10 Captivating Ho Chi Minh City Attractions To Go This Christmas

Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City – What to Expect

Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City might surprise you! Even though Christmas isn’t a national holiday in Vietnam, the city comes alive with festive cheer every December. Streets, malls, and cafés are decked out in sparkling lights, giant Christmas trees, and colorful decorations. If you walk down Nguyen Hue Walking Street or near Notre Dame Cathedral, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday wonderland right in the heart of the city.

You’ll love seeing locals and expats alike join the festivities. Cafés serve special holiday drinks and desserts, and malls host workshops, live music, and themed photo zones. Experiencing Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City is not just about decorations — it’s about feeling the energy of a city that blends traditional Vietnamese culture with international holiday cheer.

Whether you’re strolling down the pedestrian streets, capturing Instagram-worthy moments, or trying seasonal treats, you’ll quickly see why so many people consider Ho Chi Minh City a must-visit during the holidays.

Best Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City This Christmas

When it comes to celebrating Christmas, Ho Chi Minh City offers more than just sightseeing — it’s about immersive experiences that let you feel the city’s festive energy. Here are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City during the holiday season:

Enjoy Cafés & Restaurants with Festive Menus

Many cafés and restaurants join the Christmas spirit with special menus, from gingerbread lattes to eggnog and holiday-themed desserts. These spots are perfect for relaxing, people-watching, and capturing cozy seasonal photos. Some venues even host live music or small performances, making your visit extra memorable.

Attend Expat & Community Events

Ho Chi Minh City has a vibrant expat community, and Christmas is a great time to join workshops, charity drives, and live music events. Participating in these gatherings gives you a chance to meet new people, enjoy festive activities, and experience the city’s holiday spirit beyond the typical tourist spots.

Take a Night Stroll to See Holiday Lights

The city transforms after dark, with streets, malls, and landmarks illuminated by dazzling lights. Walking around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Notre Dame Cathedral, and other central areas is a magical way to experience Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and festive decorations.

Capture Instagram-Worthy Festive Spots

From the pink façade of Tan Dinh Church to parish neighborhoods and around the former District 8, Ho Chi Minh City is full of photogenic spots during Christmas. Whether you’re taking selfies, landscape shots, or festive videos, these locations provide perfect content to share your holiday experience.

Top 10 Ho Chi Minh City Attractions for the Holiday Season

From iconic landmarks to charming local neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to marvel at dazzling decorations, shop for unique holiday gifts, or experience local traditions, these top Ho Chi Minh City attractions are perfect for making your Christmas visit unforgettable. Let’s explore the must-see spots, each offering its own special charm, highlights, and practical tips for visitors.

Notre Dame Cathedral (formerly District 1)

Why it’s special:
With a history of almost one and a half centuries, Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous Ho Chi Minh City attractions, and during Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s beautifully decorated with lights and a towering Christmas tree, creating a magical holiday atmosphere for visitors and photographers.

Highlights:
Admire its neo-Romanesque architecture, attend a Christmas mass, or enjoy street performances nearby. Cafés surrounding the cathedral offer seasonal treats like gingerbread and festive coffee drinks, perfect for soaking in the holiday spirit.

Notes:
The cathedral is busiest in the evenings and weekends during December. Visit early for a quieter experience. 

Nguyen Hue Walking Street (formerly District 1)

Why it’s special:
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a lively hub of Ho Chi Minh City attractions, especially during Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City, when the street is adorned with lights, decorations, and holiday installations that create a festive wonderland.

Highlights:
Walk along the pedestrian street, enjoy live performances, take photos with giant Christmas displays, or try local street food from nearby vendors. The area also has interactive installations and seasonal markets for gifts.

Notes:
Evenings are most vibrant but crowded. Weekdays are slightly quieter. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the long pedestrian zone.

Bitexco Financial Tower & Sky Deck (formerly District 1)

Why it’s special:
Bitexco Tower is a standout among Ho Chi Minh City attractions and offers panoramic views of the city illuminated for Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City. The Sky Deck is ideal for seeing the festive lights across the central districts.

Highlights:
Enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck, take photos of the skyline, and visit the café or restaurants on the top floors. Evening visits provide the best view of holiday lighting.

Notes:
Tickets are required for the Sky Deck. Peak hours in December are evenings; book online to skip lines.

Diamond Plaza (formerly District 1)

Why it’s special:
Diamond Plaza is one of the most popular Ho Chi Minh City attractions during Christmas, offering a festive shopping and entertainment experience with elaborate decorations.

Highlights:
Explore boutiques, dine at seasonal-themed restaurants, and enjoy Christmas photo zones and live events. The mall often hosts concerts and holiday performances for families and expats.

Notes:
Parking is available but limited during December evenings. Visit in the late morning for a calmer experience.

Takashimaya Saigon (formerly District 1)

Why it’s special:
Takashimaya Saigon is a luxury mall that transforms into a holiday wonderland, making it one of the must-see Ho Chi Minh City attractions for Christmas.

Highlights:
Admire festive window displays, take part in seasonal events, and shop for exclusive Christmas gifts. The mall’s cafés serve specialty holiday drinks and desserts, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Notes:
Weekends are crowded, so weekday visits are recommended. Entry is free, and it’s easily accessible via public transport.

Tan Dinh Church (formerly District 3)

Why it’s special:
The “Pink Church” is a colorful and photogenic Ho Chi Minh City attraction that becomes even more magical during Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City with seasonal decorations.

Highlights:
Take festive photos, attend small local celebrations, or enjoy a stroll around the area. Nearby cafés serve holiday-themed drinks, making it a charming stop for expats and visitors.

Notes:
The church is small, so visiting early avoids crowds. Modest dress is recommended for entering.

Phu My Hung Area (formerly District 7)

Why it’s special:
Phu My Hung offers a quieter festive experience and is a modern highlight among Ho Chi Minh City attractions, with streets beautifully decorated for Christmas.

Highlights:
Enjoy a relaxed walk along tree-lined streets, visit local cafés with holiday menus, and take photos of residential holiday displays. Some community events are hosted for families.

Notes:
Best visited in the evening for light displays. Parking is generally easier than in central districts.

Pham The Hien Parish Neighborhood (formerly District 8)

Why it’s special:
Famous as “Xóm đạo”, this community is renowned for its elaborate Christmas lights and is a unique attraction that showcases local festive traditions.

Highlights:
Walk the streets to admire creative decorations, interact with locals, and take photos of colorful light displays. The neighborhood often hosts small holiday gatherings and performances.

Notes:
Crowded in the evenings during December. Comfortable shoes and respectful behavior are recommended when walking through residential areas.

Go Vap Parish Area (formerly District Gò Vấp)

Why it’s special:
Go Vap Parish offers a more local experience of Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City, where neighborhoods are festively decorated, and the holiday spirit fills the streets.

Highlights:
Photograph light-covered streets, enjoy local food stalls, and observe community-led festive displays. It’s perfect for visitors looking to explore less-touristy areas.

Notes:
Evenings are best for lights. The area can be tricky to navigate by car; use ride-hailing apps if needed.

 Chinatown Area (formerly District 5)

Why it’s special:
Chinatown blends cultural richness with Christmas celebrations, making it a distinctive Ho Chi Minh City attraction during the holiday season.

Highlights:
Shop for holiday gifts, enjoy festive street food, and experience a mix of local and international holiday traditions. Colorful decorations make this area vibrant and photogenic.

Notes:
Crowds can be heavy during weekends in December. Stay aware of pickpockets, especially in busy market areas.

Make the Most of Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City

Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City is more than just visiting landmarks — it’s about immersing yourself in festive experiences. From strolling through beautifully lit streets and exploring Christmas pop-ups to enjoying seasonal treats at cafés and joining community events, the city offers countless ways to celebrate.

To take your holiday experience to the next level, consider learning Vietnamese at VLS. Knowing even a few phrases can help you connect with locals, navigate markets, read menus, and understand the cultural traditions behind each celebration. This not only makes your visit smoother but also allows you to experience Ho Chi Minh City attractions in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Whether you’re capturing Instagram-worthy photos, tasting festive foods, or joining local celebrations, combining sightseeing with a bit of language learning turns your Christmas visit into a truly immersive experience. By exploring the city and engaging with its people, you’ll leave with memories, stories, and skills that go beyond the usual tourist experience.