Ho Chi Minh City’s free bus service wins praise from international tourists

Since the fare exemption took effect on July 1, the initiative has gained widespread support from residents while also earning positive feedback from foreign tourists.

For many visitors, the program offers an affordable, convenient and safe way to explore the city.

Among those benefiting from the service is 61-year-old Ramazan from Turkey, who has spent the past seven months traveling across Vietnam.

After visiting Da Nang City, central Vietnam and Da Lat in the Central Highlands region, he decided to make Ho Chi Minh City his longest stop and now relies on buses for his daily transportation.

“I first learned about the free bus policy on Facebook, and I thought it was fantastic,” Ramazan said.

“Not only do residents save money, but tourists like us can also significantly reduce our travel expenses,” he shared.

Since arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, he has used the city’s bus network to travel almost everywhere, from supermarkets and parks to Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Before the fare exemption, each bus ride cost only VND6,000-VND7,000 (US$0.22-$0.26), a fraction of the nearly VND100,000 ($3.8) he would typically spend on a motorbike taxi or car ride.

Ramazan also praised the quality of Ho Chi Minh City’s public buses.

“The buses in the city are modern and comfortable and are equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and bilingual information boards in Vietnamese and English,” he said.

He recalled a humorous experience during his first days in the city when he boarded the wrong route.

“I didn’t know which bus I needed, so I waited for a long time. When I finally got on one, I thought it was taking me home, but instead it completed its route and returned to the same station where I had boarded,” he said with a laugh.

“Rather than feeling frustrated, I found it enjoyable. That experience taught me how to check bus routes more carefully,” he said.

Beyond affordability and convenience, Ramazan said the friendliness of bus drivers and staff has left the strongest impression.

“They’re incredibly kind,” he said.

“I only know a few Vietnamese phrases like ‘Xin chao’ (Hello), and sometimes we just smile together.

“The drivers on Route No. 86 even recognize me now. Whenever they see me, they wave, and when I board the bus, some of them greet me with a handshake,” he shared.

French tourist Christine, 35, was surprised at the fare exemption after arriving in Ho Chi Minh City two weeks ago.

“I was really surprised to learn that buses are free here, even for tourists,” she said.

“I’m excited to experience it.”

Positive reactions from international visitors highlight the growing appeal of Ho Chi Minh City’s public transport system.

While the bus network continues to support the city’s efforts to reduce private vehicle use, traffic congestion and environmental pollution, it is also helping shape a positive image of a modern, welcoming and people-friendly metropolis.

For travelers looking to explore the city’s attractions on a budget, the extensive bus network provides direct access to many of Ho Chi Minh City’s best-known destinations.

Visitors interested in historical landmarks and architecture, including the Independence Palace, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Tan Dinh Church and Turtle Lake, can take bus routes 04, 18, 31, 36 or 93.

Nature lovers and museum-goers can use routes 05, 06, 14, 19, 30 and 56 to reach the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens and the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History.

Routes 14, 28, 52 and 91 also transport visitors to the Southern Women’s Museum and Tao Dan Park.

Those heading to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, the Opera House, Bach Dang Wharf or Nha Rong Wharf can choose bus rides on routes 01, 03, 19, 45, 53, 56 and 88.

To make sightseeing even more convenient, visitors are encouraged to check routes and bus schedules through the Multigo mobile application before traveling.