Top 9 Best Places to Check In During Tet in Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City comes alive with vibrant decorations and joyful celebrations during Tet, with streets adorned with colorful flowers, shimmering lanterns, and twinkling lights. Bustling markets fill with locals shopping for the Lunar New Year, while families and visitors alike enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Saigon’s unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it one of the best cities to experience Tet, offering countless photogenic and culturally-rich spots to check in. From flower streets to historic landmarks, first-time travelers can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.

Here are 9 famous places to check in during the Tet holiday in Saigon, from bustling flower streets to historic landmarks, helping you capture the best photos, experience local traditions, and enjoy a truly memorable Lunar New Year in the city.

1. Nguyen Hue Flower Street

Address: Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Early morning from 7:00 to 9:00 AM, or 6:00 and 9:00 PM

Highlights activities: Explore themed flower displays, take photos with zodiac statues, watch traditional dance performances, enjoy street music, and visit Tet markets.

First-time visitors are captivated by Nguyen Hue Flower Street’s dazzling Tet transformation. The wide pedestrian boulevard bursts with colorful flower arrangements, giant zodiac statues, and interactive photo zones. Families, couples, and tourists flock here to soak in the lively atmosphere, capture iconic photos, and witness cultural performances, including traditional lion dances and folk music. It’s the perfect introduction to Saigon’s Lunar New Year celebrations.

2. Experience Saigon Nights at Social Club Rooftop Bar

Address: 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Late afternoon to evening, 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM (ideal for sunset views and vibrant city lights).

Highlights activities: Sip signature cocktails, premium wines, and creative Tet-inspired drinks while taking in panoramic views of Saigon’s skyline. Relax in a sophisticated rooftop ambiance that blends modern luxury with French colonial charm.

Perched on the roof of Hôtel des Arts Saigon, Social Club Rooftop Bar captivates visitors with a perfect balance of elegance and vibrant energy. During Tet, the venue is beautifully decorated with festive touches, creating an atmosphere that blends celebration with sophistication. Guests can indulge in expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, and Tet-inspired drinks while enjoying impeccable service and breathtaking panoramic views of Saigon’s skyline. Whether relaxing after a day of sightseeing or marking a special occasion, the Social Club offers a memorable high-end Lunar New Year experience that delights both international travelers and discerning locals alike.

3. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market

Address: Ho Thi Ky Street, District 10, HCMC

Best time to visit: Early morning, between 6:00–8:00 AM, when the market is at its busiest

Highlights activities: Enjoy buying vibrant Tet flowers, kumquat trees, and decorative plants. Capture photos of the crowds, watch skilled vendors arrange flowers for the Lunar New Year, and interact with sellers to learn the meaning behind each plant or decoration.

Useful tips: Bring cash in small denominations, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready to navigate narrow, crowded aisles.

Ho Thi Ky Flower Market is a feast for the senses. The market is alive with the scent of fresh flowers, the chatter of vendors, and colorful kumquat trees stacked high for Tet. Shoppers and tourists move through narrow aisles, making it an immersive and authentic Vietnamese experience — perfect for photography and understanding how locals prepare for the Lunar New Year.

4.  Chinatown

Address: 165 Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, Ward 13, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Around 4:00–8:00 PM

Highlights activities: Explore ornate temples, witness traditional worship rituals, enjoy colorful lanterns lining the streets, and photograph the unique cultural blend. Street performances, calligraphy stalls, and Tet decorations make it ideal for immersive experiences.

Useful tips: Respect temple customs such as removing shoes, and be quiet when you visit the local pagoda.

First-time visitors are drawn to Chinatown for its rich cultural tapestry during Tet. Streets glow with lanterns and incense smoke, while locals perform traditional rituals in ornate temples. Food stalls tempt visitors with unique Lunar New Year treats, and colorful decorations provide perfect photo opportunities. The lively yet authentic atmosphere immerses newcomers in Saigon’s ethnic diversity and Tet traditions.

5.  Buu Long Pagoda

Address: 81 Nguyen Xien Street, Ward 2, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Morning, between 7:00–10:00 AM

Highlights activities: Participate in morning blessing rituals, admire traditional architecture, ring bells, capture panoramic views of Saigon from the terraces, and photograph intricate carvings and colorful Tet decorations.

Useful tips: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, and plan your visit on weekdays for fewer crowds. Shoes must be removed when entering the inner halls.

Buu Long Pagoda captivates visitors with its tranquil, hilltop setting and striking architecture. During Tet, visitors witness locals performing rituals, monks ringing bells, and vibrant decorations enhancing the spiritual ambiance. Panoramic views of Saigon from the pagoda’s terraces make it a favorite spot for photography, reflection, and experiencing a quieter side of the city’s Lunar New Year celebrations.

6.  Landmark 81 Park

Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Sunset to evening, between 5:30–9:00 PM

Highlights activities: Take riverside walks, enjoy manicured gardens, photograph Tet decorations, and admire skyline views.

Useful tips: Bring a tripod or stabilizer for night photography, wear comfortable walking shoes, and explore nearby cafés for river-view drinks.

Travelers are impressed by Landmark 81 Park’s blend of modernity and festive charm. Riverside paths, manicured gardens, and Tet-themed installations frame Vietnam’s tallest skyscraper, offering striking photography opportunities. Sunset and evening visits reveal glowing lights and lively crowds, while families and couples enjoy leisurely walks. It’s a must-visit spot for those seeking a contemporary take on Tet celebrations.

7.  Independence Palace

Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Morning, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM

Entrance fees: 40,000 VND per person (Adults)

Highlights activities: Explore grand halls and historical rooms, view vintage architecture, photograph Tet decorations, and learn about Vietnam’s history through displays.

Useful tips: Wear comfortable shoes, and check the Tet opening schedule as it may close on major holidays.

Independence Palace immediately fascinates visitors with its historical significance and Tet decorations. The grand halls, vintage architecture, and occasional Tet-themed exhibits provide both cultural insight and photo opportunities. Moderate crowds allow newcomers to explore freely, and guided tours provide context to Vietnam’s history. The combination of heritage and festive touches makes it a memorable destination for first-time travelers during the Lunar New Year.

8.  Tan Dinh Church

Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit:  Morning, 7:30–10:00 AM, and 2:30-4:30 PM (Avoid visiting during the mass)

Highlights activities: Photograph the iconic pink façade and Tet floral decorations, admire European-style architecture, enjoy a peaceful moment or light prayer, and walk around the colorful surrounding streets for additional photo opportunities.

Useful tips: Respect church etiquette by dressing modestly, keeping quiet, and avoiding noisy behavior. Try to avoid visiting during mass times to prevent disruption.

Visitors are enchanted by Tan Dinh Church’s striking pink façade, which becomes even more vibrant with Tet floral decorations. The calm, moderate crowd allows for leisurely photography and reflection. Its European-style architecture combined with colorful local flowers creates a unique visual contrast, offering newcomers an easy-to-access, photogenic, and culturally enriching stop in the city.

9.  Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Saigon Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit: Early morning, 8:00–10:30 AM

Ticket prices: 60,000 VND/Adults and 40,000 VND/Children (under 1,3m)

Highlights activities: Observe a wide range of animals, explore seasonal Tet flower displays, walk through botanical gardens, take family-friendly photos, and enjoy open spaces for a relaxed stroll.

Useful tips: Bring water and snacks, wear comfortable shoes for walking, grab a map at the entrance, and plan your route to cover the zoo efficiently. Avoid weekends if you prefer quieter experiences.

Visitors love the Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens for its relaxing and immersive environment. During Tet, seasonal flower displays complement the diverse wildlife, creating a visually rich experience. Families, couples, and solo travelers enjoy strolling through wide paths, observing animals, and capturing photos. Its open spaces, festive decorations, and calm atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to Saigon’s bustling streets.

Plan Your 2-Day Tet Trip in Saigon

First day

• Morning: Start your day at Nguyen Hue Flower Street to experience the festive Tet decorations and capture morning photos before the crowds arrive. From there, head to Ho Thi Ky Flower Market to see locals buying Tet flowers and kumquat trees, immersing yourself in authentic Lunar New Year preparations.
• Afternoon: After a morning of sights, stop for lunch at a nearby café or local restaurant in District 1. Then visit Independence Palace to explore its historical halls and Tet-themed exhibits. The moderate crowds make it easy to take photos and learn about Vietnam’s history.
• Evening: Return to Hôtel des Arts Saigon to relax and soak in the city’s festive atmosphere. Sip cocktails while taking in panoramic views from the Social Club Rooftop Bar, or enjoy an exquisite dining experience at The Albion by Kirk Westaway, where modern British cuisine meets elegant surroundings that offer the perfect, luxurious conclusion to a memorable day exploring Saigon during Tet.

Second day

• Morning: Begin at Buu Long Pagoda to enjoy a serene and spiritual Tet experience. Morning light is perfect for photography, and you can witness locals performing traditional rituals. Then visit Tan Dinh Church to admire its iconic pink façade and vibrant Tet flowers.
• Afternoon: Have lunch nearby, then head to Landmark 81 Park for a leisurely riverside stroll and Tet-themed photo opportunities. If time allows, explore Chinatown (Chợ Lớn) to see colorful lanterns, traditional rituals, and Lunar New Year street foods.

Experience a Memorable Tet Holiday at Hôtel des Arts Saigon

For travelers seeking a central and luxurious base during Tet, Hôtel des Arts Saigon offers the perfect combination of comfort, style, and festive charm. The hotel is beautifully decorated for the Lunar New Year, creating a joyful atmosphere that complements your city explorations. Guests can enjoy sweeping rooftop views from the Social Club Rooftop Bar, capturing Saigon’s sparkling Tet lights, or indulge in a refined dining experience at The Albion by Kirk Westaway, featuring modern British cuisine in elegant surroundings.

Conveniently located, the hotel provides easy access to major check-in spots like Nguyen Hue Flower Street, hot spots, and District 1 attractions. To make the most of your stay, it’s recommended to book early during Tet, choose rooms with city or river views, and plan your transport in advance for a smooth holiday experience.

Whether relaxing in your luxurious room, sipping cocktails above the city, or savoring festive meals, Hôtel des Arts Saigon ensures a truly immersive and unforgettable Tet holiday in Ho Chi Minh City.