It can be overwhelming for first-time tourists to arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. As one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports, it can get crowded and chaotic, particularly during the busiest travel times.
As soon as they arrive, visitors should follow the signs to immigration and customs, where they must show their passport, any necessary visas, and any other required documentation. Travelers can take their luggage after passing through immigration and customs and then head to the arrivals hall, where they can find transportation choices, ATMs, and currency exchange booths.
Taxis, airport shuttles, and public vehicles are just a few of the ways to get around the airport. Taxis are the most practical but can be costly, particularly if people are traveling to the city center. Airport shuttles are a more reasonably priced alternative, and they can be reserved online or at the airport. The least expensive choice is using a public bus, but it can be challenging for first-timers.
In general, getting to Tan Son Nhat International Airport takes time and planning, particularly for those who are not familiar with the facility or the area. To ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival, travelers should make travel arrangements in advance and study their options.
In this article, we will go over each of these choices in depth and offer advice on how to get around the airport and make your trip go smoothly.
If you are looking for things to do and see while visiting Saigon. Click here or go to our article on what to do and see in Ho Chi Minh City for some fantastic tips.
Taxi from Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Taxis are one of the most well-liked ways to travel from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the city’s core. 24 hours a day, taxis are accessible outside the terminal building. Depending on traffic, the distance between the airport and the city center can be traveled in 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on your location, the fare for a metered taxi should range from VND 150,000 to VND 200,000 ($6.50 to $8.50 USD).
Not all taxis in Ho Chi Minh City are created equal, it is essential to remember this. We advise using a trustworthy taxi service like Vinasun or Mai Linh in order to guarantee a secure and dependable trip. The chauffeurs of these businesses should be able to communicate in simple English, and they have a solid reputation for dependability and safety. Their taxis are readily recognized by their green or white color and the company logo on the side.
We advise you to download the Grab program and use it while you are exploring Vietnam. It is the most popular tool for finding lodging, and if you intend to take taxis, it will help you save a ton of money. Please be aware that in order to use it, you will need a WiFi link.
Bus from Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Bus transportation is yet another way to get from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the city core. The Airport Bus (#109), which travels between the airport and Ben Thanh Market in the heart of the city, is one of the bus routes that service the airport. A very cost-effective choice, the bus fare is only VND 20,000 ($0.85 USD) per person.
From 5:30 AM to 1:00 AM, the Airport Bus (#109) leaves from the airport every 15-20 minutes. Depending on traffic, it takes 45 to 60 minutes to complete the trip. The bus has adequate luggage space and air conditioning. However, be ready for congested areas during prime time.
The other bus you can take is the local bus number 152 from the airport to the city centre. This will take longer due to the stops and may be a bit more difficult if you have a lot of luggage with you.
Private Car from Tan Son Nhat International Airport
If you’d like a more relaxing and practical way to travel from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the city center, you might want to think about renting a private vehicle. A lot of private car companies provide airport transfer services; rates range from $8.50 to $17 USD depending on the style of vehicle and your destination.
If you want to avoid the hassle of haggling with taxi drivers or waiting for a bus, scheduling a private car in preparation can be a good choice. Your driver will pick you up at the airport and drive you straight to where you need to go. Grab, GoViet, and Vinasun are a few of the well-known private vehicle services in Ho Chi Minh City.
Renting a Car from Tan Son Nhat International Airport
Travelers who want to tour Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings at their own pace can choose to rent a car at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Vietnam. In the arrivals terminal of the airport, a number of vehicle rental companies are situated, including well-known global brands like Avis, Budget, and Hertz as well as regional companies like Saigon Rent A vehicle and Thanh Cong Car Rental.
Travelers need to have an international driving permit or a current driver’s license from their native country to rent a car at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. (IDP). As driving in Ho Chi Minh City can be difficult for inexperienced drivers, they should also be aware of the regional traffic laws and road conditions.
The price to rent a car at the Tan Son Nhat International airport varies based on the kind of vehicle, how long the rental is, and the rental business. It is advised to shop around and make reservations in early to get the best price. Some rental vehicle companies provide extra services like GPS navigation, child safety seats, and insurance coverage that can be added for an additional cost.
In conclusion, if visitors have the required documentation and driving abilities, renting a car at Tan Son Nhat International Airport can be a practical and adaptable way to tour Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings.
Tips for Navigating Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- Visa on Arrival: If you are visiting Vietnam and do not already have a visa in place, you can register for one at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. A passport-sized photo is required, and the cost ranges from $25 to $50 USD, depending on how long you plan to remain.
- Immigration: You must pass immigration once you have exited the aircraft. Prepare to show the officer with your passport and visa (if necessary). You can gather your luggage and head to customs once you’ve passed immigration.
- Currency Exchange: The airport’s arrivals hall has a number of currency exchange counters if you need to shift money. But be mindful that it might not be the best exchange rate at the airport. It is advised to only exchange a small portion of your currency at the airport and save the balance until you reach the city’s central business district.
- Services and Amenities Tan Son Nhat International Airport provides a broad range of amenities and services, including dining establishments, coffee shops, retail stores, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. The airport is equipped with ATMs and foreign exchange desks. There are information booths spread out throughout the airport with staff members who can speak English and other languages if you need help.
