Dec - 02 - 2025
Former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City is a triangular islet that holds some of the city's most authentic and vibrant local experiences. Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of its neighbor District 1, this compact area is a sensory explosion of sizzling street food, bustling local markets, and significant historical landmarks. Long shed of its "rough" reputation, this former maze of alleyways is now a must-visit foodie paradise and a window into Saigon's true soul. This GTrip guide covers everything you need to know to conquer this incredible neighborhood, the hallowed halls of the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the best streets for late-night eats and seafood feasts. Prepare to eat, explore, and experience the city like a true local.
Overview of former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Bordered by former District 1 to the north and former District 7 to the south.
Geographically unique, former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City is the smallest district, shaped like a triangle and surrounded by water. Nestled between the Saigon River and the Ben Nghe and Te Canals, it forms a distinct island linked to the city by several bridges. Its strategic location, bordering the central business district, means it's incredibly accessible yet feels a world away from the polished sheen of downtown Saigon. This former port area has transformed into a densely populated residential hub celebrated for its unrivaled culinary scene.
Former District 4, a triangular island between the Saigon River and canals, is a historic port turned vibrant residential and culinary hub
How to get to the former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City
Thanks to its central location, getting to the former District 4 is both quick and easy. It’s separated from District 1 by a narrow canal, making it feel close yet distinct. Here are the best ways to make the short journey:
- By foot: If you're in the southern part of District 1, near Nguyen Hue Walking Street or the Bitexco Financial Tower, you can easily cross the iconic Mong Bridge (a pedestrian-only bridge) or the Khanh Hoi Bridge to enter former District 4. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes and offers fantastic city views.
- By ride-hailing app (Grab/Be/Xanh SM): This is the most popular, convenient, and affordable option for locals and travelers alike. Using the Grab, Be, or Xanh SM app, you can easily book a motorbike ride from central District 1. The trip to destinations like Vinh Khanh Food Street costs about 25,000 - 40,000 VND and takes less than 10 minutes.
- By taxi: Traditional taxis like Vinasun or Mai Linh are readily available. While slightly more expensive than ride-hailing apps, they are a comfortable, air-conditioned alternative. Ensure the driver uses the meter to guarantee a fair price.
- By motorbike: If you are a confident and licensed rider, exploring by motorbike gives you the ultimate freedom to weave through the district's many alleys. Parking can be found at designated lots near major markets and food streets.
Top 8 unmissable things to do in former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City
Former District 4 may be small in size, but it’s packed with character, history, and authentic Saigon charm. Once known as a gritty port area, it has transformed into a lively mix of cultural landmarks, local markets, street food havens, and riverside views. Here are some must-visit places to experience the true essence of former District 4.
1. Visit the historical site of Nha Rong Wharf (Ho Chi Minh Museum in Ho Chi Minh City)
Nha Rong Wharf is the most significant historical landmark in the former District 4. It marks the place where a young Ho Chi Minh, then known as Van Ba, departed for France in 1911 to begin his journey that would later shape Vietnam’s revolutionary path. Today, the beautifully preserved building serves as a branch of the Ho Chi Minh Museum, showcasing exhibits, artefacts, and photographs that chronicle his life and legacy. With its distinctive blend of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architectural motifs, the wharf stands as both a striking riverside landmark and a revered national symbol.
Nha Rong Wharf marks where Ho Chi Minh departed for France in 1911 and now houses a museum showcasing his life, legacy, and iconic Franco-Vietnamese architecture
2. Explore the spiritual heart of former District 4
Former District 4 is home to several historic communal houses that provide a window into the district’s rich cultural and spiritual life.
- Vinh Hoi Communal House: A hidden architectural gem in former District 4, Vinh Hoi Communal House (Dinh Vinh Hoi) is a place of worship and community gathering. Visitors can admire its intricate woodwork, ceramic mosaics, and ornate roof decorated with dragons and phoenixes, while quietly observing locals lighting incense and praying for health, luck, and prosperity. This active communal house offers a serene and authentic glimpse into the spiritual life of Saigonese people, providing a peaceful contrast to the buzzing streets.
- Khanh Hoi Communal House: Another key cultural and religious site in the district, Khanh Hoi Communal House (Dinh Khanh Hoi) plays a central role in the spiritual and community life of the Khanh Hoi Ward. It’s an excellent spot to appreciate traditional Vietnamese architecture without the crowds, and during festivals like Ky Yen, visitors can witness vibrant rituals, music, and offerings. The house serves as a gathering point for the community, preserving cultural heritage, reinforcing social ties, and offering insight into customs that anchor local life.
3. Walk across the iconic Mong Bridge
The Mong Bridge is a historic mint-green pedestrian bridge connecting former District 4 to District 1. Built in 1893 by the French firm Eiffel, G. & Cie, it stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest bridges. A stroll across the bridge is a must, popular with young couples and photographers, especially at sunset when the Bitexco Financial Tower and District 1 skyline create stunning views. Beyond its practical purpose, the Mong Bridge is a cherished city landmark, symbolizing the connection between old and new Saigon. It also offers a breezy spot to relax while watching boats glide along the Saigon River.
The Mong Bridge, a historic pedestrian link between Districts 4 and 1, offers scenic views and a breezy spot to watch boats on the Saigon River
4. Experience local life at Xom Chieu Market
For a truly authentic glimpse into daily life in former District 4, visit Xom Chieu Market. This sprawling and bustling market is where locals shop for fresh produce, meat, fish, and household goods, offering a stark contrast to the tourist-oriented Ben Thanh Market. The real highlight comes in the late afternoon at the food court, where vendors serve an incredible array of affordable and delicious dishes, from spicy beef noodle soup to savory offal stew. Loud and lively, Xom Chieu Market is the heart of the district, offering an authentic taste of Saigonese life and culture.
5. Enjoy local seafood at Vinh Khanh Food Street
Vinh Khanh Food Street is the place that put former District 4 on the foodie map, transforming every evening into a lively festival of seafood and barbecue. Plastic tables and chairs spill onto the pavement, grills fire up, and the air fills with mouthwatering aromas. The main attraction is snails with must-try dishes like sweet snails roasted with salt and chili, grilled scallops with scallion oil and peanuts and sea snails in coconut curry. Visiting Vinh Khanh offers a fun, bustling, and delicious experience. It is the epicenter of Saigon's legendary snail-eating culture and a perfect introduction to the city’s vibrant street food scene.
Vinh Khanh Food Street transforms former District 4 into a bustling evening festival of seafood and barbecue, famed for its legendary snail dishes
6. Savor diverse local dishes on Ton Dan Street
Ton Dan Street is the master of specialty dishes in former District 4, where decades-old stalls have perfected a single, iconic offering. Food lovers can embark on a culinary pilgrimage here, visiting spots like Pha Lau Co Thao, famous for its rich and flavorful offal stew with bread or noodles. They can also sample the creamy, perfectly balanced banh flan from a nearby unnamed stall. Unlike other streets with a wide variety of options, Ton Dan Street showcases the dedication and craftsmanship of vendors who specialise in perfecting a single dish. This focus offers a deeper, more authentic street food experience.
7. Try the banh bo and che at 20 Thuoc Street
Former District 4 is full of hidden culinary treasures, and Street 20 Thuoc is a prime example. During the afternoon, a mobile cart selling banh bo thot not nuong (grilled palm sugar honeycomb cake) roams the area near Xom Chieu Market, filling the air with the aroma of toasted coconut and palm sugar. This chewy, slightly sweet cake, made from rice flour and palm sugar and cooked over charcoal, is a beloved local snack, embodying the "hidden gem" spirit of the district. By night, the street transforms into a dessert paradise, lined with numerous che stalls offering traditional Vietnamese sweet soups and treats. Street 20 Thuoc is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic local flavors and enjoy the vibrant dessert culture that caps off a spicy seafood meal perfectly.
Street 20 Thuoc, offering afternoon treats like grilled palm sugar honeycomb cake and transforming at night into a vibrant hub for traditional Vietnamese desserts
8. Relax and unwind at Khanh Hoi Park
After the hustle and bustle of District 4’s markets and food streets, Khanh Hoi Park provides a peaceful green retreat along the banks of the Te Canal. Popular with locals, the park comes alive in the early morning and late afternoon with jogging, tai chi, and badminton. Benches and a public swimming pool offer spots to relax and enjoy the water breeze. It’s a serene glimpse into the district’s everyday leisure and recreational life, reminding visitors that even amid the city’s density and chaos, there are spaces for community, relaxation, and wellness.
Practical tips for visiting former District 4
To make the most of your adventure in this fantastic district, keep a few local tips in mind. Former District 4 is welcoming and full of rewards for the curious traveler.
- Bring cash: This is a non-negotiable. The vast majority of street food vendors, market stalls, and small shops do not accept credit cards. Bring a good amount of Vietnamese Dong, preferably in smaller denominations like 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 VND bills, to make transactions smooth.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking. Exploring the winding alleys, sprawling markets, and long food streets is best done on foot, so comfortable footwear is essential for a pleasant experience.
- Be street smart: While former District 4 has shed its dangerous reputation and is generally safe for tourists, it's still a bustling, crowded urban area. As you would in any big city, keep your phone and wallet secure, and be mindful of your belongings, especially in packed markets or on crowded streets.
- Be adventurous: The best part of former District 4 is its food. Don't be shy! If something looks interesting, try it. Pointing is a perfectly acceptable way to order. Learn a few basic food words like 'oc' (snails), 'nuong' (grilled), and 'banh' (cake) to help you navigate menus.
Maximize your District 4 visit by bringing cash, wearing comfy shoes, staying alert, and diving into its vibrant street food
Former District 4 in Ho Chi Minh City, more than just a place to eat, offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the true heart of Saigon. It’s a neighborhood where history is etched into the walls, where community thrives in the narrowest of alleys, and where every meal feels like a celebration. The mix of historical significance at Nha Rong Wharf and the exhilarating energy of Ton Dan and Vinh Khanh Food Streets creates an unforgettable experience. Adding the authentic daily life found at Xom Chieu Market completes this vibrant and memorable visit. It represents the soul of the city, resilient, vibrant, and incredibly delicious. GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency hopes this guide inspires you to cross the bridge from the familiar and discover this incredible neighborhood for yourself.
