中文 (中国)Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a thrilling blend of energy, chaos, and charm. But with over 9 million motorbikes, endless traffic, and hidden alleys, getting around can feel overwhelming — especially for first-time visitors.
This guide covers all the best ways to navigate Saigon safely, affordably, and efficiently — from buses and taxis to ride-hailing apps and walking.
🚵️ 1. Motorbike (Xe Ôm) – Fast & Local
Hop on the back of a motorbike like a true local! It’s cheap, quick, and can weave through traffic better than any car.
✅ Use apps like Grab or Be
⏱️ Best for short distances or peak hour
💡 Always wear a helmet (provided by driver)
🚵️ Want to ride with a guide?
Book our Saigon Motorbike Food Tour
🚗 2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab / Be) – Easy & Cashless
These are the most convenient ways to get around — book a car or bike, pay via app, and avoid language barriers.
📲 Just download Grab or Be, choose your vehicle & destination
💰 Fares are transparent and often cheaper than taxis
📟 Receipts available in-app
🚖 3. Taxis – Reliable but Use Trusted Companies
Metered taxis are everywhere, but stick to reputable names like Vinasun or Mai Linh.
🚩 Avoid unbranded or “too friendly” drivers
💳 Many now accept cards, but bring cash just in case
🚶 4. Walking – Great for Central Saigon
District 1 is walkable, especially around Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ben Thanh Market, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
⚠️ Sidewalks can be uneven or used by motorbikes
☀️ Avoid midday heat; walk early morning or evening
🧱 Join our Ho Chi Minh City Walking Tour with a local guide.
🚌 5. Public Buses – Budget Friendly but Limited for Tourists
Saigon’s green buses are very cheap (~$0.30 USD), but may be confusing due to lack of English signage.
📱 Use BusMap app (with English support)
🗜️ Not ideal for short-term visitors, but good for adventurers
🚉 6. Saigon Metro (Line 1 – Operational Now!)
Good news! Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line 1 is now officially operating, connecting Ben Thanh Market (District 1) to Suoi Tien Theme Park (Thu Duc City) with 14 stations along the way.
🚇 Ideal for: Tourists, commuters, and anyone heading toward District 2, Binh Thanh, or Thu Duc
🕒 Runs daily from 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
💳 Tickets from 12,000 VND (~$0.50)
📱 Use MetroMap or Google Maps to check station names and schedules
📍 Popular stops for travelers:
- Ben Thanh Station – city center, markets, walking street
- Ba Son Station – near Saigon River, Vinhomes
- Suoi Tien – amusement park & Buddhist complex
This is a game changer for travel in Saigon – it’s clean, safe, and avoids traffic completely.
✅ Top Tips for Getting Around Safely
- 🚫 Avoid rush hour (7:30–9:00 AM & 4:30–6:30 PM)
- 🧹 Stand on the right side of escalators & walk on the left
- 📶 Have a local SIM or free eSIM from Heera Travel
- 🔋 Keep your phone charged — you’ll rely on maps & ride-hailing apps
- 🗣️ Learn a few key Vietnamese phrases like “Dừng lại ở đây” (Stop here)
🧳 Traveling with luggage?
Choose GrabCar, Vinasun taxi, or arrange a private airport transfer.
🎯 Recommended Tours That Include Transfers:
✨ Travel Smart with Heera Travel
At Heera Travel, we make it easier to explore Saigon:
- ✅ Tour + transport combos
- 🚵️ Motorbike & walking experiences
- 🚐 Private transfers with English-speaking drivers
- 📶 FREE eSIM for seamless navigation
- 📲 24/7 support via LINE or WhatsApp
🌐 Visit heeratravel.com to book your next adventure