Ho Chi Minh City's First-Ever Metro: The Ride
A firsthand ride on Ho Chi Minh City's first metro line, Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien. The 20-km route takes just 25 minutes, with fares as low as VND 6,000.
[Ho Chi Minh City's First-Ever Metro: The Ride]
Having grown up riding Taipei's metro, I know urban rail well. Being part of Ho Chi Minh City's metro launch felt like witnessing a new era for this city's transportation.
▍ Route Overview
The Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line stretches 20 km, running from Ben Thanh Market through the Opera House, Landmark 81, the High-Tech Park, and Vietnam National University. The full ride takes just 25 minutes, significantly easing congestion on the Ha Noi Highway. Many commuters who once rode motorbikes now choose the metro to get in and out of the city center.
▍ The Riding Experience
Stations are clean and well-designed, with clear signage and spotless restrooms. Ticket machines are plentiful, and bilingual signs plus service counters make the system accessible for both locals and tourists. The trains are spacious and air-conditioned, with announcements in Vietnamese and English. Fares range from roughly VND 6,000 to 20,000, payable via mobile app, credit card, or ticket counter — highly affordable for residents.
▍ Commute Improvement
Trains run every 10 minutes or so. What used to be a one-hour commute from home to the city center now takes under 40 minutes. Commercial activity around metro stations has already started to pick up.
This metro line has given me real optimism for Ho Chi Minh City's transportation future.
