Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Globetrotter

15 May 2023 - 5 min read

Ho Chi Minh City or also used to be known as Saigon, is located in southern Vietnam. The city is driven by business and develops rapidly. However, the population has time to relax and unwind.

From luxury restaurants to ready-to-eat outlets and hawkers or street vendors at Ben Thanh Market, the choice of dining in this city is as vibrant as his nightlife. Once the sunset and the neon lights are on, Ho Chi Minh City answers all your needs to enjoy the night in the city, ranging from a simple beer to drink luxury cocktails and the clubs that hit.

Read more: Event: Tet Festival in Vietnam

As one of the most economically important cities in the country, Ho Chi Minh City is also known for its heavy traffic and frequent traffic jams. What is the best way to travel to Ho Chi Minh City?

Transportations in Ho Chi Minh

Wherever its located, becoming a dense city that is a business center, it will not infrequently experience traffic jams that are present every day—no exception at Ho Chi Minh. The view of the traffic jam has become a daily view of the residents there.

However, for those of you who come for a vacation, don't worry because there are various types of transportation you can try to tour in this city.

Bus

Preferred Transportation in Ho Chi Minh: the bus is the preferred mode of transportation for residents of Ho Chi Minh due to its affordability and a wide network of 150 routes that cover all areas of the city. To take the bus, start from the Ngũ Lão PHạM Terminal in District 1. Alternatively, you can also go to Cho Ben Thanh in the city center near tourist attractions and accommodations.

Routes and schedules: to find your bus route and schedule, check online or on your navigation app. You can also find your bus number displayed on the screen at the bus terminal for your route and destination. The bus schedule is also available. When riding the bus, please remember that it may not stop at every stop when riding the bus. The driver will slow down but not immediately stop the vehicle when passengers are leaving. Please be careful when getting off the bus.

Rates: The bus in Ho Chi Minh is cheaper than other transportation there, and no wonder it is a favorite mode of transportation for its citizens. Prices take the bus on Ho Chi Minh starting from VND4,000 to VND8,000.

Cyclo

Uniqueness: This is traditional transportation with three wheels driven by pedaling. This vehicle is similar to a rickshaw with a smaller size but no roof. Cyclo is a vehicle first introduced to the French public and is now widely available in Ho Chi Minh City. However, the number of these vehicles has decreased significantly over time.

Cyclo riding is expensive compared to buses; passengers will be subject to VND50,000. However, you can ask the driver first before trying it. The driver will apply a high price to tourists. You should ask the price first and make an offer before riding Cyclo. Take care of your belongings since Cyclo does not have a roof.

The advantages of using Cyclo: If your tourist destination is close to your location or the hotel where you stay, then Cyclo is one alternative vehicle you can choose. The number of cyclo in the city center also began to decrease, so you must enjoy a unique experience by trying Cyclo while on vacation at Ho Chi Minh.

Taxi bike (Xe Om)

Taxibike in Ho Chi Minh City: Just like in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and most Asian countries, in Ho Chi Minh City, there are also motorcycle taxis available. Especially in the center of the crowd. Xe Om is a local taxi bike that can be hailed and has a base you can find in various places near public places.

Rates: The price offered by Xe Om is relatively high, which ranges from VND20,000 one way up to VND70,000 if your destination is the airport or other districts. You can ask and bargain the price of Xe Om first to the driver before starting the journey. If you agree with each other, then you can get an affordable price if you want to try this transportation at Ho Chi Minh.

The advantages of using Xe Om: Ho Chi Minh cannot be separated from traffic at certain hours, and traffic conditions like this are beneficial if you are in a hurry to go to the tourist sites or are reluctant to jam on the bus. Xe Om offers an easy solution to avoid traffic jams and the headache of finding parking during your holiday. You can go down anywhere according to your desired location, especially if there is a location that seizes your attention while traveling to the tourist location or when you return to the hotel.

Rent a Motorcycle

Motorcycle at Ho Chi Minh: If you are uncomfortable using Xe Om because it is expensive, you can also rent a motorcycle. The name of this vehicle in Vietnam is Xe Máy, and you can find a place to rent in various crowd centers, one of which is in Pham Ngu Lao in District 1.

Benefits of using a motorbike: Riding in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best ways to navigate traffic jams, just like riding a Xe Om. It allows you to explore various locations that may not be accessible by car or bus. Additionally, driving a motorbike provides time flexibility.

Rates: in Ho Chi Minh, the cost of renting a motorcycle typically ranges from VND120,000 to VND300,000 per day. The price depends on the brand, type of motor, engine size, and transmission. The rental place offers three options: a scooter, semi-automatic, and manual.

Tips: Bring a driving license from a country of origin or international. Remember to learn about traffic signs at Ho Chi Minh for your safety and safety. You can also park the motorbike in a monitored location to make it safer or in a place that reads Giu XE.

Rent a Car

Rent a car at Traveloka: If you come to Ho Chi Minh with friends or family, then there is no harm in renting a vehicle to facilitate your tour in this city. You can order a car rental at Traveloka with a choice of lock. With this application, you can also determine the location, date, rental time, and type of car you want.

The advantages of renting a car in Traveloka: Traveloka provides a car rental service, so you no longer need to look for a place to rent while on vacation. You can immediately choose the type of car through the application. You can also select an option with or without a driver, so your trip will be more comfortable without looking for a rental car when you arrive.

Rent a Car at Traveloka

Having familiarized yourself with the diverse transportation options available in Ho Chi Minh City, you're now poised to embark on an unforgettable vacation in this vibrant metropolis. Renowned for its excellent mobility infrastructure, Ho Chi Minh City has garnered immense popularity among solo travelers from across the globe due to its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Are you ready to tour Ho Chi Minh with Traveloka?