District 3 Area Guide
Located next to District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City, this residential district is regarded by many as ‘the’ place to live in the city. District 3 has all the convenience of being so close to the city centre and its offering of places to work and socialise, with all the allure of laidback Vietnamese culture, and all the style and substance of a hip neighbourhood.
This district, which borders District 1, Phú Nhuận District, District 10 and Tân Bình District, is a scenic area with tree-lined streets, old French colonial villas, and some beautiful parks. It oozes local charm with its pagodas (including HCMC’s largest, Xa Loi Pagoda) and buildings including Ky Dong Church and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Thanks to its small but decent offering of international schools, District 3 has become popular with expat families. Due to its location and up market status, rents here are on the more expensive side – but still cheaper than in District 1.
Transport
The Ho Chi Minh City Metro is due to open in 2019, which will improve accessibility in and out of District 3. If driving, motorists can use the Ho Chi Minh City - Trung Luong Expressway to Tiền Giang and the Mekong Delta, or the Ho Chi Minh City - Long Thanh - Dau Giay Expressway to connect to the southeast.
Schools
British International School (BIS), Ho Chi Minh City; Vietnam Australia International School.
Healthcare
As well as a chain of government-owned hospitals and medical centres, there are several private clinics including International SOS Vietnam, and the nearby Family Medical Practice.
Attractions
Soak up the local culture in District 3 with visits to museums such as the Southern Vietnam Women's Museum and the War Remnants Museum, as well as pagodas such as the Jade Emperor.
Shopping
Boutiques and independent stores line the streets around An Phu and Thao Dien; there are also several shopping malls that are home to global brands and independent stores.
Bars and restaurants
There’s certainly no shortage of excellent and rustic street food eateries, boutique cafes, and some of HCMC’s most fashionable bars. It’s as much a place to see as to be seen in.
District 3 Ratings
District 3 Pros & Cons
