Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau – 5 Transport Options with Prices

Private car with a driver (usdsedan) is the best starting point for a reliable, door-to-door transfer. The driver greet you at your hotel pick-up and the vehicle handles luggage so you can relax while the route follows the coastline toward Vung Tau. For many travelers, the private car is the king of convenience. Over the years this option has proven dependable, with fixed pricing typically around 70–120 USD for a standard sedan; SUVs cost more. It suits personal trips to coastal resorts and hotels throughout the region, delivering comfort from lobby to resort. Discover options that fit your schedule and tell you exactly what to expect on arrival.

Speedboat (hydrofoil) cuts travel time to roughly 75–90 minutes and offers scenic, unspoiled sea views. Tickets run about 15–25 USD one-way, with departures from Saigon’s Bach Dang Pier and from Vung Tau Marina; frequencies are high on sunny weekends. This option suits travelers who want more time on the coast and less time in traffic. The crew greet passengers at boarding, then you arrive near hotels and beaches along the coast.

Public bus provides a budget-friendly route from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau, with fares around 6–12 USD and travel times of roughly 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic. Buses frequently depart from Mien Dong and Ben Thanh stations toward Vung Tau Front Beach. If you ride with friends, you’ll enjoy shared comfort and lower costs; also you have flexibility for quick stops along the way.

Shared van or shuttle delivers direct hotel-to-hotel service at about 8–15 USD and takes around 3–4 hours, depending on drop-offs. Vans operate throughout the day from major hotels and deliver you to town centers or coastal resorts. It’s a practical balance between price and convenience, especially for groups who want personal space without the full private car rate.

Self-drive motorbike or scooter offers personal freedom to discover the route at your pace. Rent is roughly 5–10 USD per day plus fuel, with a typical ride taking 3–4 hours if you stop at viewpoints or beaches. This option appeals to travelers with experience and a love of the outdoors, staying in affordable hotels or resorts along the coast. Always wear a helmet and check weather and road conditions before setting out.

Self-Drive Motorbike: typical rental costs, fuel needs, and best route options

Rent a 125cc to 150cc automatic scooter for the HCMC to Vung Tau leg. It balances low daily costs with easy handling in city traffic and on coastal roads. When you pick up, choose a private rental from a shop in the Linh district area, where staff frequently greet travelers with clear instructions. Always request a basic helmet, a lock, and a spare key, and confirm the vehicle is in good running order before departing.

• Costs and what’s included
• Typical daily rental costs: approximately 150,000–350,000 VND per day for a 125cc–150cc scooter, depending on the shop and season.
• Deposits: commonly 1–2 million VND, refundable if there’s no damage; some shops include basic insurance.
• Extras: helmets usually included; add-ons like phone mounts or rain covers may add a small fee; always ask about a GPS or map request if you prefer.
• Payment and receipts: carry cash in small bills; some shops accept digital transfers, but the common approach is cash on pickup.
• Fuel needs and range
• Fuel consumption for a 125cc–150cc scooter typically ranges 2–3 liters per 100 km, depending on weight, terrain, and speed.
• Tank capacity is usually 4–6 liters; with full tanks you can cover roughly 140–240 km between fill-ups, depending on the model.
• Fuel costs along the route average 30,000–35,000 VND per liter; a one-way HCMC–Vung Tau trip often requires one refill, sometimes two if you explore detours.
• Plan for water and a small rain protection bag; keep a lightweight waterproof cover in case of sudden showers.
• Best route options
• Route A – Direct coastal belt (fastest): HCMC city center to Vung Tau via QL51. Distance is around 120–140 km; typical riding time 3.0–4.0 hours depending on traffic and stops. Highlights include sandy beaches along the coast and easy sightseeing stops along the way. Departing early helps avoid citys peak hours and makes the schedule smoother for sightseeing breaks.
• Route B – Scenic coastal detour: HCMC → Long Thành → Long Hải → Vung Tau via the coast. Adds 20–40 km but offers beach scenery and calmer riding in morning hours; great for a relaxed sightseeing schedule with multiple photo stops.
• Route C – Inland shortcut with a coastal return: HCMC → Bien Hoa → Vung Tau via DT 751/DT 51 connectors. Slightly shorter in distance but with more traffic lights; useful if you want to minimize curving mountain roads and prefer steady speeds.
• Route D – Breaks to clearings and rivers: Consider a small stop at a clearing near Nghinh or Song rivers if you want a quiet lunch spot and a quick rest; use a map to locate safe, well-lit back roads for short breaks and to greet locals (people) along the way. This option is ideal if you have questions about local area access and want to tailor a sightseeing timetable around your departure window.
• Practical tips and safety
• Questions to ask before departing: confirm insurance coverage, accident procedures, what happens if the scooter breaks down, and the exact return location.
• Vehicle checks: brakes, tires, lights, horn, and exhaust; test ride a few meters before joining busy traffic.
• Traffic changes: expect shifts in flow near citys districts and popular beaches; plan extra time for peak hours and festival days.
• Riding style: stay to the right lane, use turn signals, and keep a safe following distance; reduce speed in sandy patches or after rain to avoid slipping on loose surfaces.
• Safety gear: always wear helmet, gloves, and proper shoes; carry a small rain jacket; a waterproof bag helps protect valuables.
• Cash flow and costs: budget for fuel, daily rental, and a modest buffer for unplanned stops; if you need a private ride back, minivans can transfer you and your gear, but it defeats the self-drive aspect.
• Logistics and local context
• Where to pick up: Nghinh district hubs or Linh area shops offer convenient access and short walk-to-ride options; ask for a quick clearing check before you depart.
• People and service: staff often guide first-timers, answer questions, and can adjust a schedule for sightseeing or a longer day trip.
• Plan for schedule flexibility: if you plan sightseeing, set a flexible time window and reserve a return slot to avoid late-evening pickups; you can also request a shorter route on the way back if you depart later in the day.
• Alternate options: if you want to minimize risk or lack confidence in the route, consider a private minivans option for part of the journey and switch to a motorbike for a shorter coastal leg; this often aligns with a more comfortable sightseeing pace while still keeping the core self-drive experience.

Bottom line: a well-chosen 125cc–150cc scooter with a clear plan for Route A or the scenic Route B provides the best balance of cost, control, and flexibility for a Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau adventure. Use Route A for a straightforward trip, Route B for extra scenery, and Route C if you want a quicker inland option. If you have questions, share your schedule details, and a shop can tailor a package that fits your vehicle needs, sightseeing goals, and departure time.

Private Car with Driver: fare ranges, booking steps, and travel time

Recommendation: choose a standard sedan with a driver for a predictable, comfortable transfer from hcmc to vung tau. One-way fares typically range from 1.2–1.8 million VND for a 4–5 seat car, 2.0–2.8 million VND for a mid-size SUV, and 2.8–3.8 million VND for a 7–9 seat minivan. Expect tolls, parking, or waiting time to add a small amount below the base rate, so confirm what’s included before you book. If you arrive at airport or plan a visit to the center, a fixed pickup helps keep your travel clear and on schedule. Travel time is usually 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Below are typical fare ranges and what affects them: standard sedan (4–5 pax): 1.2–1.8 million VND; mid-size SUV (5–6 pax): 2.0–2.8 million VND; minivan or 7–9 seat vehicle (group travel): 2.8–3.8 million VND. Prices may rise on sunday or during lunar holidays, and foreign travelers sometimes see a small premium for airport pickups or busy routes. For a reliable estimate, ask for a fixed quote that lists tolls and waiting time.

Step 1 Decide vehicle size and travel date, whether you travel solo or with family. Step 2 Compare offers from 2–3 providers and read inclusions; watch for hidden charges. Step 3 Share pickup point–hcmc center, a specific airport terminal, or suoi station–and drop-off in vung tau with a clear address. Step 4 Confirm final price, payment method, and any wait-time terms. Step 5 Get driver details, and note a name such as Phong to ensure a knowledgeable lead driver. Step 6 On travel day, meet at the agreed point, verify the plate number, and follow the planned route.

Step 7 If you need to visit multiple stops, ask for a single route with a clear schedule and a realistic travel time between sites. Whether you’re heading to the center, airport, or a beachfront stay, confirm that the driver can accommodate your needs before booking.

Travel time details: the most direct routes run along the coastal road toward vung tau, with the usual 2.5–3.5 hour window depending on traffic. On sunday or during peak travel periods, expect 30–60 minutes more. If you pick a larger vehicle, allow extra time for loading luggage and quick stops along routes. A knowledgeable driver who speaks English can share local insights, making the trip smoother for foreign guests and first-time visitors to the lunar-season crowds.

Public Bus: schedules, duration, and ticket prices

Take the public bus from Mien Dong Bus Station to Vung Tau; it’s the cheapest option with reliable daytime departures for travelers who want a straightforward, budget-friendly route.

Starting around 04:30, departures run roughly every 40–60 minutes, until about 21:30. Look for the public bus labeled for Vung Tau at the main platform and follow the instructions from the counter staff to board.

Duration on the road averages 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes, depending on traffic and stops along the coastal road. Weekends and holidays can add 15–30 minutes.

Ticket prices range from 60,000 to 90,000 VND per person. Non-air-conditioned options sit at the lower end, while air-conditioned services are at the higher end. You can pay at the counter or online if available, and you’ll get a simple ticket with your seat number.

For a customized itinerary, ask at the counter about AC versus non-AC classes and the clear boarding instructions. The booking counter team greets you, explains the options, and helps you choose the setup that matches your plans and tourism goals.

Along the route, you’ll find several district stops for brief breaks and quick bites; the road scenery offers a generous view of the sea. If you plan sightseeing after arrival, pair the bus with a local motorbikes ride or a short city stroll to sample food stalls near the exit in Vung Tau. murano glass shops and other crafts await near the harbor, providing easy shopping after you alight.

Shared Minivan or Shuttle Service: pickup points, frequency, and price range

Recommendation: start at the Tan Son Nhat airport pick-up for a fast, seamless transfer to Vung Tau. History shows this option remains popular for travelers seeking value without sacrificing reliability. Vans depart every 30–60 minutes from 05:30 to 21:30, and one-way costs per person typically range from 230,000 to 350,000 VND (about 9–15 USD). Vehicles are 9–12 seat minivans, with pick-ups in District 1 near Ben Thanh Market and at the airport counter, providing clear instructions and trusted signage. For travelers with luggage, this approach is ideal and reduces the number of transfers, while offering great flexibility for reaching mangrove-lined coastal views along the route.

Details and instructions: choose only licensed operators to ensure safety and costs stay predictable. If you’re traveling with others, the per-person rate stays competitive; for solo travelers, a shared ride remains cost-efficient. For those staying in Phuong neighborhoods or near Vinh city fringe areas, confirm the exact pickup point in advance to reach the meeting point on time and avoid delays. In all cases, you’ll have a pick-up point that supports a smooth start to your trip, with options to switch to taxis or private cars later if you prefer privacy.

选项	Pickup points	频率	Vehicle type	Price range (one-way)
Option 1	Tan Son Nhat Airport – Arrivals Hall; District 1 hotel lobby pickups near Ben Thanh Market	Every 30–60 minutes (05:30–21:30)	9–12 seat minivan	230k–350k VND (≈ 9–15 USD)
Option 2	Mien Dong Bus Station area; nearby hotels along Le Lai and Pham Ngu Lao corridors	Every 45–60 minutes (05:45–22:00)	9–14 seat van	250k–320k VND (≈ 10–13 USD)
Option 3	Central District 1 hotels around Ben Thanh Market; lobby pickup	Every 40–60 minutes	8–12 seat minivan	240k–310k VND (≈ 9–13 USD)
Option 4	Phu My Hung area (Nam Sai Gon); Go Vap corridor pickups	Every 60 minutes (06:00–21:00)	10–12 seat van	260k–340k VND (≈ 11–14 USD)
Option 5	District 2 / Thu Duc outskirts; designated hotel pickup points	Every 60–90 minutes (06:00–21:00)	9–12 seat van	230k–300k VND (≈ 9–12 USD)

Ferry or Boat Transfer: routes, duration, and seasonal pricing



Only choose the high-speed catamaran from Saigon’s port for your transfer; it takes 1 to 1.5 hours and is the most attractive option for visitors seeking a fast, reliable link above city traffic. The offer is led by a trusted provider with a comfortable cabin and an open deck to enjoy the coast, plus a streamlined boarding process that puts you on the water quickly.

Routes run from Ho Chi Minh City riverfront terminals to Vung Tau harbor, with occasional stops at nearby piers. Tokyo visitors often opt for this route for its reliability, and some operators allow taking a motorbike on board for a small extra fee, which is convenient for travelers who want to continue by road in town. The mien of service stays friendly, and your itinerary is clearly printed on the ticket for easy planning; at the pier you may notice a phuong statue marking the historic landing, adding a local touch before you exit to the town.

Durations and pricing vary by vessel. High-speed catamarans take about 1–1.5 hours; conventional ferries require 2–3 hours; private speedboats can finish in 45–60 minutes. Seasonal pricing follows demand: peak months (June–August and holiday weekends) see fare increases of around 10–25%, while off-peak periods offer discounts of 5–15%. A typical high-speed option runs about 12–20 USD per person; standard ferry 6–10 USD; private charter 120–180 USD. Some providers present bundles as a ‘usdsedan’ package for the private car option, which can simplify payment for groups.

To choose your best offer, compare schedule reliability, luggage policy, and exit points. For an enjoyable plan, ask the provider to share the full itinerary before you buy and confirm the place where you meet the boat. If you want a flexible option, a private charter can lead your day with a personalized route that includes a short stop near a statue or a scenic overlook, letting you enjoy the coast and get back in time for dinner in town.

Smart Booking Tips: how to compare prices, save time, and avoid peak-hour traffic

Compare live prices across platforms and grab a deal with clear instructions and no extra costs.

Filter options by exit times and the number 的 people, then pick door-to-door transfers that start at the airport and end at your center stay or hotel.

Before booking, confirm the total price for all travelers, check what is includes, and note any per-person charges to avoid surprises later.

Balance speed and reliability by prioritizing providers with real-time price updates, trackable itineraries, and guaranteed pickup windows. If a plan offers guarantees, you’re covered for delays or changes.

For longer hops, consider a route that uses a tram leg to bypass congested roads; this can shave minutes off peak-hour travel and reduce walking distances to stations.

Read the fine print on refunds and changes: a flexible option reduces risk during holidays, lunar periods, or mangrove tours, while still aligning with your desired schedule.

To save time on the day, save your preferred options with a simple label, have the passenger number ready, and confirm the exact instructions for meeting points at the airport or city center, then arrive early to avoid delays.

Practical tip: when you travel from the airport, request a clear exit route from the terminal, and verify the pickup contact before leaving the luggage claim area.

In trang region, look for routes that include a short food stop near mangrove scenery and a plan that fits your 最好的 time, especially around center attractions.