Searching for the most romantic place in Saigon or a memorable date night idea to show your love and appreciation?
Ho Chi Minh City is full of wonderful and romantic things to do whether you are going on a first date, or you are bringing your one true love out.
Finding the right date is never easy. Ambiance, setting, and taste count for a lot! We have listed down the most romantic cafes and restaurants, free romantic things to do while out in the city, as well as great date ideas that are off the beaten track.
If you have no idea what to do for the next date night, read on, we are here to help!
5 Romantic Cafes And Dining Options
Romance is in every corner of the city – you just need to know where to look! Whether you are searching for a romantic night out at a restaurant with your significant other, or you are getting to know a new date over coffee – from hotels to restaurants, check out our list of the following places.
1. Sunset Drinks At Social Club Saigon
If you are looking for a place with that WOW factor, search no further. The Social Club situated high above the city in the prestigious M Gallery Hotel offers a bar like no other. This rooftop has a stunning view of the city landscape. The perfect spot for some liquid courage. Come here to enjoy the sunset with your lucky date, with specialty cocktails and gourmet food, the ambience is hard to beat. This is definitely on the top list of romantic things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Do not miss out on one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
2. Get Brunch At The Vintage Emporium
Going on dates does not mean it has to have a candlelit ambience or a typical romantic setting. In fact, brunch may be everyone’s favourite meal – why not impress your date by bringing them to one of the cutest and most stylish brunch spots in town?
We love the Vintage Emporium for its chic interiors and delicious menu, the perfect background for wooing someone. With two outlets tucked away in quiet spots in both District 1 and District 2, it is both convenient and delightful. Locals and travelers to Vietnam consider this is one of the best date spots in Ho Chi Minh City.
3. Chat Over Coffee At Co Ba Dong Khoi Rooftop Cafe
Coffee culture in Vietnam is off the charts! Everyone here is drinking coffee all day and even all night. Chances are your date would not mind a cup of coffee or tea too.
The Co Ba Dong Khoi is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s hidden gems amongst its numerous coffee shops. It boasts stunning views of both the cityscape as well as the gently flowing Saigon River. While its old teak wooden furniture and decor creates a backdrop of vintage Saigon. The charm factor here is on overdrive. Come here after taking nearby tourist attractions as such the Notre Dame Cathedral and City Hall.
- Related Article: 10 Charming “Cafe Apartment” Coffee Shops in Ho Chi Minh City
4. Dine Along The Saigon River With Saigon Cruise
Get ready to truly surprise your loved one with a relaxing dinner cruise along the Saigon River. This is not long a different way to enjoy the city at dusk, but it is also a wonderful way to get to know each other better over a slow, luxurious meal.
The Saigon Princess Cruise offers both Vietnamese cuisine and European cuisine, and their award winning chefs are able to accommodate special dietary requests. Enjoy the city unfolding as you cruise down the river. This is perhaps one of the the best romantic restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, or even Southeast Asia.
- Want to spend a memorable night in the Saigon River? Explore Ho Chi Minh River Dinner Cruise now!
5. Say Cheers At Eon 51 Heli Bar, Bitexco
Bitexco financial tower is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s landmarks. The design of the building makes you feel that you are living in the future. It used to be the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City before Landmark 81 was built. It remains one of the most seen sights for those who visit Vietnam.
Take your date to an unforgettable outing here to Bitexco’s highest bar Eon 51 for a few drinks looking over the city skyline. The table service here aims to impress the well heeled guests. Sitting amongst the clouds, you might just think you are in heaven. There is no better view in Vietnam.
- Related article: Saigon’s best rooftop bars.
4 Off the Beaten Path Romantic Ideas In Ho Chi Minh City
Tired of wining and dining your other half? Or simply thinking of shaking things up a little? We have got you covered with these 3 amazing fun actives to try with your significant other on your next date.
1. Take Dancing Classes
If you are looking to have a deeper connection with your special someone, why not try some dance lesson? It will surely help you both with building your trust in each other. Salsateka Dance Studio has international teachers that teach couples how to salsa, bachata, afro chic and many more. Take to the dance floor at Salsateka Dance Studio; the sensual dance moves will surely spice up your date night.
- Like Vietnamese music? Here are the best Vietnam artists for 2023.
2. Break Free At An Escape Room
Getting a little bored of diners and small talk? Perhaps you are looking to spice up your relationship. This is just the thing for you. Put your brains to the test at Lost HCMC Station.
With 6 themed rooms, the Lost escape room series offers breathtaking real-life escape games that will test the strength of your relationship with physical adventures and puzzle games.
3. Take In A Water Puppet Show
There is so much to see, do, and eat in Ho Chi Minh City – a place bursting with history and culture. Why not change up your usual date with and the local culture of Vietnam with a water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.
If other type of performances are more up your alley, take your date to the Saigon Opera House for an acrobatic, ballet, live music, or orchestra show.
4. Take A Trip Down The Mekong Delta
Itching to go on a trip but lacking the time. This is a great way to see the country while not venturing too far from Ho Chi Minh City.
Nothing is more romantic than cruising the Mekong Delta on a rowing boat with your special someone. Seeing how rural life is in Vietnam is always a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Couples can book a guided trip going to Mekong Delta and that will include a trip to floating markets, pagodas and other colonial structures.
- Related article: Best things to do in the Mekong Delta
3 Free Romantic Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City
Romance does not need to come with a hefty price tag. Look beyond a fancy restaurant, hotels, and even coffee shops. There are plenty of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City that both light on your wallet and sure to charm your other half.
1. Picnic At Vinhomes Central Park
Both locals and foreigners consider Vinhomes Central Park to be one of the nicest parks in the whole of Ho Chi Minh City. Many come here to relax after a week long stressful job.
With well maintained lush green lawns and a huge Japanese Garden feature zen ponds, it is a beautiful and peaceful spot for lovers. Pack a picnic full of your date’s favourite snacks, tea, coffee and perhaps even a bottle of bubbly! It will be a surefire way to spend an amazing afternoon. Add this to your favourite date spots.
2. Take A Moonlit Walk At Crescent Lake
Cresent Lake is located right beside the Cresent Mall in District 7. This strip of sidewalk leads the to starlight bridge that lights up at night and it has water coming out like a waterfall. You can even have a pet-friendly date with your fur babies as there is dog park on the other side of the lake.
Dubbed the ‘Singapore of Saigon’ – this great place is particularly clean and well taken care of. Still along here under the full moon for the full romantic effect.
3. Sit By Turtle Lake
This brutalist structure has captured the hearts and minds of the city’s young lovers. A simple cement structure that is used as a roundabout in District 3 – it has become oddly enough a symbol of romance in Ho Chi Minh City.
With a tower resembling a lotus, little fountains, and many fishes, Turtle Lake has become a hot spot where young adults hang out and buy banh mi from street food vendors while chatting. Come here to sit by the pond and stare into each other’s eyes while the city bustles around you.
- Related Article: 15 Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City: The Ultimate Guide
4 Great Romantic Dinner Options In Ho Chi Minh City
Date night is here – this fabulous event meant to celebrate love calls for something special! Avoid going to Bui Vien Street or Beer Clubs, and up your romantic factor. Check out this list of amazing dinner options to celebrate a milestone in your relationship. Book your date night quick!
1. Pendolasco
Pasta and wine always makes a great meal! Treat your partner to comforting and delicious Italian food at Pendolasco, District 2. The outdoor seating under the cool Saigon evening sky creates a perfectly romantic ambience.
Address: 30 Tống Hữu Định, Thao Dien, District 2 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
2. Racha Room
The Racha Room boasts an intimate and cosy interior, making it a great spot to celebrate your love.
Address: 12-14 Mac Thi Buoi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
3. Octo Tapas Restobar
There’s something great about sharing small plates of food, it makes the entire dining experience more intimate and special. Spend your romantic date night at Octo to enjoy an impressive spread of Spanish dishes.
Address: 75 D. Ho Tung Mau, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
4. The Wheel- American Comfort Cuisine
Perhaps you are looking for something hearty that warms the soul. The Wagon Wheel offers exactly that. Treat yourselves to classic good old American fare and enjoy each other’s company into the night.
Address: 200 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
5 Top Tips from Cupid
If you are looking for romantic and respectful nights out with your long time partner or with someone new, here are some wise words from us! These tips will help ensure a pleasant, fun evening and help keep the flame alive.
1) Bring a small surprise
2) Take turns to treat each other
3) Treat waitstaff well
4) Keep an open mind
5) Enthusiastic consent is the way to go!
Happily Ever After
Find love in Vietnam with our guide to romantic things to do in Saigon. Your ‘happily ever after’ is waiting for you! In the meantime, why not check out Vietnam’s most romantic destination too!
