Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the busiest airport in Vietnam, and getting from there to the city centre—especially District 1—can be tricky if you don’t know your options. This guide will show the best ways to travel from Ho Chi Minh Airport to city centre, comparing cost, convenience, and comfort.

I. Why Getting Out of Tan Son Nhat Airport Can Be Tricky

1. Traffic & Congestion

• SGN Airport is just 6 km from District 1, but depending on the time of day, it can take 30 minutes to over an hour to get to your hotel.

• Rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM, 4:30-7:30 PM) can turn a quick ride into a stop-and-go nightmare.

2. Taxi Scams & Overcharging

• Fake taxis are notorious for meter tampering, long detours, and surprise “airport fees.”

• Even legitimate taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter, leaving you to haggle after a long flight.

3. Language Barriers & Navigation Struggles

• Not all drivers speak English, and even if they do, street names in Vietnamese can be confusing for first-time visitors.

II. Most Common Transportation Options 

1. Public Bus 

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a public bus is the cheapest way to get to the city centre.

• Bus 109 & Bus 152: These are the most reliable airport buses, costing as little as 20,000-30,000 VND (~$1-1.50 USD) per ticket.

• Drawbacks: Expect crowded buses, long wait times, and potential language barriers when asking for directions. Not ideal for those with heavy luggage or arriving late at night.

Best for: Backpackers and solo travelers looking for the most economical option.

2. Traditional Taxis 

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, providing a direct transfer to your hotel. Reliable companies include Vinasun and Mai Linh, with fares ranging from 150,000-250,000 VND (~$6-10 USD) to District 1.

• Risks: Overcharging, unlicensed taxis, and misleading meters are common scams.

• How to avoid scams: Always use official taxi stands and insist on using the meter.

Best for: Travelers who don’t mind negotiating fares but prefer door-to-door service.

3. Ride-Hailing Apps 

Apps like Grab, Be, and Gojek offer an alternative to traditional taxis, with estimated fares between 150,000-300,000 VND ($6-12 USD).

• Pros: Transparent pricing, easy app booking, and digital payments.

• Cons: Surge pricing during peak hours, potential long wait times, and some drivers not speaking English.

Best for: Solo travelers or small groups comfortable with using mobile apps.

4. Private Car Transfer

For travelers looking for the most reliable, comfortable, and hassle-free way to reach the city, Vietnam Discovery’s Private Car Transfer is the ideal solution.

• Fixed pricing: No hidden fees or unexpected charges.

• Meet & Greet Service: A professional driver will wait for you with a name sign at arrivals.

• Comfort & Cleanliness: Spacious, air-conditioned vehicles with plenty of luggage space.

• 24/7 Service: Available at any time, even for late-night or early-morning arrivals.

• Safety & Reliability: Avoid scams, unreliable taxis, or long waits for ride-hailing drivers.

Best for: Families, business travelers, first-time visitors, or those who want a seamless start to their trip.

👉 If you want a smooth, hassle-free transfer from the airport to your hotel, skip the wait and book a private car for a comfortable and stress-free ride!