Is Ho Chi Minh City safe for tourists?

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is always bustling with the sounds of engines and horns from thousands of cars and motorbikes on the roads, the aroma of coffee from every street corner and alley, and the hustle and bustle of life in this Vietnam’s leading economic hub. The city will always captivate visitors with its full energy, but also raises a cautious but familiar question: “Is Ho Chi Minh City safe?“. The short answer, according to official sources and long-time expats in this city, is “Yes”.

Vietnam has been one of the safest destinations in Asia for many years now. Especially since the global pandemic, the country on the East Sea has had spectacular changes and policies to boost the economy as well as tourism quickly and effectively. Ho Chi Minh City, like any large metropolis, requires visitors to have situational awareness and some street knowledge. Join The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel to learn tips for travelers from the experiences of foreigners who have come, fallen in love, and chosen to stay and live and work in Saigon.

The Australian’s Smartraveller ranks Vietnam in the “Practice common sense” group, while Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) ranks Vietnam as one of the ten safest countries to travel to in 2025, describing it as “a fascinating destination with plenty to see, try, and taste”. However, don’t let your guard down with predictable risks, including:

Petty crime isn’t too dangerous

Most of the problems in Ho Chi Minh City stem from petty theft, not violent crime. “Snatching handbags from motorbikes and pickpockets in crowded markets are the most common threats,” Smartraveller notes.

Thieves often target tourists’ mobile phones, hand bags or cameras. Snatchings are common in crowded areas such as the Bui Vien nightlife neighborhood or around Ben Thanh market. Fortunately, violent crime against foreigners is quite rare in Ho Chi Minh City. For most visitors, a little vigilance is enough. Many visitors say they return from Saigon with their trust in the honesty of the locals still intact. So how can you stay safe?

• Wear your bag across your body and keep it to one side, away from the road, as thieves can jump off a motorbike and snatch items from your hands or body.
• Avoid exposing electronic devices (phones, cameras, etc.) or expensive jewelry when walking on the street.
• Use the hotel safe to keep your passport, cash, valuable items and only carry what you need when exploring.
• At night, stay away from deserted or poorly lit areas.
• When approached and pursued by street vendors, shoe shiners, and currency exchangers, refuse their offers with a firm and polite “No, thank you.”

Traffic chaos and how to travel safely

If theft is not a main concern, the roads may be. For first-time visitors to Saigon in particular and Vietnam in general, traffic on the streets can be likened to an elaborately choreographed chaos with motorbikes and cars weaving haphazardly, honking from all directions, and small motorbikes that can carry entire families and sometimes entire retail shops. Hence, crossing the street can be both a challenge and an exciting experience for many visitors.

BHTP warns: “Vietnam’s traffic looks chaotic to international visitors. Motorbikes dominate the roads, weaving through traffic in seemingly impossible ways.” Therefore, to travel safely, The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel has a few tips for you as follows:

• Use reputable taxi companies (Vinasun, Mai Linh), or identify these taxi companies by the logo on the body of the car. Confirm the fare or make sure the meter is running before starting.
• You can also download popular ride-hailing apps like Grab or Be (similar to Uber and Lyft) to know in advance exactly how much you will have to pay for the distance you need to travel
• If you are inexperienced, you should consider carefully before renting a motorbike even though this can be attractive and convenient. There have been many accidents involving foreigners due to unfamiliarity with roads and traffic laws as well as the movements of local people.
• And if you walk, cross the street slowly and predictably. An important tip is to raise one arm to signal cars and motorbikes moving on the road, the drivers will give way to you or move around you.

Simple ways to stay healthy while on the go

Saigon’s tropical climate and vibrant street food culture are part of its appeal. However, as a first-time visitor, you should also take some precautions.

According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, “petty theft can be a concern, but food hygiene and health issues are the most common issues tourists face.” Travelers are advised to bring bottled water, insect repellent, sunscreen and a basic first aid kit. BHTP adds: “In the event of serious illness or injury, visitors may need to be evacuated to Thailand or Japan.”

The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel would like to offer some essential health advice before and during your trip:

• It is advisable to purchase travel insurance prior to your trip that covers medical evacuation if necessary.
• If you have asthma or allergies, be aware that air quality in Saigon can fluctuate, with some days of the year seeing some of the worst air quality in the world.
• Remember to use mosquito repellent, gel or stickers to prevent dengue fever or Zika.
• When exploring the city and surrounding areas, drink bottled water with quality inspection stamps and avoid using ice cubes in uncertain locations.
• Street food is always appealing, but choose stalls that are crowded, as high turnover means fresh food every day.
• Check the weather before and during your trip to Ho Chi Minh City. Although the area is rarely affected by floods and natural disasters, heavy rains during the southern monsoon and high tides can easily disrupt your planned trips.
• Hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City are improving in quality, but private or international clinics are still the best choice for foreign visitors. Some reputable addresses to consider are: Family Practice Clinic, Pathway Clinic, Victoria Clinic, Tam Anh Hospital, FV Hospital, Hoan My Hospital …

Laws and local customs

Most visitors and expats who have lived in Ho Chi Minh City for many years describe this place as an extremely friendly city. Hospitality is ingrained in Vietnamese culture, many visitors find themselves treated more like family than tourists. It is not uncommon for a stranger on the street to help tourists call a taxi, talk to a street vendor, give directions or return lost items. In addition, this largest metropolis in Vietnam has very reliable and secure policies to protect tourists.

However, the country’s laws are very strict. Drug trafficking is punishable by death, and crimes that disturb public order, whether by locals or international visitors, are strictly handled. In addition, tourists are advised not to take photos or film near military facilities or government buildings.

At the same time, it is also necessary to show respect at religious and historical sites. Visitors should wear polite clothes, cover their shoulders and wear clothes that are longer than the knee when visiting these places. This is a basic requirement that must be understood in order to be able to visit freely.

Final words – Safe city, but be wary

Ho Chi Minh City is safe. The risks are the same as any vibrant urban environment: pickpockets, traffic chaos, and the occasional scams. But with awareness and preparation, the city is sure to reward you with warm smiles, delicious food culture, and the deep soul of the Vietnamese people. Don’t hesitate to prepare your adventure spirit, pack your bags, and head to Saigon, a city safe enough to explore and exciting enough to get your heart racing.