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Bitexco Financial Tower, Việt Nam - Things to Do in Bitexco Financial Tower

Things to Do in Bitexco Financial Tower

Bitexco Financial Tower, Việt Nam - Complete Travel Guide

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis and economic powerhouse, is a vibrant blend of French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and bustling street life. The Bitexco Financial Tower stands as the city's most iconic landmark, dominating the skyline at 262 meters tall and offering breathtaking panoramic views from its SkyDeck observation level on the 49th floor. This architectural marvel, designed to resemble a lotus bud, symbolizes the city's rapid modernization while maintaining its cultural roots. The tower is strategically located in District 1, the heart of Ho Chi Minh City's central business district, surrounded by historic landmarks, luxury shopping, and world-class dining. Visitors can experience the contrast between old and new Vietnam, from traditional markets and colonial buildings to sleek shopping malls and rooftop bars, all within walking distance of this impressive structure.

Top Things to Do in Bitexco Financial Tower

Visit SkyDeck Observation Level

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Ho Chi Minh City from the 49th floor of Bitexco Financial Tower. The SkyDeck offers spectacular panoramic vistas of the Saigon River, bustling streets below, and the sprawling urban landscape extending to the horizon. Interactive displays provide information about the city's landmarks and history while you enjoy the bird's-eye perspective.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around 200,000 VND ($8-10 USD) and can be purchased on-site or online. Visit during sunset (5:30-6:30 PM) for the most spectacular views, but expect crowds. Weekday mornings offer clearer skies and fewer visitors.

Explore District 1 Walking Tour

Discover the historic heart of Ho Chi Minh City on foot, starting from Bitexco Tower and walking through the colonial quarter. Visit landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Opera House, and City Hall while learning about the city's French colonial heritage and Vietnam War history. The walking tour showcases the architectural evolution from colonial times to modern skyscrapers.

Booking Tip: Free self-guided tours are possible with maps from tourist information, or join organized tours for 15-25 USD. Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) are ideal to avoid midday heat. Look for guides with official tourism board certification.

Saigon River Sunset Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise along the Saigon River to see Bitexco Tower and the city skyline from the water. These evening cruises offer a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City's illuminated landmarks while enjoying traditional Vietnamese cuisine and cultural performances. The contrast between the modern skyline and traditional river life provides excellent photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Dinner cruises range from 25-60 USD depending on vessel quality and inclusions. Book 2-3 days ahead during peak season. Choose operators with good safety records and recent vessel updates, departing from Bach Dang Wharf near District 1.

Street Food and Market Tour

Explore Ho Chi Minh City's incredible culinary scene through guided food tours starting near Bitexco Tower area. Sample authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and local specialties while visiting traditional markets, street food stalls, and hidden local eateries. Learn about Vietnamese cooking techniques, ingredients, and food culture from knowledgeable local guides.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost 30-50 USD and typically last 3-4 hours including multiple stops and tastings. Evening tours (5-9 PM) offer the best street food experience. Choose small group tours (6-8 people) for more personalized attention and better access to small vendors.

Cu Chi Tunnels Day Trip

Take a half-day excursion to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War located about 70km from Bitexco Tower. Crawl through the narrow tunnels, learn about guerrilla warfare tactics, and gain insight into this significant period of Vietnamese history. The experience includes demonstrations of tunnel construction and survival techniques used by Vietnamese fighters.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost 20-35 USD including transportation and guide, lasting 4-6 hours total. Morning departures (8 AM) are recommended to avoid afternoon heat in the tunnels. Book with reputable operators that provide air-conditioned transport and English-speaking guides certified by Vietnam National University.

Getting There

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is located 8km from Bitexco Financial Tower and serves as Vietnam's busiest airport with direct flights from major Asian cities, Europe, and connecting flights worldwide. From the airport, take a taxi (20-30 minutes, 150,000-200,000 VND), ride-hailing apps like Grab, or the public bus #152 to District 1. The tower is easily accessible from other Vietnamese cities via domestic flights, trains to Saigon Railway Station (3km away), or long-distance buses to various terminals around the city.

Getting Around

Ho Chi Minh City's transportation is dominated by motorbikes, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Grab. The city center around Bitexco Tower is walkable for nearby attractions, though crossing streets requires caution due to constant motorbike traffic. Taxis and Grab cars are reliable for longer distances, while adventurous visitors can rent motorbikes or use xe om (motorbike taxis) for quick trips. The upcoming Metro Line 1 will connect the city center to the eastern districts, though most tourist attractions remain accessible by walking, taxi, or short rides from the tower's central location.

Where to Stay

District 1 (Central Business District)
District 3 (Local Culture Area)
District 7 (Expat & Modern Area)
District 2 (Thao Dien - Upscale Neighborhood)
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 10 (Budget-Friendly Local Area)

Food & Dining

Ho Chi Minh City offers an incredible dining scene from street food stalls to high-end restaurants, with many excellent options within walking distance of Bitexco Tower. The surrounding District 1 area features rooftop restaurants with skyline views, international cuisine, and traditional Vietnamese restaurants. Don't miss the street food scene on nearby Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ben Thanh Market area, and the backpacker district around Bui Vien Street. For upscale dining, the tower itself houses several restaurants, while the nearby Dong Khoi Street area offers French-influenced cuisine reflecting the city's colonial heritage.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Hcmc

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

De Tham Restaurant - Vietnamese cuisine & vegetarian Food

4.9 /5
(8938 reviews)

Nhà Hàng Lúa Đại Việt

4.8 /5
(5698 reviews)
bar

Home Saigon Restaurant

4.8 /5
(4448 reviews) 2

Pandan Leaf Saigon Restaurant & Rooftop Bar

4.9 /5
(3464 reviews)

Hai’s Restaurant

4.9 /5
(2855 reviews)

A Taste Of Saigon - Kitchen

4.9 /5
(2595 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City and Bitexco Tower is during the dry season from December to April, when temperatures are more comfortable (24-32°C) and rainfall is minimal, providing clearer views from the observation deck. The wet season (May-November) brings daily afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity, though mornings are often clear and temperatures slightly cooler. For optimal SkyDeck visibility, visit during the dry season's early morning or late afternoon hours when air pollution is lower and lighting conditions are ideal for photography.

Insider Tips

Visit the SkyDeck during weekday mornings for the clearest views and smallest crowds, as air pollution is lowest before traffic builds up
The tower's lower floors contain high-end shopping and dining options that are less crowded alternatives to street-level venues
Book restaurants with Bitexco Tower views in advance, especially rooftop venues in nearby buildings for the best external photos of the illuminated tower at night

Explore Activities in Bitexco Financial Tower