For travelers with a layover in Ho Chi Minh City, the proximity of SGN to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 90 minutes via Public Bus (Routes 109, 152), and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave SGN:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Vietnam. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 90 minutes by Public Bus (Routes 109, 152). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is VND. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ho Chi Minh City, two standouts are:
- Reunification Palace — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office — Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SGN, you can spend time at SASCO Business Class Lounge or try SGN Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Ho Chi Minh City is the Public Bus (Routes 109, 152), which takes about 90 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 110 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Public Bus (Routes 109, 152) is usually the smarter call.
Best Bites Near SGN
- In the city: Banh Mi Huynh Hoa and Pho Hoa Pasteur are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ho Chi Minh City.
- At the airport: Pho 24 and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf SGN will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Ho Chi Minh City layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SGN for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Ho Chi Minh City or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Luggage Storage at SGN
You can store your luggage at Left luggage service is available at the International Terminal (T2), ground floor, near exit A2.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Ho Chi Minh City as well.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at SGN, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ho Chi Minh City genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.