Best Places to Visit Near Bến Thành Metro Station 2025 – A Must-Read Guide!

After years of anticipation, the Bến Thành - Suối Tiên Metro Line 1 is finally set to open at the end of 2024, bringing a fast and convenient transportation option for both locals and tourists.

For those who love to explore, this metro line is more than just a new mode of transport—it’s a gateway to discovering Saigon in a whole new way. Bến Thành Station, one of the key central stations, is located in a bustling area filled with must-visit attractions. If you're wondering where to check in near Bến Thành Metro Station, this guide has got you covered!

To help you plan your itinerary effortlessly, Chus provides detailed travel times and distances from the station to each check-in spot, ensuring a smooth and fun adventure!

Bến Thành Metro Station Rendering (Image: Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway Management Board - MAUR)

About Bến Thành Metro Station on Line 1

Bến Thành Metro Station is located in Bến Thành Ward, District 1, right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. As one of the most important stations on the Metro Line 1 (Bến Thành - Suối Tiên), it connects the city center to eastern districts like District 2, District 9, Thủ Đức, and even Bình Dương.

In the future, this station will serve as a major transit hub, linking multiple metro lines across the city. Thanks to its prime location, it’s not just a transportation hub but also a starting point for discovering some of Saigon’s most exciting attractions.

Bến Thành Metro Station – A Key Hub on Metro Line 1 (Rendering by MAUR)

How to Get to Bến Thành Metro Station

If you're coming from the eastern side of the city, An Phú Station or Thảo Điền Station are the most convenient starting points for expats and tourists. From either station, you can take MRT 1 directly to Bến Thành Station for just 7,000 VND. If you're traveling from Suối Tiên, Bến Thành is the final stop, bringing you straight into downtown Ho Chi Minh City with eas

• Ticket price: Ranges from 7,000 - 20,000 VND, depending on the distance
• Travel time: From Suối Tiên Bus Station to Bến Thành Station takes around 30 minutes (costing 20,000 VND)

With this modern metro system, getting to the city center has never been easier—no more worrying about traffic congestion or long travel times! Bến Thành Metro Station is your perfect starting point for an exciting Saigon adventure.

Elevated pedestrian view of HCMC Metro Line (Photo: CHUS)

The Ultimate Check-In Guide Near Bến Thành Metro Station

For those planning to explore Saigon with ease, Bến Thành Metro Station is the perfect starting point. From here, you can quickly reach some of the city's most iconic landmarks, cultural sites, and scenic spots.

Whether you're looking for Instagrammable locations, historical attractions, or a food-filled adventure, this guide provides three itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.

Route 1: Green Spaces & Iconic Landmarks in Downtown Saigon

For people who love check-in culture and want to find Instagrammable spots near the metro, this route is ideal. It takes you through some of Saigon’s most scenic parks and historical sites, all within walking distance from the station.

Itinerary: Bến Thành Metro Station → 23/9 Park → Tao Đàn Park → Independence Palace → Notre Dame Cathedral → Saigon Central Post Office → Diamond Plaza → Youth Cultural House

• Total time: 4 – 5 hours
• Distance: Mostly walking, with ride-hailing options available (Grab, XanhSM, be)
• Best time to visit: Morning to avoid the heat or late afternoon for a cooler experience

1. Bùi Viện Walking Street

A 7-minute walk (550m) from Bến Thành Metro Station leads to Bùi Viện Walking Street, also known as the Backpacker Street. This area is lively with bars, restaurants, and street performances, making it a popular nightlife destination.

In the morning, it’s a great place to enjoy Vietnamese coffee in a quieter setting. At night, the street comes alive with neon lights and music, offering a vibrant Ho Chi Minh City experience. Spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring before continuing your journey.

2. 23/9 Park

A 5-minute walk (400m) from Bùi Viện takes you to 23/9 Park, one of the largest green spaces in central Saigon. This park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick break under the shade of tall trees before continuing your journey.

For those who enjoy open, airy spaces in the heart of the city, this is an ideal stop. Spend 20 to 30 minutes here to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings before heading to your next destination.

3. Tao Đàn Park

From 23/9 Park, walk 15 minutes (1km) or take a ride-hailing service to Tao Đàn Park, a peaceful green space in the city center. This park is ideal for a relaxing stroll, with shaded walkways and an escape from the city's noise.

It often hosts weekend events and cultural activities, making it a great place to experience local life. A visit of 30 to 45 minutes is enough to unwind before moving on.

4. Independence Palace

A 5-minute walk from Tao Đàn Park brings you to Independence Palace, one of Vietnam’s most important historical sites. This iconic landmark played a crucial role in the country’s history and served as the presidential headquarters of South Vietnam. Visitors can explore its grand halls, underground bunkers, and lush gardens, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

The Independence Palace (also known as the Reunification Palace) has the following entrance fees:

• Adults: 40,000 VND
• Students: 20,000 VND
• Children (under 6 years old): 10,000 VND

Opening hours:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
• Open daily, including holidays and Tet.

Location: 135 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Bến Thành Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Independence Palace – A must-visit near Bến Thành Metro (Photo: Source)

5. Notre Dame Cathedral & Saigon Central Post Office

From here, a 6-minute walk brings you to Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Just across the street is the Saigon Central Post Office, a well-preserved 19th-century building that looks like something out of a European postcard.

6. Diamond Plaza & Youth Cultural House

If you’d like to continue exploring, head back toward Notre Dame Cathedral, then take a 3-minute walk (200m) to Diamond Plaza, one of Saigon’s first luxury shopping malls. This shopping center is especially well-known for its seasonal decorations, making it a favorite check-in spot during Tet, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Christmas.

Diamond Plaza’s seasonal decor makes it a top check-in spot (Photo: Source)

Finally, just a 2-minute walk (180m) from Diamond Plaza, you’ll reach the Youth Cultural House, a venue that frequently hosts weekend markets, exhibitions, and street performances. If you’re lucky enough to visit during an event, it’s worth spending some time soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

This spot is great for people-watching and experiencing local youth culture, and it serves as a perfect ending point for your journey. It’s an easy-to-access destination from Bến Thành Metro Station, making it a convenient final stop for those looking to relax and enjoy some local entertainment before heading back.

Route 2: A Foodie’s Journey – Bến Thành Market & Beyond

For travelers interested in Vietnamese culture, history, and food but who prefer self-guided trips instead of expensive tours, this route is perfect. It focuses on Saigon’s vibrant food scene and takes you through some of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Itinerary: Bến Thành Metro Station → Bến Thành Market → Independence Palace → Notre Dame Cathedral → Saigon Central Post Office → Diamond Plaza → Youth Cultural House

• Total time: 4 – 5 hours
• Distance: Mostly walking, with ride-hailing options available
• Best time to visit: Morning to enjoy breakfast at the market or afternoon to avoid the midday heat

1. Bến Thành Market

From Bến Thành Metro Station, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Bến Thành Market, one of Saigon’s most famous food hubs. Here, you can sample traditional dishes like bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup), bánh xèo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes), and chè (sweet desserts). The market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and experience the city's bustling street life.

Bến Thành Market bustling with food and souvenir stalls (Photo: CHUS)

2. Independence Palace

After enjoying a meal, a 7-minute walk brings you to Independence Palace, where you can explore its historic halls and lush gardens.

3. Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, Diamond Plaza, and Youth Cultural House

From here, follow the same route as Route 1, passing by Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Diamond Plaza, and the Youth Cultural House.

This route also takes about 4 to 5 hours, but it’s best done in the morning to enjoy breakfast at the market or in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Since Bến Thành Market closes early, it’s not recommended for evening visits.

Route 3: Art, Culture & Vietnamese Heritage

For backpackers and budget-conscious travelers who rely on public transportation, this shorter route offers a mix of art, history, and food, all within a few minutes’ walk from the metro station.

Itinerary: Bến Thành Metro Station → Bến Thành Market → Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

• Total time: 2 – 3 hours
• Distance: Mostly walking, with ride-hailing options available
• Best time to visit: Morning for breakfast at the market or early afternoon before the museum closes

1. Bến Thành Market

A 5-minute walk (400m) from Bến Thành Metro Station takes you to Bến Thành Market, an ideal place to experience a traditional Vietnamese market. Here, you can sample some authentic, local Vietnamese food, while browsing for souvenirs. Spend 45 to 60 minutes exploring before moving on.

A Vietnamese dessert shop inside Bến Thành Market (Photo: CHUS)

2. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts

After that, a 5-minute walk southward takes you to the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, a hidden gem showcasing Vietnamese paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. The museum’s French colonial architecture and beautifully curated exhibits make it a great stop for art lovers.

A visit typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, but art enthusiasts may want to stay longer. If you prefer to skip the market, you can walk directly from Bến Thành Metro Station to the museum in 10 to 12 minutes.

This route is shorter and more relaxed than the other itineraries, perfect for those who appreciate art and culture.

Fine Arts Museum – A must-visit cultural spot near the metro (Photo: Source)

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts has the following entrance fees:

• Adults: 30,000 VND
• Students & Children (6-16 years old): 15,000 VND
• Free entry for children under 6 years old and seniors over 60 years old

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday to Sunday

Location: 97A Phó Đức Chính, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Final Thoughts

For those planning a short trip to Saigon and needing a structured itinerary for easy exploration, these metro-based routes provide a stress-free way to experience the city. Whether you're into Instagrammable locations, delicious street food, or cultural experiences, there’s a perfect route for you.

With the new metro system, exploring Saigon is now easier and more affordable. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to remember your trip, check out Chus.vn, where you’ll find authentic, handcrafted Vietnamese gifts that celebrate the country’s rich culture.

Enjoy your adventure in Saigon!