With the launch of Long Thanh International Airport (LTH, VVLT), Vietnam has gained a new international gateway for Ho Chi Minh City and the southern region. Boasting modern infrastructure and strong potential to become a major aviation hub, the airport nevertheless raises a common question for many international visitors upon arrival: what is the easiest and safest way to travel from Long Thanh Airport to downtown Ho Chi Minh City?
Because Long Thanh Airport lies outside the city center, arranging your transfer ahead of time can significantly improve your travel experience—especially after a long international flight. This guide covers everything you need to know, including distance and travel time, real hotel examples, transportation options, estimated costs, and the most convenient choices for visitors.
Distance, Routes, and Travel Time from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City
Long Thanh International Airport is situated in Dong Nai Province, about 40 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City. Actual travel distance and journey time may vary depending on your exact location within the city.
Most international visitors choose to stay in District 1 or other central neighborhoods. Below are practical examples of popular tourist areas and hotels, along with their estimated distances and travel times from Long Thanh International 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 |
What This Means for Your Arrival Experience
- 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 on Travel Plans
From May to October, during the rainy season, brief but intense tropical showers—typically occurring in the late afternoon or early evening—may extend travel time by 15–30 minutes, particularly when heading into 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 three main transportation options from Long Thanh Airport to Ho Chi Minh City city center, offering convenient choices for every 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 International Airport to Ho Chi Minh City are still under development. Although limited or pilot shuttle routes may operate during certain phases of the airport’s launch, regular, frequent, and reliable shuttle transportation is 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 Transfers: A Top Recommendation for Foreign Visitors
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 – 50, 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 for International Travelers
- You submit a service request and complete the payment of the service fee.
- You are required to provide your flight number and arrival time.
- We track your flight status in real time to ensure seamless coordination.
- Our driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall holding a personalized name sign
- You will be taken straight to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
No searching for taxis, no price negotiation, no stress — just a smooth arrival.
Getting from Long Thanh International Airport to downtown Ho Chi Minh City is easy once you’re familiar with the distance, traffic conditions, and transportation choices available.
Although taxis and buses can be suitable options for certain travelers, a pre-arranged private airport transfer provides the ideal mix of comfort, dependability, and convenience—particularly during rush hours, the rainy season, or for late-night arrivals.
Simply share your flight details with us, and we’ll handle a smooth and reliable airport pickup from Long Thanh Airport to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
