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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 305 kilometre distance from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 4 ways to get from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, private transport, flight. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $14. The fastest route is by flight (2h 25m).
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2h 25m
$610
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6h
$21
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6h
$135
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6h 30m
$14
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If you’re looking for budget-friendly transport, your best option is the bus. Since this route is very popular, there are several bus companies departing from and arriving at various areas in DaLat and Ho Chi Minh.
Travel time takes around 6h 30m - 9h with fares starting from $14.
If you’re staying right at the heart of DaLat city centre, Phong Phu buses depart from the City Post and arrive at Tan Binh Exhibition & Convention Centre, which is also at the very centre of Ho Chi Minh.
Meanwhile, Nguyen Kim buses depart from their office in Duong Luong the Vinh and arrive at the bus station in District 1. It’s best to take this bus if you’re staying in the backpacker street in this area.
A minivan ride from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic.
There are companies operating on this route: .
What we like about this option is that some minivan companies offer free hotel pickup and drop-off. This saves you the hassle and extra cost of finding your way to and from bus stations.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam's largest and probably busiest metropolis. Formerly called Saigon, the city pulsates with energy and organised chaos. Its streets are packed with motorcycles day in and day out, we absolutely have no idea how everyone manages not to bump into each other!
Don’t miss a visit to the War Remnants Museum and Central Post Office, one of the oldest buildings in Ho Chi Minh. Shop (and prepare to haggle) at Ben Thanh Market, and explore the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels. When its bustling streets become too much, know that you can always find solace in one of its many cosy coffee shops.
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A private transfer is a convenient option when travelling in a group from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh.
Rates start from $135 for a -seater private transfer. Divide the cost and that’s about per person. Travel time is around 6h - 6h 15m.
Both DaLat and Ho Chi Minh have their own airports, so taking a flight is possible and convenient for this route.
The flight itself from Dalat to Ho Chi Minh takes only one hour, but you will still need additional rides to and from the airport. The total travel time is around 2h 25m.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Vy Khanh Guesthouse may not be the fanciest place in Ho Chi Minh, but what it lacks in glitz and glamour, it makes up with its hospitality. Vy is one of the best hosts that you'll experience in Vietnam, offering you recommendations for not just the city but the entire country.
She'll make sure you have the best experience and that starts with the guesthouse's location. It's situated in the heart of the city in District 1.
Golden Tree Hotel stands out amongst the rest due to its perfect ambient lighting both inside and outside. This hotel feels face fancier than its price tag.
The rooms are spacious and modern, with most rooms offering a private kitchen and large colonial-style windows. Stay here and you'll be located in District 7.
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Carbon Footprint
This 305 km journey produces approximately 27 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
One look at Siverland Mây Hotel's swimming pool and you won't be able to resist booking here. It's surrounded by lush greenery hanging from the ceiling, hammocks and there's a pool-side bar.
The rooms live up to this standard boasting a beautiful ultra-modern decor. You'll never want to leave this place.
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