Complete Guide to Money Exchange in Saigon: Tips & Best Places

Traveling to a new country is exciting, but handling money matters can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, understanding money exchange in Saigon is crucial for a smooth journey. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about currency exchange in Saigon, from exchange locations to useful tips.

Understanding Currency Exchange in Saigon

Before diving into exchange options, let’s talk about the Vietnamese currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). As of now, Vietnam is a cash-based society, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the currency to avoid being scammed. The 500,000 and 20,000, as well as the 200,000 and 10,000 banknotes, have similar colors and are often mistaken, so remember to double-check them before leaving.

Get yourself familiar with common denominations of Vietnamese Dong.

The exchange rate fluctuates, so it’s best to check reliable sources like XE.com for real-time rates. For example, common currency pairs include the USD to VND and Euro to VND. Currently, 1 USD is approximately around 25,000 VND, but rates can vary, so always double-check before exchanging.

Exchange rates of common currency pairs as of December 2024:

Best Places to Exchange Money in Ho Chi Minh City

When it comes to money exchange in Saigon, you have several options. For more secure and reliable options, you should navigate to local banks or popular money transfer services. However, the exchange rates can be less favorable and take longer time.

If you prefer a convenient option with competitive exchange rates, you can come to currency exchange counters. They are located near tourist hotspots such as Ben Thanh Market and major shopping districts. The rates can fluctuate significantly between counters, so make you ask them before making the exchange.

In addition, the airport is also a convenient place to exchange money in case you need cash to cover initial expenses like transportation. Let’s explore where you can exchange money in Ho Chi Minh City.

Banks & Money Transfer Services

When exchanging money at a bank, you should prepare your valid passport. It’s advisable to bring clean and undamaged bills.

1. Western Union Nguyen Cu Trinh

• Address: 191 Nguyen Cu Trinh Street, Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Phone: +84 902 668 931

Western Union Nguyen Cu Trinh. (Image source: Internet)

2. Eximbank 59 Currency Exchange Counter

• Address: 135 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Phone: +84 2838 231 316

Eximbank 59 Currency Exchange Counter at 135 Dong Khoi. (Image source: Internet)

3. Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (Vietcombank)

• Address: 56 Nguyen Trai Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
• Phone: +84 28 3910 3626

4. Saigonbank Pham Ngu Lao (Near Bui Vien Street)

• Address: 333 Pham Ngu Lao, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM

5. MoneyGram Vietnam (Anh Quang Ha Trung Trading Joint Stock Company)

• Address: 4 Tran Nhat Duat Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Phone: +84 982 666 004

MoneyGram 4 Tran Nhat Duat. (Image source: Internet)

Currency Exchange Counters

1. Hung Long Money Changer

• Address: 86 Mac Thi Buoi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Phone: +84 2838 297 887

Hung Long Money Changer. (Image source: Internet)

2. Ha Tam Jewelry

• Address: 2 Nguyen An Ninh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Phone: +84 28 3823 7243

Ha Tam Jewelry – Currency exchange near Ben Thanh Market.

3. Thien Xuan Currency Exchange

• Address: 38 Phan Boi Chau Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Phone: +84 909 946 817

4. Minh Thu Currency Exchange

• Address: 22 Nguyen Thai Binh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Phone: +84 908 292 482

Minh Thu Currency Exchange on Nguyen Thai Binh Street. (Image source: Internet)

5. Mai Van Currency Exchange

• Address: 1 Nguyen An Ninh Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Phone: +84 903 394 939

Mai Van Currency Exchange near Ben Thanh Market.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

If you find yourself in need of cash upon arrival, the currency exchange services available at Tan Son Nhat International Airport can be a good option. However, the exchange rate could be not as favorable. While both terminals have currency exchange counters, you might find better exchange rates at Terminal 2 compared to Terminal 1.

• Terminal 1: Vietinbank operates a currency exchange counter in the Arrivals Hall (1st level, opposite D2 entrance). As a national bank, its hours are limited to weekdays, 8:00-11:30 and 13:00-16:30. Consult Vietinbank’s website for current exchange rates.
• Terminal 2: Multiple currency exchange services are available at Terminal 2, including locations near gates 17 and 18 (airside), opposite check-in row D (Departure Hall, landside), outside immigration in Arrivals, and in the public area on the ground floor.

Addresses to exchange money in Ho Chi Minh City:

Money Exchange Tips for Travelers

• Avoid exchanging money at airports and hotels. While it may be convenient, these locations typically offer poor rates and high transaction fees. Instead, exchange just enough cash at the airport to cover taxi fares; you’ll find much better rates in the city center.
• When using an ATM, opt to be charged in Vietnamese Dong for a more favorable exchange rate and lower fees.
• You can often negotiate the exchange rate at smaller currency exchange counters. Don’t hesitate to ask for a better deal, particularly if you’re exchanging larger amounts.
• Before exchanging money, check the current exchange rate to easily identify any unfavorable deals from currency exchanges.
• Be aware that different denominations of USD notes may receive varying exchange rates at jewelry and gold shops.
• Lastly, be cautious of “zero fee” services, as they might not reflect the mid-market exchange rate you see online. This could result in higher costs for you and greater profits for them.

That is essential information about money exchange in Saigon. By understanding your options, you can make informed decisions that save you time and money. Be sure to take these tips into consideration for a smoother travel experience on your trip to Vietnam!

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