10 Unusual Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City (That Most Tourists Miss)
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its energy, the buzzing motorbikes, lively markets, and historic landmarks. Most travel guides point you towards the Notre Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, or the War Remnants Museum. While these are worth seeing, they only scratch the surface of what the city has to offer.
If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers hidden gems and unusual experiences, Saigon has plenty of surprises in store. From peaceful river cruises to secret war bunkers and quirky neighbourhood finds, these activities show you a more authentic and unexpected side of the city.
Here are some of the most unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that go beyond the typical tourist trail.
Key Takeaways: Unusual Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Cruise the Saigon River for a peaceful escape, ideal for groups or events.
- Uncover hidden history at the Secret Weapons Bunker.
- Discover quirky gems like the Café Apartment and Jade Emperor Pagoda’s turtle pond.
- Enjoy local culture through rooftop views, indie art, and the craft beer scene.
- Go beyond landmarks to experience the authentic, surprising side of Ho Chi Minh City.
1. Take a Saigon River Cruise (A Peaceful Escape from the Streets)
Most visitors experience Ho Chi Minh City on foot, by taxi, or weaving through traffic on a motorbike. But from the water, the city transforms. A Saigon River cruise is one of the most unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh, giving you the chance to:
- Enjoy calm surroundings away from the city noise
- Breathe in fresh air while admiring wide-open skyline views
- Glimpse riverside life that many travellers never get to see
What to expect with Saigon Boat Company
The Saigon Boat Company offers a beautifully crafted open boat designed for both comfort and socialising. Onboard, you’ll find:
- Space for up to 23 guests with face-to-face seating, perfect for conversation
- Tasty food and snacks freshly served during your journey
- A sliding roof, so you’re comfortable in both sunshine and light rain
- Onboard toilet facilities for convenience throughout your trip
Starting points are flexible, with the main pier at Bach Dang (District 1) and optional pick-ups at Binh An and Thao Dien.
Why you’ll love it
Whether it’s a birthday, wedding celebration, business gathering, or just a quiet family outing, a Saigon River cruise is both unique and memorable. The peaceful flow of the river makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, one most tourists never get to experience.
Tip: For the ultimate atmosphere, book a sunset cruise. Watching the city lights come alive from the water is truly unforgettable.
2. Explore the Secret Weapons Bunker (Saigon’s Hidden War History)
What it is
Behind a quiet house on Hoang Hoa Tham Street lies one of the city’s most intriguing wartime sites: the Secret Weapons Bunker. It’s not a large, polished museum, instead, it’s an authentic relic of the Vietnam War that many travellers overlook.
Why it’s unusual
During the 1968 Tet Offensive, this house concealed a hidden cellar packed with weapons. To this day, you can still see:
- Trapdoors that led to underground storage
- Original weapons and artefacts
- Displays explaining how residents managed to hide everything in plain sight
What makes it special
Unlike major museums that attract large crowds, the bunker feels personal and immersive. Visiting gives you a chance to:
- Step back in time and imagine life during the war
- Gain a unique perspective on Vietnam’s history
- Explore a site that remains off the usual tourist map
Tip: The bunker is small, so plan a short visit, but one that leaves a lasting impression.
3. Visit the Café Apartment on Nguyen Hue
What it is
Right in the heart of the city on Nguyen Hue Walking Street stands a weathered apartment block that has been transformed into one of Saigon’s quirkiest attractions: the Café Apartment.
Why it’s unusual
From the outside, it looks like an ordinary residential building. Step inside, and you’ll discover:
- Dozens of independent cafés and boutiques stacked floor by floor
- A mix of modern coffee shops, vintage-style tearooms, and tiny restaurants
- Balconies overlooking Nguyen Hue, perfect for people-watching
What makes it special
Instead of heading to a chain café, visitors can:
- Choose a different vibe on each floor: from trendy and Instagram-ready to cosy and quiet
- Sip Vietnamese coffee while watching the city’s busiest pedestrian street below
- Enjoy an experience that feels both urban and artistic
Tip: Climb the stairs instead of taking the lift, you’ll get a better feel for the building’s character.
4. Discover the Jade Emperor Pagoda’s Turtle Pond
What it is
The Jade Emperor Pagoda (also called Phuoc Hai Tu) is one of Saigon’s most atmospheric temples. While the ornate carvings and incense-filled halls are fascinating, what truly makes this spot unusual is the turtle pond tucked away inside the temple grounds, a peaceful highlight that easily ranks among the most unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh.
Why it’s unusual
Most temples focus on shrines and statues, but here you’ll also find:
- A pond filled with dozens of live turtles
- Locals stopping by to feed the turtles for good luck
- A serene yet slightly surreal corner of the city
What makes it special
Visiting the turtle pond offers a glimpse of how tradition blends with everyday life:
- Spiritual symbolism: Turtles represent longevity and stability in Vietnamese culture
- Interactive experience: Visitors can take part by feeding the turtles
- Peaceful atmosphere: Despite being in the city centre, it feels like a hidden sanctuary
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the temple at its most tranquil.
5. Find Saigon’s “Hidden” Craft Beer Scene
What it is
Vietnam is famous for its cheap lagers, but in recent years Ho Chi Minh City has developed a thriving craft beer culture. What’s unusual is that many of the best breweries are tucked away in unexpected corners of the city.
Why it’s unusual
Instead of just ordering a Saigon Special, you can:
- Sample IPAs, stouts, and sour beers brewed locally
- Visit small taprooms hidden in side streets or upstairs in old buildings
- Experience a growing scene that’s still under the radar for many travellers
Where to go
Some of the most popular names include:
- Pasteur Street Brewing Company: pioneering Saigon’s craft beer movement
- Heart of Darkness: bold flavours and a lively atmosphere
- Winking Seal: known for creative beer names and relaxed vibes
What makes it special
The craft beer scene adds a fresh twist to Saigon’s nightlife:
- Unique local flavours often infused with tropical ingredients
- A chance to meet expats and locals who share a love for good beer
- Bars that feel quirky, stylish, and different from mainstream clubs
Tip: Start with a tasting flight, it’s the best way to discover new favourites.
6. Wander Through District 5’s Traditional Medicine Street
What it is
In District 5 (Chinatown), there’s a street that smells unlike any other in Saigon, lined with shops selling dried herbs, roots, and traditional medicines. Known locally as Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, this area is steeped in history.
Why it’s unusual
Most visitors stick to central District 1, but in District 5 you can:
- Explore old apothecaries with shelves stacked full of herbs
- See traditional remedies prepared in time-honoured ways
- Experience a part of the city that feels more local than touristy
What makes it special
This street offers more than just shopping:
- It’s a cultural journey into how medicine and healing have been practised for generations
- The sights, smells, and colours make for a sensory experience unlike anywhere else in Saigon
- It’s an ideal spot for photography and for travellers interested in cultural heritage
Tip: Visit in the morning when shops are busiest and the atmosphere most lively.
7. Try Water Puppet Theatre (With a Modern Twist)
What it is
Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back centuries, performed with wooden puppets on a water stage. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can experience this tradition with a modern touch.
Why it’s unusual
While many travellers head to regular theatres or concerts, water puppetry offers:
- A colourful and unique performance you won’t find outside Vietnam
- Stories and folk tales told through puppets, music, and water effects
- A combination of culture and entertainment suitable for all ages
What makes it special
Modern theatres in Saigon often add their own twist:
- Live traditional music with updated lighting and sound
- Comfortable seating while still keeping the authentic charm
- An unusual way to connect with Vietnamese culture beyond sightseeing
Tip: Book tickets in advance, as evening shows often sell out quickly.
8. Take a Food Tour by Vespa at Night
What it is
Food tours are common in Ho Chi Minh City, but doing one on the back of a vintage Vespa adds a whole new level of excitement.
Why it’s unusual
Instead of walking from one food stall to another, you’ll:
- Ride through bustling streets at night like a local
- Visit hidden eateries and street stalls far from tourist areas
- Taste a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes in one evening
What makes it special
A Vespa food tour combines two experiences in one:
- Street food exploration guided by locals who know the best spots
- A night ride adventure through Saigon’s glowing streets
- Perfect for travellers who want to mix culture with fun
Tip: Don’t eat too much before the tour, you’ll want plenty of room to try everything!
9. Join a Morning Tai Chi Session in the Park
What it is
Early mornings in Saigon’s parks reveal a different rhythm of the city. Locals gather to practise Tai Chi, badminton, or group exercises, and visitors are often welcome to join in. Taking part in this daily ritual offers a glimpse of authentic local life and stands out as one of the most unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh city.
Why it’s unusual
While most tourists are still asleep, you can:
- Experience a calm, communal start to the day
- See local life unfold in a way many visitors miss
- Try a traditional practice that blends movement and mindfulness
What makes it special
Joining a Tai Chi session offers:
- A chance to connect with locals in a natural setting
- An opportunity to slow down and enjoy the city at a different pace
- A refreshing contrast to the usual sightseeing schedule
Tip: Head to Tao Dan Park or September 23rd Park around sunrise to find groups practising.
10. Visit the Can Gio Mangrove Forest
What it is
About 40 km from the city centre lies the Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve that feels worlds away from the busy streets of Saigon.
Why it’s unusual
Most visitors never leave central Ho Chi Minh, but in Can Gio you can:
- Explore dense mangrove forests and winding waterways
- Spot wildlife such as monkeys, crabs, and exotic birds
- Visit local fishing villages and enjoy fresh seafood
What makes it special
A trip to Can Gio gives you:
- A taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty right next to the city
- An unusual mix of eco-tourism and local culture
- A chance to recharge in nature after days of urban exploring
Tip: Book a day tour with transport included, it makes the journey smoother and lets you see more highlights.
Go Beyond the Ordinary in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City has no shortage of famous landmarks, but some of the most memorable experiences come from exploring its hidden corners and unusual activities. From drifting along the Saigon River on a private cruise to discovering a secret weapons bunker or feeding turtles at a temple, these adventures let you see the city in a whole new light.
Whether you’re here for a few days or an extended stay, adding just one or two of these unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh will help you experience Saigon like a local, uncovering stories and places that many visitors overlook.
If you’re looking for the perfect way to start your journey, book a Saigon River Cruise with Saigon Boat Company, the most peaceful and unusual way to see the city.
- Phone number: +84 909 844 813
- Email: info@saigonboatcompany.com
FAQs About Unusual Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City
1. What is the most unusual thing to do in Ho Chi Minh City?
One of the most unusual experiences is taking a Saigon River Cruise. Unlike traditional sightseeing, it gives you a calm escape from the busy streets and lets you see the city’s skyline and riverside life from a completely different perspective.
2. Where can I find hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City?
Hidden gems can be found across the city, from the Café Apartment on Nguyen Hue to secret rooftop bars in old buildings and District 5’s Traditional Medicine Street. These places are less crowded and offer a more authentic glimpse of Saigon.
3. What unique cultural experiences can I try in Ho Chi Minh City?
For cultural activities, consider visiting the Secret Weapons Bunker, joining a water puppet theatre performance, or practising Tai Chi in the park with locals. Each gives you a unique window into Vietnamese traditions and history.
4. What unusual things can I do in Ho Chi Minh City at night?
At night, you can explore the hidden craft beer scene, join a Vespa street food tour, or enjoy a sunset river cruise. These activities combine fun with authentic local flavour.