Van Don International Airport serves the small island of Cat Ba in Vietnam’s Halong Bay region. Opened in 2012, it provides direct flights to Hanoi and other major cities during peak seasons. The airport sits close to the water, offering views of limestone cliffs and calm waters. Travelers can reach the town center by taxi or local bus within about thirty minutes. With modern facilities and easy connections, it serves as a gateway for visitors exploring Halong Bay’s islands, beaches and outdoor activities throughout the year.
| 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 ≈ ₫34,383 |
| 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. |
Van Don International Airport serves as a gateway to one of Vietnam’s lesser known coastal regions. The facility provides essential air connections for travelers heading toward Quy Chau Island and nearby beaches. Its modern terminals handle both domestic flights and international arrivals with efficient processes.
The airport sits close to the coast, offering views of calm waters and surrounding islands. Passengers can observe fishing boats moving near the shoreline while waiting in spacious seating areas. The layout includes clear signage and designated zones for check-in, security and baggage claim making navigation straightforward even during peak travel times.
Travelers often use this airport as a starting point for exploring Van Don’s natural attractions such as mangrove forests and quiet beaches. Local buses and taxis are available outside the terminal to reach nearby towns or ferry terminals heading toward Quy Chau Island. The area sees steady growth in tourism each year due to its proximity to marine reserves and cultural sites.
Airport services include basic retail shops, food stalls serving Vietnamese street fare and currency exchange counters. Restrooms are clean and well maintained throughout the building. For those planning longer stays, nearby hotels provide easy access to transportation links while keeping noise levels low for a relaxed arrival experience.
The Van Don VIP Lounge is the sole premium lounge at VDO, offering comfortable seating, complimentary tea/coffee, Wi‑Fi and a quiet workspace. Business‑class passengers of all airlines and elite frequent flyers gain free access; non‑passengers can purchase a day pass for ₫200,000 (£5.82). The lounge is limited to 30 guests and closes after the last flight departs.
To Hai Phong:
Hai Phong is a major port city just south of Van Don International Airport. A direct bus departs hourly from the airport terminal, taking roughly 1–1½ hours for the 60‑km journey and costing about ₫150,000 – 200,000 (£4.36 – 5.82). Taxis or ride‑hailing services are available for around ₫800,000 – 1,000,000 (£23.27 – 29.08), with similar travel time.
To Ha Long Bay:
Ha Long Bay is a popular day‑trip destination from Van Don International Airport. A direct bus departs every few hours from the airport terminal, taking roughly 3–4 hours for the 120 km journey and costing about ₫250,000 – 300,000 (£7.27 – 8.73). Taxis or ride‑hailing services are available for around ₫1,800,000 – 2,000,000 (£52.35 – 58.17), with travel time.
To Hanoi:
Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital, 70 km north of Van Don International Airport. A direct bus leaves every hour, covering the distance in about 1½ hours and costing roughly ₫200,000 – 250,000 (£5.82 – 7.27). Taxis or ride‑hailing cost around ₫900,000 – 1,200,000 (£26.18 – 34.90), similar duration.
