Tan Son Nhat International Airport serves as Ho Chi Minh City’s main gateway to the world. Located just minutes from District 1, it handles most domestic and international flights connecting Vietnam with major cities across Asia and beyond. The airport operates modern terminals equipped with check-in counters, baggage claim areas and security screening points designed for efficient passenger flow. Its central location makes transfers quick compared to other regional hubs while maintaining essential services like currency exchange booths and food vendors catering to diverse tastes.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type C
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Vietnamese Dong (VND) £1 ≈ ₫34,381 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Vietnam, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Cash is still commonly used in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but small tips are appreciated for good service in restaurants, taxis, and hotels. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally allowed in Vietnam, but drinking in certain public spaces, like parks, may be regulated. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in outdoor public spaces, but there are smoking restrictions in some indoor public areas. |
| Independence Day (2 September) |
Celebrates Vietnam’s independence from France |
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| Tết (January/February) |
The most important holiday in Vietnam, typically in January or February |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 113 (Police), 115 (Ambulance), 114 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Grab |
| Other: | Vietnam is famous for its vibrant cities, historic sites, and stunning landscapes like Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta, offering a rich and diverse travel experience. |
Tan Son Nhat International Airport is a sprawling complex with separate domestic and international terminals. The airport offers a wide variety of amenities including shops, restaurants, currency exchange and multiple lounges. Despite modernization efforts, the airport can be quite hectic, especially during peak hours, with long queues and crowded spaces.
Many travelers comment on the friendly airport staff and the abundance of Vietnamese culinary options available in the terminals. The airport is functional but can feel overstretched due to the heavy passenger traffic and ongoing expansion works.
Transportation options include taxis, ride-hailing services and airport shuttle buses, but traffic congestion in Ho Chi Minh City may cause longer travel times. The airport is located about 6 km from the city center, making trips fairly quick when traffic is light.
Caution: Keep an eye on luggage and belongings in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Plan extra time for security and immigration checks, especially during holidays. Informal taxi and transport services around the airport may overcharge tourists, so opt for official taxi companies or rideshares.
Located in the international terminal, Lotus Lounge features comfortable seating, refreshments including local cuisine, Wi-Fi, and quiet work areas. It is accessible to business and first-class travellers, airline frequent flyer members, and with day passes for a moderate fee.
Available in the domestic terminal, offers refreshments, free Wi-Fi, and a calm atmosphere to relax before flights. Access is usually granted to premium passengers, lounge members, and through pay-per-use options.
This lounge serves both domestic and international passengers with complimentary snacks and drinks, workspaces, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Day passes are available alongside airline invitations.
Accommodation options near the airport are limited, so most visitors prefer staying in Ho Chi Minh City’s central districts such as District 1 or District 3 where hotels of all classes from budget to luxury abound. These areas provide easy access to both the airport and city highlights.
To Ho Chi Minh City centre:
The airport is about 6 km from the city centre. Official taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab offer direct routes, with travel times ranging from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, and fares ₫150,000 – 250,000 (£4.34 – 7.23). Airport shuttle buses connect terminals with major districts on fixed routes and schedules at affordable prices.
To Vũng Tàu:
Vũng Tàu, a coastal city and popular beach destination, is best reached by bus or private transfer from Ho Chi Minh City centre, taking about 2 hours. From the airport, travellers need to transfer to the city centre first.
To Mekong Delta:
Access to the Mekong Delta begins in Ho Chi Minh City where tourists can join tours or hire private transport. The airport provides limited direct transport options, so getting to the city first is necessary.
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