Ho Chi Minh City, formally known as Saigon and still referred to that by the locals, sure makes an impression. The energy of the Vietnamese city offers a combination of heat, more motorbikes than you've ever seen, traffic and crowds. However, the city is filled with friendly locals, delicious food and a thrilling buzz. The street food in Vietnam is divine from fresh noodles, bowls of pho, pineapple and strong Vietnamese coffee. The French History remains present with an influence on food, architecture and cultural attractions. Be sure to shop for tailor made clothes, cruise along the Mekong River, take a cooking class and explore the many temples.
View our Ho Chi Minh travel guide
Flights from London (LHR) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)
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Visiting from London (Heathrow) to Ho Chi Minh City
When to visit
Ho Chi Minh city has a tropical climate, with a high average humidity and has two distinct seasons. The dry season lasts from December to April, with an average temperature of 28°C and it the best time to visit to enjoy the many attractions. The rainy season, usually lasts from May to November, though is a good time to enjoy the sleek designer malls, Ben Thanh Market, stunning hotels or visit a spa.
Arrival information
What is the main airport called?
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN).Opens external site in a new window It is the largest and main airport in Vietnam serving Ho Chi Minh city and the southeast area of the country. It is located 6 km north of the centre (District 1) of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). The airport has two terminals.
Arriving in Ho Chi Minh
The staff at Ho Chi Minh Airport will greet you when you land and assist with your travel needs. Once you collect your bags from the arrivals area, there are various transport options available to get you on your way.
Getting into Ho Chi Minh from Ho Chi Minh Airport
With a range of transport options available at Ho Chi Minh Airport, travelling into the city centre is easy. Choose from taxis, car rental, airport transfer, ride-share or bus. A bus station is situated in front of the international terminal and is operated by Ho Chi Minh City Bus and takes approximately 45 minutes. Taxi is a convenient option to get to the city, with the main taxi queue on your left when you exit the main door on the ground floor of the terminal building. The trip to downtown takes approximately 45 minutes and is a cheap way to travel. Grab and Go Viet are two ride-sharing apps and it's very easy to get to the city and wait in the arrivals area for your car. Go Viet is only for motorbikes. It is possible to hire a car in Ho Chi Minh, though with the traffic it’s not recommended.
Getting around Ho Chi Minh
There are plenty of convenient ways to get around Ho Chi Minh, whether it’s by taxi, ride-share, buses, motorcycle taxi or walking. The best way to get around is using Grab, the Vietnamese version of Uber. They are cheap and can be booked through the app. Grab Bike is another option, where you sit on the back of a motorcycle instead of a car. Ho Chi Minh is a big city, though plenty of places are in walking distance. Be sure to cross the street at a pedestrian crossing, as crossing a street can be scary with all the motorbikes on the roads. Bus is a cheap way to get around the city, and it's best to use the BusMap app to find out the routes. Motorcycle taxi is another option, where you hop on the back of a bike and are cheaper than a regular taxi. There are street taxis, though be sure to get the metre turned on. You can rent a bicycle or scooter though the traffic is very crazy, so it’s not recommended.
Departure information
Fly from London
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What is the main airport called?
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)Opens external site in a new window in London is the UK’s largest and busiest airport as well as being the busiest airport in Europe. Located in the west of the city, in the London borough of Hillingdon, Heathrow hosts two runways and four operational terminal buildings. Heathrow airport is located (23 km) west of Central London.
Baggage allowance
Passengers on Qantas flights from London are allocated checked baggage. If you need more luggage, you can purchase an additional baggage allowance online prior to departure.
Checking in
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Why Qantas
The benefits of flying Qantas
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Included baggage
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Can I cancel my flight booking due to COVID-19?
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If your plans have changed or you no longer wish to travel, visit Manage Booking to change your travel dates or cancel your flight. Visit Booking changes for more information.
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Important Information
Disclaimer: ^ You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.
Disclaimer: ++ Status Credits are earned on eligible Qantas, Jetstar, oneworld® member and oneworld connect® airlines only - see the Airline Earning Tables and Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions for details. Status Credits may not be earned on some fare types and booking classes.
Disclaimer: +Meals, beverages, entertainment and offerings vary between flights and cabins. Alcohol offered during select flight times on select flights.