About Hanoi Airport and the Old Quarter
Terminals at Hanoi Airport (Noi Bai)
Hanoi’s main airport is called Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). It’s the second-busiest airport in Vietnam and the main international gateway to northern Vietnam.
The airport has two separate terminals:
- T1 is for domestic flights (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, etc.).
- T2 is for international flights from destinations like Europe, the US, and the rest of Asia.
Many transport options—especially public buses—depart from Terminal 1, which can be confusing if you arrive internationally at T2. If you need to move between terminals, there’s a free electric shuttle bus that runs every 10–15 minutes between T1 and T2. Look for the signposted pickup point outside the arrivals area.
Distance Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter
The distance from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter is about 27 to 30 kilometers, depending on your route . In normal conditions, the drive takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Most transport apps (like Grab or Google Maps) might list your destination as “Hoan Kiem District” instead of “Old Quarter.” That’s completely fine—Hoan Kiem is the district where the Old Quarter is located, and all routes to either one take you to the same central area.
Option 1: Taxi from the Airport
Where to find a taxi
Taxis are available 24/7 at both Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (international). After exiting the arrivals area, follow the signs to the official taxi stand—you’ll see a line of cars with meters and uniformed drivers.
Be careful of touts—people who approach you inside the terminal or near the exit, claiming to be taxi drivers. Many of them drive unlicensed cars or demand inflated prices. Only use the official taxi queue or pre-arranged services to avoid scams.
Price & Trusted Companies
The average price for a standard metered taxi from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter is around 300,000 to 400,000 VND (approximately 12–16 USD), depending on traffic and your exact drop-off point.
Stick to well-known taxi companies for more reliable service:
- Mai Linh Taxi (green cars)
- Taxi Group (white cars with blue or red stripes)
- G7 Taxi (yellow cars)
These companies use meters and have better service standards. Avoid taxis with no clear branding or no meter.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Door-to-door service — no transfers or walking
- Easy to find at any hour, even late at night
- Space for luggage, including suitcases
Cons
- Risk of scams if you follow touts or unmetered drivers
- Slightly more expensive than buses or ride apps
- Most drivers don’t speak English — have your address written down or saved in Vietnamese
Taxis are a good choice if you want a straightforward, no-fuss ride—especially after a long flight or if you’re traveling with large luggage. Just make sure to choose an official taxi from the designated stand.
Option 2: Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab, Be, Xanh SM)
How it works
Apps like Grab, Be, and Xanh SM are popular and widely used in Hanoi for getting from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter. These ride-hailing services let you book a car through your phone with a fixed, upfront price shown before you confirm.
To use them, you’ll need an internet connection, either through a Vietnamese SIM card or eSIM. The app will ask you to choose the pickup gate—be sure to select the correct terminal where you’re waiting.
You can choose between different vehicle types depending on your budget and luggage: 4-seaters, 7-seaters, or even electric cars (Xanh SM).
Pickup & Warning
There’s no dedicated pickup area for Grab, Be, or Xanh SM at Noi Bai Airport. Drivers will usually wait just outside the arrivals area, and the app will guide you to their location.
However, be cautious: some drivers pretend to be Grab and approach travelers directly, offering a ride without a booking. These are not official rides and may charge inflated or unsafe rates. Always book through the app and match the car model and license plate before getting in.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fixed price shown before booking (no surprise fees)
- Track your driver and share trip details for safety
- Easier than negotiating with a regular taxi
Cons
- You need internet access and the app installed
- May have to wait a few minutes, especially during busy hours
- Occasional surge pricing during peak times or bad weather
If you already have mobile internet when you land, ride-hailing apps are one of the most convenient and transparent ways to reach the Old Quarter—especially for travelers who prefer app-based services over haggling with drivers.
Option 3: Public Buses (Cheapest Option)
Best bus choices
Public buses are the cheapest way to get from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter, but also the slowest and least convenient if you’re carrying luggage. There are three main routes you can consider:
Bus 86 – 45,000 VND (best option!)
This is the best option for tourists. It connects both T1 and T2 terminals with key stops in central Hanoi, including Long Bien, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Hanoi Railway Station — all close to or within the Old Quarter. Buses run every 20–30 minutes from early morning until around 9–10 PM. Air-conditioned and relatively modern.
Bus 17 – 9,000 VND
A local-style bus that goes from Terminal 1 to Long Bien Bus Station, which is about 1 km from the Old Quarter. It’s much cheaper but older, slower, and often crowded.
Bus 07 – 9,000 VND
Runs from Terminal 1 to Kim Ma Bus Station, which is not near the Old Quarter. This route is less useful unless you’re staying in Ba Dinh District.
How to use
- Bus 86 is the easiest to use and stops at both international (T2) and domestic (T1) terminals. Look for clearly marked signs outside the arrival areas.
- Buses 07 and 17 mainly depart from Terminal 1. If you arrive at T2, you’ll need to take the free terminal shuttle to T1 (about 10–15 minutes).
- Tickets are paid onboard—have cash ready in Vietnamese dong. ATMs and exchange counters are available at the airport if needed.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely affordable — just 9,000 to 45,000 VND (less than 2 USD)
- Safe and reliable, especially Bus 86
- A chance to experience how locals commute
Cons
- Slower than other options (50–70 minutes)
- No direct hotel drop-off — you’ll need to walk or take another ride
- May be crowded, especially during peak hours
- Limited luggage space, no dedicated racks
Bus 86 is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers, especially if you don’t mind walking a bit or transferring to another ride once in the Old Quarter. For those with large luggage or arriving late at night, it’s better to consider other options.
Option 4: Airline Shuttle Buses
Available Services
Several domestic airlines in Vietnam offer shuttle bus services from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter or nearby city areas. These include:
- Vietnam Airlines
- Vietjet Air
- Bamboo Airways
Although these shuttles are primarily intended for domestic flight passengers, in practice they’re often usable even if you flew with a different airline—as long as there’s space and you pay the fare.
How to Use & Cost
- Tickets typically cost around 36,000 to 45,000 VND (about 1.50–2 USD) and are paid directly to the driver.
- Buses generally depart from Terminal 1 (T1), even for Vietnam Airlines international passengers. Look for buses with airline logos parked outside the arrivals area.
- Schedules are loosely coordinated with flight arrivals, especially during peak travel hours. Expect departures every 30–60 minutes, but no strict timetable.
- Drop-off points vary by airline but are usually in central Hanoi, including Quang Trung Street, Tran Nhan Tong, or Ngoc Khanh, which may require a short walk or quick taxi to your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low price, similar to public buses but more comfortable
- Air-conditioned and designed for travelers with some luggage
- Convenient option if you’re arriving on a domestic flight
Cons
- Fixed routes — may not stop close to your hotel
- No overnight service — typically operates from early morning until 9–10 PM
- Departure depends on bus filling up or airline timing — not always predictable
Airline shuttle buses are a good option for travelers who want a cheap and relatively comfortable ride into the city, especially if you’re flying domestically and don’t mind getting dropped off a few blocks from your hotel.
Option 5: Pre-Booked Car or Hotel Transfer
What it is
A pre-booked car is a private airport transfer arranged in advance — either through your hotel, a local travel agency, or a service like Local Vietnam. You’ll agree on a fixed price ahead of time, and a driver will wait for you at the arrivals gate with a sign bearing your name.
There’s no need to search for a taxi or deal with apps when you land — the driver meets you directly and takes you straight to your hotel in the Old Quarter.
Price & Who It’s For
The price is usually between 350,000 and 450,000 VND (around 14–18 USD), depending on the provider and vehicle type. Unlike Grab or taxis, this price doesn’t change based on traffic or demand, which makes it a reliable choice during busy hours or bad weather.
This option is especially suited for:
- First-time visitors
- Late-night or early-morning arrivals
- Groups or families who want a smoother arrival
- Anyone who prefers to avoid the hassle of figuring things out after a flight
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fixed price with no surprises — even during peak times
- No internet or local SIM needed
- Driver meets you directly with your name sign
- Great for those with extra luggage or traveling in groups
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than a bus or Grab under normal traffic
- Must be arranged before arrival — not a last-minute option
A pre-booked car is one of the easiest and most stress-free ways to get from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter. It’s ideal if you want peace of mind, especially after a long flight or when arriving at odd hours.
Which option is best for you?
Each option to get from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter comes with its own balance of price, convenience, and comfort. If you’re not on a tight budget, a pre-booked private car is simply the best option. The price is fixed, there’s no need for internet or apps, and the driver meets you directly at arrivals — holding a sign and ready to help with luggage. It’s straightforward, safe, and eliminates all hassle.
For most travelers, the only real reason to skip a private car is cost. If you’re traveling on a strict budget, Bus 86 is the next best choice — clean, affordable, and it gets you fairly close to the Old Quarter.
Here’s a quick guide based on traveler type:
- On a budget? → Take Bus 86 (45,000 VND)
- Want zero hassle? → Go with a pre-booked car
- Comfortable with apps? → Use Grab for flexibility and fixed pricing
- Arriving late at night? → Only pre-booked cars or taxis are available
- Carrying lots of luggage? → Avoid public buses — choose taxi or private car
In short: if you want the easiest and most reliable way to reach the Old Quarter without overthinking it, a pre-arranged car is worth it. If saving money is your top priority, Bus 86 is a solid and honest alternative.
Travel tips for arrival at Hanoi Airport
Before heading from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter, here are a few useful tips to make your arrival smoother:
SIM Cards, eSIMs, and Wi-Fi
You’ll find SIM card counters right after exiting customs at both terminals. Prices are reasonable, and most offer packages with data-only or full call + data options. If you plan to use Grab or other apps, it’s best to get a SIM card right away.
If you prefer not to swap your SIM, consider buying an eSIM for Vietnam in advance (works well in Vietnam with providers like Viettel or Mobifone).
There is free Wi-Fi at the airport, but it can be slow or unreliable during busy times. Use it only for quick tasks, like booking a ride.
Currency Exchange and ATMs
- ATMs are available in the arrival halls of both T1 and T2. Vietnamese banks like Vietcombank, BIDV, and Techcombank are reliable.
- Currency exchange counters are also available but may offer slightly lower rates than in town. If you just need enough cash for transport, exchanging a small amount is fine.
Some taxis and buses only take cash, so it’s best to have at least 200,000–400,000 VND in cash before leaving the terminal.
Facilities: Luggage Carts, Toilets, Food
- Luggage carts are free and located throughout the arrival area.
- Clean restrooms are available near baggage claim and outside customs.
- If you’re hungry or need a break, you’ll find cafés, bakeries, and convenience stores in both terminals — including Highlands Coffee, Burger King, and some local options.
Scam Warning Recap
Unfortunately, scams are still common at Hanoi Airport. Here’s what to watch for:
- Taxi touts may approach you inside or just outside the terminal — always walk to the official taxi stand or use a booked car.
- Fake Grab drivers may claim to be your driver — only follow instructions from the app and check license plates carefully.
- SIM card upselling isn’t uncommon — prices at the airport are generally okay, but you don’t need to buy the most expensive package.
A little awareness goes a long way. Hanoi Airport is generally safe and efficient, but being prepared helps you avoid stress and start your trip on the right foot.
