When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, the District 1 area is the heartbeat of the city's tourism, anchored by two historic landmarks: the Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

• Notre Dame Cathedral (The Red Church) Often referred to by locals and travelers as the "Red Church," the Notre Dame Cathedral is a significant landmark of the colonial era. It is located in a prime spot in District 1, making it a focal point for many walking tours. However, visitors should be aware that the cathedral is currently under renovation. While you may not be able to explore the interiors fully during this period, the exterior remains a striking sight and a key waypoint in the city's geography.

• The Central Post Office Located right next to the cathedral, the Central Post Office is another must-visit site. It is a popular destination for checking in and taking photos, capturing the essence of the city's architectural history. While some travelers note that it is primarily a spot for photography rather than interactive entertainment, it remains an essential stop on any classic Ho Chi Minh City itinerary. It sits in close proximity to other major attractions, making it easy to include in a broader day of exploration.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, the Book Street is located nearby, offering a charming pedestrian atmosphere right next to these historic giants.

To make the most of your visit to the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, it is best to integrate them into a walking route that covers District 1's highlights. Travelers have shared several effective routes that allow you to see the best of the city efficiently.

• The Classic Day Trip A popular route suggests starting your day with a visit to the Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church), followed by the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum. From there, you can head to the Central Post Office and the Notre Dame Cathedral. This route often continues to the Independence Palace, allowing you to hit the major historical sites in a logical sequence.

• The Family-Friendly Walk For those traveling with family, a recommended loop involves starting with a Vietnamese rice noodle breakfast, then visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. Afterward, you can walk to the nearby Independence Palace. For lunch, you might head towards the Cholon area or Binh Tay Market, before returning to Ben Thanh Market for dinner and shopping, ending the day with views of the Saigon River at night.

• The "Check-in" Route Another itinerary focuses on the photogenic spots: beginning at the Pink Church, moving to the Fine Arts Museum, and then spending time at the Central Post Office and the Red Church. While some visitors find these spots are best just for photos, they are undeniably the visual staples of a Ho Chi Minh City trip.

After a morning of walking around the Cathedral and Post Office, finding a place to rest and refuel is essential. The area offers some excellent dining options that provide a respite from the heat.

• MUA Craft Sake Located at 07 Le Ngo Cat, this establishment is a perfect stop after visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market. It is described as a fusion izakaya where local Vietnamese ingredients meet Japanese style. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot to relax. Highlights from the menu include:

  • Fish Sauce Marinated Beef Cheeks: The beef is soaked in a rich fish sauce marinade, offering a burst of flavor with every bite, balanced by a slice of kumquat.
  • Ca Mau Crab with Pickled Lotus Stems: Fresh and sweet crab meat paired with seaweed and perilla leaves, served with a dipping sauce for a rich, layered taste.
  • Roasted Bone Marrow: Served with stewed beef cheeks and herb focaccia, this dish is noted for being non-greasy and aromatic with hints of mushroom and coriander.
  • Sake Free Flow: If you visit on a Sunday, you might catch their sake free-flow event featuring house-brewed sake.

• Pho Hoa Pasteur For a more traditional meal nearby, Pho Hoa Pasteur is a Michelin-recommended spot known for its tender beef and sweet broth. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, located in District 3 but accessible from the central attractions.

To stay close to the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, there are several highly-rated hotels in District 1 that offer convenience and unique amenities.

• Kin Hotel Hai Ba Trung This boutique hotel is located in a prime area of District 1, just a 5-minute walk to the Saigon Opera House and about 6 minutes to the Notre Dame Cathedral. It is an ideal base for exploring the city's main attractions.

  • Design: The hotel features a sophisticated wine-red color palette combined with velvet textures, offering a sense of understated luxury. The rooms are spacious, with some suites measuring 28 square meters.
  • Hot Spring Experience: A standout feature is the 24-hour smart Japanese-style hot spring. Guests receive daily access to the private sauna, hot spring bath, and cold water pool, which is perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day of walking.
  • Amenities: The business lounge on the first floor is open all day, providing unlimited instant noodles, fruit, coffee, and biscuits. Guests can enjoy a hot bowl of noodles after a late-night soak.

• Anima Boutique Hotel Another excellent option is the Anima Boutique Hotel. It is situated about 10 minutes from the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Independence Palace. The hotel boasts a minimalist industrial style that resembles an art exhibition, with seven floors of design-forward spaces. It offers a one-stop experience with 24-hour service, a gym, a spa, and a restaurant, making it a comfortable choice for travelers who want to relax.

• M Village The Garden Although located in District 3, this accommodation is about a 20-minute walk to District 1 attractions like the Central Post Office and Independence Palace. It offers a quieter environment with French-style architecture and lush greenery. The duplex apartments come with small kitchens, and there is a large supermarket nearby, making it a great option for longer stays.

After exploring the architectural marvels, you might want to indulge in some local wellness treatments. District 1 offers several spots to unwind.

• Royal Barbershop Located in the city center at 145 Nguyen Thai Binh, Royal Barbershop offers a specialized relaxation space for men. Their services include heel exfoliation, traditional shaving, ear cleaning, and massages for the head, neck, and shoulders. It is a great place to recharge quickly without the need for a full spa day.

• Sen Trang Spa For a comprehensive spa experience, Sen Trang Spa in District 1 is highly recommended by travelers. A two-hour session including a hair wash and massage costs around 200 RMB and is described as incredibly relaxing, perfect for recovering from a day of sightseeing.