How to Get from Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) to Ho Chi Minh City โ All Transport Options
Compare every way to travel between Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Ho Chi Minh City city centre โ metro, bus, taxi, Grab/Be, and private transfer โ with up-to-date 2026 costs and journey times.
Quick Comparison: All Transport Options
| Mode | Cost | Journey Time | Ease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro (Line 1) | ~15,000โ25,000 VND (~$0.60โ$1) | 20โ30 min | โ โ โ โ โ |
| Bus (109) | ~5,000โ20,000 VND (~$0.20โ$0.80) | 45โ90 min | โ โ โ โโ |
| Taxi (metered) | ~150,000โ250,000 VND (~$6โ$10) | 20โ45 min | โ โ โ โ โ |
| Grab / Be (rideshare) | ~120,000โ200,000 VND (~$5โ$8) | 20โ45 min | โ โ โ โ โ |
| Private Transfer | ~300,000โ600,000 VND (~$12โ$24) | 20โ40 min | โ โ โ โ โ |
Metro Line 1 (Recommended)
Ho Chi Minh City's Metro Line 1 is the fastest, most comfortable, and most affordable way into the city centre.
- Exit arrivals and follow Metro / Tร u ฤiแปn Ngแบงm signs to the station entrance.
- Purchase a single-journey ticket at the ticket machine or counter (15,000โ25,000 VND / ~$0.60โ$1).
- Board Line 1 toward Bแบฟn Thร nh (District 1 city centre).
- Journey takes approximately 20โ30 minutes.
- Trains run every 5โ10 minutes during peak hours, 6:00 AM โ 10:00 PM daily.
Taxi
Metered taxis are widely available at SGN and cost around 150,000โ250,000 VND (~$6โ$10) to the city centre, taking 20โ45 minutes depending on traffic.
- Use only official taxi queues inside the terminal โ never accept offers from touts.
- Trusted companies: Vinasun (green) and Mai Linh (green/white).
- Always confirm the meter is switched on before moving.
- Avoid unlicensed white taxis quoting fixed high fares.
Public Bus (Route 109)
Bus 109 is the cheapest option (~20,000 VND / ~$0.80) running directly between the airport and Bแบฟn Thร nh Market. Journey time is 45โ90 minutes subject to traffic.
- Bus stop is outside the domestic terminal โ follow blue bus signs.
- Runs approximately every 15โ20 minutes, 5:30 AM โ 1:30 AM.
- Pay the conductor on board; exact change appreciated.
- Luggage space is limited โ less ideal with large bags.
Grab & Be (Rideshare Apps)
Grab and Be are the most popular rideshare apps in Vietnam. Expect to pay 120,000โ200,000 VND (~$5โ$8) to the city centre with upfront pricing โ no meter anxiety.
- Download Grab or Be before you land and set up payment.
- Designated rideshare pick-up zones are on Level 1 of both terminals.
- GrabCar is typically cheaper than a metered taxi for the same route.
- Surge pricing applies during peak hours and bad weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct metro from Tan Son Nhat Airport?
Yes. Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line 1 connects Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN Ga Bรฌnh Thรกi area) to Ben Thanh station in District 1. As of 2025โ2026 full operations are underway โ check the latest schedule at the station.
How do I avoid taxi scams at SGN Airport?
Only use metered taxis from authorised stands inside the terminal. Reputable companies include Vinasun and Mai Linh. Reject all offers from touts in the arrivals hall, and confirm the meter is running before departing.
What is the cheapest way to get into Ho Chi Minh City from the airport?
Bus route 109 is the cheapest option at around 20,000 VND (~$0.80), running directly between the airport and Ben Thanh Market. The metro is slightly pricier but much faster and more comfortable.
Getting out of Ho Chi Minh
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