Dong Khoi Street is an iconic street in Ho Chi Minh City and the heart of the city’s history, culture and modern vibrancy. Once a colonial boulevard, it has transformed into a bustling hub of luxury shops and vibrant nightlife, seamlessly blending past and present, making it a must-see destination. In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know to make the most of your time on Dong Khoi Street, from top attractions to essential travel tips.
Introduction to Dong Khoi Street
Dong Khoi Street is located in a prime location right in the heart of District 1, the economic and cultural center of Ho Chi Minh City. The street is only about 1 km long, from the Nguyen Du intersection to the Ton Duc Thang intersection, but it is one of the most expensive streets in the city and Vietnam, with many luxury hotels, high-end shops, restaurants, cafes and outstanding architectural works. As a major commercial and tourist center, this place is now considered a gold mine for investors with unimaginable costs.
This is also the area where many famous architectural works of the city are concentrated. If you look up this street on the map, Dong Khoi Street connects with Cong Xa Paris Street where Notre Dame Cathedral is located and extends towards Ton Duc Thang Street, where Bach Dang Wharf of the Saigon River is located. The adjacent neighborhood is also a famous area with Nguyen Hue Walking Street and some important monuments and buildings. Further along are many other famous architectural works, such as the Central Post Office and the famous Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral.
Dong Khoi Street
>>> Dong Khoi Street is just the beginning, explore more with our Ho Chi Minh City tours that take you to its top attractions, hidden gems, and cultural hotspots.
History of Dong Khoi Street
Dong Khoi Street is a mirror of Vietnam’s turbulent past, reflecting the changes in the political and social landscape over its long existence. The first traces of Dong Khoi Street date back to the Nguyen Dynasty, when it was the king’s preferred route to the Saigon River from the Gia Dinh Citadel. After the French developed it, it became one of Saigon’s main roads, initially named Street No. 16.
Until February 1, 1865, Dong Khoi Street was renamed Rue Catinat by Admiral De La Grandière, after a warship that participated in the first French colonial invasion of Vietnam. At that time, the street was a prestigious avenue with elegant French-style buildings, luxury hotels and cafes, making it the center of high society, a haunt of diplomats, artists and intellectuals. In the mid-20th century, it was renamed Tu Do Street (Freedom Street) and became a popular area for foreign journalists, war correspondents, and American soldiers. After the war in 1975, the street was renamed Dong Khoi, meaning “Comprehensive Revolution,” symbolizing the country’s new era.
Each name reflects a distinct period: the presence of French colonialism, the wave of independence during the Vietnam War, and the reunification of the country. Despite the name change, Dong Khoi has retained its historic charm while developing into a modern shopping and cultural district. Walking along Dong Khoi is like traveling back in time, where every corner tells a story about Saigon’s transformation from a French colony to a vibrant, international city.
A corner of the street in the past
Must-try activities when visiting Dong Khoi Street
Explore nearby French colonial landmarks
One of the most striking features on Dong Khoi Street is its stunning French colonial architecture.
- Check out the nearby Hotel Continental Saigon, one of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in Vietnam. This historic building has welcomed many famous writers, diplomats and journalists, offering a glimpse into Saigon’s colonial past. Boasting a classic French style, the Hotel Continental Saigon is reminiscent of old Saigon – once the “Pearl of the Orient”. While you’re here, step inside for a drink or coffee at the hotel’s classic café, where literary legends once gathered.
- Another must-see is the Notre Dame Cathedral, which dates back to the late 19th century. This is a Catholic church that was built to serve as a community and religious center for the French colonialists. This church features Romanesque and Gothic architecture with all materials imported directly from France.
- The Saigon Opera House is another top destination to visit on Dong Khoi Street. It follows the architectural style of the French Third Republic with granite floors, impressive stone carvings and statues, and crystal chandeliers. It was once used as the headquarters of the House of Representatives of the Saigon Government during the Vietnam War. Today, the Saigon Opera House is the venue for the famous AO Show – a traditional Vietnamese bamboo circus and other art performances.
Some French colonial landmarks along the street
>>> Step beyond Dong Khoi Street and dive into Ho Chi Minh City’s past. Our 5-day historical tour will take you through the city’s most significant landmarks.
Unlimited shopping experience at luxury stores and fashion stores
Dong Khoi Street is Ho Chi Minh City’s premier shopping area, with a wide range of international brands and local stores, offering an exclusive shopping experience. Visit the 2 largest and most modern malls in Saigon: Vincom Center and Saigon Center. They are designed in baroque style to look like old buildings on the same street.
Saigon Center, or Takashimaya, is an extremely famous shopping mall with 6 floors above ground and 2 basements. This place is truly a paradise for fashion lovers with more than 400 famous global and domestic brands. Vincom Center Dong Khoi is not only a shopping mall but also a high-class entertainment and culinary complex, bringing rich and diverse experiences to residents and visitors, especially families and children.
Saigon Centre, or Takashimaya is the most bustling shopping center in Saigon
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine and fine dining
Dong Khoi Street is home to some of the best fine dining and authentic Vietnamese eateries in the city. For a fine dining experience, book a table in advance at top restaurants such as Vietnam House, SH Garden, Moo Beefsteak, etc. These restaurants offer a wide range of dishes, from international cuisine to traditional Vietnamese dishes, served with care and professionalism in a luxurious and classy atmosphere.
For those who want to enjoy the famous street food, there are many street vendors and food stalls along the street. Stop by and enjoy banh mi, com tam (broken rice with grilled pork) or rice paper.
Some restaurants and cafes in Vincom Dong Khoi
>>> Dong Khoi Street offers a taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant café culture and fine dining, the city’s culinary scene extends far beyond. Check out our Ho Chi Minh City food guide for the best local flavors.
Experience nightlife on Dong Khoi Street
When night falls, the street becomes an ideal destination for those who love the vibrant and bustling nightlife of Saigon. It is famous for its many high-end hotels and restaurants, visit some rooftop bars, luxury lounges and lively nightclubs. Among them, the most iconic location is the Saigon Saigon Bar located on the top floor of the Caravelle Hotel, attracting visitors not only with its panoramic view of the city but also with its special historical significance, once a favorite place for war correspondents during the Vietnam War. Another famous location is The Deck Saigon with a view of the Saigon River and an elegant space.
The breathtaking sunset view from The Deck Saigon
>>> If you’re looking to dive deeper into Ho Chi Minh City’s electrifying nightlife beyond Dong Khoi Street, check out our guide here to the best activities that keep the city buzzing after dark.
Tips when visiting Dong Khoi Street
Exploring Dong Khoi Street in Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting experience filled with history, shopping, dining, and vibrant nightlife. To make the most of your visit, keep these essential tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable adventure.
- As a central street of the city, Dong Khoi Street is almost always busy all day, especially in the afternoon and evening. If you want to take photos or enjoy the peaceful beauty of the street, visit in the morning. For a more vibrant experience, evenings and weekends are the best times.
- Most restaurants and shops on the street and shopping malls accept payment by card or bank transfer but you should still carry some local cash to conveniently pay for smaller items such as street vendors, taxis, …. Prices here can be inflated, especially for souvenirs and food, so always compare prices and bargain politely when buying things.
- Traffic in Vietnam and especially in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City is quite chaotic and crowded, please obey traffic laws and observe carefully when crossing the street.
Don’t just visit one place, combine your trip with other famous destinations nearby such as Ben Thanh market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Nguyen Hue walking street,….
Dong Khoi Street with its many important monuments and entertainment venues is a must-see destination for any Ho Chi Minh City tour. With this guide, you will be best equipped to explore this street. Enjoy your adventure and immerse yourself in the charm of Dong Khoi Street!
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