How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau
Getting from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to the seaside town of Vung Tau is straightforward, with fast ferries, frequent limousine buses, private transfers, and even motorbike routes turning the 2–3 hour trip into a flexible beach escape.
At A Glance (Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau)
| Mode | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🚤 Fast Ferry (Saigon River → Vung Tau) | ~1.75–2.5h on water (+ check-in) | Fastest trip, scenic river & coast views |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~350,000–450,000 VND one-way per adult » compare ferries | GreenlinesDP tickets | ||
| 🚌 Limousine Bus / Van (Ho Chi Minh City → Vung Tau) | ~2–3h by road | Most travelers, budget-friendly comfort |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~180,000–300,000 VND per person » compare buses & vans | limousine transfers | premium bus options | ||
| 🚗 Private Transfer / Taxi | ~2–2.5h door-to-door | Groups, lots of luggage, late-night arrivals |
| 🏷️ Cost: ~1,400,000–2,800,000 VND per car (4–9 pax) » airport–Vung Tau transfer | fixed-price car bookings | car with driver | ||
| 🛵 Self-Drive Motorbike / Rental Car | ~2.5–3.5h (traffic-dependent) | Experienced riders, flexible stopovers |
| 🏷️ Cost: Motorbike rental from ~120,000–250,000 VND/day + fuel » compare motorbike rentals | stay deals in Vung Tau | ||
Which Option or Route Should You Choose?
- Fastest & most scenic: The Saigon River fast ferry is ideal if you want to avoid traffic and enjoy mangrove and coastline views. It is usually the quickest option and very comfortable.
- Most convenient overall: For most travelers, the limousine bus / van offers the best balance of price, comfort, and frequency, with hotel pickup available on some services.
- Best for groups & lots of luggage: If you are a family, a small group, or arriving late at night, a private transfer or taxi from the airport or city center can be easiest and door-to-door.
- Most flexible & adventurous: Confident riders can take the self-drive motorbike route, stopping at roadside cafés, Ba Ria town, or other beaches along the way. This is only recommended if you are used to Vietnamese traffic.
How to Book and Practical Tips
- Booking tickets & comparing options: Use platforms like 12Go Asia to compare bus, van, ferry, and taxi options in one place. You can also find curated bus and ferry tickets on Klook and Trip.com.
- Hotels & trip packaging: If you are planning an overnight stay, check hotel listings on Booking.com Vung Tau or Booking.com Ho Chi Minh City. You can sometimes bundle day trips and transfers via GetYourGuide or Trip.com experiences.
- From the airport (SGN): If you land at Tan Son Nhat and want to go straight to Vung Tau, consider pre-booking an airport transfer on Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or via Klook airport transfers, then compare against ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek once you arrive.
- Luggage storage: If you are only doing a short side trip to Vung Tau, store big bags in Ho Chi Minh City using services like Radical Storage so you can travel light.
- When to book: Weekends and Vietnamese holidays (especially Tet and long weekends) are very busy. Book ferries and limousine buses a few days ahead on platforms such as 12Go.asia, Klook, or Trip.com.
- Payment & tickets: Most platforms issue e-vouchers. Screenshot or download them offline in case you do not have mobile data at the terminal.
- Ride-hailing apps: In both Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau, Grab and Gojek are widely used for cars and motorbikes, and are usually cheaper than flagging metered taxis on the street.
🚌 Option #1 — Direct Bus / Limousine Van (Most Popular, Good Value)
Low cost Frequent departures Comfortable seats
- Overview: Limousine-style vans and buses run all day between central Ho Chi Minh City (often around District 1 and the airport) and Vung Tau. Seats are large and reclining, with AC and usually Wi‑Fi and bottled water. Travel time is about 2–3 hours depending on traffic.
- Typical price: Expect around 180,000–300,000 VND per person one-way for a limousine bus or van, slightly less for standard coaches.
- How to book: Compare operators and departure points on 12Go Asia, or book specific limousine buses on Klook or the Trip.com transport page. Many hotels and guesthouses in District 1 can also call and reserve seats for you for a small fee.
- Pros: Cheapest comfortable option; frequent departures from early morning to evening; hotel pickups available with some companies; good air-conditioning.
- Cons: Subject to traffic jams when leaving/entering Ho Chi Minh City; departure points can be scattered; limited legroom for tall travelers on some vans; motion sickness possible on winding sections.
Step-by-step: Limousine Bus / Van from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau
- Choose your departure point. For most visitors staying centrally, pick a company that departs from District 1 (for example, near Ben Thanh Market or streets like Nguyen Thai Binh) or offers direct hotel pickup. If you are coming straight from the airport, look for services that start at Tan Son Nhat.
- Book your ticket online. Use 12Go.asia to compare times and prices, or check limousine listings on Klook and Trip.com. Pick a departure 30–60 minutes after you expect to leave your hotel or clear immigration.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early. Go to the operator’s office or agreed pickup point with your passport and e-ticket. Staff will usually confirm your name and assign a seat number.
- Ride to Vung Tau. The vehicle will head out via the expressway and Highway 51. There is often a short rest stop about halfway for toilets and snacks; keep valuables with you when stepping off.
- Arrival in Vung Tau. Most services stop at a central office or bus station in Vung Tau and may offer free or low-cost drop-off at hotels around Back Beach or Front Beach. From the final stop, you can hop in a GrabCar/GrabBike or taxi for your accommodation.
- Return trip. You can book your return to Ho Chi Minh City in advance using the same platforms, or buy tickets in person at the offices in Vung Tau a day or two before you leave.
Getting to the main embarking points
- From District 1: Many limousine offices are walkable from popular areas around Ben Thanh Market and Bui Vien. Otherwise, use Grab or Gojek for a short ride to your departure office.
- From Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN): Take a taxi, GrabCar, or a pre-booked airport transfer on Klook to the limousine office, or book a service that picks up directly at the airport.
- From other districts: Use ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek) or a metered taxi to reach the nearest departure office. Allow extra time during rush hour (7–9am and 4:30–7pm).
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚤 Option #2 — Saigon River Fast Ferry (Fastest, Most Scenic)
Fastest Scenic views Weather-dependent
- Overview: High-speed catamarans run from downtown Ho Chi Minh City (around Bach Dang Wharf on the Saigon River) to the ferry pier in Vung Tau. The ride takes about 1.75–2.5 hours, with AC cabins, assigned seats, and great views of rivers, mangroves, and the sea.
- Typical price: Around 350,000–450,000 VND per adult one-way, with discounts sometimes available for children or round trips.
- How to book: Reserve seats via the official operator (GreenlinesDP) or trusted agents. You can find scheduled departures and book online through 12Go Asia ferry listings, via GetYourGuide, or with selected Klook high-speed ferry tickets.
- Pros: Usually the fastest way between city centers; very comfortable; no highway traffic; scenic; fixed schedule.
- Cons: Limited daily departures; can be delayed or cancelled in extreme weather; you still need a short taxi or Grab ride from the pier to your hotel.
Step-by-step: Saigon River Fast Ferry
- Check ferry times. Look up current departure times and availability on 12Go.asia, on GetYourGuide, or by checking the high-speed ferry options on GreenlinesDP.
- Book seats in advance. Weekends and holidays fill up fast. Pre-book online and keep your booking confirmation or QR code accessible on your phone.
- Get to Bach Dang Wharf. From District 1, you can usually walk or take a short GrabCar/GrabBike to the riverside pier. If coming from the airport, allow ~45–60 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing app.
- Check in 30–45 minutes before departure. Show your passport and booking to get a printed ticket or boarding pass. Staff will guide you to the correct boat and seat.
- Enjoy the journey. Sit inside in the AC cabin or stand briefly on deck for photos when allowed. Keep your belongings secure and be prepared for some motion if seas are choppy near Vung Tau.
- Arrival in Vung Tau. At the Vung Tau ferry terminal, follow the exit signs and grab a taxi, Grab, or Gojek to your hotel (Front Beach, Back Beach, or nearby areas are usually within 10–20 minutes).
Getting to the main embarking points
- Bach Dang Wharf (Ho Chi Minh City): Located in District 1 along Ton Duc Thang Street, the wharf is walkable from many central hotels. Otherwise, use Grab/Gojek or a metered taxi to avoid dealing with traffic and one-way streets.
- Vung Tau Ferry Pier: The pier is close to the Front Beach area. From here, taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to find, or some hotels offer a shuttle.
- Arriving from the airport: Take a taxi or ride-hailing car directly from Tan Son Nhat to Bach Dang Wharf if timings permit. If your flight is delayed, you may prefer a bus or private transfer instead of risking a missed ferry.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🚗 Option #3 — Private Transfer / Taxi (Door-to-Door Comfort)
Door-to-door Flexible schedule Highest cost
- Overview: A private car or taxi picks you up at your hotel or directly from Tan Son Nhat Airport and drives straight to your accommodation in Vung Tau. Travel time is typically ~2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic and route.
- Typical price: A standard sedan for 3–4 people usually costs around 1,400,000–1,800,000 VND, while larger SUVs or minivans for 5–9 people range roughly 2,000,000–2,800,000 VND.
- How to book: For fixed prices and English support, pre-book on Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or via Klook car with driver. Alternatively, you can negotiate a flat rate with a taxi at the airport or use GrabCar from within the city.
- Pros: No transfers or waiting; great with kids, surfboards, golf bags, or many suitcases; can add stops (e.g. in Ba Ria or Long Hai) if agreed in advance.
- Cons: More expensive than buses or ferries; some highway sections can be slow during peak hours; you may pay extra for tolls or late-night pick-ups if not included in the quote.
Step-by-step: Private Transfer or Taxi
- Decide your pickup point. If you are flying into Ho Chi Minh City, consider a direct airport pickup; otherwise, arrange pickup at your hotel or a convenient landmark in District 1.
- Get a fixed quote online. Check prices and car sizes on Welcome Pickups, GetTransfer, or via Klook. Ensure the quote includes tolls, fuel, and any waiting time.
- Share your flight or hotel details. Provide your arrival time, flight number, and accommodation address so the driver can plan the best route and contact you via WhatsApp or Zalo if needed.
- Meet your driver. At the airport, follow the “arrival” exit and look for a sign with your name. In the city, the driver will usually meet you at your hotel lobby or the agreed pick-up point.
- Travel to Vung Tau. Sit back with AC and enjoy the ride. If you want a restroom or snack stop, just ask the driver. Avoid opening doors on the roadside shoulder due to fast-moving trucks and buses.
- Arrival & payment. You will be dropped at your accommodation or chosen location in Vung Tau. Pay the remaining balance in cash or card depending on the service; pre-paid bookings usually require no extra payment unless you add detours.
Getting to the main embarking points
- Hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City: Most private transfers collect you directly from central hotels in District 1, District 3, or District 4. Simply be ready in the lobby 5–10 minutes before pickup time.
- Airport pickup: After immigration and baggage claim, follow the exit signs to the arrivals hall. Your driver will typically wait with a name sign; if not, contact them via the booking platform app or a messaging app.
- Alternative: ride-hailing apps. From within Ho Chi Minh City, you can also book a point-to-point trip to Vung Tau using GrabCar or similar apps. Always confirm whether tolls and highway fees are included.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
🛵 Option #4 — Self-Drive Motorbike / Rental Car (Flexible & Adventurous)
Maximum flexibility Scenic detours Experienced riders only
- Overview: Confident riders can rent a motorbike or scooter in Ho Chi Minh City and ride to Vung Tau via highways and coastal roads. The journey is around 100–120 km and usually takes 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on route and traffic.
- Typical price: Daily scooter rentals in Ho Chi Minh City usually cost about 120,000–250,000 VND per day, plus fuel (roughly 80,000–150,000 VND for the trip each way).
- How to book: Reserve in advance via BikesBooking, which compares multiple rental shops, or rent from reputable local agencies recommended by your hotel.
- Pros: Total freedom to stop for coffee, viewpoints, and side trips; no fixed schedule; budget-friendly for two people sharing one bike.
- Cons: Vietnamese traffic can be intense and unpredictable; parts of the route are busy with trucks; not ideal in heavy rain or extreme heat; you should have proper insurance and a valid license.
Step-by-step: Self-Drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau
- Confirm your documents. Ideally you should hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorbike endorsement plus your home license. Check with your insurer or rental company what is required for coverage in Vietnam.
- Choose and inspect your bike. Use BikesBooking or a trusted local shop. Inspect brakes, lights, horn, tires, and mirrors; ensure you get a good-quality helmet.
- Plan your route. Most riders follow the Hanoi Highway (Xa Lo Ha Noi) out of the city, then connect to National Highway 51 towards Ba Ria and Vung Tau. Set your navigation app (Google Maps or similar) to avoid restricted motorbike expressways where necessary.
- Leave outside rush hours. Aim to depart Ho Chi Minh City after the morning peak (after 9:00) or before evening rush (before 16:00) to avoid dense urban traffic.
- Ride defensively. Keep to the right, expect sudden lane changes from buses and trucks, and avoid riding in blind spots. Take rest breaks every 60–90 minutes.
- Arrive & park in Vung Tau. Many hotels and guesthouses offer secure motorbike parking. If yours does not, ask staff to recommend a nearby guarded lot.
Getting to the main embarking points
- Starting in central Ho Chi Minh City: Begin from your hotel, follow your GPS out toward Hanoi Highway, and connect to Highway 51. Always obey local signs indicating motorbike lanes.
- Alternative scenic routes: Some riders combine riverside ferries (such as the Cat Lai ferry) with rural backroads for a more scenic, less industrial ride. Check recent local advice and daylight hours before using smaller routes.
- Fuel & rest stops: There are regular petrol stations and roadside cafés on the way. Fill up before leaving the city and top up midway if needed.
- Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap
FAQ (Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau)
How far is Vung Tau from Ho Chi Minh City?
The road distance is roughly 100–120 kilometers depending on your exact start and end points. By bus, car, or motorbike, most travelers take about 2–3 hours door-to-door in normal traffic.
What is the fastest way to travel between Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau?
In good weather, the Saigon River fast ferry is usually the fastest option between city centers, taking around 1.75–2.5 hours on the water, plus a short transfer at each end. A private car on clear roads can be similar in total time.
Is it better to take the ferry or the bus?
If you value comfort and scenery and are not on a tight budget, the ferry is a great experience. If you want a lower price, more departure times, or hotel pickup, limousine buses and vans are better. Many travelers take the ferry one way and a bus or van back.
Do I need to book in advance?
For weekends, public holidays, and peak domestic travel periods, it is wise to book ferries and limousine buses at least a few days in advance using platforms like 12Go, Klook, or Trip.com. On quieter weekdays, you can sometimes buy tickets on the day, but popular departures still sell out.
Are there trains or flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau?
There are currently no direct trains or scheduled commercial flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau. Travelers typically fly into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), then continue by bus, ferry, private transfer, or motorbike.
Is it safe to ride a motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau?
The route is feasible but is only recommended for experienced riders who are comfortable with Vietnamese traffic and highway conditions. Wear a proper helmet, avoid riding at night or in heavy rain, keep speeds moderate, and make sure your insurance and license are valid.
Where should I stay in Vung Tau?
Back Beach (Bai Sau) is popular for swimming and beach resorts, while Front Beach (Bai Truoc) is closer to many restaurants, cafés, and the ferry terminal. You can browse a wide range of stays on Booking.com, from budget guesthouses to full-service beach hotels.