Where to go during Tet in Ho Chi Minh?

During Tet in Ho Chi Minh City (late Jan/early Feb 2026), visit the bustling Nguyen Hue Flower Street, Tao Dan Park for the Spring Flower Festival, and pagodas like Vinh Nghiem for traditional rituals. Key attractions like the Independence Palace and Cu Chi Tunnels remain open. Expect beautiful, quiet streets perfect for walking, along with fireworks on Lunar New Year's Eve.

Where to celebrate Tet in Ho Chi Minh City?

Morning: Start your day at Nguyen Hue Flower Street to experience the festive Tet decorations and capture morning photos before the crowds arrive. From there, head to Ho Thi Ky Flower Market to see locals buying Tet flowers and kumquat trees, immersing yourself in authentic Lunar New Year preparations.

What is open during Tet Ho Chi Minh?

Many businesses will close over Tet. In big cities, like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you won't have to worry too much - plenty of restaurants and tourist attractions will remain open. However, in small towns, many local businesses will close up shop for the entire holiday. Plan ahead so you don't go hungry.

Where is the best place to spend Tet in Vietnam?

If you enjoy festivals, crowds, and city energy, destinations like Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang are ideal. For a slower, more cultural experience, Hanoi, Hue, or Ninh Binh offer meaningful traditions and calmer surroundings.

What should you not do during Tet?

I. Don'ts During Tet in Vietnam

• Avoid entering Vietnamese' house on the 1st day of Lunar New Year without invitation. ...
• Avoid wearing black or white, go for red. ...
• Avoid negative topics. ...
• Avoid demanding money during Tet. ...
• Do not eat duck meat, squids, shrimps during Tet. ...
• Don't take water and fire away from Vietnamese houses.

Vietnamese New Year 2026 Travel Guide: Best Dates, Closures & What to Expect

Is it worth visiting Vietnam during Tet?

Visit the pagodas and temples

Tết isn't just a family festival. For many people it's a deeply religious and moving time of the year. Hanoians will use their free time over Tết to visit their favourite temples and pray for luck and prosperity. For visitors to Hanoi it's well worth spending some time visiting them too.

What color to wear for a Tet?

Everyone from men to women to children don their finest traditional garb. Red and yellow are popular colors during the Lunar New Year festivities because they are said to bring luck and happiness.

What to avoid in Ho Chi Minh?

Petty crime in Ho Chi Minh City

• Carry bags cross-body and on the side away from traffic.
• Keep phones and cameras secure when taking photos near the street.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewellery.
• Store passports and valuables in your hotel safe.

Are hotels open during Tet?

Be sure to book early. 𝟐. 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: most hotels remain open, so there is no need to worry about accommodation. However, some hotels may raise the price if you stay during the Tet holiday.

Are shops open during Tet in Vietnam?

During Tet, many shops, restaurants, and services close. Those that stay open may change their hours and at holiday surcharges but Tet is still an amazing time to visit. It is festive, warm, and full of celebrations. You just need to book transportation early and stay flexible.

Where can I watch fireworks in Ho Chi Minh?

The Thu Thiem Tunnel area remains one of the most iconic fireworks locations in Ho Chi Minh City. Located across the Saigon River from District 1, this area offers expansive open space and clear sightlines. Fireworks launched here are visible from multiple riverside points, including popular areas in District 1.

How much is a massage in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

District 1 is home to some of the best cheap/affordable massage Vietnam experiences. Expect to pay 200,000–300,000 VND ($8–12) for a one-hour session.

What to avoid during Tet?

Avoid Sweeping the House or Taking Out the Trash on the First Day of Tet. According to folk beliefs, sweeping the house or throwing away trash during the first days of the Lunar New Year may also sweep away good luck and fortune, leading to financial difficulties for the family.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh during Tet?

Must-Try Activities in Ho Chi Minh City During Tet

• Take a boat tour of the Saigon River: ...
• Participate in Tet customs: ...
• Attend a lion dance show: ...
• Attend a Tet concert or festival: ...
• Visit the Tet flower markets: ...
• Visit the Lunar New Year Festival at Tao Dan Park: ...
• Enjoy traditional Tet foods:

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What can I buy with 5,000 dong in Vietnam?

Street Snacks - A Paradise Starting from Just 5,000 Vietnamese Dong. Banh trang tron, bubble tea, fried fermented pork rolls, Vietnamese sweet soup (che thap cam)… all can be found for just 5,000 to 25,000 Vietnamese Dong per item. With 100,000 Vietnamese Dong, you can enjoy a true “street food buffet” experience!

Should I bring dong or USD to Vietnam?

US dollar is a widely accepted currency in Vietnam and most goods and services can be paid for in Dongs or Dollars. It is good to carry a combination of both at all times. It is also preferable if the dollar bills are in good condition as many businesses may refuse to accept worn out notes.

What does 444 mean in Vietnam?

444 Angel Number Death

In certain cultures, the word for the number 4 and the word for death are surprisingly similar. "Four" in Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese and Korean all sound almost the same as the word "death." For this reason, the number 444 is sometimes seen as a not-so-positive thing.

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

Unspoken rules in Vietnam emphasize respect, harmony, and modesty, requiring visitors to remove shoes indoors, dress conservatively (especially at religious sites), stay calm in public (avoiding loud confrontation), and show respect for elders. Key etiquette includes mastering chopsticks (don't pass food, stick them upright), accepting offers of food/drink gracefully, using both hands for transactions, and understanding that public affection is generally frowned upon.
 

What does 🤙 mean in texting?

The 🤙 emoji officially means “call me” or “hit me up.” But this emoji is much more commonly used as the shaka emoji, which means “hang loose.” Use this friendly and ~super chill~ emoji to express some laid-back and lighthearted energy. Example Text: “Can't wait to get the gang together later 🤙”