Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport: Best Transport Options & Travel Tips

The Ultimate Transport Guide From Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport

$70/ Offer a private car from Halong Bay to Hanoi airport. Are you wondering how to get from the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay back to Hanoi Airport for your flight? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about making the 175-kilometer journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport efficiently, comfortably, and according to your budget.

Distance & Journey Overview

The journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport covers approximately 175 kilometers (109 miles) through Vietnam’s northern region. This route connects two of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations—from the emerald waters and towering limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the vibrant capital city of Hanoi.

With modern highways now connecting these destinations, the journey has become much more convenient for travelers. Depending on your chosen transport method, travel times typically range from 45 minutes (seaplane) to 3.5 hours (coach), allowing you to plan your departure accordingly.

Private Car Service

For travelers prioritizing comfort, privacy, and convenience, a private car service offers the ideal balance of affordability and luxury for your journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport.

Our Recommended Private Car Service

Price: $75 per vehicle (not per person) Pickup Time: 11:45 AM at Halong Bay Port Estimated Arrival: 2:30 PM at Noi Bai International Airport Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours

Benefits of Private Car Transfer:

Door-to-door service
No multiple pickups or stops
Professional, English-speaking drivers
Modern, air-conditioned vehicles
Flexible departure times available on request
Spacious vehicles with ample luggage capacity
Water bottles provided
Free WiFi (in select vehicles)

How to Book:

Contact Halong Bay Lux Cruises for booking a private car service. Pre-booking is essential to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season.

Coach & Limousine Options

For budget-conscious travelers, coaches and limousine buses provide an economical option without sacrificing too much comfort. These services operate regular routes between Halong Bay and Hanoi Airport.

Key Details:

Average Travel Time: 3.5 hours
Average Cost: 270,000 VND (approximately $11 USD)
Comfort Level: Standard to premium (depending on provider)

Recommended Coach Companies:

Coach Company	Operating Hours	Departure Points	Features
Ka Long (Toan Thang)	1:40 AM – 11:50 PM	Tuan Chau, Bai Chay (Halong)	Air conditioning, reclining seats
Hai Phong Travel	4:00 AM – 7:00 PM	Various points in Halong	Air conditioning, WiFi
Hoang Long	6:00 AM – 5:30 PM	Bai Chay (Halong)	Air conditioning, water, WiFi
Kumho	7:30 AM – 3:30 PM	Tuan Chau	VIP seats, refreshments

Limousine Services:

For a step up in comfort, several companies operate luxury limousine vans between Halong Bay and Hanoi Airport. These 9-16 seat vehicles offer enhanced comfort with more spacious seating, onboard amenities, and fewer stops.

Price Range: 350,000 – 450,000 VND ($14-18 USD)
Notable Providers: Luxury Transport, Limousine Halong, Green Lion

Important Notes:

Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays
Most coaches make stops to pick up additional passengers
Allow extra time during peak traffic hours
Luggage space may be limited on some services

Taxi Services

Taxi services provide a balance of convenience and affordability. With no fixed schedule, taxis offer flexibility and direct service from your Halong Bay hotel or cruise terminal to Hanoi Airport.

Key Information:

Average Travel Time: 2.5 hours
Average Cost: 1,200,000 VND (approximately $50 USD)
Service Type: Door-to-door

Recommended Taxi Providers:

Taxi Company	Departure Points	Contact Number	Special Features
VTS	Tuan Chau, Bai Chay	0973 904 000	Fixed price options
OUROS Travel	Tuan Chau	(+84) 932 039 015	English-speaking drivers
Saigon DMC	Throughout Halong	(+84) 943 004 354	Modern vehicle fleet
Dichung	Throughout Halong	0902 223 080	Ride-sharing options
Mai Linh	All Halong areas	0969 343 343	Metered fares

Taxi Safety Tips:

Confirm the fare before starting your journey
Use reputable companies with proper branding
Request a receipt for your journey
Ensure the driver uses the meter or agrees to a fixed price
Take a photo of the license plate for added security

Luxury Seaplane Transfer

For an unforgettable finale to your Halong Bay experience, consider a scenic seaplane transfer that reduces travel time while providing spectacular aerial views of Halong Bay and the Red River Delta.

Service Details:

Departure: Tuan Chau Marina, Halong Bay
Flight Time: 45 minutes to Noi Bai International Airport
Cost: Starting from 8,400,000 VND (approximately $350 USD)

Available Services:

Tour No. 602: Departs 1:30 PM, arrives 2:30 PM – 10,800,000 VND
Tour No. 604: Departs 4:00 PM, arrives 4:45 PM – 8,400,000 VND

Experience Highlights:

Breathtaking aerial views of Halong Bay’s 1,969 limestone islands
Bird’s-eye perspective of northern Vietnam’s diverse landscapes
Modern Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft with panoramic windows
Professional English-speaking pilots
Complimentary shuttle service from cruise ships to seaplane terminal

Important Notes:

Advance reservation required (minimum 48 hours)
Maximum luggage allowance: 10kg per person plus small carry-on
Weather-dependent service (alternative transport arranged if canceled)
Children under 2 years travel free on parent’s lap

Self-Drive Options

For independent travelers seeking complete flexibility, self-driving offers complete control over your journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport.

Rental Options:

Motorbike Rental: 150,000-300,000 VND per day ($6-12 USD)
Car Rental: From 800,000 VND per day ($35 USD) without driver

Route Directions:

From Halong, take National Road 18 and continue for 33 kilometers
Merge onto Hai Phong – Mong Cai Highway
After 26 kilometers, merge onto National Road 5B
Proceed for 105 kilometers until you reach the interchange with National Road 1A
Take the right exit towards Bac Ninh
Follow National Road 5 for 16 kilometers
Turn right onto Vo Nguyen Giap Road
Continue approximately 15 kilometers to Noi Bai International Airport

Self-Drive Considerations:

International Driving Permit required for foreign drivers
Vietnam’s traffic can be challenging for inexperienced drivers
Ensure comprehensive insurance coverage
Download offline maps before your journey
Budget extra time for unexpected delays
Fuel stations are readily available along the route

Comparing Transport Methods

Choosing the right transport option depends on your priorities. Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you decide:

Transport Method	Travel Time	Cost Range (USD)	Pros	Cons
Private Car	2.5 hours	$75-90	Convenient, private, direct service	Higher cost for solo travelers
Coach/Bus	3.5 hours	$11-18	Economical, regular schedules	Shared space, multiple stops
Taxi	2.5 hours	$45-60	Convenient, flexible timing	Potential for price disputes
Seaplane	45 minutes	$350-450	Spectacular views, fastest option	Expensive, limited luggage, weather-dependent
Self-Drive	2.5-3 hours	$35+ (rental)	Complete flexibility	Requires driving skills, navigation challenges

Essential Travel Tips

Before Departure:

Book in advance: Secure your preferred transport option early, especially during Vietnamese holidays
Check weather conditions: Monsoon season (May-September) may affect road conditions
Allow buffer time: Add at least 1-2 hours to your estimated travel time for potential delays
Confirm pickup location: Exact pickup points vary based on your Halong Bay accommodation

Luggage Considerations:

Weight limits: Particularly strict for seaplane transfers
Space constraints: Coaches and shared transport have limited storage
Valuables security: Keep important documents and valuables with you

Travel Comfort:

Motion sickness: Bring medication if you’re prone to car sickness
Refreshments: Pack water and snacks for the journey
Entertainment: Download movies or music for the trip
Power banks: Ensure your devices stay charged

Money Matters:

Cash availability: Have Vietnamese Dong ready for tolls and small expenses
Payment options: Most private services accept credit cards, but confirm in advance
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (10% is standard for excellent service)

Recommended Halong Bay Cruises

Before heading back to Hanoi Airport, make the most of your time in Halong Bay with these exceptional cruise experiences:

3-Day 5-Star Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay Cruise

Explore both Halong Bay and its less-crowded neighbor Lan Ha Bay on this premium three-day adventure. Featuring luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to secluded beaches and caves. Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive experience before returning to Hanoi.

Halong & Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise

This deluxe cruise combines the iconic limestone landscapes of Halong Bay with the pristine waters of Lan Ha Bay. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes while relaxing in five-star comfort. Ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Traveler Reviews

Don’t just take our word for it! Check out authentic reviews of Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises on TripAdvisor to see why our services consistently earn 5-star ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Halong Bay from Hanoi Airport? A: The distance between Halong Bay and Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) is approximately 175 kilometers (109 miles).

What’s the fastest way to travel from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport? A: The seaplane service is the fastest option, taking only 45 minutes, though it’s also the most expensive at around $350 USD.

How long does it take to drive from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport? A: By car or taxi, the journey typically takes 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Can I book a transfer directly from my cruise ship? A: Yes, most cruise operators offer transfer services to Hanoi Airport, which can be arranged during your cruise or at booking time.

Is it better to stay overnight in Hanoi before flying out? A: If your flight departs early morning, staying overnight in Hanoi is recommended as the earliest transfers from Halong Bay typically arrive at the airport around 10:30 AM.

Are there tolls on the road from Halong Bay to Hanoi? A: Yes, there are several toll booths along the highway. These costs are typically included in your fare for organized transfers.

How reliable is the transportation schedule? A: Most services operate reliably, but during peak tourist seasons or adverse weather conditions, delays can occur. Building buffer time into your schedule is recommended.

What happens if I miss my scheduled transfer? A: Most companies have multiple daily departures, but you may need to pay a rebooking fee. Contact your provider immediately if you anticipate missing your scheduled pickup.

Conclusion

The journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport offers various options to suit every traveler’s needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you choose the economical coach option, the convenient private car service, the flexible taxi ride, the adventurous self-drive experience, or the luxurious seaplane transfer, proper planning ensures a smooth transition from Vietnam’s natural wonder to your next destination.

For the ultimate Halong Bay experience before your departure, consider booking with Halong Bay Lux Cruises, where exceptional service extends to arranging your transfer to Hanoi Airport. With advance planning and the right choice of transportation, your journey from Halong Bay to Hanoi Airport will become not just a necessary travel leg, but another memorable part of your Vietnamese adventure.

2 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise 160$

2 Day Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise 160$

Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise 130$

3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise 320$