1. Where is District 3 on Ho Chi Minh City’s map?

District 3, Ho Chi Minh City is a prominent tourist destination in the heart of the city. It shares borders with Phu Nhuan District and Tan Binh District to the north, District 1 to the east and south, and District 10 to the west. Covering an area of 4.9 square kilometers, District 3 is divided into 12 wards.

District 3, Ho Chi Minh City is well known for its heritage and French colonial architecture, featuring from high-rise buildings to old villas. The district is also home to many historical sites and cultural attractions.

>>> Discover: Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City: Top 11+ destinations to head to

2. How to get to District 3, Ho Chi Minh City?

Located right next to District 1, District 3 is easily accessible from the city center. To go from District 1 to District 3, you can follow this route by motorbike: Nguyen Hue Street → Le Thanh Ton Street → Truong Dinh Street. The ride will be quick, taking only about 10 minutes.

If you want a more convenient option for transportation, you can just hail a taxi or utilize a ride-hailing service like Xanh SM. With its eco-friendly electric vehicles, experienced drivers, and 24/7 customer support, Xanh SM ensures an enjoyable journey to District 3, HCMC.

3. Best places to visit in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

3.1. Historical sites and museums

District 3, HCMC is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering a variety of historical sites and museums.

3.1.1. Saigon Special Forces' Weapon Bunker

Saigon Special Forces' Weapon Bunker is a unique historical site in District 3, Saigon. It stands as a silent witness to Vietnam’s heroic past, particularly the daring attack on the Independence Palace during the Spring Offensive in 1968. This underground structure was meticulously hand-built by the Saigon Special Forces to store weapons and ammunition. In 2012, the bunker was officially recognized as a national historical relic, offering visitors a profound insight into Vietnam’s resistance against American forces.

Saigon Special Forces' Weapon Bunker in District 3

3.1.2. House of Bishop Pierre Pigneau

Located within Archbishop’s Palace of Saigon at 190 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, District 3, HCMC, the House of Bishop Pierre Pigneau is an architectural gem. Pierre Pigneau was a French missionary who played a significant role in Vietnam’s history, particularly during the Tay Son Dynasty. This house also holds historical significance related to the 1787 Treaty of Versailles, as Pigneau sent Prince Nguyen Phuc Canh (the son of King Gia Long) to France to seek support. It offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s colonial past.

3.1.3. War Remnants Museum

Saigon War Remnants Museum is a compelling place for those interested in Vietnam’s history. This museum presents a vivid portrayal of the resistance war through an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and emotional narratives. It provides a deeper understanding of the resilience of Vietnamese people during the war. The exhibits here showcase the devastation, bravery, and hope that emerged from this period, offering valuable lessons on peace and unity.

3.1.4. Southern Women’s Museum

Established in 1985, the Southern Women’s Museum aims to preserve and promote the traditions of women in southern Vietnam. This museum houses over 44,000 artifacts and documents related to the struggle and heritage of women in the region. Here, visitors can explore 27 permanent exhibitions and various themed displays about the resistance against foreign invasions and the preservation of cultural heritage. The museum also showcases films and published works highlighting the role of Vietnamese women.

3.2. Cultural attractions

After exploring historical sites, you can continue your journey through District 3, Ho Chi Minh City by visiting its cultural attractions.

3.2.1. Tan Dinh Church

Tan Dinh Church is a stunning architectural landmark in District 3, Saigon, showcasing an elegant European-style design. Built in 1876, this church captivates visitors with its harmonious blend of architectural and religious elements. Its eye-catching pink facade makes it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Ho Chi Minh City. Inside, the church offers a solemn atmosphere, adorned with statues and paintings honoring Jesus Christ and various saints.

3.2.2. Xa Loi Buddhist Temple

Xa Loi Buddhist Temple in District 3 in Ho Chi Minh City is known for its part-modern-part-traditional architecture. Built in 1956, it was the first multi-story Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City. The temple includes several remarkable structures such as a seven-story bell tower, a library, a garden, a stupa that houses sacred Buddhist relics, an ancient Pali scripture aged over a thousand years, and a large Bodhi tree grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree in Sri Lanka. Xa Loi Buddhist Temple offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, providing a place for spiritual reflection.

3.2.3. Chantarangsay Pagoda

A visit to District 3, Ho Chi Minh City would not be complete without stopping by Chantarangsay Pagoda, a sacred site for the local Khmer Buddhist community. Founded in 1946, this pagoda is known for its ornate Khmer-style architecture, featuring pointed roofs, golden decorative patterns, and detailed carvings. It hosts many religious ceremonies, serving as an important spiritual center for the local Khmer people. Inside, there are vibrant murals depicting Buddha’s life and teachings.

3.2.4. Thich Quang Duc Monument

Thich Quang Duc Monument honors the Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc, who self-immolated in 1963 in protest against religious persecution. Spanning 2,000 square meters, this monument features a 6-meter-tall bronze statue of Thich Quang Duc, a 16-meter-long relief that vividly depicts the revolutionary struggles of Vietnamese people, and beautifully landscaped gardens with lotus ponds and lush greenery. Thich Quang Duc Monument is a powerful symbol of peace, freedom, and resilience in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

3.2.5. Xuan Hoa Communal House

Xuan Hoa Communal House is one of the few remaining communal houses in Ho Chi Minh City. It serves as a place of worship for local deities and revered figures in history. The communal house showcases a classic wooden framework with yin-yang roof tiles and intricate ceramic statues of mythical creatures. Inside, there are centuries-old artifacts, including bronze incense burners and plaques. Every year, Xuan Hoa Communal House hosts two major festivals in the second and eighth lunar months, attracting worshippers from near and far.

3.2.6. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Spanning 6,000 square meters, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Its architecture blends traditional elements with modern influences. The pagoda is home to the majestic seven-story Avalokiteshvara Tower, a giant bronze bell donated by Japan’s Entsu-in Temple, and intricately crafted Buddhist statues. With its profound spiritual atmosphere, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a must-see for those seeking cultural insights.

3.3. Hangout spots

District 3, Saigon offers a variety of exciting hangout spots, where tourists can relax, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

3.3.1. Turtle Lake

The Turtle Lake is an ideal place for those looking to escape the city's bustle and unwind in a lush space. Often described as a green gem in the heart of the city, this area has an octagonal design, a central concrete pillar, four spiral walkways, and a symbolic turtle. Visitors can take a stroll around the lake and soak in the tranquil surroundings. The area is surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés, making it a lively spot to dine and have fun alongside the locals.

3.3.2. Nguyen Thuong Hien Food Street

Nguyen Thuong Hien Food Street is a must-visit for Ho Chi Minh City street food. Recognized by the UK’s Time Out magazine in 2019 as one of the 20 most livable streets in the world, this bustling food street operates from 6 PM to 10 PM daily, offering a glimpse into Saigon’s nightlife. With 92 food stalls, visitors can indulge in a variety of local delicacies, including mixed rice paper, fermented pork rolls, grilled chicken, chicken rice, noodles, boba tea, and more. Prices are very affordable, ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 VND per dish, making it an accessible food street for all.

3.3.3. Nguyen Van Troi Market

During the day, Nguyen Van Troi Market is a go-to shopping spot for the locals. In the evening, it transforms into a bustling haven for street food. With affordable prices ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 VND per dish, this market is perfect for those wanting to try a variety of Vietnamese dishes without breaking the bank. In a lively atmosphere, visitors will find themselves surrounded by countless food stalls offering grilled pork skewers, crab noodle soup, Vietnamese pancakes, snails, boba tea, flan, and jelly desserts.

3.3.4. Ban Co Market

Ban Co Market in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City has long been a favorite destination for lovers of second-hand fashion items among Saigon markets. This market is uniquely structured into narrow alleys that crisscross like a chessboard. Open from 9 AM to 6 PM, Ban Co Market is always buzzing with activity, as vendors and buyers fill the tightly packed alleys. Here, visitors can explore an extensive selection of second-hand shoes, clothes, and bags, which are often displayed on large mats spilling into the walkways. These products are sold at very affordable prices, making it an exciting shopping place for bargain hunters.

>>> More on: Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City: 10+ EPIC places for your bucket list

4. Best time to explore District 3, Saigon

Visitors can explore District 3 in Ho Chi Minh City at any time of year. Due to the tropical monsoon climate, Saigon weather is characterized by consistently high temperatures that average around 27°C, with peak temperatures exceeding 40°C. The city has a dry season (December - April) and a rainy season (May - November). Overall, the sun is not too harsh and the humidity is relatively low, creating a comfortable environment especially in the evenings.

5. Top tours to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s District 3

District 3, HCMC offers several official tours for visitors to fully experience its charm. Notably, there is a tour which allows you to ride a Vespa scooter through the vibrant streets and visit Thich Quang Duc Monument, Saigon Special Forces' Weapon Bunker, and Chantarangsay Pagoda. The tour also includes a boat ride along Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe Canal, where you can release floating lanterns, learn the art of tea-making, and indulge in the local cuisine.

There is also a boat tour that lets you explore District 3 from the river. This tour offers a different perspective, passing under the bridges of Thi Nghe, Kieu, and Bong and taking tourists to temples such as Chantarangsay Pagoda. It also includes lantern-releasing activities, live music performances, and onboard dining experiences.

For those interested in history, the tour "Following the Footsteps of Saigon Special Forces" offers an in-depth look into Ho Chi Minh City's revolutionary past. This tour includes a visit to Saigon Special Forces' Weapon Bunker in District 3, along with other sites such as the Museum of Saigon Special Forces, the Independence Palace, and more.

>>> More on: Ho Chi Minh City bike tours: The best recommendations and tips

District 3, Ho Chi Minh City blends traditional nostalgia and modern energy. From serene temples to bustling markets, it offers a unique charm that captivates visitors. Whether you are into exploring historical sites or enjoying the lively atmosphere, District 3 promises an unforgettable experience.

After discovering the charm of District 3, you can head to Grand Park in Thu Duc City for an action-packed retreat. This entertainment complex features exhilarating water slides, heart-racing roller coasters, a tranquil man-made beach, and an array of dining and shopping options.

Book Grand Park ticket now

Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam boasts many other incredible tourist destinations like Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long. For those seeking an indulgent escape, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl in these destinations offer a perfect option for accommodation. Blending breathtaking architecture with nature’s beauty, Vinpearl offers world-class amenities such as luxurious spas, expansive pools, state-of-the-art conference centers, scenic golf courses, etc.

To elevate your adventure in Vietnam, come to the entertainment complexes of VinWonders, where thrilling games and dazzling shows promise unforgettable fun!