Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City (still called Saigon by locals) is Vietnam's energetic southern hub — a city of roaring motorbikes, French colonial landmarks, and some of the best street food on earth. The War Remnants Museum is sobering, the Ben Thanh Market is overwhelming, and the coffee culture is addictive. Always evolving, always buzzing.
Tours & Experiences
Browse bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Ho Chi Minh City
📍 Points of Interest
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📋The Rundown
Ho Chi Minh City was known as Saigon until 1976 and locals still commonly use both names interchangeably
The city has over 9 million residents but an estimated 7.5 million motorbikes, creating its iconic swarm of two-wheeled traffic
Vietnamese coffee culture is world-renowned — the country is the second-largest coffee producer globally after Brazil
The Cu Chi Tunnels, a 250-kilometer underground network used during the Vietnam War, are just 40 km northwest of the city center
Street food is a way of life — many of the city's best meals are served on tiny plastic stools on the sidewalk for under two dollars
The city's French colonial heritage is visible in its architecture, from the Central Post Office designed by Gustave Eiffel's firm to Notre-Dame Cathedral
🏛️Must-See Spots
War Remnants Museum
🏛️A powerful and sobering museum documenting the Vietnam War through photographs, military equipment, and personal testimonies. It is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam.
Ben Thanh Market
🏪The iconic covered market dating to 1912, filled with stalls selling everything from lacquerware and ao dai to fresh produce and street food. The surrounding night market opens when the main hall closes.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica
🗼A striking neo-Romanesque cathedral built with bricks imported from Marseille in the 1880s. Currently under extensive renovation but the exterior remains an iconic photo stop.
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
🗼The former presidential palace where a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the gates in 1975, ending the war. The interior is preserved as a time capsule of 1960s modernist architecture.
Cu Chi Tunnels
📌An extensive underground tunnel network used by Viet Cong guerrillas during the war. Two sites are open to visitors — Ben Dinh (more tourist-friendly) and Ben Duoc (more authentic).
Jade Emperor Pagoda
🏯One of the most atmospheric Chinese temples in the city, built in 1909 and filled with elaborate wood carvings, incense coils, and statues of Taoist and Buddhist deities.
Bitexco Financial Tower & Saigon Skydeck
📌The lotus-shaped skyscraper that defined the modern Saigon skyline. The 49th-floor Skydeck offers 360-degree views of the sprawling city and Saigon River.
Saigon Central Post Office
🗼A gorgeous French colonial building designed by Alfred Foulhoux in the 1880s with vaulted ceilings, hand-painted maps, and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh. Still a functioning post office.
🗺️Where to Next
Mekong Delta
A lush network of rivers, swamps, and floating markets where locals trade tropical fruits from boats. Cai Be and Cai Rang floating markets are the most popular stops.
Mui Ne
A coastal resort town known for its dramatic red and white sand dunes, kitesurfing, and seafood. A popular weekend escape from the city.
Da Lat
A highland retreat at 1,500m with cool climate, French colonial villas, and flower gardens. VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines fly frequently from Tan Son Nhat.
Phu Quoc Island
Vietnam's largest island with white sand beaches, coral reefs, and fish sauce factories. VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines operate multiple daily flights.
Phnom Penh
Cambodia's capital with the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Multiple daily buses cross the border at Moc Bai.
Singapore
A major Southeast Asian hub with world-class food, gardens, and shopping. Singapore Airlines, VietJet Air, and Scoot operate frequent direct flights.
Bangkok
Thailand's vibrant capital with temples, street food, and nightlife. VietJet Air, AirAsia, Thai Airways, and Vietnam Airlines all fly the route frequently.
Hanoi
Vietnam's capital with the atmospheric Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, French colonial architecture, and legendary street food. Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways fly dozens of daily flights on one of Asia's busiest domestic routes.
📍Hidden Gems
Cafe Apartments (42 Nguyen Hue)
A 1960s apartment block on the main walking street that has been converted into a vertical village of independent cafes, each with its own character and rooftop views.
While tourists walk past on the boulevard below, the upper floors house dozens of quirky cafes with city views. Each floor has a different vibe.
Thieves Market (Cho Troi)
An early-morning market where locals sell everything from vintage watches and old coins to used electronics and war memorabilia, laid out on tarps along the sidewalk.
This market starts before dawn and wraps up by 8 AM. It is a glimpse into old Saigon that most tourists never see.
The Alleyways of District 4
Narrow lanes packed with street food stalls, local bia hoi bars, and daily life playing out in miniature. District 4 was once considered rough but is now a foodie destination.
This is where HCMC locals eat some of the city's best banh mi, hu tieu, and bo kho at a fraction of District 1 prices.
Thanh Da Island
A sleepy river island in the middle of the city accessible by ferry, with coconut groves, riverside seafood restaurants, and a pace of life that feels decades behind the metropolis.
Just minutes from the city center, this island feels like rural Vietnam. The ferry ride alone is worth it for the views.
Xa Loi Pagoda
A historically significant Buddhist temple that played a central role in the 1963 Buddhist crisis. Less visited than other pagodas but with a powerful atmosphere.
This pagoda was the site of dramatic protests and raids in 1963. It offers a quieter, more contemplative experience than the Jade Emperor Pagoda.
☀️Weather
Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet (May-November) and dry (December-April). Temperatures stay hot year-round, typically between 25-35 degrees Celsius. The wet season brings heavy but usually brief afternoon downpours.
Dry Season (Cool)
December - February72-90°F
22-32°C
The most comfortable time to visit with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Evenings can feel pleasantly cool by local standards.
Dry Season (Hot)
March - May79-97°F
26-36°C
The hottest months with intense sun and rising humidity as the wet season approaches. April and May can be sweltering.
Wet Season (Peak)
June - September77-91°F
25-33°C
Heavy afternoon downpours lasting one to two hours, then clearing. Mornings are usually sunny. Streets can flood briefly during intense storms.
Wet Season (Late)
October - November75-90°F
24-32°C
Rain begins to taper off with fewer but sometimes heavier storms. November transitions into the dry season. Humidity starts to drop.
🛡️Safety
Moderate
out of 100
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for tourists but petty crime, especially bag snatching by motorbike riders, is a genuine concern. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Traffic is the biggest daily hazard — crossing the street requires confidence and a steady pace.
Things to Know
- •Bag snatching from motorbikes is common — carry bags on the side away from the road and use a crossbody bag
- •When crossing the street, walk at a steady pace without stopping or running — motorbikes will flow around you
- •Use Grab (the local ride-hailing app) instead of hailing random motorbike taxis to avoid fare disputes
- •Keep your phone secure when walking near the road — phone snatching is increasingly common
- •Avoid cyclo (pedicab) rides in tourist areas unless you agree on a firm price beforehand
- •Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering to practice English — common scam leading to inflated bar bills
Natural Hazards
Emergency Numbers
General Emergency
113
Police
113
Fire Department
114
Ambulance
115
🚕Transit & Transport
Ho Chi Minh City's public transit is developing rapidly with its first metro line (Line 1) connecting Ben Thanh to Thu Duc. However, motorbike taxis (xe om) and ride-hailing apps remain the most practical way to get around. Traffic congestion is severe during rush hours.
Grab
15,000-30,000 VND ($0.60-1.20) for GrabBike; 50,000-150,000 VND ($2-6) for GrabCarSoutheast Asia's dominant ride-hailing app offering car, motorbike, and delivery services. The most convenient and safest way to get around with transparent pricing.
Best for: Most trips around the city, especially at night or when you are unfamiliar with the area
HCMC Metro Line 1
7,000-20,000 VND ($0.28-0.80)The city's first metro line running from Ben Thanh Market to Suoi Tien in Thu Duc, with 14 stations. Air-conditioned and modern.
Best for: Traveling between the city center and eastern districts along the metro corridor
City Buses
5,000-7,000 VND ($0.20-0.28)An extensive network of air-conditioned buses covering most of the city. Cheap but slow due to traffic. Route maps available on the BusMap app.
Best for: Budget travelers and longer crosstown routes where the metro does not run
Mai Linh / Vinasun Taxis
50,000-150,000 VND ($2-6) for most crosstown tripsThe two most reputable metered taxi companies. Stick to these brands or use Grab to avoid rigged meters from unlicensed operators.
Best for: Groups of three to four, heavy luggage, or when you prefer air conditioning and doors
Motorbike Rental
100,000-200,000 VND ($4-8) per day for a scooterRenting a motorbike is popular with experienced riders. An International Driving Permit is technically required. Traffic is chaotic and not for beginners.
Best for: Experienced riders who want maximum flexibility and the authentic Saigon experience
🚶 Walkability
The city center (District 1) is walkable but sidewalks are often blocked by parked motorbikes and food stalls. Walking in the heat can be exhausting. Bui Vien and Nguyen Hue streets are pedestrianized. Most visitors combine walking with Grab rides.
✈️Getting In & Out
✈️ Airports
Tan Son Nhat International Airport(SGN)
7 km north of District 1Grab/taxi takes 20-60 minutes depending on traffic (80,000-150,000 VND / $3.20-6). Bus 109 runs to the city center for 20,000 VND ($0.80). The metro Line 1 extension to the airport is under construction.
🚆 Rail Stations
Saigon Railway Station (Ga Sai Gon)
3 km northwest of District 1 centerTerminus for the Reunification Express connecting HCMC to Hanoi (30-34 hours), with stops in Nha Trang (7h), Da Nang (17h), and Hue (20h). Sleeper berths are the most comfortable option.
🚌 Bus Terminals
Mien Dong Bus Station (New)
The modern long-distance bus terminal in Thu Duc handling routes to central and northern Vietnam, plus international services to Cambodia.
Mien Tay Bus Station
Main terminal for buses to the Mekong Delta region including Can Tho, My Tho, and other southern destinations.
🛍️Shopping
Ho Chi Minh City offers everything from chaotic local markets to modern malls. Bargaining is expected at markets and small shops but not in department stores. The city is especially good for custom tailoring, lacquerware, and Vietnamese coffee.
Ben Thanh Market
traditional marketThe city's most iconic market with hundreds of stalls under one roof. Touristy but still a quintessential experience. Bargain hard — start at 40-50% of the asking price.
Known for: Lacquerware, ao dai, dried fruits, Vietnamese coffee, souvenirs
Dong Khoi Street
upscale retailThe former Rue Catinat from the French colonial era, now lined with international brands, boutique hotels, and high-end Vietnamese design shops.
Known for: Vietnamese designer fashion, art galleries, luxury goods
Saigon Square
bargain shoppingTwo indoor markets (Saigon Square 1 and 2) popular with locals for branded and unbranded clothing, bags, and accessories at low prices. Bargaining essential.
Known for: Affordable clothing, bags, shoes, accessories
Binh Tay Market (Cho Lon)
wholesale marketThe massive market in Chinatown that serves as a wholesale hub for the south. More authentic and less touristy than Ben Thanh, with Chinese-Vietnamese food stalls.
Known for: Chinese herbs, dried goods, wholesale fabrics, local snacks
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Vietnamese drip coffee filters (phin) with locally roasted beans from the Central Highlands
- •Ao dai fabric or a custom-tailored ao dai dress
- •Lacquerware bowls, boxes, and art pieces from workshops in District 12
- •Handmade conical hats (non la)
- •Vietnamese silk lanterns and embroidered textiles
- •Fish sauce from Phu Quoc or Phan Thiet
- •Propaganda art posters (reproductions) from shops on Nguyen Hue
- •Vietnamese iced coffee sets with condensed milk
💵Money & Tipping
Vietnamese Dong
Code: VND
1 USD is approximately 25,000 VND (as of early 2026). ATMs are everywhere but often charge 30,000-50,000 VND per withdrawal. Bring crisp USD bills for favorable exchange at gold shops and exchange offices.
Payment Methods
Vietnam is still largely a cash economy, especially at markets, street food stalls, and smaller shops. Cards are accepted at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are most common. Mobile payments via MoMo and ZaloPay are growing rapidly among locals.
Tipping Guide
Tipping is not expected at local restaurants or street food stalls. At upscale restaurants, 5-10% is appreciated but not required. Some high-end places add a 5% service charge.
Not expected. Leaving small change is a kind gesture but not customary.
Not expected. Rounding up to the nearest 10,000 VND is a nice gesture for taxi drivers.
Porters receive 20,000-50,000 VND per bag. Housekeeping 20,000-50,000 VND per day at mid-range or luxury hotels.
Tipping guides is customary: 100,000-200,000 VND ($4-8) per person for a day tour is standard. Drivers receive about half that amount.
💰Budget
budget
$25-45
Hostel dorm, street food meals, local buses and GrabBike, free temples and markets
mid-range
$60-120
Boutique hotel, mix of street food and restaurant meals, Grab rides, two to three paid attractions
luxury
$200+
Five-star hotel, fine dining, private tours, spa treatments, rooftop bars
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | 150,000-250,000 VND | $6-10 |
| AccommodationMid-range hotel (double) | 600,000-1,500,000 VND | $24-60 |
| AccommodationLuxury hotel | 3,000,000-8,000,000 VND | $120-320 |
| FoodPho or banh mi from a street stall | 25,000-50,000 VND | $1-2 |
| FoodVietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) | 15,000-35,000 VND | $0.60-1.40 |
| FoodLunch at a local restaurant | 50,000-100,000 VND | $2-4 |
| FoodDinner at mid-range restaurant | 200,000-500,000 VND | $8-20 |
| FoodBeer (Saigon or 333, bottle) | 15,000-30,000 VND | $0.60-1.20 |
| TransportGrabBike ride (5 km) | 15,000-30,000 VND | $0.60-1.20 |
| TransportGrabCar ride (5 km) | 50,000-80,000 VND | $2-3.20 |
| AttractionsWar Remnants Museum | 40,000 VND | $1.60 |
| AttractionsCu Chi Tunnels tour | 300,000-600,000 VND | $12-24 |
| AttractionsIndependence Palace | 65,000 VND | $2.60 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •Eat at street food stalls where locals eat — meals under 50,000 VND are common and often the best food in the city
- •Use GrabBike instead of GrabCar — it is faster in traffic and costs a fraction of the price
- •Drink bia hoi (fresh draft beer) at local spots for as little as 10,000 VND per glass
- •Bargain at Ben Thanh Market — start at 40-50% of the first price quoted
- •Many pagodas and temples are free to enter and offer beautiful architecture
- •Buy SIM cards at the airport for very cheap mobile data — around 100,000 VND for a month of data
- •Take the public bus route 109 from the airport instead of a taxi
- •Stay in District 3 for lower accommodation prices than District 1 while remaining central
🗓️When to Visit
Best Time to Visit
December through April is the dry season with the most comfortable conditions. The coolest and most pleasant months are December through February. The city is enjoyable year-round if you do not mind afternoon rain showers.
Dry Season (December - April)
Crowds: High — peak tourist season, especially around Tet (Vietnamese New Year)Sunny days with low humidity and minimal rain. The best time for sightseeing and exploring on foot or motorbike without weather interruptions.
Pros
- + Comfortable temperatures and low humidity
- + Ideal for outdoor sightseeing
- + Less chance of flooding
- + Great for day trips to the delta and coast
Cons
- − Peak tourist season means higher prices
- − Tet period (January/February) sees many local businesses close for a week
- − March-April can be very hot
Early Wet Season (May - July)
Crowds: ModerateRain picks up but usually comes as short, heavy afternoon showers that clear quickly. Mornings are often sunny and fine for exploring.
Pros
- + Fewer tourists and lower hotel prices
- + Morning hours are usually dry and sunny
- + The city feels greener and more lush
- + Short rain showers provide relief from heat
Cons
- − Afternoon plans may need flexibility
- − Humidity increases noticeably
- − Some outdoor activities may be disrupted
Peak Wet Season (August - October)
Crowds: Low — cheapest time to visitThe heaviest rainfall months with intense storms that can cause street flooding. Rain can last longer and come at any time of day.
Pros
- + Lowest prices for accommodation and flights
- + Few tourists
- + Indoor attractions like museums are less crowded
- + The city has a moody, atmospheric quality
Cons
- − Significant flooding is possible
- − Some outdoor tours may be canceled
- − Humidity is at its peak
- − Traffic congestion worsens in rain
Transition (November)
Crowds: Moderate — building toward peak seasonRain begins to taper off as the dry season approaches. A good shoulder month with decreasing rainfall and moderate tourist numbers.
Pros
- + Rain is decreasing but prices have not yet risen
- + Good availability at hotels
- + Comfortable temperatures returning
Cons
- − Some heavy storms still possible
- − Can be unpredictable weather-wise
🎉 Festivals & Events
Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year)
January/FebruaryThe most important Vietnamese holiday when the city transforms with flower markets, lion dances, and fireworks. Many businesses close for a week but the festive atmosphere is unforgettable.
Mid-Autumn Festival
September/OctoberChildren's lantern festival with mooncakes, lion dances, and colorful lantern parades. Nguyen Hue walking street and Chinatown are the liveliest spots.
Reunification Day
April 30National holiday marking the fall of Saigon in 1975. The Independence Palace hosts commemorations and the city has fireworks and celebrations.
Saigon Craft Beer Week
OctoberA growing celebration of Vietnam's booming craft beer scene with tastings, tap takeovers, and events at breweries across the city.
🛂Visa & Entry
Vietnam has significantly relaxed its visa policies in recent years. Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for up to 45 days. E-visas are available for most nationalities for stays up to 90 days. Visa on arrival is also possible but e-visa is simpler.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Yes | 90 days with e-visa | E-visa available online for $25. Processing takes 3 business days. Single entry, valid for 90 days with multiple entries available. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 45 days | Visa-free entry for stays up to 45 days. For longer stays, apply for an e-visa before arrival. |
| Australian Citizens | Yes | 90 days with e-visa | E-visa required. Apply online at least a week before travel. $25 fee. |
| EU Citizens (most) | Visa-free | 45 days | Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several other EU countries can enter visa-free for up to 45 days. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | 90 days with e-visa | E-visa available. Apply at the official Vietnam immigration website. Visa on arrival also possible with an approval letter. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- •Apply for your e-visa at least one week before travel — processing officially takes 3 business days but delays happen
- •Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date with at least 2 blank pages
- •Print your e-visa approval — you may be asked for a paper copy at immigration
- •The 45-day visa-free stay cannot be extended — you must leave and re-enter or apply for an e-visa for longer stays
- •Keep a copy of your passport and visa separate from the originals in case of theft
💬Speak the Language
Vietnamese uses the Latin alphabet with diacritical marks (tone marks) that change meaning. There are six tones. Southern Vietnamese pronunciation differs from Hanoi dialect. English is spoken at tourist sites and by younger Vietnamese.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Xin chao | sin CHOW |
| Thank you | Cam on | kahm UHN |
| Yes / No | Vang (Da) / Khong | vahng (yah) / kohm |
| How much? | Bao nhieu? | bow nyee-OH? |
| Too expensive | Mac qua | mahk WAH |
| Delicious | Ngon | ngon (hard to transliterate) |
| Sorry / Excuse me | Xin loi | sin LOY |
| I don't understand | Toi khong hieu | toy kohm HEE-oh |
| Where is...? | O dau...? | uh DOW...? |
| The check, please | Tinh tien | tin tee-EN |
| Water | Nuoc | noo-UHK |
| No ice | Khong da | kohm DAH |