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When traveling to Vietnam, many visitors choose Hanoi as their first destination. As the cultural and historical heart of the country, Hanoi welcomes travelers through Noi Bai International Airport, the main gateway to Northern Vietnam.
So, how do you get from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter, the city’s most vibrant tourist hub to many places to visit in Hanoi? Understanding the needs of international visitors, Asia Tour Deals will tell you how to find the most suitable way to travel at any time even for Vietnam Itinerary 2 Weeks.
Scroll down to discover the best routes, tips, and travel options from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter, brought to you by the best Vietnam Tours Operator!
Overview Noi Bai International Airport
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the largest airport in northern Vietnam and serves as the main gateway to Hanoi. Located 27 km from the Old Quarter, it handles both domestic and international flights and welcomes millions of travelers each year.
Noi Bai Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) for domestic flights and Terminal 2 (T2) for international flights. Both terminals have ATMs, currency exchange counters, free Wi-Fi, food courts, duty-free shops, and SIM card kiosks.
For international arrivals at T2, the process includes going through immigration and visa checks, collecting luggage at the baggage claim area, and passing through customs before exiting the arrival hall. Once outside, you will find various transportation options, including taxis, shuttle buses, ride-hailing services, and car rentals.
With the info on Noi Bai Airport covered, the next step is choosing the best transportation option to reach the Old Quarter. The following sections will break down each option from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter in detail.
Taking a bus from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the most budget-friendly option. There are two main choices: public buses and airline shuttle buses.
Public buses are the most affordable way to travel from Noi Bai Airport to the Old Quarter, with ticket prices ranging from 15,000 VND to 45,000 VND. These buses primarily serve locals, so they may not always be the most convenient for travelers with large luggage. However, they are reliable and operate frequently throughout the day.
Bus 86 from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi’s Old Quarter
There are several public bus routes from Noi Bai Airport, but not all of them go directly to the Old Quarter, so you may need to walk to the hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. The most relevant options for tourists include:
The travel time for public buses varies depending on traffic and the number of stops, but it generally takes 60 to 90 minutes to reach the city center. While these buses are an economical choice, they can be crowded, especially during rush hours.
These buses from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter are operated by major Vietnamese airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways, and offer a direct route from the airport to central Hanoi. The fare typically ranges from 40,000 VND to 60,000 VND, making them slightly more expensive than public buses but still much cheaper than taxis or private transfers.
The main advantage of airline shuttle buses is that they are designed with air travelers in mind, offering comfortable seating and dedicated luggage storage. The drop-off points are usually more convenient for tourists as well:
The journey on an airline shuttle bus takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Unlike public buses, these shuttles make fewer stops faster and more convenient. However, their departure schedules are usually tied to flight arrivals, so travelers might have to wait for the next available bus.
Vietnam Airlines Shuttle
Taxis are widely available at Noi Bai Airport, and they provide a fast, private, and comfortable ride to Hanoi’s city center. The journey from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter covers approximately 27 km and typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Estimated Taxi Fare
Reputable Taxi Companies
To avoid scams, it is advisable to use well-known and reputable taxi operators, such as:
Mai Linh Taxi (Green Taxis)
Ride-hailing apps like Grab, XanhSM, and Be are popular alternatives to traditional taxis in Hanoi. These services allow travelers to book a ride directly from their smartphone, often at a lower price than regular taxis.
How to Book a Ride at Noi Bai Airport
With this option from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter, a driver will meet you at the airport, assist with luggage, and take you directly to your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Most services provide English-speaking drivers. You can book a transfer through Asia Tour Deals with all accommodations, transfers, and meals included in Vietnam Tour Packages.
The biggest advantage of a private transfer is door-to-door service. Unlike taxis or buses, you won’t have to negotiate fares, find your way, or worry about multiple stops. This is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and late-night arrivals.
Prices vary based on vehicle type. A standard 4-seat car costs 350,000 – 500,000 VND (~14–20 USD), while 16-seat minivans range from 600,000 – 1,500,000 VND (~24–60 USD).
Private Car Service
Vietnam primarily uses Vietnamese Dong (VND), and while taxis and private transfers may accept card payments, buses and small vendors require cash. It’s best to exchange a small amount at the airport or withdraw from an ATM for convenience.
While taxis are a common mode of transport, some drivers overcharge or take longer routes. To avoid this, use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Taxi Group or opt for ride-hailing apps like Grab or XanhSm, a brand from Vietnam.
If you want a hassle-free arrival, consider booking a private car in advance from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter. This guarantees a fixed price and a driver waiting for you upon arrival, especially if your flight lands late at night.
Hanoi traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:30–7:30 PM). If you have a tight schedule, allow extra travel time to avoid delays.
While most travelers head straight from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, there are a few interesting stops along the way that can add a unique touch to your Hanoi Tour Packages.
Located just 15 km from Noi Bai Airport taking about 20 minutes by car, Soc Son Temple is an important historical and spiritual site dedicated to Saint Giong, one of Vietnam’s legendary heroes.
Nearby, the Phu Dong Thien Vuong Statue stands atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This is a great spot for those interested in Vietnamese mythology and scenic landscapes.
Soc Son Temple and Phu Dong Thien Vuong Statue
One of the most fascinating historical sites near Hanoi for 35 minutes moving by car, Co Loa Citadel dates back over 2,000 years to the Au Lac Kingdom. This ancient fortress features winding walls, scenic lakes, and sacred temples. It’s a great place to learn about Vietnam’s early civilizations before heading into the heart of the capital.
As you approach Hanoi, you’ll cross the Nhat Tan Bridge, one of Vietnam’s most impressive modern bridges. This suspension bridge spans the Red River and is especially beautiful at night when it’s illuminated with colorful lights. If you have time, stop at one of the nearby cafes with river views to see the city’s atmosphere before entering the Old Quarter.
If you’re looking for a serene stop before reaching the Old Quarter, consider visiting West Lake (Hồ Tây), the largest lake in Hanoi. The area is home to Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning lake views.
Although slightly off the direct route, if you’re arriving in Hanoi during the afternoon, you may have time to visit the famous Hanoi Train Street before heading to your hotel. This unique attraction, where trains pass through a narrow alleyway lined with cafes, is a must-visit spot for photographers and coffee lovers.
Train Street Hanoi
If you have time to explore Hanoi, consider visiting some of its most famous landmarks. Read more:
Now you know the best ways to travel from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter. Asia Tour Deals hopes this guide helps you plan your journey in Vietnam Itinerary 7 days. Wishing you a smooth trip to your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, so you can rest and get ready to explore amazing places to visit in Vietnam like Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Ha Giang.
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