Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter: Distance & 4 Best Transport Options

Navigating the journey from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter can be a crucial part of your travel plans when visiting the vibrant capital city of Vietnam. In this article, we will provide you with valuable insights on the distance between Noi Bai Airport and Hanoi Old Quarter, as well as present the four best transport options to help you make an informed decision and kickstart your exploration of this captivating city.

Distance from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter

Noi Bai Airport, situated on the outskirts of Hanoi's capital city, is approximately 30 kilometers away from the Hanoi Old Quarter. The precise distance and duration of travel can fluctuate due to traffic circumstances. On average, it typically takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour to travel from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter by road.

4 Transport Options to Get to Hanoi Old Quarter from Noi Bai Airport

There are several means of transportation available for traveling from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter, encompassing taxis, public buses, shuttle buses, and taxi sharing. Each of the options has different characteristics, leading to its advantages and disadvantages; therefore, travelers should take consideration to choose the most suitable option that ensures a memorable travel experience in Hanoi.

Taxi - The Fastest Way to The Hanoi Old Quarter

When it comes to traveling quickly from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter, taxis are undoubtedly a top choice. There are multiple options available for traveling from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter by taxi. You have the convenience of traditional taxis, with a variety of taxi brands readily available just outside the airport's arrival gate. Another popular and convenient choice is to use ride-hailing services, which are widely used in Vietnam.

Taxi fares are typically calculated based on the distance traveled. When you begin your trip, an initial fare is charged, and additional charges are added for each kilometer covered. The taxi meter, located in front of the cab, displays the total amount to be paid. The reference price per kilometer for taxis in Hanoi ranges from approximately 12.000 VND to 15.000 VND (around USD 0.52 to USD 0.65). Consequently, the taxi fare from Hanoi Airport to the city center is typically around 600.000 VND (USD 24). Please note that this price can be changed over time due to many factors.

Advantages:

Direct Service. Taxis offer a door-to-door service, meaning you can be picked up directly from the airport and dropped off at your desired destination in the Old Quarter. This eliminates the need for multiple transfers or additional transportation arrangements;
Availability. Taxis are readily available at Noi Bai Airport, particularly at designated taxi stands. You can easily spot them upon exiting the arrival terminal, making it a convenient option for travelers who prefer immediate access to transportation;
Luggage Handling. Taxis allow for efficient handling of luggage. The drivers are accustomed to assisting passengers with their bags and ensuring they are loaded and unloaded safely. This is especially beneficial if you have heavy or bulky luggage.

Disadvantages:

Cost. Taxis can be more expensive compared to other transport options. The fares are typically metered, but there may be additional charges for tolls or airport surcharges;
Taxi scams. You should be cautious of unlicensed or unauthorized taxis that may approach you at the airport or in tourist areas. It is recommended to stick to reputable taxi companies or use ride-hailing services like Grab to ensure a legitimate and safe ride.

To have a great experience with taxi traveling, here are some notes for tourists:

Choose reputable taxi companies. Stick to well-known and reputable taxi companies such as Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun Taxi, or Taxi Group. These companies are more likely to provide reliable and honest service;
Confirm the fare. Before starting the journey, confirm the fare with the taxi driver. Alternatively, agree on a fixed price for the journey. This helps to avoid any disputes or surprises regarding the fare later on;
Keep your belongings secure. Ensure that your belongings are securely stored within the vehicle. Keep an eye on your belongings throughout the journey to prevent any potential theft or loss.

Taxis are the most suitable mode of transportation for those looking for a smooth and comfortable journey from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or convenience, taxis remain a reliable and suitable choice for travelers making their way to the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter from Noi Bai Airport.

Public Bus - The Cheapest Way to Travel to The Hanoi Old Quarter

Another most recommended means of transport to travel from Hanoi airport to the city center is the public bus owing to the low price and pleasant experience.

Several bus routes connect Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter. The most popular route is Bus 86. Here is some information about Bus No. 86:

Destinations: T1 Terminal Gate - Hanoi Railway Station. The bus stop of Hanoi Airport Bus No. 86 can be easily found as buses park right in front of the airport terminal building. However, it's important to note that this mode of transportation is primarily intended for domestic passengers, and therefore, the bus stop is situated at Terminal T1 - Domestic Terminal. If you arrive at the International Terminal T2, you will need to make your way there;
Time and Frequency: 30 minutes/ride, from 5 AM to 9 PM;
Ticket price: 45.000 VND (USD 2). Hanoi Airport bus tickets can be purchased onboard the bus. Only cash is accepted for payments. You can withdraw Vietnamese Dongs from one of the airport’s ATMs or exchange your foreign currency.

Other buses you could choose to get to Hanoi center are Bus No. 07 with the final stop at Kim Ma Station and Bus No. 17 with the final stop at Long Bien Bus Station. The bus fare is 9.000 VND (USD 0,39). However, these 2 buses are more crowded and older than Bus No. 86.

Advantages:

Affordability. With the mentioned fee, taking a bus is generally a more budget-friendly option compared to taxis or private transfers;
Local Experience: Taking a bus allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and observe the cityscape during the journey. It can provide a unique and authentic travel experience;
Environmental Friendliness: Buses are a greener transportation option compared to private vehicles. Opting for a bus helps reduce carbon emissions and contributes to sustainable travel choices.

Disadvantages:

Longer travel time. Buses might take longer to reach Hanoi Old Quarter compared to taxis, as they make multiple stops along the route. It's important to consider this if you have time constraints or a tight schedule;
No direct route. Buses like Bus 86 do not offer a direct route from Noi Bai Airport to passengers' hotels or homestays. Instead, the specific drop-off points may vary slightly depending on the bus route and traffic conditions;

To have a great experience with taxi traveling, here are some notes for tourists:

Free electric bus service. To ensure convenient transit for passengers traveling between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, Noi Bai International Airport offers a free electric bus service. Upon arrival, locate the information desk within the terminal where the staff can provide up-to-date details about the shuttle bus service. Feel free to approach them for assistance and guidance.
Arrival in Hanoi Old Quarter. The buses have several stops in Hanoi Old Quarter, including popular locations such as Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Dau Park. The stops are clearly indicated, and the bus conductor will announce each stop during the journey.
Once you have reached the bus stop in Hanoi Old Quarter, you can choose walking, taxis, ride-hailing services, or cyclos and pedicabs to visit this famous destination.

When considering transportation options from Noi Bai Airport to the Hanoi Old Quarter, the bus provides a reliable and affordable choice. They are a cost-effective option, particularly for budget-conscious travelers, and provide designated drop-off points in the Old Quarter. Although buses may take slightly longer due to potential traffic congestion, they offer an opportunity to experience the local atmosphere and observe the cityscape along the way.

Airlines’ Shuttle Bus - A Convenient Way When Traveling by Domestic Flights

For budget-conscious travelers, the airport shuttle bus presents an excellent choice for reaching the city center. In Vietnam, including airlines like Vietnam Airlines, domestic carriers offer convenient transportation from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter. As you step out of the airport's entrance, the distinctive shuttle buses of each airline will be readily visible, sporting their respective company's signature colors.

The schedule for shuttle bus services from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter may vary depending on the shuttle bus company and the time of day. However, generally, these shuttle buses operate throughout the day and have regular intervals between departures.

Typically, the shuttle bus fares at Noi Bai Airport range from around USD 2 to USD 5 per person for transportation between the airport and Hanoi Old Quarter

Advantages:

Convenience. Airline shuttle buses are often coordinated with flight schedules, providing convenient transportation options directly from the airport to designated destinations;
Low cost. Shuttle buses provided by airlines are typically offered as a complimentary service for passengers, meaning there is no additional cost for the transportation.

Disadvantages:

Schedule constraints. Shuttle buses operate on fixed schedules, which may not align perfectly with your arrival or departure time. This can result in potential waiting time at the airport or a need to adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Crowding. Depending on the popularity of the route and the number of passengers, shuttle buses can sometimes be crowded, especially during peak travel periods.

The Vietnam Airlines shuttle buses provide passengers with comfortable seating and affordable bus passes. With 16 spacious seats and modern amenities, the bus offers a pleasant travel experience. The friendly and helpful staff further enhance the journey. Departing from Noi Bai Airport, the bus operates every 30-45 minutes between 4:00 AM and 9:00 PM, aligning with the departures and arrivals of Vietnam Airlines flights.

Airlines' shuttle buses provide a convenient and hassle-free transportation option for travelers taking domestic flights. Passengers can rely on these shuttle buses to ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience, allowing them to easily navigate the airport and reach their destinations promptly.

Taxi-Sharing Service

In Vietnam, the concept of taxi-sharing or ride-sharing services is not as common as in some other countries. However, there are still options available for shared transportation in Vietnam.

These taxi-sharing services operate similarly to shared ride services in other countries. Passengers share the ride with other individuals going in the same general direction, and the cost is divided among the passengers, making it more economical compared to hiring a taxi individually.

Advantages:

Cost Savings. Sharing a taxi with other passengers allows you to split the fare, making it more affordable compared to hiring a taxi individually. This can particularly benefit solo travelers or small groups on a budget;
Convenience. Taxi-sharing services typically operate through mobile apps, allowing you to easily book a shared ride with a few taps on your smartphone. This convenience eliminates the need to hail a taxi on the street or wait in queues.

Disadvantages:

Longer Travel Time. Since taxi-sharing services involve picking up and dropping off multiple passengers, the route may take longer compared to a direct taxi ride. This can be a drawback if you're in a hurry or have time constraints.
Potential Delays. If other passengers in the shared ride are delayed or if there are unexpected detours, it can lead to delays in reaching your destination.
Shared Space. Sharing a taxi means sharing the space with other passengers. This may result in crowded conditions if there are multiple passengers or if they have large bags or belongings.

Considering these pros and cons, it's important to assess your priorities, budget, and time constraints when deciding whether to opt for taxi-sharing services in Vietnam.

In conclusion, traveling from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi Old Quarter offers various transport options to suit different preferences and budgets. With a distance of approximately 21 kilometers, it is essential to choose the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and travelers should consider factors such as cost, time, and personal preferences when making their decision. The choice is yours to immerse yourself in the charm of this famous destination using the mode of transportation that suits you best.