Hanoi Airport to City: Transport Options & Costs (2026)

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) sits 35 km north of central Hanoi — the 45-minute (off-peak) to 90-minute (rush hour) transfer is one of the longest of any major Asian capital. Choosing the right option saves time, money, and stress. Whether you want the cheapest bus, the convenience of Grab, or a luxury private transfer, this complete Hanoi airport to city guide for 2026 breaks down every option with current prices, journey times, and tips.

About Noi Bai Airport

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is Vietnam’s second-busiest airport after Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (international). A free shuttle bus connects the two terminals (5-10 min). Allow 60-90 minutes for transfer to central Hanoi during rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).

Quick Comparison Table

• Grab Car: 250,000-350,000 VND ($10-14) | 35-50 min | Best overall.
• Mai Linh Taxi: 350,000-450,000 VND ($14-18) | 35-50 min | Reliable.
• Tourist Bus 86: 35,000 VND ($1.40) | 50-65 min | Budget winner.
• Public Bus 17: 9,000 VND ($0.36) | 60-80 min | Cheapest.
• Hotel Pre-Booked Transfer: 350,000-600,000 VND ($14-24) | 40-50 min | Easiest.
• Private Transfer (luxury): $25-50 | 40-50 min | VIP service.

1. Grab (Recommended)

Grab is the cheapest reliable door-to-door option. Set up the app before arrival.

How to Use Grab from Noi Bai

1. Get to the airport SIM card or wifi area, download/open Grab.
2. Walk to the designated Grab pickup zone (signs at Terminal 1 and 2).
3. Book your ride. Confirm the price and driver details.
4. Match driver name and license plate exactly.
5. Pay cash or use registered card.

Grab Cost & Time

• GrabCar 4-seat: 250,000-350,000 VND ($10-14) to Old Quarter.
• GrabCar 7-seat: 320,000-450,000 VND ($13-18).
• Time: 35-50 min off-peak; 60-90 min during rush hour.

2. Traditional Taxis

Use only Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white with red) at the airport.

• Cost: 350,000-450,000 VND ($14-18) to Old Quarter.
• Time: 35-50 min off-peak.
• Beware: Unmarked taxis offering “flat rates” — usually overpriced.
• Pickup: Official taxi stands outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

3. Hanoi Tourist Bus 86 (Best Budget)

Modern, comfortable, English-speaking attendant. Best budget option for tourists.

• Cost: 35,000 VND ($1.40) per person.
• Time: 50-65 min.
• Frequency: Every 25-30 min, 6:18 AM to 10:58 PM.
• Pickup: Terminal 2 exit, near central exit door.
• Drops at: Lo Duc, Bach Khoa, Le Thanh Tong (near Old Quarter), Hanoi Railway Station.

4. Public Bus 17 (Cheapest)

Local Hanoi bus — very cheap but not English-friendly.

• Cost: 9,000 VND ($0.36) per person.
• Time: 60-80 min.
• Frequency: Every 15-20 min.
• Drops at: Long Bien Bus Station near Old Quarter.
• Note: Cash only, limited luggage space.

5. Pre-Booked Hotel Transfer

Most Hanoi hotels offer airport transfer service.

• Cost: 350,000-600,000 VND ($14-24).
• Time: 40-50 min.
• Benefits: Driver waits at arrival with your name sign. No language barrier. Fixed price.
• Best for: First-time visitors, late arrivals, families with kids.

6. Private Transfer (VIP)

Premium service through transfer services like Klook, GetTransfer, or hotel concierge.

• Cost: $25-50 (sedan), $50-100 (luxury van).
• Time: 40-50 min.
• Benefits: Meet-and-greet, English driver, water bottles, vehicle waiting at curb.

7. Airport SIM Card & Wifi

Free wifi available throughout terminals. SIM cards available at multiple kiosks:

• Viettel — best coverage. 100,000-300,000 VND ($4-12) for 30 days unlimited.
• Vinaphone — second best. Similar prices.
• Mobifone — cheaper but spottier coverage.

8. ATMs at the Airport

Multiple ATMs in arrivals halls. Withdraw 2-4 million VND ($80-160) to start.

• BIDV, Vietcombank, Techcombank — reliable major banks.
• Withdrawal limits: 2-5 million VND per transaction.
• Fees: 50,000-70,000 VND per transaction plus your home bank fees.

Returning to the Airport (City to Noi Bai)

Reverse the same options. Allow extra time for rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM):

• Grab/Taxi: Same prices in reverse.
• Bus 86: Same routes in reverse. Departs Le Thanh Tong every 25-30 min.
• Hotel Transfer: Book 24 hours in advance.
• Allow extra time: 60-90 min on weekdays during rush hour.

What to Avoid

• Touts offering “cheap taxi” — usually 2x normal price.
• Unmetered taxis — always insist on the meter.
• Currency exchange at airport — rates are bad. Use ATMs.
• Late-night airport arrivals — pre-book transfer to avoid confusion.

Hanoi Airport FAQs

How far is Noi Bai from central Hanoi?

35 km north. 45-90 min depending on traffic.

Best option from airport?

Grab for most travelers ($10-14). Pre-booked hotel transfer for first-timers.

Cheapest option?

Bus 17 at 9,000 VND ($0.36). Bus 86 (tourist bus) at 35,000 VND ($1.40) is more comfortable.

Can I sleep at Noi Bai Airport?

Yes — lounges and seating areas. Quiet at night. Premium lounges $25-50.

Is there a metro to the airport?

Not yet. Line 3 extension planned for future years.

How early should I arrive for international flights?

3 hours before departure. Domestic 2 hours.

Are there hotels at the airport?

Several within 5 km: Noi Bai Airport Hotel, Crowne Plaza West Hanoi, Citadines Marina Halong.

Can I exchange currency at the airport?

Yes but rates are 5-10% worse than city exchanges or ATMs. Best to ATM withdrawal.

Plan Your Hanoi Airport Transfer

This guide covers every transfer option from Noi Bai. For more transport help, see our complete Hanoi transportation guide, Grab guide, and bus system guide.