Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
District 1 is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. You can walk to major sites, there are plenty of other travelers, and tourist infrastructure is solid. It's more expensive and touristy than other neighborhoods.
District 1 is where most tourists stay. The area around Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Walking Street has constant foot traffic, decent lighting, and visible police. You'll find everything from street food to higher-end restaurants. Sitting alone at cafes or restaurants is normal - lots of backpackers, business travelers, and locals doing the same. English is common in tourist areas. Main sites like Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum are all walkable during the day. Bui Vien Street is the backpacker party zone with cheap beer and loud bars - fun if that's your thing, but watch for pickpockets and don't leave drinks unattended. The Dong Khoi area is calmer and stays busy until midnight with better lighting. The motorbike traffic is relentless but you adjust.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Felt completely safe walking around during the day and evening"
"So many other solo travelers here, never felt alone"
"Grab bikes made getting around super easy and affordable"
"Watch your bag at Ben Thanh Market, lots of pickpockets"
"Loved sitting alone in cafes for hours, nobody bothered me"
"Bui Vien gets sketchy late at night, stick to main areas"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
District 3 has a more local feel with cafes, art galleries, and street food. Safe during the day but quieter at night. Better for people who want to experience local culture rather than first-timers looking for tourist infrastructure.
Thao Dien is a safe, walkable neighborhood with international amenities. Quieter and more residential than District 1. Better if you're staying longer or want to experience expat life rather than tourist sights.
Bui Vien Street is good for budget travelers who want to meet backpackers and party, but it has the highest safety concerns in central Saigon. Visit for the atmosphere but consider staying in nearby District 1 for better safety and sleep.
Help other women stay safe in District 1
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.