Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc: A traveler’s guide for a smooth trip

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Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island is a popular route among travelers in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc, a journey marked by Vietnam‘s captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, continues to enthrall travelers globally. Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc stands as a pristine jewel waiting to be explored. In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate the best transportation options to get to Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc: Distance and travel time

Nestled in the vibrant heart of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Sai Gon, serves as the starting point for the mesmerizing journey to Phu Quoc. 

The island of Phu Quoc, a pristine haven located offshore from the Vietnamese coastline, lies approximately 45 kilometers away from the mainland. When flying from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc, the direct route spans 395 kilometers. Alternatively, the road distance covered by a motorbike or bus measures around 402 kilometers.

The duration of your journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc significantly varies based on your chosen mode of transport. If you opt for the scenic route by motorbike or bus, prepare for a leisurely but time-consuming expedition. The travel time can range from 9 to 10 hours. However, for those seeking a quicker alternative, flying is the ideal choice. A direct Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc flight takes just over an hour.

Phu Quoc, with its sun-kissed beaches and lush landscapes, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe (Source: Collected)

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2. The best way to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

How to get to Phu Quoc is a question asked by many. As it stands isolated in the ocean, the most efficient and convenient way to reach this paradise is through air travel.

2.1. Airports for flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Below are the two Vietnam airports serving your flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc.

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), Ho Chi Minh City: Located along Truong Sa Street in Tan Binh District, Tan Son Nhat International Airport is a bustling hub facilitating both domestic and international flights. Its sprawling expanse spans over 92,000 square meters and is capable of welcoming approximately 28 million passengers annually.
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC), Phu Quoc: Situated in Duong To Commune, just 10 kilometers north of Duong Dong town, Phu Quoc International Airport ensures a seamless entry to the island. Here, passengers can find an array of amenities, including dining options, duty-free stores, and more. Having been in operation since December 2012, this airport is the gateway to Phu Quoc.

The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc promises scenic vistas (Source: Collected)

2.2. Airfares for flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Several airlines in Vietnam, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways, operate flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc. Flight durations typically hover around the one-hour mark, offering flexibility in scheduling.

Ticket prices from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc fluctuate based on seasons and airlines. During the low season, round-trip fares range from 1.1 million to 2 million VND, while in peak periods, prices can extend from 2 million to 4 million VND.

*It is essential to note that these figures are average estimations. For precise and current ticket rates, travelers are encouraged to directly refer to the respective airlines.

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3. Other options to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

While air travel is the most efficient way, there are alternative options worth considering. These options, although not as optimal as flying, offer unique experiences that might appeal to the adventurous traveler.

3.1. Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc by bus and ferry

If you prefer land and sea adventures, you can choose between two routes: Saigon – Rach Gia – Phu Quoc and Saigon – Ha Tien – Phu Quoc.

3.1.1. Ho Chi Minh City – Rach Gia – Phu Quoc

On the Ho Chi Minh City – Rach Gia route, spanning 270 kilometers, a bus journey of approximately 6 to 7 hours takes you through scenic landscapes. Several popular bus operators like Ngoc Diem, Thien Thanh, Tu Tien, and Hoang Minh offer services on this route. To ensure comfort, it’s recommended to opt for 45-seater buses, departing around 10 AM for an efficient trip. The average ticket price for this trip is 325.000 VND. 

Once in Rach Gia, the journey to Phu Quoc continues via high-speed ferries operated by various companies, such as Phu Quoc Express, Superdong, Hoa Binh Ship, or Thanh Thoi Ferry. High-speed ferry travel from Rach Gia to Phu Quoc takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours and costs between 330,000 and 540,000 VND for adults and 240,000 and 270,000 VND for children. 

Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc Island offers a diverse travel experience (Source: Collected)

3.1.2. Ho Chi Minh City – Ha Tien – Phu Quoc

The first-leg bus journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ha Tien covers 412 kilometers and lasts around 8.4 hours. Though longer than the Rach Gia route, this path is just as scenic. Travelers can choose from 37 bus trips offered by operators such as Hoang Minh, Tan Nien, Lien Hung, and Hue Nghia. 

Upon reaching Ha Tien, high-speed ferries and boats are available for the final leg to Phu Quoc. High-speed boats like Superdong and Hong Tam take approximately 1 to 2 hours and cost between 250,000 VND and 350,000 VND for adults and 200,000 VND for children. 

Another alternative is taking the ferries at Thanh Thoi port to arrive at Phu Quoc’s Da Chong port. Although ferry travel takes longer than high-speed boats, the larger capacity allows the transport of personal vehicles, making it a convenient option. Ferry ticket prices are more affordable.

The Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc distance is bridged by various transportation modes (Source: Collected)

3.2. Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc by motorbike/car and ferry

For a truly independent experience, driving your own motorbike or car is an option. This choice offers the flexibility to manage your schedule, save on ticket costs, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta region.

Upon reaching Kien Giang, similar to the aforementioned routes, travelers will need to combine their road journey with a subsequent ferry, adding around 1.5 hours to the travel time.

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Phu Quoc is a destination with numerous attractions to discover, including stunning natural landscapes and enriching historical sites such as Ong Lang Beach, Duong Dong Market, Phu Quoc Prison, Long Beach, Coi Nguon Museum, May Rut Island, Su Muon Pagoda, Gam Ghi Island, Fingernail Island, Dinh Cau Beach, Cua Can Beach, Hon Mot Island, Starfish Beach, as well as immersive entertainment hotspots like Grand World Phu Quoc and Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc. 

Phu Quoc encapsulates different Vietnam’s essence, from historic landmarks to pristine beaches (Source: Collected)

Among the many things to do in Phu Quoc, make sure to explore VinWonders Phu Quoc. This entertainment complex offers thrilling rides, exciting water park, and vibrant shows. VinWonders Phu Quoc is meticulously designed to cater to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone seeking a day of unparalleled fun and adventure.

VinWonders Phu Quoc promises to bring you and your loved ones lasting memories

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In summary, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc offers a diverse range of options, from quick flights to scenic road trips. Whether you prefer the speed of air travel or the charm of a ferry ride, each mode of transport adds its unique flavor to the journey. Phu Quoc, with its captivating attractions and natural beauty, serves as the perfect destination, beckoning travelers to explore its wonders.