Ho Chi Minh City · living & travel
Stay well in Saigon, then go further.
Independent guides to where to stay, what to eat, which day trips to take, and how to live here for a month or a year.
Our top choice
First time in Saigon? Stay in District 1.
Central, walkable and with the widest range of places to stay. Dong Khoi for premium hotels, Nguyen Hue for mid-range, Pham Ngu Lao for budget.
- Walk to Ben Thanh & Nguyen Hue
- Budget to five-star
- Fast Grab pickups for day trips
Where are you headed?
Saigon first, then the rest of Vietnam. Every guide links to places you can book yourself.
Plan by question
Short answers from our guides. Tap through for the detail.
When to goWhen is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City?December to April: the dry season, clear skies, around 28–32°C.Month-by-month guide →
ItineraryIs 3 days enough for Saigon?Yes: District 1's landmarks, one day trip (Cu Chi or the Mekong Delta) and a half-day in Cholon.Saigon 3-day itinerary →
Day tripsWhat's the most popular day trip from Saigon?Cu Chi Tunnels, then My Tho in the Mekong Delta and Vung Tau.Day trips from Saigon →
RentingWhat does a monthly apartment cost in Saigon?From about $250 for a basic studio in an outer district to over $3,000 for a luxury two-bedroom in District 1.Monthly rent guide →
VisaHow do I get a Vietnam e-visa?Apply on the official portal (evisa.gov.vn) before you fly; it allows stays of up to 90 days.E-visa step by step →
Cost of livingHow much do expats spend in Saigon?Most spend $1,500–$2,500 a month all-in, depending on rent and lifestyle.Cost of living guide →
Latest guides
Newest first.
Saigon
Lotte Mart District 7, Crescent Mall and SC VivoCity Compared (2026)
Lotte Mart District 7, Crescent Mall and SC VivoCity compared: addresses, hours, supermarkets, cinemas and which District 7 mall suits groceries or dining.
Beyond Saigon
Hue Royal Tombs Guide: Which Imperial Tombs Are Worth Your Time
The hue imperial city vietnam experience reaches its peak not inside the Citadel walls, but among the forested hills south of the city where…
Beyond Saigon
Can Tho Night Market and Ninh Kieu Wharf: Food, Hours and Tips (2026)
Can Tho Night Market runs from about 17:00 to 22:00-23:00 behind Ninh Kieu Wharf. Which streets to walk, what to eat, snack prices and…
Beyond Saigon
Phu Quoc vs Koh Samui: Which Island Should You Choose for a Beach Break?
If you’re searching for a phu quoc travel guide to help you decide between Vietnam’s top island and Thailand’s beloved Koh Samui, the short…
Beyond Saigon
Vung Tau Back Beach (Bai Sau): Swimming, Food and Where to Stay (2026)
Vung Tau Back Beach (Bai Sau) runs 3 to 8 km along Thuy Van Street. When to swim, what to eat, Back vs Front…
Cost of Living
How to Get Around Vietnam on a Budget: Buses, Trains, and Open Tickets Explained
When it comes to backpacking Vietnam budget travel, getting around the country is one of the biggest expenses you will face — but it…
Beyond Saigon
Fairy Stream Mui Ne: How to Walk It, Entry Fee and Best Time (2026)
Fairy Stream Mui Ne is a 1.5 to 2 km barefoot walk up a red sand canyon for VND 15,000. How to walk it,…
Independent, not a landlord
We don't run hotels, rent apartments or sell tours. We write about the city and point you to places you can book yourself.
How guides are made
Written by the Saigon Apartment editorial team with AI assistance, then checked and dated. Images are AI illustrations unless credited.
How we earn
Some hotel and tour links pay us a commission through Stay22, at no cost to you. It never decides which area we recommend. Affiliate disclosure