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How to Get from Hanoi Airport to City Centre: A Comprehensive Guide
When arriving in Hanoi, one of the first things travelers need to figure out is how to get from Hanoi Airport to the city center (Nội Bài International Airport). Located about 27 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi, Nội Bài is the main international gateway to northern Vietnam.
There are several transportation options available for making this journey, ranging from affordable buses to convenient private cars. Cat ba travel guide will provide a detailed overview of each option to help you choose the best way to travel from the Hanoi airport to Hanoi’s bustling center.
Airport Shuttle Buses
Airport shuttle buses are one of the most cost-effective ways to get from Nội Bài Airport to the city center. These buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and offer a direct route to various key locations in Hanoi. Some of the popular shuttle bus services include:
- Vietnam Airlines Shuttle Bus (Bus No. 86): One of the most popular options for tourists, Bus No. 86 runs between Nội Bài Airport and Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội), located in the city center. It stops at multiple central locations, including Hoàn Kiếm Lake and the Old Quarter, which are popular tourist spots. The fare is approximately 50.000 VND ($2 USD), and buses run every 25–30 minutes from early morning until late at night. The entire journey takes around 60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Jetstar Shuttle Bus: If you’re flying with Jetstar, you can take their shuttle bus service. It departs from both terminals (T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international flights) and heads to the Old Quarter. The fare is also around 50.000 VND ($2 USD).
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Public Buses
For budget-conscious travelers, public buses offer an even cheaper way to travel to Hanoi’s center. While not as comfortable or direct as shuttle buses, they are incredibly affordable, with fares ranging from 7,000 VND to 10,000 VND (less than $1 USD). However, these buses can be crowded and may take longer due to multiple stops along the way. The most commonly used public buses from Nội Bài Airport include:
- Bus No. 7: This bus runs from Nội Bài Airport to the Kim Mã Bus Station in Hanoi. It is ideal for those heading towards the Ba Đình District or its vicinity. The journey takes around 60–70 minutes.
- Bus No. 17: Bus 17 goes from Nội Bài Airport to Long Biên Bus Station, which is near the Old Quarter. This is a convenient option for those staying in the backpacker district or around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
While public buses are the cheapest option, they can be less reliable due to traffic and multiple stops, so it’s important to plan extra time for your journey if you choose this option.
Taxi
For those seeking convenience, taxis are a popular and readily available option at Noi Bai Airport. Taxis offer a door-to-door service, and the journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The average cost ranges between 300,000 VND to 450,000 VND ($12–$18 USD), depending on your final destination and traffic conditions.
It’s important to use reputable taxi companies to avoid scams or inflated prices. Some well-known and reliable taxi companies at Nội Bài include:
- Mai Linh Taxi
- Taxi Group
- Vinasun Taxi
Make sure to either ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a fixed price before starting your journey. Additionally, there are taxi booths inside the arrival terminals where you can pre-book a taxi at a fixed rate, providing extra peace of mind.
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Ride-Hailing Services (Grab)
Grab, Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber, is a convenient and affordable option for getting from Hanoi Airport to the city center. The Grab app allows you to book a car or bike directly from your phone, offering transparent pricing and eliminating the need to haggle.
For a car ride from Nội Bài to central Hanoi, fares typically range between 280,000 VND to 360,000 VND ($11–$15 USD), similar to taxis but often slightly cheaper. One advantage of using Grab is that you can pay via the app using a credit card, which is helpful if you don’t have Vietnamese currency on hand upon arrival.
Grab bikes are also available, although they are not the most practical option for travelers with large amounts of luggage.
Private Airport Transfers
For travelers seeking a more comfortable and stress-free experience, booking a private airport transfer in advance is an excellent option. Many hotels in Hanoi offer this service for guests, and there are several reputable companies that provide private car services. Prices for private transfers typically range from 300,000 VND to 500,000 VND ($12–$22 USD) depending on the vehicle type and number of passengers.
Phone & WhatsApp / Telegram to book direct private airport transfers : +84888000896 / +84913096281
This option is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and efficiency, especially after a long flight. The driver will be waiting for you at the airport holding a sign with your name, and you’ll be taken directly to your hotel without any hassle.
Motorbike Rentals
For the adventurous traveler, renting a motorbike at the airport is an option, although it’s not widely recommended due to safety concerns, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Hanoi’s traffic. However, for those comfortable with riding a motorbike in busy urban environments, this can be a fun and flexible way to travel. Prices for motorbike rentals start from around 100,000 VND ($4 USD) per day.
Traveling from Hanoi Airport to city center is relatively straightforward, with options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a low-cost public bus, a comfortable taxi, or a private transfer, there’s a convenient way to reach your destination. Planning ahead and choosing the best transportation option for your needs will help ensure a smooth start to your trip in Hanoi.