Distance: 3km
While District 1 is considered downtown’s central business hub, its immediate neighbour District 3 distinguishes itself as the city’s cultural centre, where French Colonialism rubs shoulders with sprouting skyscrapers, and sensational street food reigns supreme. Here’s how to see it on foot.
A. Banh Xeo
Filled, fried, folded and fabulous, traditional Viet savoury pockets are the order of the day at this chaotic trestle-table gaff where you’ll be crammed elbow to tip with the city’s au-fait foodsters.
46A Dinh Cong Trang, District 1, +84 28 3824 1110
B. Tan Dinh Church
One of Ho Chi Minh’s most iconic landmarks is also one of its most memorable; this late C.19th wedding cake was built in dramatic french gothic style, and finished with an arresting shade of bright pink.
289 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3, +84 28 3829 0093, 5am-5.30pm daily
C. Pho Hoa Pasteur
You can’t do District 3 without a stop at this original bare-bones fulla-flava local hero serving up namesake broth with a plethora of juicy ingredients. Just don’t expect much in the way of decor.
260C Pasteur Street, Ward 8, District 3, +84 28 3829 7943
D. War Remnants Museum
This grisly display serves as one of the best anti-war warnings; jars of malformed embryos and the infamous and graphic Pulitzer Prize-winning Requiem Exhibit make for sobering viewing. Not for the faint-hearted.
28 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, +84 08 2203 0682, 7.30-6pm, www.baotangchungtichchientranh.vn
E. Hum Café & Restaurant
Head next door to the healing and uber-stylish environs of Hum for a sophisticated meat-free version of modern Vietnamese cuisine. Even the most ardent of carnivores will succumb to the delicately balanced aromatic delights. Vegans rejoice!
32 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, +84 28 3930 3819, 10am-10pm daily, www.humvegetarian.com
F. La Maison de l’Apothiquaire
End your journey at this stylish French villa spa that uses all-natural products for their treatments, plus steam, sauna, pool, Pilates and yoga. Book a package and they’ll pick you up in a vintage car, ma cherie.
64A Truong Dinh, Phuong 7, District 3, +84 28 3932 5181, 9am-9pm daily, www.lapothiquaire.com
ManulifeMOVE has no association with any of the landmarks, dining venues, galleries or retailers included within this walking guide, selected by LUXE, and disclaims any liability as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.
Photo Credit: Hum Vegetarian
