Arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport! How Will You Spend a 14-Hour Transit?
A 14-hour layover at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City might sound overwhelming.
But just sitting idly at the airport? That’s no fun.
Why not take the plunge and step outside?
You might be thinking, “That’s impossible!” But trust me, it’s worth it!
In this article, we’ll answer the question, “Can I really do this?” while offering a bold plan to fully enjoy your 14-hour transit.
So, are you ready to give it a go?
Time Management is Key! A Bold 14-Hour Transit Schedule
The first thing that comes to mind is, “Do I really have time to leave the airport with only 14 hours?”
The answer is yes, if you plan carefully!
We suggest a daring schedule that lets you enjoy the thrill of cutting it close while experiencing Vietnam’s café culture before heading back.
Sample Transit Schedule (Challenge Mode)
- 06:50 AM – Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- 08:00 AM – Escape the airport! Head to The Workshop for your first coffee
- 10:00 AM – Move into downtown Ho Chi Minh and relax at Lacàph Space (just don’t stay too long!)
- 12:30 PM – Grab a local lunch and enjoy some café bites
- 02:00 PM – Head back near the airport to Du Minh Garden Café and enjoy some Vietnamese coffee while surrounded by nature
- 04:00 PM – Return to the airport and relax in the duty-free shops or lounge
If you pull this off, you’ll be on your way to becoming a certified Vietnam expert!
The Tan Son Nhat Challenge! Can You Really Savor Vietnamese Coffee?
“Can I really make it to the city for coffee during a layover?” you might ask.
Well, yes, you can!
And Ho Chi Minh is home to many places where you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese coffee in its full glory.
The Spot to Challenge Yourself: The Workshop Coffee
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh, The Workshop is a stylish café offering rich, authentic Vietnamese coffee.
The best part?
It’s only a 30-minute taxi ride from the airport—perfect for transit adventurers!
- Address: 2nd floor, 27 Ngô Đức Kế, Bến Nghé Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Access: About 30 minutes by car from Tan Son Nhat Airport
- Check out the details for The Workshop here!
Worried about missing your flight?
As long as you calculate your time wisely, you’ll be just fine.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy Vietnamese coffee!
Can You Become a Café Master? Take on Ho Chi Minh’s Hidden Coffee Gems!
Ho Chi Minh is filled with hidden cafés known only to locals.
This is your chance to dive deep into the local coffee culture, not just as a tourist, but as someone truly soaking up the authentic vibe.
Try visiting these three cafés!
1. The Workshop Coffee
Already introduced above, The Workshop Coffee is your first must-visit spot.
Easy to access and impossible to miss, this café should be your starting point.
2. Lacàph Space
For a fresh take on the local café scene, Lacàph Space is a must.
This spot blends Vietnam’s traditions with modern flair, giving you a different perspective on coffee culture.
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
- Address: Upstairs, 220 Đ. Nguyễn Công Trứ, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- Access: About a 35-minute drive from the airport
- Check out the details for Lacàph Space here!
After visiting here, you’ll level up as a café connoisseur!
3. Du Minh Garden Café
Looking for a quiet spot to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s café culture?
Du Minh Garden Café is the answer.
Tucked away in a garden, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, making it the perfect spot to savor your coffee.
- Opening hours: 08:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Address: 7 Phan Van Tri Phuong 10, Quan Go Vap, Ho Chi Minh City 70000 Vietnam
- Access: About a 24-minute drive from the airport
- Check out the details for Du Minh Garden Café here!
“Do I really have time to relax in a garden?” you may wonder.
That’s the real challenge!
A 14-hour layover in Ho Chi Minh is more than just a break—it’s a challenge!
It’s your chance to not only drink Vietnamese coffee but also explore local cafés and dive deep into the local culture, discovering a new side of yourself.
Don’t be afraid to take on the challenge, maximize your time, and race through Ho Chi Minh!
By the time of your next flight, you won’t have time to feel bored!