District 1 Holiday Packages

Holidays To District 1

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Thousands of years of history, vibrant markets and some of the best eats around make it a destination for travellers of all types.

But where do you even begin? The neighbourhood of District 1 is appropriately named—it’s the number one tourist area and a great home base. Check out Wotif’s District 1 deals and get in on the action in Vietnam’s capital.

Things to Do in District 1

Vietnam’s District 1 holiday packages are among the most in-demand thanks to the area’s thriving shops and nightlife. But you can also get spiritual: The Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica is a serene escape. Just look for the 60-m towers and unique look—it’s built entirely from French materials, including bright red bricks rarely seen in the city’s architecture. Make a pilgrimage to the church’s Virgin Mary statue, which reportedly shed tears in 2005 (though the miracle was never officially confirmed).

No District 1 holiday is complete without a visit to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum. Count the symbolic chickens on the building’s classical Baroque exterior before heading inside. Under your feet is an extensive network of tunnels that Prime Minister Diem used to flee during the 1963 coup d’état. Those are closed to the public, but you can still enjoy the museum’s displays of pottery, clothing and ancient city maps—you’ll be amazed by how much it’s changed.

Shopping, Dining & Nightlife

Ben Thanh Market is one of the city’s oldest buildings and most popular destinations on District 1 holidays. Fuel up with a high-octane Vietnamese coffee (we’re not kidding) and shop ‘til you drop for beautiful ao dai (traditional tunic outfit), fabrics and spices. Prefer your shopping with AC and name-brand stores? Find your Zen at the Saigon Centre Mall.

On Ho Chi Minh City holidays, incredible food is always just a few steps away. In District 1, Ben Thanh Market has the longest lines around (in this case, they’re a good thing!). Love pho? You’re sure to find plenty of Vietnam’s signature soup, but don’t stop there. Bun bo Hue, a beef and rice soup, is a regional specialty. And if you want to splurge instead, you can dine at rooftop retreats, poolside patios or fancy French lounges. Your imagination is your only limit.

District 1 packages put you right on top of bustling Pham Ngu Lao Street. This traveller’s hub is the place to be for streetside beers, late-night banh mi sandwiches and new friends. Not in the mood for raucous shenanigans? Take in a show at the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City (aka the Saigon Opera House). It’s not all about the fat lady singing, though—there’s also ballet and theatre at this landmark.

What’s Next?

If you want a Ho Chi Minh neighbourhood that’s as exciting and eclectic as the city itself, you know what to do. Mix and match from our great selection of airfares and accommodation to create your dream getaway. Add on a District 1 car hire with Wotif and you’ll be set to really explore “The Land of Smiles”. Come see what everyone’s so happy about!