With the opening of Long Thanh International Airport (LTH, VVLT), Vietnam now has a new international gateway serving Ho Chi Minh City and the southern region. While the airport offers modern facilities and future potential as a major hub, many foreign travelers share the same concern upon arrival: How do I get from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City center easily and safely?
Because Long Thanh Airport is located outside the city, planning your transfer in advance can make a big difference — especially after a long international flight. This guide explains distance, travel time, real hotel examples, transport options, estimated costs, and the most convenient solution for visitors.
Distance & Travel Time from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City
Long Thanh International Airport is located in Dong Nai Province, approximately 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City. However, the actual distance and travel time depend on where you are staying in the city.
Most international travelers stay in District 1 or nearby central areas. Below are real examples of popular tourist locations and hotels, with approximate distances and travel times from Long Thanh Airport.
📍 Distance & Travel Time from Long Thanh Airport to Popular Locations in Ho Chi Minh City
| Destination / Area | Approx. Distance | Off-Peak Travel Time | Peak Hours Travel Time |
| District 1 (City Center) | 40–42 km | 45–60 minutes | 60–90 minutes |
| Ben Thanh Market | ~41 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| Nguyen Hue Walking Street | ~42 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| Pham Ngu Lao / Bui Vien Area | 40–41 km | 45–60 minutes | 65–85 minutes |
| Rex Hotel Saigon | ~42 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| Park Hyatt Saigon | ~42 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| InterContinental Saigon | 41–42 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel | ~42 km | 50–60 minutes | 70–90 minutes |
| Tan Son Nhat International Airport (for transfers) | 45–50 km | 60–75 minutes | 75–100 minutes |
What This Means for Your Arrival
- Under normal conditions, reaching District 1 usually takes about 1 hour.
- During weekday rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM & 4:30–7:30 PM), travel time can extend to 90 minutes or more.
- Late-night or early-morning arrivals are often faster and smoother.
Weather Impact
From May to October (rainy season), short but heavy tropical rain — usually in the late afternoon and early evening — can add 15–30 minutes to the journey, especially when entering central districts.
💡 Travel tip:
Providing your exact hotel name helps drivers plan the most efficient route and estimate arrival time more accurately.
Transportation Options from Long Thanh Airport to HCMC
There are currently three main ways to travel from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City center. Each option suits a different type of traveler.

1. Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services (Grab)
Who this option is for:
- Experienced travelers, solo visitors, or those familiar with Vietnam and local transport apps.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab are available at the airport, but waiting time and pricing can vary.
Estimated cost:
- USD 25 – 35 (600,000 – 900,000 VND)
- Prices may increase during peak hours or bad weather
Estimated travel time:
- 50 – 60 minutes (off-peak)
- 60 – 90 minutes (peak hours)
Things to consider:
- Surge pricing possible
- Waiting time during busy periods
- Language barriers with some drivers
2. Airport Shuttle Bus (Planned / Limited Availability)
Who this option is for:
- Budget travelers with light luggage and flexible schedules.
At present, full-scale shuttle bus services from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City are still under development. Some pilot or limited routes may operate depending on the airport’s operational phase, but frequent and reliable shuttle services are not yet widely available.
Estimated cost (planned):
- USD 3 – 7 (70,000 – 180,000 VND)
Estimated travel time (planned):
- 90–120 minutes, depending on traffic and stops
⚠️ Not recommended for first-time visitors, families, or late-night arrivals.
Private Airport Transfer (Recommended for Foreign Travelers)
Who this option is for:
- International tourists, business travelers, families, elderly travelers, and anyone visiting Vietnam for the first time.
A pre-arranged private airport transfer offers the most comfortable and reliable way to reach your hotel after arrival.
Estimated cost:
- USD 30 – 45, depending on vehicle type and destination
- Fixed price, confirmed in advance (no surge fees)
Estimated travel time:
- 50–70 minutes on average
Why choose our airport pickup service?
- 🚗 Private car with professional driver
- ⏰ Flight-based pickup (we track delays in real time)
- 💼 Assistance with luggage
- 💰 Transparent, fixed pricing
- 🌍 Ideal for foreign travelers unfamiliar with local transport
👉 Simply share your flight details, and we will arrange your pickup from Long Thanh Airport to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
How Our Airport Pickup Service Works
- You request the service and make payment of service fee
- You provide your flight number and arrival time
- We monitor your flight status in real time
- Our driver waits at the arrival hall with a personal name sign
- You are transferred directly to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
No searching for taxis, no price negotiation, no stress — just a smooth arrival.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Long Thanh International Airport to Ho Chi Minh City center is straightforward when you understand the distance, traffic patterns, and available transport options.
While taxis and buses may work for some travelers, a pre-booked private airport transfer offers the best balance of comfort, reliability, and peace of mind — especially during peak hours, the rainy season, or late-night arrivals.
📌 Just send us your flight details, and we will take care of your airport pickup from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City center.





