Is the Ho Chi Minh Metro free?

The Ho Chi Minh City Metro (Line 1) is generally not free for regular, daily travel. While free rides were offered for the first 30 days of operation starting December 22, 2024, the service now charges fares ranging from 7,000 VND to 20,000 VND based on distance, though free service is sometimes available on special occasions.

How much is the metro in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City metro offers a variety of ticket options, catering to different travel needs. For single-ride tickets, passengers can expect to pay between VND 7,000 and VND 20,000 for cash payments, depending on the distance. Non-cash payments offer a discount, with fares ranging from VND 6,000 to VND 19,000.

What to do in Ho Chi Minh for free?

10 Free Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in HCMC

1. Notre Dame Cathedral. Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous and oldest architectural works in Ho Chi Minh City. ...
2. Ben Thanh Market. ...
3. Nguyen Hue walking street. ...
4. Bui Vien Street. ...
5. Temple of the Jade Emperor. ...
6. City Post Office. ...
7. Turtle Lake. ...
8. Starlight Bridge.

How do you pay for the metro in Vietnam?

Card payments are accepted with Mastercard, Visa, and NAPAS. Digital wallet payments are accepted from MoMo and Zalopay. Passengers can pay via the HCMC Metro HURC app. Passengers can use identification cards (ID) or chip-based citizen ID cards to purchase a standard monthly pass via the HURC app.

What to be careful of in Ho Chi Minh?

Be careful of petty theft, especially motorbike snatch-and-grab thieves targeting phones and bags in crowded areas like markets (Ben Thanh), so keep valuables hidden and bags secured away from traffic. Also, watch out for common scams, use reputable transport apps (like Grab), and be cautious with drinks and strangers. Stay aware in poorly lit spots at night and avoid flashing wealth to stay safe in Ho Chi Minh City.
 

I tried Vietnam’s new metro… and found some surprising problems

Is it safe to walk in Ho Chi Minh City at night?

Is it safe to walk in Ho Chi Minh City at night? Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe at night, but it's always important for you to remain vigilant and take precautions. You should stick to well-lit areas, avoid isolated streets, and keep an eye on your belongings.

What is the cheapest way to get around in Vietnam?

Buses in Vietnam

Open-tour buses are an increasingly popular service for budget travelers, especially in Vietnam's southern and central regions. Buses run regularly and reliably between top destinations such as Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Mui Ne, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Is 50k inr enough for Vietnam?

You can pick popular itineraries like the Vietnam Tour Package with Flights (4 days) at ₹ 50,057 or opt for immersive journeys like the Vietnam Highlights with FREE Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour (7 days) at ₹ 48,714.

How much money do I need per day in Saigon?

Mid-range: USD 50 - 90 per day. You can stay in 3-star hotels (USD 25 - 50/night), eat at good local restaurants (USD 5 - 10/meal), and use ride booking app. Luxury: USD 150 - 300+ per day. You can choose 4 - 5 star hotels or resorts (USD 100-300+/night), enjoy fine dining, and use private transportation services.

Is $50 a lot in Vietnam?

For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.

Is $1000 USD a good salary in Vietnam?

To answer this question, yes, $1000/month is a strong income in Vietnam, especially for the locals. The average salary in Vietnam is approximately $320 per month, so if you earn $1000, you are earning in the top 10-15%. Let's look at what $1000/month can afford: Housing (1-bedroom apartment in city centre): $300-500.

What mistakes should you avoid in Vietnam?

Vietnam Travel Guide: 10 Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating the Size of Vietnam. ...
• Disrespecting Cultural Norms at Temples. ...
• Getting Scammed by Taxis or Cyclo Drivers. ...
• Assuming There's No Good Food for Vegetarians. ...
• Drinking Tap Water. ...
• Not Haggling at Markets. ...
• Not Doing Proper Shopping Research.

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

Unspoken rules in Vietnam emphasize respect, harmony, and modesty, requiring visitors to remove shoes indoors, dress conservatively (especially at religious sites), stay calm in public (avoiding loud confrontation), and show respect for elders. Key etiquette includes mastering chopsticks (don't pass food, stick them upright), accepting offers of food/drink gracefully, using both hands for transactions, and understanding that public affection is generally frowned upon.
 

Is a taxi in Vietnam expensive?

Local transportation costs in Vietnam include: Taxis: 15,000-20,000 VND (50-70 INR) per kilometer. Public buses: 7,000-10,000 VND (25-35 INR) per ride. Motorbike rentals: 100,000-150,000 VND (300-500 INR) per day.

Should I carry USD or dong to Vietnam?

US dollar is a widely accepted currency in Vietnam and most goods and services can be paid for in Dongs or Dollars. It is good to carry a combination of both at all times. It is also preferable if the dollar bills are in good condition as many businesses may refuse to accept worn out notes.

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What can I buy with 5,000 dong in Vietnam?

Street Snacks - A Paradise Starting from Just 5,000 Vietnamese Dong. Banh trang tron, bubble tea, fried fermented pork rolls, Vietnamese sweet soup (che thap cam)… all can be found for just 5,000 to 25,000 Vietnamese Dong per item. With 100,000 Vietnamese Dong, you can enjoy a true “street food buffet” experience!

What to avoid in Ho Chi Minh City?

Petty crime in Ho Chi Minh City

• Carry bags cross-body and on the side away from traffic.
• Keep phones and cameras secure when taking photos near the street.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewellery.
• Store passports and valuables in your hotel safe.

Which district is best to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has no shortage of excellent hotels. You might opt to stay at the heart of the city in District 1. Alternatively, you might want to take in the vibrancy of District 2 & Binh Thanh. District 3 is a more relaxed substitute, while further afield are even more chances for tranquility and seclusion.

What to wear in Ho Chi Minh City?

Clothing and footwear

Athletic wear designed to absorb sweat and stay dry is a better option for humid days. Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Loose, long clothing is both respectful and tends to keep you cooler in hot climates.