Options compared
| Option | Price | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grab car | ~VND 150,000–250,000 | 25–45 min | Most travellers |
| Metered taxi (Vinasun, Mai Linh) | Similar to Grab | 25–45 min | No data or app |
| Public bus (e.g. 109, 152) | ~VND 5,000–15,000 | 45–60 min | Budget, light luggage |
| Hotel transfer | Usually higher | 25–45 min | Late arrivals, families |
Grab
Book in the app after leaving arrivals and follow signs to the ride-hailing pick-up area. The fare is fixed in the app, and you can pay by card or cash. Grab Bike (motorbike taxi) is cheaper but tricky with luggage.
Taxis
Use reputable companies such as Vinasun (white) or Mai Linh (green) from the official queue, and make sure the meter is on. Ignore drivers who approach you inside the terminal. Airport parking fees may be added.
Public buses
Bus 109 runs from the airport to the Saigon Bus Station near Ben Thanh and Pham Ngu Lao for VND 15,000, roughly every 40 minutes from early morning until about 10pm, and bus 152 costs even less. Check which terminal your bus serves, since the new Terminal 3 handles domestic flights. Pay cash on board.
Find tours & tickets in Ho Chi Minh CityArriving: tips
- Have your e-visa printed or saved, or check your visa-free status. See the Vietnam e-visa guide.
- Exchange a small amount or use an airport ATM for dong; rates in the city are often better.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly so you can book Grab right away. Get a travel eSIM for Ho Chi Minh City
- Choose your area first: where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City.
For events, opening hours and official visitor information, see Vietnam Travel, the official tourism site.
More Ho Chi Minh City guides
- Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
- Ho Chi Minh City itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh City
- Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City
- Cu Chi Tunnels tour
- Mekong Delta day trip
- Vietnam e-visa guide
FAQ: Ho Chi Minh City airport to the city
How much is a Grab from Tan Son Nhat to District 1?
Usually VND 150,000–250,000, more at peak times or in the rain.
How long does it take from the airport to District 1?
About 25 minutes in light traffic, up to 45 minutes or more at rush hour.
Is there a metro to Saigon airport?
Not yet. Metro Line 1 doesn’t serve the airport.
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