic congestion, noise levels vary by ward.
• Best for: Young expats, digital nomads, long-term renters, students.

If you want a lively, walkable area with access to both authentic Saigon life and skyscraper living, Binh Thanh District is easily one of the best district in Ho Chi Minh for the experience. And yes, you’ll be close to many must-see highlights Ho Chi Minh City, from museums to nightlife hubs.

Vinhomes Central Park (Source: vinhomescentralpark)

Cholon (Districts 5, 10, 11) – Historic Chinatown

Now buckle up—because this next destination is where the pulse of old Saigon still beats strong! Welcome to Cholon, the traditional Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City, spanning District 5, District 10, and District 11. This is where centuries of Chinese-Vietnamese heritage come alive through temples, markets, and mouthwatering cuisine.

At the center of it all is Binh Tay Market, a chaotic, colorful, and completely captivating destination. Here, everything from dried herbs to handcrafted lanterns is on offer. And the street food scene? Nothing short of legendary—dim sum, herbal soups, and roast duck line the alleys.

Cholon might not have the glitz of Phu My Hung or the modern shine of Nguyen Hue Street, but it has something even more precious: soul. It’s one of the Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City if you want to truly feel the heartbeat of the local community.

Rental tip: Apartments here range from $250–$600/month, and you’ll get more space and local immersion than in tourist-heavy areas.

• Pros: Deep culture, authentic experiences, great food, low cost.
• Cons: Infrastructure is older, traffic can be chaotic.
• Best for: Culture lovers, foodies, budget travelers, long-term locals.

Binh Tay Market (Source: vietnamtour)

Tan Binh – The Gritty Local Experience

Want to live like a true local? Head northwest to Tan Binh District, a vast, gritty, energetic part of Ho Chi Minh City that’s famous for its raw authenticity. While it’s not a polished tourist zone, it’s a goldmine for those who want to discover the real Saigon.

Best known as the district housing Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Tan Binh is a major entry point into the city. But don’t rush out of it too soon—it has some of the best Southern food markets and a rich network of communities shaped by decades of post-war migration.

This isn’t a district where you’ll find high-rise condos or curated cafés. Instead, expect bustling local markets like Pham Van Hai Market, affordable eats on every corner, and alleyways packed with decades-old culinary traditions.

Rental tip: Prices here are some of the lowest in town—$200–$500/month can get you a decent apartment close to the airport.

• Pros: Super affordable, authentic food, strong local character.
• Cons: Confusing for newcomers, limited English signage, less walkable.
• Best for: Long-term locals, food adventurers, off-the-beaten-path explorers.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Source: vietjetair)

Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City – By Lifestyle

Bui Vien Walking Street (Source: vinwonders)

Conclusion

Each of the Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique flavor of Saigon life—from the bustling charm near Ben Thanh Market to the riverside calm of Phu My Hung. Don’t be afraid to mix and match—stay in one, explore them all! Whether you’re here short-term or going long term, discovering the right fit is part of the adventure. Dive deeper into the city’s top spots through our guide to the highlights Ho Chi Minh City—your perfect district awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions about Ho Chi Minh City’s Neighborhoods

Which neighbourhood is best in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ah, the golden question! The truth is, it depends on your vibe. Want excitement, energy, and unbeatable access to tourist attractions? Go for District 1—home to icons like Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the glowing buzz of Nguyen Hue Street. Prefer green parks and modern comforts? Phu My Hung in District 7 is a dream for families. For chic riverside living and a creative crowd, Thao Dien in District 2 is your match.

No matter your style, our curated list of the Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City will help you find a neighborhood that feels like home. Don’t miss our guide to the highlights Ho Chi Minh City to get inspired!

What is the safest district in Ho Chi Minh City?

Safety is top of mind for many visitors, and the good news is that Ho Chi Minh City is generally welcoming and secure. That said, areas like Phu My Hung (District 7) and Thao Dien (District 2) consistently rank among the safest thanks to their high concentration of expat families, gated communities, and modern infrastructure.

These areas also offer easy access to international schools, clean parks, and upscale amenities, making them popular for long term living. Whether you’re strolling near Crescent Mall or sipping a latte in a quiet coffee shop, peace of mind comes standard here.

Which is the best district to stay in Ho Chi Minh?

For most first-time visitors, District 1 tops the list. It’s the city center, after all—bursting with cultural gems, French colonial buildings, rooftop bars near Bui Vien, and fast access to the walking street action of downtown.

But if you’re seeking a quieter yet still accessible area, District 3 is a fantastic choice. It borders the center, offers a deeper cultural experience, and is filled with tree-lined avenues, heritage homes, and local gems like the War Remnants Museum. Truly one of the Best Districts in Ho Chi Minh City for travelers looking to balance comfort with authenticity.

What is District 3 known for in Saigon?

District 3 is the city’s understated treasure! While it might not scream flash and glamour, it whispers charm, history, and real Saigon soul. Known for its tranquil streets, Turtle Lake, vibrant coffee shop scene, and architectural gems, District 3 is where you’ll find locals living their best life—without the tourist chaos.

It’s also home to national cultural heritage sites and leafy boulevards perfect for wandering. If you’re after a more grounded and authentic stay in the best district ho chi minh has to offer, District 3 should be on your radar.

Explore more in our guide to the highlights Ho Chi Minh City for unique things to do in and around this special district!