Ho Chi Minh Metro Line 1 Guide (2026): Fares, Tickets & Refunds

I was planning to head to Thao Dien for a pickleball game near Ben Thanh Market when suddenly, a torrential downpour began.

In Ho Chi Minh City, when it rains, getting a Grab ride can be nearly impossible! Whether it's a motorbike or a taxi, even with surge pricing, I couldn't get a ride for over 30 minutes. Left with no other option, I decided to try the newly opened metro system from Ben Thanh Market to Thao Dien.

Since its recent launch, the metro is incredibly clean and modern. The fares vary by distance, but on average, they are around ~$1, making it an incredibly affordable and efficient way to travel if the route aligns with your destination.

Ho Chi Minh Metro Line 1 Route

As of 2026, Ho Chi Minh City currently has only Metro Line 1 operational, which officially opened in December 2024.

Ho Chi Minh Metro Line 1 Essential Information

Station Order (Downtown → East)

For most visitors, the main stations of interest will be Ben Thanh Market at the starting point, Tan Cang (convenient for Landmark 81), and Thao Dien, known for its expat community and trendy cafes. You'll likely have little reason to visit the other stations.

Ho Chi Minh Metro Payment Method

Let's walk through the payment process starting from Ben Thanh Market. First, at the ticket machine, select your destination. Since I was going to Thao Dien, I simply touched 'Thao Dien'. Then, select '1' for the number of tickets and press 'OK'.

The total fare was ~$1, which included a ~$1 refundable card deposit and a ~$1 travel fare.

After inserting your banknotes, a metro card will be dispensed. To enter, simply tap the card at the gate, similar to any modern subway system. Do the same when you exit at your destination.

Ignore any freestanding machines and tag your card directly at the turnstile.

If you're departing from Ben Thanh Market, there's only one direction of travel, so you won't get confused.

The interior of the metro cars is also in excellent condition. However, locals don't typically use the metro extensively yet. This is likely due to the limited number of lines currently available and the convenience of motorbikes for reaching most destinations. But for tourists, it's a fantastic, air-conditioned escape!

Ho Chi Minh Metro Card Refund Process

Once you've arrived at your destination, you'll want to get your deposit back. On the ticket machine menu, look for 'Card Return' in the bottom left corner. Press this, insert your card, and you'll receive your ~$1 deposit back.

The card insertion slot is to the left of where you would insert banknotes.

I hope this simple guide helps you navigate Ho Chi Minh City's metro. There's also news that construction for Metro Line 2 will begin soon, further expanding the network. For destinations like Landmark 81 and Thao Dien, which are quite a distance from the city center, Grab motorbikes or taxis can get a bit pricey. Consider giving the metro a try for a stress-free and budget-friendly journey!