Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) tickets

About the ride from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

As you say goodbye to Da Lat, it's time to make your way to Ho Chi Minh City, previously known as Saigon. 

Be ready for a couple of days exploring this vibrant and bustling city filled with fascinating history, delectable cuisine and friendly locals. Everyone from history buffs to architect enthusiasts and foodies will find a range of activities to enjoy. 

You have several transportation options to travel from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City, including a bus, minivan, car, or flight.

What to include on your Ho Chi Minh Itinerary

Depending on how many days you have to explore Ho Chi Minh, below are a few must-do activities. 

1. Take a visit to the Jade Emperor Pagoda. This is one of the city's most renowned temples, whose captivating history dates back to the early 20th century. You'll notice a blend of Chinese and Vietnamese influences in the architecture. When visiting, be sure to dress respectfully. 

2. Soak up the smells at the Ban Co Market. Most guides will have you visit the popular Ben Thanh Market, but for a more local experience, head to the Ban Co Market instead. You will find lots of vendors selling meat, fish, fruit, vegetables and spices. 

3. Book a city tour. Since there are so many things to see and do, why not organize a tour for the day? This way, you can check off multiple spots, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Thien Hau Temple and the Reunification Hall. Look for free walking tours.

4. Visit the War Remnants Museum. Regardless of whether you know a lot about the Vietnam War, this is a fascinating place to visit. On display, you will find photographs, memorabilia, and vehicles of war, like tanks and fighter jets. Keep in mind that it can be confronting.  

How to travel from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City 

Option one: Bus 

Travel time: 6.5 to 8.5 hours

The buses available from Da Lat to Ho Chi Minh City are not your typical type of bus. They are primarily sleeping buses, so the seats are reclined to allow maximum comfort. 

On board, you can rest in style with air conditioning, televisions, blankets, and light food and drinks. Tickets start at $13. 

Even though they are sleeping buses, that doesn't mean you have to ride in the dark. There are numerous daily departures throughout the day.

Each operator has various pick-up and drop-off stations throughout each city. Pay attention when booking to get one closest to your accommodation.

Option two: Minivan

Travel time: 5 hours 40 minutes to 8 hours

There are two types of minivans: shared and private.

Taking a shared minivan means buying a seat in a minivan with other people. These depart and arrive at designated places in each city. A seat in a shared minivan starts at $16.

Alternatively, a private minivan is a great option if you are traveling with a group and want to hire the whole vehicle for yourself. They'll pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation in each city. And you get to choose your departure time. 

Most minivans seat between 8-12 people and start around $200 for the vehicle.

Option three: Private car

Travel time: 6 hours to 8 hours

The benefit of booking a car transfer is that it will be a private service for between three and six travelers (depending on the company you choose). 

You can decide your pick-up location in Da Lat as well as your drop-off point in Ho Chi Minh City. 

Whichever company you choose, on board, you will have air conditioning, WiFi (subject to availability) and a phone charger. 

Travelers can bring up to 20 kg (44lbs) of luggage per person. Pisces start around $129 per car.

Option four: Flight

Travel time: 55 minutes

For the quickest travel time and convenience, you may wish to book a flight between Da Lat and Ho Chi Minh City. 

There are three companies offering this route:

VietJet Air

Vietnam Airlines

Hahn Air Systems 

There are several direct flights per day, so your decision of which company to fly with will ultimately depend on the time of the day you wish to travel. Tickets start around $71 per person.

Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh 

Ho Chi Minh City experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. 

However, there are two main seasons to consider — the dry and rainy seasons. 

Optimal conditions are experienced during the dry season from December through to April. While these are the winter months, Ho Chi Minh will be slightly cooler and less humid, making it easier to wander the city's main sights and attractions. 

Temperatures range from 21°C (69.8°F) to 33°C (91.4°F), so be sure to pack a hat and sunscreen.