Ho Chi Minh City: Late-Night Open-Top Bus Tour

Imagine cruising through the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City after dark, with the city’s brightest landmarks shimmering in the cool night air. For just $9, this 45-minute open-top bus tour offers a relaxed way to see the city’s most iconic sights from a double-decker bus that takes you across districts 1, 3, and even into Thu Duc City via Ba Son Bridge. Led by a guide (though frustrations about the audio are noted), you’ll pass by City Hall, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, and the Bitexco Tower, all beautifully lit at night.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see the city from a different perspective, especially the shimmering reflections on the Saigon River and the distinctive architecture of landmarks, along with the cool evening breeze that’s perfect for an open-air ride. Plus, the relaxed, non-stop format means you can soak in the sights without the rush or multiple stops—ideal if you’re short on time but want a snapshot of Saigon’s nighttime charm.

A potential drawback? Some reviews mention lack of audio commentary or incomplete guides, which can leave you wanting more context about what you’re seeing. Also, since it’s a non-hop-on, hop-off ride, you only get one shot at the experience, which might be limiting if you’re looking for more in-depth exploration.

This tour suits first-time visitors, families, or anyone craving an easy, inexpensive way to enjoy Saigon’s illuminated landmarks, especially if you’re curious about the city’s nighttime glow but not interested in active sightseeing or lengthy tours.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $9 per person offers good value for a quick nighttime overview of Saigon.
• Flexible timing with departures every 30 minutes from 11:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M.
• Scenic views of major landmarks like City Hall, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Saigon River, especially stunning at night.
• Limited commentary and non-stop format mean you see the sights, but may miss detailed explanations.
• Accessible and straightforward with wheelchair access and easy meeting point near the roundabout.
• Ideal for a relaxed, brief introduction to Ho Chi Minh City’s nighttime scene, especially if you prefer open-air viewing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review

When we first heard about this late-night open-top bus tour in Ho Chi Minh City, we thought it sounded like a fantastic way to experience the city’s evening glow without the daytime crowds or the chaos of busy streets. Priced at just $9 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option that might appeal to travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer a relaxed, scenic ride over more active sightseeing.

The tour lasts about 45 minutes, with departures every 30 minutes from 11:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M., making it easy to fit into your evening plans. The meeting point is conveniently located near the roundabout between Lê Lợi and Nguyễn Huệ streets, right where you’ll spot a bright red double-decker bus branded with Ho Chi Minh City Tour. The stop is accessible, with wheelchair access, which is thoughtful given the variety of travelers.

Itinerary Breakdown

Once onboard, the bus begins its journey through the heart of the city, providing a non-stop ride past 20 top attractions. You’ll pass by the City Hall, a grand colonial building beautifully lit at night, and the Opera House, which stands as a testament to French architecture. The Western Area and Bui Vien Walking Street offer a taste of Saigon’s lively nightlife, while the Saigon Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral are illuminated and photogenic.

One of the highlights is crossing Ba Son Bridge, which connects the city center with Thu Duc City. From this vantage point, you get a panoramic view of the Saigon River, especially atmospheric in the evening with the reflections of city lights shimmering on the water. The tour also passes Ben Thanh Market, Bitexco Tower, and ends near the Bach Dang Pier, rounding out a compact but comprehensive snapshot of Saigon’s most iconic sights.

Authenticity and Experience

While this is primarily a visual experience, it’s a chance to see Saigon’s landmarks illuminated and to get a sense of the city’s nighttime ambiance. The open top allows for a breeze and fresh air, making it more comfortable than an enclosed bus in the warm climate. The cooler evening makes the ride more pleasant, and the shimmering lights create a magical atmosphere.

However, some reviews point out that the audio guide is limited or incomplete. One traveler mentioned, “the voice guide is not complete,” and another noted “no music, no sound.” If you’re hoping for detailed commentary, this might be a disappointment. But if your goal is to simply enjoy the sights and sounds of Saigon at night, this tour delivers.

Value for Money

At only $9, this tour is hard to beat in terms of price. It’s a quick introduction to the city’s illuminated landmarks and provides a unique perspective that’s difficult to match from the ground level. Keep in mind, since it’s a non-hop-on, hop-off arrangement, it’s best suited if you want a single, straightforward overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

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What Travelers Say

Reviews are mixed but generally positive about the views. One traveler from France mentioned it was simply “good,” while others expressed disappointment over lack of audio explanations. A traveler from Germany said, “not recommended! Absolutely not worth it,” citing dissatisfaction with the experience. Conversely, a traveler from India rated it five stars, appreciating the good value and the relaxing ride.

This variety in reviews underscores that expectations matter — if you’re after a visual, no-frills tour, it can be quite enjoyable. But if you’re looking for detailed storytelling or interactive elements, you may find it lacking.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 45 minutes, perfect for a quick snapshot.
• Timing: Runs from 11:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M., so plan accordingly.
• Boarding: Easy to find near the roundabout, with a designated red bus.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, which is important for some travelers.
• Restrictions: No pets, luggage, drones, smoking, or other activities like fishing or riding animals are allowed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Saigon’s landmarks illuminated at night without the hassle of navigating busy streets. It’s particularly suited for families seeking a relaxing, inexpensive evening activity. If you value stunning views and a beautiful nightscape, this ride hits the mark. However, if you are looking for detailed commentary, interactive experiences, or multiple stops, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

For $9, this late-night open-top bus experience provides an affordable, scenic overview of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous sights. It’s a light, breezy ride that captures the city’s energetic night-time essence, especially the glittering landmarks and shimmering river views. While it’s not a deep or detailed tour—thanks to limited audio commentary—the visual spectacle and relaxed pace make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a quick, atmospheric glimpse.

It’s most suitable for those on a budget, first-time travelers, or anyone wanting a beautiful, stress-free way to enjoy Saigon after dark. Just remember, it’s a non-stop ride, so if you’re craving a more immersive experience, you might prefer other guided or hop-on-hop-off options.

This tour offers good value and memorable views, making it a simple yet charming addition to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, it’s a relaxed ride suitable for families, especially since it’s open-air and at night, which can be more comfortable for kids. Just keep in mind the tour is non-stop and doesn’t include stops or interactive commentary.

Can I hop off and explore at each stop?
No, this is a non-hop-on, hop-off tour. You board once with your ticket and stay on until the end.

What landmarks will I see during the tour?
You’ll pass by City Hall, Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, Bitexco Tower, Saigon River, and cross Ba Son Bridge to see Thu Duc City.

What is the meeting point?
It’s near the roundabout between Lê Lợi and Nguyễn Huệ streets, where a red double-decker bus with the branding is parked.

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

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 45 minutes and departs every 30 minutes from 11:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M.

Is there a guide explaining the sights?
There is a guide, but reviews indicate that the audio commentary is limited or incomplete, so expect limited explanations.

In the end, if you’re looking to capture the magic of Saigon’s nighttime skyline at a budget-friendly price, this open-top bus ride is worth considering. Just keep your expectations in check about detailed commentary, and enjoy the beautiful views and cool night air. For a relaxed, easy introduction to the city after dark, it’s a simple, enjoyable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: