1. General Information about District 2 in Ho Chi Minh City
Enjoy stunning views of the Saigon River and the city skyline from District 2 in Ho Chi Minh City. Source: wallpaperswide
Alright, fellow explorers! Let's chat about the vibrant and ever-evolving District 2 in Ho Chi Minh City. Nestled on the northeast side of the Saigon River, District 2 is like a breath of fresh air compared to the bustling city center. It's easily accessible by road, water, or public transport, so you can hop over whenever you're craving a change of pace.
Even though it's officially part of Thu Duc City now, locals still call it District 2 out of habit. And you know what? It's got a bit of a reputation for being an expat haven, especially in areas like Thu Thiem, Thao Dien, and An Phu. So you'll find plenty of international flavors mixed in with the Vietnamese charm.
Whether you're strolling along the scenic riverside promenade, exploring the trendy Thao Dien neighborhood, or indulging in a culinary adventure at one of the many international eateries, District 2 has something for everyone. And hey, if you're curious about other districts in this bustling metropolis, be sure to check out my guide to “District Ho Chi Minh”
2. Gastronomic Gems of District 2 in Ho Chi Minh City
Unveiling the Hidden Culinary Treasures of District 2's Vietnamese Food Scene
Maison Man - Do
- Price: 300.000 - 500.000 VND
- Rating: 5.0
- Address: 03 Nguyen U Di Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Highlight: The star of the show here is the traditional Vietnamese family-style meal, a feast for the senses that celebrates the rich flavors and textures of Asian cuisine. It's like a warm hug for your soul, reminding you of the simple joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Bui Garden
- Price: 49.000 -399.000 VND
- Rating: 4.4
- Address: 55A – 55B Ngo Quang Huy Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Highlight: Bui Garden isn't just about the usual suspects like pho and banh mi. This restaurant takes you on a culinary journey through the lesser-known dishes that make Vietnamese home cooking so special. It's like stepping into a local's kitchen and savoring the flavors of everyday life.
Discover the heartwarming flavors of authentic Vietnamese home cooking, beyond pho and banh mi. . | Source: Bui Garden
Exploring District 2's Vibrant International Food Scene
The Deck Saigon
- Price: 35.000 - 1.600.000 VND
- Rating: 4.3
- Address: 38 Nguyen U Di Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM - Midnight
- Highlight: This riverside haven is perfect for Mediterranean feasts and sizzling BBQs. It's the ideal spot to unwind with a cocktail and soak up the stunning views.
Indulge in Mediterranean flavors and BBQ delights at The Deck Saigon. | Source: The Deck Saigon
3G Trois Gourmands French Restaurant
Savor the taste of Paris in Saigon at 3G Trois Gourmands, where traditional French recipes are reimagined with a modern touch. | Source: 3G Trois Gourmands French Restaurant
- Price: 588.000 VNĐ - 1.287.000 VND
- Rating: 4.4
- Address: 30 Tran Ngoc Dien Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Highlight: Calling all Francophiles! This restaurant is a haven for French cuisine lovers, serving up classic dishes with a modern twist.
Top Bars in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
BiaCraft Artisan Ales
Top-notch brews and a lively atmosphere await at BiaCraft Artisan Ales, a District 2 favorite | Source: BiaCraft Artisan Ales .
- Price: 29.000 VNĐ -750.000 VND
- Rating: 4.5
- Address: 90 Xuan Thuy Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Highlight: Beer lovers, rejoice! This craft beer bar offers a wide selection of local and international brews, along with a lively atmosphere.
Aperitivo Bar
- Price: 40.000 VNĐ - 600.000 VND
- Rating: 4.4
- Address: 01 Dang Huu Pho Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 16:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Highlight: If you're craving a taste of Italy, scoot on over to Aperitivo Bar. This stylish spot channels serious Italian vibes with its extensive selection of craft beers and a cocktail menu that'll make your head spin (in a good way, of course!). Sip on your favorite libation while grooving to their eclectic playlists, which change themes throughout the week.
Saigon's stylish spot for Italian-inspired drinks and eclectic tunes | Source: Aperitivo Bar
Discovering Unique Cafes in Ho Chi Minh City's District 2
Bonjour Cafe The Art
- Price: 25.000 VNĐ - 50.000 VND
- Rating: 4.2
- Address: 42 Thao Dien Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Highlight: Bonjour Cafe The Art is a Parisian oasis in Saigon, known for its chic ambiance and flower-filled garden. The red facade and glass windows create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for sipping coffee and indulging in a touch of French flair.
Step into a flower-filled Parisian dream at Bonjour Cafe The Art | Source: Bonjour Cafe The Art
Dalaland Coffee
- Price: 50.000 - 70.000 VND
- Rating: 4.3
- Address: 24/4/1 Tran Ngoc Dien Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM - 10:30 PM
- Highlight: This cafe is a Mediterranean dream come true! With its whitewashed walls, lush greenery, and a unique central pond, it's like stepping into a Santorini oasis. And don't even get me started on the menu – it's a culinary journey through the flavors of the Mediterranean!
Indulge in Mediterranean flavors at Dalaland Coffee's enchanting setting. | Source: Dalaland Coffee
Now that we've whetted your appetite, are you curious about how much all this deliciousness will cost you? Head over to my article on "How Much Does Food Cost a Day in Ho Chi Minh City” to get the lowdown on budgeting for your culinary adventures.
3. Shopping in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Alright shopaholics, get your wallets ready because District 2 is a shopper's paradise! Let's start with the big guns, the shopping malls that'll make your credit card sing:
Estella Place
Discover a world of shopping, entertainment, and dining at Estella Place, a premier destination in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City. | Source: Estella Place
- Address: 88 Song Hanh Street, An Phu, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Rating: 4.3
- Opening hours: 09:30 AM - 10:00 PM
- Highlight: Located in An Phu, Estella Place is a massive shopping complex where you can find everything from high-end fashion and cosmetics to home goods and electronics. It's also got a cinema, entertainment zone, and a massive supermarket, making it the perfect one-stop shop for all your shopping and entertainment needs.
Vincom Mega Mall Thao Dien
Vincom Mega Mall, a sprawling retail haven in Thao Dien, boasts hundreds of stores offering everything from fashion and electronics to home | Source: goods.blog.rever
- Address: 161 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Rating: 4.4
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Highlight: This mega-mall in Thao Dien is one of the biggest in District 2. With hundreds of stores selling fashion, accessories, electronics, home goods, and more, plus a cinema and a diverse food court, Vincom Mega Mall has got you covered.
But hey, don't just take my word for it! Check out my article on the "Best Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City - Updated 2024" for even more retail therapy inspiration.
If you're looking for a quick snack or some essentials, District 2 is dotted with convenience stores like Vinmart+, Circle K, GS25, and FamilyMart. They're open 24/7 and have everything from snacks and drinks to toiletries and household items.
And for a truly authentic shopping experience, head to one of District 2's bustling market:
Thao Dien Market
Thao Dien Market in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, is a must-visit for foodies and culture enthusiasts seeking an authentic local experience. | Source: nhadathoangviet
- Address: Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Rating: 4.1
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This traditional market in the heart of Thao Dien is a feast for the senses. You'll find fresh produce, meat, seafood, dried goods, and a tempting array of street food.
Now, before you hit the markets, be sure to brush up on your "Vietnamese Phrases for Travel" and learn "The Art Of Bargaining In Vietnam”. It'll make your shopping experience even more fun and rewarding!
4. Accommodation in District 2, Ho Chi Minh City ,Vietnam
Let's talk about where to rest your weary heads after a day of exploring District 2's wonders. Whether you're a backpacker on a budget or a luxury lover, this vibrant neighborhood has got you covered.
Hotels
If you're looking for a hassle-free stay with all the bells and whistles, District 2 has plenty of hotels to choose from. Think fluffy pillows, sparkling pools, and room service at your beck and call. Some popular options include:
Mia Saigon – Luxury Boutique Hotel
Where Vietnamese charm meets Parisian elegance, complete with a rooftop pool and exquisite dining. | Source: Mia Saigon
- Price: 5.500.000 - 7.000.000 VND
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: 2-4 Street 10 , An Phu, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This stylish hotel offers a blend of Vietnamese and French design, along with a rooftop pool and a chic restaurant.
Thao Dien Village
Indulge in luxurious relaxation at Thao Dien Village, where modern design meets natural beauty. | Source: Thao Dien Village
- Price: ~ 2.500.000 VND
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: 197/1 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This hotel is a District 2 favorite for a reason! Its luxurious design and elegant interiors create a haven of relaxation. Modern furnishings and plush amenities ensure a comfortable stay, while the open layout with large windows offers stunning views of the gardens or refreshing pool.
Apartments
The Estella
- Price: start at $1.500 per month
- Rating: 4.6
- Address: 88 Song Hanh, Hanoi Highway, An Phu, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This luxury complex offers stunning views of the city skyline and a range of amenities, including a pool, spa, and tennis courts.
Masteri An Phu
- Price: start at $1.000 per month
- Rating: 4.1
- Address: 179 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This modern complex is located in the heart of An Phu, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Gateway Thao Dien
- Price: start at $800 per month
- Rating: 4.4
- Address: 02 Le Thuoc, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Highlight: This family-friendly complex offers spacious apartments with balconies and access to a pool, playground, and BBQ area.
Houses/Villas
If you're traveling with a large group or simply crave more space and privacy, District 2 has some stunning houses and villas to choose from. Imagine sprawling gardens, private pools, and plenty of room to spread out. Some popular areas to look for villas include:
- Thao Dien: This upscale neighborhood is known for its leafy streets and charming villas.
- An Phu: This vibrant area offers a mix of modern and traditional villas.
- Riviera Cove: This exclusive compound boasts luxurious villas with stunning river views.
But hey, don't just take my word for it! Head over to my article on "Convenient Places to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City, Ranging from Budget to Luxury" for even more accommodation options to suit your style and budget.
Before you set off to explore the wonders of District 2, let me share a few friendly tips to make your journey even smoother:
- Visa Vibes: If you're planning to make District 2 your home away from home for a while, be sure to check out the visa and work permit requirements. It's all part of the adventure, right? To make things easier, I've put together a handy "Vietnam Visa Guide" just for you!
- Safety First: District 2 is generally a safe haven, but hey, it never hurts to be cautious. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially at night, and you'll be good to go. For more tips on staying safe, check out my article on the "Safest Districts In Ho Chi Minh City for First-Time Visitors".
- Getting Around: To avoid any unwanted surprises, stick to reputable transportation options like taxis or ride-hailing apps. Trust me, it's worth it for the peace of mind. And for a deeper dive into navigating the city like a pro, check out my "A Guide to Avoiding Scams in Vietnam 2024".
- Rainy Season Reminder: Just a heads up, some streets in District 2 can get a bit waterlogged during the rainy season (June to October). But hey, a little rain never hurt anyone, right? If you're curious about the best time to visit, check out my article on "When Is The Best Time To Visit Vietnam?” for all the deets.
With these tips in your back pocket, you're all set to have an unforgettable adventure in District 2. And hey, if you're looking for a personalized touch to your District 2 in Ho Chi Minh City adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to me at KissTour. As a local who's passionate about sharing the beauty of Vietnam, I'd be thrilled to help you create an unforgettable itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and let's explore District 2 together!
