How to Get from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to District 1?

If you are planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City – whether it is for your first time exploring, for business, for leisure or for a romantic getaway- choosing the right means of transportation from the airport to District 1 is the first step to a smooth and enjoyable stay.

With a distance of only 6-9 km, this route is not considered too far, but factors like traffic density, time, and the means you choose will determine how quickly you can get to the city. The article below will be a comprehensive guide on transportation options from Tan Son Nhat Airport to District 1, from luxury to economical options, along with useful tips and practical information to make your journey in Saigon easier.

Why Choose District 1?

District 1 is the cultural and commercial hub of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s home to many of the city’s iconic landmarks, French colonial architecture, luxury shopping streets, fine dining restaurants, and of course, elegant boutique hotels like The Myst Đồng Khởi. Whether you’re staying for a few nights or a longer visit, District 1 is where you’ll feel the city’s vibrant energy, rich history, and undeniable charm.

Just a few steps away, you can reach Nguyen Hue walking street, City Theater, Ben Thanh market, or Bach Dang wharf – destinations not to be missed in Saigon.

Quick Overview: Airport to City Centre

Option 1: Private car from hotel – 5-star experience with The Myst Dong Khoi

If you want to start your day off right and conveniently, then a private airport transfer from The Myst Dong Khoi is the ideal option. As one of the leading 5-star boutique hotels in District 1, The Myst Dong Khoi offers an airport transfer service that reflects the hotel’s signature attention to detail.

Reasons to choose hotel shuttle:

• No waiting after a long flight 
• Personalised service – staff holding a welcome sign with your name at the arrivals hall 
• Door-to-door luggage assistance 
• Direct transfer to the hotel lobby – no queuing or waiting.
  

How to Book:

• Add pickup when booking directly on the official website
  
• Or contact the hotel via email, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger before arrival
  

✨ Tip: Guests booking suites or special packages may enjoy complimentary round-trip airport transfers.

Option 2: Grab, Be, or Xanh SM – Flexible, easy to use

Apps like Grab, Be and Xanh SM are top choices for tech-savvy travelers. With intuitive interfaces, these platforms allow you to book a car or motorbike with just a few taps.

How It Works:

• Download the Grab, Be or Xanh SM app before your flight
  
• Use airport Wi-Fi or a local SIM card to book
  
• Choose pickup point (usually Column 18 for Domestic Terminal or Column 12 for International Terminal)
  
• Select your vehicle type (car or motorbike)
  
• Pay with card (in the app) or cash
  

Advantages:

• Transparent pricing
  
• Avoids haggling
  
• Clean, air-conditioned vehicles (especially GrabCar Plus or BePremium)
  

Estimated Fare:

• 150,000 – 250,000 VND (~$6–10 USD)
  
• Travel time: 30–50 minutes
  

Note at the airport: Drivers are not allowed to wait right in front of the terminal. You will meet them at the pick-up lanes clearly designated in the app

Option 3: Traditional Taxi – Vinasun or Mai Linh

• You can find many taxis parked right at the airport exit. 
• Prioritize two reputable companies:
  • Vinasun (white car with red and green stripes). 
  • Mai Linh (green car)

Fares & Duration:

• 180,000 – 250,000 VND (~$7–11 USD)
  
• 30–60 minutes depending on traffic

Avoid unlicensed taxis or unofficial drivers in the terminal. Politely decline the offers and go straight to the official taxi queue with uniformed staff.

Safety Tip:

Always make sure the meter is turned on before the car starts moving. If the driver refuses, choose another car.

Option 4: Airport Bus #109 – Budget Friendly & Clean

If you are traveling light and want to save money, airport bus #109 is a reliable, clean and economical option to get to District 1.

Details:

• Frequency: 15–20 minutes/trip. 
•  Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 1:00 AM the next day. 
•  Ticket price: 20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD). 
•  Stops near Ben Thanh Market and Pham Ngu Lao Western Quarter, 23/9 Park 
• Pickup location: Column 18 (Domestic Terminal) or Column 12 (International Terminal)
  • Look for the bright yellow bus says “Airport Shuttle Bus 109”
    

Note: Luggage space is limited. This option is best for solo travelers with backpacks or small suitcases.

Option 5: Public Bus #152 – Cheapest Route to the City Center

Bus 152 is suitable for those who want to save maximum and have experience taking buses in Vietnam; popular with locals and students

• Ticket price: 6,000 VND + 6,000 VND per suitcase (~$0.50 USD total). 
•  Operating hours: 5:15 AM – 7:00 PM. 
• Stops along Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh and Pham Ngu Lao streets. 
• How to find the bus: Exit the terminal and walk past Burger King (International Terminal) or turn right after the car lane (Domestic Terminal) to look for the blue bus sign.
  

Note: Staff does not speak English, the ride is longer, bumpier and less air-conditioned. Best suited for adventurous travelers on a budget.

Tips to Prepare for the Ride

•  Buy 4G SIM (Viettel, MobiFone, Vinaphone at the airport or use eSIM in advance) – Prices start at 150,000 VND (~$6 USD)
• Have some cash ready (some drivers won’t accept cards)  
• Write down your hotel address in Vietnamese to give to the driver.  
• Avoid rush hour: Travel before 7:30 AM or after 7:30 PM for the fastest journey.  
• Pack light – especially if you’re using a bus or motorbike taxi.

Where to Stay After Landing: The Myst Đồng Khởi – Tranquility in the Heart of Saigon

After moving from the airport, The Myst Dong Khoi welcomes you with a relaxing space, imbued with the breath of Saigon heritage. Nestled on Ho Huan Nghiep Street, just a few steps from Nguyen Hue walking street, The Myst Dong Khoi opens up a sophisticated and private resort space – where you feel the breath of an old Saigon in every detail.

Why The Myst is So Unique:

• Artistic design with heritage imprint: Each room is a carefully selected space Carefully selected, displaying old Saigon artifacts and soft organic materials.
• • Rooftop Pool & City View Bar: Enjoy signature cocktails and watch the sunset over the Saigon River at Rooty Bar. 
• Afternoon Tea & Cultural Rituals: Complimentary afternoon tea, a fully stocked minibar, and even goodnight cookies with a short story.
• Elegant tranquility: Wooden bathtubs, private balconies and attentive housekeeping make for a memorable stay. 
• Free airport transfers: Book directly through The Myst’s website to enjoy free airport transfers, depending on your room type or package.

Final Thoughts: From the Sky to Saigon’s Side Streets

Getting from Ho Chi Minh Airrport to District 1 can be easy and comfortable if you choose the right means of transport. And once you arrive in the center, let your vacation begin at the place of memories and emotions – The Myst Dong Khoi, where you not only stay, but also feel a very unique Saigon.

Book a room at The Myst Dong Khoi today to enjoy complimentary airport transfers, afternoon tea and authentic Saigon hospitality at one of Vietnam’s finest boutique hotels.