Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), also known as Saigon, is full of energy, history, and local flavor. To make the most of our trip, we need practical details: where to stay, how much food and transport cost, sightseeing info, and smart tips.

In this guide, we'll cover attractions, tickets, opening hours, transport fees, dining and accommodation costs — everything we need for a smooth visit.

Accommodation Options

HCMC offers lodging for all budgets:

- Budget: Dorm beds or simple hotels cost US$10–20/night, ideal for backpackers or short stays.

- Mid-range: Clean 3-star hotels or guesthouses in District 1 or 3 range from US$30–70/night, offering more comfort and central location.

- Luxury: High-end hotels, often riverside or near famous landmarks, start at US$100+ per night.

Tip: Staying slightly outside District 1, such as District 2 / Thao Dien, is quieter and sometimes cheaper, with easy Grab access to central attractions.

Food & Dining Costs

HCMC is famous for its street food and diverse restaurants:

- Street food: A bowl of phở or a bánh mì sandwich costs US$1–2.25.

- Local restaurants: Sit-down meals are around US$2.5–4.25 per person.

- Mid-range / Western restaurants: Expect US$6–13 per person.

- Drinks & coffee: Vietnamese coffee or cappuccino costs US$0.85–2, soft drinks or fresh juice US$0.65–1.10.

Tip: Eating at street stalls not only saves money but gives an authentic Saigon experience. Always check if the stall looks busy — a busy stall usually means fresh, tasty food.

Transportation Costs

Getting around HCMC is convenient and affordable:

- Public bus: One-way fare is US$0.30.

- Metro Line 1: Fares range from US$0.30–0.65.

- Grab motorbike: Short rides (2–4 km) cost US$0.60–1.20.

- Grab car: Intra-district rides US$1.40–2.50.

- Airport transfer: From Tan Son Nhat International Airport to District 1 costs US$4–6.

Tip: Grab is reliable and widely used. During peak traffic or rain, fares may surge, but GrabBike often beats cars for short trips.

Top Attractions: Costs, Hours & Tips

- Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica / Central Post Office: Free entrance; Cathedral early morning 5:00–6:15 AM; Post Office 07:00–19:00. Best visited early to avoid crowds.

- Jade Emperor Pagoda: Free entrance; 06:00–18:00 daily. Dress modestly; explore the "Hall of Ten Hells" inside.

- Thien Hau Temple (Chinatown): Free; best early morning 6:00–8:00 AM when locals pray.

- Bến Thành Market: Day market 06:00–18:00; night market 18:00–22:00. Great for souvenirs and street food; practice bargaining.

- Saigon Opera House: Ticketed performances cost US$20–22. Check schedules on Klook or GetYourGuide and book ahead.

Tip: Visit 3–4 nearby attractions per day to avoid fatigue. Walking in District 1 is often easiest.

Sample 1-Day Itinerary

- Morning: Notre-Dame Cathedral → Central Post Office → Jade Emperor Pagoda (walk or Grab).

- Midday: Lunch at a local restaurant (US$2.5–4.25), explore Chinatown (Thien Hau Temple).

- Afternoon: Bến Thành Market for shopping and snacks (US$1–3), rest at a café (coffee US$1–2).

- Evening: Dinner at street food stalls or casual restaurants (US$1.75–3.50), optional Opera House performance (US$20–22).

Tip: Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos and cooler temperatures.

Daily Budget (in USD)

- Budget travelers: US$31/day, including hostel, street food, transport, and cheap attractions.

- Mid-range travelers: US$60–120/day, covering mid-range hotels, restaurants, and local transport.

- Comfortable travelers: US$48/day, balancing hotels, meals, and attractions.

Smart Tips for Lykkers

1. Carry small bills for purchases and temple donations.

2. Dress modestly in temples (shoulders and knees covered).

3. Stay hydrated — it's hot and humid.

4. Use Grab instead of street taxis to avoid scams.

5. Bargain at markets like Bến Thành.

6. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for sightseeing.

7. Helmets are mandatory on GrabBike — safety first.

8. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially for outdoor attractions.

Explore Like Locals

Lykkers, HCMC is full of life, flavors, and history waiting to be discovered. With smart planning, we can hit the top sights, enjoy delicious street food, and soak in Saigon's vibrant energy without overspending. From incense-filled temples to bustling markets and aromatic streets, every corner tells a story. Let's explore like locals and turn our visit into a fun, practical, and unforgettable adventure.