Getting to visit Halong Bay and still think about which airport and transfer type, other destination to combine with Halong Bay. You will find answer in this article.
Transfer to Halong Bay from Airport
Halong Bay, attracts millions of visitors annually with its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. For travelers planning their journey to this natural wonder, understanding the available airport options is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Three main airports serve as gateways to Halong Bay: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong, and Van Don International Airport in Quang Ninh. Each offers unique advantages and considerations for different types of travelers.
Which Airport is for You?
Your choice of airport should depend on several factors:
- International Flight: If you’re flying from outside Vietnam, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi is often the most practical choice, offering the widest range of international connections and flight options.
- Domestic Flight: For those already in Vietnam, particularly traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or Nha Trang, both Cat Bi and Van Don airports provide convenient domestic connections.
- Budget Considerations: Consider not just flight costs but also transfer expenses to Halong Bay. While Noi Bai might offer cheaper flights, the longer transfer distance means higher transfer cost to Halong Bay than Cat Bi Airport & Van Don Airport.
Noi Bai Airport
Noi Bai International Airport, Vietnam’s largest airport in the northern region, serves as the main gateway to Hanoi and surrounding areas. Established in 2001 and significantly upgraded in 2014, this modern facility handles over 29 million passengers annually through its two passenger terminals. Terminal 2, dedicated to international flights, showcases contemporary architecture and provides world-class amenities.
As a major transportation hub, Noi Bai connects with over 30 international destinations and serves all major Vietnamese cities. Despite being the furthest airport from Halong Bay (190km), it remains a popular choice due to its excellent connectivity and frequent flight schedules. The airport features multiple lounges, duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, and efficient ground transportation services. Its strategic location in Hanoi allows travelers to combine their Halong Bay visit with exploring Vietnam’s capital city.
| Pros | Cons |
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Transfer Options:
- Private car
- Taxi, Grab, Xanh SM
- Shuttle buses (limited options)
Cat Bi Airport
Cat Bi International Airport, renovated and upgraded to international status in 2016, serves as the primary airport for Hai Phong city and the surrounding region. Located just 45 kilometers from Halong Bay, this airport has become increasingly important for domestic and regional international travel. The modern terminal building, spanning 21,000 square meters, can handle up to 2 million passengers annually.
The airport’s strategic location in Vietnam’s major port city makes it an excellent gateway for both business and leisure travelers. While smaller than Noi Bai, Cat Bi offers essential amenities including restaurants, cafes, and basic shopping facilities. Its proximity to Halong Bay and shorter transfer time make it particularly attractive for travelers focused on visiting the bay. The airport serves several domestic routes and international flights to regional destinations like Seoul, Bangkok, and Singapore.
| Pros | Cons |
| · Closer to Halong Bay (45km)
· Shorter transfer time (about 1 hour) · Lower transfer costs · Good domestic connections · Less crowded than Noi Bai Airport
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Transfer Options:
- Private car service
- Taxi services
Van Don Airport
Van Don International Airport, inaugurated in December 2018, represents Vietnam’s first privately owned airport and its most modern aviation facility. Located in Quang Ninh province, just 50 kilometers from Halong Bay, this state-of-the-art airport was specifically designed to boost tourism to the region. The terminal building features contemporary architecture and can accommodate up to 2.5 million passengers annually.
As the newest airport among the three, Van Don boasts cutting-edge facilities and superior infrastructure. The airport’s design incorporates local cultural elements while meeting international standards for passenger comfort and convenience. Its strategic location near the Van Don Economic Zone and proximity to Halong Bay makes it ideal for tourists heading directly to the bay. The recently completed Ha Long – Van Don Expressway has further enhanced accessibility, reducing transfer time significantly.
The airport’s modern amenities include spacious waiting areas, efficient security systems, and various dining options. While it currently serves fewer routes compared to Noi Bai and Cat Bi, its role as a gateway to Halong Bay continues to grow, with plans for expanded international connections in the future. The airport also offers unique services like free shuttle buses to Halong City and Yen Tu Mountain, adding value for tourists visiting the region.
| Pros | Cons |
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Transfer Options:
- Shuttle service
- Private car service
- Taxi service
Each airport offers distinct advantages for reaching Halong Bay:
- Noi Bai Airport is best for international travelers who want to include Hanoi in their itinerary or need specific flight connections.
- Cat Bi Airport provides a good balance of accessibility and convenience, especially for domestic flights
- Van Don Airport offers a nice access to Halong Bay but with limited flight options.
Consider your priorities – whether they’re convenience, cost, or travel time – when making your choice.
Remember to book your transfers in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, and allow sufficient time for immigration procedures if arriving on international flights. With proper planning, any of these three airports can serve as an excellent starting point for your Halong Bay adventure.
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