Book Cheap Flights from Vietnam to San Francisco

Passengers can book a direct or connecting flight from Vietnam to San Francisco through Ho Chi Minh City, with the flight duration ranging from 13 hours 55 minutes (*). One-way ticket prices start at USD 436.81 (*), making this trans-Pacific route accessible for both business travelers and tourists heading to the U.S. West Coast. Keep reading this article for more information about distances and connecting flights to help you easily plan your journey.

1. Detailed Information on The Flights from Vietnam to San Francisco

Direct flight Information

At present, only direct flights are operating from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to San Francisco (SFO). The average total flight duration ranges from 13 hours 55 minutes (*). In addition, for more detailed information about the journey from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City, please refer to our guide for this route.

	Distance	Total duration (*)	Frequency (*)
Ho Chi Minh City → San Francisco SGN → SFO	12,613km (7,837 miles).	From 13 hours 55 minutes.	4 days/week (except Monday, Tuesday and Friday)

Transit flight Information (Common Flights)(**)

Passengers flying from other cities in Vietnam can easily reach San Francisco via Ho Chi Minh City

	Distance	Total duration (*)	Frequency
Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City → San Francisco	11,777 km (6,359 miles).	From 18 hours 25 minutes.	6 days/week (except Monday).
Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City → San Francisco	12,064km (7,496 miles).	From 18 hours 25 minutes.	6 days/week (except Monday).
Nha Trang → Ho Chi Minh City → San Francisco	12,331km (7,662 miles).	From 35 hours 15 minutes.	6 days/week (except Monday).
Quang Binh → Ho Chi Minh City → San Francisco	12,041 kilometers (7,482 miles).	From 38 hours 45 minutes.	4 days/week (except Monday, Tuesday and Friday).

(*) Flight duration and frequency may vary based on the length of layovers. Ticket costs and seat availability are subject to change depending on when you book and the time of year you plan to travel.

(**) Vietnam Airlines offers a wide network of flights departing from key cities across Vietnam. Select your destination to view up-to-date schedules, fares, and flight information tailored to your journey.

2. Transportation Before and After Your Vietnam to San Francisco Flight

Getting to and from the airport smoothly can make your travel experience much more pleasant.

2.1. How to Get to the Departure Airport in Vietnam?

Transportation	Instructions	Estimated One-way Cost
Airport Shuttle Bus	Available in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Buses operate every 20 - 30 minutes with pickup points in central areas.	VND 40,000 - VND 80,000 (USD 1.52 - USD 3.04).
Public Bus	Economical option, suitable for light luggage travelers. May require transfers depending on your starting point.	VND 7,000 - VND 35,000 (USD 0.27 - USD 1.33).
Taxi	Fastest and most convenient, especially with luggage. You should confirm the meter is running or agree on a set fare before starting your ride.	From VND 10,700 (USD 0.41)/km.
Private Transfer	Travel agencies may offer private airport car service. Confirm availability and pricing in advance.	VND 300,000 - VND 600,000 (USD 11.4 - USD 22.80).
Hotel Shuttle Service	Some hotels offer free or paid airport shuttle services. Contact your hotel in advance to confirm the schedule and cost.	Often included in hotel fees.

Notes:

• Travel times vary depending on the distance between the airport and the city center.
• Keep in mind that rush hours, typically from 07:00 to 9:00 AM and 04:00 to 06:00 PM in major cities can cause considerable delays and lead to higher transportation expenses.
• Smaller airports might have fewer transit choices, with taxis and buses running less frequently.

2.2. How to Get from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to the City Center?

Transportation	Instructions	Estimated One-way Cost
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)	Fast, affordable rail service connecting SFO to downtown San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area. The BART station is located in the International Terminal (G side).	From USD 5.35 per ticket
Airport Shuttle	Shared vans provide door-to-door service to hotels or homes. Book in advance online or at airport kiosks.	USD 19 - USD 30.
Taxi	Taxis are available at designated taxi stands outside each terminal. Fares include airport surcharges and tips.	USD 45 - USD 65
SamTrans Public Buses	Affordable but slower than BART. Good for budget-conscious travelers. Check Route KX or 292, 397.	USD 2.25 - USD 4.
Hotel Shuttle	Some hotels near the airport offer complimentary shuttle service. Be sure to contact your hotel in advance to confirm service and schedule.	Included in hotel fee.

3. 4 Tips When Taking A Flight from Vietnam to San Francisco

Traveling from Vietnam to San Francisco is an exciting journey across continents. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are four essential tips you should know before taking off.

3.1. Find the Best Deals

To get the most value for your trip from Vietnam to San Francisco, consider these travel-smart suggestions:

• Book early: Try to book your flight at least 45 - 120 days in advance, especially during peak travel periods like summer or Tet holiday to secure better pricing and seat availability. Check out Vietnam Airlines’ Early Bird Discount offers to save more on your next trip.
• Stay informed on promotions: Vietnam Airlines frequently runs special promotions on our Website, app and Social media platforms. Check regularly to catch limited-time discounts.
• Join the Lotusmiles program: As a Lotusmiles member, you will enjoy 5% off airfares and double your bonus or upgrade miles when booking on our website or app.

Lotusmiles is the loyalty program providing members with special privileges, rewards and priority services whenever traveling (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

3.2. Prepare Well for a Long-Haul Flight

To reduce jet lag, consider adjusting your sleep pattern several days before your trip and remember to stay well-hydrated during the flight. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing in layers to accommodate cabin temperature changes. It is also helpful to do simple stretches in your seat to promote circulation and reduce stiffness. For added comfort, you can consider using Vietnam Airlines’ Sky Sofa service.

3.3. Check Exit Regulations

To avoid delays or unexpected issues at the airport, make sure you comply with Vietnam’s exit requirements:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into the U.S.
• Declare any currency exceeding USD 5,000 or equivalent at customs.
• Print and organize documents like your visa (if needed), return ticket, hotel bookings, and any required health declarations.

Vietnam Airlines suggests checking in at least 3 hours before your international flight to allow enough time for security and immigration procedures.

3.4. Check U.S. Entry Requirements at San Francisco International Airport

Before flying from Hanoi to the United States, passengers should prepare the following essential documents to ensure a smooth entry process:

• Your passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the U.S.
• Vietnamese citizens are required to obtain a valid visa before traveling.
• For short-term stays such as tourism or business, complete the DS-160 form online and follow the provided instructions. Some travelers may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program.
• While not mandatory, it’s advisable to carry documents showing that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

For additional guidance, please visit the Travel Guide and related information for flights from Vietnam to the U.S. on the Vietnam Airlines website.

4. 6 Places to Visit When You Arrive in San Francisco

From iconic landmarks to world-class cuisine, San Francisco offers a mix of culture, scenery, and flavors. Here are must-see attractions to explore, perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking for classic local experiences.

Attraction	Highlights
Golden Gate Bridge	The most iconic symbol of San Francisco. Walk or bike across this stunning orange-red suspension bridge.
Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39	Bustling waterfront area known for sea lions, shops, seafood, and views of Alcatraz.
Alcatraz Island	A former high-security prison has been turned into a national park. Accessible by ferry; book tickets in advance.
Chinatown	The oldest Chinatown in North America, famous for markets, herbal shops, and dim sum eateries.
Painted Ladies and Alamo Square	A postcard-perfect row of Victorian houses with skyline views. Famous from the “Full House” series.
Mission District	Trendy neighborhood with colorful murals, indie shops, and Latin-American flair.

The Golden Gate Bridge spans elegantly over San Francisco Bay, showcasing stunning vistas and standing as an iconic feat of engineering brilliance

5. Frequently Asked Questions

To help you better plan your trip between San Francisco and Vietnam, here are some commonly asked questions from travelers, covering airfare, flight schedules, and the best time to book.

5.1. How Much Does It Cost to Fly from Vietnam to San Francisco?

Airfare between San Francisco and Vietnam can vary depending on the season, how early you book, and which class you choose.

• Economy Class: Typically ranges from USD 436.81 for one-way tickets.
• Economy Premium/Business Class: One-way tickets can range from USD 1,319.81 to USD 3,209.81.

Note: Ticket prices can vary based on your booking date and the season in which you plan to fly.

5.2. How Frequent Are the Weekly Flights?

From Ho Chi Minh City to San Francisco, Vietnam Airlines currently operates up to four non-stop flights each week, usually departing on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Hanoi (HAN) are the most common starting locations for these international flights.

Note: Flight timetables are updated frequently.

5.3. When Is the Best Time to Find Promotional Fares?

The lowest fares with Vietnam Airlines are often found during promotional periods or in off-peak travel months. To maximize savings, plan and book your tickets at least three to four months in advance, particularly for long-haul routes.

Passengers can often find better deals during quieter times of the year such as late spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November).

Vietnam Airlines provides 4-star service and the warm hospitality of Vietnamese culture (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

Your flight from Vietnam to San Francisco can be smooth and memorable with the right preparation from airport transfers and flight tips to must-see attractions in the city. For a comfortable and reliable journey, choose Vietnam Airlines with quality service and frequent promotions, visit the official website to Book your flight today.