Bustling, vibrant, and endlessly fascinating, Ho Chi Minh City—still affectionately called Saigon by locals—stands as Vietnam’s dynamic southern heart. This Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide offers everything you need to know before your visit: from the city’s rich historical landmarks, to its buzzing street food culture, colonial architecture, and fast-growing modern skyline. Beyond its energy and chaos lies a city full of character. Whether you’re here for cultural discovery, culinary adventures, or to use Saigon as a base for day trips to the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels, this comprehensive guide covers it all: when to visit, where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, and the best experiences to make your trip unforgettable.
Overview of Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City at a Glance
- Official Name: Ho Chi Minh City (Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh)
- Also Known As: Saigon (still commonly used by locals)
- Country: Vietnam
- Region: Southern Vietnam
- Population: ~9 million (13+ million metro area)
- Area: 2,061 km² (796 sq mi)
- Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), UTC+7
- Dialing Code: +84 28
- Airport Code: SGN (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)
Why Visit Ho Chi Minh City?
Ho Chi Minh City serves as Vietnam’s economic powerhouse and cultural melting pot. Unlike Hanoi, this southern metropolis embraces change while honoring its complex history. The city offers:
- A Living History Lesson: From the sobering War Remnants Museum to the symbolic Independence Palace, the city provides profound insights into Vietnam’s turbulent 20th century and the resilience of its people.
- Culinary Paradise: Saigon’s street food scene ranks among Asia’s finest. This is where you’ll find some of Vietnam’s best pho, banh mi, and countless regional specialties from across the country.
- Architectural Diversity: French colonial buildings stand alongside modern skyscrapers, while centuries-old pagodas offer peaceful retreats from the urban chaos.
- Gateway to Southern Vietnam: The city serves as an ideal base for exploring the Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, and coastal getaways.
Explore the architectural mix of French colonial buildings and sleek skyscrapers
When to Visit Ho Chi Minh City
Best Time to Visit
Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons rather than four. December-April represents the optimal visiting period, offering:
- Warm, dry weather with temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F)
- Minimal rainfall and lower humidity
- Clear skies perfect for sightseeing and photography
- Peak tourist season (December-February), so expect crowds and higher prices
May-November brings the rainy season, but don’t dismiss this period entirely:
- Lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists
- Rain typically arrives in short, intense afternoon downpours
- Mornings often remain sunny and pleasant
- The city stays green and refreshed
Festivals and Events
- Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Late January/February—the most important Vietnamese celebration. Many businesses close, but cultural experiences abound.
- Reunification Day (April 30): Commemorates the fall of Saigon with parades and ceremonies.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): Lantern displays and mooncake traditions light up the city.
Pro Tip: Avoid visiting during Tet unless you specifically want to experience it, as many attractions, restaurants, and shops close for 3-7 days.
Essential Ho Chi Minh City Planning Information
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors can obtain a Vietnam e-visa valid for 90 days with multiple entries. The online application process takes 3 business days and costs $25 USD. Citizens of certain countries can also arrange visa on arrival through a letter of approval, though this option is gradually being phased out in favor of e-visas.
You may also need: MVISA helps you check and apply for your e-visa quickly and accurately, fully meeting government requirements to make your entry into Vietnam smoother and more convenient.
Currency and Money Matters
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). As of 2025, exchange rates hover around:
- 1 USD ≈ 24,000-25,000 VND
- 1 EUR ≈ 26,000-27,000 VND
- 1 GBP ≈ 30,000-31,000 VND
Money Tips:
- ATMs are widespread and offer competitive rates; withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
- Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept USD, but you’ll get better value paying in VND
- Small vendors and street food stalls operate cash-only
- Credit cards incur 3-4% surcharges at many establishments
Budget Expectations
- Budget Travelers ($20-35/day): Hostel dormitory: $5-10; Street food meals: $1-3 each; Local beer: $0.50-1; Public transport and short Grab rides: $5-10
- Mid-Range Travelers ($60-120/day): Comfortable hotel: $25-50; Restaurant meals: $5-15 each; Attractions and activities: $10-20; Private transportation: $10-15
- Luxury Travelers ($200+/day): Five-star hotel: $100-300+; Fine dining experiences: $30-80 per meal; Private tours and premium experiences; Spa treatments and rooftop cocktails
Getting to and Around Ho Chi Minh City
Getting to Ho Chi Minh City
By Air
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves as Vietnam’s busiest airport, located just 7km from the city center. Major carriers including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways offer extensive international connections.
Airport to City Center:
- Airport Bus #109: Runs to District 1 (Ben Thanh Market) for approximately 20,000 VND ($0.85). Departures every 15-20 minutes from 5:30am-1:00am.
- Grab/Taxi: Fixed-rate metered taxis cost 150,000-200,000 VND ($6-8). Use Grab app for transparency and safety.
- Private Transfer: Pre-booked options cost $10-15 and offer meet-and-greet service.
Important: Only use official Mai Linh or Vinasun taxis from designated stands. Avoid touts approaching you inside the terminal.
By Land
Sleeper buses connect Ho Chi Minh City with destinations throughout Vietnam and neighboring Cambodia. Premium operators like Phuong Trang offer comfortable overnight journeys. The journey from Hanoi takes approximately 30-36 hours.
By Train
The Reunification Express links Ho Chi Minh City with Hanoi over 30-40 hours, stopping at major cities including Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hue. While slow, overnight trains offer a memorable way to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.
Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City
Grab (Ride-Hailing App)
Download Grab before arrival—it’s essential for navigating Ho Chi Minh City safely and affordably. The Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber offers:
- GrabBike: Motorcycle taxi, fastest for short distances, incredibly cheap ($0.50-2 for most trips)
- GrabCar: Standard car with air conditioning, comfortable for longer journeys
- GrabFood: Food delivery service
Traditional Taxis
If not using Grab, only use reputable companies:
- Mai Linh (green and white)
- Vinasun (white and red)
Important: Insist drivers use the meter. Starting fare around 10,000-12,000 VND, then 15,000-17,000 VND per kilometer.
Public Buses
Extensive and incredibly cheap (5,000-7,000 VND per journey) but requires route knowledge. Bus #1 connects District 1 with Cho Lon (Chinatown). Google Maps now includes public transport directions in Ho Chi Minh City.
Motorbike Rental
Renting a scooter ($5-10 per day) offers freedom but demands confidence and caution. Traffic is chaotic, accidents are common, and hospitals report seeing injured tourists daily.
Requirements:
- International Driving Permit with motorcycle endorsement
- Helmet mandatory (provided by rental shops)
- Comprehensive travel insurance that covers motorcycle accidents
Cyclos (Bicycle Rickshaws)
These three-wheeled vehicles offer leisurely tours of central areas. Agree on price beforehand (100,000-200,000 VND per hour).
Walking
District 1’s core attractions are walkable, though heat, humidity, and chaotic traffic crossings can be challenging. Sidewalks often function as parking lots for motorbikes. The Nguyen Hue Walking Street and riverfront promenade offer pleasant pedestrian experiences.
Crossing Streets: Don’t wait for gaps in traffic (they won’t come). Walk at a steady, predictable pace, and traffic flows around you. Never stop mid-crossing or make sudden movements.
Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City:
District 1 (Downtown Core)
The beating heart of Ho Chi Minh City and the default choice for most first-time visitors. This central district places you within walking distance of major attractions, countless dining options, and vibrant nightlife.
Best For: First-time visitors, luxury travelers, those wanting to walk to attractions. Atmosphere: Busy, touristy, but convenient. Accommodation Range: Budget hostels to five-star international hotels
Some hotels for Reference:
- Park Hyatt Saigon – 2 Lam Son Square | $250-500 | Prestigious Opera House location, world-class spa
- Hotel des Arts Saigon MGallery – 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai | $150-300 | Art-focused luxury, 500+ artworks, rooftop bar
- Caravelle Saigon – 19 Lam Son Square | $180-350 | Historic 1959 hotel, legendary rooftop bar
- Majestic Saigon Hotel – 1 Dong Khoi | $100-180 | 1925 colonial, riverside, rooftop bar
- Hotel Nikko Saigon – 235 Nguyen Van Cu | $100-180 | Japanese luxury, rotating rooftop bar
District 1 – the bustling downtown center of Ho Chi Minh City
District 3
Just north of District 1, this residential neighborhood offers a more authentic local experience while maintaining excellent access to downtown attractions.
Best For: Those seeking local atmosphere, coffee lovers, mid-range budget. Atmosphere: Quieter, more residential, trendy cafe culture. Accommodation Range: Boutique hotels and mid-range options
Some hotels for Reference:
- La Vela Saigon Hotel – 280 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia | $60-100 | Rooftop pool, Sky Bar, modern design
- Shanti Hotel – 6B Nguyen Trung Ngan | $50-85 | Boutique, afternoon tea, residential area
- Ben Thanh Boutique Hotel – 142 Le Thanh Ton | $45-75 | Near Ben Thanh Market, free minibar
- An An 2 Hotel – 38-42 Bui Thi Xuan | $30-50 | Free minibar, budget-friendly
- Maison Chancelier Residence – 34 Nguyen Dinh Chieu | $55-95 | Serviced apartments, kitchenettes
Wander District 3 to explore colonial charm and authentic local life
District 2 (Thao Dien)
Across the Saigon River, this expat-heavy neighborhood features tree-lined streets, international restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and boutique shopping.
Best For: Digital nomads, families, longer stays, those seeking Western amenities. Atmosphere: Suburban, green, international community. Accommodation Range: Serviced apartments, boutique hotels, Airbnb rentals
Some hotels for Reference:
- Villa Song Saigon – 197/2 Nguyen Van Huong | $120-220 | Riverside villa, 23 rooms, intimate luxury
- The Odys Boutique Hotel – 38 Tran Ngoc Dien | $70-120 | Modern design, Thao Dien center
- M Village – 49 Tran Ngoc Dien | $65-110 | Garden setting, resort feel, family-friendly
- The Mira Hotel – 222B Nguyen Van Huong | $55-90 | Spacious rooms, cafe district location
- District 2 Serviced Apartments – Various locations | $40-150/night | Masteri, The Ascent, Gateway buildings
Binh Thanh District
An up-and-coming area east of District 1 offering better value and emerging dining scene.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, those avoiding tourist areas Atmosphere: Local, authentic, less polished Accommodation Range: Budget to mid-range hotels
Some hotels for Reference:
- Pullman Saigon Centre – 148 Tran Hung Dao | $90-160 | Rooftop pool, international standards
- New World Saigon Hotel – 76 Le Lai | $130-240 | 5-star, spacious rooms, large pool
- Aristo Saigon Hotel – 48 Nguyen Huu Canh | $50-85 | Near Landmark 81, modern area
- Song Cong Hotel – 202 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh | $25-45 | Budget-friendly, local neighborhood
- Masteri An Phu Apartments – An Phu Ward | $40-100/night | Modern apartments, monthly discounts
Binh Thanh District – traditional local life near the city center
Must-See Attractions at Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum
- Location: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City (War Remnants Museum on map)
- Entry fee: 40,000 VND ($1.70)
- Open daily 7:30am-6:00pm
This powerful museum confronts visitors with the brutal realities of the Vietnam War (referred to locally as the American War). Exhibits include military equipment, photographs documenting wartime atrocities, and displays about Agent Orange’s lasting impact.
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
- Location: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Independence Palace on map)
- Entry Fee: 65,000 VND ($2.75)
- Hours: Daily 7:30am-11:00am, 1:00pm-4:00pm
This modernist structure served as South Vietnam’s presidential palace until April 30, 1975, when North Vietnamese tanks crashed through its gates, symbolically ending the war.
Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon
- Location: 01 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon on map)
- Photography Tips: Best photos from the park area in front; morning light (8-10am) ideal
- Note: Mass services typically Sunday mornings; respectful observation welcome
Built between 1863-1880, this neo-Romanesque cathedral showcases French colonial architecture. The red bricks were imported from Marseille, and the twin bell towers reach 58 meters high. While currently undergoing extensive restoration (as of 2025), the exterior remains photographable.
Saigon Opera House (Municipal Theatre)
- Location: 7 Lam Son Square, District 1 (Saigon Opera House on map)
- Why Tourists Visit: 1900 French architecture; AO Show performances
- Entry: Only with performance ticket
- Shows: Evenings (check schedule)
This elegant French colonial building built in 1900 exemplifies classic European opera house architecture with its ornate facade and grand entrance. Today it hosts the acclaimed AO Show, ballet performances, and symphony concerts in its beautifully restored interior.
Saigon Central Post Office
- Location: 2 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon Central Post Office on map)
- Hours: Daily 7:00am-7:00pm
- Entry: Free; functioning post office with souvenir shopping
Step inside the Saigon Central Post Office – a timeless architectural icon
Cu Chi Tunnels
- Location: Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City Province (Cu Chi Tunnels on map)
Located 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, this vast underground network demonstrates the ingenuity and determination of Viet Cong fighters. The 250km tunnel system included living quarters, hospitals, and supply routes.
You may also like: Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour | Vietnam Underground History Expedition
Jade Emperor Pagoda (Chua Ngoc Hoang)
- Location: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Jade Emperor Pagoda on map)
- Entry: Free (donations appreciated)
- Hours: Daily 6:00am-6:00pm
- Dress Code: Modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees)
Built in 1909, this Taoist temple ranks among the city’s most atmospheric religious sites. Elaborate woodcarvings, decorative ceramic roof tiles, and constant incense smoke create an otherworldly ambiance.
Thien Hau Temple (Chua Ba Thien Hau)
- Location: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, Cho Lon, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City (Thien Hau Temple on map)
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6:00-8:00am) when locals worship
- Entry: Free
- Photography: Permitted but ask before photographing worshippers
Located in Chinatown (Cho Lon), this 19th-century temple honors the Lady of the Sea, protector of sailors. The ornate interior features hanging incense coils that burn for weeks.
Bitexco Financial Tower
- Location: 36 Ho Tung Mau Street (2 Hai Trieu Street), Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Bitexco Financial Tower on map)
- Saigon Skydeck (49th Floor)
- Entry: 200,000 VND ($8.50) adults; 130,000 VND children
- Hours: Daily 9:30am-9:30pm (last entry 9:00pm)
- Facilities: Cafe, souvenir shop, binoculars available
This 68-story skyscraper’s helipad-inspired design dominates the skyline. The Saigon Skydeck observation floor on the 49th level provides 360-degree city views.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
- Location: Nguyen Hue Boulevard, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (Nguyen Hue Walking Street on map)
- Evening (6:00-10:00pm): Street performers, families, vibrant atmosphere
This kilometer-long pedestrian boulevard connects the riverfront with downtown, featuring fountains, street performers, and evening social scenes. Popular with locals exercising, families strolling, and young people gathering.
Landmark 81 (Vincom Landmark 81)
- Location: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City (Landmark 81 on map)
- Skyview Observation Deck (Floors 79-81): Entry: 350,000 VND ($15) adults; 250,000 VND children
- Hours: Daily 9:30am-9:30pm
- Height: 461.2 meters (1,513 feet)
Vietnam’s tallest building (461 meters) houses luxury residences, shopping, dining, and an observation deck. The Skyview observation area on the 79th floor offers unparalleled panoramas.
Ben Thanh Market
- Location: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Ben Thanh Market on map)
- Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm (indoor), 6:00pm-midnight (night market)
This iconic covered market serves as a tourist hub for souvenirs, textiles, and local products. Expect aggressive selling tactics and inflated starting prices (negotiate everything).
Binh Tay Market (Cho Lon)
- Location: 57A, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (Binh Tay Market on map)
Located in Chinatown, this wholesale market sees fewer tourists and offers authentic local commerce. The beautifully restored building’s architecture deserves attention itself.
Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh)
- Location: Nguyen Van Binh Street, District 1 (Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh) on map)
- Hours: Open 24/7 (shops: 8:00am-10:00pm)
This charming pedestrianized street features bookstores, cafes, and outdoor seating creating a literary and cultural atmosphere. While most books are in Vietnamese, some shops stock English titles, and the street itself provides a pleasant escape from traffic chaos.
What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City
Must-Try Dishes
Pho
Vietnam’s signature noodle soup achieves perfection in Saigon. Southern-style pho tends toward sweeter broths with more herbs than Hanoi versions.
Banh Mi
The French legacy lives on in these incredible sandwiches combining crusty baguettes with Vietnamese fillings: pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili.
Com Tam (Broken Rice)
This Saigon specialty features fractured rice grains (traditionally considered lower quality) served with grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, and a fried egg.
Bun Thit Nuong
Vermicelli noodles topped with grilled pork, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and nuoc cham (fish sauce dressing). Light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
Hu Tieu
Clear pork and seafood broth with rice noodles, Chinese influence distinguishes this dish from pho. Try it at Hu Tieu Nam Vang restaurants.
Banh Xeo
Crispy rice flour crepes filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Wrap pieces in lettuce and herbs before dipping in sauce.
Street Food Culture
- Vinh Khanh Street (District 4): Seafood and late-night eats
- Nguyen Thuong Hien Street (District 3): Evening food stall clusters
- Vo Van Tan Street (District 3): Banh xeo specialists
- Ben Thanh Night Market: Tourist-oriented but convenient
Traditional Coffee Experiences:
- Cong Caphe: Socialist-themed chain with nostalgic decor
- Cafe Pho Co: Hidden garden oasis in District 1
- Trung Nguyen Coffee: Vietnamese commercial success story
Iconic Rooftop Venues and Fine Dining Highlights:
- Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar (Caravelle Hotel): Historic venue with river views
- Chill Skybar (AB Tower): Relaxed atmosphere, more affordable
- EON51 (Bitexco Tower): Premium cocktails with stunning vistas
- Air 360 (Hotel Nikko): Rotating bar offering 360-degree panoramas
- The Racha Room: Modern Thai in an intimate setting
- Anan Saigon: Contemporary Vietnamese cuisine (Michelin recognition)
- Cuc Gach Quan: Upscale traditional Vietnamese in a heritage house
- Noir: Dining in darkness served by visually impaired staff
Cooking Classes and Food Tours
Hands-on culinary experiences provide deeper understanding of Vietnamese cuisine:
- Saigon Cooking Class: Market tour followed by cooking instruction ($35-45)
- XO Tours: Street food by vintage Vespa ($50-85)
- Saigon Street Eats: Walking food tour with local guide ($30-40)
- Vietnamese Home Cooking Class: Intimate setting in instructor’s home
Day Trips from Ho Chi Minh City
Mekong Delta Tour near Ho Chi Minh City
The rice bowl of Vietnam offers a completely different landscape from urban Saigon. Tours typically visit floating markets, fruit orchards, traditional villages, and narrow waterways.
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Half-day Cu Chi Tunnels Tour | Vietnam Underground History Expedition
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Authentic My Tho Mekong Delta Tour: Two Islands for Half a Day
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta 2 Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City: My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
An Binh Islet Tour | A Scenic Mekong River Escape from Can Tho
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
The Cu Chi Tunnel Tour takes you deep into Vietnam’s wartime history, exploring an incredible underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war. Walk through narrow tunnels, see hidden trapdoors, and learn how people lived, fought, and survived beneath the ground — an unforgettable journey into the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.
Take deep insights into our Cu Chi Tunnel Tour
Can Tho Tour
Can Tho Tours offers an authentic journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta, where you can explore floating markets, peaceful canals, lush orchards, and local villages. Experience the vibrant river life, taste regional specialties, and discover the charm and warmth of southern Vietnam.
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Can Tho Floating Market & Fruit Garden Tour: Mekong Tropical Sense
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Cai Rang Floating Market Tour | Amazing Can Tho of Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Can Tho Rural Tour: Cai Rang Floating Market and Rural Cycling
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Floating Market & Hands-On Can Tho Cooking Class Tour: From Market to Feast
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Practical Safety and Health Information
Safety Considerations
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, with violent crime against tourists rare. However, petty theft and scams target visitors:
Common Scams:
- Taxi drivers: Use Grab or reputable taxi companies only
- Grab bike phone snatching: Hold phones securely away from the road side
- ATM card skimming: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours
- Overly friendly locals: Some lead to expensive tea ceremonies or tours
- Gem/jewelry scams: “Special discounts” on overpriced low-quality items
- Street games: Shell games and card games are always rigged
General Safety Tips:
- Keep valuables secured and out of sight
- Don’t walk alone in unfamiliar areas late at night
- Cross motorbike bags across your body away from the road
- Be wary of distraction techniques (someone bumps you while another pickpockets)
- Keep photocopies of passport and important documents separately
Health Precautions
Food and Water:
- Drink bottled or purified water only
- Ice in restaurants and cafes generally safe (made from purified water)
- Street food from busy vendors is typically safe if properly cooked
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
Medical Facilities:
- International hospitals like Family Medical Practice and Franco-Vietnamese Hospital offer Western standards
- Travel insurance essential; medical evacuation coverage recommended
- Pharmacies widely available for minor issues
Air Quality: Can be poor during dry season; sensitive individuals should monitor AQI levels and consider masks during high pollution days
Communication and Connectivity
SIM Cards: Available at airport kiosks immediately after immigration
- Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer tourist packages
- 10-30GB packages cost 150,000-300,000 VND ($6-13)
- Requires passport for registration
WiFi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants
Translation Apps: Google Translate works reasonably well; download Vietnamese for offline use
Basic Vietnamese Phrases:
- Hello: Xin chào (sin chow)
- Thank you: Cảm ơn (gahm un)
- How much?: Bao nhiêu? (bow nyew)
- Delicious: Ngon (ngun)
- No, thank you: Không, cảm ơn (khome gahm un)
Learn key Vietnamese phrases to connect better during your Saigon trip
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many days should I spend in Ho Chi Minh City?
3-5 days is ideal. Three days covers main attractions (War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Independence Palace, markets). Add 2 more days for Mekong Delta, neighborhood exploration, and cooking classes.
Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists?
Yes, it’s generally safe with rare violent crime. Petty theft (phone snatching, pickpocketing) and tourist scams are common. Use Grab app, hold valuables securely on motorbikes, and keep bags away from street side.
Do people speak English in Ho Chi Minh City?
Basic English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants in District 1. Outside tourist zones, communication is challenging. Download Google Translate offline and learn basic Vietnamese phrases.
What’s the difference between Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon?
Same city, different names. “Saigon” was renamed “Ho Chi Minh City” in 1976 after reunification. Locals still use “Saigon,” especially for central districts. Both names are acceptable.
Is Ho Chi Minh City good for first-time visitors to Vietnam?
Yes, excellent for first-timers with good tourism infrastructure, international hotels, and English speakers. However, it’s chaotic and less traditionally Vietnamese than Hanoi or Hoi An. Consider visiting multiple Vietnamese cities for balance.
How much money do I need per day in Ho Chi Minh City?
Budget: $20-35/day | Mid-range: $60-120/day | Luxury: $200+/day. This covers accommodation, food, transport, and activities.
Should I exchange money at the airport or in the city?
Use ATMs for best rates. Airport ATMs work immediately after immigration. Withdraw larger amounts (5-10 million VND) to minimize fees. Avoid exchange counters.
Can I use credit cards in Ho Chi Minh City?
Accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls but many add 3-4% surcharge. Street food, local restaurants, and markets are cash-only. Carry Vietnamese Dong.
Is tipping expected in Ho Chi Minh City?
Not traditional but increasingly common. Restaurants: 5-10% if no service charge. Tour guides: $5-10/day. Hotel porters: 20,000-50,000 VND. Round up taxi fares. Street food: no tip.
When is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?
December-April is best (dry, 25-35°C). Peak season December-February has most tourists. May-November is rainy season with afternoon downpours but fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid Tet (Jan/Feb).
How hot does it get in Ho Chi Minh City?
Year-round 25-35°C (77-95°F) with high humidity. Hottest March-May (up to 38°C/100°F). Air conditioning essential. Carry water, wear light clothing, avoid midday sun (11am-3pm).
Does it rain a lot in Ho Chi Minh City?
Rainy season (May-Nov) brings daily afternoon downpours (30 min-2 hours), usually 2-5pm. Mornings often sunny. Dry season (Dec-Apr) has minimal rain. Carry umbrella during wet season.
