A stopover in Ho Chi Minh City
The airport is inside the city, so District 1 is about 30 minutes away.
Last reviewed November 2026.
| Airport to the centre | about 30 min |
| Typical central 3–4★ hotel | ~$80 / night |
| Airline stopover program | None, but split tickets often work |
⚠ Check e-visa requirements.
With 24–48 hours
- War Remnants Museum
- Ben Thanh Market and the backstreets of District 1
- Day trip to the Cu Chi tunnels or the Mekong Delta
Eat: Phở, or a bánh mì from a street cart.
Tips
- Leave big bags at the airport's left-luggage desk or your hotel so you can explore right away.
- With separate tickets, give yourself at least one night between flights.
- Check whether your passport needs a visa or travel authorisation to leave the airport.
Ho Chi Minh City stopover: questions
How long does it take to get from the airport into Ho Chi Minh City?
About 30 minutes to the centre. The airport is inside the city, so District 1 is about 30 minutes away.
How much is a hotel for a Ho Chi Minh City stopover?
Plan on roughly $80 a night for a well-reviewed, central 3–4★ hotel. Prices rise with events and peak season, so check the live rate for your dates.
Is there a free stopover program in Ho Chi Minh City?
No airline runs a stopover program here, but two separate tickets through Ho Chi Minh City often work. Leave at least one night between flights.
What can you do in Ho Chi Minh City with 24 hours?
War Remnants Museum. Ben Thanh Market and the backstreets of District 1. Day trip to the Cu Chi tunnels or the Mekong Delta.
What should I eat on a Ho Chi Minh City stopover?
Phở, or a bánh mì from a street cart. With one night, make dinner the local meal and keep breakfast near the hotel so you're not rushed back to the airport.
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Ho Chi Minh City?
It depends on your passport. Check whether you need a visa or an electronic travel authorisation for Vietnam before you book, and allow time for immigration and security on the way back.
Routes where Ho Chi Minh City is on the way
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