Public Transportation Forms in Saigon

Despite its busy traffic, traveling around Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is very simple, assuming you've done some study prior to visiting this vibrant city. Tourists' favorite mode of transportation is the iconic (and dwindling) cyclo, but there is also an efficient network of motorcycle taxis, public buses, and private taxis that take you to the city center and beyond. Travelers can also rent a bicycle or a motorcycle, though managing the city's hectic (and deadly) traffic may be difficult for the novice. Check out our guide to Saigon public transportation for a stress-free way to get around the city.

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1. Cyclo

In Saigon, the three-wheeled cyclo is a rapidly dwindling mode of transportation, primarily located near major sites, temples, restaurants, and bars. Most visitors prefer to commute between city landmarks or make short journeys within the Dong Khoi area by cyclo, which costs from VND 100,000 per hour. We advise against all-day cyclo tours in Ho Chi Minh City due to the heavy traffic. Traveling by cyclo, on the other hand, can be a thrilling experience for thrill-seekers. However, you have reason to try cyclo tours for a real experience with transportation as a local.

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2. Cab/Taxi

Taxis are one of the most convenient ways to navigate around Ho Chi Minh City, as they are frequently parked outside of well-known hotels, landmarks, clubs, and restaurants. The normal taxi charge ranges from VND 13,000 to VND 17,000 per kilometer (depending on type and brand of taxi).

Most places in District 1 should be accessible for less than VND 100,000. Stick with authorized taxi firms like Mai Linh Taxi (+84 283 925 0250) or Vinasun (+84 283 272-727), as taxi fraud is rampant in Saigon.

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3. Public bus

Buses, which run on over 100 routes across Ho Chi Minh City, are a terrific way to see the city on a budget. All buses are easily identifiable by their white and green exteriors and are equipped with comfy seats and air conditioning, with fares starting at VND 7,000. Major bus terminals within the city include Ben Thanh Station (where you can get a free map of the Ho Chi Minh Bus Route), Cholon Station, and Mien Dong Station.

Look for the #147 (Cho Lon Bus Station – Tan Son Nhat) and #152 (Trung Son Resident – Tan Son Nhat) buses if you want to travel from the airport to the city center or vice versa. Bus #147 will take you to Chinatown in Ho Chi Minh City, while bus #152 will take you to Ben Thanh Market, which is less than five minutes away from Pham Ngu Lao's backpacker district.

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4. Motorcycle & Bicycle rentals

Bicycle and motorcycle rentals are available across Vietnam, however due to the city's turbulent traffic, most visitors avoid renting one in Saigon. The majority of hotels can assist with bicycle and motorcycle rentals, but they come at exorbitant fees, so your best chance is to head to the Pham Ngu Lao Street, where a full-day bicycle with helmet costs around VND 50,000 and motorcycles cost around VND 130,000.

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5. Xe om

Xe om, or motorcycle taxis, are a frequent but intriguing means of transportation in Vietnam, where you will be weaving through the busy traffic with an expert driver. It's also reasonably cheap, ranging from VND 15,000 to VND 20,000 depending on your destination (and haggling skills). You may even pay VND 30,000 for an hourly booking, which is a great deal considering you can see a whole district in a short amount of time.

For your safety, you'll be given a helmet; just remember to keep your knees in, and most drivers will appreciate you scanning for traffic and signaling a turn. The language barrier is the only disadvantage of xe om, as most locals are unable to communicate in English.

Note: all above prices are just referent because they much depend on gasoline price. Kindly check them all when you are in Ho Chi Minh City.

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