Sitting alongside the Song Sai Gon River in Vietnam’s north-east, the urban district of Thu Duc is home to some of Vietnam’s tastiest street food. Thu Duc’s surrounding area is also packed with ancient history and picturesque cathedrals, offering an insight into Vietnam’s bygone era.
Things to do in Thu Duc
Thu Duc University village is home to one of the district’s biggest night markets and attracts more than just local students. Foodies head here in the evening to dine on local delicacies such as sticky rice dishes, grilled meats and noodle soups.
If you want to unwind and catch a movie, head to Vincom Thu Duc, the district’s cinema showcasing modern blockbusters and independent films. Moviegoers can watch a flick and enjoy an evening by grabbing a bite to eat at one of the eateries inside the complex after the show.
Take a 40-minute drive into central Ho Chi Minh City and pay a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. The tunnels are large mazes of wartime tunnels and give an insight into Vietnam’s past. Afterwards, head to the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, a 19th-century cathedral with European influences.
Getting there
Thu Duc sits 40 minutes east of Ho Chi Minh City and 20 minutes east of Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Once in the district, you can make use of the local buses and taxis to hop around the area or take the train directly into the city.