The Best Ho Chi Minh Public Transport Options in 2025

Amanaki Thao Dien

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Live Like A Local |01/07/2025

7 minute

Ho Chi Minh City's transportation system is undergoing a major transformation, making travel easier and more sustainable for both residents and visitors. The expansion of Ho Chi Minh public transport in 2025—including new metro lines, electric buses, and waterbus services—demonstrates the city’s commitment to green urban mobility. These improvements help connect key areas, from Ben Thanh Market to Thao Dien, meeting the needs of over 9 million people. Amanaki Hotels supports this progress by promoting eco-friendly travel options that enhance guest experiences while contributing to the city's sustainable development goals.
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An overview of public transport in Ho Chi Minh City

The current landscape of Ho Chi Minh public transport represents a fascinating blend of traditional and modern transportation solutions, reflecting the city's rapid urban development and commitment to sustainable mobility. Over the past decade, Ho Chi Minh City has invested heavily in transforming its transportation infrastructure, moving from a motorcycle-dominated system to a more diverse, efficient, and environmentally friendly public transport network that serves millions of daily passengers.
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Recent improvements have focused on creating an integrated transportation ecosystem where different modes complement each other seamlessly. The city's vision for sustainable urban mobility emphasizes reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and improving air quality while ensuring accessibility for all socioeconomic groups. This comprehensive approach has resulted in a transportation network that not only meets current demands but also anticipates future growth and environmental challenges.
The transformation includes significant investments in technology integration, with smart ticketing systems, real-time tracking applications, and digital payment methods becoming standard across all transport modes. These technological advances make public transport Ho Chi Minh more user-friendly for both locals and international visitors, while also providing valuable data for continuous system optimization and expansion planning.

Main types of public transport in Ho Chi Minh City

Understanding the various transportation options available helps travelers and residents make informed choices about the most efficient and cost-effective ways to navigate the city. Each transport mode offers unique advantages and serves different travel needs, from daily commuting to tourist exploration and airport connections.
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City buses

The city bus network is a key component of public transport in Ho Chi Minh City, offering over 140 routes that connect all districts, including both central and suburban areas. Buses operate from early morning to late evening, with frequencies of 10–20 minutes on main routes and 30–45 minutes on secondary lines. Equipped with air conditioning and wheelchair access, these services provide an affordable option for all income levels, with fares ranging from 7,000 to 20,000 VND. Tourists can easily reach landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and the War Remnants Museum, while express routes serve daily commuters.
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A major advancement in public transport in Ho Chi Minh City is the rollout of electric buses, replacing older diesel models on high-frequency routes. These eco-friendly vehicles reduce emissions and noise pollution, supporting the city’s sustainability goals. They also enhance the passenger experience with smoother rides, modern interiors, USB charging ports, and free Wi-Fi—making public transit cleaner, quieter, and more convenient for both residents and visitors.

Metro system (Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Line and beyond)

The Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line, Ho Chi Minh City's first operational metro system, has revolutionized urban transportation by providing fast, reliable, and climate-controlled travel across the city. The current operating line connects the central business district with eastern suburban areas, serving 14 stations over a 19.7-kilometer route that significantly reduces travel times compared to surface transportation.
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Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the metro system continues expanding with additional lines under construction, including the Ben Thanh – Tham Luong line and extensions to serve Ho Chi Minh City's international airport. These expansions will create a comprehensive rapid transit network connecting all major districts, tourist attractions, and transportation hubs throughout the metropolitan area.
The metro system brings multiple advantages—most notably its speed, with trains running every 2–3 minutes between stations; its reliability, thanks to dedicated tracks separated from road traffic; and its accessibility, with elevators, tactile guidance systems, and designated spaces for wheelchair users. Modern stations provide amenities such as air conditioning, clean restrooms, retail outlets, and seamless connections to other transport modes.
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For travelers seeking convenient metro access, Amanaki's two properties offer exceptional connectivity to the Ho Chi Minh public transport network. Amanaki Thao Dien is strategically located near Thao Dien Station on the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien line, providing guests with direct access to the city's rapid transit system. Similarly, Amanaki Saigon Boutique enjoys prime positioning near Ben Thanh Station, the central hub of Ho Chi Minh City's metro network.
Metro connections for Amanaki Thao Dien:
- Station name: Thao Dien Station
- Distance: 700 meters from the hotel
- Walking time: 10 - 15 minutes
- Station type: Elevated station
- Amenities: Motorbike parking facility under the station
Metro connections for Amanaki Saigon Boutique:
- Address: 65 Ho Tung Mau Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, HCMC
- Nearest Metro Station: Ben Thanh Station
- Distance: About 700 meters (distance from the hotel to Ben Thanh Market)
- Walking time: 8–12 minutes
- Station type: Underground station, located under 23/9 Park and Quach Thi Trang Square, in front of Ben Thanh Market
- Features: The main central station of the HCMC Metro, serving as the intersection of multiple metro lines

These convenient connections highlight how public transport in Ho Chi Minh City is increasingly integrated into daily life and tourism, supporting both mobility and sustainability while providing guests at both Amanaki properties with easy access to explore the entire city via modern, efficient metro transportation.
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Public waterbus

The Saigon Waterbus is a unique addition to Ho Chi Minh public transport, making use of the city’s river network to offer both practical commuting and scenic travel. Connecting central districts, Thu Thiem, and key tourist spots, it provides passengers with a relaxing view of the city skyline. Main piers include Bach Dang (near Ben Thanh Market), Binh An (Thao Dien), and Thanh Da, with tickets ranging from 15,000 to 30,000 VND depending on distance.
Operating daily with regular departures, the waterbus is ideal for both tourists and local commuters seeking an alternative to road traffic. Modern boats are equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seating, and safety features, offering a pleasant, low-emission transport option that supports Ho Chi Minh City’s goals for sustainable urban mobility.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

Traditional taxis and modern ride-hailing apps play a key role in complementing public transport in Ho Chi Minh, offering flexible, door-to-door mobility. Companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun operate alongside apps such as Grab, XanhSM, and Be, providing services from budget rides to premium vehicles. These apps have transformed urban travel with features like transparent fares, GPS tracking, cashless payments, and user ratings to improve safety and convenience.
Ride-hailing services enhance the public transport Ho Chi Minh ecosystem by filling in gaps and supporting first- and last-mile connections to metro and bus stations. Options range from quick motorcycle rides to larger vehicles for group trips or airport transfers, allowing users to combine private and public transport for efficient, cost-effective travel across the city.

Ho Chi Minh airport public transport options

Navigating Ho Chi Minh airport public transport offers travelers several convenient and affordable options based on their budget and preferences. Airport buses are the most cost-effective, with Route 109 connecting Tan Son Nhat Airport to Ben Thanh Market and District 1, and Route 49 serving other central districts. City Bus 152 is another low-cost option, though it makes more stops. For faster, more direct service, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek offer fixed-price, door-to-door transport with vehicle choices to suit different needs.
To make the most of Ho Chi Minh airport public transport, travelers should use official apps to avoid scams and inflated fares. Free airport Wi-Fi can help compare options before leaving the terminal, while shared shuttles may offer a good balance of cost and comfort. It's important to avoid unofficial drivers, check driver identity in-app, and steer clear of touts or fake ride-hailing accounts for a safe and smooth journey into the city.

How the City Is Upgrading Public Transport

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transportation and Public Works plays a key role in developing the city’s transport infrastructure, managing major projects, regulating service quality, and ensuring integration across all modes of Ho Chi Minh public transport. Recent initiatives include smart bus stations with real-time updates, digital payments, seating, and security features. Metro system expansions are also underway, aiming to provide wider rapid transit access throughout the city.
A strong focus on sustainability is evident in the department’s push for electric buses to replace older diesel models, reducing emissions and noise while improving rider experience. These efforts align with national environmental goals and help address the challenges of urban density and industrial activity. Through these strategies, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Transportation and Public Works is shaping a more efficient, modern, and eco-friendly transport system.

Tips for using public transport in Ho Chi Minh City effectively

Maximizing the benefits of public transport in Ho Chi Minh City involves understanding key elements such as payment systems, safety, and navigation tools. Using a transport card or mobile e-ticket apps simplifies fare payment across buses and metro lines, often offering discounts and top-up convenience. Popular options include the Ho Chi Minh City public transport card and mobile wallets. Staying alert in crowded areas, especially during rush hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM), and keeping valuables secure helps prevent pickpocketing. Planning extra time and choosing less crowded sections can also improve the travel experience.
Navigation apps are essential for efficiently using public transport in Ho Chi Minh City. BusMap Vietnam offers real-time bus tracking, route planning, and service alerts tailored to the local system. Moovit provides step-by-step guidance and disruption updates for both residents and tourists. These tools help users avoid delays and make well-informed decisions across the city’s growing transport network.

Conclusion

The evolution of Ho Chi Minh public transport in 2025 marks a major shift toward greater connectivity, sustainability, and convenience. With advancements such as the metro system, electric buses, waterbus services, and integrated payment options, the city now offers a comprehensive and eco-friendly transport network that enhances daily life and supports long-term growth.
For travelers, Amanaki Thao Dien provides an ideal base to explore the city with easy access to public transport Ho Chi Minh. Located in the vibrant Thao Dien neighborhood, the hotel is near metro stations, bus routes, and waterbus piers, offering seamless travel to cultural sites and business hubs. Guests enjoy sustainable luxury accommodations while supporting Vietnam’s green mobility goals.

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