Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) Guide

Bus 109 runs from the international terminal to Ben Thanh Market in the city centre and is one of the most popular budget-friendly options for reaching downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Services run frequently throughout the day. 

Metered taxis from reputable companies such as Vinasun and Mai Linh are available from both terminals. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Be are also widely used – just follow the signs to the designated pick-up zones outside arrivals. The journey to the city centre takes around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. 

Many hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer airport shuttle services. Check with your accommodation to see if a pick-up can be arranged in advance. 

Bus 152 operates from the domestic terminal via the city, providing another affordable option for getting into central Saigon. 

Parking is available at both terminals at Ho Chi Minh City Airport. Check the airport’s website for current rates. 

Terminals 1 and 2 are adjacent and connected landside, with transfers taking around 5–10 minutes on foot or by shuttle. A newer Terminal 3, located further north, is connected by an internal shuttle bus operating from 07:00 to 22:00. 

A large number of airlines fly into and out of Ho Chi Minh City Airport, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qatar Airways, ANA, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Thai Airways and many more. SGN connects Ho Chi Minh City to domestic destinations across Vietnam as well as international routes throughout Asia, Europe and the Middle East. 

As a general rule, you should aim to arrive at Ho Chi Minh City Airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before international flights. This should give you plenty of time to complete check-in, drop your bags and pass through security and immigration. Check with the airport, airline or your Travel Expert directly for more information on recommended arrival times. 

There are plenty of transport options available from Ho Chi Minh City Airport, including airport bus 109 to Ben Thanh Market, bus 152 through the city, metered taxis, ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Be, and hotel shuttle services. The airport is just six kilometres from the city centre, so the journey is typically short – traffic permitting. 

Yes, Ho Chi Minh City Airport has several lounges in Terminal 2’s international departures area, including the Royal Lotus Lounges, Le Saigonnais Lounge, Bamboo Airways Lotus Lounge and the Jasmine Lounge. Access may be possible depending on your ticket class, frequent flyer membership, lounge membership or by purchasing a day pass. Check with the airline directly or talk to your Travel Expert for more information. 

While there are no hotels within the terminals themselves, several of the airport lounges offer rest areas and shower facilities for passengers with long layovers. There are also numerous hotels located very close to the airport, many within a 10-minute drive. Given how close SGN is to the city centre, popping out to explore Saigon during a longer layover is also a popular option. 

You may be able to earn loyalty points or rewards on eligible flights to or from Ho Chi Minh City Airport booked with us. When booking online, you’ll see a place to add your loyalty program or frequent flyer membership details if this is available, or you can ask your Travel Expert for help when booking in-store. If the booking meets your program’s requirements, you’ll earn points! For more information, check with your specific loyalty program and see our Booking Terms and Conditions. Keen for even more travel perks? Subscribe to our email list for birthday surprises, competition entries, exclusive deals and VIP pre-sale access to the hottest holiday savings around. 

Check-in times and baggage rules for flights departing from Ho Chi Minh City Airport will vary depending on your ticket, so make sure you confirm with your airline in advance. Remember, it’s often possible to check in online or via your airline’s app, which can help save time at the airport. For more information or help finding your check-in times and baggage limits, talk to your Travel Expert. 

Ho Chi Minh City Airport has two main terminals. Terminal 1 handles domestic flights and Terminal 2 serves international services. The two are adjacent and connected landside by a short walk or shuttle. A newer Terminal 3 is also in operation, connected by an internal shuttle bus. Always check your airline’s designated terminal before heading to the airport. 

Yes, parking is available at both terminals at Ho Chi Minh City Airport. Rates vary by duration, and you can check the airport’s website for the latest pricing information. 

Ho Chi Minh City Airport offers family-friendly facilities including children’s play areas and private nursing rooms, particularly in Terminal 2. Interfaith prayer rooms are also available in the international terminal. 

Keen to do a little retail therapy at Ho Chi Minh City Airport? You’ll find duty-free shops, local handicraft stores, Vietnamese coffee brands and a range of dining options across both terminals. Terminal 2’s international departures area has the widest selection. Check the airport’s website for an up-to-date list of stores and their opening information. 

While last-minute sale fares to and from Ho Chi Minh City Airport may become available, you’ll generally find it pays to plan ahead, especially if you’re booking international flights. As a rough guide, we recommend booking domestic flights three to six months in advance and international flights six to nine months before you plan to fly. When it comes to balancing flexible travel dates with the biggest savings, this should give you the best of both worlds!