Ah, Saigon! An iridescent city where history whispers through colonial architecture and the aromas of street food dance in the sultry air. It’s a place where the past melds with the vibrant beat of modern life, offering an exotic tapestry for thrill-seekers and world wanderers alike. For gay couples looking to explore Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City as it’s officially known, the experience is nothing short of intersting and spectacular. It’s a place where you can stay in style and luxury or take something more simple and still have an amazing experience. Be it exploring the city by day, or chilling out by the pool at your hotel, to partying the night away at once of Saigon’s great gay bars, or having a high end dining experience Saigon really has it all if you know where to look.
Arrival in Saigon
Your adventure begins as soon as you touch down at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Don’t be put off by the cold start “military” style feel of the airport or all the airport staff and customs officers in their unique green military uniform, its just part of the Vietnam experience. For many travellers, the first impression of Saigon might feel a bit cold, and many of us will need to go through the Visa process but if you are aware of the process then its no issue. If your holding a passport from ASIEN region then no need for a visa, but if you’re travelling from outside this region, then chances are you will need a visa, which needs to be pre-arranged prior to arrival. But no fear, just plan ahead, and submit your visa request online, and pay. There are plenty of travel agents online that will manage the whole experience for you to take the pain away (remember English is not the first language here) and i would recommend you pay for the VIP arrival that most travel agents offer, as you will by-pass all the waiting at the airport while they inspect your passports and whisked away straight though to the exit line in under 5 mins.
There are many options of transport at the the airport, from taxi’s and bus’s but for us on our trips we usually book a hotel limosine or if we get a taxi from the airport, we usually only choose the “green'” taxis, with a meter.
Picking The Right Location To Stay in Saigon
Like many South East Asian city’s, Sigon is quite a large space, so choosing the right areas to stay is key for your gay advernture in Saigon. Over the years we have found that the best place for base came is Saigon’s District 1. It’s a lively heart of the city, the beating pulse that keeps the metropolis alive day and night. For a comfortable stay, choose a gay-friendly hotel that offers a warm welcome to gay travelers. District 1 is home to a selection of some amazing accommodations offerings. Here, you can relax in style and comfort, knowing you’re in a place that celebrates who you are (the Vietnmaise way!) .
Our Pick Hotels In District One
The Caravelle Hotel Saigon
We have been staying here for years, and is an infamous 5-star hotel in Saigon that has it all, from great rooms that feel plush and opulent, to amazing dining options and a Champagne lounge, a casino, and one of the first rooftop bars in Saigon. Its a old ‘grande dame’ hotel that has been updated and renovated over the years and never seems to let us down when we stay.
Hotel Continental Saigon
Nestled on Dong Khoi, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most celebrated thoroughfares, the incredibly sexy Hotel Continental Saigon puts you just steps away from some of the city’s most alluring sites, such as the Bach Dang Wharf, Opera House, and the iconic Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica.
The luxurious rooms at this hotel in Sigaon are nothing short of regal, and when we have stayed, it’s always an opulent stay at a great price when you compare it to other international cities. Featuring a decor that exudes elegance and sophistication fit for any gay man! Each room welcomes you with a separate sitting area and modern conveniences like free Wi-Fi, a flat-panel TV with premium satellite channels, and climate-controlled air conditioning—all designed to make you feel wonderfully fabulous through-out your stay!.
Signature by M Village
Dive into the colorful heart of Saigon’s gay district with M Village style, where culture meets fabulous! Nestled at the vibrant crossroads of District 1 and District 5, this hotel boasts an absolutely fabulous Chinese design that’s as charming as your journey is exciting. It’s the ultimate base for unleashing your inner explorer in the most fabulous way possible!
Each room serves as your sexy, stylish retreat after a day of living your best life in Saigon. Snag your spot now to enjoy the most glamorous ‘hustle and bustle, returning to fabulous comfort’ experience. We love the fact that the rooms have nice outdoor balcony that we can sip coffee on or just get some fresh air in down town Saigon!
Must-See Attractions While in Saigon
Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Saigon with a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. These stunning colonial-era buildings are a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur. The cathedral, with its towering spires and red-brick facade, is a sight to behold. Meanwhile, the Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is a masterpiece of French colonial architecture. Snap photos, admire the intricate details, and take a moment to appreciate the harmonious blend of old and new.
Charming Streets of Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue
Stroll hand-in-hand along the charming streets of Dong Khoi and Nguyen Hue. These avenues are alive with boutique shops, cafes, and street vendors, offering a delightful mix of modern luxury and traditional charm. Explore the local art galleries, indulge in a spot of shopping, and savour a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a quaint café. It’s a perfect opportunity to soak in the city’s atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.
Ascend the Heights of the Bitexco Tower
For a breathtaking perspective of Saigon, visit the Bitexco Financial Tower. The observation deck offers awe-inspiring views that stretch far beyond the city limits, providing a perfect photo opportunity at golden hour.
Take a Guided Tour on the Back of a Vespa
Well there is nothing like the feeling of having your legs wraped around the vibrating hum of a Vespa and this city tour openes your eyes to some truly amazing places with in Saigon. Holding tight on your your buff driver who is zooming though the city taking you to multiple stops along the way to explore and experience we rated this as one of the best city tours we have ever done. Well worth trying, just strap on tight and enjoy!
Dining Out In Sigon
Saigon offers amazing choices for dining out, from discovering local cuisine to fine dining with international flair. Regardless of your budget, with a little bit of exploration, you will find something amazing. On our travels there, we often gravitate to a more simple local street food style if we are looking for Vietnamese, but if we are looking for more of an “international” style of dining, we typically end up in more of a high-end hotel to indulge. In Saigon, you have it all.
The Apartment Cafe
Slap bang in District 1, you will find the iconic Apartment Cafe, an apartment filled with different cafes. It’s truly quite unique and a great place to grab a Vietnamese iced coffee or more, and cafe hop through the building. You have to pay to use the elevator or use a bit of energy to walk the stairs (just pay for the elevator and go to the top floor and walk down!) We tried a number of cafes here, most serving the same style of coffee and desserts, but it’s quite unique, and in our favourite cafe, we found a new friend with the apartment cat that lives in the cafe. It got so comfortable with us both that it followed us through the building and tried to jump on us when leaving (how sweet)
Heart Of Darkness Brewery
Well someone saw online that this place had Buffo wings, so there was no choice but to visit. It did not disappoint, this craft bar also offers an extensive a la carte menu, which is exceptional and has a great vibe. It was clear to see why this was a popular haunt for many locals and travellers in Saigon and hit our must-list when in Saigon. Outside of their extensive craft beer selection, they also have all the traditional drinks you would expect and are very Vietnamese gay-friendly. We were taken by the staff who had a distinct “Aussie-Viet” accent and the food was exceptional for pub grub.
Reflections Fine Dining Restaruant
Located in the Caravelle Hotel, the Refections restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a European-styled menu filled with imported ingredients and, for us, was a great place for a refined, intimate dining experience in Saigon. From the succulent scollops as an entree to the tenderloin main dish on our last visit the food was cooked to perfection. The champagne list kept us happy as we indulged in a bottle or two of Verve.
Vietnamise Raman Noodle At Machida Raman
Well, who does not like some noodles? We discovered this well-known Japanese restaurant one night while trying to avoid a heavy downpour of rain and it certainly warmed us up. Quick, simple and packed with authentic flavour this place rocked us, and we went back for second helpings.
El Gacho’s Saigon
Well, like the El Gauchos in Bangkok, this is a go-to restaurant for a guaranteed great steak. Located in District One, this restaurant offers some of the best steaks cooked to perfection every time, pretty much guaranteed. Choose from prime cuts from Australia and the USA, along with your sides, including creamed spinach, gratin potatoes and a red wine jus, and we are just in steak heaven. The restaurant also offers other dishes like New Zealand Lamb and Salmon and more. If you are unsure of what restaurant to eat in, then in a city you don’t know, then this is always a sure bet.
Get Your Pho At The Opera House
A amazing outdoor restaurant next to the Saigon Opera House in District One. It’s very local Vietnamese cafe offering a selection of local dishes and also local breakfasts. For us it’s the place to go when we don’t want a hotel buffet breakfast (or more when we have missed the buffet because we have slept in from the night before.) The Pho here is very local, fresh and fragrant and of great value. You can also get a local Vietnamese breakfast here for a faction of the cost of any hotel you’re staying at. The outdoor terrace is covered and should it rain your well protected. Great place to start the day with coffee while checking your emails and messages in the outdoors!
Mojo Cafe @ Sheraton Hotel
This is our go-to cafe in Saigon at the Sheraton Hotel, and it offers a great selection of food both International and local flair. For us, the Vietnamese coffee is unbeatable. Located in District One, it’s easy to get to and relax. It’s a great place if you want to work and get through your emails or other things with great WI-FI and a good selection of dishes from the menu, from breakfast dishes, sandwiches and local dishes all available.
Afternoon Tea @ Caravelle Hotel
If you want to feel opulent and special, head to the lobby bar at the Caravelle Hotel, and indulge in a spectacular afternoon tea, or even a morning tea. The all-day menu has a great selection of food from traditional Pho’s with Bone Marrow to Western dishes like a poppy seed bagel with house-cured salmon and cream cheese – which is just like YUM! Needless to say the Vietnamese Ice Coffee will give you the buzz and heart palpitations like anywhere else that makes quality coffee, and if you’re feeling fabulous, then crack open a bottle of champagne and indulge with a good selection from their wine list. But be warned, its always busy so plan ahead to get a table!
Coffee At Choice Cofee & Tea Shop
This small local coffee shop is just a favourite, and ideally located in District 1, and better still is open 24 hours 7 days a week. Ideal for when you need that pick-me-up after a big night out in Saigon. The Vietnamese Coffee is fabulous as is their other coffee selection and teas. Its quaint, small and very local, but it’s a great little hang-out.
Discover Gay Saigon At Azure Gay Pool and Loung Day Club In Saigon
For us travelling to Saigon for over 10 years, this was a newcomer to us, and we wernt let down on the day we went there. Azure is certainly not what we expected in Saigon, but it absolutely should be on every gay traveller’s bucket list in Saigon, just for the sheer fun of it. And who does not enjoy watching locals play in the water? With a large outdoor pool lounge and bar, it has it all, and it’s exclusively for us! Chill out, watch the view, or more, and have some great drinks, it’s a great way to spend a day in Saigon the gay way. Check out their Facebook page for events as it’s always changing but Azue Day Club is open form 11am – late every day and well worth the visit. Our tip is to to go for a pool party or the Circuit pool party with Go-Go dancers for that little bit of extra fun in Gay Saigon!
Celebrate the Nightlife – Discover Saigon After Dark
The fabulous gay scene of Saigon, offers an electrifying haven for the gay traveller filled with pulsating energy and vibrant nightlife. Nestled in the bustling heart of the backpacker area, De Tham Street is the epicentre of this inclusive celebration.
Frolic Bar
Frolic Bar is shaking up Ho Chi Minh’s gay nightlife with its infectious energy reminiscent of the beloved Tipsy Unicorn. Its Disco Nights on Saturdays are where the boys are at, drawing a diverse crowd of locals and travellers alike. Pop over to 63 De Tham, Q1, open daily until late. Our very dear friend Le Minh, a Saigon local rates this as his favourite place to go meet new people and have a great night, but we let you judge this.
Thi Bar
Located on 224 De Tham Street, Thi Bar is a cozy gem attracting a diverse crowd with its live music and vibrant atmosphere. Friday and Saturday nights are when Saigon’s gay lads flock here before heading to ChinChin for more fabulous fun. Open every day except Tuesdays until late, it’s a lively spot to mingle and enjoy the local scene
ChinChin Bar
At the forefront of Saigon’s nightlife is ChinChin Bar, where almost every gay boy in town gathers for an unforgettable night out! Swing by around 11 pm or midnight when the party really gets started. Don’t miss their “Boys Nights” on Wednesdays or their uproarious drag shows on Friday nights—they’re a must-see! Their cocktails well you be going back for more, dear, that for sure, if it’s only to look at the yummy bar team. You’ll find ChinChin at 75 Hồ Tùng Mậu D1, open from Wednesday to Sunday until late. It’s the spot to be, darling.
Poc Poc Beer Garden
For a more laid-back vibe, head to Poc Poc Beer Garden at 79A Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường Võ Thị Sáu. Famous for its brews and delightful drag shows, this local favorite transforms into a lively LGBTQ+ gathering spot on weekends. It’s open daily until 2 am, making it a perfect pit stop for some weekend fun or just a place to chill out.
Vietnamese Gay Drag Bingo Shows
Want something uniquely Vietnamese? Venture a bit out to the local drag gay bingo shows. Lô tô Hương Nam at Đầm Sen Nightmarket hosts shows daily at 6:30 pm, offering a taste of authentic local nightlife. For another fabulous experience, catch Sai Gòn Tân thời’s weekly show, usually on Fridays, at Outdoor stage 141 Bắc hải, 14 Ward, D10.
Massage Venues Because We All Need To Be Pampered
HIM Spa
HIM Spa is the epitome of relaxation in Saigon’s gay scene. This luxurious sauna offers a range of spa services, including massages, steam rooms, and hot tubs. It’s a serene oasis where you can unwind and rejuvenate, surrounded by a community that welcomes all. Treat yourself to the ultimate pampering experience—because you deserve it!
An Spa
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at An Spa, a gay-friendly sanctuary known for its professional massages. From traditional Vietnamese techniques to aromatic aromatherapy sessions, every treatment is designed to transport you to a place of serenity. It’s the perfect setting to relax and recharge, surrounded by tranquillity and peace.
Our Thoughts
Well, our last trip was the first time we have visited Saigon since COVID, and sure enough, we got COVID for the first time in Saigon at the end of our adventure! But in staying this the city is still recovering from the Pandemic, and we felt it more as we have been to Saigon frequently for so many years. But with any recovery come new adventures and, more importantly, new places to explore, and Saigon does not fail. There are still the old faithful places we always venture to, but also a lot of new venues and things to discover, making Saigon a great stop to discover, and to discover the amazing and fabulous Gay Saigon!
