Overview of the Ben Thanh, Suoi Tien Metro line
Before setting off, it helps to understand how to ride the HCMC Metro and how the line is laid out. Metro Line 1, commonly known as the Ben Thanh, Suoi Tien line, is Vietnam's first urban rail line, connecting central District 1 with the city's eastern districts. The line has 14 stations in total: three underground stations — Ben Thanh, Opera House, and Ba Son — with the remaining stations elevated along the route toward Thu Duc. The line starts at Ben Thanh Station in the heart of District 1 and ends at Suoi Tien Bus Station, near the Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park and the new Mien Dong bus terminal.
How to buy tickets, enter stations, and ride the Metro
For first-time riders, buying a ticket is fairly straightforward. There are three common methods: tapping an EMV card directly at the ticket gate, scanning a QR code generated after booking through an app, or buying a ticket at the automated ticket machines available at every station, which support both Vietnamese and English. For anyone unfamiliar with the machines, every station also has a traditional ticket counter with staff on hand.
As for fares, single trips typically range from around 6,000 to 20,000 VND depending on distance, an unlimited day pass runs about 40,000 to 90,000 VND, and a monthly pass costs around 300,000 VND. Some groups qualify for free or discounted fares, including seniors aged 60 and above, people with disabilities, and children under 6 traveling with an adult. Since fare policies can change over time, it's worth double-checking the posted rates at the station or the official information channel before you travel.
Suggested stops along the way
Part of what makes the Ben Thanh, Suoi Tien line so enjoyable is that each stop opens up a different kind of experience, from the buzz of the city center to riverside neighborhoods and an amusement park on the outskirts. If you're after places to visit near HCMC Metro stations, here are three areas worth building into your route.
The Ben Thanh area and city center
Ben Thanh is the largest and most modern station on the line, integrated with a spacious underground shopping and dining area. It's also a natural starting point since it sits right in the heart of District 1, close to Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and many of the city's best-known sights. The Opera House and Ba Son stations round out the underground, central section of the line, convenient for cultural landmarks and the riverside urban developments nearby.
Thao Dien and riverside living
Heading further toward Thu Duc, the Thao Dien and An Phu stations lead into Thao Dien, one of the city's most well-liked residential areas thanks to its green, leafy streets, international-style cafes and restaurants, and a noticeably slower pace than downtown. It's a good stop for anyone wanting a break from the city bustle with a relaxed riverside afternoon.
The Suoi Tien area
The final stop, Suoi Tien Bus Station, brings you close to the Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park, one of the city's larger entertainment destinations, with zones inspired by Vietnamese legends and culture. It's also a regular host for seasonal events and festivals, offering a change of pace from the more central stops on the line.
A one-day Metro itinerary
For visitors with just one day to spare, start the morning at Ben Thanh Station, explore Ben Thanh Market and the surrounding city center, then grab lunch nearby. In the afternoon, take the Metro to Thao Dien for a walk, a coffee, or riverside sunset views. If there's time left, continue on to the Suoi Tien area later in the day to explore or join whatever's happening there, before heading back to the city center on one of the last trains of the day.
A two-day Metro itinerary for longer stays
For visitors with a bit more time, splitting the route across two days allows for a fuller experience. Spend the first day in the central area, covering Ben Thanh, Opera House, and Ba Son, taking in the architecture and riverside developments along the way. On the second day, spend the morning in Thao Dien and the afternoon at Suoi Tien, which works particularly well if your visit lines up with one of the seasonal festivals held there. Mizu Bomb Festival Suoi Tien 2026, held in July with a music stage and a lively water-festival area, is one event worth timing your trip around if your dates align.
Tips for riding with kids, luggage, and during rush hour
When traveling with children, choose a spot near the doors for easier boarding and alighting, and try to avoid the morning and evening rush hours when trains get crowded. If you're carrying a lot of luggage, aim for off-peak hours and use the elevators at each station rather than the escalators for an easier trip. Have your ticket or card ready before reaching the gate to avoid holding up the line, and keep an eye on the station's information boards, since train schedules can shift depending on the time of day.
Choose Your Stay Based on Where You Want to Explore
If you want to make the most of exploring Ho Chi Minh City by Metro, start with the area where you expect to spend most of your time. Choose a central property for Ben Thanh and downtown, or stay closer to Thao Dien if your itinerary focuses on the eastern side of the city and Metro Line 1.
