Noi Bai International Airport
Hanoi (Soc Son), VN · 45 km (28 mi) northeast of central Hanoi
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bus 7 Public bus · Every 15-20 min during daytime service hours | 60-80 min to Cau Giay depending on traffic | $0.40-0.50 (around 9,000-10,000 VND) |
| Bus 86 Express bus · Every 20-25 min from early morning until late evening | 45-60 min between Noi Bai and Hoan Kiem/Long Bien depending on traffic | $1.40-1.60 (35,000-40,000 VND) |
| Bus 90 Public bus · Every 20-30 min during daytime | 60-80 min to central Hanoi depending on final stop and traffic | $0.40-0.50 (around 9,000-10,000 VND) |
| Free Shuttle Bus Shuttle · Roughly every 10-15 min during daytime; less frequent late at night | 5-10 min driving time between T1 and T2 once on board | $0 |
Insider notes
If you're connecting between domestic and international flights, use the free shuttle bus between T1 and T2. It’s frequent and ensures you don’t waste money on a taxi ride.
For a direct minibus transfer, remember: Vietnam Airlines minibuses depart from T1 and VietJet’s from T2. Both head to the Vietnam Airlines office on Quang Trung Street.
Head to the fourth floor of T2 for business lounges and avoid the main departure level hustle, a notable tip for premium passengers.
Welcome
Noi Bai International Airport feels like a spot where transfer savvy truly outweighs terminal aesthetics. Navigating between Terminal 1, dedicated to domestic flights, and Terminal 2, catering to international travelers, is key. Separate minibus and bus pickup points often catch newcomers off guard. Understanding the airport's transport network can save you time better spent exploring Hanoi's bustling streets. Located 45 kilometers northeast of central Hanoi, Noi Bai handles over 29 million passengers annually and serves as a hub for airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air.
At a glance
Operating with two runways and two main terminals – T1 and T2 – Noi Bai handles both domestic and international flights efficiently. Terminal T1 supports airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Pacific Airlines, while Terminal T2 covers international airlines with Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways being prominent players. The facility lacks on-site restaurants but compensates with duty-free shopping options and several lounges. Despite being 45km from central Hanoi, numerous transport modes bridge the gap, offering travelers options from budget-friendly buses to premium taxis.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1, the domestic terminal, houses Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Pacific Airlines. Meanwhile, Terminal 2, the international terminal, serves Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways. Expect more amenities in T2, from premium lounges to a wider variety of services post-security. The free shuttle bus connecting T1 and T2 comes in handy – whether your taxi drops you at the wrong terminal or your connecting flight demands a change of terminal.
Getting to and from the city
Transportation from Noi Bai to Hanoi offers multiple options. Express Bus 86, at $1.40-$1.60, is a standout for direct service with only eight stops. For those on a tighter budget, Public Buses 7 and 90 cost about $0.40-$0.50 and offer widespread routes into Hanoi. Taxis to the Old Quarter can set you back $13-18, while ride-hails like Grab typically range from $10-14. Minibuses, associated with airlines like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet, provide scheduled transfers to their respective offices in Hanoi for around $3-4.
Traveller essentials
Noi Bai offers essential services to ease your journey. Upon arrival at T2, travelers can find currency exchange booths and SIM card vendors just after baggage claim, allowing you to handle cash and connectivity before diving into Hanoi traffic. The airport offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout its terminals, which are much appreciated by digital nomads and stay-in-touch travelers alike. Note the lounges often enforce a three-hour stay limit, which might be a factor during long layovers.
Dining & shopping highlights
While Noi Bai lacks a wide restaurant selection, T2 hosts NIA Duty-Free and NASCO Duty-Free, catering to last-minute souvenir grabs and travel essentials at tax-free prices. So, while culinary options might be limited, you'll find some basic shopping to hold you over until you reach the city.
Lounges
Noi Bai hosts a variety of lounges primarily located in T1 and T2. Notable among them are the SH Premium Lounge near Gate 28 in T2, recognized for its showers and being a Priority Pass choice. Lounges like the Vietnam Airlines Lotus Lounge in both terminals cater to premium flyers offering a peaceful retreat amid the general airport bustle. Leisure travelers typically find the lounges a respite, regardless of the ongoing construction or layout complexities.
Insider tips
- Insider: If you're connecting between domestic and international flights, use the free shuttle bus between T1 and T2. It’s frequent and ensures you don’t waste money on a taxi ride.
- Local: For a direct minibus transfer, remember: Vietnam Airlines minibuses depart from T1 and VietJet’s from T2. Both head to the Vietnam Airlines office on Quang Trung Street.
- Quiet: Head to the fourth floor of T2 for business lounges and avoid the main departure level hustle, a notable tip for premium passengers.
- Time: Route 86 remains the express star for entry into Hanoi, with an approximately 45-60 minute ride, it’s direct and valued over other public options.
- Avoid: Misstep with bus routes! No. 7 and No. 90 board on the left after exiting T2 arrivals, while No. 86 is across the road. Know before exiting.
- Money: Post-baggage claim at T2 is a prime spot for cash exchange and by a SIM card, ensuring you’re set for the city’s tasks.
- Local: For meeting a driver or tour operator pickup, coordinate at pillar 10 outside lobby A1 in T2 to save time among arrivals chaos.