Tan Son Nhat International Airport Day-Use Access: Optimal Guide from Ho Chi Minh to the City ~ Best Ways to Spend Your Layover Time
Introduction
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam! If you’re transiting through this city, how you spend your limited time is crucial. There are many options for traveling from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the city, and this guide will introduce ways to use your time and money efficiently.
Departing from the Airport
Upon landing, complete immigration and collect your baggage. It’s recommended to exchange currency at the airport and purchase a SIM card if needed. SIM cards are extremely convenient for communication, available from about 2~3USD with unlimited data plans. How to get a SIM card cheaply
Ways to Travel to the City
For transit travelers, choosing the optimal mode of transportation is key to not wasting precious time.
Taxis
Taxis can be hailed from the official taxi stand located to the left of the international terminal exit. It’s crucial to only take taxis from official stands and choose reputable companies to avoid scams.
The fare is about 200,000~250,000( about8~10USD) without traffic, with an additional airport fee of about 10,000 VND (about 0.4USD). Taxis offer comfort and direct access to your destination but can be pricier compared to other options.
Reputable taxi companies available at Tan Son Nhat International Airport include
・Vinasun Taxi
・Mailinh Taxi
・Saigontourist
These major companies are reliable, use metered fares, and can comfortably take you to your destination within about 30 minutes to the city center without major traffic.
Purchasing a taxi coupon in advance is another option.
Payment is generally in cash, but “AIRPORT TAXI” fixed-rate tickets are available for trips from the airport to the city and back. Simply inform the information desk at the airport or any travel agency in the city of your destination to arrange a ticket at the matching price.
【Ho Chi Minh City】
●AIRPORT TAXI & SAIGON SASCO TAXI
Airport to City：75,000 Dong (about 3 USD)
City to Airport：75,000 Dong (about 3 USD)
・Other Discounts: Besides tickets, taxi companies offer various services like round-trip discounts or pay-at-the-end-of-month systems for registered customers.
For example, Grab offers discounts on fares through coupons and promotions without any special conditions or registrations needed.
When using, simply enter “Offers” on the fare screen and select any applicable coupons or promotions. Always check for these before booking.
Buses
Buses offer great value and a taste of local life. Buses No. 109 and No. 152 leave from the international terminal directly to the city center. The bus stop is a short walk to the right after exiting the arrivals lobby. Bus numbers are displayed on the front and back windows, and route maps are available at the bus stops.
Fares start from 12,000 VND (about 0.5USD), with buses running every 15 minutes, making it a convenient option from the airport. Payment is in cash, and it’s wise to have small change ready.
While buses offer great value, they may be inconvenient for travelers with large luggage or those unfamiliar with the route to their destination.
Limousines
Limousine services are suited for those with significant luggage or traveling in groups. You can pay a fixed fare at the limousine counter directly opposite the arrivals lobby. Fixed fares help with budgeting, though expect to pay about 20% more than a taxi for the added comfort and reliability.
Ride-Hailing Apps：Grab
Grab, a popular ride-hailing app in Ho Chi Minh City, allows you to book rides using your smartphone. You can set your destination in advance, see the fare, and avoid unexpected charges. Fares to the city center are roughly 100,000 VND (about 4USD), making it a more affordable option than taxis. The app’s user rating system also adds a layer of security.
Installation of the app and internet connection are required.
Dealing with Traffic and the Rainy Season
To avoid traffic, aim to depart for the airport at least 2 hours before your flight, preferably 2 hours and 45 minutes. Peak traffic hours are weekdays around 8-9 AM and 5-7 PM.
During the rainy season (May to October), sudden heavy rains can flood roads, so using taxis or Grab and avoiding walking is advisable.
Summary
Even with a short transit, accessing Ho Chi Minh City is easier than you might think. Use this guide to fully enjoy your stay. Consider using day-use hotels if you have a few hours in the city for a comfortable rest before your next flight. We hope your brief adventure in Ho Chi Minh City becomes a wonderful memory of your journey.
For day-use hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, visit: https://daydreamhub.com/city/ho-chi-minh-city/
