Ho Chi Minh City Guide

The concept of visiting an unfamiliar, fast-paced foreign city may seem daunting for even the most well travelled of us.  Which is why Hidden Hoi An put together a comprehensive Ho Chi Minh City Guide. For many visitors, Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon as many still call it) may well be their first introduction to Vietnam. A trip of this nature calls for a spot of preceding research. 

In 2019, Saigon ranked 31st in a report listing the Top 100 City Destinations in the world, with Hanoi ranking 52nd. Although Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, Saigon has a bigger population.   It is often dubbed the ‘commercial capital’ due to its rapid urbanisation in recent years. Earlier this year it was reported that Saigon had “an average population density of over 4,500 per square kilometre,” higher than a megacity such as Shanghai. 

Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City?

In addition, prospective visitors should take note of the city’s previously mentioned dual identity –  Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City. The historical explanation for the conflicting names dates back to the end of the American War.  This saw the merging of Saigon and its surrounding province. The city was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1976 to celebrate the reunification of north and south at the end of the war. Many people still refer to the city as Saigon rather than Ho Chi Minh City (and the airport code remains SGN). But this is rarely a sensitive matter and the names are somewhat interchangeable.

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: The Best Time to Visit Saigon 

Dry season in Saigon lasts from November to April, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees celsius in March and April. However, it is worth considering the inevitable influx of tourism expected over the Christmas period, and again in January/February when the Vietnamese observe the Lunar New Year, Tết. It is custom for Vietnamese people to return home over the Tết holiday, and many businesses close for up to two weeks, meaning travel to and from Saigon could prove more difficult during this time. 

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: Getting to Saigon 

Travelling by Air to Saigon

Tan Son Nhat is the international airport serving Saigon and is notably the busiest airport in Vietnam. 

Hidden Hint: When looking at a map, the airport appears to be approximately 30 minutes from the downtown area of Saigon.  But in reality, due to mass traffic, it can take up to an hour.

Air Asia, Jetstar and VietJet are the cheapest and most common airlines offering flights to Saigon from SEA countries. Find timetables and prices for domestic and international flights here.

Travelling by Rail to Saigon

Train timetables from Saigon along with ticket sales can be found online here. If you are in the city then visiting the Saigon Railway Station and buying a ticket in person is often the cheaper option. City travel agents likely revise prices when dealing with foreign travellers. Located in the District 3 area of the city, Saigon Railway Station is the largest, most important station in the city.  It has daily services to other popular Vietnamese destinations such as Hanoi, Da Nang and Nha Trang. 

Hidden Hint: There is no direct train service from Saigon across the border to Cambodia.  Instead a bus service to Phnom Penh is provided for travellers heading to Cambodia.

Travelling by Bus to Ho Chi Minh

For bus services within Vietnam, the main stations are Mien Dong, for Northern and Central Vietnam destinations and Mien Tay, for destinations further south of Saigon.

Mien Dong Bus Station 

Located roughly 7km from the centre of Saigon, Mien Dong Bus Station is located at 292 Dinh Bo Linh Street, Ward 26, Binh Thanh District. There are currently over 200 transportation companies operating at the terminal with buses to 178 destinations. The station’s most popular bus service goes to Da Lat, with 7 services each day. The journey to Da Lat takes approximately eight hours and costs 310,000 VND (14 USD). Other popular bus services from Mien Dong Bus Station include journeys to Nha Trang (five times a day, 11 hours, 165,000 VND/7 USD) and Hanoi (four times a day, approx 36 hours, 935,000 VND/40 USD). 

Mien Tay Bus Station

The smaller of the two bus stations, Mien Tay serves the southernmost provinces in the Mekong Delta such as Long An, Ca Mau and Can Tho. The aforementioned bus to Cambodia also departs from this station, with 4 daily services to Phnom Penh and daily trips to Siem Reap at 6.30.a.m. The address of Mien Tay Bus Station is 395 Kinh Duong Vuong, Binh Tan District. 

Guide to Getting from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

When travelling from Hoi An to Saigon travellers must first head to Da Nang, a 45 minute trip by car or bus. Head over to our article on How to Get from Hoi An to Da Nang,for all the details. Once in Da Nang, four sleeper train services leave Da Nang Railway Station on a daily basis. These are the SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7 and SE21 trains which belong to the Reunification Express fleet. The total length of the journey to Saigon by train is approximately 16 – 20 hours and costs 863,000 VND (37 USD). All carriages and cabins are air conditioned, with four different seat types to choose from. Check times and tickets here.

If time is no object but money is tight, there are a number of buses from Hoi An to Saigon that cost upwards of 470,000 VND (20 USD). There are many bus companies to choose from. However not thateach bus takes around 22 hours to get to Mien Dong Bus Station. Hidden suggests heading over to 12Go to browse the various options and find the best fit for your trip.

Flying to Saigon from Da Nang is the most popular mode of transport as it takes just 1 hour and 30 minutes. Prices range from 547,000 VND – 1,033,000 (23-44 USD) without checked luggage. Da Nang International Airport is conveniently located in the heart of the city and with good traffic it takes 50 minutes to drive there from Hoi An. 

Guide to Getting from Hoi An City Airport to Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon City Buses and Shuttles from the Airport to the City

The two most popular airport shuttle buses from Tan Son Nhat International Airport into the heart of downtown Saigon are conveniently colour coded and eye wateringly cheap! The first is Yellow Bus 109 and the second is known as Green Bus 152. There are other buses but these are the two preferred services by travellers and locals alike. 

Yellow Bus 109

This brand new, privately owned shuttle bus was recently introduced to Tan Son Nhat Airport. It takes approximately 45 minutes to travel to the city centre, running every 15 minutes from directly outside the entrance to both international and domestic arrivals. The bus is well-designed, complete with air conditioning and tourist-friendly travel instructions displayed in Vietnamese and English on the inside. The price of a ticket for the 109 bus is 12,000 VND (0.50 USD) for journeys under five km’s or 20,000 VND (0.85 USD) for anything beyond that. A big blue board displaying bus information is nearby, showing which bus route operates in closest proximity to your accommodation. 

Green Bus 152

Hidden recommends the second shuttle, Green Bus 152, to those travelling with smaller luggage or carry on bags only. This is partly due to the fact that passengers on this public bus incur additional charges depending on their accompanying luggage. While the initial price of a ticket for Green Bus 152 is cheaper, at just 5,000 VND (0.20 USD), the same price is charged for each additional piece of luggage. In addition to this, the Green Bus has more stops on its way into Saigon City and can take more than the estimated 45 minutes. Like it’s yellow counterpart, Green Bus 152 also runs every 15 minutes with service concluding at 6.p.m.

Taxis at Saigon Airport to the City

You can bet your bottom dollar (or dong?) that there will be a mass of taxis awaiting your arrival at Saigon Airport. Hidden recommends using the Grab or FastGo app if you are tired or weary upon arrival, in the interest of receiving the most reasonable taxi fare. If this seems too complicated, simply resort to the age-old fail safe of asking your driver to turn their meter on, or simply agree on a price before boarding the cab. 

Hidden Hint: Even if you don’t intend on using a Grab or FastGo taxi, Hidden would suggest downloading the apps prior to your arrival in Saigon.  They will give you a better understanding of the accurate cost of journeys. 

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: Where to Stay in Saigon

As a traveller to Saigon, you’ll want to stay either in District 1, which is where you’ll find almost all of the city’s cultural, historical and commercial attractions or in District 3, which is a cheaper, more “local” district still close to the city centre.

Within District 1 are two very different yet popular locations ideal for travellers. Both of which have designated walking streets full of shops, bars, street food and restaurants.  

The Nguyen Hue/Dong Khoi streets are home to the city’s high end and luxury hotels. Here you find the city’s newest shopping malls, high-end restaurants, rooftop bars and modern highrises. A great location for families and romantic getaways. The walking street in this part of town holds a whimsical and family-friendly feel.  

Pham Ngu Lao and Bui Vien streets are Saigon’s equivalent of a “backpackers road” and where most of the city’s budget accommodation is. This area is busy, exciting and noisy. If you’re travelling on a budget and looking to be in the middle of the backpacker nightlife there is no better area to be in Saigon. The walking street here is bustling with loud music, inventive and thematic architecture, quaint shops, restaurants and street food. 

District 3 offers a much more local, Vietnamese feel. With a greater selection of local coffee shops and authentic, cheap food. If you are travelling on a budget and wanting to avoid the excitement of Bui Vien this is a great place for a lovely, yet affordable guesthouse or hotel. District 3 is a quick ten minute walk into District 1, making it easy to be back in the heart of Saigon.  

Continental Hotel Saigon

Website Address: Da Kao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Rate/Night: Standard double rooms from 2,7 m – 3,8 m VND (113 -163 USD). Suites from 4,0 m – 6,4 m VND (174 -274 USD).

Saigon’s oldest luxury hotel, the Continental Hotel Saigon has one of the best locations in the city. With a great selection of rooms that offer an exciting trip back in time to the colonial Saigon of the 1920’s. Hosting two on-site restaurants; one serving Vietnamese delights the other offering a luxurious dining experience specialising in European cuisine accompanied with live violin and piano melodies. Rich in history, luxury and close to the action, The Continental has it all to perfectly compliment your stay in Saigon. 

Language Exchange Hostel

Website Address: Phường 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Rate/Night: Dorm for 70,000 VND (3 USD). Standard double room from 395,000 – 530,000 VND (17 – 25 USD)

Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese experience with this friendly local guesthouse located in District 3.  A favourite of backpackers seeking a quieter, more peaceful location than nearby Bui Vien. Rooms are simple, clean and comfortable, with fair pricing that offers great value for money. Coffee and food are conveniently served on site. With a quick 10-15 minute walk from the city’s cultural, historical and commercial attractions located in District 1, you’re never far from the action. 

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: What to Eat in Saigon

Finding delectable dishes to try in Saigon is not always easy, especially for tourists. There are an overwhelming amount of places to sample, some of them delicious and distinct, yet knowing where to start and what you’re eating is a feat all it’s own. District 1 is somewhat of a hub for tourism, with most, if not all of Saigon specialties easily accessible from that focal point. 

Four Dishes Unique to Saigon

To help break it down a bit, we chose four dishes unique to Saigon that we consider to be must try’s. Listed below is the one stop hub to sample them all – the Ben Thanh Street Food Market.

First being a banh xeo. These savoury crepes are cooked in a sizzling wok until their shell is crispy but the inside remains juicy. Similar in appearance to that of a western omelette, stuffed with bean sprouts, pork and shrimp. 

Another Saigon favourite and true signature dish is com tam, or broken rice. The most common version served with barbecued honey pork chops, slices of cucumber, tomato and fish sauce. 

Banh mi’s are a common breakfast item throughout Vietnam. Originating in Saigon and for some, emblematic of the colonialism that once existed. Most commonly served as freshly toasted bread packed with egg or a variety of roasted meat options, cucumbers, carrots, daikon radish, mayonnaise, pate, chili’s, soy sauce, cilantro and mint. 

Last but not least is an arguable choice for some claim it is best in the north, others in the south. Southern pho is set apart from the north with an elaborate blend of spices, including star anise, cinnamon and ginger, but also with its spiciness, chilis are added directly to the broth. This is then poured onto pho noodles, steak, bean sprouts, fragrant basil, cilantro and onion with a dash of hoisin sauce and a squeeze of lime. 

Ben Thanh Street Food Market

Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Ben Thanh Street Food Market conveniently located in District 1 is a great place to start for those unfamiliar with street food. Street food is such a rich part of Vietnamese culture that no trip to Vietnam is complete without trying it. Yet for those unfamiliar with the language, food and culture it can certainly be a challenge navigating these waters. In fact we’ve dedicated an entire article to street food here.  

The ordering here is made easy and accessible to tourists with friendly vendors welcoming you with a warm smile, eager to share their love for food with you. A wide array of dishes adorn the pathways with enticing aromas leading you to the perfect meal. Spoilt for choice you may even decide to sample a multitude of dishes at once. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, the Ben Thanh Street Food Market has something to satisfy any palate. 

Hidden Hint: The further south you go in Vietnam the spicier the dishes become. Keep this in mind when ordering and ask for “mild” if you are more sensitive to spice. 

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: Where to Drink in Saigon

With a booming economy and ever-invested bar scene Saigon’s drink selection has exploded with recipes from beyond its borders. Numerous craft breweries grace the streets with refreshing beer options both new and familiar. Western style IPAs with unique Vietnamese twists excite taste buds with accents of jasmine, while rich stouts leave tantalising notes of vanilla. Not just the drinks themselves have changed. With high rises that tower over the growing population of over 9 million, rooftop bars have become some of Saigon’s favourite watering holes. Take in the sites while colossal LED and neon towers light up the night. 

7 Bridges Craft Beer Taproom

Website Address: 38 Đông Du, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Opening Hours: 10 a.m. – Midnight. daily

For the widest selection of brews on tap 7 Bridges Dong Du is a beer drinkers paradise. Offering 40 varieties of beers on tap it has become a popular destination for travellers and expats. Located just a 5 minute walk from the busy Nguyễn Huệ walking street in the heart of District 1, your tired feet with thank you as much as your tastebuds. Beers on average range about 120,000-140,000 VND (5-7 USD) per pint. Enjoy the company of other travellers and even some local residents as the taste for craft beer grows in popularity.

The View Rooftop Bar

Website Address: 195 Bùi Viện, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam Opening Hours: 10 a.m. – 1 a.m. daily

When the sky’s the limit, look further than The View Rooftop Bar. Located on the 9th floor of the Duc Vuong Hotel, the tallest building in Bui Vien. Overlook residential housing spanning out towards the glowing skyscrapers of downtown. The drink selection boasts nearly 70 cocktails with everything from a classic mojito to something more extraordinary that plays with the flavours of chilli and lemongrass. Cocktails range from 130,000-160,0000 VND (6-7 USD) but the specialty cocktails are worth it. 

Hidden Hint: Arrive early around 6-7 p.m. and guarantee a good seat. Happy hour starts at 10 p.m.

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: What to Do in Saigon

The city of Saigon is massive, and with an ever-growing population of 9 billion people, the things to do are nearly endless. With tens of thousands of backpackers and holidayers flocking to the city every year the entertainment scene is booming. When in Saigon history buffs find many relics of the past when exploring. The city’s rich archives of experiences have left their mark on Saigon.

Bui Vien (Backpackers Street) District 1

The backpackers street is a hub for the young and eccentric traveller on the hunt for a thrilling night. Wherever you turn your head exists a conglomeration of merchants, street food, bars, and partiers. This street houses some extremely unique decor drawing in the crowds as every bar and restaurant compete for your attention. Watch as adolescent fire eaters dazzle you with their bravery. Followed by a water puppet shows sneaking up on you as you wade through the mobs. You’ll find it hard not dancing your way through the excitement, in fact, we recommend it. The sensory overload of Bui Vien is worth experiencing at least once.

Hidden Hint: Fun place to visit but we highly recommend finding lodging further from Bui Vien. This is to avoid the booming music late into the night.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street District 1

For those who enjoy a slower place and personal space, Nguyen Hue is a great walking street in the heart of downtown Saigon. Stroll the wide road centred between some of the city’s largest and most spectacular skyscrapers. Neatly stacked shops and restaurants form grids rising several stories off the ground. Crane your neck looking up at humongous towers and hotels changing colour with aesthetically pleasing LED lights. Nguyen Hue is much more fitted for families with small children.  This is due to its wide sidewalks adding for less dense crowds. Between the hours of 7 p.m and 11 p.m on Saturday and Sunday, the street closes off to vehicle traffic entirely. 

Hidden Hint: While you’re here you have to try the cheese ice cream at Hokkaido Baked Cheese Tart. 

Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

Address: 135 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam

Representing nearly 150 years of Vietnam’s history this monument is now a museum ready to be explored. The original building, constituting French Colonisation, was completed in 1873. Until 1945 the building was used by French governors of Indochina, thus Vietnam was an office and base of operations. Between the months of March and September in 1945, the building saw Japanese rule during the events of World War II before being turned back over to French rule. 

The building was demolished during the events of the American War and rebuilt in 1966. In 1975 the palace was stormed by the Northern Vietnamese by tank effectively ending the war. 

The museum has many treasures and that tank stands there to this day. 

Marvel at the significance this one plot of land had towards the struggle for power in the region.  Therefore eventually leading in the reunification of Vietnam. Tickets are 20,000 VND (1 USD). The museum is open from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. 

Ho Chi Minh City Guide: What to See in Saigon

Saigon is home to some fabulous shopping, cultural relics and phenomenal rooftop views. The options are limitless in this whirlwind of a city. Below we have mapped out four must sees for those who are short on time. 

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

One of the most well-known spots in Saigon, the Ben Thanh Market is the biggest and most authentic market in Saigon. Hosting a plethora of handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing and other goods. Whether you’re a shopper or not, it is a must see and essential experience in Saigon. 

Notre Dame Cathedral

Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This iconic attraction is certainly a must see in Saigon. Built in the 1880’s this Catholic cathedral has French bricks and features 58m tall Romanesque bell towers. Enjoy incredible European architecture right in the heart of Saigon. 

Saigon Central Post Office

Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

A monumental central post office, completed in 1891, with a vaulted main hall and period finishes. Created in the yellow style of the French colonists of the time, the building shares its own history. Stroll on the beautifully tiled floor and stare up at the domed ceilings and metal archways. Check out the maps on the wall depicting the postal route for all of Vietnam. 

Hidden Hint: Mr. Duong Van Ngo, an employee who has worked at the office for nearly 30 years holds the Guinness World Record for the most letters written for those who cannot write themselves. He’s fluent in both French and English.  Between the hours of 8 a.m and 3 p.m. you can meet this icon of Saigon as he continues to write letters to this day.

People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This French colonial city hall was built in the early 1900s and is now the headquarters of the People’s Committee. Standing at the end of Nguyen Hue walking street, this spectacle is hard to miss. Finished in gleaming gold in contrast to the rainbow of lights aligning the nearby towers, this building commands its own majesty. 

Saigon Skydeck

Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Enjoy panoramic views from the glass-enclosed observation deck on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower. Located along the Saigon River, the Bitexco Financial Tower is the most prominent and architecturally unique building in District 1. 

Hidden’s Thoughts

Saigon is Vietnam’s largest and most modern city, filled with gorgeous architecture and a wealth of culture making for a beautiful place for a holiday. As Vietnam was a French colony for over a century, the influence of the French is still strong today. In addition, Ho Chi Minh City is home to some of the best street food in all of Vietnam.  It’s also full of spas to recover in after a hot day sightseeing. Above all they won’t break the bank. In addition, speaking of money, if you want to have a comfortable journey here, Hidden recommends that you carry plenty of change. Cash is king!  

Every year, more and more tourists come in droves, eager to explore this history-filled city.  So put it on your bucket list today!