This is the part of Ho Chi Minh City that feels the least like HCMC — no crazy motorbike horns, no tangled power lines. Instead: wide sidewalks, tree-lined parks, and clean riversides. Just 20-30 minutes from District 1 by Grab, yet it feels like you’ve teleported to another country!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Ming — Taiwanese travel blogger living in Saigon for 8 years. I visit District 7 every 1-2 months (shopping at Crescent Mall, night runs on Starlight Bridge, exhibitions). All attractions, restaurants, and transport info here were personally updated in Oct-Nov 2025 — guaranteed fresh & practical!
Why Visit District 7?
- No downtown motorbike chaos or crowds
- Super international — Koreans, Japanese, Singaporeans, Taiwanese everywhere
- Only 20-30 min Grab ride from District 1
- Perfect for photos, chilling, shopping, food, and night views — all in one day!
District 7 Must-Visit Areas at a Glance
| Area | Highlights | Recommended Time |
| Phú Mỹ Hưng Urban Area | Perfectly planned modern neighborhood | Half day ~ 1 day |
| Crescent Lake + Starlight Bridge | Lake views, night lights, romantic walks | Late afternoon ~ night |
| Crescent Mall & SC VivoCity | Shopping, dining, air-conditioned heaven | 3-5 hours |
2025 Top 7 Must-Visit Spots (Best Order)
1. Crescent Lake & Starlight Bridge
Come after 5 PM! Music & light water show every 15 minutes + glowing bridge floor. Super photogenic — couples and families love it.
2. Crescent Mall
Fully renovated in 2025 with new rooftop garden & VR zone. UNIQLO, Zara, tons of Korean brands, and a huge basement food court.
3. SC VivoCity
Run by Singapore’s CapitaLand. B1 has Takashimaya-level supermarket — perfect for souvenirs.
4. The Panorama Skybar (73rd-floor rooftop)
Newly opened in 2025! 360° view of Saigon skyline. Cocktails 250-350k VND. Come at sunset for the golden-hour magic.
5. Van Hanh Park
District 7’s biggest park — 2 km lake loop, kids’ playground, weekend picnics everywhere.
6. SECC (Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center)
Hosts big international fairs and concerts. Korean VIBE Music Festival coming Dec 2025!
7. Phú Mỹ Hưng Weekend Market
Every Sat & Sun beside Crescent Lake — handmade goods, street performers, global street food.
2025 Transport & Budget Tips
- District 1 → District 7: Grab ≈ 150-200k VND (20-30 min)
- Download “Phú Mỹ Hưng” App for free red shuttle buses
- Daily budget: Transport <300k + Food 200-500k + Shopping = your call!
Perfect One-Day Itinerary for First-Timers
- 09:00 Depart District 1 → Grab to Crescent Mall for breakfast
- 10:00-13:00 Shop Crescent Mall + SC VivoCity
- 13:00 Lakeside lunch (The Coffee House with lake view recommended)
- 14:00-17:00 Stroll Crescent Lake → Starlight Bridge photos → chill in the park
- 17:30 Sunset + light show on Starlight Bridge
- 18:30 Korean dinner in Phú Mỹ Hưng (try Gogi House or Seoul Garden)
- 20:30 Drinks at The Panorama Skybar (or head back)
Final Thoughts
District 7 is no longer “only for rich people.” It’s the “other Vietnam” every traveler to HCMC should experience — ultra-modern comfort and international vibes without the chaos.
Next time you’re in Saigon, save half your heart for District 7. You’ll fall in love!
Love this guide? Please like & share so more people discover District 7! Questions → drop a comment, I reply personally ♡
Last updated & field-checked: November 23, 2025
