Ho Chi Minh City Metro Named One of TIME Magazine’s Top 100 Destinations for 2025

In a proud moment for Vietnam, TIME Magazine has named Ho Chi Minh City’s Metro Line 1 as one of the World’s 100 Greatest Places to Visit in 2025—the only Vietnamese destination to make the prestigious list.

The recognition places HCMC alongside some of the world’s most exciting travel hotspots, from Japan’s newly opened Nintendo Museum to futuristic libraries in Beijing and ski resorts in Shanghai. It’s a testament to Vietnam’s rapid urban transformation and growing appeal to global travelers.

A New Icon for a Dynamic City

According to TIME, the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien metro line is “a great achievement” for Vietnam’s southern metropolis, highlighting how the city is reinventing itself for the future. Stretching 19.7 kilometers with 14 stations, the line connects the vibrant heart of HCMC with the growing innovation hub of Thu Duc City.

This sleek, modern metro makes it easier than ever for locals and tourists to explore iconic spots like Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the Municipal Theatre, all while avoiding the city’s infamous traffic.

More Than Just Transportation

Beyond convenience, Metro Line 1 represents a shift toward sustainable urban living. TIME praises the project for easing congestion and reducing pollution, while enhancing the overall quality of life for millions of residents and visitors alike.

For tourists, it’s more than a way to get around—it’s a new way to experience Ho Chi Minh City. Smooth, clean, and efficient, the metro offers a fresh lens through which to explore one of Asia’s most energetic cities.

Photo: Olivier Ochanine

Vietnam on the Global Map

This is the seventh year that TIME Magazine has published its highly anticipated list, curated based on criteria such as Relevance, Innovation, Impact, and Success. HCMC’s inclusion not only signals global recognition of the city’s efforts to modernize, but also positions Vietnam as a forward-thinking destination in the eyes of international travelers.

With infrastructure like Metro Line 1 leading the way, Ho Chi Minh City is shaping up to be not just Vietnam’s economic powerhouse—but also a modern, accessible, and unforgettable stop on any world traveler’s itinerary.

Ready to ride the future? The Metro is calling.

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