Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) for the first time? Buckle up — it’s bold, bustling, and completely different from anywhere else you’ve been. With its swooping scooters, endless street food, and charming chaos, Saigon (as locals still lovingly call it) might throw you for a loop at first. But don’t worry — I’ve lived in multiple districts, zipped through traffic on a motorbike, shared drinks with locals, and I’ve compiled everything you need to know to keep your trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Let’s jump right into some friendly, real-world tips to help you settle into the groove of one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cities.
Best Areas to Stay: District 1 vs. District 3
Ho Chi Minh City Skyline District 1
If it’s your first time in HCMC, you’ll want to stay central. That means either District 1 or District 3.
- District 1 is where all the tourist action happens: flashy hotels, top attractions, and bars galore. It’s more walkable, but also pricier and sometimes a bit hectic.
- District 3 is quieter, cheaper, and still super walkable. Plus, it’s shaded by tree-lined streets — perfect for strolling before your next cà phê sữa đá.
Here are my top hotel picks based on budget and vibe:
| Level | District 1 | District 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | The Reverie Saigon | Hotel des Arts Saigon |
| Midrange | Liberty Central Citypoint | Au Lac Legend |
| Budget | Calista Saigon Hotel | Aristo Saigon |
Still not sure? Swing by the Saigon Travel Planning Facebook Group and ask away.
Get Connected Instantly: SIM Cards & eSIM Options
Don’t leave access to Google Maps (or Grab) to chance. Pre-arranging your SIM or eSIM saves you the airport hustle.
Both are reliable, cheap, and save you the awkward haggle with airport vendors while jetlagged.
From the Airport to Your Hotel Without the Drama
Grab app signage at Tan Son Nhat Airport
Tan Son Nhat Airport is a bit like jumping into a sensory overload — folks offering rides left and right, confusing signage, and yes, sometimes taxi scams (overcharging is a thing).
What to do?
- Book a private airport transfer
- Use Grab, Vietnam’s answer to Uber
Check out my complete guide on getting from the airport to District 1, and don’t forget — if it feels sketchy, go with your gut.
Getting Around: Grab is Your Best Friend
Once you’re in the city, stick with Grab. It’s reliable and lets you skip potentially confusing negotiations with drivers.
🛵 Options include:
- GrabBike: cheap, and proudly chaotic
- GrabCar: affordable comfort (especially in the heat)
- GrabTaxi: if you prefer metered rides but want accountability
Still, if you’re going old-school, hail only Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) cabs — they’re the most trustworthy.
Surviving the Saigon Traffic Jungle
Traffic jam in HCMC
From 4 PM to 6 PM, prepare for absolute gridlock — especially in Districts 1 and 3. Here’s how to keep your sanity:
- Avoid traveling by car or bike during peak hours
- Visit a museum or enjoy an early dinner indoors
- Skip the honk-heavy chaos and opt for a stroll or chill cafe session
Speaking of honking — yeah, it’s loud. But it’s more “Hey, I’m here!” than aggressive. You’ll get used to it, promise.
Street Crossing 101
Vietnamese traffic flows like a determined river. If you’re crossing the street:
- Walk slowly and confidently
- Make eye contact with drivers
- Wave your hand — it signals that you’re crossing
- Stick with a group if possible
Pedestrian crossings aren’t always respected, so don’t assume right-of-way.
Be Sidewalk Savvy
Sidewalks in HCMC are… multipurpose. Motorbikes use them to bypass traffic, vendors set up shop, and you’ll occasionally skip around furniture displays.
Tip: Keep your eyes peeled, especially when turning corners or walking through crowded areas.
What Many First-Timers Miss (But Shouldn’t)
🚫 Avoid Bui Vien at Night (Unless You’re Partying)
Bui Vien Walking Street at Night
By day, it’s colorful. By night, it’s rowdy.
Think blaring music, flashing neon, cheap drinks, and more than a few scams. Backpacker heaven, sure — but if you’re not in the mood for crazy, walk through in daylight and steer clear once the sun sets.
😬 Watch Out for Common Tourist Scams
Here are a few to dodge like a seasoned pro:
- Taxi meter tricks
- Short-changing at convenience stores or markets
- “Free” shoe cleaning that suddenly comes with a surprise fee
- Market prices quoted wayyy too high because you’re a foreigner
- Nightlife bills mysteriously doubling
Be polite but firm. And trust your instincts — they travel with you for a reason.
More Tips to Travel Smart
🧠 Lock/Unlock Your Bank Card via Your App
Private app controls are a lifesaver. Flip your ATM card off and on right before/after you use it. Bye-bye, skimming risks.
💰 Exchange Money at Gold/Jewelry Shops
Skip airport exchange counters — the rates stink. Look for spots like Ha Tam Jewelry near Ben Thanh Market for fair deals.
💵 Have Small Denomination Notes Ready
Keep some 20k, 50k, or 100k VND handy for local shops or cafes. Don’t expect the bánh mì cart dude to break a 500k.
🥤 Trust Convenience Stores for Basics
Need water, tea, toothpaste, or snacks? Look for Circle K, WinMart, GS25, FamilyMart, or 7-Eleven. Most are open late, and they’ll save you from buying mystery water on the street.
🧊 Ice: Hole-y or Not Holy?
In restaurants or bigger cafes, filter ice is fine (especially the ones with holes). On the street? Use discretion. Sugarcane juice is worth the gamble, but you’ve been warned.
💸 Tipping: Totally Optional
Tipping isn’t common in Vietnam. If you do tip, make it clear it’s for your server to keep — not their manager. Quietly hand it to them if needed.
Wrapping Up: Saigon is a Wild, Welcoming Ride
Sure, it can be intense at first. But HCMC grows on you fast — like your favorite spicy dish. The stories you’ll come home with? Worth every beep, detour, and bowl of phở.
When in doubt, ask someone. Locals are genuinely kind, and there’s a good chance they’ll go out of their way to help you — even with the language barrier.
Got questions before you go? Pop in and chat with travelers and locals in the Saigon Travel Planning Facebook Group.
You’ve got this. And trust me — Saigon won’t be your last trip to Vietnam. 😉
✈️ Still planning your trip? Check out these helpful resources:
- Visa Info
- Saigon Travel Itinerary
- Things to Do in HCMC
- Vietnam Travel FAQs
Safe travels and enjoy the ride!