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What you Should Know About Ho Chi Minh City
Travel & Lifestyle

What you Should Know About Ho Chi Minh City

Essential guide to Ho Chi Minh City for visitors, covering neighborhoods, transport, food, culture, and practical travel tips.

By Lam Nguyen, Content Editor · · 7 min read

Last updated: April 28, 2026

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest metropolis, a sprawling, high-energy city of over 9 million people that serves as the country’s economic and cultural engine. Known officially as Ho Chi Minh City and affectionately as Saigon, it is a place where French colonial architecture meets modern glass towers, where ancient temples border bustling markets, and where some of the world’s best street food is served on plastic stools at the edge of busy roads.

Whether you are visiting for dental care, business, or tourism, this guide will help you navigate the city with confidence.

Geography and Layout

Ho Chi Minh City is located in southern Vietnam, approximately 1,760 kilometers south of Hanoi. The city is divided into districts (quan), each with its own character:

  • District 1 – The central business and tourist district, home to major landmarks, upscale hotels, and shopping areas.
  • District 3 – A charming residential district with tree-lined streets, local cafes, and cultural attractions including the War Remnants Museum.
  • District 5 (Cholon) – Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, with ornate temples, traditional medicine shops, and Binh Tay Market.
  • District 7 – A modern, planned district popular with expats, featuring Phu My Hung urban area with international schools, restaurants, and housing.
  • Thu Duc City – A newer administrative division that encompasses the eastern districts, including technology parks and universities.
  • Binh Thanh – A rapidly developing district with a mix of local markets and modern apartment complexes.

Getting There

By Air

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the primary gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. It handles direct flights from major cities across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. The airport is located approximately 8 kilometers from the city center, and the journey into District 1 takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. In 2026, the nearby Long Thanh International Airport has also opened, significantly expanding capacity and international flight options for the greater Ho Chi Minh City area.

From the Airport to the City

  • Grab (ride-hailing app): The most popular and convenient option. Fares to District 1 typically range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4 to $8 USD).
  • Metered taxi: Use reputable companies such as Vinasun (white with green stripe) or Mai Linh (green). Expect to pay a similar fare to Grab.
  • Airport bus: Route 109 runs from the airport to the city center and is the most affordable option at 20,000 VND ($0.80 USD).

Climate

Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

  • Dry season (December to April): The most comfortable time to visit, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Temperatures average 25 to 35 degrees Celsius.
  • Rainy season (May to November): Afternoon thunderstorms are common, usually lasting 30 to 60 minutes before clearing. Temperatures remain warm, and the rain provides welcome relief from the heat.

The city is warm year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing is appropriate at any time of year. Sunscreen, a hat, and a compact umbrella are recommended accessories.

Culture and Etiquette

Language

Vietnamese is the primary language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, international hotels, and clinics. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases is always appreciated by locals.

Dress Code

Ho Chi Minh City is generally casual, but visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas (cover shoulders and knees). Smart casual attire is appropriate for upscale restaurants and rooftop bars.

Crossing the Street

Ho Chi Minh City’s traffic is legendary. Millions of motorbikes flow through the streets in an seemingly chaotic yet surprisingly organized manner. The key to crossing safely is to walk at a steady, predictable pace. Do not stop suddenly or run. The traffic will flow around you.

Food and Drink

Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for food lovers. The city’s culinary scene spans from humble street stalls to acclaimed fine dining restaurants.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pho – Rice noodle soup with beef or chicken, the quintessential Vietnamese dish
  • Banh mi – Crispy baguette sandwiches filled with pate, meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs
  • Com tam – Broken rice with grilled pork chop, a southern Vietnamese staple
  • Bun thit nuong – Grilled pork over vermicelli noodles with herbs and fish sauce dressing
  • Banh xeo – Crispy savory crepes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts
  • Ca phe sua da – Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk, a rich and addictive local favorite

Dining Tips

  • Street food is safe at busy stalls with high turnover.
  • Drink bottled water, which is available everywhere for approximately 5,000 to 10,000 VND.
  • Wet wipes are useful for cleaning hands before eating at street stalls.

Key Attractions

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon – A striking red-brick church built in the 1880s, located in the heart of District 1.
  • Central Post Office – A beautifully preserved French colonial building designed by Gustave Eiffel’s firm, located next to the cathedral.
  • Reunification Palace – The former presidential palace of South Vietnam, preserved as a museum with its 1960s and 1970s interiors intact.
  • War Remnants Museum – A powerful and moving museum documenting the Vietnam War through photographs and artifacts.
  • Ben Thanh Market – An iconic marketplace offering local goods, clothing, souvenirs, and food.
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda – One of the most atmospheric temples in the city, filled with intricate carvings and religious statuary.

Shopping

Ho Chi Minh City offers shopping experiences for every budget:

  • Markets: Ben Thanh Market (tourist goods), Binh Tay Market (wholesale goods, more local atmosphere), An Dong Market (fabrics and clothing)
  • Modern malls: Vincom Center, Saigon Centre (Takashimaya), Crescent Mall
  • Boutique shopping: Dong Khoi Street and surrounding lanes in District 1 feature local designers, silk shops, art galleries, and specialty stores

Healthcare and Dental Care

Ho Chi Minh City has a well-developed healthcare system for international patients. Several international hospitals provide English-language emergency and outpatient services, including FV Hospital and Columbia Asia International Clinic.

For dental care, Serenity International Dental Clinic provides comprehensive services for both local and international patients, with the same standard of care available at our flagship Hanoi location.

Practical Information

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available. Many businesses accept Visa and Mastercard.
  • SIM cards: Available at the airport and at phone shops throughout the city. Major carriers include Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone. A tourist SIM with data costs approximately 100,000 to 200,000 VND.
  • Electricity: 220V, Type A and C plugs (two-pin flat and round). Bring a universal adapter.
  • Safety: Generally safe for tourists. Be mindful of bag snatching on busy streets and keep valuables in a front pocket or crossbody bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ho Chi Minh City expensive?

No. Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most affordable major cities in Southeast Asia. A quality meal at a local restaurant costs $2 to $5, a comfortable hotel room $30 to $80 per night, and a Grab ride across the city center under $5.

How many days do I need in Ho Chi Minh City?

Three to five days is enough to see the major attractions, enjoy the food scene, and get a feel for the city. If combining sightseeing with dental treatment, a stay of 7 to 14 days is common and allows time for both.

Is Ho Chi Minh City walkable?

The central districts (1 and 3) are reasonably walkable, though sidewalks can be crowded with parked motorbikes and street vendors. For longer distances, Grab is inexpensive and convenient. The city’s first metro line has also improved public transport options.

What is the best area to stay in Ho Chi Minh City?

District 1 is the most convenient for first-time visitors, with the highest concentration of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. District 3 is a popular alternative for travelers seeking a more local, less touristy atmosphere at slightly lower prices.

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Written by Lam Nguyen, Content Editor

Lam Nguyen is the content editor and has been working for Picasso Dental Clinic since 2013.

Last updated: April 28, 2026

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