Beyond Ben Thanh Market - Saigon Has A Lot More to See

Ice-skating at the Youth Cultural House

Since its establishment in September 2010, the ice-skating rink at the Youth Cultural House, located at 04 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, has become a popular spot for both friends and couples seeking a fun and romantic outing. To reach the rink, simply walk straight along Pham Ngoc Thach Street from the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Photo: vinatai.mobi

The Youth Cultural House is situated at the intersection of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Pham Ngoc Thach Streets. Once you arrive, take the main staircase to the third floor to access the ice-skating rink. An entrance fee of approximately $3 per person makes it an affordable option for entertainment. The rink features specially designed materials and a unique lubrication system, allowing visitors to enjoy ice-skating in a tropical climate like Vietnam's.

With a cool temperature of around 17°C (62.6°F), you can hold hands and glide together across the surface of the rink. Amp up your experience by trying out some dance moves as you skate. If you're looking for an exhilarating date idea at a reasonable price, ice-skating at the Youth Cultural House should definitely be on your list!

Water Puppetry Show

Water puppetry is a distinctive aspect of Vietnamese culture, originating from the country's agricultural background and its famous rice paddies. The art of maneuvering puppets to depict human activities in water captivates many visitors to Vietnam. Shows are frequently held in the evenings at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, located in the Labour Culture Palace at 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Tickets typically cost around $5 for adults.

Photo: guidevietnam.com

The performances last between 45 minutes to an hour and showcase a glimpse into the daily lives of Vietnamese people in the past, featuring activities such as fishing, farming, and dancing. Language may pose a challenge for some visitors, but the expressive movements of the puppets by skilled puppeteers transcends this barrier. Don't miss the chance to witness the enchanting Water Puppet Show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater!

A Dinner Buffet at Binh Quoi Tourist Resort

Binh Quoi Tourist Resort, located about 8 kilometers from the city center, is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and traditional Vietnamese cuisine. This resort has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The dinner buffet provides an excellent opportunity to sample a wide variety of Vietnam's iconic dishes, ranging from North to South.
Photo: citypassguide.com

Guests can enjoy crispy spring rolls, fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce, seafood like shells and oysters, as well as an impressive assortment of che (sweet soups or desserts). The picturesque scenery, including artificial rice fields and charming haystacks, provides a peaceful atmosphere ideal for couples to share a delightful meal. The buffet typically operates from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with prices ranging from $10 to $12 per adult. Arriving early is recommended to ensure a plentiful selection of food.

Dinner at Shri

Shri, located at 72-74 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, is an upscale dining establishment situated on the 23rd floor of Centec Tower, directly across from the Youth Cultural House. The rooftop dining area offers stunning views of Ho Chi Minh City, creating a romantic setting for dinner. The restaurant features soft candlelit decor, and a VIP area is available for reservations only.
Photo: pasgo.com

Due to its high-quality service and beautiful views of the city lights, dining at Shri is priced higher than many other restaurants. Average prices range from $35 to $65 per person depending on the menu selections. Shri is renowned for its fresh sushi and Western cuisine and offers set menus for convenient dining choices. Its elegant and unique atmosphere makes it a perfect venue for anniversaries, proposals, or memorable first dates.

A Romantic Coffee Shop

Vietnam is also well-known for its exceptional coffee culture. Unlike Starbucks, which has a uniform global presence, Vietnamese coffee shops offer a unique charm and character. Each shop features different decor and ambiance, making each visit special. Coffee shops are popular morning and evening venues, but many host live music shows in the evenings.

For a romantic setting, consider visiting places like Yen Café (7 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, District 3) or Vung Oi MO Ra Cafe (17 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, District 3). In the soft glow of candlelight, couples can enjoy intimate conversations while listening to romantic songs performed live, including Vietnamese, French, and English selections. Expect a pricing variation, as drinks typically cost around $3-$4 in the morning and can be $4-$5 with the added live music in the evening.
Photo: justgola.com

Shows generally commence around 9 p.m. and can last up to 1.5 hours, with some venues hosting renowned artists that may charge higher prices (up to $15 including drinks). If you're looking for a romantic night out, you don't need to look far. The diverse coffee shops throughout Ho Chi Minh City ensure that every visit offers a fresh experience, leaving you with sweet memories without repeating the same spot.