When exploring Ho Chi Minh City, most travelers think of buzzing motorbikes, rooftop cafés, and French colonial architecture. But there’s another way to experience this vibrant city — one that is serene, scenic, and surprisingly affordable: the Saigon Water Bus.
A Fresh Perspective on the City
Launched in 2017, the Saigon Water Bus offers a unique view of the city from the Saigon River. Instead of fighting traffic, you can sit back and glide past neighborhoods, office towers, green parks, and busy piers — all from the comfort of a modern riverboat.
The route stretches from Bach Dang Pier in District 1 to Linh Dong Station in the eastern part of Ho Chi Minh City, passing through areas formerly known as Binh Thanh and Thao Dien. It’s a wonderful way to see how traditional riverside homes blend with the city’s rapidly growing skyline
Why You Should Try It
• Escape the heat: With open-air seating and cool river breezes, it’s a refreshing way to travel.
• Insta-worthy views: Especially at sunset — the skyline, the bridges, the golden light… perfect for photos.
• Affordable experience: A one-way ticket costs just 15,000 VND (~$0.60).
• Local charm: You’ll ride alongside students, commuters, and families — an authentic slice of city life.
Route Highlights
The full route runs from Bach Dang (District 1) to Linh Dong (Thu Duc), with stops at:
1. Bach Dang
2. Saigon Pearl
3. Binh An
4. Thanh Da
5. Hiep Binh Chanh
6. Linh Dong
You can choose to ride the full route (~52 minutes) or take a shorter segment, such as from Bach Dang to Binh An or Thao Dien, which is perfect for a quick riverside view.
How to Book Tickets
You can either:
• Buy at the Pier: Head to any Water Bus station (like Bach Dang Pier) and purchase your ticket at the counter. Fare is 15,000 VND/one-way.
• Book Online or via App: Visit saigonwaterbus.com or download the Saigon Water Bus app (iOS & Android).
Choose your route, date, and time → pay online → receive a QR code for boarding.
Each ticket is valid for one way only. Book a separate ticket for the return trip. Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
What We Recommend: Combine It with a City Tour
A Water Bus ride is a great addition to your city exploration:
Start at Bach Dang Pier → ride to Thao Dien → explore cafes and boutique shops → return by taxi.
Or include it in a full-day itinerary: War Remnants Museum, lunch, then Water Bus for a relaxing break.
The Saigon Water Bus may not appear in every guidebook, but it’s truly one of the city's hidden gems. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a returning traveler looking for something new, this relaxing river ride offers a peaceful, local, and visually stunning experience of Ho Chi Minh City.
So next time you're in Saigon, skip the taxi — and catch the boat.
