Vietnam

How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h 7min
💶
From
4€
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Distance
73 km
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There are 1 way(s) to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
📍Most major buses to Vung Tau depart from Mien Dong Bus Station (Ben Xe Mien Dong), located at 292 Dinh Bo Linh, Binh Thanh District. It's a large, bustling hub with multiple gates and facilities, so arrive a bit early to orient yourself.
🚇To reach Mien Dong Bus Station from the city center, a Grab taxi or motorbike is your best bet, costing around 3-5 EUR (70,000-120,000 VND) and taking 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses are also available but can be slower and less direct.
Buses to Vung Tau are very frequent, typically departing every 15-30 minutes throughout the day, starting from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around 8:00 PM). This offers great flexibility for your travel plans.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
Fastest: 1h 7min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

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Book in Advance, Especially for Weekends

While frequent, buses to Vung Tau can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or public holidays as it's a popular local getaway. Booking online a day or two ahead ensures you get your preferred departure time and avoids any last-minute stress.

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Choose Reputable Operators

Stick to well-known companies like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus Lines) or Hoa Mai. They have a strong reputation for safety, punctuality, and offer more comfortable, modern buses. You can book their tickets directly at their offices or through online platforms.

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Comfort over Price for Short Trips

For a journey of just 1.5-2 hours, comfort is key. While all buses are generally affordable, spending a little extra (if there's a difference) on a slightly better-rated bus can enhance your experience, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ride.

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Pack Light and Smart

As it's a short journey, try to keep your luggage minimal. Most buses will have space for bags, but having less to manage makes boarding and disembarking quicker and easier. A small backpack is usually sufficient for a Vung Tau getaway.

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Confirm Departure Point

Ho Chi Minh City has multiple bus stations. Always double-check your ticket for the exact departure terminal. For Vung Tau, most major operators leave from Mien Dong Bus Station, but some may use others. Knowing this saves time and prevents confusion.

🛣️ The journey experience

Heading from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau is a quick and easy trip, a popular escape to the coast. You're looking for efficiency and knowing the best way to travel, and for this specific leg, it's quite straightforward. Forget about trains or flights; Vung Tau is close enough that buses are definitely your go-to. The real question is less about choosing between transport types and more about picking the right bus for a comfortable journey.

For this short hop, the most efficient and practical option is definitely the bus. You'll find numerous operators offering regular services. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day trip or an easy start to a coastal getaway. Expect to pay about 4-6 EUR (100,000-150,000 VND) for a ticket, offering great value. Major operators like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) and Hoa Mai are reliable choices, known for their frequent departures and decent service.

Unlike longer routes where you have to weigh up sleeper buses versus trains or domestic flights, the Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau route is simple. Don't overthink it; a comfortable, air-conditioned bus is your best bet. You won't lose a day or a night trying to figure out schedules or alternative transport. Just book your bus, enjoy the straightforward ride, and arrive refreshed, ready to explore Vung Tau.

Frequently asked questions — Ho Chi Minh City → Vung Tau

✨ Why visit Vung Tau?

  • Climb the 500 steps to the Christ the King Statue for panoramic coastal views.
  • Relax on the golden sands of Back Beach (Bai Sau) or Front Beach (Bai Truoc).
  • Visit the White Palace (Bach Dinh), a stunning French colonial villa.
  • Explore the historic Vung Tau Lighthouse and enjoy the scenic drive up.
  • Savor fresh seafood at local restaurants along the coastline.
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Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — ideal for a relaxed beach escape and exploring key attractions.

☀️ When to visit Vung Tau?

TROPICAL SAVANNAH CLIMATE

November to February — cooler, dry weather perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.

Jan 😊
Feb 😊
Mar 😊
Apr 😊
May 😐
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Oct 😊
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In Vung Tau — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Vung Tau
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What to do in Vung Tau?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Jesus Christ Statue (Christ of Vung Tau)
Climb the 1,000 steps to reach the impressive 32-meter-tall statue of Jesus. Inside, you can ascend to the statue's arms for panoramic views of Vung Tau city and the coastline. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, entrance is free.
маяк
Vung Tau Lighthouse & Small Mountain
Perched atop Small Mountain (Nui Nho), the historic Vung Tau Lighthouse offers breathtaking 360-degree views. You can walk or motorbike up the winding road. Enjoy the cool breeze and the stunning vistas, especially at sunset. Consider bringing water for the climb.
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Relax at Back Beach (Bai Sau)
Back Beach is Vung Tau's most popular stretch of sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying local seafood. It's lively and often busy, especially on weekends. Rent a lounge chair for a few euros and immerse yourself in the local beach culture. Expect vendors and a bustling atmosphere.
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Visit Linh Son Co Tu Pagoda
This ancient pagoda, nestled on a hillside, is a serene escape from the city buzz. It houses a beautiful statue of the Buddha and offers a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation. Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and observe the quiet reverence of the worshippers. Entry is free.
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Explore the White Palace (Bach Dinh)
Built by the French as a retreat for governors, this grand mansion now serves as a museum. It offers a glimpse into colonial architecture and history, with artifacts from its past. The surrounding gardens provide lovely views. Allow about an hour to explore; entry is typically a few euros.
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Savor Banh Khot at Goc Vu Sua
Indulge in Banh Khot, a Vung Tau specialty, which are crispy mini-pancakes topped with shrimp. Goc Vu Sua is a highly-rated local spot. It's a must-try for foodies; expect a lively, authentic Vietnamese street food experience. A plate typically costs under 5€.
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Visit the Vung Tau Fishing Village
Experience the authentic local life by visiting the fishing village near Long Hai. Witness fishermen at work, see their colorful boats, and observe the daily rhythm of this coastal community. It’s a great spot for photography, especially in the early morning as boats return with their catch. Respect local customs.
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Sunset at Nghinh Phong Cape
Nghinh Phong Cape offers a stunning natural viewpoint where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon. It's less crowded than the main beaches and provides a serene backdrop for reflection. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors of the sky. Access is free and easy.

⏱️ How long to visit Vung Tau?

1 to 3 days

For an independent traveler, 2-3 days is ideal to explore Vung Tau. You can relax on the beaches, hike to the Christ the King statue, and visit historical sites. For a quick stopover, 1 full day allows you to see the main attractions; plan your itinerary efficiently.

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