Getting Around Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

Cyclos and Motorbikes

Cyclo drivers are notorious for asking one price and wanting more after the ride, but it is still worth the experience to try it out. Make sure you negotiate a price before getting on.

Motorbikes are everywhere- every corner in the city you will see there are motorcycle taxis available. They are inexpensive but it’s better to negotiate a price before you get on. Try to take those waiting on the main street or near hotels.

Bus

With the exception of those tour companies bus, public bus tend to be slow and unreliable and often over-crowded. You might want to take one just for the experience of it since it is definitely a sure way to ‘rub shoulders’ with the locals. Keep watch on your belongings though.

At 3,000 VND a ride, you can also take a public bus to the following bus stations:
• Cho Ben Thanh Bus Station – city centre and within walking distance to most the tourist sites and accommodation
• Mien Dong Bus Station – Buses heading north leave and arrive here.
• Mien Tay Bus Station – Take bus 139 from Tran Hung Dao Street to get here.
• Cholon Bus Station

Taxis

Taxis are relatively inexpensive and a convenient mode of transport especially if the weather is bad. Just make sure you get a metered cab and only pay what’s on the meter.

Boats

In some areas it is necessary to take boats. A recommended ride is to take the hydrofoil from Ho Chi Minh to Vung Tau. Prices are fixed but for some private services you should make sure you negotiate the price before getting on the boat.