Image credit: Hung Long Money Exchange
The official currency in Vietnam is called Dong (VND). Banknotes are available in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 500,000 dong. The 20,000 and 500,000 bills look similar so be extra careful when paying with these notes.
Foreign visitors in Ho Chi Minh can buy local currency upon arrival at the airport. The exchange rate is not favorable but it might be necessary to pay for taxi fare and other immediate needs.
For the best exchange rates, you are recommended to visit the money changers and gold dealers around Ben Thanh Market and Ho Chi Minh Square.
Some big hotels in Ho Chi Minh also offer currency exchange service, use it for your convenience only as the rates are quite poor.
You can also exchange currency at banks or withdraw Vietnamese Dong at ATMs. ATM withdrawals incur bank charges so check with your bank first to know how much you will have to pay.
Below is a list of recommended money changers, gold shops, and bank branches in Ho Chi Minh City. Phone numbers are included for you to call for inquiries before visiting.
Money changers and gold dealers at Ben Thanh Market are the first choice of locals and visitors alike when it comes to currency exchange. These shops can be found inside and outside the market. Expect to find a large number of them on Le Thanh Ton street, which is one among the 4 streets surrounding this famous old market.
RECOMMENDED MONEY CHANGERS
1) Ha Tam Jewelry
2) Ben Thanh Money Changer
3) Hoang Thu
4) Ben Thanh Jewelry
*Opening hours may vary. Call first before visiting.
Image credit: Hung Long Money Exchange
Ho Chi Minh Square, situated in the heart of the city and right in front of Ho Chi Minh City Hall, is also a popular place for currency exchanging in Saigon. The whole stretch of the square is surrounded by hotels, shops, and restaurants. This is probably a reason for money exchange shops and gold dealers to settle down in the area.
The forex shops near Quynh Art Gallery are very popular among tourists.
RECOMMENDED MONEY CHANGERS
1) Hung Long Money Exchange
2) Eximbank Money Exchange 59
3) Currency Exchange
4) Minh Thu
5) Therese Jewelry
*Opening hours may vary. Call first before visiting.
Pham Ngu Lao Street is often referred to as the backpacker district of Saigon, which is surrounded by affordable hostels, guest houses, bars and cafes. If your hotel room is on or around Pham Ngu Lao Street, then no worry about finding a place to buy local currency.
Many of the major banks in Ho Chi Minh like Vietcom Bank and DongA Bank place their branch in the area. For your best convenience, visit the branch of DongA Bank which is located right in the center of the backpacker area (near the intersection of Pham Ngu Lao and De Tham streets).
RECOMMENDED BANK BRANCHES
1) DongA Bank
2) Saigon Commercial Bank
3) Vietcom Bank
4) BIDV
5) Indovina Bank
Banks are always a good option for when one wants a more secure transaction. Listed below are the branches that are easily accessible from tourist areas across Ho Chi Minh City.
Popular banks in Ho Chi Minh include Vietcombank, Vietinbank, and Asia Commercial Bank (ACB Bank). Check out the recommended branches below and the published exchange rates of each bank.
RECOMMENDED BANK BRANCHES
1) Vietcombank @ Me Linh Square
2) Vietinbank on Ham Nghi Street
3) Asia Commercial Bank on Le Loi Street
4) Eximbank – Nguyen Thai Binh branch
5) BIDV – Pho Duc Chinh branch