Ho Chi Minh City, previously recognized as Saigon, is a vibrant metropolis that never rests. It boasts an array of attractions such as delectable banh mi sandwiches, bustling scooter-filled streets, breathtaking rooftop bars, and an abundance of pho to satisfy your cravings. Vietnam, with its affordable cuisine, accommodations, and plethora of activities, offers great value for your money, making it an ideal destination.

Now, you might be wondering, what currency is used in Ho Chi Minh City? In this ads post, we will delve into all things related to money when it comes to your trip to Saigon. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience in Ho Chi Minh City as we provide insights into the local currency and payment systems within this enchanting urban hub!"

1.  A Complete Overview about Currency in Ho Chi Minh City

When it comes to currency in Ho Chi Minh City, the official tender is the Vietnamese Dong, commonly abbreviated as VND. The Dong has been the accepted currency since 1978 and is issued by the State Bank of Vietnam.

Currently, there are two types of Vietnamese currency in circulation, as the usage of c.oins was discontinued in 2011. These two forms are the Polymer notes and the Cotton notes.

The Polymer notes consist of denominations such as 500,000 VND, 200,000 VND, 100,000 VND, 50,000 VND, 20,000 VND, and 10,000 VND. These durable and waterproof notes are widely used in everyday transactions.

On the other hand, the Cotton notes, which include 5,000 VND, 2,000 VND, 1,000 VND, 500 VND, and 200 VND, are less commonly used due to their small value. In fact, the 200, 500, and 1,000 VND notes are of such minimal worth that it is advisable not to utilize them, even for tipping purposes.

By understanding the various denominations and usage of currency in Ho Chi Minh City, you can make informed decisions regarding your monetary transactions while exploring this vibrant city.

2. Ho Chi Minh City Exchange Rate: Stay Updated!

As of the time of writing this article, the exchange rate between the United States Dollar (USD) and the Vietnamese Dong (VND) is approximately 1 USD = 23,886.673 VND. It's important to note that exchange rates are subject to fluctuations, and they can vary over time.

To ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding the exchange rate, it is advisable to check the current rates before your trip to Vietnam. By staying informed, you can effectively plan your finances and make informed decisions regarding currency exchange during your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.

3. Currency Exchange in Ho Chi Minh City: Convenience and Recommendations

Exchanging money into Vietnamese Dong (VND) in Ho Chi Minh City is a straightforward process. You'll find that banks, most travel agents, and hotels are more than willing to assist you in converting your USD and other major currencies into VND. However, it's important to note that if you choose to exchange money at non-official exchange points or with individuals, the rates may be slightly lower, and there is a higher risk of encountering scams.

For your convenience, here are some of the best places to exchange money in Ho Chi Minh City:

3.1. Airport: Upon your arrival, you can exchange your currency at the airport. Keep in mind that the exchange rates may not be as favorable, but it may be necessary for immediate needs such as taxi fare.

3.2. Near Ho Chi Minh Square: This central location is known for its numerous money exchange shops. You'll find a variety of options to exchange your currency in this area.

3.3. Around Ben Thanh Market: The money changers and gold dealers in and around Ben Thanh Market are popular choices among both locals and visitors. Many of these establishments can be found on Le Thanh Ton street.

3.4. Bank branches on and around Pham Ngu Lao Street (backpacker area): Mainstream banks such as Vietcom Bank and DongA Bank have their branches in this area, making it convenient for travelers to exchange currency.

Some larger hotels in Ho Chi Minh City also offer currency exchange services. However, it's important to note that the rates may not be as favorable in these establishments.

Remember, while convenience is important, it's advisable to compare rates and fees across different exchange points to ensure you get the best value for your money. Stay vigilant and exercise caution to avoid any potential scams during the currency exchange process.

4. Useful Tips for Currency Exchange in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when exchanging money in Ho Chi Minh City:

+ Check Online Currency Converters: Prior to your visit, consult online currency converters like Google.com, yahoo.com, or Vietcombank.com.vn to have an approximate idea of how much VND you can expect to receive when exchanging your money.

+ Differentiating 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND Notes: Pay close attention to the 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes, as they have a similar color. Take the time to carefully calculate and verify the amount of VND you receive to avoid any confusion.

+ Compare Rates at Multiple Currency Exchange Spots: Ho Chi Minh City, particularly the tourist areas, is filled with numerous currency exchange spots. It is recommended to compare rates at several shops before finalizing your exchange. This way, you can ensure that you get the most favorable rate for your currency.

By following these tips, you can enhance your currency exchange experience in Ho Chi Minh City, making sure you receive the best value for your money while avoiding any potential confusion or discrepancies.

5. ATMs in Ho Chi Minh City: Convenient Access to Vietnamese Dong

Ho Chi Minh City offers widespread availability of ATMs that dispense Vietnamese Dong, and the majority of them accept foreign cards such as MasterCard, Visa, UnionPay, and JCB. However, it is essential to double-check the signage at the ATM to ensure compatibility with your specific card. Avoid the inconvenience of having your card stuck or swallowed by confirming the accepted card types beforehand.

Most Vietnamese bank ATMs have a maximum withdrawal limit of 4-5 million Vietnamese Dong. However, you can make multiple withdrawals until you reach your own bank's withdrawal limit. Commonwealth Bank allows withdrawals of up to 9 million Dong (approximately 450 USD), making it a preferable option if you need to withdraw a larger sum of cash.

* Helpful Tips:

+ Opt for "Without Conversion": When prompted during the withdrawal process, select the "Without Conversion" option instead of "With Conversion." This choice ensures that you receive a better exchange rate for your transaction.

6. Payment Options in Vietnam, should I use Cash or Card for payment?

In Vietnam, cash is commonly used for small purchases and transactions with street vendors. However, you'll find that most establishments, including hotels, tour operators, boutiques, restaurants, grocery stores, and spas, accept payments from major credit card providers like Visa. This widespread acceptance of international debit and credit cards simplifies payment processes for travelers.

When using your card, it's important to consider the conversion rates and any applicable swiping fees set by your card provider. In general, larger travel expenses in Vietnam can be conveniently covered by card, whether on-site or through online transactions in advance. This reduces the need to carry and convert large sums of cash while traveling.

While cash remains essential for smaller transactions, having the option to rely on your card for larger expenses offers convenience, security, and the ability to track your spending. It's recommended to carry a reasonable amount of cash for day-to-day purchases, while using your card for significant payments whenever possible.

By striking a balance between cash and card usage, you can enjoy a hassle-free payment experience in Vietnam while minimizing the need for excessive cash handling and conversion.

7. Where do I exchange currency in Ho Chi Minh City?

7.1. Tan Son Nhat Airport Currency Exchange Locations

If you're looking to exchange currency at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, you'll find several options in various areas of the airport, including:

International Terminal:

     + Next to departure gates 17 and 18.

     + Opposite line D of the check-in counters.

     + After passing through customs officers.

     + Arrival hall.

Public Area on the First Floor (West):

     + BIDV and Maritime currency exchange stalls.

Public Area on the First Floor (East):

     + Vietinbank and Techcombank currency exchange stalls.

These currency exchange locations are strategically positioned within the airport, ensuring easy access for travelers. Whether you're arriving or departing, you'll have convenient options to exchange your currency and obtain Vietnamese Dong.

Please note that while these locations are provided as a reference, it's always a good idea to double-check their availability and operating hours to ensure a smooth currency exchange process upon your arrival or departure from Tan Son Nhat Airport.

7.2. Bank branches in Saigon Backpacker Area

* SaigonBank

     + Location: 333 Pham Ngu Lao Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 12:00, 13:00 – 16:30 from Monday to Friday; 8:00 – 11:00 on Saturday; closes on Sunday.

* ACB Cong Quynh

     + Location: 108 Cong Quynh Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Opening hours: 7:30 – 11:30, 13:00 – 16:30, 19:00 – 21:00 from Monday to Friday; 7:30 – 11:00 on Saturday; closes on Sunday.

* VietinBank

     + Location: 125 Cong Quynh Street, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

* SCB (Saigon Commercial Bank)

     + Location: 242 Cong Quynh Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Opening hours: 7:30 – 16:30; 7:30 – 12:00 on Saturday; closes on Sunday.

7.3. Gold shops in Saigon Backpacker Area

* Kim Mai Gold Shop

     + Location: 84C Cong Quynh Street, Pham Ngu Lao Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located in Saigon Backpacker Area so that it is a favorite place of backpackers to exchange currency.

     + Tel: +84 28 3836 0412

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 20:00 daily.

7.4. Bank branches in around Ben Thanh Market

* Vietinbank

     + Location: 13 Phan Chu Trinh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located across the West entrance of Ben Thanh Market.

* Vietcombank District 1

     + Location: 231 – 233 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is less than 100 m from Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3822 8593

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 11:30, 13:00 – 16:00 from Monday to Friday; closes on Saturday and Sunday.

* Vietcombank Branch No. 4

     + Location: 231 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is less than 100 m from Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3822 8589

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 11:30, 13:00 – 16:00 from Monday to Friday; closes on Saturday and Sunday.

* BIDV Bui Thi Xuan

     + Location: 38 Pham Hong Thai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is less than 100 m from Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3824 6890

     + Opening hours: 7:30 – 11:30, 13:00 – 17:00 from Monday to Friday; closes on Saturday and Sunday.

* Vietcombank Ham Nghi

     + Location: 132 Ham Nghi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is 250 m from Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3821 3379

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 11:30, 13:00 – 16:00 from Monday to Friday; closes on Saturday and Sunday.

7.5. Gold shops in around Ben Thanh Market

* Ha Tam Jewelry Shop (Ha Tam Money Changer)

     + Location: 2 Nguyen An Ninh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located across the West entrance of Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3823 7243

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 19:00 from Monday to Friday; 8:00 – 16:30 on Saturday and Sunday.

* Ben Thanh Money Changer

     + Location: 30-36 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located about 9 meters away from the West entrance of Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 28 3824 5950

* Hoang Thu Jewelry (Hoàng Thứ Jewelry)

     + Location: 178 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located across the North entrance of Ben Thanh Market.

     + Tel: +84 90 854 47 44

     + Opening hours: 9:00 – 19:00 daily.

* Ben Thanh Jewelry

     + Location: 166 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Website: https://www.btj.com.vn

     + Tel: +84 28 38 230 510

     + Opening hours: 7:30 – 20:30 daily.

7.6. Gold shops (jewelry shops) and money changers in Ben Nghe Ward

* Hung Long Money Changer, Gold Key Watch & Jewelry

     + Location: 86 Mac Thi Buoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The money changer is located near Sheraton Saigon Hotel.

     + Tel: +84 28 3829 7887

     + Opening hours: 7:00 – 21:45 daily.

* Therese Jewelry

     + Location: 9 Nguyen Thiep, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Tel: +84 28 3824 6011

     + Opening hours: 8:30 – 6:45 daily

* Eximbank Money Exchange 59

     + Location: 135 Dong Khoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The money exchange shop is situated near Sheraton Saigon Hotel.

     + Tel: +84 28 3823 1316

     + Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00 daily.

* Money Changer No. 3

     + Location: 109 Ho Tung Mau Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The money changer is situated near Bitexco Financial Tower.

     + Tel: +84 90 969 02 35

* Minh Thu

     + Location: 12 Le Loi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Tel: +84 28 3823 8575

7.7. Bank branches in Ben Nghe Ward

* Vietcombank

     + Location: 102 Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

* Citibank

     + Location: Sunwah Building, 115 Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Tel: +84 28 3521 1111

     + Opening hours: 8:30 – 17:30 on weekdays, closes at weekends.

* Shinhan Bank

     + Location: 69 Dong Khoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

     + Opening hours: 24/7.

* Vietcombank Tower

     + Location: 5 Cong Truong Me Linh Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is located across Bach Dang Garden which is on the bank of Saigon River.

     + Tel: +84 28 3829 7245

     + Opening hours: 7:30 – 16:30 on weekdays, closes at weekends.

7.8. Top Currency Exchange Spots around Notre Dame Cathedral

* HSBC Metropolitan

     + Location: 235 Dong Khoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is only 1 minute walking from Notre Dame Cathedral.

     + Tel: +84 28 3724 7247

     + Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00 on weekdays, closes at weekends.