Transport from airport

There are several convenient options for traveling from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to Ho Chi Minh City Center:

Bus

Bus 152: This is a local public bus that runs from the airport to Ben Thanh Market in the city center. The journey takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour, and the ticket price is around 5,000 VND (approximately $0.22).

Bus 109: This bus connects the airport to District 1 and ends at Saigon Bus Station near 23/9 Park. It’s a quicker option with fewer stops, but it has a luggage limit of 10 kg.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals. The fare to the city center is around 110,000 VND (approximately $4.80) for a 4-seat car. You can also book a taxi online through services like DichungTaxi (i.e., co-shared drive).

Private Transfer

If you have large luggage or prefer a more comfortable ride, booking a private transfer is a good option. You can easily book one online through various services.

Shuttle Bus

Some hotels and travel agencies offer shuttle bus services from the airport to the city center. It’s a convenient option if you have pre-booked accommodation.

Vin Xanh

Vin Xanh is a popular ride-hailing service in Vietnam, known for its teal-colored vehicles. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Vin Xanh:

  1. Download the App: Search for “Vin Xanh” on Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS) and download the app.
  2. Set Up Your Account: Open the app and sign up using your phone number (preferably a Vietnamese number) and email address. You’ll need to verify your account via an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone.
  3. Enter Personal Information: Fill in your personal details, such as name, profile picture, and payment information.
  4. Allow Permissions: Grant the app access to your location and notifications for real-time updates and accurate pickups.
  5. Book a Ride: Enter your destination and choose the type of vehicle you need (car or motorbike). The app will show you the estimated fare and arrival time of the vehicle.
  6. Track Your Ride: Once booked, you can track the vehicle’s arrival on the map within the app.
  7. Ride and Pay: After the ride, you can rate your driver and pay through the app using your registered payment method.

Vin Xanh is known for its clean and new vehicles, and it often offers promotional discounts and coupons. However, some users have noted that the app can be a bit tricky to navigate, especially for foreigners.

Grab

Using Grab in Ho Chi Minh City is quite simple and convenient. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Download the App: Search for “Grab” on Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS) and download the app.
  2. Create an Account: Open the app and sign up using your phone number (preferably a Vietnamese number) and email address. Verify your account via an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone.
  3. Set Up Your Profile: Fill in your personal details, such as name, profile picture, and payment information.
  4. Allow Permissions: Grant the app access to your location and notifications for real-time updates and accurate pickups.
  5. Choose Your Ride: Select the type of ride you need (car or motorbike). The app will show you the estimated fare and arrival time of the vehicle.
  6. Book a Ride: Enter your destination and confirm your pickup location. Tap “Book” to confirm your ride.
  7. Track Your Ride: Once booked, you can track the vehicle’s arrival on the map within the app.
  8. Ride and Pay: After the ride, you can rate your driver and pay through the app using your registered payment method.

Grab offers a variety of ride options, including economy cars, spacious SUVs, and motorbike taxis. It’s a great way to get around the city quickly and affordably.