A long layover in Tuy Hoa is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Dong Tac Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of TBB:
- Can you legally enter Vietnam? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ride-hailing, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the VND. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Transport from Dong Tac Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Dong Tac Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-hailing: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Tuy Hoa:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $5 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $20 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Tuy Hoa
If you head into Tuy Hoa, here are two things worth checking out:
Nghinh Phong Tower is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The views are worth the trip if you have time.
Tuy Hoa Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TBB, you can spend time at Relaxation in Main Terminal or try Browse Phu Yen Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Tuy Hoa Layover
- In the city: Quán Hải Sản NÄm Oanh and Nhà hà ng Sông Cầu are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tuy Hoa.
- At the airport: Cơm Gà Tuy Hòa (Tuy Hoa Chicken Rice) and PhỠ& Bún Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TBB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tuy Hoa itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at TBB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Vietnam and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at TBB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TBB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Tuy Hoa with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Tuy Hoa may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.