Noi Bai International Airport Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport, located in Hanoi, is the second biggest and pretty modern airport in Vietnam. Noi Bai is 35 km (28 miles) away from the city's centre and it may take you anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to get to your hotel, depending on where you are lodging in. The cost varies considerably.

Hanoi airport bus

Hanoi buses numbered 07 and 17 pick you to the downtown for as least as VND5,000 (around US$0.3). They are, however, slower than other means and operating time is only from 5.am to 10.pm.  Also, you won’t be allowed to board if your luggage is overd.

Hanoi airport taxi

You can earn more comfortable options provided by Vietnam Airlines right in front of the exist gate. Costs are reasonable. The airport minibuses charge you US$2 yet only depart when they are full. Its taxis service (Noi Bai Taxis, Tel: 04-3886 8888) fixes price at US$ 15 (around VND 250000) including highways toll.

Besides, there are many other companies operating minibus and taxis service at the airport with almost the same price.

They wait for you right on the taxi stand outside the terminal where you can find a sign showing the latest official fares. Be forewarned of being approached by some people trying to offer you “cheap” taxis (or hotel), ignore them all and find it yourself. Make sure you catch the reliable ones with clear company names such as Mai Linh Taxis (Tel: 04-3822 2666), Airport Taxis (Tel: 04-3873 3333) or Vina Taxis (Tel: 04-3811 1111). Also, despite metered fares, it is better to settle the cost in person or for your whole group in advance.

Definitely, no toll, fee or any other charge should be included. Individually, you may haggle between US$15 and US$30 and pay directly to the driver on reaching your hotel. Of course, that exact amount of change (in VND or US dollar) should be at your hand already. To avoid all the hassle and touts, you may consider booking an airport transfer with your hotel or agent in advance.

ATM at Hanoi airport

It is not a bad idea to make use of the ATMs on the first and second floors of the airport or cash some of your dollars into Vietnam dong at the exchange bureau. After passing the customs and leaving the passenger zone, you will find it on your right-hand side, next to the arrival exit (first floor). Do not change too much, however, as you will be charged a 5% fee, a little more than banks elsewhere. It should be fine to get between US$30 and US$50. Also, it is advisable that you visit the public telephone room at the end of the hall on your left hand side to call and buy telephone cards there. Shopping in the airport is a bit expensive yet worth a look if you have enough time and energy to play. 

Other airports in Vietnam: Da Nang Airport and Tan Son Nhat Airport.