Ho Chi Minh is not just about Bui Vien, Ben Thanh Market or a Day Tour to Mekong River. I have searched for places in Ho Chi Minh City where almost only locals go.
These 5 places will give you the off-the-beaten-path-feels when you go and make a visit. You can also take your Instagram photos to the next level here which was exactly what I did.
1. VISIT THE APARTMENT CAFÉ
Built in the mid 1960s, it once held American military officers and high ranking officials working for the South Vietnam government. This old apartment has now turned into different cafes, workshops and co-working spaces which is a very cool concept.
Address: 42 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
2. VISIT LENGZAI CAFÉ WITH THE VIEW OF THE PINK CHURCH
Lengzai Cafe is a 4-storey cafe located exactly opposite to Tan Dinh Church, also known as the Pink Church. It is the perfect place to drink coffee while enjoying the amazing view of the church. The cafe also features different backdrops on every floor for your Instagram needs.
Address: 258 Hai Bà Trưng, Tân Định, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
3. VISIT THE BLANK LOUNGE AND HAVE A BALCONY-PHOTO TAKEN FROM ABOVE
Blank is one of the highest lounges in the world, located inside Landmark 81, the tallest building in Southeast Asia. You can enjoy the best panoramic views of the city and you can have the best Instagram photo that looks like a drone shot.
Address: 208 Nguyen Huu Canh, Ward 22, Binh Thanh District Floor 75th – 76th, Landmark 81, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
4. VISIT CONG CAPHE AND ORDER THEIR FAMOUS COCONUT COFFEE
In a city famous for its coffee culture, Cong Caphe stands out with their peculiar cafe design. It has multiple branches across Vietnam. I highly recommend trying their coconut coffee, every coffee lover will absolutely love.
Address: 26 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
5. VISIT VINHOMES CENTRAL PARK
Vinhomes Central Park is inspired by the Central Park in the world-famous New York City. Located in the Tan Cang area, one of the most prime locations of the center area of Ho Chi Minh City. You will have the perfect view of Landmark 81 from here.
Address: Vinhomes Central Park, Bình Thạnh, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
I have done all these in just 2 days with the help of a Vietnamese friend, Jackson. He was kind enough to drive me around the city on his motorbike for free. He even bought me dinner. What a legend! Go give him a follow @jacksonxlqt.
WHERE TO STAY
I stayed in Prei Nokor Hostel. It is located at the City Center just next to the Ben Thanh Market. The Hostel is very hip and relatively cheap. It is literally 50 steps away from the Ben Thanh Street Food Market. Not the best hostel out there but good enough for a short stay.