Ben Bach Dang, located beside the peaceful Saigon River, is an ideal stop for visitors. With its open space and captivating scenery, this place is rich in historical stories and serves as a relaxing retreat in the evenings, where people can enjoy stunning sunsets and delicious local food.
1. Where is Ben Bach Dang located?
When mentioning the beautiful spots along the calm Saigon River, Ben Bach Dang stands out like a vivid painting in the heart of the city. Situated where the Saigon River flows quietly, Ben Bach Dang has witnessed many years of history. Once a bustling port, it was a place of lively trade and vibrant maritime activity. Over time, Ben Bach Dang has undergone numerous constructions and expansions, now serving as a harbor area combined with a park, covering an area of 23,400 square meters. Stretching 1.3 kilometers along the riverbank, Ben Bach Dang today is not only a memory of a golden past but also a peaceful stop where visitors can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the lively rhythm of the city. With its majestic architecture and spacious environment, it is not just a resting place, but also a source of inspiration for travelers. Located in a prime area on Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Bach Dang is like a peaceful haven amid the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, always welcoming explorers. From Ben Bach Dang, you can admire the modern skyscrapers of District 1, standing like giants sparkling under the sunset.
2. The history of Ben Bach Dang
Ben Bach Dang, like a golden chapter of our ancestors’ history, has always been an essential destination for anyone setting foot in Saigon – Gia Dinh. The name Bach Dang not only evokes the beauty of the river but also deeply engraves the heroic victories of the nation, particularly the three triumphs over the Mongol – Yuan forces in 938, 981, and 1288.
The stories of Bến Bạch Đằng are like vivid pages of a book, always astonishing and captivating visitors. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the area around Ben Nghe, from Thi Nghe Creek to Ben Nghe Creek, was not merely a dock, but a historical meeting point, home to military docks, the king’s boats, and the small ferries of the local people. By the late 19th century, the French brought a breath of modernity, transforming the riverbank with advanced ports. The Khanh Hoi Port, also known as Saigon’s commercial port, emerged as a symbol of change. The area from the Thu Ngu Flagpole to Ba Son workshop was divided into multiple docks, serving all kinds of vessels. In 1912, the Thu Thiem ferry terminal was transformed into a ferry station, and in 1955, the name Ben Bach Dang officially appeared, marking a new chapter from Me Linh Square to the Thu Ngu Flagpole. Each story, each fragment of Ben Bach Dang’s history, adds to the cultural fabric of Saigon, making it not just a place to visit but a journey of discovery.
In the 1950s and 60s, Ben Bach Dang was not only a stopover but also a romantic rendezvous for many couples. Beneath the soft glow of the sunset, by the peaceful Saigon River, the evenings here seemed to come alive with laughter and sweet whispers.
Today, Ben Bach Dang has donned a new look, with modern entertainment areas, luxury hotels, and stunning cruise ships, offering visitors an extraordinary experience amidst the bustling pace of the city. Yet, no matter how much it changes, Bến Bạch Đằng still retains a touch of its old romantic charm, a space where people can reconnect with memories and dreams of a bygone era.
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3. Exciting experiences at Ben Bach Dang
3.1. Exploring the port park
When visiting Ben Bach Dang, don’t forget to take some time to stroll through the nearby Bach Dang Park. With a length of over 1.3 km, it is considered one of the largest green parks in Saigon, where you can immerse yourself in the refreshing natural surroundings. The park is lined with comfortable stone benches, allowing visitors to rest while enjoying views of the river and the bustling activities around. Bach Dang Park is also a popular spot to watch beautiful fireworks displays during holidays and festivals, where locals and tourists alike gather to join in the festive atmosphere.
A special highlight of the park is the “SaiGon Central Market,” a weekend market that features a wide variety of goods and Vietnamese cuisine. It also offers captivating cultural and artistic exchange programs, transporting you into a vibrant world full of colors and lively sounds.
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3.2. The exciting waterbus experience
An unmissable highlight of your journey to explore Bến Bạch Đằng is the delightful waterbus experience. The trip takes you through four stops: Bach Dang, Binh An, Thanh Da, and Linh Dong, offering a leisurely cruise along the peaceful Saigon River. Here, you can relax and enjoy the cool breeze gently brushing over the water.
What makes this experience even more special is the opportunity to view the magnificent architectural landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City from a completely new perspective. The Saigon Bridge, Landmark 81, Bitexco Tower, and more appear vividly, like works of art against the blue sky. To ensure your trip is uninterrupted, remember to book your ticket online through the Saigon Waterbus app, so you can fully enjoy the beauty of the city without waiting. Every moment spent on the river will become a beautiful memory, etched in your heart.
3.3. Take stunning check-in photos
If you’re a photography enthusiast or simply want to capture some beautiful photos, Ben Bach Dang is the perfect spot. With its large-scale investment, Ben Bach Dang shines like a precious gem in the heart of the city, offering a sophisticated and modern beauty. No matter where you stand, you’ll be able to take stunning photos and capture unforgettable moments.
You can choose a vantage point with the backdrop of Me Linh Square, where the hustle and bustle of people and traffic creates a vibrant scene of urban life. Or you can simply sit by the stone benches near the Waterbus dock, where the gentle breeze and peaceful surroundings provide an ideal setting for photos you can’t miss. Every frame here tells a story and evokes an emotion, making your journey even more memorable.
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3.4. Discover Ben Bach Dang at night
When night falls, Ben Bach Dang transforms into a dazzling, colorful painting, with bright lights illuminating the Saigon River. Additionally, Ben Bach Dang is a great place to enjoy both Asian and European dishes aboard luxurious cruise ships or simply drift along the scenic river, admiring the enchanting beauty of the city at night.
In the evening, Ben Bach Dang becomes more crowded than ever, with visitors flocking to the area to enjoy the fresh, cool air and relax in comfort.
4. Attractive tourist destinations near Ben Bach Dang
4.1. Visit the Nha Rong Wharf
Previously, the Nha Rong Wharf served as the headquarters of Saigon’s commercial port, a structure built by the French colonists in 1863. After the war ended, the government of South Vietnam took over the site, renovating and redesigning it to preserve the historical significance of the building. Today, Nha Rong Wharf has become part of the nationwide system of museums dedicated to President Hồ Chí Minh, holding deep historical meaning.
It was here, on June 5, 1911, that President Ho Chi Minh boarded the ship Amiral Latouche Tréville, beginning his arduous journey to seek a path for national salvation and liberate the country from French colonial rule. Nowadays, Nha Rong Wharf has been transformed into a rich cultural space, featuring the Ho Chi Minh Museum, a statue of the President, a fountain, and a spacious waterfront area.
4.2. Stroll along Nguyen Hue pedestrian street
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue pedestrian street was officially inaugurated on April 30, 2015, after 7 months of diligent construction. It has since become an ideal destination for both tourists and locals. Spanning 670 meters from Le Thanh Tong Street to Ton Duc Thang Street, this area features not only the Ho Chi Minh statue park but also the vibrant Nguyen Hue square.
Nguyen Hue pedestrian street stands out with its modern and luxurious beauty, featuring a high-quality granite-paved roadway, shaded green trees, and two lively artistic fountains. Notably, the colorful water and light shows every evening create a magical atmosphere, attracting not only visitors but also becoming a source of pride for the city’s residents. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls, shop, savor street food, and immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm of the city, fully experiencing the beauty and energy of the place.
4.3. Visit the Reunification Palace
The Reunification Palace in Saigon is not just a building; it is a symbol of the nation’s longing for peace. With its unique architectural beauty, it has become an important historical site, marking significant chapters in Vietnam’s turbulent history. When exploring the city of Saigon, the Reunification Palace is an essential stop, preserving memories of a difficult yet proud era.
Built over 150 years ago, the Reunification Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. The foundation stone was laid by La Grandière, the French governor of southern Vietnam, in 1868, and the building was completed in 1871. Every corner of the palace holds stories and historical marks, allowing visitors to feel the breath of the past. Standing before the Reunification Palace, you are transported to a time where history and culture intersect, creating a Saigon that is both modern and reflective.
4.4. Shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market, an unmissable destination in your Saigon exploration, is a place that preserves the most distinctive cultural features of the city. Located in the heart of District 1, Ben Thanh Market has become a symbol of Saigon tourism, famous for its unique architecture and the rich historical stories it holds.
Over 100 years have passed, and the market still retains its ancient spirit, despite undergoing numerous renovations. The arches and columns evoke memories of the past, making it an ideal place for visitors to check in whenever they come to Saigon. Covering an area of 13,000 square meters and with more than 1,400 stalls, you will easily find everything from premium products to everyday goods, all blending into the lively and joyful atmosphere of daily life.
4.5. Explore Bui Vien Street
Bui Vien Street has long been a must-visit destination for the sleepless nights of Saigon’s youth. If you have the chance to visit Saigon, take some time to explore this famous street, where the atmosphere of entertainment and cuisine is filled with vibrant colors and flavors. Much like Ta Hien Street in Hanoi, Bui Vien is a gathering point for travelers from all around the world, from America to Europe, seeking new experiences.
Here, you can feel the cultural diversity through the delicious food, lively bars, and colorful art performances. Every corner, every sound seems to blend together, creating a vivid picture of urban life, where everyone can find joy and create lasting memories.
Ben Bach Dang, with its picturesque beauty and vibrant space, is truly an unmissable destination when visiting Saigon. Come to Ben Bach Dang, and you will understand why this place always holds a special spot in the hearts of both locals and visitors.
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