Known as the "city that never sleeps", City. Ho Chi Minh or Saigon always possesses a strange appeal to any guest. Although the city is modern, it still retains its very own cultural beauty, colorful nightlife, or "trendy" places that are constantly springing up to satisfy the pleasures of young residents and tourists.
To fully explore Saigon with unique stops, tourists often choose self-guided travel to both be proactive in their schedules and save costs. So is it difficult to plan your own trip from A to Z? Don't worry, MoMo will help you solve this problem with the full set of extremely detailed self-sufficient Saigon travel experiences below!
Ideal time, trip length and budget
How to move to Saigon
Hotel in Saigon
Entertainment schedule when traveling to Saigon on your own
Things to know when traveling to Saigon
Tips for traveling from "experts"
1. Ideal travel time, trip length and budget:
1.1. Ideal time to travel to Saigon:
Located in the tropical monsoon region with an average temperature of 25-35 degrees, Saigon's climate is divided into 2 distinct seasons.
The dry season starts from late December to April of the following year. This is when the weather in Saigon is beautiful, dry, and perfect for walks. However, the temperature will be quite high and hot in the summer, so you need to prepare sunscreen, a hat and a protective jacket.
The rainy season lasts from May to late November with cooler weather. Depending on the time, the city will have sudden heavy or small rains. When traveling to Saigon this season, don't forget to have an umbrella or raincoat with you.
Although the weather is a little different depending on the season, Saigon is always beautiful, and always ready to welcome you.
1.2. How many days should you travel to Saigon?
The perfect length for a trip to explore the city. HCM is 3 days and 2 nights, just enough to visit famous places and eat all the Saigon specialties. If you have more time, don't worry, Saigon has no shortage of places to play and can accommodate your long journey.
1.3. Estimated budget for delicious food and fun:
Travel costs in the city. Ho Chi Minh City is not as expensive as you think. With a budget of 5,000,0000-6,000,000 VND/person, you can comfortably eat, pay for plane, hotel and basic travel expenses.
2. How to move when traveling to Saigon:
2.1. Arrive in the city. How to do it in HCM?
Plane:
Traveling by air to Saigon, it will take you about 1.5-2 hours to fly and land at Tan Son Nhat airport. Domestic airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Jetstar Pacific,... all operate flights to Ho Chi Minh City. HCM from all cities across the country. You can easily book air tickets to Saigon in the Airfare section in MoMo's "Travel - Travel" feature to get the most preferential prices.
From | Arrive | Ticket type | Fare |
Hanoi (HAN) | City. HCM (SGN) | One-way | From 850,000 VND* |
Da Nang (DAD) | City. HCM (SGN) | One-way | From 550,000 VND* |
*Fare displayed may no longer be valid at the time of booking. Airlines may charge additional fees and charges for certain products and services.
Train:
The train is a perfect choice for travelers who have plenty of time and want to see the country's scenery along the journey. Train ticket prices to Saigon range from 200,000-1,500,000 VND/way, depending on seat type, train type, time,...
Coach:
For tourists coming from the Central and Southern provinces, passenger cars are the fastest and most economical travel option. You can easily buy bus tickets to Saigon with prices ranging from 200,000-800,000 VND/way.
2.2. How to move around the city?
Rent Motorcycles:
Motorbike rental prices in Saigon are quite reasonable, ranging from 100,000-200,000 VND/motorbike/day. You can ask to rent a car at the hotel or contact reputable locations such as Tigit Motorbikes (0386.518.481), Bike Saigon (0974.424.163),...
Car rental:
If you are traveling in a large group or have young children, you can consider renting a self-driving car to be proactive during the trip. Currently, MoMo has the "Rent a car" feature with many types of cars, car brands, insurance, and door-to-door delivery with rental prices ranging from 800,000-1,200,000 VND/day.
Taxi:
Slightly more expensive than other means of transportation, taxis are suitable for large groups of people, or when the distance is not too long. Major taxi companies in Ho Chi Minh City are Vinasun (028.38.27.27.27), Mai Linh (028.38.38.38.38), Vina Taxi (028.38.111.111),...
Technology car companies:
With the development of technology car companies such as Grab, Goviet, Be,... Saigon tourists have another equally convenient transportation option. Depending on your needs, you can book a motorbike or car on the app at the listed price.
Bus:
Possessing more than 100 routes covering all districts, Saigon buses are the ideal choice for an economical trip. A small tip is that not all bus stops stop, so when you see the route you want to take, proactively wave to the driver to pick up passengers.
Saigon Waterbus:
Only recently appearing, waterbus has become a "fever" when it offers the experience of seeing the city by water with an 11km long journey. The best time to take the waterbus is early in the morning, when the weather is still cool and sunny to enjoy your virtual life.
3. Hotel in Saigon
As the largest tourist city in the country, Saigon owns a system of quality hotels and motels with diverse prices, from high-end to affordable. Just visit the Hotel section of the Travel - Travel feature on the MoMo Super App, you will be free to choose a satisfactory destination at an extremely affordable price.
High-end hotels: For those who want to relax, experience luxury and modern facilities, 4-5 star hotels in the city. HCM will not disappoint you. Some typical names are: Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, Sofitel Saigon Plaza, Le Méridien Saigon, An Lam Retreats Saigon River,...
Mid-range hotels: Suitable for the majority of tourists, 3-star hotels are the most popular choice for self-sufficient trips to Saigon. With reasonable prices from 350,000 VND/night, comfortable furniture, convenient location, you can consider some central Saigon hotels such as The One Hotel Ben Thanh, Meraki Boutique Hotel, GK Central Hotel, etc. .
Budget hotels: With a budget that is not too large, 1-2 star hotels or hostels are the "10-point" places to stay for groups of young people or backpackers. The addresses that are "remembered" are Full House Saigon Hotel, Emerald Boutique Hotel, Little Brick Saigon Hotel,...
4. Suggested food and entertainment schedule when traveling to Saigon on your own
4.1. Tourist destinations not to be missed:
Day 1: Check in the city's symbols
Notre Dame Cathedral: Located right in the "heart" of the city, Notre Dame Cathedral was built in the 17th century with ancient French architecture. With red-orange tones colored by time, this is a check-in point not to be missed when coming to Saigon. Currently, the church is being restored and is only open to visitors during worship hours.
Address: 1 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: Free
City Post Office: The project is a perfect combination of Western and Eastern architecture, reminding visitors of train stations in Europe. Souvenir counters, domed ceilings, mailboxes, public telephone booths... will take you back to the 90s, feeling an old Saigon.
Address: 125 Paris Commune, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: Free
Ben Thanh Market: Not only is it a symbolic check-in location of the city, Ben Thanh market is also full of specialties for tourists to give as gifts (tea, coffee, candy,...), and handicraft gifts. turmeric, clothes, shoes... Don't miss the super attractive food court with all the delicious regional dishes for a filling afternoon.
Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: Free
Bui Vien West Street: As the nightlife of Saigon, Bui Vien is an Asian - European culinary paradise, focusing on bars and pubs with extremely "hot" music. Street performances here will also promise you a sleepless night. Especially, on special occasions like New Year, Halloween, Christmas... Bui Vien will be a vibrant party you don't want to miss!
Address: Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
Day 2: Explore historical and cultural destinations
Independence Palace: Preserving a time of heroic struggle, Independence Palace is the pride of the people of Saigon and a symbol of freedom and unity. Coming here, visitors will explore the main building with impressive architecture, the historical exhibition area, or walk around the long green lawns.
Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: 65,000 VND/adult, 45,000 VND/student and 15,000 VND/child
City Museum of Art. HCM: As one of the hottest check-in spots for young people in Saigon, the City Museum of Art. Ho Chi Minh City has a vintage white-yellow color scheme, European architecture harmoniously combined with Asian style. Here, you will admire ancient and modern works made from primitive materials, or modern art collections by famous contemporary artists,...
To have a truly satisfying photo shoot, wear outfits with bright colors, eye-catching patterns and a few retro accessories!
Address: 97 Pho Duc Chinh, Ward Nguyen Thai Binh, District 1
Ticket price: 30,000 VND/adult and 15,000 VND/child or student
Cho Lon Chinese Area: As the "China Town" of Vietnam, Cho Lon area is the main gathering place of the Chinese community with its unique culture. Some attractive stops here are Ha Chuong Assembly Hall, Tam Son Assembly Hall, Ba Thien Hau Pagoda... In particular, don't forget to enjoy famous delicacies such as roasted duck, curry fish balls, dimsum, and dumplings. , pulled noodles, sweet soup dishes,...
Address: Area along Tau Hu canal, stretching in District 5 and District 6
Ticket price: Free
Day 3: Trendy entertainment venues for young people
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Garden: Located right in the center, the Zoo - the oldest ecological park in Saigon - is gradually becoming hot again. This place will take you lost in a miniature forest with more than 600 species of animals and 1,800 trees of all kinds. This green, clean, peaceful atmosphere is extremely perfect for an outdoor picnic with family and friends.
Address: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: 60,000 VND/adult and 40,000 VND/child
Nguyen Hue Walking Street: The most crowded and bustling address in Saigon, the walking street is surrounded by beautifully decorated cafes, famous Asian and European restaurants, or quality fashion stores. no comment. Coming here in the evening, you will watch water music performances, join street bands, enjoy the wind and enjoy typical sidewalk dishes of Saigon.
Address: Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Ticket price: Free
4.2. Enjoy Saigon specialties:
Breakfast dishes:
Crab soup: A bowl of full topping crab soup will include crab meat, shredded chicken, shiitake mushrooms, corn, quail eggs, herbs and pork brains. Enjoying this delicious dish, you will not be surprised by the sweetness of the meat, the fatty taste of eggs and pork brains, and the spiciness of pepper and chili mixed in the thick, rich soup.
Price: From 15,000 VND/portion
Reference addresses:
Moc crab soup: 32 Hoa Hung, District 10
Bong crab soup: 59C Mac Dinh Chi, District 1
Saigon banh mi: As a familiar breakfast dish, banh mi is always "memorable" for Saigon tourists because of the perfect combination of crispy crust, plump meat patty, pate and butter sauce. delicious. In addition, you can try other versions of bread such as grilled meat, grilled beef, fried chicken, pan bread,...
Price: from 15,000 VND/box
Reference addresses:
Nhu Lan Bread: 50 Ham Nghi, District 1
Bay Ho Bread: 19 Huynh Khuong Ninh, District 1
Lunch - dinner dishes:
Broken rice: Famous among tourists from near and far, broken rice is a Saigon specialty that everyone must try at least once. The broken seeds are cooked to a fragrant texture, the five-spice marinated ribs are grilled on charcoal, the skin is crispy, and the egg rolls are golden brown. In particular, the most "expensive" part of the broken rice dish is the cup of sweet fish sauce, added with a little spicy chili that is extremely addictive.
Price: From 35,000 VND/portion
Reference addresses:
Ba Ghien broken rice: 84 Dang Van Ngu, Phu Nhuan District
Tu Map broken rice: 89-91 Dong Den, Tan Binh District
Hu tieu: Saigon noodle soup is a dish that has its own genealogy with countless versions such as ribs, mixed meatballs, beef balls, squid..., of which the top one is probably Nam Vang noodle soup. A bowl of Nam Vang noodles will include chewy noodles, shrimp, liver, minced meat, heart, quail eggs; Add a little onion and sweet broth with strong bone flavor. Noodles also usually come in two types, dry and liquid, ready to satisfy the preferences of any diner.
Price: From 20,000 VND/bowl
Reference addresses:
Nam Vang Thanh Dat Noodle Soup: 34 Co Bac, District 1
Nam Vang Phu Quy Noodle Soup: Ho Thi Ky Market, District 10
Snails: Traveling to Saigon without visiting a snail shop is truly a mistake. Dozens of snails are prepared in many ways such as boiling, steaming, stir-frying with garlic, stir-frying with butter, grilled with onions, roasted with salt... making you hesitate to choose.
Price: 40,000 VND/plate
Reference addresses:
Snail box: C128 Xom Chieu, District 4
Oc Loan: 175/26 Nguyen Thien Thuat, District 3
Saigon snacks:
Mixed rice paper: Simple ingredients such as rice paper, quail eggs, mango, herbs, dried meat will be mixed with kumquat, beef broth, and shrimp salt to create an extremely addictive dish. Besides, you can try other types such as rice paper rolls, fried rice paper, dipping rice paper, butter rice paper,...
Price: From 15,000 VND/portion
Reference addresses:
Uncle Vien mixed rice paper: 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien, District 3
Aunt Hong's rice paper: 23 Street 11, District 4
Pha lau: Pha lau is a dish using pig or beef internal organs (heart, lungs, intestines, stomach,...), marinated with spicy spices and cooked with coconut milk. Add a little tamarind sauce when eating, you will enjoy the chewy and crunchy taste of the lagoon and the hot broth. You can choose to eat it with bread or with instant noodles, both are very delicious.
Price: 20,000 VND per portion
Reference addresses:
Miss Thao's Pha Lau: 243 Ton Dan, District 4
Pha Lau Li: 1A Suong Nguyet Anh, District 1
5. Notes when traveling to Saigon on your own:
Book air tickets at least 1 month and hotels at least 2 weeks before departure to avoid sold out tickets and rooms.
Indispensable items for a self-sufficient trip to Saigon are identification documents, wallet, hat, sunscreen, umbrella, some basic medicine, phone, and camera to enjoy virtual life.
Besides everyday clothes, you should bring a set of polite, discreet clothes to visit historical or spiritual destinations.
Follow the weather forecast to arrange a suitable itinerary, especially when visiting this city during the rainy season.
