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The weather in Vietnam varies greatly from north to south, offering a diverse range of climates throughout the year.
Getting from Tan Son Nhat Airport to the Ho Chi Minh City centre is simple and easy, even for those visiting Vietnam for the first time. However, knowing your transport options from Tan Son Nhat and some top tips in advance will help you start your journey in the smoothest and safest way possible. In this guide, we explore all available methods for your airport transfer to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City!
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1. Where is Tan Son Nhat Airport?
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the largest airport in Vietnam, covering over 1,500 hectares with a capacity of up to nearly 50 million passengers per year. Initially built by the French in 1930 for military purposes, the Vietnamese government took control of the airport after the country's reunification in 1975, expanding its area and infrastructure to meet the population's mobility needs. It boasts a strategic location that makes it incredibly easy to reach the central districts of Ho Chi Minh City. Travelling from this airport to city centre takes just about 20-30 minutes by car for the distance of 8km. For this reason, tourists can easily head to major attractions immediately after landing.
2. Ways to travel from the Airport to the City Centre
2.1. Taxi
If you wish to reach the city centre by an airport taxi, you will need to walk a fairly long stretch from the main road to the entrance. You can book with popular companies like Vinasun, Mai Linh, G7 or use ride-hailing apps such as Be, Grab, or Xanh SM. If you have just landed, you will have plenty of options to catch a taxi directly at the airport.
At the arrivals exit, you will find several service desks. However, taxis taken inside the airport tend to charge higher fares. It is advisable to communicate your destination and agree on the price in advance, rather than relying solely on the taximeter, to avoid unexpected costs. Alternatively, you can walk out to the main road and hail a cab independently. Below is some information on reliable airport taxi companies to consider for your airport transfer:
| Taxi Company | Booking Number | Estimated Fare to City Centre |
|---|---|---|
Taxi Vinasun | 028.38.27.27.27 | 150,000 – 200,000 VND |
Taxi Xanh SM | 1900.2088 | 120,000 – 200,000 VND |
Taxi Mai Linh | 028.38.29.88.88 | 150,000 – 200,000 VND |
Taxi Airport | 028.38.113.113 | 150,000 – 200,000 VND |
Taxi SAVICO | 0980.889.921 | 150,000 – 200,000 VND |
Vina Taxi | 028.38.111.111 | 120,000 – 200,000 VND |
Taxi Hoang Long | 028.38.302.514 | 150,000 – 200,000 VND |
Travel time: 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Operating hours: 24/7.
Top tips:
- For late-night travel, it is recommended to book in advance via an app or hotline to ensure vehicle availability.
- Use official taxi ranks outside the terminal.
- Avoid drivers who approach you inside the arrivals area.
- Always check that the taximeter is turned on. Keep small-denomination Vietnamese Dong (VND) handy.
2.2. Public bus
If you want to save money, the public bus from airport to Ho Chi Minh city centre is the most cost-effective option to consider. Depending on your destination or starting point, you can choose from the following routes:
Bus Line 152
- Route: Tan Son Nhat Airport – Ngo Sy Lien – Super Bowl Supermarket – Tran Quoc Hoan – Lang Cha Ca – Pham Van Hai – Southeastern Armed Forces Museum – Military Zone 7 Petrol Station – Nguyen Trong Tuyen Intersection – Railway Crossing – Phu Nhuan District Cultural Centre – Tran Huy Lieu – Vinh Nghiem Pagoda – Tran Quoc Toan – Pasteur Institute – Dien Bien Phu – Coop Mart Nguyen Dinh Chieu – Truong Dinh – Nguyen Thi Dieu – Trong Dong – New World Hotel – Ben Thanh – Ernst Thalmann School – Tran Hung Dao Dormitory – Hung Dao Theatre – Odonto-Maxillo-Facial Hospital – Tran Dinh Xu – SAMCO – Nanci Market – Duong Ba Trac School – Rach Ong – Him Lam Bridge Roundabout – Trung Son Residential Area
- Operating hours: 05:15 - 19:00.
- Frequency: Every 50 - 55 minutes.
- Ticket price: 5,000 VND per ticket
Bus Line 109
- Route: Tan Son Nhat Airport (International Terminal) – Domestic Terminal – Truong Son – Tran Quoc Hoan – Hoang Van Thu – Nguyen Van Troi – Nam Ky Khoi Nghia – Ham Nghi – Ben Thanh Station – Pham Ngu Lao – September 23rd Park (Saigon Bus Station).
- Operating hours: 05:30 - 22:15.
- Frequency: Every 45 minutes
- Ticket price: 15,000 VND (under 5 km) / 20,000 VND (over 5 km).
Note: To catch bus 109 from Tan Son Nhat airport to city centre, head to pillar No. 12 (international terminal) or No. 18 (domestic terminal).
Bus Line 119
- Route: Tan Son Nhat Airport (International & Domestic Terminals) – Truong Son – Tran Quoc Hoan – Hoang Van Thu – Xuan Dieu – Xuan Hong – Truong Chinh – Ly Thuong Kiet – Bac Hai – Thanh Thai – Nguyen Tri Phuong – Nguyen Chi Thanh – Nguyen Thi Nho – Hong Bang – Kinh Duong Vuong – Mien Tay Bus Station.
- Operating hours: 04:00 – 21:00.
- Frequency: Every 25–30 minutes.
- Ticket price: 12,000 VND (under 5 km) / 20,000 VND (over 5 km)
Despite the low price, taking the bus has some drawbacks: longer travel times, potential overcrowding during peak hours, and less convenience with heavy luggage. Furthermore, you will need to navigate your own way from the bus stop to your accommodation.
2.3. Ride-hailing apps
Using ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM is a highly popular and practical way to travel from Tan Son Nhat Airport to the city centre. With these apps, you can pre-book and avoid any confusion.
- Travel time: 15 – 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
- Average price: 130,000 – 170,000 VND (approx. 5 – 7 USD), which varies based on demand.
- Pick-up point: A dedicated, clearly signposted area outside the airport.
Similar to other services like Uber or Gojek, using Grab in Vietnam provides a quick and convenient experience, featuring fixed prices and cashless payment options.
Note: During peak hours or bad weather, prices may surge and waiting times might be longer.
2.4. Hotel transfer service
Many hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer an airport transfer service for their guests. This guarantees a direct, stress-free transfer right to your hotel, eliminating the need to search for an airport taxi or use an app.
- Operating hours: Available 24/7 (usually via advance booking).
- Price: 300,000 – 500,000 VND (approx. 12 – 20 USD), depending on the hotel and vehicle type.
- Meeting point: Your driver will wait for you in the arrivals area holding a sign with your name.
It is undoubtedly the most comfortable and relaxing option, especially after a long flight. However, not all hotels offer this service, or they may rely on third-party providers, so it is highly recommended to check beforehand.
2.5. Motorbike taxi (Xe Om)
- Cost: 70,000 – 100,000 VND.
- Travel time: 20 – 30 minutes.
A motorbike taxi is an excellent choice for solo travellers or those with light luggage, allowing you to weave through the city's heavy traffic quickly and easily.
2.6. Private airport transfer
When you book a private airport transfer, which is usually included in a tour package, your journey begins the moment you arrive: a dedicated vehicle will be waiting to pick you up straight from the airport with a signage.
This service offers a door-to-door experience with a private vehicle, accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver and a dedicated meet & greet service in the arrivals hall. It is the perfect solution for a stress-free start to your trip, ensuring maximum comfort, safety, and convenience after a long flight.
It is highly ideal for first-time visitors, families, travellers with heavy luggage, and business professionals.
3. Important notes and FAQs
3.1 Essential tips for travelling from Tan Son Nhat Airport to city
To avoid unnecessary inconveniences and fully enjoy the comfort of your trip, here are some "golden tips" for smart and safe travel:
- Check rush hours: Traffic in Ho Chi Minh City is heavily congested between 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–7:00 PM. If you land during these hours, expect an additional 10–20 minutes of travel time, particularly with taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Avoid unofficial taxis: Some unauthorised drivers at the airport may approach you with exorbitant prices. Choose only reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or book via an app like Grab or Xanh SM for guaranteed safety and transparent pricing.
- Carry cash and cards: Although digital payments are increasingly common, some buses (like bus 152) or smaller taxis only accept cash. We advise carrying around 50,000–100,000 VND in small notes.
- Watch your luggage: Pick-up areas, especially at the domestic terminal, can get very crowded, so always keep an eye on your personal belongings. Public buses like line 152 lack space for bulky luggage during peak times, so keep this in mind if travelling with large suitcases.
- Check the weather: March is the dry season in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring average temperatures between 28–35°C, intense sunshine, and very little rain. If you choose a motorbike (GrabBike, Be), do not forget your helmet and sun protection.
- Specify your destination clearly: Whether taking a taxi or a transfer, clearly state your address (e.g., "Ben Thanh Market" or "Le Loi Street, District 1") to prevent confusion, as the city centre is quite expansive.
- Embrace the local experience: Taking a bus like the bus 109 or 49 is not only budget-friendly but also a fantastic way to observe daily Saigon life right from the start of your trip. They are definitely worth trying if you want to immerse yourself in the city's atmosphere.
3.2 FAQs
How much does a taxi cost from Tan Son Nhat Airport to the city centre?
Fares generally range between 150,000 and 250,000 VND (approx. 6 – 10 USD), depending on the company, time of day, and traffic conditions. During peak hours or at night, the price can be slightly higher.
Can I use Grab at the airport?
Yes. Grab in Vietnam is widely available at Tan Son Nhat Airport. You can quickly book a ride right after landing and make your way to the designated pick-up zone. It is a highly convenient option with transparent pricing.
Are there shuttle buses from the airport to the city centre?
Yes. Bus 109 is considered the main shuttle bus, linking the airport directly to the city centre (Ben Thanh area). Bus 152 and 119 are also available; though cheaper, they are typically slower and less comfortable.
How long does it take to reach the city centre from the airport?
The average travel time is 15 – 30 minutes in normal traffic conditions, and 30 – 45 minutes during rush hours.
Should I book a private airport transfer in advance?
Yes, especially if it is your first visit and you are unfamiliar with the city; or you are travelling with a group or family; you have a lot of luggage; especially if you are arriving late at night. Pre-booking secures a fixed price, zero waiting times, and a reliable meet & greet service upon arrival.
Is it safe to travel at night?
Generally, Ho Chi Minh City is a safe destination, even at night. Nonetheless, it is advisable to avoid unauthorised vehicles and never accept ride offers from strangers inside the airport terminal.
What is the best transport option?
This depends entirely on your needs:
To save money → Public bus
For speed → Motorbike taxi
For convenience at a fair price → Grab
For maximum comfort and safety → Private airport transfer
For the vast majority of travellers, particularly those making their first visit to Vietnam, using Grab or pre-booking a private airport transfer represents the most balanced and highly recommended choice.
There are multiple transport options from Tan Son Nhat to the city centre: from a comfortable airport taxi and budget-friendly buses to modern ride-hailing services, making it effortless to choose the perfect method to kickstart your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City.
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TRAVELERS' CHOICE 2025 
