Buses, Ho Chi Minh City – Transportation

Transportation in Ho Chi Minh City: Buses

Getting around Ho Chi Minh City is easy thanks to the ease of the public bus system, the airport bus, and tour busses. In fact, the main mode of transportation for tourists in Saigon is by bus.

Airport Bus

There is a convenient bus that runs to and from the airport, although some taxi drivers may try and tell you different to get you to use them instead. From the airport terminal to Ho Chi Minh City is about a 45 minute trip, but be aware that the airport bus does not run at night. If you do need to travel from the airport during the day, the cheapest way to reach the center of the city is to take the “white-blue” bus. You will pay a smaller fee for the bus than you would a taxi, plus a luggage fee if you have baggage. A good tip is to try and have exact change for the bus so you won’t have to receive small coins in exchange, which may not be accepted in some places.

Tour Buses

Most tour companies in Saigon offer big tour buses and private cars for touring. You can take a large tour bus and interact with other travelers while you see the Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Cao Dai Temple, and other stops in Ho Chi Minh City. Another option is the Sinh Cafe Open Bus which travels from north to south of the whole country and stops at various sightseeing points of interest. The company has offices in each major town where you can inquire about rates and book a ride.

Local Buses

Local busses run throughout Ho Chi Minh City. When you are at a bus stop, you should wave your hand like you’re hailing a taxi and get on the bus quickly (the busses do not stop, rather they slow down so you can jump on). When you need to get off the bus, simply stand by the door and jump off, but be sure to watch out for motorcyclists and other vehicles.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about bus transportation in Ho Chi Minh City.