Ho Chi Minh City’s binh minh, sunrise and hoang hon, sunset, mark a shift that can be felt through the city. As night transitions to day, we begin to hear the rumbling of motorbikes and market vendors setting up sales for the day. Vietnam is a country of early-risers, all trying to catch the cool air before the sun rises too far above the horizon. More recently, Ho Chi Minh City is becoming a hub for nightlife in Vietnam, with new clubs and bars for those looking for a party and night markets and bridges for strolling and eating.
Bridges
Thu Thiem Bridge
Thu Thiem Bridge, which separates Binh Thanh and District 2, is a perfect location to catch the sunrise or sunset. The massive bridge sits above the Saigon river, where you can catch a perfect view of all the riverfront skyscrapers, hotels, and landmarks in nearby District 1. Below the bridge, is Thu Thiem Tunnel, which is the longest under-river tunnel in South East Asia. The bridge is peaceful in the early morning, with a steady flow of early-bird commuters and a gentle sunrise over the Saigon river. In the late afternoon, many food vendors will set up their stands, facing west to view the sun gently falling behind the skyline of District 1. By nighttime, the buildings are lit up and cast glittering reflections on river and many lovers stroll romantically through the scenic view.
Location: Thu Thiem Bridge, District Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City
Starlight Bridge
Starlight Bridge is best visited in the evening. After a beautiful sunset, you over the water, the bridge is lit up with seven different colors. Located in Phu My Hung in District 7, this pleasant suburb is can be nice break from the busyness of the central districts in Ho Chi Minh City. Starlight Bridge is family-friendly and a gorgeous date-spot with space to sit and watch the waterfall and picnic with friends and loved ones. The area is located near shopping and restaurants for a whole day experience in District 7.
Crescent Mall
Just steps away from Starlight Bridge is Crescent Mall’s gentle man-made lake and park. Watching the sunrise at the park before traffic starts and businesses open can be one of the most peaceful activities in Saigon. The walkway along the lake is a great place to jog and exercise in the cool hours of early morning. In the evening, the plaza and mall are bustling with shoppers and diners, enjoying the sunset scenery and the modern design of the development.
Location: Crescent Mall, Phu My Hung, 101 Ton Dat Tien, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
Nearby, Phu My bridge is a beautiful place to drive by and catch a glimpse of a stunning sunset or sunrise. However, the bridge does not have any viewing sites to sit and watch, so it may be a bit dangerous to set up a camera. As with many busy areas in the city, it is best to exercise caution for robbers and pickpockets. Phu My Bridge is a great place to drive by and check out if you go on a motorbike tour or rent a Vespa for a day to see the sights in Saigon.
The Deck
Saigon’s infamous restaurant, The Deck welcomes visitors to a glamorous evening on top of the Saigon river. With one of the best dinner views in Ho Chi Minh City, the Deck escorts its guests to the restaurant by a private boat during sunset for an excursion before dinner. Although the view speaks for itself the restaurant is also celebrated for its phenomenal food, a delightful combination of Asian cuisine influenced with European cooking styles and flavors. A new addition to the restaurant is The Deck’s bar, with comfortable sofas and seats for lounging.
Location: 38 Nguyen U Di, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
Binh Quoi Village
If you haven’t heard of Binh Quoi, it’s a village in Binh Thanh District in Saigon that gives visitors a chance to experience rural life in Vietnam. A unique experience for tourists and local Vietnamese alike, Binh Quoi offers a peaceful respite from bustling Saigon, with cafes serving traditional Vietnamese dishes, outdoor activities like fishing and biking, and small huts you can book to stay in overnight. The village is built along a river, that sets up an ideal locale watch the sunset. The village is one-of-a-kind in Saigon, offering a view that is uncluttered by skyscrapers, smog, and traffic.
Location: 48/10 Dien Bien Phu, District Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City
Social Club
Atop the 23rd floor of luxury hotel, Hôtel des Arts Saigon MGallery sits one of the city’s most gorgeous rooftop bars, Social Club. Sitting in the center of District 3, you get a sweeping panoramic view of city while relaxing. Consistent with MGallery’s concept of creating an artistic experience from dining and hospitality, the Social Club is an exquisite piece of work. The rooftop pool is a great place to view the sun dip behind the horizon. Their Happy Hour takes place during sunset hours, from 5-8PM with opportunity to buy 2 drinks and get the third free.
While many hotels and restaurants offer rooftop views around the city, MGallery’s Social Club is the only place where you can responsibly drink and dive.
Location: MGallery Saigon, 76 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City