Things to do in Da Kao

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A person lighting candles at a table with a vase of flowers and incense smoke.
An ornate temple interior with red walls, golden statues, and Chinese inscriptions.
A detailed metal sculpture with inscriptions.
A temple interior with ornate decorations, statues, and religious paintings.
A traditional temple structure with intricate roof design, surrounded by greenery and urban buildings.

Things to do

Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket

Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket

$10
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Sky Deck - Fast Track Ticket
Tan Son Nhat Airport - Ho Chi Minh City - Fast Track Service

Ho Chi Minh city: Arrival Fast track at Tan Son Nhat Inlt. Airport

$32
per traveler
76% of travellers recommend
Ho Chi Minh city: Arrival Fast track at Tan Son Nhat Inlt. Airport
Cu Chi Tunnels: Morning or Afternoon Guided Small-Group Tour

Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Tour from HCM City

$14
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Tour from HCM City
Picture 3 for Activity Vietnam Airports Fast Track: Skip The Line On Arrival

Vietnam Airports Fast Track: Skip The Queue On Arrival

$23
per adult
Vietnam Airports Fast Track: Skip The Queue On Arrival
Vung Tau Beach Landmarks Full Day Tour from HCMC Cultural Scenic

Vung Tau Beach Landmarks Full Day Tour from HCMC Cultural Scenic

$58
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Vung Tau Beach Landmarks Full Day Tour from HCMC Cultural Scenic
Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat

Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat (SGN) International Airport Fast Track Service

$22
per adult
Vietnam: Tan Son Nhat (SGN) International Airport Fast Track Service
Ho Chi Minh City: Late-Night Bus Tour

Ho Chi Minh City: Late-Night Open-Top Bus Tour

$9
per adult
Ho Chi Minh City: Late-Night Open-Top Bus Tour
Discover Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day

Discover Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day

$27
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Discover Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day
Picture 8 for Activity Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour

Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour

$7
per adult
Ho Chi Minh City: Panoramic City Bus Tour
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Da Kao must see attractions

1. Ben Thanh Market

Bến Thành Market is the oldest surviving market in Ho Chi Minh City and one of Vietnam’s top destinations. It is a must-see for anyone visiting this 300-year-old city. Explore the colorful stalls and buy food, souvenirs and clothing from the local vendors.
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An aerial view of a city with a large building with a clock tower, surrounded by roads and vehicles.

2. Dong Khoi Street

Spend a day on busy Dong Khoi Street and hunt for luxury items in grand department stores, eat in classy cafés and marvel at beautiful examples of 19th-century architecture.
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A well-lit hotel with a sign reading "HOTEL CONTINENTAL SA".

3. Pham Ngu Lao Street

For cheap meals, accommodation and markets in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than Pham Ngu Lao. It is known by Vietnamese locals as “khu tay ba lo”, which translates to “Backpacker’s area.” If you are a traveler on a budget, Pham Ngu Lao is the place to be.
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A busy street with neon signs, motorcycles, and people walking.

4. Saigon River

See the iconic houses on stilts on the banks of the Saigon River and enjoy views of some of the city’s most famous buildings from a boat cruise. Explore the villages and canals of the Mekong Delta where migratory birds live among the thick mangroves.
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A city skyline with modern skyscrapers and a river with boats.

5. Jade Emperor Pagoda

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is most well-known for its floor-to-ceiling woodcarvings and its tortoise population, giving rise to its alternative name, the Tortoise Pagoda. It was built around the turn of the 20th century for Cantonese migrants. It is still a functioning temple today and a site for both Taoist and Buddhist worshippers.
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A traditional Chinese architectural structure with a curved roof, a stone pillar, and a signboard with Chinese characters.

Recommended things to do in Da Kao

Number of things to do
1472
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
HCMc:Authentic Vietnam Cooking Class with local market visit: $0
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Da Kao

 

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Stay near popular Da Kao attractions

Jade Emperor Pagoda

8.2/10 (77 reviews)
This structure offers some of the most impressive woodcarvings, figurines and art in all of Vietnam.
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Popular day trips from Da Kao

A brightly lit urban scene with a historic building, modern high-rises, and a busy street at night.

Ho Chi Minh City

Frequently asked questions

Is Da Kao worth visiting?
Providing a blend of cafes and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in Da Kao. While you're here, check out Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Da Kao?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden. Then, check out different areas of Da Kao for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Da Kao?
The top tourist attraction near Da Kao is Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden, so remember to include it on your trip itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Da Kao?
With a three-day stay in Da Kao, you can comfortably experience the area's many awesome sights, like Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden and Independence Palace.
Is Da Kao a walkable neighborhood?
If you enjoy walking, Da Kao is ideal. You can get to key sights like Saigon Zoo and Botanic Garden and Independence Palace on foot. At 1 mile from the center, the neighborhood of District 1 is also close enough for a good stroll. The same goes for Ben Nghe, about 0.6 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Da Kao with kids?
If you are after tours and attractions for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Da Kao with kids.

What to do in Da Kao for adults?
Bui Vien Walking Street is one of the top things to do in Da Kao. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Da Kao?
Near Da Kao, HCMC Museum is a terrific spot for anyone looking to experience the area at no cost. Also, check out the local green spaces and other nearby neighborhoods, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for advice. It's a simple way to discover the top free things to do in Da Kao.