Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport

Airport near Hanoi

Arrivals door Noi Bai Airport
Arrivals door Noi Bai Airport
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Dragfyre

Noi Bai International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Hanoi and the wider northern region of Vietnam. Located around 27 km north of central Hanoi, the airport serves millions of travellers exploring the capital's cultural landmarks, the mountain regions of Sapa and Ha Giang, and natural wonders such as Halong Bay and Ninh Binh.

With two modern terminals, steadily improving infrastructure, and simple onward transport into the city, the airport offers a smooth arrival for first-time and returning visitors alike. Whether you are beginning a northern Vietnam adventure or departing after a memorable trip, this guide explains how to navigate Noi Bai International Airport with ease.

Why This Airport Matters

Noi Bai International Airport is one of Vietnam's busiest hubs, providing access not only to Hanoi but also the region's most popular travel destinations. It is especially convenient for travellers continuing to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, or the northern mountains, with many transport connections operating directly from the airport or through Hanoi.

Compared to other major Southeast Asian airports, Noi Bai is relatively calm and efficient, with shorter queues, improved facilities, and a compact layout that helps passengers transition quickly between terminals, transport options, and baggage claim.

History and Significance

Constructed in the 1970s and expanded significantly in the early 2000s, Noi Bai played an important role in connecting Hanoi with the rest of Vietnam during periods of rapid economic growth. As international tourism boomed, the airport underwent further development to meet modern travel standards.

The opening of Terminal 2 in 2014 marked a major milestone, transforming Noi Bai into a fully modern international gateway. Its strategic location and growing passenger capacity have helped support tourism and business travel across northern Vietnam.

Airport Layout and Quick Facts

Noi Bai International Airport consists of two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international routes. Both terminals are large but organised logically, with clear signage and short walking distances between check-in, security, and boarding gates.

Arrivals flow smoothly through immigration and baggage claim, where luggage is usually delivered promptly. Departure procedures are generally efficient, though queues can lengthen during peak travel seasons.

Where to Stay Close to Noi Bai International Airport

Several hotels are located close to the airport, ideal for travellers with early flights or short layovers. Options include Noi Bai Airport Hotel and Van Viet Hotel, both offering quick access to the terminals.

For more comfort, Paragon Noi Bai Hotel and Pool provides spacious rooms, airport shuttles, and a rooftop pool. Travellers who prefer to stay in central Hanoi will find excellent options such as Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel, about 30-45 minutes from the airport depending on traffic.

Getting To and From Noi Bai International Airport

By Bus

Several public buses, including routes 86 and 90, run between Noi Bai Airport and central Hanoi. These services offer a very affordable way to reach the Old Quarter and main transport hubs, though they may be less convenient for travellers with large luggage.

By Taxi

Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available outside both terminals. The journey to central Hanoi usually takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares are generally fixed or metered, and many travellers find taxis the most convenient option after long flights.

By Train

There is no train station at Noi Bai Airport. Travellers continuing by rail can take a taxi or shuttle to Hanoi Railway Station in the city centre.

Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By Car

Driving from the airport to Hanoi follows the main expressway connecting directly to the city. Car rental desks can be found in the arrivals area for those planning road trips to Ninh Binh, Ha Giang, or other northern regions. Short-term and long-term parking are available near both terminals.

By Transfers and Shuttles

Private transfers and hotel shuttles are popular with travellers heading to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa. Many tour operators offer direct pick-up services from the airport, making onward travel fast and stress-free.

Arriving at Noi Bai International Airport

Immigration at Noi Bai is generally efficient, with clear lanes for foreign visitors and e-visa holders. Baggage claim areas are organised and rarely congested, and travellers can expect bags to arrive within a reasonable time after landing.

The arrivals hall includes ATMs, SIM card counters, small cafés, and information desks. Transport services are easy to locate just outside the main exit, with taxis, shuttles, and buses clearly marked.

Money Exchange & Currency Tips for Vietnam

Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong, and ATMs usually offer better rates than the currency exchange counters inside the terminal. It is recommended to withdraw cash directly from ATMs and avoid exchanging large amounts at airport counters, which may have less favourable rates.

Card payments are common in hotels and larger restaurants, but smaller shops, cafés, and markets frequently prefer cash. Travellers should decline dynamic currency conversion when withdrawing money or making payments. Using a Wise or Revolut card can also help avoid high banking fees.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

SIM card vendors from Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are available immediately after customs. Tourist SIM packages provide affordable data and are activated on the spot. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals.

Departing from Noi Bai International Airport

Check-in counters for domestic and international flights are clearly separated, making departure procedures straightforward. Security and immigration queues can grow during peak holiday periods, so arriving early is advisable.

Beyond security, the departure lounges offer cafés, shops, and seating areas, with Terminal 2 providing the broader selection of services. Travellers should purchase any necessary items before entering the secure zone, as availability varies by terminal.

Airport Services and Facilities

• Food and drink outlets in both terminals
• Souvenir shops and travel essentials stores
• ATMs and money exchange counters
• Free Wi-Fi and charging points
• Tourist SIM card stands
• Child-friendly facilities and accessible restrooms
• Medical assistance points and information desks

Lounges at Noi Bai International Airport

Several lounges operate in both terminals, including airline-operated lounges and pay-to-use options. These lounges typically provide comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and quieter spaces for travellers waiting for their flights.

Hanoi Airport Hotels

Near the airport, accommodation options such as Airport View Hotel and New Sky Hotel are convenient for overnight stays. For those heading into the city, Hanoi offers a large selection of hotels ranging from luxury properties to boutique Old Quarter stays including Peridot Grand Hotel.

Renting a Car at Noi Bai International Airport

Car rental counters inside the arrivals area provide vehicles suitable for city travel or long drives into Vietnam’s northern mountains. Driving conditions vary depending on destination, with expressways offering faster travel and mountain roads requiring extra caution.

Flights and Airlines Operating at HAN

Noi Bai Airport offers domestic connections to major Vietnamese cities as well as international routes to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Airlines operating here include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and several foreign carriers.

For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.

Practical Tips for Using Noi Bai International Airport

• Arrive early during national holidays and peak travel seasons
• Use ATMs instead of exchange counters for better rates
• Buy a SIM card on arrival for easy navigation
• Keep small cash for taxis and street vendors
• Expect longer travel times into Hanoi during rush hour
• Plan extra time if continuing to Sapa or Halong Bay

Can You Sleep Overnight at Hanoi Airport?

Noi Bai Airport remains open overnight, but seating is limited and not designed for long rest. Some travellers use the quieter areas of Terminal 2, though comfort is minimal. For early flights, nearby airport hotels offer a far more practical and restful option.

Final Thoughts

Noi Bai International Airport is an efficient and welcoming gateway to northern Vietnam. With its improved facilities, smooth arrival process, and excellent transport links to Hanoi and beyond, it provides a dependable starting point for exploring the landscapes, culture, and history of the region.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (50,291)

Noi Bai International Airport in Phú Minh, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi is a two-runway airport serving mainly Asian destinations and operates 24 hours; visitors note long immigration and customs waits at Terminal 2 with crowded queues and limited X-ray lanes, and some frustrated travelers report baggage delays and significant flight delays impacting connections, while duty-free is primarily souvenirs and local specialties (priced higher than in the city) with cosmetics, perfumes, tobacco and alcohol available; contact number is +84 24 3886 5047.

Samuel H
3 weeks ago
"This is a very straightforward airport which I like very much. It is straight from the airplane to the baggage collection, the custom, thenimmigration and arrival gate... No hassle, no confusion. It's a straight line, I don't even need to check the signages. The departure process is also the same! Worthy of note is that travellers are required to remove shoes, belt and jacket at the baggage check (x-ray), AND don't skip the queue or take short cut over the tape barrier, the officers will give you a earful!..."
Yih Ken Tan
3 weeks ago
"​This is a compact, high-traffic airport. The terminal utilizes an efficient shared access layout, which provides seamless co ectivity between theinternational and domestic waiting areas.n​Amenities: The waiting area offers adequate facilities, including various cafes, restaurants, and retail fashion outlets.n​Maintenance: Restrooms are clean, and there is sufficient seating available for passengers.n​Conclusion: The airport is efficient but is consistently crowded due to its size and volume of traffic...."
Gopi Dev
a month ago
"The Vietnam Airlines Business Lounge is an impressively curated sanctuary of calm and efficiency. Immaculately maintained, the space exudes a senseof refined cleanliness that immediately elevates the pre-flight experience. The culinary spread is both diverse and thoughtfully presented, offering a selection of fresh and well-executed dishes that cater to a range of palates. Equally commendable is the staff, whose attentive and courteous service adds a layer of hospitality that feels genuinely warm rather than perfunctory. Accessibility is another strong suit of the lounge; its location is intuitive and easy to reach, allowing travelers to transition smoothly from the bustle of the terminal into a more tranquil setting. Overall, this lounge exemplifies the high standards synonymous with Vietnam Airlines and stands as a superb haven for discerning travelers...."

The Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Address: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Xã Nội Bài, Soc Son, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi: 21 km
Ninh Binh (Tam Coc): 109 km
Ha Giang: 195 km
Sapa: 237 km

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs