Noi Bai International Airport serves as Vietnam’s main gateway to Hanoi and beyond. Located about 25 kilometers from the city center, it connects travelers with domestic routes across the country and international flights linking Asia and other continents. The airport provides essential services such as baggage claim areas, customs halls, shops, restaurants and transportation options including taxis and buses for moving into urban neighborhoods. It plays a key role in supporting tourism, business travel and trade throughout Vietnam’s capital region.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type C
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Vietnamese Dong (VND) £1 ≈ ₫34,381 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Vietnam, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Cash is still commonly used in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but small tips are appreciated for good service in restaurants, taxis, and hotels. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally allowed in Vietnam, but drinking in certain public spaces, like parks, may be regulated. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in outdoor public spaces, but there are smoking restrictions in some indoor public areas. |
| Independence Day (2 September) |
Celebrates Vietnam’s independence from France |
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| Tết (January/February) |
The most important holiday in Vietnam, typically in January or February |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 113 (Police), 115 (Ambulance), 114 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Grab |
| Other: | Vietnam is famous for its vibrant cities, historic sites, and stunning landscapes like Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta, offering a rich and diverse travel experience. |
Noi Bai International Airport is located about 45 kilometers north of Hanoi’s city center, making it convenient for travelers heading to the capital and northern Vietnam. Terminal 2, opened in 2015, handles most international arrivals with modern facilities including numerous check-in counters, self-service kiosks, duty-free shopping and diverse dining options.
The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout, currency exchange, baggage services and helpful taxi stands with licensed operators. Shuttle buses by airlines like Vietnam Airlines and VietJet run regularly to Hanoi Old Quarter, providing affordable and reliable transfers. Despite these advantages, travelers should plan for up to an hour’s journey into the city depending on traffic and be cautious with unofficial taxi services to avoid being overcharged.
Business and premium travelers can enjoy the ACV Business Lounge in Terminal 2, a spacious and green oasis offering luxurious seating, buffet dining, computer workstations and even massage chairs. This lounge helps unwind before long flights with shower facilities and a quiet atmosphere. The airport also has family-friendly amenities including baby care rooms and play areas.
Visitors appreciate the airport’s efficient layout but note occasional congestion during peak hours and a need to allocate extra time for immigration and security checks. Overall, Noi Bai provides a warm and accessible introduction to Hanoi and the fascinating culture of northern Vietnam.
Operated by Vietnam Airlines and co-branded with Sacombank, located in Terminal 1 for domestic departures. This smaller lounge offers refreshments, seating, Wi‑Fi, and flight information. It's mainly for airline premium and business passengers.
Located on the 4th floor in Terminal 2 near gates 30 and 31, this vast lounge covers 1,500 m² and accommodates nearly 400 guests. It features lush greenery decor, spacious seating, a buffet with local and international cuisine, workstations, massage chairs, and shower facilities. Open from early morning until last flight departure, access costs ₫805,000 (£23.27) for 3 hours with discounts for children.
Accommodations near Noi Bai Airport range from mid‑range to luxury hotels for business travelers, while most tourists prefer to stay in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, known for its historic charm and diverse guesthouse options.
To Hanoi City Center:
Multiple options connect the airport to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including public buses (routes 7, 17, 90) that cost about 5,000 VND and take around an hour depending on traffic. Shuttle buses operated by major airlines run regularly coordinated with flights, offering a direct and comfortable ride for approximately 40,000 VND. Official taxis are available with metered fares but avoid unofficial drivers. Private transfers and ride-hailing apps provide convenient alternatives.
To Ha Long Bay:
Reaching Ha Long Bay from Noi Bai involves taking a bus or private transfer to Hanoi city centre, followed by dedicated Ha Long Bay shuttle buses or tours. Total travel time is around 3.5 to 4 hours. Pre-booking shuttle or private tours is recommended for ease.
To Sapa:
For Sapa, travellers usually transfer through Hanoi city centre to trains or buses headed north in the Lao Cai region. This journey can take 8 to 10 hours total; overnight train options are popular for a comfortable trip. Private transfers from the airport to train stations can be arranged.
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