How to Get from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter: 3 Convenient Ways

WONDERING HOW TO GET FROM HANOI AIRPORT TO OLD QUARTER?

You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  

We’re here to help you make a smooth landing right in the heart of the action – Hanoi airport to Old Quarter. 

This bustling area, a maze of narrow streets, is a pure delight with its mix of French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, street food stalls, and boutique stores.

Knowing your way from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter isn’t just about convenience; it’s about making the most of your time in this lively city. You wouldn’t want to spend precious minutes, even hours, lost or stuck in traffic, right? 

Let’s help you get your bearings straight and give you a jumpstart on your Vietnamese adventure!

Essential Information About Hanoi Airport

Location

Say “Xin Chào” to Noi Bai International Airport, the gateway to Hanoi and northern Vietnam. Located approximately 32 kilometers north of the city center, it’s the largest airport in the country in terms of total capacity. 

But don’t worry, despite being a little ways out, there are a bunch of easy-peasy ways from Hanoi airport to Old Quarter.

Facilities

Before you dash off, let’s take a quick tour around Noi Bai International Airport. It’s packed with handy facilities to cater to your needs.

• Currency exchange: Just landed and need local currency? No problem. You’ll find several currency exchange counters in both terminals. They are open 24/7, ready to serve you at any hour. Remember to carry your passport for identification.
• Transportation services: The airport offers several transport options to get to the Old Quarter. You can choose from taxis, shuttles, and even private transfer services. We’ll dive into these more in a bit.
• Food and shopping: Feeling peckish or want to grab a last-minute souvenir? The airport offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops to cater to your needs.

Transportation Options from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter

Transportation Option	Departure – Arrival	Cost Range (USD)	Travel Duration	Where to Book
Taxi	Noi Bai Airport – Old Quarter	$15 – $20	~45 minutes (can be longer during peak hours)	At the airport
Bus	👉 Bus no. 86 ends at Hanoi Railway Station (3.2 km to Old Quarter) 👉 Bus no. 7 ends at Cau Giay bus station (8 km to Old Quarter) 👉 Bus no. 17 ends at Long Bien bus station (2.9 km to Old Quarter) 👉 Bus no. 90 ends at Kim Ma bus station (3.9 km to Old Quarter) 👉 Bus no. 109 ends at My Dinh bus station (10.4 km to Old Quarter)	Approx. $1 – $2	1 – 1.5 hours	At the airport
Private Transfer	Noi Bai Airport – Old Quarter	$15 – $25	~45 minutes	Online platforms like 12go.asia

Taxi

Once you exit the terminal, you’ll find an army of yellow and green taxis lined up, waiting to whisk you away. The main taxi companies operating from Noi Bai Airport are Mai Linh and Vinasun. They’re reliable, and the drivers usually turn on the meter, so no haggling required.

It’s around a 45-minute drive to the Old Quarter and costs about 350,000 – 480,000 VND (roughly $15 – $20). Remember, traffic in Hanoi can get pretty intense during peak hours, so it could take longer.

If you’re unsure of the taxis, you can get a Grab taxi from the airport. No sim? Try connecting to the free wifi at the airport to get your ride. 

Bus

If you’re traveling light and up for a bit of adventure, this is a cost-effective option. The shuttle bus stop is right outside the terminal, and services run every 30 minutes. THe bus ride takes around 1 hour to 1 hour, 30 minutes. 

The buses typically operate from 5 AM to 10 PM. They’ll drop you off at a station, a short walk or taxi ride to the Old Quarter.

The city bus number 86, is a great alternative. For a mere 45,000 VND, you can enjoy a ride into the city. The bus ends at Hanoi Railway Station (3.2 km to Old Quarter). 

You can also take buses no. 7, 17, 90, and 109. Fare costs about 9,000 VND per person. You can find the bus stops to the right of the terminal exit (international and domestic terminal) – just less than a 5-minute walk. 

• Bus no. 86 ends at Hanoi Railway Station (3.2 km to Old Quarter) 
• Bus no. 7 ends at Cau Giay bus station (8 km to Old Quarter)
• Bus no. 17 ends at Long Bien bus station (2.9 km to Old Quarter)
• Bus no. 90 ends at Kim Ma bus station (3.9 km to Old Quarter)
• Bus no. 109 ends at My Dinh bus station (10.4 km to Old Quarter)

Private Transfer

Looking for a little more comfort and don’t mind paying extra? Consider a private transfer. You can book a car or a limo in advance, and your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate.

Prices can vary widely, but expect to pay around VND 350,000 to 600,000 (around $15 to $25) for a standard car. It’s a flat rate, so you don’t need to worry about traffic delays. Plus, it’s the quickest and most hassle-free way to get to your destination.

Each of these options has its perks, so weigh your needs against your budget and choose what’s best for you. Whatever you pick, you’ll be standing in the middle of the enchanting Old Quarter before you know it. 

Insider Tips for the Journey from Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter

All set to go? Before you start your journey, here are some insider tips to help you along the way.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to hit the road? Try to dodge the peak hours between 7:00 – 8:30 AM and 4:30 – 6:00 PM. Traffic can get crazy during these times, turning a 45-minute ride into a slow crawl.

Off-peak hours make for a smoother, quicker journey to the Old Quarter.

Read also: Best time to travel to Hanoi

Scams to Avoid

Stay alert to avoid the occasional taxi scam. Always choose a reputable company, check that the meter is turned on, and have a rough idea of the fare beforehand. 

If you’re offered a flat fare without using the meter, it’s usually best to decline and find another cab.

Read also: Is Hanoi safe?

Local Customs

Lastly, understand the local customs. Be polite and respectful to your drivers. 

A simple “Xin Chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) can go a long way!

What to Do Upon Arrival in Old Quarter

With its maze-like streets, each named for the artisan trade of the past, there’s a surprise at every corner. 

Visit the charming “Lake of the Returned Sword”, or Hoan Kiem Lake, relax in one of the many cozy coffee shops, and marvel at the ancient architectures.

Hungry after your journey? Tuck into the famous bun cha Hanoi or the delicious Bánh mì sandwiches from street vendors. 

For a truly local experience, take a stroll through the buzzing night market or catch a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.

Read also: One day in Hanoi: DIY Itinerary and Top Tours

Conclusion: Hanoi Airport to Old Quarter

And that wraps up your ultimate guide to getting from Hanoi Airport to the Old Quarter. With this arsenal of tips, your journey should be a breeze! 

So, buckle up and enjoy the ride. Hanoi is waiting to enchant you with its bustling streets, charming culture, and delightful cuisine. 

Have a fantastic trip!