Vietnam Airlines now offers direct flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), bringing travellers closer to Vietnam’s vibrant southern hub than ever before. With one-way fares starting from just USD 503, this nonstop route promises a seamless and comfortable journey across the Pacific. Keep reading to explore flight schedules, ticket classes, and tips to make the most of your journey.
1. Flight Information from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City
As of September 2023, Vietnam Airlines remains the only carrier operating direct flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). This exclusive nonstop route offers a hassle-free and time-saving option for travellers flying between the United States and southern Vietnam.
Key Flight Details:
- Distance: Approximately 13,000km (8,000 miles).
- Flight Duration (*): About 15 hours and 40 minutes.
- Flight Frequency (*): 3 - 4 flights per week.
Departure Information
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Departure
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San Francisco
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Airport Name
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San Francisco International Airport
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Airport Code
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SFO
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Terminal
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International (T1)
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Location
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San Francisco, CA 94128, USA
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Arrival Information
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Arrival
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Ho Chi Minh City
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Airport Name
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Tan Son Nhat International Airport
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Airport Code
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SGN
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Terminal
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International (T2)
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Location
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Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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(*) Flight times and frequency information may vary depending on the season and demand.
2. How to Reach The Airport and Your Destination
Here’s a quick guide for getting to SFO and traveling from SGN to downtown Ho Chi Minh City.
2.1. Reach to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
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Transportation
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Instruction
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Estimated One-way Cost
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Bus
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Several public buses, including SamTrans routes like 292 and 397.
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From USD 3 - USD 5.
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BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
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The Yellow Line on the BART network provides a direct connection between San Francisco’s city centre and the airport, and other areas in the East Bay.
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~USD 8 - USD 11, depending on the departure station.
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Taxi
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Widely available across the city, taxis offer a convenient and time-efficient way to reach SFO. Travel time typically ranges from 20 to 40 minutes.
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~USD 55 - USD 70.
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Public buses like SamTrans offer affordable connections to the airport from downtown San Francisco (Source: Internet)
2.2. Reach to Ho Chi Minh City Center
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Transportation
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Instruction
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Estimated One-way Cost
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Taxi
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You can easily catch a taxi at the terminal exit.
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From VND 11,000/km (~USD 0.42).
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Hotel Shuttle
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Many hotels offer pick-up services upon request. You need to wait at the designated pickup point.
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Usually included in the hotel service fee (Confirm in advance).
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Bus
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Affordable and convenient, buses such as routes 152, 109, and 103 provide direct service to and from the airport.
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From VND 5,000 (~USD 0.2).
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Motorcycle Taxi
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Ideal for solo travellers with light luggage. Remember to deal with the price before moving.
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VND 30,000 - VND 100,000 (USD 1.2 - USD 3.86).
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Buses 152, 109, and 103 provide an inexpensive way to reach the city from the airport (Source: Internet)
3. 3 Essential Tips for Your San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City Flight
Flying from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic experience, but to make the most of your journey, here are three essential tips you should know.
3.1. Find the Best Airfares on Vietnam Airlines’ Website
Ticket prices of flights from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City range from USD 503 to USD 2,878 for a one-way trip. To help you get the best price and optimize your travel budget, there are several strategies when booking on the website:
- Use the flexible dates feature: Vietnam Airlines’ booking system allows you to compare prices across a range of dates and identify cheaper options by adjusting your travel dates by a few days, especially during off-peak seasons.
- Set price alerts: Sign up for price alerts on Vietnam Airlines’ website, and you’ll be notified when there’s a price drop or a special promotion.
- Join Lotusmiles: By signing up for the Lotusmiles program, you can earn miles with every flight booked through the website. These miles can later be redeemed for discounts on future tickets, extra baggage allowance, or upgrades. Sign up Here.
- Explore payment options: Vietnam Airlines frequently provides special discounts for early bookings or via certain payment methods. Look out for any such promotions to save even more on your ticket.
By signing up for Lotusmiles, you can earn rewards and access exclusive airfare deals
3.2. Prepare for a Comfortable Long-Haul Flight
Travelling from San Francisco – a city known for its cool, foggy climate to the tropical heat of Ho Chi Minh City can be challenging. The sharp contrast in temperature and humidity, combined with a 16-hour direct flight, may leave you feeling drained if unprepared. To make your journey smoother and arrive feeling your best, here are a few practical tips:
- Adjust your sleep schedule early: Begin syncing your sleep pattern with Vietnam’s time zone 2 - 3 days before departure.
- Pack comfort items: Bring essential comfort items such as a neck pillow, eye mask, headphones, etc.
- Stay hydrated: Stay hydrated by drinking water frequently, and minimizing caffeine and alcohol intake to avoid dehydration and worsening jet lag.
- Dress smart: Opt for layers and breathable fabrics during the flight, and keep a change of light clothing in your carry-on for arrival.
Pack light clothes in your carry-on and apply sunscreen if you’re arriving during daylight hours
3.3. Understand the Procedures at Departure and Arrival Airports
At San Francisco International Airport (SFO), it's recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and U.S. exit procedures. Before your flight, prepare all necessary documents such as your flight ticket, a valid passport, a visa approval letter (if applicable), and a health declaration form (if required).
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, proceed to the immigration counters. If you already hold a visa or are eligible for visa exemption, present your documents and complete a health declaration if required. For visa-on-arrival travellers, follow the signs to the VOA counter before immigration.
Unlike transit flights with layovers, direct flights offer a more streamlined entry and exit process
4. Must-Visit Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
Once you’ve landed in Vietnam’s most dynamic city, a world of culture, cuisine, and history awaits. Don’t miss these iconic destinations – each offering a unique taste of Saigon life:
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Attraction
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Distance from Tan Son Nhat Airport
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Highlights
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Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
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~4.3 miles (7km)
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Renowned for its red brick walls, elegant neo-Romanesque design, and twin bell towers, a lasting testament to the city’s architectural legacy from the French colonial era.
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Ben Thanh Market
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~5.2 miles (8.4km)
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One of the city's oldest and most iconic markets, a paradise for street food lovers and souvenir hunters.
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Nguyen Hue Walking Street
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~5.7 miles (9km)
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A lively promenade surrounded by cafés, music, and light shows – perfect for an evening stroll.
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Bitexco Financial Tower & Sky Deck
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~5.7 miles (9km)
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Home to the Saigon Skydeck with panoramic city views from 49 floors up.
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Cholon (Chinatown, District 5)
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~5.7 miles (9km)
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Famous for the Binh Tay Market and traditional Chinese temples. A great place to taste hu tieu and dim sum.
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For a more complete travel experience, explore our detailed Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide with top attractions, dining tips, and local insights here.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon stands as a striking symbol of French colonial heritage in Vietnam (Source: Internet)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
5.1. How much is a flight ticket from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City?
One-way fares start from just USD 503, depending on seat class, booking time, and promotions.
Note: Ticket costs vary depending on when you book and the season in which you travel.
5.2. How frequent are flights from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City?
Vietnam Airlines currently operates 3 to 4 direct flights per week, with frequencies subject to seasonal demand and operational schedules.
Note: Flight frequency may vary depending on the travel season and operational schedule.
5.3. When is the best time to book cheap flights?
The ideal time to secure the best fares is 2 - 3 months in advance. Booking early, travelling midweek, and staying updated on Vietnam Airlines’ promotions can significantly lower your travel costs.
That wraps up everything you need to know about flying from SFO to SGN. Ready for your next journey? Travel with Vietnam Airlines today to enjoy competitive fares and a smooth, comfortable experience. For further assistance or tailored support, our team is ready to help. Please Contact us!
