Thing to do
Ben Thanh Market
The covered market of central Saigon, in its clock-towered building since 1914, selling food, coffee, crafts and clothing, with a night market on the streets outside.
Saigon Skydeck
A 360-degree observation deck on the 49th floor of the lotus-shaped Bitexco Financial Tower, about 178 metres above the centre of Ho Chi Minh City.
At a glance
- Type
- Observation deck
- Area
- District 1 (Saigon), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Official site
- bitexcofinancialtower.com
Good to know
- 360-degree views
- High-speed lifts
Why we recommend it
The Saigon Skydeck is the observation deck of Bitexco Financial Tower, the slender skyscraper that has been the defining shape of the downtown skyline since it opened on 31 October 2010. Designed by the architect Carlos Zapata, with the French firm AREP as architect of record, the tower takes its inspiration from the lotus, Vietnam's national flower, and rises 262.5 metres over 68 floors. Its most distinctive feature is the helipad that juts out from the 52nd floor, extending about 22 metres from the building and believed to be the first non-rooftop helipad in Vietnam.
The Skydeck is on the 49th floor, about 178 metres up, and gives a 360-degree view over the city. On a clear day you can follow the Saigon River and look out over the low colonial heart of District 1 and the newer towers beyond. The tower's operators describe it as one of the highest viewing points in the city, reached by fast lifts. Higher up, the 51st floor is home to EON51, a fine-dining restaurant.
The deck suits first-time visitors who want to get their bearings, as well as families and photographers. The best light is usually in the late afternoon, when you can watch the sun set and the city lights come on in a single visit. Haze can reduce visibility in the middle of the day, and in the rainy season, from around May to November, afternoon showers may roll in, so it is worth checking the sky before you buy a ticket. Allow around an hour.
Tickets are sold at the tower and through booking platforms, and opening hours and prices change from time to time, so check the latest information before you go. Taller buildings now exist in the city, notably the 461-metre Landmark 81, but the Skydeck has the advantage of being right in the centre, within walking distance of most District 1 hotels.
The tower stands at 2 Hai Trieu Street, near the southern end of Nguyen Hue Walking Street and a few minutes from the riverfront. It is easy to combine with an evening stroll along Nguyen Hue and dinner nearby.
Saigon Skydeck FAQs
Which floor is the Saigon Skydeck on?
The 49th floor of Bitexco Financial Tower, about 178 metres above the ground.
When did Bitexco Financial Tower open?
On 31 October 2010.
How tall is the tower?
It rises 262.5 metres, with 68 floors above ground.
What inspired the tower's design?
The lotus, Vietnam's national flower.
When is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, so you can see the view by day and watch the city lights come on.
How long should I allow?
Around an hour.
Where is it?
At 2 Hai Trieu Street, near the southern end of Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Is there a restaurant in the tower?
Yes, EON51 is a fine-dining restaurant on the 51st floor.