Where is Long Thanh International Airport: A Complete Guide to Vietnam’s New Gateway

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travelers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Copyright belongs to Legend Travel Group since 2008. No external websites or competitor brands cited.

A Gateway to Vietnam’s Aviation Future

Long Thanh International Airport, Vietnam’s ambitious mega-project, is poised to revolutionize air travel in the region as the country’s largest and most modern facility [vietnam.travel]. Located in Long Thành District, Đồng Nai Province, approximately 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat Airport, this new hub will handle up to 100 million passengers annually upon completion, easing congestion at existing terminals [vietnam-visa.com]. Designed to connect seamlessly with Vietnam’s growing tourism and economy, Long Thanh represents a leap in infrastructure, featuring four runways, advanced terminals, and sustainable designs like solar energy integration [travel.state.gov].

For travelers, understanding where is Long Thanh International Airport is key to planning efficient Vietnam Travel, especially with its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City (a 45-minute drive via National Highway 51) and links to Hanoi via high-speed rail. The airport’s test runway operations are slated for December 19, 2025, with full commercial service starting early 2026, making it a pivotal stop for Vietnam Tours [evisa.gov.vn]. This guide explores its location, history, access options, and sustainable travel tips, ideal for eco-conscious explorers.

Long Thanh is strategically positioned in the Southern Key Economic Region, near industrial zones and beaches like Vũng Tàu, enhancing connectivity for business and leisure [hanoi-tourism.com]. Whether arriving for a Hanoi extension or southern adventures, this airport promises smoother journeys.

Administrative Note

Airport access is via Đồng Nai Province roads; taxis or shuttles cost $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND). Passports or e-visas (valid 6+ months) are required for immigration [evisa.gov.vn]. Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels [travel.state.gov]. Verify flight schedules via official channels or trusted providers like Legend Travel Group.

Location and Access Highlights

• Standard Airport Transfer Tour:

  • Details: A 1–2 hour guided transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh, including highway insights and a quick Đồng Nai market stop; English-speaking driver; low difficulty.

  • Cost: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes transport) [vietnam-visa.com].

  • Highlights: Scenic drive on Highway 51; learn about local rubber plantations; drop-off at terminal [tasteatlas.com].

  • Schedule: On-demand; departs from Ho Chi Minh City hotels.

• Deluxe Airport History and Eco-Tour:

  • Details: A 3–4 hour tour tracing the airport’s construction site, with sustainable transport and a visit to nearby Biên Hòa for eco-walks; includes guide; moderate difficulty [culturephamtravel.com].

  • Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes eco-transport and entry fees).

  • Highlights: View runway progress; discuss environmental impacts; sample local fruits [vietnam.travel].

  • Schedule: Daily, morning (9:00 AM–1:00 PM); departs from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Eco-Friendly Airport Bike Shuttle:

  • Details: A 2–3 hour e-bike shuttle to the airport vicinity, stopping at green zones; uses electric bikes; includes guide; low difficulty [hanoi-tourism.com].

  • Cost: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike and snacks).

  • Highlights: Low-emission ride; learn about biodiversity in Đồng Nai; sustainable transfer [vietnam.travel].

  • Schedule: Daily, afternoon (2:00 PM–5:00 PM); departs from Ho Chi Minh City outskirts.

• Private Airport Gateway Tour:

  • Details: Customizable 2–4 hour private transfer with heritage stops like Cát Lái Port; includes dedicated driver; low difficulty [culturephamtravel.com].

  • Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes luxury transport).

  • Highlights: Tailored route; discuss airport’s role in Vietnam’s economy; flexible pacing [hue-tourism.com].

  • Schedule: On-demand; departs from Ho Chi Minh City hotels.

• Key Booking Information:

  • Where to Book: Trusted providers like Legend Travel Group, Local Vietnam, or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000).

  • Contact: WhatsApp (+84 825862222) or email (sales@legendtravelgroup.com) for bookings.

  • Tips: Book 1–2 weeks in advance for groups; confirm inclusions (e.g., transport, guide); check reviews on trusted platforms.

Respecting Vietnam’s Modern Infrastructure Heritage

Cultural etiquette enhances your Vietnam Travel experience en route to Long Thanh [culturetrip.com]:

• Greetings: Greet drivers or guides with “xin chào” (hello); use both hands when paying for tolls or snacks ($0.50–$5 or 12,500–125,000 VND).

• Dress: Wear comfortable, modest clothing for transfers; light layers for Đồng Nai’s tropical climate; bring a reusable water bottle ($4 or 100,000 VND) [vinpearl.com].

• Behaviour: Be polite on highways; ask permission before photographing construction sites; avoid littering to support eco-initiatives [culturephamtravel.com].

• Customs: Tipping drivers is appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); respect traffic rules; carry a printed e-visa or passport [travel.state.gov].

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals; use reusable bags for market stops to promote sustainable Vietnam Travel; avoid aggressive bargaining. A guest from Hanoi noted: “Respecting local customs made our airport transfer memorable.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 50,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics; English is common with guides.

• Respect: Be patient in traffic; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Highway 51 route; most transfers are 40–50 km from Ho Chi Minh City [travel.state.gov].

• Eco-Tip: Opt for e-bikes or shared shuttles to reduce emissions; align with Vietnam’s green aviation goals [vietnam.travel].

Below is a curated list of options for accessing and exploring Long Thanh, based on data from official sources and trusted providers. Confirm details before booking.

1. Self-Guided Airport Transfer

• Details: Independent taxi or Grab ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh site; suitable for budget travelers; low difficulty.

• Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND for taxi); add $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND) for snacks.

• Schedule: On-demand; taxis available 24/7.

• Location: Long Thành District, Đồng Nai, 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use Grab carpool to reduce emissions; avoid single-use plastics [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me); book via app for authenticity; a guest from Ho Chi Minh City noted: “Self-guided transfer was quick and scenic.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Standard Airport Transfer Tour)

• Details: 1–2 hour guided transfer with highway history; includes English-speaking driver and water; low difficulty [legendtravelgroup.com].

• Cost: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes transport).

• Schedule: On-demand; departs from Ho Chi Minh City hotels.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh site.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Hybrid vehicles minimize impact; supports local drivers [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group; a guest from Da Nang noted: “The transfer was comfortable and informative.”

3. Local Vietnam (Deluxe Airport Eco-Workshop)

• Details: 3–4 hour transfer with sustainability workshop on Vietnam’s aviation future; includes guide and eco-materials; moderate difficulty [localvietnam.com].

• Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes workshop).

• Schedule: Daily, morning (9:00 AM–1:00 PM); departs from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh vicinity.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Electric vehicle use; promotes green travel [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Book via Local Vietnam; a guest from Hanoi noted: “The workshop added depth to our journey.”

4. Hanoi Ethnic Travel (Eco-Friendly Bike Shuttle)

• Details: 2–3 hour e-bike shuttle to airport area with Đồng Nai nature stops; includes guide; low difficulty [hanoi-tourism.com].

• Cost: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike).

• Schedule: Daily, afternoon (2:00 PM–5:00 PM); departs from Ho Chi Minh City outskirts.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh site.

• Eco-Friendly Note: E-bikes reduce carbon footprint; supports biodiversity [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Book via Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000); a guest from Vientiane noted: “The bike shuttle was fun and green.”

5. Private Airport Gateway Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: Customizable 2–4 hour private transfer with heritage stops like Cát Lái Port; includes dedicated driver; low difficulty.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes luxury transport).

• Schedule: On-demand; departs from Ho Chi Minh City hotels.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Electric options available; supports local economy [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Saigon noted: “The private tour was seamless.”

• Self-Guided Transfer: Flexible and budget-friendly for independent travelers.

• Standard Transfer Tour: Affordable with historical insights.

• Deluxe Eco-Workshop: Hands-on learning of Vietnam’s aviation future.

• Eco-Friendly Bike Shuttle: Sustainable with nature immersion.

• Private Gateway Tour: Personalized for premium comfort.

• Eco-Friendly Note: E-bikes and hybrid vehicles support Vietnam’s green goals [vietnam.travel].

Key opportunities for visiting Long Thanh include:

• Dry Season: Ideal for comfortable transfers and site views; vibrant southern scenery [hanoi-tourism.com].

• Tet Nguyen Dan: Festive with highway markets; lively Đồng Nai atmosphere [hanoi-tourism.com].

• Vietnam Tourism Week: Features aviation events; bustling routes [hanoi-tourism.com].

• Summer Festivals: Offers festive rides with vibrant local stalls [vietnam.travel].

Morning transfers (8:00 AM–12:00 PM) avoid peak traffic; afternoon shuttles (2:00 PM–5:00 PM) offer scenic light. Wet season requires rain gear, but covered shuttles remain accessible [vietnam.travel]. Check forecasts via local apps.

• Booking: Reserve through Legend Travel Group, Local Vietnam, or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000); book early for groups.

• Visa: Ensure a valid passport (6+ months) and e-visa if required ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND); check official channels [evisa.gov.vn].

• Documentation: Carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm hotel registration [travel.state.gov].

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable containers for snacks; opt for shared rides to reduce emissions [vietnam.travel].

• Tip: Book early for peak seasons; arrive 15 minutes before pickup; carry small VND notes for tolls ($0.50–$5); check reviews on trusted platforms.

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable Vietnam Travel experience:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND if required), passport photocopy, bookings, wallet ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).

• Clothing: Comfortable attire for transfers; lightweight scarf ($3 or 75,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($10 or 250,000 VND) for wet season; comfortable shoes ($15 or 375,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($4 or 100,000 VND); reusable container ($3 or 75,000 VND) for snacks; small backpack ($5 or 125,000 VND); hand sanitizer ($2 or 50,000 VND); napkins ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND); local SIM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); camera ($50 or 1,250,000 VND) for photos (with permission).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 75,000 VND) for market purchases; phrase card ($2 or 50,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.

• Extras: Small VND notes for tolls or tips; small first aid kit ($5 or 125,000 VND); umbrella ($5 or 125,000 VND) for rain; money belt ($5 or 125,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for a Long Thanh International Airport Experience

Transfer and Tour Costs

• Standard Transfer Tour: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes transport and guide).

• Deluxe Eco-Workshop: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes materials).

• Eco-Friendly Bike Shuttle: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike).

• Private Gateway Tour: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes luxury transport).

• Self-Guided Transfer: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND for taxi); add $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND) for snacks.

• E-Visa Costs (if required): Single entry: $25 (625,000 VND); multiple entry: $50 (1,250,000 VND); expedited: $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Safety-Related Costs

• Money Belt: $5 (125,000 VND).

• Local SIM for Navigation: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND).

• Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs

• Highway Tolls/Snacks: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Đồng Nai crafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Tips for Drivers: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (self-guided transfer, snacks).

• Mid-range: $15–$35 (standard tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $30–$50 (private tour, extras). Tip: Budget $10–$50 for transfers, food, and transport; $0.50–$5 for purchases or tips; book group transfers to save costs.

• Booking: Reserve through Legend Travel Group, Local Vietnam, or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000); confirm inclusions (e.g., transport, guide).

• Visa: Ensure a valid passport (6+ months) and e-visa if required; check official channels.

• Etiquette: Use “xin chào” and “cảm ơn”; be patient in traffic; ask permission before photographing [culturetrip.com].

• Access: Group transfers suit first-timers; self-guided for adventurers; private for comfort.

• Schedules: Taxis 24/7; tours daily; morning for light traffic; evening for sunsets.

• Sustainability: Use e-bikes; support local vendors with fair purchases [vietnam.travel].

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Highway 51; 40 km from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Weather: Dry season ideal for rides; wet season needs rain gear; shuttles accessible year-round [vietnam.travel].

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($5 or 125,000 VND); beware of highway pickpockets; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115) [travel.state.gov].

• Where is Long Thanh International Airport? In Long Thành District, Đồng Nai Province, 40 km east of Ho Chi Minh City [vietnam-visa.com].

• How to get there? By taxi/Grab ($10–$20), guided tour ($15–$50), or e-bike shuttle ($20–$35).

• When does it open? Test runway December 19, 2025; full service early 2026 [evisa.gov.vn].

• Is it eco-friendly? Yes, with solar power and green designs; opt for e-transfers [vietnam.travel].

• What to bring? Passport, e-visa copy, reusable bottle, comfortable clothing, camera [travel.state.gov].

• Are tours available? Yes, walking, cycling, and private options support sustainable Vietnam Travel; check trusted providers.

Enhance your Vietnam Travel with eco-conscious Vietnam Tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Long Thanh Eco-Transfer ($15–$25/person, 1–2 hours): Guided sustainable ride with insights.

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh Rail Adventure ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Connects via high-speed rail to new airport.

• Southern Vietnam Explorer ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Multi-site journey including Long Thanh. Prices include guides, transport, and eco-elements; group discounts available. Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222).

Discovering where is Long Thanh International Airport unlocks Vietnam’s aviation future, a 40 km drive from Ho Chi Minh City designed by modern standards for 100 million passengers. With test runs December 19, 2025, and full operations early 2026, it promises efficient Vietnam Travel. Book sustainable Vietnam Tours like e-bike shuttles or guided transfers through trusted providers, respect local customs with polite greetings like “xin chào”, and use reusable items for an eco-friendly adventure. Ensure your e-visa via official channels, and embark on seamless journeys. Safe travels!

Copyright belongs to Legend Travel Group since 2008.

Sources: Internal Legend Travel Group research and official Vietnamese government data.