Ho Chi Minh City is a chaotic city known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Ho Chi Minh City and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Ho Chi Minh City?
You should plan to spend around $29 (d719,882) per day on your vacation in Ho Chi Minh City. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $5.63 (d141,556) on meals
- $5.56 (d139,935) on local transportation
- $33 (d831,201) on hotels
A one week trip to Ho Chi Minh City for two people costs, on average, $400 (d10,078,348). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$200
d5,039,174
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$400
d10,078,348
-
One Month
Per person
$858
d21,596,460
-
One Week
For a couple
$400
d10,078,348
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$801
d20,156,696
-
One Month
For a couple
$1,716
d43,192,920
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Ho Chi Minh City cost?
A one week trip to Ho Chi Minh City usually costs around $200 (d5,039,174) for one person and $400 (d10,078,348) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Ho Chi Minh City on average costs around $400 (d10,078,348) for one person and $801 (d20,156,696) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Ho Chi Minh City will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Ho Chi Minh City on average costs around $858 (d21,596,460) for one person and $1,716 (d43,192,920) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Ho Chi Minh City expensive to visit?
Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling city full of activities to keep you entertained. With travelers coming from all walks of life, you'll see everything from budget adventurers to high-end explorers enjoying the scene. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
If you choose to make it so, Ho Chi Minh City can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and finding free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $29 (d719,882) per day, mid-range travelers spend $83 (d2,030,837) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $258 (d6,337,220) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Ho Chi Minh City.
Within Asia, Ho Chi Minh City is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Mashiko or Jinghong.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive?
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam
How much money do I need for a trip to Ho Chi Minh City?
The average Ho Chi Minh City trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Ho Chi Minh City travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Ho Chi Minh City cost?
Ho Chi Minh City on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$17
(d415,600)
|
$49
(d1,230,037)
|
$164
(d4,135,840)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$6
(d139,935)
|
$15
(d381,792)
|
$45
(d1,124,366)
|
Food 2
|
$6
(d141,556)
|
$14
(d355,926)
|
$35
(d886,433)
|
Entertainment 1
|
$8
(d191,795)
|
$20
(d504,127)
|
$55
(d1,382,331)
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(d38,077-114,232)
|
$4-12
(d99,908-299,725)
|
$11-33
(d272,974-818,921)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Ho Chi Minh City on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $29 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Food is a major draw for all kinds of visitors to Ho Chi Minh City, but budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which means they might miss out on the amazing local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. A trip to Ho Chi Minh City wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $83 per person, per day.
In Ho Chi Minh City, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Hong Hac Hotel is a great choice for families, and The Hammock Hotel Fine Arts Museum is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Ho Chi Minh City.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $258. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the city, be prepared for premium pricing. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Saigon Night Food Tour by Scooter - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Ho Chi Minh City
In Ho Chi Minh City, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $31 and peak winter season rising to an average of $58. Prices typically range from $16 to $136, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Ho Chi Minh City for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $33 (d831,201). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $17 (d415,600) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Ho Chi Minh City include:
- Au Lac Charner Hotel starting at $68
- Fusion Suites Saigon starting at $64
- Sila Urban Living starting at $62
- Silverland Yen Hotel starting at $61
- Villa Song Saigon starting at $94
Families visiting Ho Chi Minh City will find that choosing accommodations with more room can make their trip much more comfortable. It's a large city, so don't be surprised if the rooms feel a bit small and cramped.
Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of winter, can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.
Transportation Budget in Ho Chi Minh City
Unfortunately, Ho Chi Minh City does not provide a solid public transit network. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.
Ho Chi Minh City is quite walkable in certain areas, making it easier to explore various sights. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.
Public Transit: (moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $5.56 (d139,935) per person, per day, on local transportation in Ho Chi Minh City. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Ho Chi Minh City is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$5.56
d139,935
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Ho Chi Minh City Private Airport Arrival Transfer for $35 details
- Phong Nha to Hue Private Transfer via DMZ and Sightseeing for $67 details
- Ho Chi Minh City Airport (SGN) to Ho Chi Minh hotels - Arrival Private Transfer for $17 details
How much does it cost to go to Ho Chi Minh City? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Ho Chi Minh City will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Ho Chi Minh City, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.
-
Short Taxi Ride
d35,000
-
Taxi From Airport
d200,000
-
Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
d40,000
Food Budget in Ho Chi Minh City
You won't want to overlook the world-class cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City. Take the time to dine at local eateries and indulge in their unique specialties. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Ho Chi Minh City can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Ho Chi Minh City is $5.63 (d141,556) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$5.63
d141,556
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Ho Chi Minh City is around $14 (d355926) per person, with previous travelers spending from $6 to $36. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Ho Chi Minh City are as follows:
- Breakfast: $1 to $4
- Lunch: $2 to $6
- Dinner: $4 to $10
- Coffee: $1
- Fast Food or Street Food: $2
There is no shortage of restaurants in Saigon, both international and Vietnamese. Prices are relatively low in cost, but rising so it can be challenging to find the very cheap deals that once existed. You'll still get some great deals at food stalls around town. You can also pick up a delicious bowl of pho soup for very little money. Other popular local dishes include Banh Mi Thit (pork sandwiches) or Com Tam (rice with grilled pork and vegetables). Western food is usually far more expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, stick to the wonderful local cuisine. Saigon is the perfect place to start an itinerary of Vietnam focusing on food, also. As the cuisine is diverse in this modern city, everyone can find something they like.
You'll find the highest concentration of western style restaurants along Pham Ngu Lao, with options ranging from pizza to burgers or even Mexican. The quality can be highly variable, so don't expect the styles you're accustomed to at home.
Dining at nicer restaurants for lunch rather than dinner can help you save money. Many restaurants in touristy areas or business hubs provide lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' Often, these options are simply smaller and more affordable versions of their dinner menus. If you play your cards right, you could enjoy a full multi-course gourmet meal without breaking the bank. Then, you can keep it light for dinner.
If you're dining out with children, try to find restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since those meals tend to be cheaper. Remember, some places may not highlight their kids' options, so don't forget to ask your waiter first.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
If you want to experience the culture in Ho Chi Minh City, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Saigon Unseen & Food Tour By scooter w Student | Saigon Adventure for $20 details
- Private Saigon Unique Premium Street Food Tour By Scooter for $49 details
- Standout Saigon Private Street Food Tour: Scooter or Walking for $33 details
Typical food prices in Ho Chi Minh City, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Ho Chi Minh City
It's not a shock that Ho Chi Minh City draws crowds, as it is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Ho Chi Minh City typically cost an average of $7.62 (d191,795) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$7.62
d191,795
There are many sights throughout the city, many of which serve to inform or memorialize the events of the war. The War Remnants Museum is one of the most visited sights in the city. It can be graphic at points as there are rather gruesome photos that depict the level of cruelty that occurred during the war. There is also a simulated "tiger cage" prison and jars holding deformed fetuses affected by Agent Orange. Just outside of the museum you'll see a variety of military equipment including tanks, jets, helicopters, and howitzers.
The Reunification Palace was previously the presidential palace during the war when Saigon was the capital of the Republic of Vietnam. Today it feels somewhat dated, but is interesting to see. Thien Hau Pagoda is on Nguyen Trai Street, and is dedicated to the sea goddess, Lady Thien Hau. Every March 23rd there is a festival held in her honor.
Shopping is a favorite activity in Saigon. You can find markets that sell everything from Vietnamese arts and crafts to electronics and clothing. Remember to negotiate hard for everything, and it is best to barter in the local currency. Some of the best markets include Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, Cho Binh Tay, the Night Market, and the War Surplus Market.
Other activities around town include seeing a show at the Saigon Opera House or taking a city organized tour. Cooking classes are also available.
Museums and Attractions:
Ho Chi Minh City is well-known for its iconic museums and renowned landmarks. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.
Shopping:
Shopping here is a unique experience you'll want to have. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Ho Chi Minh City. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Saigon tour Signature Local Street Food by scooter female driver for $25 details
- CuChi Tunnel and Mekong Delta Superior Service Full-Day Tour for $60 details
- Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour By Car | Saigon Adventure for $39 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Ho Chi Minh City. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
Nightlife Budget in Ho Chi Minh City
The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is top-notch, making it a must-visit destination for partygoers from around the world. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $3.03 (d76,154) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Ho Chi Minh City per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$3.03
d76,154
The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.
Nightlife is fun, but be cautious when drinking. Thieves target distracted people, so stay with your group and trust your instincts to keep yourself safe.
Here are some typical drink and nightlife prices in Ho Chi Minh City, drawn from the experiences of past travelers. These costs can give you a general sense of what to expect, though your own spending will differ based on how often you enjoy alcoholic beverages and how much you consume. Remember, one of the most effective ways to reduce your travel costs is to limit alcohol consumption.
Travel cost data last updated: Jun 20, 2024
Traveling in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. It previously served as the capital of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam). The metropolitan area, including Ho Chi Minh City, Thu Dau Mot, Di An, Bien Hoa, and other surrounding towns, has a population of more than 9 million people and continues to grow.
The city's core is where most tourists spend their time. It has many wide and elegant boulevards and beautiful historic French colonial buildings. It is estimated that about 4.3 million tourists visit Vietnam every year and about 3 million of them visit Ho Chi Minh City.
The city has a tropical climate with a tropical wet and dry climate that is divided into two distinct seasons. The rainy season is between May and October and the dry season is between December and April. The temperature is relatively consistent throughout the year with temperatures hovering around 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Neighborhoods & Around
Ho Chi Minh City is divided into 24 districts. Most of the areas of interest for tourists are in the middle of the city in either District 1 or District 3. These areas have the highest concentration of sights, restaurants and hotels. If you're a budget traveler then the best neighborhood to stay in is Pham Ngu Lao, which has cheap accommodation and affordable places to eat. Dong Khoi is slightly more expensive and has slightly better amenities for visitors. A popular market area in town is Cho Lon, or The Big Market. This area has the highest concentration of Chinese residents and negotiating prices is a must.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
We thought Ho Chi Minh City was more expensive than other parts of Vietnam, but it's still a very affordable place to visit.