(VN)+84.387.285.099 
m.me/VietnamVisaservice 
Vietnamvisa 
Vietnamvisa 
District 1 (currently known as Sai Gon, Tan Dinh, Ben Thanh and Cau Ong Lanh wards) is the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, home to major attractions such as Ben Thanh Market, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Notre Dame Cathedral, and most international hotels. For most travelers arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), District 1 is the first and most common destination.
This guide will guide you how to get from Ho Chi Minh Airport to District 1, how long you should expect.
Table of Contents
Distance & Travel Time from Ho Chi Minh Airport to District 1
- Distance: 7–8 km
- Average travel time:
- Off-peak hours: 20–30 minutes
- Rush hours: 40–60 minutes
Popular drop-off points in District 1 include:
- Ben Thanh Market
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street
- Bui Vien Walking Street
- Saigon Opera House
- Major hotels along Le Loi, Dong Khoi, and Nguyen Hue streets
How to Get to District 1 from Tan Son Nhat Airport HCMC
After exiting the arrival terminal, you can choose from the following transportation options.
Option 1: Taxi from Tan Son Nhat Airport to District 1
Taxis are the most straightforward option and widely used by international travelers.
🚕 Popular Taxi Companies at SGN Airport
| Taxi Company | Phone Number | Estimated Cost to District 1 |
| Mai Linh Taxi | +84 1055 | 160,000 – 250,000 VND |
| Vinasun Taxi | +84 28 3827 2727 | 160,000 – 250,000 VND |
| Saigon Tourist Taxi | +84 28 3838 3838 | 160,000 – 250,000 VND |
| Airport Taxi | Available at terminal | 180,000 – 260,000 VND |
- Fare type: Meter-based + airport surcharge
- Travel time: 25–45 minutes
- Best for: First-time visitors, travelers with luggage
Taxi tips:
- Always use official taxi lines outside the terminal
- Avoid unlicensed drivers inside the arrival hall
- Make sure the meter is running
Option 2: Grab / Ride-Hailing Apps
Grab and Be are popular alternatives to traditional taxis.
- Estimated fare: 120,000 – 180,000 VND
- Travel time: 25–45 minutes
- Pickup point: Designated ride-hailing zones at SGN Airport
✔Pros
- Transparent pricing
- Cashless payment
✘Cons
- Price surge during peak hours
- Pickup points may be crowded or confusing
Option 3: Airport Bus to District 1
Public buses are budget-friendly and fairly easy to use.
🚌 Bus Routes to District 1
| Bus Number | Route | Fare |
| Bus 109 | Airport – Ben Thanh Market | 15,000 VND |
| Bus 152 | Airport – Ben Thanh Bus Station | 5,000 – 7,000 VND |
| Bus 49 | Airport – District 1 (tourist bus) | 40,000 VND |
- Travel time: 45–75 minutes
- Best for: Budget travelers with light luggage
Option 4: Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm)
Motorbike taxis can be faster during rush hours but are not suitable for large luggage.
- Fare: 70,000 – 100,000 VND
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes
- Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers
Option 5: Private Airport Transfer to District 1 (Recommended)
If you want a fixed price, door-to-door service, a private airport transfer is the most reliable option—especially after a long flight.
Why Choose a Private Transfer?
- Fixed price, no surge or hidden fees
- Meet & greet at the arrival hall
- Professional, licensed drivers
- Comfortable vehicles for luggage
- Estimated price: From 18–25 USD
- Travel time: 25–40 minutes
👉 Check trusted Ho Chi Minh airport transfer service here: https://www.vietnam-visa.com/vietnam-airport-transfer/
Check Our Price for Ho Chi Minh Airport to District 1 here:
| Car type | Maximum capacity | Pickup time (GMT+7) | Price (USD/car) |
| 4-seat | 2 passengers / 2 luggages | 6:00 – 21:00 | 19 |
| 27 | |||
| 4 passengers / 3 luggages | 6:00 – 21:00 | 19 | |
| 27 | |||
| 12 passengers / 10 luggages | 6:00 – 21:00 | 33 | |
| 44 |
Comparison Table: Best Way to Get to District 1
| Transport | Cost | Time | Convenience | Best For |
| Taxi | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | High | Most travelers |
| Grab | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium | App users |
| Bus | $ | ⭐ | Low | Budget travelers |
| Motorbike | $ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Low | Solo backpackers |
| Private Transfer | $$$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Very High | Comfort & peace of mind |
Frequently Asked Questions
Around 150,000 – 300,000 VND, depending on traffic.
Motorbike taxis or private transfers during off-peak hours.
Yes, it is only 7–8 km away.
A private airport transfer offers the easiest and safest experience.
