Things To Do
in Thủ Đức
Thu Duc is a fast-growing urban district on the eastern edge of Ho Chi Minh City, blending university campuses, green spaces, and residential neighborhoods. It has a youthful energy driven by students and tech workers, with affordable street food and emerging cafes. The area is well-connected to central Ho Chi Minh City while offering quieter residential pockets and riverside scenery.
In recent years it has evolved into a contemporary hub that still feels rooted in southern Vietnamese culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Thủ Đức Market, where the aroma of fresh produce fills the air. As you wander through the vibrant stalls, engage with local vendors selling everything from spices to handmade goods. Don't miss the chance to sample some delicious street food, such as bánh mì or fresh spring rolls.
After the market, head to the nearby Vạn Phúc Silk Village to learn about traditional silk weaving. Take a guided tour of the workshops, where you can see artisans at work and even purchase some beautiful silk products. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, savoring authentic Vietnamese coffee and pastries.
As the sun sets, stroll along the banks of the Saigon River, enjoying the serene atmosphere and stunning views. Find a cozy riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood and local specialties. Cap off your evening with a traditional music performance to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.
Begin your day at Suối Tiên Amusement Park, a unique blend of entertainment and nature. Explore the park's lush gardens and vibrant fountains, taking in the whimsical statues and vibrant colors. Enjoy a thrilling ride on one of the roller coasters or take a leisurely boat ride on the park's serene lake.
After a morning of fun, treat yourself to a traditional Vietnamese lunch at one of the park’s eateries, experiencing flavors unique to the region. Spend the afternoon visiting the park's cultural exhibits, which showcase the rich history and folklore of Vietnam. Don't forget to snap some photos with the park's iconic attractions.
As night falls, watch the park come alive with colorful lights and lively entertainment. Grab dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant specializing in local dishes, where the fresh catch of the day is a must-try. End your day by enjoying a peaceful walk along the lake, listening to the sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.40-1 |
| 🚖Taxi 1 km | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚌Bus ticket (local transit) | $0.30-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable street food and casual dining
- Strong student culture and modern amenities
- Good access to central Ho Chi Minh City and natural spaces
- Growing cafe and craft beverage scene
- Safe neighborhoods with active community life
- Traffic can be congested during peak hours
- Humid climate and occasional heavy rain
- Nightlife is more low-key than central districts
- Some areas feel less developed than central HCMC
- Language barriers may exist in smaller local joints
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes here?
- "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Tôi cần giúp đỡ" - I need help
Places to Visit in Thủ Đức
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide lawns, modern architecture, and reflective ponds provide clean lines and greenery for architectural and landscape photography.
Calm water features and tree-lined avenues offer golden-hour photography and candid student moments.
Riverside viewpoints and walkways offer sunset silhouettes and urban-water contrasts.
Bustling street scenes with color, texture, and everyday life perfect for street photography.
Food in Thủ Đức
Thủ Đức Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy baguette sandwich with savory fillings like pâté, pork, or vegetables; widely available from street vendors and market stalls.
Must-Try!
Broken rice served with grilled meat, egg, pickled vegetables, and fish sauce – a staple simple meal.
Clear noodle soup with pork, seafood, or vegetables; a popular bowl to order in local eateries.
Rice vermicelli topped with grilled pork, fresh herbs, peanuts, and a savory dipping sauce.
Fresh spring rolls with shrimp or pork, herbs, and rice paper; light and refreshing in hot weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, meat, seafood, and a variety of quick bites from stalls.
Casual stretches where you can try bánh mì, bánh xèo, and other regional snacks right from the stall.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and speak softly in sacred spaces.
A light nod or handshake is common; address elders with courtesy, and avoid loud public behavior in residential areas.
Queue patiently for buses or rides; allow elders to sit and avoid blocking walkways with bags.
Safety
Tipping in Thủ Đức
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in higher-end establishments; small tips to service staff at cafes or markets are common if service is good.
Cash (Vietnamese dong) is widely used; cards are accepted in many restaurants and some cafes; mobile wallets (e-wallets) and ride-hailing apps are popular in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days with lower humidity and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor walking and campus photography. Nights can be cooler but still mild.
Frequent afternoon showers and humidity; carry a compact umbrella or rain jacket and plan indoor cafe breaks between showers.
Thủ Đức at Night
Hiking in Thủ Đức
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A longer day trip outside Ho Chi Minh City offering trails and historical sites; not a mountain hike but a chance to explore nature and history nearby.
Coastal mangroves with boardwalks and nature trails; a van/boat trip from Thu Duc can combine nature and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Thủ Đức by plane.
Main international airport serving Ho Chi Minh City; connected to Thu Duc by car, taxi, or ride-hailing services. Plan 20–45 minutes for typical non-peak travel, longer during peak hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large presence due to multiple universities; vibrant youth culture and affordable dining options.
Tech, education, and service sectors contribute to a dynamic, urban vibe.
Residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and family-friendly eateries.
French, English, and other language speakers in some university and business pockets; many cafes cater to a diverse crowd.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in schools and community leagues; local games often draw friendly crowds.
Common in parks and sports centers; casual courts are popular for evening recreation.
Public courts near campuses see regular pickup games and informal tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thủ Đức.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetarian or dai chay options, request no fish sauce, and ask for broth-free dishes; many places can adapt dishes if you ask.