Ho Chi Minh City: 1 ROUND SAIGON-CHO LON CITY TOUR CHINATOWN

Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown with this Open-Top Bus Tour

If you’re short on time but eager to get a taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, this single-loop bus tour offers a practical way to see some of the most iconic sights. While it’s a quick ride—lasting around 1.5 hours—it manages to pack in several highlights, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those looking for a relaxed overview.

What we like about this experience? The panoramic views from the open-top bus, the insightful audio commentary in multiple languages, and the chance to spot key landmarks like Binh Tay Market and Thien Hau Temple. However, a notable drawback is the mixed reviews about punctuality, with some travelers reporting their buses didn’t arrive or were delayed. Still, if you’re after an easy and affordable introduction to Chinatown, this tour could be a good fit—especially for travelers on a tight schedule or with limited mobility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s perfect if you want a quick, economical overview of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, especially if you’re planning to visit other parts of the city later. It’s also good for travelers who enjoy guided commentary and want to see major sights without the hassle of navigating busy streets on foot.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $9 per person, this tour offers good value for a quick sightseeing experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hop-on, hop-off style with a mobile voucher makes it easy to fit into your day.
• Comfort & Accessibility: Features like free wifi, conical hats, raincoats, and wheelchair access cater to comfort and practicality.
• Variable Reliability: Some reviews highlight issues with punctuality and bus arrivals, which is worth keeping in mind.
• Engaging Commentary: Audio guides are available in multiple languages, enriching the experience with stories and facts.
• Limited Access to Attractions: The tour is a moving overview; it doesn’t include entry to sites, so you’ll want to explore attractions further on your own.

A Close Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll See

This bus tour kicks off at the West Gate of Ben Thanh Market at No. 23 Phan Chu Trinh Street in District 1. From here, it’s a leisurely ride through the bustling streets, giving you a snapshot of both the modern and historic sides of the city. The tour’s route takes you through the Western Area and Bui Vien Walking Street, famous for its lively vibe—though remember, the bus doesn’t stop here, so you’ll only get a glimpse from the moving vehicle.

One of the highlights is the ride past Truong Vinh Ky Mausoleum and Memorial House, an architectural mix that combines East and West influences, offering a rare peek into Saigon’s past. Then, the bus passes by Cho Quan Parish Church, Dong Khanh Hotel, and the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood itself, with its colorful shopfronts and bustling markets.

As you cruise through, you’ll pass by Hao Si Phuong Alley and the District 5 Cultural Center, giving you a sense of local life beyond tourist spots. The bus also circles around Nghia An Assembly Hall and Tue Thanh Assembly Hall, both of which hold significance for Chinese communities in Saigon and are notable for their architecture and spiritual stories.

One of the most lively parts of the tour is a drive along Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street, lined with dozens of decoration stores selling thousands of colorful items—perfect for browsing or picking up souvenirs. Nearby, you’ll see Nhi Phu Temple and Francis Xavier Church, adding to the neighborhood’s religious diversity.

And no trip to Chinatown would be complete without a visit to the markets. The tour passes by some of the city’s most famous: Binh Tay Market, Kim Bien Market, An Dong Market, and the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market. These bustling hubs are treasure troves of local goods—from textiles and flowers to souvenirs and street food.

The tour also makes stops near Statue of Phan Dinh Phung, the Cho Lon Post Office, and the Ancient House Area of Hai Thuong Lang Ong, where some travelers say they enjoy just soaking in the atmosphere from the bus.

The Temples and Cultural Spots

You’ll get a good look at Tue Thanh Assembly Hall (Thien Hau Temple), the oldest Chinese place of worship in Saigon, packed with spiritual stories and historical significance. Nearby, Nghia An Assembly Hall offers a striking example of Chinese architecture and is known for its unique structure.

While the bus doesn’t stop for extended visits, it’s valuable for providing contextual insights into the rich religious and cultural tapestry of the neighborhood. If you’re interested in exploring these sites further, you’ll want to plan additional time to visit on foot later.

More Great Tours Nearby

Markets and Local Life

The markets are a highlight on this route. Binh Tay Market is famous for its diverse stalls, local spices, textiles, and street foods—if you’re after a deeper experience, plan a separate visit. Kim Bien Market and Hoa Tho Flower Market showcase local commerce and color. Travelers note that these markets are lively and busy, offering authentic glimpses of daily life.

The Passenger Experience

According to reviews, the onboard experience is generally pleasant, with audio guides providing insights in Vietnamese, English, and Chinese. Free wifi, a city map, and water are thoughtful touches. However, some travelers have voiced frustrations over inconsistencies—bus delays or non-arrivals being common complaints, with one reviewer mentioning that their bus never arrived at the meeting point.

The tour offers some extras like conical hats and raincoats, which come in handy in Vietnam’s unpredictable weather. It’s also wheelchair accessible, broadening its appeal for travelers with mobility needs.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

The price point of $9 per person makes this a very budget-friendly option, especially if you just want a quick visual overview. But keep in mind that admission to attractions is not included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you plan to go inside temples or markets.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point at Ben Thanh Market or Binh Tay Market. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to confirm your ticket, given some reviews mention last-minute delays or confusion.

While the duration is just 1.5 hours, that’s enough time to get a broad sense of the area’s vibe. The route is designed as a circle without stops, meaning you’re mainly getting a moving overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

The bus stops at key points for sightseeing, but if you’re keen on exploring specific sites, consider supplementing with additional visits after the tour.

Final Thoughts: Is this Tour Worth It?

This open-top bus tour offers an affordable, no-fuss way to get your bearings in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. It’s ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer guided commentary to wandering alone. The ability to see many sights from the comfort of a bus—and with added comforts like free wifi and rain gear—is definitely a plus.

However, the unreliability highlighted in reviews suggests you shouldn’t rely solely on this tour for punctuality or a comprehensive visit to each site. It’s best viewed as a quick, panoramic snapshot rather than an in-depth culture.

For those who value convenience, affordability, and a broad overview, this tour is a decent option. If you’re after a deeper connection with the local markets, temples, or neighborhoods, plan some extra time to explore on foot or look for guided tours with more reliable service.

FAQs

Is the bus tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs to join.

Does the tour include entrance fees to sites? No, the cost only covers the bus ride; entrance to attractions like temples or markets is not included.

What languages are available for the audio guides? The audio commentary is offered in Vietnamese, English, and Chinese.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the tour? Yes, tickets can typically be purchased on the day, but it’s advised to arrive early and confirm availability, especially during busy times.

Is the tour flexible? Since it’s a loop without stops, you’ll mainly experience the scenery from the bus. The tour is designed for a quick overview rather than in-depth visits.

What should I bring? Carry a bottle of water, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for Vietnam’s weather with raincoats or hats. The bus provides conical hats and rain gear if needed.

Final Verdict

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a quick, budget-friendly introduction to Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown. While not ideal for those seeking detailed explorations or punctuality, it offers a comfortable, guided overview with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s especially suitable for first-timers or those with limited time who want to get a sense of the vibrant streets, markets, and temples that define this lively neighborhood.

If you’re looking for a relaxed way to orient yourself or simply want to add a scenic ride to your day, this bus tour will serve you well. Just be sure to arrive early, keep expectations realistic regarding punctuality, and plan to explore further on your own afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here: