8 Ideas to Go in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese Women’s Day

Vietnamese Women’s Day on October 20 is an occasion to spend meaningful time with mothers, wives, partners, friends or other important women in your life. In Ho Chi Minh City, there are plenty of ways to celebrate this special day, from visiting cultural landmarks and taking photos at iconic locations to enjoying a riverside walk, relaxing moments, or a memorable meal while admiring the city lights at night.

Located in the heart of the city, Novotel Saigon Centre suggests some ideal places to visit for October 20 celebrations around District 3 and central Ho Chi Minh City.

Where should you go in Ho Chi Minh City on 20 October?

For those looking for an activity directly connected with the meaning of Vietnamese Women’s Day, the Southern Women’s Museum is a destination worth considering. For couples or groups of friends who enjoy photography and walking around the city, Tan Dinh Church, Turtle Lake and Nguyen Hue Walking Street can easily be combined into the same itinerary. Bach Dang Wharf is more suitable for late afternoon, when visitors can enjoy a riverside walk and watch the city transition into the evening.

Beyond sightseeing, 20 October can also simply be a day for relaxation. A spa treatment, a special dinner or a few hours enjoying drinks at a rooftop bar are all suitable options for those who prefer a slower and less packed schedule.

Quick guide to 20 October destinations in Ho Chi Minh City

Recommended places to visit on 20 October in Ho Chi Minh City

Southern Women’s Museum – a destination connected with the meaning of 20 October

For those who want their 20 October celebration to include a cultural element rather than focusing only on dining or photography, the Southern Women’s Museum is a suitable choice. The museum preserves documents, artefacts and stories highlighting the role of Southern Vietnamese women in history, family life, culture and society.

The idea of establishing a museum dedicated to women was inspired by 20 October 1982. As a result, this destination has a particularly meaningful connection with Vietnamese Women’s Day and is suitable for a visit with mothers or family members.

A visit does not necessarily need to take up an entire day. Visitors can spend the morning or early afternoon at the museum before continuing to other attractions near the city centre.

Tan Dinh Church – a photo stop and city walk along Hai Ba Trung Street

Tan Dinh Church stands out with its distinctive architecture and recognisable pink façade in central Ho Chi Minh City. It is a suitable stop for couples or groups of friends looking for a gentle 20 October activity combining a walk through the city with memorable photos.

Located on Hai Ba Trung Street, the church is also convenient to combine with attractions around the former District 3 and District 1 areas. Instead of spending too much time at one location, visitors can stop by Tan Dinh Church in the afternoon before continuing to Turtle Lake or other central attractions.

When visiting, remember that this remains an active religious site. Visitors should dress appropriately and avoid disturbing religious ceremonies taking place inside.

Turtle Lake – a relaxed stop in the heart of the city

Not every 20 October outing needs to involve an elaborate venue. Turtle Lake is suitable for those who simply want to walk, talk and spend meaningful time together in a familiar Saigon setting.

Its central location is one of its biggest advantages. From Turtle Lake, visitors can easily continue towards Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, Saigon Central Post Office or Nguyen Hue Walking Street without requiring a complicated itinerary.

If visiting in the afternoon, it is best to spend a reasonable amount of time here before moving on before peak hours. A short itinerary combining Tan Dinh Church – Turtle Lake – dinner is often more practical than trying to visit too many attractions located far apart.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street – Enjoy Saigon’s Evening Atmosphere

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a familiar choice for evenings in central Ho Chi Minh City. Its open space, views of urban architecture and convenient location near many attractions make it suitable for couples, families and groups of friends.

The most comfortable time to visit is usually late afternoon and evening. Visitors can start near the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee building, walk along Nguyen Hue Street and continue towards the riverside area. For those who prefer a flexible itinerary rather than a fixed schedule, this area is also convenient because there are many restaurants, cafés and places to stop nearby.

Special programmes for 20 October may vary each year. If you are planning to attend a specific event, check official announcements closer to the date rather than assuming that Nguyen Hue Walking Street will always have a dedicated activity.

Bach Dang Wharf – Enjoy Riverside Views at the End of the Day

After walking around Nguyen Hue, visitors can take their mother or partner for a stroll along Bach Dang Wharf, which is only around a five-minute walk away. The riverside area is suitable for an evening walk when the weather becomes cooler and the city lights begin to appear.

This is a good option for those who prefer a relaxed date rather than a schedule filled with activities. Visitors can spend time talking, enjoying views of the Saigon River and then continue to dinner afterwards.

Add a Relaxing Experience at The Spa

A 20 October celebration does not necessarily need to revolve around sightseeing. For those with busy schedules or anyone looking to spend meaningful time with themselves, their mother or their partner, a spa treatment can be a more suitable choice.

The Spa at Novotel Saigon Centre is located within the hotel, making it convenient to combine with dining or other activities during the day. It is also worth considering for guests travelling with their mother, wife or partner who prefer not to spend too much time moving between different locations.

When choosing a spa experience for 20 October, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance and confirm the available treatments and duration directly. Seasonal promotions may change, so previous years’ offers should not be assumed to remain available.

Dinner and City Views at Novotel Saigon Centre

Located at 167 Hai Ba Trung, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Novotel Saigon Centre is conveniently positioned for ending an itinerary around District 3 and the city centre. The hotel features Food Exchange Restaurant and OnTop Bar, along with other facilities for relaxation and leisure.

This combination is especially suitable for guests who prefer not to continue travelling after an afternoon of sightseeing: return to the hotel, take some time to relax, then enjoy a meal or head upstairs for city views.

Dining at Food Exchange Restaurant

Food Exchange Restaurant is suitable for meals with family, couples or groups of friends. Located inside Novotel Saigon Centre, the restaurant is convenient for guests who have spent the day exploring attractions around Hai Ba Trung, the former District 3 area or central District 1.

Rather than focusing only on a “romantic dinner”, this can also be a thoughtful option for inviting mothers or family members to enjoy a meal together on 20 October. It offers a simpler experience compared with a full-day itinerary while still creating meaningful time to reconnect.

Any buffet programmes or special 20 October offers should be checked at the time of reservation, as seasonal menus and promotions may change.

End the Evening at OnTop Bar

For those who want to extend the evening after dinner, OnTop Bar is another option located within Novotel Saigon Centre. The rooftop bar is situated on the 20th floor, offering views over the central city area.

The atmosphere is suitable for couples or groups of friends who want to sit, chat and enjoy drinks after spending much of the day walking and sightseeing. Instead of moving to another venue, ending the evening at the hotel can make the experience more relaxed.

OnTop Bar offers a Happy Hour from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a buy-one-get-one offer available on selected drinks. However, guests should check the latest details at the time of visit as operating hours and promotion conditions may change.

Suggested Half-Day 20 October Itinerary from Novotel Saigon Centre

If you only have an afternoon and evening available, there is no need to travel too far. An itinerary focused around District 3 and central Ho Chi Minh City is easier to manage.

The afternoon can begin at the Southern Women’s Museum, where visitors can learn about stories and contributions of Southern Vietnamese women. Afterwards, continue along Hai Ba Trung Street to visit Tan Dinh Church, then head to Turtle Lake in the late afternoon.

From there, return to Novotel Saigon Centre to relax or enjoy some time at The Spa. In the evening, have dinner at Food Exchange Restaurant, then finish the day at OnTop Bar for city views and conversations.

For those who prefer walking, another option is to spend the afternoon around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, continue to Bach Dang Wharf during sunset, then return towards the Hai Ba Trung area for dinner or relaxation.

Both itineraries prioritise relatively short distances and avoid the need for frequent transfers between different parts of the city.

Tips for Planning a 20 October Outing in Ho Chi Minh City

20 October is often a busier occasion for restaurants, spas and date venues, especially in the evening. If you already have a preferred dining location or want to use spa services, it is better to reserve in advance rather than wait until the day itself.

A good itinerary also does not need too many stops. For half a day, around two to three attractions combined with a meal is usually enough to maintain a comfortable pace. During peak hours in central Ho Chi Minh City, actual travel time may take longer than expected.

For outdoor activities such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Turtle Lake or Bach Dang Wharf, prepare an indoor alternative in case of unfavourable weather. Museums, spas, restaurants or nearby cafés can provide suitable alternatives without changing the entire plan.

Finally, special programmes for 20 October are usually announced closer to the date. Before booking a venue based on a specific promotion or event, check the latest official information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrating 20 October in Ho Chi Minh City

Where should couples go on 20 October in Ho Chi Minh City?

For an itinerary that combines outdoor activities and an evening experience, couples can consider Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Bach Dang Wharf, dinner and a rooftop bar afterwards. For a more relaxed plan, Tan Dinh Church – Turtle Lake – dinner is an easy route to follow.

Where should you take your mother on 20 October?

The Southern Women’s Museum is a meaningful choice because of its connection with women’s history and Vietnamese Women’s Day. After the visit, families can enjoy a meal together or choose a relaxing spa experience instead of visiting many attractions.

Where should you go in central Ho Chi Minh City on the evening of 20 October?

Nguyen Hue Walking Street and Bach Dang Wharf are suitable for those who enjoy outdoor walks. If you prefer a place to sit and spend more time together, a restaurant or OnTop Bar at Novotel Saigon Centre can be a comfortable option for dining, drinks and city views.

Do you need to make reservations for 20 October?

For public spaces such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street or Bach Dang Wharf, reservations are generally not required. However, restaurants, spas and rooftop bars should be contacted in advance, especially for evening visits.